Cat Brown AKA Chaoscat

In my day job I am a freelance webdesigner and graphics artist. In my off hours I am an aspiring author and the owner/operator of Romance Junkies.

 I have dragged my poor husband Todd (a fireman in his day job) into helping out with Junkies on his days off. ;-)

We moved last year to a small mining town in Arizona. A place that only has dialup connection and does not boast a starbucks. How I will ever survive living in hicksville I do not know.

Totally useless info about me. My favorite color is red. I love cold chinese food in the morning for breakfast. I am addicted to chocolate and diet pepsi. I love all genres of books especially paranormals, mysteries and romance. And I am a serious stratego player. It's the only game I can beat todd at. ;-)

 

Gloria Rita
Review Coordinator

Since I can remember, I've always had my nose firmly planted in a book. Reading is my first love, and I've been an avid reader of romances in particular since I was around 13 years of age. Of course, my mother had no idea what I was reading. I think she would have had fits if she'd found out. But, I realized then that I truly love romance. Whether it's in movies, television shows or books, that's the common thread that runs through all my favorites.

So, it's not terribly surprising that I'm now trying my hand at writing romances as well. Some day I hope to be published, but in the meantime I thoroughly enjoy creating characters I love and bringing them to life in a story of my making.

I'm looking forward to reading and reviewing the many wonderful books sure to cross my path here.

Cat Cody
Senior Editor/Coordinator Proofing Staff , Chat Moderator, Reviewer

Cat Cody, has been a fan of romance writing since she picked up her first Harlequin book at the tender age of 12. It was part of the harlequin "Second Chance at Love" series in the early 80's, and she has been hooked ever since.

Cat now divides her time between her husband and three daughters, a part-time teaching job, and writing novels.

Dorine Linnen
Chat Coordinator, Book Club Coordinator, Interviewer, Reviewer

My first love was, and always will be - historical everything, including romances. But, I like variety, so I will devour paranormal or contemporary just as fast. If an author makes me laugh, I'm hooked. I'm looking forward to discovering authors I haven't read yet and getting to know other areas of romance.

I have a wonderful, supportive husband who is retiring this year and two stepsons who just finished college and are on their way into the world.

With a background in sales, computer technology, art and horticulture, I have eclectic interests. My friends call me a 'professional entrepreneur' because they never know what new business I'll be doing next. I help out at a greenhouse seasonally, have a landscape design business and teach landscape design in person and online. I lecture at area garden clubs and conventions on various plant topics including history. Getting dressed up in period clothing is part of my charm and I'm known for my hats. I also teach painting because that's what former artists do.

I have always loved to write. My first interests were journalism and poetry. Recently, my writing evolved into starting my own historical romance, which hopefully someday I will finish. I am the Editor of my county's Master Gardener newsletter and enjoy volunteering in the community with the Master Gardener program.

Alane
Calendar Coordinator, Publishing Editor Ebooks,Reviewer

I can’t remember a time when I didn’t love reading. Even as a child, I always seemed to have a book in my hand. Romance, science fiction, and fantasy are among my favorite genres, and I also like to read a good mystery now and then. During high school and college, I mostly read fantasy and SF. Anne McCaffrey was my favorite author at the time, and she’s still one of my favorites today. When I realized I had a bigger F&SF collection than the one in my local library, I knew it was time to find something new. I decided to give romances a try, and I've been hooked ever since.

I grew up in NJ, and I have also lived in upstate NY, North Dakota, and Oklahoma, courtesy of my husband and the USAF. Now that he is in the Air National Guard, we are back in NJ, and won't need to move every couple of years anymore. It’s time to find permanent places for all of my books! Even after 9 years of marriage, my husband doesn't’t quite understand why I’m always looking for more books, while I’m still trying to find space for the ones I have. But he goes along with it anyway. He knows it makes me happy.

I worked as an electrical engineer for several years. Once I started moving around the country, I switched to programming and some Web design. Thanks to telecommuting, I was able to work part-time for a small consulting company in NJ, no matter where I lived.

I hope I can help readers discover new books and authors to enjoy!

Brooke Wills
Interviewer Coordinator, Junior Editor, Reviewer

I consider myself an "honorary native" of California as I have lived here since I was two years old. When not pursuing my passion of writing (I am currently working on my second novel), I work as an accounting controller. For anybody who thinks accounting is boring, I can dispel that myth in a few words: I recently returned from working for a software company located in Dublin, Ireland. It was not all work; I spent as much time as possible touring the beautiful Irish countryside.

I enjoy gardening (eighteen rosebushes do take a bit of attention), cooking, baseball, traveling, and of course, reading! There is nothing quite like spending time with words... whether they are in a book, a magazine, or on a cereal box! As a writer, I truly appreciate how much work went into creating those words into sentences, and love having all my emotions touched by wonderfully woven stories.

Sandra (Sam) Tibbetts
Junior Editor, Publishing Editor of Print & Ebook, Reviewer

I became a book nut in grade 3 when my teacher would read Laura Ingels Wilder books to us. I went on to read all the Anne of Green Gables books, moving on to Hardy Boys, Nancy Drew. I then discovered my mother’s romances and as they say, the rest is history. I read and enjoy almost every genre there is, but when I want to feel good, relax, and zone out I turn to my romances. Reading is as essential to me as air, food, and water.

I discovered the computer; with all the world libraries at my fingertips and I was in heaven. My family calls me a computer geek. J

A bit about myself, I have been married 27 years and have two boys, 24 (Naval Engineer in training) and 21 (a computer tech) I am extremely proud of both of my boys. I tend to brag about them a lot. What can I say they are the most handsome, brilliant, great kids ever invented. Did I mention I brag about them a lot? LOL

I have had the honor of being part of this family of fabulous ladies for over a year now. This is what makes Romance Junkies so unique. We are a family, who help each other out with encouragement, with our tears of both joy and sorrow and lots of laughter. We are there through the rough times and the good for each other. You will never meet a nicer bunch of people than the Junkies’ family.

Since joining Romance Junkies, I became a review editor, which then led to me becoming an Ebook Editor for an on-line publishing company. The pride I take in my team of Junkie reviewers has no bounds, as they are truly the hardest working and terrific people I have ever met. The sheer talent in all of the Junkies reviewers is totally astounding.

I live in Nova Scotia, Canada. My favorite saying is—If you have Life, Love, and Laughter; you got it all. So, get out there and spread it around.

 

Patti Fleishman
Publishing Editor Print books, Reviewer, Interviews, and Book Club Promos

Greetings from Northeast Ohio! I’m Patti and it’s a pleasure being able to share with you what I enjoy doing. Having grown up in a family of avid readers it was only natural that I would follow suit. Every Saturday, I would make my weekly trek to our local library and once inside would be whisked away on a magical journey with the words I so loved reading. On my way home, I would stop at the delicatessen across from the library and buy a Grape Crush and a quarter pound of white deli cheese and sit on the stone wall. There I’d be lost for hours reading about Abraham Lincoln and would wander yet again through one of my favorite books, “The Secret Garden”.

The very first romance novel I read was by Barbara Cartland and I will remember her fondly as lighting the flame that has forever remained glowing inside my heart. Books were written to be savored and shared with one another and that’s the goal I have partaken with the other wonderful reviewers from this site. One day in the not too distant future, I hope to see a book I’ve written gracing the pages of this site. That would be my dream come true.

I’ve been married for 20 years to a wonderful man who also enjoys writing and have one son who will be 15 years old very soon. Unfortunately, he has decided that writing is not for him and makes sure to tell us at least three times a day. Another important part of my family is my 17 year old kitty, Precious. She keeps me company by lounging peacefully upon my lap or the chair that I keep just for her beside the computer.

Phyllis
SR. Chat Moderator, Book Club Correspondent/Discussion Moderator, Junior Editor, Reviewer

I was born in New Jersey a long, long time ago and in 1989; my career with the U.S. Coast Guard forced me to move to Chesapeake, Virginia. I don't regret the move for a minute. The Norfolk International Airport is only 20 minutes away, Virginia Beach is 30 to 45 minutes away, depending upon the traffic, and Route 95 takes me either North or South to whomever I choose to visit. Two years ago, a friend and I drove across country to the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, and stopped in CA; over 7,000 miles in two weeks. Last year I was in Denver for a week.

In 1995, after I came from a vacation in Hawaii, a friend made me listen to the Calder Range by Janet Dailey. "You have to listen to this," she said. Since then, I have been hooked on romance. Prior to that, I was an avid reader, but only of Stephen King, Dean Koontz, and V.C. Andrews. If it was weird, my nose was in it. (I wouldn't think of reading that "romance junk.") Oh, how wrong I was. Now I'm trying to make up for all the years I did not read romance.

After reading all the Calder series, I started reading anything by Sandra Brown, and have read almost everything of hers and then, I read Nora Roberts. Need I say more? She definitely got me hooked. Now, almost anything that has been published, I have read or have in my gigantic collection to be read. I only hope I live long enough to be able to make a dent in it.

I have too many authors that I currently love to name, although Joan Hohl, Marilyn Lee, Cheyenne McCray, Lori Foster and Janelle Denison seem to come to mind.

I have ideas for a book in my head, but have not put on paper. I love crafts, people and travel. If I can't actually be there, my books take me there.

Gail N
Publishing Editor Ebooks Books & Junior Editor & Interviewer & Reviewer

I live in England in a very historical part of the country. I am married and have been so for 14 years and have 2 children aged 12 and 11.

I have been reading avidly since the age of 8 following in my father's footstep also a lover of reading. I am what you call a book junkie. I can not walk past a book shop without going in and never come away empty handed I started reading the classic such as Emma, Black Beauty and then turned to Jane Austin while I was taking my exams.. I started reading Harlequin, over the years my reading tastes have evolved. I devour books at every opportunity. I always have a book open or the computer turned on. I read at least one book aday.. and have done so for the last 15 years. I am fortunate to have my own library where I can be found most of the time. I have many favourite authors the list is nearly endless but here are just some of those I love Sherrilyn Kenyon, Christine Feehan, Lora Leigh, Lisa Marie Rice, Lori Foster, Shannon McKenna, Kelley Armstrong, Patrice Michelle Cheyenne McCray, Sherri L King and Annie Windsor.

I love to hike and like nothing better than to walk through the woods and forests and the slow slopes of mountains am a nature person at heart there is a kind of magical peace to be found in the woods and forest of Europe

I hope that readers and authors alike, enjoy the reviews that I write, prompting them to go and buy the books.

Bea Sigman
Book Discussion Moderator, Chat Moderator and Reviewer

Reading and football are my two biggest passions. The love for them has been in the blood for many generations. Of course with reading, I don't have to wait for the season to begin. Everyone in my family loves to read. So we get to spend quiet, quality time together.

I have been married to a wonderful man for ten years. We have been through some of the best and worst of times. I wouldn't trade him for anything. Well, maybe for Roarke, from JD Robb's books. I am the proud mother of two smart, energetic children. They are always striving to do better and are constantly making me proud. They have made being a mom an interesting experience.

I am now a stay at home mom. The hours are great, benefits wonderful, plus I have no nagging boss anymore. The pay isn't so hot, but the job is worth it. It gives me plenty of time to be with my family, allows me to help out at the kids school, and the best part of all... plenty time to read.

Teresa Henson
Author Coordinator, Chat Scheduling/Moderator, Publishing Editor Print Books, Reviewer

Hi, my name is Teresa Henson. I moved to South Dakota in February of 2001 after living in Texas for twenty years. I have one son who is married and who gave me my beautiful granddaughter in 2002. I also have two 4-legged boys and 5 winged babies (dogs and cockatiels) who still live at home. *G*

 

I have had my nose buried in books all my life. My mother said even as a baby I loved books, and never tore one up ever. I can remember the first book I ever checked out of a library, that was Ferdinand the Bull. I have read about anything I could get my hands on since. My favorite authors are nothing alike---Bertrice Small, Stephen King, and John Erickson! (for those of you that haven't heard of him, he writes a young persons series of books called Hank the Cowdog) But I enjoy reading anything but sci-fi.

I have actually lived a romance novel, and someday should write a book about it. My fiance and I met (it was love at first sight) and dated over 20 years ago in Texas, and was split up due to the decrease of work in the oilfield. He wanted to move back to SD, we were young, and he was afraid of his feelings for me, and we were separated. Unfortunately, he took my heart with him.

Apparently, he left his with me, because 3 years ago, he found me again (although I had had a name change in the meantime!) and wanted to see if we could get together again. He had never married. The first time we talked on the phone, we talked for 8 hours! It seemed as if we had never been apart. And the feeling continued growing that way, he visited me, and we talked every day for 6 months. Finally, we couldn't stand it anymore and I sold my house, and moved up here to be with him 2 1/2 years ago. We plan to marry, but haven't decided when yet. This was the best move I have ever made. He spoils me rotten, he brings me flowers often, does all the hard yard work for me, and even does the dishes most of the time!

I am a real romantic, and I guess that is why I like romance novels so well. My favorites are the historical ones, the thicker the better!

 

Tasha Lewis
Ebook Coordinator, Chat Promotion,Reviewer

Ever since I was young I have had a fascination with books. I love them. I have always thought that reading broadened the mind and allowed your imagination to catch flight. There are some things that you get in a book that you can NEVER get in a movie or on television. That is why they always say, "The book was better than the movie." To this day that is still true for me.

The first romance novel I ever read was Silver Angel by Johanna Lindsey and I was forever hooked. I love all kinds of books. I have read biographies, self-help books, mysteries, and everything in between. But I still love romance the best. I am a sucker for true romance. I love the happy endings. I am always asking people I meet to tell me their love stories and how they met. I look for romance everywhere. Which would probably explain why I am a hopeless matchmaker. I want to see people get together and be happy. I suppose that is what made it inevitable that I would be an avid romance reader.

And since I said I look for romance everywhere, it is no wonder I married the same man TWICE! Talk about passion, misunderstanding and conflict. We are that and then some. It takes a special man that can put up with me. From my hairbrain schemes to fix up someone I know, and my endless array of jobs I pick up here and there. And we won't even mention my stacks and stacks of books. I married my own romantic hero, stubborn as a mule, tall, dark and handsome, and loves only ME! Besides who wouldn't want a man that sends you 'I love you' cards for no good reason other than he does?

I'm in the productive field of child development. Meaning I have produced three wonderful children. I am a work at home mother. I never believe that women that stay at home don't work. They work 24-7. There really aren't any sick days, time off and, literally, no pay. The benefits are better than any job I have ever had and I speak from experience. And when people say they want to be challenged on the job. This is it. It is an endless adventure and challenge.

I love gardening. Although I can't tell a weed from a plant, which could explain why nothing I grow lives. But I keep trying. I love to create but I'm always starting projects that last FOREVER! And now with my latest endeavor to review books, I will be combining what I love the best. A project that never ends and reading.

Dina Smith
Contest Coordinator & Reviewer

Hi, my name is Dina Smith and I live in Modesto, California. I have been
married for 13 years and have 3 kids. One is in Junior High, one in 2nd
grade, and my little girl is 3. I am a stay at home mom and I love being
able to be here with my kids. I also love it when I get a vacation without
them!!!

I have been reading since I can remember how to. I always had a book in my
hand. When I was 10 I wrote an essay at school and got to meet Judy Blume.
She was my absolute favorite and I thought I had died and gone to heaven. I have
only been reading romance for about 5 years now. A friend gave me an
Elizabeth Lowell book and I have been hooked ever since.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tara James
Writing Contest Coordinator, Reviewer

I discovered the wonderful world of Romance when I turned 13. It started out with the Sweet Valley High series and grew from there. And Grow it did, until now I have books stored at different homes all over the city. Just not enough room in my little cubby hole I call an apartment. But fear not, I do take the time to go visit my books as frequently as I can. These days my favorite genre is Romantic suspense, which in my mind is the greatest melding of writing styles out there. Nothing like heart-pounding tension mixed with a tender love story. Although, to be perfectly honest there are very few sub-genres of romance that I do not enjoy.

I have an advanced double major in English and Medieval History which my parents blame on my fondness for historicals. But, in my defense I bet there are few people out there that enjoyed their degree as much as I did. And since we were told in grade 12 that the chances of us actually working in the area of our degree was slim to none, I decided the least I could do was enjoy it. I currently work as a Database administrator proving that those teachers in grade 12 were indeed correct.

I am a single 26 year old and must confess that I am enjoying the search for Mr. Right. One thing I do love about Romance Authors is that so many of them have found their own personal prince. Proving once and for all, that happy endings do come true with enough hard work and sweat.

I am very excited to join Romance Junkies and hope that everyone enjoys my contributions.

Angie
Reviewer, Prize Book Coordinator/Discussion Moderator, Chat Moderator

A little about me: I'm 36yo and have been married for 6 years. I have 4 children and 3 step children ranging in age from 21 to 4 (6 girls and 1 boy). I'm usually working at my normal field as an electronics/computer tech but have been on "vacation" for 4 years to enjoy those beginning years with my son an opportunity I didn't have with my older children.

Reading has always been my first love. I grew up on the outskirts of a small rural town. Reading became a way of traveling to different exotic places or going back in time when everything was new. I started reading novels at the age of 8. We were lucky to have a library truck come by once a week during the summer so we could check out books. The selection was usually limited so I ended up with a lot of non fiction historical based on the witchcraft and Salem witch hunt eras and some fantasies, usually King Arthur type. I started borrowing Romances from my Grandmother when I was 10. My mother even jumped on the bandwagon and started buying books at yard sales and used book stores for my sister and I. You never knew what she would come home with. She is Italian and couldn't read English very well at the time so unknowingly she introduced me to John Norman's Gor series at the age of 12. This set will always be my all time favorite. It sparked an interest in everything Sci Fi and fantasy in me that has lasted and continues to grow throughout the years.

 

 

Mammakim
Book Club Discussion Moderator, Interviewer, Reviewer

Hi, my name is Kim and I am from Massachusetts. I am 33 years old and the mother of three, a 13 year old girl, 10 year old boy and a 7 year old boy. I work full time in Accounting and two nights a week at Subway. After the kids get home from school and various activities they are in, it is my time to kick back, sit on my big fluffy chair with a book to chill for the night.

I started reading very early, My second grade teacher ended up being my daughters teacher as well. She is the one that has inspired both my daughter and I to enjoy reading as much as we do.

I am excited to be here on Romance junkies.

 

Jamie Rae
Chat Promos, Reviewer

Hello from Oklahoma!! I'm Jamie and I'm simply delighted to be with you sharing something we both obviously love - Romance! I discovered my love of reading in the 6th grade in response to a challenge one of the dearest teachers I ever had the honor of learning under gave to me! She knew how I detested reading and issued me a challenge. I lost and had to read the book. I LOVED it!! It was a Trixie Belden book and I read that book a hundred times. From that point forward, the small school library was someplace that you could find me during free time! Shortly after that, I moved to young adult romance and have never looked back!

I've been happily married for 12 years and we've been so blessed with a beautiful daughter who is 7 and a half (just ask her - the 1/2 is very important!). We have also the 4-legged family members around here - our Pug, Rascal, is like our son - lol - and we've got 2 kitties -a Seal Pointe Siamese, Princess, who is 2 and WeeKitty is a 10 month old tabby mix and just had 5 beautiful babies just a few weeks ago - unfortunately I have to choose just 1 to keep - and we'll be keeping Downy - he's a tiny little guy - solid white with long, soft fur... he's beautiful!! Aside from family, I am active in church and work full time.

My favorite days are the nice cool ones where I can curl up on my front porch and listen to my daughter play while I read a book. Other hobies include web and graphic design.

Thanks, Romance Junkies, I'm really looking forward to this new venture with you!!

Pam Sacknea
Junior Editor, Reviewer

"I have been a voracious reader for as long as I can remember. My earliest memory of reading is of being around five years old, laying on the couch with an adorable book about a horse, and reading it over and over. It was my favourite little book, but unfortunately I cannot recall the story or the title, although I do vividly remember the green crayon marks that I made in it at some point in time!

I have a very eclectic taste in literature, ranging from children's books to Shakespeare. I became immersed in the world of Harlequin as a young teeny-bopper, and have enjoyed romances ever since. Paranormal and gothic romances are my favourites, but I also enjoy a variety of other styles.

I also love to write, although as I tend to have a variety of interests I do not write as much as I would like to. So much to do, so little time! I have managed to begin writing a paranormal romance novel, and I have also written several poems, one of which was actually published a couple of years ago.

I work as an administrative assistant for a land surveying firm, and on my off hours I spend as much time as possible reading and fiddling on the computer. Yes, I am also an avid lover of all things computer related! Which is perfect for being a member of the Romance Junkies review staff! My two adorable poodle-shihtzu cross dogs (my babies!) don't always like the fact that I love the computer, though - they are much happier when I cuddle up with them while I'm reading!

I wish to thank Romance Junkies for giving me the opportunity to participate on the site. I know I will thoroughly enjoy working with this wonderful group of people!"

Christi Jewell
Reviewer

Married 21 years, stepmother to two grown men, and grandmother of 6 (4 boys and 2 girls). Sounds pretty normal, yes? Well, add in that grandma and grandpa are bikers and all grandchildren have been photographed on our Harleys as mere babes, and the picture changes drastically.

And that's how I like my reading material. Surprise me, tantalize me, twist a tried and true storyline into something unique, and that writer will be at the top of my To-be-read pile forever.

I humbly admit that I am a fledgling, wannabe writer with one ms completed in first draft form. God Bless all authors who have mastered editing. I bow to you!

 

Gloria Trout
Reviewer

Looks like I am the granny in this group, everyone else is so young and energetic! I am 67 years old and have loved reading all my life. The first time I walked into a library I felt like most kids feel when they go into a candy store. I am happily married, soon to be for 49 years, we have three sons and four grand children and one cat.

We live in Pennsylvania, not too far from the Pennsylvania Dutch area, that is the Amish and Mennonite section, and a big tourist attraction.

I love being part of this group even though I cannot begin to keep up with all the chat!!! While in high school I dreamed of being an author- then real life happened and the dream faded but never entirely disappeared.
Perhaps being in this group will inspire me- once again.

 

 

 

Bee
Reviewer

I am a Travel Coordinator for a major retail store in the SouthEast. I've been married 29 yrs and have 2 grown children. All 3 members of my family just shake their heads at me and the thousands of romance novels that I have accumulated over the years.

I started reading romance with Emily Loring in my long ago youth and have never stopped reading the genre. I've read other genre's but keep coming back to romance...just love that happily ever after. Real life provides for the unhappy endings and in this day and age, you have to find the romance where you can. I find mine in my marriage and in my books.

Besides reading, I enjoy cross-stiching, my Colorado mountains, and am an avid soccer and NFL fan.

 

Sherri Myers
Reviewer

Hi. I'm Sherri Myers and I'm new to this site. I love to read just about anything, especially Christian and romance books. I'm married (for 19 years) and have 3 kids, one in college and two in elementary school. I am a stay-at-home mom and I volunteer at my kids' school for various things. I live in the "boonies" in Pennsylvania and I love it. We don't have any pets (my husband and my kids are enough work, thank you, don't need any more). Have been reading since I was old enough to turn the pages by myself, and never stopped. Reading is knowledge and knowledge is power.

Crimson Pen
Reviewer

I read my first romance book by Violet Winspear called THE GIRL AT GOLDENHAWK. I fell in love with the hero and heroine and from then on was addicted to romance novels. Now that I have experienced all the highs and lows of life, my tastes have changed. Sweet and traditional was "it" for me for a long time. Then one day I woke up and said, "Damn! Where are all the sexy vampires and werewolves? Don't they get lovin' too?" My husband thinks I can subsist on vampire and werewolf romances alone. He's probably right.

But I have other hobbies. I like to draw, paint and bake cakes. And my perpetual hobby is raising my two year old son, and making sure my husband doesn't go nuts. And to make sure my brain doesn't turn to mush on the Noggin channel, I write romance novels. My hope is that, my paranormal romance novel will be published. Until then I keep writing.

Daria
Reviewer

I'm the ultimate bookworm. I read books, write books, and have been doing it since... let's not go there. I have an eclectic taste but each of my favorite books is tinged with some romantic shade.

And my Scottish Terrier is my furry baby! He's adorable, and if he could talk, he'd have the voice of Sean Connery.

During the day I act as a Renaissance woman in the business world a marketing consultant, an advertiser, a translator, a business adviser, and an editor of economic documents oh, well, let's better talk about romance!

 

 

 

 

Grace
Junior editor, Reviewer

I'm a thirty-five year old native of Utah, USA, with a special love for Richmond, VA, and Portland, OR, where many of my relatives live.

I bought my first romance at fourteen. It was a Silhouette Desire with the sexiest cover. I still remember the cover!

My love of reading began when I was teeny tiny, just like my children. Mom gave my daughter a tiny book for her first birthday, and she used to sleep with it. That's how I feel about books too.

I used to read anything I could get my hands on, but now I'm pretty much romance. Mystery with romance, adventure with romance, sci-fi with romance, history with romance…. Notice the pattern? Romance required, not optional.

I am also a movie nut! My latest guilty pleasure is "Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights." (Listening to the soundtrack now.) My taste in movies is reflected in my reading. You will see me with every multi-cultural romance I can get my hands on! I write what I like to read. Currently I have an intercultural romance under consideration at Harlequin.

I also love military romances. This started when I married my own Marine, the sweetest tough guy on earth. Well, usually. *grin* Eleven years later, we have two children, a son aged four, and a daughter aged eight. I'm also in charge of his seventy-eight year old mother, which isn't always the easiest job. I retired to motherhood when my son was born, but worked in accounting and technical writing previously. I graduated from college with an English degree.

If I had it to do again, I would have found a way to incorporate my love of foreign language and culture into my professional life. But I wouldn't be here with my fabulous family, and so I content myself with writing about women who speak other languages and live my ideal professional life. Dreams change as the years pass, I have found.

Welcome to Romance Junkies!

 

Karin Petrie
Reviewer

I'm a romantic from way back. I got hooked on romance when I read Jane Eyre as a kid--it's still my favorite novel, and anyone who reads my writing will see it echoed there. Like Jane, I've been a foundling and a wanderer--I was adopted as a baby by some wonderful folks in Tennessee, but got the itch for adventure as a college student at the University of Tennessee (GO VOLS). That itch led me to Scotland, where I studied medieval history and archaeology for a year, then on to much warmer climes in southern California, where I was a grad student for more years than I'll admit to. Should've known when I hid in the stacks reading Kathleen Woodiwiss instead of Chaucer that I'd missed my calling.

My true love married me and carried me off in his Nissan Sentra to western Washington, where it took me longer to get used to the rain than it did to finish my doctorate. I taught medieval and Renaissance literature as an adjunct professor (think Susan Sarandon in Bull Durham) for a lot of years, but that wasn't nearly as much fun as becoming a mom (of
children now ages 8, 6, and 3). I had the good sense to give up the teaching a year ago so that I'd have time to write the kind of historical romances I love to read...as much time, that is, as the kids allow. Barney will definitely be included on my first dedication page. Swimming keeps me sane, my family keep me happy, quilting and cross-stitching and
playing my piano and flute (quite badly) keep me relaxed, and writing keeps me humble.

Rae Douglas
Reviewer

I was a late bloomer as far as reading goes. Having a reading disability made reading a chore not a pleasure. Then, I met my first romance characters at the age of 15. I’ve had my nose stuck in a book ever since. I have learned since that first book that my tastes run towards the Sci-Fi Paranormal Romances. I am voracious. Go figure, I not only read a lot but I enjoy it and I can't get enough of all Romantic genres.

I am married and the mother of two very lively and active early teens and we can often be found sharing quality time reading.

I got a little frustrated with a book one day, telling a friend that I didn't think the author did enough with her characters. My friend said if I thought I could do it better, Why not write one of your own? So now I find my self writing stories and learning as much as I can about the art of being an author. To the author I got frustrated with, I am so sorry. I now have a great respect for you and your trials of drawing the fine line between too much information and not quite enough, and just right.

As a reviewer, I look forward to getting to read and then sharing with all of you, the wonderful stories that the authors have prepared for us.

 

Sarah W
Back up Editor, Reviewer

I'm a college student in Minnesota and I love to read. I'm double majoring in English and History, don't know as of yet what I'm going to do with those degrees. I love to read romance, though I enjoy all books too, but romance is my passion. I'm also addicted to the Harry Potter series. I read all the time, in between classes, before going to bed, on the bus. I have been reading since day one. I learned how to read when I was four and I have been unstoppable ever since then.

My other passion is writing, and hopefully I will someday be able to publish my own novel, probably a romance! I'm really excited to be part of romance junkies because I think I will discover a lot of new authors to read. I love discovering new writers, I love to reread all my old favorites, heck, I just love to read. While I'm still searching for Mr. Right, I'm having fun discovering all kinds of Mr. Rights in the romance novels I consume on a daily basis. Some of my favorite authors include Nora Roberts, Lori Foster, Linda Howard, and Karen Marie Moning.

 

 

Laura
Reviewer

I have always loved to read. I cannot remember a time when sitting down with a good story, whether it is fiction, non-fiction, romance, mystery, fantasy, whatever, didn't take precedence over everything. There has never been a time in my life where I didn't have a book somewhere near me.

I live in Kingston, WA, which is located on the Kitsap Peninsula in the Puget Sound of the great state of Washington. I have lived here for over 2 years and can't get enough of the view (which just happens to be the Cascade Mountains, the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier, and downtown Seattle). However, I am originally from Illinois and Iowa. I would give anything to move back to a quiet little farm town, restore an old farmhouse, and quietly live out my days reading in a hammock. But, we all know that that isn't going to happen! So, living here is the next best thing!

I'm 33, married to a wonderful man Brad, and have 2 awesome daughters, Danielle (8) and Sara (7). They are truly the joy of my life. I can't imagine my life without them in it. It is an honor to have them call me "mom" and "wife".

I currently work at the Silverdale, WA mall as a bookseller for Waldenbooks. It is a job that I treasure. All day long I am surrounded by the smell and feel of books. And helping other people find that one special book that they are searching for.

I am looking forward to being part of the Romance Junkies Reviewing staff and getting my greedy little paws on all the new stories!!!

 

 

Teri Chapman
Reviewer

I have always read books; they were my escape from my life at time when I needed it. About twenty odd years ago I moved from reading books in general to predominantly reading romance. Would you believe I started with Campfire and Sweet Valley High romances in Jr. High School? Do you remember those…they had the dreamy hunks on their covers. I thought they were the greatest thing since sliced bread, way back when. By High School I was deep into Harlequin, Silhouette, Candlelight and Zebra romances. I have continued in the romance genre, but now I am exploring the aspect of e-books.

I have to say it has been wonderful. I discovered the world of romantic erotica in July of 2003 and it has been a nonstop rollercoaster. I love them. I get instant gratification because I purchase and download all pretty much at the same time. There is no long window to wait from standard publishing formats, and I really love that. I have been reading for so long, I have evolved into a speed reader. I have to say, regular paper publishing cannot keep up with my voracious appetite for reading. Due to the high volume of books I need to sustain my appetite to read, there is nobody who can really keep up with me. Because of this I have branched off into….writing.

You knew I was going to say that, right? Yes, you read right. I am currently working on my first manuscript and I have run into the unfortunate challenge of keeping my head firmly on my story. I find myself fighting ideas of new story lines and characters that keep coming in my mind when I have not even completed my first story…I am in awe of all those writers that have completed even one manuscript, kudos to all you ladies and…ummm, gentleman?

Now you are wondering about my personal life huh? Well I have one, of course. I have been lucky enough to have found my true love about 11 years ago and we have two beautiful boys ages 9 and 8. Oh and yes we are married. We live in our wonderful house that we purchased two years ago and are ecstatically happy. Don't get me wrong we have our spats and the kids are not always angelic, but comparatively speaking, it really doesn't get any better than this. My family is my rock; they get seventy percent of all my energies and time. The rest is divvied up to my other projects.

What other projects you say? Not only do I do these things but I am a reviewer for this site and another one. My time is evenly spent doing this and my paying job as a security officer for a non-profit agency that houses domestic violence clients. Life is pretty full for me and I keep finding things to add to it, but that is the fun and challenging aspect of my life.

So now you have my history. Hopefully, you will take my reviews and enjoy them and allow me to guide you in finding something that will touch your inner child and bring joy to your life.

Valerie Pryor
Reviewer

A self-described voracious reader, I will read just about anything. Growing up in an era before cable or satellite TV I learned to appreciate books on nights when the president was giving the State of the Union speech.

Unlike many of the reviewers, I have no aspirations to become a writer. I am solidly ensconced into a scientific mentality with a Masters in Animal Science-reproductive endocrinology. Until the advent of children in my life I made my living interpreting other's research and applying it to my own area of interest.

I have been married for 10 years and am the proud mother of two young children. With my focus reapplied I have found that I am once again reading for pleasure. I enjoy a wide variety of genres as long as the story is good.

I live in the beautiful Northwest, Washington to be specific. I am within a few hours drive of the ocean or the desert, depending upon my mood. My hobbies, include horseback riding, stain glass windows, swimming, hiking, sledding, child chauffeuring and of coarse reading.

I am looking foreword to many wonderful stories. I hope you enjoy my reviews.

 

 

 

Chloe Lin
Reviewer

Obviously, I love books. The range of books I read is eclectic: fiction, non-fiction, biography, history, poetry, literary criticism, humor,
travel essays, short stories, and of course, romance. My other activities include travel, hiking, yoga, cooking, languages, letter writing, and trying out new food with my friends (especially things I don't have to cook!). I
am also a culture vulture, and luckily, I live in New York City, where I can indulge in all the theater, opera, dance, and museum exhibitions that the City has to offer.

My idea of a perfect day is to curl up on my sofa on a rainy afternoon with a fragrant cup of Earl Grey tea, a plate of buttery madeleines, and an awesome book. Happy reading!

 

BJ Deese
Reviewer

Reading romance novels has been a hobby of mine for many years. If I remember correctly, I started out with historicals. I love just about any type of romance, but my favorite types include paranormal, time-travel, romantic suspense & historicals. Escaping into a good romance is always so much fun.

Georgia has been my home for the past ten years. I graduated high school in the top 15% of my class, in 1998. I am a stay at home mom, and I love what I do. My husband and I live in the country with our 17 month old daughter, Allison. We also have a son on the way. He's due in September, and we are very excited.

Other hobbies that I enjoy are gardening, scrapbooking, watching movies, working on the computer and cooking. But, my all time favorite hobby is definitely reading! I look forward to writing many reviews for Romance Junkies!

 

 

Claudia McRay
Reviewer

I'm the product of a very strict Southern Baptist upbringing where the only books read on a regular basis were the Bible, other church literature or the Readers Digest. My senior English teacher opened a new world for me that was filled with English authors. When I moved out on my own I discovered shelves and shelves of paperbacks in a nearby drug store. Authors such as Ayn Rand, M. M. Kaye, Harold Robbins, Herman Wouk and James Mitchner took opened a world of adventures to me.

My entrance into the world of romance reading began in the 70's when a friend gave me a grocery bag filled with books that she had finished reading. Among those were "Wicked Loving Lies" by Rosemary Rogers and "The Wolf and The Dove" by Kathleen Woodiwiss. I was blown away. Some years ago I started reading contemporaries. The first Christine Feehan book I read hooked me on Paranormals.

Discovering the world of e-books and the wonderful authors who write them opened another avenue. My author list is expanding as more and more new authors are published. I've lost count of the numbers of books on the To Be Read and the To Be Purchased lists.

My other hobbies include the NFL (Kansas City Chiefs Rule), NASCAR (#24), Figure Skating, Summer and Winter Olympics and collecting Hallmark ornaments. My black thumb has become a little greener with the help of Miracle Grow and I enjoy planting flowers and tomatoes in the Spring.

The DH and I have been married for over 36 years and have two wonderful sons who are married. One son and his wife have a darling little boy whom I adore. The other son and his wife will bless us with another one at the end of the year.

I'm having a ball reviewing books and getting to know the authors who write them.