Guest Blogger, Gerrie Ferris Finger

Please join me as I welcome author Gerrie Ferris Finger as the special guest blogger here today at Thoughts in Progress.

Gerrie won The Malice Domestic/St. Martin's Minotaur Best First Traditional Novel Competition in 2009 for “The End Game,” to be released by St. Martin's Minotaur on April 27. Here’s a brief blurb about the book: “Moriah Dru’s weekend off with her lover, Lieutenant Richard Lake, is interrupted when Atlanta juvenile court judge Portia Devon hires Dru to find two sisters who’ve gone missing after their foster parents’ house burns down."

"The End Game" features a strong new heroine in a vivid Southern setting. Gerrie puts a new spin on the classic mystery novel. A special treat for me is that she's a Georgia author. She stopped by today to talk about writing and themes.

A tricky thing is theme. Whenever someone asks me what's the theme of your novel, I'm taken back to my college English Literature class. We were freshmen and majoring in something else – me, journalism – but we were in Arts and Science our first year,  so we had to have so many hours of English and History and Biology, or in my case, Geology.

Theme. The instructor of our Lit class asked, "What is the theme in Hamlet?" We'd just read it and, in unison, answered, "Revenge." He held up a finger. "Revenge? Who was avenged?"

I tried to think – maybe the theme is Obsession. Our instructor went on, "There were all kinds of reasons for Hamlet to exact revenge on those who betrayed him, but he never committed one act of revenge."

Others in the class came up with different themes that drove that famous play. Incest. Lust. Mortality. Deceit. Power. 

"How about Uncertainty?" the instructor said.

Eyebrows rose, including mine. Was uncertainty one of the themes known to the world of literature? He went on to show us how the play was propelled by Hamlet's wavering doubt about events affecting his life – the plotline. 

And therein lies how plot and theme marry to confuse everyone. We know plot. That's the action; that's the part we bore people with when we go into raptures about a movie or book we liked. But with the telling, we often impart the mood of the story, or the simple moral without realizing it. That's theme for you.      
 
The reason theme's tricky is it's abstract. It exists in novels, but it's not there to be seen. Theme doesn't shout out, I'm here. Lookee me.

When I wrote The End Game, I wasn't thinking, What's my theme going to be. I began with my heroine, Moriah Dru, and let her tell her story, which she does in first person. She sparked the action, helped create her co-characters and ultimately developed the theme.

How did she do it? In the beginning we learn she's a child finder. She had been an Atlanta policewoman, but found her calling in finding lost children. Right away, we know she cares for the unfortunate who are lost or stolen and can't fend for themselves. She embarks on a relentless search for the kids, refusing to believe she won't find them alive.  We detect persistence and faith – themes.  So in a piece of fiction like "The End Game" themes are revealed after the characters build the plot and act on their instincts and beliefs. 

Themes, I believe, are not intended to preach. Readers must perceive them and writers must underlie the morals in the work without being didactic. By the time Moriah Dru's story ends, more themes will emerge, each formed in the minds of her readers.. 

Maybe we college freshmen were right in saying lust, incest, power were themes, and our instructor was right that Hamlet's story had an overriding theme of uncertainty – or revenge wished for but never pursued. 

Gerrie, thanks so much for guest blogging here today. You have given us a good take on themes.

Gerrie lives on the coast of Georgia with her husband and standard poodle, Bogey. For more on Gerrie and her book check out her website and her blog.

Here’s a brief review for “The End Game”: A hunt for two young sisters propels Finger's compelling if at times sobering debut… A well-researched plot and snappy dialogue—plus some fine rail-yard K-9 detecting by Buddy, a German shepherd, and Jed, a Labrador retriever—keep the action moving. PUBLISHERS WEEKLY

Short and to the Point

Spring has arrived and many are suffering from allergies. Me, not so bad yet. I’m just having another ongoing think session with my old friend, migraine. (I think I'm getting over it, migraine thinks not.) :0

For that reason, today’s post will be short. Thanks to Anna and the folks at Hachette Book Group, I have two new giveaways to announce. To enter either or both giveaways, just send me an e-mail with “Win Forbidden” or “Win Stay” in the subject line and put your name and mailing address in the body of the e-mail. The giveaway is open to residents of the U.S. and Canada only and no post office boxes are allowed. The giveaway will run through 8 p.m. (EST) on Sunday, April 25.

The first giveaway is for “Forbidden Passion” (ISBN: 9780446199490) by Rita Herron, a 352-page fiction romance paperback. Here’s a brief synopsis: “SHE SEES HIM IN HER DREAMS...Fueled by her family's murder years ago, Dr. Marlena Bender has devoted her life to understanding violent criminals. But when a serial killer in this small Southern town starts taking the lives of women in diabolical ways--leaving trophies of his kills on Marlena's doorstep--it all hits too close to home. Terrified, Marlena turns to the only man she can trust...the man who saved her life.

BUT HIS SECRET IS HER WORST NIGHTMARE. Sheriff Dante Valtrez would move heaven and earth to keep Marlena safe, but he's not the savior she thinks he is. A dark legacy runs through his blood and a dangerous secret lies

within him. Now a fierce, hot, ruthless desire draws Dante and Marlena together--as a demonic force from his past threatens to rip them apart,  destroying everything they hold dear.” 

Rita Herron is an award-winning author of more than 30 romantic suspense novels for Harlequin and Dorchester. In 2007 alone, she was nominated for two Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Awards, including a Career Achievement Award. 

The second giveaway is for “Stay a Little Longer” (ISBN: 9780446540193) by Dorothy Garlock, a 384 page fiction romance paperback. Here’s a brief synopsis: “Louise Watkins has her hands full. Her mother had been the town midwife, but when her daughter Alice died under her care, she refused to assist in a childbirth ever again. Since then Louise has assumed the work. She also takes care of Alice's six-year old, Charlotte, because the child's father was lost in World War I. But Louise's principal job is running the boardinghouse that is the family's main source of income. One day, Charlotte befriends a stranger ill with influenza, a man who has taken refuge in an old cabin in the woods nearby. Although badly scarred by wounds suffered in the War, he is strong and slowly recovers. When he gradually takes on odd jobs around the house, Louise accepts his help. She is drawn to him despite his disfigurement, and his voice is comforting, vaguely familiar...

Dorothy Garlock is a national bestselling and award-winning author of thirty-five romances that often feature the exciting backdrop of the Old West. She is one of America's-and the world's-favorite novelists. Her books, all enthusiastically reviewed, now total more than eight million copies in print with translations in 15 languages. She lives in Clear Lake, Iowa.

Hope everyone has a wonderful and safe Sunday. Be sure to drop back by tomorrow as author Gerrie Ferris-Finger will be guest blogging here.

The Accidental Highland Hero by Terry Spear

Looking for a romantic adventure filled with captivating characters, suspense at every turn, heart-stopping action, and heroes and heroines dreams are made of?

Look no further than “The Accidental Highland Hero” by author Terry Spear. This historical romance epic is set in Scotland and Ireland during the early 1100s.

A chance encounter by the sea in Scotland holds an Irishman in its grips for years because of a maiden with fiery red-gold locks and emerald eyes.

For the fair maiden, her life is turned upside down when she is betrothed to the chief of a neighboring clan who is old enough to be her father and is barbaric. A series of mishaps saves her momentarily from the marriage, but leaves her with no memory and a sense of lose.

Through a series of twists and turns the fiery red-head and the Highlander met again. But their’s is not a simple meeting, but one of problems and misunderstandings riddled with moments of passion and longing, not to mention a battle or two along the way.

The beautiful scenery and flowing dialect will draw you in. The story will hold you captive as author Terry Spear takes you on a fantastic journey back in time for a beguiling, tantalizing, breathtaking adventure. From the opening line to the closing words, you’re taken on a heart-pounding, pulse-throbbing ride of love, honor, betrayal, hope, desperation, and salvation.

This enthralling story will hold you in its grip. You will be mesmerized by the beautiful Ellis, swept away by the magnificent James, and ready to throttle the fair Catriona.
 
When you pick up “The Accidental Highland Hero” you will not want to put it down. As the story draws to a close you’ll be clamoring for more.

The Accidental Highland Hero by Terry Spear * Vintage Romance @2010 * ISBN: 9780981989662 * Paperback * 262 pages

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

Guest Blogger, Lydia Dare

Please join me in giving a warm welcome to debut romance author Lydia Dare as the guest blogger here today at Thoughts in Progress.

As you can tell from Lydia’s photo, “she” is actually the writing team of Tammy Falkner and Jodie Pearson. The duo has teamed up to write “A Certain Wolfish Charm,” the first in a new paranormal historical trilogy.

If you’ll remember my review from Sunday, March 28, “A Certain Wolfish Charm” is oh, so much more than you can image. Thanks to Lydia and Danielle at Sourcebooks, I have two copies of “A Certain Wolfish Charm” to giveaway. Please see the end of the post for details.

Lydia has joined us today to talk about how she keeps her version of werewolves fresh and exciting.

When you think of a Regency-era gentleman, what do you think of? A man who is, of course, sinfully handsome, a wonderful  and passionate lover, and he’s waiting for the love of his life, who can reform him and make him want to bestow all the lessons-in-lovin’ he’s learned throughout the years upon her. 

Right? He’s probably horribly flawed, yet perfect all at the same time. After all, the heroine has to have a purpose, right? She has to transform the rake.

When you think of wolves, what comes to mind?  Wild animals that are fiercely loyal to their pack and their mate. What else do we know about wolves?

They howl at the moon for no discernible reason (to us) and we might even be led to believe they’re controlled by the phases of the moon. Their migration. Their mating rituals. It might be easy for us to have preconceived notions about all of that, right? Yet they’re still fascinating simply because of what they are. 

Now, take the wild wolf and the rakish Regency-era gentleman and combine them.

Lycans are wild men in waistcoats and starched cravats in my fantastical world. They keep all the wild properties of the wolf, but they also keep their familial faith and loyalty, their devotion to their pack, their acceptance of the pack order. Yet they adopt the very things that make men so endearing to the women who love to read romance novels. They take on a little vulnerability and keep all the sinfulness that is the human alpha-rake.

They say a wolf in sheep’s clothing will always be discovered, simply by the deeds he does. But what if he wears the clothing, walks on two feet, follows all of society’s rules (with a little give for the expected bad behavior that makes them so damn lovable), and has more money than the average bloke? Will he still be discovered? Maybe. Maybe not.

That’s what’s fresh and exciting about the Westfields. All three brothers blend into society with very little trouble. They’re handsome and witty and dearly love one another. It’s obvious despite all their griping and arguments. But then finally they each meet that one special woman who makes them want to show her all that he is. And that’s where the excitement comes in. 
Come now… how many women do you know who would not only be intrigued by a man who transforms into a wolf under the light of the moon but would fall in love with him even after finding out his sinful secret?

Simon Westfield, the dangerous Duke of Blackmoor is the oldest of the three brothers who round out the trilogy. And he finally meets Lily Rutledge, who just happens to stumble upon him right before the moon hits its fullest mark. In A Certain Wolfish Charm, Lily not only has to figure out what he is, but she has to make him come to terms with it as well.  Loving him is inevitable, but can she make him accept the beast within as readily as she can?

I hope you’ll read each of these stories to find out what happens with all of these dashing, daring, dominating men.

Here’s a brief synopsis of “A Certain Wolfish Charm” (in stores now): “He gets crankier and crankier as the moon gets full…
 
The rules of society can be beastly—especially when you’re a werewolf and it’s that irritating time of the month. Simon Westfield, the Duke of Blackmoor, is rich, powerful, and sinfully handsome, and has spent his entire life creating scandal and mayhem. It doesn’t help his wolfish temper at all that Miss Lily Rutledge seems not the least bit afraid of him, and in fact, may be as untamable as he is… 
 
A woman whose charm is stronger that the moon…
 
When Lily’s beloved nephew’s behavior becomes inexplicably wild, she turns to Simon, the boy’s cousin and guardian, for help. But Simon’s idea of assistance is far different than hers, and Lily finds herself ensconced in his house and engaged to the rogue. 
 
They both may have bitten off more than they can chew when each begins to discover the other’s darkest secrets… 
 
Lydia (Tammy and Jodie), thanks so much for guest blogging here today. Simon and Lily remind me so much of the old movies with Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn. With the push and pull between them, as well as the slight arguing they do, I couldn’t help but laugh out loud at some of the things that happened.

Now a little background on Tammy and Jodie, both are active members of the Heart of Carolina Romance Writers and live near Raleigh, North Carolina. They are working together on their next paranormal historical trilogy as Lydia Dare, which will be released by Sourcebooks Casablanca in Spring 2010! For more information, please visit them at http://www.lydiadare.com/.

Now for the giveaway. I have two copies of “A Certain Wolfish Charm” to award to visitors commenting on Lydia’s post between now and 8 p.m. (EST) Saturday, April 17. Be sure to include your e-mail address in the comments if your profile doesn’t include it.

What are your thoughts on men in wolf’s clothing - no wait that’s wolves in men’s clothing?

Heterogeneous

Does the changing season change your personality or have an effect on your lifestyle?

As the season changes, I believe our outlook does too. With Spring in the air and the coming of Summer, we tend to have a cheerier mood. Maybe it has something to do with all the sunshine and Vitamin D we’re getting.

By the same token, with Spring in the air and the coming of Summer I begin to remember how hectic my life gets this time of year. The days may be longer, but there still doesn’t seem to be enough hours in a day to get everything done.

I’ve only blogged in late Fall and Winter so there was time to visit all the wonderful blogs I follow and explore new ones. Summer is approaching and my

time is beginning to be stretched thin. It hadn’t registered with me that I’d have less time to blog. So if I don’t visit your blog everyday as I had been, it’s not that I don’t enjoy visiting anymore. It’s must my time in blogdom has been shorten for awhile and hopefully I can play catch up a couple days a week.

I have some great authors lined up to guest blog in the coming days so please drop by to see what they have to share.

Now I have several winners to announce. First up, the winners of Gwyn Cready’s “Flirting With Forever” are karenk and Carol from Under the Tiki Hut. Congratulations and thanks to everyone who commented on Gwyn’s post.

Next, the winners of Kim Wright’s “Love in Mid Air” are Deb from POWERED by BOOKS BLOG, AmandaSue and Traveler. Congrats and thanks to everyone who commented on Kim’s post.

The winners of “I Has a Hotdog” are Janel of Janel's Jumble; Karin A. of Tenstrike, MN; and L. Ann R. of McComb, Ms. Congrats on the win and thanks to everyone who entered the contest.

Most of you know what comes next. Yep, I’ve got a new giveaway to announce. “Alex Cross's TRIAL” (ISBN: 9780446561808) by James Patterson and Richard DiLallo. This is a 416 page paperback. Here’s a brief synopsis:
 

Separated by time: From his grandmother, Alex Cross has heard the story of his great uncle Abraham and his struggles for survival in the era of the Ku Klux Klan. Now, Alex passes the family tale along to his own children in a novel he's written--a novel called Trial.

Connected by blood: As a lawyer in turn-of-the-century Washington D.C., Ben Corbett represents the toughest cases. Fighting against oppression and racism, he risks his family and his life in the process. When President Roosevelt asks Ben to return to his home town to investigate rumors of the resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan there, he cannot refuse.

United by bravery: When he arrives in Eudora, Mississippi, Ben meets the wise Abraham Cross and his beautiful granddaughter, Moody. Ben enlists their help, and the two Crosses introduce him to the hidden side of the idyllic Southern town. Lynchings have become commonplace and residents of the town's black quarter live in constant fear. Ben aims to break the reign of terror--but the truth of who is really behind it could break his heart. Written in the fearless voice of Detective Alex Cross, Alex Cross's Trial is a gripping story of murder, love, and, above all, bravery.

Thanks to Valerie and the folks at Hachette Book Group, I have 3 copies of “Alex Cross’s Trial” to giveaway. To enter the contest, send me an e-mail with “Win Trial” in the subject line and include your name and address in the body of the e-mail. The deadline for the giveaway ends at 6 p.m. (EST) on Saturday, April 24.

Is the changing season causing problems for your time schedule? Do you include season changes in your writing? Does your protagonist have a favorite season?

Guest Blogger, Terrie Farley Moran

Please join me in welcoming author Terrie Farley Moran as the special guest blogger here today at Thoughts in Progress.

Terrie’s short mystery fiction has been published in several venues including the anthologies, Murder New York Style  and the third Toys for Tots anthology, Dying In A Winter Wonderland which rose to number eight on bestseller list of the Independent Mystery Booksellers in 2008. 

Terrie’s story “When a Bright Star Fades,” was published in the e-zine, Hardluck Stories, and won recognition as a distinguished mystery story of 2008. She joins us at Thoughts in Progress to talk about the newly released Mystery Writers of America anthology, Crimes by Moonlight, edited by Charlaine Harris.

Terrie invites everyone to visit the blog Women of Mystery to enjoy the grand banter of eight talented mystery writers, each and every one a member of the New York/TriState chapter of Sisters in Crime.

Hi everyone. I’m delighted to have this opportunity to tell you about Crimes by Moonlight. Last year, The Mystery Writers of America (MWA) announced that they were organizing an anthology of short mystery fiction with a paranormal theme. The incomparable Charlaine Harris agreed to be the editor, and as such, she invited other noted authors to join her. 

A call for submissions went out to all MWA members for ten additional stories. A team of five eminent MWA authors culled through more than two hundred blind submissions of paranormal mystery stories and selected the ten that completed the anthology. I am honored that a story I wrote, “The Awareness,” is included in Crimes by Moonlight.

The mere mortals among us find the paranormal world to be enticingly mysterious which leads to a natural tie-in between paranormal stories and mystery stories. This anthology offers twenty mystery stories each with its own unique paranormal element: shape-shifters, vampires and ghosts abound. Steve Brewer writes about a man who wakes up on the autopsy table. He’s officially dead but has a mission to accomplish. Elaine Viets weaves the story of a grandma who can presage death. One story is about an inquisitive banshee who decides to solve a murder. I’m pleased to say the banshee is my own creation.

The authors contributing excellent paranormal mysteries to this anthology are:

Charlaine Harris

Steve Brewer

Dana Cameron

Max Allan Collins and Mickey Spillane

Barbara D'Amato

Brendan DuBois

Terrie Farley Moran

Jack Fredrickson

Parnell Hall

Carolyn Hart

S. W. Hubbard

Toni L. P. Kelner

Lou Kemp

William Kent Kreuger

Harley Jane Kozak

Margaret Mahon

Martin Meyers

Jeffrey Somers

Elaine Viets

Mike Wiecek

Although yesterday, April 6th, was the official release date for Crimes by Moonlight, the actual book launch will be held in the Mysterious Bookshop in New York City on Tuesday, April 27th. I expect it to be a glamorous event, with many of the anthology authors and any number of Edgar Award nominees present. You can find all the information here.  

Finally, thanks to our wonderful publisher, Berkley Prime Crime, I would like to offer one free copy of Crimes by Moonlight to a reader of Thoughts in Progress.

Terrie, thank you so much for guest blogging here today. Crimes by Moonlight sounds intriguing and loads of fun to read.

Now for the giveaway. If you’d like a chance to win a copy of Crimes by Moonlight, just comment on Terrie’s post between now and 8 p.m. on Wednesday, 14. Be sure to include your e-mail address if it’s not included in your profile.

Guest Blogger, Dee Davis

Today I’d like to welcome author Dee Davis as the special guest blogger here at Thoughts in Progress as part of her virtual blog tour.

Dee’s latest release is “Dark Deceptions” Book 1 in the A-Tac Series and it hit bookstores April 1. Here’s a brief synopsis of the book: “Covert operations expert Nash Brennon has spent the last eight years trying to forget Annie Gallagher, his former field partner and the only woman he ever loved. Annie betrayed him when he needed her most, then vanished without a trace. Now suddenly she’s back in the game—this time as a suspected traitor and threat to national security. 

Annie’s son has been kidnapped by political terrorists. The price for his life? Assassinate a UN ambassador. Then Nash finds her, and immediately, the smoldering passion between Annie and the man she swore she’d never contact again almost blazes out of control. But can Nash trust her? The stakes couldn’t be higher: their enemy’s endgame is personal, and one false move could cost them their lives.”

Thanks to Dee, along with Anna and the folks at Hachette Book Group, I have five copies of “Dark Deceptions” to offer in a giveaway. Please see the end of this post for details.

Dee has stopped by to talk about how she came to write romantic suspense.

When I was a little kid on certain summer nights, my mom would tell my brother and I to get our pajamas on right after dinner. A good couple of hours before our bedtimes. But we didn’t protest because we knew what was coming next. We were going to the drive-in movie theatre. Now the rule was that we were allowed to watch the first feature but during the second we were supposed to go to sleep. I never did. And so in a small Oklahoma town, I saw all the James Bond movies, Matt Helm movies and various war movies (mostly starring John Wayne).

When I hit the point where I outgrew juvenile fiction, my mother introduced me to Mary Stewart’s books. My Brother Michael, This Rough Magic and the Moon-Spinners soon became favorite books, and I branched out into the works of Alistair MacLean, Frederick Forsyth and Robert Ludlum. From there I grew into Robin Cook, Michael Crichton, and Mary-Higgins Clark. And while living in Vienna, starving for books written in English, I discovered the works of Helen McGinnis.

When I graduated from college, I took the entrance exam for the foreign service and interviewed with the CIA. Ultimately, we agreed that it wasn’t going to work. We both agreed that I talk too much. But it didn’t curb my interest in all things spy oriented. And so it wasn’t really a surprise that when I started writing books I turned to romantic suspense. It was what I was raised with in a literary sense. And as a political scientist with a concentration in international relations, my interest in the posturing of governments as they move together and apart was also a natural feeding ground for my imagination.

In short, although I’ve never been a spy, and never worked for any of the many government intelligence agencies, I was a natural to write romantic suspense set in and around my fictional version of the CIA and various organizations  connected to it. And the American Tactical Intelligence, the group around which my new series is based, is the newest creation of my overly active imagination. 

But in order to make it believable, I did need to do my research. And as with all research it can be broken down into two distinct categories: Background and specific. Background research consists of understand the overview of whatever it is I’m writing about. For that I read books about real people involved with the business of stopping threats against our society. Books like Ghost, Profiles

in Murder, No Heros, The Anatomy of Motive, and Mind Hunter give insight into the minds of both criminals and the men and women who work to stop them. And as my characters are created, this insight helps in developing their backgrounds and personalities.

For specific research, I look to history books, how-to books, children’s books (which offer simple explanations) and books written by people in the professions I’m trying to understand. Tyler Hanson, in Desperate Deeds, the third book in the A-Tac series, is a whiz with ordnance. And to make sure that there is a sufficient level of believability to her character, I had to learn about ordnance, and about bombs in particular. In addition her father is a military man, and I wanted to be sure I got things right when she spoke about his career and experiences. So I turned to books on the Army and on the war in Vietnam.  

One of the best compliments I’ve ever received about a book came from an FBI agent who told me that I got it right in my book Midnight Rain. That meant the world and made all the hours researching worthwhile. My books are primarily about relationships. About two people coming together in extraordinary circumstances and learning to trust each other enough to fall in love. But the fact that this usually happens in the midst of car chases, gunfire, explosions and the occasional helicopter escape isn’t all that surprising. 

After all, the seeds were sown long ago at the drive-in movie when I stayed awake for the second feature.

What about you? How have your reading (or viewing) experiences shaped your life?

Dee thanks so much for guest blogging here today. I can see where growing up watching Matt Helm and James Bond could be a foundation for creating the A-Tac Series.

A cool new micro site for "Dark Deceptions" was recently launched. You can "Enter A-Tac" where you can get character profiles and listen to excerpts , as well as hear a mysterious voice that speaks of scary things.
 
Now for some background on Dee. She has a BA in Political Science and History, and a Masters Degree in Public Administration. During a 10 year career in public relations, Dee spent three years on the public speaking circuit, edited two newsletters, wrote three award winning public service announcements, did television and radio commercials, starred in the Seven Year Itch, taught college classes, lobbied both the Texas State Legislature and the US Congress, and served as the director of two associations. Her highly acclaimed first novel, Everything In Its Time, was published in July 2000. Since then, among others, she’s won the Booksellers Best, Golden Leaf, Texas Gold and Prism awards, and been nominated for the National Readers Choice Award, the Holt and two RT Reviewers Choice Awards. To date, she has sold 18 books and three novellas, including Chain Reaction and A Match Made on Madison. 
 
She’s lived in Austria and traveled in Europe extensively. And although she now lives in Manhattan she still calls Texas home. She blogs at Whine Sisters and her virtual blog tour schedule can be found at her Website.

Now for the giveaway. I have five copies of “Dark Deception” to give away. To enter, send an e-mail to me, be sure to put “Win Deception” in the subject line and include your name and mailing address in the body of the e-mail. The giveaway is open to U.S and Canadian residents only and no post office box addresses accepted. The deadline to enter is 8 p.m. (EST) on Friday, April 16.

Guest Blogger, Libby Malin

Please join me in welcoming author Libby Malin as the special guest blogger here today at Thoughts in Progress.

“My Own Personal Soap Opera” is Libby’s latest release and it hits the stores this week.  Here’s a brief synopsis of the book: “Is life stranger than fiction, or vice versa?

Frankie McNally has found the perfect solution for life’s perplexing problems: as head writer for the daytime soap Lust for Life, she works them out on the air!

Meanwhile, Frankie’s being courted simultaneously by the dashing older man sent in to save the show’s sagging ratings and by the soap’s totally hot leading man. And just when Frankie thinks the plot couldn’t get more complicated, a jewel thief starts copying the show’s storyline-a development that could send the show’s ratings soaring, if it doesn’t get Frankie arrested first...

In her signature blending of the hilarious with the poignant, Libby Malin’s latest light-hearted novel combines the best of life and of fiction into an entertaining and incredibly satisfying read.”

Thanks to Libby and Danielle at Sourcebooks, I have two copies of “My Own Personal Soap Opera” to give away to visitors commenting on Libby’s post between today and 8 p.m. on Monday, April 12. Be sure to include your e-mail address if it’s not in your profile. With her hectic schedule right now, Libby will try to drop in and answer any questions you might have. However, if time doesn’t allow her to, I’ll be glad to forward them to her for you.

At one time or another the majority of all of us (men included) have watched a soap opera or two. Libby joins us today to share her thoughts on “if she actually wrote for a soap opera.”

Days of Our Lives and the now-defunct Another World were my all-time favorite soap operas. I dabbled a little in watching The Young and the Restless, but its time slot interferes with Days, so… I never became a die hard Y&R fan.

If I were soap writer (like the protagonist in my new novel My Own Personal Soap Opera), it would be for Days. They have a great cast of characters, including two super villains (Victor and Stefano!) and some twisted family trees. They have a good mix of young and old, with one character now playing a matriarchal figure who had a good number of romantic stories of her own “back in the day.”

In the 90s, Days’ head writer was James Reilly, a phenomenal talent whose wild story ideas kept audiences riveted. Reilly took watchers on zany journeys with beloved characters. Imagine this: a pure-hearted heroine starts doing the most malicious deeds. Reilly crafted such a story for the deeply-loved character Marlena Evans. It was brilliant story-telling and, from this writer’s perspective, a nearly-impossible accomplishment—taking a character who viewers feel they know better than their own family and making her do things completely foreign to her personality. 

Often, when a writer manipulates a character that way, the audience stops watching (remember Bobby Ewing’s “dream” on Dallas?). But Reilly pulled it off, eventually introducing the idea that Marlena was actually possessed by the devil during her evil-doing spree through the Midwest town of Salem (appropriate name, eh?).

Reilly, sad to say, is gone now, having passed away at the relatively young age of 60. But what a talent!

If I were a soap writer, I’d want to emulate his “out of the box” thinking, taking characters in different directions. Right now on Days, for example, a heroine has returned to the show. She was another pure-hearted soul, a doctor to boot, but I’d love to take her down a darker path, making her a villainess now embittered by the loss of her hero to another woman, the love of his life. Mmm. . . . that would be juicy to write! So many possibilities!

But the writers of Days are probably constrained in some ways by the actor’s contract—how long she’ll be on the show—and other factors, maybe even fans of the returning actress, who don’t want to see their idol becoming something they can’t believe in.

Those multi-faceted challenges must make a soap writer’s job interesting. I tried to incorporate some of them into my novel, My Own Personal Soap Opera, by having head writer Frankie McNally deal with crisis after crisis—including a leading man who breaks his leg on Dancing with the Stars right before shooting of a torrid love scene begins. I did a lot of research before writing my book and was grateful to the very patient head writer of As the World Turns, Jean Passanante, who answered my many questions.

Frankie’s personal life sometimes resembles a soap opera, with one cliffhanger moment after another. She has to figure out how to save her show, deal with a real thief imitating one on the soap, and choose between two men who are after her heart.

I love Frankie’s character—she’s sweet but sassy, vulnerable yet strong (or wishing she were stronger than she is). By the story’s end, she’s made a few important discoveries about who she is and where she wants to be in life.

Oh, and if you were a fan of Another World, you’ll notice she’s named after a beloved character on that show—Frankie Frame!

If you’d like a peek at the book, the opening chapter is up on my website – www.LibbysBooks.com

What are your favorite soaps (if you watch them) and your favorite soap characters and stories?

Libby, thanks so much for stopping by today. I’ll admit I was hooked on ABC’s big three (All My Children, One Life to Live and General Hospital) for awhile. But they all started adding so many young actors and dropping the older ones, I felt like they didn’t care about the older viewers. Besides now I’m too busy in blogdom.

For a little background on Libby, she is published in women’s fiction, including Fire Me, and is an Edgar nominated YA mystery writer. She’s worked in public relations, as an education reform advocate, and was a member of the Vermont Commission on Women. She lives with her husband and three children in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. For more information about her and her writing, be sure to check out her website www.LibbysBooks.com.

Happy Easter and Miss Mandy Manners

I'd like to wish everyone a Happy Easter today. Whether you celebrate the holiday or not, may today be filled with happiness and love. May you spend your day enjoying family and friends or simply taking some time for yourself to relax and unwind.


Spring is finally here (even if there will still be a few more cool days - blackberry winter) and summer won't be far behind. Before long we'll all be busy outdoors trying to keep ahead of the grass and weeds while wishing we had cooler temperatures.

I have a short and sweet book review to share with you today. Since the Easter holiday always brings thoughts of children and Easter egg hunts to mind, I thought this would be a perfect time to review a children's book.


For a delightful little book to encourage politeness for your youngsters, pickup a copy of "Miss Mandy Manners" by Michelle Berg.

The book tells how Miss Mandy interacts with her friends and family. In addition, it tells how she acts while in school and at play dates. The book re-enforces a positive message of always being polite.

"Miss Mandy Manners" is beautifully illustrated by Karl Struss.

The final line in the book sums up of the focus of the story, "Being a nice person makes you liked by everyone."


Miss Mandy Manners by Michelle Berg * Little Nipper Books * @2007 * ISBN: 978-0-9840768-0-2 * Hardcover * 12 pages

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the author in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

*****

I also have winners to announce for Joanne Kennedy's "Cowboy Trouble" giveaway. Congratulations goes to Carol from Under the Tiki Hut and Marvin also known as The Old Silly. Your books will soon be on the way. Thanks to both winners and everyone who stopped by and commented on Joanne's post. 

Remember, have a fun day and check back here at Thoughts in Progress next week for a wonderful lineup of great authors who will be dropping by to share their thoughts on writing.

Reacting Without Thinking

Do you think before you act or do you just react without thinking?

Many things in our lives we do on a regular bases to the point our actions are automatic. These things are part of our routine and to a degree who we are.

Routines are a good thing, right? Overall, yes they are. Routines help keep us on schedule and help to organize our lives.

But what happens to that routine, that automatic response, if someone unknown to us has touched our lives? Sound crazy? Let me give you an example.

I always put sugar in my cup before I pour my coffee. This action causes the sugar to dissolve without me having to stir it and I can better judge how much sugar I’m putting in the cup without a spoon. Simple process, regular routine done without even thinking about what I’m doing.

This works great until … until someone gets the last of the coffee leaving only enough for one swallow maybe. They do this without me knowing.

Following my usual routine, not thinking, not looking, just reacting. I go through the steps, lift the pot to pour and only a few drops fall out. There I stand coffee cup in hand with my one swallow of coffee that contains enough sugar for a full cup.

I have wasted sugar, as well as the last drink of coffee all because of automatic responses.

I’m trying not to have automatic responses when it comes to my reading. I’m trying to learn more about the author and the book before I automatically reject it.

Book covers draw me to books like bees to honey. It’s an automatic response that works well. But, what about all the great books that the covers aren’t quite so catchy. I’ve rejected them based on something that has nothing to do with the story. In most cases, authors have little input into their book covers. And even then those who do sometimes still have only a minor influence.

It should be based on the author’s writing that I select a book, not the cover. The plot and the characters should draw me in, hold me captive and only release me once the last line is read.

When writing do you have your characters responding automatically to a situation or another character? Do readers already know what’s going to happen to your protagonist by the end of the book?

One other note I wanted to touch on. This past week Thoughts in Progress went over 100 followers. I am amazed and speechless. When I began this blog on Halloween 2009, I never imaged reaching 100 followers. I am completely honored and humbled by those who have selected to be a follower. I appreciate it very much and it means more than I can say. In fact saying thank you doesn’t seem to be enough, but I do THANK YOU each and everyone for stopping by and commenting. I hope I can continue to host authors and giveaways that you enjoy and I’m always open for suggestions for anything you might think will improve the blog. Again thanks!!

Good Friday, Winners & Giveaways

To begin this post I’d like to wish everyone a “Good Friday” and remind you that for many, many years farmers have planted their crops on this day to ensure a good harvest. 

May what you sow today be a blessing for those who receive it. And, may the Easter holiday be everything you want it to be.

Now for this post. This will be a round-up of sorts. I have a number of winners to congratulate from previous book giveaways and several new book giveaways to announce.

The winners of “To Sin With A Scoundrel” by Cara Elliott are: G.S. M. of Houston, TX; Crystal B. of Beloit, WI; Joyce S. of Conroe, TX; Ann C. of Sioux Falls, SD; and Eve D. of Centreville, VA. Congratulations to the winners and thanks to everyone who entered the contest.

The winners of “Just Let Me Lie Down” by Kristin Van Ogtrop are: Eleanor H. of Greenville, PA; Sharon B. of Albuquerque, NM; and Karen K. of Monessen, PA. Congratulations to these winners and thanks to everyone who entered.

Now for a number of new giveaways. These giveaways are a diverse genre.

First, thanks to Valerie and the Hachette Book Group I have three copies of “Presumed Innocent” by Scott Turow to giveaway. This giveaway is being offered in anticipation of the highly-awaited sequel “Innocent” which releases May 4.

The giveaway is open to U.S. and Canadian residents only and no post office boxes can be accepted. To enter, send me an e-mail (mcbookshelf@gmail.com) with “Win Presumed” in the subject line and be sure to include your name and address in the body of the e-mail. The giveaway will end on Saturday, April 17.

“Presumed Innocent” brings to life our worst nightmare: that of an ordinary citizen facing conviction for the most terrible of crimes. Prosecutor Rusty Sabich is transformed from accuser to accused when he is handed an explosive case--that of the brutal murder of a woman who happens to be his former lover.

Next, thanks to Anna and the Hachette Audio Group I have three copies of these two audio books to giveaway. The giveaway is open to U.S. and Canadian residents only and no post office boxes can be accepted. To enter, send me an e-mail with “Win” and the book’s title in the subject line and be sure to include your name and address in the body of the e-mail. Both giveaways will end on Saturday, April 17.

The first audio is “Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter” (unabridged) by Seth Grahame-Smith.

While Abraham Lincoln is widely lauded for saving a Union and freeing millions of slaves, his valiant fight against the forces of the undead has remained in the shadows for hundreds of years. That is, until Seth Grahame-Smith stumbled upon The Secret Journal of Abraham Lincoln, and became the first living person to lay eyes on it in more than 140 years.

The second audio is “The Art of Choosing” (unabridged) by Sheena Iyengar and

read by Orlagh Cassidy.

The nationally recognized, leading authority on choice exposes the surprising truths behind the decisions we make everyday.

The last giveaway is for “Iron Man 2” by Alexander Irvine. "I am Iron Man." With those words, billionaire industrialist Tony Stark revealed his secret identity. Now a famous high-tech superhero, he uses his powers to protect mankind. Yet things are not going well for Tony Stark. The U.S. military demands control of the most powerful weapon on earth--the Iron Man suit. His beautiful new assistant has a strange, mysterious agenda while his best friend, Rhodey, has betrayed him. And Tony is hunted by a vengeful Russian criminal armed with a lethal technology that may be stronger than Tony's suit. But even as he fights his demons, the hero faces his greatest threat--one that no armor can defend against . . .

Thanks to Anna and the Hachette Book Group I have five copies of this book to giveaway. The giveaway is open to U.S. and Canadian residents only and no post office boxes can be accepted. To enter, send me an e-mail with “Win Iron Man” in the subject line and be sure to include your name and address in the body of the e-mail. The giveaway will end on Saturday, April 17.

That’s the giveaways for now. Hope everyone has a good Friday. Be sure to check back this weekend as I hope to have the sidebars updated with the upcoming authors guest blogging in April, as well as a review to post. In addition, I plan to have the contest page updated with these new giveaways.

 

Guest Blogger, Art Adkins

Today I’d like to welcome author Art Adkins as the special guest blogger here at Thoughts in Progress.

“The Oasis Project” is Art’s debut novel. Here’s a brief synopsis of it: “A ruthless businessman uses an approaching hurricane to murder a boy genius and his family for his environmental invention worth billions. Enter Slade Lockwood, a retired LAPD Deputy Chief, who is on an inward journey to rediscover what he lost: himself. The investigation takes Slade across the United States as he unravels the mystery to bring the ruthless killer to justice.”

Art joins us today to talk about different aspects of promoting his novel.

As I travel all over promoting my work and doing book signings, I am repeatedly asked by fans the most crucial aspect of promoting a novel. I would have to say the most pivotal aspect of introducing a new work is to make sure you identify the niche or market for the book. To illustrate this point, the next time you are in a major book store take a moment and look around. 

There are thousands of different titles from just as many authors. Not everyone has the same taste or desires the same type of book. That is what allows multiple authors with a variety of subjects to flourish – to meet this demand of various interests of the readers. However, locating that target audience can be difficult.

Identifying the market for your work is not only important from a reader standpoint, but when you pitch your book to a publisher or agent they also want to know who is interested in purchasing your novel. With the economy still struggling to gain momentum, it is imperative you identify the correct market to illustrate the potential for sales to an agent or publisher and why they should take a chance on you. 

To accomplish this task you need to do your homework and see what is selling in your genre or what closely resembles your work. I have had some difficulty in this as I have a style that has ‘crossed’ over or is similar to several genres. I have been told my work is a mystery; others have labeled it as suspense; some have used the term thriller and even the descriptor of ‘detective or crime novel’ has been added.  While this has helped to set me apart from other writers, it has proven challenging when describing my work to perspective agents and publishers. I seem to be carving out my own niche and the response from readers has been extremely favorable! I was just selected as one of the “50 Great Writers You Should Be Reading,” a book due out this Summer!

So how do you identify the niche or market for your book? I will share a personal experience from the marketing of my second novel, Power Grid, as I submit it to publishers/agents. In Power Grid, my hero has received a letter from a dead man telling him to ‘hide the secret lost for ages’ because of its destructive content. This secret is the power source used b y ancient man to construct the pyramids, Stonehenge and other ancient wonders around the world. The power source is desired by the military and corrupt government officials to deploy space weapons for global dominance. 

My hero is a retired LAPD Deputy Chief living in Cedar Key, Florida. Sounds straight forward right? Remember what I said earlier about the different genres I have been included in? I have a retired LAPD cop thrown into an international mystery/suspense involving corruption, deceit, terrorist plots, while trying to honor the wishes of a dead man he never met. This also sounds pretty much like other mystery/suspense/crime novels, but that is where I have developed my own style.

The mystery surrounding the construction of ancient megalithic sites has plagued mankind for millennia. How were the pyramids constructed? What is the meaning of Stonehenge? What is the purpose of the statues on Easter Island? What destroyed Atlantis? With the exception of Atlantis, thousands of tourists visit the sites every year and ask these very questions. National Geographic, the History Channel, radio stations and other forums discuss the questions I have raised. I have a built-in audience of thousands eager to explore a concept or idea about the origin or demise of these very sites! By wrapping it into a mystery, I have offered a solution and an enjoyable read. I have identified my market. 

By taking the time to research my potential audience, I have created a tangible marketing concept for publishers/agents reviewing my work. I am anxious to see how Power Grid is received once a publisher selects it. My first novel, The Oasis Project, dealt with an environmental issue and has just hit #1 on my publisher’s best seller list! My style is catching on! Keep reading and God bless!

Thanks Art for stopping by today and guest blogging. Sounds like you’re definitely craving out your own niche. Art will be stopping back by today to answer any questions you might have and to respond to your comments.

For a little background on Art, he is currently a lieutenant on the Gainesville Police Department, Gainesville, Florida. He his law enforcement career in 1980 on the Ft. Lauderdale Police Department. Seeking more diversity, he moved to Los Angeles and joined the Los Angeles Police Department in 1982 and it is his experience on LAPD which he called upon to create his main character in The Oasis Project. In 1993, Art moved to Gainesville, Florida, his hometown, to raise his two sons. He currently oversees the crime analysis unit and crime prevention program at the Gainesville Police Department. For more information, check out his website at http://www.artadkins.com

So what have you found to be the most crucial aspect of promoting your writing?