Friday, May 3, 2013

Spilling the Beans with Kathleen Ann Gallagher

Hi Kathleen! So glad to have you at Spilling the Beans, where we can learn a little bit about you, and your book. Grab a cappuccino and let’s chat. Unless you have another favorite drink (alcoholic or otherwise)?

I’ve got my mocha cappuccino and it’s delicious. Thanks, Cate!



Fur or feathers, petwise?

I’m really a cat person, but we have an adorable dog named Chaz. One of these days, we’ll surprise him with a little playmate.  



Any pet peeves? One thing that really burns your biscuits?

I’m pretty easygoing, but I have to admit the one thing that really annoys me is when I’m strolling through the mall and a vendor steps out in front of me with a freebie in an attempt to sell me their products. Don’t bother me when I’m shopping.



I'm with you on that one. What’s your guilty pleasure?

I admit to eating whipped cream daily. I can’t eat my single serving of ice cream without it. Lol



Yum! Favorite quote?

My favorite quote is from Helen Keller. The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched, they must be felt with the heart.



I love that. If you could have one superpower, what would it be?

I’d love to be able to wave a wand and stop violence in the world.



Yes, that would be wonderful! If you could live out any fantasy, what would you do?

It would be fun to be part of a Broadway show. If only I could sing.



Ha, I have that fantasy with a girl rock band! Which is a nice segue to the next question… Beethoven, Beatles, Foo Fighters or Keith Urban (what type(s) of music makes you rock out)?

I’m from New Jersey and I’m a huge Bon Jovi fan.  I love their music and plan to see them on tour this summer. I can’t wait.



Yay, another Jersey girl! Does music influence your writing? Do you have a music playlist for your book?

I listen to all types of music when I write. It depends on the scene I’m working on. The soundtrack for Out of Africa always inspires me. Sometimes I listen to old rock and roll by Pink Floyd. It’s good mood music. 



Which of your characters would you most/least want to hang out with, and why?

I’d love to hang out with Savannah Mason from my new release, A Summer’s Journey.  She’s an ambitious journalist with some family issues, but overall she’s a fun gal, with an exciting job.  I might not want to hang out with her father, Stuart Mason. Not until he loosens up, anyway.  



While creating your books, what was one of the most surprising things you learned? When I took a close look at my heroes, I realized I write the kind of hero’s that I love.



Where can readers find out more about you?

Here’s where you can find me.





I love to meet new friend.



Please share a book blurb and/or excerpt.



A Summer’s Journey by Kathleen Ann Gallagher


Blurb 


Savannah Mason fought for independence since she was a young girl, smothered by a controlling father who insisted she take over his medical practice one day.  Now, at the age of thirty, alienated from her father, the career minded journalist spends long hours at her job, hoping to take the spot as anchor.
On her darkest day twelve years ago, Savannah agreed to give her child up for adoption. She never even had the chance to hold her.  On her daughter’s birthday, a chance encounter gives Savannah an opportunity to explore a corner of her heart she thought was lost forever.
The last thing Savannah wants is a relationship, especially one with a doctor who happens to have two young children.
Rob Sinclair, a cardiothoracic surgeon and NY Times best-selling author, needs a promo spot on the television show The News Stop.  When Savannah gets the interview over a senior reporter, a door opens to her future.  However, first she must face the sorrow of her past and cast away the agony of guilt before she’s free to accept love.
Rob’s commitment to climb the ladder of success and provide a good life for his two small children keeps him on the road.  He’s determined to push forward despite the heartache of a broken marriage.  His deepest fear is being an absent parent.  When he meets Savannah Mason, desire and passion awaken his broken spirit.  Will he ever be able to trust another woman?
Savannah and Rob’s strong attraction to one another is undeniable as they follow the path to a place where honesty, love and forgiveness, can bring them both home.
When a man who seems totally wrong for Savannah slowly weaves his way into her heart, will he accept her when he learns about her past?
Savannah and Rob’s attraction to one another is undeniable.  As they follow the path to a place where honesty and forgiveness can bring them both home, will it be enough to heal the scars of the past and allow them another chance at love?



Excerpt 

Savannah stood and slowly moved toward him. Her chest tightened with each step. As she approached him and admired his broad shoulders, it dawned on her he could be a candidate for People’s sexiest man alive. Control yourself.   
“I’m happy here.”  Savannah admitted. “I love it when the morning light shines on the water and it mimics fine pieces of crystal.”
 Rob slowly approached her. The look in his eyes told her he had more than the view on his mind. Savannah turned away, afraid of what might happen next. Before she could stop him, they were too close for comfort. An electric energy surged between them. With one swift movement, Rob reached for her and gently placed his lips on hers. He cradled her head in his hands as if she was a precious jewel. The warmth of his touch sent shivers down her spine and the world stood still. When Rob’s hands moved slowly across her back, her body went limp and it took her to a level of arousal she never expected. It all happened so quickly, she didn’t have time to react. She found herself spellbound by the feel of his rock hard body pressed up against her chest. All of the emotions she’d kept inside emerged when Rob held her tight. When they finally parted, Savannah stood frozen in shock with her heart pounding and her ears ringing.
Rob’s expression made him look as if he broke the law. He quickly took a step back. “I don’t know what to say. I’m so sorry for my rude behavior.”
 “You weren’t rude. I didn’t stop you.”
 “I don’t know what got into me. You’re an amazing woman and I find you terribly attractive.” He stared deep into her eyes.  
“Thank you.” Savannah looked down, still shocked, but flattered.   
“I’d like to take you on a real date. Would that be possible? Is it against your ethics to date someone you’re working with?”
“There’s no rule against dating a guest on the show. I make my own rules.” Savannah could not believe her own words.
“That’s what I like about you. You’re not afraid of taking a risk. I could tell from the moment I met you, you were a strong, independent woman.”
 Unanswered questions twirled around in Savannah’s mind. What am I doing making a date with a doctor and one with a family, no less. I must be crazy. Her mind told her to run from a relationship with a client, however, her body told her something completely different.  


GIVEAWAY!



I’m giving away A Summer’s Journey, two-toned canvas tote. Make a comment to be considered.  Don’t forget to leave your email address. 



I enjoyed being here today. It was lots of fun. Thanks so much, Cate!



Thanks for spilling the beans today, Kathleen! Happy release day! Hope you have tons of sales.


More about Kathleen


Kathleen Ann Gallagher writes contemporary, paranormal, and erotic romance.

Although writing is my passion, nursing is my vocation.  I work in an emergency room, and it’s been challenging, and rewarding, to be such an integral part of so many other’s daily struggles.  I have a wonderful husband who always offers his support, and never complains about my crazy schedule. One of our favorite romantic getaways is Cape May, New Jersey, an old historic beach town where we take a step into the past, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.  Although my children are all grown with busy lives of their own, Chaz, our Shepherd mix, still dutifully stands guard at the house.  We are also blessed with three adorable grandsons.
Other interests of mine include cooking, reading, and the theater.  However, spending time with my family is most important to me.  Even though my life is filled with work, family, etc., my mind continues to ponder the next story or concept for a new novel.