Friday, November 28, 2014

~ Symposium: As Time Goes By ~


Hello Everyone! Welcome to My November Symposium!





This month is a time for reflection. 2014 has been filled with so many wonderful moments and memories, so I’ve asked my friends and fellow authors to discuss what they are thankful for this year. Read on and find out what everyone had to say!





LAURIE ROMA: I have so much to be grateful for this year! First, I have to say thank you to all my wonderful readers for letting me entertain you. It’s been amazing to hear how many of you enjoy the stories I create. I love hearing from each and every one of you who have written to me, and appreciate all of you who have taken the time out of your busy schedules to write reviews for my books. I also want to say how grateful I am to my author friends. Thank you for all the late night chat sessions and for being such an amazing support system! On a personal note, I would like to say that what I am most grateful for is my mother. For those of you who don’t know, my mother was recently diagnosed with multiple myeloma (bone cancer) and she has just started her chemo treatments, which will be followed by stem cell transplant surgery in a few months. My mother is one of the sweetest women in the world, but she is also my most devoted supporter, greatest ally and my best friend. I am so grateful to have her in my life, and know she will kick this cancer’s ass. Mom, thank you for being you.


Officer Skylar Aris is a woman with a troubled past. As a Class-A Conduit, she is beautiful and deadly, making her stand out among the rest of the elite soldiers. She has worked hard to succeed as one of the only female interrogators in the Security and Interrogation Division, but everything she has dreamed of is put in jeopardy when she’s given an ultimatum that will change her fate.

Strong and dominant, Director Dominic Stryker is a man who doesn’t let anything stand in his way. When he meets Skylar, he knows she’s the woman he wants to claim, but he never expected she’d also be destined to belong to his best friend, D’Aire Ambassador Arik V’Dir. Two Alpha males, Dom and Arik don’t want to share, but they realize that it’s the only way they can have Skylar...if they can get her to agree.

When a mission forces Skylar to deal with her past, Dom and Arik are determined to stand by her side. But discovering where she comes from changes everything. Will their love be enough to give her salvation, or will the truth shatter their bond and take her beyond their reach?

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KALLYPSO MASTERS: Sometimes not a lot of time has to go by to make a profound effect on your life. This summer, my body warned me of a problem that resulted in a diagnosis of uterine cancer on Sept. 13. Met my surgeon the 17th and underwent surgery for a complete abdominal hysterectomy the next day. My surgeon saw how important it my first-ever KallypsoCon was to me and that missing it would be detrimental to my recovery, so he sped everything up. And three weeks after beating cancer’s ass (yes, I’m cancer free!), I was at my con surrounded by 75 readers and seven author friends—the best medicine. Even my hubby commented on how much healing had taken place in such a short time. The love, prayers, and positive energy of family and friends (even my virtual ones in social media) have healing powers beyond measure. And the love exuded by Romance readers and writers can’t be found anywhere else!


Ryder Wilson returned from serving multiple deployments but can't leave the hell of combat behind him. Frustrated and ashamed of his inability to function in the world as well as the veterans he served with, he retreated from the world, choosing to engage only with those he trusted. When retired Master Sergeant Adam Montague sends him on a mission to protect his sister from some unknown danger, Ryder's days of hiding out may be over. Can he fulfill his mission without failing again?

Megan Gallagher has two big brother Marines bent on protecting her from the evils of the world, but she's tougher than they think. When her brother sends one of his recon Marines to her doorstep in the wee hours one night following a break-in at her studio, she realizes Ryder needs rescuing more than she does. A friendship forms quickly, but unexpected passions run hot and complicate her resolve never to have a relationship, much less marriage, with a man. Then why are her body and her heart betraying her every time he comes near?

Can these two wounded people lower their defenses long enough to allow love to grow?

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N.J. WALTERS: The holidays are upon us, and it’s a good time of year to give thanks for every wonderful thing in life. This past year has been challenging for me in many ways. In spite of many dark days, I’ve been grateful for the support of my family and friends. They’ve been there for me when I needed them the most. That’s worth more than gold. I’m also grateful that I’ve been able to make a living from my writing for the past ten years. Thank you to everyone who has ever purchased one of my books. And thank you to all the special readers who have supported my work from day one and continue to spread the word about my books. There are not enough words to thank you for your kindness.

She’s run right into the arms of the big bad wolf.

Considered an abomination for her inability to shift, Cherise Michaels has been on the run from her pack since she was a teenager. After her mother is murdered by her former packmates, Cherise is alone, grieving and out of options. Until a dream puts her on course toward her last hope—Salvation, North Carolina.

She makes it to Salvation only to be cornered by her pursuers and then rescued by the biggest, baddest werewolf she’s ever seen.

Cole Blanchard has no trouble dispatching the intruders trespassing on pack land. Convincing their skittish quarry she’s safe is another story. Cole senses she is his mate and he’ll protect her to his last breath, even it means risking everything to face her former pack.

In Cole’s arms, Cherise learns there’s something in this world more powerful than fear—desire and love. She knows loving her is a death sentence for Cole, so she plans to store up a lifetime of memories before she lets him go…

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LACEY THORN: I can’t believe we’re already at the end of 2014. What an amazing year! I’m so thankful for the love and support of my readers. I’m blessed with amazing kids, a great extended family, and the best friends in the world. I made a huge professional step in 2014 and became a full time author and, somehow, I’ve managed to survive. The professional highlight of my year was releasing my brand new paranormal series, Awakening Pride. I updated both my website and my blog and started a group page on Facebook to keep in touch with readers. I’m so happy with how things have worked in 2014, and I’m excited for the opportunities 2015 holds.


Brenna has always been a little on the shy side, or maybe she just feels overshadowed by her more outgoing best friend. Either way, enough is enough. This Halloween, she’s going to have some fun with one of the three hunks she’s had a crush on forever. The only question is—which one might be interested in her?

Scott, Travis and Kyle have been the best of friends most of their lives. None of them really planned on coming back to their hometown or finding little Brenna all grown up and sexy as hell. They all want her, and no one is willing to walk away.

A full moon, candlelight and the casting of a spell will make this Halloween one none of them will ever forget.

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SUSAN HAYES: I’ve got a lot to be thankful for this year, but when it came time to write this entry, two things really stood out for me: my readers, and my friends. To know that there are people out there who have lost themselves in my words and walked in the worlds I created is an amazing thing. My readers are a gift, and I am grateful to them for their support. I’m also thankful for the true blue friends I’ve found inside the writing world. I’ve learned the hard way just how cutthroat this business can be, and it’s taught me to value the rare few who are willing to guard my back, laugh at my jokes, and push me to be the best writer, and person, I can be.  I’m truly blessed to have them in my life.

Nick Wilde is a man content with his life. Business at his tattoo shop is booming, and he’s never lacking for friends or female company. But when he meets Lia, he knows everything will change...

A moment’s flirtation and a kiss in the dark leaves Nick wanting more. When his Cinderella vanishes before the night is over, she leaves him nothing but her name and the memory of a kiss he can’t forget.

Chicago Police Detective Lia Archer’s life doesn’t have room for distractions, and that’s exactly what Nick Wilde is. He’s sexy, charming, and a threat to everything she’s worked so hard to achieve. She ran out on him once, but when Nick reappears in her life, he’s determined not to make it easy for her to vanish on him again.

When past decisions and old secrets come back to haunt them, will the fairytale end, or will they find a way to reclaim their Happily Ever After?

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JENIKA SNOW: This year I am grateful for my health, my family, my wonderful readers, and of course being able to do something that has always been my dream. Writing has been something I have always enjoyed, even as a little girl. It started off as a hobby when I got published, because I never thought there would be anyone that actually wanted to read my work. To say that I am finally able to live my dream is an understatement, and that there are readers that look forward to me next release means the world to me. It is because of those readers that I am able to do what I am doing. So, thank you for allowing me to be where I am, for your support and wonderful words. I write not only for myself and my family, but for you as well.


She is forbidden, but that doesn't stop Lucien from wanting her.

Lucien Silver is the president of The Brothers of Menace MC. He knows he screwed up three months ago by letting the daughter of the VP of his club stay at his house one night. Callie is young and off limits, and although nothing happened between them, he should have told her father, Kink. Lucien may want Callie desperately, but having her would be a betrayal of Kink and the club.

Callie wants Lucien, and she knows he wants her, too. But being with him would cause bad blood between her dad and Lucien. She doesn't want club relationships ruined, but her feelings for him grow, and Callie knows she can't stay away.

When Kink catches Lucien with Callie together all hell breaks loose. Lifelong friendships are tested, blood is spilled, and anger and pain entwine. Lucien and Callie must decide if being together is worth it all.

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SAM CRESCENT: I can’t believe we’re closing in on the end of 2014. I’ve got so much to be thankful for this year. First, and foremost I’ve got my readers. They have been so amazing, wonderful, sweet, dear, and what can I say, there really isn’t enough good things to say about you guys. You’re all truly amazing. Your support of my work is what keeps me writing. I love you all. I would also like to thank my wonderful publishers for making this such a brilliant year. From the moment I started writing, I always wanted to write a big book. Revenge, gave me everything I’ve wanted to achieve.  This year has been fantastic and it’s down to so many amazing people, authors, books, events, truly thank you to everyone.

Gonzalez is gone, but the damage has already been done.

Whizz has been to hell and back, and he doesn’t live life anymore. The demons of the past are never too far behind—until she enters his life. Lacey makes him feel again. She makes him want to live, to breathe, to be part of life. But she’s the enemy, and he’s just helped to wipe out the whole of her club. Still, no matter what happens, he can’t let her go.

Lacey knows what it’s like to be broken. She recognizes the pain inside Whizz, and she hates to see him like this. There’s no way she should love the man who helped to take away her club family, but she does. He makes her want things she can never have.

Can Lacey get over her hatred of The Skulls to finally accept her love for Whizz? What will happen when Whizz’s nightmares almost bring him to kill Lacey? Will the club stand behind his decision to love a woman who almost got them all killed?

BUY LINK: 

ROSANNA LEO: Thanks once again to Laurie Roma for being a generous and excellent hostess. Muah! As we ponder the things that make us thankful, I realize I have quite a lot. Healthy and happy family, fan support, great publishers. However, what I’m thankful for right now is my first rejection letter. Sound strange? Well, I recently came across it and gave it a good read. The advice in that first rejection was valid and taught me a lot. In fact, I don’t think I’d be where I am without it. Because of this honest and caring gift of feedback, I was able to transform my writing and make it more enjoyable and meaningful. I know it was hard to read for the first time all those years ago, but I’m glad I absorbed the info and so glad I remained open-minded. It started my writing career.


For years, wolf shifter Bart Cairo has harbored secret feelings for his co-worker, Charlotte Moffatt. Even though he thinks he’s been discreet with his affections, everyone at Gemini Island’s Ursa Fishing Lodge knows he and Charlotte, a fellow wolf shifter, are meant to be mates. Everyone but Charlotte.

Charlotte couldn’t be less interested in mating. A free spirit, she wants nothing more than to succeed at her new career in the big city and leave small-town Gemini Island behind. However, she can’t deny Bart stirs up unwanted emotions inside her. Emotions she swore she’d never feel again.

The occasion of Bart’s family reunion compels him to assume new responsibilities, and to consider a role he never envisioned for himself. Family tensions rise to the surface as a new Alpha is proclaimed in his pack. And when old grudges escalate, Bart must stake his claim.

Charlotte resists as he stakes a claim on her as well. But when he begins to employ sexual tactics of temptation, she wonders if the only solution is submission to the enticing wolf man. Can she trust her heart again? And can they find their happy ending before an enemy cuts their story short?

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WILLOW BROOKE: On most occasions, the things I am most thankful fall under two categories- family and my work.  After a few life altering events that have recently transpired, I have one more to add to my list that has become a major part of my life—friends.  The writing community has opened their arms and given me the support and encouragement to follow my dreams, but so much more than that.  I have the bestest friends a girl could ever ask for and the pouring of love given during the struggles life has tossed my way have been indescribable. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.  May we all write bestselling novels, make it to the top, and continue to lend a hand to those who need it most.  Happy Thanksgiving and much love and hugs everyone!

In book one of Southern Bred Series: My name is Jase Brannon, cowboy, redneck, and bona fide ladies’ man. I’ve been in love with my high school sweetheart since our freshman year. We had what one would call the perfect high school textbook romance with the follow-in-our-folks'-footsteps normal future to follow.

I’m a farm boy, born and raised. Shelly comes from the same roots I do but wanted to get her education in Agricultural advertising to help modernize our simple ways by attending the university after graduation. To me, it wasn’t a big deal. We live in an age of internet and enough modern technology there are ways to endure any long distance relationship. Perfect, right?

I’ve known Layla Jenson as far back as I can remember. She's the tomgirl out climbing trees and slinging mud pies without batting her pretty little eyelashes at the thought of getting a little dirty. From pigtails to cowboy boots, Layla has bloomed into a pure beauty with curves in all the right places.

Wanna know how I know? Well catastrophe at the hands of a ‘group effort’ hits, causing Layla to come into my sights. That is when my world changes…

I’m Layla Jenson, small town girl born and raised who can shoot the wings off a fly and bake the best pie in the county. I’ve also had my peepers on one certain sexy cowboy whose sweet southern drawl could charm the pants off a nun and I've loved him since he swapped his Tonka truck for a Dodge 4x4. One night I get the night of my dreams—or nightmares depending how you look at it—when I give him the most sacred of gifts, only to be chalked up to a drunk romp by the redneck Romeo himself, leaving me with knowledge that my notions were made out of a wild childhood fantasy.

This book contains backwoods bonfires, huntin’, fishin’, drinkin’, and getting down and dirty in the mud holes. If you can handle hot cowboys with a sexy southern drawl, then hop up on for a ride! Don’t tip the dip cup and come kick it in the sticks!

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VELLA DAY: I am most thankful for all the wonderful indie authors who’ve been amazingly helpful in my first year of self-pubbing. I’ve learned about pricing strategies, pre-orders, blurbs, series length, you name it. That might not sound very glamorous to many of you, but without their help (and you know who are), I wouldn’t be where I am today. I have hope, a plan, and a purpose. My goal this year is to give back as much as I can.


The goal is freedom but at what cost?

The head of The Packs’ opposition hires Ty and Ford Summerville, twin werewolves and former military men, to ensure the secret Colter lab remains impenetrable. Their job seems simple until they are told to escort Bailey Nash to another facility for further testing. As soon as they meet the sexy siren, trouble ensues. Their bodies explode with a need to protect her and a lust so strong they can barely function. They’re totally stymied by this radical reaction and are forced to conclude Bailey must be their mate. The timing couldn’t be worse. Many will die if they fail to deliver her to the location, but if they do, her death will be slow and painful.

When they explain to Bailey they plan to take her away from there, she sees no reason to trust them. Sure, they’re incredibly handsome men with solid muscle, but two others just like them had kidnapped her and her sister. That was how she ended up in this godforsaken place. She isn’t interested in cooperating. Rather, Bailey needs to find a way to free her sister—even if it means doing it herself.

With her life and many others on the line, what will the men have to do to convince Bailey that she may not survive without them?

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OLIVIA BLACK: This year has been a rollercoaster of wonderful events. My first ManLove book, The Alpha’s Mate, was accepted by Siren Publishing and came out in November 2013. My writing career changed then. I went from Alicia White (M/F/M) to Olivia Black (M/M) and I’ve never been happier. I’m incredibly grateful to all the readers out there that have welcomed me with open arms. I appreciate all the kindness, support, and love. This year, I’ve written twenty books and there will be many, many more in the future.

Oliver Davis lives in a rundown neighborhood, in a bad part of town where drugs and prostitution are prevalent. He's spent his life on the streets, living the only way he knows how, by selling his body for cash. When a PI arrives at his corner with a manila envelope, Oliver is skeptical until he opens it. His entire life changes in a matter of seconds.

Hank Ramsey is the sheriff in the no-name town outside of Telluride, Colorado. He loves his job. The only busy nights are spent dealing the occasional drunk. When he goes out to the ranch to talk to Oliver about a fight at Marilyn’s, the man manages to push all of Hank’s buttons. He takes Oliver to jail for the night to teach the young man a lesson, but things quickly take a turn for the worse when Oliver tries to seduce him.

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MARLA MONROE: It’s sad that we only count our blessings at Thanksgiving. I’m trying to count my blessings every day now because I know what it is to have few in my life. Not anymore. I’m so blessed to have my parents still with me. My dad has been at death’s door many times. He wasn’t finished here yet, and I’m thankful every day to have him. My mom is declining so fast I can see a change nearly every day. I’m so thankful to still have her with me this Thanksgiving. My brother and his family are always a blessing with their larger than life loving attitudes. I am thankful for them and their support. Most of all, I’m thankful that I had four wonderful years with my parents living with me before they began to decline. They have been the best years of my life. I’ll cherish them always.


Sierra is in over her head. She has more responsibilities than she can handle, two sisters in college, and a ranch under foreclosure.

All she’s been able to do for the last eight years is take care of everyone else.

Rollan and Thorne are new to the area but are instantly attracted to Sierra, with her quiet strength and sensual beauty. More than anything, they want to see her happy. When they find out she’s being blackmailed with her ranch, the men come up with a plan where they can spend more time trying to convince her that they are meant to be a family.

Sierra’s unexpected attraction to the two men is baffling. She’s afraid to trust her instincts where they’re concerned but accepts their offer of help, putting herself close enough to get burned. Are Rollan and Thorne the answer to her prayers, or will they be her downfall?

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KASI ALEXANDER: I am thankful for a lot of things in my life, primarily my family and my author and reader friends, who give me encouragement, support, and great advice. I love being part of the romance community and getting the chance to meet such wonderful people. It hasn’t been an easy year but I’m thankful for the opportunities I’ve had to grow professionally and personally. Life doesn't always go the way you expect it to, but it does tend to work out for the best in the long run! I’m very grateful for the chance to put out anthologies with the other members of my family and Naughty Ever After. It's very exciting to be able to branch out in new ways and start new projects. I'm looking forward to getting out lots of new stuff in the near future!

 
A collection of erotic short stories by the authors of Naughty Ever After: Reggie Alexander, Eva Alexander, Kasi Alexander, Cassidy Browning, and Treena Wiles

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KALI ARGENT: 2014 has been a crazy year for me. I made career-altering decisions, found new friends, and learned the beauty of creating time for myself. Despite some setbacks, I have a lot to be thankful for this year. For instance, I’m thankful for my husband. As a former Marine, he’s big and intimidating on the outside, but a complete marshmallow on the inside. He’s my biggest fan and my best friend and my most trusted advisor. I’m grateful my children have the opportunities I never did, and also, for friends who understand and support me, even when my ideas are crazy. And every single day, I’m thankful that I get to sit down at my computer and live a dream doing a job I love. Happy Thanksgiving!


Sometimes, new beginnings come from unexpected places.

To Cecily Baker, being unattached means making her own decisions, living by her own rules, and never answering to anyone. So when her sister drags her to a singles night at a local club—and then ditches her—it only strengthens Cecily’s conviction that dating just isn’t for her. 

Pulling double duty as a bouncer and a bartender, Rafe Serento has seen a parade of beautiful women walk through the doors of Electric Mist, but he’s never met anyone like Cecily. Lovely in every sense of the word, and just as stubborn, she challenges everything he thought he wanted in a relationship. 

The more Cecily pushes him away, though, the harder Rafe pushes back, and unless they find some common ground, they’ll both end up Alone.

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***Everyone, be sure to stop by Kali Argent's Blog today to check out her Friday Faves! What are the little things you are grateful for?***

1 comment:

  1. Thanks so much, Laurie! I am thankful for you and everyone here today.

    ReplyDelete