Saturday, October 17, 2009

Book Talk interview today


Fun news. My interview for MELTDOWN is up today on Book Talk. They've included
my trailer and an excerpt. Plus I have a contest open to anyone leaving a
comment to my questions. Thanks for stopping by to check it out.
http://booksbypickles.blogspot.com/

Sunday, October 4, 2009

Learning Curves

I've read life is series of learning curves.
I feel like I've fallen off Mt. Everest.

Sunday, September 20, 2009

The Chase

Sounds like the title of a romance novel, but it's the name of the contest to win the NASCAR Sprint Cup. We're down to 12 drivers that qualify and my fav drivers have made it: Kasey, Carl Edwards, Jimmy Johnson, Jeff Gordon and Mark Martin. The sentimental favorite is Mark (the youngster) Martin, the baby boomer generation's hero. I met him years ago at The Glen. He was shorter than me,and I'm 5'3". Jimmy Johnston, a hottie, can make history and win 4 in a row. He's Mr. Cool on the track, but could be a male model on the cover of one of my books. Kasey is the young, talented driver that could surprise everyone. He's got a good team behind him, plus his boss is the King, Richard Petty. There's a lot of fans that would love to see the King hoist that Sprint Cup- made by Tiffany's that has to be handled with gloves. Carl's had a rough year, but he gets the tough guy award. With a broken foot he manages win Nationwide races, and he may shock a lot of people by winning the cup. He won 9 races last year, so he can do it if his luck changes. I believe this is Jeff Gordon's year. Ok, put aside that he's confident, some say cocky, but he's one of the greatest drivers ever, and he's been in the top five the last few races. He's a scientist behind the wheel, telling his team the changes he wants to his car.
Let the Chase begin!

Saturday, August 22, 2009

Welcome guest blogger Holly Greenfield


I'm jazzed to have Holly as this week's guest blogger. She's done an awesome job as vice president (soon to be President) of Central New York Romance Writers this year, and is also a fellow TWRP author. Holly's, Beltane Faerie of Fate, was published in the popular Enchanted Faerie Anthology. Bellow is the link to read an excerpt:
excerpt: http://www.hollygreenfield.com/Excerpt%20page.htm

Holly also writes a blog with several other authors at the Author's studio:
http://authorsstudio.blogspot.com/

For a change of pace, today she's decided to chat about the power of positive thinking, something we need more of in these changing economic times.

Positive Thinking:
Positive thinking powers the mind like the moon drives the tides. And the tides are important to the balance of the sea. Just as positive thinking is important to balance in our lives. It is amazing the people out there that scoff at the power and energy of positive thinking. I won't like and tell you being positive is easy, but I can assure the results are worth the effort.

Being positive is not a single action, or a brief moment, but a life style. A way in which we enrich our lives in all that we do, say, think, feel, and touch. "We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts, we make our world" –Buddha.
You don't have to be Buddhist to know that Buddha was a pretty smart guy. He says "All that we are arises with our thoughts." Think about this for minute. Those who already live by the mantra of positive energy know that this is the golden key. But for those who haven't yet accepted that a reversal in thought can change their lives, should take a minute to dissect the Buddha's wisdom. (And know that Buddha isn't the only one to offer such advice).

All that we are arises from our thoughts…
The actions we complete, the words we string together in a sentence, the treatment we extend to others—it's all from the power of our thoughts. If you awake on a rainy morning and from the moment your eyes open, decided that a rainy day is a gloomy, bad day—guess what?—Your thoughts for that day, your words and actions for that day will be gloomy and bad. And as a result so will every interaction you have that day, so will every thought thereafter, and so your inability attempt a positive attitude will inevitably negatively effect those around you. You will not see the joy in what the rain brings to the earth, nor the opportunities if affords you.-- A rain-day from work, a reason to call in and curl up on the couch dressed in cozy pajamas with a good book and just relax. It could offer you the opportunity to play with your children in the rain, to wait it out and hear and smell the clarity that is in air and the songs birds that sing after a good, hard rain. The rainy day could be yours for the taking—all you have to do is want it.
A rainy down is a small scale version of what positive thinking can do for you, but the bigger picture is always the same.
Decide today that this is going to be a great day. Decided today that whatever goes wrong isn't the end of a good day. And that perhaps whatever went awry wasn't exactly wrong, but a different way for it to be done. Decided today to take a lesson from each of your encounters, instead of walking away with anger, frustration or even sadness weighing you down. I don't mean that these emotions are not valid emotions that should be acknowledged, but where we can take a weight off your hearts (and perhaps live a little longer for it), and where we can be a bright spot in some else's day (Perhaps helping them to live a longer as well) then why not make that decision.
By making an effort to see the silver lining in every gray cloud, you will inevitably feel lighter, healthier, and more energetic than you have in ages. And it's not far off to think, that positive energy used in positive thinking will produce positive actions, such as friendlier conversations, unexpected friendships in the oddest of places, healthier eating, healthier habits, a clearer complexion, a loss in excess weight… the positive results from positive thinking are endless. What have you to lose by giving it a try?

Arthur Rubinstein said, "I have found that if you love life, life will love you back." This is a positive attitude, positive thoughts resulting in positive living. How can life not be good to you, when you are good to life! Your argument could be that sometimes bad things happen to good people. Bad, hurtful things happen and weigh heavily on the mind and soul. Of course they happen, but it is how you face them, how you handle the situation that affords you the solace of positive living. The psychologist, William James said, "The greatest discovery of my generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitude." What greater gift could a person ask for, than to be in control of your own happiness?
In being positive you generate positive energy that carries a contagious bug. We all know that when you smile at someone, they have to smile back. Why? Because happiness, positive energy is contagious, and no matter the source of the smile, it is always happy.

I completely agree, Holly.
Thanks for stopping by.
Love and Peace,
Susan

Saturday, August 15, 2009

NASCAR AT THE GLEN


Someone's missing a T-shirt niche for when you leave the Glen. "I survived The Glen '09." I'd have worn one all week.
Per tradition, upon arrival at the beautiful Watkins Glen International raceway, we walked around to check for changes. More fencing, mostly additional grandstands, and the new vendors. We sat at turn 10 grandstand, by the gravel pit that Boris Said sunk into in qualifying and DJ skid across in the Cup race. Not a good year for another one of my alltime favorite drivers Dale. (The license plate holder for my mustang is #88). Another tradition is to walk across the pedestrian bridge during a race. I crossed during the Nationwide race. Imagine these nearly deafening sounds when you're about 50 feet about the track: 'errrrr-wham,' pause 'errr-whamwham' pause 'errwhamwhamwham' pause 'errwhamwhamwhamwhamwham.' Each 'wham' is one car racing under the bridge. The noise reverberates through your body. A cool experience, but not for the faint hearted.
You battle mother nature gambit of weather conditions when you're at the Glen, and parking lot jungles (grass, not blacktop), and stampeding fans (many bruises), that I don't have my normal quantity of pictures. I met a lot of first timer this year, people from Iowa, Connecticut, Tennessee. People with families and friends. NASCAR fans at their finest.
I saw plenty of drivers. Carl Edwards only from a distance, though. He always had someone talking to him. But I followed him on my Sprint device for both the Nationwide and Cup race. A thrill to hear him talking to spotters and his crew chief, getting encouragement that he could pass Kyle Bush. With a team like that I'm confident he'll win the Cup this year. I saw Jeff Gordon as he drove by in a golf cart. He used to smile more. That wreck was nasty. I hope he'll be okay. I spied Kevin Harvick walking by before the Nationwide race, and when his Copart Crew Chief, the handsome Ernie Clue stopped for ice cream, I wished him good luck and I got his picture (check my Facebook). At the McDonald's Funzone I got about 5 feet from Kasey Kahne. Of the four driver Q&A's I saw that day: Joey Logano, Denny Hamlin, Dave Reutimann,(all Toyota drivers) Kasey looked the most relaxed. The kids asked the silliest questions, and I can't remember one of them now, but they were the kind that only kids can think of. You could see the thought process in Kasey's eyes along with the smile. Again, the guy is just TOO cute. And he drives a two ton race car about 180 mph and has driven as fast as 200mph. I admit to a couple of joy rides with old boyfriends, at speed of around 120mph, and the landscape was a blur. A BLUR! I'm in awe of these NASCAR drivers. So congrats to Brian Vickers for winning the pole at Michigan with a qualifying speed of 187.242mph, and Kasey qualified #10 185.782. Carl and DJ are probably unhappy they aren't in the top ten, but they're in my top ten for coolest guys on the planet.
Who's your favorite NASCAR DRIVER? Who do you think will win the CUP?

Friday, August 14, 2009

Short Story Bingo- Welcome Vicki Batman

Tonight I'm happy to welcome a delightful friend I met at the KOD party at Dallas Convention, Vicki Batman. She's had a lot going on and has wonderful news to share!

His, Susan, and thanks for having me. I've had one crazy week and soon will tell more. Partly, because of the two newly adopted malti-poos, Champ (white) and Jones (charcoal). They are adorable, but potty training is killing all of us.

Susan and I talked at National about how our writing careers are progressing. Congratulations, gal, on your new release. I know you are thrilled.

My short story is now on the newsstands, Charlie's Friend, a September True Romance Happily Ever After. This story answers the never-ending questions of how I met Handsome. It's pretty funny. I like to write wit and humor into my stories.

I've been writing for five years now. I have three books (unpublished), written many stories which are out there in submission, and several essays.

About a year and a half ago, my critique partner said her New Year's goal was to write six to eight shorts to submit to Women's World magazine. Would I read them?

Of course I said yes. And in doing so, I got a crash course in writing a short story. One day I passed from my bedroom to my closet and Wham! An idea hit. (Don't you love it when that happens?) Since, I've been happily writing short stories. I love the rush of putting it down on paper (computer), then layering and layering. Finally, when I think, "no more," I send it to my partner.

She'll tell you she spreads blood (aka red ink) all over the page. I laugh when I get her critiques. Like I have one in my in box today and she found a huge glaring mistake that I'd read over multiple times. Even another friend never noticed. Thank God! for her.

Like all critique relationships, she does have her way and I have mine. I have to choose what I believe is best for my story. I am always eternally grateful when something she does really allows me to deepen my writing. (I only hope I do the same for her. LOL.)

So why stick with writing short stories? For now, I find it very satisfying. Oh yeah, I have a book on the back burner that needs a crucial element weaved in. But that takes too long. Someday I'll tackle that one again because I love the characters.

I'll keep on writing the shorts as long as I have ideas. It is amazing what stimulates the mind. Walking through the closet (I see a pattern here), I glanced over at Handsome's ties arrayed in a row on top of his dresser. Handsome buys the most beautiful silk ones ever. Then, bingo! The idea of a girl and a guy fighting over the same tie clicked. I raced downstairs and put what I had in the head on the computer and Presto! I'd written "Christmas Ties."

So lesson learned: never take the Bing! moments for granted. I believe the come from a special place. (Also learned to keep walking through the closet!!)

Thanks, Susan, for having me. If I can answer any questions, I'll be happy to. Contact me at vlmbatman@hotmail.com or http://vickibatman.blogspot.com. I'll be doing an in-depth author interview on loverly Susan in October.

Happy writing!

Vicki Batman

Friday, August 7, 2009

Guest blogger Mary Ricksen

Please join me in welcoming fellow TWRP author, Mary Ricksen, as my first guest Blogger. Mary is the author of Tripping Through Time, a touching love story set in Lake Champlain. When asked to talk about her favorite subject, Mary selected this tale about her DH. The toilet and the butterfly- effect. She's also enclosed an excerpt from her book. Thanks again for stopping by Mary!
Susan



"Well I had an interesting weekend. It started off quiet and I didn't expect
anything, although in hindsight I should have know better. My husband
decided to fix the toilet. Now right now money is tight, just like for
everyone else. So if he can fix it, he will try. Problem is, well I'm not
sure what the problem is.
I should have realized when he took a blow torch into the bathroom. I
decided to ignore it what could he do in the bathroom? If he couldn't fix
that leaky pipe below the toilet we'd just have to call a plumber. So I went
back to sleep. It was a late night for me, trying to finish a book.
It started when my husband and the dog were making noise at 8:00am. I
ignored it, until he came running in yelling. "Mary, Mary, the dog is in the
pool chasing a raccoon!" I ran to the sliding glass doors just as the
raccoon pooped in the pool and ran up a tree. The dog was wet. I quietly
handed him a large towel, told him to wipe the dog and clean the poop out
and went back to bed. If not for him yelling outside, I probably would have
fallen asleep. I went in, turned the pool on and went back to bed.The
raccoons stay away when the fountain is running. It was 8:15am.
At 8:30am my husband began in the bathroom and I settled for a snooze. At
8:45am I smelled smoke and I thought naw, can't be Well the dog, a huge,
loud, dog, began to bark, and my husband began to yell. "Mary, Mary, the
toilet seat is on fire!!" After putting the dog in the the bedroom I shut
the door, and ran to the kitchen. A pan of water in hand I ran to the
bathroom. My husband had a face mask and gloves on and the toilet was
smoking. I never did ask him why. You know those soft toilet seats have wood
inside? Well a lot more water and a promise to clean up, sent me back to
bed. In a little while I heard him in the closet taking out tools. Naw,
ignore it I thought, he'd already had one catastrophe today.
At 9:00am I heard my car start in the driveway. I got up and asked what he
was doing. "Nothing much," he answered. "Working on the the fuel injectors

and the bitsco beater." Yeah, Yeah, whatever, went back to bed. At 9:15am I
heard him yelling. "Mary, Mary, call 911, call 911, the car is on fire!"
Hmm. two fires in one day. He's broken a record today. I ran outside and he
was running around still yelling to call 911. I hate when I have to call
them back and say forget it, so I'm glad I waited. He turned the car off and
I handed him a hose. Who knew a catalytic converter could catch on fire?
It's 9:30am and I go back to bed. Hoping... At 9:45am I heard him yelling.
"Mary, Mary! No stop, Junior, leave the kitty alone, his head is stuck!"
This was of course at the same time the big, big, dog is barking. But his
bark has a different timbre. I ran outside, still in my nightgown, and held
the dog by the collar. My husband pulled the dog out from under his car. The
cat ran like the devil out from under the car. Hair standing on end, it was
awful. So at 10:00am I went back to bed.
Well at 10:15am the phone rang. It was my neighbor. I thought I had heard my
husband yelling, "Mary, Mary." But I thought I dreamed it. But her phone
call confirmed it."Your husband is chasing the dog down Flagler Drive. The
dog has a mouse trap on his tail and he looks scared. My husband is running
down the street after him. And I was trying to sleep. You know Saturday. Day
off and sleep late kind of thing." At 10:30am after I apologized, I ran for
his car, mine I didn't trust just yet. Oh Lord now he's got the neighbors
involved! By the time I got back it was almost eleven. So I got dressed, and
I hoped I could sleep late on Sunday. The toilet seat is on fire. It could
have been worse.

So I had another interesting weekend. How about you? And somebody asked me
what DH meant and I told them dear husband. Ha!!"


TRIPPING THROUGH TIME


In the waters of Lake Champlain there is magic, and a Celtic Ring with a
mystic spell proves that love is truly timeless.

For years Keealyn McCalley has been under her father's commanding thumb.
After a young child dies in her arms, Keealyn leaves nursing school despite
his disapproval. She ends up staying at a camp on Lake Champlain, in
Vermont.


Depressed and overwhelmed she takes her first drink and before she knows it
she is stoned. Hungover and not thinking clearly she jumps into the lake.
Her misguided act leads her to find an ancient Celtic ring with a spell on
it. Putting it on sends her back to the year 1869. Found on the shore by
Ryan Wolf, she is immediately attracted to his misty green eyes, hard body,
and compassionate nature.

She must learn to trust him not to abuse her, save her heart, and teach her
the powerful healing power of unconditional love.



EXCERPT

Finally, her father left, furious and disgusted

with her. He gave her a non-refundable bus ticket

and his last words echoed in her mind.

"Take your choice, either come home with this

ticket, or go back to school immediately. I'm finished,

do whatever you want, I really don't care. The only

reason I came is your mother made me. As far as I

am concerned you were our biggest mistake."

"To you I am a mistake, but I am a mistake that

has a mind, feelings, and the right to choose how I

want to spend my life. You can't make me into what

you want me to be."

"That's for sure, you can't even come close. Try

living without any money, let's see if you dare to

speak to me like that when you are begging for my

help."

"Dad, I will never beg for your help, I'd rather be

dead. You will not hear from this mistake ever

again."

"Good." Her father shook his head, the look of

disgust on his face apparent. He turned and walked

out of her life forever.

After she left the police station, she ripped the

ticket into small pieces and watched wistfully as the

small pieces blew away in the wind. Finally

emancipated, it was over-bittersweet because now

she could never go home again.



Slowly her thinking became less coherent and

her lungs screamed for air.

The longer she held her breath underwater, the

slower her thoughts came, her mind now numb,

jumbled. She saw fish dart by above her and

followed them with hazy eyes. One seemed to stare

into her face, before swimming to the bottom. It

circled below her, as if trying to get her attention.

She saw something on the bottom. Bright gold,

it glowed, its radiance attracted her and she realized

it was a ring. At that point, she felt indifferent, so it

must have been reflex, or providence, that coerced

her to reach down, pick it up, put it on and then

open her mouth to end it all.

Before the water could fill her lungs she felt a

shock, her body tingled and her blood burned

through her veins. A bright flash of light surrounded

her for a moment and she passed out with a last

thought. I hope I don't go to hell for this. That

Catholic rhetoric they'd drilled into her head still

made her question her actions. Why was I ever born?

Darkness filmed her mind and she gave into the

respite of it.

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Off to the Races


Hey there fellow NASCAR fans,

I'm packed and showered (never know what condition the bathroom will be in) and headed to Watkins Glen International Raceway for the "Heluva Good! Sour Cream Dip at the Glen" Long name for a road race. I hope the skies stay clear so I get plenty of candid pix of my favorite drivers to share. Who are they? For starts, as a romance writer you gotta love Carl Edwards. He's made cameo appearances in HQN and Harlequin series novels. I watched Jeff Gordon munch on his Wheaties at a Drivers Breakfast his rookie year, and right there and then decided I'd be a fan for life. And I have the picture to prove it! And who doesn't love DJ? Check out Dale Earnhardt Jr's My Space page. Love it, and him. Then there's the incredible Jimmy Johnson. Sigh.... The man is perfect. Speaking of perfect, did I tell you my tickets are for the McDonalds Family Zone? Richard Petty will make an appearance Sunday to sign autographs, and so will his #1 driver, the man who won the first road race of the season at Sonoma, Kasey Kahne! Be still my cougar heart!! I promise I'll take loads of pictures! Meantime, check out my facebook page for hius video. What a cutie!!
Susan

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Want to feel good?


Did you have a great day? Want to feel better? Why not donate to help stop leukemia?
My neice is running the NYC half marathon and she's almost reached her goal:

http://pages.teamintraining.org/nyc/nikenych09/clabella
Every little bit helps.
Thanks for your generosity.
Susan

Favorite excerpt


The weather claims our "extended spring" is over in Central NY, and summer is finally here. That means we're due for some hot days, and we'll be heading to the lake or beach or somewhere cool. If you're like me, you never go anywhere without a book.

Here's one of my favorite Excerpts from MELTDOWN:
Evan grew impatient as he watched Cassie fumble with the key in the old lock. He’d like to get his hands on the guy who remodeled the chocolate shop but ignored the door to her living quarters above the shop. One good kick would pop it open. A few more jiggles on the door handle and it creaked opened into a dim, cold hallway that he coaxed her inside.
She glanced up the stairwell and then faced him. “I want to thank you for a nice evening. And for the basket order of chocolates. I’ll see it gets delivered tomorrow.”
Then she stuck her hand out.
He almost laughed at the outstretched hand and tentative look on her face. Undaunted, he grabbed her wrist and pulled her into his arms. Her body tensed at first but as his lips neared, she softly sighed and relaxed.
A light burst behind his eyes as his lips touched hers. Not the blinding desert sun that baked a man’s body and turned hope to ashes, rather the soothing yellow sunshine on a lazy summer day. Meeting with no resistance, he parted her lips and tasted the honey of her mouth. He kicked the door shut and moved her up against the wall, all the time tasting more of her sweetness.
Not even a mountain of chocolate could be sweeter.
Inflamed that she hadn’t resisted, his control broke. Over and over he claimed her mouth, paying attention to caress every recess, invading her mouth the way his body desired to invade hers. The fiercer his kisses the more she wilted in his arms. She tasted like chocolate and the desire she was trying to deny herself. Need swept through every inch of him, begging to be satisfied, so he turned up the heat and added more pressure to the kiss. When she responded with a sweet moan, he pressed between her legs, consummating the kiss.
Somehow they’d moved to the stairs. She reclined on a step and he leaned over her. In the soft glow she reminded him of an angel sent to ease his torment. Only a few more steps and they’d be in her apartment. Once inside no way would he tuck her in bed again and leave.
He wished it were that simple.

Enjoy the sunny days while we can!
Susan

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

PRIZES, PRIZES, PRIZES!

Don't forget to stop by today for a chance to WIN prizes and chat at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LongAndShortRomanceReviews

I paid $20 for the banner on their website and it's on for month's, so why not stop in for a sec and try to win one?

During tomorrow's author chat, we’re going to be giving away prizes to people who participate!!
There is a virtual “basket” of prizes – winner’s choice:

1. Your choice of book from our Library Thing selection (http://www.librarything.com/catalog/LASR)
2. A FREE static banner from Goddess Fish Promotions (www.goddessfish.com)
3. A six-month cover or banner ad on any of the LASR/WC title and genre pages
4. Your choice of eBook from any of our Publisher sponsors (LASR list may be found here: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/LASR/sponsors.htm and WC is here: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/WC/sponsors.htm )!!

Check out her interview here: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/LASR/interviews.htm

Hope to see you there!

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Busy week ahead


Tuesday I'll be headed North for an author book signing sponsored by the Old Forge Library. They'll have a tent set up on the knoll by the fire station. Also, in the local author section, the Old Forge bookstore is displaying MELTDOWN. They've had to reorder. Love that cover. Tell a friend!

Tomorrow I'm being interviewed by the website that gave me the awesome review:
http://www.longandshortreviews.com/LASR/interviews.htm I'll be a guest on the Yahoo group all day, too.

LASR has contests all week where you can win a $10 B&N gift card and autographed copy of my book by answering questions from various parts of my website and the interview. One question from my book you know the answer. :)
They also wanted a recipe, so keeping with the chocolatier theme, Cassie gave them her grandmother's "Chocolate Meatball" cookie recipe. It will be available on
Friday. So if you're interested in any of this, check out the Long and Short of it's website, the people responsible for my awesome trailer, and banner, and who kick started everything with my first rate review.
Susan

Friday, July 24, 2009

right place right time

Shame on me for neglecting my blog, but I've been revising and polishing two stories all week thanks to a bit of serendipity at D.C. It pays to volunteer at the agent/editors appointments, people. When I noticed some empty spots, I seized the moment. Luckily my roomate, ALee Drake had her laptop and I brought my flashdrive and I had time to run back to my room, or I would have blown my NASCAR pitch to the Harlequin editors, who asked to see a sample of my writing. You know what a gear-head I am, and how much I love NASCAR, so I'm thrilled to have this chance. Also, I repitched my romantic comedy to another house, and I got an editor and agent request. This all happened after spending four fabulous days meeting old friends, Hi again to Vicki, Kay and Sherry, and going to 'Super' parties, making new friends, Hi to Kristin, and sighting seeing in D.C. with ALee, and having great fun with my chapter mates Dawn and Debbie.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

2009 RWA convention in D.C.


Wow. Hard to believe two years have passed since my last RWA convention in Dallas.
Here I am, struggling with what outfits to wear, shoes to tote. No more than three pairs this year. I need room for copies of my first book MELTDOWN, and promo items. It was at the Dallas convention that I pitched the manuscript,to Kate Dorn of TWRP. So I'm proof that wonderful things happen at conventions. Another thing I like about conventions is seeing someone rather than talking to their virtual self. Real hugs beat cyberhugs. And, forever groupie that I am, I'll see and get autographed books from my favorite authors. At my first conference in Reno I took pictures of every one of them, (see former blog) or rather, a fellow CNY writer Kris Fletcher did. 'Hambone' me. LOL Each photograph is in a special scrapbook with all my experiences from this new journey in my life. What photos and mementos will I add from this experience in D.C.?? And did I mention the parties? 'O)
If things don't get too crazy I'll try to blog about it all!
Love and peace,
Susan

Friday, June 26, 2009

Celebrate our Heroes Tour


Only four more days for our Celebrate Heroes Virtual Tour, beginning with Kim Mendoza then to me then Beth Trisell and ending with Cami Checketts. Besides free books there will be other surprise give-a-ways. Stay cyber-tuned.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Citizen Soldier

In honor of the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, and because this song reminds me of Evan, I'd like to share with you a great song by the band "3 Doors Down." Enjoy!

Monday, June 22, 2009

The Little Princess

Once upon a time, in a kingdom far, far, away, a very special little princess was born.

She had curly brown hair like her mother, the queen, and huge green eyes like her father, the king, and a laugh that made everyone smile and laugh with her. The little princess loved to play games and invited all the children in the kingdom to her castle. She made lots of friends, but was lonely. One day by the slimey castle moat she kissed a smooth-talking frog, who turned into a prince. For ten years they stayed in the kingdom and partied with friends and family before they decided to wed.

Now the little princess is Queen, and she lives with the King and their kingdom is vast.

Blessed with four little princesses, and one tadpole, they live,
Happily Ever After.

Happy 5-0 Allene!

Love ya,

Little Sis

Saturday, June 13, 2009

Editor tips- 10 mistakes

Check out this link. I fellow CNYRW author, Kari Townsend, passed along these tips. When editors speak, it's like that old E.F. Hutton commerical, EVERYONE listens.
http://www.holtuncensored.com/hu/the-ten-mistakes/

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

What's next




If you've been following my facebook blurbs, I've been focused on hammering out the sequel to MELTDOWN, LOVE LIKE YOU"RE DYING, and I haven't commented too much on the reception of MELTDOWN. That's because I won't get any numbers for a time. I can get an idea of print book sales, though, by following Barnes and Nobles online. My sister can tell you it's irratically moved around the ranking. I phone her several times daily.

One place I found a numerical ranking was a website called Fictionwise. They sell e-books exclusively. Now remember, tell friends to BUY my print book or ebook from my publisher, The Wild Rose Press. They are the ones who supported me, and we need to support them.

Okay. Here's some e-book sales numbers: One day in March, MELTDOWN ranked #125 out of 9946 romance titles. I nearly fell out of my swivel chair. I still don't know what that means, but at least it wasn't at the bottom of the list. On the same website, compared to my fellow authors at TWRP, it ranked as #7. That made my day!

So I decided to do a little advertising. I contacted my favorite ladies at LASR. They made a beautiful banner. Check it out on their website:
http://www.longandshortreviews.com/LASR/interviews.htm
Treat yourself and read the reviews. Summer's around the corner. Time to stock up.

The picture is of a special get-a-way place in the Adirondacks.
What would you do on that boulder? Fish? Dive off it? Write in your diary? Exchange secrets with your best friend?
Make a comment!

Happy Mother's Day!
Susan

Friday, March 13, 2009

Smashing Book signing

The night before my book signing, I dreamt I was arrested for speeding, something I'd never do, I swear. "But officer," I cried, "I can't go to jail, I'm on my way to my book signing." Mr. Macho cop replied, "Tell it to the judge."
Actually, I was so terrified I woke up before the policeman got to my car. But all the week before the book signing I kept having one crazy dream after another, all with the same theme: I was certain something terible would prevent me from attending my first book signing. I think that's why I was so amazed when I saw Andrea and Sunny waiting for me at Barnes and Noble. They were so excited and said I looked terrified. Yep. I was expecting the roof to cave in.
I kept thinking the worst, and instead the best thing happened. People not only showed up, but they bought my book. Not only family and friends, bless them, but strangers- wonderful, intelligent, romance readers. And I sold out! Imagine that.
I could tell you more stories, but it's late and the CNYRW mini con is tomorrow. I needed to thank whatever force in the universe worked to make my day a great one. Maybe it pays to have nightmares...

Monday, March 2, 2009

Rockin' Kindle

Meltdown is now available on Kindle. How cool is that? I thought it would take a few more months, but it became available 2/26. Now the real fun starts.

Monday, February 23, 2009

I won

Thanks to your votes, MELTDOWN won LASR's "Book of the Week"

Check it out. And be sure to read this weeks great reviews. This is a great time of year to snuggle up with a book and read a good book.
And don't forget to mark the date: Sunday March 8th 2pm- ? Booksigning at Barnes and Noble in New Hartford, NY. See you there!

Friday, February 20, 2009

Interview today

I'm being interviewed today by my friends at author's studio.
Hope to see you there!

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Best Book review


Long and Short Reviews gave MELTDOWN their hightest honor- best book review, highest praise and reserved only for a few. I'm in orbit! Here's the review:
"Susan St. Thomas’s Meltdown ROCKS!! It’s a love story of two tortured souls Cassie and Evan, filled with everything that makes a great romantic suspense read. It will blow your socks off.

Not only did I love this story, I literally couldn’t put it down once I started reading it. There is so much nail biting, edge of your seat action suspense that you’ll need to wipe the sweat of your brow often. The love scenes are so hot that they could speed up global warming and tender enough that you need tissues close at hand, and should be a mandatory manual for all prospective lovers.

It has wonderfully defined and developed characters not only the hero and heroine, but an equally great supporting cast. Her writing style was entertaining and descriptive enough that I could actually see the scenes being depicted. With so much going on at any given time in the story you never loose track of where she wanted the reader to go.

So if you’re opposed to an excellent read, spicy love scenes, great suspense, wonderful characters and a definite best seller then this is not the book for you. For the rest of you out there...well, what are you waiting for? Grab a copy for yourself.
by Larkspur"
Isn't that the best!!!! I hope readers are listening!

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Meltdown Winner

I hope, like me, you're nibbling Hershey's chocolate kisses or other sweet gifts as you're reading blogs today. If you remember, in honor of Valentine's Day my February contest had two prizes: an e-book copy of MELTDOWN and box of Godiva chocolates.
And the WINNER is: Christa Reed. Congrats, Christa!
I'm tickled from head to toe at the well wishes left in my guest book and the emails I've received. It makes me want to return your generosity.
Now I'm off to watch the Daytona 500.

Monday, February 9, 2009

Blog visit

I was interviewed today by another TRWP author, Sara Thacker
Check it out!

Sunday, February 8, 2009

Facebook fever


The past few weeks have been crazy-exciting-fun.
It began January 23rd, with the release of Meltdown, and a celebratory dinner at Delmonico's with my daughter, compliments of the owners. Several of their romance-novel reading staff, stopped by to check out the book. So exciting. Thanks again Joanne and John for making that night even more special!
Naturally I toted my book to my sister's Superbowl Party. So while the guys watched the game in one room, the women were reading the first chapter in another. And they think all we talk about is kids and fashion. I caught one person looking for the steamy scenes. No skipping, ladies!
Along with face-to-face promos, I've been on-line every night blogging and visiting yahoo group to promote not only the book but my CONTEST. Don't forget: Sign my guest book at www.susanst.thomas.com to ENTER. I've sweetened the pot with a box of mini-Godiva chocolate. (the same color as Evan's eyes)
But my favorite new pass time is making Facebook Friends.
Yes. I've caught Facebook Fever.
Now I understand why college students raved about it. It's fast, fun, and, I admit, I'm acting like a groupie rather than a writer when I see some of my favorite authors befriend me. (KMM!!) It's even more fun when readers send a friend request. Readers! (I shamelessly want to say, buy my book please)
One more bit of news before I take some cold medicine and accidently 'blog' the steamy love scene I'm working on for my next book, Love Like You're Dying: I'm having a book signing. Save the date: Sunday, March 8th, 2 pm- whenever you get there, Barnes and Noble in New Hartford. See why I'm jazzed!

Thursday, January 22, 2009

At Last

Years of scribbling ideas on scraps of paper and lots of daydreaming has led to this day: I'm delighted to announce that Meltdown is available, in both print and e-book format today. I can't compare this feeling to anything else I've ever experienced except to say it's life changing. My heartfelt thanks to everyone who has helped me make this dream come true.

The best way to purchase a copy is from my Publisher at The Wild Rose Press. Simply select the link on this page. As a bonus, if you purchase an ebook you'll be automatically entered in a drawing for a SONY reader, compliments of the Wild Rose Press authors. Way cool!

Speaking of contests, the winner of an e-book copy of Meltdown is JANET, one of the 'Cruise Cherries'. Congratulations, Janet. The next drawing for an e-book is February 14, and since Valentine's Day is Cassie's favorite holiday, she's asked me to 'sweeten' the prize. To win an e-book, and a box of chocolates from Cassie's shop, be sure to visit my website and sign my guest book.
Sweet dreams.
Susan

Thursday, January 1, 2009

Just in time

Happy New Year to all. 2009 is an especially happy new year for me, and you know why! In 23 days, Meltdown will be available in both print and ebook from my publisher, The Wild Rose Press, copy this link to read the back blurb (http://www.thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=page&id=19&chapter=0), and shortly thereafter online at Borders, Amazon or Barnes and Nobles. Consequently, I have a long list of Things To Do:
surf the internet for places to promote my book, set up chats, guest blog, arrange monthly contests, make Myspace and Facebook presentable, make a video for Meltdown, arrange book signings (I'll let you know when and where), and FINISH the sequel, Love Like You're Dying. I know what you're thinking, it's too much to do. So, on my Chihuly calendar, purchased on my San Fransisco visit to Cindy, I've scheduled daily and weekly goals.
Yours truly,
Sleepless in New Hartford.