World Book Day Is Coming April 23, 2017!

Hey there, Romance Lovers!

It's Kali Willows, that crazy Canadian author with a little spring fever and a lot to do these days. So what is world book day? Great Question!

World Book Day is a celebration! It’s a celebration of authors, illustrators, books and (most importantly) it’s a celebration of reading. In fact, it’s the biggest celebration of its kind, designated by UNESCO as a worldwide celebration of books and reading, and marked in over 100 countries all over the world.

Currently, I'm in the middle of a fantastic internship as I complete the final requirements for my Post-Grad Public Relations Course. I was fortunate enough to land a position with a Toronto-based company: MMK Marketing. This fresh, brainy boutique agency of retail and digital marketing specialists have got it all, and they're showing me the way in a heavy duty learning opportunity of a lifetime.

How could this experience be related to this author? Because today, I received an assignment that was like the Mother Ship calling me home!

I was assigned to collect answers from my teammates about favourite books and authors and created an MMK Marketing Pinterest account and board to showcase their choices.

If you click on the above Pinterest link, you'll see all the amazing books they listed and perhaps even discover a few new-to-you books and authors. There are three boards: favourite children's books, favourite business, and the one that sang to my heart today, favourite Canadian authors/books!

Here are just a few samples of these selections! See any favourite Canadians here? *cough*

So now I'm back to the grind, work, work, work, but this Canadian has a shared anthology out right now, and it's my pleasure to share this contribution with you in time for World Book Day!

What are some of your favourite books / authors?

Happy Reading,

Are You Naughty or Nice?

Naughty or Nice?

Well we are less than a week away before the big guys squeezes his tushy down the chimney. Are you on the naughty or nice list? 

Us Canadian romance authors need to keep our inspirations going, and I have to admit, the last few months, I've ventured into the naughty zone!

Why? Well, I can only show you a few photos to really demonstrate the path of temptations, but once you see, I'd bet you wouldn't have resisted either!

Two recent outings with the girls have led me to the land of Down Under, where the men are gorgeous and their dance moves are hot! This girl was on fire!

Then last month, a handful of us devoted Shemar Moore fans ventured to Toronto to meet the man himself, and all I can say is WOW! Sexy, silly and flirty and that man knows how to work a crowd!

Don't get me wrong, the coset of eye candy and divine entertainment hits the spot, but I'm more than happy to come home to my own real life hottie, who dotes on me and makes me feel like a queen. 

So, what are some of your naughty experiences? Or are you just too good to be true? Will Santa be generous, or like me, will you be receiving a stocking full of coal?

Happy holidays, from the Willows household!

Author Jessica E. Subject shares a Canadian holiday #recipe @jsubject #romance

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Don't forget to enter the Romance Eh? Christmas Giveaway!

When I start planning for the holidays, the first thing I do is to ask my family what goodies they want me to make for the year. I have some tried and true favourites that I make every year, and on occasion, I get asked to make something new.

One of the foods I make every year is tourtière. It is a pork meat pie with French-Canadian origins. It was something my mother always made for us to eat on Christmas Eve, and I now do the same with my own family. Though, I also make it for other occasions as well. Here's the recipe I use...

JESSICA E. SUBJECT'S TOURTIÈRE RECIPE

I use store bought pie crusts. But, if you want to make your own, this recipe includes the crust...

Pie Crust:

5 1/2 cups flour
1 lbs lard ie. Tenderflake
1 tsp salt
(cut lard into flour/salt until well combined using a pastry cutter)
1 egg
1 tbsp vinegar
water

Take a measuring cup, gently beat the egg, add vinegar and up to the one cup mark with very cold water. Slowly pour into dry mix using enough only to moisten the dough until it sticks together into a ball. Divide into six equal portions and wrap for later. If needed refrigerate for 1/2 hour.

Tourtière filling:

2 lbs lean ground pork
1 lb ground beef
1 tbsp butter or margerine
1 large or two medium potatoes (cooked and mashed)
1 large onion (chopped into tiny pieces)
2 teaspoons allspice
pepper to taste
1 tsp cinnamon

Melt butter in a large skillet, add onions until they've turned clear. Add the ground pork and beef until well cooked. Add the mashed potato and mix well. Add the allspice, pepper, and cinnamon, and mix well. Add enough water to totally cover the mixture and let simmer for a few hours allowing the potato to thicken the mixture. Add more allspice, pepper, and cinnamon to taste.

When mixture is thickened (very little water left), divide equally into prepared pie crusts. (I use deep dish pie shells, so I find this mixture is only enough for two pies). Cover with dough and pinch the edges. I always cut a star shape into the top of the pie.

Bake at 425 degrees F until edges are golden brown and pie dough cooked. Usually about 35 minutes. I will undercook one (25 minutes), so I can freeze it and pop into the oven to reheat without the pie dough getting burned during reheating.

Tell me, do you have any holiday recipes you like to make?

Jessica E. Subject is the author of science fiction romance, mostly alien romances, ranging from sweet to super hot. Sometimes she dabbles in paranormal and contemporary as well, bringing to life a wide variety of characters. In her stories, you could not only meet a sexy alien or two, but also clones and androids. You may be transported to a dystopian world where rebels are fighting to live and love, or to another planet for a romantic rendezvous. 

When Jessica is not reading, writing, or doing dreaded housework, she likes to get out and walk with her giant, hairy dog her family adopted from the local animal shelter.

Jessica lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband and two energetic children. And she loves to hear from her readers. You can find her at jessicasubject.com and on twitter @jsubject.

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Just The Honeymoon Capital, or Is There More?

                                                             Canadian Romance, Eh?

Blog Post by: Kali Willows

Just the honeymoon capital or is there more?

It’s been a busy summer. I can’t believe it’s September already! I’m so far behind in blogs, promotions, edits and writing, but I’ve enjoyed time with my family, and isn’t that what it’s all about?

We have done lots of things, but the one I wanted to post about today, was our trip to Niagara Falls. I’d been there several times over the years to visit family, but in all honesty much to my dismay, short of stopping for a quick view of the water phenomena I had never taken in any of the sights.

Being highly noted as the honeymoon capital, we took a different route. I brought my beautiful children, and left the romance at home, to tend to the domestic responsibilities. (Although, I do have to admit, I got the better end of the bargain.

We did the Hornblower (The Canadian version of Maid of the Mist), the Aerocar over the whirlpool of breathtaking water, the Skyline Tower, one day for the tour, the next night for dinner in the revolving restaurant and so much more. Our feet hurt from three days of walking, but it was an incredible vacation I got to experience for the first time, with my children.

The only attraction I personally found a letdown, was the Canadian tour behind the falls. For a price, a short elevator ride and a walk down an old tunnel, it was a different vantage point of seeing the falls, but it’s not one I will repeat.

Clifton Hill, proved adventurous. Arcades, watching fudge get made, we visited the Hersey factory, the fun houses and the Skywheel gave even more spectacular views to indulge in. Of course, the main reason we went, was for the kids to go to Marineland. I was impressed the costs were not nearly as outrageous as I had expected and the fun was endless.  We played it smart, and went at the end of August, in the middle of the week, while to Toronto CNE was in it’s prime. We had less crowds to contend with and more enjoyment to be had by all.

Although we didn’t do the haunted houses or wax museums, (too much for the little ones at this stage), the very low budget hotel we booked provided a Bates Motel atmosphere with a single electrical socket for three of us to share, and fluctuating water temperatures, that both invigorated and scorched us interchangeably.

What does this post have to do with Canadian Romance you ask? Well, now that I’ve done the ground work, when my sweet husband and I return for an adult only vacation, I know exactly what I want to do…get your mind out of the gutter, I meant what attractions to visit!

Next time, when it’s just us two, I want to book a nice hotel suite on Falls Avenue, preferably one with a cozy hot tub right in the room and within walking distance to everything. Take in a romantic Falls Illumination Evening Cruise, complete with a bar, snacks, night show and fireworks. Then, a stroll along Clifton Hill, and venture into the haunted houses and wax museums, where, if I get a little spooked, my sweetheart can hold me close as we laugh and enjoy the festivities. Perhaps sample the fudge being made in the store front window, and a night time ride on the Skywheel, with maybe a few stolen kisses.

The romance potential is definitely all over Niagara Falls, but so is the family fun. You can’t go wrong no matter what kind of vacation you’re looking for. This Canadian gal is quite satisfied with her trip and plans to return, soon!

Happy Reading!

Canadian living, at its best.

Gearing Up For Summer Plans On Canadian Soil

Canadian Romance, Eh?

Blog Post by: Kali Willows

Gearing Up For Summer Plans On Canadian Soil

So here, in the land of weather you can get sunburn one day and frost bite the next, summer is finally almost upon us with occasional bouts of excessive heat, then bone chilling cold. Just weeks before the minions are free of school for another year and the last minute panic of “what do we plan to keep them occupied?”

I’m a traditional parent in many senses of the phrase, but summer planning is a double edge sword for me. We live in the rural countryside, complete with open space, lots of green land and mosquitoes big enough to carry small children away. Our family canoes, camps and hikes, so what traditional summer plans can we make that aren't readily accessible in our own back yard? We have BBQ’s and bond fires on a weekly basis. We bathe in sun screen and bug spray several times a day. We run the hose over the trampoline to make a hot day really fun, or watch movies to avoid scathing heat.

Last year, I bit the bullet and took the reins for a scheduled summer filled with swimming lessons, day camp, a week of overnight camp and the usual summer fun stuff. We invest in Badminton and soccer for the yard, water guns are a must and who doesn't love a good Smores by the fireside? Feeling like supermom last summer, I was quite pleased with myself to have them booked up and busy with the exception of the first and last week of summer to allow some breathing time for transition to and from school.  

To my horror, my children who bore easily in the lack of planning, were overwhelmed and didn’t want to do half the things we planned. When is a good thing too much? This year, I’ve settled down and will pursue more swimming lessons and maybe a little sporadic day camp, but short of travelling to the big city and blowing wads of cash on trips to Marine Land, Niagara Falls, museums and the Science Centre, what else is a parent to do?

I’d love to hear about your Canadian summer plans. Where will you go? What will you do? How do you manage to find a happy balance in entertaining your kids for two months out of school?

Reply for your chance to win an eBook copy of any of my books~! The winner will be announced her after June 20^th and I will arrange to send your selected prize to you!

Have a great summer and happy reading!

Canadian living, at its best.

Romancing the Capital

Romancing the Capital

Something Wicked This Way Comes…  

Posted By: Kali Willows

On  April 17^th & 18^th, 2015, myself and several of our Canadian authors from Romance Eh, will be attending a special event!

Romancing the Capital Ottawa Romance Convention. It takes place in Ottawa, Canada Several and is the very first one, of what we hope becomes an annual event for Canadian readers to indulge in. I’m one of those crazy authors who will be there!

In honor of this event, I’m happy to announce, my Canadian-based story: Romancing the Author was contracted for a submission call just for this sizzling occasion.

Along with a multi-author sponsored Mad Hatter dinner and dance, there is also a 50’s Sock Hop, panels, workshops and a spectacular book fair with 50 registered authors, the good times will be endless.

An event near and dear to my heart is the Author-Reader Speed Dating Extravaganza I am hosting.  With 25 registered authors and a room full of prizes to be won, it promises to be jam packed with fun and excitement while readers get a chance to meet some of their favorites and discover even more.

What is this new, steamy 1NS tale I’m bringing to the Canadian Capital, you ask? It’s my pleasure to introduce my newest 1NS story:

                                             Romancing the Author

~Blurb~

NFL star, Connor Caine has given up on romance. Starved for a real woman with curves, intellect, and a sharp wit, he exchanges playful messages with an online crush. But when he can’t connect with her, he’s urged to seek out a 1Night Stand while in the Canadian capital for business.

Steamy sex is plentiful for author Gemma Daveen—at least on the pages she writes. Publicized as happily married, she has kept a few well-hidden secrets. But her publicist knows better, and ravenous for sexual reprieve, Gemma soon finds herself booked for a 1Night Stand during a romance convention in Ottawa.

~Excerpt~

Connor: Do you wear jeans, Gemma?

Gemma: Sure, all the time. They’re 90 percent of my wardrobe, LOL. Why?

Connor: I’ve got a thing for belt loops.

Gemma: What do you mean? And were they crossing a line?

Connor: Have you ever had a guy slip his fingers into the belt loops of your jeans and pull you so close to him, he could taste your lips?

Gemma: No, but I like the sound of that. Had she really typed that?

Conner: Maybe one day, I can pull you by the belt loops.

Three hours flew by and, finally, despite her fascination, her eyelids grew heavy

Connor: I have a confession to make. I’ve bought your books and read them. You’re such a gifted author.

Gemma: You have? Her breath hitched.

Connor: Yes! I can’t get enough of your stories. You’re brilliant.

Gemma: Thank you. A weak response given he had just hit her cerebral G-spot. Conner loved her writing? He’d read her books? Incredible. No longer tired, she held her hands over the keyboard.

Gemma: I…have to come clean with something, too.

Connor: What?

All or nothing.

Gemma: I’m a sapiosexual.

Connor: Come again?

Gemma: A person sexually attracted to the intelligence in others. She held her breath for his response.

Connor: And where do I fit into this orientation of yours?

Butterflies somersaulted in her stomach.

Gemma: Top of the list.

***

~Buy Links:~

Amazon

iTunes

Kobo

Googleplay Books

***

Happy Reading!

Kali Willows

My Canadian Writer's Retreat

Happy Spring!!!

 

I'm so excited that Spring has finally sprung. Next to autumn, Spring is one of my most favorite seasons. It is the time when the snow melts away and I can finally start using my writer's retreat.

I love my place. It is nestled on four acres in cottage country in Northern Ontario, Canada.

Here's a pic that I took on my last visit. Plenty of snow.

Here's a pic of the inside - my kitchen.

And that's my mom by the sink.

(pardon the mess - I wasn't expecting company) lol

While I'm at my retreat, I usually write in a room over my garage.

 

 

It's so pretty and cozy up here and plenty a story

has been born inside these walls. *grin*

The pine desk under the window was built by

my thirteen year old nephew (at the time - he is now almost 21).

The white table (with the yellow tablecloth) in the nook was built

by my dad just after I was born (54 years).

We have very creative guys in my family. :-)

When you peek out that window there you can make out the silhouette of my house.

 

 

About ten years ago when I bought my property, I wrote my stories

on a hammock strung between two trees...now I have four walls.

Not bad for ten years work, eh?

I hope you have enjoyed my tour of my writer's retreat.

Drop by anytime!

 

Catch my latest release

 

 

You can find the links to this boxed set plus many other stories by following this link:

http://www.janspringer.com

 

Hugs and Happy Reading!

 

 

Surrounded By Sharks

Canadian Romance, Eh?

Blog Post by: Kali Willows

Surrounded By Sharks

The word from many readers, fellow authors, and even family abroad, is that there seems to be a limited idea of what Canada has to offer, by way of tourism and adventure. I know, I know, we are renowned for maple syrup, poutine, beaver tails, and hockey, lots of snow and frost-bite temperatures. 

There are the famous attractions of Niagara Falls, Montreal/Quebec, CN Tower, the Dome, and Maple Leaf Gardens, or maybe even Pioneer Village, for the more traditional tourists.

Living in rural Eastern Ontario, in the cold winter, sub-zero months, it is easy to find ourselves feeling secluded from civilization. Especially me, given I grew up in Toronto and had endless adventures just at my doorstep. I’m partial to cozying up by my wood burning stove now, with a nice hot cup of tea and typing away to my heart’s desire. Not so much, the hiking in snow shoes, skating or vast array of winter sports-to my husband’s dismay. I’m not a big fan of being cold.

What about the curious minds of our Canadian-born children? Shirley, they need more life experience than that? Don’t get me wrong, tobogganing, bond fires and building snowman is an every day favourite along with hot chocolate and marsh mellows. It’s a great foundation with lots of tradition, and knowing their roots, but they crave more. Quite frankly, so do I!

To blow off the winter blues this month, I took my son and daughter on the adventure of a lifetime…(well, in their opinion, lol) We drove to Toronto and plunged into the latest-great attraction in the heart of downtown.

After a four hour drive, we arrived at the hotel, small, quaint and just the right price. We checked in with the intention of dropping the bags off and a quick pit-stop before we hit the big attraction. Unbeknownst to me, jumping on the hotel beds and free, unlimited wi-fi proved to be just as exciting for the little minions then going to Ripley’s Aquarium; although, for the record, I don’t condone jumping on the bed. ;-) It took some convincing to get them out of the room and into a cab! Even the elevator and the cab ride proved highly impressive to my impressionable little ones.

Once we pulled up, their jaws dropped and the excitement began. Eager to keep up with my overzealous children, I traipsed after them, where we found ourselves in awe of the exquisite aquatic creatures and displays, geared for learning and experience.

It wasn’t until I found myself in a tunnel, on a small conveyor belt, surrounded by swimming sharks, sting rays and a vast variety of other unique fish, that the moment struck me as sensational. The serene, yet surreal experience of witnessing the beauty of creatures both feared and admired in motion, left me awestruck and so thankful I had the opportunity to share this with my kids. We loved petting the sting rays, sharks, and the up close neon colours of the jelly fish. The “ray-dive,” consists of a wall sized window, where you watch as a diver feeds the sting-rays while an MC gives the animated tutorial. A favourite, I must say.

We had such a wonderful time; we went through the whole thing for a second round of awe-inspiring enjoyment. By the end, we were tired and starving. Although they had a mini-restaurant there, my minions biggest wish to complete the adventure was to go back to the hotel, order pizza and have a swim and hot tub at the hotel, which I’m happy to say, on a Thursday night, we had all to ourselves!

Canadian living, at it’s best.

Cheers and happy reading!