Pitch

It's Here!

Book Two in The Huntington Saga Series Novels~

Pirate Bride!

Miss Susannah Blakemore is kidnapped and sold into white slavery as payback to the Huntingtons. Will her pirate hero save her?

“The Huntingtons will pay. Oh, they will pay.” Plots and unholy alliances are put into action carrying out long-awaited retribution.

Only … one was not thought of. One was not even considered. How would anyone have guessed that a descendant of a pirate would take up his old family tradition in a mad quest to regain his bitterly lost love? The Marquess of Latham will not abide by this act of violence arranged for his precious love, but will surely save her -- will he not? And will he make her the next pirate bride?

Next? There must be a first to have a 'next'. But there was another ... centuries ago ... that still walks the halls of Stonecrest Castle.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

I have been busily homeschooling my son since August.  It's been quite a journey--excitement, anxiety, doom, more anxiety, hope, and now more excitement again as I see the results showing themselves.  He said to me just yesterday (after being praised for remembering several things in a row...), "Mom, when you think you're stupid, you act stupid.  I'm acting smart because I don't believe I'm dumb anymore."  Simultaneously felt a dagger in my heart and yet screamed for joy (to myself, of course!).  A simple high-five is all it took to make him smile before going out for recess. 

I love my job!

Ellise

Sunday, July 1, 2012

Take a look at Creighton's Daughter

Just thought I'd let you know I'm working on the last sequel to The Governess, as well as the others.  It's called Creighton's Daughter.  I enjoy working on each sequel whenever I feel the desire to write and be creative.  And yes, of course, it's a romance.  What else do I write?

Read Creighton's Daughter

Ellise~

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

My HarperCollins Review

I've been reluctant to post this since I'm unhappy with my review.  But, in all fairness, I must fess up to the opinion they've shared and share it with you. 

Like Dori from 'Finding Nemo' says, "Just keep swimming."  That's my new motto. 

Ellise :)

Read Review Here

P.S.  I've taken down my review from authonomy.com.  I don't think it helps advance my goals shown there anymore, so if you wish to see it, let me know.  Otherwise, I'm learning from the review what I can; the rest that I don't agree with, I'll ignore.  :)

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Monday, May 21, 2012

PIRATE BRIDE -- Sequel to The Governess


I've begun work again on the sequel to The Governess, PIRATE BRIDE, and have uploaded the first chapters to http://www.authonomy.com/books/33790/pirate-bride/read-book/#chapter.  Check it out!

I'm not racing, this time, to the Editor's Desk; however, I always love support.  I would love to hear from readers what they think, so far, of Hayden and Susannah's escapades.  It is in a very rough draft form, and even as I type, I have things in mind to chop and consolidate.  But I thought I'd put it out there in the rough simply to get feedback to see if I'm on the right track.  I have some surprises that, hopefully, will take the reader on a great adventure that I still have stuck in my head.  Hopefully I can translate...

Hope you enjoy...Best wishes to you!

Ellise


Monday, April 9, 2012

Monday, March 5, 2012

Monday, March 5, 2012 -- Blogging

The wonderful thing about having a blog is that you can blog anything you want. :)

I've had a beautiful morning with my sweetheart, the best romance story I know...

I do hope to be blogging something regularly again soon, just have to get my feet under me again. 

Hugs to you all!
Ellise

Friday, February 3, 2012

Christian Romance with Sizzle: February 3, 2012 -- I'm a medal winner! Woohoo! :...

Christian Romance with Sizzle: February 3, 2012 -- I'm a medal winner! Woohoo! :...: I finally got a medal ! I'm slightly behind on reporting my great news. As of midnight (GMT), January 31, 2012, I became a medal winner ...

February 3, 2012 -- I'm a medal winner! Woohoo! :)

I finally got a medal!

I'm slightly behind on reporting my great news.  As of midnight (GMT), January 31, 2012, I became a medal winner on authonomy.com's website where the top five most popular manuscripts are taken from the Editor's Desk, awarded a medal, and reviewed by HarperCollins Publishers.  I'm thrilled!

You can see my celebration here.

I couldn't have accomplished this goal had it not been for very kind and devoted backers from authonomy.com.  I wish to THANK ALL the generous authonomites, many who have become wonderful friends! 

Goals and dreams are amazingly important in our lives.  I'm so glad to have this special goal of striving to become a published author.  I feel I'm one step closer.  Thanks for your encouragement and in helping me to better my manuscript. 

You are amazing!!!! ;)

Ellise

Monday, January 9, 2012

Monday, January 9, 2012 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Someone brought to my attention a possible plagarized copy of my work.  Until further notice, my blog is suspended.

~Ellise

Friday, January 6, 2012

Friday, January 6, 2012 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 23 concluded:

As Creighton made his morning rounds, he was successful in clearing his troubled mind.  He always found comfort in the outdoors.  Admittedly, he had difficulty sleeping last night and had also arisen early to refresh himself in the crisp morning air.  It always seemed to work, and was now glad that it had. 

But now, to his great disappointment, he spotted the mesmerizing Lady Charlotte and Mr. Stone from a distance in conversation as they sat upon their horses.  A stab of jealousy instantly pierced his heart.  Jealousy angered him, among other emotions.  Thinking to himself, he asked, What right do I have to feel this way?  He asked himself over and over why he was wasting thought upon these tiresome feelings.  Surely he had self-control, the ability to forget whatever he wanted?  Her even? 

But…it had not worked last night. 

Impatiently he thought, What is she to me but my obstinate little governess…that I took advantage of last night, he considered, sheepishly.  He tried to shake feelings of guilt, yet strong ownership over her, but it seemed he could not. 

Not allowing himself to ponder upon them but for a moment, he commented aloud, “Let them enjoy their ride together then.  Let’s go, Storm!” he shouted to his winded stallion and angrily rode off toward the stables. 



Carly was glad to get away from Mr. Stone, as short as the duration of their conversation was.  After talking with Joe for awhile, she made her way into the house passing Lord Huntington on her way upstairs.  Instantly nervous because of their passionate exchange the night before, she slowed her ascension, staring at him timidly, unsure of what to expect…what to say? 

Wearing his usual scowl, he glowered at her, barking, “Did you enjoy Mr. Stone’s exceptional company?” as he brusquely passed her descending the stairs. 

            She stood looking after him, confused by his words.  Obviously he had seen her with Mr. Stone this morning.  Had he assumed that they were riding together?  Horrible thought! 

Thoroughly confused at her master’s behavior towards her, one minute yelling the next teasing, and then last night kissing her, she sighed, and went in search of the children.  At least they would be pleased to see her. 

            And they were. 

How she reveled their company. 

*******

Carly thought of all that had happened since coming to Huntington Manor.  Already very close to Jonathon and Elspeth, she felt gratitude knowing they had similar tender feelings towards her.  She had been so relieved to find Jonathon ready to accept her after all her efforts to draw him closer. 

Her master—he was a different matter.  She found her mind wandering to think on him often during each day, speculating at what he was doing, wondering if he was happy.  Sometimes she would come upon him in the halls or in a particular room, and he would generally be brusque with her.  At these times, she wondered at his display of intimacy towards her in the library…that they both seemed to ignore happened. 

What had been his purpose? 

His intentions? 

Sometimes she would grow angry with his arrogant assumption that he could just kiss her like he had.  Often brooding upon the subject, it seemed as if it had never happened.  At other times, she could think only of how it felt to be caressed so by his lips…ooh!  Shivers of ecstasy always accompanied such thoughts.

But mostly, she worried horribly that she was not living up to his expectations and satisfaction as a governess.  Would she be required to find new employment?  When she happened upon him, he would look at her so intently, she would become embarrassed at his obvious examination of her.  Approaching her in that proud, dignified way of his, he would proceed as if he would have conversation with her over something, only to abruptly excuse himself instead. 

Often confused by his behavior towards her, she was forever wishing she understood men more clearly because she obviously did not understand this man.  She felt that the blame of these awkward moments must somehow lay with her. 

And then, of course, her anger would begin all over again. 

Why should she feel to be blamed?  He was the guilty party.  She would ignore him as he ignored her.  Simple. 

Back to the daydreaming again…Carly busied herself writing her letter instead. 

Having spent the last year in mourning, Carly had not had time for any real suitors and did not feel well-prepared on the subject.  Her sister had even less experience.  In her responses to Susannah, Carly decided not to confide in her about Lord Huntington’s conduct, knowing Susannah’s tender heart would worry very much about her. 

Goodness!  She was worried herself. 

Carly could picture the lecture she would receive if Susannah were here, for it only took remembering dear Philippa for either of them to become sober over the mild flirtations of the gentry.  Oh, the scandal that had ensued over the newly betrothed Lady Caroline to Philippa’s dearest love, Lord Digby.  Carly and Susannah had argued with their father extensively over the matter, further arguing how horribly treated their friend had been.  It seemed it was not only his daughters that the vicar must calm, but the whole of the village.  Many a long service had been prepared to help the parishioners find forgiveness in their hearts for such a diabolical deed done to one of their own.  Lord Digby’s reputation amongst the villagers must be repaired, for not only was it right to forgive, but much industry depended upon him, whether he was deserving of the people’s forgiveness or not. 

Carly sighed heavily, contemplating her sister’s sermon that she herself would completely agree with. 

So, no. 

She would not mention her first incredible kiss. 


And men say women are confusing?  Join me on Monday to start Chapter 24, titled Torment.

Ellise ;)

Monday, January 2, 2012

Monday, January 2, 2012 -- The Governess -- A Twice Weekly Blog

Happy New Year to all!  I hope you all had a very Merry Christmas as well. 

I apologize for taking a two-week hiatus without notice.  But, I was quite overwhelmed.  On top of that, I came down with a nasty cold on Christmas Eve that just about shut me down completely.  But, we got through it fine. 

Unfortunately, the overwhelming feeling has not gone away.  I am happy to say that I finally reached the Editor's Desk on authonomy.com, and am #1.  Woohoo!  Pretty exciting!  But, I have only just found out that much of my historical information, specifically the titles of the aristocracy and the relationships between the peerage, is incorrect.  I have only this month to rectify it, and I am very overwhelmed.  But, I will work frantically to fix it, hopefully without ruining my story in the process. 

One of the changes that I've already made is changing Carly's name to Caroline.  I'm not really happy about this, but I have been assured that it is more accurate.  Her 'pet-name' will remain 'Carly', and I will mostly use this throughout the story still.  However, I'm still debating whether Carly will remain 'Lady Caroline Blakemore' or if I will have to make her only a 'Miss Caroline Blakemore'?  I don't know this yet, I'm sorry to say. 

But--now we will proceed with storytelling, shall we not?

Excerpt from The Governess -- Chapter 23:

Chapter 23

 Brooding

*******

Creighton lay in his bed wondering about this girl he had just ravished.  How could he have done that to her?  Why had he listened to Hayden?  Except he was his best friend and should have his best interests at heart? 

Hitting his pillow, he could not sleep.  Knowingly, he had increased the fear in her that was already there.  Used to having control over his emotions when it came to women, he wondered why that had changed, especially with his governess of all people. 

Roughly turning over, he again hit his pillow with a growl.  How would he ever get her eyes, her mouth, her sweet taste out of his memory?  Scowling at the thought of facing her again, he determined that this was his house, and she would have to get used to him…if she would stay? 

Instantly not liking the thought of her leaving, he sat up in bed.  These strong emotions bothered him greatly.  He would not succumb as Hayden would like to see, for he was in control, he must be. 

Falling back onto his pillow, he roughly rubbed his hands through his tousled hair and placed his arms behind his head as he continued his battle with…her fine mouth…her fine eyes…her very fine hair…



How could she sleep after being kissed like that—and by him?  How could she have known he could be so incredible?  Of all people to bestow her first kiss!  Her employer? 

            Struggling with fear of him that was quickly being replaced by the memory of his kisses—the gentle ecstasy of his kisses—she thought, oh, how can I face him again?  Could she look at him again without looking at his tempting lips? 

She should leave…shouldn’t she?  Needing this occupation desperately, she otherwise would sincerely consider it.  Or would she? 

Oh, what shall I do? 

Tossing and turning all night, she determined to have a very early morning ride. 
 
*******

Riding recklessly fast on Clover the next morning, Carly had needed the freedom of the fresh morning air to invigorate her clouded mind and her tired body.  She was unaware Mr. Stone watched and waited for his opportunity to bump into her.  It finally came as she rounded the grove of trees he was hiding in. 

Quickly moving forward at the right moment, as if he had been riding for some time, he practically barreled right into Carly.  Both horses reared upward, a startled cry slipping from Carly’s mouth.  Mr. Stone quickly gained control of both horses, as he grabbed Carly’s horse by the halter.  “Are you alright, Lady Caroline?” he asked with feigned concern and worry in his deep voice and handsome, yet troubling face.  She had no idea he had calculated this meeting. 

            Carly was reassuring her horse, and then exclaimed, “Mr. Stone!  I did not see you coming this way.” 

            Still holding her horse, he was looking at her all too favorably.  “You must allow me to make it up to you.  May I join you?” 

            She contemplated being forced to endure his loathsome company.  “Well, um…I…I was only coming back from the village and…and,” she remembered his forwardness last night at supper.  Anger instantly swelled in her breast as she recalled his impudence.  “Mr. Stone.  I do not believe you owe me anything except for an apology.”  Jutting out her chin in her challenge to him, she waited. 

            Chuckling, he said, “But that would imply I was sorry, and I am not.”  His black eyes glittered in a frenzy of obsession.  Licking his lips in his detestable way, he added, “You are an enticing young lady.” 

            Greatly annoyed at his disrespect, she said angrily, “Then we have nothing further to discuss.  Good day!”  Carly spurred Clover into a fast gallop, wishing herself as far away from this abominable man as she could get.  He sat astride his horse watching her departure, regrettably noticing her escort had started swiftly towards them at their collision. 

He must control his desire for her.  His impatience. 

Quickly, she rode towards the stables…and to safety. 

Bad guys?  Or just bad intentions?  Hmmm... Read on to find out.  Join me on Friday for more discoveries.

Ellise :)