Welcome Guest Author - Mariposa Cruz

STEPH: I don't know much about Howl. Can you tell me a little about it?

MARIPOSA: Personally I’m drawn to stories about people with real problems even those who live in alternate realities. As a single mother, Kate worries about raising her daughter and making ends meet. Then the fragile balance of her life is thrown into upheaval after a shapeshifter attack.

STEPH: Where did the inspiration for the story come from?

MARIPOSA: Growing up I loved watching monster movies on Saturday afternoons and I wanted to tell those stories from a woman’s perspective. I started writing Howl shortly after we moved to Reno from Northern California. I missed my California family and friends and my initial loneliness surfaced in both Kate and Jack in different ways.

STEPH: You know I grew up watching "Creature Double Feature" with all the monsters as a little girl in the 1970's too!

Where is the story set? How important was that to the story?

MARIPOSA: Howl is set in Haven, California, a fictional town based on some of my favorite towns in Mendocino County. The mysterious beauty of the area makes it a perfect setting for the supernatural.

STEPH: How long did it take you to write?

MARIPOSA: I worked on Howl in between other stories and freelance writing projects so it’s tough for me to estimate the actual writing time.

STEPH: Cast the movie! Who are Kate and Jack?

MARIPOSA: Cameron Diaz’s wide-set blue eyes remind me of Kate. Gerard Butler with his intensity
would make a perfect Jack.

STEPH: What do you hope resonates with readers after they finish reading?

MARIPOSA: I hope that readers believe that they can reach their own HEA even if it means traveling
dark roads to get there.

STEPH: Do you have an ebook reader? If so, which one?

MARIPOSA: Not yet, but the Nook is definitely on my wish list!

STEPH: What's your writing space like?

MARIPOSA: I have two “writing spots”. I do most of my writing in my bedroom with a mug of tea at my elbow while my cat snoozes at the foot of my bed. Sometimes during lunch I’ll write in the car with a view of Mt. Rose.

STEPH: What summer movie are you looking forward to?

MARIPOSA: I can hardly wait for the final Harry Potter movie, though it will be bittersweet to see the series end.

STEPH: Any advice for aspiring writers?

MARIPOSA: Set reasonable writing goals for yourself and stay consistent. Even if it feels like all you’re doing is collecting rejections, you are far ahead of the folks who have all their stories in mind and nothing on paper.


Here’s a blurb:
As if Kate Owens doesn't have enough problems as a struggling single mom and paralegal, a brutal animal attack outside her office plunges her into turmoil. At work, she is attracted to her rescuer, Jack Walker, an attorney wary of commitment. Every morning after the attack she awakes drenched in blood beside the body of a mangled stray. Kate's days become a battle to maintain control while her nights are a disturbing blur of dreams. Will Kate's nightly madness harm her young daughter? Lone wolf attorney, Jack Walker understands the reason for his paralegal's exhaustion and haunted demeanor. Jack has pursued the beast since law school graduation and he knows the creature's relentless thirst for revenge.

Can Jack save Kate from her attacker and her own savage nature?

Here’s some reviews

4 Books from The Long and Short Reviews

“I love a good werewolf/vampire/ shape-shifter story and this one doesn’t disappoint. Ms. Cruz spins a story that kept me right in my seat throughout. The characters are rich with detail and I felt like I was a part of the tale, right alongside them. The secondary characters really enhanced the story as well. But more than that, the abundance of characters helped me see the group as more as a family.”

Bitten by Books

“I will definitely be looking out for more stories from this author.”


Howl is available at The Wild Rose Press http://www.thewildrosepress.com/-p-3921.html
I feature author interviews and other writing-related musings at my blog http://mariposacruz.blogspot.com

Welcome Guest Author, Barbara Edwards

Steph: I'd like to welcome author Barabara Edwards. Her latest release is "Ancient Blood," and it's a paranormal, right up my alley! Barbara is a wonderful lady and fellow Book Spa Friend. Thanks for being here today!

Barbara:Hello, Stephanie, Thanks for having me as your guest today and the chance to talk about my new release, Ancient Blood.

Steph: I don't know much about Ancient Blood. What's it about?

Barbara: Ancient Blood is set in the small New England town of Rhodes End where the paranormal is the norm. The hero, Cole, is a hereditary werewolf. Lily, a woman running from a dangerous stalker, is the heroine. Neither is ready for love, but it finds them anyway.

Steph: Where did the inspiration for it come from?

Barbara: The same place as all my stories-I dreamed about Cole and Lily. The big difference was that theirs was a love scene and when I woke up I knew how much I wanted to write their story.

Steph: How long did it take you to write?

Barbara: Over a year, with rewrites. I really envy authors Like Nora Roberts who write a book in a couple months.

Steph: Did you have to do a lot of research on it?

Barbaraa: Oh yes. I researched mitrochondrial DNA along with the pattern of hereditary characteristics, the results on ingesting Wolfsbane, the colors of auras and their interpretation, the mating habits of wolves along with the herbs that are commonly grown in New England.

Steph: Are you a plotter or a panster?

Barbara: I keep switching back and forth. There are times when I know exactly what and where the scene will contain, how it fits in the story and expands the plot. At other times, the characters take over and the whole thing goes in a direction I never imagined.

Steph: Cast the movie - Ancient Blood. Who plays the main characters?


Barbara: I’m not a movie go-er so I don’t know who the big name stars are. I would need a lean, dark, brooding hero for Cole and a spunky, intelligent blonde who loves animals to play Lily. Any suggestions?

Steph: I'm a sucker for Robert Pattinson. What do you think of Mena Suvri for Lily? What's the theme of Ancient Blood?

Barbara: Lily and Cole’s story was inspired by an idea I pursued in Ancient Awakening. It’s a question of how you face problems that life presents you. Lily has to accept that the result of her head injury, her ability to see auras, is a part of her. Cole cannot accept his werewolf status. He is obsessed with finding a cure.


Steph: What can readers take with them after reading the book?

Barbara: I hope they want to visit New England. It’s a beautiful, fascinating place full of history. The oldest known case of Vampires is in New England. Do you know where?

Steph: Oh my gosh, I grew up in New Hampshire and have to a lot of places, I know about the Salem Witch trials, but not about the vampires. I would have to guess they're somewhere in Massachuetts though.

Do you have an e-book reader? If so, which one?

Barbara: I have a Sony e-book reader. It is an older one almost five years old. I have been looking at all the choices, Kindle, B&N’s Nook, Sony’s new e-book reader and can’t decide which I want more. Each has good points.


Steph: For fun: What's your favorite pie?

Barbara: Strawberry-Rhubarb pie is my absolute favorite and I make it every spring when the rhubarb is ripe.
I make great crust, by the way.

Here’s a blurb and excerpt from Ancient Blood:

Lily Alban escapes a murderous stalker, but his vicious attack leaves her with the ability to see auras. She finds safety in the tiny hamlet of Rhodes End where a stranger stands out like a red light. Try as she might to deny her growing desire for Cole, she seeks his help but soon discovers the man she loves is not a man at all.

Werewolf Cole Benedict resists his attraction to Lily. A botanist researching the healing herbs to find a cure for Lycanthropy, he’s determined to protect Lily from her stalker as well as himself even in human form, but instinct takes over when he changes to his inner beast.

Together they must use their extraordinary gifts to catch Lily’s stalker before he attacks again, but revealing their secrets to one another could destroy their growing love or save them both.


“Lily?” His strong hands gently cupped her shoulders.
“Don’t, please don’t.”

She pulled away, fully intending to flee. Her resistance shattered, and she turned into his embrace. It was too late to escape.
Pressing against his strength, she wound her arms around his neck and pulled him closer. His erection prodded her stomach, and she moaned. A heavy groan filled his throat as he lifted her from her feet. He kicked the bag aside as he sat her on the counter.

“I can’t wait,” he growled. His flaring aura spiraled with colors she couldn’t name. She caught her breath. One hand burrowed through her hair, keeping her still as he stepped between her thighs. “You’re all I could think about all day.”

Clasping her bottom, he slid her to the edge of the counter. With his lips claiming her mouth, he unbuttoned her slacks, than lifted her slightly to push them down and off.

The cold surface only made her more aware of his scorching heat. His rough denim pants scraped her inner thighs in contrast with the silky hair under her palms. Her pulse leaped, and she gasped. His male scent mixed with hints of the wild forest filled her nostrils. When his fingertip explored the heated moisture gathering at her juncture, she tightened her thighs around his hips.

Ancient Blood is Available from The Wild Rose Press http://www.thewildrosepress.com
Print ISBN: 1-60154-916-4
Print ISBN 13: 9781601549167

Again, thank you for having me as your guest.
Barbara Edwards

Visit my website: http://www.barbaraedwards.net for more excerpts from all my books

Steph: Barbara, that's a hot excerpt! I cannot wait to read! You've got me hooked. hehe

Welcome Guest Author - Felicity Heaton

I’m Felicity Heaton and I’m here today as part of my year-long Paranormal Pandemonium 2011 Blog Tour. Steph kindly invited me to come and share an excerpt of Hunter’s Moon, a werewolf/vampire romance novel in my Vampires Realm series with you all. Thanks for having me here today and if any readers have any comments or questions, please feel free to voice them and I’ll answer them as soon as possible.


Hunter’s Moon
F E Heaton

The horror of the night he failed to save his werewolf pack from the cruelty of their vampire masters has haunted Nicolae for one hundred years, driving him deep into the Canadian wilderness in search of peace. That peace is threatened when unfamiliar hunters and the scent of blood lead him to a beautiful woman and a hard decision—face his past and help her or risk losing everyone he cares about again.

Bearing a heart filled with grief and with vengeance on her mind, Tatyana is intent on killing the hunters she’s tracking and returning to her vampire bloodline, but her plan didn’t include being shot with poisoned arrows or rescued by a glowering alpha werewolf who stirs forbidden hunger in her.

When the hunters make their move, will Nicolae be able to stop them before it’s too late? Will he be able to overcome the darkness in his heart and embrace his desire for a vampire? And can Tatyana face her fears and risk her life for the sake of forbidden love?

Read the official excerpt or find out where to buy: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/


EXCERPT
Tatyana winced as she attempted to sit up on the bed in the corner of the cramped room. Her stomach ached and growled at the enticing scent of blood. She tried to move towards the smell but pain burned in waves radiating from her side, stealing what little strength she had, and she collapsed back onto the bed. Her insides twisted with hunger, mouth watering at the thought of feeding, and her fangs itched to descend. She could taste it on her tongue.

The man stared at her. Werewolf. She had bitten him. Her memories were hazy, but she couldn’t forget the way he tasted. Her gaze flickered to the right side of his chest. She had scratched him too.

The scent of fresh blood lingered on him.

Not his blood. Nothing as strong as that. It was a strange smell—subtle and buttery.

“Animal blood, I’m afraid.” He held his left hand up and she went to look at it but her gaze caught on the rifle over his right shoulder. She hadn’t noticed it before. The black strap melted into his thick shirt. His fingers grasped it tightly. Her gaze shifted to his face.

Black messy strands of hair caressed his forehead, brushing his jetty eyebrows and making him look like some sort of wild animal when combined with his bright honey brown eyes. There was hunger in them that she had seen before in the eyes of the werewolves at her bloodline’s mansion. It was as though he was looking at her with his wolf eyes, not his human ones. A predator.

That made her the prey.

She didn’t like that one bit.

There was an unmistakable Eastern European note to his accent. Not a local werewolf. Where had he come from? Was she in danger with him?

What had made her wonder such a thing?

The thought had bubbled up from nowhere, driven by instinct and the way her senses reacted to him, speaking of him as a threat. She tried to convince herself that it was only her injuries and current vulnerable state that was making her feel he was a danger to her but it plagued her, telling her to protect herself before it was too late. The man before her was strong, vicious by nature, and could easily overpower her. She had witnessed the savage brutality a male werewolf was capable of and she didn’t want to be on the receiving end of an attack by him.

Tatyana berated herself for thinking in such a backward way, presuming he would hurt her just because he was a werewolf. She knew better than to label him as a killer, one only interested in eradicating her kind. She knew werewolves. They were as violent as her kind, but they didn’t kill without cause and he had no reason to hurt her. Besides, he had given her a valid reason to trust him.

He had saved her and had bound her wounds.

Although, she had bitten him. Was that reason enough? Was that why he was looking at her with hard eyes and his lips compressed into a thin line? The dark feelings between vampires and werewolves were mutual. The two species had never been close, often warring with each other in a fight for dominance that had ended with the enslavement of hundreds of his kind by hers. But he had saved her. And as payment for his kindness, she had bitten and clawed him. If she told him that she hadn’t been in control of herself, that the need for blood and to survive had been so strong that it had forced her to react in order to save herself, would it soften the anger in his eyes?

The muscles in his jaw tensed.

“I made a deal with the timber wolf pack. A deer in exchange for you.” A flicker of disgust crossed his face and his tone hardened, any trace of warmth gone from it. “I thought you were human. I made a mistake. I think they got the better deal.”

That cut her, but she refused to let it show. He wasn’t like the werewolves at her bloodline’s home after all. They had been civil to her, and she had even built a tentative friendship with the ones she had known for most of her life. Or as close to a friendship as the law allowed.

Tatyana looked away when he placed the rifle down on the couch and toed his heavy boots off, leaving them on the rug. He crouched in front of the fire and her gaze crept back to him against her will. It was difficult to see him when she was lying down. She tried to move and pain blazed up her right side. She drew in a sharp wheezing breath and closed her eyes.

“I would keep still, if I were you,” he said, voice dead and cold. “I’m surprised you’re already awake.”

Why, because of the wounds and the poison? Tatyana looked down at the bandages wrapped tightly around her waist and left shoulder. As he stoked the fire, the room brightened and she realised that the dark marks on the white material weren’t blood. They were black.

She knew only one liquid that colour.

He had drugged her.

She sat up sharply, hissed as pain tore through her, and clutched her side. Panic pushed her on. She had to get away. He was going to kill her. He had come with a rifle and hadn’t expected her to be awake. He had intended to shoot her while she had been unconscious.

The werewolf sighed and came over to her. Tatyana stared up the full height of him as he towered over her, broad and imposing, his face half in shadow.

She growled and her fangs sharpened, her claws extending. Her senses locked on him. He was stronger than she was but she wasn’t going to give up easily. Deep aching waves of pain pulsed along her bones and nerves, stripping away the strength that had flooded her at the thought of being under threat, and she struggled to retain her true form. They were overwhelming, crushing what little energy she had and dulling her senses. Her vision wavered and fangs receded, and she barely clung to consciousness. Her eyes met his and she silently accepted her defeat. She wasn’t strong enough to fight him.

His light brown irises turned golden in the firelight. Had she been mistaken earlier and this was his wolf side showing through? His eyes were beautiful but they looked like death to her. She glanced at his neck where she had bitten him and her eyes widened when she saw the faint lines of scarring around his throat.

A compound werewolf?

Out here?

A thousand tiny needles pricked down her spine.

He really was going to kill her.

Tatyana tried to back away, grimacing as every part of her burned, but there was no escape. He grabbed her ankle, yanked it so she landed flat on her back on the bed and pressed his bloodstained left hand down on her shoulder, pinning her to the mattress. The force of it kept her still but only because she could sense how strong he was now that he was touching her skin on skin. She was no match for him. She wouldn’t be even at full strength. He could butcher her if he wanted to.

She closed her eyes, not wanting to see her end when it came.


Read the official excerpt or find out where to buy: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk/



Biography:
Felicity Heaton is a romance author writing as both Felicity Heaton and F E Heaton. She is passionate about penning paranormal tales full of vampires, witches, werewolves, angels and shape-shifters, and has been interested in all things preternatural and fantastical since she was just a child. Her other passion is science-fiction and she likes nothing more than to immerse herself in a whole new universe and the amazing species therein. She used to while away days at school and college dreaming of vampires, werewolves and witches, or being lost in space, and used to while away evenings watching movies about them or reading gothic horror stories, science-fiction and romances.

Having tried her hand at various romance genres, it was only natural for her to turn her focus back to the paranormal, fantasy and science-fiction worlds she enjoys so much. She loves to write seductive, sexy and strong vampires, werewolves, witches, angels and alien species. The worlds she often dreams up for them are vicious, dark and dangerous, reflecting aspects of the heroines and heroes, but her characters also love deeply, laugh, cry and feel every emotion as keenly as anyone does. She makes no excuses for the darkness surrounding them, especially the paranormal creatures, and says that this is their world. She’s just honoured to write down their adventures.


If you want to know more about me, or want to get in touch, you can find me at the following places:
My website: http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk
Vampires Realm series website: http://www.vampiresrealm.com
My blog: http://www.indieparanormalromancebooks.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/feheaton
Twitter: http://twitter.com/felicityheaton
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/felicityheaton

Enjoy a slice of German Choc. Cake & a tasty excerpt...

Welcome to the Desert Breeze Birthday Blog Tour. Enjoy a slice of rich German chocolate cake and a tasty excerpt with my post.
*smiles*

First, I just want to say "Happy 2 year Anniversary!!" to Desert Breeze.

It's been a heck of a ride for me with some amazing coincidences. In August 2009, I started shopping around for publishers for my paranormal romance. The one I wanted to go with never got back to me. I waited about three weeks and then queried Desert Breeze. Gail said she liked the premise, but she wanted it in the 3rd person. I agreed and a contract was born. Then, about a week after I signed the contract, the other publisher I queried replied to me. They apologized profusely saying there was a glitch with Yahoo and they didn't get their emails over a two-week period. They were interested and said send the manuscript. Too late, I'd signed with Desert Breeze. (This other company has a great reputation and we all know Yahoo can be YaHell at times so I totally believed them when they said there was a glitch with the email.) Coincidence #1.

Coincidence #2 – Gail lived in the same town I did – Castaic, CA!

Castaic is a small little town just north of LA and Santa Clarita. The population is small. How uncanny was that?

Once I got to talking with Gail coincidence #3 popped up: She had lived most of her life in New Hampshire! I grew up in NH! Meeting Gail was like meeting a kindred spirit. She understands my New England sensibilities, my work ethic, and "New England heartiness." She understands my sarcasm and sense of humor. It was then and there I felt as if God wanted us to meet and wanted me at Desert Breeze.

And yes, while Desert Breeze embraces "sweet" romance, I'm a sucker for a good old-fashioned romantic love scene which most of my stories includes. And I don't apologize for that. –wink--

Meeting Jenifer Ranieri was like finding the cherry on top. I absolutely love Jen's laughter and her sense of humor warms my heart. Her intuition is amazing and her graphic eye is "spot on." I've worked with her in November 2009 & 2010 during National Novel Writing Month and she made the challenge worth the effort.

I love Jen's covers. She's brought my paranormal vision alive in ways I couldn't imagine. Every cover is art, including my latest release which I'm excited about: The Count's Lair.


The Count's Lair is the story of Count Anton Varga and Lady Amelia Andrássy. It's set in Hungary in 1901. Anton has a secret. Can Amelia accept him for the man he is?

Reviews:
5 Stars, Long & Short Reviews
5 Stars, Author Tami Dee, author of the Mists of Time series
5 Stars. Sherry Fowler

Leave a comment on my blog today and I'll pick a winner to receive a PDF of Moonlight Sonata, the prequel to the Count's Lair along with the ARC of The Count's Lair.

Enjoy this excerpt:

Amelia surveyed the compact room. A double bed rested against the side wall, next to a small door. On the opposite side of the bed was a nightstand. Across from it, next to the fireplace, was a dresser, along with a mirror and another small door.

Anton walked toward the door on the other side of the bed. "This is the washroom, and a small closet is over there."

Amelia nodded. Anton placed her vase of flowers on the dresser. She went to the window and looked out. It faced the Danube and the parliament building.

"What a nice view," she whispered.

He walked up behind her and wrapped his arms around her, pressing his chest against her back. "That's why I chose it for you. The view is magnificent."

His seductive voice and intimate touch made her insides grow warm. She loved to feel the full length of his hard body against hers. They didn't say anything for several minutes. Then he slowly turned her in his arms and kissed her.

She molded her body to his, threading her fingers through his hair, pulling him toward her. She needed to feel him. His sweet tongue pierced the warm barrier of her mouth, and she gladly allowed him to explore. Uncomfortable warmth pooled inside her and slowly radiated out to her arms and legs.

"I've missed this," he whispered between deep kisses.

"So have I."

He trailed his honey wet lips down her neck. "I've dreamed of you, Amelia. I've dreamed of you running your hands over my body--"

She placed her hands against his cheeks and broke contact with his mouth to look into his eyes, recalling her earlier thoughts about turning him into a mess. "You want me to touch you? More intimately?"

He said nothing, only his eyes, now a deep sapphire blue, expressed his desire. She placed her hands on his white shirt and slid them under his dinner jacket. He wiggled his shoulders, and the garment dropped to the floor. Then she wrapped her hands around his neck, undid his tie, and placed it on the dresser.

He put his hands on her waist, drawing her closer. She started at the top button on his shirt and unfastened them. Her fingers fumbled on the third or fourth one, and he placed his hands over hers, helping to guide her. When she finished, his white shirt hung loosely over his shoulders.

Don't forget to visit my Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaiYNNpETok

BUY LINK:

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-142/Stephanie-Burkhart-Budapest-Moon/Detail.bok

Don't forget to visit Regina Andrew's blog tomorrow on the Desert Breeze Birthday Blog Tour and on 30 APRIL, share your birthday wishes with Desert Breeze on their blog at: Http://desertbreezepublishing.blogspot.com

Leave a comment on any of the birthday blog tour stops including today and on the DB Blog 30 April. A grand prize winner will be chosen on 1 MAY to receive a GC to Amazon.

Regina's blog can be found at: http://reginaandrews.wordpress.com/

Excerpt Monday - The Wolf's Torment

Note: This is an excerpt from my upcoming novel, "The Wolf's Torment" which will be released by Desert Breeze 1 MAY. It may vary upon publication.

The set up: In this scene, Theresa's father, wants to give Mihai "the son-in-law" talk - witch style.

**********



Theresa stood and grinned at hearing her father's voice. He walked over, arms extended, and she ran into his burly embrace. He parted from her, gripping his hands on her upper arms. There was no mistaking thepride in his eyes. "You look wonderful."

"Papa! That must have been the fifth time you said that."

"Oh, let me be proud of my little girl. Now, when is your honeymoon?"

"We leave tomorrow morning."

"So soon?"

"Yes."

Theresa's father looked up from her and then at Mihai. "I must talk with your husband. You don't mind if I take him aside, do you?"

"You're not going to scold him, are you?"
A playful spark danced in her father's eyes. "No, I'm just going to threaten him. If he doesn't treat you right--"

"Oh, Papa! No threats."

Her father chuckled. Mihai gestured toward the door. "We can talk in the study."

"Papa--"

"It will be fine, Theresa. I had the same talk with Victoria's husband."

Theresa sighed.

"I'll keep you company," said Sonia. "I'm sure my father had the same talk with Viktor."

"Thank you."

Mihai squeezed Theresa's hand and escorted her father outside of the ballroom. Edward and Victoria joined them. Theresa's father looked at him. "I asked them to join us." When he opened the door to his study, Mihai found Beatrice sitting in a chair, waiting for them. He didn't know if he should be worried, insulted or flattered. Why did Theresa's whole family have to be here?

"Would you like a drink?" Mihai asked.

"No, I want to get right to business."
Mihai gestured for him to take the couch. Theresa's father sat down. Edward and Victoria sat next to him. Beatrice stayed in her chair. Mihai grabbed a spare chair from a corner and joined the circle.

Theresa's father steepled his fingers. "I often wondered what happened to Esmeralda. She had such promise and her father was reckless with her future."

"You knew my mother?"

"Yes, I knew Esmeralda Vacay."

Mihai's heart leapt. What luck! His bride's father had known his mother, but of course, he would -- he was a witch. "What do you mean, her father was reckless?"

"He wanted revenge for a minor insult and promised Esmeralda into service to Hecuba and her coven. Esmeralda refused to go and disappeared. I learned years later through Count Brancoveanu that she married into Moldavia's royal house."

"Hecuba?" questioned Mihai. The witch who killed his mother!

Theresa's father looked at him, his expression serious. "Hecuba isn't your problem. The wolf in your house is."

"Viktor." Mihai drew in a breath. Viktor wasn't the same man he knew in London. Mihai's heart went out to his friend as he struggled with to hold onto his caring and kind nature.

"Beatrice told me what occurred and that you and your sister received lessons from her."

"She has been a good teacher."

"Good. You'll need to keep learning and practicing on your own. Beatrice must accompany us back to Austria. When I can, I'll spare her for a visit or two, but you must be diligent or the wolf will ruin your house."

"Viktor would do no such thing."

"Yes, he will. He is a wolf. He wants two things -- blood and sex. This feral need will consume his human body, and when it does, he will plot against you, purposely hurt you, and eventually try to kill you."

"Nonsense."

Theresa's father snapped to his feet. "You indignant boy! Do not presume to dictate to me how Viktor will behave. I know the wolf mentality and every man succumbs to the feral nature."

Mihai stood as well, unsure of how to react, but convinced the elder witch was very serious and he needed to be serious as well. "Tell me what to do."

"I sense reluctant acceptance coming from you, but you must not be reluctant to act when the time comes. Not only that, but the situation is complicated by Theresa's ignorance."

"Why did you raise her not to know her talents?" asked Mihai.

"I foresaw her future at birth and it dictated she must be ignorant of her heritage. If she ever practices witchcraft, she faces death."

"Death?" A wave of apprehension threaded through him. He'd wanted to explore witchcraft with her. What did her father mean?

Genre Tuesday - A look at paranromal romance

I thought I'd take a look at paranormal romance today. Paranormal romance is a very popular subgenre of romantic fiction. It finds its roots in gothic fiction. (Victoria Holt, anyone?) (Side note: I think I'll do a Victoria Holt day coming up. That sounds like fun. But I digress)

Elements of gothic fiction include spooky castles or mansions, secrets, and events that, while appear supernatural, have very natural causes. (that's the gothic twist!) In a paranormal romance, however, events occur that are outside the range of natural explanations, thus allowing for the supernatural.

Common the paranormal genre are those entities of a "fantastic" or "otherworldly" nature – vampires, witches, shape shifters, and werewolves. Stories that feature characters with psychic abilities such as telekinesis or telepathy are also included in the paranormal.

Time travel romance also falls under paranormal since it is still beyond scientific explanation. What makes a time travel successful is their ability to have the characters react logically to their experiences.

Paranormal stories also tend to organically blend elements of the suspense and mystery genres due to their fantastic plots allowing for a wide variety within the genre itself.

What are some of your favorite paranormal stories?

My new cover! The Wolf's Torment

Hi all, just wanted to share my latest cover - this one is "The Wolf's Torment" which will be out 1 MAY 2011 with Desert Breeze. The cover artist is Jenifer Ranieri and I love it. I really captures the gothic overtones of the story. I thought today I'd share a blurb and an excerpt from the novel. (Disclaimer: We're in the final stages of editing, but the excerpt might change a little between now and publication. Enjoy!)

Leave a comment and I'll pick one lucky winner to receive a PDF copy of Heart of Moldavia, a prequel short story.

BLURB:

It's 1865 in Moldavia, a country nestled against the shores of the Black Sea, and Crown Prince Mihai Sigmaringen returns after receiving an education in England. His best friend, Viktor Bacau joins him. Mihai is intent on modernizing his nation, but he's also a witch, and it's time he embraces his heritage. The tasks in front of him are many including getting married.

Lady Theresa von Kracken arrives in Constanta as Mihai's intended. Mihai has vowed not to fall in love again, but Theresa manages to break the battlements around his heart.

In an unfortunate twist of fate, Viktor is bitten by a werewolf. Viktor's transformation threatens everyone around him including his wife's safety and Mihai's happiness with Theresa. Viktor's bite is the wolf's torment.

THE SET UP:
Mihai has taken Theresa to his tower in Delfin Castle and they are getting to know each other better:

EXCERPT:

"We'll go as soon as it warms up. Do you have any idea where you would like to go for your honeymoon?" Mihai asked.

She smiled as heat seeped into her cheeks. "I have too many places I'd like to visit. What do you suggest?"

"We could take the yacht to Constantinople."

"All right."
He wrinkled his brow. "That was almost too easy."

"I am very agreeable, but you'll find I do have my opinions."

"I look forward to taking you on several adventures -- and hearing your opinions."

She smiled, glad that he was opening up with her.

"Can I ask you a question? You must promise to keep it between us," he said.
She nodded.

"Did you dream of me during Christmas?"
Her stomach tightened, a little anxious. "Yes, I dreamed of you."
"Were you being chased by a wolf?"
"I was."

His face lit up. "So it's true -- we've been sharing dreams since we were little."

She nodded her head, surprised he was so accepting of it. It had been unnerving at first, but she had learned to enjoy it.
"Do you know why that is?" he asked.

"No, I don't understand it, but I know what I feel."
"What do you feel?"

"Every experience in my dreams was real and true."
He nodded, agreeing with her. "I know why."
"Why?" She rubbed her chin with a finger.

"Again, I must have your confidence."
"Of course."

"My mother was a witch. I have inherited her gifts."
"I know nothing about witches."

Relief crossed his face. "I don't know much myself. My mother died when I was ten and I wasn't trained."

She accepted him at his word, his tone of voice full of conviction.

"Is Sonia a witch?"
"Most likely. We've never really wanted to explore that side of us."

"Why not?"

He scrubbed the back of his head, a little uncomfortable, but remembered Sonia's words. Be honest. "Well, I think we've both been afraid. We didn't want other people to think we were different."

"I wouldn't say you were different, just unique."

"This doesn't bother you?" he asked.

"I may know nothing of witches or witchcraft, but it makes sense how we were able to share dreams, and quite honestly, I liked the dreams we've shared."

"So have I," he replied.

He placed his hand over hers. A spark of warmth trailed up her arm. "I'm starting to learn more about witchcraft, so I hope you won't be afraid. I want to understand my gift."

She studied his expression. This was a deep-seated fear of his. He didn't want to possess these talents, but he was willing to learn more so he understood it and he wanted her to accept this about him. She sensed something deeper from his expression -- he couldn't bear her rejection.

"I will never leave you," she said, softly. And she meant it.

A small smile graced his lips. Again, it grew quiet, but Theresa believed she had earned a certain degree of trust from him.

*******
The Wolf's Torment will be released 1 MAY as an ebook avail on Kindle, Sony ereader, B&N Nook

Genre Tuesday - Paranormal Writing: The Zodiac in the Sky

Astrologers have explored the heavens since early Greek and Roman times – as even far back as ancient Babylonia. They gave those constellations that follow the sun’s ecliptic a zodiac name to help identify them. But why those constellations? What inspired them? I thought I’d take a look at the myths and legends that are behind the zodiac we see in the sky today.
Ah, the zodiac! We know it well. There are twelve signs, and surprisingly, their basic descriptions seem to fit the type of personality we exhibit.

The night sky is a dark presence in paranormal writing, often times taking on its own personality. After all, vampires come out at night, men transform into werewolves during a full moon, even zombies and ghosts are known to do their haunting at night.
When blending paranormal and romantic elements, looking to the night sky and the dynamic zodiac, can give you, the writer, the inspiration you need.

In my novel, “The Hungarian,” my hero, Matthias, is a werewolf who uses the constellations in the night sky to keep him company. He learned the myths behind the zodiac in the stars. I thought I’d share a few of them with you today.
Pisces is well known as representing two fish, but did you know those fish were Venus and Cupid who disguised themselves as fish to escape from Typhon?

Aries has always been represented as a ram. In fact, Aries was a golden ram rescued by Phrixos who took him to the land Colchis.

Taurus is a bull. What I love about Taurus is the stuff you can find in the constellation. Aldebaran is a red giant star that acts as the bull’s eye. The Pleiades, a star cluster, can also be found in the bull’s shoulder. In myth, Taurus represents Zeus/Jupiter who turned himself into a bull to carry off Europa, the daughter of the king of Crete.

Gemini represents the twin brothers, Castor and Pollux, who helped to protect ships and sailors.

Cancer represents a crab. Juno sent a crab to kill Hercules, who squashed it with his foot. Poor crab! Juno lost out with that idea.

Leo is usually associated with royalty. I believe it has Babylonian roots.

Virgo is usually represented as a maiden. She’s the goddess of the farm and harvest and she typically holds a shock of wheat. Again, I believe her origins are Babylonian in nature.

The sun usually find the autumnal equinox in Libria. The constellation is comprised of a set of scales, representing balance. Interestingly, the Romans chopped off Scorpio’s claws to make part of Libria.

Juno/Gaia sent the scorpion to kill Orion, who boasted he would kill all the animals on Earth! Poor Juno. She can’t catch a break. Scorpio and Orion are on opposite side of the sky, destined to never find each other, but always in search of the other.

Sagittarius is a centaur, a half-man, half-horse archer named Chiron, who is shooting an arrow and comes from Roman myth.

Capricorn is usually represented as a seagoat. Pan used it as a disguise.

Aquarius is a water carrier. Again, this constellation has Babylonian origins.

When you look at the constellations in this light, you have a lot of paranormal romantic potential. Keep in mind the myths that the night sky possess, and see if you can’t apply them to your romantic paranormal creatures. You’ll add depth to your stories without realizing it.

Announcing my latest release - The Count's Lair

I'd like to announce my latest release, "The Count's Lair," Book Two in the Budapest Moon Series, with Desert Breeze Publishing.

The Count's Lair is a paranormal romance set during Christmastime in Budapest, Hungary 1901.

Here's the BLURB:

Count Anton Varga is haunted by the curse of the moon. It tugs on his emotions, ravishing his soul. Anton abhors the beast he must learn to tame if he is to find peace. 

Lady Amelia Andrássy is an accomplished pianist, but her life in Budapest had been filled with heartache. When Amelia faints in the Duma's bookstore, it's Anton's strong arms that cradle her fall. His unusual indigo eyes spark with hers, replacing their individual loneliness with the promise of feral passion. 

After a two month separation, Anton is ready to walk into Amelia's life again, but is Amelia ready to fan the spark they shared into a flame? 


ENJOY THIS EXCERPT:

No snow had fallen yet, but the frost was thick in the morning, the air was cold, and the perennials were bare. Snow would soon follow; he didn't doubt that. He would have to be careful not to let Amelia stay out in the cold too long. Even though she was well dressed, she would get colder faster than he would. They finally turned down a dirt road with a group of evergreen trees on the side. Anton directed Tomas to park on the shoulder of the road.

An abundance of evergreens in all shapes and sizes dotted the wood line. Anton got out and opened Amelia's door. She stood and stretched her legs. He pulled an axe out of the trunk and looked at Bryant.

"Do you mind staying here with Tomas? We won't be long, and the auto will keep you warm."

Bryant looked at Amelia, who nodded. "We'll wait here."

Tomas got back into the auto and turned it on. Amelia stayed beside Anton, and they walked into the woods. He balanced the axe on his
shoulder as if it were a toothpick. While it looked heavy, Anton's unusual strength allowed him to pick it up with ease. They walked into a small clearing surrounded by the trees.

"What size tree do you want?" she asked.

"A medium-sized one, I think. I have a tall ceiling in the den, but I don't want the tree to dominate the room."

"Sounds reasonable."

He slowly walked around the clearing, eyeing the trees. "Do you want me to cut down a tree for you as well?"

She grinned. "How will you get two trees back?"

"I'll return for your tree tomorrow."

"Just pick out yours, Anton. I'll have Bryant get one for me."

Anton looked at her. "Let me be the one to help you with your tree."

"I'm sorry. I'm just so used to depending on Bryant."

"You like the man?"

She softened. "He's like a father to me."

"Really?"

"He taught me Hungarian. He's taught me a lot about Hungary, actually."

"I'm sorry. I suppose I was jealous for a second." He looked at the trees just past her shoulder, as if embarrassed.

Amelia walked over to him and stepped into his personal space. "Bryant is a loyal servant and a good friend, nothing more."

"I see."

Anton's eyes found hers, and her aura flamed up, casting a white shadow over her cloak. Her jasmine perfume infused him with desire. "I could stay here with you all day."

"I'd catch a cold," Amelia said.

"I would put my arms around you and keep you warm."

She raised a curious eyebrow. "All day?"

"I can think of nothing else I'd rather do."

THE COUNT'S LAIR is available as ebook with Kindle, B&N Nook, Kobo, and Sony Ereader.

Here's a link to the Publisher's Website:
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-142/Stephanie-Burkhart-Budapest-Moon/Detail.bok

Here's a link to the Book Trailer on You Tube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaiYNNpETok


FIND ME ON THE WEB AT:
BLOG:
http://sgcardin.blogspot.com

WEBSITE:
http://sgcardin.tripod.com

FACEBOOK:
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1357922219

Excerpt Monday - Heart of Moldavia

THE SET UP: This is a FREE read offered by Desert Breeze Publishing and is a "prequel" to the Moldavian Moon Series. Book 1, The Wolf's Torment, will be released in MAY 2011. In this excerpt, Mihai is talking to a "mysterious" woman in the woods outside of his castle.

************

Snow collected on the shoulders of her cape, but she brushed it off. "Why did you stay away from our dreams? I missed you."

He stiffened his chin, feeling a tad bit defensive. "My father sent me to study in England."

"Ah, the distance. I understand now."
"I'm here now."

She smiled. "We will meet soon."
He arched an eyebrow. "Meet?"

She stepped forward, stopping directly in front of him. "You truly don't understand? I'm not quite sure I do either, but I know this -- you are the prince of my dreams, the only man for me."

"How can you know this?"

"I know what I dream and I know my heart. I do not deny it."

"What's your name?"

She smiled again and this time a small dainty dimple appeared in her cheek. "You know, My Prince. You've always known."

He crossed his arms more confused than ever. "Why are you here?"

"It's Christmas."

"Yes, it is."

She reached into the pocket of her cape and produced a glass ball with a multi-faceted surface. It reflected light, spinning a rainbow prism when it caught the sunlight in just the right angle. His mother used to play with a similar one when he was young. She taught him how to catch the light and throw it.

"A Christmas gift for my prince."

A warm blast shot through his hand and up his arm when he caressed her fingers to take the gift from her. Their eyes met and in that moment he realized that she had loved him all her life. And he felt guilty for not paying attention to his dream earlier -- for giving into passion with Alexandra.

He held her hand for an extra second. "I have nothing to give you."

"You gave me my life. I risked much to bring you this gift."

"I have no keepsake for you."

"Nor do I require one. Merry Christmas, My Prince."

She stepped away and walked toward the trees.

"Wait! Please, tell me your name."


Here's a link to the FREE download. Enjoy!

http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-130/Stephanie-Burkhart-Moldavian-Moon/Detail.bok

My 2010 NaNoWriMo Adventure is over.... kinda.

Whewww.... can you beleve it? 50,206 words in 30 days. That's a lot of words. I am exhausted and drained and I must keep going because the novel is nowhere near done. But I got a good start. That said, I thought share some of my 2010 NaNoWriMo experiences with you.

I knew in October I wanted to get involved in NaNoWriMo again. I did it last year, enjoyed the craziness, and I was up for it again. Having a story due in May 2011, I decided to focus on a semi major revision of the story. I got out my maps, did up my character sketches, drafted research notes and outlined. For me, I need to do this premliminary work or I won't be ready to write on day one and I need to be ready to write on Day 1.

OUTSIDE CHALLENGES:
What makes NaNoWriMo demanding for me are my "outside challenges." There's the fact I'm a full time working mom. I answer 911 for LAPD. I'm grateful to have a job, but it's there. The good thing is I can write on my down time at work. The bad thing is because there's no computers, I have to write long hand and then type it up at home. I also have two boys, 8 & 4 and I'm always keeping up with them. There was soccer, gymnastics, religion education, doctor's appt and misc with them.

DAY 1

Day 1 hit and I hooked up at the Panera with Jenifer Ranieri. Jen does the cover art for Desert Breeze and lives maybe 20 minutes from me. She's also writer. It really helped that I could meet up with her and work on my project. Jen has a great sense of humor and that's really motivating for me.

I pretty much stuck to 1600 words a day. I'd like to think I'm slow and steady. Hey, slow and steady wins the race! And I had a passion for my project.

What was my project this year? I intended it to be a semi-major revision of The Wolf's Torment. It's turning into a MAJOR revision with a lot of changes that I'm very excited about.

HERE'S THE BLURB:
Crown Prince Mihai Sigmaringen has a lot to look forward to. Recently returned from England, he's engaged to Lady Theresa von Kracken. He hopes to unite the Romanian principalities into a nation, but when his best friend, Viktor Bacau, is bitten by a werewolf, Mihai's dreams and his relationship with Theresa threaten to shatter into a thousand tiny pieces.


Some of the major changes are that Sonia is now Mihai's half-sister instead of a maid and Mihai is more accepting of the witching power in him, and activitly learns to be a practicing witch. The plot is still the same, but how the characters get to the end has changed dramatically.


EXCERPT

Here's a small excerpt for you to enjoy. Mihai has returned to castle at the same time Theresa and Beatrice have.

******

He turned around and to find Theresa and Beatrice bundled up in warm coats, hats, and scarves. Their cheeks were red from the chill. He smiled at them.

"Hello, ladies."
"Hello, Mihai."

Beatrice bowed.

"So what were you ladies up to this afternoon?"

Theresa grinned. "We sent the wedding announcements out and Beatrice and I ordered our dresses."

"Well done. What else is there to do?"

"We need flowers, musicians, caterers, a daguerreotyper…"

"and rings," he added.
"Yes, and rings."

Her sweet expression warmed his heart. The thought of putting his ring on her finger thrilled him.

"We'd love to have your thoughts on our plans," said Beatrice.

Mihai gestured toward the castle, walking next to Theresa. He wanted to get the women out of the cold. Tybeski walked behind him.

"Well, tomorrow, Mr. Tybeski and I have a busy day. Parliament passed my tax, so I must send out notices requesting bids, and Mr. Tybeski will be working on our behalf for the orphanage."

Theresa stepped in front of him, grabbing his hands. They were right in front of the castle's steps. Her face sparkled with excitement. "That's wonderful! Thank you, Mihai."

God, he wanted to be alone with her right now. He curbed the desire, pushing it away for now, knowing that the promise of later might be fulfilled.

"I'm glad you approve. After dinner I want you to come to my study."

She raised a curious eyebrow.
"I want to tell you about the railroad."

"You want to work on the railroad bid, you mean." Her face slightly frowned.

He looked directly at her. "If I wanted to work, I wouldn't ask you to come to my study."

"I'm sorry," she said, gently.

"Oh, let's go inside, I'm freezing and I want a very warm cup of tea," said Beatrice. She looked at Mihai. "And if you want Theresa to join you in the study, she needs a very warm cup of tea, too."

Mihai cast his eyes toward the door and gestured with his hand for the ladies to go ahead of him. Beatrice was a colorful one, but it was Theresa who heated his blood with her innocence, her sense of adventure, and her caring nature. It was Theresa who he wanted to be with tonight – alone.

Excerpt Monday - The Hungarian

The Set up: Katherine and Matthias meet.


The door squeaked open. Katherine peeked over the top of her book. A tall, muscular man walked in wearing a white button-down shirt and holding his blazer. He paused, as if surprised to find her, and then began to quietly walk toward the window. He moved with wolf-like prowess, his long legs taking cool, calculated steps as his unusual eyes surveyed her. Katherine bit the inside of her lip, returning his measured perusal with one of her own. His silence was unnerving, yet intriguing.

His eyes drew her to him – malachite green with a gold ring around the iris. Dynamic. Expressive. Even now, as he looked at her, they softened and grew translucent. Finally, he stopped in front of the window and casually threw his blazer onto a nearby chair as if he owned the room.

"Hello," he said.
"Hello."
"You're staring."
"I am? I thought you were staring at me."
He chuckled. "Perhaps I was admiring you."
"Me?"
"Who else is here?"

Katherine pursed her lips as her insides warmed from the deep silkiness of his voice. He smiled, and walked over to her chair, slowly gliding around it, tracing his finger over the leather headrest, skirting her curly hair.

"What's your name?" he asked.

"And who is inquiring?" She tried to sound cool and composed, but she had to fight the nervous temptation to play with her hands.

"Romeo, perhaps?"
"Then my name is Juliet."

A teasing smile graced his lips as he walked out from behind her chair and glanced at a bookshelf before turning to look at her again.

"Would you fall for Tristan?"

"Only if my name were Isolde."

He walked over to a wooden table near the window and ran his long finger over a clay mock-up of Excalibur lodged in a stone. "What do you think of 'Arthur?' Do you think it suits me?"

"Only Guinevere would believe your name was Arthur."

He crossed his arms, his eyes sparkling in the sunlight. "Would you believe my name was Matthias?"

"I might, if—"
"If what?"
"If I knew more about you."

Check out "The Hungarian's" Book Trailer at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZwaF8hAdow

The Hungarian Released on 1 MAY 2010 with Desert Breeze Publishing. Here's a link to the site: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-87/%3Ci%3EBudapest-Moon-Book-One%3C-fdsh-i%3E-cln-/Detail.bok

Reviews:

5 Stars, Author Tami Dee, "The Mists of Time Series"
Ms. Burkhart's writing is crisp, her imagery vivid. The story is compelling and the reader will find their selves not wanting it to end.

4 Stars, Nalisha Bradford, Reader
You are not lost or confused, and your
interest is held as you are touched by everyone in this story.

This ends with you wanting to continue on with their stories and
where it could lead you next, 'Book Two'.

5 Stars, Shawna K. Williams, Author of "No Other"
This book is a beautiful blend of history and mystique. And it's terribly romantic. Terribly!

5 Stars Margaret Young, Reader
By the time Katherine discovers Matthias's secret, Stephanie has us thoroughly invested in this endearing, page-turning tale of werewolves, witches, friends, and enemies, all striving and driving for one end -- happily-ever-after. This is a must-read for anyone who loves a good love-story with a twist. You won't be disappointed.

Excerpt Monday - from "The Hungarian"

THE SET UP:
Katherine has just arrived in Budapest.

****

Katherine's eyes were riveted to the new sights just outside the auto's window. This area of Pest reminded her of London, packed with businesses, thriving with people. They drove past a small park on the outskirts of the business district and made their way toward a sprawling suspension bridge. It was then Katherine spied the mighty Danube, wide and rapid, masterfully slicing the city into two very distinct parts.

Matthias inclined his head toward the auto's window. "That's the Széchenyi Bridge. It was built in the 1840's, and was the first suspension bridge of its time," he paused, a smile full of pride growing across his face. "We Hungarians are very proud of our engineering accomplishments."

"Amazing," she whispered in awe. The legs of the bridge were made out of bricks, incredibly thick, popping through the rushing currents of water with ease. The road was wide, able to support an unlimited amount of autos and carriages. Four spires thrust toward the sky, linked together with thick cable wire. The cables didn't cross the bridge, but ran parallel from spire to spire, curving downward in the middle gap between the steel towers.

Katherine noticed the sky as their auto rumbled over the sturdy bridge. It was a rich cerulean blue that seemed to touch the earth. She thought if she stood on her tiptoes, she'd be able to touch the sky and say with convincing authority that she had indeed touched the intangible.


Check out "The Hungarian's" Book Trailer at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZwaF8hAdow

*****

The Hungarian is Available at Desert Breeze, Amazon for Kindle, B&N for the Nook, Sony, All Romance ebooks and Books on Board.

Promos & Reviews - The Hungarian

Here's one of my latest reviews for "The Hungarian"
Readers Favorites
5 Stars

Hungary:
Months ago Count Mathias Duma and his English born wife were attacked by wolves. His wife was killed. Mathias was bitten and turned into a werewolf.

England:
Katherine’s favorite book in her uncle’s library was Destiny and Astrology. She had just curled up with the book when in walked a Count Duma. There was an instant attraction between the two. Katherine was the first woman to stir the Count’s heart since the death of his wife. He had mourned her for months. He longed to return to his home land of Romania but his former mother in law was trying to make that impossible. She was trying to take his daughter away from him. He had recently purchased an estate in the area so that his daughter would also know she had a connection to her mother’s home land.

Eventually Kate and Mathias were able to return to his home in Hungary. His rival Count Vargar was determined to steal Katherine away from him. Mathias demanded total loyalty. Filled with jealousy and rage he accused Katherine of being disloyal.

This book is extremely entertaining. The plot is sensual and romantic. Katherine and Mathias play were together. This is the first book in a new series. I look forward to reading the next entry.

Link: http://readersfavorite.com/cat-71.htm?review=3136

*********

Stiggles, Margaret Young
5 Stars, Amazon Review:

A fantastic story. Stephanie's writing is superb in this paranormal romance. The Hungarian is rich with sharp, intelligent, likable characters that make the reader love them and root for them and cry for them along the way. Count Matthias Duma is dealing with the fallout of the tragic, somewhat mysterious death of his first wife. Suspicious of his involvement in her daughter's death, Matthias's mother-in-law has made it her mission to smear his name and prove him an unfit parent to her only grandchild, Matthias's daughter, Emily. An ugly custody battle has forced Matthias to leave his home in Hungary and establish a temporary residence in London for the duration of the investigation and proceedings. While there, he meets Lady Katherine Archibald, the modest, beautiful, vibrant young niece of a close friend and business associate. From the moment of their fateful meeting, she brings sunshine and optimism into his lonely, brooding life, along with hope for a future of new love and salvation from the dark cloud of his tragic past. While their romance blossoms over a summer-long courtship, it also stirs whispers and condemning gossip that threatens to ruin his chances of winning his custody suit.

And then there's another hairy situation to contend with - literally. What would his mother-in-law and Katherine think if they found out the truth behind his reason for loathing the moon...

Stephanie takes us on this emotional ride with grace and eloquence. She brings history to life, from noble life in Victorian Era England, to the mystic, rural countryside of Hungary. She takes you on location with vivid descriptions that bring the sights, sounds, and smells to life. Their period clothing unfold before our eyes. The descriptions of the smells of the spices and foods make the mouth water. Few authors can bring such detail to their writing without burdening and cluttering the pages, yet Stephanie does so with seamless, easy beauty. By the time Katherine discovers Matthias's secret, Stephanie has us thoroughly invested in this endearing, page-turning tale of werewolves, witches, friends, and enemies, all striving and driving for one end -- happily-ever-after. This is a must-read for anyone who loves a good love-story with a twist. You won't be disappointed.

Excerpt Monday - The Hungarian

Here's an excerpt from my latest release, "The Hungarian." Sign up to FOLLOW me here on blogspot between now and Friday, 22 MAY and be eligable to win a $6.00 GC from Desert Breeze. Smiles, Steph

*****

Martin struck up the guitar and she kept the beat with her tambourine. Matthias hardly felt rusty even though it had been two years since he had danced the Verbunkos. He easily kept time with the music. The dance involved a lot of jumping as well as clapping. He centered the dance around Resa spinning and twirling around her. It allowed him to keep his concentration on the dance. The music built to a fast pace and then stopped suddenly. Matthias ended the dance with a quick jump and fell to Resa's feet.

"Bravo, Count Duma!" Resa exclaimed.

Matthias got to his feet and smiled. Paul, Liz, and Katherine all clapped.

"Well done, Matthias!" cried Paul. "I've never seen a dance like that."

"Now it's time for you and Miss Archibald to dance," said Resa.

Katherine waved her hands. "I couldn't dance that."

"You don't have to. We can dance the Csándás," said Matthias.

Resa clapped her hands again. "Yes, it's perfect."

"I don't know how."

"I'll show you," said Resa.

"Go on, Kate," said Liz, smiling. "Give it a try."

Katherine took Matthias's hand, and he helped her to her feet. Martin and János played their music at a slow tempo. Resa showed her a couple of steps at a time. It took about ten minutes, but Katherine seemed to pick it up. Matthias danced it slow for her the first time. There wasn't much jumping, but it was a rather square-type dance, and there was clapping involved. When the song ended, Resa approached.

"Let me dance with Count Duma at the normal pace. Watch me. Try to twirl the skirt when I do."

Katherine nodded her head. Again, the music started, and Matthias danced with Resa. From time to time Resa would look at Katherine to make sure she was watching.
Matthias was pleased at how Resa was trying to help Katherine learn the dance.
The dance finished in a flurry of moves, with Matthias wrapping his hands around Resa's waist and Resa resting her head against his shoulder. She quickly parted from him and looked at Katherine. "Remember, it starts off slow but builds up to a quick ending."

"All right," Katherine said.

Matthias took Katherine's hand again. The music began. They danced in front of the fire. Liz and Paul clapped to the beat. They danced around the pit, laughing and clapping. The guitar played faster, the flute hit higher notes. Resa sang in Hungarian. They danced quicker, and when the Csándás ended, Resa threw powder into the fire. The fire crackled. It hissed loudly and then the flames turned colors -- purple, blue, green, and white before slowly returning to yellow. Matthias held Katherine tight against his muscular body. He felt her heart pulsing with energy just like his was.


****

Goodie Time: I'll be giving away two autographed postcards of the cover to two lucky posters. To be eligible to win, just post. I'll pick the winners out of a hat and announce the winners on the blog no later than the next day.

Link to the Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZwaF8hAdow

Links for the Books:

Desert Breeze Website:
http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-87/%3Ci%3EBudapest-Moon-Book-One%3C-fdsh-i%3E-cln-/Detail.bok

All Romance Books
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-budapestmoonbookonethehungarian-427260-139.html

Amazon for Kindle
http://www.amazon.com/Budapest-Moon-Book-One-ebook/dp/B003K15NG2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1273427954&sr=1-1

Visit Stephanie at:
Website:
http://sgcardin.tripod.com

Romance Under the Moonlight Blog
http://sgcardin.blogspot.com

Twitter:
http://twitter.com/StephBurkhart

Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/profile.php?id=1357922219&ref=profile

Blog Contest Winners Announced! Congrats!

First, thanks to everyone who entered the blog contests. I really appreciate you popping in my site (under the moonlight). And now - onto the winners.

Winner of the PDF copy of "The Hungarian:" Kristabel Reed!! Congrats.

Kristabel was one of the commenters on my celebratory post for the book's release.

Winner of the $6.00 Gift Certificate to Desert Breeze Publishing: Cherie Reich!

Cherie just recently signed up to follow me.

All contestants had their name put in a hat and my son, Andrew, drew the winners.

I hope to do another contest like this soon. Winners, please send me an email at sgcardin1@yahoo.com or botrina_buchanan@yahoo.com with your contact info so I can get the prizes out to you.

Smiles
Steph

Today's the day! The Hungarian is Out in the stores!

Moon over Turin, Italy, Dec 2009


Yay!! Today is the day that "The Hungarian" releases with Desert Breeze Publishing. I'm very excited. That said, I'm offering a couple of prizes. Here's how you can become eligable:

#1 - Sign in with a post. I'll pick one lucky winner out of a hat to receive a PDF ebook copy of "The Hungarian."

#2 - Become a Follower of me here on Blogspot. I'll pick one lucky winner out of a hat to receive a $6.00 GC to Desert Breeze Publishing.



So what's the book about? Count Matthias Duma harbors a dark secret, but when he meets a young British noblewoman, Katherine Archibald, he risks his secret for her love. The book is set in 1901. The first half of the book takes place in England and the 2nd half of the book takes place in Budapest, Hungary. Katherine is a young woman who loves books and has a sense of adventure, but has yet to satisfy her heart. Then she meets Matthias.

EXCERPT:

The door squeaked open and Katherine peeked over the top of her book. A tall, muscular man walked in wearing a white button-down shirt and holding his blazer. He paused, as if surprised to find her, and then walked toward the window, his stride easy. He moved with wolf-like prowess, his long legs taking cool, calculated steps as his unusual eyes surveyed her. Katherine bit the inside of her lip, returning his measured perusal with one of her own. His silence was unnerving, yet intriguing.

His eyes drew her to him -- malachite green with a gold ring around the iris. Dynamic. Expressive. Even now, as he looked at her, they softened and grew translucent. He stopped in front of the window and casually threw his blazer onto a nearby chair as if he owned the room.

"Hello," he said.

"Hello."

"You're staring."

"I am? I thought you were staring at me."

He chuckled. "Perhaps I was admiring you."

"Me?"

"Who else is here?"

Katherine pursed her lips as her insides warmed from the deep silkiness of his voice. He smiled and walked to her chair, slowly gliding around it, tracing his finger over the leather headrest, skirting her curly hair.

"What's your name?" he asked.

"And who is inquiring?" She tried to sound cool and composed, but she had to fight the nervous temptation to play with her hands.

"Romeo, perhaps?"

"Then my name is Juliet."

A teasing smile graced his lips as he walked out from behind her chair and glanced at a bookshelf before turning to look at her again.

"Would you fall for Tristan?"

"Only if my name were Isolde."

He walked over to a wooden table near the window and ran his long finger over a clay mock-up of Excalibur lodged in a stone. "What do you think of Arthur? Do you think it suits me?"

"Only Guinevere would believe your name was Arthur."

He crossed his arms, his eyes sparkling in the sunlight. "Would you believe my name was Matthias?"

"I might, if--"

"If what?"

"If I knew more about you."


****** Buy Links: Desert Breeze Publishing: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-87/%3Ci%3EBudapest-Moon-Book-One%3C-fdsh-i%3E-cln-/Detail.bok

Amazon for Kindle

http://www.amazon.com/Budapest-Moon-Book-One-ebook/dp/B003K15NG2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2&s=digital-text&qid=1272726216&sr=1-1

Romantic Budapest

I thought I'd share some thoughts on Romantic Budapest. Above is the Szechanyi Bridge, the Bridge on the cover of "The Hungarian."






Then here's Fisherman Bastian. Construction was completed in 1902. It's a 1 1/2 wall on Buda Hill near the Castle District and looks down on the Danube. The seven towers represent the 7 Maygar tribes that settled Budapest.













Then there's the King Castle in the Castle District during Nighttime.













This is the parliament building in a view taken from the Pest side. The buidling was completed in 1896 and is on the Pest side of the city.

It's "Hungarian" Week - Blurb & Excerpt

My novel, "The Hungarian" releases 1 MAY, this coming Saturday with Desert Breeze Publishing. I'll be posting all kinds of Hungarian goodies this week on the blog. Look for a blog contest on Wednesday! Smiles, Steph

****

Blurb:

Katherine Archibald is in search of a grand adventure. A young woman in late Victorian England, she wants to open up a book store in London and travel Europe hunting down rare books. Love isn't on her map.

Enter Matthias Duma. The Hungarian count captures Katherine's attention like no other man before him with his unusual gold-malachite eyes, his exotic features, and his command of the night sky.

After a night of intrigue during Katherine's birthday, she discovers the map does include love in the legend, but will the map lead her to Budapest and the dark, brooding Hungarian she's just met?

Excerpt:
She caught his lips with hers. He responded in kind, wrapping his rugged arms around her, holding her tight. They kissed for the longest time, their lips deepening the kisses between them until their tongues began to mingle against each other, yearning with the sensual heat of desire. Katherine felt a deep physical agitation pooling inside her. His full lips tasted sweet, like a sinful treat she could easily become addicted to.

Then, with an abruptness she hadn't expected, he put his hands on her shoulders and broke the kiss with a jerk. "Katherine, do you realize what you're doing?"

"Tell me."

He cupped her cheek, looking at her with a deep intensity that burrowed into her soul. "It's too soon," he whispered.

"Too soon for what?"
"Don't I scare you? The way I look?"
"No."
"My scar? My eyes?"
"Not in the least."

"It doesn't bother you I'm a widower? That the Ashtons are openly seeking to prove me a poor parent so they can take my daughter away from me?"

"No." None of what he'd mentioned bothered her. From what she had observed he was honorable, exuding more nobility than the Ashtons ever would.
Matthias tore himself away from her and left the gazebo. He took long, quick wolverine-like strides toward the roses.

"What are you doing?"

He plucked a rose from a bush without any hesitation and held it up to her. "I love roses, Katherine. They're very soothing to me when I'm alone late at night, trapped by the moon. I want you to have this one. I am not an ordinary courtier, Katherine. I would not woo you with British practicality, but in ways that are foreign to you--"

"What are you saying?"

"If you think you are strong enough, if you think you can endure the summer's challenges, if you think you could find a life with me, then send this rose back in a week's time and I will ask Lord Archibald his permission to court you."

"The Hungarian" will be available 1 MAY 2010 through Desert Breeze Publishing. It will also be available for the Kindle through Amazon.

Website: http://sgcardin.tripod.com
Blog: http://sgcardin.blogspot.com

Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZwaF8hAdow

Publisher: Desert Breeze Publishing. Link to book page: http://stores.desertbreezepublishing.com/-strse-87/%3Ci%3EBudapest-Moon-Book-One%3C-fdsh-i%3E-cln-/Detail.bok

Author Bio

Stephanie Burkhart was born in Manchester, New Hampshire. She received a B.S. in Political Science from California Baptist University in 1995. She served in U.S. Army from 1986-1997, spending seven years in Germany. In 1997, she deployed to Hungary for 90 days. Her interests include exploring European history and watching Dancing with the Stars. Stephanie lives in California and works for LAPD's Communications Division as a 911 Dispatcher. She's married with two young sons.

Official Contest - Win an ARC of "The Hungarian"

"The Hungarian" releases on 1 MAY through Desert Breeze, but you can win an ARC of the novel this week. The contest begins today and runs through Thursday, 22 APRIL. I'll announce the winner on 23 APRIL, Friday.

What's the story about? Count Matthias Duma harbors a dark secret, but when he meets a young British noblewoman, Katherine Archibald, he risks everything, including his secret, for her love.

So what do you have to do? Cast the Characters!

I'll put up two pics of two actors - one I cast as "Count Matthias Duma" from the Hungarian. I'll also put up two pics of two actresses, one I cast as "Katherine Archibald."

Pick the right combo - Who did I pick for Matthias? Katherine. Post your answers here in the blog. If you have both choices right, your name will go in the "pot" and I'll pick the winner out of the pot on Friday Morning.

Okay, let's have fun:

Who is COUNT MATTHIAS DUMA?

CHOICE #1
Jonathan Rhys-Meyers








CHOICE #2
Ralph Fiennes













Who is KATHERINE ARCHIBALD?

CHOICE #1
Anne Hathaway



















Choice #2
Justine Cotsonas



Good luck in the Contest!
Smiles
Steph