THE BILLIONAIRE BARITONE

Amethyst loves music and enjoys hip-hop dancing to spice up her dull and dreary life. But one evening on her way home from dance class, she hears a voice that drew her away from her route.

Caught in the act of eavesdropping, her life is about to change in a way she has never foreseen.

David didn't quite know what to do with the beautiful trespasser, but when he learned that she was injured, taking care of her was the only solution.

Little did he suspect that she was about to take care of his lonely heart in return.

CHAPTER 18

I counted on my fingers. “I am not smart, or beautiful like your other girlfriends. Hell, I fall over my own feet for no reason. I swear. I am penniless. I didn't finish high school...do you want more?”
Then David sat down next to me and muddled my reasoning again when he kissed my hand before holding it between his. “You're beautiful, more so than those empty headed women, I used to hang out with. And no one blames you for your circumstances; you did the best you could. You can finish high school and study anything you want, which I know you can do. If you insist, you can work. And," he mock-glared at me when I opened my mouth, "I think it's cute when you say 'hell'.”
I groaned his name. “Aren't you listening?! I don't fit in your world. People will say I am a gold digger and laugh at you behind your back. Maybe I am a gold digger out to catch a rich husband.”
The next moment I find myself on his lap. "What are you doing?"
He chose to ignore me. “I am listening much better than you think. I know you are not a gold digger. You are too independent for me to believe that for one moment, your financial status notwithstanding. Secondly, your concern for your colleagues and the people at my factory told me more about the kind of woman you are than any private investigator could.”
My heart sank. “I suppose I cannot blame you for getting a PI to investigate me. I would have done the same to protect my family against someone like me.”
I wanted to leave, but he held on tight. “Someone like you? Explain.”
I shrugged. “You know. Poor. Unsophisticated. Born on the wrong side of the tracks.”
It was his turn to frown, and yet he didn't let go of me. Didn't he hear anything I said?
“You like my mother don't you?”
I nodded. “Sure, I think she's great. What does she have to do with anything?”
“A lot more than you think. She came from nothing too. She married my dad for love, and they made the rest work. Did people gossip and say all kinds of terrible things? Yes, they did, but they didn't let that stop them from being together. In fact, they chose to befriend people who didn't care about those things either and were the better for it.”
I sighed. What was there left to say? He had answers for everything it seemed.
“You're sure you don't mind?”
He lifted his hand, palm towards me. “I solemnly promise that I love you and that I don't care about all the other things. We can make it work if you want. Do you want to marry me?”
I swallowed hard. Could this be happening? I put my trembling hand against his. “I solemnly promise that I love you and that I will marry you and will try my best to be a good wife.”
His laughter made me smile until he pulled me tightly against him. I forgot everything when he kissed me.
“Excellent!”
David pulled back and sighed aloud. “Can't we get a little privacy in this house?”
It was my turn to laugh. Who cared about the intrusion when I held the heart of the man whom I loved with the whole of mine? I lost my breath when he kissed me again.

You can also follow along on Wattpad

Author Interview: Charmain Lines

I welcome the first JOURNEY author to my blog today, Charmain Lines. She is a return visitor and I am happy to have her back.

1. What made you decide to take part in the JOURNEY project?

I needed motivation to focus on my writing and from previous experience with a writing project run by Linzé, I knew the project was just what I needed. Furthermore, I had recently read a book that had left me with story ideas that were a perfect fit for the “Journey” theme.

2. How did you come up with the title of your story?

It is called “The wars of men” and I only came up with it after, during my final edit, the main character uttered these words.

3. What inspired your story?

A book I read about Eugene de Kock, a security police operative during South Africa’s apartheid years.

4. Please tell us about the journey of your character(s)

The main characters are a woman and her two sons who move from South Africa to Ireland to start a new life. The story is set some 20 years after their physical move and plays out on the day they are confronted with the past.

5. What other things, besides writing, do you like to do?

At the moment I travel! My husband and I are on a 3-month European adventure that is taking us from Spain to France to Ireland to Italy. My day job is freelance writing and editing for mainly corporate clients.

6. If the end of the world is about to happen, which person would you want to be with for those last minutes?

My husband. We’d be able to talk about what is happening, remind each other of the great memories we have made together, and comfort each other.

7. What did you learn about yourself or your journey as a writer during this project?

I was reminded, again, to trust the process and be ok with not knowing exactly where the story will go.

8. What do you see as your biggest challenge as a writer?

Spending more hours at the keyboard than what I already do as a professional writer.

9. What tool/software/technique/process do you find the most valuable to you as a writer? 

I don’t use any writing tools, but the most useful and valuable technique is to never start editing before the first draft is done.

10. Do you have another project in the pipeline that you would like to share with my readers?

I’m working on a full-length novel, this one in Afrikaans, which is my home language.

Thank you, Charmain. Enjoy your travels!

Linzé's Mischief: 9 October 2016

Thursday, 6 October
With the ebook version of JOURNEY now available for pre-order (hint, hint!) I am focussing on helping the typesetter to format the book for printing. Since the ebook and print book look quite different in terms of layout and front matter (the stuff that goes between the cover and the story), it is taking me a while to get my head around to that.
I thought to add the author photographs to the book, but unfortunately, only two of us have photographs that are suitable for printing; resolution of photographs for printing have to be at least 300 dpi. So I guess that idea is a no-no.

Friday, 7 October
Updates have been sent to the typesetter, and now we are getting closer to printing. Now I have to do the cover of the whole book. Fortunately, the text of the back cover is already done, I just have to add it to the graphic. A task for the weekend :)

I often tell people that I don't brag about Francois' photographs because he is my husband. I brag because the medals hanging on my living room wall are the evidence of my enthusiasm. Then, we found out today that three of his photographs are going to be part of an international photographic exhibition that opens next Sunday in Rosebank, Johannesburg. I went, wow!
Guess where I will be next Sunday? Will make sure to get some pictures to share with you. I am so proud of him.

Saturday, 8 October
The second part of the Indie Author course was postponed - people getting sick - so I convinced Francois to go to the Belgian Market, which seems to be an annual event. I am a huge fan of Belgian chocolate, so it was a must for me to go.
It was a bit disappointing that my favourite Belgian chocolate brand did not feature at the market. But, the waffles were great. And Francois bought a gift pack of beer that he likes. (Check him out here)

Earlier in the week
After doing the Tai Chi course, I wrote a review for the website selling the course, practically begging them for the 42 form Yang style course. I have a book, but videos are so much better, don't you think?
It became available last month. I almost fell off my chair with excitement. Within two ticks it was on my wishlist, waiting for the invariable discount vouchers to come. Having an exchange rate where $1 costs me almost R14, can be stressful on the wallet.
That meant that I had to be patient, despite my overwhelming need to click that 'buy' button. Then my self-control and patience were rewarded. Within four hours after putting the course on my wishlist, the 20% discount offer popped into my mailbox.
Of course, five minutes later, the invoice and payment confirmation also appeared. Now I just need to find the time to start the new course in earnest. In the meantime, I am still practicing the 24 forms.

The course on Business English I am taking will finish this coming week, then I will have a little more time on my hands. That is after reading three books for review, completing the editing on Waiting for Adrian, organising and hosting the book launch of JOURNEY, and doing NaNoWriMo at the same time?
Yeah, December sounds about right. Damn!

Lots to do this week, so I better get cracking on planning everything.
Until next time!

THE BILLIONAIRE BARITONE

Amethyst loves music and enjoys hip-hop dancing to spice up her dull and dreary life. But one evening on her way home from dance class, she hears a voice that drew her away from her route.

Caught in the act of eavesdropping, her life is about to change in a way she has never foreseen.

David didn't quite know what to do with the beautiful trespasser, but when he learned that she was injured, taking care of her was the only solution.

Little did he suspect that she was about to take care of his lonely heart in return.

CHAPTER 17

His hand was warm and distracting. And confusing to my head which had to be clear right now. I could feel the frown showing my confusion and pulled I my hand away. “You mean I still have a job?”

David frowned in return. “Why wouldn't you?”

“Mr. Henry is not a nice man. He managed to fire some people in the past even when they did nothing wrong.”

That earned me a few raised eyebrows, but I had a more pressing concern. “Am I still getting paid, or do I need to find another job?” I looked down at my hands. The bandage and splint a reminder that my stay here would soon be over.  “I cannot afford not to have a job.”

“Okay, let's backtrack a few steps here. What did you mean he fired people when they did nothing wrong? There are laws against such things.”

I glared at David. “You cannot be serious! How can someone like me get a lawyer, let alone pay him, to fight a company for unlawful dismissal? Get real.”

My stomach suddenly rolled at the smell of freshly brewed coffee and perfectly toasted bread. I got to my feet instead. “I am not hungry.”

*  *  *

Jeff nudged his brother. “Go after her.”

“Why? I cannot force her to eat.”

Jeff rolled his eyes. “Idiot. She needs you to understand her position. You are in love with her, and you need to convince her to stay.”

“We want her to stay,” Phyllis added.

David's jaw dropped. “I am not in love with her.”

Jeff slapped his shoulder. “Yes, you are. Mom and I can both see that, so stop arguing with the truth and go get her. Now!”

Frowning, he got up. “Am I in love?”

“Yes!” the reply came in duplicate.

Shaking his head left the room. Was he in love with Amethyst? Even now his heart ached for the difficult position she could find herself in. 

In the hall he stopped, not sure where she went. She was mobile and could be anywhere on the estate.

He spotted the housekeeper in the entrance hall checking the fresh flowers in the tall floor-standing vase.

“Excuse me, Mrs. Neethling, did you see which way Amethyst went?”

“If I am not mistaken, she went to the kitchen.”

Thanking her he ran to the kitchen, startling the chef and one of the maids, and then out the back door without pause.

There were only a few places she could go from here. He doubted she had a hankering for the vegetable garden or the greenhouse. The only alternative left was the theater his dad had built for his two boys to sing and play the piano.

He found her just inside the fence where they met that first night. She was sitting on the ground staring into the street outside.

“May I join you?”

She shrugged and kept looking away.

“Do you really want to leave that badly? Does your job mean so much to you?”

Her shoulders moved again, but she didn't reply.

“Amethyst, please look at me.”

“I can't,” she whispered.

“Why?”

“Because.”

He smiled. “I used to say that to my mother when she asked me why I didn't want to sing duets with the other kids.”

She turned to look at him. There were tears on her cheeks. She quickly tried to wipe them. “Why didn't you want to sing duets?”

He reached up and wiped the tears away. “Because I didn't want to sing with someone who didn't understand that music was not just about the right notes and harmonies.”

“It had to come from the heart,” she whispered.

“Yes. I want you to sing a duet with me. Not just on a stage, but at night when we are alone, and no one else can hear us.”

She blinked her blue eyes wide with the same hope warming his heart. “Why me? I am nothing special. Just someone you felt sorry for.”

He shifted and brought her into his arms. “Maybe in the beginning. Maybe for about five minutes. But after that? I just wanted to be with you. It was hard not touching you, kissing you. It still is. Because I am in love with you. I want you—”

She gasped. “You're in love with me?”

He smiled and nodded. “Yes.”

She threw both arms around his neck. “I don't want to leave. I thought you were sorry for me. I don't want you to be sorry for me.”

He pulled back a little to look into her eyes. “Do you think you could love me? I know I am not a people person, but I could learn.”

She touched his cheek. “I don't have to think about it. I love you. I think I fell for you that first time you picked me up in your arms.”

He didn't give her another moment to explain. Sealing his lips to hers, he tightened his arms around her. Yes! his heart told his head. Never had anything felt so right than holding Amethyst in his arms.

Amethyst moaned softly when he touched her lips with his tongue requesting her full participation. He didn't just love, she gave love in return.

It was his turn to moan when she surrendered to their kiss.

“I think we should leave.”

They broke apart at the whispered voice.

“Jeff!”

She giggled at David's exasperated voice.

“You could have left without saying anything.”

Jeff grinned. “I could, but then you would have killed me when you saw your picture in the tabloids tomorrow.”

David groaned. He got up and helped her to her feet. “Sheesh, can't a man not even propose in private?”

Amethyst froze while Jeff's grin grew by leaps and bounds.

“Propose?” she croaked.

Jeff slapped his brother on the back. “I think you should take this inside before the press realise how close to the fence you are.”

When they heard sounds like running feet, they ran themselves. Amethyst managed without stumbling or adding to her injury.

Inside the house, she planted her hands on her hips, wincing when the splint dug into her flesh through the light pants she wore.

“Are you okay?”

She glared back. “Don't change the subject.”

David bit his lip to keep from laughing. In pleasure. Their first fight. Women wanted to please him. Amethyst didn't seem to have that problem. She was perfect for him.

The matchmaker, Jeff, seemed to have miraculously disappeared, the bastard.

She folded her arms and frowned at him. “You can't marry me.”

“Why not? It is the next logical step once we now agree that we love each other.”

“For other people, maybe. But we can't.”

He took her head between gentle hands and made her look at him. “Again. Why not?”

She pulled his hands away and sat down on the stairs. “Why not?”

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Author Interview: Andrea Vermaak

Today I welcome Andrea Vermaak to my blog. Andrea's contribution to the JOURNEY anthology was invaluable. Not only did she contribute her own story, she was the editor for all the authors, and she let me bully her (okay, it wasn't that bad 😉) into mentoring Michelle's first forays into Young Adult stories.

What is the title of your story?

Break Away

What inspired your story?

Other writers always tell me to write what I know. I've drawn from many aspects of my life to write Break Away: from people I have met to experiences I've had. The old man in my story is, however, inspired by a few lines in 'Kill your heroes' by AWOLNATION.

Please tell us about the journey of your character(s)

Jenna, my main protagonist, goes on both physical and emotional journeys. The two journeys are inseparable; metaphorically speaking, of course.

What other things, besides writing, do you like to do?

Read! All writers have to read! I go to an adult ballet class once a week despite having three left feet, and I try not to sound like a dying mosquito when I attend my weekly violin lesson. I guess I adore music and movement no matter how bad I may be at them!

What did you learn about yourself or your journey as a writer during this project?

When I am stuck, I must not give up! This particular project has been very challenging because my story is a bit too close to the bone. I am afraid of who will read it, so I try to veer away from the truth, but the story loses its backbone when I do. I have to keep reminding myself that it doesn't matter who reads it, I must just keep digging deep and keep on writing!

What do you see as your biggest challenge as a writer?

To write a great ending. My draft endings are always too obvious, too soppy, or both.

Do you have another project in the pipeline that you would like to share with my readers?

I have two short stories for which I would like to write better endings (told you so), as well as bits of a novel which I would like to finish during NaNoWriMo this year.

Thank you, Andrea! It was a pleasure working with you on this project.

Note from Linzé: Andrea has agreed to be my editor for Waiting for Adrian - yay!

😱 If you missed the interviews with the first two JOURNEY authors, Melissa and Michelle, just click their names 😎

Cover Reveal: JOURNEY by The Pretoria Writers Group

The long wait is over!

JOURNEY is now available for the amazing pre-order price of only $0.99

Make sure to get yours, before the price goes up!

About the book:
Life's journeys are fraught with pain, difficulties, and despair. And yet it is our search for hope and happiness that inspires us to overcome these obstacles. JOURNEY is a collection of stories that cuts close to the bone of life, love, and courage . . . to remind us that the choices we make can change the future.

Looking for a print book instead? Keep an eye out, it is on its way. You can pre-order your print copy from Linzé (details here).

Here is that link again https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/669319

Linzé's Mischief: 2 October 2016

This week's post is really going to be a short one. I managed to do so many things last week, and as always the list remains a long one. But such is the life of a writer!
The good news?
JOURNEY's cover reveal is tomorrow - so keep an eye out for all the posts, tweets, notifications, and pins. No matter where you look, you will find a link to the ebook. It is available on pre-order while we get the print book ready for our local launch. Which reminds me, I have to check out the venue tomorrow.
Francois and I are going to a photographic exhibition (there are some of his photographs too!) and we intend to hold the launch of JOURNEY at the same venue.
On Tuesday you can meet another JOURNEY author, and on Thursday, Chapter 17 of The Billionaire Baritone will be live. It is almost the end of the story and I am going to miss David, Amethyst, Jeff and Phyllis too.
And as promised, that is that for this week.
Until next time!
Linzé

THE BILLIONAIRE BARITONE

Amethyst loves music and enjoys hip-hop dancing to spice up her dull and dreary life. But one evening on her way home from dance class, she hears a voice that drew her away from her route.

Caught in the act of eavesdropping, her life is about to change in a way she has never foreseen.

David didn't quite know what to do with the beautiful trespasser, but when he learned that she was injured, taking care of her was the only solution.

Little did he suspect that she was about to take care of his lonely heart in return.

CHAPTER 16

The next few days were busy for both men, but they still found time to visit Amethyst. Her hand was healing, and the bruises on her body, according to Phyllis, were almost gone too.
The better he got to know her, the more David decided that he liked her.
"I should go home," she said one evening as he helped her back upstairs after dinner.
"No."
He could slap himself for being curt, but dammit, he wasn't ready to let her go. Not yet.
She stopped and frowned at him. "Why not?"
He no longer thought of her as someone that needed their help. In fact, all he could think of was the softness of her skin and the way her eyes lit up when she smiled.
She gained some weight under Phyllis' feeding regime, and it only served to make her more beautiful.
Instead of answering her, he asked another question. "Do you ever look the mirror?"
Her frown deepened, and she poked him in the arm with her good hand. "What are you talking about?"
"You're beautiful," the words popped out of his mouth. The delightful blush that coloured her cheeks made him grin with satisfaction.
She rolled her eyes and started walking again. "I am going to ignore you. Goodnight."

It was Thursday, and Jeff had the night off. They decided to spend the evening at home.
Assembled in the music room, Jeff sat at the piano playing all kinds of silly songs and laughed with the rest of them when they got the words wrong.
Phyllis and Amethyst picked the songs and made the men sing them. Since both were focused on classical music, it was highly entertaining to hear their versions of the popular songs.
Able to stand and walk on her own, Amethyst wiped her face of the tears; she was laughing so hard.
“I had not yet heard Lara's Theme with those words,” she giggled.
At the end of the song, they decided to take a break and have coffee.
“I have good news,” David said once they were settled on the couches.
Everyone looked at him in expectation.
“We managed to find a job for every single person in the factory.”
“That's wonderful!”
“Good job!”
“Excellent news, indeed,” Phyllis rounded up the replies. “What about the ones that were arrested? Have the police found the mastermind yet?”
“No, not yet.”
Amethyst touched his arm. “They will.”
He smiled at her optimism, although he wasn't convinced.
Jeff put his empty mug in the tray and slapped his hands together. “Okay. Who is up for some Christmas songs?”
They all groaned but got to their feet anyway.
Assembled around the piano once more, the singing was so much better, since everyone knew the words.
At one point Phyllis winked at Jeff. They were in silent agreement about David and Amethyst.

*  *  *

On Saturday morning, I managed the stairs by myself. It was just over a week since I fell. My foot was fine, and now it was time for me to leave. If I could walk, I could go home and find myself another job. The Morecrofts had been kind, but I couldn't be a parasite any longer.
I also missed my friends. I didn't have a close friend, but the people from my class were the closest I had to a family. They would be wondering what happened to me since I have never missed a class before. It might be a while before I could dance again, but that didn't mean I couldn't hang out with them.
“Good morning,” I greeted my hosts upon entering the breakfast room. It was my favourite room in the house, after the music room. It was small and cozy, and not so intimidating as the formal dining room.
Three somber faces replied. That was not good. I froze in my tracks. “What's wrong?”
Both men got up, and Jeff pulled out a chair for me, also something that reminded me of the chasm between us. In my world, men didn't do things like that without wanting something in return. Jeff never looked at me with anything except friendship.
Then there was David.  I knew the look in his eyes, and yet he didn't act upon it. I had too much self-respect, but sometimes I wished that I could ignore that voice in my head.

David took my hand. “We have some bad news.”
My throat closed up. I just knew this was going to be bad. “About?”
“Your boss was fired yesterday, and his whole department was put on suspension pending an investigation into allegations of theft and fraud.”

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Author Interview: Michelle Kemp

Today I welcome Michelle Kemp to my blog. Michelle's JOURNEY story will resonate with young adult readers, but I am sure there are many adults who would appreciate the story too.

JOURNEY Author: Michelle Kemp

1. What made you decide to take part in the JOURNEY project?

I started writing stories when I was 9 years old so writing has always been a part of my life. I am a teacher so my passion has been writing children’s books and I have published seven books to date. However, I felt I was in need of a new challenge. When I heard about the Journey project I was very excited. I was eager to try my hand at writing fiction for someone older than 8 years. The concept of a central theme (as well as a set word count and deadline) really motivated me as I thrive on challenges. I was excited to be able to work with such an amazing, diverse group of authors and have really learned a lot.

2. What is the title of your story? How did you come up with the title?

The title of my story is Lonely. I have always loved writing poetry and as a teen it was a great way to express my emotions. I wrote a poem called Lonely as it was how I felt at the time. When I was writing this story, that poem was really resonating with me and my memories of being a lonely teen.

3. What inspired your story?

I actually wrote the first paragraph of the story years ago and never really did anything with it. One day I was reading through some of my old work looking for inspiration for Journey and I found this short text. It really struck a chord with me and I just started to write. I soon had a vision of this harsh bleak world; where the loneliness I had felt as a teen didn’t even compare to the loneliness found there. I realised that it is all about perspective. I wanted to share my story as it is a symbol of the journey that many teens experience.

4. Please tell us about the journey of your character(s)

My character is a teenage girl who goes on a journey to overcome her fears of loneliness. She is thrown into a world where she has no choice but to confront the harsh loneliness of life. Through this journey she learns that there are things that are worse than putting yourself out there and embracing life.

5. What other things, besides writing, do you like to do?

I own a school and teach one of the classes so that takes up a lot of my time. I also teach creative writing to primary school children on some afternoons. When I do have spare moments I love to read as much as I can. I live on a smallholding with my parents so I enjoy being out in nature and spending time with my family. I enjoy dancing and swimming to relax but am also partial to drinking hot chocolate on the couch watching an epic movie.

6. What did you learn about yourself or your journey as a writer during this project?

I have learned so much during this project. I think one of the greatest things is that I am capable of more than I ever thought possible. I have spread my wings as a writer and enjoyed every moment of the flight. I realise that my journey is far from over and that there is always a new challenge around the corner if I am just brave enough to take the chance.

7. What do you see as your biggest challenge as a writer?

I think my biggest challenges would be time and editing. I love the writing process and enjoy working on different concepts. As such I work better with a deadline, as it helps me focus and devote time to a project. I prefer to write rather than edit but I am learning to enjoy polishing my work.

Thank you, Michelle, and all the best with your writing!

You can learn more about Michelle online:

Facebook

Blog: www.michellekempblog.wordpress.com

Blog: www.myjourneyinmontessori.blogspot.com

Linzé's Mischief: 25 September 2016

I am almost finished with my preparation for the Course based on the book, Negotiating the Maze. While it was my intention to follow the outline of the book, sometimes it is better to just follow your instincts. While the book remains the reference, the textbook if you like, the course will follow its own outline.

Course materials for students of Negotiating the Maze

While writing my notes (I do that by hand) I made some changes to the slides. I have always found that by writing by hand slows down my thinking and solutions, or better alternatives, popped into my head.

The changes are fairly minor, but it allows the storyline of the course content to flow more easily.

The first presentation will be this coming Saturday. I am excited to be presenting the course, but also a touch nervous. It has been years since I last conducted any kind of training course.

When I think about it, the excitement outweighs the nervousness, and that is a good thing in my book.

If had visited my blog during the week you would have seen the interview with JOURNEY author, Melissa Adendorff. This week it is the turn of YA author, Michelle Kemp. Be sure to visit again on Tuesday to meet another remarkable woman with whom I had the pleasure of working in this project called JOURNEY.

I am waiting for the final checks on two stories, then I can finalise the formatting of the ebook version of JOURNEY. If you like ebooks be sure to get order your copy as the pre-order price will be just short of criminal.

Pre-orders of the print book are still open. If you live in Pretoria or surrounding areas, keep your ear to the ground for the launch date and come around to meet all six of us. We love meeting readers (we are readers too!) and there will be prizes and giveaways at the launch for anyone to win. Of course, we would like you to buy a copy of the book, but it will not be a requirement to be eligible to win.

My editing of Waiting for Adrian, has taken a bit of a back seat this past week as I am focusing on finishing my course preparation. This coming week I want to spend some time editing again, but other obligations could limit that.

Obligations such as doing a photo shoot for a matric dance girl. Francois cannot do the shoot, so I am going to don my photographer's hat and make as if I know what I am doing - okay, I do know, but haven't done a solo shoot before. Will tell you next week how that went, maybe post a picture if her parents will allow it.

Until then, my friends, have a lovely week!

💜 Linzé

THE BILLIONAIRE BARITONE

Amethyst loves music and enjoys hip-hop dancing to spice up her dull and dreary life. But one evening on her way home from dance class, she hears a voice that drew her away from her route.

Caught in the act of eavesdropping, her life is about to change in a way she has never foreseen.

David didn't quite know what to do with the beautiful trespasser, but when he learned that she was injured, taking care of her was the only solution.

Little did he suspect that she was about to take care of his lonely heart in return.

CHAPTER 15

Hearing her cry out, did David pushed open the door and rushed forward when he saw her falling backward arms flailing.
Visions of her hitting her head gave him extra speed, and he grabbed her shirt. Right between her breasts.
He reached out to take her healthy hand and pulled her back into position.
It was hard to ignore the soft mounds rubbing his hand through the soft fabric, but he forced himself to let go.
“What are you doing?”
Her eyes were huge as they looked at him. “You saved me.”
His lips quirked a little. “It would seem that way. Are you okay? What are you doing in here?”
He stopped and looked at the toilet when he felt heat creep up his neck. Idiot.
She put her hand on his arm. “I wanted to take some of the painkillers the doctors prescribed, and I couldn't figure out which ones in the dark, so I came in here.”
“Grab the bag,” he said suddenly and lifted her up into his arms.
“Wait, the pills...”
They both looked at two green discs lying at the bottom of the bathtub, dissolving in a patch of water.
“You can take out two more.”
With her back in the bed, he reached out to switch on the bedside lamp. She took out two more tablets while he poured water into the glass.
“Why didn't you ask for help?”
She glanced at the chair he had been sleeping in. “You were tired, and I didn't want to bother you.”
He watched her swallow the tablets before helping her get comfortable again. “Next time just wake me, okay?”
She bit her lip and nodded.
“Good. Now lie back and close your eyes and let the medication do their job.”
She smiled at his commanding tone. “Will you sing for me?” she whispered. “You have a beautiful voice. Couldn't resist...the other night...had to come closer to listen.”
Stunned he sat there. Had he been the reason she had been trespassing?
She hummed a romantic ballad that was a popular version adapted from an operatic piece. Softly he sang with her. He didn't know the exact words of the English song, but he invented a few words around the ones did remember.

*  *  *

It was how Jeff and Phyllis found them.
Mother and son entered the house as quiet as they could. It was dark except for the light on the stairs to help them find their way.
They looked at each other when they reached Amethyst's room.
“Their voices are beautiful together,” Jeff whispered.
Phyllis nodded with her hand pressed to her mouth.
She pulled Jeff away with her. In her wing of the house, they both strained their ears until the last notes faded away.
“I don't think my brother has ever in his whole life sang anything with another person.”
“Except with you when you were still boys.”
“True, but even when he continued with his voice lessons, and I focused on the piano, he refused to sing any duets.”
Phyllis smiled as she put her feet up. It had been a long day, but the concert was worth every minute. She also enjoyed the party the orchestra had afterward. Jeff was a visiting pianist and popular with the people he performed with.
Jeff sat forward and linked his hands together between his knees. “Do you think I could convince them to sing at the Christmas charity benefit?”
Phyllis smiled wider. “That is an excellent idea!”
He grimaced. “Ha, now to figure out how to convince him to come out of the proverbial closet.”
“Hmmm,” she replied. “Now that is where I come in, my son.”

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Book Review: THE STRANGER by Anna del Mar

When a mysterious stranger is your only hope...

The scars of the past have left their mark, both physical and emotional, on former military pilot Seth Erickson. Off-grid in the far reaches of the bitter Alaskan wilderness, he wants only to be left alone with his ghosts. But he can’t ignore a woman in need—beautiful, stranded and nearly frozen with fear.

Summer Silva never imagined that the search for her missing sister would leave her abandoned on a wintry back road, barely escaping with her life from a cold-blooded killer for hire. Now, hiding out in the isolated cabin of the secretive wounded warrior who saved her, Summer knows she must do what she fears most. Putting her trust in a stranger is all she has left.

All defenses are down

After a fiery first night together, Seth and Summer are bound by a need as powerful as a Bering Sea superstorm—and vulnerable to enemies just as fierce. For Seth, reawakened by desire, there is no sacrifice too great, no memory too dark, to keep Summer safe. But murder and treason lurk everywhere and Summer may not survive Alaska’s ruthless winter.

A Wounded Warrior Novel. This book is approximately 110,000 words

Buy Links

Amazon           Carina Press            Barnes and Noble         Kobo Books        Google Play

Linzé's Review

Meet Summer and Seth - polar opposites just looking for a fight to happen. The story starts with animosity, distrust, and opposing goals when they meet.

But the reader soon learns why these feelings are there and why both the main characters are reacting like that and you want to root for them to get some common ground.

Seth is a likeable character and even from the start you cannot help but warm up to him, grouchiness notwithstanding. Burdened with the responsibility of his company and the threat of a take-over, he still comes across as a man of honour, and integrity. And being hot and sexy does help even if a pang of sympathy will creep into the fray. The character shows more depth as the story develops and make for a believable and very likeable hero.

Summer appears to be a flighty empty head, walking around in the Alaskan winter with high heels and a power suit does give that impression. Yet, you soon realise that there is much more to this caring woman who would literally go to the ends of the earth for her family. She lives with a difficult disorder that leaves her vulnerable to certain situations. But she doesn't let her weaknesses determine her life. A strong character that takes the challenges thrown her way and deals with them the best she can, always following her heart.

Thrown together the difficulties of their respective families and friends create a storyline that moves at a fast pace, yet slows down when their relationship intensifies. Trust takes time to build and the author explored this initial rift between them with sensitivity and guts at the same time.

It is a book laden with action, suspense, hot and steamy romance, yet touching on the base human fragility of having to survive against the odds. Trust, compassion, even forgiveness and understanding is portrayed in this very likeable story. It is more than a romance novel, it is a rollercoaster ride that will play with your emotions and yet leave you with a satisfied sigh at the end.

Linzé gives The Stranger:

Author Interview: Melissa Adendorff

Today I welcome Melissa Adendorff to the Broomstick. Melissa joined us at a late date, and still managed to complete her story ahead of time. Impressive!

1. What made you decide to take part in the JOURNEY project?

My friend Andrea told me that she was embarking on a new creative writing project, and I blurted out that I’d love to join. I have been writing my doctoral thesis for the last three years, so my creative juices desperately needed an outlet.

2. How did you come up with the title of your story?
The title of my story is “I was just hungry.” It came about after a fight with my partner – I was feeling frustrated and overwhelmed, and a myriad of emotions, but all I could say was that I was hungry. That excuse stuck in my mind, and it matched my initial story concept.

3. What inspired your story?

I didn’t write out of inspiration, to be honest. I sat down in front of the computer, typed “I was just hungry”, and just let the words flow. I needed to get something off of my chest, and that’s what ended up on the page.

4. What other things, besides writing, do you like to do?

I do Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Karambit knife fighting, ballet, and indoor climbing. I love to bake, and I can embroider … I am also in the final stages of my PhD, which, while not necessarily a thing I like to do, is a thing that I’ve been immersed in to the point where separation is difficult.

5. What did you learn about yourself or your journey as a writer during this project?

I gained some insight into my behaviour, in terms of the passive aggressive slips which arise from not just addressing a problem in the moment. I was reminded of the therapeutic value of writing down the thing that hurts, writing down my truth, in order to gain some distance from it.

6. What do you see as your biggest challenge as a writer?

I do not always trust in my own creative process. I have become so accustomed to writing in a formal, academic style, with references in order to justify my every thought; and I often feel “naked” without other experts to hide behind in my creative writing. I often write the first, visceral, honest draft, only to discard it in favour of something more remote and detached, because I am not really used to the emotive language anymore, and that hurts my process, because I can only write from a place of honest emotion.

7. What tool/software/technique/process do you find the most valuable to you as a writer?

I suppose my process is to have a “study buddy.” When I am working with another person, I am more motivated to complete a goal, and I have a resource right next to me for feedback if I need it. I struggle to work in isolation.

Thank you, Melissa!
Note from Linzé - Since doing the interview, Melissa has completed her PhD. Well done!

You can follow Melissa online:

LinkedIn

Instagram

Linzé's Mischief: 18 September 2016

I think I might have mentioned this before - I use a bullet journal as my to-do list these days. On days like today, I love and curse it at the same time! When things go well, I am happy, but it just seems that the list keeps getting longer despite the tasks I manage to complete.

Nah, I still love it - ignore my whining, it's my own lazy procrastinating self that is bitching about it.

Waiting for Adrian is coming along...slowly, but I am getting there. Seven chapters edited, and I am about to tackle chapter 8.

The last story for the JOURNEY anthology is still with the editor, and then I can start compiling the ebook for publication. Watch this space for the cover reveal and news about the launch of the print book.

I interviewed my fellow JOURNEY authors and you can meet the first one this week. She is one smart and interesting lady!

The Billionaire Baritone is also approaching its ending soon. I haven't started on a new story yet, although there might be an idea or two brewing for next year.

There is also a book review on Wednesday for romance lovers.

Stick around there is always more mischief brewing on my Broomstick!

Have a great week!
💜
Linzé