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Category Archives: Stolen Bride series

The Curse of the Saggy Middle

03 Monday Mar 2014

Posted by elizaknight in Stolen Bride series, Writing Tips

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

fiction writing, Saggy middles, writing, writing tips

When you first start writing, there’s an excitement that keeps your fingers flying. Everything is new and you’re eager to get your characters onto the pages to begin their journey. By the same token, when you reach the end of the story, the resolution is in sight, and you’ve labored with your characters for days, weeks, months, and you can’t wait to write, “The End.” But, somewhere in the middle, things start to lag. Not just the words and creative juices, but there is also a lot of self-doubt going on, too, questioning about whether the story is truly worth writing, and if you’ve done it justice.

It’s the saggy middle curse!

I’m going to share with you some of my own tips on how to deal with a saggy middle—and get over that hump!

  • Every scene should have a goal of moving the story forward—even if that scene is to push the character’s further away from their goals. Re-evaluate your stalling scene to see if it is holding its weight.
  • Conflict! When you’re finding the words are lagging, add in more conflict. Could be a minor bump or a major one, but it will get the words and excitement flowing again—also will pick up the pacing. Up the conflict that is already within the book.
  • Increasing tension goes right along with the conflict, but make sure your characters are wound up tight! No time for relaxing until the end!
  • If you feel your story is lagging, often times pacing can be the issue, its draggy, slow. Dialogue is a great way to pick up the pace of the story.
  • A reveal—give us something interesting.
  • Up the stakes. Make it really personal to those characters and watch the emotions fly.
  • Go back to the beginning. Somewhere around the halfway mark, I tend to go back and read the first few chapters. It helps me to realize where I’m going and get me reinvested.
  • Ask a crit partner to read a few chapters to see if you’re on the “write” track.
  • Somewhere in the middle of your story, your character is going to realize something—it’s going to be a revelation that begins to change them—the arch in that story arc. Let’s see it!
  • Introduce a new character.
  • Kill a character off.
  • Add a plot twist.
  • If you’re writing romance, sensual tension along with conflict and emotional turmoil are awesome ways to keep those pages turning!
  • Surprise your reader—and your characters! Take us in a direction we did NOT think the story was going.
  • As for self-doubt—Tell that little devil to shut the front door! (And this is why I go back and read the beginning and get advice from crit partners—I either feel better in the end, or figure out a way to fix the issues!) Self-doubt is unfortunately a hard-core disease we all suffer from at some point during a manuscript. But, seriously, IGNORE it. Figure out a way to slap that biatch!
  • Take a short break—and I don’t mean longer than a day or two! Sometimes you need to step back and let the story marinate in your mind before you can dig back in. Don’t take too long of a break or you’ll end up forgetting important info.
  • Plot it out—break your story down chapter by chapter so you have a map to follow. When you start heading in the wrong direction, or feel lost, break out that map and get your butt back on the road.
  • Cut the crap—if you’re  bored with what you’re writing, chances are your reader will be too. Cut it, and move on.
  • Don’t complicate things. Has your story grown into the massive, tangled, viney, thorny mess that surrounds Sleeping Beauty’s castle? Sometimes we have too many plot turns. Take a step back and evaluate. Does it work? Or should you eliminate some? Maybe your story is too, simple—ramp it up!

Take a moment to evaluate your story, and get those words flowing again! Don’t let the beginning and end be the only places your story is exciting and page-flipping-worthy. Readers want to be excited and on the edge of their seat through the book.

Happy writing!

Eliza

Check out my new release!

DImageesire tempted them, but love conquered all…

Laird Jamie Montgomery is a warrior with a mission. When he travels to the northern Highlands on the orders of William Wallace, temptation in the form of an alluring lass, could be his undoing.

Lady Lorna Sutherland can’t resist the charms of one irresistible Highlander. Though she’s been forbidden, she breaks every rule for the pleasure of his intoxicating embrace.

When their love is discovered, Jamie is tossed from Sutherland lands under threat of death. But danger can’t keep the two of them apart. No matter what perils may try to separate them—Lorna and Jamie swear they’ll find a way to be together.

A SHORT EXCERPT…

(Take note, this is from the prologue and the hero is young lad of fourteen in this scene…)

The laird and his men raised their swords in the air, roaring out their battle cries. Jamie raised his sword to do the same, but a flash of gold behind a large lichen-covered boulder caught his attention. He eased his knees on his mount’s middle.

What was that?

Another flash of gold — was that blonde hair?

Jamie turned to his father, intent to point it out, but his sire was several horse-lengths ahead and ready to engage the outlaws, leaving it up to Jamie to investigate.

After all, if there was another threat lying in wait, was it not up to someone in the group to seek them out? The rest of the warriors were intent on the outlaws which left Jamie to discover the identity of the thief.

He veered his horse to the right, galloping toward the boulder. A wee lass darted out, lifting her skirts and running full force in the opposite direction. Jamie loosened his knees on his horse and slowed. That was not what he’d expected. At all. Jamie expected a warrior, not a tiny little girl whose legs were no match for his mount. As he neared, despite his slowed pace, he feared he’d trample the little imp.

He leapt from his horse and chased after her on foot. The lass kept turning around, seeing him chasing her. The look of horror on her face nearly broke his heart. Och, but he was no one to fear. But how would she know that? She probably thought he was after her like the outlaws had been after the man, woman and lad.

“’Tis all right!” he called. “I will nay harm ye!”

But she kept on running, and then was suddenly flying through the air, landing flat on her face.

Jamie ran toward her, dropping to his knees as he reached her side as she pushed herself up.

Her back shook with cries he was sure she tried hard to keep silent. He gathered her up onto his knees and she pressed her face to his leine shirt, wiping away tears, dirt and snot as she sobbed.

“Momma,” she said. “Da!”

“Hush, now,” Jamie crooned, unsure of what else he could say. She must have just watched her parents and brother get cut to the ground. Och, what an awful sight for any child to witness. Jamie shivered at a loss for words.

“Blaney!” she wailed, gripping onto his shirt and yanking. “They hurt!”

Jamie dried her tears with the cuff of his sleeve. “Your family?” he asked.

She nodded, her lower lip trembling, green-blue eyes wide with fear and glistening with tears. His chest swelled with emotion for the little imp and he gripped her tighter.

“Do ye know who the men were?”

“Bad people,” she mumbled.

Jamie nodded. “What’s your name?”

She chewed her lip as if trying to figure out if she should tell him. “Lorna. What are ye called?”

“Jamie.” He flashed her what he hoped wasn’t a strained smile. “How old are ye, Lorna?”

“Four.” She held up three of her fingers, then second guessed herself and held up four. “I’m four. How old are ye?”

“Fourteen.”

“Ye’re four, too?” she asked, her mouth dropping wide as she forgot the horror of the last few minutes of her life for a moment.

“Fourteen. ’Tis four plus ten.”

“I want to be fourteen, too.” She swiped at the mangled mop of blonde hair around her face, making more of a mess than anything else.

“Then we’d best get ye home. Have ye any other family?”

“A whole big one.”

“Where?”

“Dunrobin,” she said. “My da is laird.”

“Laird Sutherland?” Jamie asked, trying to keep the surprise from his face. Did his father understand just how deep and unsettling this attack had been? A laird had been murdered. Was it an ambush? Was there more to it than just a band of outlaws?

 There would be no meeting, if the laird who’d called the meeting was dead.

“I’ll take ye home,” Jamie said, putting the girl on her feet and standing.

“Will ye carry me?” she said, her lip trembling again. She’d lost a shoe and her yellow gown was stained and torn. “I’m scared.”

“Aye. I’ll carry ye.”

“Are ye my hero?” she asked.

Jamie rolled his eyes and picked her up. “I’m no hero, lass.”

“Hmm… Ye seem like a hero to me.”

READ IT!  Amazon / Barnes and Noble

 

 

New Release — A KILTED CHRISTMAS WISH

25 Monday Nov 2013

Posted by elizaknight in Books, contemporary romance, Self-Published, Stolen Bride series

≈ Leave a comment

Tags

A Kilted Christmas Wish, Christmas romance, contemporary romance, Highlanders, kilts

I love kilts, Christmas, chocolate, hot chocolate and even hotter heroes. Add all those together with heaping spoonful of love and you have my new Christmas novella–A KILTED CHRISTMAS WISH! (Oh and guess what??? The hero–Aaron Sutherland–is a descendant of the Sutherlands from my Stolen Bride series!)

ElizaKnight_AKiltedChristmasWish2500Down on her luck with men, Darla Strider wonders if she’ll ever meet her own kilted hero. Considering she lives in present day New York City, the likelihood of that happening is nil. She’s certain only a Christmas wish could make her dreams come true. Until the day Aaron Sutherland walks into her café, and changes her whole world.

Leaving his pain in Scotland for life in the States, the last thing Aaron has in mind is hooking up with a city girl. But one look at Darla and she’s got him singing All I Want for Christmas is You.

Want to read an excerpt? How about all of Chapter One??? Enjoy!

Highlanders. Oh, she wished.

Darla Strider, hopeless romantic and cynical love hater, tossed the Scottish romance novel she’d been reading aside. Highlander’s Reward… Ultra alpha hero, fiercely loyal, powerful, hot body, good in bed, not to mention his kilt… When was she going to get her reward? The Scottish hero from the novel certainly wasn’t going to leap from the pages, long sexy hair flowing, sword glinting, eyes filled with desire and ask her out to dinner followed by mind-blowing sex—except in her fantasies. And in her fantasies, she would say, yes, a thousand times yes, throwing herself into his waiting, muscular arms.

Leaning an elbow on the counter of her gourmet deli and resting her chin in her hand, she gazed out the paned glass onto the busy, holiday-adorned Manhattan street. Any minute the lunchtime rush would begin. Thank goodness her chef was in today. With Amanda, her hostess/waitress, out sick, the counter was going to get crazy. Reading time was over for the next few hours. What did it matter, anyway? She was beginning to be overly bitter about romance and a reminder of that was the last thing she needed.

One miserable, failed date after another. A couple of meaningless relationships and a series of messy nights bumping uglies. Romance, for Darla, was dead.

What she wouldn’t give to have a Highlander walk through her door that very moment. At least a free year’s supply of her prized veggie and goat cheese panini. To hear his brogue stroke her like a caress while he told her how beautiful he thought she was. She smirked. For that, she’d throw in a daily glass of sangria.

Never going to happen.

She glanced over at the miniature Christmas tree tucked into the corner near the window. Stockings hung from its branches, all in the name of holiday cheer. A little bronzed Santa sat nestled in the branches, surrounded by twinkling white lights and silver tinsel.

“Santa,” she murmured. “Please bring me one of these Highland heroes for Christmas.”

Oh, God, now she was resorting to talking to inanimate objects. Hopeless.

The bell over the door dinged. Swiping her hands on her snowman-covered apron as she stood straight and plastered a smile on her face, Darla resisted the urge to gasp at the gorgeous man who walked through the entrance. Dressed in a dazzling fitted, charcoal-gray suit, with a light blue dress shirt and shiny black tie, he looked like he’d just walked off a billboard titled, Every Woman’s Dream. Dark hair, slightly on the longish side, clean shaven, chiseled features—and those eyes. Gray as storm clouds and just as unpredictable.

Darla swallowed her shock and cocked her head slightly. “Welcome to City Café,” she said, silently cursing the slight shake in her voice. She clutched her fingers together behind her back, then quickly brought them around front when she realized she’d thrust her breasts forward, too.

A delicious grin curled his lips and his eyes raked over her making Darla wish she’d chosen her good jeans today. The ones that made her butt look bootylicious instead of I-eat-too-much-chocolicious.

“Thanks,” he said.

Darla did a double-take, her mouth falling open at least an inch. She definitely detected some sort of accent. Her heart sped up and she gave a furtive glance at Santa. Sounded Scottish, but it was hard to decipher from one syllable. There was no way… She was delusional, that was all.

“Would you like to eat in or carryout?” she managed.

He studied her for a few skips of her heartbeat. There was a wicked glint in his eyes. The kind that would normally make her melt. Okay, fine. She admitted it, the way he was looking at her, she was bound to go boneless if he didn’t look away.

“I’d like a table,” he said.

Holy, fucking, Santa Claus!

The man spoke with the most discernible Scottish brogue. Knees going weak, Darla gripped the counter to hold herself up. She blinked, staring at him and then back at her Christmas tree. Was this a joke? No. Couldn’t be. Just a coincidence. A huge coincidence. No stars-aligning, tragic romance bull, just chance.

“Is that all right?” he asked, staring around the café when she didn’t respond.

The door opened, bell dinging, as a group of three walked in, dusting snow off their sleeves. The noise pulled her out of her trance, and Darla jerked into motion, grabbing a menu.

“Yes, yes, of course.” She skidded around the side of the counter and took him to the table closest to her—selfish really. She wanted the ability to stare at him while she worked. Ugh. Maybe she should convince him to take his order to go?

“Would you mind if I sat by the window?” He shrugged, having the adorable awareness to look charming. “Just got into town and I do love to people watch.”

Darla managed to find her wit somewhere buried beneath the shock and drool. She gave a throaty laugh—hi-fiving herself for being sexy. “I love people watching, too. No problem.”

She led him over toward the Christmas tree, glaring at Santa as she went. Not fair for him to play such a cruel joke on her. “How’s this?”

“Perfect.”

Lord, was he ever…

A clearing throat behind Darla reminded her the line was starting to build. She felt her face heat. She might as well just strip off her clothes right then and there and offer herself over to her hot customer.

Instead, she handed him the menu and said, “I’ll be back in a moment to take your order.”

“Thanks.” He smiled at her.

Not the usual, thanks for the menu now leave me alone smile. No, this was a charming, I want to ask you to dinner smile. And if he asked, she might just find it impossible to say no.

Darla whirled back toward the counter, practically running behind it. Her limbs were tingling, going numb and she could barely catch her breath. Just a coincidence she kept telling herself.

And no dates. Even if he oozed sex on a platter. She wasn’t going down that road again. Besides, she had a half dozen people in line to attend to. Daydreaming about Mr. Hot Scotsman was only going to ruin her business. A chance she couldn’t take. The café was all she had. Her family was scattered across the country, and it wasn’t like she was going to beg a couch to crash on.

Jorge peeked his head around the corner from the kitchen, raising his brow. Darla pressed her lips together, suppressing a smile. Her chef knew her too damn well.

After taking the orders of those in line, she used the brief lull in traffic to rush back to her Scottish gentleman.

“I’m sorry about the wait. What would you like to have today?”

He flashed her that smile again and she gripped tight to her pen to keep from flinging it as her fingers twitched. Yeah, the last thing she needed was to poke out one of his gorgeous eyes.

“What is your favorite?” he asked.

“Hands down the roasted veggie panini, but if you’re in a meaty mood, the turkey and spinach pesto is amazing.”

“I’ll give yours a shot. If it’s not to my liking, I’ll have to come back tomorrow for the turkey.”

Her breath caught. He’d come back?

“That sounds great,” she rushed out. A blush crept up over her chest, a smile frozen on her lips. “I’m going to go put this in.” She hurried back to the kitchen, cursing herself for not being able to say something clever and witty, knowing she must look like a complete moron, mooning over the stranger like a woman who’d never seen a man before.

She’d been staring at him like a deer caught in the headlights. He probably thought she was crazy.

Plates started popping out of the kitchen window, and between taking more orders, she served lunches to those who were staying—including Mr. Hotstuff—and bagged up the to-go’s. Every time she looked toward the hottie by the Christmas tree he was watching her. A few times he tried to look away, pretending that he’d not been staring, but other times he smiled.

She was supposed to be the one staring—not him.

Damn. Double damn.

She’d vowed no more dates. Not one man was going to take off the metaphorical chastity belt she’d chained to her nether-regions. Not until she’d met a man worth it. Not until she felt that spark of love. No matter how much of a Scottish accent he had, or how much she wanted to stare into his stormy gray eyes.

“Excuse me?”

Darla jerked her gaze to the annoyed looking woman. The sound of her customer’s foot tapping in front of the counter made Darla’s eye twitch.

“Welcome to City Café, how can I help you?” She plastered on her snappy customer service smile and listened to the woman complain about how she’d said hello to her about five times before Darla answered.

“So sorry, we’ve been swamped. My apologies.”

“Take out order for the Simpson Firm.”

Darla rummaged through the called in to-go’s and handed the woman two large recycled paper bags, filled with hers and Jorge’s famous paninis. She rang her up, exchanging cash and change with the woman was painful as she seemed to have an affinity to rolling her eyes.

“Enjoy.” Darla handed her the bag.

The woman didn’t bother to say thank you, but stormed out at such a jerky pace, making Darla fear she’d drop the order.

“Guess not everyone can be pleased.” Her Scottish friend had somehow managed to leave his chair and approach the counter without her noticing.

“Not always,” she said with a smile. “Are you all done?”

“Yes, best sandwich I’ve ever had. You run a great café.” He winked. “Very charming. Just like its owner.”

Her mouth fell open. Charming? He was starting with the compliments already?

“I didn’t catch your name. I’m Aaron.” He held out his hand.

She stared down at his hand for a little longer than was appropriate, but finally snapped out of it, slipping hers against his palm. His hand was warm. Fingers long.

“I’m Darla.”

“Are you open for dinner, Darla?” he asked.

Her stomach did a little flip and she nodded. “Um, yes, we are.”

“Darn. I was going to see if you were free to go out with me this evening. Maybe some other time.” He picked up one of the restaurant deli cards and stuck it in his pocket.

She opened her mouth to speak, but only succeeded in nodding. He flashed her one more heart-throbbing smile before walking out of the door, and potentially out of her life forever.

READ THE REST!!! 

Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Smashwords

Heartbreaker Blog Hop!

08 Friday Feb 2013

Posted by elizaknight in Books, Contest, Historical Romance, Stolen Bride series

≈ 39 Comments

Tags

Heartbreaker blog hop, Stolen Bride series, The Highlander's Lady

Heartbreaker ButtonWelcome to the Heartbreaker Blog Hop! Who doesn’t love a heartbreaker? All my heroes tend to be heartbreakers, at least a little bit.

ElizaKnight_TheHighlandersLady2500In my latest Stolen Bride book, THE HIGHLANDER’S LADY, Laird Daniel Murray, breaks hearts all the time. He’s a hawt, sword-wielding rogue. In fact, he met the heroine, Lady Myra several years prior and broke her heart. She fell in love with him almost instantly, only to come upon him flirting it up with a bunch of other ladies. Now he’s laying on the charm once more, and she has to figure out if she’ll open her heart to him again or run away.

What is it about heartbreakers that make us swoon? Is it their never-ending charm? Wicked smiles full of naughty promise?

Be sure to leave a comment (WITH YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS!) below in order to be entered to win the GRAND prize (3 winners), as well as to win a prize on this site (2 winners)! I’m giving away a signed copy of THE HIGHLANDER’S LADY and a deck of Heart to Heart Conversation Cards for Valentine’s Day (learn, listen, talk, explore the unique history of the people you care about! Includes 46 question cards, 1 mystery/secret card, and instructions)–to one US/Canada winner, and 1 ebook copy of THE HIGHLANDER’S LADY to an international winner!

The GRAND prize… (Sorry, US winners only!) DSCN1367 ABOUT THE BOOK:

A Highlander tamed…

Laird Daniel Murray seeks adventure, battle and freedom for his countrymen. Putting off his duties as laird—with a promise to his clan he’ll return come spring—Daniel sets off with his men to fight alongside William Wallace and the Bruce. But soon he stumbles across an enchanting lady in need. She tantalizes him with an offer he simply can’t refuse and a desire he attempts to dismiss.

A lady’s passion ignited…

Escaping near death at the treacherous hands of a nearby clan, Lady Myra must find the Bruce and relay the news of an enemy within his own camp. Alone in a world full of danger and the future of her clan at stake, she must trust the handsome, charismatic Highland laird who promises to keep her safe on her journey—and sets her heart to pounding.

Together, Daniel and Myra will risk not only their lives, but their hearts while discovering the true meaning of hope and love in a world fraught with unrest.

SHORT EXCERPT:

“What of yourself? How will ye protect me from yourself?”

Daniel laughed at that, spreading his arms outward. “Have some faith, Lady Myra, I wouldna harm ye. I do possess a certain amount of self-control.”

Myra studied her escort for several moments, taking in his towering height, the breadth of his shoulders, strength of his legs. He was a man built for warring. Despite his considerable bulk, he moved with ease and grace, giving credence to his control of his body—but his mind was another matter.

“Ye’ll pardon me for being skeptical. ’Tis not a man’s tendency to contain himself when alone with a female.”

“Truly? Ye think all men beasts?” He stepped closer to her and she imagined heat coming off his large frame in waves.

“Those I’ve come to meet.”

“Ah…”

Was there a twinge of hurt in his words? Had she offended him?

“I mean no offense, Daniel. ’Tis only my experience that I speak of.”

“I take no affront, Lady Myra. Ye’ve been through quite a trauma today.”

He glanced up at the sky, assessing the whitish-grey clouds and she did the same, wondering at his thoughts.

“I will see ye safely to Eilean Donan, so ye might be about your business.” He paused, considering her. She felt more exposed than she’d ever been in her life, and she couldn’t be sure why. She was completely clothed. He had no idea who she truly was. “On one condition.”

Myra swallowed, feeling her nerves prickle. He was indeed a man. “What is your price?”

Daniel nodded his chin in her direction, a challenging glint entering his eyes. “Ye must agree to marry me.”

She gasped, stepped back, her mouth agape in horror. She fisted her hands into the folds of her gown and cloak. “Marry ye?” Shaking her head vehemently, she tried to keep her throat from closing in panic.

“Aye.” He didn’t sound even a quarter as nervous as she did. Almost like he asked lasses to wed with him on a daily basis.

Was the notion of being forever tied to another so mundane to him? Of so little value? What kind of a man was he?

Miraculously, she was able to recover her voice and was pleased when her reply came out in steady, even tones, “Why would I do that?”

“Because ye want to reach the Bruce in one piece. Because your reason for getting there is of such importance ye will not tell me why. Because I will keep ye safe and ye’ve already had the misfortune of meeting one of the many vagrants upon the road. Next time ye may not be so lucky—even with your swift hand.”

He had a point… Myra didn’t want to die.

READ IT!

Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Check out the rest of the authors participating in the Heartbreaker Blog Hop for your chance to win more prizes and discover new authors/books!

Six Sentence Sunday!

27 Sunday Jan 2013

Posted by elizaknight in Historical Romance, Six Sentence Sunday, Stolen Bride series

≈ 8 Comments

sixsundayheader

 

Sadly, this is the last sponsored Six Sentence Sunday. BUT, I will continue to post here, so if you like to read my excerpts, they will still be here on Sundays 🙂

ElizaKnight_TheHighlandersLady2500

The following six sentences are from my novel, THE HIGHLANDER’S LADY. Laird Daniel Murray is trying to convince her he’s not such a brute and that she should marry him.

“…I promise ye, I’m not a brute.”

She frowned. “Ye promised to control yourself too and yet ye’ve already kissed me.”

Daniel reached for her hands once more, stroking his thumb over her knuckles. “Aye. If ’tis your wish, I’ll not kiss ye again.” Until the bedding…

ABOUT THE BOOK…

A Highlander tamed…

Laird Daniel Murray seeks adventure, battle and freedom for his countrymen. Putting off his duties as laird—with a promise to his clan he’ll return come spring—Daniel sets off with his men to fight alongside William Wallace and the Bruce. But soon he stumbles across an enchanting lady in need. She tantalizes him with an offer he simply can’t refuse and a desire he attempts to dismiss.

A lady’s passion ignited…

Escaping near death at the treacherous hands of a nearby clan, Lady Myra must find the Bruce and relay the news of an enemy within his own camp. Alone in a world full of danger and the future of her clan at stake, she must trust the handsome, charismatic Highland laird who promises to keep her safe on her journey—and sets her heart to pounding.

Together, Daniel and Myra will risk not only their lives, but their hearts while discovering the true meaning of hope and love in a world fraught with unrest.

Read it!

Ebook: Kindle / Barnes and Noble / Smashwords (all e-formats) and in PRINT

Want to check out more author’s participating in Six Sentence Sunday? Click here. 

Holiday Gifts of Love Hop!

14 Friday Dec 2012

Posted by elizaknight in Books, Contest, Health Tips and Recipes, Historical Romance, Stolen Bride series

≈ 47 Comments

Tags

blog hop, Muffins, Stolen Bride series

C

ElizaKnight_TheHighlandersReward_2500px (1)Happy Holidays!!! From today until the 17th, make sure to leave a comment here and at as many of the over 200 participating author blogs for your chance to win one of the three grand prizes! AND by leaving a comment here, you’ll be entered for a chance to win the 1st THREE ebooks in my Stolen Bride series!!! THE HIGHLANDER’S REWARD, THE HIGHLANDER’S CONQUEST and THE HIGHLANDER’S LADY!!

What are the three grand prizes???? See below…

Floral Background in Black and Gold Colors

Around the holidays, I absolutely love to bake! Bread, muffins, cookies, you name it, my house smells good everyday in December!

ElizaKnight_TheHighlandersConquest_2500Today, I thought I’d share a muffin recipe that I just made! It was so good… They were gone within a couple hours and I had to make another batch so the kids had something for breakfast the next morning (my kids won’t eat cereal… I’ve tried, but you’d think I was feeding them manure!)

Because I wanted to make sure my kiddies had balanced meal, this muffin is jam-packed with goodness, but tastes like heaven… Even my husband liked them–and he hates healthy things 🙂

So, if you’re looking for something yummy to munch on Christmas morning, or this afternoon, try this recipe!

MUFFINSEliza’s Banana Chocolate Muffins — Yum!

Ingredients:

1 cup of Chocolate Almond Milk

1 tsp apple cider vinegar

3/4 c. of oatmeal

1 1/4 c. whole-wheat pastry flour

2 tbsp ground flaxseed

1/3 c. grapeseed oil

2 ripe bananas

1/2 c. walnuts

1/2 c. semi-sweet mini-chocolate chips

1/3 c sugar

1 tbsp cinnamon

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla

Directions:

Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees. Prepare muffin tin — either grease or use paper cups. I like the paper cups better.

Put oatmeal in a food processor and grind for a few seconds–until it looks like flour/crushed oats. Stir together pastry flour, oat flour, baking powder, salt, flaxseed. In a measuring cup, stir the vinegar into the milk. In a separate bowl, mash bananas. Add sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, oil, milk, nuts and chocolate chips. Stir in the flour.

Pour mixture into each muffin cup–almost to the top.

Bake for 20-22 minutes, or until a toothpick stuck in the center comes out clean. Cool for about 10 minutes and then nosh!!!

Enjoy 🙂

Check out the other authors participating in the hop!

ElizaKnight_TheHighlandersLady2500The latest book in the Stolen Bride Series!! THE HIGHLANDER’S LADY…

A Highlander tamed…

Laird Daniel Murray seeks adventure, battle and freedom for his countrymen. Putting off his duties as laird—with a promise to his clan he’ll return come spring—Daniel sets off with his men to fight alongside William Wallace and the Bruce. But soon he stumbles across an enchanting lady in need. She tantalizes him with an offer he simply can’t refuse and a desire he attempts to dismiss.

A lady’s passion ignited…

Escaping near death at the treacherous hands of a nearby clan, Lady Myra must find the Bruce and relay the news of an enemy within his own camp. Alone in a world full of danger and the future of her clan at stake, she must trust the handsome, charismatic Highland laird who promises to keep her safe on her journey—and sets her heart to pounding.

Together, Daniel and Myra will risk not only their lives, but their hearts while discovering the true meaning of hope and love in a world fraught with unrest.

Hunk Day Excerpt!

12 Wednesday Dec 2012

Posted by elizaknight in Historical Romance, Stolen Bride series

≈ 3 Comments

It’s Hunk Day again!!!

Today’s excerpt is from my new release, THE HIGHLANDER’S LADY! I love when two character’s are butting heads and inside they are warring with ire and desire. This is a kissing scene between Myra and Daniel…

ElizaKnight_TheHighlandersLady2500“Ye canna stay in here with me,” Myra said, staring at the bed.

She refused to kiss him ever again, let alone have him bed her.

“Ye have no choice.”

At his words she whirled around, feeling the heat of her anger fill her cheeks. Hands clenched, she ground her teeth together, trying not to fly into an unladylike rage, complete with a few well-chosen words.

“I have a choice. Everyone has a choice.” At least, if a person was willing to deal with the consequences, they did.

Daniel didn’t flinch at her retort, he did however study her with an expression she’d never seen before. ’Twas dangerous, dark. His jaw muscles clenched, but he did not narrow his eyes in a glower, instead his gaze rested coldly on her, sending a chill up her spine.

“Choice? Nay, I disagree.”

Myra’s hands flew to her hips. “Would ye have everyone under your thumb?”

“Nay, ’tis not possible.”

Oh, blazing baby Jesus, did the man have no sense? Myra tried to gape at him, but was finding that task to be quite difficult.

“Are ye daft?”

At that he did react quickly, stepping toward her only once but closing a distance that would have taken her many steps. His face drew close to hers, enough so that if she moved an inch closer her lips would be on his.

“How dare ye talk to me like that,” he growled. Then his lips were on hers. She didn’t even have time to catch her breath.

This kiss was different than the one he’d given her by the burn. This time his lips pressed demandingly to hers, taking control, ownership. And she didn’t back away. Nay, Myra pressed harder, her fingers curling over the thick muscle of his shoulders, nails digging in through his leine shirt. Daniel’s hands roved over her back, hauling her up against him with a shock to her senses. She gasped, her mouth opening up enough for his invasion. Hot, slick, velvety tongue swept inside her mouth. Oh, by the saints… She was delirious with pleasure, with need, wanton thoughts.

Myra swirled her own tongue around his, loving the way it sent jolts of fire through her system, made her body weak with the need for him to kiss her forever. She was not timid, didn’t balk when he nibbled her lip or when his hands stroked over her arse and tucked her closer, the hardness of his arousal pressing wickedly against the apex of her thighs.

Oh, she was a bad girl, a very very bad girl. But she refused to feel regret over her actions, over her body’s obvious wicked desire, over her need to see this moment fulfilled. Daniel wasn’t a stranger, he was her husband for the moment and she was his wife.

This was allowed… And she was going to revel in being allowed to touch him this way, to take the pleasure he offered this once.

Save…for one little problem. Myra was angry at him. Tired of him bossing her around. If she was going to kiss him, allow him to stroke her arse, it was going to be on her terms.

ElizaKnight_TheHighlandersLady_POD2Want to read more? THE HIGHLANDER’S LADY is available from the following e-tailers…

Amazon (Print and Ebook)/ Barnes and Noble / Smashwords (all e-formats)

A Highlander tamed…

Laird Daniel Murray seeks adventure, battle and freedom for his countrymen. Putting off his duties as laird—with a promise to his clan he’ll return come spring—Daniel sets off with his men to fight alongside William Wallace and the Bruce. But soon he stumbles across an enchanting lady in need. She tantalizes him with an offer he simply can’t refuse and a desire he attempts to dismiss.

A lady’s passion ignited…

Escaping near death at the treacherous hands of a nearby clan, Lady Myra must find the Bruce and relay the news of an enemy within his own camp. Alone in a world full of danger and the future of her clan at stake, she must trust the handsome, charismatic Highland laird who promises to keep her safe on her journey—and sets her heart to pounding.

Together, Daniel and Myra will risk not only their lives, but their hearts while discovering the true meaning of hope and love in a world fraught with unrest.

Self-Pubbed Series

19 Monday Nov 2012

Posted by elizaknight in Books, Historical Romance, Self-Published Author Interview Series, Stolen Bride series, Uncategorized

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

self-pubbing tips, Self-Published series

It’s baaaaacccckkkk… The self pubbed series!

Over the summer I introduced you to many self-published authors and their journeys. Over the fall, we took a little break, but its back now and in full force! I’ve got the next several months completely booked 😉

To kick it off, I thought I’d give everyone an update on me… I posted my self-pub interview in May, since then I had two self-pubbed Highland novels release, THE HIGHLANDER’S REWARD and THE HIGHLANDER’S CONQUEST. They are the first two books in a planned 6-book series, The Stolen Bride Series.

The books have taken off–each having been on the Hot New Releases best sellers lists, Historical Romance and Historical Fiction best seller lists at Amazon! I’ve been so pleased with their reception and so happy that readers are enjoying them. I had a lot of fun writing them and sharing my character’s stories.

What are sales like?

To date on Amazon, I’ve sold the following:

THE HIGHLANDER’S REWARD (Released on 7/12/12): 8882

THE HIGHLANDER’S CONQUEST (Released on 9/21/12): 3980

I’ve sold significantly less on B&N and through Apple, generally about 150-200 a month combined.

Here’s what I think made the difference in their sales compared to some of my other titles:

~They are full length novels

~Great covers

~Intriguing blurb

~Edited

~Characters a reader can fall in love with

~Compelling plot

~Good price point. The books are $4.99 each.

~Releasing books relatively close together–within 2-3 months of each other. (Even novellas can help you with this!)

~Available in print/ebook from many e-tailers.

~Promotion–I’ve done blog tours, sent the books out for review, Tweeted, Facebooked, did a couple ads (not sure the paid ads helped at all to be honest) and above all, given many books away for free. If you give your book to someone to read and they love it, they may review it for you and share the title with their friends, prompting many more sales.

~Reviews, likes, tags on Amazon — having these things can really move your ranks up within Amazon’s algorithms. The more your books show up, the more exposure they get.

~My hands in many pots. In addition to self-pubbing, I am published with Ellora’s Cave and Carina Press, and I plan to continue my relationship with my publishers, and hopefully a couple more. I like to have my hands in all the pots. I think it can only help my sales across the board. For example, since the release of my self-pubbed books, my sales at my publishers have doubled and tripled in some cases.

So that’s my take on it! I’ll do another update in the spring when the third and fourth books have released.

In the meantime, check out my books!

ImageShe belonged to another… But was destined to be his…

Lady Arbella de Mowbray abhors the idea of marrying an English noble occupying Scotland. When she arrives in Stirling, she is thrown into the midst of a full battle between the Scots and the English. Besieged by rebels, she is whisked from her horse by a Highland warrior who promises her safety. But when he kisses her she fears she’s more in danger of losing herself.

The last thing Magnus Sutherland wants is to marry the beautiful English lass he saved. As the laird of his clan, he has a responsibility to his clan and allies. But when Arbella is attacked by one of his own men, he determines the only way to keep her safe is to make her his. A decision that promises to be extremely satisfying.

Magnus brings Arbella to his home of Dunrobin Castle in the Highlands. And that’s where the trouble begins… Their countries are at war and they should be each other’s enemy. Neither one considered their mock marriage would grow into a deeply passionate love. What’s more, they were both unhappily betrothed and those who’ve been scorned are out for revenge. Can their new found love keep them together or will their enemies tear them apart?

“Eliza Knight has crafted a wonderfully entertaining, emotional and sensual read. I loved the sizzling romance and the exciting adventures. Magnus, the hot Highland hero, stole my heart just as he did Arbella’s.” Vonda Sinclair, Award-Winning author of Scottish romance

Buy Links:  Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Smashwords

ImageWhat is a Highlander to do when he falls for the daughter of his enemy?

Highland warrior, Blane Sutherland, has one mission: disguise himself as an Englishman, cross the border and retrieve Lady Aliah de Mowbray. Always up for a challenge, he agrees, pursuing his conquest with vigor—and trying to deny the powerful desire that eclipses him each time he touches his charge. A rogue of the highest order and a younger son, he has nothing to offer a lady but a broken heart.

And what is a lady to do when she cannot trust her heart?

Aliah is skeptical of the English noble who has come to take her to her father and sister in Scotland, but she pushes her doubts aside. Without word in months, she must make certain her family is safe, then she can return to England to join the convent to which she has sworn to pledge her life. But then her escort reveals his true self—he’s a Highlander and his kisses are more seductive than the sweetest of wines.

Surrender never tasted so sweet…

“An author with a natural gift for story telling…” ―Victoria Roberts, acclaimed author of Temptation in a Kilt

Links: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Smashwords

ImageBook Three: THE HIGHLANDER’S LADY will be released on December 15th, less than a month away!

A Highlander tamed…

Laird Daniel Murray seeks adventure, battle and freedom for his countrymen. Putting off his duties as laird—with a promise to his clan he’ll return come spring—Daniel sets off with his men to fight alongside William Wallace and the Bruce. But soon he stumbles across an enchanting lady in need. She tantalizes him with an offer he simply can’t refuse and a desire he attempts to dismiss.

A lady’s passion ignited…

Escaping near death at the treacherous hands of a nearby clan, Lady Myra must find the Bruce and relay the news of an enemy within his own camp. Alone in a world full of danger and the future of her clan at stake, she must trust the handsome, charismatic Highland laird who promises to keep her safe on her journey—and sets her heart to pounding.

Together, Daniel and Myra will risk not only their lives, but their hearts while discovering the true meaning of hope and love in a world fraught with unrest.

The Alpha Male Blog Hop!

19 Friday Oct 2012

Posted by elizaknight in Books, Contest, Stolen Bride series

≈ 55 Comments

Tags

Alpha Hero Blog Hop, alpha heroes, Eliza Knight, The Highlander's Conquest, The Highlander's Lady, The Highlander's Reward, The Stolen Bride series

Welcome to the Alpha Male Blog Hop! Over 200 authors and bloggers are participating–that means TONS (like hundreds!) of prizes!!! But that’s not all… There are THREE grand prizes. You as a reader can go to EACH blog and comment with your email address and be entered to win. Yep, you can enter over 200 times! Leaving a comment on this post will enter you not only in the grand prizes but in my special giveaway: a signed print copy of THE HIGHLANDER’S REWARD (Book One: The Stolen Bride Series), Scottish yummy smelling soap, and chocolate!!!

Now what are the grand prizes?

1st Grand Prize: A Kindle Fire or Nook Tablet  (Worldwide)
2nd Grand Prize: A $130 Amazon or B&N Gift Card (Worldwide)
3rd Grand Prize: The following Swag Pack! (US Only)

Onto one of my fav topics Alpha Males…

I love an alpha male. A strong, broad chested, stubborn hero with a dark tormented past. He’ll stop at nothing to protect his woman, and boy do I want to be his woman! All of my heroes tend to be Alpha males–real men’s men. Warriors, knights, Highlanders (and even he’s-the-boss contemporary alphas in my non-historicals!).

An alpha male is the one in charge. He’s got the answers–and when he doesn’t, he’ll figure it out. Everyone looks up to him. Everyone wants to be him. All the women want to be with him. He’s hot, intense, with the face of a God. The alpha hero has a sculpted body you want to touch or lick constantly, and he’s a dominant force in the bedroom. He gets his heroine hot and bothered by just looking at her. Can make her shiver with the brush of his fingertips on her cheek. Never leaves her unsatisfied. And yet, despite this tough exterior and intimidating persona, he is tender to his heroine, loves her passionately and would do anything for her.

Let me introduce you to some of my alpha heroes…

THE HIGHLANDER’S REWARD, Book One: The Stolen Bride Series

She belonged to another… But was destined to be his…

Lady Arbella de Mowbray abhors the idea of marrying an English noble occupying Scotland. When she arrives in Stirling, she is thrown into the midst of a full battle between the Scots and the English. Besieged by rebels, she is whisked from her horse by a Highland warrior who promises her safety. But when he kisses her she fears she’s more in danger of losing herself.

The last thing Magnus Sutherland wants is to marry the beautiful English lass he saved. As the laird of his clan, he has a responsibility to his clan and allies. But when Arbella is attacked by one of his own men, he determines the only way to keep her safe is to make her his. A decision that promises to be extremely satisfying.

Magnus brings Arbella to his home of Dunrobin Castle in the Highlands. And that’s where the trouble begins… Their countries are at war and they should be each other’s enemy. Neither one considered their mock marriage would grow into a deeply passionate love. What’s more, they were both unhappily betrothed and those who’ve been scorned are out for revenge. Can their new found love keep them together or will their enemies tear them apart?

Read it!:  Amazon / Barnes and Noble

THE HIGHLANDER’S CONQUEST, Book Two: The Stolen Bride Series

What is a Highlander to do when he falls for the daughter of his enemy?

Highland warrior, Blane Sutherland, has one mission: disguise himself as an Englishman, cross the border and retrieve Lady Aliah de Mowbray. Always up for a challenge, he agrees, pursuing his conquest with vigor—and trying to deny the powerful desire that eclipses him each time he touches his charge. A rogue of the highest order and a younger son, he has nothing to offer a lady but a broken heart.

And what is a lady to do when she cannot trust her heart?

Aliah is skeptical of the English noble who has come to take her to her father and sister in Scotland, but she pushes her doubts aside. Without word in months, she must make certain her family is safe, then she can return to England to join the convent to which she has sworn to pledge her life. But then her escort reveals his true self—he’s a Highlander and his kisses are more seductive than the sweetest of wines.

Surrender never tasted so sweet…

Read it!: Amazon / Barnes and Noble
THE HIGHLANDER’S LADY, Book Three: The Stolen Bride Series

A Highlander tamed…

Laird Daniel Murray seeks adventure, battle and freedom for his countrymen. Putting off his duties as laird—with a promise to his clan he’ll return come spring—Daniel sets off with his men to fight alongside William Wallace and the Bruce. But soon he stumbles across an enchanting lady in need. She tantalizes him with an offer he simply can’t refuse and a desire he attempts to dismiss.

A lady’s passion ignited…

Escaping near death at the treacherous hands of a nearby clan, Lady Myra must find the Bruce and relay the news of an enemy within his own camp. Alone in a world full of danger and the future of her clan at stake, she must trust the handsome, charismatic Highland laird who promises to keep her safe on her journey—and sets her heart to pounding.

Together, Daniel and Myra will risk not only their lives, but their hearts while discovering the true meaning of hope and love in a world fraught with unrest.

Releasing 12/15/12!!!

What do you love about an alpha hero? Who is your fav alpha hero?

Be sure to check out the other authors participating, leave comments for more chances to win!

Six Sentence Sunday!

07 Sunday Oct 2012

Posted by elizaknight in Books, Historical Romance, Six Sentence Sunday, Stolen Bride series

≈ 4 Comments

Happy Sunday readers!

Can you believe that it’s fall? I am shocked that October is here…

Who’s ready for another rousing Six Sentence Sunday? I am!

I like it when a hero will torture himself to see that the heroine is comfortable. The following excerpt is from THE HIGHLANDER’S CONQUEST. Blane has agreed to switch horses with Aliah. His horse is Gunnar, a stunningly beautiful warhorse, and her mount is called Mad Maiden–completely fitting.

With that said, they returned to the horses and he introduced her to Gunnar, the latter acting like a besotted fool. Cursing his mount, Blane climbed atop Aliah’s bouncy mare, and ordered his men to depart.

Satan’s ballocks, the lass wasn’t exaggerating. The mare had the gait of… Well, he didn’t know what, but he jostled all around, and couldn’t seem to get her to move correctly. ’Twas as if she walked with four left feet.

READ IT! Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Want to read THE HIGHLANDER’S REWARD, book one? Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Apple I-Books

Want to check out more author’s participating in Six Sentence Sunday? Click here. 

Six Sentence Sunday!

30 Sunday Sep 2012

Posted by elizaknight in Historical Romance, Six Sentence Sunday, Stolen Bride series, Uncategorized

≈ 6 Comments

Tags

Scottish Historical Romance, The Highlander's Conquest

Welcome back to another Six Sentence Sunday!

The Highlander’s Conquest has been out for little over a week and already seeing much success! Thank you readers, I’m so very pleased you’re enjoying it! I’ve dedicated this week’s six sentences to dogs. Yes, dogs. I have a very insane, expressive, hyper slobbery dog. He often looks at me with disgust–seriously–especially if I’m not doing what he wants. I gave his personality to Frosty, Aliah’s (heroine) dog in The Highlander’s Conquest. Here’s an excerpt from a scene that is a bit humorous… Aliah has been staring after Blane’s (hero) retreating figure–and liking what she sees.

She sighed with disappointment when he was lost from her view. Sitting directly in front of her, Frosty stared at her, snorting with what seemed to be disgust.

“Well, if you were a lady dog, you’d be looking too,” she retorted.

Frosty cocked his head to the side, staring into her eyes.

“You would,” she said, rolling her eyes.

The dog let out a long huff of breath as if annoyed with the line of conversation and instead laid down, staring out the space between the cave wall and toward the water where Blane had disappeared.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

BOOK TWO: The Stolen Bride Series

What is a Highlander to do when he falls for the daughter of his enemy?

Highland warrior, Blane Sutherland, has one mission: disguise himself as an Englishman, cross the border and retrieve Lady Aliah de Mowbray. Always up for a challenge, he agrees, pursuing his conquest with vigor—and trying to deny the powerful desire that eclipses him each time he touches his charge. A rogue of the highest order and a younger son, he has nothing to offer a lady but a broken heart.

And what is a lady to do when she cannot trust her heart?

Aliah is skeptical of the English noble who has come to take her to her father and sister in Scotland, but she pushes her doubts aside. Without word in months, she must make certain her family is safe, then she can return to England to join the convent to which she has sworn to pledge her life. But then her escort reveals his true self—he’s a Highlander and his kisses are more seductive than the sweetest of wines.

Surrender never tasted so sweet…

Want a chance to win a copy? Today THE HIGHLANDER’S CONQUEST is up for the Book-a-day Giveaway at The Romance Studio!

READ IT! Amazon / Barnes and Noble

Want to read THE HIGHLANDER’S REWARD, book one? Amazon / Barnes and Noble / Apple I-Books

Want to check out more author’s participating in Six Sentence Sunday? Click here. 

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