Between The Pages - If Ever In Love

If Ever In Love Ann Trader 

January 2023 

Camden, South Carolina 1783 

Colonial Captain Harry Fleming wears his passions like badges of honor, a man considered by most as smart, decisive…even impulsive. With the Patriot victory and his fighting days behind him, his homecoming sours when he discovers his homestead in shambles and childhood sweetheart married to his cousin. 

Most comfortable in breeches and with her trusty hound by her side, Olivia Parr is a half-white/half-native healer…a resourceful woman and no man’s puppet. Yet when her path collides with the dashing captain, his charm makes her dream of a life and home like none she has ever known.

Loathe to become a hermit, Harry proposes a marriage to Olivia based on devotion. Will she wager her heart to a man hardened to love? As unresolved feelings linger and enemies plot against them for greed and gain, will they risk all and unveil the truth of what lovers must do…if ever in love? 

Between The Pages 

This historical story captures the attention in the first chapter. The storyline is exceptional with the author scripting a well-developed plot from beginning to end. At over three-hundred pages, this book is long, but the read is smooth and has no dragging scenes. Olivia and Harry are great lead characters, but there is also a huge cast with so many likable characters and a few villains. The author gives each character a uniqueness, so you don’t get confused by who-is-who in the large cast. The settings are well described to place the reader in the story. If you like to get lost in historical romances, I highly recommend picking up a copy of this book. I look forward to the second book in The Carolina Patriots 1783 Series. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between the Pages - The Officer’s Dilemma

The Officer’s Dilemma 

Janice Carter 

December 2022 

An impossible choice… 

Or a new adventure together? 

Zanna Winters has five months to plan the rest of her life—including the impossible choice of whether to leave Lighthouse Cove and her family’s hotel behind. Unfortunately, Naval Officer Dominic Kennedy’s return to their small town is complicating that plan. Because now Zanna must tell Dominic the truth: they’re having a baby. Neither planned for a life in Lighthouse Cove…but is love enough to bring two wandering hearts home for good?

Between The Pages 

This book was a sweet romance, and perfect for reading during the holidays. The author’s writing voice draws you into the story, which has an interesting plot containing several twists. There is plenty of drama between the main characters as well as the secondary cast. It was fun returning to Lighthouse Cove to catch up on previous characters and to see the development of the town. Dominic was a great leading hero. Does he sail away and leave behind the woman of his dreams and his baby? I recommend reading this delightful book to find out. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - The Summer of Sorrow and Dance

The Summer of Sorrow and Dance 

Liz Flaherty 

October 2022 

In the midst of a summer of change, they’re both searching for an anchor. 

Dinah is a mom, a giver, and a doer, so she’s used to change, but this summer is kind of overdoing that. The diner where she’s worked for half her life is closing, her college-age kids aren’t coming home for the summer, and a property on nearby Cooper Lake is calling her name, bringing long-held dreams of owning a B & B to the fore. Newcomer Zach Applegate is entering into her dreams, too. 

Divorced dad, contractor, and recovering alcoholic Zach is in Fallen Soldier, Pennsylvania, to visit his brother and to decide what’s coming next in his life. He doesn’t like change much, yet it seems to be everywhere. But he finds an affinity for remodeling and restoration, is overjoyed when his teenage sons join him for the summer, and he likes Dinah Tyler, too. A lot. 

Dinah and Zach each experience sorrow and tumult, but go on to dance in the kitchen. Together, they have something, but is it enough? 

Between The Pages 

Book three in the Second Chance series is a great way to spend a lazy afternoon reading. The author has a skilled writing voice for mixing a wholesome romance with family drama. The plot drives the pages of Dinah and Zach both finding new chapters in their lives and discovering how they balance each other. The family bonds are the highlight of this book, and the author masterfully draws you in with emotional elements of vulnerability and independence. A loveable dog and a cute kitten add to the enjoyment. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Writer Wednesday - ’Twas the Month Before Christmas

’Twas the Month Before Christmas

By Liz Flaherty

There are people out there who have their Christmas shopping done. They are the same ones who bought all their wrapping paper, Christmas cards, bows, and tinsel last December 26. 

They also keep all their Christmas shopping receipts in a separate place, like a little green and red folder, and they know at all times where that folder is located. If they have real Christmas trees, they remember to water them every day and they take them out of the house before all the needles fall off and embed themselves in the carpet.

These people's tree ornaments match each other. The ethereal angels or brilliant stars they use do not cause the trees to lean drunkenly. There are never full strings of non-working lights on the trees and the lights all twinkle at the same speed or they chase each other merrily around the branches.

Their Christmas cookies and candy are made and frozen well ahead of time and they have plenty of decorative tins and baskets on hand so that all they have to do is add a pretty handmade bow and they have an instant gift for the unexpected guest.

I decided many years ago, on a Christmas Eve when I was sewing the last ruffles on my daughter's Christmas dress at two o'clock on Christmas morning before she and her brothers rolled out at five, that when I grew up, I was going to be one of the people I've been talking about.

My first step in that direction was to buy wrapping paper the day after Christmas for the following year. Then we moved to a different house. It just seemed foolish when we were already moving 10 times as much stuff out of the old house as we moved into it to also move 12 rolls of paper and 50 bows, so I gave them away instead of moving them. Then, two weeks later, I went out and bought all new because we moved in November, for heaven's sake. (Moving is not good for one's thought processes. While I did not move the wrapping paper, I did move several boxes that remained unopened in the attic until we emptied it of its contents 40 years later.)

My next organizational move was to buy and address Christmas cards as soon as they hit the shelves, which was somewhere along about July. I even addressed them in green ink to make them look properly Christmas-like. Then I proceeded to lose them, along with the complete list of addresses I'd called all over the country to compile.

My sister-in-law Lynn, bless her cold little heart, found them long after Christmas had passed, nestled behind the microwave oven. I'm still telling her it's none of her business how often I clean behind my appliances. Or if I do.

Then there's shopping.

Occasionally, I start it in August. More often, I start in October and now and then in November. I've discovered that it doesn't matter when I start Christmas shopping, I finish it on Christmas Eve. Last year my husband and I were only two of the 3000 people in Walmart at 11 o'clock on Christmas Eve morning and we decided we would never, never do such a foolish thing again.

At least until this year.

Because, all advice I've given freely and unasked notwithstanding, I've given up.
I'm never going to be one of those people who have Christmas organized. I will always be a day late and a dollar short and my favorite Christmas tree ornaments will still be the ones my kids brought home from the first grade. My treetop will still be crooked and I'll always have needles embedded in my carpet even though we have an artificial tree. The cookies and candy will always be made at the last minute if they're made at all and eaten warm off a dish towel lying on the kitchen counter.

What it amounts to is, at least as far as Christmas is concerned, I am like Peter Pan: I won't grow up.

I hope you won't, either. I hope you have fun shopping and wrapping and decorating. And don't forget the giving. It's the very best part of it all.

Wishing you all the joys and blessings of the season.

©2022 Liz Flaherty All Rights Reserved
Retired from the post office and married to Duane for…a really long time, USA Today bestselling author Liz Flaherty has had a heart-shaped adult life, populated with kids and grands and wonderful friends. She admits she can be boring, but hopes her curiosity about everyone and everything around her keeps her from it. She likes traveling and quilting and reading. And she loves writing.  http://lizflaherty.net/

Writer Wednesday - The Accidental Birth of a Character

Hocus Pocus and All That

By Maureen L. Bonatch 

 The Accidental Birth of a Character

Next time you’re in a public area look around until you can visualize a stranger. Take a good look at that person. Now describe them. Most likely you’ll use descriptive terms related to their age, hair color, weight, attire and other things that you can visualize. Now describe a close friend or relative. If you’re anything like me the description will be very different. I might start with something like, “She’s really funny.” Or “He’s the nicest guy.” Because after a while, I think we all go a little blind to the obvious, because we’re not just looking at physical characteristics. We’re looking a little deeper. 

No Method to My Madness 

Because my characters are more like a close friend or family member my character description is usually rooted in their personality. They’ve been living in my mind for so long, that their physical description might be incorporated, but usually it’s last, almost an afterthought. In fact, in one book I forgot to identify the color of the hero’s hair and had to go back and add in that information. My method might also be because my characters tend to arrive in my imagination and tell me how this whole story thing is going to go. 

Many authors will tell you that before they start writing they will work up detailed profiles of their character’s appearance and the setting. I admire this. Because I’ve rarely done that, and if I have done it for a writing class, then I’m often left feeling like I’ve already read half the story. For me, the fun of writing is discovering the story. 

What’s Their Story? 

When my girls were younger and we went to the beach, we used to sit on a bench on the boardwalk and take “people watching” a step further. We would play a game I called, What’s Their Story. I’d single out a stranger walking by and ask one of my girls, “What’s their story?” Then they would proceed to explain this person’s backstory and what brought them to the beach. This was fabulous fun, especially because my girls enjoyed the game as much as I did— and they were really good at it. 

Creating my own characters and story isn’t much different. If I really need some additional details a few times I’ve interviewed my characters. I ask them a question and then see what they have to say. I often find out some amazing things that I had no idea about before. So how do I work up my character and setting profiles? I don’t. 

What Do You Remember Most When You Meet Someone New? 

Originally published on www.maureenbonatch.com 

© 2022 Maureen Bonatch All Rights Reserved Maureen Bonatch believes music can be paired with every mood, laughter is contagious, and caffeine and wine are essential for survival. When she’s not doing the bidding of a feisty Shih Tzu, she’s a mom to twin daughters, exploring the beautiful woods of PA with her hubby and dancing as much as possible. She writes paranormal cozy mysteries as M.L. Bonatch, paranormal romance and other genres as Maureen Bonatch, and her latest urban fantasy will be as Amber Wrath. http://www.maureenbonatch.com/

Between The Pages - Meringue Snowflake Magic

Meringue Snowflake Magic 

Tena Stetler 

November 2022 

After being in the wrong place at the wrong time Wynter Dahl finds herself with a new name and new home. Whisked into the Witness Protection program she finds herself in the Podunk town of Raven’s Hollow, Colorado. She has more than one secret to keep and is not sure who she can trust, though the deputy sheriff is hard to resist. 

Braydon “Blaze” Nightwing, owns Dragon Fire Pizza and takes his job as deputy sheriff seriously. He means to protect his town and its residents, including the mysterious newcomer. He rescues her after a tumble and finds himself in over his head. He senses she’s more than she seems but so is he. 

When her cover is blown and her life is in danger it will take the whole town to save her and their annual holiday festival and cookie contest. What is Christmas without a little magic? 

Between The Pages 

Mix a holiday romance and paranormal elements with a cookie contest and you have a winning recipe. While in witness protection, Wynter is placed in Raven’s Hollow and is quickly placed under the protection of Blaze, owner of the Dragon Fire Pizza and deputy sheriff. Their chemistry is instant and steamy. The plot contains a bit of mystery as well as a town filled with all sorts of paranormal creatures that come together to protect their new resident. This captivating storyline is a perfect afternoon read. The cover is beautiful, and the delicious pages include Christmas magic, pizza, cookies, and two tasty recipes. 

Rating 

5 Stars

December Holiday Giveaway 2022

Enter to win three paperback books by best selling & award winning author LIZ FIELDING! 

Her Pregnancy Bombshell

The Billionaire’s Convenient Bride

A Secret, a Safari, a Second Chance

And a pen!

To enter here just leave a comment on this post. 

One entry per person.

Comments from this post, our Facebook page, and emailed entries will be placed in a random draw and the winner will be announced on December 19, 2022.

Between The Pages - The Lady of the Mirrored Lake

The Lady of the Mirrored Lake 

Jennifer Ivy Walker 

January 2023 

Hunted by the Black Widow Queen, Issylte--a healer with the verdant magic of the forest--must flee Avalon with the two finest knights in the Celtic realm, both wrongly accused of treason. The trio travels to Bretagne, where Issylte heals a critically injured wolf and obtains fiercely loyal, shapeshifting allies. 

In mystical Brocéliande, Issylte becomes a warrior priestess of the Tribe of Dana and otherworldly mate of the Blue Knight of Cornwall, discovering with Tristan a passion that transcends all bounds. When she becomes the Lady of the Mirrored Lake, sworn to defend the sacred waters of the Goddess, Issylte must undertake a perilous quest to discover what priceless object lies hidden in its murky depths. 

As a nascent evil emerges in a fetid cave, Issylte and Tristan must face a diabolical trio that threatens their lives, their love, and their kingdoms. 

Enchanted. Enflamed. Entwined. Can their passion and power prevail? 

Between The Pages 

This is the second book in The Wild Rose and the Sea Raven series and begins where the first book ended. While I enjoyed the first book, this story held more interest for me because the plot highlighted more of the relationship between Issylte and Tristan who are the stars. Their connection is powerful and unwavering. Several interesting aspects propel this story, especially when Issylte is gifted new powers and the ceremonial bond between her and Tristan. There is a huge cast of characters, so I recommend starting with book one to become familiar with some of the names. Filled with magic, evil, fairies, wizards, and plenty of knights and princesses, this book is long but has a well-developed plot, which ends with an imminent battle to take place in the third installment. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Burying The Dead

Burying The Dead 

Kerry Blaisdell 

January 2023 

Sometimes the only way to stop the world from going to Hell is by working with Demons. 

Hyacinth Finch has one goal: Save her nephew Geordi from the Hell Demon who kidnapped him. But to succeed, she’ll have to work with his demon Mafia relatives, which she swore she’d never do. Worse, she’ll have to make another deal with the High Demons who murdered her. But Geordi's life is worth it, even if she loses her own humanity in the process. 

Meanwhile, Hyacinth’s ghost boyfriend Eric is wasting away, after being ejected from his “borrowed” body. While digging in his past for something to make him fight for survival, she uncovers secrets that could destroy their relationship. Moreover, her feelings for Geordi’s demon cousin Jason are stronger than ever, though every morally impossible choice she makes drives him farther away. Can she save Eric and Geordi, without losing herself—and Jason—forever? 

Between The Pages 

Book four in The Dead Series is otherworldly fantastic. Hyacinth is a wonderful commanding female lead, but the author supplies a superb secondary cast with spirited minions, a handsome hero - Jason, and the cutest little guy - Geordi. The cast is so large, I recommend reading this series in order to learn who is who, but the books do read well as individual titles. What did I like? Everything! Ms. Blaisdell is a master storyteller. So many twists and turns have you sitting on the edge of your seat, pulling you deeper into the depths of Satan’s lair – which in this story is pivotal and interesting. What didn’t I like? Nothing, other than wondering how to save Jason. Every character has their own ghostly and demonic objective, leaving Hyacinth - and the reader - questioning who to trust. Be prepared to enter an engaging, absorbing, page-turning paranormal world. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Desperate Hope

Desperate Hope 

Susan Leigh Furlong 

December 2022 

Revolutionary War soldier, Gavin Cullane, has desperate choices to make. He vows never to give up the fight for American freedom, but his role as colonial liaison between the Americans and the British brands him a seeming traitor to his own country. When he discovers the woman he loves is part of George Washington’s secret spy chain, his only choice is to expose his own lies so she can escape. 

Tansy Carter risks her life to send messages to George Washington from the captured city of New York. When she is discovered, she must flee the city, and trusting her life to the traitor, Cullane, is the desperate chance she must take.

Will their freedom come at the cost of their love?

Between The Pages 

This historical romance was a compelling read. The author blended actual events of history with fictional aspects, developing a seamless plot. Opening the story with a bang – literally during America’s Revolutionary War, the pages combine action, courage, and emotion. These elements propel the story further into the book without pausing. The characters shine, from the leads of Gavin and Tansy to Tansy’s family and other cast members the author introduces along the way. The scenes with the children were enjoyable as was the character, Brian. There were many points of view in this story and some changes happened without a break, but it didn’t deter the read. The plan the characters build to survive comes with many twists, and they take the reader on a visual journey and the kindness of humanity. If you’re a fan of historicals, I recommend grabbing a copy of this book. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Writer Wednesday - The Care and Feeding of An Author

Hocus Pocus and All That 

By Maureen L. Bonatch 

The Care and Feeding of An Author 

Happy National Novel Writing Month? What? Never heard of NaNoWriMo?! It’s like a major holiday for me…well, one that lasts for a month while all kinds of people make a goal of writing 50,000 words during the month of November. 

I’ve been an author for years now, but I still always read the biography when I come across an author new to me. I love to experience that magical moment when they wrote that first story, or when they signed their first contract. Someone looking in from the outside might think that it happened overnight. But for the most part, that is the end result of many nights, many mornings and hours of solitude… 

No One Cares About Your Book—Like You Do

You love your characters and your stories and you want to tell everyone about them. Don’t be offended if they don’t get as excited as you, or if they don’t seem to care. Because it doesn’t matter, all that matters is that you have a passion for your story. That passion and drive will help you succeed.

Hold onto that love and passion when your story becomes a book out in the world and you get an unsavory review, or if some friends or family don’t buy it. Network and join author groups to gain support, discover a critique partner, get advice from other authors and learn from each other.

Everyone is Writing a Book
Prepare yourself to smile and nod. Instead of enthusiasm for your book, others—many others— seem to minimize the blood, sweat and tears you invested for a year, or years writing your book. They tell you that they, too, would write a book, when they have the time. You know that there’s never any extra time. You carved out the time by sleeping less and giving up activities with family and friends and making writing a priority.

You’re going to get a lot of unsolicited advice—take it with a grain of salt, but ignore most of it, and follow your heart. If you need guidance seek out authors you admire, but still realize that what worked for them might not work for you. Just like your book, you’re crafting your own story as an author and every writer’s journey is different.

Family Matters
You envisioned long days blissfully immersed in your writing. You might have some of those days, but many days it will be a struggle to snag a minute of that time. Writing takes a lot of time and energy. You realize that, but your family doesn’t. They don’t see the writing progress you’re making, and sometimes they don’t seem to care. They only notice that the laundry isn’t done, or there’s no dinner, or they act as if you’re neglecting them. It’s about crafting a balance. Taking a break now and then will make you a better writer in the long run, because living adds life to your stories.

It’s Not All About The Book
Becoming an author comes with obligations regarding marketing and developing your online presence which can take a lot of your time. Be prepared to become familiar with social media—whether you like it or not. Therefore, choose platforms that you prefer and focus on them. You don’t need to be on every media. It’s better to do a few well than do many poorly due to an inability, or a lack of the desire, to keep up with them.

Take Care of Yourself
Many people claim to have the desire to write a book, but not everyone embarks on that fabulous journey. You’re willing to sacrifice all of your time to succeed—don’t. You need that balance, and you need to take care of yourself. Long hours of sitting aren’t good for your body.

• Incorporate exercise or yoga in your day, take a walk or consider a treadmill desk (or a DIY one) http://paranormalromantics.blogspot.com/2016/12/when-you-win-nanowri-you-need-to-stand.html
• Don’t let “book butt” be the price you pay for writing, make healthy eating a priority.
• It’s okay to get up early, or stay up late to write, but make sure you get adequate sleep
• Make time for family and friends. If it’s hard to tear yourself away from writing, consider it as research for body language or describing physical characteristics

It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint – Enjoy the Journey
Congratulations, Author!

Post originally published on the https://paranormalromantics.blogspot.com/

© 2022 Maureen Bonatch All Rights Reserved
Maureen Bonatch believes music can be paired with every mood, laughter is contagious, and caffeine and wine are essential for survival. When she’s not doing the bidding of a feisty Shih Tzu, she’s a mom to twin daughters, exploring the beautiful woods of PA with her hubby and dancing as much as possible. She writes paranormal cozy mysteries as M.L. Bonatch, paranormal romance and other genres as Maureen Bonatch, and her latest urban fantasy will be as Amber Wrath. http://www.maureenbonatch.com/

Between The Pages - Mission Accomplished

Mission Accomplished 

Sophia Ryan 

September 2022 

By-the-book ER nurse Alicia Stone can spot trouble a mile away. The sex-in-combat-boots bleeding all over her porch radiates with it. Her plan to bandage him up and show him the door goes awry when a blizzard traps them in her cozy mountain cabin. 

Until FBI Agent Nick Navarro can confirm the identity of the siren who saved his life, his mission is to keep his identity secret and his hands to himself. With a soul crafted by angels, a body crafted by devils, and a brand of TLC that could tempt a corpse, she’s making it difficult for him to accomplish that mission. 

Alicia’s patient is secretive and cocky, sweet and sexy, and very likely a criminal. As the temperatures tumble, so do her defenses, even though she knows that falling for him will put more than her heart at risk when the bad guys who shot him show up to finish the job. 

Between The Pages 

This suspenseful romance is riveting from the very first chapter. The author’s writing of text and dialogue immediately pulls you into the well-developed plot. The flow is seamless from page to page and chapter to chapter. A snowy setting in New Mexico has the main characters, Alicia and Nick (aka Rey), isolated and stranded in a mountain cabin. She’s cautious and he’s dangerous, yet they still form a close bond. They have instant chemistry, which soon has steam sizzling on the pages, however, the author does a great job of building their relationship, making their attraction and heat more believable. Secrets, emotional ups and downs, action, and an adorable dog add to the enjoyment of this must read book.

Rating 

5 Stars

Between The Pages - Last Stop, Wylder

Last Stop, Wylder 

Barbara Bettis 

October 2022 

Gunman Morgan Dodd is headed to a new life in California, where no one knows his name. Or his reputation. Just one last job to raise money for his fresh start—gunhand for a railroad agent in Wyoming. Easy enough. Until he meets the woman who could change everything. 

After ending her engagement, Emily Martin longs for independence. She sets out for Wylder, Wyoming, to help her brother with his newspaper. But when she arrives, she finds he’s off investigating a story. Well, then. She’ll simply publish the paper herself until he returns. Emily’s prepared to face challenges, but not the dangerous stranger who ambushes her heart. The same man hired to destroy her livelihood. 

When a common enemy threatens, Morgan and Emily must find a way to defeat danger and save their budding love. But a gunman’s word is his bond, and a lady’s trust can shatter. 

Between The Pages 

This is a charming story. The heartwarming chemistry between Morgan and Emily is wonderfully written. Their slow but steady romance has you rooting for this couple to get their happy-ever-after. The setting is pictured very well. A secondary cast adds to the enjoyment of the story. This historical western even has a bit of mystery tied into the storyline, making it an interesting page-turner. The plot includes the liberation of women voting and how it’s received in a small town. This is a great book to spend an afternoon reading on the sofa. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Writer Wednesday - Are You Fully Alive?

Life Coaching 

By Vicky DeCoster 

Are You Fully Alive? 

When asked, many of us might describe the majority of our days as simply ordinary. We go to work, come home, watch television, and go to bed. The next day we wash, rinse, and repeat. Although we know that every day can’t be exciting, it can still sometimes feel like we are in autopilot, methodically moving through each activity or habit without fully living in the moment. 

You have the power to transform your thinking, anytime, anywhere. 

A friend once shared that when she is experiencing something new or exciting, she throws her head back, raises both her arms in the air, and yells, “I’M ALIVE!” This fun practice is such a great reminder to not just yourself, but to everyone around you to celebrate every extraordinary life experience.

Whether you are riding a roller coaster, hiking a challenging trail, falling madly in love, traveling the world, giving a speech, taking candid photos, creating art, teaching others a skill, helping someone in trouble, or learning or trying something new, these moments in time provide an opportunity to stop, find joy in the experience, and then celebrate your existence in your own unique way.

Occasionally reminding ourselves that we are fully alive is an extremely valuable step toward realizing happiness and fulfillment.

It is possible to celebrate your life every day in small ways.

Right now, think about what are you doing when you feel fully alive. How often are you doing these activities that bring joy, make you feel proud of yourself, or build confidence? Replace one mundane habit (watching television) with a new habit (taking an art class) that pairs a concrete action step with your new pledge to live fully.

Do more of the things that make you come alive.

Life is meant to be lived, not endured.

Why are you here? I’m certain you are not here to robotically navigate through every day while wondering if this is all there is to life. What I am certain of is that you are here for an important reason – to fully live.

There’s no time to waste. Get busy celebrating life and your beautiful existence.

© 2022 Vicky DeCoster All Rights Reserved
Vicky DeCoster is a Certified Life Coach who specializes in helping her clients move past obstacles, create a plan for happiness, and cross the bridge of transition to find a new and fulfilling direction in life. To read more about her and her practice, visit: http://www.crossthebridgecoaching.com/

Between The Pages - Christmas At Tall Pines

Christmas At Tall Pines 

Darlene Deluca 

November 2022 

A blizzard at Tall Pines mountain lodge puts Melanie Beck within arm’s reach of an old high school crush and in danger of losing both her idyllic Christmas and her heart. 

Melanie Beck is searching for an idyllic Christmas like the ones her small family used to have. Traveling solo and still grieving the loss of her parents, she’s counting on cozy Tall Pines Lodge tucked into the mountains of Utah to provide the elusive holiday feels with merry music, stunning decorations and traditional Christmas feast in a beautiful frosty setting.

But a blizzard turns the winter wonderland into a hazard, and a chance encounter with a now-famous high school crush has her reeling with emotions she’s never quite gotten over. 

Tyler Shaw, a Hollywood heartthrob and silver screen star, is so over a grueling film schedule and persistent paparazzi. In disguise and using a fake name, he comes to Tall Pines to escape the spotlight and get some much-needed rest. He’s hoping the adrenaline rush of downhill skiing at the nearby slopes will give him the reboot he’s looking for.

Instead, he’s stuck at the lodge and is shocked to run into an old high school friend that he left behind more than a decade ago. He’s even more surprised to discover how much he’s missed her. As their past and present collide, can an old flame ignite some Christmas magic? 

Between The Pages 

This story was a delightful read. The setting, though storming, was charming inside the lodge from the decorations to the music and holiday cheer, as well as the fireside warmth. Melanie and Tyler have great chemistry. The storyline is realistic with a budding romance colliding with being in the spotlight. A bit of family drama adds interest to the read. A great read to get into the holiday spirit. This book would make a good Sunday evening holiday movie special. Grab a cup of hot cider and get cozy by the fire with this heartwarming story. 

Rating 

5 Stars

Christmas Cover Contest 2022

Contest open to all book covers with a Christmas theme. 

Your cover must scream the holiday season. 

All publication dates are eligible for entry, including back list titles.
Authors may submit multiple cover entires.

Open to entries: October 27, 2022
Closed to entries: November 04, 2022

Submission Guidelines:
If you have our email address on file, send us a JPEG image of your cover with Christmas Cover Contest 2022 in the subject line.
If you are new to the magazine, send us a note through our Contact Form, and will we respond as soon as possible with directions.

Entries must be received by 12:00 midnight EST, November 04, 2022, and adhere to the contest theme. If an entry does not meet the requirements, it will be removed from the contest.

Voting:

1. Staff Vote - The magazine staff will choose ten favourite Christmas covers from the entries received.

2. Fan Vote – The ten Christmas cover finalists will be posted on our website and our Facebook page. Encourage your family, friends, and fellow authors to leave a comment to vote for your cover. One entry per voter. Each comment counts as one vote. Multiple votes will be discredited and deleted.

Voting begins on November 08, 2022 and ends 12:00 midnight EST November 10, 2022.

3. Publisher Vote – The magazine publisher will review the staff votes as well as the fan votes and select a winner. Two runners-up will also be choosen.

The winner and runners-up will be contacted by email.
Results will be announced on our website and Facebook page on November 15, 2022.

First place winner will receive a Full-Page ad in our 2022 December Holiday issue of Still Moments Magazine.

Runners-up will receive a Quarter-Page ad in our 2022 December Holiday issue of Still Moments Magazine.

Good luck!

Writer Wednesday - Is Reading a Way to Procrastinate?

Hocus Pocus and All That 

By Maureen L. Bonatch

Is Reading a Way to Procrastinate? 

My mother is an avid reader. She taught me about the joy of books at a very young age. I have fond memories of her reading a chapter or two from novels like the Little House on the Prairie series to my sister and I before bed each night. Our cherished library cards were worn from repeated use. There was nothing better than spending an afternoon escaping to the world captured between the pages. 

It was hard for me to imagine anyone not deriving the same pleasure from a good book. But I knew those people existed. Because our household validated that there are two types of people. Readers and the non-readers. And my father fell into the second group. 

I Have Better Things to Do 

As a non-reader oblivious to the benefits of a book, my father always felt there were better things to do than ‘waste your day’ reading a book. He viewed reading as a form of procrastination to avoid doing other necessary tasks. These things usually involved extra chores since obviously we’d turned to reading as a last resort to defeat overwhelming boredom. 

It’s unfortunate I wasn’t outspoken enough to retort with many of the benefits of reading such as: 

 • Increasing your knowledge base and vocabulary with a wealth of topics and worlds to explore. 

• Improving your health by exercising your brain with mental stimulation and improving memory. 

• Reducing stress by embracing the tranquility a book can provide. 

I Don’t Have Time to Read 

I still encounter many non-readers and often hold my tongue as they insist that it isn’t that they don’t want to read, it’s just that they don’t have the time to read. We all have the same 24 hours in a day. Readers realize that there is always time to read because when you love to read you make the time. Whether it’s by: 

 • Making productive, positive use of wasted time while waiting for an appointment. 

• Choosing to read a book over watching television. 

• Bringing a book with you to capture spare minutes while your kids are in an activity or during your lunch break. 

Fight Procrastination 

Why not promote reading to try to convert the non-readers and welcome them to the wonders of reading. 

 • Social Media- Take a minute to share #amreading

 • Donate Books- Local libraries and schools often accept books. 

     o Make a book basket for a charity auction featuring either your books, your favorite authors or author friends.

 • Give a Book as a Gift- I always give a book as a gift at a baby shower and have found many people are thrilled to receive a special author autographed copy of a book. 

     o Check out an author’s website to see if they offer autographed copies. 

• Introduce them to Different Forms of Books and Genres. The glorious thing about books is that there really is something for everyone. 

     o Whatever you like to read- romance, paranormal, fantasy, crime, young adult etc. 

     o Whatever format you prefer- audiobook, paperback, ebook etc. 

Raising a New Generation of Readers 

I’ve instilled a love of reading in my girls. I’m thrilled that their gift lists are always predominantly books and the walls of their rooms are filled with their cherished treasures. 

I don’t consider reading as procrastination. I consider it a necessity. But if I did, it would be my favorite form of procrastination. 

What Are Your Suggestions to Welcome Non-Readers to the World of Books? 

Blog originally published on www.maureenbonatch.com 

© 2022 Maureen Bonatch All Rights Reserved 

Maureen Bonatch believes music can be paired with every mood, laughter is contagious, and caffeine and wine are essential for survival. When she’s not doing the bidding of a feisty Shih Tzu, she’s a mom to twin daughters, exploring the beautiful woods of PA with her hubby and dancing as much as possible. She writes paranormal cozy mysteries as  M.L. Bonatch, paranormal romance and other genres as Maureen Bonatch, and her latest urban fantasy will be as Amber Wrath. http://www.maureenbonatch.com/

Writer Wednesday - Who Are You?

Life Coaching 

By Vicky DeCoster 

Who Are You?

Photo by Vicky DeCoster

Finding and then embracing our true identity can be one of our biggest challenges in life. While trying to determine who we are and what purpose we are destined to fulfill while here, we can often feel weighed down, confused, frustrated, and in need of answers.

When feeling overwhelmed, it can be helpful to stop for a moment, retreat into nature, breathe deeply, and look around. In nature, there are no two trees alike, no two animals alike, no two plants alike, no two hiking trails alike, no two sunrises alike, and no two sunsets alike.

As you take in the gifts that nature provides every day and take note of their one-of-a-kind beauty, now is the time to remember that in the entire universe, there is no one else just like you. You are full of opinions, ideas, and love—all unique to you.

Today, I am sharing an original poem that may help you remember that just like the sun, the moon, the stars, and everything else in nature, you are exactly how you are meant to be. As you grow, develop, and bravely step outside your comfort zone, believe that everything in your life is progressing just as it should. Be open to learning, seeing yourself with compassionate eyes, and knowing that your journey is yours and yours alone.

You are the one and only you. Be proud, stand tall, and never give up.

I AM

By Vicky DeCoster

I am

like a star in the sky

that illuminates the darkness

In its own way.

I am

like the moon

that glows in all its unique glory

amid a vast universe.

I am

like a blade of grass

that blows in a gentle breeze

graceful yet resilient.

I am

like the sun

that warms the Earth

while reminding of new beginnings.

I am

like the water

that flows downstream

and helps shape all within its reach.

I am

like the sun, the moon, the stars,

and everything else in nature

just how I am meant to be.

I am me.

© 2022 Vicky DeCoster All Rights Reserved
Vicky DeCoster is a Certified Life Coach who specializes in helping her clients move past obstacles, create a plan for happiness, and cross the bridge of transition to find a new and fulfilling direction in life. To read more about her and her practice, visit: http://www.crossthebridgecoaching.com/

Between The Pages - Cause For Elimination

Cause For Elimination 

Marla A. White 

October 2022 

Reclaiming her life after a devastating riding accident, equestrian Emily Conners' world shatters again when she discovers her friend and boss lying in a stall with a smashed skull. Now jobless and with a handsome cop underfoot investigating the case, she's torn between wanting the killer found and keeping her own secrets safe. 

Detective Justin Butler always gets his killer, but this victim has a stampede of enemies and few leads to go on. Stonewalled by the tight-knit equestrian world, he looks to Emily for help, but she's strangely reluctant. Is she hiding something, or is she afraid of their growing attraction? 

As the search for the murderer heats up, their hearts become entangled and their lives at risk, forcing Emily and Justin to work together to find the killer before they strike again. 

Between The Pages 

This edge-of-your-seat mystery was an interesting read. The author has a great voice for spinning twists and turns into a suspenseful story. With so many possible suspects, the reader wonders who could be the killer and when they will strike again. The plot around the equestrian world was enjoyable, and the author is very knowledgeable in this ring. Justin was a great hero and the perfect person to step into Emily’s life. The banter between Justin, and his partner, Dennis was fun. Lottie was also a great and feisty secondary character. While the author did a good job on the sensitive subject of addiction, a mention should have been added of professional help to assist and maintain the character’s sobriety. But overall, this mystery was a page-turning read. 

Rating 

4.5 Stars

Between The Pages - Sound of a Wylder Silence

Sound of a Wylder Silence 

Marilyn Barr 

October 2022

Ikshu Sagebrush lives in the shadows of his mystical brother, loudmouth sister-in-law, and the trauma he endured. When a chance meeting with a Christmas angel makes him consider stepping into the light, Ikshu calls to the spirits of his ancestors to help restore his voice.

Ava Wylder is no angel, but her wicked ways are the catalyst Ikshu needs to face his inner demons and build a life. She would gladly trade her family’s wish for her to become a lady of a manor house in New York for the natural beauty of Wylder and a simple existence with Ikshu. When their families and community status step between them, she cannot fight for their love alone. 

Will Ikshu find his voice to make his intentions known, or let true love slip through his fingers?

Between The Pages 

I absolutely adored this book. As a fan of Ikshu in Dance to a Wyler Beat, I was excited to see him get a story of his own, and the author did not disappoint with Ikshu’s captivating story. Ikshu is a quiet soul and an artist but haunted by his childhood. Ava is a force to be reckoned with. She is strong and determined yet afraid to stand up for her future. Ikshu and Ava are the perfect match, and their romance is endearing. The author’s voice provides a stunning visual of the landscape, placing the reader within the pages of the story. There were so many scenes filled with humour and fun, leaving you laughing out loud. There is also a deep emotional tug as Ikshu faces his demons. As in the first book, the spirit guides, teachers, Nartan, and Olive were greatly entertaining. This historical western, with a touch of paranormal, deserves more than five stars. 

Rating 

5 Stars