Nell Dixon - Romance writer

Fabby Friday!

2012-01-27T08:23:00.003Z

Brief Encounters is now just 99p on AMAZON for a short time. So if you haven't got a copy of our collection of short stories, two by me, two from Phillipa Ashley and two from Elizabeth Hanbury, then go get a copy! It's also available as a paperback - the perfect birthday, valentines or mothers day gift.
The other reason it's a fabby Friday is Elizabeth Hanbury, my friend and fellow coffee crew member has sold her book, A Bright Particular Star to Astraea Press. Four publishers wanted to buy and having read the book I can understand why. It's a gorgeous regency romp with a delicious hero and a minx of a heroine. Astraea Press recently had a NYT bestseller with another regency author so have a strong name for selecting beautifully fabulous regency tales for their list. A Bright Particular Star will be out in May and I can't wait!

January blues

2012-01-21T08:48:00.002Z

It's that time of year when everyone gets the blues. Bills are in, money is short. All the work that didn't get done in December hits your desk and it's cold. But, on the upside, the days are getting lighter, snowdrops are open in my garden, PLR (Thats a small sum of money paid by govt to compensate for library loaning) has been announced and the holiday brochures are out.
I'm planning to crack on with Radio Gaga to get this last 10k done - I always procrastinate at the end of a single title. Then, I need to polish and submit my Easter short. I got a nice surprise to find A Cornish Christmas in Amazon's top 100 Romance short stories yesterday which was a real boost. I love writing the fun short novella's and I'm so pleased people seem to be enjoying them.
My Mum got a kindle for Christmas which means that because she can adjust the font she can now read all my books that weren't available to her before. She called last night to tell me she'd read Renovation, Renovation, Renovation. Gulp! Luckily for me she loved it and said she'd read some bits out to my dad and they'd been laughing out loud at some of the lines.(In a good way)

Writing

2012-01-13T13:17:00.002Z

I thought I'd better give you all an update on where I am with my writing since New Year! I've almost half a brand new short and sweet story done which I hope will be right for Astraea Press. It's another New Bay set story so a couple of previous characters step in and out of the pages but the focus is on the outskirts of the town on a farm. It has a very lovely farmer called Noah and a city girl turned reluctant camper called Posy. Poor Noah is being tugged in all directions thanks to his matchmaking sister, Emma.
I've just 10kish left to go on Radio Gaga so that should be wrapped up in the next six weeks. Nice timing as Renovation, Renovation, Renovation gets closer to making it's print debut at the beginning of March.
I've managed to fit a bit of reading in too! Quite an achievement when I'm helping eldest belle revise for her A2 exams.

Chugging along

2012-01-07T13:00:00.003Z

Eldest, middle and youngest
It's too early in the New year for me to think about the usual goals for the year. I never attempt my getting fitter, maintaining/losing weight until the middle of the month. That gives time for the goodies to go and life to settle down. This year is extra slow as my eldest belle will be 18 on Wednesday!
I can't quite believe the years have gone by so swiftly. She arrived by C section on a cold January day - overdue and breech, her hips stuck firmly in my pelvis so her hips were dislocated. She spent the first six months of her life encased in double nappies and a huge plastic casing to hold her joints in place.
It certainly surprised the vicar at her christening when I handed her over and instead of a squishly little baby he encountered the huge plastic splint. People were very weird when I was out with her too - one woman followed me all around the supermarket one day and threatened me with social services as eldest had been crying and the woman could see the splint. I swear she took my car reg as I pulled away.
Now she's all grown up, learning to drive, taking her A levels and planning her university course.
Happy Birthday, eldest!

Guest Blogger - Julie Day

2012-01-02T09:28:00.003Z

I'm thrilled to be kicking off the New Year by introducing my lovely friend, Julie Day, author of young adult book The Railway Angel. Julie is a fellow RNA member and writes romance and young adult. She kindly agreed to be interviewed and to tell us a bit about her new book.
Julie, how did you become a novelist?
I became a novelist following recurring dreams in the night. This dream stayed in my mind during the day, and I realised the only way to get it out of my head was to write it down. Once I started writing, that was it. Ideas and more ideas came. That was over 10 years ago now.
Tell us what The Railway Angel is about?
The Railway Angel is about fifteen-year-old Lizzie, who becomes an angel after dying suddenly following a dare that goes wrong. She is sent back to Earth for a test, to stop another teenager from self-destructing and ending up like her. Along the way she finds she has magical powers, as well as the school she now belongs to. It is now free from Smashwords.
What inspired this story?
I think what inspired me to write it was reading lots of stories in the papers recently about teenagers and young adults doing silly things like running on tracks and doing other stupid stunts. I thought what would happen if they became guardian angels to other teenagers like them.
Any advice for aspiring writers?
My advice to aspiring writers is to keep persevering. You will find your own voice and what you like writing and when you do, you will find it easier to write those stories. Also, look out for different opportunities to get your work out there.
What do you have planned next?
I am working on the second angel story, which is Danny's story. He briefly appeared in Lizzie's story. I am also planning a series of adult romance ebooks with a touch of magic, both for a digital publisher and as an indie author. You can see what I like writing about, can't you? Magic.

Thanks Julie, the book sounds brilliant!
The Railway Angel
After a game of dare at a train station goes tragically wrong, fifteen year-old Lizzie Hammond becomes a lost angel, until she is tested and sent back to Earth to stop a teenager from risking their life on railway tracks, with persuasion and newly discovered magical powers. Passing her test, Lizzie now becomes a ‘Guardian Angel.”
Available from Amazon UK also Amazon US, Smashwords and other e-tailers. The perfect gift for a teen in your life!

End of Year round-up.

2011-12-31T10:55:00.003Z

Happy New Year to all my friends and readers. Thank you for your support during 2011. I wish all of you a wonderful 2012 filled with good things.
2011 was a bit up and down for me, as it was for many people. The first part of the year held the usual uncertainty over my day job - but worse than it had ever been before. This year still looks rocky in some respects but hopeful which is as good as it gets for most people at the moment I think in the current economic climate.
Family wise, it had the highs of my eldest getting the results she needed from her AS levels to continue at college and to find a career she really wants. My middle belle took part in her first big play and coped brilliantly and my youngest belle continues to be her entertaining beautiful self. Mr Nell's health issues stayed in remission and although my arthritis is getting worse I staved off the hip replacement for another year.
Writing wise it's been a real roller coaster. Since parting amicably from my agent and making the decision to go it alone for a while saleswise I've had my best ever year in books placed. 5 books went to my wonderful new specialist sweet publisher - Astraea press - these included some of my older out of print stories as well as my new novella - A Cornish Christmas. E-Scape with a Book published the anthology of short stories that I wrote with my Coffee Crew friends - Phillipa Ashley and Elizabeth Hanbury. 2 books were taken by a large print publisher. Animal Instincts sold to a German book club and I secured a 2 book contract with Myrmidon for my single title books. Renovation, Renovation, Renovation is out digitally and in paperback March 5th whilst I've almost completed the first draft of Radio Gaga which is book 2.
Next year? Who knows - I have a completed category length story out there and I'm working on some more shorts for Astraea as well as a Jane Austen inspired project which may or may not work. I'm planning some workshops and some online classes. Check my website regularly for details or join my Yahoo group to take part.
Thank you all for everything this year. I'm very blessed in having great family and wonderful friends.
Happy New year!

Sale!

2011-12-27T12:59:00.002Z

My sweet reads with Astraea are all on offer for the holidays at 86p if you're in the UK and 99c if you're in the US - available at B&N and Amazon!
Snap them up for later!
Cue Me In - a fun ghost story for dark nights.
Dangerous to Know - A longer romantic suspense read set in the Lake District
Making Waves
September Song and A Cornish Christmas are my three New Bay stories - all stand alone reads set in Cornwall

The gift of Christmas

2011-12-22T10:30:00.003Z

I've now officially broken up from the day job for a week or so. Time to rescue the house - having three teenagers at home whilst I'm at work is not a good thing. The fridge has now been filled (again), the freezer is stuffed with goodies and the pantry is a danger zone thanks to the shelves groaning with treats ready for family and friends.
For many people life is not so kind, my next job today is to send my charity donations for Christmas. I have some causes I support all year round - my local hospice, the RNLI, and the air ambulance are my main ones but at Christmas I always try to give extra money where I can. The real message of Christmas isn't the gifts or the food and parties but in the true wealth of life, family, friends and the thankfulness for the bounty we've recieved all year. The joy of Christmas lies in sharing with others especially with those who may be struggling.
I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and hope that the season is filled with blessings for you and yours.

Christmas is coming

2011-12-16T08:57:00.001Z

And today is Mr Nell's birthday!

The new shiny

2011-12-10T16:15:00.003Z

Sign up here for my shiny new yahoo group. My newsletter system had grown way too big for my mail server so I decided to invite everyone over to the new group instead. As well as getting newsletter, subscriber exclusive contests for readers and for writers, there'll be exclusive stories, snippets from work in progress and even some online workshops and book discussions. Hopefully everyone will get to chat and have some fun there.You can also find me on Facebook or if you're on Twitter I'm @NellDixon

Bryan Adams and me

2011-12-05T10:30:00.003Z

Sigh, what can I say? I've been in a long term relationship with Bryan Adams for over twenty years now. Last night I got to see him again. Just Bryan, me and a few thousand other people. For those of you who are concerned about Mr Nell - it's ok. He understands that if/when Bryan realises that i'm the perfect woman for him, then he'll stand aside. In return I've promised to do the same should Linda Lusardi ever consider Mr Nell.
If you've never been to a Bryan Adams concert then don't go expecting elephants, giant robots, fancy lighting, support acts and costume changes. What you get is Bryan in his black tee shirt and jeans, some guitars and a few other assorted musicians also in black shirts and jeans and that's all he needs. He sang and played for two and a half hours without a break and every song was a hit.
I love that he keeps his private life private, supports many excellent charities quietly without making a huge deal of it, is a talented photographer and just an all round nice person as well as being an incredible rock singer.
I also based a bit of Drew in Crystal Clear on Bryan.

A release from Coffee Crew member - Phillipa Ashley!

2011-12-03T11:37:00.003Z

When Carrie’s fiancé Huw suddenly calls off their wedding, and she finds out he’s marrying another woman, she’s devastated. Desperate to get away, Carrie jumps at her best friend Rowena’s suggestion of a road trip in her VW camper van. But when Rowena has to pull out and Matt Landor, an old friend of Huw's, ends up filling the breach, she's not so sure. Will fate take the pair on an altogether different journey? (In the UK as It Should Have Been Me)
Another lovely read from Phillipa - if you didn't catch it first time round then grab your copy now!

A Cornish Christmas is out!

2011-11-26T11:32:00.002Z

A Cornish Christmas is now available from Astraea Press A short and sweet novella without Santa, elves or cute kids but still guaranteed to leave you with a warm Christmassy feeling!

Adam wants Meg to be more than a friend but Meg has her reasons for not wanting to move their relationship on. It takes a stray dog, an emergency at sea and a touch of Christmas to show Meg her true feelings.

And here’s a taster!

The shop was full with people when Meg returned. She left her sandwich and her coat in the staff room and went to help her mother serve the customers. By the time the bell over the door sounded a farewell to the last customer, Meg’s stomach growled.
She hurried into the back room to retrieve her lunch, finally acknowledging the rumbles of complaint from her stomach.
She took a large bite from her brie and cranberry sandwich, chewed and swallowed. “Yum, this is heaven.”
“You know if you made your own sandwiches it would be a lot cheaper,” her mother tutted as she moved around the shop tidying as she went.
“I do make my own most days. Some days though it’s nice to have a treat.” Meg took another bite.
“Did you hear anything about the lifeboat call out?”
Meg licked a crumb of cheese from the corner of her mouth. “Yes, it was two kids in a homemade boat. I met Adam as I was walking back and he told me.”
Her mother paused as she straightened up a basket of shell jewellery. “I’m glad everyone was all right. I assume they were all safe?” she asked, clearly fishing for information.
Meg nodded as she swallowed another morsel of her lunch. “Yes, the kids have gone to the hospital, but they’re fine.”
“Good job Adam was on the boat then.”
“Mum, let’s not have this discussion now. You know how I feel about Adam being on the lifeboat crew.”
Val pursed her lips. “What happened to your dad can’t be undone, love. New Bay men have always gone to sea, that’s how it is. Adam does a vital job for the lifeboat. They need young strong men like him, and his medical know-how is a real bonus to the crew. If he hadn’t been on the boat when they pulled young Brad out of the water a few months back, he wouldn’t be here to tell the tale.”
Meg shivered. In her heart, she knew her mother was right. Brad had been surfing when he’d been caught in an undertow. Without the bravery of her friend Erin’s boyfriend Dan and Adam’s medical skill then Brad would have drowned.
“Dad went to sea because he was a fisherman. It was his living. Adam is deliberately putting himself in danger every time the boat goes out.” Her voice shook as she spoke.
Her father had been drowned when she’d been a teenager. His boat had been caught in a terrible storm a few miles from the safety of the harbour. She’d seen and felt first hand what losing someone you loved to the sea could do.
“And if it weren’t for men like Adam there’d be more folk lost. There’s danger everywhere, Meg. I could have lost your dad to a road accident or cancer.” The lines on her mother’s face softened, and she rested a gentle hand on Meg’s shoulder. “Think about it, Meg, and give Adam a chance.”
© Nell Dixon 2011
For UK readers
For US readers

And why not try Making Waves or September Song also set in the same Cornish village of New Bay?
Astraea Press has lots of lovely Christmas reads - join in the blog hop! Start HERE

Guest Blogger - Juliet Archer

2011-11-25T07:34:00.003Z

Hi everyone – and thank you very much, Nell, for inviting me! I describe myself as a 19th-century mind in a 21st-century body (actually, some days it’s the other way round) because I’m on a mission to modernise Jane Austen’s six completed novels. So far, I’ve updated Emma and Persuasion as The Importance of Being Emma and Persuade Me, published by Choc Lit.

When did you start writing?

I’ve been writing ever since I was a child, just in different genres and with varying degrees of success! When I was small, it was for my own amusement: I made up stories, or created my own versions of Lorna Hill’s Marjorie books – a precedent for my current exploits with Jane Austen, perhaps? Studying languages and literature at school and university meant lots of reading, and writing about reading! Then I went into the business world and learnt how to produce effective reports and presentations. And shadowing my husband’s MBA for a year at Ashridge Business School has certainly provided material for my novels!

Although I dabbled in poetry ten years ago, I only started writing novels in the mid-2000s with the arrival of internet communities such as C19 and the resulting opportunities for online fanfiction. After a brief flirtation with Gaskells’ North & South (think Richard Armitage!), I turned to Jane Austen for inspiration.

What's your favourite book to read?

Not surprisingly, any of Jane Austen’s novels. They have all the magic ingredients of timeless romantic comedy – brilliant plotting, characters we care passionately about, wit and laugh-out-loud humour. And, for me, her attention to language means that I can read her books over and over again, even though I know them so well.

If I could take only one to a desert island it would have to be Pride & Prejudice, because I think both its hero and the heroine are particularly appealing.

If you could invite some book characters or authors to dinner, who would you choose and why?

What a wonderful idea – a sort of Fantasy Come Dine With Me! I’d invite Jane Austen and Andrew Davies and find out what she thinks of his screenplays of her novels – too raunchy, or forgivable in the context of a modern audience? They’ve both inspired my modernisations and it would be fascinating to understand where they got their ideas from. Since book characters are allowed, I’d like to have Mr Darcy and Captain Wentworth joining in too!

Are you working on anything new?

I’ve just done the last of my launch events for Persuade Me, so I can now settle down to number three in the Darcy & Friends series. Which of Austen’s heroes will I tamper with next? Two down – Mr Knightley and Captain Wentworth – and four left to go. I’m still making up my mind – perhaps I’ll do some in-depth TV and film research!

Persuade Me is available in e book and print for all the Austenesque fans from all the usual places where good books are sold! And here's Juliet's blurb to tempt you some more:
When do you let your heart rule your head?
When it comes to love, Anna Elliot is stuck in the past. No one can compare to Rick Wentworth, the man she gave up ten years ago at the insistence of her disapproving family. What if she’s missed her only chance for real happiness?
Since Anna broke his heart, Rick has moved on – or so he thinks. Out in Australia, he’s worked hard to build a successful career – and a solid wall around his feelings.
The words ‘forgive and forget’ aren’t in Rick's vocabulary. The word ‘regret’ is definitely in Anna’s. So, when they meet again on his book tour of England, it’s an opportunity for closure.
But memories intrude – the pure sensuality of what they once shared, the pain of parting … And she has to deal with another man from her past, while his celebrity status makes him the focus of unwanted attention.
With Anna’s image-obsessed family still ready to interfere and Rick poised to return to Australia, can she persuade him to risk his heart again?
This contemporary re-telling of Jane Austen’s last completed novel is the second book in Juliet Archer’s Darcy & Friends series, offering fresh insights into the hearts and minds of Austen’s irresistible heroes.

Guest Blogger - Jean Joachim

2011-11-22T11:27:00.004Z

I'm delighted to welcome Jean to the blog today to tell us about herself and her latest release.

1. what inspired you to start writing?
I’ve been writing all my life. As a child I made up stories, sometimes I wrote them down, other times I acted them out with my cousin. My favorite homework assignment in high school was writing a term paper.
When I was in my twenties, I tried my hand at fiction but was not pleased with what I wrote. Laboring under the misapprehension that fiction writers wrote perfect works the first time. So I gave up. I moved toward non-fiction writing which came fairly easy to me. I had seven non-fiction books published before I tried my hand at romance. Now with almost eight romance books out this year, I don’t want to write anything else.

2. What's your favourite book to read?
I still love Pride and Prejudice. I think it’s one of the best books ever written and the characters are so vivid and real. Sigh, who can’t fall in love with Mr. Darcy again and again.

3. If you could invite some book characters or authors to dinner, who would you choose and why?
It’s a toss-up between Jane Austen and Sinclair Lewis. I love Sinclair Lewis’ books and have read everything he wrote that is in print. He captured the American sensibility in ways other authors didn’t and his characters seem so real to me. He was a brilliant writer.

4. Are you working on anything new?
I have two holiday novellas in the works and I’m down to the wire on these! The first one finishes up at Thanksgiving and it’s called, “The Marriage List”. It’s a sensual contemporary romance that came to me some time ago. It’s a short, easy read and it’s with my editor now. The second is “Champagne for Christmas”, a sensual contemporary romance that started at a Tuesday Tale and has grown into its own novella. I’m working on that fast and furiously right now, racing to finish it in time for Christmas as the story finishes up at Christmas time. Both the holiday stories will be for sale for $.99.

Tell us about the book of Danny.

Barely surviving the Iraq War and his tragic childhood, sexy sharpshooter, Captain Danny Maine becomes a professor at Kensington State University.

Haunted by nightmares of the deaths of members of his squad and his brother, Danny is desperate to create a normal life in the sleepy town of Willow Falls. He doesn’t expect to find love behind the first door he knocks on until he meets lovely Eliza Baines, a dean at the university. Is true love with one woman possible for the damaged man Danny has become or is it just out of reach, only an illusion created by his passion and desire? Driven to find love, stability and recovery, Danny faces down demons from his past to save those he loves on his journey to a new life. Is violence still his only protection or can he rise above his deadly past?

It sounds great! You can find out more about Jean and her books at her WEBSITE Her books are available from Amazon, Barnes and Noble and all good e-tailers.

A Cornish Christmas

2011-11-19T09:53:00.003Z

Here is the cover for the third of my New Bay set stories - A Cornish Christmas. This one is the story of Adam and Meg, for those of you who like to catch up with some of the people from Making Waves and September Song there are some familiar faces. It's a short and sweet novella, perfect to get you in the Christmas spirit but without cute kids, elves or Santa although there is a rather sweet dog!Releasing soon from Astraea Press.

SAVE A TURKEY: GOBBLE A BOOK BLOG HOP TOUR (NOV 14-21)

2011-11-13T15:11:00.006Z

Hi and welcome to all the blog hop visitors!
1) HAVE FUN!!!

2) INVITE ALL OF YOUR FRIENDS!!! SPREAD THE WORD!!!

3) THIS TOUR STARTS: Monday, November 14, at Midnight (Arizona Time)
THIS TOUR ENDS: Monday, November 21, at Midnight (Arizona Time)
Winners will be drawn and posted November 22nd! ***

4) MEET AND MINGLE WITH ALL THE AUTHORS & BOOK PAGES! EXPERIENCE A NEW DESTINATION AT EVERY STOP! PARTICIPATE IN EVERY BLOG CONTEST AND BE ENTERED FOR CHANCES TO WIN MULTIPLE PRIZES! EVERY BLOG VISITED IS ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY TO WIN!!

5) PARTICIPATION AT ALL BLOGS IS RECOMMENDED, BUT NOT REQUIRED. REMEMBER, THE MORE BLOGS YOU HOP, THE BETTER YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING PRIZES. EVERY AUTHOR & BOOK PAGE IS WAITING TO MEET AND INTERACT WITH YOU, SO PLEASE BE SURE TO SHOW THEM SOME LOVE!

6) DID I MENTION TO HAVE FUN? WHOO! HOO!! HERE WE GOOOOOOOOOOOO!***Authors & Book Pages have full discretion to choose an alternate winner in the event any winner fails to claim their prize(s) within 72 hours of their name being posted or after notification of win, whichever comes first. Anyone who participates in this blog hop tour is subject to these rules***
Autumn is one of my favourite times of year, falling leaves, crisp wintery air, Halloween, and here, in the UK, Bonfire Night. Three years ago I was lucky enough to spend some Autumn days in Philadelphia in the US.
Here we saw the bounty of food in the stores celebrating harvest.
The famous Reading market not to mention the Liberty bell and to see the historic importance of the city. All this helped me to see why my lovely US friends and readers celebrated Thanksgiving in such style.

To help with the celebrations leave a comment below telling me how you plan to celebrate Autumn or Thanksgiving to win a PDF copy of September Song, my Autumn set e book from Astraea Press.To get you in the mood here's a short excerpt:
September Song – A Cornish set short and sweet story available now from http://astraeapress.com and all good e-tailors including http://www.amazon.com/September-Song-ebook/dp/B005LHJH8I/ref=pd_rhf_p_t_1

Erin came to New Bay on her year out, keen to experience life in a vibrant seaside town famous for its surf and surfers. She doesn’t expect to be left with a very expensive spare ticket to the hottest concert in town.

Her boss, Kelly’s solution is to recruit Dan to take the ticket and escort Erin to the concert. But why would Erin want to go on an enforced date with the geekiest guy in New Bay? And why doesn’t ex-champion surfer, Dan surf anymore?

Fancy an excerpt?

“Here, let me help you.” Dan held her jacket out.
The sensitive skin of her neck tingled as he straightened out her collar for
her.
“Thanks. It was a great concert, wasn’t it?” She bit her bottom lip
uncertainly. His eyes met hers, deep, dark pools in the light of the stadium. For a
brief wonderful moment, she thought he was about to kiss her, but then he
moved away along the row of seats.
“Yeah, it was really good. We’d better get to the car.”
Her spirits plummeted as she followed him to the top of the steps to
descend to the exit. It looked as if she’d misjudged his intentions. He waited for
her to make it through the throng to his side.
“Do you want anything else to eat or drink before we go?” he asked.
She shook her head as a group of people rushed past her, throwing her
off balance. She lurched against Dan as he placed his hand on her arm to steady
her. For a sweet all-¬‐ too-¬‐ brief second, her head rested against the broad plain of
his chest, and she heard the wild tattoo of his heartbeat.
“Time we got out of here, I think,” he said.
Her pulse raced as he held her hand all the way along the path to the car.
His fingers warmed her cold flesh and she enjoyed the feeling of closeness, the
intimacy of his fingers interlaced with hers. Her heart pitter-¬‐ patted in time with
their footsteps on the paved surface, the butterflies in her stomach dancing like
the moths in the beams from the lights that lined the path. They halted at the side
of his car and he drew her closer to him.
“It’s been a lovely night,” she murmured.
He dipped his head and his lips claimed hers. His arms were around her,
pulling her gently towards him. She quivered with pleasure as her hips bumped
against his, her body pressed against his lean firm length. Her tongue explored
his mouth and she revelled in the sweet heat of his lips against hers.

‘This is another great book by Nell Dixon. The book can easily be read in one sitting and is a nice romantic tale. A recommended read for all romantic fans.’ Books4U
© Nell Dixon 2011
http://www.nelldixon.com
Romance with Heart
Hop to another tour blog

Writing

2011-11-07T08:49:00.002Z

I'm trying to get back into my writing now Renovation, Renovation, Renovation is out there in ebook world before I have to start thinking about the launch in March for the paperback version. The second book for Myrmidon is about Chloe Lark, who having not been much good at anything else, wants to be famous. She really wanted to be a Blue Peter presenter but was allergic to sticky back plastic. I have just under a third to write and have been a bit stalled. Then I realised while I was on holiday that it was because a) I needed a new working title and b) I had an important secondary character missing. Hopefully I've now rectified both of these and with any luck I'll be back in my stride by the end of this week. I really want to finish before Christmas.
I also want to get on with my 'secret' Jane Austen inspired project. I'm doing that for fun and I'm not sure it'll go anywhere but I like it.

Catching up

2011-11-05T11:22:00.002Z

I've had a busy few weeks lately with the release of Renovation, Renovation, Renovation and Cue Me In, going to the Festival of Romance and accompanying my eldest daughter to look at various colleges and universities all around the country. Thankfully she know knows what course she would like to do and which her dream college would be. Fingers crossed she gets an offer - her application is going in this week.
The day job is busier than ever so that is taking up more of my time.
I still have my fingers crossed for the pieces I have out on submission and I'm gearing up to dive back into the two books I have on the go already. I've also written another childrens story - Edward, the owl who lost his hoot. That may end up going into my little niece's Christmas stocking as she loved Bertie, The Christmas Beetle which was the story I wrote for her last year.
Coming up I have a literary dinner event on Friday with some fellow writers to raise money for another charity and then on the 17th it's the RNA winter party. The Coffee Crew will be hitting the town to pahtay! Maltloaf and vino on the train again. Can't wait.

Renovation, Renovation, Renovation - another fab review!

2011-11-02T20:34:00.001Z

Thanks to the lovely Nikki, for her review of Renovation, Renovation, Renovation here at Books4U She said, 'A haunting story, about life and death living together in an old run down cottage. Which is well written and the human spirit shines through to create a beautiful story.'

Review for Renovation, Renovation, Renovation!

2011-10-31T13:08:00.001Z

One More Page reviewed Renovation, Renovation, Renovation! Squee! They said 'Renovation, Renovation, Renovation is a quick read that kept me engrossed and I really enjoyed the originality of the ghostly element to it. The book had the perfect level of spookiness for me and is an ideal Halloween read for chick lit lovers!' How fab is that!

Cue Me In is out!

2011-10-25T11:10:00.001+01:00

Cue Me In – A short, sweet and spooky tale is now available from Astraea Press and all good e-tailers!
Fae Heath wants to be on TV, but not just any show. She wants to be on Ghost UK. She intends to win the contest to find the next presenter. Tall, slim and blonde and access to a haunted Welsh Castle on Halloween – how can she fail?

‘There’s the castle.’
Fae braked at Flash’s words and they stared into the darkness at the building before them. Half of the castle was clearly uninhabitable. Fragmented stones stood like jagged broken teeth along the broken battlement. Mist twisted around the surviving tower and range of buildings. A couple of the windows showed yellow light in to the blackness and Fae breathed a sigh of relief. There was someone home.
‘Right, let’s get this show on the road.’ Fae eased the car into the courtyard of the castle. As she cut the engine an eerie baying sound echoed around the stone walls.
‘Wow, a welcome committee.’ Flash leaned forward into the gap between the front seats, his dark head next to Fae’s.
‘I expect living alone up here, miles from anywhere, they keep dogs,’ Izzy snapped as she picked up her bag from the footwell.
Fae swallowed hard. She hoped Rhodri Morgan would be the kind of man who was susceptible to feminine charm. In her mind she’d pictured a stooped, elderly antiquarian who on meeting her would instantly change his mind and grant her free access to film the castle and its secrets.
The baying grew louder when Fae opened the car door. The next thing she knew she was pinned to the side of the Mini by the biggest dog she’d ever seen in her life. A large paw was planted on each side of her shoulders as the dog breathed stale meat-breath in her face.
She twisted her head to the side and saw an archway of light appear on the far side of the courtyard.
‘Help!’
Izzy and Flash remained in the car, round-eyed and open-mouthed with shock.
‘Nice doggy.’
The hound responded with a lick down her face covering her with drool. She heard the sound of footsteps crunching across the yard in the darkness.
‘Down, Fang.’ A firm male voice with a hint of accent came out of the mist. A shape loomed out of the darkness illuminated by a storm lantern. A large man’s shape.
© Nell Dixon 2011

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Cue-Me-In-ebook/dp/B005XSEQJU/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_t_1
http://www.amazon.com/Cue-Me-In-ebook/dp/B005XSEQJU/ref=pd_rhf_gw_p_t_2

http://www.nelldixon.com Romance with Heart

Boo!!!

2011-10-16T19:00:00.007+01:00

Welcome to everyone visiting for the Spookalicious blog hop! Leave a comment for your chance to win a pdf of Renovation, Renovation, Renovation or Cue Me In.

A fun romantic comedy with a unique twist that kept me hooked from beginning to end -- Gemma Halliday, bestselling author of the High Heel mysteries

Overworked, over budget and just so not over him! Kate would like an engagement ring from Steve but instead he's lumbered them with a thirteenth renovation project, and doing up Myrtle Cottage disturbs a ghost from the English Civil War who has romance troubles of her own. Available from Amazon and as paperback March 5th 2012

Fae Heath wants to be on TV, but not just any show. She wants to be on Ghost UK. She intends to win the contest to find the next presenter. Tall, slim and blonde and access to a haunted Welsh Castle on Halloween – how can she fail? Coming THURSDAY 20th OCTOBER from Astraea Press

Two very different tales for the Autumn and beyond!
Winners drawn October 25th To 'HOP' to another blog on the tour click the link on the right.

Where am I today?

2011-10-11T20:00:00.003+01:00

I'm with the lovely Ju GO HERE chatting about romantic fiction and giving away a copy of Renovation, Renovation, Renovation

Guest Blogger - Meg Allison

2011-10-10T08:07:00.002+01:00

My guest today is Meg Allison. Meg was a fellow Moonlit Romance author. She writes gorgeous stories filled with warmth and joy. Second Chances was originally published as: Learning to Live; the story has been edited and revised.
Katie Marie Morrison hides behind a flirtatious mask as she serves burgers and peach cobbler at Pops' Dinner. Her bright smile and sarcastic wit hides the devastating knowledge she was just a one-night-stand for the one man she ever loved.

Jeff McAlester, her only lover, returns home for good. But timing is everything and it's Katie who's now ready to leave. Despite their rekindled love, she doesn't want to stay. Can Jeff, the man with bluer-than-blue eyes and highly-charged kisses, help Katie learn to live a little ... the old fashioned way with a white picket fence and Happily Ever After?
©2011 Meg Allison
A Blue Plate Special – Pops’ Girls novel
Amazon.com
Amazon.uk
NOOK
This is a wonderful story, I promise you won't be disappointed if you're looking for something short and sweet.

Talli Roland: Renovation, Ghosts and Boy Bands

2011-10-07T16:05:00.000+01:00

Talli Roland: Renovation, Ghosts and Boy Bands: Phew, it's Friday! What a week. I'm thrilled today to have the wonderful Nell Dixon here, talking about her new novel, Renovation, Renovatio...

Romantic Novelists' Association Blog: Interview with Nell Dixon

2011-10-07T15:56:00.000+01:00

Romantic Novelists' Association Blog: Interview with Nell Dixon: Nell Dixon is a Black Country author, married to the same man for over twenty-five years. She has three daughters, a tank of tropical fish a...

Renovation, Renovation, Renovation on Tour

2011-10-06T19:55:00.001+01:00

Today I'm visiting my lovely talented author friend and fellow romance diva, Kate Pearce. Stop by and say hello and you could win a copy. Go Here!

Whoo hoo! It's out!

2011-10-02T09:57:00.002+01:00

FROM UK AMAZON and from AMAZON.COM Nook following later!!!

Pre release party!

2011-10-01T10:08:00.003+01:00

Fingers crossed Renovation, Renovation, Renovation will be available in e book tomorrow/Monday. My publisher thinks they've uncovered the cause of the glitch and the powers that be hopefully will get it fixed. So, while we're waiting, meet some of the people in the book.

Hi, I'm Kate, and my doofus very ex-boyfriend, Steve bought this mouldering money pit of a cottage instead of the beautiful barn that he was supposed to have bid for. Needless to say we're no longer together but thanks to the property crash until Myrtle Cottage is sold then I have to stay here - all our money went on this dump.

Hi, I'm Steve, Myrtle Cottage is a great investment, an incredible 15th century cottage in a prime location with acres of land. I can't believe that Kate can't see what a great deal it was or that we broke up over it. Women! I'll never understand them.

I'm Lou, Kate's sister - can you believe those two? If you ask me, and someone should, they're still crazy about one another - when they're not arguing of course. I've got my own problems to worry about though.

There are people in my home, strange shadow people in strange clothes. I am afraid I may be mad or perhaps 'tis a punishment for my sins. (Mary Ann)

Now you've met some of the people - how about a contest? Tell me your ghost experiences and I'll draw some people from the comments for a prize of a download of Renovation, Renovation, Renovation when it releases. Contest will close Tuesday 9am GMT

Visiting...

2011-09-30T08:24:00.002+01:00

Today I'm being hosted by the lovely Debs Carr.Over Here Drop by to hear what she thinks and for another excerpt.

Are we nearly there yet?

2011-09-29T11:53:00.002+01:00

I'm so sorry there isn't a preorder link up for the e book of Renovation, Renovation, Renovation yet. My publisher has been working hard to try and sort out the glitch but you know what technology can be like. It might even be Monday or Tuesday before it gets resolved. The preorder for the paperback is on Amazon Uk so maybe something is happening. For my lovely US readers - I'm hoping we can get things sorted soon.
In the meantime how about an excerpt?
Overworked, over budget and just so not over him! Kate would like an engagement ring from Steve but instead he's lumbered them with a thirteenth renovation project, and doing up Myrtle Cottage disturbs a ghost from the English Civil War who has romance troubles of her own.

A small heap of rubble littered the ancient grey tiled floor in the no man's land area of the kitchen. The room was deserted. Only the dirt and a pile of unwashed mugs in the sink showed the enemy had been there. I knew he must still be inside the cottage as his van was parked outside, but for now it was safe to enter.
Orange plaster dust crunched under my shiny office court shoes as I made my way to the fridge. A layer of grime coated the once pristine white appliance I’d chosen with such loving care twelve months and three houses ago. The interior however was thankfully dust-free with shelves clearly marked in blue and red tape.
When Steve and I first separated and things had turned ugly I’d marked the shelves. The blue shelves - mine - were stacked with neatly labelled Tupperware. The red ones - Steve’s - were bare except for an opened packet of dried up ham and an out of date box of eggs.
(C) Nell Dixon 2011

Countdown!

2011-09-26T08:37:00.003+01:00

Yep, Renovation, Renovation, Renovation releases this week - paperback to follow March 5th 2012. This weekend there'll be a big release party here with lots of giveaways, excerpts and fun so make sure you stop by.
Today I'm guesting Here with the lovely Australian author, Maggie Nash. Where I'm sharing a couple of my research pics and talking about writing what you don't know.

What I'm watching

2011-09-22T17:43:00.004+01:00

If you know me well then you'll know I don't watch much TV and when I do watch it I'm a sucker for reality shows. At the moment I'm in heaven. Big Brother - hosted by Brian Dowling - okay so he's still a bit wooden but he is so much better than Davina at interviewing. Made in Chelsea - or men without chins as we call it. Then the best, the ultimate The Bachelor with Gavin Henson, a show so terrible it's pure gold.
You're all probably shaking your heads as you read this and wondering why I like this kind of thing.
As a writer I love to people watch, I like to understand their motivations and see how they cope with situations. All the people involved in the shows lead a life so completely different from mine I'd never encounter them in any other way.
So if it's BB's Alex, who looks like a man in drag getting so many spray tans she looks as if she's been dipped in creosote. Or MIC's Spencer, the man who can't keep a girlfriend, giving Hugo relationship advice or Gavin, being persued by Carrie of the squeaky voice and the lisp on the Bachelor it gives me a valuable insight into another world.
If you don't believe me check out Alex trying to talk to Aaron about music 'Deryerlikendubzderyer'
Or Spencer 'You can have all the cakes in the bakery'
Or Gavin 'I don't know what to do now, I don't honestly.'

Festival of Romance guest author - Charlie Cochrane

2011-09-16T14:21:00.002+01:00

You may have seen that along with lots of other authors I'm going to be at the Festival of Romance at Watford on 21st and 22nd October. To get the ball rolling some of the authors are visiting other blogs. Here's my guest; Charlie Cochrane.

1. What are you looking forward to at the Festival of Romance?

Meeting people. Networking with other authors online is great, but you can’t beat meeting face to face, and sharing experiences (successes and horror stories alike). And, as an author of gay romance, I like to make sure that our part of the genre has a presence at these large events. We had our second UK Meet for authors of GLBT fiction this year; while it was fantastic, being among like minds, there’s a value in mingling with a wider mix of people. I’ve learned so much at, for example, RNA events and I want to carry on learning.

2. What will you be doing at the Festival of Romance?

Taking part in a panel called ‘Not what your mother might expect’ with Erastes and Jo Myles, explaining about gay romances and why they’re different from (and exactly the same as!) het romances. The title is based on a cover quote from the anthology I had my first published story in, ‘Speak Its Name’, which was described as being “Not your mother’s historical romance”. My daughters think that’s hilarious, because it is their mother’s historical.

I’m also hoping to take part in the Novel Openings slot, reading the first words of one of my books. Good luck to whoever has to run that session (I think I may have volunteered), keeping everyone to 150 words, or whatever the magic number is.

3. Why should romance readers come to the Festival?

How much space have I got to answer that?

a) Many readers are themselves aspirant authors. What better way to find out about the business than to come and hear the all the different stories about how we got to be published?

b) There are some really good panels, with the opportunity to ask authors the questions readers might have always wanted to ask and were too scared.

And

c) they can meet those authors face to face, of course—and that’s not in an “Oh wow, look who’s there, swoon,” sort of way. It’s great for us to meet readers (whether they read your books or not) and find out what they want from stories, and from the market. Please come and tell us!
Visit Charlie at Her Blog
To find out more about the Festival of Romance Go Here!

Ta- dah!

2011-09-13T19:10:00.002+01:00

Coming September 28th to a e book retailer near you and in paperback March 5th 2012
After renovating twelve houses in seven years Kate wanted a ring on her finger and the forever house.
Instead of her dream home and her dream man, she get’s house number thirteen, Myrtle Cottage. A crumbling seventeenth century money pit.
Trapped by the credit crunch on yet another renovation project with her now very ex boyfriend, Steve, will she ever find the forever love she’s after or will it just be more renovation, renovation, renovation?

Guest Blogger - Talli Roland

2011-09-12T08:47:00.004+01:00

Talli is one of my RNA writing friends and I'm thrilled to welcome her to my blog to talk about her new book and to tell us why she doesn't write about writing.
Over to Talli:
WHY I DON'T WRITE ABOUT WRITING

Well, writing techniques, anyway.

I do write quite a bit about the actual quirks of writing -- writer's arse, habits and such -- but I've never been comfortable advising others on writing techniques. I have no problem talking about my own if someone asks, but I really believe that every writer is different and you need to find what works for you. Plus, there are a zillion writers out there way more qualified to discuss techniques than me (than I? See?!)!

When I first started writing, all the books and blogs I read boggled my mind. Write every day. Don't write every day. Write what you love. Write for the market. And on and on, until I had no idea where to even start. Should I sit in the chair? Or should I stand? Should I turn on the radio, or write in silence?

The one thing I did learn was this: read all the books, but don't live by any of them. Do what you enjoy; what really makes you embrace the process of writing. I truly believe if you do that, everything will fall into place.

You'll find your rhythm.

Talli Roland has three loves in her life: chick lit, coffee and wine. Born and raised in Canada, Talli now lives in London, where she savours the great cultural life (coffee and wine). Despite training as a journalist, Talli soon found she preferred making up her own stories – complete with happy endings. Her first novel, The Hating Game, was an Amazon UK best-seller, remaining in the top 100 for over two months. Watching Willow Watts, her next novel, is available on Kindle now. Talli blogs HERE and tweets HERE.

And Watching Willow Watts, her latest book - here's what it's all about!
For Willow Watts, life has settled into a predictably dull routine: days behind the counter at her father's antique shop and nights watching TV, as the pension-aged residents of Britain's Ugliest Village bed down for yet another early night. But everything changes when a YouTube video of Willow's epically embarrassing Marilyn Monroe impersonation gets millions of hits after a viewer spots Marilyn's ghostly image in a frame.

Instantly, Willow's town is overrun with fans flocking to see the 'new Marilyn'. Egged on by the villagers -- whose shops and businesses are cashing in -- Willow embraces her new identity, dying her hair platinum and ramming herself full of cakes to achieve Marilyn's legendary curves.

But when a former flame returns seeking the old Willow, Willow must decide: can she risk her stardom and her village's newfound fortune on love, or is being Marilyn her ticket to happiness?
Available Here and all good e tailers.

September Song is out!

2011-09-06T19:27:00.003+01:00

And at a bargain price! Amazon UK Amazon.com Also available on NOOK
Erin came to New Bay on her year out, keen to experience life in a vibrant seaside town famous for its surf and surfers. She doesn’t expect to be left with a very expensive spare ticket to the hottest concert in town.

Her boss, Kelly’s solution is to recruit Dan to take the ticket and escort Erin to the concert. But why would Erin want to go on an enforced date with the geekiest guy in New Bay? And why doesn’t ex-champion surfer, Dan surf anymore?

Fancy an excerpt?

“Here, let me help you.” Dan held her jacket out.
The sensitive skin of her neck tingled as he straightened out her collar for
her.
“Thanks. It was a great concert, wasn’t it?” She bit her bottom lip
uncertainly. His eyes met hers, deep, dark pools in the light of the stadium. For a
brief wonderful moment, she thought he was about to kiss her, but then he
moved away along the row of seats.
“Yeah, it was really good. We’d better get to the car.”
Her spirits plummeted as she followed him to the top of the steps to
descend to the exit. It looked as if she’d misjudged his intentions. He waited for
her to make it through the throng to his side.
“Do you want anything else to eat or drink before we go?” he asked.
She shook her head as a group of people rushed past her, throwing her
off balance. She lurched against Dan as he placed his hand on her arm to steady
her. For a sweet all-‐‑too-‐‑brief second, her head rested against the broad plain of
his chest, and she heard the wild tattoo of his heartbeat.
“Time we got out of here, I think,” he said.
Her pulse raced as he held her hand all the way along the path to the car.
His fingers warmed her cold flesh and she enjoyed the feeling of closeness, the
intimacy of his fingers interlaced with hers. Her heart pitter-‐‑patted in time with
their footsteps on the paved surface, the butterflies in her stomach dancing like
the moths in the beams from the lights that lined the path. They halted at the side
of his car and he drew her closer to him.
“It’s been a lovely night,” she murmured.
He dipped his head and his lips claimed hers. His arms were around her,
pulling her gently towards him. She quivered with pleasure as her hips bumped
against his, her body pressed against his lean firm length. Her tongue explored
his mouth and she revelled in the sweet heat of his lips against hers.

Progress!

2011-09-04T16:38:00.002+01:00

Thanks to the wii fit I have now lost my first stone. Still a long way to go but the main issue for me is to build up my damaged muscle so it eases the strain on my hip and back. My balance has improved and my ankle muscles are getting stronger so I don't go over on my foot as often. I've set another new small target for next month and I'm planning to keep on edging towards it.
Writing target wise I'm on the home strait with my next book for Myrmidon Press. It's coming into focus more now. There is tons of stuff I need to add and tweak on the second draft but that's ok. I'm also working on another short 15k novella which I need to finish by the end of October so the other project I was working on will have to sit and wait now till those two things are done and out in the world.
September Song is due for release anytime now with Cue Me In following in October. Renovation, Renovation, Renovation is still on target for digital release at the end of this month with the paperback out March 5th next year.
If you're in Germany or speak German then Animal Instincts is available in German for kidle and paperback from September 16th and the large print of Just Look at Me Now is also now available this month. The paperback of Brief Encounters will also be out sometime in the next six weeks!
Flipping heck! That's a lot of releases.

September Song

2011-08-31T20:04:00.003+01:00

Here's the cover for my sweet novella release from Astraea press - coming to an e-tailer near you very soon!

Ups and downs

2011-08-29T10:08:00.003+01:00

The last week has been strange. Some parts of it lovely strange, like being able to book my place to attend the festival of romance and working through the edits for Renovation, Renovation, Renovation and getting a peek at the cover for September Song. That was fun, I'll have several covers to share with you soon.
Then there were the downs, hearing that an old school friend had died and discovering a wasps nest under the eaves of the house - dying wasps dropping down the chimney and crawling into the lounge - yuck, shudder, ugh.
Back to work at the day job after my lovely holiday and we've tons to do - as usual. This holiday weekend the eldest belle and some volunteers worked with me at the local horticulture show - we potted up and gave away 150 plants and 3-400 potted seeds during the day as well as tons of leaflets explaining who we were and the services our charity offers. My colleagues are there today and if they are as busy as we were it'll be a good weekend. Of course now, my hip is not too happy but some rest and a few doses of painkillers should take care of that. I've been much better since I've been using the wii fit to try and repair the muscle damage in my dodgy leg. So, today is pyjama day at my house.

Guest Blogger - Shirley Wells

2011-08-25T19:43:00.003+01:00

A warm welcome to my special guest - Shirley Wells!
Thank you, Nell, for inviting me to your lovely blog. It’s great to be here!

What gave you the inspiration for this book, Shirley?

I was lucky in that my publishers liked my novel PRESUMED DEAD and wanted a second book featuring my private investigator, Dylan Scott. Life’s so much easier when you can welcome back your main character. I had no idea what to do with Dylan though until, one day, I was taking a rest from a city centre shopping trip. I saw a young, bright, attractive girl with a small scruffy dog at her feet. She caught my attention for two reasons. One, she was full of life. Two, she was eating the most enormous cream cake I have ever seen. I looked away, looked back, and she’d vanished. I had an excellent view of roads in all directions, but it was as if she’d been plucked from the planet. People don’t vanish though, do they? They’re abducted, they’re murdered, they choose to go into hiding … the possibilities are endless. That girl became Samantha Hunt in DEAD SILENT. If you’re curious, this is from the back cover:

Ten months ago, Samantha Hunt set off for work...and was never seen again.
Despite the statistics of cold cases, Dylan Scott wants to believe the young woman's alive—and not just because her father, his client, is desperate to find his missing daughter before he dies of cancer. By all accounts Sam was a lovely girl, devoted to her younger stepsisters, well-liked at her work, in love with her boyfriend.
But as usual not everything is as it seems in sleepy Dawson's Clough. Sam's boyfriend has a violent past. She may have been having an affair with her boss. And Dylan can't shake the feeling that her stepfather is hiding something. Meanwhile, someone is trying to scare Dylan off the case.
Who wanted to silence Sam, and why? The truth turns out to be worse than anyone expected...

What are you working on now?

At the moment, I’m working on the fourth Dylan Scott mystery. PRESUMED DEAD was published in July 2010, DEAD SILENT has just released, and the third in the series, SILENT WITNESS, releases in March 2012.

Which authors do you enjoy reading?

I read anything and everything so there are far too many to list. Must-buy authors are Ruth Rendell, Jodi Picoult, Joanna Trollope and Ian Rankin, among others, but I love exploring and have recently enjoyed new-to-me author Gordon Ferris who writes beautiful crime novels. I was one of those people who vowed never, ever to read an e-book, but I got an iPad and became an e-book fan overnight. Since then, I’ve read far more widely. It’s much too easy to see a review of a book that sounds interesting and download it.

If you could choose some authors or fictional characters to invite to dinner who would you pick and why?

First, I’d need to buy a much bigger dining table. I’d love to see Columbo pit his wits against Sherlock Holmes. Two great fictional detectives, but completely different characters. While they were discussing the criminal mind, I’d introduce them to Miss Jane Marple and let her astound them with her insight. I love the wit of Mark Twain and would enjoy seeing him and Douglas Adams at the same table. I feel sure there would be many laughs to be had. Stephen King would have to be present so I could ask him about his writing. I don’t read many books on writing but I loved his On Writing and often read snippets for inspiration. Alan Bennett would entertain us with his humour. JK Rowling would tell us how Harry Potter changed her life. And you, Nell, would sit at the head of the table and tell us how much fun you have writing your own books.

Thank you for having me!

Having had several hundred short stories, ten serials and ten novels published, Shirley Wells is finally getting the hang of this writing lark. She’s lived in Orkney, Cyprus and the Cotswolds, and now lives in Lancashire, UK, where the Pennines, with their abundance of great places to hide bodies, provide the inspiration for her popular mystery novels. She shares her home with her husband, two dogs, two cats and any other stray animals that fancy being pampered. Connect with Shirley via her WEBSITE, follow her on Twitter or find her on Facebook.

Her latest Dylan Scott mystery, DEAD SILENT, is available from CARINA PRESS AMAZON Barnes & Noble and all good e-book retailers.

What we did on holiday!

2011-08-21T20:32:00.004+01:00

Back to news

2011-08-18T12:15:00.003+01:00

We're home - hopefully my darling belles will download their pics and I'll be able to share them with you soon. We had a lovely, lovely time. It was nice to come back to a ms request from one publisher and an acceptance from Astraea Press for my little Halloween novella. So three subs still out under active consideration - meep!
Today was A level and AS level results day. My eldest belle had her AS results and she passed! yay! So she's going to continue for her second year and hopefully will find out what she'd like to do as a job. She got an A* on her extended project too - worth lots of lovely UCAS points so that was extra fabby.

Holiday!

2011-08-06T13:39:00.002+01:00

Bet you have the Madonna track going in your head now! The house sitters are here, the fish feeding instructions are done and we're packing the caravan for our holiday in Devon. Looking forward to Torquay, Brixham, Paignton and Exeter - some of my favourite places. The kindle is stuffed full of lovely books, the fridge is loaded with goodies and I have a pad and pen to scribble down the new 15k Christmas novella I have unfolding in my head right now - another new Bay story hopefully. Never too sure how much net I'll get while I'm away so you might see me - you might not!

September Song

2011-08-05T13:57:00.002+01:00

I'm thrilled to announce that Astraea Press have bought my other little New Bay set novella, September Song. So if you loved Making Waves then I know you won't be able to keep from falling in love with Dan in September Song. It's being scheduled for an early release so should be available in just a few short weeks!

Guest Blogger - Rowan Coleman

2011-08-01T10:00:00.002+01:00

I'm excited to have the fabulous Rowan Coleman visiting to talk a bit about writing and her gorgeous new book - Lessons in Laughing Out Loud.
Rowan, when did you start writing?
I've always been a story teller, being dyslexic meant it was some time before I could really use writing as a medium to tell my stories, probably from my early twenties onwards.

What's your favourite book to read?
I love, love, love Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. Last summer I got to see a few pages of the hand written manuscript in the British Library. I cried, it was so moving to be so 'close' to a writer that as inspired me for most of my life.

Are you working on anything new?
Yes, I'm writing book eleven or twelve. I still don't have a title for it yet, though. Really need to be struck by inspiration soon!

If you could ivite some book characters or authors to dinner, who would you choose and why?
Oh, I'd really like to have a girls night in with all my favourite lady writers, Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte and her sister, George Elliot, and all of the very man great contemporary women writers there around today - including you, Nell! I think we would have a blast.

Tell us about Lessons in Laughing out Loud:

Have you ever wondered what might have been...?

Willow and Holly are identical twins. They are everything to each other. Holly calls Willow her rock, her soulmate, her other half. And Willow feels the same about Holly. They are alike in every respect but one - Willow is afraid on the inside. And all because of a secret - one that binds the sisters closely together and yet has meant their lives have taken two very different paths.

Willow often feels there are large parts of her missing, qualities she only knows she's lacking because she sees them in her sister. For a very long time Willow has felt separated from Holly by one terrible moment in time - a moment that meant Willow's life was never the same again. And when the past catches up with her, Willow realises its finally time for her to face her fears, and - with Holly's help - learn to laugh out loud once more.
It sounds brill - where can we get it? Amazon and all good retailers.

Thanks to Rowan for visiting. I've some more fabby guests lined up for you later this month.

Start of the school holidays

2011-07-26T10:08:00.002+01:00

I have all three belles home for the six week hols. They all have differing plans. Eldest is tied up with driving lessons and card making workshops. Middle belle is involved with Everybody Dance Now, the big millenium festival of dance and drama in Wolverhampton. Youngest belle always has plans, most of which revolve around her hectic social calendar.
I'm counting down the days to my holiday - ten days in Devon coming up in the next few weeks. Before then though I seem to have landed myself with a load of work. I have four submissions out there, edits coming this week on Renovation, Renovation, Renovation, a deadline galloping towards me for the next contracted book and in the midst of this my brain thinks it would be a good time for me to write a childrens story.
I don't write children's stories. The only other one was Bertie the Christmas Beetle which I wrote for my neice in December - yet now I have a 1k fairytale called the Emperor's Gold Fish. I have no idea if they are any good or even what on earth I could do with them.

Guest Blogger - Phillipa Ashley

2011-07-23T15:45:00.002+01:00

Phillipa is a good friend of mine and a fabulous writer. A while ago, just around December, at one of our coffee crew meetings, Check out our blog she mentioned she had this manuscript lying in a drawer. When she let us read it, we couldn't believe she'd left it to play with the dust bunnies for so long. Now it's out for everyone to read - hurrah! It's a wonderful warm, sexy, read with a lovely heroine and one of Phillipa's trademark to-die-for heros.
Here's the blurb:
The road to heartbreak is paved with honorable intentions…

After a year dealing with her mum’s health scare and the end of a bad relationship, Keira Grayson was looking forward to kicking up her heels at her best friend’s wedding. Until she kicks off her (spare) knickers in front of the trifecta of perfection. Tom Carew. Son of an earl, honorable doctor and possibly the hottest man on the planet.

One look at Keira’s delightful embarrassment, and Tom’s hormone meter spins off the charts. Trouble is, his bags are already packed to return to the jungles of Papua New Guinea. He has patients waiting—and amends to make for a terrible choice that left devastation in its wake.

They both reason that indulging in a one-time dinner date won’t hurt…until their inhibitions melt away in the heat of their lethal sexual chemistry. Leaving Keira wondering if a sizzling fling is just what the doctor ordered, or another prescription for relationship disaster. And Tom fighting a battle against inner demons that could shatter both their hearts.

Warning: This book contains a hot aristocratic doctor, sparky heroine, new uses for a chaise longue, a steamy shower scene and a knicker-ripping encounter in a four-poster bed.
Don't you love the disclaimer!!!
Available from all good etailers including Samhain Publishing and Amazon
And for those of you who still love print - a print version will be available in a few months time!

Be My Hero audiobook - out tomorrow

2011-07-18T08:27:00.003+01:00

Be My Hero – available as an audiobook July 19th from AUDIOLARK

Nathalie Mayer is thirty-four. On the surface she is an attractive, happy, single, successful woman running her own bridal business. Despite her line of work and her obvious delight in other people’s weddings, including that of her twin brother, Nate. Nathalie has always declared that a settled relationship is not for her. There has only ever been one man whom Nathalie felt she could love.
Evan Davies is back in town after a six year absence. Last time he was here, he and Nathalie had tentatively begun to take their friendship to a different level. Now he’s home again and has the reason for his sudden departure from six years ago with him – his daughter, Polly.

The shop bell jangled again and a delivery man came in with an enormous basket of dark red roses.
“Oh, aren’t those gorgeous!” Gemma and Karen exclaimed together.
“Delivery for a Miss Nathalie Mayer?” The man read from a clipboard he carried in his other hand.
“Tali, they’re for you,” Gemma breathed.
“Wow, you must have an admirer?” Karen’s face was alive with curiosity.
Nathalie quickly took the basket from the man. “Thank you.” She moved away and rested the flowers on the counter. Karen and Gemma crowded around as the delivery man left.
“Open the card,” Gemma urged.
“Who are they from?” Karen asked.
Nathalie’s hand trembled as she slid the small white card from the envelope, even though she already knew who they must be from.
“Evan!” Karen announced in a triumphant voice before Nathalie had a chance to hide the card from view.
Nathalie pushed the card into the pocket of her jacket. “Can you take these through into the back of the shop please, Gemma?”
Gemma looked puzzled. “I’ll put them in your office.”
“Just friends, hmm?” Karen queried.
“The flowers were a thank-you for something I’d given his daughter,” Nathalie fibbed. She didn’t want Karen to spread her private life all over town. Unfortunately, she had a feeling it might already be too late. Karen had drawn her own conclusions.
“Are you bringing him to my rehearsal dinner?” Karen asked.
“I told you, no. We aren’t on those kinds of terms.” Nathalie felt herself flush.
“Well, those flowers look to me like the kind a man sends to a woman when he wants to be on those sorts of terms.” Karen picked up her handbag ready to leave. “Dark red roses? Please. Those are the flowers a woman gets the morning after a night well-spent with a man.” She nudged Nathalie’s arm. “And you look as if you didn’t get much sleep last night.” She swept off out of the shop.
©Nell Dixon 2011
http://www.nelldixon.com
Romance with Heart

Here, there and everywhere

2011-07-10T14:25:00.003+01:00

The audiobook version of Be My Hero is being released on July 19th by the fabulous AUDIOLARK This is an early release so caught me a little on the hop. Normally at this time of year I'd be at the RNA conference but it's so crazy here at the moment I wasn't able to go. My youngest belle left for Germany at midnight last night. My middle daughter is at a full day dress rehearsal for her upcoming play and then I need to get her case ready as on Monday morning she's off on an arts week residential doing drama for the week. I've prepped and edited then submitted two books to two different publishers this weekend and now need to crack on with my contracted book before my edits for Myrmidon hit and my critiquing work picks up for the summer.
I suppose somewhere I need to find time to clean my house too.

Pushing on

2011-07-07T08:26:00.002+01:00

I'm pushing on with the edits for Passionate Harvest this weekend so I can get it out the door to the editor. Fingers crossed for a sale - although it will depend on it being right for them. I have some other houses that I think it could work for if not but I have a lovely opportunity to work with people I've wanted to work with for ages so I just hope I've got it right.
I just got the audio proof for be My hero so I'm looking forward to hearing that. Audiolark did such a wonderful job with The Cinderella Substitute. Check them out if you like audiobooks!
Then it's on with my other contracted book and the secret project.
The belles have a packed weekend. My youngest is off to Germany at midnight on Saturday and my middle daughter has a full day costume rehearsal Sunday for her upcoming play and then she's off for the week to her residential drama course.
For the first time in years I'm missing the RNA conference, which makes me very sad, but finances this year are too tight and the belles have so much on I really couldn't swing it. I'll be there next year though as I think I'll probably be giving a workshop.
I'll really miss seeing everyone and hearing all the gossip and news.

Sale!

2011-07-04T17:55:00.002+01:00

Making Waves and Dangerous to Know are on sale! Yay! Only 71p for Making Waves - wow!
Dangerous to Know – Available NOW from Astraea Press Amazon and all good online book stores! http://www.astraeapress.com
ON SALE http://www.amazon.com/Dangerous-To-Know-ebook/dp/B004W82K04/ref=sr_1_8?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1309788328&sr=1-8 only $2.30 ! Hurry!
Jerome Mayer is tall, dark and dangerous to know. Normally Gemma would run a mile, but with a freshly broken heart maybe it’s time for this good girl to take a walk on the wild side. However the danger to them both turns out to be more than just emotional when someone objects to their attempts to uncover a corrupt land deal.
“Dangerous to know.”
Nathalie’s words about her elder brother, Jerome, resonated in Gemma’s mind.
“Strawberries taste better when they’re dipped in chocolate.” Jerome suggested and dangled one near her mouth.
Gemma licked her lips, a gesture that was purely automatic. It felt very warm inside Nathalie’s sitting room and she struggled to draw enough air into her lungs.
Why had she decided the best way to get over being dumped yet again was to boost her confidence by flirting with Jerome? The corners of his deep blue eyes crinkled and she knew he found her naïve attempts at flirtation amusing.
Gemma leaned forward and took the fruit from his fingers with her teeth. She chewed and swallowed as Jerome’s pupils darkened in the soft light from a nearby lamp.
“You’re right. It makes all the difference.” Even to her own ears her voice sounded husky.
He smiled and her heart skipped a beat. “Well, there’s more if you want some.” His fingertips were coated in melted chocolate from the fountain that stood in the centre of the platter of fresh fruit.
His words held the unmistakable note of challenge. Gemma sucked in air. This was not a good idea. She was in too deep. She tried not to stare at his fingers or imagine the taste of his skin. Phew, she felt hot…
“Gemma, Tali says could you come and be on the photo she’s taking?”
Gemma blinked and tore her eyes away from Jerome. Polly, Nathalie’s little stepdaughter, stood waiting in her pink party dress.
“Of course, where is she?”
“She’s in the hall. She said to get you as well, Uncle Jerome.”
“Lead the way then, princess.” Jerome wiped his hands on a napkin and leaned forward to murmur, “Later,” in Gemma’s ear. His words fell soft and intimate on her hot face and her heart rate quickened.
© Nell Dixon 2011

‘This story had me going from the very start. I was curious to find out what was going to happen to them and if Gemma would finally realize all she needed to do to feel better was be true to herself. I like the way Gemma figures things out even though it takes a while. I also like Jerome being so careful about things. He is a sweetie. I enjoyed this book a lot and eagerly anticipate the next one by this author.’ 4 Coffee cups – from Coffeetime Romance reviews
http://www.nelldixon.com Romance with Heart to read the first chapter and to join my quarterly subscribers newsletter!

It seemed like a good idea at the time

2011-06-30T20:31:00.002+01:00

Most of you know I've been writing like a mad woman to finish my novella, Passionate Harvest. Well I made it for my deadline and had the opportunity to pitch to a publishing house I really, really would like to work with. I'm thrilled to say one of the editors there has asked to see it. So, guess who's writing/aditing like a mad woman again to make it all shiny beautiful? Sigh. I also discovered that I hadn't written the synopsis for it. I was sure I had. So yep, I know. I do this to myself all the time.
The other so-called good idea is Mr Nell has bought a wii fit. The way it says ouch every time I get on is doing nothing for my ego. In a rash moment I agreed to be a diet buddy to my eldest dd who wants to tone up now she's able to do physical exercise again after her foot surgery last year. Apparently I'm okay at yoga. Well, the easy peasy bits anyway. I'm building up slowly into the harder stuff. Every day this week now I've been doing 30 mins of exercise. Hopefully it will help my posture and stave off the hip replacement for a bit longer. My mobility has deteriorated this year. If I don't post for a while I'm either aditing or the wii fit has killed me. Either way, send biscuits!

This month's catch up!

2011-06-23T18:39:00.002+01:00

This year is zooming by much too fast. I have lots of lovely things coming up. Be My Hero is out in audiobook in August, Animal Instincts is released in German in September, Brief Encounters will be in print in September and, best of all, Renovation, Renovation, Renovation will be out as an e book in September and March 5th as a print book!I'm so excited.
Writingwise at the moment I'm pushing on with the novella as I really want to get it done and start shopping it over the summer. I'm into the final third of my next book for Myrmidon, and I've now got a synopsis and a couple of chapters on the project I'm totally not supposed to be working on at all.
So it's pretty busy right now. I'll be sharing a few tid-bits from Renovation, Renovation, Renovation over the next few months and I've some fabulous guest bloggers lined up for you too.

Blog Hop Party Winners!

2011-06-20T08:04:00.004+01:00

Many Thanks to everyone who stopped by this week to share their drink favourites and their hero favourites. Once again there were so many of you I'm giving out some extra prizes, so the winners are:

Stina6891
Bellcolella
and Michelle Aurict
Stop by again soon for more giveaways and tasters

PARTY 'TIL YOUR HEELS FLY OFF: MEGA AUTHOR BLOG HOP TOUR (JUNE 13-20)

2011-06-12T15:46:00.005+01:00

Tour Rules
1) HAVE FUN!!!
2) INVITE ALL OF YOUR FRIENDS!!! SPREAD THE WORD!!!
3) THIS TOUR STARTS: Monday, June 13, at Midnight (Arizona Time)
THIS TOUR ENDS: Monday, June 20, at Midnight (Arizona Time)
Winners will be drawn and posted June 21st! ***
4) MEET AND MINGLE WITH ALL THE AUTHORS! EXPERIENCE A NEW PARTY DESTINATION AT EVERY STOP! PARTICIPATE IN EVERY BLOG CONTEST AND BE ENTERED FOR CHANCES TO WIN MULTIPLE PRIZES! EVERY BLOG VISITED IS ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY TO WIN!!
5) PARTICIPATION AT ALL BLOGS IS RECOMMENDED, BUT NOT REQUIRED. REMEMBER, THE MORE BLOGS YOU HOP, THE BETTER YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING PRIZES. EVERY AUTHOR IS WAITING TO MEET AND INTERACT WITH YOU, SO PLEASE BE SURE TO SHOW EVERY AUTHOR SOME LOVE!
6) DID I MENTION TO HAVE FUN? WHOO! HOO!! HERE WE GOOOOOOOOOOOO!

***Authors have full discretion to choose an alternate winner in the event any winner fails to claim their prize(s) within 72 hours of their name being posted or after notification of win, whichever comes first. Anyone who participates in this blog hop tour is subject to these rules***

Bring a dish party!
Hmm, since this is a romance writers blog and it is a party after all. Heres a recipe! Recipe provided by Better Homes and Gardens

Nothing says 'celebration' like champagne, and a traditional champagne cocktail is perhaps the height of celebratory drinks. Its pretty color makes it ideal for Christmas entertaining, and its two-ingredient composition makes it beyond easy to make. Serve this cocktail as an aperitif before a formal dinner or at a cocktail party along with appetizers and desserts. If using cranberry juice instead of pomegranate, float a couple of cranberries in each flute as a garnish.
And for my other bring a dish - here is one of the pics from my hero inspiration file!
I'm offering a prize of a free PDF download of Brief encounters to be drawn from the comments at the end of the blog hop - why not leave me a drink recipe or tell me who your party dish is to be in with a chance to win?
Available now! Brief Encounters is a sparkling new anthology of six romantic short stories. Sweet and sexy, contemporary and historical - the collection has something for everyone and is written by three top romantic authors Phillipa Ashley, Nell Dixon and Elizabeth Hanbury.
‘I loved these stories. A fabulous literary box of chocolates with something for everyone. Dip in and enjoy!’ Christina Jones.
Excerpt from Plus One Guest © Nell Dixon 2011
“You have to be kidding?” Diana eyed Lucy with suspicion as Lucy moved her office chair away from her desk and replaced it with a large, blue inflatable exercise ball.
“Nope, I need to lose these last two pounds by Saturday and desperate times call for desperate measures.” Lucy sat precariously on the ball, adjusting her position until she could reach her keyboard.
“You’ve finally flipped.” Diana grinned, and shook her head in mock despair.
“It’s supposed to tone your tum and bum whilst burning calories and improving your posture.”
“Blimey, does it work?”
Lucy smiled back. “No idea, but I have to do something so that I can get in my dress for the wedding.”
“Have you done anything about finding someone to go with you? The invitation is for ‘plus one guest’.”
Lucy knew what Diana meant. Since her dear, conniving, boyfriend-stealing cousin Shannon was actually marrying Lucy’s unfaithful, rat-bastard, ex-boyfriend, finding a suitable man to accompany her to the wedding had been at the top of Lucy’s to-do list. So far all her options had failed.
Available from Amazon and all good e –tailers.

Your next hop destination is Nichelle Gregory's Chocolate Party Have Fun!

Review for Brief Encounters!

2011-06-11T11:10:00.002+01:00

Bookishly Attentive Brief Encounters just got a review! The reviewer, Angie says 'Brief Encounters is a must read, and its size makes it the perfect evening getaway. Be sure to download this as quickly as you can! It can be found at all online bookstores, and according to author blogs, the print version will be out in September. Well done, ladies!'

Ban the bear

2011-06-10T13:51:00.004+01:00

Click at your own risk!Surely it's not just me that finds the Birds eye bear creepy and disturbing? It's getting so I don't want to open my freezer just in case. Janice should get an injunction.

A little something

2011-06-09T16:32:00.002+01:00

I thought you might like to see a snippet of one of the things I'm working on. Here's a tiny taster from the novella - currently called Sour Grapes. Hope you enjoy it!

She stared at the padlocked barrier with a sinking heart. Gym had always been her least favourite subject at school and the combo of tight jeans, achey legs and general clumsiness meant tackling the gate wouldn’t be a piece of cake.
Dominic stood waiting for her on the other side. “Do you need a hand to get over?”
Her body heated as his level gaze took in her muddy clothes and dishevelled appearance.
“I think I can manage.” She grasped the wooden post at the top of the gate and began to climb up to the point where she would be able to swing her leg over the top. The tightness of the denim combining with fatigue made it a struggle and she teetered on the crossbar trying to summon enough energy to adjust her position.
“Lucy!” Dominic moved forward just as she lost her balance.
“Oof!”
She lay sprawled on the wet turf on top of Dominic with his dog attempting to lick her face. Temporarily winded from her fall she was horrified to see he had his eyes shut and a pained grimace on his face.

Guest Blogger Gemma Halliday!

2011-06-06T09:15:00.003+01:00

I'm thrilled to introduce my guest blogger and fellow Romance diva - Gemma Halliday.
Gemma had a hard time figuring out what she wanted to be when she grew
up. She worked as a film and television actress, a teddy bear
importer, a department store administrator, a preschool teacher, a
temporary tattoo artist, and a 900 number psychic, before finally
selling her first book, Spying in High Heels, in 2005 and deciding to
be a writer.

Since then, Gemma has written several mystery novels and been the
recipient of numerous awards, including a National Reader's Choice
award and three RITA nominations.

Gemma now makes her home in the San Francisco Bay area where she is
hard at work on her next book.
Her latest release is the fabulous Hollywood Confessions.
Here's the blurb!
Allie Quick has high aspirations - much higher than reporting on the
latest celebrity gossip for the L.A. Informer, Hollywood's most
notorious tabloid. But if she's going to join the ranks of the real
reporters, she's going to need a headline worthy story under her belt.
Which is just what she gets when the producer of the trashiest reality
shows on TV winds up murdered, and Allie convinces her editor, Felix
Dunn, that this story has her name written all over it. Between an
aging dance-off judge, a family with sextuplets and triplets, and the
star of a little person dating show, Allie has no shortage of reality
stars to question. But when she finds herself falling for her prime
suspect, Allie's relationship with her editor is suddenly on the
rocks, and her life is in danger. This is one deadline Allie can't
afford to miss!

Special FREE download of the first two books in the series – Hollywood
Scandals (book #1) and Hollywood Secrets (book #2)! Just go to
Smashwords.com and type in the following promo codes at checkout:

For HOLLYWOOD SCANDALS: JZ89Y
For HOLLYWOOD SECRETS: HV54W
You can get a copy of Hollywood Confessions from any of these places.
Paperback: https://www.createspace.com/3621092
Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Hollywood-Confessions-Headlines-ebook/dp/B0052U9GQC
Nook: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Hollywood-Confessions/Gemma-Halliday/e/2940012613325/
Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/62229

Taking time

2011-05-31T15:57:00.003+01:00

It's been so nice these last few days not to have to be anywhere for a set time. I've been writing - adding words to all three books and enjoying the process. I've finally got around to making a proper author page for FACEBOOK I suppose now I'll have to behave like a proper author. I've been busy booking some fabby guest bloggers to visit here over the next few months. I met up with Elizabeth Hanbury and Phillipa Ashley my fellow coffee crew authors for one of our working, okay, gossiping lunches. As always it's so inspirational and I always come away fired up and ready to write. Look out for Phillipa's book Wish You were here btw if you're in the US as it's released tomorrow by Sourcebooks. (It's one of my favourite reads of Phillipa's) I've been pottering around the house catching up on laundry, cleaning the insides of the windows - it's not foggy out there, who knew? And generally annoying the belles with requests to tidy up, put things away etc. To make my week even better I'm off soon to one of my favourite places. A tiny town on the Welsh border just for a couple of days. The fish and house sitters are organised so hopefully I can spend a few days in lovely countryside with a notepad and pen adding a few more words to my wips.

A bit of a catch up!

2011-05-26T14:58:00.003+01:00

I've been a bit of a bad blogger lately. My excuse is that time seems to be whizzing past and I have been horrendously busy. Things are moving swiftly with Renovation, Renovation, Renovation - edits are due anytime soon and yesterday I saw some of the cover concepts - all of which are gorgeous and different and lovely. As soon as I get the official release dates I'll be shouting about them on here. I'm halfway through writing the second contracted book for Myrmidon so I'm having to pick my way through the various complicated plot threads at the minute to make sure i don't end up with holes.
I'm also still writing Sour Grapes, my shorter novella. I have the next week off from the day job so I may do some more on that then. That's also half done. Then there's my secret, not supposed to be writing it at all book. All I'll tell you is that it's Jane Austen inspired contemporary rom com.
The belles have been busy too with my eldest dd sitting her AS level exams, and the two younger ones taking part in the annual dance show, plus my middle dd working with her theatre group ready for the summer festival.
I'm really looking forward to a week just puttering about, tinkering with my wips and tidying up the house. It'll be so nice not to have to rush around everywhere.

Winners from the round the world blog hop

2011-05-24T18:54:00.003+01:00

A huge big thank you to everyone who stopped by. I so enjoyed reading your stories. There were so many of you I'm going to give away three downloads of Making Waves.
The winners are:
landS'sMom
Leanne109
JuneM
Congratulations - your prize will be in your inbox soon!

Trip Around the World: Mega Author Blog Hop: Ticket to Paradise!

2011-05-13T20:02:00.008+01:00

TOUR RULES:
1) Have fun!
2) INVITE ALL OF YOUR FRIENDS!!! SPREAD THE WORD!!!
3) THIS TOUR STARTS: Monday, May 16, at Midnight (Arizona Time)
THIS TOUR ENDS: Monday, May 23, at Midnight (Arizona Time)
4) MEET AND MINGLE WITH ALL THE AUTHORS! EXPERIENCE A NEW DESTINATION AT EVERY STOP! PARTICIPATE IN EVERY BLOG CONTEST AND BE ENTERED FOR CHANCES TO WIN MULTIPLE PRIZES! EVERY BLOG VISITED IS ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY TO WIN!!
5) 5) PARTICIPATION AT EVERY BLOG IS RECOMMENDED. BUT REMEMBER: THE MORE YOU HOP THE MORE CHANCES YOU HAVE TO WIN EVERY AUTHOR IS WAITING TO MEET AND INTERACT WITH YOU, SO PLEASE BE SURE TO SHOW EVERY AUTHOR SOME LOVE!
6) DID I MENTION TO HAVE FUN? WHOO! HOO!! HERE WE GO!

Welcome to those of you who've hopped here from Tricia Schneider's blog. Shake off the jet lag from the fast ride from Germany and welcome to Cornwall. Home of King Arthur and the Knights of the round table at mystical Tintagel. Did I mention it was the home of Daphne Du Maurier? We also boast world class surfing beaches along with fabulous food like clotted cream, Rick Steins seafood restaurant at St Ives and even a a mystical beast haunting the wild moors of Bodmin. Not to mention smugglers and if you were a Poldark fan... well need I say more?
That's why I couldn't resist setting Making Waves there.
Making Waves by Nell Dixon Astraea Press
Also available from Amazon in Kindle format, Smashwords, B&N and other reputable e-tailers.
Cassidy Jones needs a holiday and her friend's cottage in New Bay sounds perfect. The beach could heal the bruises from losing her job and her fiancé. Perfect for some time alone to gather her thoughts and heal her broken heart.
Josh Parker is also looking forward to a much needed break after eighteen months of non-stop work. His out of town friend offers her cottage and Josh thinks it would be just right for some time to let his hair down and revive his social life with his old surf buddies.
One cottage, two unsuspecting occupants, a recipe for romance or disaster?

An outside table stood empty in the far corner near the seawall under the shade of a gaily striped umbrella. Cassidy took a seat and pulled off her hat, dropping it on the table. She ruffled her hair with her hands in an attempt to restore some bounce to her smooth auburn bob.
The pretty blonde waitress was busy taking an order from a group of surfers crowded together on a couple of tables near the outdoor service hatch. Cassidy sat back in the shade to wait her turn.
The male surfers were all wearing black or blue wetsuits, unzippered and rolled down to the waist. Pretty girls in tiny bikinis laughed and chatted as the group placed their orders.
One of the guys with his back toward her seemed strangely familiar. It was something about his stance and the untidy mop of dark brown hair. Cassidy sat up straight, willing him to turn around so she could see his face. Her heart thumped in a mix of fear and anticipation as she watched him chatting to the girls.
The waitress came toward her with a pad and pen in hand. Cassidy ordered a fruit juice, her attention still focused on the man with his back to her. Then, just as the waitress left to take Cassidy’s drink order inside the café, he turned around.
“Cassidy? Cassidy Jones?”
Her heart sank. It looked as if she had been wrong about not meeting anyone who knew her here in New Bay. Of all the people she hadn’t wanted to bump into,
“Hello, Josh, what a surprise to see you.” Josh Parker was definitely one of them.
He crossed the paved area between the tables to come and stand at her table, a bewildered expression on his face. “What brings you here? I thought you and Ethan were supposed to be headed for the Seychelles.” He looked around as if he expected Ethan to suddenly materialize beside her.
Cassidy bit her lip. It looked as if her famously work-obsessed boss hadn’t heard the news.
“I didn’t get married.” She tried not to sound terse. In her head she’d practised how she would tell people and explain to them what had happened. Now, confronted in the last place on earth she had expected to see someone she knew, all her carefully chosen phrases deserted her. “Ethan dumped me.”
Josh looked confused. “So, you’re not married?”
Cassidy clenched her teeth. “No.”
“Oh.”
She did a mental eye-roll. For a supposedly intelligent man who’d built up a thriving dotcom marketing business, Josh could be mystifyingly dense. “Are you here on holiday?” She prayed he’d say no, that he was just a day tripper. He hadn’t taken a holiday to her knowledge for over a year.
“I’m here for three weeks. I’m staying in a friend’s cottage.” He made a vague gesture in the direction of the cliffs.
Cassidy’s heart sank. Not only was he staying in New Bay, but her cottage was on the cliffs overlooking the sea, too.
© Nell Dixon 2010
http://www.nelldixon.com
Romance with Heart
Look out for Dangerous to Know and explore the English Lake District – also from Astraea Press
To be in with a chance to win a download of Making Waves - leave me a comment telling me about your favourite holiday memory and I'll draw a winner. Enjoy your next stop on the blog hop in the Roman Forums of the 1880's.Elizabeth Amber

Brief Encounters

2011-05-08T21:31:00.007+01:00

It's out!
You can get your copy HERE also available in other reputable digital outlets. Check out the Brief Encounters site for a contest running this week to win a copy - starting tomorrow.

A day trip to the US embassy

2011-05-03T17:43:00.003+01:00

Today I finally got round to doing something I should have done a while ago. I finally applied for my itin number so I can get an exemption from paying tax on my US earnings in the US. I'd reached a point where it had to be done otherwise everything I earn in the US gets taxed at 30% there and then again here at 20%.
If you're wondering why I hadn't sorted it out before it's because it's a real pain in the bum. It involves getting a letter from my publisher/s taking my passport, and a form to the US embassy in London in person and having them verify all the documents, copy them, they send them to Dallas and then all being well 12 weeks later you get sent your number so you can then fill out another form and pass it on to the publisher.
If I lived near London it wouldn't be such a big deal but with trying to balance family life, the day job and find the money for train fares it becomes a big deal.
Luckily today I had Phillipa Ashley to keep me company so we met up at Euston and went together. Mr Nell had been a bit antsy as Mr Bin Laden's recent demise may have caused problems but it worked in our favour as there wasn't a queue for the IRS dept. We dutifully surrendered our phones and car keys to the nice security people and Phillipa drank some of her water to prove it wasn't going to blow them all sky high and then we went through to the dept.
The man in the dept wasn't exactly Mr Cheerful but he was very helpful and made sure we had everything filled in correctly.
Even so we were quite glad to get out, reclaim our property and tazz off for lunch and a quick shufty around Marks and Sparks before getting the train home.
Definitely one of mine and Phillipa's stranger adventures but we had a lovely lunch and a good gossip. Now fingers crossed we get our numbers through okay!

Alternate Rialto

2011-05-02T17:10:00.003+01:00

My wonderful CP Kimberly Mennozzi has a new release! Please go check out and grab a copy of Alternate Rialto - available for download from Smashwords. I promise that if you like women's fiction with a dose of romance but a hint of something dark then this is the read for you.
Here's the blurb: All Emily Miller wants from her trip to Italy is the chance to get over her recent breakup. Watching her beautiful best friend Jenn revel in the attention of countless available men isn't helping matters. After arriving in Venice for the final week of their trip, hurt and disappointed, Emily strikes out on her own.

After a chance encounter in a paper shop, she finds herself the object of the affections of a handsome Venetian named Jacopo. At his invitation, she decides to throw caution to the wind and take a chance on a once-in-a-lifetime fling. Before she can do so, however, Emily must let go of the pain of her past and learn how to trust her own judgment in matters of the heart. Nevertheless, as Jacopo reveals more about himself and his surprisingly long-term intentions toward her, Emily comes to realize that in Venice, not all the masks are put away after Carnevale.

At $2.99 it's a steal! Buy Here Go on, treat yourself!

Reading and Kindle

2011-04-30T15:22:00.002+01:00

Some of you probably know that Mr Nell and the belles bought me a Kindle for my Christmas/Birthday present. I was so excited, I'd wanted one for ages. I already read some e books when I had a laptop and it's prefect for when we go away in our touring caravan and Mr Nell makes grumpy noises about my cupboard being full of books instead of clothes.
What I hadn't forseen was how much I would love it. So far this year I've read 34 books, all but five have been on my Kindle. I read more widely now, YA, Christian romance, erotica, mystery, crime, sweet romance. I'm so there. Free books have been a great way for me to try new publishers, new authors, new genres. I've rediscovered old favourites - if Harlequin ever put the whole of Betty Neels backlist into e book format I'll be bankrupt. I've found new autobuy authors - Lorena McCourtney - the Invisible Ivy series is the Stephanie Plum of pensioners - with a dash of the God squad - brilliant. Books I've adored - Thirteen Little Blue Envelopes - a fabulous YA book and some which I've thought - what on earth??? Happily those have been very much in the minority.
I've loved being able to buy old favourites and have them with me wherever I go - I'm never without something to read.
I knew I would enjoy having a Kindle, I just hadn't expected to love it quite this much. How many of you have a Kindle, Nook or e reader? And are you loving it as much as me? Which new authors, genres or books have you found?

A huge big thank you

2011-04-21T14:39:00.002+01:00

to everyone who has emailed, facebook messaged, twittered, myspaced and called me about the sale of Renovation, Renovation, Renovation to Myrmidon. I'm so very lucky to have so many lovely, generous and supportive friends.
Here's a little snippet of what the story is all about:-

After helping her live-in partner, former boy-band singer turned property developer, Steve Ricardo, renovate thirteen houses in seven years, Kate Michaels has had enough. When Steve impulsively purchases house number fourteen – the rambling and run-down Elizabethan Myrtle cottage – by using all their capital without consulting her, it’s the last straw. Kate had been expecting a romantic proposal and an engagement ring, not another renovation project. This time, as far as she’s concerned, the relationship is finished.
The only snag being that, with all their money tied up in Myrtle cottage and the property market on the skids, Kate has no choice but to stay in the house with Steve until the renovations are complete and the house is sold. Kate already dislikes the cottage, but when she starts to hear footsteps, snatches of conversations and music which is definitely of another era it really sets her nerves jangling. Wasps' nests, spiders and mice are one thing; ghosts are something else completely.

My Writing News - At Last!!

2011-04-20T09:14:00.000+01:00

Myrmidon are delighted to have acquired two romantic comedy novels from award winning author Nell Dixon. Myrmidon have World rights to RENOVATION, RENOVATION, RENOVATION and a second novel direct from the author. Kate would like an engagement ring from Steve but instead he's lumbered them with a thirteenth renovation project, and doing up Myrtle Cottage disturbs a ghost from the English Civil War who has romance troubles of her own.
Nell Dixon is the author of ANIMAL INSTINCTS which won Love Story of the Year in 2010. RENOVATION, RENOVATION, RENOVATION will be published in paperback in 2012 with a digital pre-release later this year.

Publisher Ed Handyside: "Nell is a superbly talented writer and we're absolutely delighted to have her on board."

For more information:

Kate Nash

kate@myrmidonbooks.com

07973 218434

Hi Honey, I'm home!

2011-04-18T09:41:00.002+01:00

We arrived home yesterday. Had a lovely holiday, not really long enough sadly but still can't have everything. The weather was pretty good all week with the exception of Wednesday.
Coincidentally Wednesday was the fabulous Julie Cohen's birthday and we met on the Cobb at Lyme Regis at Midday with Julie, the Fecklet and the Rock God (Julie's son and hubby) for fish and chips on the beach. After a lovely, if a bit chilly, lunch we adjourned to the pub to warm up before hitting the town to cause chaos in Serendip - the bookshop. (Pictures to follow).The Fecklet was very taken with my eldest belle who has a sort of magic spell that she always manages to weave over small children. We had a nice few hours before the heavens opened.
We spent the week pootling around Sidmouth, Seaton, Lyme Regis, Honiton and one of my favourite places, Exeter. We did jigsaws, hunted for fossils, metal detected on the beach, shopped and visited the town museum. Lovely.

Almost forgot

2011-04-08T19:54:00.002+01:00

in the midst of my packing, trying to persuade the belles they really don't need a dozen pairs of shoes each, I have a book coming out. Dangerous to Know releases on Tuesday from Astraea Press If you could all just talk about it amongst yourselves or even buy a copy to keep a starving authors teenagers in shoes then that would be most appreciated.
To whet your appetites - here's a taster:

Jerome’s deep rumble of laughter at her answer caused a couple of people’s heads to turn in their direction.
“Touché!” He grinned. “So I don’t frighten you?”
“Like I said, maybe it’s you who should be scared of me.” She hoped the pulse she could feel fluttering wildly in her throat wasn’t visible.
His eyes twinkled. “And why should I be scared of you, Gemma?”
“Well, let me see. You’re a well-known bachelor of this parish and here am I, a dumped and desperate spinster.” Although her words were in jest, she couldn’t help but feel bitter towards her former boyfriend.
“You are much too lovely to ever be desperate.” His eyes locked onto hers and his lips brushed her mouth, warm and soft against hers, stealing her breath away. “And your ex-boyfriend was a fool to let you go.”
Startled, her words stuck at the back of her throat. “See, I could be luring you into my web.”
“Step into my parlour said the spider to the fly?” His lips were still only a few inches from her own and the sound blew soft on her face.
“Something like that,” she agreed. Gemma couldn’t believe the words coming out of her mouth. She had never flirted like this with a man before and every nerve in her body told her that with Jerome, she was playing with fire.
He stroked a finger down her cheek and she shivered.
“What if the fly were to ask the spider out tomorrow?”
“I don’t know if that would be a good idea.” Oh boy, she was in much too deep. In fact, she was more than in deep - she was probably drowning and with no hope of a life belt.
“I see.” He moved a little away from her and the tops of her arms chilled.
“I, um…” She tried to think of a good reason why she shouldn’t go out with him.
“If you tell me you need to stay in and wash your hair, I won’t believe you.” The corner of his mouth quirked and she knew he had called her bluff.
(C) Nell Dixon 2011

Errands to run

2011-04-04T10:56:00.003+01:00

Monday is my desk and errand day. It's when I sort out 'stuff'. It's amazing how 'stuff' builds up and multiplies in a week, kind of like dustbunnies under the bed or hangers in a wardrobe. I also turned over my calendar and realised I'm off to the seaside at the weekend - yay! I love being by the sea especially early and late season when there are just a few people around. I always feel inspired to write and read when I'm there. Fingers crossed we get a few sunny days, my middle belle has already found her metal detector ready for the beaches.
What settings inspire you? Are you a seaside person or more lakes and mountains? or perhaps you like to travel to foreign countries?

Guest Blogger - Meet Joselyn Vaughn

2011-04-01T09:44:00.004+01:00

Please welcome my guest blogger for this week, one of my fellow Astraea authors, Joselyn Vaughn.

Joselyn, please introduce yourself to everyone;
I live in the Great Lakes State with my adoring husband, three energetic and ambitious toddlers, and two of the laziest beagles. I believe there is nothing better than a warm hug, a good romance novel and chocolate. When not changing diapers or removing a toddler from a precarious situation, I enjoy sewing, running, shopping at thrift stores and reading books longer than thirty pages. I have two other published books: CEOs Don't Cry and Courting Sparks.

Sucker for a Hotrod is a very unusual title, what's the story about?
Bryce Halloway only dates a woman once. No exceptions.
It gives him the reputation of a heart-breaker, but he can handle that as long as it keeps his mother, Dinah, from trying to marry him off. Judi Montgomery and her tempting ponytail finagle their way around official dates with car problems and driving lessons. She worms her way into his heart and entices him to want more from his life.
When health issues cause his father to retire, Bryce inherits the family-owned tractor repair shop. Can Judi’s love and encouragement give him the courage to break tradition and pursue his dreams of owning a custom hot rod shop?

Tell us more about the book, it sounds great, why did you choose to write this book?

The story started out about a car that couldn’t be fixed and then it evolved. Bryce’s story changed so much as I work. I thought he would be a cocky guy who thought he could fix anything and then I found out he wasn’t working on cars and he didn’t like where he was working. The story became much more about him than I thought it would be when I started.

What authors do you like to read?

W.S. Gager. Tanya Eby, JQ Rose, Jillian Grant, Julia Quinn, Meg Cabot, and many more. It’s so hard to remember all the authors I like.

Do you write to music or silence?

Does the Bob the Builder theme song count at music? I’m sure it isn’t silence. The kids are watching Dora right now. It’s my first experience with Dora and unfortunately I don’t think it will be my last. I find I get the most fiction writing done when there’s silence.

Do you have any more books planned?

I’m working on one focusing on the owner of the bed and breakfast in my first book. It’s been a lot of fun as well as a challenge. Minnie is in her seventies and has a lot more history behind her actions than other heroines I’ve worked with. She’s also the feistiest.

If you could take two fictional characters from any book out to dinner, who would you take and why?

Oh I don’t know. I think the main character from Meg Cabot’s Queen of Babble series would be fascinating. I would really like to know how she transformed the Scottish wedding dress. Maybe she’d have pictures. My sister does clothing alterations and has done some really cool transformations, like a men’s sweatshirt into a women’s dress. I think it’s fascinating. I’d like to hear more about this character’s work. And number two? This is so hard. How about Gilbert Blythe from the Anne of Avonlea series? He’s just so cute.

Thanks Joselyn for coming along to chat about your book, Sucker for a Hotrod sounds like a really fun read. It's available now for Nook or Kindle on all the usual sites plus Astraea Press

Feeling foggy

2011-03-28T08:36:00.002+01:00

Well, Spring has apparently been and gone. This morning the house is surrounded by fog - a bit like my brain at the moment. I can't believe it's almost April. This year has been crazy for all kinds of reasons. I've at least one book out this month, Dangerous to Know, you can check out the first chapter on my website HERE and if you want to keep tabs on my news don't forget to sign up for my quarterly newsletters. Next one is due out in a few weeks. Brief Encounters will also be released in a few weeks - six fabby little short stories, two from me, two from Phillipa Ashley and two gorgeous regency tales from Elizabeth Hanbury.
I still can't tell you my big, big, writing news yet though as things still aren't finalised but I promise I will as soon as I can.

Sunshine!

2011-03-21T08:37:00.002Z

It makes such a difference to how you feel when the sun comes out, doesn't it? Despite the fact that it's the time of year when the tree pollen is stirring and I need to stock up on my hayfever meds. Life has been a bit sticky here for a few months, employment worries, the Belles and their concerns and commitments and health issues for various family members.
None of that has changed really except today the sun is shining, I have a voucher (just a small one) to spend in M&S and I have critiquing work to do. I do a small amount of critiquing work for private clients and for the RNA NWS throughout the year. I may be able to take some more private clients this year so if you think you might be interested in working with me drop me an email and I'll send you my rates. For now though I need to go and run all my errands before getting back to my list of jobs for today.

Spot the difference!

2011-03-11T09:00:00.002Z

Apparently the cover for Dangerous to Know caused a few ructions in the world of sweet romance so my lovely editor, Steph and brilliant cover artist Elaina, had to make a slight change. For your delectation and delight here is the new (uncontroversial version!)
I think it's even hotter but then what do I know!

Busy, busy, busy

2011-03-09T14:13:00.002Z

I know, I am trying to slow down I promise. Life is a bit crazy still with uncertainties in the day job, something I think everyone is experiencing at the moment. Waiting for eldest belle's first lot of exam results (college)middle belle with her option choices and that she's managed to sign herself up to two dance shows and a drama fastival. Then the writing side of my life has been incredibly busy.
Thank you to everyone who's downloaded a copy of Making Waves and sent me nice messages - I'm so glad you like it.
Dangerous to Know will be out on April 12th from Astraea Press and Brief Encounters will be out from E-Scape Press at the end of April/start May.
I'm just finalising the details but hopefully very soon I'll be able to share some really big news with you! It's to do with a certain mss that features a ghost, a cottage and a very yummy hero.

Dangerous to Know

2011-03-02T18:41:00.002Z

Coming soon from Astraea Press - meet Jerome!

Dyscalculia Day March 3rd

2011-02-28T08:47:00.002Z

This Thursday is Dyscalculia Day. For those of you who don't know - My name is Nell and I have a maths disability.
Dyscalculia, a disorder which primarily effects a person's ability to work with numbers and mathematical concepts, is a virtually unknown learning disabilty. It is so little known, in fact, that World Dyscalculia Day was not started by a research institution or large non-profit advocacy group -- we dysclaculics don't have any of those in or corner (yet!). World Dyslcalculia Day is a grassroots effort by members of the Dyscalculia Forum online community. World Dyscalculia Day is as effort by dyscalculics, for dyscalculics, to educate others about this learning disability. Dyscalculia is defined by a person's difficulty with numbers and arithmetical concepts. It's estimated (by people who are good at that sort of thing) that between 4% and 6% of the world's population has dyscalculia, but that only 1% has even heard of the disorder.

People with dyscalculia struggle to perform everyday tasks, such as remembering addresses and phone numbers, figuring a tip at a restaurant, or determining exactly what that "10% OFF!" sale will get them. We tend to transpose digits (reading 67 for 76), invert digits (reading 6 for 9), or just get plain confused (3 and 8 might look like the same symbol to a dyscalculic). All that, and we haven't even talked about using numbers to do actual math!

Notice how Dyscalculia Day is on March 3rd -- 3/3? That's because it allows us to safely get the day and month confused (and we will ... we will) -- but we can't screw it up.
It isn't just 'not being good at maths' it is about a real disorder that spills over into areas of everyday life. I can't text, use a cashpoint machine, remember phone numbers or my car registration number. I can't read a digital clock and have to have a calculator where the keys and the numbers on the keys are clearly marked out in different colours so they don't blend into the background. On a bad day, I'm worse when I'm tired or stressed, I can't remember my own birthday. It affects my spatial awareness, I can't tell left from right and my job share partner is perpetually baffled and amused by my complete inability to process even simple directions or to remember my way to and from somewhere.It affects co-ordination and balance - that spatial awareness thing again.
People with dyscalculia aren't stupid - I have four professional qualifications, a string of GCSE and A levels but I can't remember a pin number for a card and frequently get dates and appointment times scrambled.
Some of the explanation above came from the Dyscalculia Forum
I'm not alone, many famous people also have dyscalculia, Cher, Mary Tyler Moore, Henry Winkler,Benjamin Franklin, and Hans Christian Anderson, even Einstein struggled with basic maths.
If you, or someone you know is dyscalculic please visit the forum and raise awareness of Dyscalculia. If it's cool for the Fonz to admit it then I can too - I'm Nell and I have dyscalculia.

Guest blogger - Meet Deborah Melanie!

2011-02-26T16:35:00.003Z

Deborah is a newly published writer from the UK. I've invited her along to tell us about herself and her new book, 'Winter's Spirit' out now from Solstice Publishing
Here is Deborah's bio:
As I child I loved to create my own stories. I entered my first story writing competition at the age of eleven, but didn't return to writing until many years later. In the past I have worked as a reviewer, but my first love lies with creating my own characters. Thanks to the encouragement of my husband, I am making a life long dream come true.

Deborah kindly agreed to be interviewed;

Tell us why you chose to write this particular story? As someone who grew up in a close knit community, I wanted to write a story about a similar place. Batlington (the fictional community in my book) is much more of a town, than my village is, but I wanted to convey the friendliness of the people and their close relationships. This story also encapsulates a lot of the ingredients I enjoy in book. It made sense to write about a subject close to my heart.

And which authors do you like reading? I enjoy a mixture of authors from JR Ward to Suzanne Brockmann. Occasionally I will dip into a thriller or a gory murder story.

Do you write in silence or to music? As for writing in silence, well.... I wish I could find silence in my house LOL. There's always a lot of background noise, especially from the children, but from time to time, I do like to write with some music on.

What are you working on next? Winter McAndrew, my heroine in Winter's Spirit has three sisters, so I do have plans to tell their stories. I'm currently working on something different, but it's still set in Yorkshire, so I get lots of opportunity to imagine all the beautiful countryside.

If you could choose two fictional characters to take out to dinner, who would you choose and why? If I could dine out with two fictional characters, it would be with Edward Rochester from Jane Eyre and Eustacia from Colleen Gleason's vampire stories. I imagine that Mr. Rochester would make some excellent choices from the wine list and Eustacia would provide some fascinating stories from all her vampire hunting experiences.

Thanks, Deborah - Here is the blurb and a short excerpt from Winter's Spirit:
Winter McAndrew is on the brink of divorcing her philandering husband, Philip, when he dies in a car crash. One year later and with unfinished business; Philip is still earth bound and interfering in his wife’s love life. Trying to make amends isn't always easy when you're dead. Not only has Winter fallen for her old crush, Jack Tobin, but he also happens to be Philip’s cousin. With more complications than a woman needs at Christmas, Winter tries to find peace at her holiday home in The Lake District. However, when she finds herself snowed in with Jack; ghosts, old and new cause quite a stir. Will Winter get her man, or will ghostly Philip put an end to all her festive fantasies?

Excerpt:

“That’s why you’re here isn’t it?” he felt ashamed. “You wanted to feel closer to Philip? I’m sorry. You must miss him a whole lot more at this time of year. You need your privacy. I should go.” Turning away, he placed his key on the small table by the door.
“Jack, wait. I’ve a whole bottle of your wine open and I’ve made far too much casserole. The least I can do is thank you with a good meal for looking after things.” Her hand reached out to touch his arm. Even through the warmth of the parker, it felt like a searing hot heat. “At least stay and eat with me. You’ve had a long drive here, you must be tired.”
Every survivalist instinct told him to keep walking. The idea of being alone in The Lake District with her, felt far more than his body could take. If he did stay, he’d either need to keep the parker on all night, or hide behind the dining table. Erections and widowed friends just wasn’t a combination he felt willing to explore. Damn it.
He turned to look at her. She seemed vulnerable; a lonely friend mourning her husband. He had no right. Yet this friend also just happened to be wrapped in a colourful quilt which brought out the green in her eyes, the pinkness in her lips and the slight blush on her cheeks. You’re setting yourself up for a fall, Tobin. “That’d be great. A good meal should set me up for the journey back.”
She smiled. “Great. Now if you’d grab the mop and clear up your snow, I’ll get some clothes on. I’m hardly dressed for guests.”
As she made her way upstairs, he smiled. She looked fine to him. Beautiful in fact.

To order Deborah's book click the link at the top to Solstice Publishing, and thank you Deborah for being my guest here - it's great to meet other sweet writers!

An Evening With Mr Darcy

2011-02-25T08:43:00.004Z

Fab night last night at Dudley Central Library. Huge thanks to the librarians who had recreated a regency tea room complete with gorgeous cakes. There was a Jane Austen quiz with prizes and a wonderful excerpt by Dudley Little Theatre of their upcoming performance of Pride and Prejudice.
It was great to see so many people there - standing room only at one point!
Sadly, the delectable Mr Firth was absent but a good time was had by all anyway and you can still catch DLT's version of Pride and Prejudice at the beginning of March at Netherton Arts Centre - I highly recomend it!

Strange sensations

2011-02-22T20:05:00.002Z

All day today my psychic warning system has been twanging and I've felt very spacey and disconnected from things. Most peculiar. I think I need to slow down a little - okay, I know, the chorus of 'I told you so's' is even reaching me from here. I do promise to be good and in fairness I do try and plan out what I'm doing both in my day job and in my writing life. It's simply been that both have been incredibly busy for the last few months, and as Mum to three teenage girls, family life is always pretty hectic too.
I have a couple of days holiday left to take so I've booked those so I can spend time with the belles and sort out some of my admin and I promise I will take a break too.
In the meantime why not check out Making Waves or some of my lovely fellow authors books over at Astraea Press

Catching my breath!

2011-02-17T10:38:00.003Z

It's all been a bit mad lately. First I had the release of Making Waves from Astraea Press Have you got your copy yet? How about now? You can read it on kindle and now on a Nook too. Anyway, then I sold Dangerous to Know to Astraea too - this is one of my slightly longer novella's that was previously in print from Moonlit Romance. There was the launch of Brief Encounters and the announcement of our upcoming anthology of short romantic stories. The news that Just Look at Me Now had won an award, a radio interview for BBC radio West Midlands defending libraries and next week I've been asked to help at 'Meeting Mr Darcy'. This is a fab event being staged on Thursday 24th Feb at 7.30 at Central Library in Dudley. Excerpts from Pride and Prejudice performed by Dudley Little Theatre and a chat from me talking about historical influences on contemporary fiction.
Today I also packed up the wonderful Betty Neels rosebowl that's been sitting on my windowsill for the last year so the new recipient can get it at the RNA Pure Passion Awards in March. There are some wonderful books and authors shortlisted this year and I know whoever wins will have a truly magical time. I feel so very honoured and privileged to have been lucky enough to win the prize twice, it changed the course of my writing career.

An award for Just Look at Me Now!

2011-02-14T15:10:00.002Z

Wow! I just learned that 'Just Look at Me Now' is the winner of the Catanetwork single titles reviewers choice of the year award as one of the best books they reviewed in 2010

A new place for romance

2011-02-14T07:48:00.003Z

You remember that secret project? The small one I was so excited about? Well, here it is Visit Here

Happy Valentines!

Making Waves out Tomorrow

2011-02-07T08:56:00.003Z

Tomorrow is the big day! Apart from it being my birthday, you can get your copy of Making Waves from Astraea Press or if you own a kindle you can visit Amazon!
Here's what the reviewers said about it first time around.

Making Waves by Nell Dixon is a most wonderful read. The emotions of the characters really stand out pulling the reader into the storyline. Josh and Cassidy are compassionate and warm who have had bad relationships in the past. The reader shares their sorrows and the way they wish to break any barriers that keep them from finding real love. Ms. Dixon creates a beautifully told read that spins the heart with love in a terrific summer romance that is sweet, romantic and awe-inspiring, don’t miss this one.
5 Angels from Fallen Angels Fallen Angels

Ms. Dixon has a knack for creating characters who are living and breathing to the reader. She paints us a picture of a wonderful summer romance. From Robyn at Once Upon a Romance 4 stars Once Upon a Romance

Josh and Cass are very sympathetic characters who both got a raw deals in long term relationships. They are employer and employee, but really did not get to know each other until this holiday. I enjoyed reading about both of them trying to enjoy their stay and at first enduring and then enjoying the other’s presence. This is a very sweet love story.
4 coffee cups from Maura at Coffeetime Romance Coffeetime Romance

Still not sure? Here's the blurb!
Cassidy Jones needs a holiday and her friend's cottage in New Bay sounds perfect. The beach could heal the bruises from losing her job and her fiancé. Perfect for some time alone to gather her thoughts and heal her broken heart.
Josh Parker is also looking forward to a much needed break after eighteen months of non-stop work. His out of town friend offers her cottage and Josh thinks it would be just right for some time to let his hair down and revive his social life with his old surf buddy's.
One cottage, two unsuspecting occupants, a recipe for romance or disaster?

How cold?

2011-01-31T08:52:00.002Z

It registered at -5 this morning when I took the eldest belle to catch her train for college. I don't do cold, in fact for most of this week my brain and my fingers have been frozen. Not helpful when I'm incredibly busy both with the day job, my writing and with the belle's stuff.
Making Waves will be released a week tomorrow! Eek, this is the reprint from A Taste of Summer but I am so excited about it being back out there. Astraea Press Go Herelaunches tomorrow with it's first titles going on sale. If you like sensual romance that's firmly on the sweet side then head over there and check out the titles.
The finishing touches are being applied to another writing project I have cooking and there'll be an announcement about that in a couple of weeks. This is part of the putting the fun back into writing for 2011 project and is something I've been wanting to do more of for a while.
Somehow I'm working on three wips at the moment. Okay, so one is just a fuzzy fragment in the back of my head, One is going to be a novella and the other is a longer piece. I've lots of plans for this year. Now, if I could just find a few more hours in each day...

Making Waves

2011-01-24T10:07:00.002Z

Out on February 8th from Astraea Press.

Washington Post Mensa Invitational

2011-01-17T20:20:00.001Z

This came from a friend who knows my sense of humour.

The Washington Post's Mensa Invitational once again invited readers to take any word from the dictionary, alter it by adding, subtracting, or changing one letter, and supply a new definition.

Here are the winners:

1. Cashtration (n.): The act of buying a house, which renders the subject financially impotent for an indefinite period of time

2. Ignoranus : A person who's both stupid and an a**hole.
3. Intaxication : Euphoria at getting a tax refund, which lasts until you realize it was your money to start with.

4. Reintarnation : Coming back to life as a hillbilly.

5. Bozone ( n.): The substance surrounding stupid people that stops bright ideas from penetrating. The bozone layer, unfortunately, shows little sign of breaking down in the near future.

6. Foreploy : Any misrepresentation about yourself for the purpose of having sex.

7. Giraffiti : Vandalism spray-painted very, very high.

8 Sarchasm : The gulf between the author of sarcastic wit and the person who doesn't get it.

9. Inoculatte : To take coffee intravenously when you are running late.

10. Osteopornosis : A degenerate disease. (This one got extra credit.)

11. Karmageddon : It's like, when everybody is sending off all these really bad vibes, right? And then, like, the Earth explodes and it's like, a serious bummer.

12. Decafalon (n.): The grueling event of getting through the day consuming only things that are good for you.

13. Glibido : All talk and no action.

14. Dopeler Effect: The tendency of stupid ideas to seem smarter when they come at you rapidly.

15. Arachnoleptic Fit (n.): The frantic dance performed just after you've accidentally walked through a spider web.

16 Beelzebug (n.): Satan in the form of a mosquito, that gets into your bedroom at three in the morning and cannot be cast out.

17. Caterpallor ( n.): The color you turn after finding half a worm in the fruit you're eating.

The Washington Post has also published the winning submissions to its yearly contest, in which readers are asked to supply alternate meanings for common words.

And the winners are:

1. Coffee, n.. The person upon whom one coughs.

2. Flabbergasted, adj. Appalled by discovering how much weight one has gained.

3. Abdicate, v. To give up all hope of ever having a flat stomach.

4. esplanade, v. To attempt an explanation while drunk.

5 Willy-nilly, adj. Impotent.

6. Negligent, adj. Absentmindedly answering the door when wearing only a nightgown.

7. Lymph, v.. To walk with a lisp.

8. Gargoyle, n. Olive-flavored mouthwash.

9. Flatulence, n. Emergency vehicle that picks up someone who has been run over by a steamroller.

10. Balderdash, n. A rapidly receding hairline.

11. Testicle, n. A humorous question on an exam.

12. Rectitude, n. The formal, dignified bearing adopted by proctologists.

13. Pokemon, n. A Rastafarian proctologist.

14. Oyster, n. A person who sprinkles his conversation with Yiddishisms.

15. Frisbeetarianism, n. The belief that, after death, the soul flies up onto the roof and gets stuck there.

Happy Birthday eldest belle

2011-01-11T16:25:00.001Z

The eldest belle is 17 today - I am NOT old enough to have a child that age.

Zoom! Was that a week gone already?

2011-01-10T08:24:00.003Z

Wow, last week went by fast! Eldest belle has her first lot of AS level exams this week - 7 exams - ouchie, it's her birthday tomorrow too. I am not old enough to have a daughter who has just sent for her provisional drivers license!
I wrote a staggering 8.5k in total last week on top of being out three nights with commitments and three and a half very hectic days at the day job. Writing short stories seeems to have uncorked my imagination. What I need now is more time to write down all the stuff thats whirling through my head. I'll probably do one or two more shorts this month and then start one of the novella's I have planned plus get going again on allotment wars.
I am loving my kindle - what I've found so far is that I am much more open to trying new genres and authors with it. So far this last week I read a YA - okay, a steamy historical - meh, an oldfashioned cosy detective - enjoyable, a Liz fielding - Fantastic!

Snow

2011-01-07T08:31:00.002Z

It's snowing again. Eldest belle has gone to college, other two have gone to school, if this keeps up I can see me getting phone calls to go and collect them. Should be my day off today but I booked an appointment for the day job which looking at the weather I think I'll have to move.
Writing wise I'm off to a good start this year, I spent sometime once the worst of my flu was over sorting out some of the business side of my writing life. Still more to go but I feel really happy about the directions I'm taking this year. I finished revising 'An Uncivil War' and I wrote a 5k short story set in Venice which I'm actually quite pleased with. Again it's different from my other work, very romantic and wistful. I'm busy working on a few more short stories as it seems to be liberating my writing and firing me up again. I'm also working on a special fun project which you'll hear more about over the next few months. Then it will be back to writing Allotment Wars and hopefully a new short length novel too.

Happy New year

2010-12-31T12:42:00.003Z

to all my friends. I hope this coming year will give you good health and happiness. I suspect my own new year will take me on new adventures, some sought and others which are totally unexpected. I always feel at this point in the calendar that old shades of the past seem closer than during the rest of the year but beyond the ghosts and the whispers there is the promise and sparkle of future magic yet to come that lies ahead.
I wish for all of you some of that magic in the coming year.

Merry Christmas

2010-12-23T09:34:00.004Z

Wishing all my friends, readers and fellow writers a very happy Christmas and a peaceful and healthy New Year. I'm pleased to say I am feeling a bit better now so hopefully will be up to cooking Christmas dinner. However you celebrate the season, I hope yours is great.

Uncle Bulgaria?

2010-12-15T22:00:00.003Z

I had two early prezzies this week in the form of my publisher telling me that Just Look at Me Now was going to be in large print, then today I heard that it's going to be translated into Bulgarian. Wow! how cool is that? Look out Bulgaria in Spring next year when it goes out with copies of Cosmopolitan magazine. So exciting - and a little tinsy bit strange but in a good way.

Dear Simon Cowell,

2010-12-12T13:15:00.003Z

Whilst not doubting your knowledge of the music industry, TV and light entertainment I am however concerned re your rather hazy grasp on geography. I would like to point out that Cher is from Malvern - not Birmingham. You, and One Direction did a gig in Wolverhampton - not Birmingham. Oh, and Merry Hill is not in - guess where? - Birmingham.
I realise it is difficult to keep track of ones location whilst jetting across the Atlantic and you probably share the view of many people from the South of the UK that anything past Oxford is occupied by Wolves, Bears and Mancunians. However it is rude and disrespectful to the people who turned out in the freezing temperatures, who made you welcome and supported you and your act to keep getting the name of the place you visited WRONG.
In fact, whilst I'm here I would like to point out to Best buys - who are American so could be forgiven for not checking a map, and to Heart radio, to the BBC news team and indeed to anyone else who might wish to know - The Merry Hill shopping Centre is not in Birmingham.
It is in Dudley - in the Black Country. Birmingham is the city about twelve miles away.

Time to put up the tree

2010-12-11T10:59:00.003Z

The belle's are clearing up their stuff from the lounge so we can put up our Christmas tree. This is a pic from last year and as you can see it's so very stylish, colour coordinated and small - not!

It's LBD week at Chick Lit Reviews

2010-12-06T13:30:00.001Z

Check out an interview with me and a fab giveaway for UK readers!Here