Author Genre: Romance
Website: Susan Jean Ricci
Author's Blog: Susan Jean Ricci
Twitter: @Susanjeanricci
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Facebook: Check Out Facebook
Amazon Author Profile
Author Description:
Susan Jean Ricci and her husband Joe live in a lovely New Jersey town near the sea. Together they have seven children and ten grandchildren.
An award-winning, internationally read, From Womens Pens author and humorist, Susan is best known for her series of works titled Cindy's Crusades that includes two novels, Dinosaurs and Cherry Stems and The Sugar Ticket, the short chronicle Twilight and Chickadees, and a collection of short stories titled Heart Marks the Spot.
Susan's novel Dinosaurs and Cherry Stems is a Multi Award winner, earning a Bronze in the Global Ebooks Contest for Romance/Erotica, and a Bronze in the Readers Favorite Contest for Humor. Dinosaurs was also a finalist in the Independent Author Network contest for Outstanding First Novel.
Its Sequel The Sugar Ticket placed first in the Outstanding Women's Fiction category in the IAN 2016 and My Sexy Chef won a Silver second place in the novella category in the Global Ebook Awards 2016.
Her short stories A Super Sandy Christmas and Two Miracles for Christmas appear in Annie Acorns 2014 Christmas Treasury, and are also sold as stand alones. Her short story The Christmas Cardinal appeared in Annie Acorns 2015 Christmas Treasury and can also be purchased separately. A Valentine's Day to Remember can be read as a stand alone short, or can be found in Annie Acorns 2015 Valentine's Day Treasury.
Her latest romance Falling For Niagara can be purchased separately, and is also included in Annie Acorn's 2016 Romance Treasury.
Susan is currently penning a new series of Blush novellas. My Sexy Chef is the first novella in the Chef series, followed by the sequel Chaos in the Kitchen. The third novella in this series is called Turning Up the Heat and will be published later this year.
SPOTLIGHT Questions and Answers with the Author
What do you have on the drawing board next? Rumor has it that you have another short story on the horizon called HIS SECRET VOW. Can you tell us the timeline for its release and give us a little tease?
I’m glad you asked, James, because I’m so excited about this! HIS SACRED VOW was released just today May 13. Here’s the teaser blurb:
Melanie Kirk discovers the man she’s considered spending her life with was only using her to achieve a means to an end - her rear end in particular.
Abandoned with a baby on the way, she swears never again to be taken in by a guy’s superficial words, or allow any other diversions to interfere with her responsibilities.
Taylor Hutchins’s arrival couldn’t have come at a worse time. Hoping he can temporarily stay with his brother and Melanie’s twin Mary until he finds a place to live, Taylor’s unaware the couple have been unsuccessful starting a family. Far more intriguing is how he’s fallen hard for Melanie, even though she’s pregnant with another man’s child.
Sensitive to both her sister’s plight and the secret attraction she harbors for Taylor, Melanie offers him the guest suite in her home. While he agrees to the temporary solution regarding his search for a home, he also vows to keep his emotional distance due the numerous complications ahead for them both.
Find out how these two manage their friendly, yet unorthodox living arrangements and how they cope with the impending arrival of Melanie’s baby. Will Taylor declare his love for her and break his sacred vow? Can Melanie continue to hide her growing feelings for the man she’s come to rely on and respect?
There are treasures ahead, my friends.
You have a good following on twitter. Since you started before the social media buzz, what impact has social media relationships had on your current success? How did you build your following in your niche? How much has it changed your book launch process?
Social media is every writer’s dream come true, for without such a platform for marketing, Indie authors would be in deep trouble getting noticed. More importantly, I’ve had the pleasure of ‘meeting’ other fine authors via the Internet and in person, who’ve become cherished friends. That being said, there’s also a wealth of help and support out there we wouldn’t otherwise be gifted with. Our mantra is authors helping authors, while seeking readers for our work. As far as the book launch process goes, the writing community at large has each other’s backs when a new book is born, and it just keeps getting better.
Has the advent of ebooks changed anything in your writing, getting the book to your readers and the relationship with your readers and fans?
Oh, definitely, James, except the writing must remain consistent. An author doesn’t get many chances to prove herself again after putting out a clunker! Because our vendors provide speed and clear copy for our eBooks, our wonderful readers don’t have to wait years for the next book in a series to launch. Plus, for those who love holding a print book instead of reading on a device, fans can purchase the print and have it in a matter of days.
Do you do any book signings, interviews, speaking and personal appearances? If so, when and where is the next place where your readers can see you? Where can they keep up with your personal contacts online?
I don’t have any upcoming book signings or personal appearances on my current agenda, but when I do, the schedule will be posted on Facebook, Twitter, or in my local newspaper.
You have great covers. They carry a theme and your brand with them. How does your book cover creation process work? Do you hand over the basic theme or do you have more of a hands-on approach? Do you get your readers involved in its development?
Thanks so much for the compliment, James. I’ve had the fabulous fortune to have most of my covers designed by talented graphic artist Angel Nichols, who primarily does all the covers for AA Publishing, LLC, and the publisher of my many short stories. This time out, I hired graphic designer, the brilliant Lynn Lamb to design the cover and additional banners for HIS SACRED VOW. The covers are always chosen with my readers in mind, but must be pleasing to my eye as well.
You have written many short stories and novellas. Can you tell us if they had an impact on the sales of your novels? Are shorty’s one of your styles of writing or are they created to give readers a sample of your work
My muse loves the challenge of presenting an entire story in novella/short story form, with no loose ends, and that’s satisfying to my readers. I’m always hoping the shorts, which generally capture the antics of my Cindy and Jay characters featured in my novels, will inspire the readers to grab my longer length books.
I like the idea of Author bundles. You are a part of a novel bundle called Love in Times of War. What was the impact on your other sales? What was the main objective of bundling your works with other romance authors? How did you put something like that together? (Love in Times of War was featured December 2016 on the HBS Author’s Spotlight.
Being asked to participate in an anthology or boxed set is always a thrill for me. The invitations not only are a boost to my sometimes-fragile author ego, but also offer a challenge to write a story specifically for that particular anthology or boxed set. I sure hope the sets drive readers to my catalogue, and do notice an increase in sales whenever a set is released. My stories have been published in the AA Publishing LLC anthologies since 2013 and recently in Uvi Poznansky’s Love in Times of War. These wonderful publishers get the credit for putting together these awesome sets – I’m just happy to be asked to join in with some fabulous groups of authors, and I’ve made many special friends along the way. That’s the best part – the friendships.
What has been your experience in giving your books away free? Have you been involved in any other type of giveaways and how did that work out? What was your main goal in doing this? Did you run into any obstacles?
I have absolutely no problem gifting my stories to those I’m fairly certain will read the content, James, as do many of my author buds. However, although I’ve probably participated in two-dozen giveaways over the years, half the folks who enter these giveaways do so primarily to win the gift cards. It’s kind of sad when you’ve gifted a book to a winner who doesn’t claim your book, you know? Then, there’s always the positive feedback when the books are claimed and even reviewed.
Do you maintain a reader list? What are the methods you use to find your readers and create the list and the relationship? Do you use social media, forums, newsletters and/or support groups to build your list?
I’ve been relying on social media to reach my genre’s readership for years and have a mental list of readers tucked deep in my mind – I’m weird like that. Support groups are always a great source for feedback to advance, or to just chat about the ways we can strive to be more successful going forward. Plans for establishing a newsletter are in the works right now.
You have a great blog. You do a great job keeping readers informed, marketing your books and showing your personal side (great pictures). What is your primary goal? And where in the world do you find the time to create great novels, take care of the social media and maintain your blog?
Thanks so much, James, for saying so, I appreciate the nod. My blog is updated when I get the urge to share something interesting that others may find either entertaining or informative. Regretfully, I don’t update my website as often as I should because I’d rather be focusing on my writing. I suspect this will change once my newsletter is up and running. Regarding the timeframes regarding my writing, social media marketing, and the once in a while blogging, I’m blessed to have a husband who does the grocery shopping (I hate that), the cooking (he’s a way better cook than I), and I treat myself to having a gal come in to help with the household chores every once in a while.
Thanks so very much for inviting me to share the Writing Life According to Susan Jean Ricci on your blog, James. I’m truly honored and hope you enjoy your summer!
Author's Book List
His Sacred Vow
Melanie Kirk discovers the man she’s considered spending her life with was only using her to achieve a means to an end - her rear end in particular.
Abandoned with a baby on the way, she swears never again to be taken in by a guy’s superficial words, or allow any other diversions to interfere with her responsibilities.
Taylor Hutchins’s arrival couldn’t have come at a worse time. Hoping he can temporarily stay with his brother and Melanie’s twin Mary until he finds a place to live, Taylor’s unaware the couple have been unsuccessful starting a family. Far more intriguing is how he’s fallen hard for Melanie, even though she’s pregnant with another man’s child.
Sensitive to both her sister’s plight and the secret attraction she harbors for Taylor, Melanie offers him the guest suite in her home. While he agrees to the temporary solution regarding his search for a home, he also vows to keep his emotional distance due the numerous complications ahead for them both.
Find out how these two manage their friendly, yet unorthodox living arrangements and how they cope with the impending arrival of Melanie’s baby. Will Taylor declare his love for her and break his sacred vow? Can Melanie continue to hide her growing feelings for the man she’s come to rely on and respect?
There are treasures ahead, my friends.
Order the Book From:
Amazon
Barnes and Noble
KOBO Store
When Sailors Play
“As I look in the mirror these days, the scars of my youth don’t blind me anymore."
High school senior Michael Burke has two passions: his childhood sweetheart Ellie Roberts and playing baseball.
After being bullied most of his younger years, Michael’s current agenda is looking mighty nice. The college scholarship he’s received almost guarantees an opportunity to play major league baseball upon graduation. Plus, after he proposes marriage and Ellie delightfully agrees, a blissful future is theirs to embrace.
When tragedy suddenly strikes and someone dear to Michael’s heart perishes in Vietnam, his impending goals are changed forever. Can Ellie cope with the shock of his hasty turnabout? Will his determination to avenge his loss isolate him from Ellie, or deepen their love?
A tale of young love during the Vietnam era, WHEN SAILORS PLAY reveals gentle reminders of how life’s foibles can either destroy relationships, or strengthen them for the better.
Come join Michael and Ellie on their journey.
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Falling for Niagara
- A Cindy's Crusades StoryNiagara Falls – a lovers’ destination if ever there was one, but keep in mind that the world in the award-winning, Cindy’s Crusades series is always a bit topsy-turvy. Given the odds, even the iconic romantic setting may fail to work its magic, as an alpha male who hasn’t bothered to date seriously and a talented young woman who believes she has already seen it all are thrown together in this warm-hearted, stand-alone story.
A pair of binoculars, a chance meeting, and an accommodating waiter all conspire to create a bit of Heaven on Earth as the beloved, From Women’s Pens author Susan Jean Ricci weaves her delightful tale, filled with the love and humor for which this wonderful series is noted.
So grab your raincoat and find a place on one of the fall’s many observation decks. You won’t want to miss this one!
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The Blind Seer
- A Cindy's Crusades StoryCindy and Jay from Susan Jean Ricci’s award-winning novel Dinosaurs and Cherry Stems are at it again in this delightful addition to her Cindy’s Crusades series.
Recently returned from a successful trip in their RV, affectionately nicknamed the Snark Ark, the happily married duo find themselves inexplicably at odds as Jay suddenly begins acting strangely. A tiny corpse, Cindy’s Lenape advisors, and a blind seer all conspire to bring matters to a head, as the beloved, From Women’s Pens author once again leads her readers through a rollercoaster ride filled with the love and humor for which this wonderful series is noted.
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Chaos in the Kitchen
- A My Sexy Chef StoryBack by popular demand, Malibu O’Hare and Chef Mark Bouchard continue to explore their passion in this succulent, new romcom Chaos in the Kitchen, the latest in the My Sexy Chef series.
Mark and Malibu’s physical desire isn’t the only appetizer on their personal menu these days, though. Stir into this already provocative cast of characters an unexpected visitor, a new romance, and a handful of hilarious surprises, and you’ll have the perfect recipe for an unforgettable sequel to My Sexy Chef.
Chaos in the Kitchen is offered by the beloved Susan Jean Ricci, an award-winning, internationally read, From Womens' Pens author and humorist. Go ahead and help yourself to a little taste of Chaos. You’ll enjoy the main course for sure.
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My Sexy Chef
So begins this fast-paced, romcom, in which Malibu O’Hare, who has always prided herself on her cool demeanor regarding the opposite sex, comes face-to-face with Creole Chef Mark Bouchard and his past.
More than the steaks at Scandal restaurant begin to sizzle as Susan Jean Ricci, the beloved From Women’s Pens author of the Cindy’s Crusades series, weaves yet another hilarious, but tangled web.
Hang onto your hats, as Malibu calls on her vivacious aunt Cindy for help, and things really get steamy in this first blush novella in Ms. Ricci’s new My Sexy Chef series.
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A Valentine's Day to Remember
- Cindy's Crusades Book 51“You have my word, Jay. Cross my heart,” Cindy DeMatteo reluctantly agrees to forego online shopping and use of her credit cards, wishing it were permissible to smack her husband’s head now and then.
Still, Jay’s request isn’t unreasonable, given their short term circumstances, and a gal has to choose her battles, keeping an eye on winning the war. Besides, his wistfulness tone, during one part of their Spirited Conversation, had driven a nail through her heart.
Now, Valentine’s Day is approaching, and despite their tightened belts, both Cindy and Jay fully intend to show the other how much they care. Desperate times call for desperate measures, as a series of unexpected finds, comical occurrences, and secret plans lead both of them towards certain disaster, or have they?
As with all the entries in her Cindy’s Crusade series, internationally beloved, From Women’s Pens author Susan Jean Ricci has once again woven a rich tapestry of laughter and oh-no moments through a story that remains powerful enough to bring a tear to your eye.
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Two Miracles for Christmas
- Cindy's Crusades Book 50Christmas might be the wrong time of the year, but undeterred, Cindy and Jay from Dinosaurs & Cherry Stems set off across the country in the Snark Ark, an eccentric RV – Phoebe, their beloved Brussels Griffon, riding sidesaddle. Storm clouds soon blow, the Boogie Man appears, and Cindy must conquer her fears.
You won’t want to miss this heartwarming, romantic Christmas short written by award winning, internationally read, From Women’s Pens author Susan Jean Ricci based on her own real-life experiences!
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Dinosaurs & Cherry Stems
- Cindy's Crusades Book 1A Multi-Award Winner, Dinosaurs & Cherry Stems placed third twice, earning a Bronze in the 2015 Global EBooks Contest for Romance/Erotica, and a Bronze in the Readers' Favorite Awards for Humor. The story was a 2015 finalist in the Independent Author Network contest for Outstanding First Novel and a semi-finalist in The Kindle Book Reviews 2013, Best Indie Book Awards.
Twice divorced, cynical Cindy Layton feels like a relic with prehistoric baggage, and doubts she can muster the courage to establish a new relationship, even if it's on her own terms.
Her journey out of the Stone Age hits freaky, hilarious turbulence when she joins an Internet dating service. The scammers and weirdoes she meets in cyberspace make Cindy want to crawl back into her cave, until she receives an accidental email from Jay DeMatteo.
Jay has the dating blues, too, but after meeting Cindy, reconsiders his options. Now it's up to him to convince her it's never too late to pursue a meaningful relationship, even when a couple is struggling with midlife adolescence.
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The Sugar Ticket
- Cindy's Crusades Book 2Cindy Layton and Jay DeMatteo are back again! The Sugar Ticket chronicles their marital journey as the two twice-divorced adults learn to embrace the sweetness of their present. When the inevitable complications arise, will the DeMatteo's gently overcome their obstacles by alleviating the sour taste of the past through the light-hearted humor you enjoyed in Dinosaurs and Cherry Stems, or will they sweep their issues under the proverbial taboo-topic carpet?
Find out how these two mid-life adolescents meet their daily tribulations head on, as they conquer their fears, secrets revealed, and the most fundamental challenge of all - remaining in love forever.
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Heart Marks the Spot
- Three Short StoriesA tiny trio of shorts, combined with the eccentric and the romantic, plus bold humor and happy endings--or are they? Find out more, simply by clicking on the book!
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Love your beautiful covers, Susan!
ReplyDeleteSo glad I've had the chance to work with you in our LOVE IN TIMES OF WAR boxed set, Susan! :)
ReplyDelete