Being focused on pushing forward to new and exciting story horizons, I don't like going back to revised old stories.
Usually.
But, as the blog post title says, never say never.
When a publisher put out a call and the submission guidelines specifically included previously published stories, I had two novels that fit the other specs. Well, after a few tweaks.
I've spent the past month or so revising them both. I was going to merely sub the revised versions, but liked them so much better, I published the new versions on Amazon and Smashwords. Once they go through the review process, Smashwords will release the updated version to its secondary affiliate sites such as Barnes and Noble, etc.
Fear not, I'm not going to be one of those authors stuck on their old stories, constantly updating the old with new versions. How many versions of one story can anyone read?
But I promise, these two are much better stories for the revisions.
That leaves only one more to finish. The Vitruvian Man trilogy of novellas (Cursed, Charmed and Claimed) will become one full-length novel. It's taken me forever because not only did life keep getting in the way, as so often happens, but the main character will undergo some major changes, and the story's going to go into more detail, as well. I'm hoping to finish that by the end of the year.
In the meanwhile, I hope you'll try the new and improved stories!
Surfacing is my contemporary fantasy, a 2009 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award semi-finalist. The story follows a mermaid who meets and inspires a wannabe rock star. Set in Weeki Wachee Springs, home of the Weeki Wachee mermaids!
The fact they're both set in Florida is a happy coincidence. Or maybe Florida is a writer's muse? I did visit Ernest Hemingway's house while in Key West... maybe his ghost followed me home!
Angels, Sinners and Madmen is free starting today, and running through Sunday. I hope you'll grab a copy from Amazon. It would be a huge thrill to see this one in the bestseller list too.
Set in 1850s Key West, Florida, Angels, Sinners and Madmen brings to life the time of the wreckers - men who salvaged ships that wrecked along the reefs bordering the island. Some say the wreckers were only thieves, or worse, but my research didn't bear that out. Most were men of honor who valued human life over everything, and saved so many people from watery graves - in turbulent water, without benefit of oxygen tanks. They could hold their breath for up to six minutes! I found it so fascinating during a visit to the island, The story actually flashed through my head during a visit to the wrecker museum, and had to know more about the wreckers, so bought up every book I could find, and found great treasures of documents in the library. Although it took a few years to finally finish, the result was this novel.
Is it hot in here?
Today, the ladies at Author Roast and Toast are helping me celebrate its re-release! Yep, I'm being roasted at http://authorroastandtoast.blogspot.com/. So come on over and join the beach party, complete with umbrella drinks, Key Lime pie and all the island goodies.
Reviewers called it “enchanting,” adding “I loved it and applaud Cate
for creating a time in the past that seems so real in this book.” Another said:
“You will fall in love these two characters along with the rest of Sam's
wrecker friends. Laughter, tragedy and heroism abound, so make sure you have
plenty of time when you start reading Angels, Sinners and Madmen, because you
will not want to put this gripping story down until you have read every single
word of it.”
And I'd love for you to read it, of course. :) When I visited Key West years ago, I was fascinated by the history of the wreckers, and couldn't wait to bring the setting to life in a novel. I hope you'll find it as intriguing as I did!
Next month, I'll re-release my historical set in 1850s Key West, Florida, called Angels, Sinners and Madmen. I've revised it, and hopefully improved it.
I spent a lot of time searching for the right cover images, and found two that contained the images I wanted and, I thought, would have the right feel. I then spent a lot of time trying to combine them, which turned out like this:
It had the right theme - the ship in a stormy sea, and the couple seeming to be overwhelmed by the waters. But even though I'd invested time and money in the cover, it didn't feel right to me.
So, back to Dreamstime I went. And I decided to change the cover to this:
This image conveys such yearning. I love it. It's much simpler, and cleaner. I thought about adding a tall ship on the horizon to indicate it's a historical, but I like that he's looking out at an empty sea. Though wreckers in 1850s Key West often searched the horizon for ships in distress, this image suggests he's not sure what -- or who -- he's looking for, but is determined to find it (or her?).
And yes, there's the beefcake aspect. :) But while that might (hopefully) attract a reader's eye, it's secondary to me.
What do you think? Any preference?
I'm shooting for August 31 as the re-release date.
Long and Short Reviews said: "The intriguing title and the well-known author drew me to this book. With a mix of romance, tragedy and heroes, you have a recipe for a fine romance. Angels, Sinners and Madmen is fraught with death-defying scenes. The setting was finely described: Florida in the 1850's was a very different place to how it is now and it suited the plot. I recommend this book for the sheer originality of the tale, and for those who like HEA, they’re going to be kept guessing right to the last page." Read the full review here.
In her review of my historical, Angels, Sinners and Madmen, Lena from Happily Ever After Reviews said, in part: Angels, Sinners and Madmen by Cate Masters is definitely one that will get you intrigued in every chapter. I loved that you have Olivia who is definitely very intellectual and far more mature for her age. People in the 1800’s guard her well telling her what to do never giving her a chance to explore. I loved that Sam is definitely her other half, definitely the apple that tempts her to be free and follow her heart. Cate did a great job creating two people who are lost in the world, finding their way back in a way that will make you jump to see them together. There were some parts that got me so moved and the words Sam speaks to his love is heartbreaking. I loved it and applaud Cate for creating a time in the past that seems so real in this book. It was enchanting!
Wow, thanks so much Lena! I love your review too. :)
Here's a longer excerpt:
Inside the tall windows of Whelan’s Dry Goods Store hung sail cloth and rope. Anchors and other nautical necessities unfamiliar to Livvie occupied one side of the store. After wandering several aisles, she found the sewing items. One spool of white thread appeared thick enough to sew stitches in horse hide. While she examined it, a movement caught her eye and the back of her neck prickled. She glanced up to see Sam Langhorne stroll in. Walking toward her, his smile widened and his gaze wandered freely across her, sending heated pinpricks across her skin. He sauntered closer, his movements panther-like in their grace. “Good morning.” The prickles traveled down her neck down her spine, deepening along their inward path. She held the mending tape across her chest to hide her quickening breath. “Hello, Mr. Langhorne. What brings you here?” He stepped closer, his eyes bright. “Our schooner suffered a battering during the storm and is in need of repair. I’m charged with mending the sails and am in need of some strong thread.” His fingers closed around hers. “I see you have what I need.” Her voice failed her. “Pardon?” she whispered. “The thread.” His lips parted in a smile. “Are you mending sails today also?” Disappointment surprised her. “Mrs. Crowell sent me here for sewing thread.” He slipped the spool from her hand. From the table, he selected a smaller one and held it up. “I suspect she meant this type.” Warmth crawled up her neck. “I’m not much of a seamstress, Mr. Langhorne.” “You aren’t joining Mrs. Crowell’s sewing circle?” He clucked his tongue. “I thought women enjoyed passing the time that way.” His brown eyes sparkled. Stubble shadowed his jaw and chin, framing his mouth. She forced her gaze away when she found herself staring too long, wondering how his rough face would feel against hers. She pretended renewed interest in the threads. “I’ve little experience in that area.” He leaned an elbow on the table and looked up at her. “Ah. Your passels of servants took care of your sewing for you, eh? And here I was hoping you might come lend a hand.” Grinning in a teasing way, he searched her face with intense scrutiny, as if trying to divine the truth. She lifted her chin. “After my mother’s death, my father hired a housekeeper. I’m afraid I wasn’t an ideal charge. I spent more time with Sir Galahad than at home.” Never had she wanted to be one of the primping girls who practiced domestic skills in hopes of enticing a husband, or took more interest in their appearance than anything else. Now she felt deficient in womanly skills. Sam Langhorne made her feel moreso. Since their last encounter, she’d dreamed of practicing womanly skills on him. He pressed his lips tight. “Your own knight in shining armor?” So he knew of King Arthur. How, she wondered? “My horse, Mr. Langhorne.” Something tightened in her chest while he held her gaze, so she scanned the mending tapes and selected one, hoping he wouldn’t correct her. He straightened and stood closer than propriety allowed. “I see. You’re full of surprises.” His nearness warmed her skin. She stepped away and forced a light tone. “And you, as well. You’re a man of many talents, apparently–sewing, salvaging, sailing. Is there anything you can’t do?” “I’m sure there is. Nothing comes to mind.” His low voice rumbled like an approaching storm, one of searing lightning and drenching rains. Livvie had always been fascinated by such storms, and the thought of Sam tearing at her clothes like a gale made her shiver. She snorted. “A typical male affliction.” The newspaper tucked beneath his arm caught her eye. She tilted her head to read the banner. “Is that a Philadelphia newspaper?” He held it out for her to see. “Yes, my brother sends it to me now and again, thinking he’ll taunt me into coming home. His letter said this edition had an interesting article on the wrecking industry.” “You’re from Philadelphia?” She’d imagined him a farm boy, perhaps, from some obscure place providing no outlet for his energy. What else would propel a man to travel far from home and become a wrecker? His tone fell flat. “Born and raised there.” He inserted the newspaper in its resting place beneath his arm. “What made you come here?” Surely Philadelphia had entertainments similar to those in New York. Perhaps his occupation–maybe a blacksmith–didn’t allow time for social events. Judging by the abundant muscles on his lean frame, he’d worked hard all his life. He leaned in dangerously close. “Why don’t you let me walk you home, and we’ll continue our conversation?” His lips parted invitingly. No ready excuse came to mind to refuse him. Nor did she want to. Barking erupted outside. Straightening, he muttered, “Can’t stay out of trouble for one minute. Excuse me.” He strode to the entrance, yelling, “Barnaby!” The ruckus ceased. She waited for him to walk in again and aim his warm smile at her, but waited in vain. Feeling conspicuous, she pretended to examine other goods and moved toward the window. A few passersby walked the streets. Sam was not among them. Frustration coiled within her. Men were so easily led astray. Sam Langhorne appeared no exception. Perhaps she’d best not spend any more time with him. Seeing him only inspired more thoughts of him. Such unbidden thoughts confused her. He would only bring trouble, of that she felt certain. At the counter, she asked for stamps and paper. The man tallied the items and waited. After a moment, she realized she’d forgotten to inform him of the charge to the Crowell account and produced the signed list. He wrote in a ledger book and gave a curt nod. After noting the amount, she thanked him, put the items into her basket and moved to an empty space at the counter to affix the stamp to her letter. A hot breeze wafted through the open door. Reluctantly, she walked toward it. Another boring day at the Crowell home lay ahead. She stepped outside to take in the breeze. Sam leaned against the wall, his brow knit in reading. He glanced up, and the lines of care on his face erased. The glint of the sun gave his dark hair a sheen. At his feet, Barnaby lifted his head and wagged his tail, his open-mouthed pant a canine smile. “I thought you’d left.” Something effervesced deep inside her and bubbled up to entwine in her breath. Barnaby jumped to his feet and nuzzled against her. She crouched to scratch his face. “I said I’d walk you home. Did you forget so soon?” The breeze ruffled his white shirt and pressed it against his well-defined chest. “No, I….” Words escaped her, though his warm smile indicated they were unnecessary. Ducking his head, he pushed away from the wall and stood in front of her. “Shall we?” She rose. “Yes.” Uttering the sole word opened up a wild array of possibilities. She would have to use it more carefully in the future. He held her gaze in such a way, not looking away could imply yes without speaking the word. Yet she did not wish to look away.
One of the most easily recognizable fare from the Keys is Key Lime Pie. Yum. The history of the pie has been lost to the ages. While some claim to have invented the dessert, most believe it originated in the late 1800s (after Angels Sinners and Madmen takes place, so I make no mention of it). Hard to say, though, since most people didn't begin to write down recipes until the early 1900s, according to the following web site. I'm fairly certain they didn't have prepared crusts then either. :)
Key Lime Pie 1 (9-inch) prepared Graham Cracker Pie Crust 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk 1/4 cup key lime juice** 2 teaspoons finely grated zest from key limes 2 eggs, separated 1 egg, room temperature 4 tablespoons granulated sugar ** The recipe says if you can't find fresh key limes, Tahiti or Persian limes may be substituted as they are very similar in taste. You can also substitute the bottled key lime juice. The online recipe also includes instructions to prepare a graham cracker crust, which you should refrigerate until well chilled. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, combine condensed milk, key lime zest, and key lime juice. Add egg yolks and egg; stir until well blended. Pour into chilled graham cracker crust. In a medium bowl, beat egg whites until stiff peaks form; gradually fold in sugar. Spread meringue over key lime mixture, being careful to spread to edge of pastry to prevent shrinkage during baking. Check out my hints and tips on making a Perfect Meringue. Bake 20 minutes or until meringue is golden brown. Remove from oven and cool completely on a wire rack. Makes 6 servings.
I thought Mojitos a modern drink until I came across the following web site, which includes another interesting history. Because of Key West's proximity to Cuba, wreckers often sailed there for supplies. Cubans not only perfected the cigar (like the antique logo above, which I thought was pretty cool), but supposedly also the mojito. Unless you believe another story that English pirate Sir Richard Drake first mixed the drink and later introduced it to Cubans. Either way, it makes a refreshing summertime cocktail, but also packs a punch. A favorite of Hemingway's, I'm sure if the walls of the bars in Key West could talk, they'd have quite a few tales to tell.
The Magnificent Mojito: History and Recipe 2 oz. light rum 1-2 oz. lime juice (depending on your taste) 2 tsp. superfine sugar (you can also use confectioner's sugar) 2-3 mint leaves club soda or seltzer water lime slice and mint sprigs for garnish Lightly muddle (that is, gently smash up) the mint and sugar with a splash of soda water in a mixing glass until the sugar is dissolved and you can smell the mint. Pour the lime juice into the glass, add the rum and pour into an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Give it a few shakes and then strain into a collins glass. Top with soda water or seltzer water, garnish with a lime slice and a mint sprig. Serve.
If you've ever been to Key West, you'd have noticed them everywhere. The chickens. Walking across the street, hanging out at restaurants and bars as if they were Hemingway reincarnated.
In researching what islanders ate during 1856, the time in which Angels Sinners and Madmen takes place, one thing was clear - they made good work of the abundance of seafood.
Apparently conch shells were so plentiful, they ate the meat of the creature within, although it was apparently very tough, according to this recipe for Conch Chowder, handed down through generations. Key West residents transplanted from Bahama were called Conchs also.
Conch Chowder 3 onions, finely chopped 2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and finely chopped 1 (14 1/2-ounce) can whole tomatoes, undrained and cut up* 2 1/2 to 3 pounds conch meat, cleaned and ground** 2 potatoes, peeled and finely chopped 2 quarts water (approximately) Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste * To easily prepare the tomatoes, use a sharp knife and cut the tomatoes while still in the can. ** Because conch meat is very tough, you must grind it using a meat grinder or food processor. In a large, heavy pot over medium-high heat, add onions, garlic, bell pepper, and tomatoes; cook until vegetables are soft. Reduce heat to low; add ground conch meat, potatoes, and enough water to make it soupy but not watery. Let simmer 1 hour. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and serve in individual soup bowls. Makes 6 to 8 servings.
I found several references to camperou, a favorite drink in the mid-1800s, but the best recipe I could find was rather vague: The favorite social drink is camperou, a compound of caracoa, eggs, Jamaica spirits and other ingredients.
Hm. 'Other ingredients' leaves it pretty wide open.
I'm so psyched! I can't wait for this release. Angels Sinners and Madmen was such fun to write, but also one of the most difficult because of the research. When we visited the tiny Florida island of Key West years ago, the history of the wreckers really swept me up. These men dove into stormy seas to salvage wrecks under the worst weather conditions imaginable, and without benefit of any diving equipment. According to The Wreckers' Historeum, they could hold their breath up to six minutes.
You can purchase Angels Sinners and Madmen before it's released at Freya's Bower.
Here's a different excerpt:
Acutely aware of his presence beside her, she suspected he had the same effect on other females. “It sounds like your days are very full, Mr. Langhorne.” He halted, his gaze intense. “Will you never call me Sam? I may be older than you, but not so old to warrant such formality.” His sudden seriousness took her by surprise. Using his name implied an informality—a familiarity–she wasn’t quite ready to allow. Then again, he’d brought her up from the depths, his strong arms leaving an indelible impression on her skin, one she felt even now. How much more familiar could one get? “Sam.” He continued walking. “Thank you, Livvie.” He said it naturally, as though he’d called her that all her life. She glanced behind them, then ahead. “This is not a quicker route. In fact, I believe it will lengthen our walk.” These streets were new to her. The houses appeared larger, maintained better than those on Duval Street, at least at the end where the Crowells’ boarding house stood. His brows furrowed as he pressed his lips together. “Hmm. Is that a fact?” The stern look she tried to affect gave way to a smile. “So. Tell me about Philadelphia.” “It’s a bustling metropolis where small-minded people live.” His tone had a sharper edge, and he avoided her gaze. “City life doesn’t suit you?” Livvie’s curiosity got the better of her, one of her father’s chief complaints. “Not when I could be here instead. The choice between spending my days there, devising means to outwit others, or here, in the glorious sunshine, my life mine to live as I see fit–well, it was the easiest choice I’ve ever made.” “What do you mean, outwitting others? Were you a thief?” He laughed. “In a manner of speaking.” So willing to share certain parts of himself, so reticent to share others. What secrets, she wondered, did Samuel Langhorne hide? She scrutinized him. “You are a puzzle.” More likely a Pandora’s box, and the temptation to open it grew.
The wonderful authors at MuseTracks are graciously opening their blog to me today. I'm talking about weaving interesting details into stories. Hope you'll join me and leave a comment!
Tomorrow I'll have a special guest here you won't want to miss, and I will be at Immortality and Beyond, continuing on my virtual tour. I hope to see some friendly faces along the way. :)
I put the finishing touches on the trailer this morning. What do you think?
Here's an excerpt: Her intense scrutiny made him uneasy. “Did someone hurt you? So much you distrust every other who shares her gender?” Her face, illuminated by the setting sun, appeared so innocent, so youthful. She could not possibly know of the terrible danger inherent in offering oneself to another. The intricacies of a relationship. “Yes.” The lone word revealed more than he had ever shared with anyone else. He stood rigid, unwilling to display himself further through any action or language. “Then I am truly sorry, Sam. To close yourself off in such a way you can never know happiness again. It makes me sad for you.” His laugh was hollow. “You needn’t pity me.” Her face hardened, her beautiful lips retreating to a thin, disapproving line. “No. You’re right. To choose such a life willingly is your own doing. You deserve no pity.” This was the kind of woman he was used to. Whose tender caresses turned to merciless clawing, so deep his very heart was at peril. “Such harsh words from one who would have me believe—” “I will not be so pathetic as to cling to false hope. To wait for you to sort out your feelings could take years.” She bowed her head. “I hold you to nothing, Sam. Forget yesterday, if you must.” She lifted her head to hold his gaze for a moment, perhaps waiting for him to open himself to her. In resignation, she turned and walked out. Stunned, Sam stood there, looking at the closed door. She knew him. She knew him completely, her sweet touch had divined his true self, had breathed into his mouth and captured the essence of his soul. Her openness, her honesty, entranced him more than her beauty. Yet he still could not move, could not will himself to go after her, confess his feelings. The sensation of being in Livvie’s arms could not be more opposite to his time with Helen. When Livvie looked at him, she exposed herself completely. Nothing else existed in the world. Her giving nature resulted from her feelings, and what she did not feel, she would not give. He knew it to be true. If Livvie left Key West, he would likely never meet another near her qualities. Her inquisitive nature inspired him to share his thoughts, his world. He trusted her reaction to be true, not a response designed to please him. Her skills of comprehension and analysis exceeded those of many educated men. Were it not for the constraints of society, Livvie could have risen to great power, if she’d aspired to. He had never encountered another girl like her. That was perhaps what frightened him most. Yet he still felt rooted where he stood, even as he saw, in his mind’s eye, her figure grow smaller and disappear altogether. One thought repeated in his head: I will never forget.
Isn't this a catchy cover? Freya's Bower cover artist Valerie Tibbs did a great job. Having the cover makes me eager to see Angels, Sinners and Madmen released! But before that can happen, it has to go through rounds of edits. As always, though, it'll be a better book in the end. Hmm, maybe it's time to go back to Key West for more research...
Sam Langhorne loves the carefree life of a wrecker in Key West. The
island is perfect – for forgetting the woman who broke his heart. When he
rescues Livvie Collins from a watery grave, he’s swept away by her beauty. He’s
sworn off love, but is soon captivated by Livvie’s wit – and her independent
spirit.
Olivia Collins never planned to visit Key West, or to fall in love with
Sam. Handsome and attentive, he’s constantly surprising her with his
intelligence and interest in current literature, but she knows better than to
believe she’s anything more than a dalliance. As a novelist, she intends to
make her own future.
Deception and treachery await them both in New Orleans. Can Livvie and
Sam weather the most dangerous storm of all – love?
Reviews for previous version
Angels, Sinners and Madmen by Cate Masters is definitely one that will get you intrigued in every chapter. Cate did a great job creating two people who are lost in the world, finding their way back in a way that will make you jump to see them together. There were some parts that got me so moved and the words Sam speaks to his love is heartbreaking.I loved it and applaud Cate for creating a time in the past that seems so real in this book. It was enchanting!
This intriguing novel, brilliantly written by Cate Masters, is set in the 1850's in Key West and tells the stories of the wreckers, men who salvage the cargo from sunken ships. For these two characters to get together seems well nigh impossible, but the author has skilfully drawn them together. Sam the brave wrecker who risks his life diving to the ocean floor during salvage operations. Livvie the aspiring novelist, who fights against the restraints of genteel society. You will fall in love these two characters along with the rest of Sam's wrecker friends. Laughter, tragedy and heroism abound, so make sure you have plenty of time when you start reading Angels, Sinners and Madmen, because you will not want to put this gripping story down until you have read every single word of it.
Inside the tall windows of Whelan’s Dry Goods Store
hung sail cloth and rope. Anchors and other nautical necessities unfamiliar to
Livvie occupied one side of the store. After wandering several aisles, she
found the sewing items. One spool of white thread appeared thick enough to sew
stitches in horse hide. While she examined it, a movement caught her eye, and
the back of her neck prickled.
She glanced up to see Sam Langhorne stroll in.
Walking toward her, his smile widened, and his gaze wandered freely across her,
sending heated pinpricks across her skin.
He sauntered closer, his movements panther-like in
their grace. “Good morning.”
The prickles traveled from her neck down her spine,
deepening along their inward path. She held the mending tape across her chest
to hide her quickening breath. “Hello, Mr. Langhorne. What brings you here?”
He stepped closer, his eyes bright. “Our schooner
suffered a battering during the storm. I’m charged with mending the sails and
am in need of some strong thread.” His fingers closed around hers. “I see you
have what I need.”
Her voice failed her. “Pardon?” she whispered.
“The thread.” He slipped the spool from her hand.
“Are you mending sails today also?”
Disappointment surprised her. “Mrs. Crowell sent me
here for sewing thread.”
From the display, he selected a smaller one and
held it up. “I suspect she meant this type.”
Warmth crawled up her neck. “I’m not much of a
seamstress, Mr. Langhorne.”
“You aren’t joining Mrs. Crowell’s sewing circle?”
He clucked his tongue. “I thought women enjoyed passing the time that way.” His
brown eyes sparkled. Stubble shadowed his jaw and chin, framing his mouth.
She forced her gaze away when she found herself
staring too long, wondering how his rough face would feel against hers. She
pretended renewed interest in the threads. “I’ve little experience in that area.”
He leaned an elbow against the display and looked
up at her. “Ah. Your passels of servants took care of your sewing for you, eh?
And here I was hoping you might come lend a hand.” Grinning in a teasing way,
he searched her face intensely, as though trying to divine the truth.
She lifted her chin. “After my mother’s death, my
father hired a housekeeper. I’m afraid I wasn’t an ideal charge. I spent more
time with Sir Galahad than at home.” Never had she wanted to be one of the
primping girls who practiced domestic skills in hopes of enticing a husband, or
took more interest in their appearance than anything else. Now she felt
deficient in womanly skills. Sam Langhorne made her feel more deficient. Since
their last encounter, she’d dreamed of practicing womanly skills on him.
He pressed his lips tight. “Your own knight in
shining armor?”
So he knew of King Arthur. How, she wondered?
“My horse, Mr. Langhorne.” Something tightened in
her chest while he held her gaze, so she scanned the mending tapes and selected
one, hoping he wouldn’t correct her.
He straightened and stood closer than propriety
allowed. “I see. You’re full of surprises.”
His nearness warmed her skin. She stepped away and
forced a light tone. “And you, as well. You’re a man of many talents,
apparently–sewing, salvaging, sailing. Is there anything you can’t do?”
“I’m sure there is. Nothing comes to mind.” His low
voice rumbled like an approaching storm, one of searing lightning and drenching
rains.
Livvie had always been fascinated by such storms,
and the thought of Sam tearing at her clothes like a gale made her shiver.
“A typical male affliction.” The newspaper tucked
beneath his arm caught her eye. She tilted her head to read the banner. “Is
that a Philadelphia newspaper?”
He held it out for her to see. “Yes, my brother
sends it to me now and again, thinking he’ll taunt me into coming home. His
letter said this edition had an interesting article on the wrecking industry.”
“You’re from Philadelphia?” She’d imagined him a
farm boy, perhaps, from some obscure place providing no outlet for his energy.
What else would propel a man to travel far from home to become a wrecker?
His tone fell flat. “Born and raised there.” He
inserted the newspaper in its resting place beneath his arm.
“What made you come here?” Surely Philadelphia had
entertainments similar to those in New York. Perhaps his occupation–maybe a
blacksmith–didn’t allow time for social events. Judging by the abundant muscles
on his lean frame, he’d worked hard all his life.
He leaned in dangerously close. “Why don’t you let
me walk you home so we can continue our conversation?”
No ready excuse came to mind to refuse him. Nor did
she want to.
Many thanks to Freya’s Bower, which first published
this novel.
In the meanwhile, I hope you'll try the new and improved stories!
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Long and Short Reviews said: "The intriguing title and the well-known author drew me to this book. With a mix of romance, tragedy and heroes, you have a recipe for a fine romance. 
One of the most easily recognizable fare from the Keys is Key Lime Pie. Yum. The history of the pie has been lost to the ages. While some claim to have invented the dessert, most believe it originated in the late 1800s (after Angels Sinners and Madmen takes place, so I make no mention of it). Hard to say, though, since most people didn't begin to write down recipes until the early 1900s, according to the following web site. I'm fairly certain they didn't have prepared crusts then either. :)
If you've ever been to Key West, you'd have noticed them everywhere. The chickens. Walking across the street, hanging out at restaurants and bars as if they were Hemingway reincarnated.
