AUGUST NEWS AND PREVIEWS!

August 2006
Hi Everyone! I can't believe it's August! Hope all of you are staying cool even though I'll be speaking about my 3 Summer Sizzlers! I'm pleased to announce that my June Desire, HEIRESS BEWARE hit #2 for 2 weeks running on the Borders List for series romance! The book is part of the Elliott Continuity Series and is still going strong. If you love amnesia stories, I hope you'll enjoy this one.


There's lots of things happening in August. The early release on EHarlequin.com of my next story, BUNKING DOWN WITH THE BOSS is doing great! If you viist my website to buy the book, click on the button with special offers from Harlequin and you'll get some free prizes!

Here's what the reviewers are saying, oh and BTW, this is my favorite Desire to date. I hope you'll like it too.

ROMANTIC TIMES BOOK REVIEW MAGAZINE:

4 Stars -- Though he fights it, Sam finds himself falling for the feisty widow with the big heart in Bunking Down with the Boss (4), Charlene Sands' emotional and enriching tale of redemption.

CATAROMANCE 4 1/2 Stars -Bunking Down with the Boss is one of those stories that will tug at your emotions. Charlene Sands shows us that taking a chance on love is always difficult. Both Caroline and Sam are dealing with issues that make taking that chance even more difficult. Loveable and realistic characters, you can't help but root for them to be true to their hearts and take that chance. An engaging tale, Bunking Down with the Boss proves that Charlene Sands is a gifted storyteller. I highly recommend the enjoyable Bunking Down with the Boss ... Debby Guyette

WRITER'S UNLIMITED -- I was drawn into the story and found I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to see if these two people will find love at the end of the story. Pick up a copy of Bunking Down with the Boss and see how love can find a way ... Helen Silfer

BUNKING DOWN WITH THE BOSS - has also been selected for the Eharlequin EBOOK program, so starting in August it will be available in downloadable form! I'm still learning about this newest form of reading, so please share with me your insights. My editor, Jessica tells me this is a very good thing!


And also coming in August/September is my newest old release from Cobblestone Press! What was formerly known as MY GIRL from Kensington will be available in 4 downloadable formats as THE WAY TO A MAN'S HEART! Something's sizzling in the kitchen, and it's not just Christy's cooking! Check out Cobblestonepress.com and see some great new reads as downloads. This book is out of print! And now available as a digital download - I couldn't be more pleased!

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER HAPPENINGS -- In August I'll be moderating a panel at the Orange County Chapter of RWA with award-winning authors Barbara McCauley, Maureen Child, Susan Squires and Glyniss Campbell and Cathy Hake, all prolific authors in their own genres. The Topic - What's Hot in the Market right now. And the afternoon speaker is none other than the wonderful David Morrell, author of Rambo, First Blood along with over twenty other titles! Stop by for this great talk on August 12th.

In September, I've been invited to be on a panel at the Cerritos Library called Love Is In the Air - a writer's Tea in the Skyline Room. I hear this is a fantastic library and I'm looking forward to being on this panel! Come join in and sip some tea with me on September 17th.


Also in September look for the release of my newest western ABDUCTED AT THE ALTAR!

I'm busy working on a new western right now and have be invited to do a Spring Wedding Anthology for Harlequin Historicals for 2008! As you can see I'm keeping busy and loving every minute of it!



The Brand New 2006 From the Heart Contest is up an running and we're giving away 3 prizes this time. Please be sure to enter.

On a more personal note I'm excited to have my standing date with good friend and fellow author Tanya Hanson as we see Tim McGraw and Faith Hill in concert in August. We're both huge country music fans and love Tim and Faith.Can't wait. It's my one indulgence. Have to have floor seats for their concerts!!

George Carlin on Aging - This is so true!

George Carlin's Views on Aging
Do you realize that the only time in our lives when we like to get old is when we're kids? If you're less than 10 years old, you're so excited about aging that you think in fractions.

"How old are you?" "I'm four and a half!" You're never thirty-six and a half. You're four and a half, going on five! That's the key.

You get into your teens, now they can't hold you back. You jump to the next number, or even a few ahead. "How old are you?" "I'm gonna be 16!" You could be 13, but hey, you're gonna be 16! And then the greatest day of your life . . you become 21. Even the words sound like a ceremony . . YOU BECOME 21. YESSSS!!!

But then you turn 30. Oooohh, what happened there? Makes you sound like bad milk! He TURNED; we had to throw him out. There's no fun now, you're Just a sour-dumpling. What's wrong? What's changed?

You BECOME 21, you TURN 30, then you're PUSHING 40. Whoa! Put on the brakes, it's all slipping away. Before you know it, you REACH 50 and your dreams are gone.

But wait!!! You MAKE it to 60. You didn't think you would!

So you BECOME 21, TURN 30, PUSH 40, REACH 50 and MAKE it to 60.
You've built up so much speed that you HIT 70! After that it's a day-by-day thing; you HIT Wednesday!
You get into your 80s and every day is a complete cycle; you HIT lunch; you TURN 4:30; you REACH bedtime. And it doesn't end there. Into the 90s, you start going backwards; "I Was JUST 92."

Then a strange thing happens. If you make it over 100, you become a little kid again. "I'm 100 and a half!"
May you all make it to a healthy 100 and a half!!

HOW TO STAY YOUNG

1. Throw out nonessential numbers. This includes age, weight and height. Let the doctors worry about them. That is why you pay "them "

2. Keep only cheerful friends. The grouches pull you down.

3. Keep learning. Learn more about the computer, crafts, gardening, whatever. Never let the brain idle. "An idle mind is the devil's workshop." And the devil's name is Alzheimer's.

4. Enjoy the simple things.

5. Laugh often, long and loud. Laugh until you gasp for breath.

6. The tears happen. Endure, grieve, and move on. The only person, who is with us our entire life, is ourselves. Be ALIVE while you are alive.

7. Surround yourself with what you love, whether it's family, pets, keepsakes, music, plants, hobbies, whatever. Your home is your refuge.

8. Cherish your health: If it is good, preserve it. If it is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.

9 Don't take guilt trips. Take a trip to the mall, even to the next county; to a foreign country but NOT to where the guilt is.

10. Tell the people you love that you love them, at every opportunity.

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER:
Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

Spring Brides Anthology for 2008

It seems like a long way off for me to be thinking about my next project, the shortened 30,000 word story for the Spring Brides western anthology, but the synopsis is due in October and I've yet to come up with a viable idea.

True, I've been working on another western, hoping to sell Bodine's Bounty to Harlequin Historicals very soon, but now that the proposal is done, I need to be thinking of my next project. And the idea of writing a story, not big enough for a full book, yet has all the emotion, adventure, excitement of a full book, is actually a challenge I'm happy to take it on. I'm finishing up the Wed Under Western Skies anthology, loving it and especially Cheryl St. John's - Almost A Bride. The book made me laugh out loud, something I don't do often when reading, and the chuckles continued every time I thought of this one scene, but it's by far not a comedy. That's the beauty of good writing, real life situations have a way of making us laugh sometimes, putting ourselves in the hero/heroine's shoes. And just a few chapters later, I shed tears from a scene that really touched me.

So, thinking up a good story takes a while and I always want my stories to touch the reader in some way. The best way I have of coming up with ideas, is too simply not think too hard, but put the ideas to rest and then read some other books. From them, ideas spark, and the what-ifs, begin to happen. I'm not one to stare at a blank screen. I never have. I ususally don't even sit down at the computer to write unless I know exactly what I want to write about.

For me, it works!

Atlanta Blues?

I'm not really having the blues over my decision not to attend Romance Writer's of America's National Convention. For some odd reason, I decided that I needed to be home this year, that and the fact that our kitchen remodel drained our summer funds. But even so, I didn't feel inclined to go.

Not that they aren't fun. I usually have a wonderful time and nobody knows how to party and have a good time better that a bunch of (2000 strong) romance writers. I find myself thinking about what I'd be doing if I were there. Wednesday nights are always a blast. We have a Literacy Signing and all published authors in attendance line up in long rows of tables, sometimes as many as 400 authors, and we sign our books. The event is open to the public and the money raised all goes to charity for literacy. Often times, each group of authors, for me Desire and Historicals, runs a contest and a little game. Afterwards, we usually go to our Chapter's Suite where we once again, have a party.

This morning, I'd be at the Harlequin Hussy breakfast, like at 7 AM somewhere in the hotel and usually about 15 or us meet sometimes for the first time and have a casual breakfast. The rest of the day is workshops, or meetings. Friday nights are saved for the Publisher's parties -- and Harlequin does a great one. Usually I go to dinner beforehand with my editor with a couple of her other authors. This year the party is at the RITZ. THAT, I will definitely miss. Saturday night is always the Rita ceremony and afterward, another party.

It's tiring just thinking about it and all that goes on. And usually I don't get much sleep. Takes days after I return home to wind down and catch up on sleep. I had a great time in Dallas two years ago and Reno last year. But this year, I'm home and happy to be so. Next year is Dallas again. I'll go and the year after, it's in San Francisco. I can't wait for that one! So I guess I needed a breather, a little reprieve and I'll hear all about the conference, the gossip, the winners of contests, what the editor's said, from my friends.

It's almost like being there.

Westerns -- Continued

Here's the pics I couldn't upload yesterday. Handsome cowboys, aren't they? And the roles they played made a lasting impression on so many lives. High Noon is one of the classic westerns of our time, speaking of raw courage and commitment. I can watch this movie a hundred times. And Cheyenne? Who was he exactly? I never could figure that out! He seemed to roam from town to town, getting himself in some sort of trouble wherever he went. A real serious cowboy dude. And then there's Little Joe Cartwright. His character was multi-dimensional and Michael Landon played him so expertly. Sometimes serious, but mostly he lent humor and fun to the show, teasing Hoss no end with his cocky, mocking smile that we all came to love. There's so many other westerns that I loved, a fading light on the horizon, it seems. Where are the good westerns now? Have we moved on, grown out of that era? I hope not. I'd love to see more and read more and write more.

Westerns - How much I love them!

I wonder how many females cringe at the thought of watching a classic old western movie with John Wayne or Gary Cooper or Jimmy Stewart? Or how many women actually get excited when a new television mini-series shows up, like Lonesome Dove and the recent two-parter, Broken Trail? How many of us of the gentler sex actually tape or TVO old series like Bonanza, Big Valley, Rifleman and Cheyenne?

Well, count me among the women who do! I know it's crazy. I keep telling my husband its one of the many reasons he should be glad he married me. I can't help it! I love stories of the old west. I love the history, the drama, the whole time period thrills me. Okay, it's also not hard on the eyes to watch those hunky cowboys. Who didn't love Michael Landon as Little Joe? And what woman alive wouldn't like to have Cheyenne Body aka Clint Walker, rescue her?

What's really great is that there's an abundance of these movies and TV shows on cable these days. Right now, I have a few episodes of Big Valley and a couple of classic westerns waiting for me to watch on my DVR. It's great for my research in that it gets me in the mood, gives me ideas for scenery, for settings and for storylines. But I will admit most of my true research comes from my extensive library of books on the time period that I've collected over recent years.

So, now I'm reading a great western romance by my friend and great writer, Cheryl St. John as I head off onto the trails of my newest story, Bodine's Bounty. This one is just in proposal stage at the moment. And then, I'll be writing a western anthology for Harlequin called Spring Brides for 2008! So, I have lots of ways to get motivated. Lots of fun reading and writing ahead. But honestly, for me it's no chore. I love those stories!

My "Devil" Cat, Skittles

Part of the problem is that Skittles is half-Siamese, we're told. She is an amazingly sweet loving cat -- to us. But she's fickle and sometimes she allows visitors, actually welcomes them and might even rub up against them when they're sitting in my kitchen. But for some reason that we have yet to figure, she goes into "attack" mode, and most times it is completely unprovoked.

That's when she becomes vicious. This, she has never done to me, my husband or my daughter, but she has been known to go a little crazy when we're not in the room, arching her back, hair on end, hissing and making near-excorist sounds. And worse yet, she actually attacks, with claws out, striking at people in our house.

When she trapped my son in my bathroom, refusing to let him out, clawing at the door, growling and striking him, making his finger bleed, we just couldn't figure it. She'd known my son, used to sleep with him when he lived at home. And five minutes later, she re-emerged in the living room where we were all talking, as if nothing had ever happened. Short term memory? Crazy? It's weird and we joke about our sweet little lovable cat, who purrs, sits on my computer when I'm working, talks to us and sleeps on our bed at night, wondering about the Jeckal and Hyde syndrome.

It's gotten to the point that no one wants to come inside the house to feed her, when we're out of town! They're afraid she'll go into attack mode. And she has, in the past- biting the hand that feeds her, per se. So, I'm asking any of you, if you've had any experience with "devil" cats. And what to do about them.

Adorable, isn't she? Our tuxedo cat with dual personalities!

NEW CONTEST UP AND RUNNING

Be sure to enter my 2006 From the Heart Contest. It's up on the contest page, but here's a preview of the prizes. I love the new book/beach photo totes. All 3 winners will get that prize along with the three summer reads, Heiress Beware, Bunking Down with the Boss and Abducted at the Altar. And the grand prize winner will also receive a gift certificate to Borders!

Hump Day Funnies

Chuckles for the Day:

I felt like my body had gotten totally out of shape, so I got my doctor's permission to join a fitness club and start exercising. I decided to take an aerobics class for seniors. I bent, twisted, gyrated, jumped up and down, and perspired for an hour. But, by the time I got my leotards on, the class was over.

Reporters interviewing a 104-year-old woman: "And what do you think is the best thing about being 104?" the reporter asked She simply replied, "No peer pressure."

The nice thing about being senile is you can hide your own Easter eggs.

Just before the funeral services, the undertaker came up to the very elderly widow and asked, "How old was your husband?" "98," she replied "Two years older than me" "So you're 96," the undertaker commented She responded, "Hardly worth going home, is it?

I've sure gotten old! I've had two bypass surgeries; a hip replacement; new knees; Fought prostate cancer and diabetes; I'm half blind; can't hear anything quieter than a jet engine; take 40 different medications that make me dizzy; winded, and subject to blackouts. Have bouts with dementia. Have poor circulation; hardly feel my hands and feet anymore. Can't remember if I'm 85 or 92. Have lost all my friends, But, thank God, I still have my driver's license.

A 97-year-old man goes into his doctor's office and! says, "Doc, I want my sex drive lowered" "Sir," replied the doctor, "you're 97 Don't you think your sex drive is all in your head?" "You're damned right it is!" replied the old man "That's why I want it lowered!"

An elderly woman decided to prepare her will and told her preacher she had two final requests First, she wanted to be cremated, and second, she wanted her ashes scattered over Wal-Mart "Wal-Mart?" the preacher exclaimed "Why Wal-Mart?" "Then I'll be sure my daughters visit me twice a week."

The good news is that even as we get older, guys still look at our boobs The bad news is they have to squat down first.

These days about half the stuff in my shopping cart says, "For fast relief."

I've tried to find a suitable exercise video for women my age, but they haven't made one called "Buns of Putty."

Don't think of it as getting hot flashes. Think of it as your inner child playing with matches.

What Happens in Vegas - A Different Story

Yes, after sitting at the Roulette table and having a few too many Black Russians, I could talk about my escapades in the casino, but that would be a typical Las Vegas story, wouldn't it?

So I'd rather speak about the fun I had at visiting my cousin just north of Vegas, and his 14 horse stables. Although it was record heat, even for the desert that day, hitting temps of 126 degrees, I had to venture outside to visit these sweet, well-cared for horses. Being a avid reader and writer of westerns, I've learned and absorbed a lot about horses from books and internet sources, but there's nothing quite so intriguing as being there, looking those gorgeous animals in the eyes and really relating to them.

The gelding Royal a beautiful Arabian comes from Wayne Newton's stables and he's really a noble creature with a gentle nature. Cody, was headed for the glue factory, until my cousin adopted him, and Heather, who is an 18 year old mini, is really a horse and not a pony. Casper is pure white, like the ghost! I learned that a true thoroughbred can't have blue eyes and it's not good to have too much color on their stockings. The palominos are golden, with incredible blonde manes and paints have color on their white coats, looking exactly as if someone tossed a dark paint on them, whether it be black or tan or brown.

I've learned all of this through books as well, but to see these lovely creatures, pet them, feed them and spend time with them was the highlight of my Las Vegas trip, that and spending time with the family I don't see often enough.

Covers, Covers and More Covers

I'm happy to say that I've got three new covers to share with you for my summer releases! In August, I'll have a reprint of my third book by Kensington set in a downloadable format (actually 4 formats) with Cobblestone Press! The original title of MY GIRL has been changed to my inital title and one that works beautifully for this story, THE WAY TO A MAN'S HEART. We're shooting for an August release with that book.

Then again, in August my BUNKING DOWN WITH THE BOSS, is available in bookstores and all online sites and though my hero is a tad older and more world weary, I was still excited to see a hunky cowboy on the cover! And I was just informed and happily so, that BUNKING DOWN, has been chosen for Eharlequin's new EBOOK program, so that will also be available in a downloadable format in August as well and will continue to be offered that way in perpetuity!

And lastly, I'm thrilled with my new western historical cover for ABDUCTED AT THE ALTAR! My September release is my first non-hero/heroine cover. I think the cover artists did an excellent job!






I hope you enjoyed this preview! There's nothing more exciting for me to see my hard work depicted in such a lovely way. These are the last of my 2006 releases. It's always fun to see what the cover gods have in store for me. I'll have to wait until my next Desires come out in 2007 for the rest ... but for now, consider me thrilled!

The Power of a Name

It's amazing to me that I can't really start writing a new story, until all the main character's names are really cemented in my head. I'm beginning a new western now, called Bodine's Bounty, and yes, Bodine will be my hero, a ruggedly alpha male with only the one name. I don't think I even need to give him a first name - that's how alpha he is.

But for my heroine? That is what is bogging me down. It has to be just right. It has to be perfect. I can see her in my mind, what she looks like, how she dresses, how she walks, but so far - her name eludes me.

Why is it so important? I'm not sure. I guess I can attach any name to her and make it fit, but that's not how I operate. I've been plotting this story with my husband, who is BTW, a master plotter, even though he doesn't read romances (not even mine!) but between the two of us and a book on names, I haven't found the right one yet.

It's out there, somewhere and I know I'll find her name and it will fit my story to the letter, but I'm anxious to move on - to make the story come to life and enjoy the process. Until I figure out who my heroine is, I can't do that.

So what would you name a young wisp of a woman, with a slender body, long dark flowing hair, nothing remarkable about her face but incredible inky black almond-shaped eyes, and a lilting voice that could stop the devil in his tracks?

Contest Winner!

Congratulations to Lettetia Elsasser for winning my Spring 2006 From the Heart Contest. Second prize of two autographed books goes to Martha Lawson!

Thanks to all who entered.

New contest is starting immediately! Please enter and this time, there will be three winners picked, for the Triple Treat Contest -- all three Summer Sizzlers will be awarded along with other goodies. So, even though we haven't yet posted the prizes, don't hesitate to sign up.

Contest Update!

Contest winners have been picked and I'm happy to announce the grand prize winner:

Lettitia ElSasser

Congratulations!

As an added prize, two other winners were picked to receive autographed copies of my June and August Desires, Heiress Beware and Bunking Down with The Boss.

Tracy Allen

Martha Lawson

The new contest begins immediately! We'll be posting the prizes soon, but you can still enter my 2006 From the Heart Contest right now!

Happy Birthday, USA!

Happy Fourth of July everyone! I hope you have your fill of hot dogs, hamburgers, sodas, baseball, swimming pools, balloon tosses, parades, concerts and fireworks shows!

Be safe and enjoy our freedoms. Sending my love and thanks out to our men in uniform around the globe. Today and always I'm proud to be an American.

EXCITED ABOUT MY FAVORITE STORY

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I usually don't do this on my blog, but I'm excited to announce that the reviews are in for BUNKING DOWN WITH THE BOSS. Yes, it's a Silhouette Desire, but don't let the title fool you. It's the most emotional, heartfelt story I've written to date.

And it's my favorite.

You can't help but love sexy Sam Beaumont, the man running away from his past. I hope you get a chance to read this story. And you'll meet his hunky brother Wade, the hero in my current WIP, The CEO SEEKS REVENGE!

Cataromance 4 1/2 stars

Bunking Down With the Boss is one of those stories that will tug at your emotions. Charlene Sands shows us that taking a chance on love is always difficult. Both Caroline and Sam are dealing with issues that make taking that chance even more difficult. Loveable and realistic characters, you can't help but root for them to be true to their hearts and take that chance. An engaging tale, Bunking Down With the Boss proves that Charlene Sands is a gifted storyteller. I highly recommend the enjoyable Bunking Down With the Boss -- Debby Guyette

Romantic Times Book Reviews Magazine 4 ****

Blaming himself for his family's deaths, Sam Beaumont walks away from his father's company, all his money and his life when his daughter and wife are killed in a helicopter crash. Caroline Portman believes Sam is a down-on-his-luck drifter who could help her get her place ready for a re-opening when she hired him as a ranch hand. Though he fights it, Sam finds himself falling for the feisty widow with the big heart in Bunking Down With the Boss (4), Charlene Sands' emotional and enriching tale of redemption. -- Pat Cooper

Writer's Unlimited

Charlene Sands bring you into a story of grief over the loss of a child. Caroline fights for the right to be her own person, Sam has so much guilt that it seems to be eating him alive. I was drawn into this story and I felt I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to see if these two people could find love at the end of this story. Pick up a copy of Bunking Down With The Boss settle back and see how love can find a way. --- Helen Slifer

And here's my dynamite cover. I love those contemporary cowboys!

When a millionaire in disguise meets a Cinderella in blue jeans their romance
is guaranteed to be unforgettable.


Available for preorder on Amazon.com and on Eharlequin July 1st!

CONTEST ENDING -- NEW PRIZE ADDED!

Hi all,

I'm taking a break from my online class and my current work in progress, to add one more prize to my contest, ending this week. It's a Desire Tank Top, perfect for summer and exactly like the ones we all wore at our National Romance Writer's of America convention in Dallas! It was specially designed for us by Desire author Laura Wright's talented artist husband, and there's only a few like it. It's a silhouette hard body and says "What do you Desire".

I ordered extras just for my contest! Here's a pic of all of us wearing them at the Dallas Literary Signing. We had a blast!

THE CEO TAKES REVENGE

It's amazing how when I get to a certain point in my story, I can't seem to stop writing. I'm there now. I'm into the black moment, the second turning point of the story, where everything that looks good, goes awry. I love it. It's easy to write. Though, these scenes are pivotal, and I must chose my words carefully and the scene has to be written just right, it's really going well.

This is the time in the story where I wish there were more hours in the day. The story wants to pour out of me. I want to write until the conclusion. But I have other commitments, more to do today. Life happens, as they say. But if my eyes and brain could hold out, I'd love to sit here all day until I'm finished.

It's great to actually not find it a chore to sit at the computer. Now, I'm streaming along. I know exactly what will happen in each scene and how I plan on writing it. But my eyes are hurting now, and I have to do "life" things now, so I guess it's going to have to wait until later. Or tomorrow. Darn -- I was on a roll!

Husband and Wife Writing Team

The other day I had the honor of doing a booksigning and sitting next to Tori Carrington aka Lori & Tony Karayianni, who write for Blaze and now have ventured into single titles. First of all, I have to say that they are the two most delightful people I've met in a long time. I also wondered how in the world can a husband and wife write together, day in and out. But just seeing the two of them together, answered my questions. Tony is Greek and his beautiful accent is catching. Lori has a great sense of humor. They both do, and as they gave a little chat about their lives, the writing business, and how they tend to take risks, I saw how they work together.

Beautifully.

But as a team, I found that Lori does most of the writing and Tony does the plotting. They usually do a series of books, and have to use threads and tie-ins from their characters to continue the series to its conclusion. For that, you need a master plotter, and as they say, two heads are better than one!

What floored me entirely was when Lori said that they write 8 books a year. Now, that's impressive, but she went on to say after the book is plotted, it takes two weeks. TWO WEEKS! The books are 75,000 words. And these are highly successful, award winning authors. Still, two weeks?

And as they ventured into the world of single title, having their first hardback title, they say that the writing had to slow down. They wrote that book in one year.

I'm impressed with the two of them. They have been doing this for over twenty years, working and writing and promoting together. I wondered how many of us could work with our husbands? If my husband wanted to -- I think I'd love it. Though he's not a writer, he always helps me with plot. And he'd love to stay home and help me with the business of writing. Maybe one day....

COBBLESTONE PRESS

I'm happy to announce that I resold my 2000 Kensington romance My Girl to Cobblestone Press. The book will now revert to its original title - THE WAY TO A MAN'S HEART and will be sold as digital downloads as well as other formats on their site.

This is a story that's close to my heart, fashioned somewhat after my father's memory. "Pop" is gone now, but when his son, one-time high school jock and ladies man, Kyle Warren comes home to settle his small estate, he meets up with the girl next door. Christy is smart, pretty and available and just like in high school, refuses to have anything to do with Kyle. Will their mutual love of "Pop" finally bring them together?

I'll keep you posted when THE WAY TO A MAN'S HEART will be released. I'm happy this out-of-print book will finally be on the shelves again ... and only a click away for purchase. Check out Cobblestone Press.

Join Charlene for her comprehensive Online Class in June:
FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN - TOP TEN WRITING MISTAKES.
You know you're making a mistake if ....
For details and registration go to: http://www.occrwa.com/classes_June.html

Friends and Research!

Lately, and always, my friends and family have been a big help to me with my contemporary research. So this message is a big THANK YOU to them!

Presently, I'm writing THE CEO SEEKS REVENGE and I have to admit, I'm having a whole lot of fun with my alpha hero. I set the story on Catalina Island, a small tourist attraction off the coast of Los Angeles, that I've been to many times in the past. But not recently. And a good deal of the story takes place on the hero's yacht and I fashioned the boat to resemble my dear and longtime friend's yacht docked right here at Marina Del Rey. My friends have been wonderful in sharing their boating knowledge with me, offering to take me out on the boat again, (I've been many times, but not with an eye for research) and sharing their pictures and stories with me. It's wonderful to have friends I can rely on for research. Their generosity and willingness is greatly appreciated.

And last week, my cousin took a trip to Catalina for pleasure and offered to take many pics of specific areas I needed for my story. I have my own personal photographer! The timing couldn't have been better and again my thanks go out to them for their help.

Of course, if I could, I'd love to do my own research which means taking a trip to the island myself, but time is of the essence with the next few projects I'm doing, so I'm relying on my friends and family. They never let me down!

Join Charlene for her comprehensive Online Class in June:
FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN - TOP TEN WRITING MISTAKES.
You know you're making a mistake if ....
For details and registration go to: http://www.occrwa.com/classes_June.html

Don't Lie to Me -- The Break-Up

Usually, I'm not one to criticize, but the other day, after my husband recovered from a bout with the flu, we decided to see a light-hearted, fun movie. Neither of us were in for anything heavy. If we were, we might have opted for something different, but The Break-Up seemed like a good choice.

We sat there -- hoping that somehow this movie would get better. Get funnier. Get us out from the uncomfortable feeling of watching two people fight right in front of you. Oh - yes, there were a few funny lines. A few things that made us chuckle, but even a hardcore war story does that at times. Breaks the tension. This movie is one big lie. It's not a comedy. Not a romance and surely it shouldn't have been labeled a romantic comedy.

What's weird is that it was too real. The sadness in J.Anniston's eyes, the frustration, the anger she felt over a man she should never have married (they were as different as night and day) and honestly the husband, V.Vaughn had no redeeming qualities. Even the way the movie opened, proved him to be an annoying jerk and the next thing we see, the two living together, apparently, they skipped over all the happy times. Fast forward to a couple miserable with each other and trying to find ways to hurt each other.

Did I say real? It was so real, that I felt uncomfortable watching it, squirming in my seat, wondering where the comedy was? If they wanted to make a movie like that, fine-- but don't lie to me. Don't lead me to believe that this story would make me laugh, make me forget the daily grind of life. Make me believe there would be a satisfying ending. A Happily Ever After. This time -- I should have listened to the critics. This time -- they got it right.

Join Charlene for her comprehensive Online Class in June:
FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN - TOP TEN WRITING MISTAKES.
You know you're making a mistake if ....
For details and registration go to: http://www.occrwa.com/classes_June.html

Good-bye to Katie

I'm usually writing in the mornings, but when I take a break, sometimes I sit down and watch the Today show. It's been a ritual in my house for so many many years. I wasn't glued to the set, some segments didn't even appeal to me, but Matt and Katie and Al and Ann had, unwittingly on my behalf, become my comfort zone. If I needed a break, I knew I could turn on the TV and see Katie and Matt do interviews, sit on that couch and tease each other, find out the weather and the news.

I'm not crushed that Katie left. It's not that deep an emotion, but I will miss her. For someone who doesn't like change too much in her life, when I find my comfort zone, be it, TV shows, writing style, or family, I hate to see it go.

That's how I feel about Katie. And I forgot it was her last day yesterday. I spent the morning writing, and only later in the day, did I see ALL over the news, snipets of Katie's final farewall for the Today show. I know she'll anchor the news, but I don't watch network news, and that's not the role I'm used to seeing her in anyway.
So for me, who's sorry that I missed the last of Katie, good-bye and good luck.
I'll miss you in my comfort zone.

Join Charlene for her comprehensive Online Class in June:
FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN - TOP TEN WRITING MISTAKES.
You know you're making a mistake if ....
For details and registration go to: http://www.occrwa.com/classes_June.htm

What is it about a book that appeals to you?

I guess I've never really thought about it much before, since I'd just peruse the bookshelves at the store and find one I liked.
But now, as an author, I'm wondering when I go into a store specifically to buy a book, what intrigues me enough to dig into my wallet and come up with the $6 or $7 dollars to make that purchase.

I think the covers play a big role. A cover that despicts the story goes a long way. And it could be anything from a clinch cover, to a cover with lace and/or jewelry to a cover with just a man or women's face or body. The cover should go hand in hand with the title. The two should blend so perfectly that when a reader picks up the book, there's no doubt about what kind of story is represented. That's not always the case though and it takes a good art department to make a dynamite cover that meets up to the standards of the book.

The other thing I do is always read the back cover blurb. Does it appeal to me as a reader? Does it intrigue me? Do I really want to read this story? Back cover blurbs are hard to write. I'm glad I don't have to do them. Although, I've been asked to help at times, since no one is closer to the story than the author. But a dynamic blurb can help sell lots of books.

Then there's the inside pages. I love to read the first paragraphs of a book. It's a tell-all to what type of writing and storytelling I'm getting into. Ususally, it's the deciding factor for me. So, hooking the reader from page one is ultra important.

And lastly, I think author recognition is key. Many people wait for and buy books from their favorite authors. I was guilty of this too. I don't think it's a bad thing, it like going to the same restaurants over and over again, because you know the food won't disappoint. But it's nice to venture out sometimes. Lately, because I've read so many books from the same authors in the past before I became a writer, now, I try to buy a book from an author I've never read. In fact, it's something I do without exception. Every time I wander into a book store or buy online, I make my choice by trying a new author and maybe even a new genre. Granted, I love romance and don't care for stories that have little or no male/female relationships in them, I do tend to buy books that are either mainstream romances or suspense with romantic elements. But I might try a new regency writer, or a new light-hearted contemporary as well.

It's all good, as they say.

Join Charlene for her comprehensive Online Class in June:
FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN - TOP TEN WRITING MISTAKES.
You know you're making a mistake if ....
For details and registration go to: http://www.occrwa.com/classes_June.htm

AMERICAN IDLE

No, I didn't spell it wrong. I'm just going through withdrawals. So many shows that I watch, (which truly aren't too many) have or will conclude this week. American Idol (there, I spelled it right) will have its season finale tonight. I'm a big fan. I love the competition, seeing the different personalities and loving the challenges these young competitors have to meet. I can't say it's easy. Not many of us would have the nerve, the guts, the stamina to compete day in and day out.

So, last night, I stayed up until 11:30 and voted and voted and voted. There's a big difference between Taylor and Katherine, so I guess it depends on what kind of music you like. Personally, I've thought all along that the judges have been biased. They seem to really want a male winner. There has only been one so far. So tonight, we'll find out for sure.

I have to say I won't miss Randy's dawg talk, that gets old. Or Paula's repetitive comments. Where I used to think Simon was awful, now I see him as the only one that's real. But enough of that. I'll miss everyone. Lucky for me, Ryan Seacrest hosts KIIS FM in the mornings, so he'll still be around.

I guess, I'll just get more writing done in the evenings now. With no more new episodes of LOST, DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES, SMALLVILLE and MEDIUM, I'll be less inclined to turn on the television. That's a good thing. Maybe I'll even get out for a walk at night with dear hubby!

Why do I write romance?

Yes, I'm a romantic at heart. I believe in happy endings. Maybe I always have, because today is my 32nd wedding anniversary.

I was a child bride -- well, almost.

And I do believe that two people can share a life, with ups and downs and everything in between and love each other nearly unconditionally for a long, long time.

So when I write my romances, I have my own life and love in mind. Though, my stories aren't anything like the heartwrenching ones I often write. I met my husband in high school. We were young and we dated and to this day, we honor the day of our first date with the same enthusiasm as we do our wedding anniversary. I have my own real life hero who inspires me to write these stories. Thankfully, my real life isn't filled with too many conflicts -- yet, conflicts have to be there in our romance stories, or we DON'T have a story.

But what's the same is that my heroes and heroines always find each other. They realize their love and bond a future together by the end of the book. I'd like to think of them celebrating their 32nd anniversary as well, with as much love and devotion in their hearts, living their own happily-ever-after.

Join Charlene for her comprehensive Online Class in June:
FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN - TOP TEN WRITING MISTAKES.
You know you're making a mistake if ....
For details and registration go to: http://www.occrwa.com/classes_June.htm

Being Adventurous Pays Off

My friend and hairdresser once told me that she and her husband don't look in the newspaper to see when a movie is playing, they just go to the theatre and watch whatever movie is playing next. This way, they come to the movie without any preconceived notions. They are open to seeing something new, something they hadn't planned on, something they might never have even considered seeing. And most times, she says, they enjoy the show.

What a novel idea! Being a little anal, a person who needs organization in her life, someone who always plans ahead, I have to give them credit. I would never do that, though. I couldn't. There are too many taboos in my movie viewing life. I don't like scary movies. I won't sit through them. I don't like foreign films. My husband doesn't like chick flicks. We're not open. We have definite preferences. We plan on the movie, sometimes, he chooses, most times, I choose. (he's so sweet that way), but we are usually in agreement.

So, for Mother's day this year, we decided to put this to the test. Not with a movie, but with a restaurant. We drove down the street and found someplace we had never tried before. Of course, the restaurant had to have an A rating. That's the only stipulation. But we found this adorable Chinese place, with the nicest waitress and all thirteen, (my sister's family joined us) had a wonderful authentic family-style meal in an adorable setting and were pleased with the result. I have to say that it worked and now, I'm hoping to do this again. Just walk into a new place, without knowing anything about it, and hopefully, enjoy the meal.

Sometimes, we get into a rut. Sometimes, we aren't willing to try anything different. I have to commend my friend for her insights. I'll always want to Pick the movie I see ahead of time, but maybe I'm not so fussy about food. Tomorrow, my friends and I well try a new Mexican place for a birthday luncheon. I'll keep you posted. There really may be something to being adventurous!

Join Charlene for her comprehensive Online Class in June:
FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN - TOP TEN WRITING MISTAKES.
You know you're making a mistake if ....
For details and registration go to: http://www.occrwa.com/classes_June.htm

American Idol -What Happened?

I should probably be writing about writing, but today, I thought I'd express my thoughts about American Idol. What happened to Chris? I couldn't believe it! I have said all along that I thought Chris and Katherine would be the last two standing. And after Tuesday night's performance, my hubby and I who love Katherine too, decided she needed our votes. So, we voted 20 times, hoping to keep her in the running. Whether you like her or not, she does have a wonderful voice and can sing. Did any of you feel she'd been sort of sabotaged by the "Elvis" night. Don't get me wrong, I love Elvis. I'm probably one of his biggest fans, but even Simon said that Kat was coming into the night at a disadvantage.

So, maybe others like myself, thought we'd better pick up the phone and vote, vote, vote. I never thought that Chris (whom I think has the best male voice) would be ousted. Never. He was the odds-on favorite in Las Vegas. But maybe everyone knew that and felt like I did, that he had a strong enough fan base to keep him in.

Okay, so I'm making a big deal out of this. But what I love about our country and about American Idol, is that we have a voice, a say-so as to who should win and whose life will be dramatically changed by our choice.

It's hard to see anyone go off the show after going on the journey with them. All are different. All are unique. All can SING. I'm even considering going to their summer tour, when it comes to my area. But most definitely, it won't be the same without Chris and those beautiful brown eyes.

Join Charlene for her comprehensive Online Class in June:
FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN - TOP TEN WRITING MISTAKES.
You know you're making a mistake if ....
For details and registration go to: http://www.occrwa.com/classes_June.htm

Navy Seals -- They are for real!

Last week at a woman's club meeting I was invited to I had the priviledge of meeting a real Navy Seal. Not only was he an amazingly gorgeous man, but he was articulate, polite and humble. The cropped blonde haired, blue-eyed uniformed Captain Smith is everything we romance authors write about, when we write of war heroes -- a man having truly served eight tours in Iraq. The SEALS which originally stand for Sea Air Land, count 2500 today and it's as elite a club as anyone might guess. They are always looking for recruits, as only 10% of highly skilled, sometime Olympic athletes, can make the grade.

These men are the cream of the crop, and not just in the character they show, the stamina they have, but in the sacrifice they make to our country each and every day. We were shown a film narrated by Gerald McRaney about their lives, what they do, the training they take and the missions (in general- they can never be specific) that they accomplish. Autonomy plays a big role, so often their heroics go unnoticed by the average citizen, but they are out there, protecting us at every turn, in almost every major country in the world.

As a romance author, who loves to read (but haven't written) about these men in our romances, I have a much better understanding of just who these guys are. I'm in complete awe. And so grateful to have met Captain Smith and to know that we as writers do them justice by portraying them as the heroes they truly are.


Join Charlene for her comprehensive Online Class in June:
FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN - TOP TEN WRITING MISTAKES.
You know you're making a mistake if ....
For details and registration go to: http://www.occrwa.com/classes_June.htm

2005 Headlines -- For Fun!

Look at some of these headlines for a laugh!

THE YEAR'S BEST [actual] HEADLINES OF 2005:

> Crack Found on Governor's Daughter

> [Imagine that!]

>
Something Went Wrong in Jet Crash, Expert Says

> [No, really?]

>

> Police Begin Campaign to Run Down Jaywalkers

> [Now that's taking things a bit far!]

>

> Is There a Ring of Debris around Uranus?

> [Not if I wipe thoroughly!]

>

> Panda Mating Fails; Veterinarian Takes Over

> [What a guy!]

>

> Miners Refuse to Work after Death

> [No-good-for-nothing' lazy so-and-so!]

>

> Juvenile Court to Try Shooting Defendant

> [See if that works any better than a fair trial!]

> War Dims Hope for Peace

> [I can see where it might have that effect!]

>

> If Strike Isn't Settled Quickly, It May Last Awhile

> [You think?]

>

> Cold Wave Linked to Temperatures

> [Who would have thought!]

>

> Enfield (London) Couple Slain; Police Suspect Homicide

> [They may be on to something!]

>

> Red Tape Holds Up New Bridges

> [You mean there's something stronger than duct tape?]

>

> Man Struck By Lightning: Faces Battery Charge

> [he probably IS the battery charge!]

>

> New Study of Obesity Looks for Larger Test Group

> [Weren't they fat enough?!]

>

> Astronaut Takes Blame for Gas

> in Spacecraft

> [That's what he gets for eating those beans!]

>

> Kids Make Nutritious Snacks

> [Taste like chicken?]

>

> Local High School Dropouts Cut in Half

> [Chainsaw Massacre all over again!]

>

> Hospitals are Sued by 7 Foot Doctors

> [Boy, are they tall!]

>

> And the winner is....

>

> Typhoon Rips Through

> Cemetery; Hundreds Dead

>

> Now that you've smiled at least once, it's your turn to spread the

> stupidity

> and send this to someone you want to bring a smile to.

> (Maybe even a chuckle).

> We all need a good laugh, keeep laughing it will keep you

> young....

1900 Ladies Home Journal Predictions!

Let's see how many of these came true!

In a 1900 Ladies Home Journal magazine these were the predictions for 2005:

There will be no C, X, or Q in the Alphabet because common phonetic spelling will make these letters obsolete. (Oh really?)

Those new fangled automobiles will replace all horse-drawn vehicles. (How astute!)

Hot and cold air will be available inside the house, much like hot and cold water. (Thank goodness for that)

The US Population of about 76 million will zoom to 500 million. (Missed it by 225 million)

Exercise will be so popular that anyone who doesn't walk 10 miles a day will be regarded as a "weakling". (Hand me the Wheaties, please)

People and events around the world will be brought into living rooms, seen and heard in real time through electronic connections of circuits and cameras. (Right on the money here)

Strawberries as big as apples and raspberries the size of baseballs will be common and will convince children they must eat healthy. (Wouldn't that be nice?)

English will still be the first language spoken in the USA, but Russian will be second. (No habla Espanol?)

"Flying machines" will carry powerful telescopes that beam back to Earth photographs "as distinct and large as if taken from across the street". (Super Shuttle anyone?)

I'm amazed at how many they got right here! But I'd never be one to predict the future in 100 years. I can't even keep up with the technology on my cell phone!


And announcing:
FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN - TOP TEN WRITING MISTAKES.
You know you're making a mistake if ....
Join Charlene for her comprehensive Online Class in June. For details and registration go to: http://www.occrwa.com/classes_June.htm

No Job is Secure -- LOST

I'm a huge fan of the TV Show LOST and have been watching it since the beginning. And I have to say, it's innovative and mind-boggling at the same time. No one is safe on the island, so beware of getting too attached to the characters.

I recall an interview with one of the major cast members who said that they never know who's going off the show. No job is secure. I would venture to say that Matthew Fox will be around a long time, and maybe one or two others have some degree of security, but last night's episode really blew me away. Just when we get to the point that we begin to "like" a character or at least understand them, they kill them off. Or they just disappear. Last night, we lost two characters and I didn't see it coming until a second or two before it happened. I said "uh-oh" and sure enough, two cast members lost their contracts and their roles on the show.

I guess, keeping the audience guessing also keeps the show fresh. This show is unlike all others in that respect.

And another show that keeps us guessing is American Idol. I'm going to miss Paris. But my predictions so far are holding true. I think Chris and Katherine will be the last two standing. Who will win, is anybody's guess.

FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN - TOP TEN WRITING MISTAKES.
You know you're making a mistake if ....
Join Charlene for her comprehensive Online Class in June. For details and registration go to: http://www.occrwa.com/classes_June.htm

FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN!

Announcing my June ONLINE WORKSHOP for aspiring and new writers: FORGIVE ME, DAVID LETTERMAN – TOP TEN WRITING MISTAKES . You know you’re making a mistake if ....

For those of you who have made some writing mistakes and don't know where you're going wrong, if you've been rejected time and again, if you're new to writing romance and need helpful hints and guidance, or if you're simply trying to hone your skills, this workshop is for you. In a hands-on approach, I'll help you wade through these blunders to shine up your manuscript and catch the editor's eye. Take it from an expert -- in making mistakes. I can honestly admit that I've made every one of these mistakes in the past. The trick is to learn to recognize them and never make the same mistake twice, thus leading you to getting published faster.


Here's a brief synopsis of this month-long class:

After recently polling both editors and authors alike, Charlene has
compiled a checklist of writing mistakes that bog a manuscript down. Some are classic taboos in the writing world and others are mistakes that a writer can easily overlook in their manuscript while trying to get the story right. Learn to recognize these mistakes BEFORE you make them and learn how to FIX the ones you may have already made.

In this workshop, you'll hone your skills on description, dialogue, plot, characters, emotion and much, much more. Charlene will give you hints and tips on writing a compelling manuscript as well as help you recognize flaws in your writing. Be prepared to work on conflict, hooks and putting the romance first!

To register go to: http://www.occrwa.com/classes_June.htm

Hope to see you there!

Where is Spring?

I guess we are spoiled in California, because we are used to such great weather each and every day. Even when it rains, usually the sun sneaks out from behind the clouds at some point. We've had our share of rain this season, but no sun and it's taking its toll on all of us who thrive on sunshine.

We simply aren't used to it. Everywhere I go, the subject is the weather. "How is it out there?" the bankteller asks and we grumble for a minute about how we are missing our spring. The same holds true of the grocery clerk, the salespeople in the malls, waiters, teachers. Everyone has weather on their minds.

Yesterday was the exception. The sun came bursting through the dawn and we had sunshine all day long. All DAY. Everyone was outside in my neighborhood, washing cars, working on their lawns, gossiping with neighbors. Heat and cloudless blue skies brings people out, socializing. We relished it. Ah ... spring, though late is finally here. The temperature soared in the high 80's and nobody complained. We loved it.

But we had a false sense of security. We were granted one day of glorious sunshine, but this morning, fog has set in. The sky is a gloomy murky gray. Our moods match. It's the beginning of May, spring is halfway through, and our patience wanes.

We are creatures of habit. We are spoiled. We have moderate temperatures, but it's not enough. We need our sunshine.

Where is spring?