Monday, December 10, 2018

#HelpForAuthors #IndiePower Check Out Some Helpful Sites!




Times are changing for Indie Authors. The need to help each other has never been greater. I thought I would give out a few things I always do on a promotion. Everything I do on Romantic Picks is free to authors. I'm also not getting anything by mentioning these sites below. My intent is to help. I hope it does.

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AXP has great resources for Indie Authors from helping get Beta Readers and help building your email list to promoting bargain and free books and book launches. I use AXP with good results. I highly recommended the site.

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Great Book Deals is another blog I highly recommend for authors and readers alike. 


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I urge any author to check out eNovel Authors at Work. No one works harder for authors than Jackie Weger.

eNovel Authors at Work is a group of indie authors

1) Who believe in paying-it-forward…

2) Our goal is to get our books visible and in the hands of readers….

Our mantra is WRITE. PROMOTE. SELL.

ESCAPE INTO A ROMANCE!

The books I post here are of my choicing. I don't have a form or anything to fill out. I do like support. So if you tweet or FB post my blog, don't be surprised if you find your book here on Romantic Picks. If you're running a bargain or free ebook, leave me a comment on that's day's post or Tweeter direct message.

The bottom line is that we need to help each other...RT, FB post, a friendly word from to a friend.
Other sites I recommend for promoting...

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

#ThanksgivingEve #AmReading With a Million Things to Do!

My house is a mess. I haven't gone to the grocery store...haven't even made my list for Black Friday. But I'm escaping into books. While I'm writing, I don't usually pick up a book. I'm so engrossed in my story, but in this inbetween time, I read and even keep up with what's going on around me.

A couple of things before I tell you what I'm reading. I don't watch #DancingWiththeStars, but I do listen to the radio and Bobby Bones (101.7 Boston). People shouldn't wonder why he won. He seems like a great guy...truly. I think what I like about him most is his compassion and desire to help others. So for anyone upset that Bobby Bones won the Mirror Ball, get a grip. Do you really think its a dancing competition? It's entertainment, pulling celebrities out of their comfort zone. There is no need to say ugly things. Bobby Bones didn't do anything wrong...matter of fact, I think he did an awesome job! There are so many other things to worry about in this world...give the guy his moment.

Now, I come to last night's The Voice. I'm always rooting for Blake's team, but last night I was totally surprised by Tyke being elimanted on Adam's team. I voted for him...even tweeted on the save vote.  Disappointing, but I'm glad that Lynnea has another chance to build her fan base. Everyone loves an underdog. I do have a few other favorites, Kirk Jay, Kennedy Holmes, and Chevel Sheperd.

As for the books I have set to read, I was looking for someone different. So, I did what I always do when I'm searching for a great read. I went to BookBub and picked up four books this morning. I'm confident in two of the reads. I read their books all the time, Brenda Novak and Tess Gerritsen. Brenda, I've met before. Lovely lady. She does a lot of work for diabetes, not to mention a great writer. The other two, I'm anxious to read...I don't think I'm going to be getting a lot of work done.

THE SECRET SISTER
New York Times bestseller: When freshly divorced Maisey returns to Fairham, South Carolina, to take care of her brother, she finds herself living next door to the last person she wants to see — handsome Rafe Romero. When they discover mysterious old photos, will Maisey and Rafe get the chance to follow their hearts?

THE KEEPSAKE
New York Times bestseller: When medical examiner Maura Isles and detective Jane Rizzoli discover an ancient mummy is actually a modern-day corpse, they race to stop a serial killer before another victim falls. “Gerritsen delivers an intricate plot that will keep readers guessing” (Publishers Weekly).


THE CLAIRVOYANT COUNTESS
In this entrancing read from a USA Today bestselling author, Madame Karitska uses her psychic gifts to help Detective-Lieutenant Pruden solve mystifying cases — while navigating through deadly danger along the way!

MIDNIGHT LABYRINTH
USA Today bestseller with over 850 five-star Goodreads ratings! Antiquities acquisition partners Ben and Tenzin jump at the opportunity to help recover a priceless painting — but a clan of fearsome vampires will stop at nothing to protect what’s theirs…


The links that I'm sending you to today is BOOKBUB. I love BookBub. The great thing about BookBub is that you can follow your favorite authors and they will let you know when they have a new deal, new release or upcoming release, like my penname, Colleen Connally, or Jerri Hines. I follow a ton of authors myself...


Have a great Thanksgiving!!!


Monday, November 19, 2018

Ways to Spend Your Holiday Week...or Maybe Not! Happy Thanksgiving!

When I'm beginning to write a new book, I read alot in that genre to get in the mood. Since I'm starting the next book in Boston's Crimes of Horror series, I've been searching out some good horror stories.

 I, also, watch movies and TV shows. To be honest, I'm a little behind on the times. I just started watching The Haunting of Hill House. Awesome. Absolutely great show. Highly recommend for those that haven't seen it yet. You can find it on Netflix.

I did try to watch IT, the movie. I stopped not even half way through. A Stephen King movie wasn't what I was looking for, I guess, but I did reread Carrie.

CARRIE
Writing horror goes against my nature. I started out as a romance writer remember. I love the happily ever afters, but sometimes I love a good scare. Yet, I don't think I could really go quite all Stephen King in my writing. 

I have found I'm more on the line of Heather Graham when I write paranormal. Or I think so. Heather Graham is one of my favorite authors. I shouldn't be surprised. Heather Graham writes paranormal romantic suspense. If you follow my blog here and at Romantic Picks, you know that I do promote Heather Graham's books time to time. I don't think she needs me to, but I met her at a conference in Denver one year. It's a funny story really. I didn't know a soul at the conference. So at breakfast, I sat with a group of authors. I had an awesome time talking with a lady sitting next to me. We talked about everything. I was having a very enjoyable time when someone addressed her as Heather. Now, she had already introduced herself to me and for some unknown reason it didn't resonate until then...and, of course, having read her books, I've seen her picture. My mouth literally dropped. It was Heather Graham. 

Okay, so I'm not the most observatant person, but Heather Graham was so, so nice. I appreciate nice...so in turn, I promote her books...besides the fact, I truly enjoy them.

The Killing Edge
Another author I love reading inbetween my own writing is Nora Roberts. I know that's no surprise. She certainly doesn't need me telling of her nack for telling a story. Her writing does that for her. 

As for other books that have entertained me during my inbetween period of writing....

Kathleen Brooks new book...

SAVING SHADOWS
Something short and entertaining~ Catherine Coulter

THE RESIDENT EVIL AT BLACKTHORN MANOR
One more thing that has entertained me that I haven't mentioned ~ Up and Vanished podcast.
My daughter and I take a trip every summer and drive somewhere. She is the one that has me hooked on listening to podcast while we drive. One year it was Serial. This year is was Up and Vanished. I even watched the TV show last night on Oxygen. Payne Lindsey draws you into the story...which inspired me for my next book and series.

Boston's Crimes of Horror series is my first venture into this genre. Now I have a challenge—how to attract readers to this new book. Then it came to me...I certainly don't know the first thing about how to create a true crime podcast, but I do know how to write. 

Be on the watch for a fictional true crime podcast— Seamus Speaks.

I'm in the middle of doing just that. I had hoped to have it up by now, but being this is my first time being involved with a podcast it has taken me awhile. It certainly has been interesting, but it should be up shortly thanks to my son and hubbie. If you want to keep up with when it comes up, follow @speaksseamus  and a blog has been set up, Seamus Speaks.

It is my hope that you will enjoy the podcast and in turn want more of my stories.

Scream for the Camera is coming January 29th! 

SCREAM FOR THE CAMERA
PRE-ORDER NOW! COMING JANUARY 29!

AMAZON     NOOK     IBOOKS     KOBO









Monday, October 29, 2018

NOVEL WORKS ~ ESCAPE INTO #ROMANCE #ROMANCEREADERS







Everything happens for a reason.
Criminal profiler Jake McKenzie returned from Afghanistan minus a leg, determined never to let anyone get close enough to hurt him again. When his old friend asks him to help with a serial arsonist case, he jumps at the chance to prove his worth, but as the bodies pile up, he realizes he needs help. He convinces the chief to bring in a fire investigator, stunned to discover that the woman is none other than the girl who vanished from his life twenty years ago.
Alexis Michaels fled Paradise and an abusive uncle only to almost die in a fire that left her scarred not only on the outside, but on the inside, leaving her with psychic abilities. With that gift, she’s climbed to the top of her profession. Her abilities may be the only thing that can find and stop the Fire Angel, a pyromaniac turned revenge arsonist serial killer who’s slowly turning a peaceful town into Hell on Earth. The problem is, to do the job, she has to return to the one place where she swore she would never set foot again.
Faced with confusing emotions and a killer who’s made it clear he wants her to stay out of his business, Alexis must deal with the past before she can move on. But things may get too hot even for her as the Fire Angel moves toward the final act in his revenge drama.


AMAZON   NOOK    IBOOKS   KOBO

Lingering on her lips, he whispered, “Know you are loved."

Southern Legacy, 4-Bk Collection 

Save almost $2.00 off the purchase of the books separately!

Set against the backdrop of Antebellum Charleston with the martial clash of brother against brother looming on the horizon--here is an absorbing, tantalizing saga of life during one of our country's most turbulent times--Southern Legacy Series.
In a world of pageantry and show, the Montgomery family accepts the way of life that has been antebellum Charleston for over a hundred years. Two cousins, the handsome and debonair, Wade Montgomery and the bold and brooding Cullen Smythe, were born to be brothers. Raised as Southern gentlemen, their character could never be questioned--loyalty, honor, duty to one's country, God and family. It was the tie that binds until...their bond is threatened, not only by the cry for secession but by a woman--Josephine Buchanan Wright.


Deciding to have more fun in Westerham, Lily takes up life-drawing classes with her friend Olivia. But trouble isn't far away; the art teacher goes missing after the second class.

Tracking down the art teacher is proving impossible, and the PIB's best lead is murdered before they can find out everything he knows. Yet again, Lily's unique witchy skills are called upon to help. The problem? It's dangerous for her to reveal her talents. She's already the target of a secret organization intent on kidnapping her, and now those closest to her fear a threat inside the PIB itself.

To help solve the case, Lily makes a dangerous choice: to go undercover with no backup. But has she just made a fatal mistake?
So much for witches having it easier. Someone pass Lily a cappuccino, but this time, make it a double.


Danger is the last thing on Estelle’s mind when she visits the University of Oxenford for a summer course. But, mysterious thefts and shadowy figures spur her into action. With Toby five thousand miles away, Estelle and her winged horse must hunt for the culprits alone. Soon they are embroiled in a mixed bag of aliens and ancient magic. Toby’s unexpected arrival throws her into turmoil and spurs events into a climax. Under pressure to succeed, Toby is trapped in a web of deceit. The two supers must catch the crooks in less than a week to salvage his reputation.

Crime-fighting superheroes, snarky flying animals, living gargoyles and devious aliens tangle in this adventure and romance.
Book 3 of Secret Supers




Friday, October 26, 2018

NOVEL WORKS #ROMANCENOVELS FOR #ROMANCEREADERS #Free #Bargains

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Betrayed and jilted, Jennifer Dewitt finds solace in a new job and new city. Men and marriage are not on her radar. Adrien Merrill’s divorce leaves him bitter and jaded. In Cajun custom, pride rules. Yet Adrien aches for a woman to fill his days with laughter, his nights with passion, and his house with children. He sets his sights on Jennifer and runs right into stubborn, mouthy and independent. He soon discovers the line between pride and love is as whisper thin as a fine silk thread.

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From the author of a #1 Amazon Historical Romance Kindle Bestseller, BROKEN LEGACY, comes Seductive Lies!

Only love can heal a heart betrayed...

Harriet Burke has long been haunted by a family scandal. Abandoned by her mother as an infant, she has grown up in the shadows of the events that led up to that scandal. But all changes when she meets the future Viscount of Daneford. The dashing young Lieutenant Arthur Hammett defies his grandfather. Professing his undying love, he proposes to Harriet. Harriet quickly learns that all is not what it seems. Secrets, lies, and betrayal shatters Harriet's life, leaving Harriet little choice. She has to begin life anew…

They were destined to be together but fate had other plans…

Lord Arthur Daneford made a rash decision years ago that cost him greatly...his biggest regret. Now, though, his past has reemerged. Chilling information has been called to his attention that Harriet's life is endangered. He will stop at nothing to ensure her safety, but will she accept his help before it's too late?


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As with most of his family, Derrick Ashton knows his future and what position he's destined to fill within his unique society. Everything changes, however, when he breaks one of his family's strictest laws and falls in love -- with a human.

In his quest to protect the woman he can never have, a twist of faith propels him into a new role that will cause dissension among his family and endanger the anonymity that they've worked for thousands of years to protect.

Now he will risk everything to save the girl from humans and his own kind. The only thing he can't save her from ... is herself

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Love and Betrayal . . . Regency Style

The Seduction of Sophie Seacrest is Book One of Mary Campisi’s Regency historical series, An Unlikely Husband.

When Holt Langford, the new Earl of Westover, returns to England after twelve years at sea, he resembles more pirate than nobleman, a far cry from the scrawny youth whose father shipped off to become a man. No one recognizes him, and he’ll use this anonymity to enter a game of subterfuge in order to expose the scoundrel who has vowed to destroy Holt’s family business.

Unfortunately, that scoundrel has a devoted daughter, Sophie Seacrest. Sophie can’t deny her attraction to the unorthodox stranger who stirs her blood and makes her think things no proper lady should. Holt and Sophie are drawn into a seductive tangle and just when he’s about to reveal his true identity and his honorable intentions, she discovers the truth and must choose between love and family duty.


Wednesday, October 24, 2018

NOVEL WORKS Light Tripper by Jo-Anne Tomlinson #NewRelease


GIVEAWAY
$20 AMAZON GIFT CARD






In the 23rd century, bounty hunter, Sal Tripp is a girl with simple needs.
A decent replicated meal, a bullet-free head and keeping her ability to manipulate kinetic energy under wraps.
No easy task when your home is Morpheus, a sleazy band of planets populated by the scum of the outer systems or when your father is the infamous Morgan Tripp, a once proud pilot in the Planetary Alliance, now reduced to a drug addicted, has-been who owes credits to every gangster in the galaxy.
The upside? Light Tripper, their derelict ship. For Sal it is freedom and adventure, and when they get their hands on a new jump drive, it might even get them to Earth, which Sal has heard is beautiful and green.
That is until the day Light Tripper’s thrusters kick the bucket, delivering them right into the hands of the system’s most ruthless crime boss and crossing their path with a hardened soldier who knows far more about Sal and Morgan than he should. Then they find themselves face-to-face with the Planetary Alliance, who may not be the humble saviours the galaxy takes them for.
It’s up to Sal to clean up Morgan’s mess one more time and not get herself killed in the process. But with her powers evolving and the truths of her past threatening to undo her future, just who can Sal trust in a system where it’s every scumbag for themselves?

NOVEL WORKS #ROMANCENOVELS FOR #ROMANCEREADERS #NewRelease #Freeebook




A Secret Made in Paradise…

Her child is alive! For ten years Amber has believed her child was lost to her forever. Then an unexpected inheritance leads the lovely doctor back home… to the man she’s always loved. There she discovers her beloved Jon is a bachelor father, and the little girl he is raising is their daughter!
Jon has vowed to protect and cherish his child, yet he opens their lives to let Amber in. But this dedicated father is no longer the young lover Amber remembers. Can she uncover the tender man she has never forgotten, and convince him to take a chance on their newly formed family, and their own true love?


Gavin Faulkner was the only doctor in the small South Carolina inner coastal town of Shadows Landing. He was used to patching up everything from fishing lures stuck in skin to gator bites. Nothing could surprise him anymore—except when he found an unconscious woman partially submerged near his dock after a fierce thunderstorm.
Ellery St. John’s last memory was of a bat swinging toward her head. The next thing she knew, she was cold, wet, and a sexy man was pressing his lips to hers. Too bad it turned out to be CPR instead of a passionate kiss.
Gavin thought Ellery would be safe in the small town where BBQ wars were the biggest danger, but he was wrong. Now it was up to him to help Ellery put the pieces together in order to discover who had tried to kill her and why before they both ended up at the bottom of the ocean.


NEW YORK TIMES AND USA TODAY best selling authors, PATRICE WILTON and TRACI HALL are delighted to offer you the first book in a new series to get your heart pumping! We hope you enjoy SOCCER STUDS, Brody's and Serena's story as much as we do!
Serena West, 28, works in the mayor's office, and is given an assignment to escort her teenaged soccer-hero fantasy Brody Harrison, around Detroit with the sole purpose of getting him to endorse a professional soccer team. He’d retired after a car accident wrecked his knee, but the general manager and the mayor have teamed up to make sure the soccer star comes back to the field. The billionaire bad boy doesn’t care about Detroit, or the GM, but is very interested in a new business deal. He's in Detroit for a joint venture to manufacture an inexpensive, synthetic cleat and doesn’t care about ever stepping on the soccer field again.
If Serena can’t change his mind, she won’t get her promotion. She loves her city and knows that she can make a difference for the next generation of at-risk children. Brody’s teasing charm is more seductive than his old victory posters and her fantasies come to life with his powerful kiss. His reputation as a player is infamous and Serena knows she should guard her heart but each moment they spend together creates undeniable chemistry that puts everything she’s worked toward at risk.
Is the right man worth it?


She invented him!
At least she thought she had!
Kit Forrester lived a life of lies – so what was one more? When her first vacation ever sank like the Titanic – she couldn't tell her friends THAT! So she did what she always did – she lied.
Kit told everyone about her fabulous five day cruise. Her days of fun in the sun and moonlit nights with the man of her dreams – Rafe Morgan - tall, handsome, incredibly sexy and successful. And well – now they were engaged!
There was just one 6'2", 230 lb. problem –
Rafe Morgan did exist and he wanted answers.
Retired Navy SEAL and Texas business tycoon, Rafe Morgan was sure he was being set up by his suddenly acquired fiancee.
He had spent 20 years in the Navy and was trained to handle anything – until he came up against one volatile New York redhead with wicked curves and the world's hardest ass!
Then he saw her sex lair and was more than willing to be Caught in a Trap. And to set one of his own!





Tuesday, October 23, 2018

NOVEL WORKS A Heritage of Death by Alexa Padgett #NewRelease

$50 AMAZON GIFT CARD



An unconventional pastor. A brutal murder. To solve the case, one reverend will look for help from beyond the grave…
Reverend Cecelia “Cici” Gurule dreams of a bruised and bloodied woman who looks alarmingly like Cici. She’d like to pretend the dream is a nightmare and nothing more, but there are too many coincidences in her waking life to write it off. Like the baby that turns up on her porch–a baby that disappeared weeks before.
Cici and Detective Sam Chastain race to find the woman, but the killer finds her first. As the trail grows cold, Cici’s only chance to solve the mystery before she becomes the next target may be a clue left by her ghostly twin.
A Heritage of Death is the second novel in a compelling female sleuth mystery series for fans of Ruth Ware and Gilly MacMillan. If you like convention-shattering heroines, vivid Southwest settings, and a touch of the paranormal, then you’ll love Alexa Padgett’s twisty mystery.
Buy A Heritage of Death and hold on tight for a white-knuckle thrill ride today!

Monday, October 22, 2018

NOVEL WORKS #SPIRITGIVEAWAY Don't Miss Out! #AvidReaders



My WEBSITE has a new look...It even has a shop!
To Celebrate I'm having a Giveaway! 

Enter for your chance to win one of my AVID READER BOXES, including autographed copies of some of Jerri Hines/Colleen Colleenmy books or a $25 Amazon Gift Card!


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See What You Can Win!


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Celebrate Jerri's New Website ~ Check it Out!

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