So I get a package in the mail the other day from Joanne Rock. I wasn’t expecting anything, so I was very anxious to see what was inside. It’s been a rough couple of weeks. I’m bogged under on my deadline and am experiencing, let’s call it, “an elevated level” of stress. An unexpected gift is always appreciated.
But this one blew me away.
Inside were three books–three copies of Joanne’s newest Blaze, THE CAPTIVE.
Here’s the back cover copy:
Women should be sweet, mild mannered…docile. Unfortunately, Lady Gwendolyn, a rich Saxon widow, is none of those things.
And Viking warrior Wulf Geirsson wants her desperately! One glimpse of the brazen beauty scrambling over the castle ramparts, and he knows he has to have her. Especially when she takes a tumble and lands at his feet.
But Wulf quickly finds that taking Gwendolyn and keeping her are two different things. And once she decides to engage in a seductive assault of her own, he’s the one captivated….
Viking romance. IN A BLAZE. I mean…can life get any sweeter?
Well, apparently, it can. Because a lovely note from Joanne instructed me to read the dedication page.
For Julie Leto–I’m proud to dedicate my first Harlequin Blaze Historical to you since I remember so clearly the way you complimented a historical contest entry of mine in the days before my first sale and consequently made me feel like a million bucks! Thank you for your willingness to always extend a hand–not just to me, but to so many other wirters who need a lift or advice. Cheers to you, my friend!
Yeah, I know, right? Blow me away, why don’t you? I have never had a whole book dedicated to me before…me and only me. And by one of the most beautiful women in the industry–and I mean that inside and out. Super talented and gracious beyond measure, Joanne Rock is the definition of genuine talent. I’m honored beyond words. It was easy to tell her way back when that she was hugely talented and had an amazing voice. It was, after all, the truth. Still is!
Don’t believe me when I say how generous she is? Well, as you recall, she sent THREE copies…one for me and TWO to giveaway to Plotmonkey readers.
All you have to do to be eligible to win (US residents) is write a comment about someone who has been a positive influence in your life. Maybe someone who just did something nice for you this morning–or someone who impacted you in a big way. Messages of gratitude are all that is required.
I’m going to go weep a little more. But it’s a good weep. Oh, and I’m going to read my copy of THE CAPTIVE, which isn’t officially released until next month!
By all reports, Julie Leto was a sweet child once, somewhat shy, preferring to play quietly in her room making up stories. However, being raised with three brothers in a loud, primarily Italian household did have its influences and Julie discovered her inner tough girl. That’s probably why most of her heroines kick serious butt. Writing sassy heroines has worked out, as she’s sold over forty books to four publishers featuring strong, confident women. Julie lives in Florida with her daughter, a spoiled dachshund, a haughty lynx-point Siamese and a wide range of relatives all within driving distance.
Destiny
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Once Upon A Valentine
Through The Night
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Oh how wonderful. Big hugs to you and Joanne. What a lovely thing for her to do and how special for you.
I have a friend who’s husband is completely paralyzed and cannot even talk. He had a stroke when he was 41 or 42 and now several years later she’s still taking care of him (albeit not by herself). Plus she works full-time, and had nursed her best friend who recently passed away from cancer. She is such an amazing person, always encouraging and there for me. She has definitely been a positive influence. God bless her.
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My husband has always been my biggest advocate. He’s the kind of guy that does the “right thing”. He cannot drive past a stranded motorist without stopping to help.
I can’t tell you how many times we’ve received gifts and cards of thanks for his selflessness.
Tami B.
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Jules, I am right there with you…tears rolling down my face. Don’t enter me in the contest okay. I already have that one on my list for next month. I get all the Blazes.
Joanne is absolutely wonderful, and it is because of you that I was able to “meet” her. Dedicating an entire book to just you is one of the best shout-outs anyone could give someone. Enjoy it and the moment!
There are so many people in my life, especially recently that have been positive influences, you, Les, Carly, Janelle, Jessica Andersen, Lori Karyianna (sp?), Robyn Carr, Kate Douglas, Colleen Gleason, many of my close friends (one hand count), and various people in different stages in my life. They have all helped me in my weakest moments, some of which I never would have survived without their constant support, friendship and kindness.
One such person is my friend, Veronica Elliott. She was my math teacher in Junior High School, and a Dean. I was what you would call a good girl/ideal student, but there was one point in my life back then, when I was falling under the pressure s of life. It is thanks to her that I am alive today. Her belief in me and unfailing love for me no matter what, helped me to live from day to day. I loved school, but it was a much better place to be since she was there. She helped me to find a reason to live, and be proud of who I am despite my circumstances or what I deemed failures.
Love the blog topic today Jules. It is always great to get a nice surprise every now and then, especially when you least expect it.
Peace and love,
Paula R.
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I’d have to say my husband is the positive influence in my life. He’s always been behind me in whatever projects I’m working with, whether it’s photography or writing. He listens when I get stuck with a problem scene I’m writing, sometimes suggesting a solution and sometimes just letting me vent the problem and figure it out myself. He’s got a lot more patience for me than I have for myself.
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My mom is a positive influence. Whenever I am stressed out, she still reminds me to take a breath and focus, focus, focus. She loves my boys unconditionally. Yes, she has a soft spot for my oldest.
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Allanah…did you get my email? I have had a lot of trouble emailing you and I wasn’t sure if it worked. sigh.
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Hi Katie – no I didn’t get it and I was wondering if you’d seen the message yesterday. I didn’t have a chance to read all the comments. I didn’t even have a chance to read the whole story and I really want to!
You can use either:
alannah@alannahlynne.com or
alannahlynne@gmail.com or
you can go to my website and click on the “contact me” button.
I’ll be on the lookout for it!!
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I have been so blessed in my life, it is hard to pick only one thing. However, something happened this past Monday that really lifted my spirits. I am a very demonstrative person – the people I love never doubt it – but one of my dearest friends is very reserved. When I came back from vacation this week, she came around my desk and hugged me then said she was glad I was back – something that has happened maybe 5 times in the 12 years I’ve known her. Small gestures from the heart touch me more than anything else.
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Wow, that’s just lovely! Pat yourself on the back for having made a long-lasting impression, Julie!
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That is one of the coolest things ever! It’s such a great thing to read those dedications because you can see how much what has been done is really appreciated.
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My daughters have always been a big inspiration for me. No matter what they had to do without, they always supported me. If I needed to change jobs they always told me not to worry, to do it and things would work out. They are wonderful women. They have families of their own now and are great mothers, I’m really proud of them.
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Tears here too. My dad has always been one of my biggest inspirations and my biggest cheerleader. He became a single parent when my mom passed away when I was 12(sister was 15 and brother was 8). He worked swing shifts at the time but still found a way to be there for everything for all of us. I know it wasn’t easy for him, but he really did make it look pretty easy at the time.
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Oh, Julie, that is just the sweetest thing ever! And what a great cover too! I’m so glad they didn’t put one of those horned helmets on him. The Vikings never actually wore those things you know.
Two of the most important people are–My husband and my daughter. No matter how many times I’ve thought about hanging up my keyboard and getting a “real” job he has said, “You’re not quitting. Keep doing what you’re doing because when you hit you’re going to hit big! Besides, you’ve worked too damn hard to quit now.”
My daughter is special needs and raising a special needs child is kind of like herding parakeets. They chirp, they preen, they throw their food around and they strut in a dozen different directions including up, down and sideways but one thing they all have in common is no fear of flying.
The same thing can be said for my daughter. Every day of her life she is challenged. Some challenges are small and some are huge but she meets those challenges with two things—courage and heart. When she was still a little girl we put her in a Special Olympics ice skating program through a coach at DU. My husband and I watched her skating skills progress through the years from tiny steps on the ice to executing jumps. Through all of the years, no matter what happened, she kept trying, kept learning and kept moving forward. And she never looked back. She faced competitions and skating in the DU annual ice show with excitement, heart and above all courage.
I knew that if she could face a “normal” world uncertain of how she would be accepted with courage in her heart, I could do the same thing as a writer and as a person.
Being here in the Jungle everyday is a blessing. From the moment I stepped into their hotel room in Dallas for the two hour plotting session I had won on Brenda Novak’s Diabetes Auction, I knew I was in the presence of some very special people. Not because they are all successful, charming, funny and beautiful women–not to mention smart–but because of what they radiate from inside–honesty, integrity and above all–heart.
Tori Carrington–aka Lori and Tony Karayianni –who I have recently gotten to know through her generosity in finally driving home the most important point I needed to know in order to write for Blaze. She is warm, funny, giving and generous. I feel blessed to know her.
Last but certainly not least, Brenda Chin who despite my fumbling attempts in the past to write for Blaze she has stuck with me and encourages me by saying, “We’ll keep trying until you get it right.” No editor has ever said that to me. She is one in a million. Keep your fingers crossed that my latest attempt that is on her desk right now will be “the one.”
Cher
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My dad, first and foremost. He taught me to read, encouraged my imagination, and told me I could read any book I wanted and do or be anything I wanted in my life. My DH has encouraged me to continue writing even when I was discouraged, and then wonderful writers like you, Leslie, Jen Lyons, and Rocki St. Claire have given me nudges and shoves when I needed them.
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My sister is the one I go to with my problems and I spent the day with her yesterday! She has always inspired me in my life and has been more like amother to me! I also have another friend that I depend on and she sent me a card the other day with a package of tea and a coaster for me to have tea with her! It was great for her to think of me out of the clear blue! What would we do without these people in our lives!
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My youngest sister has always been someone I look up too. She is 4 years younger than me but wise beyond her years. She is so strong and supportive. I know she is always there when I need someone to talk to and to help me think through something.
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My friend Wanda has always been a positive influence for me. She is a kind, giving, spiritual person who would do anything for a person in need.
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That was so sweet of her… such a lovely gift!
As for the best influence in my life, that was my grandmother… she made me feel important and loved… she was my rock and made me feel that even though I am shy I could break out of my shell one step at a time! I have missed her…
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I’m unpubbed and most of my friends make those non-committal sounds or their eyes glaze over when I talk about my writing. All but one – he’s a co-worker too and asks me questions about my writing – like he really cares about the answers! So last night I finished my first draft of my WIP and the first person I wanted to tell was him. I knew he would congratulate me, but he would also tell me to not sit on it for too long and to send it off once revised. I told him this morning and, true to form, he asked what I had to do next, and told me if I didn’t have it mailed off before he went on vacation he would kick my butt. He then asked what I was going to do after I mailed it off. So it’s nice to have someone who has no knowledge of writing and publishing listen – really listen – and not look at you like you have three heads.
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Congrats on finishing your wip! Your friend is a keeper.
Peace and love,
Paula R.
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I am grateful to so many persons for their support over the years. Most
supportive of all is my Honey, without whom I would not have accomplished
as much in my lifetime. My thanks to Father Richard for his assistance when
Mother was ill and Father Bob’s aid when she passed away. And thanks to
Fran and Pam for always being there when I needed them!!
Pat Cochran
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Wow! That is awesome! And it’s that kind of thing that makes romance writers the best group of people in the world.
I’m not a big fan of historicals, so don’t enter me in the drawing. But I wanted to take this chance to share my gratitude.
I have so many positive influences in my life. My husband is an inspiration, as are my sons. Life hasn’t been easy for either of them, despite my best efforts to make it smooth sailing. Apparently their life contract has different plans. And while it’s not easy, they keep plugging away and keep me going too.
My mom and step-dad are hugely supportive of my writing, as is my uncle and aunt. Even the little victories are huge in their eyes, and always worth celebrating.
My CP’s are not only wonderful writing buddies but great friends that I can lean on (and vice-versa) at any time. And the Plotmonkeys and all the jungle bunnies are right there at the top too. The plotmonkeys have been so wonderfully supportive of me, in both my writing and personal life. And I’ve been blessed to make many good friends through the jungle!
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Oh! Jennifer Haymore! I was having a really crappy day and she DM’d me to tell me how close I was to being a finalist in her current First Line contest. She was so sweet, and the bit of encouragement was just what I needed to end a crappy day on a great note.
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Before last week, I don’t think I would’ve known who to choose for my positive inspirtation. But last week I had something major go on in my life and my mom held my hand and whispered encouraging words through the whole thing and telling me she’ll always be there for me. Here’s to you Mom!
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Aw, Julie, what an awesome surprise. Sounds like it came at just the right time, too.
My mom has definitely been the one with the most impact on my life. She’s just always been so supportive of anything I do and I know I can count on her for anything, which is probably one of the many reasons I’m still comfortable living at home with my parents.
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How nice. Now that is classy!
My Mom continues to amaze me. She always puts us first and is there whenever we need her.
I can’t wait to read this book!
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That is so cool Julie… Your own dedication.
Tuesday, I received a hug from a co-worker because he saw how stressed out I was doing the payroll, so he came up to me and gave me a hug to cheer me up. I was a happy camper afterwards.
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That is so sweet. You do deserve the special recognition and you can re-read whenever you need a little “lift” :)
I would have to say my sister-in-law Debbie. When my babies were little she would bring cases of diapers.
Right now, I am going through a seperation and she has been wonderful. She has listened to me cry, given me parenting advice, and taken me to dinner with the kids for a special treat. I don’t know what I would do without her.
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How can I pick just one person…just not possible. I would like to honor my Dad & my uncles for being such wonderful men of integrity, honesty, high morals, always willing to help a family member or a friend. Most of all I appreciated their love and kindness and for always being there. Boy do I miss each and everyone of them as they are no longer here on earth. I’m sure each is a angel in another life.
Great subject today. Each story is amazing. Thats to all the people that posted for sharing your story.
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Oh, oh!
That is suppose to be thanks to each of you for sharing your story.
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My Mom has always been my biggest influence in my life. She has always been there for me in so many ways. And to this day, she still takes care of me, body and mind. I could never repay her for all the love and understanding but then she just tells me “that’s what Moms are for”. YOU ROCK, MOM!!!
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Julie that is so sweet!
I’ve had many words of encouragement from RWA members, and consider them a wonderful bunch of ladies.
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Awesome for you and I would be crying too
My husband is one of the biggest supporters of me, here is a little story
I was laid off from my job after 22 years last April.
I decided I wanted to do something totally different, that meant going back to school. It took me a couple of months to get it all together and register, etc.
Yesterday I finished my first 10 week class. When I came home there was a card from hubbie as well as my daughter telling me WAY TO GO and how proud they are of me. Made my whole week
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I have many positive influences around me. My husband, all five of my kids, my parents and my siblings are my best supports and my number 1 fans.
Without them, I am nobody! 
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My maternal grandmother, who lived with my family and me from the time I was born until she passed away when I was in college, was a positive influence in my life. Her kindness and patience make her an inspirational person who will always hold a special place in my heart.
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Wow, It would have to be my husband Jeff. I was 16 when I met him running with the wrong crowd and He was older and a really good young man, he swept me off my feet and changed my life! I don’t know what would have become of me if I had not met him. He was a dream come true. Everlasting love he gave me from day one! Now 21 years later he’s still my best friend. He listens to me and I love him for that. I”m so blessed!
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Congrats on the lovely dedication. My cousin has always been there for me whenever I’ve needed advice about school or work. He was very supportive when I quit my job.
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Somebody gave me a coupon for free pizza today….that was nice of him.
Would love to read about Viking warrior Wulf Geirsson cuz I am over half Norwegian. My dad was 100 %……..
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What a lovely dedication, Julie! And how wonderful to actually hear the thank you–it’s a blessing to get to close the loop, so to speak. Sometimes we may do something nice and not hear how it’s been helpful to someone; other times, someone may do something for us and we may for whatever reason, not have a chance to let them know what an impact that action’s had.
I’m thankful for one of the other moms at my kids’ school–she was our “buddy” when we first started there, and helped us get acclimated. Since then, she’s encouraged us to get involved (usually by setting an example of being involved herself!) and if I need something or need to know something, I can count on her to help or to speak honestly. She’s definitely had a huge impact on our school and influenced many of us to be more active in the school community :)
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Congratulations on the book dedication. It’s great to know we make a difference in other people’s lives. I love that book cover.
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How nice…Without a doubt it would be my mother, she has made the biggest impact in my life and though she is no longer with us, the wonderful memories are forever…
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A great dedication! My best friend has been there through every facet of my life during our 66 years together.
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my MOM has been a positive influence in my life…
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In college I was close friends with a woman who had had polio as a child and was wheelchair bound. 45 years later and my life has been so much richer due to her influence back then.
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julie ,
congrats. Isn’t she the greatest? I love Joanne, she is one of the nicest people I’ve ever had the pleasure to meet. (and I’ve met her multiple times). She is genuinely nice and loveable….
Diana
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Hey Julie!! I’m so glad you enjoyed the surprise package
. I would have been here sooner, but I’ve been vacationing this week. How cool to have the dedication turned into a blog post… I really enjoyed the stories about positive influences. Christine, your husband sure sounds like a keeper!!
And Diana– right back at you, my friend! Give your girls hugs from me!