Worth the Wait
The Harvest Ridge Series Book 1
by K.L. Ramsey
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Taggert Harrison knows what he wants, and he wants Piper Flynn. She is the most stubborn woman that he’s ever laid eyes on. He has spent the last year begging her to go out with him. Every Monday morning, for the past fifty-two weeks, he has asked her out only to be rejected fifty-two times. He wants to give up, but he knows how good it could be, if he could just tear down her walls. Will Tag be able to help Piper get over her painful past to move on to a future with him?
Piper Flynn witnessed the horrific murders of her parents when she was just twelve. She grew up isolated and afraid to let anyone get too close to her for fear of losing them. When Tag asks her out, everything in her wants to tell him yes, but her past ghosts keep her from taking what she wants. Tag could be her first, in every way, if she could just free her heart from the walls that she has carefully built up around it.
Goodreads * Amazon
Piper Flynn witnessed the horrific murders of her parents when she was just twelve. She grew up isolated and afraid to let anyone get too close to her for fear of losing them. When Tag asks her out, everything in her wants to tell him yes, but her past ghosts keep her from taking what she wants. Tag could be her first, in every way, if she could just free her heart from the walls that she has carefully built up around it.
Goodreads * Amazon
“I get it, being here with me isn’t what you signed up for. Honestly Piper, you are just proving my point for me.” Tag was pretending to busy himself with clues around the room, but Piper could tell that he was only going through the motions.
“What do you mean, I’m proving your point?” She grabbed Tag’s hand as he tried to pass her, effectively stopping him in front of her. Without his jacket, she noticed his tattoo sleeve that circled his lower arm. It was a scene of a forest with snowcapped mountains in the background. It encircled his entire forearm and seemed to perfectly fit who Tag was.
He gently pulled his hand from her grasp, “What I mean, honey, is that you have made your point. It may have taken me an entire year to catch on, but I get it. You’re just not into me. Message received, loud and clear.”
Piper could hear her own breath catch. How could Tag think that she wasn’t into him? Just looking at him made her body react like it never had before. For so long, she’d wanted to just tell him that she’d go out with him, but she was also so afraid. She couldn’t let herself suffer another loss. She wasn’t strong enough. She guarded her heart like a sentry standing watch. She knew her limits and Tag pushed every one of them.
“How can you think that I’m not into you? You own a mirror, right?” Piper felt her own smile, unfortunately, Tag didn’t return her humor.
“This has nothing to do with the way that I look. You have turned me down fifty-two times.” She cringed at Tag’s words. “I like you Piper. I thought that you might like me too, but I guess I was wrong.” Piper could feel her head shaking, denying his words. “You don’t have to deny the truth. I was there every Monday, when I asked you out and you politely smiled and turned me down.”
“You just don’t understand, Tag. I can’t let you in. If you tear down my walls, what will I have left?” She felt her hot tears running down her face and she crudely wiped them with her shirt sleeve. Tag put down the clue that he was working on and moved slowly across the room to where Piper sat.
“Piper, you would have someone who cares about you. You would have a partner, maybe even love. But you will never find out what you could have if you don’t let me in. Just give me a chance, that’s all I’m asking.” Tag wiped away her tears with his thumbs, pulling her in to gently kiss her lips. Piper froze, not knowing what to do next. A part of her wanted to see where this all led but her brain was overloading her emotions.
She pulled away from the kiss, “Tag, I can’t.”
“What do you mean, I’m proving your point?” She grabbed Tag’s hand as he tried to pass her, effectively stopping him in front of her. Without his jacket, she noticed his tattoo sleeve that circled his lower arm. It was a scene of a forest with snowcapped mountains in the background. It encircled his entire forearm and seemed to perfectly fit who Tag was.
He gently pulled his hand from her grasp, “What I mean, honey, is that you have made your point. It may have taken me an entire year to catch on, but I get it. You’re just not into me. Message received, loud and clear.”
Piper could hear her own breath catch. How could Tag think that she wasn’t into him? Just looking at him made her body react like it never had before. For so long, she’d wanted to just tell him that she’d go out with him, but she was also so afraid. She couldn’t let herself suffer another loss. She wasn’t strong enough. She guarded her heart like a sentry standing watch. She knew her limits and Tag pushed every one of them.
“How can you think that I’m not into you? You own a mirror, right?” Piper felt her own smile, unfortunately, Tag didn’t return her humor.
“This has nothing to do with the way that I look. You have turned me down fifty-two times.” She cringed at Tag’s words. “I like you Piper. I thought that you might like me too, but I guess I was wrong.” Piper could feel her head shaking, denying his words. “You don’t have to deny the truth. I was there every Monday, when I asked you out and you politely smiled and turned me down.”
“You just don’t understand, Tag. I can’t let you in. If you tear down my walls, what will I have left?” She felt her hot tears running down her face and she crudely wiped them with her shirt sleeve. Tag put down the clue that he was working on and moved slowly across the room to where Piper sat.
“Piper, you would have someone who cares about you. You would have a partner, maybe even love. But you will never find out what you could have if you don’t let me in. Just give me a chance, that’s all I’m asking.” Tag wiped away her tears with his thumbs, pulling her in to gently kiss her lips. Piper froze, not knowing what to do next. A part of her wanted to see where this all led but her brain was overloading her emotions.
She pulled away from the kiss, “Tag, I can’t.”
The Christmas Wedding
The Harvest Ridge Series Book 2
Lorna Sanders stepped up to raise her niece, after her sister and brother-in-law’s tragic deaths. She never allowed herself to dream that someday she would have a family of her own, but meeting Jonathan Sawyer changes all of that. He teaches Lorna that age is just a number and dreams can come true, especially at Christmas.
Jonathan Sawyer’s job is to keep Lorna’s family safe, he never imagined that job would also include protecting her heart. He just needs to convince Lorna that wishing for her heart’s desire and Christmas miracles are both possible. Can Sawyer’s plan, for a Christmas wedding be enough to show her that it’s never too late to find happily ever after?
Goodreads * Amazon
Jonathan Sawyer’s job is to keep Lorna’s family safe, he never imagined that job would also include protecting her heart. He just needs to convince Lorna that wishing for her heart’s desire and Christmas miracles are both possible. Can Sawyer’s plan, for a Christmas wedding be enough to show her that it’s never too late to find happily ever after?
Goodreads * Amazon
She padded down the stairs as quietly as she could, to find all the lights out. Sawyer must have gone to bed after cleaning up the kitchen. She felt a pang of guilt for ruining his surprise dinner.
She turned to go back up the steps and ran into a wall of hot, chiseled abs and chest muscles—Sawyer. She placed her palms on his pecs, trying to steady herself, but the feel of his bare skin only knocked her off balance again. He wrapped his arms around her body, pulling her into his.
“You okay, Lorna?” Sawyer’s voice sounded gruff and sexy, like he’d just woken up.
She tried to pull herself free from his hold, but he only tightened his arms around her waist.
“Yes, I’m fine.”
She didn’t mean to sound so put off, but she did. She gave up struggling in his arms and decided just to enjoy it. She hadn’t been this close to Sawyer in months and her body was feeling tingly and overheated by his proximity. How did this man make her feel like a walking volcano every time he touched her?
“I couldn’t sleep. I needed to talk to you.” Her voice sounded breathy and needy, even to her own ears.
“I couldn’t sleep either. I’m going to do something that you might not like, but…”
Sawyer pulled her in and sealed his lips over hers. At first, her body went rigid, not knowing if she should fight him off or just enjoy the pleasure he was giving her. Having Jonathan Sawyer wrapped around her body, kissing her, wasn’t really a hardship.
She decided to give into what her body was screaming for, melting into his embrace and parting her lips to allow him access. His greedy tongue took over and the kiss went from hot to scorching in thirty seconds flat. The man took her willingness as an invitation to push her up against the wall, framing her small body with his hot, mostly naked, muscled one. She couldn’t help but run her hands down his chest and abdomen to his waist. Her fingers teased the tops of his boxer briefs, wanting so badly to dip down into them. He moaned against her mouth, taking her hands in his to halt their progress.
“As much as I like the way you are thinking, I’ve got a few things to say first.” Lorna was panting as he let her fall back against the wall. She should have felt embarrassed about the whole situation, but she didn’t. She was hot and bothered, in a good way, and completely turned on. She didn’t want him to stop touching her and kissing her to talk. Talking could wait. Besides, they would probably end up fighting and he would never finish what he started.
He took her hand and pulled her into the kitchen.
“Sit,” he commanded, pulling out a chair for her.
Lorna didn’t care to put up a struggle. He had completely stripped her of any fight that she had left.
He pulled the pan of lasagna from the refrigerator and filled two plates. He lit the candles that were on the table and poured them both a glass of wine.
“So, we are going to sit here and have dinner, in our underwear.” Lorna looked him up and down, her eyes resting on his rather impressive bulge that told her she affected him more than he was letting on.
“Well, we could eat naked, but I don’t think that would be a good idea. You must be starving after your long day. So, food first, then we can discuss you getting naked.”
She turned to go back up the steps and ran into a wall of hot, chiseled abs and chest muscles—Sawyer. She placed her palms on his pecs, trying to steady herself, but the feel of his bare skin only knocked her off balance again. He wrapped his arms around her body, pulling her into his.
“You okay, Lorna?” Sawyer’s voice sounded gruff and sexy, like he’d just woken up.
She tried to pull herself free from his hold, but he only tightened his arms around her waist.
“Yes, I’m fine.”
She didn’t mean to sound so put off, but she did. She gave up struggling in his arms and decided just to enjoy it. She hadn’t been this close to Sawyer in months and her body was feeling tingly and overheated by his proximity. How did this man make her feel like a walking volcano every time he touched her?
“I couldn’t sleep. I needed to talk to you.” Her voice sounded breathy and needy, even to her own ears.
“I couldn’t sleep either. I’m going to do something that you might not like, but…”
Sawyer pulled her in and sealed his lips over hers. At first, her body went rigid, not knowing if she should fight him off or just enjoy the pleasure he was giving her. Having Jonathan Sawyer wrapped around her body, kissing her, wasn’t really a hardship.
She decided to give into what her body was screaming for, melting into his embrace and parting her lips to allow him access. His greedy tongue took over and the kiss went from hot to scorching in thirty seconds flat. The man took her willingness as an invitation to push her up against the wall, framing her small body with his hot, mostly naked, muscled one. She couldn’t help but run her hands down his chest and abdomen to his waist. Her fingers teased the tops of his boxer briefs, wanting so badly to dip down into them. He moaned against her mouth, taking her hands in his to halt their progress.
“As much as I like the way you are thinking, I’ve got a few things to say first.” Lorna was panting as he let her fall back against the wall. She should have felt embarrassed about the whole situation, but she didn’t. She was hot and bothered, in a good way, and completely turned on. She didn’t want him to stop touching her and kissing her to talk. Talking could wait. Besides, they would probably end up fighting and he would never finish what he started.
He took her hand and pulled her into the kitchen.
“Sit,” he commanded, pulling out a chair for her.
Lorna didn’t care to put up a struggle. He had completely stripped her of any fight that she had left.
He pulled the pan of lasagna from the refrigerator and filled two plates. He lit the candles that were on the table and poured them both a glass of wine.
“So, we are going to sit here and have dinner, in our underwear.” Lorna looked him up and down, her eyes resting on his rather impressive bulge that told her she affected him more than he was letting on.
“Well, we could eat naked, but I don’t think that would be a good idea. You must be starving after your long day. So, food first, then we can discuss you getting naked.”
K. L. Ramsey was born and raised in Maryland. As a child she struggled in school, having to attend speech and reading therapy. Her teacher told her that she would never be a very good reader; that English was just not her thing. She continued to struggle until eleventh grade, when she signed up for a Creative Writing class. Her high school teacher saw her potential and submitted a short story, that K. L. had written for class, to a local literary publication. The story was not only published but won an award for best short story. Knowing that someday she wanted to become a writer, K. L. received her BA in English from Salisbury State University.
K. L. Ramsey currently resides in West Virginia (Go Mountaineers!). She lives with hunky scientist, two now not so little people, and six fur babies. In her spare time, she likes to read romance novels, attend WVU football games and drink wine with girlfriends.
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K. L. Ramsey currently resides in West Virginia (Go Mountaineers!). She lives with hunky scientist, two now not so little people, and six fur babies. In her spare time, she likes to read romance novels, attend WVU football games and drink wine with girlfriends.
Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * Pinterest * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads
Book 1 the Relinquished series is now available on Kindle Unlimited!!
Get it HERE!
What are some of your pet peeves?
People who chew with their mouths open drive me batty!
Where were you born/grew up at?
I was born in Baltimore, Maryland and grew up about thirty minutes north of there, in Harford County, Maryland.
If you knew you'd die tomorrow, how would you spend your last day?
In bed with my husband and kids, binge watching a show and just hanging out. My twenty-year-old daughter and my sixteen-yearold son, and I do this every Wednesday night and it’s my favorite part of the week. We watch The Goldbergs and they like to compare all of the ways that I am like the mom on that show.
Who is your hero and why?
I really don't have a hero.
What kind of world ruler would you be?
According to my kids, I'd be a dictator. They are probably right, I do like things done my way.
What are you passionate about these days?
Following your dreams and path. I want my kids to find their own ways and I like to tell them to, “Get to it, times a wasting!” Life's too short not to do what you love.
What do you do to unwind and relax?
I like to write. I find that on days when I get about 3,000 words down, I'm a happier, nicer, more relaxed person. And, isn't that better for everyone that I live with? I also like to binge watch shows with my hubby on weekends. He works out of town, Monday through Friday, so we catch up on weekends.
How to find time to write as a parent?
This is a tough one. My daughter (20) was just diagnosed with epilepsy and had to move back home. I have to drive her to college and everywhere she needs to go now. I love having her home, but I've also had to manage my time better, to keep up with the punishing writing pace I've put on myself. I also still have a 16-year-old at home and a 23-year-old, in town. They all keep me busy, but I love having them all so close. Honestly, I just sleep less now, which is funny to say. I thought that I was supposed to be sleeping more now that I don't have to get up to feed them in the middle of the night.
Describe yourself in 5 words or less!
I always hate this question! Loyal, loving, honest (to a fault), compassionate, and a little neurotic.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
When my first book came out, February 22, 2018- Love Times Infinity (Relinquished Book 1) popped my author cherry!
Do you have a favorite movie?
GOONIES!!!!
Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie?
Honestly, any of the Harvest Ridge novels would make great movies. I've even thrown in a Christmas novella (The Christmas Wedding Book 1.5), just in case Hallmark Channel comes knocking
What literary pilgrimages have you gone on?
I've been to Norah Roberts book store, Turn the Page Bookstore, in Boonsboro, MD. And, I may or may not have some totally exciting news to announce about that same bookstore, here soon!
As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal?
Um, a cat. I only say this because I have 4 of my own and my daughter brought 2 with her. One is a rambunctious 8-month-old kitten that I'd like to strangle most mornings, but he's so darn cute.
What inspired you to write this book?
Worth the Wait (Harvest Ridge book 1) was just a whisper in my imagination until I took a trip to Colorado in 2017. My husband was on business out there and convinced me to go out, for a few days. I explored off the grid towns and met people that I just fell in love with. The ice cream shop and bakery, in the story, actually exists in one of my favorite little spots and I had to write them. I don't tell many people this, but Piper Flynn's character is the most like me, that I've ever written.
What can we expect from you in the future?
Lots more Harvest Ridge books, with BVS publishing! The series has literally just begun, with the release of Worth the Wait and The Christmas Wedding. Expect more from that little town, in 2019! I have a new series that I've been working on, called The Last First Kiss Series. Book one, Theirs to Keep will hopefully be coming soon. It will also be a multi book series. They are all maage books and they've been lots of fun to write! I also write for Crave Publishing and was in the Crave Forbidden anthology and will also be in another anthology called, Getting Schooled, which will be release in January 2019.
Can you tell us a little bit about the characters in Worth the Wait?
Taggart Harrison and Piper Flynn are two of my favorite people! Tag is determined and driven, and I love that about him. He just doesn't give up, even when things seem impossible. Piper has faced tragedy, at such a young age, she needs a person like Tag in her life. Someone willing to help her slay her dragons and fight for her. She is also a very strong, stubborn person and that is one of the many reasons that I adore her. They are both so perfect together, I couldn't be happier with the way that they turned out.
What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
I don't know that I would say that I “enjoyed” writing Worth the Wait, LOL. I struggled with Piper's traumatic past and her trying to deal with that loss but forging a way forward, to find love. I did enjoy writing Tag, he was super yummy and incredibly hot between the sheets!
How did you come up with the title of this book?
The series title is a funny story. I was in Colorado and I came across this road called, “Harvest Ridge”.The funny part is that I live in a neighborhood called Harvest Ridge. So now, many of my neighbors believe that I'm writing tell all books about them. I did put little Easter eggs in the books- characters, pets, circumstances and even places that some of my neighbors will recognize.
Who designed your book covers?
Jessica Greeley designed the book covers for The Relinquished Series and The Harvest Ridge Series. I think she does fabulous work!
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book? Nope!
What is your favorite part of this book and why?
Towards the end of Worth the Wait, Piper returns to the place where her parents were killed. She decides that in order to move forward and be happy with Tag, she needs to let her hurt, from her parents being taken from her, go. At one point, she screams out, as if she is in pain from the memories, and that part always chokes me up. I wrote the dang thing, but every time I read it, it makes me cry.
If you could spend time with a character from your book whom would it be? And what would you do during that day?
Um, Tag Harrison and you know, just hang out in bed!
Are your characters based off real people or did they all come entirely from your imagination?
They are never based on real people. The only time I've come close to them being anyone familiar, was in Worth the Wait. Piper is the most like me, then any character that I've written. Her best friend, Sunny Francis (who is the Heroine for book 2- Line of Fire, coming in 2019) reminds me of my best friend since second grade. But, I should say that there was a good deal of embellishing with both of the characters and only small bits of them were based on real life.
Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do you feel like you have the reigns of the story?
Oh my goodness, they totally hijack my stories! They never behave themselves either, which is a lot of fun! My family thinks that I'm bonkers, especially when I stop typing and shout something like, “I can't believe she's pregnant!” I then have to explain that I”m talking about one of my characters. My husband usually asks me, “As the author, shouldn't you have known that?”
Have you written any other books that are not published?
Yes, as stated above, I have a whole series called The Last First Kiss Series, that is menage. I am hoping to have it picked up and published in 2019.
If your book had a candle, what scent would it be?
Pine needles and old spice. That is what I think Tag would smell like. He runs an outdoor adventure company and spends a good deal of time outside.
How long have you been writing?
Not too long. I think that I wrote Love Times Infinity, Relinquished book 1 in 2016, and it was just published this year. I wrote it and Love's Patient Journey, book 2, for fun. I didn't plan on publishing them, but I'm glad that I did.
Do the characters all come to you at the same time or do some of them come to you as you write?
Some I know before I start writing my story and others make their appearance while I'm knee deep into the book.
What kind of research do you do before you begin writing a book?
If I'm writing a new area, I try to visit that area. Harvest Ridge book 2, Line of Fire, is about a firefighter. I did a lot of research in that area and forest fires in Colorado. I try to know what I'm talking about, but sometimes I make mistakes.
Do you see writing as a career?
Yes!
Do you prefer to write in silence or with noise? Why?
Usually, I write in silence. I tried to write with music on but found myself singing the song lyrics and not being able to concentrate on typing. Once, I even typed some of the lyrics into the book.
Do you write one book at a time or do you have several going at a time?
I'm a one at a time girl. I find that I can't read anyone else when I write either. And with writing twelve books in 2018, I have unfortunately done very little reading.
Pen or type writer or computer?
Computer but I keep a pen and notebook around, to jot ideas and quotes.
What made you want to become an author and do you feel it was the right decision? Nine years ago, my dad was dying from lung cancer and he sat me down and told me that he wanted for me to write. I laughed it off and even told him that I'd use his name, as my pen name, should that ever happen. Years later, my husband kept saying that I should try to write some of the crazy characters that I came up with and I once again laughed it off. One day, I just sat down and started writing and I'm so happy that I did. I am amazed at how well it has all turned out.
A day in the life of the author?
I get up at 6:10, drive kids to bus stops and college, run home and do some housework or write. Social media, play with kittens, promote, write, answer emails, play with kittens. Pick up kids, write some more, play with kittens. Feed kids, clean up, play with kittens, skype with husband, play with kittens, write and finally sleep (if I'm lucky!).
What is your writing process? For instance, do you do an outline first? Do you do the chapters first?
I have a loose outline but, my characters don't always follow it. I just sit down and try to make word count every day. Some days, I write well beyond my goal and others, I quit and catch up on my favorite tv shows.
What is your writing Kryptonite?
I don't have any.
If you could tell your younger self anything, what would it be?
Spend more time with your grandmothers and father. Learn to forgive, even when you don't completely understand. It's okay not to be in a hurry. Everything works out the way it's supposed to. Your kids are going to be complete nut jobs and they rock!
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
I can get a book done and out in 30 to 45 days, depending on the length.
Do you believe in writer's block?
Nope. When things aren' clicking, I just change them around until they do. If I let loose and just listen to my characters, everything usually works out.
People who chew with their mouths open drive me batty!
Where were you born/grew up at?
I was born in Baltimore, Maryland and grew up about thirty minutes north of there, in Harford County, Maryland.
If you knew you'd die tomorrow, how would you spend your last day?
In bed with my husband and kids, binge watching a show and just hanging out. My twenty-year-old daughter and my sixteen-yearold son, and I do this every Wednesday night and it’s my favorite part of the week. We watch The Goldbergs and they like to compare all of the ways that I am like the mom on that show.
Who is your hero and why?
I really don't have a hero.
What kind of world ruler would you be?
According to my kids, I'd be a dictator. They are probably right, I do like things done my way.
What are you passionate about these days?
Following your dreams and path. I want my kids to find their own ways and I like to tell them to, “Get to it, times a wasting!” Life's too short not to do what you love.
What do you do to unwind and relax?
I like to write. I find that on days when I get about 3,000 words down, I'm a happier, nicer, more relaxed person. And, isn't that better for everyone that I live with? I also like to binge watch shows with my hubby on weekends. He works out of town, Monday through Friday, so we catch up on weekends.
How to find time to write as a parent?
This is a tough one. My daughter (20) was just diagnosed with epilepsy and had to move back home. I have to drive her to college and everywhere she needs to go now. I love having her home, but I've also had to manage my time better, to keep up with the punishing writing pace I've put on myself. I also still have a 16-year-old at home and a 23-year-old, in town. They all keep me busy, but I love having them all so close. Honestly, I just sleep less now, which is funny to say. I thought that I was supposed to be sleeping more now that I don't have to get up to feed them in the middle of the night.
Describe yourself in 5 words or less!
I always hate this question! Loyal, loving, honest (to a fault), compassionate, and a little neurotic.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
When my first book came out, February 22, 2018- Love Times Infinity (Relinquished Book 1) popped my author cherry!
Do you have a favorite movie?
GOONIES!!!!
Which of your novels can you imagine made into a movie?
Honestly, any of the Harvest Ridge novels would make great movies. I've even thrown in a Christmas novella (The Christmas Wedding Book 1.5), just in case Hallmark Channel comes knocking
What literary pilgrimages have you gone on?
I've been to Norah Roberts book store, Turn the Page Bookstore, in Boonsboro, MD. And, I may or may not have some totally exciting news to announce about that same bookstore, here soon!
As a writer, what would you choose as your mascot/avatar/spirit animal?
Um, a cat. I only say this because I have 4 of my own and my daughter brought 2 with her. One is a rambunctious 8-month-old kitten that I'd like to strangle most mornings, but he's so darn cute.
What inspired you to write this book?
Worth the Wait (Harvest Ridge book 1) was just a whisper in my imagination until I took a trip to Colorado in 2017. My husband was on business out there and convinced me to go out, for a few days. I explored off the grid towns and met people that I just fell in love with. The ice cream shop and bakery, in the story, actually exists in one of my favorite little spots and I had to write them. I don't tell many people this, but Piper Flynn's character is the most like me, that I've ever written.
What can we expect from you in the future?
Lots more Harvest Ridge books, with BVS publishing! The series has literally just begun, with the release of Worth the Wait and The Christmas Wedding. Expect more from that little town, in 2019! I have a new series that I've been working on, called The Last First Kiss Series. Book one, Theirs to Keep will hopefully be coming soon. It will also be a multi book series. They are all maage books and they've been lots of fun to write! I also write for Crave Publishing and was in the Crave Forbidden anthology and will also be in another anthology called, Getting Schooled, which will be release in January 2019.
Can you tell us a little bit about the characters in Worth the Wait?
Taggart Harrison and Piper Flynn are two of my favorite people! Tag is determined and driven, and I love that about him. He just doesn't give up, even when things seem impossible. Piper has faced tragedy, at such a young age, she needs a person like Tag in her life. Someone willing to help her slay her dragons and fight for her. She is also a very strong, stubborn person and that is one of the many reasons that I adore her. They are both so perfect together, I couldn't be happier with the way that they turned out.
What did you enjoy most about writing this book?
I don't know that I would say that I “enjoyed” writing Worth the Wait, LOL. I struggled with Piper's traumatic past and her trying to deal with that loss but forging a way forward, to find love. I did enjoy writing Tag, he was super yummy and incredibly hot between the sheets!
How did you come up with the title of this book?
The series title is a funny story. I was in Colorado and I came across this road called, “Harvest Ridge”.The funny part is that I live in a neighborhood called Harvest Ridge. So now, many of my neighbors believe that I'm writing tell all books about them. I did put little Easter eggs in the books- characters, pets, circumstances and even places that some of my neighbors will recognize.
Who designed your book covers?
Jessica Greeley designed the book covers for The Relinquished Series and The Harvest Ridge Series. I think she does fabulous work!
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book? Nope!
What is your favorite part of this book and why?
Towards the end of Worth the Wait, Piper returns to the place where her parents were killed. She decides that in order to move forward and be happy with Tag, she needs to let her hurt, from her parents being taken from her, go. At one point, she screams out, as if she is in pain from the memories, and that part always chokes me up. I wrote the dang thing, but every time I read it, it makes me cry.
If you could spend time with a character from your book whom would it be? And what would you do during that day?
Um, Tag Harrison and you know, just hang out in bed!
Are your characters based off real people or did they all come entirely from your imagination?
They are never based on real people. The only time I've come close to them being anyone familiar, was in Worth the Wait. Piper is the most like me, then any character that I've written. Her best friend, Sunny Francis (who is the Heroine for book 2- Line of Fire, coming in 2019) reminds me of my best friend since second grade. But, I should say that there was a good deal of embellishing with both of the characters and only small bits of them were based on real life.
Do your characters seem to hijack the story or do you feel like you have the reigns of the story?
Oh my goodness, they totally hijack my stories! They never behave themselves either, which is a lot of fun! My family thinks that I'm bonkers, especially when I stop typing and shout something like, “I can't believe she's pregnant!” I then have to explain that I”m talking about one of my characters. My husband usually asks me, “As the author, shouldn't you have known that?”
Have you written any other books that are not published?
Yes, as stated above, I have a whole series called The Last First Kiss Series, that is menage. I am hoping to have it picked up and published in 2019.
If your book had a candle, what scent would it be?
Pine needles and old spice. That is what I think Tag would smell like. He runs an outdoor adventure company and spends a good deal of time outside.
How long have you been writing?
Not too long. I think that I wrote Love Times Infinity, Relinquished book 1 in 2016, and it was just published this year. I wrote it and Love's Patient Journey, book 2, for fun. I didn't plan on publishing them, but I'm glad that I did.
Do the characters all come to you at the same time or do some of them come to you as you write?
Some I know before I start writing my story and others make their appearance while I'm knee deep into the book.
What kind of research do you do before you begin writing a book?
If I'm writing a new area, I try to visit that area. Harvest Ridge book 2, Line of Fire, is about a firefighter. I did a lot of research in that area and forest fires in Colorado. I try to know what I'm talking about, but sometimes I make mistakes.
Do you see writing as a career?
Yes!
Do you prefer to write in silence or with noise? Why?
Usually, I write in silence. I tried to write with music on but found myself singing the song lyrics and not being able to concentrate on typing. Once, I even typed some of the lyrics into the book.
Do you write one book at a time or do you have several going at a time?
I'm a one at a time girl. I find that I can't read anyone else when I write either. And with writing twelve books in 2018, I have unfortunately done very little reading.
Pen or type writer or computer?
Computer but I keep a pen and notebook around, to jot ideas and quotes.
What made you want to become an author and do you feel it was the right decision? Nine years ago, my dad was dying from lung cancer and he sat me down and told me that he wanted for me to write. I laughed it off and even told him that I'd use his name, as my pen name, should that ever happen. Years later, my husband kept saying that I should try to write some of the crazy characters that I came up with and I once again laughed it off. One day, I just sat down and started writing and I'm so happy that I did. I am amazed at how well it has all turned out.
A day in the life of the author?
I get up at 6:10, drive kids to bus stops and college, run home and do some housework or write. Social media, play with kittens, promote, write, answer emails, play with kittens. Pick up kids, write some more, play with kittens. Feed kids, clean up, play with kittens, skype with husband, play with kittens, write and finally sleep (if I'm lucky!).
What is your writing process? For instance, do you do an outline first? Do you do the chapters first?
I have a loose outline but, my characters don't always follow it. I just sit down and try to make word count every day. Some days, I write well beyond my goal and others, I quit and catch up on my favorite tv shows.
What is your writing Kryptonite?
I don't have any.
If you could tell your younger self anything, what would it be?
Spend more time with your grandmothers and father. Learn to forgive, even when you don't completely understand. It's okay not to be in a hurry. Everything works out the way it's supposed to. Your kids are going to be complete nut jobs and they rock!
How long on average does it take you to write a book?
I can get a book done and out in 30 to 45 days, depending on the length.
Do you believe in writer's block?
Nope. When things aren' clicking, I just change them around until they do. If I let loose and just listen to my characters, everything usually works out.
Follow the tour HERE for exclusive excerpts, guest posts and a giveaway!
Nov 5
kickoff at Silver Dagger Book Tours
Mythical Books
Nov 6
Romance Novel Giveaways
3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, &, Sissy, Too!
Nov 7
Secret Cravings
Readeropolis – GUEST POST
Nov 8
Rainy Day Reviews – GUEST POST
2 chicks and a book
Nov 9
Viviana MacKade – GUEST POST
Book Review Virignia Lee
Nov 10
Nicole's Book Musings
Nov 11
All the Ups and Downs
Nov 12
Always Love Me Some Books Blog
A Mama's Corner of the World
Nov 13
A Modern Day Fairy Tale
Bedazzled By Books
Nov 14
A Pinch of Bookdust
Bookish Reviews
Nov 15
Books a Plenty Book Reviews
books are love
Nov 16
A Writer's Life
Books all things paranormal and romance
Nov 17
Books, Authors, Blogs
Nov 18
Deal Sharing Aunt
Nov 19
Girl with Pen
Inside the Insanity
Nov 20
Midnight Book Reader
Maiden of the Pages– GUEST POST
Nov 21
Book-Lover
Breaking Genre
Nov 23
Luv Saving Money
Kerrific Online
Nov 24
Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read
Nov 25
My Chaotic Ramblings
Nov 26
Paranormal Palace of Pleasures
Rabid Readers Book Blog
Nov 27
My Reading Journeys – REVIEW BOTH
Rambling of a Book Nerd
Nov 28
Scrupulous Dreams
SJ's book blog
Nov 29
Sylv.net
Teatime and Books
Nov 30
Anna del C. Dye official page
Stormy Nights Reviewing & Bloggin'
Dec 1
Valerie Ullmer | Romance Author
Dec 2
T's Stuff
Dec 3
eBook Addicts
Dec 4
The Book Dragon
Twisted Book Ramblings
Dec 5
Tracie’s World of Books – REVIEW BOTH, GUEST POST
Chapters through life – REVIEW BOTH
Nov 5
kickoff at Silver Dagger Book Tours
Mythical Books
Nov 6
Romance Novel Giveaways
3 Partners in Shopping, Nana, Mommy, &, Sissy, Too!
Nov 7
Secret Cravings
Readeropolis – GUEST POST
Nov 8
Rainy Day Reviews – GUEST POST
2 chicks and a book
Nov 9
Viviana MacKade – GUEST POST
Book Review Virignia Lee
Nov 10
Nicole's Book Musings
Nov 11
All the Ups and Downs
Nov 12
Always Love Me Some Books Blog
A Mama's Corner of the World
Nov 13
A Modern Day Fairy Tale
Bedazzled By Books
Nov 14
A Pinch of Bookdust
Bookish Reviews
Nov 15
Books a Plenty Book Reviews
books are love
Nov 16
A Writer's Life
Books all things paranormal and romance
Nov 17
Books, Authors, Blogs
Nov 18
Deal Sharing Aunt
Nov 19
Girl with Pen
Inside the Insanity
Nov 20
Midnight Book Reader
Maiden of the Pages– GUEST POST
Nov 21
Book-Lover
Breaking Genre
Nov 23
Luv Saving Money
Kerrific Online
Nov 24
Momma Says: To Read or Not to Read
Nov 25
My Chaotic Ramblings
Nov 26
Paranormal Palace of Pleasures
Rabid Readers Book Blog
Nov 27
My Reading Journeys – REVIEW BOTH
Rambling of a Book Nerd
Nov 28
Scrupulous Dreams
SJ's book blog
Nov 29
Sylv.net
Teatime and Books
Nov 30
Anna del C. Dye official page
Stormy Nights Reviewing & Bloggin'
Dec 1
Valerie Ullmer | Romance Author
Dec 2
T's Stuff
Dec 3
eBook Addicts
Dec 4
The Book Dragon
Twisted Book Ramblings
Dec 5
Tracie’s World of Books – REVIEW BOTH, GUEST POST
Chapters through life – REVIEW BOTH
