Three Quick Things...

I received the cover for my Harlequin Historical UNDONE, Wedding Night with the Ranger. Isn’t it gorgeous?


I learned that one of my short stories, Rancher McBride, is up for a CAPA award at the Romance Studio.

I forgot to share another review for Badland Bride on the Mixed Book Bag Blog.

Merry Christmas

Sorry for my delay in posts. We had to make a trip to Kansas. My mother-in-law had a massive stroke. She is stable, and we are hopeful her recovery will be swift. Thanks to all of you who sent thoughts and prayers.

Upon returning home—and besides playing catch-up at work—I had the final preparations to complete for Breakfast with Clifford the Big Red Dog. The event was Saturday morning, and, OMG did we have a turnout! It was wonderfully successful! Sometime today I must get Clifford back into his large cardboard box and on his way to New York via UPS.

We also celebrated Isabelle’s third birthday on Saturday afternoon/evening. Her true birthday is Wednesday, the 23rd. She informed me she is going to Toys R Us on Wednesday to buy a Dora kitchen, so it’s a good thing we celebrated on Saturday. Don’t you wish you could see life through the eyes of a three year old some days?

Jess and I went shopping on Sunday—bless his heart for taking me. I needed the pick-up truck to haul the things I wanted to buy for the kids, but don’t like driving ‘his baby’ if I don’t have to. Tonight I need to buy more wrapping paper so I can wrap those big boxes. I also got my cards done last night and dropped off at the post office this morning. One more shopping trip, and one more trip to the grocery store, and I should be set and ready for Christmas!

On the writing side…I received a wonderful review for Badland Bride from Romance Junkies. Reviewer Audrey says, “BADLAND BRIDE is romance at its finest.”
I’m also very honored to say that I was invited to be the spotlight author at Love Western Romances for January. So please stop by their site and say hi after the New Year.

Company is expected to arrive today, so I’m sending you my Christmas wish now. I hope you get everything you asked for, and that your entire Holiday Season if filled with hope, love, and kindness.

Blessing,
Lauri

Clifford the Big Red Dog

Besides working for United Way, and writing romance novels, I volunteer for a couple local organizations, one being my local library. It’s fitting…I remember riding my bike to the library in Kansas where I grew up daily throughout the summer. Next week the Friends of the Big Lake Library is hosting a special holiday breakfast.

Clifford the Big Red Dog will be at the Big Lake Library Saturday, December 19th from 10:30-12:30. It’s an event you won’t want to miss!

Magic Show

I attend the Big Lake Chamber’s Holiday event tonight. It was fabulous, and the Magician Justin Alan was incredible! From card tricks to bending a fork with his mind—you had to see it to believe it!

On Monday I was part of a blogtalkradio interview with the other authors of An American Christmas Rose Anthology. It was fun and thanks to Beth Trissel for setting it up.

Yesterday I received a review for A Wife for Big John from Fallen Angel Reviews. I was surprised because Fallen Angels had provided a review for this book last year.

Mark your calendars for Harlequin’s annual Open House on December 16th! It promises to be a great day!

It’s late so I’m off to bed. A few snow flakes fell today, signifying it is time for me to seriously consider taking my car to storage. I may have to work that into my schedule this weekend.

Have an awesome weekend everyone!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving full of family, friends, and good food. We went to our oldest son’s house. He and his wife put on a magnificent spread, despite the fact he broke his leg this week. His in-laws were there as well as our other sons and their families, my mother, and brother and his family. It was a houseful and absolutely wonderful. I am so very, very thankful for all of the blessing bestowed upon me and my family.

I’m yawning as I write this, which is good since I plan on calling it an early night. My daughter-in-law is picking me up at 4 AM so we can hit the stores. I’m not a huge Black Friday fan, but since my son (as mentioned above is in a cast) can’t join her, I said I would.

My niece told us a story about last year’s Black Friday at the store she works at in downtown St. Paul. A woman was checking out at my niece’s register and a man came along, lifted the woman’s baby (in an infant carrier) out of the shopping cart, set the carrier on the floor, and started to walk off with the cart. My niece stopped him and told him to put the baby back in the cart. He said no, that he needed the cart. She told him again to put the cart and the baby back. She said it was a stand off—over a shopping cart of all things—which ultimately ended with him leaving the cart and stomping off. I know carts are hard to come by on Black Friday, but good grief! You had to hear my niece tell the story—she’s a little thing, but a gymnast, and very strong willed.

On the writing side of things, I’m finishing up the synopsis for the collaborative story I’m working with another author, and the fourth Quinter brother story is coming along very nicely.

Once more—Happy, happy Thanksgiving all!

The Holiday Season has begun...

Radio stations are playing Christmas music, the stores and houses along with city streets are decorated, and the TV commercials for holiday specials are starting to appear. I on the other hand, am not quite as ready as some. I have a few (few usually means 3-7) gifts bought, mainly because I was at a jewelry party and knew I needed to buy something. I truly haven’t figured out what I’m buying for most people. But, I know I’ll be ready by the 24th of December, I always am, so I’m not stressing over anything.

My Christmas story, A Solider for Christmas, will be released in e-book on December 11th. It’s one story in the American Rose Christmas Anthology. Blurb: Southern belle Marybeth Dawson discovers Santa Claus can't cross the Mason Dixon line--but handsome Union soldier, Trevor Sutton can.

My story is just one of six wonderful holiday tales.

I love Christmas stories, and hope readers enjoy this one. I just discovered (as I typed this blog I went to the Wild Rose Press to insert a link) the print book is available as an early bird special!

The guys are up north hunting again, so it’s just me and the dogs again this week. I have a wedding to attend tomorrow and perhaps I’ll do my Thanksgiving dinner shopping on Sunday…

Releases

The weather here has been unseasonably warm, and that is so delightful! I didn’t even wear a coat today—unbelievable for mid-November. Now, if it would just keep up until February or so.

I forgot to mention last week that Badland Bride was released in ebook. I’m getting wonderful feedback from readers on this story. Some have said they cried at the end, and others have thanked me for such a wonderful ending. I love hearing from readers. (Sigh)

A writer friend of mine had a book released this week. Enchanted Scandal by Tammy Mate', writing as Tammy Sotnos. This is one hot romance. Blurb: MURDER, ROMANCE, MYSTERY, HEARTACHE, SEX... What more could one want in a story? Set in 18th century England with its strict class structure, Baron Campbell, a prominent citizen of the town of Painswick, falls for Samantha, an abused woman of the "labouring-class"... After a year fraught with discord, strife, love, and romance; Samantha expresses her gratitude in prayer: Thank you, dear Lord, for the magnificent time I have had with John. He has been a fantastic escape. Not only has he been kind, loving, and wonderful; he has been thoughtful and courageous. Please watch over him, and keep him safe.

Yes, Samantha has reason to worry about John’s safety! If you’re interested in trying out a new writer, I’d suggest giving Enchanted Scandal a go!

It’s deer hunting season here, which means I’m a weekend widow. I’m not complaining-I like to have the house to myself at times. The hours simply fly by when I’m deep in a story. But, I am a chicken. I hate being home alone at bedtime. Thank goodness the dogs don’t deer hunt!

H1N1 Prevention

I hope the Trick or Treaters were good to you! Here’s a picture of a pirate and Snow White!


I received an email with the below advice, and thought it was worth posting here!

Prevent Swine Flu - Good Advice

The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it's almost impossible to avoid coming into contact with H1N1 in spite of all precautions. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is.

While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps, not fully highlighted in most official communications, can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tamiflu):

1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications).

2. "Hands-off-the-face" approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face.

3. *Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust salt). *H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/ nasal cavity to proliferate and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation. In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method.

4. Similar to 3 above, *clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water . *Not everybody may be good at Jala Neti or Sutra Neti (very good Yoga asanas to clean nasal cavities), but *blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.* Neti pots and sinus rinse kits are available at the drug store and relatively inexpensive, under $15.

5. *Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C. *If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption.

6. *Drink as much of warm liquids (tea, coffee, etc) as you can. *Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm.

Stay healthy!

Priates and Ghosts

The ghosts and goblins (and princesses and pirates) will be knocking on the door soon. The news announced today the most popular Halloween costume this year will be Michael Jackson. My granddaughter is going to be a pirate, because that’s what Emily Elizabeth is in Clifford the Big Red Dog’s Halloween book. She asked Uncle Cody if his dog, Bear, could be a ghost since that’s what Clifford is in the book. But her Mommy and Daddy aren’t willing to take a 100 lb Lab trick or treating. I think I better buy a bag of doggy treats just incase she convinces them how fun it could be. (As you can see from the picture, she and Bear are best friends.)

Sorry for my delay in posts. I was ‘hit’ by the flu bug. I actually had to use sick days at work. The first time in almost five years. Then last weekend we went up north to our property. Hubby had to get everything ready for deer season and I wanted to take down the solar lights I have set out all over. I think I need to get one of those motion cameras so I can see what the woodland critters think of those little lights. The place was full of paw prints.

I did get one full day of writing in, besides helping cut a load of firewood. I’m about halfway done with the fourth Quinter brother book. Boot Hill Bride-The Quinter Brides book 3 will be released in July 2010, and my Harlequin UNDONE, Wedding Night with the Ranger, will be released in February 2010. The e-book release of Badland Bride-The Quinter Brides book 2 is November 7th. (The print is available now.) My next release will be An American Rose Christmas Anthology on December 11th.

I’m one chapter away from finishing the book I’m collaborating on with another writer, but I have a time travel story as well as another Texas Ranger book that keep pulling my attention away from the sisters book.

I hope you all have a wonderful Halloween with lots of trick or treaters!

Badland Bride

The e-book of Badland Bride-The Quinter Brides Book Two will be released by The Wild Rose Press on November 6th, HOWEVER, the print book was released last week at The Wild Rose Press, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and anywhere else print books are sold. YEAH!

I attended a writer’s retreat last weekend. It was a wonderful time, and I’d highly recommend the ARC Retreat Center for anyone who wanted a little down time. I also spoke to a writer’s group this week. I always enjoy talking with those who understand the voices in my head.

We had snow this week. YES, SNOW! It’s only October! So, as many of you know, I’m preparing to put my pony away for the winter. It’s just so blessed hard to be separated from her. Even my granddaughter was upset when I showed up in a different car to pick her up. “Where’s the pony car?” she immediately asked. She’s 2 ½ (When you ask her how old she is, she says, “2 ½. Don’t forget the half.”)—anyway— I explained the pony car doesn’t like snow. After she climbed in her car seat in the backseat of Papa’s car, she said, “Boy’s cars like snow and girl’s cars don’t.” It is amazing how young we are when we start stereotyping each other, isn’t it?

I’m hoping for a quiet weekend with lots of writing time, how about you?

Please release me let me go....

OKAY, okay, those of you who know me well, know I can't sing a note....but that song came to mind because....

Today is the release day for Kendra’s Choice!

Back Blurb:
Kendra Parker needs a man-it's research for Widow Swanson's article, "What Every Woman Needs to Know about Her Marriage Bed." But the sparse population of Eastern Colorado in 1883 doesn't offer many choices, until Major Marlow arrives.

Sterling Marlow rode into the Parker farm in time to celebrate the wedding of one of Kincaid Parker's daughters. But it was the Pastor's older daughter, Kendra, who caught his attention. Her seductive body wanted him, and who was he to deny the needs of a young woman?

Oh, and speaking of songs, I finally downloaded a ring tone for my cell phone. Moody Blues by Elvis now plays whenever anyone calls. :)

Today is also my wedding anniversary. (My Dear Hubby kindly reminded me this morning. I so have to figure out a way to be the reminder not the reminded one year! But, in my defense, I hadn't had coffee yet, so I had no idea WHAT day it was.)

I’m heading up north on Friday to attend the Northern Lights Writer’s retreat. Besides networking with some great ladies, I’m hoping to gain new insights from the workshops/discussions and maybe fit in a few pages of writing.

A Little Bit of Everything...

I had a busy, but wonderful week. A friend spent the weekend with us. She and I had been best friends in sixth grade. She moved away but moved back in high school, and then we both left Kansas. A couple months ago she moved to Minnesota. It was wonderful to catch up on where all her family is and to introduce her to my boys and grandchildren.

It was also my RWA Chapter monthly meeting. My friend attended with me. Our group had a booth at the Library for Wyoming Stage Coach Days. Luckily my youngest son’s girlfriend has a closet full of western wear she let us borrow. (Since I didn’t take any pictures, here’s one of my granddaughter on a very large rocking horse.)

I also made salsa and canned tomatoes. I’m trying to get the garden cleaned out before the frost comes.

My final reader read through Boot Hill Bride and I turned the last round of edits in, so that one is said and done. I’m now working on another Texas Ranger story as well as the fourth Quinter Bride Book and a collaborative story about two sisters with another writer.

Oh, and to anyone who saw the Vikings game…What an ending! Go Vikes!

Renaissance Festival

We went to the Renaissance Festival on Sunday. That’s me riding the elephant with my granddaughter. She wanted to ride it, NOT me. (We are on the second elephant in the picture.)

It was a glorious day, with the perfect amount of sunshine and a light breeze. I can’t imagine wearing the clothing of that age. Yards and yards of heavy fabric went into those dresses! And the jousting! Those poor men were dripping wet beneath their heavy armors.

We walked around, munching on turkey drumsticks, and had a wonderful time, but all in all it reminded me that I’m a western gal at heart. I’d rather have the cowboy with his six-shooter than the knight in shining armor.

This week I’m working on the fourth Quinter Bride story, it’s been calling me to give it some attention. Poor Snake, try as he might, his mother outfoxes him.

THE CALL

Last week I told you about Kendra’s Choice, and how Harlequin had inquired about the story. Well, yesterday, I got THE CALL from them. They offered a contract for the story I wrote for their UNDONE Line! I am so excited for this opportunity. I’ve been reading Harlequin Romance Novels since I was thirteen and dreamed of the day I’d get THE CALL from them.

I rarely turn my computer on before I leave for work in the morning. There just isn’t time, since, for one, I like to sleep as late a possible, (usually because I stay up too late writing every night) but also because I stop to visit my mother on my way to work every morning. Yesterday morning, I was drawn to turn my computer on and there was an email from an assistant editor at Harlequin asking what would be a good time for them to call me. (They are six hours ahead in London.) I emailed back and said I’d be home for an hour and then available by cell all day. After I hit send, I ran into the bedroom and told my husband to get up and sit by the phone while I showered. When I got out of the shower there was an email that said they’d call at 9 AM. I had a 9 AM meeting for work, so I drove to the meeting place and said I had to take a call before I joined the meeting. I sat in my car and at 9 on the dot Harlequin called. They had me on speaker with an editorial assistant and the Sr. Editor of their historical line.

The picture is of flowers my wonderful friend, Robin, sent me yesterday afternoon! The bouquet is beautiful, with many more flowers than pictured, but my two year old granddaughter took the picture. After one shot she decided taking pictures of the dog was more fun. LOL

Kendra's Choice

My next release will be Kendra’s Choice on Oct. 7th. It’s a short, hot story and will be available only in e-book.

Here’s the blurb:

Kendra Parker needs a man—it’s research for Widow Swanson’s article, “What Every Woman Needs to Know about Her Marriage Bed.” But the sparse population of Eastern Colorado in 1883 doesn’t offer many choices, until Major Marlow arrives.

Sterling Marlow rode into the Parker farm in time to celebrate the wedding of one of Kincaid Parker’s daughters. But it was the Pastor’s older daughter, Kendra, who caught his attention. Her seductive body wanted him, and who was he to deny the needs of a young woman?

And here’s an excerpt:

A coy smiled twisted her mouth as the tip of her tongue slipped out to moisten pink lips. Sweat popped out on his neck, he tensed against the shiver rippling over his shoulders.

Kendra Parker lowered her hand from her hair, held it out to him.

It took every once of control not to grab her hand, pull her against his chest, and kiss the hell out of her. He’d never met a more beautiful woman, nor had one made love to him with their eyes before. Damn! He was wound tighter than a diamond back. Exhaling, low and slow, he reached for her hand.

“Miss Parker,” he greeted, wincing at how his tone was a good three notes higher than normal.

“Major.” Her voice was as lovely as the rest of her—soft, sweet, and more provocative than any saloon girl could ever hope to mimic.

She didn’t try to pull her hand away, just let her supple, smooth palm rest against his. Their matching heat mingled, danced. Those blue eyes, still locked onto his, smoldered with enough heat to spark a fire all the way down in Texas. His toes curled inside his boots.


This story has a tale of it’s own behind it. I wrote Kendra’s Choice after hearing about Harlequin’s UNDONE line on a romance loop. I subbed it, but when I hadn’t heard from them after several months, I assumed they weren’t interested and subbed it to The Wild Rose Press last spring. A short time ago, I did hear from Harlequin and they were interested in the story. I told them I’d already sold it and it will be released next month. They did ask me to write and sub another story. I of course wrote another one for them ASAP, and my fingers are crossed that I will hear from them soon.

Other writing news…got a wonderful review from WRDF for Doctor McBride. Reviewer Cyn says, “Fun, intense and satisfying, Doctor McBride is the remedy for any reader.”

Labor Day Weekend....

As much as I hate to admit it, August has left us. It’s been several years since our youngest graduated high school, but I still get this feeling of remorse when the new school year begins. For me, the first day of school always marked the end of relaxing summer days and the beginning of rushed schedules that came with the infusion of fall.

We did have a wonderful summer, though it was relatively cool here in MN. A headline in the MPLS/ST.PAUL STAR TRIBUNE this morning was The Summer of 69---DEGREES! Yes, that was our average summer temperature. The weather has been good for the garden though, last weekend I made salsa, zucchini bread, peach jam and plum jelly. And I must do another batch of plum jelly this evening.

With the garden, picking and canning, and work, I had a very busy week and weekend, but did get some writing done. I completed the rough draft of one of the four stories I’m working on and did the final read through for A Soldier for Christmas. Unless something unusual pops up, I won’t see that story again until it’s released in December.

We have company coming for the weekend and a large family gathering planned to celebrate Hayley’s baptism. I hope you all have a wonderful Labor Day weekend!

Why I read and write romance novels...

Recently I was asked why I write sweet romance. My automatic answer came out without me even thinking about it—I read for enjoyment, and to me that is once upon a time and happily ever after.

This person didn’t let me off the hook that easily, she wanted to know why?

I explained that working in the non-profit human services field I see enough of the real world, and that I don’t want to read about it.

Again, she asked why?

I explained that I have control over what I bring upon myself, and I don’t want that to be tragedy, or misfortune, or heartache. I want my life to be filled with humor, grace, and love, so that’s what I choose to read and write about.

Years ago I heard someone say the below standard, and have always believed it.
Watch your thoughts because they become your words.
Watch your words because they become your actions.
Watch your actions because they become your habits.
Watch your habits because they become your character.
Watch your character because it becomes your destiny.

On to reviews for this week….

Doctor McBride—4 hearts from Dee Daily at The Romance Studio. “Ms. Robinson keeps this tale fast moving with those twists and turns that always make a book fun.”


And Rancher McBride—5 hearts from the same reviewer at The Romance Studio. “The interaction of the characters and the dialogue in this installment of the McBride family saga is excellent.”

Doctor McBride also received a review from Joyfully Reviewed. Reviewer Tanya said, “A fast paced fun addition to the McBride brothers’ stories.”

Bloom Where You Are Planted

My garden is busy producing vegetables, and the branches on the fruit trees are hanging low from the weight of the apples and plums. I enjoy harvesting the goods and stacking the freezer for the winter months, and it always amazes me how those little plants can grow so quickly and produce so bountifully. Even more remarkable are those little volunteer guys—seeds left lying dormant from last year or the year before who sprout with life and run a challenging race with the ones who were so gently tendered and protected from frosty spring mornings.

Those volunteer ones remind me of the flower in the sidewalk or the concrete medium of a busy freeway. They gallantly prove where there is a will, there is a way.

Of course, with my love of westerns and history, my thoughts then go to the pioneers—those resilient men and women who courageously braved the unknown to plant themselves in the Wild West of North America and bloom.

Okay, so now I’m just rambling. Sorry, I wanted to get a blog post done so I can get back to work on my WIP (actually it’s four works in progress), but once I started thinking about the garden I completely forgot what I was going to blog about! All I can say is take advice from those little plants, and bloom where YOU are planted!

Writing news this week…I completed edits on two stories last weekend and got them sent back in, and the Lawmen and Outlaws Anthology received a 4.5 stars rating from The Romance Studio.

Not in Kansas anymore...

We are back in good old Minnesota. The family reunion was great. My books auctioned off for $45 a piece, and I bought a coat rack made out of horse shoes. We made the 800 mile drive in one day on the way down, but took two coming home. Age I guess.

While we were in Scott City we visited both the EL Quartelejo Museum and the Keystone Gallery. These were both excellent and I’d highly recommend stopping in if your ever in the vicinity.

My garden seemed to have popped while we were gone. I now have peppers and tomatoes coming out my ears! It’ll make for a busy weekend along with all the writing work I must catch up on!

On the road again...

We are heading back down to Kansas this week for a family reunion. It’s always great to see everyone down there. It’s tradition at this reunion to bring something ‘hand made’ for the auction that raises money for the next year’s reunion. I always donate a couple books and am excited to see how this year’s event goes. It is the Turley family reunion (my husband’s grandmother’s family) and in my book Shotgun Bride-The Quinter Brides Book 1, the sheriff’s name is Turley, so I know the family is going to have fun with that one.

Today I had the most awesome experience. I spoke to a book club in the cities. The club had chosen An April to Remember as a club read. It was so cool to talk to all these people who had read the book and had specific questions about Jerek and April and the Sultana disaster. They wanted to know how I learned about the Sultana, why I wrote about it, and a million other questions. I’ve spoken to many different groups as an author, but this, by far, was the most wonderful one yet! I invited my mother to attend with me, and she too had a great time. They had questions for her as well, the most common being how it felt to be the mother of an author. LOL.

WRDF reviews gave Lawmen and Outlaws Anthology an ‘entertaining and engaging’ rating. Reviewer Sally says the book “tugs at the heartstrings of anyone who wants to escape into an era when men were men…”

I also received preliminary galleys for both A Soldier for Christmas, my story for the American Rose Christmas Anthology, and Boot Hill Bride. I’d like to say I’ll be working on these while we drive to Kansas, but since we will be taking my car, I will be doing all the driving. Which is fine by me, the driver’s seat is more comfortable than the passengers. AND since I know she’ll be going back into storage soon, I’m happy to get as much time behind the wheel as possible. I’ve had my Mustang for a year now, and still love her as much as the day I drove her off the car lot.

P.S. The picture is Isabelle trucking across our front yard in her jeep. My DH thinks she takes after her grandmother, we can't get her out from behind the wheel either.

Party and Reviews

My nephew’s grad party was wonderful. Lots of people, lots of good food, lots of fun, and plenty of folks took their turn in the dunk tank!

Now that the party is over, the company has all left and the house is still fairly clean, I’m hoping to attack all three of my works in progress. I do feel a touch ‘cranky’ because I haven’t had full blocks of time to really dig my heels in and write. When I have had an hour or so it has mainly been spent on research since all three manuscripts are historicals. Actually, that’s how the third MS got started. I was researching for my sister’s story, some of the information I found was very relevant for the fourth Quinter brothers story, and another compelling bit of info I found led me in a whole new direction…thus a new story was born. I love it!

Speaking of stories….Received three wonderful reviews since my last post.

Night Owl Romance gave An April to Remember a reviewer’s top pick. Reviewer Melinda says, “Lauri Robinson did a beautiful job with this book…”

Nights and Weekends gave a very cute review of Doctor McBride. “Filled with fun characters and realistic conversation…this was a pleasing lunchtime read.”

Long and Short Reviews gave Lawmen and Outlaws four books. Reviewer Camellia said of Sheriff McBride. “This fast moving short story keeps the reader totally involved.” Concerning the overall anthology, she states, “LAWMEN AND OUTLAWS is a “mighty fine” read for Historical Western readers and would be ideal for a newcomer to get introduced to this genre.”

Next Tuesday I will be talking to a book club that is reading An April to Remember.

New Cover

Isn’t it gorgeous? Nicola has designed most of my covers and I’m so thankful for her talents.

An American Rose Christmas will be released in December 2009. A Solider for Christmas is my story, and I’m excited to be a part of this anthology.

This Saturday we are hosting my nephew’s high school graduation party. (Congrats Danny!) Years ago when my son graduated we started a tradition of renting a dunk tank and all the graduates had to take turns at being dunked, so everyone is really looking forward to it! I’m taking tomorrow off to cook all day. 

I hope you all have a great weekend! I find it amazing how January and July both have 31 days yet January seems so long while July so short…

Safety Awareness/Self Defense

Between work, evening commitments, and raspberry plants that are producing berries the size of grapes, I haven’t gotten much writing done this week. I have made three batches of raspberry jam and most likely will get another three or four batches the way the plants are going, so we’ll have plenty to last all winter.

On Monday I attended a Safety Awareness/Self Defense class. It was very interesting, and I’d suggest every woman attend one! (I'd taken one years ago and signed up for this one at our Ladies Night Out.) This was put on by our sheriff’s department. It was three hours long and they talked a lot about safety awareness, i.e. how to make sure your home or car ISN”T inviting for robbers, where to park in parking lots, and how to profile your surroundings. We also learned ‘break away’ tips if you are grabbed, how to use personal safety devices, i.e. pepper spray, and some jabs and kicks. One of my daughters-in-law attended with me and was my partner for the self defense part. At one point while I was holding the ‘punching pad’ she started laughing and said, “How many girls get the chance to beat up their mother-in-law!”

One tip they told us was attackers HATE long fingernails. They said Ted Bundy claimed he never attacked a woman with long nails. So, ladies, go get a manicure!

On to writing...When I sat down at the computer Sunday evening, the fourth Quinter Brother, Snake, wanted me to spend some time on his story…Five chapters later I finally made it to bed. Yes, I was tired Monday morning! But the story was flowing so I couldn’t stop. I’m hoping for a block of time yet this week to pull it up again!

I received a pre-review on Kendra’s Choice. The reader said it had her hooked from page one, and fell in love with Sterling to the point she wished she was Kendra. LOL.

Back to the Real World

Ah, yes, vacation is over so it’s back to the daily rat race. Actually, around my house, it’s the laundry race. I can’t believe the amount of laundry that accumulates. How did we have ALL that in two suitcases?

Our trip from one end of the state to the other (and Minnesota isn’t a small state) was wonderful. First we drove to the South Dakota border to see my brother’s kids and their families from Tennessee and Oklahoma. After that we went to the Canadian border to our property. My husband’s brother drove up from Iowa, and we all had a wonderful time. The fish were biting on Lake of the Woods, and I can once again be called the ‘walleye slayer’.

I did get a chance to write a small amount on my latest WIP. I’m happy to say my hero and heroine are no longer snowbound in a cave in Colorado. They now are traveling Goodale’s Cutoff across Idaho.

My free read went up at The Wild Rose Press this weekend. Blue Spring’s Queen is the fourth and final McBride story. It’s about Abigail, the woman who relentlessly chased each and every McBride brother. I figured she needed her own story.

OH…AND The Wild Rose Press now has the capability of selling print copies of all novel length stories! YEA!

Happy Independence Day

I’m wishing you a wonderful holiday now, because we are leaving tomorrow to go up north for the 4th of July. I’m looking forward to some quiet time in the woods. However, I must say I’m going to miss seeing Isabelle and Hayley every day!




If you want something to read…I posted a new blog on the Cactus Rose of the Wild Rose Press blog about my novella, Kendra’s Choice which will be released in October.

Have a save and happy holiday!

Boot Hill Bride

I received the contract for the third Quinter Book. Boot Hill Bride—The Quinter Brides Book 3 is now officially on my coming soon list! AND I already got the cover!


The blog bouquet was such fun! Thanks to everyone who stopped by to say hello!

I received three new reviews this week. Two for Doctor McBride. Orchid with The Long and Short of It Reviews, gave it four books, and said, “I enjoyed this story and would love to read more from this author.” And Chrissy with Romance Junkies gave it a 4.5 rating and said, “Lauri Robinson’s DOCTOR MCBRIDE is a wonderful addition to her MCBRIDE series.” And one for Rancher McBride. Joyfully Reviewed says, "Rancher McBride is a super fast paced historical that will make you smile."

I also received the first round of edits for both Boot Hill Bride and A Soldier for Christmas, which will be part of the American Rose Christmas Anthology, so I really have to make the time to work on them this weekend. (I had to take my laptop into the computer guy this AM, and thankfully he has it working as good as new again!)

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend! Remember, you’ll never have another June 2009, so make the most of it!

Blog Bouquet Winner

Thanks to everyone who stopped by the Stop and Smell the Roses Blog Bouquet!

I put all the names of those who left a comment in a bowl, and my granddaughter pulled one out.

Congrats, LORETTA CANTON. You are the winner.

Loretta, please email me at Lauri @ Izoom.net with the name of the book you’d like to receive a PDF of.

Cheers,
Lauri

Stop and Smell the Roses Blog Bouquet

Thanks for stopping to smell a Cactus Rose today!

I’m often asked why I write western historical romances. My first response is always the same— “Because I wanted to grow up and marry Little Joe Cartwright.” Seriously, I did. Yeah, I know—me and about fifty million other girls! I guess I’ve always had a thing for cowboys. The 19th century seems like a quieter, simpler time of life, and overall, much more romantic than the 21st century. Immersing myself in researching and writing historical westerns allows me to experience ‘once upon a time and happily ever after’ every time I sit down at my computer.

A touch about my stories:

Mail Order Husband—1870’s Black Hills. She didn’t want a husband, she needed one. He’s caught simply by surprise—drugged and shipped to the Black Hills.

A Wife for Big John—1890’s Northern Minnesota lumber camp. She didn’t need a husband, she needed a job. He passes out the first time they meet…mainly due to the fact she’s acting as a mid-wife by delivering a baby in his bedroom.

An Unbelievable Journey—(Time travel) 1880’s Nebraska. She falls off a cliff in Maine and lands in the Wild West. He’s shocked by her dress, language, and the jewelry in her belly button.

Shotgun Bride-The Quinter Brides Book One—1880’s Southwestern Kansas. She’s traded for a dead horse. He’s knocked unconscious and hogtied. Without choice, they’re married.

An April to Remember—1865 Memphis, Tennessee. She distrusts men—all men. He loves woman—all woman. They’re thrown together in the muddy Mississippi when the historical Sultana explodes.

Rancher McBride—1870’s Northeastern Kansas. She doesn’t want to be a rancher’s wife; she wants to be a rancher. He wants Josie, not some fancy gal. Do clothes make the man, or woman?

Doctor McBride—1870’s Northeastern Kansas. She knows what she wants—Dr. Jake McBride. A McBride’s word is as good as gold, and he promised to leave her alone. He can’t go back on his word, can he?

Sheriff McBride-Lawmen and Outlaws Anthology—1870’s Northeastern Kansas. She knew the law would eventually catch up with her. He knows she’s hiding something, but one kiss proves he’s willing to give up the law for her.

Coming in October: Kendra’s Choice. 1880’s Eastern Colorado. She needs a man—for research. Who’s he to deny the needs of a young, beautiful woman?

And Coming in November: Badland Bride-The Quinter Brides Book Two—(Time Travel) 1880’s Western Kansas. Pregnant and outrunning a mad man, she crawls into the past. He takes her home, and gets the last thing he expects. A wedding.

Reviews for all of these stories are posted in the sidebar of this page.

As you can tell my favorite time period is the Wild West, from the 1860-1900’s. This is also my favorite time to read about. What is your favorite time period, and why? By leaving a comment you’ll be entered in a drawing for an e-book of your choice from those listed above except Sheriff McBride-Lawmen and Outlaws, (due to the fact it is an anthology) and of course those not released yet, Kendra’s Choice and Badland Bride. I will post the winner on Wednesday so be sure to stop by.

Now it’s time to stop and smell the roses of another Wild Rose Press Author: Here’s the links. Enjoy!

http://AnnWhitaker.blogspot.com
http://bethcaudill.blogspot.com
http://blog.skhyemoncrief.com
http://catemasters.blogspot.com
http://christinecolumbus.blogspot.com
http://donnamichaelsauthor.blogspot.com
http://happyendingsblog.com
http://kyAnnwaters.blogspot.com
http://lindabanche.blogspot.com
http://lynnreynolds.blogspot.com
http://marywritesromance.blogspot.com
http://melanieatkins.wordpress.com
http://missmaesite.blogspot.com
http://nicolemccaffrey.blogspot.com
http://plparker.blogspot.com
http://romanticcravings.blogspot.com
http://roniadams.blogspot.com
http://sherilewiswohl.wordpress.com
http://skypuringtonwrites.blogspot.com

Marley and Me & A Henna Tattoo

I just re-watched Marley and Me. I don’t really know why, probably because my week was so busy I just needed to veg, and watching a movie I’d already seen didn’t require any energy. I read the book this winter, which of course was better than the movie, but they usually are.

Ladies Night Out was wonderful! I even got a tattoo. It’s a dragon fly on my ankle. It’s a henna one, so will fade after a few weeks. The first thing my mother said when I showed it to her was, “That’s NOT real, is it?” She had a few other things to say before I got the chance to assure her it was only temporary. Sheesh, I am pushing fifty, but evidently still not old enough NOT to be reprimanded by my mother.

I did finish another short story last weekend and queried it, so my fingers are crossed it will be contracted.

On Monday I’ll be participating with a group of 20 Wild Rose Press authors for a Stop and Smell the Roses Blog Bouquet. Every author will be running a contest, and all posts will be on line by Monday morning. So please stop by on Monday, leave a comment to enter my contest, and visit the other author’s blogs. (I will have all the links posted.)

Have a GREAT weekend!

Ladies Night Out in Big Lake

I usually don’t blog about work things, but the event I’m hosting right now is so wonderful, if you’re anywhere near Big Lake (Minnesota) you’ll want to attend! On Tuesday, June 16th join other women at the Carousell Works in Big Lake from 6-9 PM for an evening of fun. Tickets are $20 in advance, and $25 at the door. (Email lauriunitedway @ nsatel.net for tickets.) The evening will include a purse raffle, a purse scavenger hunt, food by ‘A Catered Event’, a cash bar, and a variety of mini session and shopping experiences. On-site services will include massages, hair design, pedicures, psychic readings, Reiki practitioner, makeovers, a fashion show, life and business coaching, Lillian’s Purses, and more!

I had to set up one of those big, yellow, lighted signs with the individual letters to advertise the event. (I did convince my son to haul it with his pickup, I wasn’t about to put a hitch on my Mustang!) The towing went well, despite the un-summer like wind and rain that day, however, I didn’t get all the letters I needed when I picked up the sign. It took three trips to the rental store before I finally had enough letters AND numbers to complete my sign.

Okay…now for the writing side of things…

It’s Cowboy Month at the Wild Rose Press! Stop over and pick up a Cactus or Yellow Rose story, they’re all on sale! There will also be a special Cowboy Chat on their Chat Line this Thursday, June 11th at 8 PM EST.

Lawmen and Outlaws was released last week! You Gotta Read Reviews gave it a wonderful review, stating, “A thoroughly enjoyable set of stories. Each story had its own cadence and feel to it and I enjoyed them all very much.” Sheriff McBride is my story, and the other stories are Dreams of Gold by Linda Carroll-Bradd, McKenna’s Woman by Loretta C. Rogers, and The Outlaw’s Angel by Helen Hardt. It was fun to be part of this anthology.

You Gotta Read Reviews also reviewed Doctor McBride last week. Reviewer Tonya says, “I love the McBride series, these books are wonderfully written and they all connect together but have a story all their own to tell.” Romance Junkies also reviewed Doctor McBride, they gave it 4.5 ribbons, and said, “Lauri Robinson’s DOCTOR MCBRIDE is a wonderful addition to her MCBRIDE series.”

One final Cowboy note…If you are looking for a great series, try Paty Jager’s “Petticoat” Series, the third of the series Miner in Petticoats will be released this Friday from The Wild Rose Press. Others in the series include Marshall in Petticoats and Outlaw in Petticoats.

Foggy

I caught a cold—which rarely happens to me—and must say, this one is kicking my behind! Unable to stay in bed and nurse it do to a very hectic schedule at work this week, has me concentrating on not getting the DayQuil and NyQuil mixed up. My mantra has become--Yellow in the morning, green at night.

Therefore, here’s a very short blog:

Two reviews came in this week from The Long and Short of It Reviews:

Rancher McBride five books.

An April to Remember four books.

Have a great weekend!

No time to write...

I’m feeling a little guilty, almost a month ago I left my hero and heroine for A Sister’s Promise trapped in a cave in Colorado in a snow storm, and I haven’t found the time to pull up the manuscript. Hope to get them out this week. (Fingers are crossed.) Our middle son, his wife, and their two wonderful daughters, moved in with us last Friday. They’d sold their house and bought a new one and needed a place to hang out for a week. We had a wonderful time having them here! I had forgotten how much fun a two year old can have in a bathtub, and how much water gets splashed on the floor! LOL. Tonight is their first night in their new house, and I miss the giggles, good night kisses, and bed time stories! Luckily their new house is only five miles away instead of fifty-five miles like their old one was!

While I was busy with the grandbabies, Doctor McBride was released. Review Your Book gave it five stars. Reviewer Lynn says, “This is a very cute read…” This review site also reviewed An April to Remember. Reviewer Darla, gave it four stars and says, “Fans of romantica will enjoy An April to Remember. And Christa at e-Harlequin wrote a review for An April to Remember. She gave it five hearts, saying, “This was a tearjerker of a story…” One other review came in this week, this one from Romance Junkies for A Wife for Big John. Reviewer Chrissy gave it five blue ribbons and says, “Dani and John bring this story to life…”

So even though no writing got done, overall, it’s been a wonderful week.
Next week, Sheriff McBride is released as part of the Lawmen and Outlaws Anthology at The Wild Rose Press.

Reviews, Posts, and Releases

It’s been a while since I posted because we made a quick trip to Kansas. No matter how many times I say/write a ‘quick’, a trip that includes 2000 miles cannot be quick. Since the trip came up unexpectedly, I had to miss the Mustang run I was scheduled to attend. My husband’s grandfather is in the nursing home down there and we had to handle some issues that arose in person. Overall though, it was a good trip and we did have the opportunities to see friends and family.

I didn’t have internet access for most of the time, so was unable to tell everyone I was a guest blogger on Skye’s Ramblings… So if you have a chance, please bop on over to check out my post about An April to Remember.

Also, I received a two more reviews for Rancher McBride. Romance Junkies Reviewer Chrissy says “…readers will be enchanted…” And You Gotta Read Reviews says “You could not go wrong with this story.” I will also be the guest blogger for You Gotta Read Guests on May 24th, so stop by and say hi!

Doctor McBride was released this week! And the third McBride brother’s story, Sheriff McBride, will be released on June 6th as part of the Lawmen and Outlaws Anthology. Loretta Rogers, another author in the anthology created a wonderful book trailer, which I have posted on YouTube, so check it out when you have a chance!

I’m still catching up on emails, so I hope I haven’t missed anything.  I also hope you all have a wonderful holiday weekend!

Cheers!

Rancher McBride

Rancher McBride, the first of the McBride stories, will be released this week from The Wild Rose Press! This is a short, quick story that will only be available in e-book.

And Doctor McBride, the second story will be released next week.

Novel Editions gave wonderful reviews for each of these stories. Reviewer Merry Stahel says Rancher McBride is hilarious, and that Doctor McBride is laugh-out-loud-funny.

Since my last post....

1. I delivered copies of An April to Remember for the City of Brooklyn Center Community Activities Book Club. I will be their “Meet the Author” guest on August 4th.

2. The Paynesville Ladies Night Out event was fabulous! My friend Robin was a PR guru! Her efforts paid off, I sold lots of books. And the event was so delightful I’m planning A Ladies Night Out as a fundraiser for work on June 16th in Big Lake.

3. I signed another contract with The Wild Rose Press! A Soldier for Christmas will be part of the American Rose Christmas Anthology.

4. I was informed Kendra’s Choice will be released October 7, 2009.

5. I wrote two more chapters on my latest WIP, A Sister’s Promise. This is a fun project as I’m collaborating on it with Paty Jager, a very gifted historical author.

6. I posted a new blog on The Wild Rose Press Cactus Blog about loggers and A Wife for Big John.

7. I got Boot Hill Bride back from my beta reader, and after making a few final edits will send it off to my editor.

8. I got a wonderful note from a reader who said they loved An April to Remember.

9. I took a tour of our local ‘state of the art’ jail. It was amazing and I’m seriously thinking about writing a contemporary story set there.

10. RANCHER MCBRIDE WILL BE RELEASED MAY 14! This is the first short story of a series of the three McBride brothers. Doctor McBride will be released May 21st, and the third story, Sheriff McBride is part of the Lawmen and Outlaws Anthology that will be released in June.

Oh, and one last thing…Happy Mother’s Day to all!

Happy BirthdayTWRP!

The Wild Rose Press is having a Birthday Party!
Stop over at their Behind the Garden Gate Blog for chances to win prizes all day!

Top Read!

Just a quick mid-week update…

I received my first review on An April to Remember. WRDF Reviews gave it a TOP READ/EXCELLENCE rating! Reviewer Monika says she loved it immensely, and proclaimed it as a must read.


I will be attending a car show (along with my car of course) in Monticello on Thursday, and then on Friday, Robin and I are off to Paynesville for Ladies Night Out!

Nap time anyone?

I'm ready for a nap...I completed the edits to Kendra's Choice this week, wrote the synopsis for Boot Hill Bride-The Quinter Brides Book Three, and wrote three chapters on my next WIP. Next Friday, I have to deliver copies of An April to Remember to a book club in the cites, and then that evening I'll be at Ben Around Books in Paynesville, MN for a book signing from 8PM-Midnight. All of the town's merchants are open late for Ladies Night Out. I'm really looking forward to it, and my good friend Robin has agreed to be my roady for the trip!

Three Things...

1. The trip up north was fun, even though they still had 40 inches of ice on Lake of the Woods. :)

2. I got my Mustang out of winter stoage last night! Lord, I love driving that car!

3. Paty Jager interviewed me for her blog. Please stop over for a visit and leave a comment!

Easter Eggs

We are heading up north to the still frozen tundra for Easter…Why? I have no idea! But since the grandkids will all be out of town for the holiday (one set already left for Florida today, the other set is leaving tomorrow for Chicago) my husband decided we should go check on the property. (The snow blower is already loaded for the trip since the truck plow can't make it in that deep in the woods.)

Oh, and to make my day even brighter…the tax man called today, our taxes are done and we owe. So, knowing I needed a pick me up today, I called the storage place and told them I’d be over next week to get my Mustang. :)

I received a really cool video in an email today. Here is the link. http://soonereyo.blip.tv/#1762059 It is really worth a click and a few minutes of watching.

I hope you all have a wonderful holiday and that you find many, many eggs!

New Release

It’s here! It’s here! An April to Remember will be released tomorrow in e-book from The Wild Rose Press and print from Amazon!

I started the research for this story in 2006 so it feels like it’s been a long time coming. After hearing of the demise of the Sultana, a riverboat which exploded outside Memphis in April of 1965, I knew I had to create a love story to take place on the ship.

April Simonson had traveled to New Orleans to fetch her brother back to Minnesota. After finding him, April, her brother Willie, and Willie’s three-year-old daughter Suzie board the Sultana for the trip home. Jerek Brinkley is so intrigued by the feisty blonde who pulls her brother out of a gambling hall he buys passage on the boat hauling them north. The Sultana, a ship built to carry about 400 passengers, soon becomes overloaded with more than 2,000 newly released POW’s from two of the worst Confederate prison camps.

Here is an excerpt:

With unexplainable speed, she shot through the water. Gulps of air scorched aching lungs as her face broke the surface. Amongst the debris of wood, cargo and bodies, the colossal side of the Sultana careened. White-capped waves boiled, threatening to drive her into the massive hull or back into the frightening abyss below. Mucky water hit the back of her throat before a scream could join hundreds of others echoing through the night.

April threw her head back, choking and gasping for air as her arms flayed against the assaulting water and both feet kicked at the force lugging her downward. Something wrapped around one hand and another strong heave wrenched her shoulder. She twisted away from the splashes trying to fill her mouth and nose. The steely grip tightened as it towed her away from the ship.

“Jerek!” Her free hand latched onto his arm.

“I’ve got you!” he yelled above the roar of chaos. His other arm swiftly glided in and out of the water before it wrapped around a bobbing object. With a hard tug, he pulled her next to it. “Grab on with both hands!”

The current was too swift. Her skirt, yards of wet material, acted like a sail and tugged her away from him. The sleeve of his shirt threatened to slip from her fingers.

Jerek seized an elbow and thrust her forward. She wheezed for air as her chest slammed against the floating log. His hands forced her arms around the cold, wet wood. “April! Don’t let go! Don’t you dare let go!”

Up and Down Week

This has been an up and down week.
First the ups…
I received the cover for my latest book, Kendra’s Choice. It’s a short story, so will only be released in e-book, and I love the cover the artist created.
Today I spoke to at a workshop for Foster Grandparents. Years ago while I was teaching, I had a couple of foster grandparents in my classrooms, and the children loved them. As did the teachers! They are so much help and really provide students that ‘one on one’ time they need. There must have forty or more at the meeting, and I sold several books. Overall it was a great meeting and the grandparents were a fun crowd.

Now for the down…
My dog, Chance, passed away yesterday. He was thirteen, and had gone down hill very quickly the past two weeks. He died peacefully, just went to sleep. I’m very thankful for that, but will miss him an awful lot.

Fun Events and Company

We woke up to a dusting of snow yesterday, but by afternoon a full-fledged spring rain fell and melted several mounds of the snow filling our yard. It didn’t completely dissolve all of the winter white, but it did assure us spring is on its way! The rain seemed to brighten everyone’s spirits. I’ve had company from Nebraska this week, and ‘us women’ visited several antique stores yesterday. The stores weren’t bustling, but everyone was so cheerful. Even though we had to run across the parking lots to keep from getting drench, we had a wonderful time, and found some unique treasures.

I’ve been invited to participate in a Mustang Run on May 16th, and have decided to display my car as the “Romance Car”. Yesterday, I found a wonderful little bookshelf for the trunk to display my books, a fun picture frame to display information about the car, and the material to make pillows for the backseat. I will use several pieces of my Elvis memorabilia in the display as well. (Picture a life-size cardboard cutout of Elvis standing beside my car.) My two teenage grandsons are going to the event with me, and I’m really looking forward to it (we all have matching Mustang t-shirts). I’m also getting very anxious to get the car out of storage. Last week I swore I could hear her nickering for me to let her out. But my husband said not yet because she’d sink up to her hubcaps in the spring mud. My grandson and I have been planning the display, and are still looking for ideas, so if any of you have thoughts for the car display, send them my way.

Our company left today, and tonight we are attending the Wild Turkey Federation Banquet, which is always fun. This week I’m attending a self defense class, mainly for research, and a Taste of Spring event put on by local caterers, it's great time and the food is outstanding!

On the writing side…I’ve signed a contract for Kendra's Choice, a short western historical, and am looking forward to receiving print copies of An April to Remember. I’ve sold several advance copies, and people are waiting for them to arrive.

Countdown to Release Date

An April to Remember will be released on April 3rd!

The tale of the Sultana Riverboat struck me deeply when I first heard about it. I was amazed a story so tragic was buried in history almost from the moment it happened. During months of research, I was surprised by the supply of information I found as well as the amount of controversy that still hovers over the incident.

The hero, Jerek, and the heroine, April, are complete figures of my imaginations, two characters I created to survive the accident, but I worked hard to keep much of what happens to them as close to actual events as possible. Throwing April into the raging, swollen, Mississippi River in the middle of the night was hard since I’m deathly afraid of water. The night I was writing that scene for the first time, it was quite late and my husband asked if I was coming to bed. I told him I couldn’t—not until I got April out of the water. It was about four in the morning before I went to bed. LOL.

Here's the book trailer.

This and That

The newest addition to our family is home and everyone is doing well. We feel very blessed everything went smoothly. I thought of my daughter-in-law often while writing Badland Bride. The heroine of the story travels back in time and is pregnant. It is her fear of delivering without modern medicine that keeps her focused on getting back to the future.

Speaking of Badland Bride, the final galley has been sent to production and the release date set for November 2009! A wonderful author, Mallary Mitchell, read the story and offered this pre-review: “Badland Bride is an amazingly well-woven story. Lauri Robinson has created not only a wonderful couple, but also a believable family. Skeeter is a charismatic, charming hero, and Lila is a great match for him. These characters are colorful, vibrant, and full of life. They surround you with their wit and realism.”

Other notes: Joyfully Reviewed just posted this review for A Wife for Big John, and don’t forget the Sony E-Reader contest at the Wild Rose Press ends March 17th.

New Arrival!

On Tuesday afternoon, weighing in at 6 lbs 14 oz, our granddaughter Hayley Elizabeth arrived. She is just as beautiful as her older sister, Isabelle. Yes, we are tickled pink!

A Quick reminder….There are only a few weeks left for a chance to win the free e-book reader at The Wild Rose Press.

Emails from Readers

I’ve received some wonderful emails from readers about Shotgun Bride-The Quinter Brides Book 1, and for me, these are the ultimate. I love getting reviews from review sites, and of course family and friends often let me know when they’ve read one of my stories, but hearing from a complete stranger is the ultimate. It’s the true reward of writing and I so appreciate people taking the time write me. Here’s one of the many I’ve received lately:

"Fictionwise was having a big sale a couple of weeks ago and I decided to try a few new authors (new to me anyway) along with the books I was looking to purchase. One of the books I bought was Shotgun Bride. I just finished it and I was sobbing through parts of it. I don't remember the last time I was so moved by something I read. It was wonderful and I really enjoyed the story. I loved the dog, I loved the brothers, I liked how her brother redeemed himself at the end. I loved how her trying so hard to be the knowledgeable wife provided her with the resources to save him at the end. It was beautiful and I loved it and will be recommending it to my many reader friends - and also hunting down more of your books to read. "

That is enough for me to ignore the kitchen floor which needs to be scrubbed, not fret over the closet door that barely shuts, and pull up the next WIP! I’ve lost count on the number of people asking about a release date for Badland Bride-The Quinter Brides Book 2. I’m hoping readers like Skeeter’s story as much as they liked Kid’s, and am committed to getting the galley back to my editor this weekend! I’m working on Boot Hill Bride, the third story. It is about the brother Howard, or Hog, and takes place in Dodge City, where his mother’s shotgun forces him to wed Randilynn, a politician’s daughter.

So, to all you readers out there…Thank you! Hearing from you is more exciting than winning a gold medal!

Author Night at the Library

I enjoy events put on by local libraries, and last night I took my mother to one featuring William Kent Krueger. She loves his Cork O'Connor character. Krueger writes a mystery series set in the north woods of Minnesota. His protagonist, Cork O'Connor, is the former sheriff of Tamarack County and a man of mixed heritage--part Irish and part Ojibwe. The eighth book in the Cork O'Connor series, Red Knife, was released in September 2008.

It was fun and interesting, listening to Mr. Krueger's writing journey. He's a very animated speaker and had the audience chuckling most of the evening. He said he's contracted to write two more Cork books, but is also writing stand alone stories. After sixteen years of 'living' with Cork, he's ready for a change. That struck a cord, made me think how difficult it must be to write several stories about one person. Every book is like a child, we give it birth, nourish it as it grows, but after sixteen years, I'd think the same character would become like that child who never leaves home. Seriously, Mr. Krueger's books are great, and I'd recommend reading one if you haven't done so.

Other news... I received two reviews this week, one for A Wife for Big John by Night Owl Romance Book Reviews, and the other for Shotgun Bride-The Quinter Brides Book 1 by Joyfully Reviewed. This weekend (beside a Valentine’s Day date with my DH, which is always fun) I hope to finish the final round of edits on Badland Bride-The Quinter Brides Book 2. After this round the book should be ready to go to galley.

I hope you all have a very romantic Valentine’s Day!

Now Available in Print

Shotgun Bride-The Quinter Brides Book 1

is now available in print from Amazon.

Like most girls, Jessie Johnson will never forget the first time she met her mother-in-law. After all who can forget a shotgun pointed at them? Bartered for a dead horse at gun point, she either agrees to marry one of the Quinter boys or her brother will hang for horse theft. Jessie knows nothing about being a wife- other than the wedding will likely put her new husband in grave danger. After being knocked unconscious by his brothers, Kid Quinter finds himself surrounded by his uncouth family, the sheriff, a preacher, and an adorable young woman. Tied to a chair, he's given no choice but to marry Jessie Johnson. And that’s just the beginning of his troubles- it appears his pretty little wife has quite a past, including a notorious gunslinger looking for retribution.

Reviews on this book:
The Romance Studio
Love Western Romances
Coffee Time Romance
The Long and Short of It Reviews
WRDF Reviews


And don’t forget about the E-book reader giveaway at The Wild Rose Press!