Nancy's Notes From Florida

Cover Reveal – The Drift Lords Series
October 2, 2020

I am excited to share these beautiful covers for The Drift Lords Series. I’m reissuing these books previously published by The Wild Rose Press. All three titles have been updated with added bonus materials. Cover Design by The Killion Group, Inc.

Meet the Drift Lords, galactic warriors sent to Earth to seal a dimensional rift opened by an ancient enemy. To defeat the evil beings, they must join forces with a special group of Earth women, whose legendary powers are just awakening. “Star Wars” meets “Lord of the Rings” in this adventurous fantasy paranormal romance series.

Warrior Prince  Warrior Rogue  Warrior Lord

The inspiration for the series came from the Maelstrom ride at Disney’s Epcot theme park. I loved the idea of evil trolls and so I created the Trolleks, invaders from another dimension. It was huge fun to make up the parameters for this multiverse. Each hero has a quest but he can’t complete it without the Earth woman destined to be his mate.

WARRIOR PRINCE
Book One in The Drift Lords Series
Copyright © 2012 by Nancy J. Cohen
Published by Orange Grove Press
Digital ISBN: 978-1-952886-13-3
Release Date – November 6, 2020

When mythologist Nira Larsen accepts a job as tour guide for a mysterious stranger, she’s drawn into a nightmare reality where ancient myths come alive and legendary evils seek to destroy her. She must awaken her dormant powers to survive, but the only person who can help is the man whose touch ignites her passion. 

“I’m a huge fan of Nancy Cohen’s Bad Hair Day Mysteries and was thrilled to discover her latest book, a terrific mix of science fiction, mystery, and sizzling romance.” Mary Kennedy, author of the Talk Radio Mysteries 

BUY NOW Pre-Order Sale $.99 (Save $3 off regular price)

WARRIOR ROGUE
Book Two in The Drift Lords Series
Copyright © 2013 by Nancy J. Cohen
Published by Orange Grove Press
Digital ISBN: 978-1-952886-14-0
Release Date – November 13, 2020

When fashion designer Jennifer Dyhr loses her lead actor for a video-game commercial, a replacement literally drops from the sky. Reluctant to let him leave, she hires him as a model for her studio. When alien invaders attack their flight home, Jen must awaken powers she didn’t know she had to protect them both. Will she be able to keep her heart safe from the man sent to save her planet?

“Cohen’s futuristic, paranormal romance series blends aspects of science fiction with magic and mythology then tops it off with steamy scenes that are so hot you will need a fan and a mint julep drink to cool off.” Manic Readers

BUY NOW Pre-Order Sale $1.99 (Save $2 off regular price)

WARRIOR LORD
Book Three in The Drift Lords Series
Copyright © 2014 by Nancy J. Cohen
Published by Orange Grove Press
Digital ISBN: 978-1-952886-15-7
Release Date – November 20, 2020

Pottery sculptor Erika Sherwood marries a stranger at a Las Vegas casino after they win a game together and agree to split the reward. It isn’t until her life is threatened that Erika realizes the wedding was for real and her husband is an alien.

“Cohen’s third book in her Drift Lords series is an action-packed thrill ride from start to finish. She effortlessly blends fact with Norse mythology and fiction to create a fabulous tale, layered in detail and rich in texture.” Muddy Rose Reviews

BUY NOW Pre-Order Sale $2.99 (Save $1 off regular price)

The Drift Lords Series mixes Norse myths, magic and action-packed adventure in an exciting tapestry of romance. #fantasy #pnr #romance Share on X

PRE-ORDER SALE! Order all three books now and save $6.00 off the regular prices. Available for a limited time only. CLICK HERE and pre-order all three books individually. They’ll be delivered to your email inbox on the release dates.

 

GIVEAWAY

Win a Free Book from Booklover’s Bench in our Monthly Giveaway

Booklovers Bench Giveaway

 


• Posted in Blog • Tags: , , , , , , |  Comments Off on Cover Reveal – The Drift Lords Series


The Spark of Inspiration
September 30, 2020

Some writers say they write when the muse strikes them. They might go days without filling a manuscript page and work feverishly when the mood hits. I don’t believe in waiting for inspiration this way. As a professional writer, you have a job, and you must show up for work each day.

The Spark of Inspiration

However, I do believe there’s a certain spark about a story that serves as a creative faucet. It’s what caught your passion in the first place. Or maybe you’re struggling to find this elusive element. That’s where I am with my next Bad Hair Day mystery. Never mind the dozen other distractions demanding attention, such as reissuing my remaining backlist titles. So what’s wrong?

I know what the next Marla Vail story will be about in terms of the murder mystery. But I like to learn something new with each book. That’s what makes the story fun and special for me. In EASTER HAIR HUNT, it was learning about beekeeping, stamp collecting, honey production and Fabergé eggs. In TRIMMED TO DEATH, I researched Florida olive groves and olive oil scams. The range of topics I’ve covered in each of my books varies greatly, but each subject was something that interested me. I haven’t found this spark yet for book #17 in the series.

As an author, you don’t want to repeat yourself. I’ve done the historical angle, especially in FACIALS CAN BE FATAL when I used excerpts from my father’s 1935 travel journal. I should avoid mixing history and mystery for this next one. Science? Maybe, but this might not be a good idea when we’re all so paranoid about viruses. Food? Always an interest of mine, but I’ve already done olives, coffee, honey, and vanilla.

I’ve scanned through the news, hoping some esoteric topic will catch my fancy. Maybe I’m too distracted to really think hard on it. Likely it’ll be 2021 before I can sit down to write this book, because I have too much else to get done before then. However, I could work on the plot once I get involved in the research. Would you call this waiting for the muse? Or is it merely waiting until my mind is clear to focus on this story?

I know the moment will come when the notion hits me. Or I’ll get interested in diverse topics that I will have to fit into the mystery plot. This is similar to putting a puzzle together. I’d write the ideas onto mental index cards and then shuffle them around to see how they can be combined. This is a bit harder than an overall concept but it can be done. Either way, I’ll be excited when inspiration hits. How about you? Do you need that special spark to start your story?

Do you wait for the spark of inspiration to start your story? #amwriting #writingcommunity Share on X


• Posted in Blog • Tags: , , , , |  Comments Off on The Spark of Inspiration


Upcoming Events Fall 2020
September 22, 2020

Please join me at the following upcoming events:

TONIGHT – Tuesday, Sept. 22, 7:00 – 8:00 pm EDT, Blast from the Past Book Launch Party with Nancy J. Cohen and Maggie Toussaint – Fun & Prizes! Join us on Facebook later tonight.

Blast from the Past

Saturday, Sept. 26, at 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm, “Plotting Made Perfect” with Nancy J. Cohen via Zoom for the All Write: Jump Start Your Novel virtual event sponsored by The Florida Chapter of Mystery Writers of America (FMWA), in collaboration with Nova Southeastern University. Free to the public. Register Here – Space is Limited.

Have an idea for a story but don’t know where to go from there? Or are you stuck in the middle of your manuscript? Award-winning author Nancy J. Cohen will discuss the elements of plotting and how to develop your idea into a novel. This workshop will cover character development, plotting techniques, story structure, writing tools, and secrets of the synopsis.

Plotting Workshop

Saturday, Oct. 17 at 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm, “Why You Need an Audiobook and How to Make One” with Nancy J. Cohen, Florida Writers Virtual Conference. Register Here to attend virtual conference for only $57.

October 20, 7:00 pm, Booklover’s Bench Cozy Mystery Party – Details TBA https://www.facebook.com/NewReleaseParty/

 


• Posted in Blog • Tags: , , , , |  Comments Off on Upcoming Events Fall 2020


Starlight Child Reissue
September 22, 2020

I am excited to announce the reissue of Starlight Child. This science fiction romance is book three in The Light-Year Series. It was previously published by Dorchester. This Author’s Edition has been updated with added bonus materials.

Starlilght Child

STARLIGHT CHILD
Copyright ©1995 by Nancy J. Cohen
Published by Orange Grove Press on Sept. 22, 2020
Digital ISBN: 978-1-952886-08-9
Cover Design by The Killion Group, Inc.

Cultural specialist Mara Hendricks and Commander Deke Sage meet on a mission that takes them across the galaxy and into each other’s arms in this exciting science fiction romance. 

When terrorists from Yanura kidnap her best friend’s infant daughter, cultural specialist Mara Hendricks joins the rescue team. Her psychic ability can aid in tracking the baby’s location. But instead of being impressed by her power, the handsome mission leader is repelled by her unusual gift. Agonizing over his rejection, Mara realizes they’re meant to be together when she reads his aura and sees the ties binding them. Before their mission is complete, she vows to show the virile warrior that their union is written in the stars.

Commander Deke Sage knows the lovely xenobiologist is trouble when he meets her. Not only does she oppose his political views, but she possesses an ability that threatens to steal his sanity. Yet when they’re together, she lifts him to heights of passion he hadn’t known existed. Can he resist her allure long enough to complete his mission?

Praise

“Nancy captures you from the start, takes you on a fantastic ride, and doesn’t release you until she finishes the story. Captivating and wonderful!” Janelle Taylor, Bestselling Author

“The characters and the unusual settings stun the senses. The action is explosive and stimulating; the passion is torrid and sensual. Though the books in this trilogy can stand alone, I recommend you read them all.” Rendezvous

“A futuristic romance both sensual and adventurous, Starlight Child is a captivating story of life and love in the vastness of space.” The Paperback Forum

“The passion between these characters is ‘out of this world.’ If you enjoy a little science fiction, a little fantasy and a lot of romance, this book is a definite read.” The Literary Times

“A rip-roaring adventure through the stars.” RT Book Reviews

Excerpt 

Deke jumped back, abruptly releasing her. “What did you do?” he cried.

 Mara froze, at a loss for words. She had no excuse for her behavior. 

“You tried to read my mind.” 

“No, I can’t read thoughts. I can only sense emotions, even when I’m in someone else’s viewpoint. I… I’m not sure what happened, but you appear to have triggered a separation.” 

He stared at her, horrified. “What do you mean?” 

Agitated, she brushed her hair off her face. “When I was younger, this sort of thing happened all the time. I had difficulty controlling my ability. But never in my adulthood have I experienced anything similar, not even with Pietor.” Her heart sank at the incredulous look on his face. 

“Who in Zor is Pietor?”

 “My former fiancé. His parents didn’t approve of me. Instead of coming to my defense, he agreed with them and… and said hurtful things about my gift.” 

Deke glowered at her. “I can understand why. Gods, does that mean this could happen again?” 

She saw his fear mixed with resentment. He stared at her as if she were some sort of freak.“You’re the only person with whom I’ve ever had a spontaneous separation. This has to be significant. Maybe… maybe we’re meant for each other.” 

“I only meant to take you to bed,” Deke snapped, stepping back as though putting physical distance between them could prevent another occurrence. “Otherwise, there is nothing between us. You’d better leave now.” His gaze frosted. “And take that as an order.” 

Mara stormed out, offended and hurt by his words. Coming on this mission had been a mistake.

Cultural specialist Mara Hendricks and Commander Deke Sage meet on a mission to rescue a kidnapped child in a voyage that takes them across the galaxy and into each other’s arms. STARLIGHT CHILD #sfrom #romance Share on X

BUY NOW or download for FREE on Kindle Unlimited – https://amzn.to/32aHFGN

 


• Posted in Blog • Tags: , , , , , |  Comments Off on Starlight Child Reissue


Moonlight Rhapsody Reissue
September 15, 2020

I am excited to announce the reissue of Moonlight Rhapsody. This science fiction romance is book two in The Light-Year Series. It was previously published by Dorchester. This Author’s Edition has been updated with added bonus materials.

Moonlight Rhapsody

MOONLIGHT RHAPSODY
Copyright ©1994 by Nancy J. Cohen
Published by Orange Grove Press on Sept. 15, 2020
Digital ISBN: 978-1-952886-07-2
Cover Design by The Killion Group, Inc.

Sparks ignite when a diplomat turned spy meets a beautiful slave overseer in this action-packed science fiction romance.

When an ion storm causes Rolf’s spacecraft to crash on the planet Souk, he is captured and thrown into a slave labor camp. A diplomat turned spy, he’s on a secret mission to contact the resistance. But his plans go awry when he catches the eye of the beautiful female overseer who fancies him for her personal attendant.

Ilyssa is excited to meet the new slave. With his piloting skills, he might be able to fly her off the planet. But first she must rescue her parents, who are being held hostage by Pasha Ruel. Ruel uses Ilyssa’s power of siren song to mindwash his enemies. Can she convince the new slave that she’s been forced into her role?

Rolf isn’t sure if he can believe her story, but he accepts Ilyssa’s offer of freedom. Together they flee Ruel’s camp and begin a cross-country trek. Their trip is fraught with perils, including their forbidden passion for each other. Ilyssa’s gift comes with a price, and to follow her heart means to lose her special talent. Can she love a man when it means sacrificing her dreams?

Praise

“Nancy Cohen creates a richly detailed futuristic world sure to stimulate the reader’s imagination.” Award-Winning Author Kathleen Morgan

“Ms. Cohen keeps our excitement at fever pitch as Rolf and Ilyssa fight their way to freedom and love in this thrilling novel of the far future.” RT Book Reviews

“The well-drawn characters put your imagination into overdrive. Add forbidden passion and you have a futuristic adventure that is scintillating and heart-stopping. Ms. Cohen has definitely proven herself a master of this genre.” Rendezvous

“A well-conceived plot, great characters, enough future technology and aliens to satisfy the dedicated science fiction fan, and a sensual romance all come together in a terrific story that will appeal to romance and science fiction readers alike.” The Paperback Forum

“Moonlight Rhapsody is an action packed, fast-paced futuristic romance. The lead couple are magnetic together as they cope with planetary-wide problems and their growing love for each other. Nancy Cohen has a visionary gift of writing about the future in a manner that makes it seem like it’s happening today.” Affaire de Coeur

Excerpt 

“Look at me,” Ilyssa commanded. When he’d raised his face, she said in a purposefully loud voice, “I have brought you here to act as my personal server.” 

Surprise sprang into his crystal blue eyes, but he stayed silent as she continued. 

“I’ll expect you to assist me with my meals, keep my chamber clean, maintain my wardrobe, and satisfy any other needs of mine that may arise. Hopefully, in time, you will grow to anticipate my requirements. You’ll sleep in the adjacent parlor. That way, you’ll be close at hand if I want you during the night. Now, shut the door and I’ll show you where I keep everything.” 

The man complied, closing out the buzzing of the Hortha guards stationed outside the door. 

“Pardon, mistress, but I’m not exactly clear on my duties,” he said in a soft tone. “You wish me to maintain your suite and serve your meals, but what else am I to do?” 

“My name is Ilyssa. You may call me that in private.” 

As she rattled off a list of chores, Rolf listened carefully, but it was the unspoken duties that worried him. She’d said she might want him during the night. That meant only one thing as far as he was concerned. She expected him to service her personally. Rolf wondered if he would be able to perform under forced circumstances. 

Studying her physical attributes, he decided it wouldn’t be too difficult. Soft waves of auburn hair cascaded over her shoulders. Tiny wisps framed a face with features so perfect they might have been chiseled from porcelain. Her eyes were a remarkable shade of green flecked with gold. His gaze drew to her lips, perfectly contoured for a man’s kisses. She was lovely, but with the beauty of an ice queen. It didn’t extend to her heart. 

Sparks ignite when a diplomat turned spy meets a beautiful slave overseer in this action-packed science-fiction romance. MOONLIGHT RHAPSODY #fantasy #romance Share on X

BUY NOW  or download for FREE on Kindle Unlimited – https://amzn.to/3iU2wEJ

<><><>

GIVEAWAY

Booklover’s Bench Sept. 1 – 18
Enter Now to win a free book from Booklover’s Bench

Booklovers Bench
 


• Posted in Blog • Tags: , , , , , , |  Comments Off on Moonlight Rhapsody Reissue