The Romance Room: mystery

Showing posts with label mystery. Show all posts

Monday, November 10, 2014

JoAnne Myers New Mystery Anthology

Hello, and thank you for having me back.

Give Away Alert!!!

I will be awarding two people who comment a PDF or paperback of their choice. The choices are: Murder Most Foul-a detective/mystery, Loves, Myths, and Monsters-a fantasy anthology, Wicked Intentions-a paranormal anthology, Flagitious- a crime/mystery anthology, The Crime of the Century-a biography true crime, Twisted Love:12 cases of love gone bad-a biography true crime anthology, and Poems About Life, Love, and Everything in Between.

Blurbs for “Flagitious” a four crime/mystery anthology

“Too Solve His Mother’s Murder”

After his Air Force career was interrupted by his mother’s untimely murder, Steven Moore, returned home. Met with a cold reception of lies, secrets, and threats, he is determined too find Wanda’s killer, even at the cost of his own life. Was Wanda a victim of the legendary Hatchet Man? Was this loving and devoted mother killed because of her shady past, or for her inheritance? Between finding the truth and falling in love, Steven stops at nothing, too solve his mother’s murder.

“The Other Couple’s Child”

Charlotte had it all. A loving and devoted husband. Supportive family and friends, and a house full of beautiful children. Everything was perfect for this Super Mom, until a medical procedure turns her life upside down, and spirals into a child abduction case. Time is running out. Will police arrive in time to save Charlotte and the other couple’s child?

“3381 Market Street”

Katherine Sims, a young widow working for a brokerage firm in a small southeastern town, is tired of the excuses concerning Charlie’s absence. She knows something terrible must have happened to her favorite nephew with the sad blue-eyes. After exposing the killer, Katherine’s life is turned upside down and she finds herself fighting for her life. Filled with maniacal suspects, a Satanic Cult, and danger around each corner, this story depicts one woman’s courage too avenge a child’s murder, while finding unexpected love.

“The Tarot Card Murders”

New Detective, and ex-navel man, twenty-six-year-old Nick Difozzio, returns to his small county determined too abolish crime. Not until death knocked on his door, did he know the face of evil. Will the decorated veteran destroy the Lycanthropes, or will he succumb to their murderess desires and become one of them? He took an oath too protect, honor, and uphold the law, but can he defy the lust, riches, and power offered, or are the ‘dark forces’ stronger than his will?

Excerpt from “3381 Market Street”: Leaning back against the side of the pool, Katherine stretched her long legs before closing her eyes. Suddenly, someone shoved her beneath the surface and held her there by her hair. Unable to breath, she scratched frantically at her foe’s arm until her attacker released her. Popping up from her watery grave, she gasped for air, her eyes stinging from the chlorine. Temporarily blind, an alert staff member pulled her from the pool. Choking, and spitting water, she said, “Someone tried to drown me.”

Looking about, the employee said, “Miss, there’s no one else here.”

“What about the mother and daughter I talked to?”

“What mother and daughter? The only other women here are with a group of senior citizens. They meet here every week for water exercises. It helps their arthritis.”

“Where’s Officer Schumacher? I’m leaving now,” she said, stomping to her room.

Once inside her suite, she telephone Greg, but got his answering machine instead. Believing Jessie was behind the attack, she grabbed her suitcase and frantically packed. That was not to be. Elaine Moser tackled her from behind out of the closet, and began to strangle her. Unable to release Elaine’s grip, Katherine ripped a button from her swimsuit. Using it as a weapon, she sliced Elaine’s face with one hand, and followed with a hard-fisted, round-house punch with the other.

Frantic and breathing heavily, Katherine ran to the door, but found it double bolted. Suddenly, a knife flew at her and stuck in the door, narrowly missing her head. She turned on her heel and ran onto the balcony, screaming for help. Yanking the knife out of the door, Elaine charged at her a second time. Katherine leaped aside and Elaine plummeted over the railing, falling three stories.

Author Bio:

JoAnne has been a long-time resident of southeastern Ohio, and worked in the blue-collar industry most of her life. Besides having seven novels under her belt, JoAnne canvas paints. When not busy with hobbies or working outside the home, JoAnne spends time with relatives, her dog Jasmine, and volunteers her time within the community.

JoAnne is a member of the International Women’s Writing Guild, Savvy Authors, Coffee Time Romance, Paranormal Romance Guild, True Romance Studios, National Writers Association, the Hocking Hill's Arts and Craftsmen Association, The Hocking County Historical Society and Museum, and the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center.

JoAnne believes in family values and following your dreams. Her original canvas paintings, can be found at: http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

Other books by JoAnne:

"WICKED INTENTIONS" a paranormal/mystery anthology

"LOVES', MYTHS' AND MONSTERS'," a fantasy anthology

"THE CRIME OF THE CENTURY," a biography true-crime

“POEMS ABOUT LIFE, LOVE, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN”

"TWISTED LOVE," a true-crime anthology

“MURDER MOST FOUL,” a detective/mystery

Contact JoAnne:

http://www.facebook.com/joanne.myers.927

http://facebook.com/authorpage.joannemyers

http://amazon.com/author/joannemyers

Email: authorjoannemyers@yahoo.com

Buy links:

Amazon Kindle:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NOZGUPG

Paperback:

http://www.lulu.com/shop/joanne-myers/flagitious/paperback/product-21812982.html

Friday, October 10, 2014

Interview With Cher'ley Grogg

Cher'ley Grogg, Author

Cher'ley writes different genres. The Journey Back--One Joy at a Time, a devotional book,

Stamp Out Murder, a cozy mystery, and The Secret in Grandma's Trunk, a YA novel. Cher'ley

co-authored Small Town America and West Virginia Memories. Her stories are included in the

anthologies Boys Will be Boys, Creatures, Crimes, and Creativity, and Cowboys, Creatures,

and Calico. She has many poems, short stories and articles published online and in print books. She

enjoys painting, fishing, reading, walking, dancing, and long baths. She loves the Lord, her husband,

children, grandchildren, and great grandchild. Cher'ley, her husband, Del, and their Carin Terrier,

Tootsie, have seen the country through the windshield of their big white Freight-liner.

Cher'ley Grogg
http://cherley.webs.com/guestbook.htm

Author Website

http://cherleygroggauthor.weebly.com/index.html

THE INTERVIEW

What is the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?

Adventure. Life is an adventure and I live it to the fullest. Recently I faced my fears and Hang-glided, Parasailed,and climbed a Lighthouse and then went out onto the balcony.

What adventure would you like to have that you haven’t done yet if money and skill were no problem?

Travel the World.

Who are some of your favorite authors? What commonality do you see in them?

Jeffrey Deavers and Sue Grafton are two of my favorite, but I have many more. Recently I’ve been reading a lot of unknown authors and they are very good. I don’t see a commonality, except I mostly read mysteries, or suspense.

I believe color says something about a person’s personality. What’s your favorite color?

At this point in my life-Purple. When I was younger it was yellow, but really I like all colors.

If you could have a do-over life, what one thing would you do differently? What would you do again?

I’d do the things I love earlier in life. Again, I would marry my husband and have my children.

What is your writing process from conception to finished MS?

Conception starts with a spark of an idea, I develop characters, drop them in a place, then do a brief outline. I do a lot of research and edit many, many times.

Are you a planner, panster or both?

I am both. I start with a loose outline, change it and add to it as I go.

How did you research for your book?

Visit places, the library, interview people and Google.

What is your all-time favorite movie? TV show?

“Wizzard of Oz” and the “Shirley Temple Show”.

How important do you feel writing workshops are to any writer?

I have taken many courses and writing workshops. I go to at least 3 conferences a year. I belong to many writing groups. So to me it is very important,

If you could learn one new skill, fear and money no deterrent, what would it be?

To pilot a plane.

If you had a million dollars to donate to any one charity, what would it be?

The Salvation Army, because I believe they spend most of their money back to help people. The second one would be Hospice, because they make people’s last days on this earth easier on the paient and the family.

What advice would you like to give to an aspiring writer?

Don’t listen to too much advice. Read a lot. I’d susgest starting out with a thorough outline so you won’t droop in the middle and you’ll know where you are going. It never made any sense to me to write what you know, which I heard a lot. Do your research and write what you want. Take as many classes and workshops as you can.

Did anyone mentor you or help you along the way? Please tell us about your mentor and what you feel they contributed to your writing career.

I had instructors that were helpful, but they didn’t go out of their way that much. I paid a writer, who I admired to help me in the beginning. He helped me a lot, but he was a perfectionist and we never got the first chapter completed before I moved on to something else. That was 2 years later.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Get a Dictionary, and a Thesaurus. Learn to use all the writing tools available to you.

If you could live anywhere in the world you wanted to, where would it be? (Language is no barrier)

Where I presently live. I live there because I like it. There’s trees and a creek in my back yard, and a river runs along side my front yard. I would just straighten the road out a bit.

Where do you write?

I write on our 18 Wheeler truck, on my front porch, in my swing, on my back deck, in my bed, in my office, in restaurants, and I’m sure there are other places.

How much time do you devote to writing each week? Do you have a day every week that you take off?

Some weeks more, some weeks less. More in the winter. No, I have to write when the opportunity is there.

What is a genre that you have not attempted that you would like to try?

Humor, I loved the style of Erma Bombeck.

Is there anything you would like readers to know about you?

I love life, my family, my dog, God, and my very favorite thing to do is laugh.

GIVE AWAY ALERT! Cher'ley will be giving away a copy of COWBOYS, CREATURES, AND CALICO Vol. 1 anthology to someone who comments. Please include your email address in your comment if you wish to enter.

COWBOYS, CREATURES, AND CALICO, VOL.1 Halloween Anthology

Prairie Rose Publications

Wild Injuns, Wicked Trains, and Cerulean Blue by Cher’ley Grogg

Margaret Branson rides the train to the Wild West to get some sensational stories for the Eastern newspaper. She meets resistance from the odd residents in this small Nevada town. But she’s full of grit and determination.

“I’m here to stay until I have a newsworthy story,” she tells the young sheriff with the cerulean blue eyes who urges her to keep on moving.

Raymond Simpson is a man of few words and plenty of action. Seeing that Margaret is set on getting her story, he leads her into the wildest adventure she’ll ever face—and one she can never leave, even if she wants to.

BUY LINKS:

AMAZON KINDLE

AMAZON PAPERBACK

Monday, September 29, 2014

JoAnne Myers: Never Give Up

JoAnne Myers

JoAnne believes in family values and following your dreams. Her original canvas paintings, can be found at: http://www.booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

NEVER GIVE UP: by JoAnne Myers

For as long as I can remember, I have had an artistic flare-whether that be for writing, painting, sewing or drawing. I recall as a child how much I enjoyed drawing. The writing came later. My seventh grade English teacher was Mrs. Henderson-a young mother and wife. She gave us a writing assignment and after gifting me with an A+ told me I should consider writing as a career. She meant as a journalist. I did not take her advise and become a journalist (one of my many misgivings). My mind went toward other things as many young girls dream of-a husband, home, and family of my own. I put my love for writing and painting on hold for years. I unfortunately married a man who like my mother never encouraged me to be artistic. It was not until my children were grown and I no longer had a husband, that I went back to my first love-art. I got a late start, but always encouraged my children and others to partake of artistic endeavors. I now have six books under contract with two publishing houses. So my words to you all, is that no matter what road you choose, never forget your passion, and always keep it close to heart. Don’t let anyone or anything stop you from enjoying your natural talents. You might need to put art on a temporary hold, but never ever give up.

Blurbs for “Flagitious” a four crime/mystery anthology

“Too Solve His Mother’s Murder”

“The Other Couple’s Child”

“3381 Market Street”

“The Tarot Card Murders”

Excerpt from “The Tarot Card Murders”

The Scene: Detective Nick Difozzio has been called to another bizarre murder scene, located in the abandoned industrial section of town.

An abrupt silence you could cut with a knife filled the room. “Shape-shifters?” said one from the group. “You mean like a Yeti turns into a deer to avoid those who track it. Or the Lock Ness monster turns into a log.”

After Ted and the others poked fun at his fantastic idea, Nick laid it out, “Not exactly. But certain creatures are believed to have shape-shifting powers of one sort or another, and what other possibility is there to explain these bizarre murders?”

“Well, we could have a psychopath lurkin’ around. Or a nutty drifter or escaped convict,” Ted said. “But it doesn’t take a brain surgeon to understand that, if shape-shifters do exit, they would be very elusive creatures, nearly impossible to detect and capture. What does take a lot of imagination, is believing in shape-shifters.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right. I’ll see ya tomorrow,” Nick said. Once outside, he noticed the full moon, and wondered, who will die tonight? On reaching his vehicle, he discovered a surprise in his passenger seat.

“Denise, what’s going on?” he asked via the driver’s window.

With teeth white as snow, she said, “Well, sugar, I was thinkin’ about the last time you were at my house. You remember, when you cabbaged my safe contents so foolishly?”

With a chuckle, he nodded. “Honey, the only foolish thing I did that night was fail to realize the money in the safe was counterfeit. But I bet it’s all gone now.”

“And I bet you’re right,” she smiled. Just then, Denise’ partner in crime, twenty-two-year-old Wendy Goss zapped the lawman with a stun gun from behind, dropping him like a hot potato.

Jumping from the vehicle, Denise removed Nick’s gun and cell phone, placing them under the seat. Afterward, both women placed him in the backseat. Getting behind the steering wheel of Nick’s car, Denise drove his Mustang, while Wendy followed in her Firebird.

Halfway to the destination spot, Nick regained consciousness. With his gun gone, he played dead, hoping to find the gang’s hangout. Soon both vehicles stopped. Denise exited the Ford then helped Wendy search the Firebird’s trunk, for items needed for Nick’s demise.

“Someone better keep an eye on the cop,” Wendy said.

“Don’t worry, that pig’s out cold,” Denise said, finding rope. Peering out the back window, Nick realized he was on an abandoned farm. Searching for landmarks, he memorized a foreclosure sign reading Stonewall Realty.

Uncertain if the girls were armed, Nick made the decision to strike now or never. Disabling his car’s dome light, he cautiously retreated from the backseat. As quiet as a mouse, he snuck up on the chattering women foraging for items to gag and bind him.

As soon as the murdering beauties were finished gathering their supplies, Denise slammed the trunk shut. Immediately Nick punched her between her baby blues, knocking her to the ground before turning on Wendy.

Struggling with the yellow-haired lady, who, like her partner, was trained in Judo, Nick swapped blows with the tall slender gal and encountered a high degree of skill. Then, recovering, Denise attacked him from behind with a blow to his ribs, bringing him to his knees. Both women struck like tigers from all sides.

Doing his best to avoid their most deadly kicks, Nick used every device not nailed down as a weapon against the feisty felines. First, his leather belt with the sterling silver buckle, then, a stray piece of firewood left behind by the homeowners. Across the parking area, the trio fought. Nick matched his street skills against the trained martial artists as each one fought for their own reasons.

The gallant cop battled for his life and self-respect, while the women fought for control over the detective representing the authority they loathed. Or perhaps, Denise and Wendy’s desire for domination extended to include the entire county, not just the town, thought Nick. Whatever the reason, they’re formidable.

Bruised and bleeding, the women fought until Nick broke Wendy’s arm. Seizing the opportunity to get away, she escaped in her vehicle leaving her comrade helpless and easily overpowered.

“Get off me, you bastard!” Denise screamed as Nick slammed her to the ground, cuffing her.

“You’re under arrest.” Wiping the blood from his lip, he threw her into his vehicle then drove to the local hospital. On the way there, Nick phoned headquarters, “I got one of the blood members. We’re on our way to the ER.”

Other books by JoAnne:

"WICKED INTENTIONS" a paranormal/mystery anthology

"LOVES', MYTHS' AND MONSTERS'," a fantasy anthology

"THE CRIME OF THE CENTURY," a biography true-crime

“POEMS ABOUT LIFE, LOVE, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN”

"TWISTED LOVE," a true-crime anthology

“MURDER MOST FOUL,” a detective/mystery

Contact JoAnne:

http://www.facebook.com/joanne.myers.927

http://facebook.com/authorpage.joannemyers

http://amazon.com/author/joannemyers

Email: authorjoannemyers@yahoo.com

Buy link:

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NOZCUPG

Monday, September 22, 2014

Interview with Carol Henry

AUTHOR BIO:

Carol Henry lives with her husband in the beautiful New York State Finger Lakes area where they are surrounded by family and friends. World travelers, Carol writes about her visits to exotic locations for major cruise lines' deluxe in-cabin books, and takes pleasure in sharing her adventures with her readers in her suspense adventure novels. Carol writes about Destination: Romance--Exotic, Romantic Adventures where the heroine discovers more than the 'wild and wonderful' world around her--she finds her inner courage and an once-in-a-lifetime love. She also writes contemporary and historic romance for The Wild Rose Press. Her second romantic suspense novel Shanghai Connection came in 2nd in the Best 2012 Romance Book/Ebook Novel category from the Preditors and Editors Reader’s Poll. Carol is also the local historian for her home town and has written several books on the town's history. For more information visit her website at: http://www.carolhenry.org

Interview

What is the most adventurous thing you’ve ever done?

The most adventurous thing I’ve ever done was hunt alligators in the back of beyond in the Amazonian Rainforest at midnight in a small boat powered by a 8-mph motor. Our guide in the front of the boat had hats with small lights attached to spot the alligators. Unfortunately, the rotors got tangled in the hibiscus roots and we were stuck in the middle of the lake until the small boy operating the contraption could untangle them and start the motor again. And yes, darn it, they did capture a small gattor, and we putted back to the center with it aboard. You can read about it in my first romantic suspense novel—Amazon Connection.

What adventure would you like to have that you haven’t done yet if money and skill were no problem?

This is a tough question for me. I’ve been lucky enough to have many wonderful adventures outside my comfort zone, as my husband and I travel the globe. Right now, however, I’d have to say it’s to go on an African Safari and experience the personal wildlife up close and personal.

Who are some of your favorite authors? What commonality do you see in them?

Again, a hard question for me. I like reading a variety of authors and genre. There are so many wonderful writers out there, and there is always something to glean from the various writing styles--although I try to remain true to my own voice while working on my own novels J.

I believe color says something about a person’s personality. What’s your favorite color?

I have several colors that look best on me, especially blue or teal. But red speaks to me. Red is the color of fire and blood, so it is associated with energy, strength, determination, leadership, courage, as well as passion, desire, and love—qualities I’ve been told I actually possess. And, as it happens, traits most writers seem to have in abundance.

If you could have a do-over life, what one thing would you do differently? What would you do again?

I feel that everything I’ve done in the past has laid the path for what I’m currently doing—like stepping stones. Instead of looking back, I’m always looking to the future and another chapter in my life.

What is your writing process from conception to finished MS?

Once I have an idea for a novel, it percolates in my mind for a bit, and then I start writing (in long hand) what I imagine the first chapter is going to be. Then, I tend to do what I call plot points of what I see happening, who my characters are and what they need to be to exist in the story. I ask a lot of questions, not all get answered right away, but it allows me to think the story through. Again, all these plot point start out in long hand before I go to the computer. I have scene sheets I work with, timeline sheets—I guess you could call me a planner (I see this is the next question). I have a summary of characters, their POV, their scenes, and a brief sentence or two of what is happening in each scene and chapter—all great for referencing. Did I mention the character sheets? Yep, everything gets outlined in one way or another—sometimes filled in as I go along. Definitely a planner J

Are you a planner, panster or both?

A planner!

How did you research for your book?

I happen to be an international travel writer, so for Rio Connection, as for my other ‘Connection’ novels, I research for a travel features as I travel. So I had my basics. But I still needed additional information about the location to make sure many of my facts I include are accurate. I collect various items, books, brochures, and newspapers while traveling, and these help me remain true to the area I’m writing about. Of course I take tons of photos. The focus for Rio Connection actually came from a newspaper clipping about computers being used to help educate those in need, which was ultimately a bit of backdrop for my story. From there, the main focus of espionage grew and the story developed. My biggest focus is getting my main characters together in a foreign land. My main ‘connection,’ although a backdrop only, is the Wild and Wonderful Corporation based out of New York—at least one of my characters is connected with this business.

What is your all-time favorite movie? American Dreamer, with JoBeth Williams and Tom Conti, about a would-be writer who wins a contest and a trip to Paris where all hell breaks loose. The whit, suspense, twisting turns, with a bit of humor, and the additional ending is so cleverly done, I watched it three times in one sitting.

TV show? I tend to be fickle with TV watching. Currently I like NCIS and NCIS Las Vegas. Can’t wait to see what NCIS New Orleans is like. It’s more the characters that draw me in. But then, I could watch Big Bang Theory any night of the week—oh, wait! I do J

How important do you feel writing workshops are to any writer?

Especially for the novice writer, writing workshops are crucial. Learning the ‘tricks of the trade’ go a long way in helping the writer gain the knowledge and confidence necessary to forge ahead. And it doesn’t hurt to ‘bone’ up on the latest techniques and publishing trends as a writer progresses. Keeping current is a must in this industry.

If you could learn one new skill, fear and money no deterrent, what would it be?

I’d like to be an instant multi-lingual American who could hold meaningful conversations with anyone around the world without having to stumble over pronunciations. I’m always amazed, and sometimes ashamed, at how people in other countries speak English so well.

If you had a million dollars to donate to any one charity, what would it be?

Although there are many worthy causes, and I do donate to several of them, the Wounded Warriors would be my choice—these men and women put their life on the line to protect our homeland, regardless of the beliefs, backgrounds, or of those less worthy of the sacrifice performed on their behalf. These heroic men and women and families have paid the ultimate price, and should be taken care of accordingly.

What advice would you like to give to an aspiring writer?

Learn the ins and outs of writing. Don’t give up. Believe in yourself. Believe in your talent. Go forward. Never give up.

Did anyone mentor you or help you along the way? Please tell us about your mentor and what you feel they contributed to your writing career.

There are always many who either knowingly or unknowingly have contributed in some way to a writer’s career. First and foremost, is my mother who insisted that each of her children become members of book clubs of their own, at an early age. Reading was always a big part of my life—something I shared with my own kids and grandkids—there are always books wrapped under the tree at Christmas time. I was tickled when my son and his wife gave me an unabridged dictionary for Christmas one year. Best gift ever!

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

My husband gave me the best advice ever when it came to writing—do you own thing! If I had listened to certain people in a small critique group, I never would have had the courage to submit my manuscript and land my first contract! Of course this doesn’t pertain to learning the mechanics of writing in the first place. It’s the confidence in yourself and your writing that’s important.

If you could live anywhere in the world you wanted to, where would it be? (Language is no barrier)

As I’ve already traveled around the world, been to places both sublime and hard pressed, I am always thankful and grateful to come back to the U.S. and my hometown in New York. To quote Glinda The Good Witch’s Magic Spell for Dorothy: “There’s no place like home.” J

Where do you write?

I tend to be all over the place. Plotting—anywhere, literally, especially in waiting rooms; first drafts—my home office; rewrites and edits—on my laptop in the gazebo (weather permitting) or the living room with the radio tuned to a light-rock station and the drapes pulled open wide—my window on the world (especially if I’m home alone).

How much time do you devote to writing each week? Do you have a day every week that you take off?

Even though I’m retired, I live close to extended family, and two elderly mothers. Grandchildren abound, and I’m active in my small home town. But when I’m on a project, that takes priority and my time at the computer is constant. Having been published several times now, a major part of spending time every day on the computer involves social media and promotion, promotion, and more promotion. Sometimes it’s difficult to eke out writing time, but, I also tend to work my story ideas in my head throughout the day, or days, so when I do sit down, it flows and I accomplish more positive first draft material, then if I had sat down and simply spit out drivel and had to go back and make major changes. If that makes sense. To me, that process is part of my writing schedule. I’m a light sleeper, so sometimes I find myself at the computer in the middle of the night, or pencil in hand scratching out some thoughts.

What is a genre that you have not attempted that you would like to try?

Well, I haven’t written a paranormal. But I don’t think I’m ready for that—most of the dark stuff scares me spitless! I do believe in ghosts! Children’s picture books appeal to me…

Is there anything you would like readers to know about you?

People think I’m very social, but in fact I don’t think I am. I tend to hold back until I assess the situation, the people, the mood, and react accordingly. I really don’t know where I got the courage to step out of my shell and become the person I am today. I’m a coward—but I don’t like to be left behind—wherever my adventures take me.

RIO CONNECTION

Espionage and anger lurk…even in paradise during Carnival

BLURB:

After finding her fiancé in the arms of her aerobics instructor, Marcia Kline calls off the wedding. When she learns her brother, Russell, is in trouble in Rio de Janeiro, she goes on her honeymoon alone to check up on him and runs smack-dab into Russell's boss, Jared Reed, whom she'd been briefly involved with two years ago. Before long, Marcia becomes entangled in the danger surrounding her brother and the seamy underworld of high-tech espionage during Carnaval. Jared Reed suspects Russell Kline is in Rio selling his latest avatar prototype. He flies to Rio to catch Russell in the act, and instead saves Marcia from being kidnapped at knife point. Jared suspects Marcia is involved in her brother's scheme, so to keep an eye on her, he decides to help her search for Russell. And finds it hard to keep his emotions for Marcia in check. In a race for their lives, will they learn to trust one another and make an everlasting Rio Connection?

Short Excerpt:

Marcia swallowed her fear. Her heart vibrated against Jared’s back. She rested her head against his neck and made an effort to think herself into a better place--being snuggled in Jared’s arms, on a secluded tropical beach. Erotic sensations rocketed through her lower body--her mouth went dry, her mind buzzed with sexual desires. “Honey, this isn’t the time to get caught up in a sexual fantasy. You keep squirming against me and we’ll never get to enjoy that dream you’re dreaming. There is no way I can accommodate you at the moment. You’re making it difficult to concentrate on getting us down to the bottom—safe, and in one piece.” The belt jerked on the cable and caught. They were stuck in mid-air.

Author Buy Links:

TWRP: http://bit.ly/12aso6N

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1nwOK84

Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/rio-connection-carol-henry/1120166216?ean=2940150336209

Monday, September 15, 2014

JoAnne Myers: Writing Mystery

JoAnne Myers, Author

I have been a long-time resident of southeastern Ohio, and worked in the blue-collar industry most of my life. Besides having several novels under my belt, I canvas paint.

When not busy with hobbies or working outside the home, I spend time with relatives, my dog Jasmine, and volunteer my time within the community. I am a member of the International Women’s Writing Guild, Savvy Authors, Coffee Time Romance, Paranormal Romance Guild, True Romance Studios, National Writers Association, the Hocking Hill's Arts and Craftsmen Association, The Hocking County Historical Society and Museum, and the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center. I believe in family values and following your dreams. My books and original canvas paintings, can be found at: booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com

Writing Mystery by JoAnne Myers

Before writing a word, take some time to jot down key story points. As you're writing, the story will want to take on a life of its own. Having a handy reference of key points will help keep your story on track and you from pulling your hair out. A list of key points is also helpful when outlining the story plot. You may very well find that the story begins to unfold as you're writing down the key points. If this happens...let it! Write down any ideas or details that come to you, they'll come in handy later.

Some key points to consider are; what is the mystery? This is the underlying theme to the entire story so be as in-depth as possible (has there been a murder or a theft or a kidnapping? If so, how and where was it committed?).
Hunt for the culprit. Every good story has at least one antagonist, but what steps must the hero or heroine take to find him/her? How will the villain evade the hero? How is the mystery solved? In mystery writing there are a lot of twists and turns. Write down your initial thoughts for plot twists, red herrings to throw the readers off the trail of the true villain, and of course the final stages of how the good guy will prevail...or does he? You need to decide whether or not the hero or the villain wins in the end. Many hero’s die trying to solve their case. Many are involved in physical altercations with other characters. You must decide how many altercations, the number of characters involved, and what weapons if any are used. It is not a good idea to only engage your characters with fist fighting. Throw in some knives, chains, falling from windows, or my favorite, a poisoning, and other nasty assaults.

Every great story has well rounded characters. We read fiction because we want to be entertained and develop a connection with the characters. Outlining items such as personality traits, physical features, and quirks can help bring your characters to life; a speech impediment, or limp, or a nervous twitch.

            For the Protagonist, decide the name, age, where does he/she live, does he/she have a family or pets, what is their driving goal for taking on this particular case? Is the hero a police officer, a person sworn to honesty, pride, and valor. Or is the good guy a private detective being paid to find a certain someone. Or your main character could be a parent or sibling searching for a missing loved one.
            For the Antagonist, decide the name, age, where does he/she live, is there an underlying reason for being the antagonist? Perhaps this person is a career criminal. On the other hand, maybe he/she is a good person that suffered an unjust and turned to crime out of bitterness and despair.
            Then you have your support characters, who are the color of the story. They provide depth to the story whether good or bad. A support character could be as simple as a loud mouth hot dog vendor standing on a street corner or as in-depth as the villain's partner in crime. In writing a mystery story, support characters can take on a life of their own with the reader, so make them interesting. Just because they are labeled support characters does not mean they are any less important than the main characters.

Next is the location of the story. When and where is the story set? These two key elements are what bring your story to life. Mystery story writing is a broad genre and could be set in any time period and in any place. When working with actual locations it is a good idea to do research on the location first. Readers want to feel as though they are there with the characters, so being able to accurately describe a location is vital. Time periods are no exception. If the story is set in 1940's New Orleans, the reader will want to see their surroundings, not just be told the story is taking place in a speakeasy or church. Be descriptive!

A mystery story is not a story without a solid well thought out plot. Some things to consider when developing the story plot: What is the driving force of the mystery? To solve a murder, or rescue a kidnap victim? What does the villain do to thwart the hero? Does the villain get his goons on the hero? Is the hero being set up by the villain and now he is being hunted by police. What other obstacles get in the way of solving the mystery?

One of the most important elements of writing a mystery story is suspense. Giving away too much too soon will bore the reader. It is best if the suspense is sprinkled throughout the story; bring the mystery to light within the first few chapters, then as the story progresses add a clue here and there without revealing the outcome until the final chapter. Do not be afraid to add a "red herring" or false clue, within the stories context. Readers love nothing better than to think they have everything figured out only to find in the end they were mistaken the entire time.

The final few chapters of the story should hold the climax of the conflict and resolution between the hero and villain, including how all of the clues scattered throughout the story cumulatively solves the mystery. A good conclusion gives the reader a sense of closure in finding out how the hero solved the mystery. Remember that not all mysteries have to be completely solved or have a "happy" ending. If you are writing a series of stories, the villain may get away at the end of story #1 with the hero using clues from story #1 to track down the villain in story #2. In mystery story writing, the possibilities are only limited by your imagination.

Blurb for “Murder Most Foul” a detective/mystery

When two dismembered torsos wash up on the banks of the local river in the small industrial town of Pleasant Valley, residents are horrified. Between contradicting statements, police ineptitude, lust, lies, manipulation, incest, the motorcycle gang The Devil’s Disciples, crooked cops, and a botched crime scene, everyone becomes a suspect.

The young beautiful Jackie Reeves, a registered nurse, believes the killer is a man from her past. She contacts the dangerously handsome FBI Agent Walker Harmon. An arrest is made, but Harmon and Jackie believe an innocent man is being railroaded by local cops. How far will these lover’s go to solve this heinous crime before anymore killings. Determined to find the truth, Agent Harmon and Jackie are forced to run a gauntlet of deep trouble and turmoil, which marks them for death.