I've been working on a foodie romance lately, presumably for Decadent Publishing's line. It started out as a means by which I could get my crush on Chef Scott Conant out of my system, but it's evolved into more than that.
Let me give you a little history.
I thought this would be a fun genre to try my hand at, since I don't do a lot of contemporary work. It started as a fun little romp between two chefs that begins at a Chopped-style competition that benefits a charity. (If you're not familiar with the Food Network show [it's their #1 show] then you should watch an episode. It's great.) Since Scott was competing for charity in a celebrity version of Chopped, I decided to make a fictionalized version of that charity, Keep Memory Alive, for my story.
It just so happens that KMA is a charity that benefits research and treatment for Alzheimer's and other brain diseases. And it just so happens that my family has been affected by dementia and Alzheimer's very recently. So this story suddenly became very close to my heart.
I made the conscious decision for my main character's mother to exhibit the beginning warning signs of dementia. This wasn't an easy one, but as the story started unfolding, I realized it needed to be in there. Knowing what my cousins have gone through in caring for my great-aunt and how difficult it's been for them, I feel like...I don't know what I feel like. But considering all the stupid diseases that run in my family, I'm most terrified by the one that could rob me of my memories and cognition.
So I made another conscious decision. Should this get published (and if it doesn't get picked up, I'm gonna pub it myself), I'm going to donate at least half of whatever I get for it to Keep Memory Alive. It's an amazing charity, and the work it does is incredibly important. Please do not do the pat on the back thing. This is important to me, and I felt like it needed to be shared, not because I think I'm awesome (I don't), but because I think it's important that, as writers and authors, we do our best to shine some light on some unpleasant corners and try to make a difference.
20 May 2013
03 May 2013
Guest Post: Kathleen Ann Gallagher's New Release and a Contest!
Today, I'm extremely excited to have my new friend, and Decadent Publishing sister, Kathleen Ann Gallagher on the blog! It's all yours!
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Hi Cate!
Savannah Mason fought for independence since she was a young girl, smothered by a controlling father who insisted she take over his medical practice one day. Now, at the age of thirty, alienated from her father, the career minded journalist spends long hours at her job, hoping to take the spot as anchor.
On her darkest day twelve years ago, Savannah agreed to give her child up for adoption. She never even had the chance to hold her. On her daughter’s birthday, a chance encounter gives Savannah an opportunity to explore a corner of her heart she thought was lost forever.
The last thing Savannah wants is a relationship, especially one with a doctor who happens to have two young children.
Rob Sinclair, a cardiothoracic surgeon and NY Times best-selling author, needs a promo spot on the television show The News Stop. When Savannah gets the interview over a senior reporter, a door opens to her future. However, first she must face the sorrow of her past and cast away the agony of guilt before she’s free to accept love.
Rob’s commitment to climb the ladder of success and provide a good life for his two small children keeps him on the road. He’s determined to push forward despite the heartache of a broken marriage. His deepest fear is being an absent parent. When he meets Savannah Mason, desire and passion awaken his broken spirit. Will he ever be able to trust another woman?
Savannah and Rob’s strong attraction to one another is undeniable as they follow the path to a place where honesty, love and forgiveness, can bring them both home.
When a man who seems totally wrong for Savannah slowly weaves his way into her heart, will he accept her when he learns about her past?
Savannah and Rob’s attraction to one another is undeniable. As they follow the path to a place where honesty and forgiveness can bring them both home, will it be enough to heal the scars of the past and allow them another chance at love?
EXCERPT
To get you in the mood for summer I’m giving away one Summer Wish scented, small jar Yankee Candle, and some swag. Tell me your favorite thing to do on a summer weekend and don’t forget to leave your email address in the comment.
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Hi Cate!
I’m happy to have a chance to visit your blog today. I have a news flash! My contemporary romance,
A Summer’s Journey is released by Rebel Ink Press TODAY!
Spring and summer are my favorite seasons. Maybe one of the
reasons is because my birthday is in June. This time of year, I look forward to my weekend’s home. It’s
great to spend a lazy afternoon with my husband. He spends Sundays in our yard
working on his creation. We don’t have any grass to mow. Instead, our yard is
filled with winding paths, shrubs, rose bushes, perennials, and fountains. It’s
really a magical place. I look forward to lounging in a comfy chair with a cup
of tea while I try to come up with my next story. If I’m not on the beach, you’ll find me in my
beautiful sanctuary. Thanks to my hubby for creating it for me. Now, that’s
romantic.
BLURB
Savannah Mason fought for independence since she was a young girl, smothered by a controlling father who insisted she take over his medical practice one day. Now, at the age of thirty, alienated from her father, the career minded journalist spends long hours at her job, hoping to take the spot as anchor.
On her darkest day twelve years ago, Savannah agreed to give her child up for adoption. She never even had the chance to hold her. On her daughter’s birthday, a chance encounter gives Savannah an opportunity to explore a corner of her heart she thought was lost forever.
The last thing Savannah wants is a relationship, especially one with a doctor who happens to have two young children.
Rob Sinclair, a cardiothoracic surgeon and NY Times best-selling author, needs a promo spot on the television show The News Stop. When Savannah gets the interview over a senior reporter, a door opens to her future. However, first she must face the sorrow of her past and cast away the agony of guilt before she’s free to accept love.
Rob’s commitment to climb the ladder of success and provide a good life for his two small children keeps him on the road. He’s determined to push forward despite the heartache of a broken marriage. His deepest fear is being an absent parent. When he meets Savannah Mason, desire and passion awaken his broken spirit. Will he ever be able to trust another woman?
Savannah and Rob’s strong attraction to one another is undeniable as they follow the path to a place where honesty, love and forgiveness, can bring them both home.
When a man who seems totally wrong for Savannah slowly weaves his way into her heart, will he accept her when he learns about her past?
Savannah and Rob’s attraction to one another is undeniable. As they follow the path to a place where honesty and forgiveness can bring them both home, will it be enough to heal the scars of the past and allow them another chance at love?
EXCERPT
Savannah
stood and slowly moved toward him. Her chest tightened with each step. As she
approached him and admired his broad shoulders, it dawned on her he could be a
candidate for People’s sexiest man alive. Control
yourself.
“I’m
happy here.” Savannah admitted. “I love it when the
morning light shines on the water and it mimics fine pieces of crystal.”
Rob slowly approached her. The look in his
eyes told her he had more than the view on his mind. Savannah turned away, afraid of what might happen
next. Before she could stop him, they were too close for comfort. An electric
energy surged between them. With one swift movement, Rob reached for her and
gently placed his lips on hers. He cradled her head in his hands as if she was
a precious jewel. The warmth of his touch sent shivers down her spine and the
world stood still. When Rob’s hands moved slowly across her back, her body went
limp and it took her to a level of arousal she never expected. It all happened
so quickly, she didn’t have time to react. She found herself spellbound by the
feel of his rock hard body pressed up against her chest. All of the emotions
she’d kept inside emerged when Rob held her tight. When they finally parted, Savannah stood frozen in
shock with her heart pounding and her ears ringing.
Rob’s
expression made him look as if he broke the law. He quickly took a step back. “I
don’t know what to say. I’m so sorry for my rude behavior.”
“You weren’t rude. I didn’t stop you.”
“I don’t know what got into me. You’re an
amazing woman and I find you terribly attractive.” He stared deep into her eyes.
“Thank
you.” Savannah
looked down, still shocked, but flattered.
“I’d
like to take you on a real date. Would that be possible? Is it against your
ethics to date someone you’re working with?”
“There’s
no rule against dating a guest on the show. I make my own rules.” Savannah could not believe her own words.
“That’s
what I like about you. You’re not afraid of taking a risk. I could tell from
the moment I met you, you were a strong, independent woman.”
Unanswered questions twirled around in Savannah’s mind. What
am I doing making a date with
a doctor and one with a
family, no less. I must be crazy.
Her mind told her to run from a relationship with a client, however, her body
told her something completely different.
To get you in the mood for summer I’m giving away one Summer Wish scented, small jar Yankee Candle, and some swag. Tell me your favorite thing to do on a summer weekend and don’t forget to leave your email address in the comment.
Good
Luck!
For more chances. Here’s where
you can find me. I love to make new friends.
My website. http://www.kathleenanngallagher.net/
A Summer's Journey is available at:
All Romance E-Books
About Kathleen:
Although writing is my passion, nursing is my vocation. I work in an emergency room, and it’s been challenging, and rewarding, to be such an integral part of so many others' daily struggles. I have a wonderful husband who always offers his support, and never complains about my crazy schedule. One of our favorite romantic getaways is Cape May, New Jersey, an old historic beach town where we take a step into the past, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Although my children are all grown with busy lives of their own, Chaz, our Shepherd mix, still dutifully stands guard at the house. We are also blessed with three adorable grandsons.
Other interests of mine include cooking, reading, and the theater. However, spending time with my family is most important to me. Even though my life is filled with work, family, etc., my mind continues to ponder the next story or concept for a new novel.
A Summer's Journey is available at:
All Romance E-Books
About Kathleen:
Although writing is my passion, nursing is my vocation. I work in an emergency room, and it’s been challenging, and rewarding, to be such an integral part of so many others' daily struggles. I have a wonderful husband who always offers his support, and never complains about my crazy schedule. One of our favorite romantic getaways is Cape May, New Jersey, an old historic beach town where we take a step into the past, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Although my children are all grown with busy lives of their own, Chaz, our Shepherd mix, still dutifully stands guard at the house. We are also blessed with three adorable grandsons.
Other interests of mine include cooking, reading, and the theater. However, spending time with my family is most important to me. Even though my life is filled with work, family, etc., my mind continues to ponder the next story or concept for a new novel.
02 May 2013
Broken Forest Blog Hop
So today I get to participate in one of the coolest book promos ever. Remember those Choose Your Own Adventure books? Welcome to the Choose Your Own Adventure Blog Hop in celebration of my gorgeous friend, fellow gamer, and new mom Eliza Tilton's first book release, Broken Forest.
And may The Creator bless you on your journey.
“Ready, Gwen?”
You smile, nod, then the two of you are heading towards the woods.
Moonlight silhouettes the thin pines and crickets fill the air with musical notes. Your feet glide across the grass as you run deeper, leaving the clearing far behind.
“Stop.” Ella holds out her hand. Her body crouches and she turns left and right as she scans the area.
“What do you see?” Your sister’s eyesight is keener than yours.
She points to a large tree. A grey fur boot sticks out from behind it. It’s Brev, who will be difficult to catch if he runs. He’s far enough away that he doesn’t see or hear you.
Your thumb slides over the pouch, ready to tag him before Ella when you hear a rustle in the bush to the right.
Do you inspect the bush?
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Hopeless he'll never be more than the boy who didn't save
his brother, 17-year-old Avikar accepts his life as the family stable boy,
trying to forget the past. But when his sister, Jeslyn, is kidnapped, the
thought of losing another sibling catapults him on a desperate quest. With his
best friend by his side, and using the tracking skills he learned from his
father, he discovers Jeslyn has been taken, kidnapped by one Lucino, the young
lord of Daath, a mystical place thought only to exist in fables.
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Eliza graduated from Dowling College with a BS in Visual Communications. When she’s not arguing with excel at her day job, or playing Dragon Age 2, again, she’s writing. Her stories hold a bit of the fantastical and there’s always a romance. She resides on Long Island with her husband, two kids and one very snuggly pit bull.
Check out Broken Forest at:
Goodreads
Hang out with Liza at:
If you’ve landed here during your adventure, skip all this
and go below.
If you’re wondering what’s going on, go here to start your own adventure!
And may The Creator bless you on your journey.
 |
| artwork done by Katie Hubert |
You hear the first whistle; it’s
Tavo, followed by three more.
“Ready, Gwen?”
You smile, nod, then the two of you are heading towards the woods.
Moonlight silhouettes the thin pines and crickets fill the air with musical notes. Your feet glide across the grass as you run deeper, leaving the clearing far behind.
“Stop.” Ella holds out her hand. Her body crouches and she turns left and right as she scans the area.
“What do you see?” Your sister’s eyesight is keener than yours.
She points to a large tree. A grey fur boot sticks out from behind it. It’s Brev, who will be difficult to catch if he runs. He’s far enough away that he doesn’t see or hear you.
Your thumb slides over the pouch, ready to tag him before Ella when you hear a rustle in the bush to the right.
Do you inspect the bush?
A) No. Go here
B) Yes. Go here
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Hopeless he'll never be more than the boy who didn't save
his brother, 17-year-old Avikar accepts his life as the family stable boy,
trying to forget the past. But when his sister, Jeslyn, is kidnapped, the
thought of losing another sibling catapults him on a desperate quest. With his
best friend by his side, and using the tracking skills he learned from his
father, he discovers Jeslyn has been taken, kidnapped by one Lucino, the young
lord of Daath, a mystical place thought only to exist in fables.
And Lucino has plans for Jeslyn.
.jpg)
Eliza graduated from Dowling College with a BS in Visual Communications. When she’s not arguing with excel at her day job, or playing Dragon Age 2, again, she’s writing. Her stories hold a bit of the fantastical and there’s always a romance. She resides on Long Island with her husband, two kids and one very snuggly pit bull.
Check out Broken Forest at:
Goodreads
Hang out with Liza at:
Twitter https://twitter.com/ElizaTilton
Website http://www.elizatilton.com
Pinterest http://pinterest.com/elizatilton/
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Eliza-Tilton-YA-Author/245765852217133
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