Shelley Justice's Blog - Posts Tagged "knight-s-haven"
Excerpt from Knight's Haven
Here's an excerpt from my debut romantic suspense book, Knight's Haven. This scene is the first time the hero, Tristin Knight, meets the heroine, Kat Walsh. Tristin plans to spend the day interviewing computer analysts for a vacancy in his new company, Knight Security and Investigations (KSI). Kat is in need of a job and is determined to get the one at KSI. This scene will also introduce you to Tristin's twin brother, Travis. I hope you enjoy this excerpt:
Tristin’s efforts to start his workday were interrupted by his brother sailing through his office door without bothering with a knock. Travis was dressed more for a day at his job than a day at KSI, and Tristin decided against teasing him about that fact. As much as he would love his twin to join him in building his company, Travis was successful operating his own business, Knight and Day Fitness Center.
Growing up, the brothers were inseparable, but as they grew older, they chose different paths for their lives. Tristin enlisted in the military while Travis opted for the police academy, eventually rising to the ranks of detective and developing his skills as a computer programmer. Tristin was still serving with the SEALS when Travis decided to shift careers for something he could call his own.
As lucrative as the fitness center was, Tristin couldn’t stop wishing his brother would come on board at KSI. The two Knight brothers joining forces to set the world on fire was a tempting dream. Unfortunately, he settled for having Travis fill in when Tristin needed him.
“You’re just in time to help me interview computer geeks to take Justin’s place.” Tristin greeted his brother with his most charming smile.
“Don’t think so, baby brother.”
Tristin scowled at his brother, who grinned in response. Travis enjoyed rubbing in the fact he was born a whole two minutes before his twin.
“I’ve got my own work to do. But I have your equipment set up. Justin spared no expense, and you’ve got a high-quality command center in place. You just need someone to operate it.”
“No kidding,” Tristin groaned.
“It’ll work out. I told Callie to call me if I need to vet anyone you want to hire.”
“Thanks for your help, man. Meet up at Torch later?” Tristin was already looking forward to grabbing a beer at their favorite bar and grill later.
“Can’t. Got a date. And now I have to get to work. Later, Tryst.”
Before Travis could leave, the door flew open. A woman Tristin had never seen before stumbled in. She stood in front of the two brothers slightly out of breath. Tristin barely noticed how her head swiveled as she studied the brothers. As if something struck him dumb, he stood rooted to the floor, his body aflame as he committed everything about this woman to memory.
She stood just a few inches shorter than his 6’1” frame. Her suit jacket and slacks fit her willowy frame well. Her dark hair was pulled away from her face, the ebony tendrils falling down her back. Flawless olive skin complemented her full pink lips and wide eyes.
Those eyes held Tristin captive. They slanted slightly at the corners, their dark pools fathomless even as they registered her surprise. They were fringed with thick, inky lashes.
“There are two of you.”
Her stating the obvious was not an uncommon occurrence for the brothers. They’d heard it more than once when people met them without first knowing they were twins. It ranked right up there with “you look just alike” and “you must be twins.”
The woman covered her mouth as if she never meant for the words to pass her lips, and she closed those amazing eyes. Tristin had never seen anything so adorable. He almost begged her to open her eyes, already missing their dark beauty.
“There are, but not for long,” Travis spoke up. “I was just leaving. I’m guessing you’re here to talk to the boss.”
Callie followed close on the woman’s heels, giving her a glare before addressing her boss. “I’m sorry, Tristin. She ran past me before I could stop her. Want me to call Jay or Jordan to escort her out?”
“No.” Tristin wasn’t usually this blunt, but his mind couldn’t think of anything else to say, but he knew without a doubt he did not want this woman to leave.
“All right,” Callie said reluctantly, eyeing her boss curiously. “Just let me know if you change your mind.”
The door closed behind his assistant, and the stranger dropped her hand as she opened her eyes. Tristin saw the sudden burst of confidence infusing into her expression and her stance.
“Um, sorry about that. I just didn’t want to miss an opportunity to talk with you. I’m here for the computer analyst job. I know you have a day full of interviews, and I technically don’t have an appointment, but I’m definitely the one you want to hire. I’m the perfect person for the job. It would be a mistake to talk to anyone else.”
Her voice washed over Tristin, warming his blood. She spoke clearly with a gentle huskiness he’d never heard in a woman’s voice before. His imagination transported him to his bedroom, with her lying naked on his sheets, her dark hair spread across his pillow. And she whispered with her sexy voice directly into his ear, describing all the naughty things she wanted him to do to her.
Tristin felt his brother regarding him curiously since he had not yet spoken to the woman barging into his office. He wasn’t sure he could escape the sexual haze fogging his senses.
“Well,” Travis continued when his brother failed to make a sound. “That’s a bold claim to make.”
“I can back it up,” she quickly said. “I was recruited while I was in college to work for Bingham Technologies as part of their programming team. Since they were a small company, I’ve done everything from computer programming to web development to cyber security.”
“Bingham Technologies? I’ve read about them. They’re a top-rate company, but I heard they had some financial difficulties,” Travis said.
She pursed her lips, and Tristin fought the overwhelming urge to kiss that full mouth.
“Yes, that’s true. To be completely honest with you, I was laid off from the company when they decided to close due to their financial troubles. But it doesn’t change the fact my skill set makes me the ideal person for this job,” she insisted.
“What’s your name?” Tristin finally spoke. He could care less about her qualifications for the job, but he burned to know more about her – what she liked, what she hated, what she was passionate about. But he would start with her name.
“Oh, I guess I should have told you already. I’m Katarina Walsh.”
“Katarina,” he repeated, savoring the feel of her name on his lips.
She cleared her throat. “Actually, most people call me Kat. Katarina is such a mouthful to say.”
Her name was beautiful and suited her. He wanted to tell her, but his mind wouldn’t communicate with his tongue to voice the words. Again, Travis came to his rescue.
“Well, Miss Walsh, my brother has a lot of people to interview today. Why don’t you just leave your resume with Callie at the front desk, and they’ll be in touch.”
“I can do that, but I don’t need one to tell you what you’ll figure out after interviewing just one of the people on your schedule today. I’m different from all of them. Do you know what your first candidate is doing right now? He is on his phone. Do you know what that means? He has a life and outside interests to distract him from his work. I have no such issue. I’m new to town, and I can promise you I will live, eat and breathe this job. I know that’s what you need being a new company. I promise you, Mr. Knight, you will not regret taking a chance on me.”
Her dark eyes flashed with the same fervor lacing her words. Her cheeks flushed becomingly from her passionate speech. Travis opened his mouth, but this time, Tristin beat him to the punch.
“The job is yours. When can you start?”
Shelley Justice
Knight's Haven
Tristin’s efforts to start his workday were interrupted by his brother sailing through his office door without bothering with a knock. Travis was dressed more for a day at his job than a day at KSI, and Tristin decided against teasing him about that fact. As much as he would love his twin to join him in building his company, Travis was successful operating his own business, Knight and Day Fitness Center.
Growing up, the brothers were inseparable, but as they grew older, they chose different paths for their lives. Tristin enlisted in the military while Travis opted for the police academy, eventually rising to the ranks of detective and developing his skills as a computer programmer. Tristin was still serving with the SEALS when Travis decided to shift careers for something he could call his own.
As lucrative as the fitness center was, Tristin couldn’t stop wishing his brother would come on board at KSI. The two Knight brothers joining forces to set the world on fire was a tempting dream. Unfortunately, he settled for having Travis fill in when Tristin needed him.
“You’re just in time to help me interview computer geeks to take Justin’s place.” Tristin greeted his brother with his most charming smile.
“Don’t think so, baby brother.”
Tristin scowled at his brother, who grinned in response. Travis enjoyed rubbing in the fact he was born a whole two minutes before his twin.
“I’ve got my own work to do. But I have your equipment set up. Justin spared no expense, and you’ve got a high-quality command center in place. You just need someone to operate it.”
“No kidding,” Tristin groaned.
“It’ll work out. I told Callie to call me if I need to vet anyone you want to hire.”
“Thanks for your help, man. Meet up at Torch later?” Tristin was already looking forward to grabbing a beer at their favorite bar and grill later.
“Can’t. Got a date. And now I have to get to work. Later, Tryst.”
Before Travis could leave, the door flew open. A woman Tristin had never seen before stumbled in. She stood in front of the two brothers slightly out of breath. Tristin barely noticed how her head swiveled as she studied the brothers. As if something struck him dumb, he stood rooted to the floor, his body aflame as he committed everything about this woman to memory.
She stood just a few inches shorter than his 6’1” frame. Her suit jacket and slacks fit her willowy frame well. Her dark hair was pulled away from her face, the ebony tendrils falling down her back. Flawless olive skin complemented her full pink lips and wide eyes.
Those eyes held Tristin captive. They slanted slightly at the corners, their dark pools fathomless even as they registered her surprise. They were fringed with thick, inky lashes.
“There are two of you.”
Her stating the obvious was not an uncommon occurrence for the brothers. They’d heard it more than once when people met them without first knowing they were twins. It ranked right up there with “you look just alike” and “you must be twins.”
The woman covered her mouth as if she never meant for the words to pass her lips, and she closed those amazing eyes. Tristin had never seen anything so adorable. He almost begged her to open her eyes, already missing their dark beauty.
“There are, but not for long,” Travis spoke up. “I was just leaving. I’m guessing you’re here to talk to the boss.”
Callie followed close on the woman’s heels, giving her a glare before addressing her boss. “I’m sorry, Tristin. She ran past me before I could stop her. Want me to call Jay or Jordan to escort her out?”
“No.” Tristin wasn’t usually this blunt, but his mind couldn’t think of anything else to say, but he knew without a doubt he did not want this woman to leave.
“All right,” Callie said reluctantly, eyeing her boss curiously. “Just let me know if you change your mind.”
The door closed behind his assistant, and the stranger dropped her hand as she opened her eyes. Tristin saw the sudden burst of confidence infusing into her expression and her stance.
“Um, sorry about that. I just didn’t want to miss an opportunity to talk with you. I’m here for the computer analyst job. I know you have a day full of interviews, and I technically don’t have an appointment, but I’m definitely the one you want to hire. I’m the perfect person for the job. It would be a mistake to talk to anyone else.”
Her voice washed over Tristin, warming his blood. She spoke clearly with a gentle huskiness he’d never heard in a woman’s voice before. His imagination transported him to his bedroom, with her lying naked on his sheets, her dark hair spread across his pillow. And she whispered with her sexy voice directly into his ear, describing all the naughty things she wanted him to do to her.
Tristin felt his brother regarding him curiously since he had not yet spoken to the woman barging into his office. He wasn’t sure he could escape the sexual haze fogging his senses.
“Well,” Travis continued when his brother failed to make a sound. “That’s a bold claim to make.”
“I can back it up,” she quickly said. “I was recruited while I was in college to work for Bingham Technologies as part of their programming team. Since they were a small company, I’ve done everything from computer programming to web development to cyber security.”
“Bingham Technologies? I’ve read about them. They’re a top-rate company, but I heard they had some financial difficulties,” Travis said.
She pursed her lips, and Tristin fought the overwhelming urge to kiss that full mouth.
“Yes, that’s true. To be completely honest with you, I was laid off from the company when they decided to close due to their financial troubles. But it doesn’t change the fact my skill set makes me the ideal person for this job,” she insisted.
“What’s your name?” Tristin finally spoke. He could care less about her qualifications for the job, but he burned to know more about her – what she liked, what she hated, what she was passionate about. But he would start with her name.
“Oh, I guess I should have told you already. I’m Katarina Walsh.”
“Katarina,” he repeated, savoring the feel of her name on his lips.
She cleared her throat. “Actually, most people call me Kat. Katarina is such a mouthful to say.”
Her name was beautiful and suited her. He wanted to tell her, but his mind wouldn’t communicate with his tongue to voice the words. Again, Travis came to his rescue.
“Well, Miss Walsh, my brother has a lot of people to interview today. Why don’t you just leave your resume with Callie at the front desk, and they’ll be in touch.”
“I can do that, but I don’t need one to tell you what you’ll figure out after interviewing just one of the people on your schedule today. I’m different from all of them. Do you know what your first candidate is doing right now? He is on his phone. Do you know what that means? He has a life and outside interests to distract him from his work. I have no such issue. I’m new to town, and I can promise you I will live, eat and breathe this job. I know that’s what you need being a new company. I promise you, Mr. Knight, you will not regret taking a chance on me.”
Her dark eyes flashed with the same fervor lacing her words. Her cheeks flushed becomingly from her passionate speech. Travis opened his mouth, but this time, Tristin beat him to the punch.
“The job is yours. When can you start?”
Shelley Justice
Knight's Haven
How Knight's Haven Came To Be
One question I've been asked recently is how I found the inspiration for Tristin and Kat's story in Knight's Haven. Oddly enough, this book was not meant to be the first in the series.
Publishing a book has been a dream of mine since I was 13, but the timing wasn't right for me to pursue it until about a couple of years ago. At the time I made the decision, I was in the middle of writing what would become Knight's Rescue - Book Two of the Knight's of KSI Series.
Knight's Rescue was meant to be the first book in the series. It introduces Cole and Sydney and follows the ups and downs of their love story. Tristin and Kat are the supporting characters who move the hero and heroine forward in the story.
When Knight's Rescue was finished, I was talking with a friend of mine when the idea to write Tristin and Kat's story hit me. It was meant to be a novella that would be published as a prequel to the series.
But Tristin and Kat refused to let their story be reduced to a novella, and before I knew it, I was publishing their story as a book to kick off the series.
I will say Knight's Haven will probably be the shortest book of the series, but it's certainly been a fantastic start to my publishing career.
Now that you know how Tristin and Kat came to be, you can prepare yourself for Knight's Rescue, on schedule to be released in November.
As I've said already, you haven't met the hero and heroine yet, but many of your favorites from Knight's Haven will make an appearance, including Tryst and Kat.
I'll be sharing more about Knight's Rescue soon, but in the meantime, keep reading and sharing Knight's Haven with others.
All my best...
Shelley JShelley JusticeKnight's Haven
Publishing a book has been a dream of mine since I was 13, but the timing wasn't right for me to pursue it until about a couple of years ago. At the time I made the decision, I was in the middle of writing what would become Knight's Rescue - Book Two of the Knight's of KSI Series.
Knight's Rescue was meant to be the first book in the series. It introduces Cole and Sydney and follows the ups and downs of their love story. Tristin and Kat are the supporting characters who move the hero and heroine forward in the story.
When Knight's Rescue was finished, I was talking with a friend of mine when the idea to write Tristin and Kat's story hit me. It was meant to be a novella that would be published as a prequel to the series.
But Tristin and Kat refused to let their story be reduced to a novella, and before I knew it, I was publishing their story as a book to kick off the series.
I will say Knight's Haven will probably be the shortest book of the series, but it's certainly been a fantastic start to my publishing career.
Now that you know how Tristin and Kat came to be, you can prepare yourself for Knight's Rescue, on schedule to be released in November.
As I've said already, you haven't met the hero and heroine yet, but many of your favorites from Knight's Haven will make an appearance, including Tryst and Kat.
I'll be sharing more about Knight's Rescue soon, but in the meantime, keep reading and sharing Knight's Haven with others.
All my best...
Shelley JShelley JusticeKnight's Haven
COVER REVEAL!!
I love writing. If you know me well, then this is no secret. But my second favorite thing about this whole book development process is collaborating with a graphic designer on the book cover.
I worked with a talented graphic designer for the cover of Knight's Haven (Book One in the Knight's of KSI Series). Clarise Tan with CT Cover Creations was so fabulous to work with! I had this vision in my mind of what I hoped the cover would look like, and she exceeded my expectation.
So when the time came to design the cover for Book Two, Knight's Rescue, of course, I went back to Clarise for the design. I got the proofs this week, and immediately I was in love. The cover meshes well with Knight's Haven, but I think I like this one better. The color scheme and the overall design works really, really well with the photo I chose, taken by the talented Christopher John with CJC Photography.
So I'll be sharing a sneak peek of the cover for Book Two in my Knights of KSI Series this Friday, Oct. 9. Just follow me on my social media platforms for the cover reveal of Knight's Rescue.
Here's where to find me:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shelleyjusti...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorshell...
I worked with a talented graphic designer for the cover of Knight's Haven (Book One in the Knight's of KSI Series). Clarise Tan with CT Cover Creations was so fabulous to work with! I had this vision in my mind of what I hoped the cover would look like, and she exceeded my expectation.
So when the time came to design the cover for Book Two, Knight's Rescue, of course, I went back to Clarise for the design. I got the proofs this week, and immediately I was in love. The cover meshes well with Knight's Haven, but I think I like this one better. The color scheme and the overall design works really, really well with the photo I chose, taken by the talented Christopher John with CJC Photography.
So I'll be sharing a sneak peek of the cover for Book Two in my Knights of KSI Series this Friday, Oct. 9. Just follow me on my social media platforms for the cover reveal of Knight's Rescue.
Here's where to find me:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shelleyjusti...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorshell...
Did you know?
I had a cover reveal for Book Two in the Knights of KSI Series, Knight's Rescue, last week on my social media profiles. It was such a thrill to see this cover come to life because this book is very near and dear to my heart. Let me tell you why.
Two years ago, I made the decision to pursue a dream I've had since I was 13 - to write and publish a book. I am an avid reader of romance novels, so of course, that's what I wanted to write. Before I made the decision to publish, I was always writing, mostly for my own enjoyment and expression of my creativity.
The decision to publish came when I was about halfway through writing a romantic story that was already shaping up to be a pretty good book and the first in a series of books. So I decided to pour my heart and soul in that book and let it be my first one to publish.
In a snippy little plot twist to my real life, that book ended up being Knight's Rescue, the second book in the series, not the first. After I finished Knight's Rescue, I felt like Tristin and Kat deserved to have their story told since it was the story that began it all. So Knight's Haven was born and published.
As much as I loved writing Knight's Haven, Knight's Rescue is my favorite of the two for so many reasons. It introduces two new characters, Cole and Sydney. There is a villain, and there's a plot twist. There's action and romance (obviously). I just love the story so much.
So be on the lookout for Knight's Rescue, set to release on Nov. 10. I'll be posting a blurb very soon, and I hope to have it up for pre-order in the near future.
Two years ago, I made the decision to pursue a dream I've had since I was 13 - to write and publish a book. I am an avid reader of romance novels, so of course, that's what I wanted to write. Before I made the decision to publish, I was always writing, mostly for my own enjoyment and expression of my creativity.
The decision to publish came when I was about halfway through writing a romantic story that was already shaping up to be a pretty good book and the first in a series of books. So I decided to pour my heart and soul in that book and let it be my first one to publish.
In a snippy little plot twist to my real life, that book ended up being Knight's Rescue, the second book in the series, not the first. After I finished Knight's Rescue, I felt like Tristin and Kat deserved to have their story told since it was the story that began it all. So Knight's Haven was born and published.
As much as I loved writing Knight's Haven, Knight's Rescue is my favorite of the two for so many reasons. It introduces two new characters, Cole and Sydney. There is a villain, and there's a plot twist. There's action and romance (obviously). I just love the story so much.
So be on the lookout for Knight's Rescue, set to release on Nov. 10. I'll be posting a blurb very soon, and I hope to have it up for pre-order in the near future.
Knight's Rescue Preorder
KNIGHT'S RESCUE, Book Two of the Knights of KSI Series is up for preorder on Amazon!
I'm so excited for you to read the next book in this series. Knight's Rescue introduces a new hero and heroine. I wanted to share a blurb about the book to give you a sneak peek of what it's about:
She escaped her past once. She never expected to have to do it again.
Sydney Reede fought to overcome the fear born from two years spent in an abusive relationship. All she wants now is a hermit’s life where she never has to risk her heart or her peace of mind again. But a chance encounter brings her ex back into her life. This time he has a purpose for her, and he's not letting her go until he gets what he wants.
His life of service was over, or so he thought.
Cole Atwood is at loose ends after retiring from service as a Navy SEAL. He agrees to a temporary assignment at the KSI security company. The job seems to be all he’s looking for, but there is more going on behind the scenes. He struggles to trust the new opportunity when the people around him are not what they seem.
Their paths collide, and there's no looking back.
A moment of terror drives Sydney into Cole’s arms, and passion ignites. They discover a love that burns quick and intense, but they can’t pursue their attraction until Sydney is free from her past. When her abusive ex proves more dangerous than they knew, they have no choice but to turn to Cole’s security team for help.
Will Sydney and Cole’s bond survive the danger as dark and terrifying secrets threaten their future?
KNIGHT'S RESCUE is set for release on Tuesday, November 10. It will be available in eBook and paperback. Those of you with a subscription will also be able to read for free in Kindle Unlimited.
Here's the link to preorder: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LCKC9QF.
I'm so excited for you to read the next book in this series. Knight's Rescue introduces a new hero and heroine. I wanted to share a blurb about the book to give you a sneak peek of what it's about:
She escaped her past once. She never expected to have to do it again.
Sydney Reede fought to overcome the fear born from two years spent in an abusive relationship. All she wants now is a hermit’s life where she never has to risk her heart or her peace of mind again. But a chance encounter brings her ex back into her life. This time he has a purpose for her, and he's not letting her go until he gets what he wants.
His life of service was over, or so he thought.
Cole Atwood is at loose ends after retiring from service as a Navy SEAL. He agrees to a temporary assignment at the KSI security company. The job seems to be all he’s looking for, but there is more going on behind the scenes. He struggles to trust the new opportunity when the people around him are not what they seem.
Their paths collide, and there's no looking back.
A moment of terror drives Sydney into Cole’s arms, and passion ignites. They discover a love that burns quick and intense, but they can’t pursue their attraction until Sydney is free from her past. When her abusive ex proves more dangerous than they knew, they have no choice but to turn to Cole’s security team for help.
Will Sydney and Cole’s bond survive the danger as dark and terrifying secrets threaten their future?
KNIGHT'S RESCUE is set for release on Tuesday, November 10. It will be available in eBook and paperback. Those of you with a subscription will also be able to read for free in Kindle Unlimited.
Here's the link to preorder: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08LCKC9QF.
Show an author some love
Reading has been my passion for as long as I can remember. My favorite way to spend the day is to get up, start a new book and read it cover to cover, stopping only when nature call or I'm interrupted by life.
When I find a book I love, I tell others about it. I might even loan the book if it's someone I trust and know where to find if I need to reclaim said book.
When I find authors I love, I let them know how much I love their books and how much I appreciate the work they've done in developing something I can use as an escape, something that takes me out of my head and transports me to a new world where I have all the feels.
I've laughed out loud, I've cried, I've grinned, I've sighed, I've turned to goo on the inside, and I've been angry at any character who treats the beloved hero and heroine terribly. I've even been so grossed out by an author's descriptions that I've had to put a book down before I passed out. (I'm very squeamish with a vivid imagination.) If a book can do any of that, it's given me an amazing experience.
Since publishing my book, I've discovered just how important this kind of thing is to an author. I've had a blast interacting with readers who share my love of the written word. I've loved reading their reviews and hearing them share with others how they've enjoyed my book. I've been searching out other books and authors they've read and loved to add to my own TBR list.
What I've learned from my interaction with other writers is that as a norm, we are an introverted group who write because the characters in our imagination won't let us rest until we do. But we also pour a part of ourselves into everything we write. The books may be fiction, but they are a part of us. Waiting to see how our readers receive them is like a teenager waiting for that first date. We're a bundle of nerves and anxiety, and secretly we're wondering what our readers ever saw in us in the first place.
And yet, we've learned to develop a thick skin, to ignore those who are malicious in their reviews and to listen to the ones who share honest, constructive criticism. It's a must, because at our core, we yearn to be better, and the constructive criticism helps us to recognize ways to improve.
So I encourage you, as a reader, to show authors love. First, if you enjoy their books, share them with others, or simply tell others about them. Some of the best books I've read were recommendations from others. Don't keep those treasures to yourself. Good books were meant to be shared and read by many.
Second, if you enjoyed a book, leave a review. It doesn't have to be lengthy or give an entire recap on the book. In fact, as a reader, I prefer reviews that don't include spoilers. Your review can be simple and to the point, but it goes a long way to helping an author out.
Third, if you didn't enjoy a book and you leave a review, be kind. In fact, in all we do, let us all be kind. We can share our opinions without making someone else feel small. No one is the best at what they do on their own. We all need help and encouragement along the way. Anything we do has a learning curve attached to it, and we can ease someone along on the journey with a show of kindness, even a small one.
I'm going to close with a simple thank you! Sometimes those two words do not seem to adequately express my gratitude, but it's all I've got for now. Thank you for reading my book, for engaging with me, for the reviews that have encouraged me, for the times you've shared my book with others, and for so much more than I can list here. Thank you! You have made this journey so much fun for me!
When I find a book I love, I tell others about it. I might even loan the book if it's someone I trust and know where to find if I need to reclaim said book.
When I find authors I love, I let them know how much I love their books and how much I appreciate the work they've done in developing something I can use as an escape, something that takes me out of my head and transports me to a new world where I have all the feels.
I've laughed out loud, I've cried, I've grinned, I've sighed, I've turned to goo on the inside, and I've been angry at any character who treats the beloved hero and heroine terribly. I've even been so grossed out by an author's descriptions that I've had to put a book down before I passed out. (I'm very squeamish with a vivid imagination.) If a book can do any of that, it's given me an amazing experience.
Since publishing my book, I've discovered just how important this kind of thing is to an author. I've had a blast interacting with readers who share my love of the written word. I've loved reading their reviews and hearing them share with others how they've enjoyed my book. I've been searching out other books and authors they've read and loved to add to my own TBR list.
What I've learned from my interaction with other writers is that as a norm, we are an introverted group who write because the characters in our imagination won't let us rest until we do. But we also pour a part of ourselves into everything we write. The books may be fiction, but they are a part of us. Waiting to see how our readers receive them is like a teenager waiting for that first date. We're a bundle of nerves and anxiety, and secretly we're wondering what our readers ever saw in us in the first place.
And yet, we've learned to develop a thick skin, to ignore those who are malicious in their reviews and to listen to the ones who share honest, constructive criticism. It's a must, because at our core, we yearn to be better, and the constructive criticism helps us to recognize ways to improve.
So I encourage you, as a reader, to show authors love. First, if you enjoy their books, share them with others, or simply tell others about them. Some of the best books I've read were recommendations from others. Don't keep those treasures to yourself. Good books were meant to be shared and read by many.
Second, if you enjoyed a book, leave a review. It doesn't have to be lengthy or give an entire recap on the book. In fact, as a reader, I prefer reviews that don't include spoilers. Your review can be simple and to the point, but it goes a long way to helping an author out.
Third, if you didn't enjoy a book and you leave a review, be kind. In fact, in all we do, let us all be kind. We can share our opinions without making someone else feel small. No one is the best at what they do on their own. We all need help and encouragement along the way. Anything we do has a learning curve attached to it, and we can ease someone along on the journey with a show of kindness, even a small one.
I'm going to close with a simple thank you! Sometimes those two words do not seem to adequately express my gratitude, but it's all I've got for now. Thank you for reading my book, for engaging with me, for the reviews that have encouraged me, for the times you've shared my book with others, and for so much more than I can list here. Thank you! You have made this journey so much fun for me!
Coming Soon
I have been working feverishly on a new release coming in February - my first release of 2021. It's Book Three of my Knights of KSI Series.
I'll be honest with you. This book was a beast to write. There were a couple of times I would trash several chapters at a time and rewrite them. There was once I even trashed the whole draft and started from scratch. I had ideas for scenes and plots that never flowed together the way they should have. Sooooo...yep, you guessed it! They got trashed...
I'm not sure exactly why I had such a difficult time, except to say as a newbie author, I'm still fine-tuning my process. And my process has to allow the story to come to me organically. No plotting. No planning. No trying to make the words fit the direction I think they should go. I have to let the characters direct me every step of the way. It can be frustrating, but man, is it fun!
The book is called KNIGHT'S TEMPTATION and tells the story of KSI's Alpha Team leader, Jay Colter, and social worker Payton Underhill, who was best friends with Jay's sister. Here is the blurb to give you a hint of what's to come:
She’s dedicated her life to helping others. Now she’s the one who needs help.
Growing up as a foster child, Payton Underhill found a purpose as a social worker aiding women and children. After failing to be there for her best friend when she was needed most, she pours her heart and soul into her work, even if it means bending the rules to be there for her clients. But she finds herself in over her head when a client’s trouble spills into her life. With a dangerous threat looming, being on her own is no longer a strength, but a liability.
He wants to put the past behind him. But with family, the past is never far away.
Jay Colter is ready to move on with his life. He caught the man who drove his sister to suicide, so now the past can be laid to rest. But he can’t say no when his mom calls for a favor, even if that favor involves the woman who ghosted his family when things got tough. His plan is to go in, solve her problem and get out without looking back.
When it comes to love and danger, nothing is ever easy.
Payton has been half in love with Jay for years, but she never expected him to show up on her doorstep like her wildest fantasy come true. He’s not going anywhere until the threat on her life is gone. And now it’s not only her life at risk, but her heart as well.
The release date for KNIGHT'S TEMPTATION is set for February 16, which, on an unrelated note, is my husband's birthday. It will be available on Amazon, and Kindle Unlimited subscribers can read it for free. Make sure to mark your calendars. I'm hoping to put the book up for preorder before the end of this month.
Thank you for your support. Happy New Year. Stay safe and stay well.
I'll be honest with you. This book was a beast to write. There were a couple of times I would trash several chapters at a time and rewrite them. There was once I even trashed the whole draft and started from scratch. I had ideas for scenes and plots that never flowed together the way they should have. Sooooo...yep, you guessed it! They got trashed...
I'm not sure exactly why I had such a difficult time, except to say as a newbie author, I'm still fine-tuning my process. And my process has to allow the story to come to me organically. No plotting. No planning. No trying to make the words fit the direction I think they should go. I have to let the characters direct me every step of the way. It can be frustrating, but man, is it fun!
The book is called KNIGHT'S TEMPTATION and tells the story of KSI's Alpha Team leader, Jay Colter, and social worker Payton Underhill, who was best friends with Jay's sister. Here is the blurb to give you a hint of what's to come:
She’s dedicated her life to helping others. Now she’s the one who needs help.
Growing up as a foster child, Payton Underhill found a purpose as a social worker aiding women and children. After failing to be there for her best friend when she was needed most, she pours her heart and soul into her work, even if it means bending the rules to be there for her clients. But she finds herself in over her head when a client’s trouble spills into her life. With a dangerous threat looming, being on her own is no longer a strength, but a liability.
He wants to put the past behind him. But with family, the past is never far away.
Jay Colter is ready to move on with his life. He caught the man who drove his sister to suicide, so now the past can be laid to rest. But he can’t say no when his mom calls for a favor, even if that favor involves the woman who ghosted his family when things got tough. His plan is to go in, solve her problem and get out without looking back.
When it comes to love and danger, nothing is ever easy.
Payton has been half in love with Jay for years, but she never expected him to show up on her doorstep like her wildest fantasy come true. He’s not going anywhere until the threat on her life is gone. And now it’s not only her life at risk, but her heart as well.
The release date for KNIGHT'S TEMPTATION is set for February 16, which, on an unrelated note, is my husband's birthday. It will be available on Amazon, and Kindle Unlimited subscribers can read it for free. Make sure to mark your calendars. I'm hoping to put the book up for preorder before the end of this month.
Thank you for your support. Happy New Year. Stay safe and stay well.
Want to Read
I did a thing today...
My writer's group met today, and part of our discussion was about all of the features available on Goodreads. While I was listening, I was clicking through my Goodreads profile and realized I could go ahead and post some info about my next release.
So here it is - the cover and the blurb for Knight's Temptation.
Feel free to add this to your "want to read" list. Its release will be here before I know it - February 16, which, by the way, is my husband's birthday.
This book was a challenge to write. No matter where I wanted to take the story, my characters had other ideas. As I'm finishing up with edits, preparing for the release, I realize that the story is just as it should be. I love Jay and Payton together. Their ties go way back, but the love between them is new and fresh.
I'm excited for all of you to read it! I hope you love it as much as I do.
My writer's group met today, and part of our discussion was about all of the features available on Goodreads. While I was listening, I was clicking through my Goodreads profile and realized I could go ahead and post some info about my next release.
So here it is - the cover and the blurb for Knight's Temptation.
Feel free to add this to your "want to read" list. Its release will be here before I know it - February 16, which, by the way, is my husband's birthday.
This book was a challenge to write. No matter where I wanted to take the story, my characters had other ideas. As I'm finishing up with edits, preparing for the release, I realize that the story is just as it should be. I love Jay and Payton together. Their ties go way back, but the love between them is new and fresh.
I'm excited for all of you to read it! I hope you love it as much as I do.
New Release!
I can't believe I'm five days away from the release of Knight's Temptation. There was a time not too long ago when I thought I'd never be finished with this book. At one point, I actually trashed thirteen chapters and started from scratch. That's like a gut punch to an author, but at the end of the day, if the words aren't flowing together, sometimes no amount of editing will fix it.
The story is about Jay and Payton. They are bound forever through their connection with Jay's baby sister and Payton's best friend, Addison. Those of you who've read Knight's Rescue know what happened to Addison and how that has driven Jay in the way he does his job as the leader of the KSI Alpha Team.
KNIGHT'S TEMPTATION tells more of how Payton is driven in what she does as a social worker who serves women and children. Payton and Jay are both haunted by their memories of Addison and how they feel they failed her.
When Jay shows up on her doorstep, Payton is not only slammed with memories of her best friend but also hit with the renewed force of her attraction for Jay - an unrequited infatuation that had been brewing for years.
Jay has always considered Payton the quiet, shy woman who trailed after his baby sister. Now, he sees her as a desirable woman who keeps him on his toes.
The problem with their growing attraction is that there is an imminent threat on Payton's life and Jay has been hired - by his mother of all people - to protect her and find out who wants her dead.
No need to worry. I promise you there's a happily ever after, and so far it's my favorite HEA in the series. Once I got over the initial struggle of writing this story, it turned into a book that I love! I'm so excited to share this with you.
I hope you'll go ahead and pre-order KNIGHT'S TEMPTATION, and if you enjoy, I hope you take the time to leave a review. The book releases this coming Tuesday, February 16, which just so happened to be my love's birthday.
In the meantime, I hope you all have a lovely Valentine's Day!
The story is about Jay and Payton. They are bound forever through their connection with Jay's baby sister and Payton's best friend, Addison. Those of you who've read Knight's Rescue know what happened to Addison and how that has driven Jay in the way he does his job as the leader of the KSI Alpha Team.
KNIGHT'S TEMPTATION tells more of how Payton is driven in what she does as a social worker who serves women and children. Payton and Jay are both haunted by their memories of Addison and how they feel they failed her.
When Jay shows up on her doorstep, Payton is not only slammed with memories of her best friend but also hit with the renewed force of her attraction for Jay - an unrequited infatuation that had been brewing for years.
Jay has always considered Payton the quiet, shy woman who trailed after his baby sister. Now, he sees her as a desirable woman who keeps him on his toes.
The problem with their growing attraction is that there is an imminent threat on Payton's life and Jay has been hired - by his mother of all people - to protect her and find out who wants her dead.
No need to worry. I promise you there's a happily ever after, and so far it's my favorite HEA in the series. Once I got over the initial struggle of writing this story, it turned into a book that I love! I'm so excited to share this with you.
I hope you'll go ahead and pre-order KNIGHT'S TEMPTATION, and if you enjoy, I hope you take the time to leave a review. The book releases this coming Tuesday, February 16, which just so happened to be my love's birthday.
In the meantime, I hope you all have a lovely Valentine's Day!
KNIGHT'S JOURNEY is here!
For those of you who have become fans of the KNIGHTS OF KSI Series, the story a lot of you have been waiting for is here! Introducing the story of Zane Wilder and Bridget Kincaid in Knight's Journey.
Zane has been fighting his feelings for his friend and co-worker, Sydney Reede, the heroine of Knight's Rescue (Book Two). The problem is that Sydney is engaged to his teammate Cole Atwood, and Zane has agreed to give Sydney away on her wedding day.
So what does the Alpha Team member do? He runs...straight into an undercover assignment to take down infamous gun runners. The De la Pena crime family was introduced in Knight's Temptation (Book Three).
So yes, that are references to previous books in the series. And yes, there are updates on some of our favorite characters from the previous books. But they are all standalone books. I want readers to read any of my books that interest them without having to worry about any kind of order. I've discovered some of my favorite authors this way, so this is a trend I definitely wanted to continue.
Now back to Knight's Journey. The story picks up a year into Zane's undercover operation. A meeting gone wrong has him crossing paths with Bridget Kincaid, who has recently moved her small family to Grayson Cove. Bridget is raising her teenage niece and nephew, but their grandparents are pulling out all the stops to steal custody away from her.
Zane and his three older sisters were raised by a single mom after their father's unexpected death. He understands Bridget's situation and is convinced to help her keep custody of her niece and nephew.
Bridget is smart and sassy and independent and smart and human. She's everything I love in a heroine, and she's everything Zane needs in his life. But our hero is torn - between the case he wants to close and the woman he wants to help. Throw into the mix their red hot chemistry, and complications ensue!
In keeping with any Shelley Justice book, this is a contemporary, romantic suspense story with a HEA. And a heads up for my faithful readers, there's a pleasant surprise at the end that I hope will having you saying, "Awwwwww!" I know I did when I wrote it.
Knight's Journey releases Tuesday, July 20, but it is up for preorder now! The ebook is ready, and I'm hoping the paperback will be ready when the book goes live tomorrow. Those of you with a Kindle Unlimited subscription will be able to read the ebook for free.
I hope you check out KNIGHT'S JOURNEY and leave a review here on Goodreads or on Amazon and Bookbub to let me know what you think. Happy reading!
Zane has been fighting his feelings for his friend and co-worker, Sydney Reede, the heroine of Knight's Rescue (Book Two). The problem is that Sydney is engaged to his teammate Cole Atwood, and Zane has agreed to give Sydney away on her wedding day.
So what does the Alpha Team member do? He runs...straight into an undercover assignment to take down infamous gun runners. The De la Pena crime family was introduced in Knight's Temptation (Book Three).
So yes, that are references to previous books in the series. And yes, there are updates on some of our favorite characters from the previous books. But they are all standalone books. I want readers to read any of my books that interest them without having to worry about any kind of order. I've discovered some of my favorite authors this way, so this is a trend I definitely wanted to continue.
Now back to Knight's Journey. The story picks up a year into Zane's undercover operation. A meeting gone wrong has him crossing paths with Bridget Kincaid, who has recently moved her small family to Grayson Cove. Bridget is raising her teenage niece and nephew, but their grandparents are pulling out all the stops to steal custody away from her.
Zane and his three older sisters were raised by a single mom after their father's unexpected death. He understands Bridget's situation and is convinced to help her keep custody of her niece and nephew.
Bridget is smart and sassy and independent and smart and human. She's everything I love in a heroine, and she's everything Zane needs in his life. But our hero is torn - between the case he wants to close and the woman he wants to help. Throw into the mix their red hot chemistry, and complications ensue!
In keeping with any Shelley Justice book, this is a contemporary, romantic suspense story with a HEA. And a heads up for my faithful readers, there's a pleasant surprise at the end that I hope will having you saying, "Awwwwww!" I know I did when I wrote it.
Knight's Journey releases Tuesday, July 20, but it is up for preorder now! The ebook is ready, and I'm hoping the paperback will be ready when the book goes live tomorrow. Those of you with a Kindle Unlimited subscription will be able to read the ebook for free.
I hope you check out KNIGHT'S JOURNEY and leave a review here on Goodreads or on Amazon and Bookbub to let me know what you think. Happy reading!
