The St. George Desert in Bloom

I took  a few photos of desert flowers on a recent hike near my home. I thought I'd share them with you.

This cactus will be awash in pink in a couple of days. See all the blooms to the right of the flowers?

When this post goes live, I'll be in Scotland researching material for my Scottish and Pict historical romances, the first of which will come out in 2014. I'm not sure if I'll have much internet coverage as I will be staying in hostels, but I will try to post pictures when I can. Happy blogging everyone!

Interview With Literary Agent, MacKenzie Fraser-Bub

MacKenzie Fraser-Bub, Literary Agent for Trident Media

My Literary Agent, the awesome MacKenzie Fraser-Bub, with TridentMedia, LLC, agreed to grant me an interview her for my blog. This is a special treat, and the first actual agent interview I’ve had the pleasure of posting. One thing I definitely can tell you, if you have the opportunity to work with MacKenzie, she will pull out every weapon in her arsenal to get your book sold—trained by the legendary Kimbery Whalen, MacKenzie has the power of one of the largest, most respected agencies behind her!

MacKenzie's Bio:

MacKenzie Fraser-Bub grew up around authors, manuscripts and publishing deals as the goddaughter of a former V.P. and Publisher at Random House, Inc. Her first job was as a reader for a major publisher, and she spent summers at the Radcliffe Publishing Course (now known as the Columbia Publishing Course) with a constant procession of publishing industry professionals. MacKenzie worked as an assistant to Kimberly Whalen and Scott Miller before leaving to experience life in a publishing house; she spent several years in marketing at Touchstone Books (Simon and Schuster) working closely with the advertising, publicity, and sales departments, before returning to Trident Media Group in 2013 as a Literary Agent. 

1.       What’s it like to work for Trident Media, one of the leading literary agencies in the U.S. and the U.K.?

So. Much. Fun.!  The agents are Trident are amazing - we represent authors in a wide range of genres, so there’s a diversity of talent and expertise here that truly spans the entire industry.  Everyone is super enthusiastic about their projects and authors. I love coming to work every day –  I look forward to reading what’s landed in my inbox, to hearing about other agents’ projects, and to a lively daily discussion about what’s going on in the world of publishing. 

2.       Web Presence:

a.       Twitter:  https://twitter.com/Trident_Media (TMG)

b.      Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/TridentMediaGroup (TMG)

c.       Web Site: http://www.tridentmediagroup.com/

d.      Find her on Query Tracker: http://www.querytracker.net/agent.php?agent=5129

3.       What are you looking for?

I am seeking women’s fiction, literary fiction, commercial fiction, romance, mystery, thrillers, new adult, and YA crossover.  I look for originality in concept and character-driven stories with unique, strong voices.   

When I read queries, I look for compelling opening lines, succinct plot summaries, and interesting bios.  You should grab me from the first line by making me feel the passion that you have for your story!  I appreciate short plot summaries that leave me wanting more; if you can tie your concept into a recent event or trend, that’s great too – I like it when authors are conscious about what’s going on in the world (literary and beyond!).  Finally, your bio is so important; I want to represent lively, energetic authors who are able to make even the mundane sound exciting. If you can find some way to personalize your pitch to me, I always appreciate that as well. 

4.       Anything you definitely do not want to see?

I have little affection for aliens.  I also know very little about children’s books and graphic novels.

5.       Do you have any advice for writers?

Read!  Especially in your subject or genre; you should be familiar with comparative authors and titles.  I also encourage writers to attend writing groups, workshops, classes, or book clubs – having others read and critique your work, even informally, is enormously helpful.  

When you’re ready to start querying agents, please take the time to read agency guidelines and ensure you’re submitting your material properly.  Once you’ve submitted your query or a full manuscript, patience is really important.  It’s hard – I get it! – but agents are really busy, and frequent follow up emails and requests for updates (even when polite) can be trying to agents whose inboxes are already (metaphorically) overflowing.   

Persevere!  If your query isn’t met with enthusiasm, retool it and try again.  If your manuscript is rejected, take the feedback and re-write.  Success isn’t always immediate – but the more you write, the better you get.  Always. 

6.       Are you and editorial agent?

DEFINITELY.  I constantly make notes while I’m reading.  I love working with authors on their projects and feel that the author / agent relationship should be very collaborative.  

7.       Accepted Query Methods:

Email. 

8.       Submission Guidelines:

You can read the guidelines on our website:  http://www.tridentmediagroup.com/contact-us .  When querying me, it’s okay to use either the form on the page, or email me directly – please don’t to both.

9.       What are your response times:

If I’m interested in your query, I’ll respond within the week and request the full manuscript; I try very hard to respond to requested submissions within a month.    

And here’s some fun stuff:

10.   What are some of your favorite books?

(This list excludes all of my clients, whose books, of course, are all on my FAVORITES list.)  The Great Gatsby is my all-time favorite, followed very closely by The Corrections.  I read everything John Grisham, Sophie Kinsella, Karen Robards, and Chelsea Handler write.  One of the best books I’ve read in the past year is The Next Time You See Me by Holly Goddard Jones.  Right now I’m reading Where’d You Go, Bernadette?, in addition to about ten submissions. 

11.   Do you have any pets?

I have an 11 year old liver and white Springer Spaniel that I am borderline obsessed with.  

12.   What’s your favorite food?

Toss-up: avocado or chocolate.  Basically, I could live on those two foods alone! 

~Boy I can relate to that, I could eat guacamole every meal!

~~Thank you so much for visiting my blog, MacKenzie! YOU ARE AWESOME!

A-Z Challenge - Z For ZZZZZZ ...and Zuchon

Of course, any dog's favorite pastime is catching some Z's. So for my final A-Z Challenge post, my dog is sleeping, just as my Chihuahua's do under my desk when I'm writing. I actually wonder how many hours they actually are awake each day. Two? Maybe.

I also want to add, I find crossbred dogs are usually healthy and happy....

If you fancy a crossbred canine, I'd like to introduce you to a Zuchon. They're a cross between a Shih Tzu and a Bichon Frise. They are adorable and spry long coated ones like the cuddle muffin in the picture to the right.

Here's wishing everyone in the A-Z Challenge all the very best, and if you're a writer, WRITE ON FRIEND!

For the A-Z Challenge, I have blogged about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my contemporary romance, Chihuahua Momma to be published by Turquoise Morning Press.


Come back tomorrow to see my interview with Trident Media's newest literary agent, MacKenzie Fraser-Bub.

A TON OF THANKS to Alex J Cavanaugh and the A-Z Challenge group. Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/ . This has been a fun challenge--I've had a dog of a time, and have made many new blogger friends! 

A-Z Challenge - Y For Yorkshire Terrier

 From the toy group, the Yorkshire Terrier is a long-haired toy terrier whose blue-and-tan coat is parted on the face and from the base of the skull to the end of the tail and hangs evenly down each side of the body. The Yorkie in this picture has a more practical "pet" cut.

Yorkies carry their head high in a confident manner that gives the appearance of vigor and self-importance. They are very spirited and independent. Dogs and bitches not to exceed 7 pounds.


For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma.

I want to give a shout out to Alex J Cavanaugh and the A-Z Challenge group. Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

Also--On Wednesday, May 1st, I will be posting an interview with my agent, MacKenzie Fraser-Bub of Trident Media. Come back to learn a bit about her and see what she's looking for!

A-Z Challenge - X For Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli comes in three sizes: Toy, Miniature, Standard, and two varieties: coated and hairless, with the hairless being the more sought after and popular variety. The Xolo comes in a variety of colors, from black to slate, gray, bronze, brindle, red, fawn, solid or spotted. The coated variety should have a full coat of hair that is short, sleek and clean, like that of a Doberman; with regular brushing it sheds very little. 

This is a robust and hardy breed, with a broad skull and a black or skin-colored nose. Almond-shaped eyes are dark. Its most noticeable characteristic is its large, upright bat-like ears.

The Xolo is intelligent, loyal, alert, athletic and extremely loving to its family. 


For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma.

I want to give a shout out to Alex J Cavanaugh and the A-Z Challenge group. Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

On May 1st, I will be posting an interview with my awesome agent MacKenzie Fraser-Bub of Trident Media. She's representing my Highlanders of Raasay series, and I'm thrilled she agreed to an interview. I've been writing Scottish historical romances for a while now, and I'm extremely excited to have found MacKenzie. Trident Media is one of the larger literary agencies in New York. I still can't believe I'm one of their clients!

A-Z Challenge - W for Whippet

Whippets are a small to medium sized sight hounds,
giving the appearance of elegance and fitness. They have great speed and cover maximum distance with a minimum of lost motion.

These dogs are amiable, friendly, and gentle, but capable of great intensity during sporting pursuits. Dogs are 19-22 inches; bitches are 18 to 21 inches.


For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma.

I want to give a shout out to Alex J Cavanaugh and the A-Z Challenge group. Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - V is for Vizsla

From the Sporting Group, the Vizsla is a medium-sized short-coated hunting dog. Robust, but with fine bone, the coat is an attractive solid golden rust. This is a dog of power and drive in the field, yet an affectionate companion in the home--A natural hunter with a good nose and keen ability to take to training.

Vizslas are lively, gentle-mannered, affectionate though fearless with a well developed protective instinct. Dogs are 22-24 inches; bitches 21-23 inches.

For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma to be published by awesome boutique publisher, Turquoise Morning Press. Other books coming out: Virtue in December and The Celtic Warrior Series in 2014.

I want to give a shout out to Alex J Cavanaugh and the A-Z Challenge group. Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - U for Ugly Dogs

Since there is no dog breed that starts with U, I thought I'd put a picture of my dogs when they were ignoring me. Not that my Chihuahua's are ugly, I just had a time trying to get all four to pose for the picture!

With four very distinct personalities, it's like having four children--sometime four very badly behaved children...until I raise my voice, and then they sap-to like a line of soldiers.


For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma.

I want to give a shout out to Alex J Cavanaugh and the A-Z Challenge group. Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

Then I must post the picture where I finally got all four to pose for the camera....

A-Z Challenge - T for Tibetan Terrier

The Tibetan Terrier evolved over many centuries, surviving in Tibet's extreme climate. The breed has a double coat, compact size and great agility.

The Tibetan Terrier is a devoted companion, is highly intelligent, sensitive, loyal, devoted and affectionate. Dogs and bitches are 15 to 16 inches and weigh between 18 and 30 pounds.

For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma.

I want to give a shout out to Alex J Cavanaugh and the A-Z Challenge group. Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - S For Schipperke & Shih Tzu

From the Non-sporting Group, the Schipperke is an agile, active watchdog and hunter of vermin. They are small, thickset and tailless with a fox-like face. The Schipperke is curious, interested in everything around him and is an excellent and faithful watchdog.

With a confident and independent personality, he is reserved with strangers and ready to protect the family if necessary. Dogs are 11 to 13 inches; bitches are 10 to 12 inches.

Shih Tzu Puppy

And for my friend, Wendy Aka Quill Feather, (visit her excellent blog) the Shih Tzu is an adorable dog shown in the Toy Group. Shih Tzu's are sturdy, lively and alert little dogs with a long, flowing double coat. Befitting his noble Chinese ancestry as a highly valued, prized companion and palace pet, the Shih Tzu is proud and has a distinctively arrogant carriage with head well up and tail curved over the back. A wonderful pet, its temperament is outgoing, happy, affectionate, friendly and trusting.

Dogs and bitches ideally 9-10.5 inches and 9-16 pounds.

For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma. And hey, a Shih Tzu named Fluffy has a spotlight in the book :-)

I want to give a shout out to Alex J Cavanaugh and the A-Z Challenge group. Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - R For Rottweiler

From the Working Group, the Rottweiler is a calm, confident and courageous dog with a self-assured aloofness that does not lend itself to indiscriminate friendships. He has an inherent desire to protect his home and family. With a strong willingness to work, he is especially suited as a companion, guardian and general all-purpose dog.

Dogs are 24 to 27 inches; bitches 22 to 25 inches.


For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma.

I want to give a shout out to Alex J Cavanaugh and the A-Z Challenge group. Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - Q For Queen's Dog

Most people are aware that Elizabeth, Queen of England, owns Welsh Corgis. Part of the Herding Group, these dogs are low-set, sturdily built and active, giving an impression of substance and stamina in a small space.

A Corgi is bold but kindly, with intelligent and interested expressions. Dogs are 10-12 inches and approximately 27 pounds; bitches are 10-12 inches, approximately 25 pounds.


For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma.

I want to give a shout out to Alex J Cavanaugh and the A-Z Challenge group. Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - P For Pekingese

Part of the Toy Group, a show pekingese resembles a mop of fur. The one in this picture is clipped more practically. the Pekingese's expression suggests a Chinese origin. This dog is quaint and individual, resembling the lion. Their temperament includes independence, courage, boldness, high self-esteem and combativeness.

Dogs and bitches not to exceed 14 pounds.


For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma.

I want to give a shout out to Alex J Cavanaugh and the A-Z Challenge group. Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge O For Old English Sheep Dog

I was getting ahead of myself! Now for O (earlier today I published P...but I promise I did learn my alphabet, just a very, very long time ago!)

A member of the Herding Group, the Old English Sheep Dog is a strong, compact, square and balanced dog. He is profusely coated, thickset, muscular and able bodied. These qualities combined with his agility, fit him for the demanding tasks required of a shepherd's dog.

They are adaptable and intelligent with an even disposition. They have no signs of aggression, shyness or nervousness. Dogs are 22 inches; bitches, 21 inches.


For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma To be published by Turquoise Morning Press. Other romance novels I have coming out are Virtue in December, and the Celtic Warrior Series in 2014.

I want to give a shout out to Alex J Cavanaugh and the A-Z Challenge group. Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

Sympathy for Boston Marathon Victims

Today I would like to express my sympathy and offer prayers for the victims of the Boston Marathon Bombings. Also, heartfelt thanks to my countrymen and women whose heroics saved lives. The nation is again in mourning. We shall overcome.

A-Z Challenge - N For Norwich Terrier

From the Terrier Group, the Norwich Terrier is spirited and stocky with sensitive pricked ears. With a fox-like expression, the Norwich is one of the smallest working terriers. They are descended from ratting dogs, eager to chase down rodents alone or in a pack.

The Norwich is gay, fearless, loyal and affectionate. Adaptable and sporting, they make ideal companions. Dogs and bitches not to exceed 10 inches. They weigh approximately 12 pounds.


For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma, published by Turquoise Morning Press.

Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - M for Mastiff

From the Working Group, the Mastiff is a large, massive, symmetrical dog with a solid frame. This dog possesses an interesting combination of grandeur and good nature, courage and docility. They are more dignified than lively.

Dogs should reach a minimum of 30 inches; bitches 27 inches.


For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma, Published by Turquoise Morning Press.

Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - L For Lowchen

Today's dog is the Lowchen, a rare breed, its origin is thought to be European, also nicknamed the Lion Dog.

His coat should be clipped in traditional lion clip, tail also clipped, topped with plume, giving appearance of a little lion.  These dogs are strongly built, active, well balanced and alert. The Lowchen is a gay, happy little dog. Intelligent, affectionate showing no sign of aggression. 

EYES- Round, dark, relatively large and intelligent.  Unbroken pigmentation of eye rims, pigment to be in accordance with coat color. EARS- Pendant shaped, of moderate length with long fringing. TAIL- Medium length, clipped with tuft of hair to resemble a plume. Height: 25-33 cm (10-13 ins) at withers.

For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma published by Turquoise Morning Press. It's about a dog breeder with two teenage kids. A widow, she hides in her grooming studio, until an ex-football star comes to buy a Chihuahua...

Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - K For Komondor

If my breed wasn't Chihuahua, I'd have a Komondor. A member of the Working Group, these are the coolest dogs on the planet with their long, corded coats. They have imposing strength and a courageous demeanor. An excellent house guard, they are wary of strangers. As a guardian of herds, they are faithful and devoted protectors.

Dogs are 25.5 inches, bitches 23.5 inches.

For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my novel, Chihuahua Momma.

Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - J For Japanese Chin

I had the pleasure of showing a Japanese Chin for a friend of mine. These are lively, high-bred little dogs with a dainty appearance. They are smart with a compact carriage and profuse coat.

Stylish, they lift their feet high when in action, carrying the tail over the back. In size, they vary considerably, but smaller is generally preferable.

I'm celebrating the release of my contemporary romance, Chihuahua Momma, to be released July 28!

Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

James Duckett: Book Bomb for Ben Wolverton

James Duckett: Book Bomb for Ben Wolverton: Ben Wolverton, age 16, was in a tragic long-boarding accident on Wednesday the 4th, 2013. He suffers from severe brain trauma, a cracked sku...

A-Z Challenge - I For Irish Wolfhound

Extremely large and of commanding appearance, the Irish Wolfhound combines power and swiftness with keen sight. The largest and tallest of the hounds, he is a rough coated Greyhound-like breed. Dogs are a minimum of 32 inches and 120 pounds; bitches, minimum 30 inches and 105 pounds...Holy smokes, they outweigh me!

Irish Wolfhounds have quiet manners and a gentle nature...thank heavens since they are so large.

I'm celebrating the A-Z challenge by introducing dog breeds since my novel, Chihuahua Momma will be released on July 28 by Turquoise Morning Press!

Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

Also, my friend, NYT Bestselling author David Farland is having a BOOK BOMB today to raise money for his son's horrific long boarding accident. Ben has many fractures and has been in a coma for a week. Please stop by the BOOK BOMB page on facebook, and if you are able, buy one of David Farland's amazing books: Book Bomb on Facebook

A-Z Challenge H For Havanese

A member of the toy group, the Havanese is a rugged and spry little dog. The legs are strong and allow for free and easy movement. The dark eyes and long tail are covered with long, silky hair. The abundant coat can be wavy, curly or corded. The Havanese is a double-coated breed with soft hair, both on the outer coat and undercoat. The adult coat reaches 6 to 8 inches, and has a pearly sheen. The Havanese comes in any color, including cream, gold, white, silver, blue and black. The gait is unique, lively and ”springy," which accentuates the Haveneses happy character. The breed is of solid physical type and sound constitution. 

I'm celebrating a new breed every day for the A-Z challenge, and to announce the release of my contemporary romance, Chihuahua Momma on July 28th. 

Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - G For Great Pyrenees

Today is G-day and my post is about the Great Pyrenees.  These are gentle giants, with dogs 100 pounds and up, bitches 85 pounds and up.

The Great Pyrenees conveys the impression of elegance and majesty. He possesses keen intelligence and a kindly, yet regal expression. Territorial, he will protect his flock or family when necessary.

His general demeanor is one of quiet composure, both patient and tolerant...I have Chihuahuas, which have none of these qualities :-) Though I am excited about the release of my contemporary romance, Chihuahua Momma on July 28th.

Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - F For French Bulldog

It's F-day in the A-Z Challenge and that stands for French Bulldog.

The Frenchie, as they are endearingly called, is an active, intelligent, muscular dog with heavy bone. They're compactly built with a smooth coat and of medium or small stature. A Frenchie's expression is alert, curious and interested. Well behaved, they are affectionate companions with an even disposition.

They are generally active and playful, but not overly boisterous. Dogs and bitches not to exceed 28 pounds.

I'm celebrating the A-Z challenge by talking about dogs. My novel, Chihuahua Momma will be released on July 28th--It's all about finding love through the crazy world of dog showing.

Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - E for English Setter

It's E-Day and today's dog is the English Setter of the Sporting Group.

An elegant, substantial and symmetrical gun dog, an English Setter is the blend of strength, stamina, grace and style. They have a gentle and affectionate temperament. They're friendly without shyness, fear or viciousness. Dogs are about 25 inches and bitches stand at about 24 inches.

My A-Z challenge is in celebration of my upcoming contemporary romance, Chihuahua Momma, to be released by Turquoise Morning Press on July 28.

Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A listing of A-Z participants can be found at the bottom of this blog.

A-Z Challenge - D for Dalmatian

Today is D-day in the A-Z challenge, and today's dog is the Dalmatian of the Non-sporting Group.

Clearly, the Dalmatian is a distinctively spotted dog. Poised, alert, strong and muscular, these dogs are active and intelligent. Dalmatians have great endurance and speed. Their temperament is stable and outgoing, yet dignified.

Dogs and bitches are 19-23 inches.

My A-Z challenge is about dogs to celebrate the release of my contemporary romance, Chihuahua Momma, to be released by Turquoise Morning Press July 28th.

Visit the A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - C for Chihuahua

Misty Morn Just Call Her Sam

Today's breed is the Chihuahua of the Toy Group. Of course that's my breed, and I'm showing Maya in the picture on the left (underneath is Maya's official AKC name).

Chihuahuas come in two varieties, long and smooth coat. A graceful, alert dog, they are compact and swift moving with a saucy expressions. Dogs and bitches must not exceed 6 pounds.

Chihuahuas are often one person dogs, and they are clannish, recognizing and preferring his own kind and as a rule, not friendly with dogs of other breeds

My novel, Chihuahua Momma, will be released by Turquoise Morning Press on July 28th. It's a romance between a dog breeder and an ex-football star who comes to buy a Chihuahua and ends up immersed in the world of dog showing.

A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge- B for Brittany

Today is B-day in the A-Z challenge, and today's dog is a Brittany of the Sporting Group:

A compact, closely knit dog of medium size, a leggy dog having the appearance and agility of a great runner, covering ground quickly. A Brittany is strong, vigorous, energetic and quick of movement. Temperament, is happy and alert, neither aggressive nor shy--30 to 40 pounds.

For the A-Z Challenge, I am blogging about dog breeds to celebrate the July 28 release of my contemporary romance, Chihuahua Momma to be published by Turquoise Morning Press.



Link to the A-Z web site here: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

A-Z Challenge - A for Afghan Hound

Happy April Fool's Day! My A-Z challenge is about dogs to celebrate the July 28 release of my contemporary romance, Chihuahua Momma.

Today's post is about the Afghan Hound. My Aunt Barbara, who was a Tiffany model in Hollywood, had an Afghan named Bourbon--of course that was her favorite beverage as well.

The Afghan is an aristocrat. His whole appearance is one of dignity and aloofness. He carries his head proudly, eyes gazing into the distance as if contemplating. A true king of dogs, an Afghan is aloof, dignified, yet playful. Dogs stand at 27 inches and 60 pounds; bitches 25 inches and about 50 pounds.

Imagine having one of these hairy, yet loving creatures in your bath. Read more about them on the American Kennel Club web site: AKC Web Site

A-Z Challenge web site: http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com/

Almost Night-An Exciting Cover Reveal by Emily White

Emily White reveals the cover for her intriguing new YA science-fiction novel, Almost Night. She decided to indy with this one, which will hit the shelves on August 27th. Help me spread the good news!

The back cover copy:

Fourteen-year-old Lilly Grey exists in two worlds at the same time. She just doesn't know it.

As the only albino in a million mile radius, Lilly is used to being different. Pink eyes and white hair aren't exactly the best camouflage in the harrowing jungles formally known as high school. And yeah, she's used to being an outcast and seeing the world in a slightly different way, but she never guessed how literally "different" applied to her.

Not until a clan of shape-shifting dragons tell her she's not just albino. She's a unicorn and the only mortal alive who can live on both Earth and its antithesis, Morcah. Now all those times she thought she saw a floating brown blotch in the sky or eyes peering out at her from the bark of trees make sense. She's been seeing Morcah, a land that exists in the exact same spot as Earth, just in a different phase.

But it's not all sunshine and rainbows for this unicorn. As the only one who can live in both phases, she's also the only one who can bring Morcah--and all its inhabitants--to Earth. And creatures who've been trapped on Earth since the Dark Ages are willing to do worse things than kill to make that happen.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Emily White lives in NY, wedged between two of the Great Lakes and a few feet of snow and ice.  She's spent most of her life running away from the cold, and even spent a year in Iraq, but now contents herself with writing her characters into warm, exotic places in faraway galaxies.  When not tapping away at her computer keys, she can be found reading, reading, and reading some more.  And when she's not doing that, she's usually playing video games with her husband, peek-a-boo with her kids, or walking through her garden, wondering why the bugs insist on eating all her vegetables.  

Check out Emily's debut YA Sci-fi, Elemental (Spencer Hill Press, 2012). Now available through B&N, Amazon, and The Book Depository. And her steampunk short story collection, To Love or Die in a Steamy-Reamy World (December, 2012). Now available through Amazon and B&N.

Cover designed by: Claudia Mckinney of Phatpuppy Art (www.phatpuppyart.com) and font was designed by Ashley at www.bookish-brunette.com.

Also, if you're like me and want to go the traditional route, I have a rockin $5 query edit special. Send me a message if you want to know more about how it works!

I Found an Agent!

Well, I have to say that I am lucky, blessed, have great karma, work hard...whatever you want to call it, but after years of chasing the dream, I am celebrating! I am now officially represented by Literary Agent MacKenzie Fraser-Bub of Trident Media Group. She is a new agent with Trident, representing all women's fiction.

MacKenzie was the assistant for Kimberly Whalen before she left for a position as a marking manager with Simon and Schuster. She already has a ton of contacts in the publishing industry and will be working closely with Kim while she builds her client list.

She will be marketing my Scottish historical romance, Captured by the Pirate Laird. Stay tuned, those of you who missed my query contest. I will be announcing another one later in the week (once my edits are done)!

I am thrilled to be working with MacKenzie, and hope I can interview her on my blog as soon as the dust settles!

View her agent page here: MacKenzie Fraser-Bub, Trident Media