Introducing Scottish Author Ann Burnett

A very warm welcome to prolific writer, Ann Burnett, whose second novel with Tirgearr Publishing, Love Begins at 40, is now released. I’ve known Ann for many years and have always enjoyed her other writing, so I’m delighted to see her new novels. I loved the first one, Festival Fireworks, set in Edinburgh and Australia, and I’m already enjoying the new one set in one of my favourite coastal towns, Largs. Ann is kindly sharing the inspiration behind this second novel.

Love begins at 40

Maisie McLelland spent ten years building up McLelland Events in Glasgow and has just bought a holiday home in the relaxing small seaside town of Largs on the west coast of Scotland. She immediately befriends her elderly neighbour, the widow of a local fisherman.

When Elizabeth is in need of rescue, Maisie steps in to help. Elizabeth’s grateful son, teacher and lifeboatman, James, takes Maisie to dinner to show his appreciation. Maisie’s not looking for a relationship and neither is James, as he’s still reeling from the loss of his son. They’re both surprised at the instant connection.

Over time, Maisie and James become friends and their closeness continues pulling them toward each other until emotion leads to intimacy. She agrees to help with the organisation of a Viking Festival he is planning in the town.

But as Maisie approaches her 40th birthday, tragedy strikes a double blow, and she’s forced to make some important decisions about what she really wants from life.

Love Begins at 40 is available from Amazon UK and Amazon US, or wherever you are.

Inspiration Behind the Story

It all started with a visit I made to Largs Writers Group one morning. It is a beautiful drive up the coast from where I was then living, with views across the Firth of Clyde to Arran and the Isles of Cumbrae and beyond on a clear day. And it was just that. The sun was shining on Goatfell, the highest mountain on Arran, the sea with its puffs of white caplets, was a mix of turquoise and deeper green and blue, and I was looking forward to meeting old friends at the group.

Largs is a small seaside town on the Firth, once one of the many resorts to which Glasgow holidaymakers would flock for their annual break. Now it's quieter, more 'douce' and attracts perhaps more of the older generation and families than those looking for a livelier  time.

It has a long history, most famous perhaps for the Battle of Largs in 1263 when the possibility of a Viking invasion loomed large. The weather, however, came to the rescue of the townspeople and a storm blew up, sinking many of the Viking longships. It is celebrated as a great victory and the Pencil along the shore, is a memorial to this event.

I gave my talk, had tea and buns with the group and answered as many questions as I could, then joined some of them for lunch. And all this time the magic of Largs was seeping into me. What if I were to use Largs as the setting for a book? Who would come to the town to live? Would it be a permanent home or a second home? What kind of home would it be?

And so I built up a picture of my protagonist, Maisie McLelland. Unlike most female characters in romances, she would be that bit older, approaching her fortieth, a successful business-woman looking for a better work-life balance and feeling that something was missing from her busy life. 

This being a romance, who would be her leading man? I don't like determinedly alpha males, all hulk and muscle and no character, so James, like Maisie, has his own back story, his difficulties, his heart-break. His mum, I decided, would live across the landing from Maisie's flat, so convenient for getting them together, but like all good stories, I placed many difficulties on the way to an ending. I'll leave it up to the reader to find out if it ended happily!

The town of Largs plays its part in the book, as do the Vikings and the glorious Firth of Clyde. I've taken several liberties with its layout and festivals but hope that the locals don't mind too much.

I hope you enjoy reading Love Begins at 40 as much as I enjoyed creating my story.

Thanks for sharing that interesting background, Ann – love the setting!

Ann Burnett was born in Scotland where she now lives but has travelled extensively and lived in Canada and Australia.

She has published short stories, articles and children’s stories, as well as writing a novel, Loving Mother, as part of her Masters in Creative Writing. She is an experienced Creative Writing tutor and adjudicator for the Scottish Association of Writers.

Her short stories have been published in New Writing Scotland, Glasgow University Creative Writing anthologies, My Weekly, That’s Life (Australia), Woman's Weekly and the Weekly News. Her collection of short stories, Take a Leaf out of My Book, is available on Amazon.

Her memoir, illustrated with her father's photos, A Scottish Childhood, Growing up a Baby Boomer was published this year. But perhaps she is best remembered for writing Postman Pat stories for a children's comic every week for five years. A labour of love indeed!

You can connect with Ann on her Website/Blog, Facebook, Twitter (@annburnett3) and Instagram (ambur66)

Joan Fleming and the Magic of Mull Series

I’m delighted to welcome friend and writing colleague, Joan Fleming, to the Reading and Writing blog again. Joan’s lovely books are set on the beautiful Scottish island of Mull and are an ideal read for summer. The third in the series, Daughter of Mull, is now available and Joan is kindly sharing the inspiration behind them. First a little about the book.

Daughter of Mull

Anna Ballantyne is devastated when her hopes of meeting her birth mother are dashed. Determined to discover the reason for her mother’s refusal to meet her, Anna decides to track her down on the Scottish Island of Mull, where she lives. As a freelance researcher, she is able to use a commission to investigate the story of The Lords of the Isles as cover for a trip to Mull, and she leaves the flat in Glasgow that she shares with the owner, Roddie Fraser, to journey to the island.

But complications soon follow. She finds herself falling under the spell of Finn Ericson who works on the island as an unofficial guide. When Roddie turns up, he makes it clear that his feelings for Anna are more serious than she realised.

With her personal life in turmoil, torn between Finn and Roddie, and confused about the value of pursuing a mother who does not want to meet her, Anna has to make some important decisions.

Captivated by the island, she wonders if there is a future for her with Finn on Mull? Or is she ignoring the whispering of her heart that it is Roddie she truly loves?

Daughter of Mull is available from Amazon and in all e-formats via Tirgearr Publishing

Thank you, Rosemary, for inviting me onto your blog today to write about the inspiration for the novels in my Magic of Mull series. Daughter of Mull, recently published by Tirgearr Publishing, is the third book in the series.

So why have I set these books on the Scottish Island of Mull?

I was born, brought up and educated in Edinburgh, and it was not until I met my husband at university that I developed an interest in Mull. My future father-in-law was born on the island, which gave him the right to call himself a Mulleach. Although, like many of the local men, he went to sea and became a ship’s captain, his twin sister, my husband’s aunt, remained on the island. We visited often, and I gradually fell in love with Mull and also with her smaller sister, the Isle of Iona. The family lived in Fionnphort, from where we could look directly across the Sound of Iona to the famous Abbey a short distance away.

As I had married into a Mull family, over the years, I met many of the islanders and was invited into their homes. Their life-style was so different to that of the people of the cities of Edinburgh or Glasgow (‘There’s no hurry in Mull.’), that I felt I wanted to capture that contrast in my writing.

Not only was I charmed by the inhabitants of the island, however, I was also captivated by its haunting beauty: the landscapes – and the seascapes – are breathtaking to see. A new, awe-inspiring vista meets you every time you change direction as you travel round the island. Added to the friendliness of the people and the magnificent views on Mull, there is a certain something in the air which I can only describe as magic. It is a combination of the way in which this island affects your senses – the scent of burning peats, the taste of salt in the air, the call of the birds circling above the sea which at times can barely be heard as the waves dash against the shoreline.

Of course, like all islands, it has its myths and legends, but perhaps this ‘magic’ is better appreciated by its absence. When you return to the mainland after a visit to Mull, you are aware that something you captured on the island is no longer available to you: that’s the magic of Mull.

In my books, I hope to convey this magic, and show how it interacts with the characters I have created.

It’s been a pleasure to be on your blog, Rosemary. Thank you once again.

You’re very welcome, Joan, and thank you for sharing such an evocative post!

About the Author

I was born and educated in Edinburgh. After graduating in Modern Languages at the University of Edinburgh, I became a teacher of French and German, mainly in schools in the West of Scotland. Since leaving teaching, I now have more time to devote to writing.

I’d been writing for pleasure for many years, and decided to join Erskine Writers, a supportive group which has members at all stages of their writing development – from published novelists to complete beginners. This group is affiliated to the Scottish Association of Writers. I am a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association (RNA) and also of the Society of Authors.

I write short stories, children’s stories and articles. My first novel What the Future Holds was published in 2014 by Tirgearr Publishing. I had submitted it to the New Writers’ Scheme of the RNA and in 2015 it was a finalist for their Joan Hessayon Award. It became the first book in a series (Magic of Mull) when my second novel, Spirit of the Island (Magic of Mull series #2), was published in 2015.

Daughter of Mull (Magic of Mull series #3) followed in June 2017.

Tirgearr Publishing 5th Birthday Bash

One of my publishers, Tirgearr, is celebrating its 5th anniversary just now and you have the opportunity to win some great prizes, from print books, to a box set, to the grand prize of a new Kindle Fire Tablet!

Lots of e-books are reduced to 99p (99c) for the event, including The Aphrodite Touch, the first novella in my Aphrodite and Adonis series (as Romy).

If you would like to enter the giveaway competition, just click on the banner to go directly to the Tirgearr page where you can enter via Rafflecopter.

Good luck!
Rosemary

Publication Day!

Today sees the release of the third novella in my Aphrodite and Adonis series! The Aphrodite Assignment is again set on Cyprus and features the mythological goddess and her most beloved Adonis. The human couple this time are not actually together when the heroine, Bryony, arrives on the island. But she and Richard do have some shared history and she’s not sure how to behave towards him. She has five days to find out!

Here’s the blurb and a short excerpt to get you in the mood for sunshine and romance in the Mediterranean.

The Aphrodite Assignment

Bryony Marshall has the assignment of a lifetime: to check out the new apartments on Cyprus, Aphrodite’s island, for her travel company. But she hadn’t reckoned on her contact being Richard Harrison, former teenage crush and her older sister’s ex-fiancé, nor her renewed feelings for him.

Aphrodite and Adonis plan to encourage the budding romance between Bryony and Richard but the goddess Athena brings them unwelcome news: Aphrodite must return to Olympus with the other gods for a council with Zeus. Can the mythological couple bring the humans together within the limited time left to both couples?

**** 

“Here we are. This is one of my favourite hotels, and your boss was happy to agree as they’ve used this hotel for clients in the past. I’ve booked you a room for your stay on Cyprus. I’m staying here, too, while you check out the new building. I can be your chauffeur so you see a bit of this area.”

Bryony glanced at his amused hazel eyes and was about to protest. But the words died as he touched her arm.

“Before we get out, may I ask if we can start again, Bryony? Pretend we’ve only met and put the past behind us while you’re here? It’s a beautiful island and I want you to enjoy it.” He held out his hand. “Hello, I’m Richard Harrison, and I look forward to showing you around.”

Could she so easily forget the hurt he’d caused her sister and her own devastation at his leaving? As she met his eyes again, Bryony remembered the man she’d spent restless nights dreaming about, and she shook his hand.

“Bryony Marshall. Pleased to be here, and looking forward to seeing the apartments.” She didn’t smile but when her hand disappeared inside his, she unexpectedly felt a jolt of warmth and pulled her hand away.

“It’s a start,” he said, and turned to open his door. “Let’s get you settled.”

****

The Aphrodite Assignment is available in all e-formats, including kindle on Amazon UK and Amazon US. You can also access the other platforms on the Tirgearr site.

I loved Cyprus when we visited many years ago, partly because of its history and mythology. We stayed in the Greek side and enjoyed exploring the Troodos Mountains as well as the coastal area around Paphos. These days, it’s so much more built-up and no doubt far more commercial but the warmth of the people and the beautiful, traditional villages make it an ideal destination most of the year round.

Do you have a favourite island that you’d like to revisit, or one that you’ve always wanted to see?

Rosemary (or Romy for this book!)

Tirgearr Birthday Bash

One of my publishers, Tirgearr, is having a huge Birthday Bash to celebrate their fourth anniversary. This year will be their fifth as an independent publisher whose varied list of authors and books has continued to grow.

If you're looking for books to replenish your e-reader, you might something in this great bargain list to fit your taste! The sale will run from (and include) Friday 26th to Monday 29th February. If you click on the graphic, it will take you to the Tirgearr page where you can check out the individual authors and their books. It includes my first two novellas in the Aphrodite and Adonis series and full length historical, Midwinter Masquerade (all under my Romy name).

Happy reading!
Rosemary

Pre-Orders and Valentine Giveaways

I just received the cover for The Aphrodite Assignment, my new novella from Tirgearr Publishing (as Romy), and it's now on pre-order from Amazon! This is the third in my Aphrodite and Adonis series and is slightly longer than the other two. Release date is Wednesday, 3rd March but the price will go up after that.

If you want to take advantage of the 99p (99c) offer, you can now pre-order it on Amazon UK and Amazon US. It will also be available on other e-platforms and you can find the links on my Tirgearr page where you can read the blurb and a short excerpt.

********

In other news, I'm taking part in this Great Valentine Giveaway Event with lots of other authors. Great selection of books and a very generous Amazon voucher on offer. If you click HERE, it will take you to the relevant site, should you want to enter!

Enjoy your weekend,
Rosemary

Writing Talks and Libraries

I’ve been very remiss updating the blog again this week, after Victoria’s very successful, fabulous launch, and I haven’t even written that much but I’ve enjoyed the break from a busy time last week. I’ll let her write about the launch in her own time and on her own blog or elsewhere, but it couldn’t have gone better! Glad I managed to get a photo with my daughter.

As well as the launch, I was speaking at a writing group one evening on markets and marketing so had to prepare for that – which I absolutely enjoy. The group has lots of keen new members and it was great to share information with them in the hope of encouraging them to send out their work when ready. Now, I’m adjudicating their short story competition over the next few weeks so that will keep me out of mischief.

I also had a visit to the librarian in a nearby town as they’ve asked me to be involved in Book Week Scotland in late November – delighted to get the opportunity. And that opportunity seemingly partly came about because of a very kind gentleman recommending me to them. I had met him and his wife at another speaking engagement and he told the librarian about me! It also helps that The Highland Lass has a local setting so it should be of interest to readers. Just shows, we never know how one thing can lead to another!

I was amazed at the particular branch library where I’ll be speaking and only wish I lived nearer to one like that. Amazing space with several rooms and lots of computer facilities for learning and research, and they have a great variety of groups using the building. It must be of huge benefit to the local community out in that part of town. Interestingly, they now have fewer reference books in all the libraries because of the Internet. Must admit I still love consulting all the reference books I have at home after years of study, although it’s good to supplement them with online information.

I can share one of piece of good news – Tirgearr Publishing has accepted the third novella in my Aphrodite and Adonis series! The Aphrodite Assignment is a little longer than the other two and will hopefully round up the series nicely for now. I’ll share the other little bits of writing news in a later post, once I have details. Hope everyone is enjoying the lovely autumn sunshine while it lasts.

Rosemary

Half Price Reads for eBook Week

To celebrate Read an eBook Week, my Irish publisher, Tirgearr, is offering most of their books at half price on Smashwords from now through Saturday. You can see all the available books on the Tirgearr site and they each have a link to Smashwords. For instance my Tirgearr books are here.

Use the code RAE50 when buying on Smashwords - you can download in any e-format from there.

Rosemary

Debut Author Spotlight: Joan Fleming

I am so delighted to welcome my friend and writing colleague, Scottish author Joan Fleming, to my blog today. Joan’s first novel, What the Future Holds, was released by Tirgearr Publishing a few weeks ago and it is already receiving lots of great reviews. I'm not surprised, since the writing, the setting of the Isle of Mull and the enjoyable story are all so appealing. Joan has kindly answered some questions I put to her, but first a little about the story.

A warm welcome to the blog, Joan – hope you’re managing to keep cool in this unaccustomed heat!

What the Future Holds

Anticipating a relaxing holiday in her idyllic holiday cottage on the Scottish island of Mull, 29 year-old Amy Wilson realises her plans will be ruined by a letter she finds when she arrives. It contains a proposal to build a holiday complex directly in front of her cottage.

The application is in the name of a member of the McFarlane family who are distant relatives of Amy. In their youth, Amy and Sandy McFarlane spent holidays on the island together as part of a larger group of young people.

Whilst she has no wish to enter into a conflict with Sandy, Amy nonetheless determines to fight the plan. This sets in motion a chain of events which changes her entire life, not only in Mull, but also in Glasgow where she works as an accountant and lives with her partner, Matt.

She is about to lose control of the steady pattern of her life, and has no idea what will replace it, what the future holds...

What the Future Holds is available in all e-formats through Tirgearr Publishing and on Amazon Kindle in the UK and US and all other countries.

Firstly, Rosemary, thank you so much for inviting me onto your blog.

It’s a pleasure, Joan!

I know you had a good career as a language teacher, Joan. Please tell us a little about how you became a writer.

Like many writers, I have always scribbled. When the time came to start work again after the early years staying home with my children, I had a decision to make. The education service was crying out for women to return to teaching in certain subjects, one being modern languages.

Around the same time I entered a serial story competition in The People’s Friend. I didn’t win, but I was asked to attend an interview with an editor in the Central Hotel in Glasgow, which I did. She suggested I make a few alterations – and they would publish the story.

My plan was to take the teaching job, and write in my free time! But the free time never materialized. I still scribbled, purely for my own enjoyment. But The People's Friend did publish a short story when I eventually began writing in earnest.

You also write short stories and articles, and now novels. Do you have a preference – and why?

Once I’m started on a novel, I like to carry on, but I sometimes break off, to do one of the exercises set by my writing group, Erskine Writers. If it’s a short story or an article, I get carried away by that. Then it can take me a while to relax into the novel again.

So the answer is: I like them all, but with the encouragement of publication, I’m on a novel roll at the moment.

And a very good roll it is!

Your debut novel is largely set on the lovely Isle of Mull which you describe beautifully. What made you set your story here?

I know and love the island. My father-in-law came from Mull, and we visited regularly as a family. I have a fascination for all the Scottish islands, but Mull is the one I know best.

I love islands!

Did you have to do much extra research for What the Future Holds?

Not really. My main challenge was the names of my characters. The story and the characters are entirely fictitious, and I didn’t want the names of any real people mentioned in the book. A friend who lives on Iona even lent me a book of Mull names!

I did look at maps to judge distances etc. Even so, my lovely editor at Tirgearr Publishing picked up a couple of factual mistakes for me.

What is the most difficult part about starting a new book?

Sitting in front of my computer screen and typing in the title. By that time, I’ve made the decision to write this one, rather than one of the others swirling around in my mind.

Sounds like a good way of doing it!

Do you have a favourite writing place?

It’s very traditional: in my tiny study. I prefer a desktop computer and a QWERTY keyboard and mouse. The small window faces east, but my view of the West Highland Way is on the west side, so I’m not distracted.

How do you promote your book and does it work?

I’m on Facebook and Twitter, I have a blog and a website, but these are all part of a learning curve for me at the moment. It’s hard to say if it works, as it’s only three weeks since my book was published.

Do you find time for other interests?

I enjoy walking, travelling, listening to all kinds of music. I also have a keen interest in the life and work of Robert Burns. And, of course, reading – but that’s the other side of the writing coin.

What are your current writing plans?

I’m in that decision-making period of where I go from here. It will be a novel – but which one? I’ve still to type the title.

Any tips for new writers?

Someone once said that the world takes you at your own evaluation of yourself. If you write, you’re a writer. Believe in yourself.

That’s great advice! Thanks for the interesting answers, Joan, and wishing you lots of success.

I was born and educated in Edinburgh. After graduating in Modern Languages at the University of Edinburgh, I became a teacher of French and German, mainly in schools in the West of Scotland. Since leaving teaching, I now have more time to devote to writing.

I’d been writing for pleasure for many years, and decided to join Erskine Writers, a supportive group which has members at all stages of their writing development – from published novelists to complete beginners. This group is affiliated to the Scottish Association of Writers. I am a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association (RNA) and also of the Society of Authors.

I write short stories, children’s stories and articles, some of which have been published. I’ve written several longer pieces, including full-length novels, which I submitted to the New Writers’ Scheme of the RNA. In the light of advice I was given, I revised my manuscripts, and in December 2013, I was offered a contract by Tirgearr Publishing to e-publish one of my shorter novels, What the Future Holds, which appeared at the beginning of July 2014.

You can connect with Joan on her Website; Blog; Facebook and Twitter: @Joan_Fleming

The Adonis Touch Launch Party!

A warm welcome to the fun launch of the second novella in my Aphrodite and Adonis series, The Adonis Touch. As with the first novella, The Aphrodite Touch, this one is again set on the beautiful Mediterranean island of Cyprus. The fun is also going on over on Facebook and one copy of The Adonis Touch will be given away to a commenter on Tirgearr Publishing's Heart of Fiction blog - have a look there later this morning! I will be giving away one Amazon voucher (£5 or $5) to someone on here and one on Facebook from the comments - which should be enough to buy a couple of e-books!

Here’s the Blurb to set the scene

When thirty-something Katie Murray agrees to go on holiday to the romantic island of Cyprus with the man in her life, Mike Sinclair, it’s on the understanding they have separate rooms. Much as she hopes their relationship might develop into something more, she is still not completely over the untimely death of her husband and only lover, childhood sweetheart, Paul. Can she put her sadness behind her, let go of her inhibitions and learn to love again?

On Cyprus in spring time, Aphrodite and Adonis are reunited after two seasons apart and in between renewing their love for each other they watch the influx of tourists to Paphos, choosing the next couple to benefit from their special help. Recognising the sadness in Katie’s eyes and the love Mike waits to share, the mythological couple are determined to do all in their power to ensure the two humans discover the joy that awaits them. Will Adonis work his own type of magic touch?

So please pull up a chair, help yourself to a drink and some nibbles and watch the short trailer.

The Adonis Touch

I’ve had a fascination for Greek mythology since school days and while I wanted to write contemporary romance, I prefer if it has a touch of mystery, adventure or fantasy along with the love story (this has fantasy). We visited Cyprus many years ago and I was immediately captivated by its romance, history and legend. There are so many references to Aphrodite that my imagination was fired and ready to wander among the ruins and beauty spots in the hope that the goddess still walked amongst the local and tourists. And so the series was born.

Although Aphrodite was the goddess of love and took many lovers of her own, I especially felt drawn to the references involving Adonis. Some say he was completely mortal but other ancient writers suggest he was a demi-god. The fun part of writing fiction of course is that you can make up your own rules! More importantly for my series - Aphrodite was wildly in love with him. Adonis is also mentioned a lot on Cyprus and I was delighted to discover – after I’d written a sexy scene there - that he and Aphrodite used to bathe in Aphrodite’s Baths.  Why shouldn't they still appear there at times? I did say this was partly a fantasy romance, didn't I!

Please help yourself to some cake and pretend you’re in this flower-filled café with the scent of Mediterranean herbs all around.

Do you have a favourite island, either near home or far away? You can post a picture of it on Facebook if you like.

Quiz - what Greek goddess are you? I'm Athena and happy with that! Try the quiz if you dare.

Certificate: Test results What Greek Goddess Are You?

You are Athena! Talented, brave, smart, wise and peaceful, there's nothing about you to not like. But sometimes you are in your own zone. Pull out of this and see all of the people around you! You like arts and crafts. You are resourceful and full of ideas, and you're sure to make a difference in the world!
 
Take this quiz: What Greek Goddess Are You?

So where is Cyprus?

An island country in the Mediterranean, Cyprus is roughly situated between Greece, Turkey, Syria and Israel. It is mainly divided into two: the Greek part in the south and Turkish in the north. That's Cyprus to the right on this old map, with Crete on the left.

My series is set in and around Paphos, in Greek Cyprus – an area very much identified with Aphrodite. According to Homer, Aphrodite was born at the rocks along the coast from Paphos, known as Petra Tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s birthplace). There's a scene set here in the first novella, The Aphrodite Touch. Here’s how Homer describes it in his Odysssey VIII.

‘Laughter-loving Aphrodite went to Cyprus, to Paphos. The moist breeze of zephyr brought her there on the waves of the sea, with a noise of thunder, among the soft foam, and the gold-dressed Horä (beautiful women priestesses) received her with joy.’ You might know the famous Botticelli painting that depicts this scene.

I think it must be time for some Champagne and cake. Please raise a glass to send The Adonis Touch on its way into cyberspace. 

And if anyone would like to read The Adonis Touch, you can download it on kindle from Amazon UK, Amazon US and in all e-formats from Tirgearr Publishing! 

As a special offer to celebrate publication of this second novella, the first in the series, The Aphrodite Touch, is now available at the bargain price of $.99 from Amazon US and Amazon UK at £.77!

Thank you all so much for joining in the fun today, here and on Facebook, to help me celebrate the launch of The Adonis Touch. If you've been kind enough to buy the novella, I do hope you enjoy reading it and might even like to leave a review on Amazon if you think it deserves it!

Rosemary (Romy)

A Cover, A Story, and An Award

All in all, it's been a productive week at the Gemmell household. The edits on my novella are long away and the next stage is well under way at Tirgearr Publishing. And I now have a cover - first reveal on here today! I'm happy with it as it fits the tone of the first novella in the series (The Aphrodite Touch) but this is a stronger tone which I wanted for The Adonis Touch. Publication is scheduled for 23rd May and I'll no doubt have a fun launch party on Facebook and here, as usual.

Other good news is that one of my short stories, 'Being a Stepdaughter', was published in the latest edition of Ireland's Own magazine. That was a lovely surprise and is the third story the editor has taken. Obviously, I'm doing something right with those stories! The People's Friend, on the other hand, sent me a nice rejection. Win some, lose some!

Simon's Award

My lovely husband, Simon, also had a fantastic week. He won the Aspire Booking of the Year Award (this is the luxury side) at the National Travel Awards in London on Wednesday evening. He said it was like the Oscars, with his name called out X-Factor style then his progress to stage captured on the huge screens. It was obviously a bigger do than either of us had realised, although he knew it was a black-tie event. It was great to hear the company he works with, Designer Travel, also won two awards, even though they are a fairly small independent agency compared to the big boys.

Wonder what this week will bring? Enjoy your bank holiday Monday!

Rosemary

Author Spotlight: Kemberlee Shortland

I’m delighted to give a very warm welcome to romantic novelist Kemberlee Shortland who is visiting from beautiful Ireland, although she is originally a native of California. As well as being a writer herself, Kemberlee is the force behind independent company Tirgearr Publishing and it is a great pleasure to work with her and her staff. Today, however, Kemberlee is visiting in her persona of novelist with three great books set in Ireland in her Irish Pride series.

It’s lovely to see you here, Kemberlee. First a little about the brand new novel, Shape of My Heart, and you can read about the other two novels after the interview.

Shape of My Heart

Irish Pride Series, book 3

Gráinne has moved back to Dublin to get her life straightened out. She dreams of college and a better life. She’s working for her brother, Kieran, in his newly reopened pub, The Blues Tavern, but the money isn’t enough to support herself and pay tuition. Moonlighting at The Klub! as an exotic dancer seems to be her answer to fast money.

John ‘JD’ Desmond is a detective working undercover in the Blues Tavern. The Klub!, owned by Jimmy Malloy, is being used as a drug front, headed by the notorious Taylor Wade. JD had intended to get Gráinne to snitch for him, but when he falls in love with her, things get complicated.

When Gráinne witnesses Jimmy’s murder, she and JD are forced to go on the run until Wade can be apprehended. Wade lives up to his nickname, The Hunter, and JD and Gráinne quickly find themselves at the end of a gun and running for their lives.

 

Shape of My Heart is available in all e-formats including Amazon kindle from Tirgearr Publishing

Sounds great! Thanks for answering the following questions, Kemberlee.

 

Tell us a little about how you became a writer.

I don’t really know. It’s one of those things that just happens. I was an early reader, so I’m sure that had something to do with it. I used to borrow picture books from the library and write my own stories based on the images. I wrote my first short story when I was about 9. When I was around 15, I started writing a story about a school girl looking for love. Of course, she was my age and looked and acted nothing like me :) By the time I was 23, I’d finished by first complete novel, as of yet unpublished due to the embarrassingly horrid writing! Around the time I was 16-17, I heard the song Paperback Writer by the Beatles. I’d heard it loads of times before, but suddenly it woke me up and I said, “I’m going to be published one day.”

 

Great inspiration!

How much does living in Ireland affect your writing and stories – if it does?

Living in Ireland is great for research. They say ‘write what you know’ so I just go outside. When I lived back home in Northern California, my first books were historicals set around my home area. Now that I’m living in Ireland, my stories tend to be set here. The other thing that’s changed is that, up to now, I’ve only published contemporary tales.

Do you write only romance? Are you planning to write in any other genre?

This is sort of a carry-over from above. I love the romance genre and tend to write romance. I’ve started some crossover stories though. My current WIP is a time travel, a first for me. Also, under a pen name, I’m writing erotic romance. Okay, technically still in the romance genre. I guess I’m hooked! I’d love to write crime or a detective story, but, you know, the last time I tried writing outside my normal box, the characters fell in love!

You’re obviously a real romantic!

What is the most difficult part about starting a new book?

Finding the time to actually write. These days with our new company, finding time to write has been challenging. Doesn’t mean the ideas aren’t still floating around in my head, or that I haven’t written pages of outline for that magic time when I can actually write. They are, and I do. Fortunately, as the company grows, we’re able to bring in more help which, in theory, is meant to free up some 'me time'.

Do you have a favourite writing place?

It really doesn’t matter where I write. Once I get going, I go inside myself. My only requirement is that it be quiet. No dogs throwing toys at me, no phones ringing, no music on in the background. Just quiet time so I can concentrate. When I was younger, I enjoyed having background noise, but not these days. Ask me about my favorite research places next time :)

Oh, sounds intriguing!

How do you promote your books and does it work?

Promotion is tricky. There’s no single thing that’s guaranteed to attract readers into buying books. I do the usual things, like blogging, interviews, getting reviews, etc. But times are quickly changing, so I have to change with them. The new ‘big thing’ is coming from listing services which send members free daily newsletters with recommendations. The author/publisher pays for those listings. This is a new avenue for me, so I’m giving it a try. I’ve seen many well known authors’ books on these lists, so why not mine too?

The most important thing is word of mouth. It only takes a small handful of readers who love your work to tell all their friends about it. I think what works consistently, is just being consistent with promotions, and I try not getting discouraged when the returns are low.

 

I know the feeling!

Do you find time for hobbies?

9-11pm. Nightly. I usually work 9am to 9pm - 9pm is rubbish telly and knitting time for me. Sometimes also referred to as rubbish knitting and telly time. Lol

I love watching TV at night too, but I don't knit!

What are your current writing plans?

I need to find that illusive 'me time', as I have several stories percolating in my head. It’s one thing to have voices in your head. I’m just afraid one day they’re going to come out and it won’t be to go down on paper! I have that time travel WIP to finish, and I’m behind on a couple erotic romances that are long overdue. And, of course, there’s that drawer full of old manuscripts I could pull out and work on. One day.

What made you go into the publishing business and does it curtail your own writing?

We’d thought a few times of getting involved in the publishing business. I’ve worked in various aspects of the book business for more than 20 years, and the hubs has a great mind for figures and technical things. We had an opportunity to buy a small press about 15 years ago when the partnership was breaking up, but ended up not, as one of the partners thought she could keep things alive. Sadly, that didn’t happen.

A couple years ago, I got the rights back to some previously published work and thought to self-publish them. They were only short stories, but would have been a good experiment. We already had the company set up for when I was writing travel articles, so I used it to publish my own stuff. Funnily enough, I got a couple submissions without advertising. The hubs and I talked about it and decided to try another experiment. So we invited a handful of authors I knew to submit something. The rest, as they say, is history. We’ve just entered into our third year doing business and it’s going great.

To answer your second question, YES. I tend to work twelve hour days, mostly six days a week. Seven days if there’s something extra going on. Working those kinds of hours makes it very hard to write my own stuff. After being at the computer all day, the last thing I want is to sit here in the evening. Sometimes, I just can’t get my fingers to click one more key. Oddly though, knitting doesn’t seem to be a challenge! I do schedule time off during the year—the holidays and the midseason break—but my brain has other ideas. As soon as it’s ‘down pencils’ in the office, my brain shuts off and doesn’t let me write. Much. I may have to go back to the old pencil and paper, and relearn the art of handwriting!

Tirgearr is a great publishing company and very friendly towards writers!

Any tips for new writers?

Oh, yes, and this is very important. Soapbox time for me J

You must treat writing like a business if you want to publish.

If you’re a hobby writer, write for yourself and be happy that’s what you’re doing. If you write to publish, then you must—must— treat it like a business. Your book is your product. If you don’t promote it regularly and consistently, it’s going to sit on the shelf collecting dust. And that can be one of the most discouraging things for any writer.

Consider this—you spend months, maybe years, planning to open a shop. You find a great location, fill the space with incredible merchandise, design a wonderful shop exterior, then place some ads. Opening day comes and you’re so excited. Loads of people come in, but no one is buying.

Do you close the shop?

Of course not. You stay open, because this was your dream. Even though no one buys anything the first few days, or weeks, you need to keep promoting. Maybe that next ad campaign will be ‘the one’ that brings in the buying public. Or maybe you get just one customer who comes in and buys something, then goes home and tell some of their friends, “Have you seen the new shop in the town? You must go in. They have that thing you were looking for . . .” or whatever the reason. Those people come in, buy something, and they go home and tell more of their friends. Eventually, the shop will be full of people. And it happens because you don’t give up, but also because you consistently promote.

Most writers I know hate talking about themselves. They prefer to bury themselves in their writing and let someone else handle promotions. That’s fine, but hire a professional if you can’t or won’t do it yourself. If you can’t afford it, then learn the art of self-promotion, and discover the outgoing side of yourself.

Having a business is very hard work. It’s not for the faint of heart. And you must realize, if you treat publishing like any business, the first three to five years are the make-or-break years. To make it takes hard work. Like working twelve to fifteen hour days, six and seven days a week.

And remember, only one in a million writers will be the next JK Rowling or the next EL James. For the rest of us, we must promote and market. Even when it means spending money. However one promotes, it must be consistent. If one thing doesn’t work, try something else. Just don’t give up.

Nothing good worth having is appreciated when it’s given to us. We appreciate it more when we work hard to obtain it.

Thanks so much, Romy for having me on your blog today.

Thank you, Kemberlee, for such great advice!

Kemberlee’s other two books in the Irish Pride series have been reissued with these lovely new covers.
 

Rhythm of My Heart
Irish Pride Series, book 1

Artist Representative, Eilis Kennedy, gave up a singing career so that other women could have a fair chance at having their music heard. Having suffered rejection from callous men in the industry, she thought she would get away from ‘casting couch’ mentality. But when she finds herself in the office of Fergus Manley, all bets are off. Disgusted by his continual come-ons and lewd invitations, Eilis is looking for ‘the one’ who will take her career to the next level, getting out from under Fergus’s controlling thumb.

Aspiring blues guitarist, Kieran Vaughan, is looking for his big break. But after suffering near bankruptcy at the hands of an unscrupulous business partner, Kieran is left picking up the pieces. He’s unsure if the debts will ever be paid or if he’ll ever have a chance to do something with his music. At his wit’s end, he’s about ready to throw in the towel and find a full-time job with real hours.

When Eilis discovers Kieran playing in a seedy pub in Dublin’s Northside, she knows he’s the one rare talent she’s been searching for. With her know-how and his talent, Eilis will finally get everything she’s been waiting for. Neither of them count on the powerful attraction from first meeting. Eilis is so rocked by Keiran’s forthright words that it sends her running. Kieran risks being arrested as he chases Eilis across Ireland.

Seeing what’s happening between Eilis and Kieran, anger wells inside Fergus and he steps up his pursuit of Eilis. Refusing to let Kieran get in his way, Fergus vows to add Eilis’s notch to his bedpost, whatever it takes.

Will Kieran be able to protect her?

Rhythm of my Heart is available in all e-formats including Amazon kindle from Tirgearr Publishing

A Piece of My Heart

Irish Pride Series, book 2

Mick and Kate thought they were falling in love. Kate hadn't been just the girl next door. She'd been Mick's life, and he hers. When an unforeseen force draws them apart they're left with wounds that refuse to heal. Now, ten years on, Mick's father's will should have been straightforward, except his addendum was like ice water in Mick's face.

It's essential that Mick and Kate work together to save his family's farm. Mick doesn't count on his new manager being accused of murder, and Kate doesn't expect a dangerously seductive woman from Dublin to claim Mick is the father of her child.

Kate thought she was falling in love with Mick all over again; however this newest revelation is too much for her. She is determined to finally say goodbye to her childhood sweetheart forever, but Mick has other plans for Kate's future. And none of them involve goodbye.

A Piece of my Heart is available in print and all e-formats including Amazon kindle from Tirgearr Publishing

The great news is that all three e-books are on a special offer of only 99c/£0.77 each in April!

Kemberlee Shortland is a native Northern Californian who was raised in a community known as Steinbeck Country, home to author John Steinbeck, as well as Jack London, Robert Louis Stevenson, and others. With so much literary influence around her, it's not hard to see why Kemberlee fell in love with the printed word.

It was in 1997 while employed by Clint Eastwood that Kemberlee couldn't pass up the opportunity to spend six months in Ireland. While in Ireland, she met a man who eventually became her husband.

Living in Ireland has allowed Kemberlee to study the country's torrid past and unique culture first hand, and has even picked up a cúpla focal . . . a few Irish words.

In recent years, Kemberlee had published several short stories and novels, including the popular Irish Pride Series.

Kemberlee's current work in progress is a time travel romance called The Diary.

You can connect with Kemberlee on her Website; Facebook; Twitter; Tirgearr Publishing