The Reviews are in!! Recent Desert Breeze Reviews

THE BLOODSTAINED BISTRO
"This is the first in the Minx Tobin series by talented author Susanne Marie Knight and you'll be waiting for the next one, just to see what happenx next. The hint of romance blended in, promises sparks will fly...I'm pleased to recommend The Bloodstained Bistro to any mystery fan. The interesting settings and characters will keep you reading. Enjoy. I did."

Anne K. Edwards - Mysteryfiction.net

BY HEART AND COMPASS

"This is the first book that I have read of Ms. Thorne’s but I was captured right from the beginning. I especially like the sayings before each chapter. Read as a pirate would say it. Excellent Book... You’ll be in for a great adventure."

Miss Lynne's Books and More
Rating = 5 Stars - 'A'

FIRE AND ASH
"Another Fastastic Novel!!!! Anne Patrick's novel, "Fire and Ash" is a well-written novel that flows wonderfully...A fantastic read!"

Ursshebear - Night Owl Reviews
Rating = 5 Stars

Author Spotlight Week - Excerpt from By Heart and Compass

"Can you imagine?" asked Lacey with building excitement, "an almost three-hundred-year old pirate ship? And it once belonged to Captain Bertrand who brought down the remaining pirates in the Caribbean after Blackbeard. He won the trust of the crown and the heart of a physician's daughter. It's all so romantic," she gushed.

Max startled her by putting his hand over her mouth. "Ever notice you babble when you're nervous? Like some kind of vomiting library book?"

Lacey steamed. She smacked his arm away.

"You realize you don't have to play it smart to get attention?" he continued, obviously showing off for Charlie and John's benefit. "Just shut your mouth and be pretty."

Lacey punched him on the shoulder with all of her strength.

"Ow!" he roared.

"Do not tell me to shut up and look pretty. That's so chauvinistic, Max. So--"

"I didn't," he argued. "I said that's all you need to do. You don't have to advertise the brains, sugar."

"Don't call me sugar. That's a southern rite and you're not Southern."

"That's right. I'm a pirate, huh? So maybe I should call you sweetheart or poppet."

Lacey glared. "I was just trying to explain."

"We don't need explanations. Keep the info verbose. Please."

Realizing everyone was staring and looking intensely entertained, Lacey stalked away and made her way through the tangle of cargo to the rail overlooking the stern. On her way out of the galley, she heard Charlie ask, "So what happened to the sloop of diamonds?"

Her heart skipped a beat in response. It seemed to be bouncing all over inside her chest since she'd arrived in Antigua. She hated herself for losing focus on the reason she was here. And then there was the diamonds. Sooner or later she'd have to tell Max about the diamonds that had been buried with the diary. Wouldn't she?

Darn him if Max didn't make her feel like a stuttering sixteen year old schoolgirl every time he beamed his laser eyes on her. For some bizarre reason she wanted her eyes to well up with tears. She wanted to feel offended and sorry for herself but she couldn't. Max didn't just think she was smart. He thought she was pretty, too.

"Shut up and look pretty," she mumbled trying to feel angry.

He didn't mean it, did he? No, not like that. He may have talked like one of the losers in high school who gave her a bad time, but his words rang empty. It was like they were some sort of self-defense mechanism. He didn't seem to want to respect or be impressed by any woman. Sheesh. What had his mother done to him?

A thump jerked her out of her reverie. When she looked over her shoulder, Max was standing a few feet away with his hands on his hips.

"Come up and take a look at the satellite maps. I want your input."

She glared at him, wanting him to make something right out of the unnecessary reproach in the galley.

"You going deaf?"

She crossed her arms over herself and he reached out and jerked them down. "I don't have time for attitudes. Get a thicker skin. You're not in Georgia anymore."


Lacey dropped her jaw. "You think you're a tougher crowd?" she scoffed. "I survived four years of high school, volunteering as a library assistant and playing in the band."

"You wore glasses, didn't you?" Max asked out of the blue. He leered as if their paths had crossed at some point during that time.

Lacey had a sudden epiphany. "You were the guy who tripped me on my way to the bus," she said slowly. "You were the one who spit paper wads at me while I shelving books."

"I never lived in Newton. And I got kicked out of high school."

"You know what I mean," Lacey said, suddenly and inexplicably angry. "You were that type of guy. You stole my clarinet and put it up on the roof of the boys' locker room. You drew cartoon ladies with big boobs on my locker."
Max laughed.
She kicked out at him and tripped, the boat's rise and fall throwing her off balance.

"Let me go," she said when he reached out to steady her.

"Calm down, Goober," he teased. "That's what they called you right? Goober?"

"Shut-up," she snapped, "Julius Bertrand the Eighth!" She stormed for the upper deck, slipping and sliding on the steep ladder. There was nowhere to escape, he came right up behind her. She turned on him when they both reached the top.

"You owe me a little respect," she demanded. His eyes were already on the stack of maps, dismissing her. "I mean it," she insisted. "You have no right to speak to me the way you just did. It's inappropriate and unacceptable, no matter what your issues are."

Max leaned back on a jutting counter top and crossed one foot over the other. He sighed dramatically. "We've got work to do and you have my respect. If you didn't, you wouldn't be standing on my boat." He pressed his lips together stubbornly but something that might have been remorse flashed in his eyes.

"Fine," Lacey muttered, surprised that he had relented.

"I'm sorry," he said, turning around so that his voice was less audible. Then clearing his throat, he added, "And just so you know, you were the girl who made fun of my grades behind my back and only went out with me because my daddy supposedly had bags of money."

"I thought you got kicked out of high school."

"Not until after I made my mark. And it was private school."

Lacey snorted and moved around him to look at the satellite images. You're still trying to make your mark, she thought to herself. She could only hope she'd left a mark on his arm.

Author Spotlight Week - Q&A with Danielle Thorne

STEPH: I'd like to welcome Danielle Thorne to the Author Spotlight this week. Danielle Thorne's first release with Desert Breeze is "By Heart and Compass." Dani, can you tell us about your latest release, BY HEART AND COMPASS?

DANI: I'd love to, Stephanie. Thanks for having me this week.

BY HEART AND COMPASS is about stepping out of your comfort zone and truly following your heart. Whether it's love, trust or the opportunity to chase adventure, most people hold back because of that niggle of doubt that tells us dreams can't come true. In this adventure, Lacy Whitman finds an antique diary that hints at the location of a long lost shipwreck, and she has to gather her courage to face making a discovery that is more than just pages in a book. She also risks falling for a cynical yet vulnerable dive instructor. Life is all about taking chances and living, and that's what I like to write about.

STEPH: I notice you are drawn to water themes. What's the attraction for you?

DANI: The first time I saw the ocean I was 19-years-old. It had a profound effect. For me, it is a gateway to another world right here on our own planet. Since getting scuba certified a few years ago, I have become very passionate about sea conservation and environmental issues. I had the chance to dive off the coast of Mexico this April, just days after the oil disaster struck in the gulf. It's hard not to wonder if I will ever be able to again down that way. The effects of this crisis break my heart—but I do have my writing to bring the joy and adventure of the sea to other people.

STEPH: What was the inspiration behind BY HEART AND COMPASS?

DANI: I published my first novel, THE PRIVATEER, after over twelve months of in-depth research. The Age of Sail is a fascinating time to me. These were a type of courageous men that you don't see often anymore. When I was finished, I knew I someday wanted to bring the past into the present. Since Blackbeard's ship, The Queen Anne's Revenge, was discovered off the coast of North Carolina, I have enjoyed following the excavation and research that is made available to the public online. These events inspired me to think about what it would be like to discover my own pirate ship. Of course as a teenager I was in love with the pirating adventure film, "Goonies," so I'm sure there was some subliminal influence there as well.

STEPH: Do you cast your characters? If so who are the leads?

DANI: I actually start out with names popping into my head when I create a character and the general personality follows. Then I do think about books, film and television and consider people, real and imaginary, that might be similar. But on a whole, no, I do not cast characters in the general sense of the word. However, I do find it very entertaining to talk and read blogs from other authors that do.


STEPH: Are you a plotter or a panster?

DANI: Plotter. I don't have that ability of being able to write and just "know" where to go. I need to plan out my story with highs, lows and then let the characters get from A to B, all on their own. I definitely use plot points. I don't like to waste time and hope not to ramble!

STEPH: Do you write any other genres? If so, what?

DANI: Besides contemporary, I write historical, which comes natural to me with my love of research and genealogy. My first Jane Austen-inspired Regency will be released this winter and I'm looking forward to the response. I also have dabbled in juvenile fiction. I finished my first manuscript, DANNY BOY, many years ago. This Huck Finn-type adventure is my baby and we're still looking for a home.

STEPH: What types of books do you like to read?

DANI: I'm very eclectic when it comes to almost all areas of the Arts. Although I primarily pickup romances of varying sub-genres, I also like historical non-fiction and good government suspense adventures.

STEPH: What's the last movie you saw?

DANI: I just saw the new "Alice in Wonderland" with Johnny Depp. Of course, I am a huge Depp admirer, but it's more of a sisterly affection, I'm not a rabid fan. Maybe it's because sometimes he reminds me of my brother? (Laughs) He is one of the most brilliant actors of our generation and it's a shame he does not get the credit he deserves. No matter what film I see him in, he always becomes his character—he is never himself. I could only hope to be able to stretch myself and write with as much abandon as that man can act. Anyway, I loved the film and thought it was brilliant. It's a new favorite.

STEPH: Do you have any Desert Breeze authors or books you'd like to recommend?

DANI: I have read several Desert Breeze titles and have never been disappointed. That's why I am thrilled to be published by this House. Currently, I am following the Future Imperfect series by P.I. Barrington. Also, the sweet romance, NO OTHER is on my reading summer list, as is THE HUNGARIAN, which is sounding like it's going to be an amazing read.

STEPH: Thanks for being here today, Dani.

Review Saturday! Here are some recent reviews for Desert Breeze Titles.

BY HEART AND COMPASS
by: Danielle Thorne
"This is the first book that I have read of Ms. Thorne’s but I was captured right from the beginning. I especially like the sayings before each chapter. Read as a pirate would say it. Excellent Book... You’ll be in for a great adventure."

Miss Lynne's Books and More
Rating = 5 Stars - 'A'

THE BLOODSTAINED BISTRO
by: Susanne Marie Knight
"This is the first in the Minx Tobin series by talented author Susanne Marie Knight and you'll be waiting for the next one, just to see what happenx next. The hint of romance blended in, promises sparks will fly...I'm pleased to recommend The Bloodstained Bistro to any mystery fan. The interesting settings and characters will keep you reading. Enjoy. I did."

Anne K. Edwards - Mysteryfiction.net

MIRACULOUS DECEPTION
by: PI Barrington

"Barrington pens a pulse-pounding sequel that will keep the reader on the edge of a precipice with Miraculous Deception, Book Two in the Future Imperfect Series...Barrington goes from thrill to thrill with ease... Miraculous Deception is a worthy, edgy sequel to Crucifying Angel."

Stephanie - Classic Romance Revival Reviews
Rating = 4 Wings


CHOSEN TARGET
by: Melanie Atkins
"The plot of this story starts out with a bang and the excitement does not end until the very exciting climax. Cole and Jaden are destined to be together if Cole can only get past his brother's death and his own lost love... you will be on the edge of your seat until the very end of the story."

Maura Frankman - The Romance Studio
Rating = 4.5 Hearts


IN THE MANOR OF THE GHOST
by: Tina Pinson
"Few books have had this effect on me: I finished in three days, and most of the time, I was reading past midnight to find out what would happen next... Clever writing, a twisting plot, and many slowly unraveling mysteries await in this gothic-feeling romance. Secrets, rumors, and a sparking romance pulled me onward to see if a happily ever after ending would win out as two stubborn souls with painful pasts find solace in one anothers' arms. For a debut novel, Ms. Pinson has proven herself with a riveting tale and characters that will keep you guessing."

Kathleen L. Maher - History Repeats Itself review blog

THE HUNGARIAN
by: Stephanie Burkhart
"I appreciated the newness of the setting. Haven't read many historicals set in Hungary. As it happens, I do love a unique historical. And I think this one was... And, of course, I happened to have just seen The Wolfman and loved it. Slightly different time period, slightly different plot, but very similar in a lot of good ways...Overall, a great historical paranormal read. Worth the time and money to pick it up if this is your arena."

Rebecca Lynne - The Pen and Muse Reviews

Featured July Release - By Heart and Compass by Danielle Thorne

ABOUT THE BOOK:
When Lacey Whitman buys a restored Victorian home, she never dreams discovering an antique diary will lead her back to sea and into the arms of the dive bum she’d rather forget. Her habit of living in the past comes to a screeching halt as diver Max Bertrand and the diary of his ancestor take Lacey on the quest of a lifetime: To discover and raise the privateer ship, Specter, and bring the treasure and legacy of a true hero home again. But will finding it cost her heart?

EXCERPT:
Sitting outside, one of the divers looked busy replacing the o-ring on a scuba tank.

"I'm looking for Max?"

The long haired employee didn't bother to stand, much less look up.

"So?"

"I'm Lacey Whitman, and I'm looking for the Max that owns the museum."

"You call that worthless shack a museum?"

Dumbfounded, Lacey couldn't think of any reply.

"What do you want?"

"I'm looking for Max," she repeated, feeling a flash of impatience. "I have some papers for him."

"Warrant, restraining order, or paternity test?"

After a pause in which she realized he was serious, she replied in frustration, "I have some research for the Bertrand family and someone at the museum told me to come down here."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Danielle Thorne freelanced for online and print magazines from 1998 through 2001, adding reviewing and editing to her resume. She is the author of two 2009 novels: THE PRIVATEER, a 1729 historical about British privateering in the Caribbean, and TURTLE SOUP, a contemporary romance set between Atlanta and St. Thomas.

Other works have appeared with Espresso Fiction, Every Day Fiction, Arts and Prose Magazine, Mississippi Crow, The Nantahala Review, StorySouth, Bookideas, the Mid-West Review, and more. She won an Honorable Mention in Writer's Digest's 2006 annual writing competition, and won the 2008 Awe-Struck Short Novel Contest.

Danielle currently writes from south of Atlanta, Georgia. She is the 2009-2010 Co-Chair for the New Voices Competition for young writers, active with online author groups such as Classic Romance Revival, and moderates for The Sweetest Romance Authors at the CoffeeTime Romance boards. She lives with four sons and her husband, who is an air traffic controller. Together they enjoy travel and the outdoors, Marching Band competitions, and BSA Scouting.

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Desert Breeze Congratulates Danielle on her July Release!

Meet Desert Breeze Author, Danielle Thorne

Greetings from beautiful (and chilly) Georgia! What a thrill it is to be joining so many talented authors at Desert Breeze. An author of historical and contemporary romance, I heard about Desert Breeze when they first opened their virtual doors, and was very excited to learn there was a new publisher targeting my sub-genre: sweet heat and adventure.

With a Yankee mum and no accent, many people are surprised when they learn I’m from the deep South. Born in Chicago, I grew up in the mountains of North Carolina, and later Nashville. My traveling feet have taken me as far West as Idaho, and I’ve even spent time in the beautiful Mid-West. I’ve hung my hat all over Dixie.

My path with this “sweet” company crossed last Fall, after starting my new Caribbean adventure. I felt sure BY HEART AND COMPASS would be a great fit with Desert Breeze. Thanks to generous voters in a work-in-progress contest at Classic Romance Revival, I was able to get some exposure for the manuscript and Chief Editor, Gail Delaney here at Desert Breeze generously offered me a contract.


You want the nitty gritty? I’m the mother of four boys and have been married to my college sweetheart for almost twenty-one years. Together we enjoy traveling the Caribbean, weekend road trips to the mountains, and supporting high school marching band competition and scouting. When I’m not writing you can find me with my nose in a book or puttering around in my little salsa garden. (Salsa is not just food at our house. It’s a way of life.) And of course, I’m never far from the keyboard when inspiration hits for another romantic adventure!

Coming this summer is my latest sea adventure, BY HEART AND COMPASS, about a diary, a lost pirate ship, and two very different personalities:

When Lacey Whitman buys a restored Victorian home, she never dreams discovering an antique diary will lead her back to sea and into the arms of the dive bum she’d rather forget. Her habit of living in the past comes to a screeching halt as diver Max Bertrand and the diary of his ancestor take Lacey on the quest of a lifetime: To discover and raise the privateer ship, Specter, and bring the treasure and legacy of a true hero home again.

Will Lacey’s adventure cost her her heart? That to me, is always the question when I pick up a romance. What great adventure will bring two people together or tear them apart? What challenges will they face and how will the overcome? My greatest wish is that my own books will answer those questions for readers and take them on a breathless ride.

I’m looking forward to being a part of the growing authorship with this great company. Please stop by my website and give me a shout out--with blessings, you will be seeing a lot more of me here, and all around the online reading world.

Cheers!
daniellethorne

Author of THE PRIVATEER and TURTLE SOUP

www.daniellethorne.jimdo.com
www.thebalancedwriter.blogspot.com

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