Kimberley Troutte's Blog

The Hero in My House

2012-02-09T07:23:00.001-08:00

Today I am the guest author at the Samhain Publishing. Was my hubby the cover model and/or inspiration for my steamy scenes? Come on over and find out.

http://www.samhainpublishing.com/2012/02/a-valentine/#more-9109

The Love in My Job Post at BTV

2012-02-06T08:34:00.001-08:00

Hi Gang,

I'm over at Beyond the Veil today talking about the heat levels in romances. I discuss the sort of intimacy that I am comfortable writing and why the steam on the page really isn't up to me.

Come on over with your questions.

http://paranormalauthors.blogspot.com/

Thanks!

Kimberley

Color Me a Thrilled Finalist in the NOLA Star’s 2011 Suzannah Contest

2011-12-08T15:19:00.001-08:00

Some days you wake up, the sun is shining, ice crystals twinkle across the lawn like tiny Christmas bulbs, Espresso warms your hands and throat, and you find out that you are one of the six finalists in the Suzannah. Holy moly! My manuscript, EPICENTER, is in the final round!

What is the Suzannah? Only the coolest writing contest EVER. Okay, maybe I'm a little biased since I'm a finalist and all. But there is plenty of coolness about this contest. The final round judges are a panel of six agents and editors. The winner gets money and a trophy! Holy greatness, Batman, a trophy?

The truth is, I feel like I have already won. Seriously. I am so happy.

Thank you NOLA Stars!

Mammo A-Okay

2011-11-23T08:38:00.000-08:00

Shew.

Thank God.

I had my mammogram recheck yesterday and all is well. It was determined that the ultrasound wasn't necessary and I only had to wait five minutes for the good news.

Thank you to all of you for your kind words of encouragement and support.

You guys rock!

P.S. I found out that caffeine can mess up the mammogram results, but no one ever tells us these things. It is a good idea to reduce the caffeine a few days prior to and the day of the mammogram.

God and the Paperclips

2011-11-18T12:39:00.000-08:00

I saw God today in a paperclip.

No, I am not crazy, well, my kids might think I am, but I’m not, really. I do have this crazy-wonderful thing going on right now with paperclips.

It started in the summer. On my daily walks, I began to notice paperclips on the ground. I’d pick one up, put it in my pocket and continue on my way. After a few weeks, I reached into my jean pocket and was amazed that it was loaded with paperclips.

Suddenly, I was finding them all over the place—on the blacktop when I stepped out of my car, on dirt paths going to the beach, by my feet at conference in Las Vegas (where literally thousands of people had walked right over it).

What was going on?

My son finally asked me to stop gasping and pointing at paperclips on the ground every time we went anywhere because it was really freaking him out.

I told my friend, Cyndi, about this phenomenon and she said, “Usually when the universe is throwing things at you like that it means you are supposed to pay attention.”

It had my attention. But what did it MEAN?

“What does a paperclip signify to YOU?” Cyndi asked.

I thought about it. Maybe it meant that I was supposed to get organized. In my day-job, clips hold papers together in a tight, neat way. Taking it as a sign that I was not organized enough, I cleaned the house, the car, my closet, and my own stack of paperwork.

But that wasn’t the answer.

The paperclips didn’t stop appearing. Nearly every day I found one, sometimes two, all sizes and colors. They showed up on weekends, weekdays, at night, in the morning, in the pharmacy line at Rite Aid when I was getting medicine for sick kids, in the waiting room while I waited to be called in for my mammogram, on sidewalks, at the base of trees, stuck in the dirt.

My friend, Tina, read up on what paperclips signify in dreams. That was good, but I wasn’t dreaming. I was awake and in awe, but I was no closer to an answer.

Until today.

I prayed in the car this morning asking for strength. I was driving to a big work meeting in which I had to present bad news, difficult information, and be prepared for any questions that the thirty people in the group might ask of me. Moments before the meeting began (warning: a TMI statement is coming, so if you are at all a bit squeamish you might want to cover your ears and hum for the next bit) I realized my p-e-r-i-o-d had arrived early. Dear God, I wasn’t prepared for this! What a time for it. I raced out of the room to take care of matters.

You can stop humming now because this part is important.

What did I see on the ramp to the portable-potty? You guessed it, a shiny, warm from the sun, paperclip. I carried it in my hand and placed it on the table in front of me as the meeting began. It was a tough one, but I was prepared and all went well.

In the car on the way home, I used my author techniques to brainstorm ideas about the paperclip. What does it look like? It flows in a circular design like the infinity sign—never-ending. It is shiny (if metallic) or colorful and bright. What does it do? It holds things together and doesn’t let go.

Here comes the epiphany…The paperclips aren't from some wacky accountants who just happen to be ten feet ahead of me dropping paperclips everywhere I go. No.

They are from God.

When I walk, I pray. I tell God how beautiful the trees are, the sky, the hills...I thank him for the day, the sun on my back, the cool air on my face... Basically, we chat (silently and all one-sided on my part). I know He’s there, but maybe, He wanted to give me a little something to carry with me as I walk with Him. A love token to keep in my hand, or my pocket, that flows in a never-ending design (like infinity). It’s a shiny and/or colorful token, so that I don’t miss it on the ground. And it fits neatly in my hand.

When I was having my freak-out this morning about the meeting, He threw another sparkly warm sign at my feet to remind me that He is always there. Holding me together. Loving me forever.

And if I had any doubts about His message, they went away once I turned on the car radio. The DJ played George Straight’s beautiful song, “I Saw God Today.” The message was loud and clear.

Mr. Straight tells us that God’s fingerprints are everywhere. Perhaps, we need to look a little harder to see them.

Have you had any signs lately?

Great News!

2011-11-09T16:08:00.001-08:00

My unpublished Inspirational Romance, God Whisperer, is a finalist in the Launch a Star Contest!!!

I just love this story about a mother and son who are hiding for their lives in an offbeat town when the boy becomes famous from an ear surgery that allows him to hear God.

My little boy was the inspiration for this story. When he was born, he was deaf in one ear because he didn't have an ear canal or an eardrum. The amazing surgeons at UCLA created both for him out of his own tissue. When my boy could hear for the first time with that ear, I wept for joy. It was a true miracle.

Fingers crossed for God Whisperer as it moves up to be judged by an awesome agent and fabulous editor. Results will be posted mid-December.

Mammogram Recheck

2011-11-09T11:29:00.000-08:00

Trying not to get too anxious about this.

Got a call from the doctor that I need to have another mammo plus an ultrasound in a few weeks. They wouldn't tell me more over the phone.

For those of you who've had this done, can you talk me through it?

Is this common practice? Mammo and ultrasound.

Do I need to bring hubby for support?

Will I get the results right away?

Anyway, so glad I went in. I'll let you know how it all pans out.

Hugs,

Kimberley

Mammograms

2011-10-18T10:02:00.000-07:00

Today, I go for my yearly check up.

Reminding all my friends (yes, that means you!) to get your mammos done too. If you have already done it this year, or are not scheduled to have one yet, I'll get off your case. But for those of you who need to get in there, what are you waiting for?

Sure it's uncomfortable (no body parts enjoy being squished) and takes a little time (minutes people, not days), and may feel a bit awkward being manipulated onto that machine, but do it.

Please, for those of us who love you.

Kisses,

Kimberley

What a Great Day--Breast Cancer Walk

2011-10-11T07:45:00.001-07:00

Last Saturday my boys and I walked in the Strides Walk to help raise money for Breast Cancer.

It touched me that I was able to help out, just a little.

There were so many heroes there. It was truly awe-inspiring.

The survivor stories brought tears to my eyes, but so did the shear numbers of people walking. There were husbands, sons, firefighters, friends, teams and people like me--who simply want to help my sisters.

The announcer told us that there are 11 million survivors. Now that's something to jump for joy about.

Stay well, my friends.

Moving On

2011-10-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

I'm having a tough time sitting down to write my next book.

Really dragging my feet...typing fingers weighted with sand...thinking vacuuming might be a better idea.

What in the world is wrong with me? *checks forehead* I'm not running a fever.

I just finished writing what I believe is one of my best books ever and it is time to move on to the next one. Heck, I have three stories ready to go, why can't I just move on? But maybe that's the answer.

The book I just finished was very emotionally charged. It required me to dig deeper into myself and pour raw and scary feeling onto the page all for the sake of an honest story. And in the end, I fell in love. With the characters, their strength in the face of extreme hardships, their devotion to one another. It is an aching, searching for love and finally finding it against all odds type of story.

It's like having a great love affair that I don't want to end yet. This kind of mini-depression is what I feel when I read a REALLY AWESOME book. I don't want it to be over. I am sad at the end.

And then it struck me--I am becoming a better writer! I depressed myself.

Now that is something to smile about.

Have you ever been sad to come to THE END of a book?

Walk a Mile in Your Shoes

2011-08-26T10:31:00.000-07:00

At the start of summer I downloaded the Nike GPS App to track my walking mileage. I walk every day for an hour or so, but had no real idea how far I went. Now I had the means to measure the distance.

For the three months of summer I walked...Are you ready?

138 Miles!

Holy Toledo! Or Holy Los Angeles, might be more like it if I walked from here. Who knew I walked that much? You'd think I'd be skinnier. Maybe I'd better stop rewarding myself with scones at the end and/or beginning of the walk. Yeah...

Anyway, it wasn't hard. 138 miles equates to 11.5 miles per week. That's only 1.6 miles per day. Barely anything.

And the benefits?

Well, there are those yummy scones I mentioned (bad girl), my jeans fit pretty nicely, I got a new pair of shoes (see picture above), breathed a whole bunch of fresh air, luxuriated in the pure form of vitamin D, smelled the flowers, worked out those writing kinks, and enjoyed myself.

So what have you got to lose? Get out there and move it. Maybe I'll see you on the road.

Thank God Friday

2011-07-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you guys, but it's been a wild week around here. I thought I'd take a moment and focus on the good stuff. You know, say my thanks.

I'm thankful for:
Family. No mother could be prouder of her boys. No wife more in love with her hubby. My parents and sister are the best who ever lived. I scored great in-laws as well. I am blessed with family. As time goes on, I am becoming more aware of time going on. I want to snatch these people up and hang onto them forever, but I can't make them live in my sock drawer, can I? I have to remember to tell them how much I love them every chance I get.

Words. I'm thankful for every time that the words come and the stories flow.

A job. I have a day job that allows me to work half-time and write the other half. I know I'm lucky.

My friends. I have friends who get me--my quirks, weird sense of humor, obsessions, worries, loves. They get me and continue to like me. That's priceless.

My great country. For all it's problems, I am honored, blessed and overjoyed to live here. Wouldn't trade my country for any other.

That's enough for now. It's your turn. Right here, right now. What are you thankful for?

What Circus Job Would You Choose?

2011-07-27T18:02:00.000-07:00

Selena Robins interviewed me at Selena Robins Musings and asked all the tough questions.

Circus Clown anyone? Bearded lady? Fire Breather?
My answers might surprise you.

Leave a comment and be entered for a chance to win a free Catch Me in Castile ebook.

A Writer Gets Her Groove On

2011-07-15T07:17:00.000-07:00

Over at the Gem State Writers, I am talking about how it took me 20 years to write my first novel. And why that's not a bad thing.

Gem State Writers

Tapas and A Tale

2011-06-21T07:32:00.000-07:00

Come on over to Cooking With Cloris

I'll try to teach you to cook like a hot Spaniard.

Kimberley

"That's What I'm Talking About" Interview

2011-06-20T07:16:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I've got stuff to say. No really, I do.

Come check out the interview:
At Twimom

Have a great week!

Kimberley

Schedule for June and July

2011-06-14T17:21:00.000-07:00

I'm going to be doing some guest blogs and a few interviews this summer. You can catch me at:

July 15: Guest Blog for Gem State Writers Why it took me 20 years

July 6: Author Interview Ask An Author

June 21: Guest Blog at Killer Crafts & Crafty Killers Making Tapas and Telling Stories

June 2o: Author Interview That's What I'm Talking About

June 2: Guest Blog for Xakara. Thursday Thirteen Kimberley Troutte Edition

I blog every three weeks at Beyond the Veil

Drop by if you get a chance. Don't forget the sunscreen.

Kimberley

Come Over to the Long and Short Reviews

2011-04-27T03:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I'm talking about a very special young man who is not slowed in the least by Autism.

Kimberley Troutte at LASR

Please come by and leave a comment so that you will be in the drawing for a WiFi Nook, a WiFi Kindle, or $150 gift certificate to either Amazon or Barnes and Noble!

I'd love it if one of you won.

Kimberley

Good Friday

2011-04-22T07:52:00.000-07:00

This day hurts my heart.

First off, what's good about it? This is the day that a bunch of thugs banded together and crucified a man who gave his life to teach us how to love one another. Horrible. What came afterwards was better than good. Easter Sunday is an amazing, wondrous, miracle.

But Friday? No.

I learned that the word "good" in this case originated from pious and holy. So why didn't we stick with Holy Friday? Or something more descriptive like Black Friday? Ugly Friday. Terrible Friday.

Whatever the case, I'm going to make it a point to be kind to my neighbors, family and friends today. If we all band together and love one another it will be a good friday.

And that will do all of our hearts some good.

Embarrassing My Kid and Editing

2011-04-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

Today, I'm over at Samhain Publishing talking about editing. Embarrassing the kid while I'm at it is simply...icing.

Samhain Publishing

Thirteen Places I Want to Visit

2011-04-14T10:13:00.001-07:00

Today I'm guest blogging at Xakara's Thursday Thirteen in which I discuss my top 13 places I want to visit. Come on over and share your favorite places.

Thursday Thirteen Kimberely Troutte Edition

Kimberley

The Deal with the Kid

2011-03-07T06:11:00.000-08:00

Have you ever wondered if you had the time to write a novel?

Today, I'm blogging over at Beyond the Veil for Samhain Publishing about how I wrote a novel in two months. It's doable, really. I've figured it out mathematically for you.

Do you have what it takes?

http://paranormalauthors.blogspot.com/

Happy Holidays and One Loving Thing Day

2010-12-21T08:11:00.000-08:00

Today is the shortest, darkest day of the year on the Northern Hemisphere and boy, with the rain we've been having it feels it.

I challenge you to get out there and do one act of kindness today.

Just one.

If we all do one thing and the recipient of our kindness does one thing, and so on, and so on... This could turn into one giant lovingthingerama.

So while you are out there hustling around, in the dark, in the weather, searching for those last gifts, or finishing up your work before the holidays, or just plain being stressed, will you remember to do one kind thing? It'll mean the world to someone.

Thank you!
Kimberley

In the Name of Research

2010-10-26T19:25:00.000-07:00

So I went to my local Ace Hardware this morning.

In the paint/electrical/plumbing section of the store, I walked right up to the big burly guy who worked there and said, “I’m doing research. What if a boy wanted to make a brand new toilet plunger look disgustingly used? What could he pour on it?”

He blinked at me.

“I’m writing a children’s book. Is there something in here that he could quickly pour on the plunger to make it, you know, gross?”

The burly guy’s serious face cracked into a grin.

“It’s a boy’s book,” I clarified.

He laughed out loud. “Come with me. I’ve got just the thing.”

And sure enough, he did.

The next time you are reading a book that has lots of wonderful details try to imagine what that author went through to make the writing realistic. Oh and if you see me in Ace Hardware don't be surprised if I am swinging a toilet plunger around, or pretending to throw rolls of duck tape, or anything that might be construed as mental instability. I'm fine. Really. It's research.

A Cure for wrinkles! No Botox!

2010-10-18T11:35:00.000-07:00

This weekend I found the cure to those nasty little wrinkle lines that form between the eyes. And guess what? It doesn’t cost a thing! And only requires a one-time treatment. Sound too good to be true?
It’s not.

First, it requires a man (DOESN’T IT ALWAYS?)
But not just any man, a big strong guy who can lift a bicycle and hang it from the rafters in the garage a mere couple feet from where you would normally carry laundry to and from the dryer.

Next, said guy needs to remove all soft parts from the bike, such as rubber wheels, so that the only bike parts that hang down are carbon-fiber (one of the strongest metal known to mankind) eye-pokers.

With me so far?

Then, said strongman needs to say in an off-handed way, “Watch out for my bike. I'm working on it.”

Now, it is laundry time. It is best to wait until the bins are overflowing with dirty clothes. This way the piles in your arms can be so high that you can barely see where you are going.

Also, I would suggest doing the laundry at the end of the day after the sun has gone down so that the garage is semi-lit, at best. Being extra tired helps in this situation as well, that way you don’t remember any off-handed warnings.

Are you ready? This is where it gets good.

Here we go…bend over, load up your arms with dry clothes, than stand up and walk at a fast pace straight into the eye-pokers. Be careful to hit them as hard as possible and right between your eyes. There! Perfect.

Of course, this is the part where you might say some things you don’t want the kids and/or neighbors to hear you scream. But you might not be able to help it because you are completely out of your senses from the pain.

As you teeter along, seeing stars in that dimly lit room, you try not to drop the huge batch of clean clothes on the floor where the dog vomited only hours earlier. Still grumbling those words that you hardly ever say, checking for blood, you grab an ice pack, hobble nearly blind to the couch and call it a day.

But wait!

There’s more. Call it the Ginzu Knives set.

Your strong guy, great big beautiful lug that he is, will undoubtedly say something like, “What happened? Did you hit my bike? Told you to be careful.” Which will make your blood pressure rise higher allowing more of it to go directly to your throbbing forehead.

And voila! You no longer have wrinkles between your eyes.
Of course there’s a lump, maybe a horn.
But isn’t that a small price to pay for beauty?

No worries, I’ll be fine.

My Everyday Heroes

2010-09-20T07:01:00.000-07:00

Today I am talking about some of my favorite people in the world.

These are people who inspire me, warm my heart, and make life exciting.
Come on over to Beyond the Veil

I might just be talking about YOU!

Most likely, I am.

2010-09-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday!

Today I am blogging about some of my friends over at Beyond the Veil, the Blog for Samhain Authors.

Beyond the Veil

http://paranormalauthors.blogspot.com

Go take a look.
I might be talking about you! Most likely, I am :)

The question is: who are your heroes and why?

Leave a comment there or here.

Happy Lazy Mom Day

2010-09-03T08:32:00.000-07:00

I heard on the radio this morning that it is National Lazy Mother's Day.

Can I tell you how excited I am?

After making the lunches, the breakfasts, taking the kid's to school, feeding and caring for the dog and getting paperwork together, I had all sorts of things planned for today--five loads of laundry, clothes and stuff to put away, spray everything down with Lysol (kid and hubby are sick), scrub the toilets, pay the bills, work, write, edit...

But now I am going to sit for a little bit and read. Ahhh.

Okay, I'm going to do the other stuff too, but for a moment, I'm going to be a lazy mom. I hope you will too.

Love the day!

Where in the World Am I?

2010-07-26T10:25:00.000-07:00

Today I am the interviewed author over at Make-Believe Mondays:
http://makebelievemondays.blogspot.com/

I'm also blogging at Beyond the Veil:
http://paranormalauthors.blogspot.com/

And for the rest of the week I will be in Orlando Florida at the Romance Writers of America Conference.

Shew. Some week and it's only Monday!

Hugs,
Kimberley

Catch Me in Bookstores

2010-06-01T14:35:00.001-07:00

Today's the day!
Catch Me in Castile hits the stores today. Hopefully, one near you.

Now for the book tour.

I will be physically and virtually at the following places:

June 5th, The Book Loft, 1680 Mission Street, Solvang, CA 2:00 - 4:00 (Come! I'll have cupcakes provided by Cupcakes for Cancer)

Blogging:
June 4th RomCon (Big deal in the romance community) www.romconinc.com
June 4th Nikki Duncan nikkiduncan.com/blog
June 26 Samhain Publishing weblog (my publisher)www.samhainpublishing.com/blog

Article: Seattle Examiner

Author interview:
June 7th Ann Lory Blog Bites www.annlory.blogspot.com
June 8 Savvy Readers www.savvyreaders.com
Romance Divas Member News Month of June www.romancedivas.com
Raven blog www.ravenhappyhour.com/ravenblog/

Reviews:
Gothic Journal Recommended Read

"...will take you on a journey across the world and into the belly of an engrossing suspense..." Night Owl Romance.

"...fine mix of paranormal and mystery..."
Romantic Times

“…made me feel like I was being swept away to Spain, and I must admit, she also made me wish I had a Santiago waiting for me at journey's end…”
Joyfully Reviewed

So You Think You Can Write A Book?

2010-04-02T17:38:00.000-07:00

Hi gang,

I am blogging over at Beyond the Veil on Monday, April 5th. http://paranormalauthors.blogspot.com/

If you have ever thought about writing a book, you might want to stop by.

Until then, have a wonderful Easter.
Enjoy your family and friends.
And be good.

Kimberley

My Cover is a Winner

2010-02-20T19:34:00.000-08:00

This is one of those happy surprises.

Didn't ask for it, didn't expect it, but will take it with a big happy smile!

My cover for Catch Me in Castile has been featured on UnderCover Selections a website that really does judge books by their covers.
http://undercoverbooks.wordpress.com/2010/02/20/feb-19th-selection/

Inspiration: Need Some? Got Some to Share?

2010-02-08T08:02:00.001-08:00

I'm blogging at Beyond the Veil about what inspires me to put one foot in front of the other down the publishing road. If you need a little inspiration, or have some to share, come on over. I am looking for inspirational quotes and stories.

http://paranormalauthors.blogspot.com

Kimberley

It's Raining...Gophers?

2010-01-25T11:29:00.000-08:00

So we've had a bit of weather in California lately. Lots of rain, thunder and lightning. Plus a few bizarre tornadoes touching down in residential areas. I saw a waterspout waaaay out in the ocean on my drive to town. Where am I? Oh yeah, California.

Weird things to see in my State.

To continue on with the weirdness theme, I saw something on Sunday that I couldn't believe. My German Shorthaired Pointer, Bo, was sneaking around in the back yard. He had something in his mouth when he meandered into the gargage and crawled into his crate. He was definitely up to no good.

I peeked in and to my utter surprise saw three (pinkish with a light brown fuzz) baby gophers. Bo was carrying them one by one into his crate and laying them down gently on his pillow. He hadn't crunched a one.

I can’t imagine what was going on inside his doggy brain. Did he think they were snacks for later, little friends, puppies, or what?

They were cute, sort of.

But now I'm wondering, do I need to get my dog a pet? Aren't my boys enough pink--albeit, not so fuzzy--creatures to cuddle with? Am I making too much out of three doggy chew toys?

I'm a Cha-Cha Answer!

2009-12-20T08:59:00.000-08:00

How cool is that?

Okay, I didn’t know what Cha-Cha was either. But after a little investigation, it is an answer place for mobile phone users. Say you want to know the name of that actor who starred in that film…you know, the one with the hair, and the eyes, funny name, right there on the tip of your tongue, it’s driving you mental. You ask everyone, friends, family, total strangers on the street, no one can help. Your head is threatening to explode. But wait…there is a place with answers-Cha-Cha.

So someone asked: Who are authors similar to the style of Sophie Kinsella? (The author of Confessions of a Shopaholic—the movie came out a few months ago)

The answer?

Similar writers to Sophie Kinsella are Stephanie Hale, Kimberley Troutte , Teri Wilson, and Charity Tahmaseb

What the--?
How--?
Who--?

Wow.

http://www.chacha.com/question/who-are-authors-similar-to-the-style-of-sophie-kinsella

One Loving Thing Day

2009-12-15T11:39:00.001-08:00

(Photo by Diego Hernandez)
On December 21st, I'll be blogging at Beyond the Veil: http://paranormalauthors.blogspot.com/ and also on CNN.com.
And in honor of Winter Solstice--the shortest, darkest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere--I am proposing a radical plan to keep each other warm.

Historically, cultures have celebrated the Winter Solstice as a time of rebirth. Ancient cultures came together during for festivals, feasts, dancing, singing, and cuddling with loved ones around the warm hearth fires. Many modern cultures still follow the old traditions.

As for me, this dark, cold, short day brings hope. Every moment after December 21st (the occasional storm excluded) will be brighter, sunnier, warmer. From here on out the darkness will be behind us and up ahead are better days. After the doom and gloom year we’ve been living through, I’m thinking we all could use a more sunlight in our lives.

So what is my radical plan? Call it a challenge.

I challenge everyone to do one loving thing on December 21st. Just one. It doesn’t really have to be world-changing, or earth’s-axial tilting. No, just give a gift from your heart, do a good deed, help someone…I don’t need to tell you, because you’ll know the loving thing when you do it.

I’ll post about my one loving thing, and if you can, come post at Beyond the Veil or here about yours. Your comments will inspire others to do one loving thing and it will snowball into a giant lovingthingerama.

And maybe, just maybe, this will be the best darkest day ever.

Interviewing Death

2009-11-23T00:01:00.000-08:00

If you had a chance to ask Death a few questions, what would you ask?

Today over at Beyond the Veil, the website for Samhain Publishing's paranormal and SF/fantasy authors,
http://paranormalauthors.blogspot.com
I interview Cain and Sara, the main characters from my book, Soul Stealer.

Cain is Death and Sara is the woman he is supposed to kill until the two strike a deal that turns the Natural Order on its head.

So what would you ask Death? You could do what Sara did and ask for more time, but I must warn you that there is a price to pay if you go that route.

There's always a price.

Around and Around the Galley I Go

2009-11-21T11:47:00.000-08:00

I'm finishing my galleys for Catch Me in Castile.

Galleys are the proofs for a print book. The publisher asks the author to take one final read through and make any corrections before the book goes to print.

Gulp. There's something very final about the whole process as if my living breathing creation is now going to be set in stone.

F-O-R-E-V-E-R.

I wonder if the Evanovichs, Roberts, Rowlings, and Kings of the world all feel like throwing up each time they open their galleys?

Checking my nerves, I remind myself that this is the way things should go. My baby needs to go off into the world without me. It's as it should be. Perefectly right.

And so I check for typos, word choice, blantant errors, and author stupidity for the very...last...time. And press send.

Keepin' in Touch

2009-10-16T12:44:00.000-07:00

Hi gang,

it's been a while since I blogged. Life has been a bit crazy lately. Kids are back in school and my job as lunch-maker, homework corrector, kid-driver began in earnest. How do other mothers do this wildness called life?

I'm not complaining because I love every minute of it. (Well, except Algebra, I didn't like it the first go-around and don't like it much more now that my son is taking it. Ugh). But I am curious since there is clearly not enough time in the day, what do you let go?

Here's my list of thing I've let slide:
housecleaning (check),
exercise (check),
cooking full-blown meals (check),
sleep (check),
make-up for anything other than a fancy function (check),
blogging (check, need to rectify)
reading (no way!).

On the publishing front, I am expecting my galleys for CATCH ME IN CASTILE any day now. The print book comes out June 1, 2010. I can hardly wait to get it in my hands. Seeing it on the bookshelves would be pretty darned cool too.

You all stay well!

Catch Me! Hurry!!!!!

2009-08-27T14:36:00.000-07:00

What? And why is she screaming?

I'll tell ya. My dream finally came true.

Catch Me In Castile is OUT NOW!
click on Samhain Publishing

Sorry, having trouble keeping the screaming to a minimum. Here, let me whisper the next bit...

Buy it at: My Bookstore and More

If you are Kindle-licious you can go to: Amazon.com

"Catch Me in Castile will take you on a journey across the world and into the belly of an engrossing suspense. Kimberley Troutte also delivers on a heartfelt romance between a Spanish doctor and a woman who just needs something positive to happen in her life. There is also a bit of the paranormal to the storyline and a ghost who seeks answers..." Night Owl Romance Reviews.

Interview by Mistress Bella

2009-07-27T17:34:00.000-07:00

Mistress Bella asked some pretty tough questions.

Good, but tough.

I had to dig deep. Down to the core deep. And in the end?

Well...

I mentioned all of you. I couldn't help it. The Mistress scared me. So I blabbed. I told. I spilled the beans all over the place.

Now everyone knows who you are. You might be in trouble. Deep trouble.

I couldn't help it. Thanks to Mistress Bella.

Check it out: http://mistressbellainterviews.blogspot.com/2009/07/kimberley-troutte.html.

You can find me at Amazon

2009-07-15T12:10:00.000-07:00

Finally. The day has come. Readers can buy SOUL STEALER for the Kindle through Amazon.com!

If you have any other reader or simply want to download SOUL STEALER to your computer, there are many other places to purchase the ebook such as:

Barnes and Noble: http://www.ereader.com/ebooks/b83095/Soul-Stealer/Kimberley-Troutte/?si=59

http://www.mybookstoreandmore.com/shop/product.da/soul-stealer

http://store.fictionwise.com/ebooks/b83095/Soul-Stealer/Kimberley-Troutte/?si=60

http://www.booksonboard.com

Happy reading!
Kimberley

I'm the Guest Author at Bookwenches 6/12/2009

2009-06-11T17:59:00.000-07:00

First off, don't you just love that name?

BD Whitney, the reviewer at Bookwenches, wrote a wonderful review about Soul Stealer and then invited me to be the guest author blogger.

Come on over Friday and see this author gush about heroes--the mighty real ones and those not so mighty and not so real.

Here's the link: http://www.bookwenches.com/guestblog.htm

Post a comment and you could win a Soul Stealer e-book. Easy-peasy.

Kimberley

Blurb for Catch Me in Castile

2009-05-13T11:35:00.001-07:00

Hi gang,

This post actually brings tears to my eyes. I have the official blurb for my next book, Catch Me in Castile.

It has been a long journey getting this novel published. Believe it or not, I started writing Catch Me, my first attempt at fiction, 20 years ago and "finished" it more times than I can count. I also completely rewrote it just as many times changing it a hundred ways from Sunday. Some call me determined, others stubborn, a few crazy. I don't care what anyone calls me if they buy the book. It's good, really good. Look for it from Samhain Publishing in e-book format on August 25, 2009 and in print version in the book stores June 2010.

Title: CATCH ME IN CASTILE
Author: Kimberley Troutte
ISBN: 1-60504-652-3
ISBN13: 978-1-60504-652-5
Length: Novel, 79k words
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Romantic Suspense
Price: $5.50
Publication Date: August 25, 2009

Seeing dead people is bad enough. Loving him could make her one of them.

Blurb:

When the mother of all panic attacks prompts Erin Carter’s boss to pass her over for promotion, her mind doesn’t just crack. It explodes like an egg in a microwave, shattering her career along with the company car she crashes into the office building.

The death grip she’s kept on her sanity slipping, she takes a friend’s advice and flees to Spain. There she finds comfort in the healing arms of surgeon Santiago Botello—until a fifteenth-century ghost warns her that being with Santiago is dangerous, possibly even lethal.

Santiago has his hands full protecting his sister from a dark curse and his family from a very modern-day psychotic killer. The last thing he needs added to his plate is a neurotic American. Yet something about Erin tugs at his heart so hard he wants to wrap her in his arms and never let go. No matter the risk.

Erin’s attraction to Santiago makes her the killer’s next target. Survival means she must face her greatest fear, solve an ancient murder mystery—and hang on tight to the one man she’s fallen crazy in love with.

Warning: This book contains a woman willing to lose her mind for love, a hot Spaniard with hands a girl could die for, deadly family curses, a ghost with memory disorder, and a really mad killer.

Keywords: ghost, haunted, Spain, murder, jealousy, psychotic killer, fifteenth-century Spain, parallel stories, Castile, Alcazar, Segovia, Salamanca, Queen Isabella, King Fernando, King Ferdinand, Marques de Moya, anxiety disorder, memory loss, schizophrenia, panic attacks

I'm going to be on the radio

2009-04-24T16:52:00.001-07:00

Check out All Romance eBook's 'What's Hot in Romance' Blog Talk Radio Show on April 27, 2009 10:00 pm Eastern (or after that on the recorded podcast).

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/Whats-Hot-In-Romance

This out to be really interesting as it will be my first podcast. Yikes!

Any suggestions as to what to do, or NOT do?

I'm a LASR Best Book nominee!!!

2009-04-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

Holy hotcakes!
this is unreal, I tell ya. Better than fiction. My debut, Soul Stealer is up for LASR Best Book. I'm dancing in my PJs, shoot I haven't even had my cup of Joe yet and I'm bouncing off the walls. Super-duper exciting.

The voting in this weekend only Sat 4/11 - Sun 4/12.

http://www.longandshortreviews.com/LASR/recentrev.htm

Soul Stealer is Out Today

2009-03-17T09:21:00.000-07:00

“Soul Stealer” by Kimberley Troutte

Buy from MBaM!

Read An Excerpt Online

Genre: Paranormal Romance

ISBN: 978-1-60504-473-6

Length: Novella

Price: 3.50

Publication Date: March 17, 2009

Cover art by Angie Waters

When Death falls in love with a saint, there’s holy hell to pay.

Sara Lane expects to die young, but when the time comes, she’s not ready. She needs two more weeks to finish a homeless shelter before winter sets in and people die on the streets. Who does a girl have to sleep with to live a few extra days?

How about the sexiest, most dangerous of all bad boys—Death himself?

Cain’s job as a designated death dealer is clear. Kill and move on. Don’t get attached. Don’t feel. But when Sara pleads to cut a deal for more time, Cain is tempted by an unexpected craving for this beautiful, courageous woman. As their lips meet, her life force shakes him to his bones, seals the bargain—and breaks all the rules.

Keeping Sara alive is a dangerous proposition. The Powers That Be are furious and unleash bloodthirsty demons to steal Sara’s soul from Death—the one man who’s hell-bent on saving her life.

Warning: This book contains the sexiest of all bad boys, a woman desperate to get what she wants, deadly soul-sucking demons, surprise visits by Biblical characters, frog grenades, very bad dogs, sacrifice, redemption and eternal love.

Read An Excerpt Online

Buy from MBaM!

Holy Cowabunga! My first review of Soul Stealer.

2009-03-11T07:42:00.000-07:00

I am in gloroious shock. My first review came from Zee at Romance Junkies. Can I just say that I LOVE this person? If my kids weren't already named they'd all be little Zees right now. It's terrifying beyond words reading that first review and I am so honored and blessed that it was a good one.

http://romancejunkiesreviews.com/artman/publish/paranormal/Soul_Stealer.shtml

"...SOUL STEALER is a story that is captivating and that flows before your eyes between one blink and the next. Believe me when I tell you that you will be compelled by a strange power to read this story cover to cover in one sitting.

Maybe this magic is due to the characters. Maybe it is due to the unconventional storyline. Maybe it is due to Ms. Troutte’s delightful voice and prose. Or maybe it is due to all these factors. The many facets meld together to provide an unrivaled reading experience for any reader who loves a good romance where the odds are all against the main protagonists. Lovers of the paranormal will also find a delightful read here.

Cain is a hero that you can’t help but feel sorry for. He’s had a hard life, and the twist that Ms. Troutte brings to his character is one that is novel and unexpected.

Add to it the many Biblical references and characters that pop in and out of the plot and you earn one story that is a surprising twist on tales many of us have known forever. Well done Ms. Troutte for bringing to life this unexpected side of Cain’s story.

All in all, SOUL STEALER is an engrossing and immensely satisfying experience. One to savor curled up in a comfy sofa with a mug of hot chocolate. Actually, forget the chocolate – you’ll probably be swept so much into the tale that you will forget everything, from where you are to what time it is. I know it was the case for me, and I’m sure it will be the case for every reader who picks up this book..."

Spotlight on...

2009-03-03T07:51:00.000-08:00

Me!
Wowie-kazowie.
I can't believe I am the spotlight author at the Romance Divas.

http://romancedivas.com/spotlighton.html

I love the divas. I doubt I would have gotten my first publishing contract without them. Through this wonderful group of supportive romance authors I have learned more about the industry than anywhere else.

If you are a romance writer looking for a community to help you in your publishing journey, this is the place to be.
Check them out. Tell them Kimberley Troutte sent ya.

R.F Long's Scroll Thief

2009-02-24T10:09:00.000-08:00

Hi gang,
I am busy working to get my release ready for next month. Yay!

In the meantime, a friend of mine has her release today. Man, oh man, do I love the cover. Congrats R.F. Long.

“The Scroll Thief” by R. F. Long

Genre: Fantasy-SciFi

ISBN: 978-1-60504-395-1

Length: Plus Novel

Price: 6.50

Publication Date: February 24, 2009

Cover art by Anne Cain

Love is the wiliest thief of all.

A Tale of Ithian

Malachy and his sister rely on his talents as a thief to survive the dangerous streets of Klathport, former capital of the once-great kingdom of Ithian. Stealing a few papers should have been a simple job. Instead, it nearly costs their lives and throws them into an improbable alliance with a shape-shifting official, a desert tribeswoman, and a healer of enchanting beauty.

Cerys is far more than a simple healer—and the roots of her mission go deeper into the past than anyone can know. She needs Malachy’s skills to recover a stolen scroll, one that can be used to rewrite history and, in the wrong hands, release the dark powers of the Demon Realm.

Her mission was supposed to atone for a dreadful, long-ago act. Instead, it unleashes a chain of events which sees them pursued through city and desert by the fearsome Dune Witch and a killer known only as His Lordship. Romance, tragedy, and adventure blend in a tale of a magical land on the brink of war, and five unlikely allies who, by putting their lives—and their hearts—on the line, have the opportunity to finally set things right.

But at a terrible cost.

Warning: Contains scenes of graphic violence and torture, captivating magic and beauty, two dashing heroes, three gutsy heroines, several love stories and a heartbreaking sacrifice.

Read An Excerpt Online

Buy from MBaM!

Rhiannon Leith is on fire

2009-02-08T09:07:00.000-08:00

Another diva author!

Captive Flame – Rhiannon Leith
As a djinn, a being formed of fire, Adara has spent centuries enslaved to the human Magi, passed from one to another, made to do their bidding. She yearns for freedom. She yearns for love.

When firefighter Peter O'Connor pulls her out of an inferno, he snatches her from her current Magus. This new master has no idea of what or how powerful she is, and the opportunity to break free finally becomes a real possibility. If only her body didn't react to him with such abandon. If only his touch didn't make her lose the will to do anything but be with him.

With the Magus closing in on them, and Peter's life in danger, Adara must choose between her desire and her dreams.

And with supernatural arson attacks sweeping the city, Peter must decide if a firefighter can ever really trust a fire?

BUY IT HERE

Samhain Author, Sela Carsen

2009-02-03T18:57:00.000-08:00

Hi gang,
I have another fabulous author to introduce. Sela Carsen is a Samhain and Diva buddy. Her book Carolina Wolf just came out this week and sounds awesome.

CAROLINA WOLF
By Sela Carsen
Samhain Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-60504-374-6

All it takes is a spark of Grrrrrl power to set the swamp on fire!

Librarian Debra Henry is boring. And she’s okay with that. Really. It’s not as if the teensy amount of witchcraft that flows in her veins is worth getting excited about. Yet someone—or something—thinks it’s worth crawling out of the swamps to attack her. Those “somethings” are werewolves.

When one of them is hurt saving her, the least she can do is take him home and patch him up. Healing him stirs more than her senses. Maddox Moreau awakens the magic that sleeps in her blood. And suddenly, life’s not quite so boring.

A wildlife manager at Congaree National Park by day, Maddox likes being the BWIS—Big Wolf In the Swamp. By night, he lets his wild side out to play lone wolf. At least until he meets the one woman who can share his soul. Perhaps it’s best, though, if he holds off on sharing his preference for raw meat.

Rescuing her seals his fate—but only if he can protect her from a rogue of his kind. A werewolf with a nasty stalker streak…

Guest blogger Sandy Lo

2009-02-01T08:46:00.000-08:00

Dreams, Success & Luck

Some people hear about what I have accomplished at such a young age…how at eighteen, I established StarShine Magazine. By nineteen, I was backstage at concerts and big radio events, gaining praise for my interview questions. At twenty, Nick Lachey snuck me into the premiere of his MTV reality show, where no other journalist was allowed. And Jessica Simpson recognized me in a sea of photographers and waved as if we were old friends.

I have hobnobbed with various celebrities, gotten free drinks, was introduced to new music, and new gossip before anyone else. I say proudly I was the first journalist to confirm Backstreet Boy Nick Carter had his nipples pierced. I never spread rumors, just confirm facts.

I met Taylor Swift before all of the awards and hit songs. I remember thinking the Jonas Brothers were odd little ducks when I interviewed them before anyone knew who they were.

Yes, I have accomplished many things with StarShine Magazine. It has given me the chance to wear many hats: writer, photographer, publicist, creative director. It has made me many friends: both true and terrible.

I’ve been told I’m very lucky, which I am. People (mostly teenage girls) tell me they would love to have my job. I’ve been told I don’t have a “real” job…I’ve also had the door slammed in my face many times. I’m also broke more often than not.

When people envy me, I tell them it’s hard work, and it is. Behind the glamour is weeks of waiting, hours of standing, and usually mere minutes of actual interview time with the hot celebrity you’ve been dreaming about. And it doesn’t end there…you then have to take that five minute interview and turn it into a two page article. And then you have to fidget around with web codes to put up on the site…but you’re still not done…now you have to promote it to the public.

When people brush off what I do as if I were just playing around and because I’m not rich yet, I look at them closely. Are their jobs fulfilling? Are they making their dreams come true? Usually the answer is no.

Now, I have never felt more on the right path. After seven years of hard work with StarShine Magazine, it has brought me to this point. I now have established myself enough as a writer and entertainment insider to follow through with my other dream: becoming a published author.

And here I am…my debut novel “Lost In You” is available now. People all over the world are reading my words. Without my entertainment experience and connections, I don’t think I would have the support and strength to have followed through with publishing this novel.

Am I rich? No, but I am wealthy and fulfilled in an indescribable way. The money will come later, but that was never my concern. I am very fortunate to have a world of opportunities in front of me. Luck only comes around once the dream has been set and the work is willing to be done.

Meet Sandy Lo and LOST IN YOU

2009-01-27T21:43:00.000-08:00

I just found another perk to having the greatest job in the world. What's that you say? All the dark chocolate a girl can stuff in her face? Champagne bubble baths? Non-stop back rubs? No silly, I get debut authors like Sandy Lo as a guest blogger. Isn't that a kick?

Sandy Lo will be jet-setting around the globe in her whirl-wind virtual book tour of LOST IN YOU in February. Well guess what? We've got her first, or well, a sneak peak of her. She will be stopping by on February 1st to be our guest blogger, but I couldn't wait to post a little snippet. Shhh. Don't tell her. What Sandy Lo doesn't know...

For seven years, Sandy Lo has been the president of the groundbreaking website StarShine Magazine, an enterta inment outlet focusing on music. She has interviewed many celebrities from Jessica Simpson and Taylor Swift to Jonas Brothers and Simple Plan. Writing has always been Sandy's passion, and becoming a published author was a dream of hers. She is ecstatic that her dreams first came true with StarShine at only 18-years-old, and now again at twenty-six with her novel LOST IN YOU.

Various celebrities like actor Peter Facinelli (Twilight), singer/actor Chris Trousdale (Dreamstreet) and model/singer Anna Sundstrand (Play, Kohl's) have already shown their support for Sandy 's novel by taking photos with LOST IN YOU for her website: www.sandy-lo.com .

Official Website: www.sandy-lo.com
Buy at www.lulu.com: http://www.lulu.com/content/5708289
(The book will be available through all retailers in March 2009.)

Blurb of LOST IN YOU:
Cooper Jackson is a young woman who flies by the seat of her pants. She has a commitment-free life; always picking up and leaving whenever she feels like it. She doesn’t let anyone get too close, but a wedding in sunny Florida changes everything. Cooper meets Sound Wave, a famous “boy band”; the crooners are practically fighting for the young girl’s attention, but she is holding out for only one of them: Ryan Latham.

Cooper could not deny the sexual energy between her and the band’s resident “bad boy”, JT Madden. After a trip to the emergency room with Ryan, she is stuck in Florida with an injured ankle. Feeling like Cinderella after a night with Prince Charming, Cooper is glad she has an excuse to stay in town. Momentarily forgetting to keep her heart locked up, she finds herself pursuing Ryan, only to find out he’s engaged. With no hesitation, she agrees to go on a date with JT, leaving Ryan jealous and confused. He couldn’t help but be intrigued by this stranger, despite his pending nuptials.

With the help of JT and Sound Wave's inner circle of friends, Cooper finds herself letting go, and actually loving life. Soon she realizes JT is getting serious about her, but not before she and Ryan come to their own realization: they can’t stop thinking about each other.

That's it for now. Come on back on February 1st for the real Sandy Lo.
Kimberley Troutte

Gwen Hayes, and Oh Goddess

2009-01-27T09:45:00.000-08:00

Hi gang,
I wanted to introduce you to buddy diva, chicklitter, and Samhain author, Gwen Hayes. Check out her new book, OH GODDESS. Proceeds from the sale go to the Coalition for Pulmonary Fibrosis.

“Oh Goddess ” by Gwen Hayes

Read An Excerpt Online
Genre: Paranormal Romance

ISBN: 978-1-60504-367-8
Length: Short Story
Price: 2.50
Publication Date: January 27, 2009
Cover art by Tuesday Dube

Born to protect women’s hearts, her own beats longingly for a mortal. Oops…

Ondina, one thousand years a goddess, doesn’t think much of mortal men. Probably because her sole purpose in life is to protect the hearts of women who don’t want to fall in love. And now one of those blasted men—Jack—has shattered her sacred chalice, trapping her in a mortal body.

Jackson Nichols, on the partner track at his law firm, is the first to admit he always follows his head. Never his heart. Dina is infuriating, messy, condescending, sexy, beautiful and…well, just about everything that doesn’t fit into his meticulously planned life.

Neither expects to find many redeeming qualities in the other. But when push comes to love, which will Dina choose? Her newly human heart…or one thousand years of duty?

*All author and editor proceeds from the sale of Oh Goddess will be donated to the Coalition for Pulmonary Fibrosis. You can find out more about the foundation at www.coalitionforpf.org.

Warning: Recent studies show that consuming beverages while reading this story can cause damage to computer monitors, clothing, and sometimes nearby walls. Reader agrees to hold both Samhain Publishing Ltd. and Gwen Hayes harmless in case of accidental spewing caused by laughter.

Read An Excerpt Online

Promo, Promo, Promo

2009-01-24T09:04:00.000-08:00

I can see the start line up there, just barely. See it? That little, bitty flag blowing in the wind, on March 17th. See it now?

That's the day SOUL STEALER is released and my dream of becoming a published novelist finally sees the light of day. My first book. I'm still in shock. It's a good kind of it's-my-birthday-all-year-let's-all-eat-cake kind of shock.

But wait.

It's my first book, what do I do to promote it? I want to step on the field with a flames shooting out of my racing shoes and the crowd cheering my name. I need to promote myself and my book but how? I am going to tell you what I have come up with so far. If you have anything to add, please do. My goal is to learn and help others as so many people have helped me.

Okay, so where did I begin? I started off by asking questions and taking notes. I've harassed, um I mean kindly asked, authors, marketing people, reviewers, and website coordinators the burning question--what can a new author do to promote herself?

A couple answers have been repeated over and over again:

1) Write the best darn book you can and then turn around and write another. The theory being, once readers find you and like your book, they will go in search of anything else you've written. Your books are the best way to market yourself.

2) Have a website. Okay, this one is almost a given. We live in the age of the internet. If readers can't find you on the web, you might as well not exist. Do you need an expensive website? No. A free website came with my verizon account. It was amazingly simple to set up and I didn't need to know any computer language to do so. Is it the best site out there? (Don't make me chuckle, I'm drinking coffee.) Um, no. I did it myself people and there was a reason I took that computer language class twice in college. But it will do, for now. There are other ways to get a free site too, or relatively cheap ones. check around. There are also many web designers out there. Ask around. But do get a website. Now, or when you have the pen poised over the dotted line of your first book contract.

3) Have a web presence. The website you need. But do you also need to be on Facebook? My Space? Your own blog? Forums? Only you can answer this question, but I believe the more I'm "out there" the more people will remember me when my book comes out. At the RWA Conference last year, at least five people "recognized" me from the Romance Divas forum. Do not underestimate the power of the internet. It's like your very own red cape right there under your fingertips.

You have probably heard those things before. But there are other places you can promote your book too. Please note that my book is a romance, so the websites I talk about are mostly geared to that genre, but I'm sure you can find websites for other genres if you get on google and look for them.

1) Your publisher-check to see if your publisher has a blog or other promotional ideas. There may be blogging groups set up that you can join. Or a day you can blog on the publisher's site.

2) Novelspot (http://novelspot.net/) At Novelspot, I was able to put up an author page which included my picture, bio, blurb, and buy book link. For a small fee, this will be up for one year!

3) Authors promoting authors (http://authorspromotingauthors.blogspot.com) A free spot to promote your book and provide excerpts, blogs...The only catch is you will post the previous author's blog to yours. Authors helping authors. I LIKE it.

4) Advertise on websites where potential readers are. Several of the romance websites for readers sell advertising spots for authors and many will do reviews and interviews, such as, Night Owl Romance, Coffee Time Romance, Romance Junkies, The Romance Studio... the point is to buy ads where potential readers hang out. Seems simple enough, right? You may be able to buy a spot for your cover only, or your banner with a buy link to your book. Many of these sites also have forums that allow you to promote.

7) Hang out in the forums where your readers are. This helps you to connect with readers and get a pulse on what potential readers are looking for.

8) Do interviews on author sites and reciprocate the favor.

9) The goodies. Determine how much you want to spend on promotional give-me's. I decided to print postcards and hand them out around town. I used Vista Print for my post card with the picture of my cover on the front, blurb, ordering information and author details on the back. You can spend a fortune on these little trinkets and the jury is out as to how much they actually help book sales.

10) Contests. It seems like a good idea to have contests that maybe the winner receives a copy of your book. Contests drive folks to your blog or website. I have yet to do this, but will once March 17 rolls around.

Don't forget to be professional, gracious, and kind. Promoting isn't always about selling your books, but more about connect with people. Let me know what works for you.

Good luck out there!
Kimberley Troutte

2009-01-16T11:45:00.000-08:00

Hi gang,
I just wanted everyone to know there's going to be an editor chat over at the Castle in the Sky (a yahoo group). It is a chance to "listen in" and ask questions of editors from over 20 different Publishing Houses. You'll have to join the yahoo group, but this should prove interesting.

Here's the info:

Join Castle in the Sky for our first ever Editor Chat on Saturday, January 17!

Have questions for editors? Curious about various publishing houses? Well join the fun as we host this great event for authors (published and non-published),
editors, and everyone in between.

> http://groups.yahoo.com/group/castleintheskyflightoffantasy/

Publishers and Editors Who Will Be In Attendance
> Black
> Velvet Seductions
> Bold Stroke Books
> Carnal
> Passions
> Champagne Books
> Cerrdiwenn
> Press
> Crescent
> Moon Press
> Desert
> Breeze Publishing Inc.
> Dramur
> Publishing
> Ellora¢s
> Cave
> ePress-Online
> Freya's
> Bower
> Lachesis
> Publishing
> LBF
> Books
> Liquid
> Silver Books
> LindenBayRomance
> Pink
> Petal Books
> Red
> Rose Publishing
> Samhain
> Publishing
> Shadowfire
> Press
> The Lotus Circle
> The
> Wild Rose Press
> Wild
> Child Publishing

Angela James Workshop at Romance Divas

2009-01-13T12:04:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to pop in here and tell you about a wonderful e-publishing workshop going on over at Romance Divas. Angela James is the Senior Editor at Samhain Publishing (my publisher). Check out her workshop and ask any questions you might have about the world of e-pubs.

http://romancedivas.com/

Kimberley Troutte

Getting ready for book release

2009-01-13T11:52:00.000-08:00

Hi gang,
Happy New Year!
I hope this year brings you renewed hope, love and peace.

I have been busy trying to get everything set up for my book release. SOUL STEALER comes out March 17th, this Saint Patty's day. YAY! I can't believe it.

If you would like to check out the excerpt go to http://samhainpublishing.com/coming/soul-stealer.

There's so much to do. Order the promo materials, buy ads, set up interviews, the list goes on. I'm busy but oh-so joyful.
My family is happy and healthy. And my book is a comin'

Blessings to you all,
Kimberley Troutte

My Samhain Coming Soon Page

2008-12-31T08:48:00.000-08:00

Hi gang,
Happy New Year!

Today is the last day of 2008 and I am celebrating by drooling over my new cover. Wowie-kazowie is it beautiful! Angie Waters is my hero. I can't imagine how she was able to take the little input I gave her and made something so lovely and well, yummy. You can check it out here and read an excerpt online at Samhain Publishing. I am so happy, you guys, I just can't tell you.
What a blessing indeed.

May your new year be full of joy and love.

Kimberley

You Can Help the Economy

2008-12-12T09:41:00.000-08:00

Hi gang,
the news lately has been pretty bleak for writers and publishers alike. Last week we had Black Wednesday in which several publishing houses announced lay-offs, freezes, consolidations and just plain 'ol bad news. The doom and gloom got picked up by editor/agent/author/reader blogs and the bleak darkness coated the internet.

I'm here to give you a little light.

First off, I am sorry for those of you suffering right now. But I do think we can all help each other. What's a good way to do that? Buy books. Buy the stories that make you feel good. Read them together as a family. Read them to laugh, to cry, to smile in triumph. Books are like chocolate for the soul. Read.

And for those of you who are writers: keep writing. The publishing industry, like every other industry in the world, goes through ups and downs. We are all feeling the downs right now, but that doesn't mean they are not buying good stories. In fact, it takes a year to two years for publishers to release books to stores. Two years from now the economy is going to be different. Get ready, position yourself for the upswing by writing. Now.

So there you have it. Simple ways to make a difference. Read, write, and be good to one another.

Kimberley

Historical Romance Workshop

2008-11-10T10:14:00.000-08:00

Hi guys,
for those of you writing historical romances, or thinking of writing them, or simply love them like I do, there is going to be an awesome workshop over at the Romance Divas this week.

Come check it out at http://forums.romancedivas.com:

:

Hope to see you there!
Kimberley Troutte

Paying Forward

2008-10-17T12:49:00.001-07:00

I just finished reading Catherine Ryan Hyde's beautiful book PAY IT FORWARD. What an awesome story and great idea.

It got me thinking about writers.

Writers in general are very giving people. We give our time, our ideas, our sweat and sanity to mostly total strangers. Why do we do that?

To help humanity, of course. I know, you're saying how can a paranormal romance, or a kid's picture book, for that matter, help mankind?

The answer is simple: they simply do. We writers touch at the heartstrings, offer up hope, love, light in a world that is sometimes dark, dismal, and full of hate. We make folks smile when all they want to do is cry. And sometimes we make them cry too, in a good way. We come into readers' homes, hold their hands on dark, scary nights, and remind them they are not alone. We dip into the past and show them hundreds of possible futures. The world is a beautiful place. Sometimes we just need to see it through other people's eyes. The eyes of a writer.

That's paying it forward. I'd like to hear how authors have touched your lives.

First round edits and chopping off heads

2008-10-09T13:35:00.000-07:00

With great trepidation did I open the e-mail from my editor. I knew what it was. First round edits *She screams, shrieks, pulls her hair* And then she settles down and opens the darn thing.

No one likes to see her baby splattered with blood, okay it was cyber-ink, but you get the idea. But still, this was a once in a lifetime opportunity to see first-hand what a real live editor would do to improve my work. What an awesome idea. What a terrifying ordeal.

My editor had read my story with gusto and worked very hard to point out (in yellow and red) each and every flaw. Yikes! I don't even like to look too closely in the mirror. Again with the shrieking and hair pulling.

Once I settled down, I realized it wasn't so bad. After a couple of chapters, my fatal flaws were peeking up like venomous snakes in the grass. No, I did not repeat myself over and over. Ooops, yes I did. And why didn't I flesh out my heroine better? The hero's black moment? Where was it? How many times can one writer put the word "that" in a manuscript?

Now that my editor has turned the spotlight on those snakes, it is easy to chop their heads off and be a better writer. Isn't that the goal anyway? To be the best writer I can be?

Thank you, dear editor, for your help.
My grass is snake free. Until the next time.

Dear writers, what are your fatal flaws and how did you kill them?

Cover Art

2008-09-20T08:02:00.000-07:00

This past week I had a thrilling experience--I received my Cover Art Form from my publisher.

I knew it would come and yet it was a sort of out-of-body experience. Suddenly it was all real all over again. My book is truly going to be published. It was no joke, dream, or mistake.

The Cover Art Form is a guideline from me, the author, to the artist who creates book covers. Somehow I am supposed to convey my story to a artist who hasn't read the book. This artist then captures the essence of the story on the cover in an effort to entice readers. Amazing! Um, impossible. I'm no artist. You should see my stick figures. Thank goodness I don't have to create the cover all by myself.

On the Cover Art Form, I answered many questions about my story. The first was asked to describe the hero. And so I did, in as much detail as I could. What he wears and his attitude, how he looks and how he acts.

Next, I described the heroine in the same way.

The artist wanted to know about the setting and any other things that could be in the picture. I described what sort of mood I wanted depicted.

Anything that the author specifically doesn't want on the cover should be listed. Ahem, I had some opinions about that too.

I also added examples of covers from Samhain that I really love so they could see what I had in mind.

This was really fun. I am grateful Samhain cares about my opinion because I know of other publishers who do not allow the author's input. The covers do, after all, belong to the publisher.

Oh man, oh man, I can't wait to see my cover. I'll post it here when I get it.

What are your favorite covers?

Editors don't wear tights and capes.

2008-09-13T11:19:00.001-07:00

Well, maybe some do, but that's a preference thing.

It's easy to forget that editors are not superhuman when they hold the power to make or break careers in the palm of their hands. But editors have tough jobs. The truth is, many of them are overworked.

Imagine going to work every day and having that stack on your desk grow by hundreds of submittals. Daily! And truth be told, many of the submittals are really not very good. But wading through and replying to the masses is not the only thing editors do.

After finding a manuscript they like, they sometimes have to fight for it. There are acquisition meetings where an editor has to say why they want to buy a manuscript. If there are others like it in the house, or in the works, the editor might be told "no". Imagine how heartbreaking that is, finally finding a story she wants, but still can't buy it.

Let's say the editor gets the green light. Then the negotiating with the author begins. That part can be stressful and exciting. If all works out and a contract is signed, the editor may provide suggestions on how the author can improve the manuscript and work with the author to get the story "just right".Schedules and deadlines are set.

Then the marketing stuff commences. The editor works with the author to create wonderful blurbs and cover information. Quotes are requested. Dedication and reader pages are made. The editor may consult with the author about creating websites. Blog interviews may be scheduled.

The editor then works with the author to fill out art form pages, the information the art department needs to create a beautiful cover for the book. The editor may attend cover art meetings on the author's behalf. The editor does her best to make sure the author's story is accurately conveyed in an eye-catching cover.

The editor sends the manuscript to a line editor for such things as grammar and word choice fixes. Once the manuscript has been edited and signed off, the book is well on it's way.

It's amazing that editors do this work day-in-day-out for many, many books. It's a seemingly impossible feat.

So, maybe they do wear capes and tights.

Can this woman be saved?

2008-09-04T10:03:00.000-07:00

It's September already. Yikes! How did THAT happen? Time goes so quickly sometimes, except, well, when it doesn't.

I'm experiencing one of those SLOWWW periods right now. Time is dripping at molasses speed. The reason? I just pressed send and my next novel, tentatively entitled CATCH ME IN CASTILE, jettisoned off to my editor for review. Pretty cool, right?

Absolutely cool. It's also gut-wrenching and torturous. My mind is riddled with anxiety. Will she like it? Will readers? Is it as good as I think it is? Should I have tried to edit it again for the 50th time? Will I survive the suspense? Can I break the compulsive disorder to check emails and phone messages every five minutes and remember to breathe?

It's interesting to me that the process doesn't get much easier now that I am published. The crazy self-flogging thoughts are still there.

So my question to other published authors is this: Does it EVER get any easier?

But then I have to think that maybe it shouldn't. My characters deserve to have me stress and fret over every word, color, shade, pacing, and emotional depth. I draw them to live, after all, not just sit on a page. If my stories did not pop with twists, turns and paths not yet taken, why read them? Why write them?

So maybe stressing is a good thing. What do you think?

Oh, gotta go check my emails. It's been at least five minutes.

Best to you,
Kimberley, one crazy woman

Introducing Romance Author Kimberley Troutte

2008-08-19T17:25:00.000-07:00

Ahem, that's me, Kimberley Troutte.

You don't know me. Yet. But if you like to read romance novels with exotic settings, paranormals elements, and interesting twists, I'm your gal.

SOUL STEALER, my first novella, is coming out Spring of 2009 from Samhain Publishing. Yahooo!

To say I LOVE Samhain is an understatement. It's like saying I sort of like dark chocolate, bubble baths, and back rubs. Truth is, I am thrilled beyond words to be a Samhain author (oooh, author, I like the sound of that) and excited to be working with the beautiful and fabulous editor, Deborah Nemeth. I'd name my next kid after her, if I planned to have another (which might not be so great considering I only have boys).

SOUL STEALER is a story of redemption, undying love, and sacrifice. A good woman bargains with Death to complete her life's work not knowing that forces of good and evil will try to rip her soul away from the man keeping her alive--Death.

Here's the tagline, see what you think of it:
When Death falls in love with a saint, there’s holy hell to pay.

I hope you'll check in on me as I step into the new world of publishing. I have been on this journey for twenty years dreaming of seeing my stories in print.

Just goes to show you, prayers are answered and miracles do happen. I'm the proof.

What are your great big dreams?