Susan Macatee Romance Writer

I've Moved

2012-01-29T08:43:00.001-08:00

Due to blogger problems, my writer's blog has moved to http://susanmacatee.wordpress.com
Hope you'll join me there.

Attack on Osceola, Missouri

2011-09-23T03:00:00.000-07:00

Join me today at Slip Into Something Victorian where I'm talking about what happened in the American Civil War 150 years ago on this date.

A new contract!

2011-09-13T12:45:00.000-07:00

I'm having trouble again with my blog, but wanted to announce my newest contract with The Wild Rose Press. My Civil War romance, Cole's Promise, will be part of TWRP's new 'Love Letters' series. I'm really excited with this newest contract.

I'll post the blurb when I get this all sorted out, but for now, you can view the blurb at my website on my books page. Scroll all the way down.

And the war goes on...

2011-09-09T03:48:00.000-07:00

Over at http://slipintosomethingvictorian.wordpress.com/, I'm discussing the sentiments of the day five months into the American Civil War.

Galleys are in!

2011-08-31T10:25:00.000-07:00

Finally got to the galley stage with Cassidy's War. Now, I'm just one step away from seeing the finished product.

I proofread the first 50 pages today and am really excited about getting a release date by next month. Then I can start planning book promotion.

Talking about the battle of Hatteras

2011-08-26T06:51:00.000-07:00

I'm over at Slip Into Something Victorian today talking about the American Civil War battle at Hatteras, North Carolina, occurring nearly 150 years ago today.

Feeling better every day

2011-08-18T08:21:00.000-07:00

I've progressed from walking with crutches to using a cane to get around. As a result, I can do a little more, but still nothing like my normal daily routine. But it does give me more time to write.

Since I'm waiting on the copyeditor to go over my novel and have submitted my novella and am waiting on a reply, I'm spending my time writing short magazine stories. I've completed the first draft of one and am putting that aside for a week before edits, proofread and submission.

I have two more short stories outlined, so will likely start writing one of them while I wait for the galley of Cassidy's War and an answer to my novella submission.

Having a list of projects to work on sure keeps the ball rolling. Otherwise the waiting can eat you up.

How do you other writers handle the wait period?

Spies in Washington!

2011-08-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm posting over at Slip Into Something Victorian today on the story in The Boston Daily Advertiser on August 12, 1861, on the subject of spies in Washington, D.C. during the Civil War.

Final edits are in

2011-08-10T06:01:00.001-07:00

I completed final edits for my American Victorian romance, Cassidy's War. Next come galleys, then I'll get an official release date.

I'm excited about finishing up this project and seeing my latest book finally in print. I'll be sure to keep everyone posted on new developments.

Run in with a boxer...

2011-07-28T07:03:00.000-07:00

...a dog, that is.

Talk about freak accidents!

Last Wednesday I was with my dog, Chase, and a few of his friends at the playground across the street from my house. A normal morning of running and playing together. Just as we were getting ready to leave, a new friend arrived, a husky. Of course, we had to let the dogs run around for just a few minutes more.

That's when I was talking to the owner of Butch, a 90 pound boxer, one of the friendliest dogs you could meet. I looked up to see Butch barreling right towards me and couldn't back up in time. He apparently couldn't change course either and rammed right into my left knee, knocking me onto my right side.

The dog's owner helped me up, but I couldn't put any weight on the knee. In the emergency room, they originally thought it was likely a tendon pull or tear at the worst, but xrays showed the break.

After sending me home in a full leg brace and crutches, I went to see the orhthopedic doctor on Thursday and learned I needed surgery to repair it, but it likely would just be one screw to hold the broken bone in place.

Ended up to be a metal plate and two screws. I'm home now, still in the leg brace and crutches and have to wait a few weeks to have xrays before I can attempt to put weight on it.

Goes to show how an accident can hit you at any time. I'm just glad the surgery is out of the way and I can now move forward. And best yet, this actually gives me more time to write, since I'm unable to care for the dog and do household chores.

Have to look on the positive side.

Weekly excerpt at Slip Into Something Victorian

2011-07-23T03:00:00.000-07:00

I'm posting an excerpt from my Civil War Christmas story over at Slip Into Something Victorian today. Sort of a Christmas in July theme.

This excerpt is from the historical Christmas anthology, An American Rose Christmas.

At Slip Into Something Victorian today

2011-07-22T03:00:00.000-07:00

And I'm talking about the first major battle of the American Civil War, First Bull Run or First Manassas, depending which side you were on.

Find out at Slip Into Something Victorian how local civilians added to the legend of this historic battle.

A week to revive

2011-07-18T16:09:00.001-07:00

Since my husband was on vacation last week, we took a trip to Gettysburg, PA. We've visited the town several times in the past, both for reenactments, and just to do the tour and take in the Civil War atmosphere. This trip we wanted to visit the new museum, but we also did another tour of the battlefield. We stopped at Little Round Top and Devil's Den and spent a night walking the sidewalks of the town and visiting a few of the shops.

Oh, and of course we had to visit our favorite ice cream shop. Love that butter pecan! Ummm!

I also took a week away from writing. And now, I'm ready to jump back in, refreshed and ready to start revising and editing my new Civil War novella, Cole's Promise.

Redefining goals

2011-07-09T16:51:00.000-07:00

On New Year’s Eve, I posted a list of writing goals that I wanted to accomplish over 2011. Since it’s now about mid-year, I thought I’d review that list to see what I’ve accomplished so far, what I still have to do, and what goals I’m putting aside to make room for unexpected projects that have cropped up.

Here are the original goals, with notes on my progress.

2011 Writing Goals

* Proofread and submit novel, Cassidy’s War – complete – This novel has been contracted by The Wild Rose Press and I’ve just completed the second set of edits.

* List at least 6 or 7 ideas for short stories for True Romance and True Confession magazines – complete

* Write and submit stories – complete – sold all but one story which I’ve submitted elsewhere after learning True Romance has temporarily suspended publication and am awaiting reply.

* Finish first draft of time travel novella – complete

* Revise, edit, polish and submit – will start in the fall

* Outline series of science fiction romance novellas based on novel I put aside – have decided to temporarily put this project aside, because I was invited to write an historical novella for a new series my publisher is putting out. I’ve written the first draft and now have to revise, edit, polish and submit by mid-August.

* Plot out first novella – put aside

* Write first draft for first novella – put aside

In addition, I was given reversion of rights for my paranormal, Civil War novella, Angel of My Dreams, part of the Civil War romance anthology, Northern Roses and Southern Belles. I plan to re-title the story, revise to lengthen it, then resubmit elsewhere.

So, I’ve accomplished a lot, changed a few goals along the way and taken on a few new projects. I’ll see how I do by the end of December.

A German American regiment

2011-07-08T04:02:00.000-07:00

Blog post at Slip Into Something Victorian today on a regiment formed by German Americans early in the American Civil War.

Finished edits...finished story...

2011-07-06T11:31:00.000-07:00

Just sent the second round of edits for Cassidy's War back to my editor. And I also completed the first draft of my new Civil War set novella, Cole's Promise.

And next week I'm off to vacation in Gettysburg. I've been working hard on both projects and am looking forward to a much needed break. When I return, I'll re-read Cole's Promise and start making revision notes.

In the meantime, I'll start fooling around with a blurb for the novella.

And if you scroll down, you'll see my beautiful cover for my American Victorian post-Civil War romance novel, Cassidy's War.

Want to show off my brand new cover!

2011-06-27T10:33:00.000-07:00

Here's the official book cover for my upcoming American Victorian romance, Cassidy's War, set five years after the Civil War. This will be my third novel with The Wild Rose Press and my seventh release with them overall. How do you like it?

Blurb:

The Civil War is over, but Cassidy’s War is just beginning.

Cassidy Stuart longs to attend medical school. Her training under her physician father and her time serving as a nurse during the war, have only increased her desire to be a real physician with a practice of her own. When the man who’d left her at the altar five years before, returns, she’s determined not to let him upset the plans she’s set for herself.

Unknown to his former fiancée and her family, George Masters is now a Pinkerton agent sent to investigate a physician now living in George’s former hometown. When he finds Cassidy hasn’t married, he hopes he can have another chance with her, but can’t reveal his real reason for returning, at least not until his mission is accomplished.

Can love be rekindled with a doctor bent on revenge against them both?

Unedited excerpt:

After settling her on the wicker settee, he sat beside her, enveloping her hand and rubbing it between his large, warm ones. His sandalwood and male scent invited her to lean into his warmth, but she held herself rigid, her emotions on guard.

She had so many questions she wanted answered, like where he’d been all these years and how he made his living.

“Cassie, I know you must hate me for leaving you.”

She narrowed her gaze. “It’s hard to think kindly on someone who leaves you, no matter what the reason. I know you were hurting, but we could have made a life together. Healed each other.”

He shook his head. “I would’ve held you back.”

“From what?”

“Well...you’re a doctor. That was your dream when I returned from prison camp.”

“And look what a fine mess I’ve made of that.” She bowed her head, studying his hand wrapped around hers. His warm touch sent tingles straight to her core. But what was he doing here? Did he really come back for her, or had something or someone else drawn him to Burkeville?

“George, what’s the real reason you’re here?” She held her breath, hoping for the answer she wanted to hear.

He withdrew his hand from hers, taking his warmth with it. “I thought I should come back and check on Pa.” His dark gaze settled on her. “I didn’t reckon you’d ever want to see me again, especially after the disaster I made of my life—and yours.”

She leaned back. “George, you’re wearing fine clothing, telling us about your adventures in New York and California.” She shook her head. “Doesn’t sound to me like your life’s a mess.”

He chewed his lower lip. “I haven’t told you all of it. After I left you, I wandered for a long time. I’m not really clear on all of it, because half the time I was so drunk I didn’t know who or where I was.”

Cassidy stood. “Well, I have to say, you look none the worse for wear after all you’ve been through.”

“Cassie, I...” George grinned, lifting his thumbs to the lapels of his coat. “I always had a knack for poker. Cleaned out many fellow soldiers during the war.”

“Are you telling me you’re a professional gambler?”

He grimaced, dropping his gaze. “I’m not the type of man a physician should associate with. To tell the truth, I figured you’d already forgotten me. I expected to find you with a husband and children by now.”

“There’s no one else, George, if that’s what you’re getting at. Since you left, I haven’t exactly had a slew of suitors at my door.” She eyed him, not sure why she’d told him.

I don't yet have a release date for Cassidy's War, but you can find my other books complete with excerpts and blurbs at my website: www.susanmacatee.com

Post about George Armstrong Custer

2011-06-24T03:00:00.000-07:00

I’m at Slip Into Something Victorian today blogging about George Armstrong Custer.

Weekly excerpt at Slip Into Something Victorian

2011-06-11T03:00:00.000-07:00

I'm posting the opening of my short Civil War vampire story, Eternity Waits, over at Slip Into Something Victorian today.

Battle of Big Bethel

2011-06-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm blogging over at Slip Into Something Victorian today about the Civil War battle of Big Bethel, 150 years ago today.

Redid my website today

2011-06-07T13:56:00.001-07:00

I had some spare hours this afternoon and decided it was time to re-do my website. I didn't change much, but did add new buy links for all my books.

Check it out at Susan Macatee.

Next set of edits are in

2011-05-31T08:20:00.000-07:00

Round two of edits for Cassidy's War are now in. I have until July 6th to finish them up, so have only done a quick look over of what I have to do.

I'll be busy, since I'm still trying to write the first draft of a new novella, but I'm certain I can fit it all in without getting stressed.

I hope to have a cover for the book to show you soon.

Civil War timeline post

2011-05-27T07:54:00.000-07:00

I'm over at Slip Into Something Victorian http://www.slipintosomethingvictorian.wordpress.com/ today with my latest Civil War timeline post for 150 years ago, on May 27, 1861.

Blogspot Woes

2011-05-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted to my blogspot blog since the network went down. Even after it came back up, I haven't been able to do any post editing, or add links and photos. Still can't. Can't seem to get any help either.

Anyone else on blogger still having this problem?

Sneak Peek at Cassidy's War

2011-05-14T04:55:00.000-07:00

I'm giving the first peek at an unedited excerpt from my newly contracted post-Civil War romance, Cassidy's War over at Slip Into Something Victorian http://slipintosomethingvictorian.wordpress.com/ today.

Blogging about the occupation of Baltimore by Federal troops

2011-05-13T09:49:00.000-07:00

Join me at Slip Into Something Victorian http://slipintosomethingvictorian.wordpress.com/, where I'm blogging about the Federal occupation of Baltimore 150 years ago today.

Edits are done!

2011-05-12T12:56:00.000-07:00

I just finished up the edits for Cassidy's War. They're not due until Monday, but I plan to do a brief look over tomorrow of the entire manuscript, then take the weekend off and send it to my editor first thing Monday.

Feels good to be through the first set of edits.

Progress Report

2011-04-30T08:17:00.000-07:00

Been busy with edits for Cassidy's War and haven't had much time to post blogs, but I wanted to post a progress report.

I'm halfway through edits, with two weeks left to go, so think I'm doing very well. I'm also making real headway with the plotting out of my new Civil War set novella and hope to finish soon, so I can start writing the first draft.

I also have two short stories I plan to give final edits and submit this week to True Romance magazine.

In the meantime, I'll leave you with the blurb for Cassidy's War.

The Civil War is over, but Cassidy’s War is just beginning.

Cassidy Stuart longs to attend medical school. Her training under her physician father and her time serving as a nurse during the war, have only increased her desire to be a real physician with a practice of her own. When the man who’d left her at the altar five years before, returns, she’s determined not to let him upset the plans she’s set for herself.

Unknown to his former fiancée and her family, George Masters is now a Pinkerton agent sent to investigate a physician now living in George’s former hometown. When he finds Cassidy hasn’t married, he hopes he can have another chance with her, but can’t reveal his real reason for returning, at least not until his mission is accomplished.

Can love be rekindled with a doctor bent on revenge against them both?

Later, I'll post a few unedited excerpts from the novel.

Very productive week in writing

2011-04-23T09:58:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to say I've completed the first 100 pages of edits on my newly contracted novel, Cassidy's War. Fortunately, since I've already gone through two revision requests with this manuscript, these mostly seem to be line edits and I have three weeks to finish up.

I also completed the first draft of a short magazine romance story. I'm putting that aside for a week before doing edits and polishing a bit before submitting.

Besides all that, I researched, wrote and posted a history blog at Slip Into Something Victorian on the Baltimore Raid at the start of the American Civil War.

I think the contracted edits are helping to get me right into my writing tasks. Before the contract, I'd sometimes have a hard time deciding which project I wanted to work on, since I always seem to have several in the works. While trying to decide, I'd waste time checking email and websites, instead of writing during my scheduled writing time.

Hopefully, I can get even more organized now. No fooling around when you have to complete edits on a deadline that's not self-imposed.

150 years ago

2011-04-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

Come join me at Slip Into Something Victorian for my second Civil War timeline post. I'm talking about the Baltimore Riot at the start of the Civil War when the Sixth Massachusetts Regiment was attacked by an angry mob.

Edits are in!

2011-04-19T12:33:00.000-07:00

I got the first round of edits for Cassidy's War on Monday. I was worried that I'd have to push my other projects aside to work on them, but figured if I can edit 20 pages per day, I'll meet my deadline with a couple of days to spare.

I did most of the work on this book pre-contract when I did two full editor requested revisions, so I'm hoping most of the work is already done. I'm hoping to complete the first 100 pages by Friday.

So, I should have time to complete the first draft on a short contemporary story that's nearly done, as well as plot out a new Civil War set novella.

Having solid deadlines somehow makes me feel more productive and efficient.

Not only did I complete the first 40 pages of edits, but I researched and wrote a Civil War blog for Slip Into Something Victorian that will be up on Friday and wrote another 500 words on my short story.

It might be because, now I have a deadline for the edits, I'm getting right to work instead of fooling around online or checking emails.

I'm at Caroline Clemmens blog today

2011-04-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm talking about the 150th Civil War anniversary again, plus info on all my Civil War set books and stories.

Join me at http://carolineclemmons.blogspot.com/ and tell me what you think of stories set in this period of conflict.

And the winner is...

2011-04-10T06:51:00.000-07:00

Vonnie Davis is the winner of my contest and I’ll be sending her a copy of Confederate Rose once I hear back from her! A big thanks to everyone who commented.

Win a copy of Confederate Rose!

2011-04-09T05:22:00.000-07:00

I'm doing the Weekly Excerpt post today at Slip Into Something Victorian. If you leave a comment, you'll be entered to win either, an autographed print copy of Confederate Rose, or if you live outside the U.S., an e-book copy.

The War Begins!

2011-04-08T04:30:00.000-07:00

I'm over at Slip Into Something Victorian today talking about the big American Civil War anniversary and how the war began. I'll also give you a sneak peek at my newest upcoming contest.

Awesome news!!!

2011-04-07T10:12:00.000-07:00

I just signed and mailed back the contract for my post-Civil War romance, Cassidy's War. If you've read my past posts, you'll know it's taken a lot of work and determination to get this book published. After finishing the first draft in the summer of 2009, I went through three revisions and three submissions before getting a 'yes'.

Here's the blurb:

The Civil War is over, but Cassidy’s War is just beginning.

Cassidy Stuart longs to attend medical school. Her training under her physician father and her time serving as a nurse during the war, have only increased her desire to be a real physician with a practice of her own. When the man who’d left her at the altar five years before, returns, she’s determined not to let him upset the plans she’s set for herself.

Unknown to his former fiancée and her family, George Masters is now a Pinkerton agent sent to investigate a physician now living in George’s former hometown. When he finds Cassidy hasn’t married, he hopes he can have another chance with her, but can’t reveal his real reason for returning, at least not until his mission is accomplished.

Can love be rekindled with a doctor bent on revenge against them both?

This story was based on a book I had published years ago called "Under the Guns". It was a young adult coming of age story set during the American Civil War that is currenly out-of-print. This new story takes those characters a few years ahead into their adult years.

I'll post more on the contract details as they occur.

Finished first draft!

2011-04-02T11:34:00.000-07:00

The first draft of my time travel novella is finished...so, I'm putting it aside until at least June.

Now, my problem is deciding which project to work on next. I have a partially written short story, another one I want to go over one last time...and I've started plotting out a new novella that will be set during the Civil War.

I think the hardest part of writing, for me, is finishing a project, then deciding what to work on next. Finishing a project seems like letting go, even if it's only a first draft that I'll be revising later. And with so many projects in the works to choose from, picking one to get back to is the hardest task of all.

Final installment of Victorians in Disguise

2011-03-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

I'm over at Slip Into Something Victorian today with my final post on 'Victorians in Disguise'.

Had a slow down over the past week, but plan to get back on track

2011-03-16T08:47:00.000-07:00

Had an unexpected job to take care of over the past week, but now that's finished and I want to get back to producing words for my time travel novella. Have about three chapters left to write and am officially at a word count of 28,426. My projected word count was 30,000, so I'm pretty much where I want to be.

Hopefully, I can get this draft finished without any more interruptions. I plan to print the entire draft out and put it aside for at least a month or two before starting revisions.

For now, I've decided to stick with the title of 'Thoroughly Modern Amanda'.

I'm at two places today

2011-03-11T06:00:00.000-08:00

I'm over at Lady Scribes today talking about my Civil War romances and some of the new projects I'm working on.

And I've posted about another Victorian in Disguise, Sarah Emma Edmonds, over at Slip Into Something Victorian.

Come see what vampires and the Civil War have in common

2011-03-05T06:00:00.000-08:00

Only in my imagination, of course.

Check out my post at Slip Into Something Victorian today for an excerpt from my Civil War vampire novella, Sweet Redemption.

Victorians in Disguise - Part IV

2011-02-25T05:13:00.000-08:00

Today I'm back at Slip Into Something Victorian continuing my series on Victorians in Disguise. But now, I'm focusing on the women who disguised themselves during the Civil War.

Over at Slip Into Something Victorian today

2011-02-19T06:00:00.000-08:00

I'm at Slip Into Something Victorian today with another weekly excerpt from my paranormal novella, Angel of My Dreams, part of the Civil War romance anthology, Northern Roses and Southern Belles.

Next month we'll find out if our EPIC finalist anthology is a winner in the romance anthology category.

Over at Victoria Gray's blog today

2011-02-18T06:00:00.000-08:00

I'm at Victoria Gray's blog posting about why I write Civil War romances. Stop by and say hi!

Another Victorian in Disguise

2011-02-11T06:00:00.000-08:00

Have another post up on Slip Into Something Victorian about a Civil War officer in disguise. Check to see who's up this week.

Guest Author: Victoria Gray

2011-02-09T06:00:00.000-08:00

Today, I'd like to welcome Victoria Gray to my blog. She's a fellow author who also writes American Civil War romances. I've read her marvelous Civil War romance, Destiny, and, although I haven't had the chance to read it yet, already have her new release, Angel in My Arms, installed on my Nook. After reading the blurb and a few excerpts, I look forward to a great read from this new book as well. It's about spies. A subject I find fascinating.

Tell us about your stories, Victoria.

Thanks, Susan, for having me as a guest today. Like you, I have a fondness for the Civil War era. Growing up in Virginia, I was surrounded by historical landmarks. From Jamestown, the site of the first permanent English colony, to the battlefields of Yorktown where the American Revolution was won to Appomattox, where General Lee surrendered to General Grant on Palm Sunday, 1865, a sense of history surrounds you. Even so, I grew up without knowing the role women played in the war. I was fascinated to learn of women disguising themselves as men to join the troops in battle. But what intrigued me most was the role women played as spies and how effective they were at gleaning information for both sides of the conflict.

Spies…the word brings to mind images of James Bond and gadgets…but an eccentric middle-aged woman? Suppose her odd behavior was nothing more than a cover for a shrewd mind and ingenious schemes, a means for a spy to disarm the people she’s deceiving without ever using a weapon – Elizabeth Van Lew, a Richmond spinster known as Crazy Bet, did just that. A devoted abolitionist, Crazy Bet funneled information to Union generals, much of which was gathered during her frequent visits to Richmond’s Libby Prison. Using food to bribe her way inside the prison, she provided small comforts and books to Federal prisoners while she gleaned bits and pieces of information about Confederate activity. Elizabeth Van Lew’s story inspired Angel in My Arms, the story of Amanda Emerson, a beautiful Union spy working under the leadership of Richmond matron “Crazy Betsy” Kincaid, and Steve Dunham, the Union officer she recruits for a suicide mission.

A rake with a girl in every town and a twinkle in his eye, Steve’s facing a noose when a sable-haired beauty and a crazy matron engineer his escape from jail. There's a catch - Amanda needs him to break into Libby Prison to rescue a notorious double agent who may or may not be on the side of the Union. He’s trading one noose for another, but Steve can’t resist her spirit and her gentleness. He’ll possess her love – if he lives long enough.

The rugged soldier she recruits for her plan looks more like a Viking warrior than a disciplined officer, but Amanda’s drawn to Steve’s courage and tenderness. As the danger surrounding them thickens, every moment he’s with her jeopardizes their lives, but they discover a passionate love that’s worth the risk.

Steve Dunham, the hero of Angel in My Arms, was introduced in an earlier novel, Destiny. When I wrote Destiny, I knew I wanted to give Steve his own love story. Throw in a gang of gun-runners who specialize in stolen military weapons, a nest of beautiful spies, a heroic Confederate officer whose ties with Steve go back to their Army service in the western territories, and a villain with a thirst for revenge, and you've got a plot that isn't your mother's Civil War romance.

Here’s an Excerpt:

Amanda closed her eyes and savored his possession. How could anything feel as good as his lips against hers? With his arms wrapped tight around her, she felt as though nothing could penetrate the tender shield of his embrace.

Wanting him was wrong. He was little more than a stranger. A man she’d teamed with for a mission. He was supposed to be nothing more.

But he’d filled her heart.

His handsome face captivated her all the more for its tiny imperfections. A small scar on his chin. The small bump at the bridge of his nose that told the tale of a long-ago break. Another scar, much more recent, on his jaw that looked to be the result of a man’s ring connecting with his flesh and bone.

He was a warrior. Her warrior. Fierce. Tender. Courageous. Protective.

“You’re so beautiful, Mandy.” His lips trailed the column of her throat.

She nestled against his broad chest. He smelled like bay rum and pine and leather. She’d never realized how tantalizing the scents could be. Mingled with his natural essence, the blend of aromas touched something deep and primal within her. She couldn’t resist the scent. Or him.

He took her hands in his. A sly smile curved his mouth as he studied her. “Such sweet temptation. The question is where to begin.”

She’d wasn’t an innocent, but she’d never experienced the heat of a man’s gaze drinking her in as though she were a fine wine to be savored. When Steve looked at her, she felt wanted.

Desired.

Loved.

Ridiculous. He couldn’t possibly love her.

But he hungered for her touch. That would have to be enough. After all, she didn’t love him.

Keep telling yourself that, Mandy.

She couldn’t love a man she barely knew.

Even if she longed for his scent. For his touch. For the moment when he’d claim her.

Even if she prayed he’d come to his senses and leave her before the rebels captured him and dragged him away to prison. Or a noose.

To learn more about Angel in My Arms, please visit my website, http://www.victoriagrayromance.com/ and my blog, http://www.victoriagrayromance.blogspot.com/ . Angel in My Arms is now available in print and as an eBook from The Wild Rose Press, http://www.thewildrosepress.com/ .

Got a contract!

2011-02-04T12:43:00.000-08:00

Already signed and sent off a contract for one of the short stories I sent to True Romance magazine, so now I'm down to two submissions out. But this contract really energized me. I'm really in the zone writing the first draft of my time travel novella. Latest word count is 8499.

I've decided to stick to my original title of Thoroughly Modern Amanda. I thought about changing it, but the title seems to fit the story.

I'm also psyched because author Victoria Gray is going to be a guest on my blog next week. Her first novel, Destiny, is a Civil War romance and a great read out with The Wild Rose Press. I also have her new book, Angel in My Arms, on my Nook. I'll be reading that soon.

So, be sure to stop back February 9th to learn all about Victoria and her Civil War set romances.

Back to work on my time travel novella

2011-02-01T11:27:00.000-08:00

I just polished up a new short story and sent it off on Monday. Now, I've got three submissions out at once. Yay! Haven't had that many out for a long while.

Now, I'm back to the time travel novella I had to stop work on a while back to finish up my novel. I had to go back and finish up the plot outline, but now it's done. Today I moved around the opening scenes and wrote an additional 1131 words. I want to keep moving forward until I finish the first draft.

This novella is an offshoot of my Civil War time travel romance, Erin's Rebel. But the novella takes place 20 years after the war. The hero and heroine of Erin's Rebel are the parents of the novella's heroine, the hero is from our time.

It's fun to work on a piece taken from an existing story. My latest novel is too. Characters and situations already exist from the original story, so it's sort of like moving forward through time and seeing the characters grow.

At Slip Into Something Victorian

2011-01-28T10:36:00.000-08:00

I'm over at Slip Into Something Victorian today with another post on a famous Victorian in disguise.

Ack! Thought I was farther along with that novella

2011-01-26T10:37:00.000-08:00

In going over my partially completed time travel novella, I found that although I'd written the first three scenes, I'd only plotted out the first eight scenes. So, before I resume writing, I have to go back and plot out the second half of the story.

I'd thought I'd finished that, so was a little disappointed, but I'll finish plotting, then get back to writing the first draft.

That's what happens when I leave a project midway through.

Finished another story!

2011-01-24T13:39:00.000-08:00

I just completed the first draft of a short story today. I printed it out and put it in a folder to edit and polish up later. I'll probably give it another look-over next week.

Tomorrow, I'm going to reaquaint myself with my time travel novella. I'm still not sure what I want to title this one yet. It's based on my Civil War time travel romance, Erin's Rebel, but takes place after the war.

I was writing the first draft but stopped to get the revisions done for Cassidy's War. I'll look over what I did so far and try to get back into the swing of the story.

Getting back into the swing of things

2011-01-17T12:49:00.000-08:00

After months of revision, edits and two proofreadings of my novel, I wondered if I could get back to actual writing--on something new--after sending Cassidy's War off to my editor.

I did do a little bit of writing during that time, however, on a short story I also submitted just last week. But mostly, I've been immersed in working on an already written novel.

So, after sending off my manuscript, I wrote down six new ideas for short stories--my second writing goal for the new year. The following day, I picked one idea, came up with a title for the story, then made notes. I took the weekend off and was wondering if I could get right back into writing new words for a brand new story.

I'm pleased that once I set up the file, the words for this new story flowed and I wrote 1043 words today. I hope to pick up where I stopped off tomorrow and tack on another 1000 words.

This is the reason why I don't stop writing between projects. I firmly believe taking that break hurts my creativity. A day or two is fine, but no longer.

Weekly Excerpts at Slip Into Something Victorian

2011-01-15T05:48:00.000-08:00

At my group blog, Slip Into Something Victorian, we're starting a Saturday Excerpt post featuring all of our published books, as well as contracted and even unpublished works.

Today I'm featuring a new excerpt from my Civil War time travel romance, Erin's Rebel. And come back every Saturday to view a new excerpt post from of one the Scandalous Victorians.

Victorians in Disguise

2011-01-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

My new post is up over at Slip Into Something Victorian today. I'm talking about the disguise a prominent Victorian wore, or at least was rumored to wear.

First goal of 2011 accomplished!

2011-01-13T14:41:00.000-08:00

I just sent off my new novel, Cassidy's War, to my editor. And I've already started on the second goal to list 6 or 7 ideas for short stories. Just one more idea and I'll be there.

I think I'm on a roll!

The holidays are over...time to get back to work

2011-01-08T08:10:00.000-08:00

In truth, I never stopped working, just slowed down a bit.

I'm at the final stage with my novel, Cassidy's War. I'm part-way through a proofread of the print version of the novel, then it's off to my editor. I'm eager to finish this up, so I can get back to work on my time travel novella.

Here's the new blurb for Cassidy's War. My revision changed the story a bit.

The Civil War is over, but Cassidy's war is just beginning.

Cassidy Stuart longs to attend medical school. Her training under her physician father and her time serving as a nurse during the war, have only increased her desire to be a real physician with a practice of her own. When the man who'd left her at the altar five years before returns, she's determined not to let him upset the plans she's set for herself.

Unknown to his former fiancee and her family, George Masters is now a Pinkerton agent sent to investigate a physician now living in George's former hometown. When he finds Cassidy hasn't married, he hopes he can have another chance with her, but can't reveal his real reason for returning, at least not until his mission is accomplished.

Can love be rekindled with a doctor bent on revenge against them both?

Once I send this out, I can cross out my first goal of 2011. Won't that be a great start to the year?

Writing Goals for the new year!

2010-12-31T06:38:00.000-08:00

As promised, here's the list of what I'd like to accomplish--writing wise--in the 2011.

2011 Writing Goals

* Proofread and submit novel, Cassidy’s War

* List at least 6 or 7 ideas for short stories for True Romance and True Confession magazines

* Write and submit stories

* Finish first draft of time travel novella

* Revise, edit, polish and submit

* Outline series of science fiction romance novellas based on novel I put aside

* Plot out first novella

* Write first draft for first novella

I accomplished all of my writing goals for last year, except one and that's because I took a wrong turn with a new story I wrote over the summer. My goal for this year is to convert that story into a series of novellas.

What goals do you have for the new year, writing or otherwise? I'd love to hear them.

Finally in the home stretch

2010-12-30T11:06:00.000-08:00

After putting aside my sci-fi romance the end of the summer, I've been revising, editing and this week completed proofing the entire file of my post Civil War romance, Cassidy's War.

Today I plan to print out the file, then put it aside for an entire week. Then I'll proofread the printed copy to try to catch any typos or mistakes I missed on the Word file.

After that, it goes back to my editor. I hope when I hear back on it, I'll be able to announce a new book contract.

My next post will be my list of writing goals for the new year.

Winner of my excerpt contest

2010-12-26T07:36:00.000-08:00

The winner of my excerpt contest is Vonnie Davis! I'll be sending Vonnie a $25.00 gift certificate to The Wild Rose Press.

Send your email address to susanmacatee@aol.com so I can send your prize.

Congratulations and happy reading!

Merry Christmas!!

2010-12-25T06:00:00.000-08:00

Wishing everyone who celebrates a happy, holy and peaceful Christmas! And to everyone else, happy holidays!!

Hope every one of your wishes comes true!

Stop back tomorrow for the winner of my excerpt contest.

Two excerpts for the price of one and final day of contest

2010-12-24T06:32:00.000-08:00

Since this is the last day of my contest, I thought I'd post my last two excerpts together. The first is from Sweet Redemption, my stand-alone vampire novella, available as an e-book.

The second from my Civil War Christmas novella, part of the An American Rose Christmas anthology. Hope you enjoy both.

Excerpt from Sweet Redemption:

She eyed him coldly. "Sir, I'm not in the habit of taking prisoners."

"Sorry, ma'am." He inspected himself under the blanket. Both his greatcoat and military coat had been removed as well as his belt and revolver. "My things--"

"Are hidden, Captain. It wouldn't be wise to have them on your person if Confederate troops are hereabout."

"I agree with your reasoning, ma'am, but where are they?"

"In a safe place."

He struggled to sit, but his muscles protested, and he slumped back to the floor.

"Easy, Captain. You're very pale. Have you been ill?"

"No, I..." He recalled Arnwolf and the barn. Had that really happened, or had it just been a dream?

"Now you're awake, I'll heat up some broth. You look like you could use some."

"Thank you, ma'am."

She hesitated, a blush coloring her ivory skin. "When I took off your coat, I noticed two raised bumps on your neck. I thought they might be bites."

He fingered the bumps. So, it hadn't been a dream.

"A wild dog attacked me. Out in the woods."

"A wild dog?" She shuddered. "I didn't know there were any around here."

"It's the truth, ma'am." Even as he said it, he cringed inwardly at his lie.

Her gaze narrowed as she studied him. "But when I took off your coat, I didn't see any blood."

No blood? Come to think of it, he hadn't noticed any when he woke in the barn. "I'm not real sure how that happened, ma'am."

She rose, studied him once more, then left the room.

He lay back, reflecting on what had happened. If the man, Reverend Arnwolf was a minister, he must be a fallen one. Like me.

Was that why the creature had come to drag him to his doom? Was God angry that Jon had left the priesthood? This couldn't be a coincidence. Hopefully, the man was gone, and he'd never come across him again. But he couldn't get those glowing red eyes out of his mind.

Satan himself couldn't have frightened him more. He fingered the crucifix.

For more info and to read review, visit my vampire romance page http://susanmacatee.com/myvampireromances.html

To purchase Sweet Redemption http://thewildrosepress.com/sweet-redemption-p-3750.html?zenid=efc2f41ac353b198c6926be0514ff6ab

Excerpt from The Christmas Ball, part of the anthology An American Rose Christmas

Sara closed her eyes and breathed deeply. Doc Ellison's kiss had scattered her senses. For months she'd dreamed of being in his arms. As he reached for the buttons on her shirt, her breath caught. His hands on her body thrilled her. She'd never felt like this before.

After loosening the buttons, he opened the shirt and gazed at her bosom.

She studied him, wondering what he was thinking. Did he like what he saw?

He dropped his hands and half-turned away.

"Please," she gasped. "Don't stop."

Turning back, his gaze roved over her. She tried to read his expression. Was that desire she saw, or disgust?

"We should be going now," he said. His gaze dropped to the hay strewn ground.

"No!" Boldly she reached out and fingered the buttons of his coat. He didn't move as she slowly undid them and parted the material. Her fingers tingled as they brushed over his shirt, feeling hardened muscle beneath.

His breath hitched, but he gently pushed her away. "Miss Brewster, we mustn't..."

"Doc!" A shout from outside, startled her. She jerked away from the doctor and scanned the barn opening.

"Yes," Ellison called. He eyed her. "You'd best go."

She nodded, hurriedly fastening her buttons. One of the other stewards approached. His dark eyes slid from her to the doctor. "They don't need me in the hospital tent, and told me to come on over and give you a hand."

Ellison glanced at Sara. "We're about finished here. I was on my way back."

"All right, Doc," the soldier said. "I'll head back with you."

She swallowed, not sure she could find her voice. "Ah... I'm off duty, so I reckon I'll head back to my tent."

Ellison reached up and gave her shoulder a squeeze. "I'll see you tomorrow."

She caught his gaze, trying to gauge his thoughts. Would he have allowed her to undress him if they hadn't been interrupted?

The Christmas Ball is part of the American historical Christmas anthology, An American Rose Christmas, available at The Wild Rose Press and discounted for the holidays http://www.thewildrosepress.com/an-american-rose-christmas-p-3807.html?zenid=fbfeb2eb47f18b45e780e54c46f21563

More excerpts and links to reviews are on my website: http://www.susanmacatee.com/

And be sure to check out my post on the Christmas Tree in Victorian America over at Slip Into Something Victorian.

And check back here on the 26th to see who won the TWRP gift certificate.

Excerpt from novella, Angel of My Dreams

2010-12-23T04:26:00.000-08:00

If you like paranormal mixed with the Civil War, here's another excerpt, this one from a novella titled Angel of My Dreams, part of the Civil War romance anthology, Northern Roses and Southern Belles, an EPIC award finalist.

Excerpt:

A hand rested on his shoulder. He opened his eyes, expecting to see Monica.

The dark-haired woman gazed down at him.

"Kyle,” she said. "I've been so worried."

He lifted his head and looked around. He wasn't in his bedroom, but in a large canvas tent.

"Where am I?"

"Shh." She placed a finger on his lips. The scent of lavender invaded his senses.

He frowned when he realized he was lying on a cot wearing his reenactor clothing. Had he dreamed he'd come home?

"The doctor says you'll be fine. He dug out the bullet and stitched up your leg."

"My leg?" Kyle reached down. His pant’s leg had been cut apart at the seam. Heavy bandages wrapped around his thigh.

"This doesn't make any sense. I twisted my ankle. It's fine now."

She took his hand and stroked his forehead. Her touch sent warmth and desire through his body.

"I have to know..." He swallowed. "...your name."

She smiled. "You haven't forgotten me already?"

"I...you never told me."

"Of course I did."

She leaned away.

He held tightly to her hand, fearing she'd leave again.

"Don't go." Her hand dissolved. He couldn't hold her.

He woke in a sweat. The alarm blared. Six-thirty. He had to get ready for school.

As he hurriedly washed up and dressed, he tried to recall the dream about the woman from the reenactment, but only fleeting images remained.

As he waited for his coffee to brew, he racked his brain trying to remember, but it was gone. And so was she.

Northern Roses and Southern Belles available at The Wild Rose Press http://thewildrosepress.com/northern-roses-and-southern-belles-p-3578.html

Excerpt from Confederate Rose

2010-12-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

This latest battle had taken a toll on him. He felt drained and needed to recoup and get some rest. Leaning back against a rock, he looked at the stars dotting the blackness. Moonlight brightened the landscape, producing an eerie glow.

Katie by his side in battle was also a new experience. Although he knew she was an experienced soldier and could hold her own, an overwhelming urge rose to protect her. A woman should be home tending to the hearth, waiting for her man to return from battle.

His thoughts drifted to Annabelle. Was she back in Richmond waiting for word of her new fiancé? Their brief encounter assured him he no longer had feelings for her, but he worried that she'd revealed his identity to her husband-to-be. Since the captain hadn’t confronted him, though, he doubted she had.

Smoke from the fire drifted to him, stinging his eyes. He wiped his sleeve across his face. When he opened them, a soldier approached. He focused his vision and realized Katie strode toward him. She'd acquired a new slouch hat from her brother-in-law. The large, black hat concealed her red curls.

When she settled down cross-legged beside him, her mood seemed pensive. She watched him a moment before speaking.

"I found something that belongs to you."

His mouth went dry. Something was wrong. "What have you got?"

"I'm hating to have to say it, since I'd accused you of being a thief, but I stole something from you." She looked away.

"What could you...?" He racked his mind trying to figure out what she could have taken.

"I went through yer pack."

"In Patrick's tent?"

"No, weeks ago back at the cabin. I went through it to try to learn more about you when you were in the stable. I found a letter and took it but didn't have time to read it until now."

Alex swallowed.

"It was a Federal dispatch. Yer a Yankee."

His chest tightened. No wonder he'd been unable to find the dispatch. She'd had it all along. "What do you intend to do?" He hoped she wouldn't discover his real motive. He could never harm her.

"You lied to me the whole time," she said, disbelief marring her delicate features.

He exhaled the breath he'd held. "I had no choice."

"If I'd known you to be a Yankee, I'd have shot you the first chance I got." Her eyes glittered in the light of the fire. "You touched me...pretended to care fer me. And all the while, you lied to me."

The raw hurt on her face broke his heart. He'd deceived her. He couldn't deny it. "What do you intend to do?" he asked again.

She shook her head slowly. "I'm sorry, Alex, but 'tis me duty to turn you in."

Confederate Rose available at The Wild Rose Press http://thewildrosepress.com/confederate-rose-p-3672.html?zenid=c2780c782c9e4f03b6975f07778c04

1st place historical category of First Coast Romance Writers 2010 Beacon Contest
for Published Authors!

2nd place historical category of 2010 New England Reader's Choice Bean Pot Award!

Read opening chapters and get links to reviews at my website www.susanmacatee.com

Excerpt from Erin's Rebel

2010-12-21T08:16:00.000-08:00

I'm dedicating the remainder of this week to excerpts from all my current releases, starting with my Civil War time travel romance, Erin's Rebel. The excerpts will run from today to Friday, December 24th. Anyone who enters a comment on all four posts will be entered in a contest to win a $25.00 TWRP gift certificate. Winner, if any, will be announced December 26th.

Erin's Rebel

Chapter One

Erin Branigan had finally found the man of her dreams. Unfortunately, he'd died over one hundred and forty years ago.

On a warm, sunny day in mid-June, she stood in a small, church cemetery in a rural area outside Mason, Virginia. Vivid dreams of a handsome, Civil War soldier had sent her here, but they had also driven a wedge between her fiancé, Rick Meyers, and her. To solve this mystery, she'd called off her wedding two and a half months before. And now today, she hoped what she learned in this graveyard would put a halt to her nightly visions.

Erin kneeled beside the weathered granite headstone of the Confederate captain and traced her finger over the inscription. William James Montgomery; Born September 20, 1833; Died November 23, 1864. Despite the warmth of the day, she shivered, recalling the dark-eyed man and her intense, sometimes sensual dreams. After taking a deep breath, she rose, brushed off her jeans, and snapped a few photos.

"Here's his wife." The caretaker, who'd introduced himself as John, tipped the bill of his black Orioles cap toward the stone beside Montgomery's.

Erin glanced at it. Anne Eugenia Montgomery: Born October 3, 1833; Died September 15, 1861.

"She was so young," she said.

The caretaker lifted his cap and ran a liver-spotted hand through his thinning, gray hair. Replacing the hat, he turned to indicate the old, stone-walled church. "The records show she died shortly after William enlisted in the Confederate Army."

Erin nodded. Her grandmother had told her some of this story. The couple had a daughter, Amanda, and a stillborn son. They were also buried here, along with Amanda's husband and their children.

She fingered the engraved silver frame of the brooch pinned to the lapel of her beige, cotton blazer. As she glanced at the clear summer sky, a light breeze ruffled her cropped hair. Sparrows, perched in the oaks overlooking the plots, twittered. Such a beautiful day to recall such sadness.

"My grandmother told me her great-aunt Erin O'Connell knew William Montgomery. She met him during the war. This brooch was given to her by the captain." She clasped the oval frame, surrounding tightly woven chocolate-brown hair. "It's supposed to be a lock of his hair."

"Well, I'll be." John admired the pin. "Where's this great-aunt buried?"

"In Pennsylvania in a small town named Candor. It's just north of Gettysburg. My grandmother lived there, but she died last week." Her voice broke as she recalled the dear lady.

"Sorry to hear that."

She cleared her throat. "That's why I've come here. It was one of her last requests that I find this man's grave. In addition to the brooch, she had an old Bible and photos of both her great-aunt and William Montgomery." She lifted the photos she carried with her.

"My God! She looks just like you."

Erin smiled. "There are a few minor differences." In fact, she'd found the family resemblance unnerving, especially since Captain Montgomery resembled the soldier in her dreams. "Grandma also told me Erin O'Connell had been a Federal spy."

John arched his brows and let out an appreciative whistle. "What a great story! Researching the past is fascinating. You say you're from Philadelphia?"

"Yeah. I'm a reporter for the Philadelphia Inquirer."

"Well, then, feel free to go through all the records we have." He gestured at the church. "It should be all in a day's work for you."

****

On her return visit to Pennsylvania later that night, Erin couldn't shake the eerie feeling she'd experienced after going through the ledger. The facts she'd uncovered only added to her sense of unease. As her dreams combined with the historic facts, a feeling of insanity invaded her mind.

On her drive south, the winding two-lane highway through north-western Virginia had been so open and scenic in daylight. Now in the darkness, the heavily forested road and lack of traffic caused chills to slitherthrough her as she mulled over her discoveries. She should have left earlier but had found it difficult to pull herself away. Erin had discovered the man for whom she'd been searching. But would finding his grave finally end the dreams, or would this just make things a helluva lot worse?

The moist scent of impending rain sifted though the window she'd left cracked open. Hopefully, any shower would be light. She didn't look forward to a long drive in heavy rain, especially on an unfamiliar road. After two, quick flashes of lightning and rumbles of thunder, the first drops of rain hit the windshield. A deluge followed, forcing her to flick the wipers on high.

A sudden vibration shocked already frayed nerves. Where did that come from? Her cell phone was in her purse on the adjoining seat, so it hadn't come from that. The hair brooch on her lapel? When she fingered it, a sharp pulsation shot up her arm.

"What the hell?" She jerked her hand.

Despite the strange sensation, Erin remained focused on the road. Nothing ahead or behind her but forest. Dark, creepy forest encased in sheets of rain. Unable to see, she considered pulling over but wasn't sure she wanted to stop there.

As the vibration increased, she almost skidded off the blacktop. She grasped at the clasp, trying to yank the pin off her jacket.

Headlights glared in the distance and grew brighter. She had to concentrate on regaining control of the car. Tires squealed as a truck slid into her path on a rain-slicked curve.

"Oh, shit!" Heart pounding, she jerked the steering wheel to avoid a collision. She hydroplaned off the highway and swerved onto the shoulder - too late to see the tree dead in front of her.

Impact rolled as a film in slow motion. The sound of crunching metal, smell of rubber and gasoline, and a jolt through her system were the last things she remembered.

Chapter Two

Confederate Camp in Northern Virginia
June 18, 1863

A scream pierced the air. Men's shouts woke Will Montgomery from a deep slumber and dreams of his home and Anne.

What in damnation? Black coated the interior of his tent, making it impossible to see. What time was it anyway? Snatching up his trousers, he yanked them on over his underdrawers.

Emerging from the tent, he struggled to see in the ink-black darkness. No moonlight shone, and only a few, lone stars flickered through the dense clouds. The shuffling of heavy boots and the sound of men's angry voices drew his attention a few yards past the laundress' tent.

Had it been Mrs. O'Connell? A lantern glowed near her tent. Upon investigation, he found two men standing over what appeared to be a woman lying in a heap of calico skirts and petticoats. One of the men held a mare by the reins; the other hefted a lantern.

"What happened?" Will said.

"The lady fell from the horse, sir," the private holding the animal answered.

Kneeling at the woman's side, he tilted her face toward his. He motioned to the other soldier. "Bring the lantern closer."

Mrs. O'Connell, a young widow serving as one of the camp's new laundresses, lay limp and still. What the hell had the laundress been doing on a horse in the dead of night? He gazed at her placid face. Long, red-gold lashes brushed against her rounded cheekbones, ghostly pale in the candlelight. Blood oozed from one delicate nostril. Her bosom rose and fell gently, drawing his gaze to the swell of her breasts.

The first day the Irish woman had arrived in camp, feelings stirred in him he'd thought died with Anne. After his wife's death, he'd vowed not to give his heart to anotherwoman. Losing her had torn out his soul.

"What happened?" Will addressed the thin private with the lantern.

The soldier glanced at his companion and shrugged. "We think the horse reared up, sir. Then we heard her scream and came a-runnin' just in time to see her hit the ground."

Will nodded. Could be she'd imbibed a bit too much tonight. He'd heard the new laundress kept a bottle of whiskey in her tent, but so far, he hadn't witnessed any improprieties.

He studied the motionless figure. Doc Matthews could determine the extent of her injuries. As he lifted her, he smelled no hint of alcohol, but a feminine scent overwhelmed him. Soap and something sweet he couldn't identify.

He hadn't held a woman for two years. The softness of her curves increased the yearning he'd been denying. Leaving the other man to tend to the horse, he carried her across the camp to Doc.

****

Erin groaned. Her head and neck hurt like hell, and so did her nose. In fact, everything hurt. What had happened? She reached to the back of her head, where her fingers closed around a damp cloth. When she opened her eyes, a sharp pain knifed through her skull.

Focusing her thoughts, she recalled flashes of a dark, rainy highway. A truck hurtling toward her. The tree.

She turned her head and squinted into the yellow-white glow of a lantern. She wasn't in her car but lying flat on her back.

Someone moved beside her. A man with a heavy drawl spoke. "Are you all right, ma'am? Can you speak?"

She stared at him. Was she in a hospital? No. The gangly, sandy-haired man with the handlebar mustache wasn't wearing scrubs. He appeared to be in his early thirties and was dressed in an oversized, striped blue and white shirt draped over tan wool pants with a set of suspenders dangling to his knees. This sure wasn't an emergency room.

"Where am I?" she croaked. "What happened?" Blinding pain shot through her skull, again.

"You were thrown from a horse. Do you remember?"

"Horse?" She shook her head, then the sharp pain stopped her. "Ow, everything hurts."

The man pried the damp cloth from her hand and pressed it against the back of her head. "I don't feel any broken bones, but you've got a nice sized lump right here. I reckon you have a nasty headache. Just what were you doing on that mare this hour of night?"

"I wasn't on a horse," she said. "I've never been on a horse in my life. It was a car crash. I hit a tree when that truck slid in front of me."

"A bad fall like that could have affected your mind, Mrs. O'Connell." The man eyed her. "You're not making a lick of sense."

For more of chapter two, visit my website at http://www.susanmacatee.com/erinsrebel2.html

Finalist in the paranormal category of the Ancient City Romance Authors 2010 Reader's Choice Award!

Link for reviews: www.susanmacatee.com/Reviews.html

To purchase Erin's Rebel http://thewildrosepress.com/erins-rebel-p-3554.html

Free Christmas Story

2010-12-20T16:35:00.000-08:00

Christmas is fast approaching and I'd like to remind all my readers that my free Civil War Christmas story, A Kiss Under the Mistletoe, is still available at The Wild Rose Press.

Here's the blurb: In the final year of the American Civil War, Samantha Harrison is preparing for her wedding day. Trouble is, she's marrying the wrong man. The man she loves and whose child she carries, has disappeared months ago in battle. On Christmas Eve, Doug Mitchell shows up at her door only to learn she's marrying another man in two days.

But will passion re-ignite when they share a final kiss under the mistletoe?

And the link: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/a-kiss-under-the-mistletoe-p-1091.html?zenid=a4412b677b2f490df7f1954b9ad2eb1f

If you haven't yet read this story, I hope you'll enjoy it.

Winner of box of SFR books!

2010-12-15T07:59:00.000-08:00

I've chosen my winner over at SFR Brigade blog and it's Jennifer Mathis! I've already contacted her and am awaiting her reply and mailing address.

Thanks to all who left comments.

Book giveway!!

2010-12-14T06:03:00.000-08:00

I'm posting at SFR Brigade blog today and I'm giving away a box of books, all science fiction romances. If you leave a comment there today, you'll be included in the random drawing for the books--14 in all.

Talking about how easy it was to change your name...

2010-12-10T04:15:00.000-08:00

I'm over at Slip Into Something Victorian today continuing my posts on name changes during the 19th century. Clerical mistakes could make an entirely new person out of you.

A Pre-Christmas Treat

2010-12-07T08:31:00.000-08:00

Since we're now past Thanksgiving, I thought I'd remind everyone about my novella, The Christmas Ball, from the American historical Christmas anthology, An American Rose Christmas.

The anthology came out a year ago and The Wild Rose Press is offering an e-book copy for the price of $4.20. It's also available in print.

And I've got a new excerpt from my Civil War Christmas story to entice you.

Excerpt from The Christmas Ball:

Sara closed her eyes and breathed deeply. Doc Ellison's kiss had scattered her senses. For months she'd dreamed of being in his arms. As he reached for the buttons on her shirt, her breath caught. His hands on her body thrilled her. She'd never felt like this before.

After loosening the buttons, he opened the shirt and gazed at her bosom.

She studied him, wondering what he was thinking. Did he like what he saw?

He dropped his hands and half-turned away.

"Please," she gasped. "Don't stop."

Turning back, his gaze roved over her. She tried to read his expression. Was that desire she saw, or disgust?

"We should be going now," he said. His gaze dropped to the hay strewn ground.

"No!" Boldly she reached out and fingered the buttons of his coat. He didn't move as she slowly undid them and parted the material. Her fingers tingled as they brushed over his shirt, feeling hardened muscle beneath.

His breath hitched, but he gently pushed her away. "Miss Brewster, we mustn't..."

"Doc!" A shout from outside, startled her. She jerked away from the doctor and scanned the barn opening.

"Yes," Ellison called. He eyed her. "You'd best go."

She nodded, hurriedly fastening her buttons. One of the other stewards approached. His dark eyes slid from her to the doctor. "They don't need me in the hospital tent, and told me to come on over and give you a hand."

Ellison glanced at Sara. "We're about finished here. I was on my way back."

"All right, Doc," the soldier said. "I'll head back with you."

She swallowed, not sure she could find her voice. "Ah... I'm off duty, so I reckon I’ll head back to my tent."

Ellison reached up and gave her shoulder a squeeze. "I'll see you tomorrow."

She caught his gaze, trying to gauge his thoughts. Would he have allowed her to undress him if they hadn't been interrupted?

The Christmas Ball is part of the anthology An American Rose Christmas. For more information visit my website http://susanmacatee.com/americanrosechristmas.html

To purchase from The Wild Rose Press http://www.thewildrosepress.com/an-american-rose-christmas-p-3807.html

I'm at Caroline Clemmen's blog today

2010-11-28T04:59:00.000-08:00

I'm at A Writer's Life today talking about my paranormal novella, Angel of My Dreams, part of the Epic finalist Civil War anthology, Northern Roses and Southern Belles.

Talking about what's in a name at Slip Into Something Victorian

2010-11-26T05:16:00.000-08:00

I'm posting today on how easy it was to change your name back in the 19th century. Join me over at Slip Into Something Victorian.

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

2010-11-25T05:45:00.000-08:00

For all my American readers, I wish you a Happy Thanksgiving!

And today I'm posting over at TWRP's Black Rose Blog about what I have to be thankful for.

Revision's Finished!

2010-11-20T07:35:00.000-08:00

Of course I'm not completely done with this manuscript, still have to go back and do line edits and a final proofread before submitting, but I'm relieved that this revision is over. And it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. The trick, after reading my editor's revision request, was to put the manuscript aside for the entire summer, while I worked on other projects. When I came back to it in October, I could look at it in a whole new light.

I'm taking a week off from this manuscript and will start line edits the Monday after Thanksgiving. In the meantime, I'll catch up on blogging and revise, edit and polish a short story.

I even revised the blurb of the manuscript called Cassidy's War.

The Civil War is over, but Cassidy’s War is just beginning.

Cassidy Stuart longs to attend medical school. Her training under her physician father and her time serving as a nurse during the war, have only increased her desire to be a real physician with a practice of her own. When the man who’d left her at the altar five years before, returns, she’s determined not to let him upset the plans she’s set for herself.

Unknown to his former fiancée and her family, George Masters is now a Pinkerton agent sent to investigate a physician now living in George’s former hometown. When he finds Cassidy hasn’t married, he hopes he can have another chance with her, but can’t reveal his real reason for returning, at least not until his mission is accomplished.

Can love be rekindled with a doctor bent on revenge against them both?

I hope to have this completed and ready to submit by the beginning of the new year, if not sooner.

The Civil War changed roles for women

2010-11-12T16:57:00.000-08:00

I'm blogging about Dorothea Dix and how the Civil War changed roles for women over at Slip Into Something Victorian today.

Northern Roses and Southern Belles is an Eppie finalist!

2010-11-01T05:17:00.000-07:00

Just found out my Civil War anthology, Northern Roses and Southern Belles is a finalist in the Eppie's. For more info, click here.

Halloween Scavenger Hunt!

2010-10-30T06:33:00.000-07:00

I'm particating in the Long and Short of It Halloween Scavenger Hunt.

Click for details.

Good luck and Happy Halloween!!

Winner of pdf of Sweet Redemption

2010-10-29T07:03:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the comments on the Sweet Redemption post. Janice is the winner of the pdf of Sweet Redemption. Congratulations!!

I've already sent her file as an email attachment.

But I'd like to send the others who commented, Maeve and Mindy Mackay, a consolation prize. A pdf of my short vampire story, Eternity Waits. Just send an email to susanmacatee@aol.com and I'll forward your prize.

Happy Halloween everyone!

Thursday Excerpt: Vampire novella, Sweet Redemption

2010-10-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Excerpt

She eyed him coldly. "Sir, I'm not in the habit of taking prisoners."

"Sorry, ma'am." He inspected himself under the blanket. Both his greatcoat and military coat had been removed as well as his belt and revolver. "My things--"

"Are hidden, Captain. It wouldn't be wise to have them on your person if Confederate troops are hereabout."

"I agree with your reasoning, ma'am, but where are they?"

"In a safe place."

He struggled to sit, but his muscles protested, and he slumped back to the floor.

"Easy, Captain. You're very pale. Have you been ill?"

"No, I..." He recalled Arnwolf and the barn. Had that really happened, or had it just been a dream?

"Now you're awake, I'll heat up some broth. You look like you could use some."

"Thank you, ma'am."

She hesitated, a blush coloring her ivory skin. "When I took off your coat, I noticed two raised bumps on your neck. I thought they might be bites."

He fingered the bumps. So, it hadn't been a dream.

"A wild dog attacked me. Out in the woods."

"A wild dog?" She shuddered. "I didn't know there were any around here."

"It's the truth, ma'am." Even as he said it, he cringed inwardly at his lie.

Her gaze narrowed as she studied him. "But when I took off your coat, I didn't see any blood."

No blood? Come to think of it, he hadn't noticed any when he woke in the barn. "I'm not real sure how that happened, ma'am."

She rose, studied him once more, then left the room.

He lay back, reflecting on what had happened. If the man, Reverend Arnwolf was a minister, he must be a fallen one. Like me.

Was that why the creature had come to drag him to his doom? Was God angry that Jon had left the priesthood? This couldn't be a coincidence. Hopefully, the man was gone, and he'd never come across him again. But he couldn't get those glowing red eyes out of his mind.

Satan himself couldn't have frightened him more. He fingered the crucifix.

4 books at Long and Short Reviews!

"I love books that snag your attention from the start and maintain it throughout, and Sweet Redemption didn't
disappoint. The writing is wonderful, the pace nice and brisk, and the romance between Jon and Maddie is set at a believable simmer. I enjoyed the twist that brings it all together in the end, and felt the resolution of the vampire issue Jon faced was wrapped up beautifully.

"Be sure to put this story on your TBR list. Civil War junkies and vampire fans will love this one."

For more info, visit my vampire romance page http://susanmacatee.com/myvampireromances.html

To purchase Sweet Redemption http://www.thewildrosepress.com/sweet-redemption-p-3750.html?zenid=fa0a7deac3288d1b3602bec84e20d089

Leave a comment on this post for a chance to win a copy pdf copy of Sweet Redemption, and a way to contact you if you win. I'll announce the winner here tomorrow, Friday the 29th.

Too many projects...

2010-10-26T08:00:00.000-07:00

...and now it's decision time.

I had a major interruption in my writing hours last week and now I'm at the point where I have to decide which of my projects I'm going to devote myself to for the next month, or at least the next week.

I have three projects I can work on. The first is a novel that needs revision at my editor's request. After she rejected the manuscript twice, I wasn't able to look at it for a while. But I do have her notes and finally feel I can get back into the project. It would likely take me a month. Then I can do a final polish and resubmit.

I also started the first draft of a time travel novella. The interruption of the past week has taken my momentum away, but if I bring up the file, I'm sure I can get my head back into the story. And because it's a novella, it won't take more than a month to finish the first draft. After completing that, I can put it aside for later revision and edits.

I also have an idea for a short magazine story. That would only take about a week to write, then I can put it aside for a short period before edits and a final polish. I did manage to edit, polish and submit another short story to the same magazine and now have a new contract to show for it, so that's incentive enough to get started on a new story.

The other project was the sci-fi romance I worked on all summer. But as I approached the end, something just didn't feel right. I ended up coming to a complete halt with that one. It will definitely sit on the back burner for a while. I think I need to come back to it with a brand new perspective. I may even try to write a series of novellas in that genre. Sometimes shorter can work to my advantage, especially with a genre I don't normally write in.

So, I'm left with three projects I can start work on tomorrow. But which shall it be?

Blogging about what I like about Halloween

2010-10-24T10:11:00.000-07:00

I'm over at Black Rose of The Wild Rose Press blog today, talking about my favorite part of Halloween. I've also posted an excerpt from my vampire novella, Sweet Redemption.

And if you come back to this blog on Thursday and leave a comment on Thursday's Excerpt post, you'll be entered in a drawing to win a pdf copy of Sweet Redemption.

Rapid Fire Guns

2010-10-22T07:56:00.000-07:00

I'm blogging over at Slip Into Something Victorian today about the invention of rapid fire guns during the American Civil War.

Thursday Excerpt, paranormal romance, Angel of My Dreams

2010-10-21T07:38:00.000-07:00

This Thursday's excerpt is from my Civil War paranormal romance, Angel of My Dreams, from the Civil War anthology, Northern Roses and Southern Belles.

Excerpt:

A hand rested on his shoulder. He opened his eyes, expecting to see Monica.

The dark-haired woman gazed down at him.

"Kyle," she said. "I've been so worried."

He lifted his head and looked around. He wasn't in his bedroom, but in a large canvas tent.

"Where am I?"

"Shh." She placed a finger on his lips. The scent of lavender invaded his senses.

He frowned when he realized he was lying on a cot wearing his reenactor clothing. Had he dreamed he'd come home?

"The doctor says you'll be fine. He dug out the bullet and stitched up your leg."

"My leg?" Kyle reached down. His pant's leg had been cut apart at the seam. Heavy bandages wrapped around his thigh.

"This doesn't make any sense. I twisted my ankle. It's fine now."

She took his hand and stroked his forehead. Her touch sent warmth and desire through his body.

"I have to know..." He swallowed. "...your name."

She smiled. "You haven't forgotten me already?"

"I...you never told me."

"Of course I did."

She leaned away.

He held tightly to her hand, fearing she'd leave again.

"Don't go." Her hand dissolved. He couldn't hold her.

He woke in a sweat. The alarm blared. Six-thirty. He had to get ready for school.

As he hurriedly washed up and dressed, he tried to recall the dream about the woman from the reenactment, but only fleeting images remained.

As he waited for his coffee to brew, he racked his brain trying to remember, but it was gone. And so was she.

Praise for anthology, Northern Roses and Southern Belles!

4.25 hearts at Night Owl Romance!!

"With battles between Native Americans and Colonials, Northerners and Southerners, and Good and Bad there is a wealth of conflict to draw on. While the geographic breadth is vast, from sea to shining sea practically, and the backdrops varied, the conflicts are drawn from wartime.

"Knowing you or your lover may not live to see the next day tends to throw decorum out the window. These were all entertaining, informative stories that I enjoyed reading."

4.5 books at Long and Short Reviews!

"I think all of the authors did a great job on this anthology and so did the editors. I felt like I was involved in every story. I felt like I could smell the flowers and taste the crisp air. I felt the emotions the characters were feeling. This is a great anthology that any historical fan will love."

Find links to read full reviews at http://susanmacatee.com/Reviews.html.

Purchase anthology from The Wild Rose Press http://www.thewildrosepress.com/northern-roses-and-southern-belles-p-3578.html?zenid=fcb44320c3d53f501412f35b363c9bf7

It's not exactly Thursday, but...

2010-10-16T07:42:00.000-07:00

I'm two days late with my Thursday excerpt this week, but better late than never.

This week I'm featuring an excerpt and reviews from my award winning Civil War romance, Confederate Rose.

Excerpt:

Her pale cheeks turned a becoming shade of pink. She lifted one white, bare arm from the quilt to gesture at the clothing drying by the fire. "Now didn't you tell me to hang yer things out to dry?"

Alex grimaced. He had told her to do that. But he hadn't expected her to go through his pack. "So I did," he admitted.

She slipped her arm back into the quilt and lifted her chin. "'Tis an apology I should be expecting, Mr. Hart."

"Apology? You were going through my things."

"Because you ordered me to see to yer wet clothes."

Alex didn't think he'd win this argument. "Very well, ma'am. I apologize if I've offended your fine sensibilities in any way."

She straightened and hugged the quilt, eyeing him regally. "I accept yer apology, Mr. Hart."

"Well then." He hesitated and dropped his gaze. Her wide eyes drove his thoughts to ideas best left alone. That and the knowledge of what little she wore under the quilt. He cleared his throat. "I suggest we bed down for the night."

"Not until you get yerself out of those wet clothes."

His brows shot up. "I beg your pardon?"

"Ye'll surely not be sleeping in those wet things. 'Tis by the fire ye'll be needing to hang them."

His gaze settled on the clothes draped over the two chairs. Steam rose from them. "But those clothes aren't dry yet."

"Ye'll not be needing clothes to sleep." She grinned mischievously. "We've plenty of blankets."

Read opening chapters
Reviews and contest wins

Praise for Confederate Rose!

1st place historical category of First Coast Romance Writers 2010 Beacon Contest for Published Authors!

2nd place historical category of 2010 New England Reader's Choice Bean Pot Award!

"Need to Read" at You Gotta Read Reviews!!

"The writing flowed smoothly. I liked the way the romance developed between Katie and Alex. The conflicting emotions they each face make this an engaging story. If you like a romance wrapped in the conflicts of the Civil War you will definitely enjoy this book!"

4 ribbons at Blue Ribbon Reviews at Romance Junkies!

"CONFEDERATE ROSE is a magnificent work of fiction...Blended with a well developed romance, this historical is one that will grab hold of your heart and tear at your emotions. I highly recommend this charming historical and it will allow you to revisit the past while you stay in the present."

Links to read full reviews

To purchase Confederate Rose
http://www.thewildrosepress.com/confederate-rose-p-3672.html?zenid=674298e057bc659fa6b95937291848f0

Blogging about Mobile Telegraph Unit

2010-10-08T08:44:00.000-07:00

I'm over at Slip Into Something Victorian today, talking about the Mobile Telegraph Units used by the Union Army during the Civil War.

Thursday excerpt day, Erin's Rebel

2010-10-07T16:38:00.000-07:00

This month I've decided to have a Thursday excerpt day for all my releases over the past year. I'm starting off with my first Wild Rose Press release, my Civil War time travel romance, Erin's Rebel.

Excerpt:

The sound of her name on his lips made her skin tingle. She tore the paper off the package. At the sight of the brooch, her breath caught.

"Do you like it?" he asked anxiously. "I had it made just for you."

Eyeing him, she had a hard time finding her voice. This was Erin O'Connell's brooch, the very one that had sent her back in time. It shone in her hands, new and unworn from time and wear.

What did this mean? She must be following Erin O'Connell’s footsteps. As far as she knew her being here hadn’t changed anything. Will was still destined to die this year.

"I didn’t mean to upset you, Erin. If you don't want the brooch--"

"No." She clasped the pin against her chest as the meaning of his gift sank in. "It just means so much to me."

His look of concern softened into a lopsided grin. "I'm happy you feel that way."

"Thank you, Will." She slipped the brooch into the pocket of her wrapper, then stood on her toes, lifting her arms to circle his neck. She kissed his cheek, inhaling his musky scent.

His mouth was on hers, hot and urgent. The softness of his moustache and chin beard tickled her lips. She opened to him, her tongue slipping inside to taste him thoroughly. He groaned, pressing the length of his body against her.

Read opening chapters http://www.susanmacatee.com/erinsrebel.html

Reviews

4. 5 hearts from Night Owl Reviews!!

"I love historical romances and Susan Macatee did a beautiful job with this one. I loved that Erin is definitely a 21st century woman yet yearns for that all consuming love that she cannot find right now. William is all she has been searching for in a man, but he is in another century. Erin will do anything she can to find out what her part in his life is even it if means her own life."

4 books at Long and Short Reviews!!

"Reading Erin's Rebel was a thoroughly enjoyable experience that any fan of historical romance won't want to miss."

Fantastic, Stays on Shelf from Between the Lines, WRDF Reviews!

"I loved the author's gentle hand with detail, her convincing touch with romance, and the twists and turns that she creates before a thoroughly satisfying ending... This book's well worth keeping on my shelf..."

"Beautifully Done Historical Romance" at ParaNormal Romance!

"Recommended read for paranormal and historical romance readers or if you simply enjoy a good love story!"

4 lips at TwoLips Reviews!!

"Erin's Rebel is rich in history and mystery. Every time I thought I had the book figured out, Ms. Macatee came up with a new twist and another piece of the puzzle. I was delighted to find a time travel with a real reason for going back in time. Anyone who loves history, time travel and stories with unexpected twists will definitely enjoy this awesome book."

For links to full reviews, visit my website at http://www.susanmacatee.com/Reviews.html

Erin's Rebel, available from The Wild Rose Press

Purchase link: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/erins-rebel-p-3554.html?zenid=5738ba5898d2241dcd36078c904d429c

Switching projects again!

2010-10-02T07:57:00.001-07:00

I've put my sci-fi romance aside for a bit and am now working on a time travel novella. I'm really excited by this story, because it's an offshoot of my time travel romance, Erin's Rebel. The heroine is Erin's step-daughter, Amanda, all grown up in the year 1885.

The hero is from the present time and I've decided to call this story Thoroughly Modern Amanda. Do you like the title? Sometimes just finding the right title for a new story sets my creative juices flowing.

Anyway, I'm still plotting the story out, but already know how it will end. I'm working on plot details right now as I go from scene to scene. But I have enough plotted out to begin writing, which I plan to do on Monday.

I also completed the first draft of a short romance story this week and am putting that aside for at least a couple of weeks before looking at it again.

Switching among several projects really energizes me, especially when I'm stuck!

This made my day!

2010-09-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

Besides going back to a short story I started back in the spring and picking up right where I left off, I not only wrote 1022 words for a story that only needs about 2 k more to be complete, I got a nice surprise in the mail.

It was my first place certificate from First Coast Romance Writers for their Beacon contest! And I received the judges comments as well. Two checked off "This book is superb. Masterfully written." While the third checked off "A wonderful read." Not bad! All three greatly enjoyed the story and the third expressed a wish to read more books like this.

It's perks like this that make all the hassles of writing worthwhile.

And forgot to mention yesterday that I posted over at Slip Into Something Victorian about preserving food for Civil War armies.

Feeling unproductive today

2010-09-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

I planned to finish the end of my first draft this week, but it's just not happening. For one thing, I'm signed up for a workshop on Character Torture and already had two lessons and a homework assignment to complete. And I did such a bad job with the homework, I had to do it over and still didn't get it right.

It's a real learning experience that shows me that draft I'm trying to complete is going to take a lot of work when I get to the revision stage. I don't know if that's why I'm freezing up on the project or I'm just getting tired of working on one thing day after day.

If I can't get back into it tomorrow, I might switch to one of the short stories I've started on and see if I can do something with that to get my enthusiasm for writing back.

Of course, if I could just get that homework assignment right, I might not be so scared to go on with the draft. It's a first draft after all. It's allowed to suck. LOL.

Getting closer to 'the end'

2010-09-16T12:53:00.000-07:00

After taking a day off, I'm back to adding to the word count of the first draft of my science fiction romance, A Pirate's Honor. In the past two days, I've added over 2500 words to the draft.

If I can fight off my procrastination that seems to descend when I'm close to the end of a project, I'm hoping to finish up sometime next week.

I do have a workshop starting on the 19th, but I hope to navigate around that and finish this project up. I'm just so close!

Wish me luck.

When inspiration wavers, I clean my desk

2010-09-14T12:16:00.000-07:00

Today was one of those days. I don't know if it's because I'm nearing the end of my first draft, but I just didn't feel like opening the file of my latest project today. I have a plotting sheet describing what will happen in the end of the story and am currently writing an exciting scene that leads to the Black Moment, but when my writing time of the day came along, I just couldn't go into the file.

So, I thought a day off from writing might be what I needed. But now what do I do? Watching TV or reading, unless it's writing related, would just feel too unproductive and I'd regret it later. So what to do instead?

My solution was to clean off the mounting pile of supposedly important things I was saving on my desk. Some of the pile was important and needed daily, like the folder for my WIP. But there were also magazines that I was saving for reasons I couldn't remember and pages I'd printed out.

About half of the pile was important, it turns out, but the rest went into the recycling bin. The important stuff I don't need right now went into file drawers. Although the pile is now a lot smaller, it's still there. But at least now, it will be easier to find what I'm working on and what I plan to work on when this first draft is finally done.

I feel a bit more organized and plan to add to my word count tomorrow.

Post about paperback books in Civil War camp

2010-09-11T07:04:00.000-07:00

I'm over at Slip Into Something Victorian with another post from the book, More Civil War Curiosities. The post is about paperback books distributed to Civil War soldiers.

Summer Book Challenge report

2010-09-07T11:40:00.000-07:00

Although I wasn't able to complete the first draft of my summer book challenge book, a science fiction romance called A Pirate's Honor, I'm pleased to announce that I'm 68,936 words along.

All I have left to write is the black moment and ending. I should have no trouble completing this by the end of this month.

So, that said, my goal for September is to finish and write 'the end' to this draft.

I'm looking forward to putting this manuscript aside for a bit, so I can work on a few short stories and novellas for a change.

Writing Goals

2010-09-01T17:32:00.000-07:00

August is over and Labor Day less than a week away. It looks like I won't be completing the first draft of A Pirate's Honor, my summer book project.

But I've written nearly 66,000 words so far and am coming up on the black moment scene. I should be able to complete the draft this month. Then I can put it away to cool and work on some short projects. I already have two short stories and a novella in various stages of development and am looking forward to a break from novel length. Maybe I can finish up a few and get them submitted before I'm ready to even start the revision on the full.

I'm looking forward to working on different genres and lengths this month and October as well. It should be a fun break.

Still plugging away...

2010-08-21T07:11:00.000-07:00

I started writing the first draft of my science fiction romance, I'm calling A Pirate's Honor, on June 1st. And while it's been hectic this summer, I managed to complete 59,286 words as of yesterday. My word count goal is about 80,000 words. A little more than 20,000 to go.

I've mostly been writing on weekdays and not every day, depends on what other tasks and complications arise, but that's a lot of words for a couple of months work. Of course, once I've finished the draft, I'll have to put it aside for a few months and work on something else. But I do look forward to writing 'the end'.

And to accomplish that feat, I've place my butt in my desk chair every afternoon for days on end. I bring up the file, read the last couple of pages I wrote the day before, confer with my plot sheet and write.

It's been working out so far. I've had no blocks or stoppages, except to work through plot points in the murky middle of the story I haven't yet worked out, but it seems to be going smoothly so far. One scene feeds into another. I hope to have the draft completed before the end of September.

For writers out there, how do you keep going when working on the first draft of a novel?

Erin's Rebel is a Finalist!!

2010-08-13T10:42:00.000-07:00

Just got the official word that my time travel romance, Erin's Rebel, is a finalist in the 2010 Heart of Excellence Reader's Choice Contest by the Ancient City Romance Authors!!

http://web.mac.com/vickihinze/ACRA/Heart_of_Excellence_Rules.html

I also entered Confederate Rose, but it didn't final. Oh well! Can't win them all.

Wish me luck in the finals! Winners are to be announced on September 25th.

What a way to start a Monday!!!

2010-08-02T07:15:00.001-07:00

I just turned on my computer and found an email telling me my Civil War romance, Confederate Rose, won first place in the historical category of the First Coast Romance Writers Published Beacon Contest!!!

I hadn't even heard my book was a finalist in this contest, so this came as a complete and very welcome suprise!

Here the link to view all the 2010 winners: http://www.firstcoastromancewriters.com/contest_pub.htm

Writing on my own time

2010-07-21T16:29:00.000-07:00

Now that my latest manuscript's been rejected, I decided to devote all my writing time to the first draft of my science fiction romance. My plan is to write at least 1000 words each weekday and try, if I can to stretch it to 1500. I also have to continue to plot out the middle of this story. The beginning and ending are plotted out, but there's a lot of middle I'm still not sure of.

But I like working at my own pace for a change. And since it's summer, once I get my word count done and do at least a little bit of plotting, I can spend a little time before starting dinner to pleasure read.

My current read is Linnea Sinclair's Finders Keepers. I'm about 80% through and really hate to have to put this one down. So, if dinner gets held up...oh, well.

But it's really nice to have some downtime each day for a change. The past few weeks have been deadline hell!

Happy Anniversary!!

2010-07-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

Today is the one-year anniversary of the release of my Civil War time travel romance, Erin’s Rebel, by The Wild Rose Press.

And in honor of the day, I’m giving away a pdf copy. Just leave a comment today and I’ll pick a winner at random and announce it here tomorrow. Here’s the opening:

Erin's Rebel

Chapter One

Erin Branigan had finally found the man of her dreams. Unfortunately, he'd died over one hundred and forty years ago.

On a warm, sunny day in mid-June, she stood in a small, church cemetery in a rural area outside Mason, Virginia. Vivid dreams of a handsome, Civil War soldier had sent her here, but they had also driven a wedge between her fiancé, Rick Meyers, and her. To solve this mystery, she'd called off her wedding two and a half months before. And now today, she hoped what she learned in this graveyard would put a halt to her nightly visions.

Erin kneeled beside the weathered granite headstone of the Confederate captain and traced her finger over the inscription. William James Montgomery; Born September 20, 1833; Died November 23, 1864.

Despite the warmth of the day, she shivered, recalling the dark-eyed man and her intense, sometimes sensual dreams. After taking a deep breath, she rose, brushed off her jeans, and snapped a few photos.

"Here's his wife." The caretaker, who'd introduced himself as John, tipped the bill of his black Orioles cap toward the stone beside Montgomery's.

Erin glanced at it. Anne Eugenia Montgomery: Born October 3, 1833; Died September 15, 1861."She was so young," she said.

The caretaker lifted his cap and ran a liver-spotted hand through his thinning, gray hair. Replacing the hat, he turned to indicate the old, stone-walled church. "The records show she died shortly after William enlisted in the Confederate Army."

Erin nodded. Her grandmother had told her some of this story. The couple had a daughter, Amanda, and a stillborn son. They were also buried here, along with Amanda's husband and their children.

She fingered the engraved silver frame of the brooch pinned to the lapel of her beige, cotton blazer. As she glanced at the clear summer sky, a light breeze ruffled her cropped hair.
Sparrows, perched in the oaks overlooking the plots, twittered. Such a beautiful day to recall such sadness.

"My grandmother told me her great-aunt Erin O'Connell knew William Montgomery. She met him during the war. This brooch was given to her by the captain." She clasped the oval frame, surrounding tightly woven chocolate-brown hair. "It's supposed to be a lock of his hair."

"Well, I'll be." John admired the pin. "Where's this great-aunt buried?"

"In Pennsylvania in a small town named Candor. It's just north of Gettysburg. My grandmother lived there, but she died last week." Her voice broke as she recalled the dear lady.

"Sorry to hear that."

She cleared her throat. "That's why I've come here. It was one of her last requests that I find this man's grave. In addition to the brooch, she had an old Bible and photos of both her great-aunt and William Montgomery." She lifted the photos she carried with her.

"My God! She looks just like you."

Erin smiled. "There are a few minor differences." In fact, she'd found the family resemblance unnerving, especially since Captain Montgomery resembled the soldier in her dreams. "Grandma also told me Erin O'Connell had been a Federal spy."

John arched his brows and let out an appreciative whistle. "What a great story! Researching the past is fascinating. You say you're from Philadelphia?"

"Yeah. I'm a reporter for the Philadelphia Inquirer."

"Well, then, feel free to go through all the records we have." He gestured at the church. "It should be all in a day's work for you."

****

On her return visit to Pennsylvania later that night, Erin couldn't shake the eerie feeling she'd experienced after going through the ledger. The facts she'd uncovered only added to her sense of unease. As her dreams combined with the historic facts, a feeling of insanity invaded her mind.

On her drive south, the winding two-lane highway through north-western Virginia had been so open and scenic in daylight. Now in the darkness, the heavily forested road and lack of traffic caused chills to slitherthrough her as she mulled over her discoveries. She should have left earlier but had found it difficult to pull herself away. Erin had discovered the man for whom she'd been searching. But would finding his grave finally end the dreams, or would this just make things a helluva lot worse?

The moist scent of impending rain sifted though the window she'd left cracked open. Hopefully, any shower would be light. She didn't look forward to a long drive in heavy rain, especially on an unfamiliar road. After two, quick flashes of lightning and rumbles of thunder, the first drops of rain hit the windshield. A deluge followed, forcing her to flick the wipers on high.

A sudden vibration shocked already frayed nerves. Where did that come from? Her cell phone was in her purse on the adjoining seat, so it hadn't come from that. The hair brooch on her lapel? When she fingered it, a sharp pulsation shot up her arm.

"What the hell?" She jerked her hand.

Despite the strange sensation, Erin remained focused on the road. Nothing ahead or behind her but forest. Dark, creepy forest encased in sheets of rain. Unable to see, she considered pulling over but wasn't sure she wanted to stop there.

As the vibration increased, she almost skidded off the blacktop. She grasped at the clasp, trying to yank the pin off her jacket.

Headlights glared in the distance and grew brighter. She had to concentrate on regaining control of the car. Tires squealed as a truck slid into her path on a rain-slicked curve.

"Oh, shit!" Heart pounding, she jerked the steering wheel to avoid a collision. She hydroplaned off the highway and swerved onto the shoulder - too late to see the tree dead in front of her.

Impact rolled as a film in slow motion. The sound of crunching metal, smell of rubber and gasoline, and a jolt through her system were the last things she remembered.

Chapter Two

Confederate Camp in Northern Virginia

June 18, 1863

A scream pierced the air. Men's shouts woke Will Montgomery from a deep slumber and dreams of his home and Anne.What in damnation? Black coated the interior of his tent, making it impossible to see. What time was it anyway? Snatching up his trousers, he yanked them on over his underdrawers.

Emerging from the tent, he struggled to see in the ink-black darkness. No moonlight shone, and only a few, lone stars flickered through the dense clouds. The shuffling of heavy boots and the sound of men's angry voices drew his attention a few yards past the laundress' tent.

Had it been Mrs. O'Connell? A lantern glowed near her tent. Upon investigation, he found two men standing over what appeared to be a woman lying in a heap of calico skirts and petticoats. One of the men held a mare by the reins; the other hefted a lantern.

"What happened?" Will said.

"The lady fell from the horse, sir," the private holding the animal answered.

Kneeling at the woman's side, he tilted her face toward his. He motioned to the other soldier. "Bring the lantern closer."

Mrs. O'Connell, a young widow serving as one of the camp's new laundresses, lay limp and still. What the hell had the laundress been doing on a horse in the dead of night? He gazed at her placid face. Long, red-gold lashes brushed against her rounded cheekbones, ghostly pale in the candlelight. Blood oozed from one delicate nostril. Her bosom rose and fell gently, drawing his gaze to the swell of her breasts.

The first day the Irish woman had arrived in camp, feelings stirred in him he'd thought died with Anne. After his wife's death, he'd vowed not to give his heart to anotherwoman. Losing her had torn out his soul.

"What happened?" Will addressed the thin private with the lantern.

The soldier glanced at his companion and shrugged. "We think the horse reared up, sir. Then we heard her scream and came a-runnin' just in time to see her hit the ground."

Will nodded. Could be she'd imbibed a bit too much tonight. He'd heard the new laundress kept a bottle of whiskey in her tent, but so far, he hadn't witnessed any improprieties.

He studied the motionless figure. Doc Matthews could determine the extent of her injuries. As he lifted her, he smelled no hint of alcohol, but a feminine scent overwhelmed him. Soap and something sweet he couldn't identify.

He hadn't held a woman for two years. The softness of her curves increased the yearning he'd been denying. Leaving the other man to tend to the horse, he carried her across the camp to Doc.

****

Erin groaned. Her head and neck hurt like hell, and so did her nose. In fact, everything hurt. What had happened? She reached to the back of her head, where her fingers closed around a damp cloth. When she opened her eyes, a sharp pain knifed through her skull.

Focusing her thoughts, she recalled flashes of a dark, rainy highway. A truck hurtling toward her. The tree.She turned her head and squinted into the yellow-white glow of a lantern. She wasn't in her car but lying flat on her back.

Someone moved beside her. A man with a heavy drawl spoke. "Are you all right, ma'am? Can you speak?"

She stared at him. Was she in a hospital? No. The gangly, sandy-haired man with the handlebar mustache wasn't wearing scrubs. He appeared to be in his early thirties and was dressed in an oversized, striped blue and white shirt draped over tan wool pants with a set of suspenders dangling to his knees. This sure wasn't an emergency room.

"Where am I?" she croaked. "What happened?" Blinding pain shot through her skull, again.

"You were thrown from a horse. Do you remember?"

"Horse?" She shook her head, then the sharp pain stopped her. "Ow, everything hurts."

The man pried the damp cloth from her hand and pressed it against the back of her head. "I don't feel any broken bones, but you've got a nice sized lump right here. I reckon you have a nasty headache. Just what were you doing on that mare this hour of night?"

"I wasn't on a horse," she said. "I've never been on a horse in my life. It was a car crash. I hit a tree when that truck slid in front of me."

"A bad fall like that could have affected your mind, Mrs. O'Connell." The man eyed her. "You're not making a lick of sense."

For more of chapter two, visit my website at www.susanmacatee.com/erinsrebel2.html

To purchase Erin's Rebel http://www.thewildrosepress.com/erins-rebel-p-3554.html?zenid=6db938c9b1758afd46790e33707a674c

No New Contract

2010-07-15T11:46:00.000-07:00

My latest historical was rejected again. Not sure whether to be sad, mad or relieved. After so many revisions, I was on the verge of hating this story.

Sometimes you just have to step back from a story for a while, or let it go altogether.

For now, I have the rest of the summer to complete the first draft of my science fiction romance and then I can put it aside and work on some short stories. I think I need a change from novels for a spell.

Been totally neglecting the blog...

2010-07-10T09:23:00.000-07:00

... but it is summer, we've just celebrated a major American holiday and I've been swamped with non-writing related work. Have to make money, after all.

But I'm all caught up and thought I'd post about my latest project. I'm working through the first draft of a science fiction romance, I'm tentatively calling, A Pirate's Honor. The first title for this work was Moons of Cynara, but I realized I was heading in the wrong direction and had to put it aside, then come back to the manuscript with a new vision.

I'm about 25,000 words into the draft, but still have a way to go. I hope I can complete or nearly complete the draft by Labor Day. We'll see.

Things have been non-existent on the writing scene for the past few weeks for me, due to lack of time, but now I'm free...at least for now...to get back into this new project.

Of course, the life of a freelance writer is full of distractions. Hopefully, I can stay on course, unless I get a new contract. That would be a welcome distraction.