Embrace Adventure

Simple Saturday Night

2012-01-29T12:25:00.000-08:00

Irish cuisine - better than expected. Irish music - always entertaining.

Movie Question #1

2012-01-28T14:05:00.000-08:00

Why do "feel good" movies always make you cry?

Settings

2012-01-22T12:41:00.000-08:00

Chichén Itzá

Where the adventure begins!

Marked in Mexico

2012-01-20T09:35:00.000-08:00

She glanced over at Jack and their eyes met. She hadn’t paid attention before, but now noticed his lids were heavily lashed and his eyes a deep, dark brown that held little warmth. There was something dangerous and mysterious in the depth of the darkness which made her shudder. Unlike everyone else, there was no fear in his eyes, only contempt.

Marked in Mexico Released Today

2012-01-13T08:21:00.000-08:00

IT’S HERE! Marked in Mexico was released today and is available through the publisher at http://inspiredromancenovels.com, http://amazon.com, http://barnesandnoble.com, http://smashwords.com, and http://allromanceebooks.com for only $2.99. Enjoy.

Coming Soon!

2012-01-08T09:27:00.001-08:00

When paradise turns deadly, flee into the jungle and fight for your life. The adventure begins Friday the 13^th.

Happy Holidays

2011-12-30T14:54:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a great Christmas and received lots of books from Santa. And, for those who got a Kindle or Nook instead, save a little on your account until January 13 when Marked in Mexico is released. In the meantime, you can read an excerpt at www.inspiredromancenovels.com

Have a happy and safe New Years.

The Date is Set

2011-12-09T08:16:00.000-08:00

Marked in Mexico is scheduled to be released January 13, 2012. Check back often for updates or visit www.inspiredromancenovels.com

Editorial Process

2011-12-02T09:02:00.000-08:00

Just finished the first round of edits. Despite being a little surprised by the number of things my editor found, I enjoyed the process and I'd forgotten how much I truly love this story. Like I do everytime I read it, I even got misty-eyed in a few spots.

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T09:04:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving holiday.

Marked in Mexico Cover

2011-11-16T15:25:00.000-08:00

Marked in Mexico is slated to be released in January 2012 by Inspired Romance Novels. I'm very excited about the progress and I love the cover. Hope you do too. Much, Much more to come.

Marked in Mexico

2011-11-11T14:53:00.001-08:00

Finally, some exciting book news. My latest romantic adventure, Marked in Mexico, has been accepted for publication. I don’t know a release date yet, but I’ve seen the cover and it’s awesome. More details coming soon, so check back often

Happy Halloween

2011-11-01T15:22:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone had a safe and happy Halloween.

Haunted Houses

2011-10-24T16:28:00.000-07:00

I finally went to my first haunted house. It was awesome. I’m not saying I was overly scared, but I couldn’t help but be impressed by the staging. The sets were authentic, the sound and special effects were excellent, and the actors did a believable job. Hopefully my writer’s critical eye even learned something about how the tiniest detail can make any scene feel more realistic.

Successful Settings

2011-10-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

St. Peter's Square

Part of a well-crafted, believable story is the author’s ability to create a sense of place so strong the reader feels they are there or is left with an overwhelming desire to explore even if the setting is fictional. No one does this more successfully than Dan Brown. On a recent visit to Rome I timed reading Angels and Demons to correspond with my sight-seeing. The book made my visit more exciting and gazing directly at the monuments described in the novel added a tangible dimension to the story. I always strive to create settings in my stories that take the reader on a journey of discovery and I gauge the success of a story by how deeply I can immerse the reader in an interesting culture or place. I hope Deadly Ruins has encouraged readers to explore Cobá on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. And, while there I hope they follow the heroine’s path through the ruins to find the spot where she venture’s further into the unknown and take a moment to ponder what lay beyond.

Why Not?

2011-09-22T09:04:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I get discouraged. I know my work is as good, if not better, than much of what’s out there, but each small success is so hard won. I’ve read some early work from a handful of today’s top writers and it’s not great, yet someone took a chance on these once unknown writers and helped to mold them into great writers. How do you find someone willing to see the potential and take a chance? It’s a common ailment across all artistic genres. Every time I see a group or artist that’s really good and I think about those superstars who can’t carry a tune, I know I’m not alone in my frustration. I may have mentioned before that every time I see the Randy Rogers Band I wonder why they aren’t a household name. And, recently I listened to Fork in the Road at a nearby casino and thought, why not? They’re excellent musicians, song writers and all the covers they played sounded as good the original. While I continue to ponder the mystery, I’ll continue to write and encourage all those out there who are honing their crafts.

Grand Inspiration

2011-09-03T12:52:00.000-07:00

Nothing provides inspiration quite like a few weeks in the Tetons.

Deadly Ruins Discounted

2011-08-31T16:39:00.000-07:00

Deadly Ruins has been temporarily reduced to $9.99 directly through the publisher at http://www.publishamerica.net/. I'm not sure how long it will last.

Update on Retail Outlets Stocking My Books

2011-07-23T11:44:00.000-07:00

Bookstore, 109 N Bent St, Powell, WY
The Bookworm, 8702 Pacific, Omaha, NE
Hotel Terra, Teton Village, WY
Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa, Teton Village, WY
The Wild Burro Bookstore, Hot Springs, SD
Probst Western Store, Greybull, WY
Cooke City Store, Cooke City, MT

For all book titles, ISBN numbers or publishers’ websites see post on May 27, 2011. Books can also be purchased at Amazon and Barnes and Nobel and Deadly Ruins is now available in Kindle and Nook formats.

Small-Plot Gardening and Freedom

2011-07-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

I love my tiny garden. Most people would find it laughably small, but by the end of June I had enjoyed lettuce, spinach, tomatoes, peppers, a host of herbs from lemon grass to basil, rosemary, mint and chives, and enough zucchini that I was able to share with friends. I recently watched a show on Cuba. It appears things are slowly changing for the better, but during the strict days of Communism subsistence farming was prohibited. Wow – why wouldn’t a government want its people to try and feed themselves? I’ll leave that perplexing question to those who understand politics. I tend to look at things through a more logical lens, and as we all know, politics no matter what the system and logic seldom belong in the same discussion. So, for now I’ll continue to appreciate the bounty of my small garden and the freedom to grow it.

Best Things in Life are Free

2011-07-15T07:41:00.001-07:00

A free outdoor concert on a beautiful evening at a great venue featuring Incendio, a Latin guitar world fusion group, had the crowd dancing. The combination made for a night to remember, and made me itch to get on the road and explore.

Independence Day

2011-07-10T12:13:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a happy and safe Fourth of July. The highlight this year for me was seeing a living history event at Fort Atkinson State Park which included a reading of the Declaration of Independence. It was a great reminder of why we celebrate the holiday.

2011 Flooding

2011-07-01T10:26:00.001-07:00

For the last month I’ve watched the waters of the Missouri rise and the destruction has been devastating for so many. I usually love summer, but it’s difficult to feel joy in the presence of such heartbreak. Hope will rise as river levels fall, and our thoughts and prayers will remain with those affected.

Updated Retail Outlets for Kim's books

2011-05-27T13:02:00.000-07:00

Retail outlets currently stocking some or all of my books are:

The Bookworm, 8702 Pacific St., Omaha, NE

Hotel Terra, Teton Village, WY
Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa, Teton Village, WY
The Wild Burro Bookstore, Hot Springs, SD
Probst Western Store, Greybull, WY
Cooke City Store, Cooke City, MT

The Watch (Suspense/thriller. 2009, ISBN: 978-1-59663-650-0)
Publisher’s website: www.rockpublishing.com

The Lodge (Mystery. 2004, ISBN: 0-9744938-2-1)

Deadly Ruins (Suspense/thriller. 2009, ISBN: 1-60836-544-1)
Publisher’s website: www.publishamerica.net

On The Brink of Paradise (non-fiction, ISBN: 0-7414-0140-1)

Publisher’s website: www.infinitypublishing.com

All my books, except possibly, The Lodge, are available on-line at Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, at each publisher’s individual website and can be ordered from any bookstore. Deadly Ruins is also available in Kindle and Nook formats.

Deadly Ruins in ebook formats

2011-05-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

Deadly Ruins is now available in Kindle and Nook formats.

A Step Back in Time

2011-05-06T09:02:00.000-07:00

Technology is not my friend as I was reminded last night during a losing battle with the DVD player and twice last week when my computer froze up after having numerous “upgrades” installed. But no worries, I dusted off a trusted friend and I once again feel in a comfortable era and ready to write.

Upcoming News

2011-04-30T09:20:00.001-07:00

Wow, what happened to April? I just noticed this morning that if I didn't post today I'd miss an entire month. My excuse is that I was waiting on confirmation on upcoming writing news. Deadly Ruins is in the process of conversion to Kindle and Nook e-book formats and it looks like most of my books will have new outlets in Wyoming and Montana stores this summer. Check back soon for release dates and new locations. Thanks!

Mayan Ruins

2011-03-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

I met a woman last week who did her master’s thesis on the Mayan culture. She had studied a number of the Mayan sites I’ve explored in Mexico. It was exciting to talk to someone who had visited the same places I had and who was even more enthusiastic and obviously much more knowledgeable than I about a subject which is very dear to my heart. Though Deadly Ruins is pure fiction, a frightening figment of my imagination, she still seemed anxious to read my novel. I’m confident our paths will cross again someday and I'll be interested to hear her take on my fictional portrayal of an archeological project which turned into a terrifying fight for survival.

Deadly Ruins is available on-line through Amazon, Publish America and a scattering of stores (see older post on where my books are currently stocked).

The above photo was taken from atop a pyramid at Coba in Mexico.

Solitude

2011-03-18T17:07:00.000-07:00

It’s essential for me to have a place to write that not only provides all the basic tools of an effective work environment, but which also inspires creativity. I’ve been fortunate to have had that place nearly everywhere I’ve lived. I’ve found the solitude I need beneath snow-capped mountains, nestled among hāpuʻu ferns, within reach of wild turkeys passing through and, with the onset of spring, I’m now able to watch wild ducks and geese glide by on still waters just outside my window.

Spring Fever?

2011-03-06T07:29:00.000-08:00

I went to my first college baseball game of the season. This great American pastime would have induced full-fledged spring fever if it weren't for the ice and snow stubbornly hanging on in the shaded areas of the field. At least my team won so the excitement cancelled out the cold. I can't wait until the next game.

Mother Nature

2011-02-18T07:15:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I watched massive chunks of dirty ice and debris churn rapidly down the Missouri River. The raw power was mesmerizing and a humbling reminder of how small and helpless we truly are against the forces of Mother Nature.

Writing Outlook for 2011 - Part Three

2011-02-10T07:31:00.000-08:00

At one time many writers were considered eccentric solitary creatures, hidden way from society pecking away at a keyboard, pouring his or her heart and soul onto blank pages. It’s this somewhat romantic image I envisioned when I decided to take my passion for creating stories to the next level. My first novel, The Lodge, came to life while living in a small cabin with no telephone or television, surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery on earth. With no distractions it was easy to let my mind wander and the creativity flow. I’ve learned a lot since that initial book and have grown as a writer, but the most important thing I’ve learned over the years is that writing a great book isn’t everything--it’s only the first step. There can be no hiding out in remote mountain cabins and letting the work sell itself. The author is no longer just an artist, joyfully expressing one’s creativity. In order to succeed the writer must become a publicist, marketing guru, social media expert, sales person and business professional. A lucky few will have someone to help guide them through the ever-changing process, the rest must quickly educate themselves in the many facets of being an author in the twenty-first century.

Writing Outlook for 2011 - Part Two, The Virtual Author

2011-02-06T08:56:00.000-08:00

It appears 2011 will be the year of the virtual author, making virtual appearances and doing virtual book tours for their digital following. I’m still learning what all of this means and I’m enjoying certain aspects of the process. I started this blog to share my stories, adventures and book news with family and friends, and have found the feedback from official and casual followers to be helpful and uplifting. So, feel free to spread the word and encourage others to browse my blog and hopefully together we can forge a digital following.

My latest novels, The Watch and Deadly Ruins, came out in 2009. In 2010 I’ve put the finishing touches on two other books, The Senator’s Daughter and Big Horn Storm. Hopefully at least one will be published in 2011 and I can put my new virtual marketing knowledge to the test.

Writing outlook for 2011 - Part One

2011-02-03T10:52:00.000-08:00

A new year always brings a plethora of articles discussing the outlook for writers and booksellers for the coming year. There’s seldom much agreement on what the hottest new trend will be as far a genre, but the one area of consensus is in the power and growing popularity of e-books. For those of us who love nothing more than curling up with a good paperback, it’s a tough pill to swallow. I spend my days working on a computer and when I have free time to read I still want a good old fashioned book to hold in my hands. I’m apparently in a shrinking minority, but I’m slowly warming to the idea and no doubt will conceded defeat and jump onto the speeding train of technology soon. And, speaking of technology…

Snow

2011-01-20T08:41:00.000-08:00

It snowed again last night, not much, but on top of the foot still lingering in the backyard it seems like a lot. I know why the sight of snow makes me grumble. I’ve gone soft over the years and I’m not necessarily proud of it. I grew up in northern Wyoming, downhill skiing every Saturday and Sunday from the day the runs opened until they closed, so snow was a good thing and cold temperatures were part of life. What’s a little frostbite on the toes as long as you’re having fun? Being out on horseback in frigid temperatures and icy slopes wasn’t my favorite pastime, but I guess back then that was normal.

I spent several years in the high plains of Wyoming where summers were short and it snowed horizontally. The wind kept the roads around town fairly clear, so the snow never really piled up. The highways leading north toward home were always bad in the winter, so I never expected anything different and never felt let down.

Then there was Jackson Hole. If you love white Christmases, Thanksgivings, Easters, and the occasional white Fourth of the July, this is the place. The snow started in October and hung around until May. We never took the car out of the garage or the truck out of four-wheel drive during the long winter months. Snow from plowing or drifting often blocked much of the sun from coming in the windows and my shortest escape route out of the valley would close down.

Then it happened. I found out that a person doesn’t have to be cold or drive on icy roads. Living in the South Pacific, Hawaii and the American Southwest showed me another side of life. I enjoyed my time in those places, but sometimes I wonder if it would have been best not to know. Kind of like flying first class on an airplane – coach was fine until a fluke upgrade to first class on a flight from Bangkok to Taiwan showed me what I was missing. Now, I look up at the front of the plane with longing and at the blanket of white outside with a yearning for spring. If I can’t wait for spring, those temperatures are sure to be found somewhere. Thankfully we live in a country where the climes are as diverse as the people and there is truly something for everyone.

New Year

2011-01-13T08:02:00.000-08:00

It’s good to be home after having traveled over 3,000 miles in December to attend a memorial service in one state and Christmas with family in another. I’m still in disbelief that we managed such a road trip over six driving days in December through Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming and South Dakota with only about an hour of slick roads. The two occasions brought a roller coaster of emotions, but provided an opportunity to see friends we haven’t seen in years and be with family who we miss dearly.

Now, it’s a time to reflect back on the past year and look ahead to the new. I can only hope that 2011 brings peace and closure to those who have lost loved ones or suffered other tragedies, and faith that the coming days will be brighter. Best wishes to all for a happy, successful and compassionate New Year.

Happy Holidays

2010-12-13T16:54:00.000-08:00

I can’t believe it’s only twelve days until Christmas and I haven’t sent my cards out, put up a single decoration or finished shopping. I usually mail cards the first week of December and I’ve occasionally found all my gifts by the end of the summer. But, the snow and cold last weekend reminded me to get into the holiday spirit and tackle everything on my list. So, first on my list is to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and to thank you all for another year of encouragement and support.

Potential for Adventure

2010-11-12T12:28:00.000-08:00

Every day has the potential for adventure. I’m not talking necessarily about a jungle trek, deep-sea diving or even climbing mountains, but merely those small discoveries that take us by surprise and keep our imaginations fueled. I try to see or do something new as often as I can and this has sustained me for quite a while and may be more than adequate for many people. But, no matter how rewarding small adventures can be, I’m in the mood for something big. I’m not sure exactly what or where or when, but as the temperatures fall I’m consumed with the need to mix things up a bit and find an adventure to inspire new stories. When I think of riding elephants in Thailand, standing in awe in front of the Pyramids of Giza, climbing to the top of a Mayan temple, snorkeling over colorful reefs, watching an active volcano light up the night or listening to the eerie shrieks of howler monkeys I feel restless. But, the most rewarding adventures are those that just happen, so for now I’ll enjoy the small surprises and make sure I’m ready to go when the next big opportunity for adventure presents itself.

Book Availability

2010-09-30T08:11:00.000-07:00

All my books, except possibly The Lodge, are available on-line at Amazon.com and other on-line retailers, at each publisher’s individual website and can be ordered from any bookstore. Amazon lists The Lodge, but since the publisher has been out of business for over five years I have my doubts as to its availability. For those who prefer to browse the bookstore and see the actual book before buying, you can find copies at the following locations. I’ll post updates as outlets change, so check back often. Thank you for your continued support.

THE WATCH (Suspense/thriller. 2009, ISBN: 978-1-59663-650-0)
Publisher’s website: www.rockpublishing.com
Bookstores can order through wholesalers such as Ingram

The Bookworm at 8702 Pacific Street, Omaha, Nebraska
The Wild Burro Bookstore, Hot Springs, South Dakota (www.thewildburro.com)

DEADLY RUINS (Suspense/thriller. 2009, ISBN: 1-60836-544-1)
Publisher’s website: www.publishamerica.net

The Bookworm at 8702 Pacific Street, Omaha, Nebraska
Probst Western Store in Greybull, Wyoming

THE LODGE (Mystery. 2004, ISBN: 0-9744938-2-1)

The Bookworm at 8702 Pacific Street, Omaha, Nebraska
Probst Western Store in Greybull, Wyoming

Changing Seasons

2010-09-17T07:44:00.000-07:00

Fall is here. It's one of my favorite times of the year. The temperatures are mild, the trees are alive with color, college athletics are in full swing and the holidays are just around the corner. I can't help but feel a little anxious to spend as much time outside as I can before the weather turns. But, the window of opportunity to enjoy the pleasant autumn season is always too short and soon I'll be curled up once again with a few good books - one I'm reading and always one I'm writing.

Writer's Resolution

2010-08-19T07:51:00.000-07:00

I decided to take a break from my usual writer's conferences this year. I've been a bit overwhelmed as of late with all those trying to make money off writers - magazines, editing services, computer programs, contests, marketing, how-to books, conferences - and the list goes on and on. I've read one horror story after another from writers about being hood-winked and I've experienced my share of frustrations while relying too heavily on the honesty of my fellow man. I felt it was time to step back and assess which goods and services are truly helpful and which are products of unscrupulous operators praying on writers' dreams. Unfortunately, the conclusions I arrived at weren't all too flattering. I do believe there are still individuals and companies out there who are passionate about the craft and committed to long-term growth, but it's becoming more difficult all the time to sort through the predators and scammers. So, even though it isn't January first I've decided to make a writer's resolution. I vow to be patient and have more faith in my work. I'm determined to believe the quality of my stories will eventually attract the right agent or publisher who is more concerned about putting out great stories and developing a long and mutually beneficial relationship than the quick buck. And, I'm confident readers are still interested in believable action, fantastic adventures and realistic human dramas. Surely I'm not the last vampire holdout. I will continue to be persistent and hope for a bit of luck along the way.

Happy Fourth of July

2010-07-02T11:33:00.000-07:00

The randomly occurring fireworks explosions over the past few nights announce the approach of Independence Day. I look forward to time with family, watching baseball and enjoying all the summer festivities as I celebrate living in this great country of ours. I hope all my friends, family and readers have a safe and fun Fourth of July weekend.

New Explorations

2010-06-11T08:23:00.000-07:00

The move is done and I’m excited about all the new adventures to come. I’m anxious to explore all that western Iowa and eastern Nebraska have to offer. Omaha’s metro area will no doubt provide many new writing opportunities and the surrounding rural areas will offer a change in geography that is sure to be educational and recreational. In the short time I’ve been here I’ve already enjoyed the downtown farmer’s market, outdoor concerts and festivals and numerous restaurants. The biggest challenge will be finding time to write amid all the activities available and new sites to see.

Big Horn Storm

2010-05-15T12:08:00.000-07:00

I’ve finally put the finishing touches on my latest adventure novel, Big Horn Storm, and I need to start sending it out to agents and publishers. Big Horn Storm is a contemporary western military thriller set in the Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming, with a touch of romance thrown in for good measure. I had such an amazing time writing this story and many scenes took me back to my childhood--from the majestic scenery of one of the most beautiful places on earth to riding my horse down slopes so steep that turning or stopping was out of the question. I’ve always loved the ranching lifestyle and after writing about it I feel compelled to write more. My next adventure, yet to be named, will take place on a ranch in northwestern Wyoming in an area I’m intimately familiar with. The story has barely begun, but I can already feel the excitement building. Like in Big Horn Storm, I aspire to create scenes that compel the reader to hold his or her breath until it’s over. Hopefully I’ll be able to get Big Horn Storm published soon, so I can share an incredible adventure steeped in fact and fiction.

Midwest Bound

2010-05-02T10:04:00.000-07:00

Okay, I admit it, I’m a bad, bad, bad blogger, but hang in there with me and I vow to get better. I just realized I didn’t post one single word in April. The only excuse I can offer up is that we’re in the process of relocating to the fringes of the Midwest. Jobs, house hunting, writing and running between the old home and the new has been a bit overwhelming and this year’s weather hasn’t helped. But, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Soon we’ll be resettled and adjusting to a very different way of life--from tiny town to big city and from mountains to plains. I never thought I'd venture far from the Rocky Mountains, but I’m always up for a new adventure and the coming possibilities are endless and exciting.

The Watch - Back Cover Blurb

2010-03-31T12:16:00.000-07:00

A chance meeting with Russian professor, Dr. Alex Farberov, on a remote Utah highway plunges Melissa Fey into a relationship she has been dreaming of for years. She believes she has met her soul mate. However her best friend, Immigration and the FBI have reason to question Alex’s motives for settling near the heart of Utah’s military facilities. As secrets about the scheming college dean, Alex’s past and Melissa’s embezzling brother begin to surface, the characters take desperate actions to protect themselves from the FBI and each other. Espionage, embezzlement, lies and love collide as they scramble to survive their crumbling worlds.

Prologue

2010-03-16T08:18:00.002-07:00

As the sun set, the evening transformation began at its usual pace. The jaguar god allowed itself one last glimpse before descending into the mouth of the cave and entering Xibalba, the place of fright. He sensed that the conscious world was out of balance and its dwellers would soon be joining his flight through the nine-tiered underworld, their souls desperate to escape.

He had made this trek many times and was confident he would be reborn at dawn. The lost souls would not be so lucky. They would dwell in this place wrought with danger and peril until they were able to traverse the nine levels. If they failed to elude the evils of Xibalba, they would be forced to spend eternity trapped in the Mayan underworld.

The jaguar god watched the earthly struggle for survival play out between unlikely foes. He felt no emotion, and even if he did, he would be unable to alter the outcome. Once the threads had begun to unravel, no being, mortal or otherwise, would be able to challenge destiny and only the chosen ones would emerge from the haunted galleries of the Mayan jungle.

Spring Inspiration

2010-02-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

The birds are returning and their songs have begun to fill the crisp air with warm music. As snow fluttered down all weekend and temperatures dipped into single digits, I feared they had returned home too soon and would pay the ultimate price for an unpredictable winter. But, today the sky is blue and I have faith the birds were correct in their timing and spring is just around the corner. With warmer temperatures comes renewed optimism and inspiration. I think its time to tie up old adventures and dive into a new story.

Blog Block

2010-01-29T08:04:00.000-08:00

I vowed to post at least two entries per month on my blog, but here it is the 29th of January and my mind is blank. I’ve never experienced writer’s block when it comes to my novels, which is a very good thing and understandable. My stories can start anywhere and I always try to follow the most unusual path possible. I can bring the Cold War back with a new twist (The Watch), dig deep to survive a superior enemy in the jungles of Mexico (Deadly Ruins) or try to outrun dirt-bike riding terrorists on horseback in remote mountain country in Wyoming (work in progress). But, my blog is a non-fiction endeavor and life is seldom as exciting as a novel. I guess that’s why I write and why we all read--to go places we can only dream of, experience the unusual and escape to wherever our individual imaginations can take us.

A New Decade

2010-01-08T07:40:00.000-08:00

It seems like only yesterday when many thought Y2K would be the end of the world, but here we are a decade later. Call me an optimist, but I never bought into it. In fact I flew on January 1, 2000. The ticket was dirt cheap, the plane was nearly empty and the flight completely uneventful. Unfortunately the decade to follow the infamous Y2K cannot be categorized as uneventful. But, instead of focusing on the hardships and tragedies our country and world has faced over the past ten years, I try to look ahead. Though the challenges we encounter personally and as a society may seem insurmountable, I have faith many good times are still in our future. So, as we move forward remember those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom and those who have survived difficult times, but never lose hope, the ability to love or the desire to find the goodness still plentiful in our world if we choose to open our hearts and minds.

Friends, Followers and Fans

2009-12-21T10:41:00.000-08:00

I would like to wish everyone a happy holiday season and extend my gratitude to all my friends, followers and fans. I’m thrilled to have so many people who like my work enough to purchase my books and check in with my blog every now and then to see what I’m up to. It’s been and exciting and busy year with two novels to promote, work, travel, family and trying to find time to write. My next story I hope to have published combines a military crisis, harrowing horseback escapes, romance and an attempt to reconcile the past in an action-packed adventure set in the rugged and stunning Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming. Please keep your fingers crossed that I’ll find the right agent or publisher for this project and I’ll keep you posted on its progress.

I hope everyone has a wonderful and prosperous 2010.

Escaping the Chill

2009-12-17T08:10:00.000-08:00

When I booked a Caribbean Cruise more than six months ago I had no way to know I had chosen a great week to be gone. As most of the country was battered by brutal temperatures, wind and snow I enjoyed the balmy embrace of the Caribbean. I had looked forward to being warm for months, but wasn’t expecting much from our ports of call. After having lived in the South Pacific and Hawaii I have developed high expectations for islands and need more than just sand and water to pique my interest. The color of the water and amazing reef life in the Bahamas made me flash back to the Solomon Islands. The shallow, calm, bathtub-warm water teeming with colorful fish fit my snorkeling ability to a tee. I learned there’s more to Puerto Rico than rum and the fascinating colonial history and architecture, beautiful scenery and friendly people were a pleasant surprise. I especially enjoyed the Forts of San Juan National Historic Site. I had expected all Caribbean Islands to be small flat sandy specks in the sea like Grand Cayman and Grand Turk, so the jagged lush peaks of St. John shattered my preconception. The roads on St. John offered steep breath-holding curves and breathtaking views. The island wasn’t easy to access, requiring a forty-minute boat shuttle from St. Thomas, but the ride only enhanced the experience and provided a fascinating way to escape the chill. Photos: Left-Trunk Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands; Right-Bahamas.

Book Update #1

2009-11-18T14:59:00.000-08:00

I was very excited to learn that The Watch will soon be available for Kindle users. An exact release date hasn’t been set yet, but the publisher hopes to have it available before Christmas. I was also notified The Watch will be re-released in hardback, which is anticipated for early 2010. I'll post more details as they become available or visit the publisher’s website at www.rockpublishing.com.

On another front, the retail price of Deadly Ruins, directly from the publisher, has recently been reduced along with company-wide reductions in shipping costs. For more information see publishamerica.net and search by my name or the book’s title.

Thanks to everyone who has, and continues to support my work. Being able to share my stories with others has been a true joy and something I hope to be able to continue for many years to come.

Adventures in Golf

2009-11-06T07:32:00.000-08:00

Now don’t laugh. In the rural west, golf can be quite adventurous. Going after a lost ball on the way to the eighteenth hole in Carlsbad, New Mexico could encounter rattlesnakes that would make Indian Jones cringe and the concentration and size of rock chucks (marmots) on the Custer, South Dakota course (above) would put the run on Caddy Shack’s gopher population. Sand traps and water are just several of the hazards and are a small inconveniences to suffer for the privilege of being out in some very beautiful areas. Where else besides Hot Springs, South Dakota, are you more likely to have to wait for deer or wild turkeys to cross the green than another player?

Every course is different and offers unique challenges and that’s part of the fun. Being the marginal player that I am doesn’t dampen my enthusiasm for the sport when the activity gives me an excuse to linger in such places as Crawford, Nebraska (population 1,107), which by the way, has a great nine-hole course. So, I play on in hopes of achieving eighteen holes at par and finding the next hidden gem that makes the outing as exciting as the game.

Costa Rica

2009-10-30T11:57:00.000-07:00

This time last year I was busy preparing for a trip to Costa Rica. The country was magnificent and made me anxious to explore more of Central America. Other than a quick trip into Belize to visit some Mayan ruins and a day at the beach on Isla Rotan in Honduras, I’ve never spent any significant time in Central America.

We flew into San Jose and stayed a couple of nights in the city before venturing out. The culture and history were fascinating, but only the beginning to what this country has to offer. We then explored the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, the Central Valley and the North. We hiked through pristine rain forests, enjoyed the Pacific coast beaches, visited coffee plantations and small villages, watched as Arenal erupted and soaked in mineral pools heated by the volcano, but the highlight had to be the time we spent at Tortuguero. Tortuguero (see picture above) is only accessible by small aircraft (though the airstrip was closed for repairs while we were there) or a lengthy boat ride. The boat ride to the rustic lodge was half the fun. Every day we toured the jungle canals by boat, which gave us the opportunity to view monkeys and birds en masse. The wildlife was amazing and the sounds made the experience even more fascinating. I’ll never forget the first time I heard a group of howler monkeys at close range. After I got over the initial fear that I had somehow landed in the middle of James Rollins’, Amazonia, I couldn’t get enough of listening to and studying the amazing animals.

So, as I watched the snow out my office window for most of the week, I contemplated my next Central American adventure. I’m leaning toward Guatemala, but I’ve heard good things about Panama. I’m sure something will come up to guide me toward a new destination and I’m sure it will be just and exciting as the last and may even end up being the setting of a new book.

Fall in Jackson Hole

2009-10-14T08:11:00.000-07:00

My work has allowed me to spend time is some of the most beautiful places in America. Having just returned from two weeks in the Jackson Hole area, I can’t help but acknowledge how lucky I am. And, it’s no wonder that I became a writer. Nothing inspires more than watching elk move through the morning mist on a frigid fall day in Grand Teton National Park or listening to the explosive roar of lava as it enters the ocean at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Being in places where cell phone coverage is sparse and televisions are absent forces me to look at my surroundings and contemplate the tales rattling around in my head. My recent visit to Wyoming was consumed with work and spending time with family and friends, so I didn’t do a lot of writing, but as always, I’ve come home motivated to turn real life adventures into fictitious stories set in exciting and amazing locations at home and around the world.

Book Signing

2009-09-18T07:51:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I had the opportunity to participate in a group book signing in Denver, Colorado. I always enjoy these events since it takes a lot of the pressure off when you’re not expected to be the “main draw.” I imagine an author doesn’t sell as many books when readers have so many choices, but it’s still a fun way to do a signing and a great way to meet readers and writers who share a common interest. Overall it was a fun weekend and my writing spirit has been thoroughly rejuvenated.

Fall Sports and Conferences

2009-09-02T10:36:00.000-07:00

Okay, I was a slacker in August – only one post. My excuse is sinus surgery. That’s one adventure that’s not quite over and not one I’ve embraced, but it’s time to move on to better things.

September is a time for University of Wyoming football and volleyball. As with the beginning of every season, I have great hopes for lots of wins and exciting games. Naïve? -- Probably, but what kind of fan would I be if I started out the season any other way?

Fall is also the time for one of my favorite writers’ conferences, the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers’ Annual Colorado Gold Conference. It’s always well organized, educational, inspirational, and is attended by fantastic agents and editors. Conferences are a great way to network and learn and I highly recommend that all writers, experienced or aspiring, try it at least once. I’ve been fortunate to have had a number of books published and, as it should be, each one is better written and better received than the one before. So for me, I’ll be on the lookout for that agent who believes my work deserves to be on the New York Times best seller list and is willing to help it get there.

Summer Somewhere

2009-08-14T09:37:00.001-07:00

Mid-August often brings on a bit of melancholy. This far north, I always consider summer over when August is over despite the notation on my calendar that autumn doesn’t officially begin this year until September 22. The weather could be mild for another two months or snow could be lurking just around the corner.

Spring and fall are nice, each have pleasant attributes that I missed when we lived in non-seasonal areas, but summer is, and always has been, my true love. In fact, I find summer to be essential to my physical and mental well-being. I take pleasure in the long days and hot temperatures. I find it to be cathartic and rejuvenating, preparing me for another long, dark, cold winter. And, garden vegetables, flowers, leafy trees and green grass simply make me happy.

So, as summer winds down my thoughts begin to drift toward exotic locales. I dream about places steeped in culture and history, but most importantly I envision a place that is very warm and green and waiting to be explored. One of the many great things about our diverse planet is that it's always summer somewhere.

Defining Adventure

2009-07-31T10:58:00.000-07:00

According to my Merriam-Webster Dictionary, one definition of adventure is, “a remarkable and exciting experience.” This definition encompasses a broad range and can mean something different to everyone and must fit within each individual's comfort zone. I’ve noticed that as I’ve aged my comfort zone has become increasingly smaller, but the memories of adventures past will never diminish and will serve to keep me actively searching for the next thrilling escapade.

I’ve usually associated the term, “adventure,” with an amazing adrenaline-producing event experienced in an exotic and foreign land. Many times in my life this has been the case, but clearly true adventure has no geographic limits and can be found just outside ones door. When I think about all the exciting experiences I’ve had, probably the most outrageous occurred while living in the Solomon Islands. I could go on for, say, an entire book, which I did many years ago. But, for now I’ll just let my mind wander back to being tossed about in an angry South Pacific sea in a small boat, watching with fear as our canoe was pulled out of the ocean before it could be flipped by the next wave, fording rain-swollen rivers, seeing the stark terror in children’s eyes as they spied their first outsider, seeing the suffering from malaria up close, dodging a mad barracuda’s sharp teeth, snorkeling over World War II wreckage, journeying through a maze of idyllic tiny atolls aboard a rusted cargo ship and meeting people whose outlook on life has changed mine forever.

Adventures in Gardening

2009-07-25T11:06:00.000-07:00

One of my life-long interests has been gardening. Growing up, our gardens contained everything that would grow in Wyoming’s lower elevations, and my mom usually planted enough to feed six families for at least a year, which meant a fall of canning, freezing, drying and storing vegetables. In my adult life I’ve scaled back considerably, but have found new challenges nearly everywhere I’ve lived and haven’t had grand success transferring my Wyoming gardening knowledge to new places.

Between the vog (volcanic smog) and banana slugs the size of my index finger on Hawaii’s Big Island, paradise was one of my least successful gardening adventures. Since I had a dog, poison was out, so I spent many a night with a flashlight and tweezers squeamishly picking slugs off plants, tried trapping them with beer, and experimented with a host of other natural remedies, but in the end I lost. Jackson Hole was another bust. No amount of carrying pots in and out of the house at night and covering plants with blankets can truly compensate for about a 60 day growing season. And, even that was no guarantee I realized one July as I watched the fireworks amid the aftermath of a lovely summer snow storm.

Finally-South Dakota, a locale much similar to the more temperate climes of Wyoming. True enough, but I’ve found the temperatures to be the least of my problems. The deer love plants that deer supposedly don’t touch and find most deer repellent sprays to be merely a seasoning spritz for their salad of my flowers, vegetables, fruits and shrubs. The garden, therefore, is now enclosed by a six-foot high chain-link fence. Problem solved. Wrong again, I forgot about the chipmunks, squirrels, birds and baby bunnies. FYI, baby bunnies love cauliflower and cabbage. Hopefully the rabbits will soon grow too large to fit through the chain-link, but in the meantime, my adventures in gardening continue.

In The Beginning

2009-07-13T15:19:00.000-07:00

I’ve always enjoyed writing, but never took it seriously until circumstances turned a hobby into a passion. The first summer my husband and I worked for the National Park Service, I found myself living in an unfamiliar place in a small mouse-infested cabin with no phone or television while he was away for up to twenty-one days at a time fighting wildfires. Today, most fire assignments are only fourteen days, but I still find plenty of time to write, especially in the summer. The situation during those early years gave me ample time to explore my craft and the setting couldn’t have been more conducive to creativity. No place inspires the imagination quite like Grand Teton National Park. The scenery calms the spirit and soothes the soul, and though I no longer live in the Tetons’ shadow, the image of the majestic mountains still has the ability to draw my heart and mind back to Wyoming.

Cowboy Country

2009-07-05T14:33:00.000-07:00

Recently I took a road trip with my mom and sister to see the Country Jam in Grand Junction, Colorado. Hearing the country music and watching all the cowboys in the crowd made me anxious to get home and finish the final re-write on the latest book I’ve been working on. The country atmosphere also made me contemplate starting another contemporary western adventure story.

I grew up around horses. My dad was a team roper and my sister and I dabbled at barrel racing, but more than rodeo, horses were just a way of life. I never had a tricycle or roller skates, but I had a pony. The pony was a source of constant entertainment as well as a way to round up the rest of the horses from the pasture at night and bring them into the corrals.

We didn’t take trips when I was young unless horses were involved. I probably didn’t appreciate my dad’s idea of a family vacation--a week-long pack trip in the Washakie Wilderness of the Shoshone National Forest. I’m sure at the time I would have rather gone to Disney Land, but looking back it was one of many experiences few could even imagine.

One of my most harrowing, “Man from Snowy River,” moments came on a cattle drive and I’ve striven in my novel to recapture that feeling of defying gravity on horseback. I want the reader to hold their breath until the end of the scene the way I did when I wrote it. In the book I also hope to share some of the most spectacular mountain scenery I’ve ever seen, and I travel a lot. Haven’t I mentioned that?

The Watch

2009-06-24T14:34:00.000-07:00

The Watch, published by James A. Rock & Company, is my latest novel to be released. I had a great deal of fun writing this book. I used my lingering Cold War Era paranoia, corrupt financial dealings of today, an absurd cover up and an unlikely love story to create an unusual romantic suspense. The book is set in Utah in an area with a large number of military facilities that have probably always drawn the attention of our enemies. The area is remote and somewhat inhospitable, yet beauty can be found within its solitude.

In the story, friendships, family loyalty and patriotism are strained to the breaking point as secrets are exposed. When the delicate web of espionage, embezzlement, lies and love begins to unravel, the characters take desperate action to protect themselves from each other and the FBI in order to survive their crumbling worlds.

Reading Tip: Watch the watcher’s identity. Enjoy!

Adventure

2009-06-19T08:23:00.000-07:00

Whether through reading, writing or experiencing first hand, I always enjoy a good adventure. I've been fortunate to have been able to travel much of the U.S. as well as many fascinating places around the world, including Thailand, Egypt, Greece and the Solomon Islands, to name a few. But, no matter how far I go, one of my favorite places has always been Mexico. Mostly I've visited Mexico as a tourist, but I had an opportunity several years ago to spend time in the country doing volunteer work. Like the U.S., Mexico is wonderfully diverse, from its people to its varied geography. I especially love visiting Mayan Ruins. To date I've been to Tulum, Coba, Ek Balam and Chichen Itza in Mexico and Xunantunich in Belize, and plan to visit as many more as I can. Needless to say, Mexico, especially Mayan ruins often find their way into my stories. Deadly Ruins is set near Coba. Nothing adds excitement to seeing a new place quite like plotting how a story could possibly unfold in a mysterious and fascinating locale. After my first visit to Coba, I knew I had to set a story amidst the ruins and subsequent visits have brought the story to life.

Welcome

2009-06-16T10:50:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog. As friends and family continue to disperse across the country, I'm excited to find one more way to keep in touch. I hope to be diligent in my posts, but as we all know, summer can be a bit crazy. This spring and summer has started out especially interesting with a near simultaneous release of two of my books. Deadly Ruins is the long awaited sequel to The Lodge (2004) and The Watch is a romantic suspense that's been in the works for nearly two years now. Between the book releases, work travel, my nephews' baseball schedules and getting the garden in, I haven't had time to stop and smell the lilacs (can't have roses here in South Dakota-the deer eat them). I think I need a vacation. Oh, wait--Did I mention I'm a travel junkie? More on that later.