Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Monday, March 09, 2009
American Idol - Season 8
Can you believe it! Eight seasons of American Idol? Holy cow! I don't do too bad picking favorites, and I'm not afraid to stick my neck out there and tell you who they are.
Here are my early picks (And thank You, God that Tatiana didn't make the top 12/13! She would have been the Sanjaya of the year.) And yes I voted.
Adam Lambert
Danny Gokey
Alexis Grace
Megan Corkrey
Scott MacIntyre
Did I select any of your favorites?
Here are my early picks (And thank You, God that Tatiana didn't make the top 12/13! She would have been the Sanjaya of the year.) And yes I voted.
Adam Lambert
Danny Gokey
Alexis Grace
Megan Corkrey
Scott MacIntyre
Did I select any of your favorites?
will anyone confess to a BIG LOVE attraction?
Will anyone else admit to being a Big Love addict? I gave up on a lot of the shows I used to enjoy (like Gray's Anatomy) when they got Too Stupid to Watch. I caught this one accidentally on an all-night marathon before a new season and promptly ran out to rent the previous season and have been hooked on Sunday nights ever since.
It especially drew me because I had read Stolen Innocence, a true account and knew how much of the polygamist story was ripped from the headlines of current FDLS events and court cases. Anyway, this show has replaced my passion for Dirty Sexy Money, which I was devasted to see axed. :::SOB::: It moves almost just as fast - the pacing is incredible, one drama to the next. Nothing drags on - only some of the deeper dirtier secrets remain, others are revealed and agonized over with a swiftness that boggles. Stars like Bruce Dern and Mary Kay Place as evil-doers are riveting.If you're a fan, don't miss clicking through to this San Diego State University Culture link where the writer gives commentary on this season with my kind of style. I enjoyed the review a lot.
Saturday, March 07, 2009
Online Workshop!
I'm offering a writers workshop in April, and registration has just begun. See more about Setting is More Than a Backdrop by visiting the link.
CLICK HERE
http://cheryl-stjohn-workshop.blogspot.com/
CLICK HERE
http://cheryl-stjohn-workshop.blogspot.com/
From AOL Latino
Perhaps trying to be current and original, a couple from Monterrey, Mexico, named their new baby daughter Krisis Mundial, which means 'world crisis' in Spanish, but is spelled with a 'K' instead of a 'C'. Yes, everyone around the world is facing economic crisis, and in some cases political crisis too, but is this naming a sign that things have gone too far?
Most people feel that selecting a name for your child should be a serious decision, where one lists many options, listens to opinions from friends and family, and hopefully arrives at a wise and 'perfect' name for the baby. The name you choose will be the distinctive 'mark' for that person as the grow into adulthood, following her throughout, and that's why sometimes people try too hard to be unique. But, how far should one take this substantial power and liberty to select the name of your offspring?
The Office of Vital Records in Mexico does not seem to have any objections when it comes to registering weird names that are submitted on birth certificates. Truth be told, the news of this couple naming their daughter 'Krisis Mundial' is not an isolated event.
In Monterrey, Mexico, there are birth certificates with other unconventional names, such as Tarzan or Grangelia. But Mexico is not the only country where this happens. In Ecuador there is also people with peculiar names along the vein. In a little village called Chone, a judge who was born during World War II was named Adolfo Hitler Flores de Valgas. This could not have been possible in Germany, where there are laws against naming children "Adolf Hitler" and "Osama bin Laden."
Chone is a town where strange names are a common thing. If you ever visit, you could enjoy meeting and chatting with locals who carry names such as Burger King, Alí Baba or Vick Vaporup. Unfortunately, this is not a joke. Our advice to new parents everywhere: please, do not choose a name from the following list if you want your child to lead a happy life, free of snarky comments and strange looks.
Other unusual and real names. Really!: Alka Seltzer, Selva Alegre (Happy Jungle), Sostenes (Brassiere), Ángel Cristo (Angel Christ), Poderoso Melchor (Powerful Melchor), Semiencanto (Semi charming), Circuncisión (Circumcision), John Kennedy, Perfecta Heroína (Perfect Heroine), Usmail (as in USA Mail), Usnavy (as in USA Navy).
Weird Baby Names Facts - In 2007, Sweden refused to allow a couple to name their daughter "Metallica," in honor of the superstar heavy rock group. However, under newly relaxed rules, Metallica is now a perfectly acceptable choice in Sweden. Parents still cannot name their children with swear words for names or name them God, Allah or Devil.
- In July, 2008, David Partin and his then-pregnant girlfriend Samantha Bailey, agreed to sell the rights to his unborn son's name to an Orlando radio station for a $100 gas card. Two morning show hosts planned to name the baby after themselves, "Dixon and Willoughby."
- Last year, New Zealand authorities blocked a couple's bid to officially name their new son "4Real," saying numerals are not allowed. And in July, a 9-year-old New Zealand girl was made a ward of the court so she could change her name from "Talula Does The Hula From Hawaii." She complained that it was embarrassing and a judge agreed. The girl's new name was not made public.
- French parents must choose baby names from an approved list. The laws are designed to prevent teasing.
- In America, "You can't use a four-letter word that I wouldn't use in this interview," a sociologist said, "and other than that you're free to do what you want."
- One Michigan boy and one Texas boy have been named "ESPN" after the sports network based in Bristol, Conn.
Friday, March 06, 2009
Thursday, March 05, 2009
CLICK ON THE PHOTO TO SEE THE BUNNIES UP CLOSE & PERSONAL
It was a busy day over at Petticoats and Pistols yesterday - thanks to all who stopped by Wildflower Junction! I appreciate you.
Observant visitors will already have noticed that I changed my blog header this week. I'm so eager for spring, I had my husband haul up my Easter decor. He calls it "bunny world." So, okay the Easter bunny is definitely alive and well at our house. It's another of those collections that I got hooked on and didn't quit until it was too late. I don't add to the bunnies any longer - not to say I wouldn't accept a gift bunny of it looked me in the eye--mouth--ear--whatever.
So I'm going to be sharing bunny world with you off an on. Mostly on. You get the drift. The blog header features one of my favorite teapots and three shiny mother-of-pearl-ish china bunnies.
The photo in this post is of the top of my antique bureau, which sits just inside my front door.
I couldn't post a blog subject because blogger is currently on a rampage and keeps changing my subject into gibberish.
It was a busy day over at Petticoats and Pistols yesterday - thanks to all who stopped by Wildflower Junction! I appreciate you.Observant visitors will already have noticed that I changed my blog header this week. I'm so eager for spring, I had my husband haul up my Easter decor. He calls it "bunny world." So, okay the Easter bunny is definitely alive and well at our house. It's another of those collections that I got hooked on and didn't quit until it was too late. I don't add to the bunnies any longer - not to say I wouldn't accept a gift bunny of it looked me in the eye--mouth--ear--whatever.
So I'm going to be sharing bunny world with you off an on. Mostly on. You get the drift. The blog header features one of my favorite teapots and three shiny mother-of-pearl-ish china bunnies.
The photo in this post is of the top of my antique bureau, which sits just inside my front door.
I couldn't post a blog subject because blogger is currently on a rampage and keeps changing my subject into gibberish.
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Blogging at Petticoats and Pistols!
I'm blogging at Petticoats and Pistols today! Stop over and learn something about early jobs for women that might surprise you.
This is me earlier today, as I was preparing to sit down and write. ----->
Hungry Baby Causes Crack Up
You know me. I just couldn't pass this one up.
Associated Press - KETTERING, Ohio (March 3
Police in Ohio say a woman has been charged with child endangering after another motorist reported she was both breast-feeding a youngster and talking on a phone while driving. Police in the Dayton suburb of Kettering say the caller told them he saw the woman Thursday. Officer Michael Burke says authorities used a license plate number to track down 39-year-old Genine Compton.
He said the woman told officers she was breast-feeding and wouldn't let her child go hungry. Burke said the legal concern is that Compton had a child in her lap while driving, not that she was breast-feeding in public. He said the child was under 2 years old. Police say the woman faces up to 180 days in jail and a $1,800 fine if convicted of the misdemeanor.
So give her a break; this was her carpool day. They didn't mention she was listening to an e-book and making a grocery list too. This woman is obviously a multi-tasker. She was probably on her way to pick up the rest of the kids from school and take them all back home to the birthday party. (The ice cream is made from Ben & Jerry's breast milk.) She was ordering the cake when police stopped her. They probably set her back a week. Tomorrow morning she'll have to fix lunches while she showers.
You should see her jog and feed that baby.
Associated Press - KETTERING, Ohio (March 3Police in Ohio say a woman has been charged with child endangering after another motorist reported she was both breast-feeding a youngster and talking on a phone while driving. Police in the Dayton suburb of Kettering say the caller told them he saw the woman Thursday. Officer Michael Burke says authorities used a license plate number to track down 39-year-old Genine Compton.
He said the woman told officers she was breast-feeding and wouldn't let her child go hungry. Burke said the legal concern is that Compton had a child in her lap while driving, not that she was breast-feeding in public. He said the child was under 2 years old. Police say the woman faces up to 180 days in jail and a $1,800 fine if convicted of the misdemeanor.
So give her a break; this was her carpool day. They didn't mention she was listening to an e-book and making a grocery list too. This woman is obviously a multi-tasker. She was probably on her way to pick up the rest of the kids from school and take them all back home to the birthday party. (The ice cream is made from Ben & Jerry's breast milk.) She was ordering the cake when police stopped her. They probably set her back a week. Tomorrow morning she'll have to fix lunches while she showers.
You should see her jog and feed that baby.
Chug that water!
One glass of water shuts down midnight hunger pangs for almost 100% of the dieters studied in a University study. Lack of water is the #1 trigger of daytime fatigue.
Preliminary research indicates that 8-10 glasses of water a day could significantly ease back and joint pain for up to 80% of sufferers.
A mere 2% drop in body water can trigger fuzzy short-term memory, trouble with basic math, and difficulty focusing on the computer screen.
Drinking 5 glasses of water daily & decreases the risk of colon cancer by 45%, plus it can slash the risk of breast cancer by 79%, and one is 50% less likely to develop bladder cancer.
Are you drinking the amount of water you should every day?
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Cheryl St.John's Book List
Her Montana Man
Harlequin Historical #978-0-373-29523-4 12/08
"another powerful story!" Rhapsody Book Club
"emotional, realistic westerns are Cheryl St.John's forte..." Kathe Robin, Romantic Times Magazine
The Magic of Christmas
Novella, A Baby Blue Christmas
Harlequin Historical
"a charming story about the importance of love and family." ~ amazon reader
A Western Winter Wonderland
Anthology Novella: “A Family for Christmas”
Harlequin Historical ~ 10/07 ISBN #0-373-29467-0
The Preacher’s Daughter
Harlequin Historical ~ 6/07 ISBN #0-373-29451-4
“Cheryl is keeping the flame of western romance alive almost single-handedly!”
~ All About Romance
“An honest journey with amazing characters.”
~ The Good, The Bad, and The Unread
The Lawman’s Bride
Harlequin Historical ~ 2/07 ISBN #0-373-29435-0
“…gives hope for the subgenre that exemplifies everything good about romance..”
~ The Romance Reader
Wed Under Western Skies Anthology Novella: “Almost A Bride”
Harlequin Historical ~ 7/06 ISBN #0-373-29399-2
“….it’s no wonder she’s a favorite among so many readers!”
~ Once Upon A Romance
“…will truly make you wish you were the blushing bride.”
~ Romantic Times
The Bounty Hunter
Montana Mavericks Historical ~ 9/05 ISBN #0-373-81121-7
St.John packs and delivers with her uniquely satisfying style.”
~ Once Upon A Romance
“… an emotion-charged romance!”
~ A Romance Review
His Secondhand Wife
Harlequin Historical ~ 7/05 ~ISBN #0-373-29360-7
ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA RITA AWARD FINALIST
“Run, don’t walk to your nearest bookstore!”
~ Laurie Likes Books Blog
“…reminiscent of LaVyrle Spencer and Lorraine Heath…another knockout novel!”
~ A Romance Review
“Cheryl St.John has proven that she’s not only one of the very best writers in the romance genre, she’s also one of its strongest and most unique voices.”
~ Barnes&Noble.com reader
Million-Dollar Makeover
# 8 WALDENBOOKS BESTSELLER LIST
Silhouette Montana Mavericks ~ 6/05 ~ ISBN #0-373-24688-9
“…a cross between Lucille Ball and Julia Roberts, Lisa is captivating!”
~ A Romance Review
“…clever sense of humor and complex characters.”
~ Romance Junkies
Prairie Wife
Harlequin Historical ~ 2/05 ~ ISBN #0-373-29339-9
ROMANTIC TIMES REVIEWER CHOICE AWARD
“…courageously executed by the author and her publisher…”
~ Romantic Times Magazine
“…touched my heart from beginning to end.”
~ RomanceJunkies.com
“St. John never disappoints!”
~ Holly, reader amazon.com
Child of Her Heart
Silhouette Logan’s Legacy ~ 12/04 ~ ISBN #0-373-61390-3
“St.John is a master at writing about difficult subject matters.”
~ RomanceJunkies.com
“was hooked from beginning to end.”
~ Brenda, eharlequin.com reader
Charlie’s Angels
Silhouette Special Edition ~ 8/04 ~ ISBN #0-373-61390-3
“Endearing characters..”
~ Rendezvous Magazine
“Sizzles with tension!”
~ CataReview
The Tenderfoot Bride
Harlequin Historical ~ 11/03 ~ ISBN #0-373-29279-1
“…not only a must-read, but a keeper as well.”
~ Writer’s Unlimited
“One of the most tender romances I’ve read in a long time…”
~The Romance Reader
“Cheryl St.John has a storytelling range unequaled in the romance genre.”
~ author, Susan Fox, amazon.com
Marry Me…Again
Silhouette Special Edition ~ 8/03 ~ ISBN #0-373-24558-0
#9 WALDENBOOKS BESTSELLER LIST
“Endearing and passionate….St.John is in her element and shines…”
~ Writer’s Unlimited
Christmas Gold Anthology Novella: “Colorado Wife”
Harlequin Historical ~ 10/02 ~ ISBN #0-373-29227-9
WALDENBOOKS BESTSELLER LIST
“ a heart-warming story…:
~ Reader To reader Reviews
“sparkles with fun and romance,…”
~ Romance Reviews Today
Nick All Night
Silhouette Special Edition ~ 6/02 ~ ISBN #0-373-24475
“For readers who miss LaVyrle Spencer…”
~ All About Romance
“…has won a spot on my keeper shelf!”
~ Escape To Romance Reviews
The Gunslinger’s Bride
Harlequin Historical Montana Mavericks Single Title 9/01 ~ ISBN #0-373-29177-9
“Told in St.John’s sensitive and sensuously exciting style.”
~ Romance Reader’s Connection
“Characters jump right out of the book.”
~ Reader To Reader Reviews
The Magnificent Seven
Silhouette Montana Mavericks, Wed In Whitehorn ~ 3/01 ~ ISBN #0-373-65055-8
WALDENBOOKS BESTSELLER LIST
Winner of Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award
4 ½ Stars! ~ “….characters that dazzle….”
~ Romantic Times
“Cheryl St.John is one author I can’t resist….”
~ Reader To Reader Reviews
“In the tradition of LaVyrle Spencer and Stephanie Mittman, Cheryl St.John will endear readers with her heart-warming Americana romance.”
~ Patricia Rouse, Romantic Times Personal Keepers Columnist
Sweet Annie
Harlequin Historical ~ 2/01 ~ ISBN #0-373-29148-5
Winner Romantic Times K.I.S.S. Hero Award
“…a tale brimming with fascinating characters…”
~ Heart Rate Reviews
“…an enriching and heartfelt read….”
~Sime~Gen Reviews
Big Sky Brides Anthology Novella: “Isabelle”
Silhouette’s Montana Mavericks ~ 3/00 ~ ISBN #0-373-48381-3
#35 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER LIST
USA TODAY BESTSELLER LIST
#2 WALDENBOOKS BESTSELLER LIST
“…my favorite of the three is Cheryl St.John’s tale…”
~ Wichita Times Record News
“Once again Ms. St.John touches her readers with a beautiful love story.”
~ Under The Covers
The Doctor’s Wife
Harlequin Historical ~ 10/99 ~ ISBN #0-373-29081-0 ~
INGRAMS “A” LIST
“This touching story will give you a lump in your throat.”
~ Romantic Leads, Halifax Chronicle-Herald
“…a flair for storytelling that can’t be beat.”
~ Reader To Reader Reviews
“….an unforgettable love story.”
~ Calico Trails
Joe’s Wife
Harlequin Historical ~ 4/99 ~ ISBN #0-373-29051-9
“St.John proves again why she is one of the romance world’s favorite authors.”
~ Wichita Times Record News
“…strong emotional scenes in a style reminiscent of LaVyrle Spencer.”
~ Romantic Leads, Halifax Chronicle-Herald
For This Week I Thee Wed
Harlequin Duets ~ 7/99 ~ ISBN #-373-44072-3
5 Stars! ~ Sime-Gen Reviews
“Cheryl St.John has a marvelous flair for storytelling.”
~ Reader To Reader Reviews
“…made me laugh out loud!”
~ Under The Covers Book Reviews
“…historical, comedy or drama, Cheryl St.John has a marvelous flair for storytelling.”
~ Reader To Reader Reviews
The Mistaken Widow
Harlequin Historical ~ 9/98 ~ ISBN #0-373-29029-2
“The tension simmers relentlessly.”
~ Library Journal
“All the senses spring to life….a work of timeless romance.”
~ Reader To Reader Reviews
“Masterful at weaving an ironic twist of fate into a tension-filled page turner.”
~ Calico Trails
“With a few brush strokes, this author captures place, character, moment.
What a marvelous style!” ~ Loretta Chase, author of The Lion’s Daughter
The Truth About Toby
Silhouette Intimate Moments #810 ~ 9/97 ~ ISBN#0-373-07810-2
#9 WALDENBOOKS BESTSELLER LIST
Winner 1997 Under The Covers Reader Favorites Award, Contemporary Series
Winner 1998 Write Touch Readers’ Award, Best Long Contemporary
“…one of the most exciting books to hit the shelves!”
~ The Literary Times
A Husband By Any Other Name
Silhouette Intimate Moments #756 ~ 12/96 ~ ISBN#0-373-07756-4
"Cheryl St.John makes the leap from historical to contemporary with stunning excellence."
~ Romantic Times
“…riveting and packed with emotion...”
~ The Write Connection
“…characters so alive they seem to step off the page.”
~ Under The Covers Book Reviews
Badlands Bride
Harlequin Historical Single Title ~ 7/96 ~ ISBN#0-373-28927-8
"...an exciting western romance that brings the Badlands to life."
~ Affaire de Coeur
“…another book to treasure…the pages all but turn themselves.”
~ Under The Covers Book Reviews
Saint or Sinner
Harlequin Historical ~ 10/95 ~ ISBN#0-373-28888-3
...reminiscent of LaVyrle Spencer's early work.
~ Romantic Times
"More than a love story...another addition to my permanent collection."
~ Rendezvous
“Cheryl St.John’s mastery of historicals is complimented by her way with contemporary novels.” ~ Harriet Klausner, amazon.com Top 100 Reviewer
Land of Dreams
Harlequin Historical ~ 4/95 ~ ISBN#0-373-28865-4
Nominated for Romantic Times’ Reviewer’s Choice Award for Best Western Historical
"...pleasures the reader long after the last page is turned." Gold 5
~ Heartland Critiques
"...a homespun charmer that tugs at your heartstrings."
~ author, Suzannah Davis
Heaven Can Wait
Harlequin Historical ~ 10/94 ~ ISBN#0-373-28840-9
Nominated for Best Overall Historical, 1994 by Affaire de Coeur
"...a fantastic piece of Americana….a rising new talent with a bright future.”
~ Affaire de Coeur
“…well developed characters combined with a stirring plot.”
~ Amazon.com reader
Rain Shadow
Harlequin Historical ~ 3/94 ~ ISBN#0-373-28812-3
Nominated for RWA's RITA Award for Best First Book
Nominated by Affaire de Coeur readers for Best American Historical Romance
Nominated for Romantic Times’ Reviewers Choice Award, Best Western Historical
"...a wonderful, unique western romance that widens the horizons of the genre."
~ Romantic Times
Harlequin Historical #978-0-373-29523-4 12/08
"another powerful story!" Rhapsody Book Club
"emotional, realistic westerns are Cheryl St.John's forte..." Kathe Robin, Romantic Times Magazine
The Magic of Christmas
Novella, A Baby Blue Christmas
Harlequin Historical
"a charming story about the importance of love and family." ~ amazon reader
A Western Winter Wonderland
Anthology Novella: “A Family for Christmas”
Harlequin Historical ~ 10/07 ISBN #0-373-29467-0
The Preacher’s Daughter
Harlequin Historical ~ 6/07 ISBN #0-373-29451-4
“Cheryl is keeping the flame of western romance alive almost single-handedly!”
~ All About Romance
“An honest journey with amazing characters.”
~ The Good, The Bad, and The Unread
The Lawman’s Bride
Harlequin Historical ~ 2/07 ISBN #0-373-29435-0
“…gives hope for the subgenre that exemplifies everything good about romance..”
~ The Romance Reader
Wed Under Western Skies Anthology Novella: “Almost A Bride”
Harlequin Historical ~ 7/06 ISBN #0-373-29399-2
“….it’s no wonder she’s a favorite among so many readers!”
~ Once Upon A Romance
“…will truly make you wish you were the blushing bride.”
~ Romantic Times
The Bounty Hunter
Montana Mavericks Historical ~ 9/05 ISBN #0-373-81121-7
St.John packs and delivers with her uniquely satisfying style.”
~ Once Upon A Romance
“… an emotion-charged romance!”
~ A Romance Review
His Secondhand Wife
Harlequin Historical ~ 7/05 ~ISBN #0-373-29360-7
ROMANCE WRITERS OF AMERICA RITA AWARD FINALIST
“Run, don’t walk to your nearest bookstore!”
~ Laurie Likes Books Blog
“…reminiscent of LaVyrle Spencer and Lorraine Heath…another knockout novel!”
~ A Romance Review
“Cheryl St.John has proven that she’s not only one of the very best writers in the romance genre, she’s also one of its strongest and most unique voices.”
~ Barnes&Noble.com reader
Million-Dollar Makeover
# 8 WALDENBOOKS BESTSELLER LIST
Silhouette Montana Mavericks ~ 6/05 ~ ISBN #0-373-24688-9
“…a cross between Lucille Ball and Julia Roberts, Lisa is captivating!”
~ A Romance Review
“…clever sense of humor and complex characters.”
~ Romance Junkies
Prairie Wife
Harlequin Historical ~ 2/05 ~ ISBN #0-373-29339-9
ROMANTIC TIMES REVIEWER CHOICE AWARD
“…courageously executed by the author and her publisher…”
~ Romantic Times Magazine
“…touched my heart from beginning to end.”
~ RomanceJunkies.com
“St. John never disappoints!”
~ Holly, reader amazon.com
Child of Her Heart
Silhouette Logan’s Legacy ~ 12/04 ~ ISBN #0-373-61390-3
“St.John is a master at writing about difficult subject matters.”
~ RomanceJunkies.com
“was hooked from beginning to end.”
~ Brenda, eharlequin.com reader
Charlie’s Angels
Silhouette Special Edition ~ 8/04 ~ ISBN #0-373-61390-3
“Endearing characters..”
~ Rendezvous Magazine
“Sizzles with tension!”
~ CataReview
The Tenderfoot Bride
Harlequin Historical ~ 11/03 ~ ISBN #0-373-29279-1
“…not only a must-read, but a keeper as well.”
~ Writer’s Unlimited
“One of the most tender romances I’ve read in a long time…”
~The Romance Reader
“Cheryl St.John has a storytelling range unequaled in the romance genre.”
~ author, Susan Fox, amazon.com
Marry Me…Again
Silhouette Special Edition ~ 8/03 ~ ISBN #0-373-24558-0
#9 WALDENBOOKS BESTSELLER LIST
“Endearing and passionate….St.John is in her element and shines…”
~ Writer’s Unlimited
Christmas Gold Anthology Novella: “Colorado Wife”
Harlequin Historical ~ 10/02 ~ ISBN #0-373-29227-9
WALDENBOOKS BESTSELLER LIST
“ a heart-warming story…:
~ Reader To reader Reviews
“sparkles with fun and romance,…”
~ Romance Reviews Today
Nick All Night
Silhouette Special Edition ~ 6/02 ~ ISBN #0-373-24475
“For readers who miss LaVyrle Spencer…”
~ All About Romance
“…has won a spot on my keeper shelf!”
~ Escape To Romance Reviews
The Gunslinger’s Bride
Harlequin Historical Montana Mavericks Single Title 9/01 ~ ISBN #0-373-29177-9
“Told in St.John’s sensitive and sensuously exciting style.”
~ Romance Reader’s Connection
“Characters jump right out of the book.”
~ Reader To Reader Reviews
The Magnificent Seven
Silhouette Montana Mavericks, Wed In Whitehorn ~ 3/01 ~ ISBN #0-373-65055-8
WALDENBOOKS BESTSELLER LIST
Winner of Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award
4 ½ Stars! ~ “….characters that dazzle….”
~ Romantic Times
“Cheryl St.John is one author I can’t resist….”
~ Reader To Reader Reviews
“In the tradition of LaVyrle Spencer and Stephanie Mittman, Cheryl St.John will endear readers with her heart-warming Americana romance.”
~ Patricia Rouse, Romantic Times Personal Keepers Columnist
Sweet Annie
Harlequin Historical ~ 2/01 ~ ISBN #0-373-29148-5
Winner Romantic Times K.I.S.S. Hero Award
“…a tale brimming with fascinating characters…”
~ Heart Rate Reviews
“…an enriching and heartfelt read….”
~Sime~Gen Reviews
Big Sky Brides Anthology Novella: “Isabelle”
Silhouette’s Montana Mavericks ~ 3/00 ~ ISBN #0-373-48381-3
#35 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER LIST
USA TODAY BESTSELLER LIST
#2 WALDENBOOKS BESTSELLER LIST
“…my favorite of the three is Cheryl St.John’s tale…”
~ Wichita Times Record News
“Once again Ms. St.John touches her readers with a beautiful love story.”
~ Under The Covers
The Doctor’s Wife
Harlequin Historical ~ 10/99 ~ ISBN #0-373-29081-0 ~
INGRAMS “A” LIST
“This touching story will give you a lump in your throat.”
~ Romantic Leads, Halifax Chronicle-Herald
“…a flair for storytelling that can’t be beat.”
~ Reader To Reader Reviews
“….an unforgettable love story.”
~ Calico Trails
Joe’s Wife
Harlequin Historical ~ 4/99 ~ ISBN #0-373-29051-9
“St.John proves again why she is one of the romance world’s favorite authors.”
~ Wichita Times Record News
“…strong emotional scenes in a style reminiscent of LaVyrle Spencer.”
~ Romantic Leads, Halifax Chronicle-Herald
For This Week I Thee Wed
Harlequin Duets ~ 7/99 ~ ISBN #-373-44072-3
5 Stars! ~ Sime-Gen Reviews
“Cheryl St.John has a marvelous flair for storytelling.”
~ Reader To Reader Reviews
“…made me laugh out loud!”
~ Under The Covers Book Reviews
“…historical, comedy or drama, Cheryl St.John has a marvelous flair for storytelling.”
~ Reader To Reader Reviews
The Mistaken Widow
Harlequin Historical ~ 9/98 ~ ISBN #0-373-29029-2
“The tension simmers relentlessly.”
~ Library Journal
“All the senses spring to life….a work of timeless romance.”
~ Reader To Reader Reviews
“Masterful at weaving an ironic twist of fate into a tension-filled page turner.”
~ Calico Trails
“With a few brush strokes, this author captures place, character, moment.
What a marvelous style!” ~ Loretta Chase, author of The Lion’s Daughter
The Truth About Toby
Silhouette Intimate Moments #810 ~ 9/97 ~ ISBN#0-373-07810-2
#9 WALDENBOOKS BESTSELLER LIST
Winner 1997 Under The Covers Reader Favorites Award, Contemporary Series
Winner 1998 Write Touch Readers’ Award, Best Long Contemporary
“…one of the most exciting books to hit the shelves!”
~ The Literary Times
A Husband By Any Other Name
Silhouette Intimate Moments #756 ~ 12/96 ~ ISBN#0-373-07756-4
"Cheryl St.John makes the leap from historical to contemporary with stunning excellence."
~ Romantic Times
“…riveting and packed with emotion...”
~ The Write Connection
“…characters so alive they seem to step off the page.”
~ Under The Covers Book Reviews
Badlands Bride
Harlequin Historical Single Title ~ 7/96 ~ ISBN#0-373-28927-8
"...an exciting western romance that brings the Badlands to life."
~ Affaire de Coeur
“…another book to treasure…the pages all but turn themselves.”
~ Under The Covers Book Reviews
Saint or Sinner
Harlequin Historical ~ 10/95 ~ ISBN#0-373-28888-3
...reminiscent of LaVyrle Spencer's early work.
~ Romantic Times
"More than a love story...another addition to my permanent collection."
~ Rendezvous
“Cheryl St.John’s mastery of historicals is complimented by her way with contemporary novels.” ~ Harriet Klausner, amazon.com Top 100 Reviewer
Land of Dreams
Harlequin Historical ~ 4/95 ~ ISBN#0-373-28865-4
Nominated for Romantic Times’ Reviewer’s Choice Award for Best Western Historical
"...pleasures the reader long after the last page is turned." Gold 5
~ Heartland Critiques
"...a homespun charmer that tugs at your heartstrings."
~ author, Suzannah Davis
Heaven Can Wait
Harlequin Historical ~ 10/94 ~ ISBN#0-373-28840-9
Nominated for Best Overall Historical, 1994 by Affaire de Coeur
"...a fantastic piece of Americana….a rising new talent with a bright future.”
~ Affaire de Coeur
“…well developed characters combined with a stirring plot.”
~ Amazon.com reader
Rain Shadow
Harlequin Historical ~ 3/94 ~ ISBN#0-373-28812-3
Nominated for RWA's RITA Award for Best First Book
Nominated by Affaire de Coeur readers for Best American Historical Romance
Nominated for Romantic Times’ Reviewers Choice Award, Best Western Historical
"...a wonderful, unique western romance that widens the horizons of the genre."
~ Romantic Times
The Plotting Puzzle
I'm well past the halfway point in Her Make-Believe Husband, and it's breezing along. Writing a story is sometimes like putting a puzzle together. I have a dozen sticky notes and pages of one line reminders for things that I now need to thread through or wind up or go back and add to make the story cohesive.I'm a completely linear writer - I go at the story from beginning to end - but then I go back and insert little details as I think of them. For example, I have four dogs in this story - two of them are "on camera" often, but I kept forgetting one of them, so I had to go back and figure out where that dog was all the time. Children and dogs are often a challenge to "direct" in a story.
I just got through a fairly research intensive chapter, not that I had to use that much research, but I had to know it to make the scenes believable. I have scenes at the 1882 Exposition in Denver, and I was disappointed that there were very few photographs to be found online. Pictures, as we know, are often worth a thousand words. If I can visualize it, I am there.
So I'm putting all the pieces together, Mariah and Wes, who are forced into a pretend marriage; John James, Mariah's son who believes Wes is his father (everyone believes Wes is his father, actually); Mariah's huge extended German family, who play a big part in the plotting and motivation; and the themes: loss of control, entrapment, damaging secrets.
Oh, this book is fun. Have I mentioned the hero looks like Hugh Jackman?
Monday, March 02, 2009
Saturday, February 28, 2009
The Death of Common Sense
Lori Borgman
www.loriborgman.com
Three yards of black fabric enshroud my computer terminal. I am mourning the passing of an old friend by the name of Common Sense.
His obituary reads as follows:
Common Sense, aka C.S., lived a long life, but died from heart failure at the brink of the millennium. No one really knows how old he was, his birth records were long ago entangled in miles and miles of bureaucratic red tape.
Known affectionately to close friends as Horse Sense and Sound Thinking, he selflessly devoted himself to a life of service in homes, schools, hospitals and offices, helping folks get jobs done without a lot of fanfare, whooping and hollering. Rules and regulations and petty, frivolous lawsuits held no power over C.S.
A most reliable sage, he was credited with cultivating the ability to know when to come in out of the rain, the discovery that the early bird gets the worm and how to take the bitter with the sweet. C.S. also developed sound financial policies (don't spend more than you earn), reliable parenting strategies (the adult is in charge, not the kid) and prudent dietary plans (offset eggs and bacon with a little fiber and orange juice).
A veteran of the Industrial Revolution, the Great Depression, the Technological Revolution and the Smoking Crusades, C.S. survived sundry cultural and educational trends including disco, the men's movement, body piercing, whole language and new math.
C.S.'s health began declining in the late 1960s when he became infected with the If-It-Feels-Good, Do-It virus. In the following decades his waning strength proved no match for the ravages of overbearing federal and state rules and regulations and an oppressive tax code. C.S. was sapped of strength and the will to live as the Ten Commandments became contraband, criminals received better treatment than victims and judges stuck their noses in everything from Boy Scouts to professional baseball and golf.
His deterioration accelerated as schools implemented zero-tolerance policies. Reports of 6-year-old boys charged with sexual harassment for kissing classmates, a teen suspended for taking a swig of Scope mouthwash after lunch, girls suspended for possessing Midol and an honor student expelled for having a table knife in her school lunch were more than his heart could endure.
As the end neared, doctors say C.S. drifted in and out of logic but was kept informed of developments regarding regulations on low-flow toilets and mandatory air bags. Finally, upon hearing about a government plan to ban inhalers from 14 million asthmatics due to a trace of a pollutant that may be harmful to the environment, C.S. breathed his last.
Services will be at Whispering Pines Cemetery. C.S. was preceded in death by his wife, Discretion; one daughter, Responsibility; and one son, Reason. He is survived by two step-brothers, Half-Wit and Dim-Wit.
Memorial Contributions may be sent to the Institute for Rational Thought.
Farewell, Common Sense. May you rest in peace.
Lori Borgman
www.loriborgman.com
Three yards of black fabric enshroud my computer terminal. I am mourning the passing of an old friend by the name of Common Sense.
His obituary reads as follows:
Common Sense, aka C.S., lived a long life, but died from heart failure at the brink of the millennium. No one really knows how old he was, his birth records were long ago entangled in miles and miles of bureaucratic red tape.
Known affectionately to close friends as Horse Sense and Sound Thinking, he selflessly devoted himself to a life of service in homes, schools, hospitals and offices, helping folks get jobs done without a lot of fanfare, whooping and hollering. Rules and regulations and petty, frivolous lawsuits held no power over C.S.
A most reliable sage, he was credited with cultivating the ability to know when to come in out of the rain, the discovery that the early bird gets the worm and how to take the bitter with the sweet. C.S. also developed sound financial policies (don't spend more than you earn), reliable parenting strategies (the adult is in charge, not the kid) and prudent dietary plans (offset eggs and bacon with a little fiber and orange juice).
A veteran of the Industrial Revolution, the Great Depression, the Technological Revolution and the Smoking Crusades, C.S. survived sundry cultural and educational trends including disco, the men's movement, body piercing, whole language and new math.
C.S.'s health began declining in the late 1960s when he became infected with the If-It-Feels-Good, Do-It virus. In the following decades his waning strength proved no match for the ravages of overbearing federal and state rules and regulations and an oppressive tax code. C.S. was sapped of strength and the will to live as the Ten Commandments became contraband, criminals received better treatment than victims and judges stuck their noses in everything from Boy Scouts to professional baseball and golf.His deterioration accelerated as schools implemented zero-tolerance policies. Reports of 6-year-old boys charged with sexual harassment for kissing classmates, a teen suspended for taking a swig of Scope mouthwash after lunch, girls suspended for possessing Midol and an honor student expelled for having a table knife in her school lunch were more than his heart could endure.
As the end neared, doctors say C.S. drifted in and out of logic but was kept informed of developments regarding regulations on low-flow toilets and mandatory air bags. Finally, upon hearing about a government plan to ban inhalers from 14 million asthmatics due to a trace of a pollutant that may be harmful to the environment, C.S. breathed his last.
Services will be at Whispering Pines Cemetery. C.S. was preceded in death by his wife, Discretion; one daughter, Responsibility; and one son, Reason. He is survived by two step-brothers, Half-Wit and Dim-Wit.
Memorial Contributions may be sent to the Institute for Rational Thought.
Farewell, Common Sense. May you rest in peace.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Photo Friday week 1
For several weeks I am going to post one of my photographs on Fridays. I took this shot from the car on a trip. It's farm country at sunset in Nebraska.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Free Lunch at Arby's
Well, almost free - you have to buy a drink. My hubby got one the other day and said they are yumm-mmy. For a limited time, you can get an Arby's Roast Burger Free with the purchase of any sized drink at regular price.
Senior citizens, if you order a senior drink, you can NOT get the sandwich free. You must pay full price on the drink to get the sandwich.
It says limit one coupon per person per order. This typically means that if there are two people in your party, you can order two drinks, two free sandwiches and use two coupons. However, some managers are a little more hard nosed. If they won't let you use two in one order--split up and each person order and pay on their own.
Offer expires March 9, 2009.
Senior citizens, if you order a senior drink, you can NOT get the sandwich free. You must pay full price on the drink to get the sandwich.It says limit one coupon per person per order. This typically means that if there are two people in your party, you can order two drinks, two free sandwiches and use two coupons. However, some managers are a little more hard nosed. If they won't let you use two in one order--split up and each person order and pay on their own.
Offer expires March 9, 2009.
Reader's Bucket List: Books to Read Before You Die
Last year AOL did a piece on Ten Books You Should read Before You Die that drew hundreds of comments. Here are the books the writers recommended:
#1 - The Holy Bible
The most popular and best-selling book of all time is The Holy Bible. No book has had more influence on the world. Its pages tell the story of the creation, fall, and redemption of mankind. Relive the story of creation and the fall of man in Genesis. Cross the wilderness with Moses in Exodus. Welcome the coming of Jesus Christ in the Gospels. The Holy Bible contains epic stories of history, heroism, and hope.
#2 - Gone With the Wind
Published in 1936, Gone With The Wind sold 50,000 copies on its first day, and two million after a year. Even though it is 1,037 pages long, readers all over the world snatched up the book. In 1937 it was awarded the Pulitzer Prize. Mitchell prided herself on the historical accuracy of her work. Gone With The Wind is a sweeping account of how the Civil War tore apart an entire way of life, and Scarlett O'Hara is one of the most enduring characters in American fiction.
#3 - The Lord of the Rings
The Lord of the Rings is regarded by many to be the most important and influential work of fantasy of the 20th century. It generated the fantasy novel industry practically single-handedly, inspiring a multitude of novels concerning elves and dwarves on quests to conquer ultimate evil despite overwhelming odds. Although intended to be published as a single volume, its division into a trilogy created the iconic format for epic fantasy literature.
#4 - Harry Potter series
Follow Harry Potter from his first days at Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry, through his many adventures with Hermione and Ron, to his confrontations with rival Draco Malfoy and the dreaded Professor Snape. From a dangerous descent into the Chamber of Secrets to the Triwizard Tournament to the return of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, each adventure is more riveting and exhilarating than its predecessor.
#5 - The Stand
In 1978, Stephen King published The Stand, the novel that is now considered to be one of his finest works. It depicts his apocalyptic vision of a world blasted by plague and embroiled in an elemental struggle between good and evil. It is a gripping work with the scope and moral complexity of a true epic. Those reading The Stand for the first time will discover a triumphant and eerily plausible work of the imagination that takes on the issues that will determine our survival.
#6 - The Da Vinci Code
The elderly curator of the Louvre has been murdered. Near the body, police have found a baffling cipher. While working to solve the enigmatic riddle, Robert Langdon is stunned to discover it leads to a trail of clues hidden in the works of Da Vinci -- clues visible for all to see -- yet ingeniously disguised by the painter. The Da Vinci Code heralds the arrival of a new breed of lightning-paced, intelligent thriller...utterly unpredictable right up to its stunning conclusion.
#7 - To Kill a Mockingbird
To Kill a Mockingbird is about the crisis of human behavior and conscience arising from the racism and prejudice that exist in the small Southern town during the Depression. Scout Finch tells the story of her father's defense of Tom Robinson, a young black man who is being tried for the rape of a white woman. Harper Lee's only novel, awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1961, is a much-beloved tale of growing up, as well as an exploration of heroism confronted with bigotry.
#8 - Angels and Demons
When a canister of anti-matter is stolen from a Swiss research facility, Robert Langdon is called in to investigate. In Angels and Demons, a Harvard professor, Langdon is an expert on the ancient, quasi-scientific, and widely feared organization know as the Illuminati, who may or may not be wrapped up in the mystery.
#9 - Atlas Shrugged
Rand's 1200-page novel Atlas Shrugged is a hymn of praise to the concept of rugged individualism, personified in John Galt. This polemic for Rands philosophy of "rational self-interest" has been a steady seller since it was published in 1957.
#10 - The Catcher in the Rye
J. D. Salinger's famous and enduring chronicle of Holden Caulfield's journey from innocence to experience is the quintessential coming-of-age novel. Salinger's 1951 novel The Catcher in the Rye was a bestseller and became an immediate cult favorite, but it has also, over the years, been subject to criticism and even censorship because of its liberal use of profanity, its frank conversations about sex, and its generally irreverent view of the adult world.
Note: This list is based on the results of a Harris Poll that asked 2,413 U.S. adults to name their favorite books.
As a follow-up piece more recently, AOL posted the top books derived from their readers' comments:
Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand
Swan Song, Robert McCammon
Up a Road Slowly, Irene Hunt
Invisible Man, Ralph Ellison
Between the Bridge and the River, Craig Fergus
Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck
Roots, Alex Haley
Rebecca, Daphne DuMaurier
How many of the books listed have you read? How many do you think you should have read? How many do you want to read eventually?
What books do you think everyone should read before they die?
My favorites of all time:
THE STAND, Stephen King
REDEEMING LOVE, Francine Rivers (the original version)
#1 - The Holy Bible
The most popular and best-selling book of all time is The Holy Bible. No book has had more influence on the world. Its pages tell the story of the creation, fall, and redemption of mankind. Relive the story of creation and the fall of man in Genesis. Cross the wilderness with Moses in Exodus. Welcome the coming of Jesus Christ in the Gospels. The Holy Bible contains epic stories of history, heroism, and hope.
#2 - Gone With the Wind
Published in 1936, Gone With The Wind sold 50,000 copies on its first day, and two million after a year. Even though it is 1,037 pages long, readers all over the world snatched up the book. In 1937 it was awarded the Pulitzer Prize. Mitchell prided herself on the historical accuracy of her work. Gone With The Wind is a sweeping account of how the Civil War tore apart an entire way of life, and Scarlett O'Hara is one of the most enduring characters in American fiction.
#3 - The Lord of the Rings
The Lord of the Rings is regarded by many to be the most important and influential work of fantasy of the 20th century. It generated the fantasy novel industry practically single-handedly, inspiring a multitude of novels concerning elves and dwarves on quests to conquer ultimate evil despite overwhelming odds. Although intended to be published as a single volume, its division into a trilogy created the iconic format for epic fantasy literature.
#4 - Harry Potter series
Follow Harry Potter from his first days at Hogwarts School for Witchcraft and Wizardry, through his many adventures with Hermione and Ron, to his confrontations with rival Draco Malfoy and the dreaded Professor Snape. From a dangerous descent into the Chamber of Secrets to the Triwizard Tournament to the return of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named, each adventure is more riveting and exhilarating than its predecessor.
#5 - The StandIn 1978, Stephen King published The Stand, the novel that is now considered to be one of his finest works. It depicts his apocalyptic vision of a world blasted by plague and embroiled in an elemental struggle between good and evil. It is a gripping work with the scope and moral complexity of a true epic. Those reading The Stand for the first time will discover a triumphant and eerily plausible work of the imagination that takes on the issues that will determine our survival.
#6 - The Da Vinci Code
The elderly curator of the Louvre has been murdered. Near the body, police have found a baffling cipher. While working to solve the enigmatic riddle, Robert Langdon is stunned to discover it leads to a trail of clues hidden in the works of Da Vinci -- clues visible for all to see -- yet ingeniously disguised by the painter. The Da Vinci Code heralds the arrival of a new breed of lightning-paced, intelligent thriller...utterly unpredictable right up to its stunning conclusion.
#7 - To Kill a Mockingbird
To Kill a Mockingbird is about the crisis of human behavior and conscience arising from the racism and prejudice that exist in the small Southern town during the Depression. Scout Finch tells the story of her father's defense of Tom Robinson, a young black man who is being tried for the rape of a white woman. Harper Lee's only novel, awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1961, is a much-beloved tale of growing up, as well as an exploration of heroism confronted with bigotry.
#8 - Angels and Demons
When a canister of anti-matter is stolen from a Swiss research facility, Robert Langdon is called in to investigate. In Angels and Demons, a Harvard professor, Langdon is an expert on the ancient, quasi-scientific, and widely feared organization know as the Illuminati, who may or may not be wrapped up in the mystery.
#9 - Atlas Shrugged
Rand's 1200-page novel Atlas Shrugged is a hymn of praise to the concept of rugged individualism, personified in John Galt. This polemic for Rands philosophy of "rational self-interest" has been a steady seller since it was published in 1957.
#10 - The Catcher in the Rye
J. D. Salinger's famous and enduring chronicle of Holden Caulfield's journey from innocence to experience is the quintessential coming-of-age novel. Salinger's 1951 novel The Catcher in the Rye was a bestseller and became an immediate cult favorite, but it has also, over the years, been subject to criticism and even censorship because of its liberal use of profanity, its frank conversations about sex, and its generally irreverent view of the adult world.
Note: This list is based on the results of a Harris Poll that asked 2,413 U.S. adults to name their favorite books.
As a follow-up piece more recently, AOL posted the top books derived from their readers' comments:Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand
Swan Song, Robert McCammon
Up a Road Slowly, Irene Hunt
Invisible Man, Ralph Ellison
Between the Bridge and the River, Craig Fergus
Of Mice and Men, John Steinbeck
Roots, Alex Haley
Rebecca, Daphne DuMaurier
How many of the books listed have you read? How many do you think you should have read? How many do you want to read eventually?
What books do you think everyone should read before they die?
My favorites of all time:
THE STAND, Stephen King
REDEEMING LOVE, Francine Rivers (the original version)
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Tina Gayle: Pregnancy Plan
Check out this book by another one of my cool friends!Pregnant shopkeeper Jillian Wilson prepares for single parenthood until high-risk security specialist Derrick Harris, the baby’s father, is caught in an explosion that changes everything. Confused, Derrick returns to the States with amnesia. Jillian believes she has it all a husband, a baby, a perfect life, to bad that her dreams hang on Derrick’s faulty memory and a lie.
EXCERPT FROM PREGNANCY PLAN:
"A pregnancy plan?" Derek’s words came from directly behind her. She could feel his breath on her neck, his eyes boring into her back.
"Yes, a plan on how to get pregnant." The frustration and anger began to build within her. Jillian gathered her shaking hands around her cup and willed them to be still. "Look, Derek, I don’t mean to sound rude, but it really is none of your business what I do. I’m not involved with Jason."
She saw his unwillingness to cooperate by the slight narrowing of his eyes. "You can rest assured that I am not going to break up your brother, Jason and Kelly." Jillian glanced back out the window and took a sip from her drink. "And my plan is none of your concern."
She jumped when she felt Derek’s hand on her shoulder. "What is it you’re afraid of?"
Jillian turned and pushed past him. She didn’t want nor need his sympathy. Out of space with the door in front of her, she pivoted on the heels of her Nikes. "I’m not afraid of anything. I know what I want and I have come up with a plan to get it."
Tina Gayle's Website: www.tinagayle.net
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/author_tinagayle
Blogspot: http://www.tinagayle.blogspot.com
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