As a writer who is currently working on two different series and who has always loved reading books in a variety of series, I've always enjoy learning about authors who write series of their own. Today's guest in My Writing Corner is author Debby Grahl and her latest book is Island Heat.
A chance encounter leads to romance and murder.
When bookstore owner Suzanna Shay and writer Austen Kincade meet on a Who Done It mystery cruise, their instant attraction has them more interested in romance than searching for clues. But when the leading actress in the shipboard murder skit, Austen’s publisher’s wife, throws herself at Austen, she’s furious when he rejects her advances and vows to have Austen no matter what it takes.
After the ship docks, with plans for a future together, Suzanna and Austen part, unaware vindictive lies will soon test their newfound love and entangle them in a real mystery that proves deadly.
Want to know more? Let's talk directly to the characters, starting with Susanna.What is your normal life like?
I’m the manager of Preston Books located in Charlotte, NC. This keeps me busy, but I love being around books.
Why did you choose to go on a mystery cruise?
I actually won the cruise through a contest the company was having for its employees. I still can’t believe I’m going to Santa Maya. Just think, a week all on my own.
What attracts you to Austen?
The contest coordinators decided to pair the single participants, and to my utter delight, I got Austen. Talk about a hunk. Not only is he handsome, we hit it off as if we’d known one another for years. Since we just met I shouldn’t admit this, but I couldn’t stop thinking about having sex with him. And I did.
What frightens you about him?
Our romance was hot and heavy. Even though he says he wants to have a relationship with me, I’m afraid it was nothing more to him than a shipboard romance.
What do you want for your future life?
I’d love to someday own my own bookstore, somewhere near the beach. And hopefully Austen will be a part of my life.
Going on the cruise was purely by chance. A friend of mine was unable to go and asked me if I’d like his ticket. I’m a writer and solving mysteries sounded fun. Not to mention relaxing in the sun.
What are you looking for in a relationship?
My dream is to become a published author, which takes time and dedication. I’d like to find someone who understands this and will support me.
What draws you to Suzanna?
I can’t say I’ve ever been instantly attracted to a woman, but Suzanna knocked me off my feet. Not only was she sexy as hell, but she also loved books and was honestly interested in my writing.
What frightens you about her?
I’m afraid Suzanna doesn’t believe I’m sincere when I tell her I want a future relationship. With us living in different states, and not knowing what direction my career is going, she might eventually give up on me.
What do you want for your future?
A successful career in writing with Suzanna by my side.
Want more? Let's get an excerpt:
“There’s a full moon. How about a stroll out on the deck?”
Suzanna, you don’t know him. Think about what you’re doing. Her mother’s voice rang through her head. But as she gazed into Austen’s face, careful was the last thing she wanted to be. She stood. “Let’s go.”
They said goodbye to the Paiges and headed for the doors leading onto the deck. The night was warm with a gentle breeze. Stars filled the velvet sky as moonlight sparkled upon the water.
Suzanna breathed in the salty air. Right now, my life in Charlotte might as well be a million miles away, and I haven’t a care in the world.
“There’s Orion,” Austen pointed. “Studying the constellations is a hobby of mine.”
“I find the stars fascinating. And I love having my fortune told.”
“I can tell you what your future will bring,” Austen replied.
“What’s that?”
He took her into his arms. “This.” His lips covered hers.
The warmth of his mouth made Suzanna’s skin tingle. This moment came right off the pages of the romance novels she so loved — a moonlit night, a handsome man, and the faint sound of a piano in the distance. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him back.
He held her close. His kiss, gentle at first, his lips moving slowly across hers, skillfully coaxed her lips apart. Their tongues met, and Suzanna let out a low moan as the kiss deepened. Her body molded to his. She slid her fingers through the hair on the nape of his neck. His hand glided up and down her back. His hard erection rubbed against her, and Suzanna’s passion soared.
Austen broke their kiss and gazed into her eyes. In a husky voice he said, “I want you.”
Suzanna, never one to jump into bed with a man she’d just met, hesitated. Again, for a second, her mother’s disapproving scowl flashed through her mind. She defiantly brushed it aside. There’s no one here to question your actions. Don’t let this perfect night pass you by. Besides, who would ever know? the adventurous part of her brain screamed drowning out any misgivings. Who was she kidding? Nothing would keep her from having sex with Austen. “Yes.” she whispered.
“I suggest we get off this deck before we go any further. Your cabin or mine?”
Struggling to gather her wits, Suzanna nodded. “Mine.”
Buy links
Amazon Author Page -- https://www.amazon.com/Debby-Grahl/e/B00B34HM26
B&N --https://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Debby+Grahl?_requestid=5525094
You can find Debby at the following:
Website -- www.debbygrahl.com
Facebook -- https://www.facebook.com/debbygrahlauthor?ref=br_rs
Bookbub -- https://www.bookbub.com/search/authors?search=debby%20grahl
Twitter -- https://twitter.com/DebbyGrahl
Any comments or questions for Debby?
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Rebecca, thanks so much for hosting Suzanna and Austen and allowing me to share a little about their story. Best, Debby
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