Welcome to the twenty-ninth day of my Almost Heaven West Virginia Blog Bash.
These pictures are all of the lovely Canaan Valley, WV. I thought Sue-Ellen would enjoy these best today and maybe remind her of her beloved Scotland.
Welcome to all my followers and visitors, I am having a month-long celebration in my husbands honor. My husband Denny is retiring from the Navy after serving for 24 years. We are packing up one last time and moving back to his home state of Wild Wonderful West Virginia. Each post will start off with a picture to showcase West Virginia. Everyday their will be a prize up for grabs and at the end we’ll be giving away some chocolate. 
Here we are in 2010 before our hike in Aspen Co after we had attended RomCon.
Please follow the rules posted at the end of each post to enter the daily contests and remember you don’t have to subscribe to win but I hope you decide to stick around. Also any post that contain super erotic material will carry the warning label so as not to shock or offend anyone upon opening.
Today I am happy and trilled to share one of my favorite authors with you, Sue-Ellen Welfonder/Allie Mackay. 
I do believe this was taken in Scotland. She’s my go to gal for all things Scottish.
Bio:
Sue-Ellen Welfonder is a card-carrying Scotophile whose burning wish to make frequent (free) trips to the land of her dreams led her to a twenty year career with the airlines. Bi-lingual, she flew international all those years, working her flights as foreign language speaker. Her flying career allowed her to see the world, but it was always to Scotland that she returned.
Now a full-time writer, she’s quick to admit that she much prefers wielding a pen to pushing tea and coffee. She spent fifteen years living in Europe and used that time to explore as many castle ruins, medieval abbeys, and stone circles as possible. Anything ancient, crumbling, or lichened caught her eye. She visits Scotland often, insisting her trips give her inspiration for new books.
Proud of her own Hebridean ancestry, she belongs to two clan societies and enjoys attending Highland Games. In addition to Scotland, her greatest passions are medieval history, the paranormal, and dogs. She never watches television, loves haggis, and writes at a four-hundred-and-fifty year old desk that once stood in a Bavarian castle.
Sue-Ellen is happily married to her very handsome husband, Manfred, who she met many moons ago on a Munich layover. Her life is ruled by the most adorable Jack Russell Terrier in the world. He’s the only soul allowed to disrupt her when she’s on deadline. She wishes all dogs could be so loved and asks readers to consider rescue if they are thinking about getting a pet. We can’t change the world, but it is possible to make a world of difference to a needy animal.
Sue-Ellen also writes Scottish-set paranormals for Penguin/NAL under her pen name, Allie Mackay – www.alliemackay.com.
The Allie Mackay site is currently under construction.
I am afraid to say I have yet my friend Sue-Ellen in person, we have been corresponding by e-mail for a few years and of course I “see” her almost everyday on her blog Tartan Ink, yep it’s over there on my side bar. Her stories under both names are keepers and I consider them comfort reads. So let’s take a peek of some of her stories shall we?? Oh and don’t mind if we see a wee little old lady close by with a wee little red fox, that’s Devorgilla and Somerled, friends of Sue-Ellen and me, perhaps you already know her too. 
MacKenzie Series, here is where the love started for me and many other readers.
Hell was never so sweet…
Linnet MacDonnell was the youngest of seven sisters, and not the family beauty. With her flame-bright red hair, sharp tongue, and strange gift of second sight, no man wanted her. But the devil would take her. Bartered as a bride to her father’s long-sworn enemy, the nobly born Highlander, Duncan MacKenzie of Kintail, she had no choice but to enter a marriage with a man rumored to have murdered his first wife and said to possess neither heart nor soul.
Forbidding and proud, Duncan MacKenzie wanted only one thing from his new bride — to use her special gift to determine if young Robbie was truly his son. He never expected the MacDonnell lass to stubbornly follow her heart, chase away the darkness in his castle with light and laughter, and ignite a raging fire in his blood. How dare she defy him, and tempt a devil like him to feel what he feared most of all — love!
When passion is fierce, resistance is futile.
A Headstrong Lady A Battle-Torn Knight
And A Lesson In Temptation
Twice wed and twice widowed, Lady Caterine Keith has no need for a champion. She can fend off unwanted suitors on her and guard her Scottish stronghold without the help of any man. But her sister, knowing better, sends a make-believe husband – a knight with a battle-scarred face almost too frightening to behold. Sir Marmaduke Strongbow has a secret ambition. He wants not Caterine’s land, but her hand in marriage and her heart to own. With tantalizing caresses, he will show her how a real champion lays siege… and how love is impossible to fight.
It was beyond her control to resist him…
For ten lusty years, Robbie MacKenzie has savored the sensual pleasures that only a man with no wife can taste. To the lassies of Scotland, he is a living legend, the sole heir of the famed Black Stag, chief of Clan MacKenzie. He is a prize catch indeed. But Juliana Mackay has no such interest in the rogue or his powerful family. Her mission – to deliver an unpaid debt for her dying mother – is the only thing that could force her within reach of the wayward knight. That is, until an accidental blow to the head sends her reeling right into the brawny arms of Robbie MacKenzie himself.
In the heat of the moment, their passions ignite. But Juliana has forgotten her own identity, as well as her mission – and Robbie has promised to marry a bride from a rival clan. How can these two star-crossed lovers resist the love that burns in their hearts and the desire that consumes their souls?
Nothing could protect her from desire…
Fearless and outspoken, Lady Mariota MacNichol must run for her life. Accused of murdering the unworthy rogue she once loved, she boldly takes possession of deserted Cuidrach Castle, the one place her enemies would never look. Then the new laird of Cuidrach unexpectedly arrives…
Sir Kenneth Mackenzie is a fierce knight well-experienced in bawdy pleasures and willing wenches—though his last liaison left him wounded in pride and love. Chivalrous enough to open Cuidrach’s portals to a lady-in-distress, he keeps the way to his heart well-barred. But now the strong-willed Mackenzie is living with a fiery, passionate woman unafraid of his formidable reserve. Eating at the same table, warming themselves by the same fire…how long will it be before these two share the same bed?
She vowed to satisfy his every desire…
On the eve of his return to Baldreagan castle, Highlander Jamie Macpherson can not believe his eyes: a golden-haired beauty haloed in the moonlight of St. Bride’s own glade, so delicate and fair she can only be a faery. The knight’s desire rises like a wave, and then crashes. For despite the treachery that has just made him the new Macpherson heir, he’s still betrothed to a noblewoman he’s never met…
Yet there’s magic—and passion—in this union. Fiery Aveline Matheson may look like a sprite, but she’s a flesh-and-blood bride eager to discover the pleasures of marriage. And woe to those who would stop their lovemaking! Avenging his slain kinsmen is only second to Jamie’s protecting his beloved…and keeping her in his arms forever.
He risked everything to love her…
Lady Gelis MacKenzie, one of the most desirable heiresses in the Highlands, yearns for love. When a vision shows her a darkly seductive man, she knows she’s seen her future betrothed. But when she finally meets the handsome stranger, she finds a man who has endured more than any warrior can bear. She must use all her wiles to convince him that love is worth any challenge.
With his dashing good looks and smoldering eyes, Ronan MacRuari, known as the Raven, is every woman’s dream. Yet with his late wife newly buried and the MacRuari curse haunting him, he weds only to satisfy his clan. Refusing to believe in curses, Gelis trusts the magic of her second sight. As she kisses away the Raven’s doubts, she unleashes a torrent of desire. Yet Ronan knows that loving Gelis places her in mortal danger. Soon he’ll fight dangerous forces to protect her as only a Highlander can — with his whole heart, his honor, and his life….
The woman he must resist is the one he desires most of all …
Darroc MacConacher spends sleepless nights dreaming of a raven-haired beauty who makes him ache with desire. Then his dream comes true: the lady with her lush curves and fair skin appears shipwrecked on his shores. Darroc is immediately drawn to her strength and beauty, and from the moment she lays eyes on this powerful, broad-shouldered warrior, Lady Arabella MacKenzie knows she’ll never want another man.
But theirs is a forbidden love. The MacKenzies drove the MacConachers from their lands and destroyed their honor. Now, Darroc can use this sapphire-eyed seductress to shatter his foes. Yet how can he deny the passion that burns between him and Arabella, and ruin the one woman who touches his very soul?
The MacLean Series
A Warrior In Chains, A Lady In Charge, And A Seduction Too Hot To Handle!
As chieftain of the Clan MacInnes, Lady Isolde will do anything to protect her people — including sacrifice herself to the enemy. Donall the Bold, laird of the hated MacLeans, lies locked in her dungeon awaiting execution. But rather than slay him, Isolde comes up with a daring plan to forge a lasting peace between their clans.
Though Donall curses his beautiful captor, only a madman would refuse to savor the pleasures beneath that tantalizing aura of dignity and grace. But Isolde offers a mere covenant … and Donall craves nothing less than total conquest. Vowing to steal her heart and take his freedom, the renowned warrior instead will find himself in a different kind of prison — one made of sweet, decadent passion, and one he may never wish to escape.
He was the lord of the land — but a slave to one woman’s passion …
No lass is less suited for the convent than strong-willed Madeline Drummond. No man is a poorer candidate for penance than hot-tempered Iain MacLean. But Madeline is posing as a nun – long enough to take revenge on a murderous villain. And Iain is dutifully bringing a family relic to a holy shrine – as the price for his own reckless ways.
When the fiery Highlander and the fearless lady meet, pretenses are shed like lovers’ clothes and vows of chastity are scorched by a single kiss. Posing as husband and wife, the two firebrands join forces to reclaim Madeline’s ancestral home. And she may soon wonder whether ’tis a blessing or a curse to be the one true love of the Master of the Highlands!
The more he resists, the more he desires.
Even a marriage by proxy can’t spoil the joy Lady Amicia MacLean feels when she is wedded to Magnus MacKinnon. With his quick wit and dashing smile, the roguish warrior captured her heart when she was still a girl. It’s not until he returns from battle that Amicia discovers the truth: the union was made to fill empty MacKinnon coffers with MacLean gold. Magnus knew nothing of this marriage. Honorable and proud, he prefers to rebuild his clan’s fortune coin by coin himself – and wants nothing to do with his bonny new bride.
But Amicia is not one to give up without a fight. She plans to invade Magnus’s bedchamber, offer tantalizing glimpses of what every husband has the right to see, and settle for nothing less than the total surrender of the most stubborn knight in the realm!
Sue-Ellens latest series the Highland Warrior series:
The first book in the Highland Warriors trilogy… Three proud warriors locked in a struggle for victory. Three beguiling women united in their vow to restore peace.
The king has ordered three clans to battle to the death: the one left standing will reign over the Glen of Many Legends. James Cameron, known throughout the Highlands as “The Devil,” leads his men with ruthless determination. He knows no weakness — until a headstrong, flame-haired beauty from a rival clan tempts him to abandon his ironclad loyalties.
Catriona MacDonald’s past encounters with James have proved that ladies who play with fire can get scorched. But her brush with this devil leaves her burning to feel his touch once more, even though the fierce warrior is her sworn enemy. Now “The Devil” must fight for his family, his honor, and his very life… even as he surrenders to his desire to possess Catriona at any cost.
The second book in the Highland Warriors trilogy… Three proud warriors locked in a struggle for victory. Three beguiling women united in their vow to restore peace.
Despite an official peace, old conflicts smolder in the Glen of Many Legends. Kendrew Mackintosh, Chieftain of his clan, is famed as both a bold and hot-blooded warrior and a sensual lover. He has no intention of settling down . . . until he kisses a forbidden beauty whose passion matches his own.
Highborn and gently raised, Lady Isobel Cameron has long harbored a secret fascination for the fearless, charismatic Mackintosh—even though her brother is his sworn enemy. When destiny draws them together for one night, she can’t resist him. But what begins as a flirtation soon becomes a fight for survival. A deadly new threat has come to the glen, and Kendrew and Isobel must learn to trust and protect one another—or pay the ultimate price.
Excerpt:
“Kendrew Mackintosh is a howling madman.” Catriona found
her tongue at last, proving she knew the source of Isobel’s
agitation.
Isobel flicked at her sleeve, too irritated to care.
“It is summer solstice.” She spoke her mind, images of
Kendrew’s big, powerfully muscled body kissed by the glow of
bonfires making her breath catch and her skin tingle. “The
Mackintoshes celebrate Midsummer in the old way.” She glanced at
the room’s tall window arches, her pulse quickening at the
polished gleam of the twilight sky. “On such a night, I can’t
help but wonder if he really does leap naked onto the cairns.”
“He is surely bold enough.” Catriona smoothed the bed
covers, resting her hands atop her slightly swollen belly.
“Everyone knows he’s wholly untamed.”
Isobel could’ve added more. She did imagine him standing in
the heart of his rock-hewn land, cold mist blowing around him,
the gold of his Thor’s hammer and arm rings glinting brightly.
“He fought ferociously at the trial by combat.” She bit
back how much his bravery impressed her. “The earth shook when
he stamped the haft of his war ax on the ground after the
battle.”
“He is fearless, true enough.” Catriona shivered when a
chill wind swept the room, stirring the floor rushes. “Word is
he can trace his line back to the Berserkers, Odin’s
bloodthirsty, half-mythic body guards.
“So-o-o….” She laced her fingers. “He could well be doing
anything this night, including leaping naked onto his dreagan
stones.”
Isobel agreed.
But unlike her friend, she didn’t find the notion
disturbing.
The brisk air filling the chamber brought traces of damp
earth and pine, just a hint of distant woodsmoke. Soon the first
stars would start to glimmer. Beyond the thick forest that
separated their lands, Mackintosh bonfires would crackle and
blaze.
Those who prayed to Odin would gather. Men would touch
hammer amulets and drink from mead horns. Blood would heat,
passions rising as the revelry commenced….
Isobel’s heart pounded.
“I wouldn’t mind seeing Kendrew on those stones.” She
glanced again at the windows, the night’s magic calling to her,
making her restless.
“The sight would ruin you for life.” Catriona sounded sure.
Isobel lifted her chin. “I think I’d be rather intrigued.”
The third book in the Highland Warriors trilogy… Three proud warriors locked in a struggle for victory. Three beguiling women united in their vow to restore peace. Coming Soon!
So I have battled the dreadful dragons with Devorgilla’s help to get Sue-Ellen out of her writing cave, I’ve a few scratches here and there and came close to losing an ear if not for Somerled. She will be popping in after the noon hour to visit and chat. Before we take a look at her Allie Mackay novels let’s get to know her a wee bit better shall we but first let’s look at some Highland Games.
and here you can see for competition they do wear compression pants.
Z: Did you choose your genre or did it choose you?
SE: I chose to write romance because I love happy endings. Real life can be hard. Escapist fiction (how I see romance) is a welcome break from our day-to-day cares. I write Scottish-set books because I’m of Scottish descent and was raised to love and appreciate Scottish history, culture, and lore. My medievals reflect my interest in that period, while my paranormals come from my fascination with ghosts, Highland magic, and Celtic myth and legend.
Z: What is your favorite comfort food?
SE: Potatoes anything. I’m a potato zealot. A well-dressed jacket potato is my idea of foodie bliss.
Z: Do you have a comfort read? Tell us about it.
SE: Cozy mysteries. I appreciate the atmosphere, quaintness, and quirky characters.
Z: Were you a bookworm growing up? Who did you read?
SE: Absolutely. I could read and write before kindergarten. Childhood favorites were Highlights Magazine and Childcraft books. I moved on to Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden, then the gothics of Victoria Holt, Mary Stewart, Daphne DuMaurier, etc. Rosemary Rogers and Kathleen Woodiwiss hooked me on romance. For a while I left romance, reading only cozy mysteries. Then along came Jude Deveraux’s Knight In Shining Armor. Phenomenal book. It brought me back to romance.
Z: What is something that scares the heck out of you?
SE: Snakes.
Z: I already knew that from Tartan Ink.
Z: If you could go on the Ultimate Vaca where would you go and who or what would go with you?
SE: Always Scotland. I’d take along nothing except the long, pleasured sigh that escapes me each time a plane (with me in it) lands at Glasgow airport.
Z: HHMMM, haven’t I been trying to talk you into taking me along one time…surely I won’t take up to much room in your suitcase???
Z: Who are some of your favorite authors?
SE: With the exception of Karen Ranney (love her books), I don’t read in my own genre. So I enjoy the fun and sexy sports romances of Kate Angell and Patricia Sargeant. Cozy mysteries make up most of my pleasure reading. I adore Judi McCoy’s Dogwalker mysteries. And am really looking forward to Duffy Brown’s upcoming Consignment:Murder mystery series, beginning in Oct. 2012 with Iced Chiffon. I also love the nonfiction ghost books by my longtime friend, Karen Stevens. She’s a genuine ghost hunter and writes wonderful books about her ghost hunting adventures.
Z: Research? How do you prefer to do it; plane/train/automobile, laptop or library?
SE: I love research. And I believe the best kind is doing the footwork. I only use settings I have personally explored in Scotland. I need to be able to close my eyes and ‘go there again’ when I write. I also have a huge personal research library. It’s filled with books on every imaginable topic that interests me: Scottish history, all things medieval, all things Viking, Druids, Celtic & Norse myth and lore, archaeology, weaponry, food histories, costume, medieval architecture, the paranormal, sacred places, the Black Death, monks and monasteries, ancient magic, etc. All titles I’ve been collecting and studying for decades, long before I ever considered writing. These are interests that will continue to be my passion even when I no longer write.
Z: Do you attend conferences? If so where can we “stalk” I mean go to find you and which is your favorite to attend?
SE: Generally, no. If I do attend a conference, it’ll be a small, regional gathering. I love those.
Z: What do you like to drink, nibble on or listen to while you write?
SE: Rivers of strong, black coffee. I don’t nibble. (too dangerous) I need absolute silence to write. I listen to classical music when I polish what I’ve written.
Z: Do you have kids? If so are they toddlers, school age, teens, college bound or “Hey Mom, I’m home again! or are you an empty nester?
SE: N/A
Z: Sue-Ellen has a wonderful little Jack Russel named Em who keeps her in line and exercises her regularly.
Z: If you could have one of your books or series to be made into a movie which would it be and who do you see staring in it?
SE: My Allie Mackay title, Some Like It Kilted. It’s my favorite of all my books. I’d love to see Jeffrey Dean Morgan as Bran and Heather Locklear as Mindy. I’d also enjoy seeing the book’s ‘three ghosties’ come to life on screen. They’d be such a hoot.
Z: YES!!! As you know that is my favoritest book.
Z: Favorite TV shows?
SE: I rarely watch TV. CNN and the Weather Channel, that’s about it.
Z: To finish off, describe yourself in 5 words.
SE: Loves wild places & living quietly.
So let’s take a look at Sue-Ellen’s alter ego Allie Mackay
Tour guide Mara MacDougall stops at a London antique shop-and spots perhaps the handsomest bed ever. Then she bumps into the handsomest man ever. Soon Mara can’t forget the irresistible-if haughty-Highlander. Not even when she learns that she’s inherited a Scottish castle.
Spectral Sir Alexander Douglas has hated the Clan MacDougall since he was a medieval knight and they tricked him into a curse-the curse of forever haunting the bed (the very one that Mara now owns) that was once intended for his would-be bride. But Mara makes him feel what no other MacDougall has-a passion that he never knew he’d missed.
After stepping through a magical gateway, Kira Bedwell finds herself face-to-face with Aidan MacDonald, the irresistible Scottish highlander who has visited her in dreams. Now that their romance transcends dreams to reality, they find themselves under attack by Aidan’s enemies. And it will take all of their courage and will for their love to survive beyond time itself…
Cilla Swanner came to Dunroamin Castle in Scotland to get away from heartache and headache. But what she finds there may be more than she can handle. Long ago, the roguish Scottish knight known as Hardwick was cursed to wander the world forever, pleasing a different woman each night with no hope of fulfillment or true love. Then he meets Cilla—who may be his only hope for salvation.
A woman’s heart needs a loving home–
Even if it’s a little bit haunted.
Mindy Menlove lives in a castle that was transported stone-by-stone from Scotland. But when her fiancé dies in scandal and Mindy decides to sell the gloomy estate, her plans unravel. She must travel to the Hebrides, where she’s confronted by the castle’s original builder-who happens to be maddeningly irresistible and seven hundred years young.
Bran of Barra was a legendary chieftain. Since then he’s enjoyed his ghostly pleasures, until Mindy’s appearance disrupts them. Now, if the roguish Bran doesn’t change Mindy’s mind about his bonny homeland-and himself-neither of them will ever find any peace.
Margo Menlove loves everything Scottish-especially the legendary warrior hero Magnus MacBride. But while exploring in the Highlands she picks up a magical stone on the shore, and awakens to the sight of MacBride himself. And the reality may be much more dangerous-and passionate-than her dreams could ever be.
Kendra Chase is exhausted from her work as a ghost whisperer, so she’s been looking forward to her vacation in Edinburgh. But work awaits her as the tiny fishing village is being excavated, and supernatural uprisings have been reported.
Graeme MacGrath knows the source of the psychic trouble. The excavation is disrupting the protective veil between this world and darker, more ancient ones. He hates to admit it but he will need the fetching Kendra and her paranormal abilities to save the town he loves from unspeakable evil.
So today’s giveaway is a copy of Temptation of A Highland Scoundrel and a copy of Haunted Warrior from Sue-Ellen and in honor of Em I’m giving away a copy of Tails of Love from my library.
I hope everyone enjoyed meeting Sue-Ellen today and if you want to go visit her you can go here http://welfonder.com/ or here http://tartaninkblog.wordpress.com/.
Z Seawitch
Rules:
1. You must leave a meaningful comment, something more than Hi, Hello, or Great Post. Ask a question, squee like a fan girl or whatever you want as long as it’s appropriate.
2. Every comment counts so chat away. Please include your email in your comment.
3. Winners will be drawn 3 days after each post and a master list will be posted on Feb 17th. You will have until Feb 29th to email me at SeawitchReviews @ yahoo (dot) com. I will also send an email to each winner but if I don’t hear from you by the 29th a new winner will be drawn.
Z Seawitch
Seawitch Reviews from the bookshelf 
Feb 10, 2012 @ 10:47:59
Good Morn everyone I hope you all enjoy the lovely lovely pictures today and of course Sue-Ellen’s visit too. She should be popping in after lunch time. I wanted to thank all of you for continuing to come to my blog to visit and hopefully meet some new to you authors. Have a Great Day everyone.
Z Seawitch
Feb 10, 2012 @ 11:11:17
Thanks so much for inviting me today, Zina. You really know how to host an author! The piece is beautiful. Thank you so much. And you guessed rightly, I LOVE the West Virginia photos at the top. Your Canaan Valley does indeed remind me of Scotland.
And, yes, that photo of my was taken in the West Highlands. You can see the full picture here if this link goes through:
http://tartaninkblog.wordpress.com/sue-ellen/
Feb 10, 2012 @ 10:51:06
Our reading history is so similar, Sue-Ellen. When I went back to mysteries also added were Ann Rice, P.N. Elrod, and Chelsea Quinn Yarbro, Like the procedural s too ie. Ed McBain’s 87th Precinct, Dell Shannon etc…Still have that copy of A Knight in Shining Armor I read so long ago.
Always liked Heather Locklear & am sorry to hear she’s having such a rough time lately.
Y’all have a great day!
Feb 10, 2012 @ 10:52:18
Forgot to say I love that last picture @ the beginning of the blog..those colors are amazing. Isn’t nature awe inspiring?
Feb 10, 2012 @ 11:42:31
Thanks for the heads up re the vamps. Not my cuppa, truthfully. Yes, I read and loved Moonstruck Madness. I loved all those old ‘meaty’ historicals. Shanna, anyone? (Woodiwiss) Big sigh…
Feb 10, 2012 @ 12:54:56
It is beautiful.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 11:14:24
How neat that our reading histories are so similar, Ivy. I haven’t read any of the other authors you name, by will look for them. Btw, for a while I also loved John D. MacDonald’s Travis McGee novels. I devoured them in the late 70s.
Didn’t know Lockloear was having trouble? (I don’t keep up with celebrities, but always liked her very much)
Knight In Shining Armor was amazing, wasn’t it?
Feb 10, 2012 @ 11:22:50
Unless you like vampires I’d skip Elrod & Quinn, though they aren’t typical & the historical research Quinn does is amazing. St.Germaine is actually based on a real person.
Did you ever read Moonstruck Madness~Laurie McBain? Loved that the heroine was a highwayman….
Never read the Travis McGee’s though I’ve heard of them.
I only know about Heather because a friend passes on her US magazines.
Yes, it was magical…
Looking forward to the Allie site!
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:02:33
Heather was just hospitalized and I think she’s been released but she was taking drugs I think.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:38:55
Oh, dear, I am so sorry to hear she had a drug problem. I hope she’s on the mend now. (I can imagine a Hollywood life drives many people to drink and drugs)
Feb 10, 2012 @ 11:05:35
Those pictures of the Canaan Valley are so beautiful—I can picture some warriors in kilts and a few “ghosties” in them. You’d make a good travel agent for West Virginia.
farrell@crosslake.net
Feb 10, 2012 @ 11:15:42
Aren’t Zina’s photos stunning, Sue? I agree… West Virginia should take note of Zina. She’s a wonderful spokeswoman for the state.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:05:21
I was thinking the same thing looking at some of those pictures.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:06:23
I meant the pictures . but thank you Sue-Ellen.
Z
Guest Blog & Giveaway Alert! | Tartan Ink
Feb 10, 2012 @ 11:36:31
Feb 10, 2012 @ 11:59:00
Sue-Ellen, what stunning and beautiful photos. I so enjoy your books. Zina what awesome pic you have. Looks like West Viriginia is a beautiful place. Would love to visit someday.
AprilR
tarenn98 at yahoo dot com
Feb 10, 2012 @ 12:16:33
I agree, April. Aren’t Zina’s photos gorgeous? I’m so glad she and Denny are settling there. Like NC, WV is about as close as you can get to Highland Scotland without boarding a plane.
Thanks so much for your good words about my books. 🙂
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:18:43
We’re getting everything readdy for the expansion project. I still want to go to Scotland, we need to have a Tart Trip.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 22:26:55
Ha ha ha, Zina. If ever such a tour is on, you’ll be amongst the first to know. Seriously, it is possible as I have lots of friends in the tourist industry still, including in Scotland.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 17:37:15
Zina and April, I’d love to head up a Tart Trip one of these years. Kathy and I would do a Scotland tour in true Tartan Ink fashion. No Wee Hughie tours allowed. 😉
For those not ‘in the know’… Wee Hughie is a recurring character in my Allie Mackay titles. A bit of a windbag, he does tours, writes books, and brags about his illustrious ancestry. His tours are whirlwind nightmares that give you about two minutes (timed, natch) to snap photos of important
beauty spots’ along the way. Then you’re rushed back into the bus to be zoomed off to the next camera pit stop quickie. Kathy and I would show you the real Scotland. And make sure you had time to enjoy each special place we’d take you to.
Hopefully someday we’ll manage such a tour.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 17:58:35
Ok, so how much is the deposit…..do you take pay pal??? lol
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 12:10:58
I love Sue Ellen’s books! Ihave read (and kept) all of them I have found – even the ones from the used bookstore! I enjoy reading anything set in Scotland(I am told I also have roots there) and hope to someday visit!
Keep those wonderful books, coming, pretty pleeease Sue Ellen!
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:22:39
Yes I will never give up her books, they are mine…all mine( maniacal laughter).
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 22:27:42
You’re so funny, Zina. 😉
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:40:03
Bless you, Marguerite. You have brightened my day with your good words. I’m so glad you enjoy my books so much.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 12:19:53
Hi Zina and Everyone… It’s time for Em’s walk now. (my little JRT) So I’ll be away from my desk for a while. I’ll be back in shortly to say hello to everyone again.
Till then, have fun in here. Didn’t Zina do a splendid job with the piece? And isn’t her West Virginia beautiful?
And, of course… BIG CONGRATULATIONS to Denny for serving our country so valiantly for so many years. And to Zina for being such a wonderful and supportive Navy Wife.
See you after Em’s walk…
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:24:18
Sue-Ellen
I forgot to say thanks to you as well, I know your da was also a Navy man.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:44:03
Ha ha, oh, yes, he was that. Proud WW II Navy man. He kept up with ship reunions all his life and loved the Navy and the sea so much that his last wish was to have his ashes spread at sea. I did that for him and I am sure it was the hardest thing either I ever had to do.
His favorite ship he served on was the USS Coral Sea (he was a plank holder and very proud of that). I have pieces of the Coral Sea in a place of honor in my china cabinet. (the ship was scrapped, sadly)
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:44:42
“Hardest thing I ever had to do…”
Feb 10, 2012 @ 12:35:48
thanks for sharing the photos. I have never been in that area and it looks very pretty. your books sound really good and I would like to read them.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:25:33
Hello Joy
Thanks for stopping by.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:45:44
Thank you, Joy. I hope you’ll enjoy my work. And I agree… isn’t Zina’s West Virginia beautiful?
Feb 10, 2012 @ 12:44:25
Hi Sue-Ellen and Zina!
WoW!! Those pictures at the opening of your post are wonderful Zina. I would love to see all that beauty in person, maybe one day I will.
Sue-Ellen, I am SO with you on potatoes! LOL!!
I am in LOVE with those little bundles of heavenly bliss!
I can eat them in any possible way of cooking them, they’re great!
Baked, fried, mashed, boiled….anyway that little beauty comes to me on my plate, I’m happy.
I just wanted to say a quick ‘howdy’, I do follow you on TARTAN INK and also your website. Give Em a big hug from me.
Wishing you all the best!
P.S. ~ please do not enter my name in giveaway, have books already! 🙂
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:34:51
I just had some fried taters myself with bisquits and gravy. Yummy for my tummy.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:48:21
M’mmm… That sounds so good, Zina. 🙂
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:47:54
Dalila, we do indeed share a love of the humble potato. You sound just like me… or I can also say that I sound just like you. 🙂 Bring em’ on! Nothing beats tatties.
Thank you so much for your good words about my books. That means so much.
And I will give Em a great big hug from you.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 12:44:30
Zina, what a wonderful job you did on Sue-Ellen’s books!
Hi Sue-Ellen, great interview but no surprises to me. Have fun I gotta run.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:35:34
Thank you Kathy
Enjoyed your Name that Moon piece the other day.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:49:42
Thanks for looking in here, Kathy! (((HUGS)))
Btw… it is hot as blazes here. I’m about to cycle and walk the beach. I’ll surely melt on the way. Sigh…
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:19:46
Zina, these pictures are really beautiful. Hi Sue Ellen, what can I say except that I’ve read every book you have written as Se Ellen and Allie and love your highlanders and lasses.. 🙂 My fondest desire is to go visit Scotland and so I’ll keep on wishing. lol
Reading about Duncan and Sir Marmaduke really touched my heart because Duncan started it all and what can you say about Sir Marmaduke except he’s memorable and has a beautiful soul. I know, he’s only a character but hey…:)
I’m so glad to see you here.and will continue to read all your books.
Carol L
Lucky4750 (at) aol (dot) com
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:36:54
What wonderful words Carol for Sue-Ellen and her characters.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:54:58
Bless you, Carol L, for such loving words about Duncan and Sir M. (and my work in general) You made me misty-eyed, mentioning two such dear characters. They’re as real to me, too.
And no worries, you will see them again in fine form, I promise. I do have a series planned for Sir M’s children and when the time comes, you know Duncan will be at Sir M’s side, just as Sir M is always near Duncan. Those two are joined at the hip. So they are not gone, only resting. More like, they’re at Eilean Creag, biding their time for their day in the limelight again and, for now, having a ball annoying each other as they do so well. 😉
Fingers crossed that you do get to Scotland one of these days. (I’m sure you will)
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:38:20
I have always loved reading, but your books Sue Ellen, are so fantastic. At this point in my life, I need a place to get away to. Your books offer me just that place. My life has been turned upside down since August when my mother fell and broke her hip. Since then it has been touch and go with her. She is now in an assisted living facility. Being an only child has a lot of disadvantages. The stress is over whelming. So every chance I get, I pull out a book and get lost in the pages of another world and another time. Please keep writing those wonderful stories. They are keeping me from drowning! Robbie W
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:58:51
Robbie, I am so sorry to hear about your mother. I can well imagine the burden of worry and the stress/strain that comes along with such harrowing situations. Thank you so much for your good words about my books. They mean so much. And I am so glad the books transport you, especially now. Making readers feel as if they are there, in the story with the characters, is always a huge goal when I write. Thank you again for such heartfelt words.
All good wishes to you and your mother.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 14:10:56
Yes we have figured since we have 9 kids when we are old and need to live with family the kids will have a choice. We live with them 3 months before being passed to the next and they have to have us every 2 years or we stay for 4 months at a time and they only house us every 3rd year. I think they are all opting for the every 3rd year.
I hope things get better with your mom, I consider my reading time my de stresser…like the old Calgon commercials….
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 17:40:03
Zina, you are such a hoot. You deserve a train-load of Calgon and an endless supply of books. You’re a saint, truly.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:41:17
Sue Ellen, I simply LOVE your books, but especially the Allie Mackay books. I found your “Bed” books at a book trader a year ago, and I’ve been hooked since. I couldn’t rest until I had ALL your books, so over the next few months, I collected them all, and had them all read within several months thereafter. Your leading ladies are simply WONDERFUL, and the men ain’t so bad either!!!!
I like the ‘time travel’ thing you do, and especially the history that you include. I have a dream to get to Scotland, and with your books I feel like I’m already there. Thanks, Wendy
Feb 10, 2012 @ 14:02:54
Hi Wendy! Thank you so much for your enthusiasm about my work. You really made me smile. I’m delighted you love my Allie Mackay titles. I absolutely love those books and have so much fun writing them. And bless you for mentioning my heroines. I enjoy writing strong women. I also want them to be women that readers would enjoy having as best friends. I’m so pleased they resonate so well with you.
I hope you do get to Scotland. It’s every bit as wonderful as in the books and even more so. Very much more so, in fact.
Thanks again so much for your good words. 🙂
Feb 10, 2012 @ 14:15:34
Yes. Sue-Ellen does write write great heroines and I love her Allie Mackay books.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 22:31:50
Wendy, if you didn’t see it, here’s a link to a Tartan Ink post on how I craft my heroines. (especially my Allie Mackay heroines) There is also a Haunted Warrior excerpt included..
http://tartaninkblog.wordpress.com/2012/01/28/a-writers-thumbprint-reposted/
Feb 10, 2012 @ 13:49:32
Zina, I’m sorry to say I havent read any of your books, but seeing that your fav authors are the same as mine, I’m going to start. Always looking for new authors that have the same love of Scotland that I do. Thanks, Wendy
Feb 10, 2012 @ 14:17:19
Ah, thanks Wendy but I don’t write,sadly, my avatar is from a photo shoot I did at RomCon by Jenn LeBlanc, she made the picture look like a book cover because I had won a cover shoot.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 14:29:00
Well, maybe you should start.It sounds like you have the ‘heart’ for it. If you ever do, you can be assured I’ll read it!!
Feb 10, 2012 @ 14:30:58
Maybe you should. You seem to have the ‘heart’ for it. If you ever do write something, I’ll be sure to read it.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 14:39:26
Thank you Wendy.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 14:05:41
Zina and Everyone… I’m away for a bit to exercise now. It’s cycle and walk-the-beach time. (a career spent sitting at a desk all day and well into the night, requires a good daily work-out) I’ll look back in when I return and say hello to everyone.
Till then, have a great time in here. And good luck in the drawing!
Zina… I am hoping/assuming you will choose the winners? I have such a hard time picking winners as I always want everyone to win. 🙂
See you all again soon!
Feb 10, 2012 @ 14:20:53
Yep, on the 14th I will have Denny give me two numbers after I count up the comments and the corresponding comments are the winner,,,,,so it’s whatever number ramdomly pops into his head…you can’t get any more random than my husbands brain.
Enjoy your walk with Em and don’t run into any snakes.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 17:41:34
Excellent, Zina. That’s such a great idea. 🙂
Feb 10, 2012 @ 17:43:35
Thanks. Zina. I had a great cycle run and walk. No snakes. Yay! It was one of those lovely ‘silver’ beach days. Cloud cover and yet enough sun slipped through to twinkle on the water, making it look like quicksilver. I took pix that will surely be up in the tea room soon.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 14:07:47
Beautiful pictures of beautiful countryside! I’d love to visit this wonderful area. I joined by email just now so I won’t miss any of your posts. I’d love to win one of these great books.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 17:45:16
Aren’t Zina’s pictures stunning, Martha? I keep looking at them and swooning. Makes you want to step through the screen into them, don’t they?
Good luck in the drawing.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:07:01
Thank you Martha for subscribing, I hope you like future posts. Good luck.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 14:39:05
I am always happy to read Sue-Ellen’s blogs. I have learned so much about Scotland/Europe from her blogs and her books. After I read my first Sue-Ellen Welfonder book, I returned to the bookstore for MORE!! When I had caught up and there was no more, I started on the Allie Mackay books! I love them both.
Almost heaven West Virginia… I wrote in a previous post that my sister and her hubby had bought an OLD log cabin on a mnountain and lived there for about 10 years. I loved my visits there. The mountain and woods there are just so beautiful and (mostly) peaceful.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 17:50:32
Hi Betty! Bless you for your good words about my books. I’m thrilled that you read and enjoy my Allie Mackay titles, too. I really love those books. They’re so much fun to write.
I’m so glad you enjoy Tartan Ink. I love sharing bits and pieces of my years in Europe. Good memories for me. I’m so pleased you enjoy the posts. (I know the Tarts always enjoy Scottish posts, but sometimes I like posting about Germany/Europe as well)
I remember your mention of your sister’s log cabin. It sounded so wonderful. You were really lucky to be able to enjoy such a great retreat in such a special place.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:10:19
We just got back from looking at some property that would be a great site for my mini castle. it’s on a ridgetop and the view is fantastic but the windy dirt road would not be fun with snow and ice in the winter. Hello Bettysunflower, welcome back.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 22:34:35
Oooh, that sounds grand, Zina. The view would win me over, even if the snow and ice would make winters a hazard. Weigh the pros and cons. I’m for the lovely views…
(and lest anyone wonder… I shoveled plenty snow and know ice very well from living in the foothills of the Alps for fifteen years)
Feb 10, 2012 @ 15:07:52
these books look great! i love the uber hot kilted men on the covers.. thanks for the chance to win!
POTATOS!! omg..mashed, baked, double baked with bacon and cheese, scallopped, salad.. YUMMM!!
Feb 10, 2012 @ 17:53:47
Alaina, you really made me smile. Yes, always, to hot kilted men. (they don’t come any better)
And you love potatoes, too. 🙂 You’re a woman after my own heart.
You also have a beautiful name.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:47:08
You say double baked we call it twice baked. I love a good baked potato, I just pick it up like a hotdog and eat it.
Mashed, I like it very rib sticking thick.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 15:21:48
Great post. Much great information.
Congratulations on your near retirement, Seawitch. We live in NE TN so share the mountains and area. I will assume that you will attend the Highland games at Grandfather Mountain, NC once you settle in WV. They are a great experience and well worth the trip. The best games short of going to Scotland (which I haven’t done yet but hope to some day).
My husband retired from the AF after 24 years. It is an adjustment. Your advantage will be you are going home. We moved to somewhere we had only visited once so we could be near a VA hospital.
Hope we see you at the games one of these summers. There are Celtic events all over this area. Sycamore Shoals State PArk, Elizabethton, TN hosts one in September. We worked on it last year and hope to add games this year.
librarypat AT comcast DOT net
Feb 10, 2012 @ 17:57:18
Hi LibraryPat, I agree with you about the Grandfather Mountain Games. They are the absolute best this side of the Atlantic. So true. Stone Mountain is also great.
Thanks so much to looking in here and appreciation and thanks to your husband, too. 🙂
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:53:12
Hello librarypat
Ohh, Highland Games……I used to go to the ones in Rhode Island and Maine, belong to both the ST. Andrews Society in those states. When are the games there?
My da was in the AF stationed up in Alaska, please tell your husband thank you for his serivce and thank you as well.
Are the TN games always in Sept.?
Thanks for stopping in.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 21:08:57
The games will be a bit early this year, Sept. 7-9. Check their site for more information: shoalsceltfest.com
The games at Grandfather Mountain are really games, not just a festival. Their website is: http://www.gmhg.org and the games will be July 12 to 15. I hope you are settled in enough to attend at least one of them this year.
Thanks for your husbands service in the Navy and yours. I really think military wives should qualify for retirement benefits. They certainly earn them.
I have been wanting to go to RomCon. How was it? I don’t know if we can swing it this year, but they just announced relatively cheap tickets ($159 or so) for Johnson City to Denver. It would make it more affordable. We’ll see. Loosing Borders Books as their sponsor is going to make a bit of a difference in what they can offer.
Enjoy retirement.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 22:36:53
LibraryPat.. thanks for the info on the Games. I have noted both. Also keen to hear more about RomCon. As I am not in RWA, RomCon would interest me as an alternative.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 15:29:43
I love skinny (or narrow) baked potatoes and hash browns. I love your books more. What is your clan? Mine (through family) is Cameron Eract (sp?). My mother’s father was adopted but he had clan pipes in the attic and we never heard him play. Not to many memories to go on.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:02:32
Whitney, I love baked potatoes, too. And hashbrowns. (just about any kind of tatties, reeally)
My clan is MacFie/MacDuffie and also Clan MacAlpine. I also have ancestral ties to Clan Donald (my favorite of all clans) and the Mackays, hence my pen name.
Btw, the MacFies/MacDuffies and Camerons have lots of shared history, so maybe we have an ancient connection in there somewhere. Could be.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:57:40
That’s too bad he never played for you, I love the pipes. We have some geneology work to find the Scots mixed in with all his Irish.
Thanks for stopping in Whitney.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 15:32:36
Sue-Ellen. Interesting interview. I have to check my TBR mountain to see how many of your books are there. I know there are a few. The one I know I have already read is A HIGHLANDER IN HER BED. I convinced them to buy it for our library so I could read it and encourage others to. It was great fun. I will have to check for the others . I tend to read mostly historicals, but anything to do with Highlanders and Scotland will draw my attention.
I know you have done a lot of traveling in Scotland and attend games here in the US. Have you made it to the Grandfather Mountain Games in NC? If not, you should try. They really are fun and the music is wonderful.
Got to run and decorate for a church party. Will be coming back later to check which of your books I have. After reading the blurbs, I want them all. I need to get an e-reader to reduce the piles of books I just have to read.
librarypat AT comcast DOT net
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:10:01
Hi again, LibraryPat. Zina asked some neat questions, didn’t she? Thank you so much for ordering Highlander In Her Bed for your library. I love that book. I hope you’ll enjoy my others. Of the Allie Mackay titles, Some Like It Kilted is my all-time favorite. Actually, I love it best over all my books, incl. my medievals.
Yes, I’ve spent lots of time in Scotland. When I lived overseas, I was there all the time. Since coming back to the States, I get over once a year, usually. Sometimes twice a year. I’ve slowed down a bit because my little dog is 13 now and needs me near. Much as I love Scotland, I love my dog more.
I have been to the Grandfather Mountain Games and agree with you that they are the best. Incredible. Nowhere does it better (this side of the Big Pond)
Have fun decorating your church (and at the party). 🙂
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:59:42
Now you have to get the library to order all her books, esp. if Highlander in Her Bed is checked out alot. Have fun decorating.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 21:31:22
Unfortunately, we got a new director at the library and I was let go. The new director and a couple of the board members aren’t big fans of romance, paranormal, Christian Fiction, or most of the YA fiction out there. Too bad. That cuts out most of what everyone was reading. The library in my town is pretty small, so has a limited collection. It explains why my home library is as large as it is. I have discovered if I want to read something not by authors such as Nora Roberts, I better plan on getting it myself.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 21:47:42
Oh, librarypat, I am so sorry to hear this! Will keep you in my prayers.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 23:04:09
Oh, what a shame, LibraryPat. I am so sorry to hear this. I have several dear friends who are librarians. One retired timely a few years ago and so missed such strife. Another, in Ohio, met your sad fate and was left go.
Understand about non-support for romance. My local bookshop would rather host a signing for a book on how-to-properly-polish-shoes than see me walk in the door. Total literary snobs. The local BN isn’t much better.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 15:46:00
Love the pictures, never been to West Virginia. Makes me think of John Denver. Now i would like to go and see it for myself.
Thanks for the chance to win. My fondest wish is to visit Scotland in the future.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:13:21
Nancy, Zina’s West Virginia photos are breathtaking, aren’t they? Makes me want to be there right now. I also thought of John Denver when I saw the pictures this morning.
I hope you get to Scotland. It truly is as magical as you think. 🙂
Good luck in the drawing.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:01:56
Hello Nancy
Thanks for stopping
we went and looked at some beautiful property we would love to buy and put a small castle on. I hope to visit Scotland one day too.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 16:28:14
Hi Sue-Ellen, I just started reading Haunted Warrior and can’t wait to get back to reading. lol I love books about Scotland and those hunky Highlanders. I would love to win your books.
I agree with you on potatoes.. I can eat every meal but try not to. I love them baked with loads of butter and sour cream, steak fries in oven, mashed, it does not matter how they are cooked or diced or sliced anyway. I know this is not a healthy thing but heck, I am now 69 so I am enjoying eating my spuds.
Thanks for stopping by to chat and share with us and for the opportunity to enter giveaway.
Hi Seawitch, Congrats on Danny’s retirement. I know both of you will have more time to travel and enjoy being with each other. Come on down to Georgia and enjoy our great state.. The Cherry Blossom Festival is end of March for 2 wks. It is on of the largest (maybe largest now) festivals with beautiful Cherry Trees in bloom all of the city and surrounding area.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:18:19
Hi Brenda! I’m so glad you’re enjoying Haunted Warrior. If you win “Scoundrel,” you’ll meet a really hunky Highland hero. Kendrew is my bad boy hero, a real rascal and so much fun.
Yes, you are a potato lover, too. 🙂 You definitely qualify as a potato zealot. I eat them, too, because I love them. Hey… I don’t drink (except a pint in Highland pubs and a fine wee dram now and then) and I’ve never smoked. So I am ‘hooked on’ spuds. That works for me. And you, too. 😉
Your Cherry Blossom Festival sounds lovely.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:06:15
brendabh
Hello, thanks for the invite. My husbands sub was stationed in Kings Bay until this last year when they moved to Portsmouth into drydock. I haven’t started Haunted Warrior because I’m already reading two books. So enjoy Graeme and Jock.
Z
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:01:49
You sound like me, Zina.. I always walk around with the house with a stack of books that I’m reading all at the same time. Usually a mix of fiction and non.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 16:34:06
Okay, followed you here though I am on Zina list as well 🙂 and because its WEST VIRIGINIA >> my daddy came from Beech Bottom, WVA and kin folk still live there. I am yearning to visit and even more with these wonderful photos. You are a lucky woman. And I was a Navy wife for a long time too; sadly my husband passed away.
Can I win, can I?
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:21:41
Hi Marianne! Thanks so much for looking in here. Yes, it’s your day here today, isn’t? Having blood kin in West Virginia and being a Navy wife. I’m so sorry you lost your husband. My late dad was also a Navy man.
Agree with you about Zina’s photos… they sure do make the heart swell with yearning to be there.
Good luck in the drawing! Zina and her Navy man are doing the honors.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:11:04
Thank you Marianne for yur service and your husbands. OH yes I said thank you for your service because we spouses back up our service member so they can serve thier country. Yes it is beautiful here. If your number is picked you can win.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 16:34:27
I loved that a snip from all the books were listed. A fun walk down memory lane from the much enjoyed time spent really almost all that were listed. I still have a couple in my ‘to be read pile’ plus a truly welcomed book I received just the other day. This weekend, it and I will curl up in a nice warm and cozy corner and become good friends. I do love both of your ‘twin self’ penned books. All the recipes are yummy too on your web site. You are so good to spoil your readers. Sue-Ellen get the blue ribbon in my book.
Thank you Seawitch for this blog. Helen in Ark.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:24:52
Bless you, Helen! You know you’re special to me, too. What a wonderful way to look at Zina’s inclusion of all my blurbs.. a walk down memory lane. It is that, isn’t it? Made me smile, too.
And I am sooo pleased you enjoy the titles written by my twin self. I shall tell her for you. 😉 Ahhhh, I just did and she smiled and said thanks.
((HUGS)) to you… hope you enjoy Haunted Warrior.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:13:40
Hello Helen
Been to Ark many times as my da is from there, Hope, Ark. I’m glad you enjoyed the post and I hope to see you after other posts too. I love the recipes on Tartan Ink.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 21:36:44
Zina, how neat that we have that connection. Hope is South of Little Rock and I live NE of Little Rock. Small world. I too (like you) keep telling Sue-Ellen that she needs to lead a tour. And we need to make sure we are in the group….. Hugs to one and all with blessings for a grand weekend. Stay warm, winter is coming. Helen in Ark.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 21:47:17
I am going to try this again. My 1st reply post to you Zina is flying around in cyber space.
How neat that we share that connection. Hope is South of Little Rock and I live NE of Little Rock. Small world, hey! I also have told Sue-Ellen that she needs to get her own group together for a tour of our beloved Highlands. Zina you and I just need to make sure we are in that group. We can be her little Fairies. Blessings to you all this weekend and stay warm, winter is here……… Helen in Ark.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 21:49:13
I am going to try this again. My 1st & 2nd reply post to you Zina is flying around in cyber space. Sue-Ellen will tell you I can be very determined to get my comment posted….. hee hee
How neat that we share that connection. Hope is South of Little Rock and I live NE of Little Rock. Small world, hey! I also have told Sue-Ellen that she needs to get her own group together for a tour of our beloved Highlands. Zina you and I just need to make sure we are in that group. We can be her little Fairies. Blessings to you all this weekend and stay warm, winter is here……… Helen in Ark.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 21:50:51
I am going to try this again. My 1st & 2nd & 3rd reply post to you Zina is flying around in cyber space. Sue-Ellen will tell you I can be very determined to get my comment posted….. hee hee
How neat that we share that connection. Hope is South of Little Rock and I live NE of Little Rock. Small world, hey! I also have told Sue-Ellen that she needs to get her own group together for a tour of our beloved Highlands. Zina you and I just need to make sure we are in that group. We can be her little Fairies. Blessings to you all this weekend and stay warm, winter is here……… Helen in Ark.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 22:10:21
I am SOOOOOO very sorry for all those reply posts. I tried to see if there was a place I could delete the duplicates and did not see anywhere to hide my shame. What happened was that when I clicked on ‘post comment’, my page went to an explorer default invalid page. I then went back to see if the comment was posted anyway – and it was not. Now all of a sudden, cyber space dropped all three. ughhhh I would like to put the blame on Devorgilla, but I think it will just have to fall on me. Again, sorry about that.
Helen (hiding my face)
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:06:58
Sorry, Helen, I am laughing so hard I can’t see the screen. You are so much like me with techy matters. I’m so glad I’m not alone in posting multiple posts (or having them simply vanish into nowhere.)
Btw, I used to have lots of Little Rock layovers many years ago. We might have passed each other in the street as they were long stops. I don’t recall our hotel’s name, but it had a wonderful pool on the roof.
Feb 11, 2012 @ 10:22:05
Sue-Ellen – They say that laughter is good for the soul. I would say that I have given your soul a good start for the weekend….. No need to say thank you. I already know!!!!!!!
Hey, where is your Brussels sprouts recipe posted?
Helen slipping back under the covers…..
Feb 10, 2012 @ 17:45:58
Hi Sue-Ellen! ~~~Waving~~~ I just wanted to drop in and say hello! You already know I love your books AND your blog…
You’ve posted some beautiful pics again today, Zina! Gorgeous…
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:26:40
Thanks so much for looking in, Linda. My hooping friend! 🙂 And thanks for your good words about my books. You made me smile.
Zina did a fantastic job with the photos, didn’t she? They are perfect and so gorgeous.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:15:16
Thank you Linda.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:00:04
I’m a daily visitor to Tartan Ink. I would not miss it. I also love all things Scottish. A man in a kilt is my kind of hero. I do love Sue-Ellen Welfonder’s works.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:29:08
Hi Mary! Thank you so much for looking in here today. Yes, you are a regular at Tartan Ink and I appreciate that so much. I also agree with you about kilted men. No other men can top them. Impossible.
Thanks so much for your good words about my books. You’ve brightened my evening. 🙂
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:16:09
Hello Mary
Thanks for coming by and I agree I love the kilts too, oh and whats in them too.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:32:33
Zina and Everyone… It’s time to make supper here. I’ll look in later tonight so I can say hello to everyone who looks yet looks in.
What a fun day and what a great group of readers you’ve all been. Thank you so much!
Zina, you’re the absolute best. How you are doing all this and managing a move, plus such a busy household boggles the mind. You are superwoman, for sure. And I love you bunches!!
Have fun in here, all.
Till later tonight….
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:30:35
Thank you Sue-Ellen, I love you lots too. Well most of you have already heard how I run dinner and well all meals as a chow line. Believe me I enjoy my quiet hours during the day when I only have 2 wee ones at home.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:55:13
The pictures are awesome and beautiful along with some really good books. Please enter me in contest. Tore923@aol.com
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:31:20
Hello Victoria
Thanks for popping in.
Z
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:08:58
Hi Victoria! Thanks so much for looking in tonight. Zina sure chose lovely photos for us, didn’t she? Good luck in the drawing. 🙂
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:58:47
I’m just popping in to say hello, and you already know how much I adore you, Sue-Ellen. I did a raffle last night at my Romance Readers Group, and I have to say that two of the ladies were fighting, yes fighting over Temptation of a Highland Scoundrel! I needed a Warrior with a sword to break them up! It was a night of laughter and fun. 🙂
Zina, you are truly amazing! Your multi-tasking skills are surpreme! Bravo! Do take care and get some rest, too.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:35:24
I will try Mary
I am getting a little peaked…I need to find my iron pills or go buy somemore.
That’s funny you needed Duncan,he’s used to dealing with the women since he had Gelis and her sister Arabella to raise.
Z
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:14:50
Ha ha, no kidding, Zina. Duncan did well with his girls, didn’t he? Even if he did need to get over letting go of them. 😉
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:13:06
Thanks so much for looking in here, Mary. Yes, I know you adore me. 🙂 The feeling is mutual as you also surely know. Thanks so much for telling me about the two women wanting Temptation of a Highland Scoundrel. Kendrew is good at wowing the ladies. He’s peering over my shoulder just now and grinning ear to ear. 😉
I agree… isn’t Zina amazing? Whenever I feel stressed, I think of her and then stop feeling sorry for myself. I could never manage all she does. (Zina, you really are wonderwoman.)
Feb 10, 2012 @ 18:59:54
oops….gremlins on the keypad. I mean “supreme.” 😉
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:37:01
It’s funny,
I don’t even see the typos or my brain does an auto correct.
Z
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:18:33
Sue-Ellen
I almost forgot to tell you I tried the Brussel Sprouts and they were very good, I used 5 cloves of garlic and the kids said to much so next time I’ll just use three but even the 5 yr olds were eating it and said it was good.
Thank you for the recipe.
Z
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:16:05
Excellent, Zina! I’m so glad you made and enjoyed them. I made them tonight, in fact. Isn’t that something?
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:22:29
Hello, Zina and Sue-Ellen! Great pictures of Canaan Valley. I think you did a wonderful job, Zina, on this post. I never tire of learning about and reading her books (and Allie’s, too!). Since I’m a relatively new ‘fan’, I’m slowly building my library with both currednt and backlist books.
I have all three of these books (yay me!), so please don’t enter me in this giveaway. Thanks!
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:38:34
Thanks Karen C
Have fun collecting and reading Sue-Ellen/Allie’s books.
Z
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:19:40
Hi Karen! Thanks so much for dropping in. I’m so glad you enjoyed the post. Didn’t Zina do an amazing presentation of my books? And her pictures!! Aren’t they stunning? West Virginia (along with NC) is definitely the next best thing to Highland Scotland. Closest you can get this side of the Atlantic.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:30:03
Great pictures! I’m all about the book covers and well lets just say that yours are some of the best i’ve ever seen! Just reinforces my goal of getting to Scotland someday, preferrably someday while I can still walk! LOL.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:43:54
LOL, that’s me too, I have a bad knee, but I do feel better since I lost 40 lbs. The pictures of me above, before the hike is before I lost the weight. That hike almost killed me, we’re thinking of trying it again now that we have lost some weight. Thanks for stopping in Candy.
Z
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:23:43
“Betting.” Ha ha… that was George. (“George” is my keyboard and he is responsible for all typos and spelling errors) 😉
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:25:27
Zina, your weight loss is so great. I remember you telling us about your diet on Tartan Ink. You’re an inspiration to us all.
Btw… isn’t that Scotland’s Lion Rampant on your sweat shirt in that photo? 🙂
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:22:24
Hi Candy! Zina knocked it out of the ball park with her photos, didn’t she? Stunning landscapes and kilties. Big sigh. I’m so glad you like my covers. Fingers crossed that you do get to Scotland. (I’m beting you will) 🙂
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:38:02
West Virginia (where I live too) is beautiful. I am always struck with awe whenever my family and I travel down to South Carolina, and we get to see the very picturequeness of WV. I always miss the hills and mountains. LOL
I have two of Sue Ellen’s books in my tbr pile (Sins of a Highland Devil and Temptations of a Highland Scoundrel)
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:45:22
Rao,
You got to get reading girl!!!! I love to drive and look at the scenery too.
Thanks for stoppin gin again.
Z
Feb 11, 2012 @ 16:47:39
In my defense! I’ve been writing and focusing on that. Plus I have three 3 week old dachie puppies that I am also looking after (because my sons LOVE to mess with them)
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:28:10
Hi Raonaid! Thanks so much for looking in here. You’re blessed to be in West Virginia, too. It’s sooo beautiful. I’d love living there, too.
I hope you’ll enjoy Sins of a Highland Devil and Temptation of a Highland Scoundrel. 🙂
Feb 10, 2012 @ 19:47:57
I just have to say that I so love Sue Ellen/Ally MacKay books. They are just fantastic. I look forward to the next one. All of the pictures here a great!! Thank you very much.
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:29:46
Hi Ann! Thanks so much for looking in. I really appreciate your good words. Zina’s pictures are stunning, aren’t they?
Feb 10, 2012 @ 20:12:07
I would need to make another trip out to Virgina. I haven’t been there not since 2005.
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:32:29
Kai… I hope you do get back to West Virginia soon. Zina’s photos sure do make one want to be there.
Feb 10, 2012 @ 20:13:56
Love your blog – the pictures are to die for – so beautiful – thanks for having SueEllen here otherwise I wouldn’t have know about your site – great interview – love learning the backgrounds of stories and insights from authors – makes the books just come alive – congrats on the retirement and your move – heard it looks alot like Scotland there – ENJOY your life – kml7559@gmail.com
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:35:38
Thanks so much for looking in, Kathy. Zina has a lovely blog, doesn’t she? And she’s been having so many great authors visit all month. She’s always posting neat things as you can see from her beautiful West Virginia photos. I’m so glad you enjoyed today’s post. She really put everything together beautifully, didn’t she?
Feb 10, 2012 @ 20:19:55
Zina, my breath actually caught on the third pic from the top. Beautiful!!!
Sue-Ellen, your groopies will follow you to the ends of the earth 🙂 We’re a motley crew and love you and your books dearly! What fun a Tart Trip would be, all of us descending on Scotland. Also, the series with Marmaduke’s kids just makes me happy. Like alot of your readers, it all began with Duncan for me. I fell in love with Sir M right from the getgo. Knowing that sometime in the future those two will be showing up again brings the biggest smile to my heart.
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:41:30
Leah, I agree about the photos. Magnificent, indeed.
My groopies… oh, my, who knew? You’re making me smile here. Seriously, I love you all and am so appreciative you all turned out today. It’s been grand and so much fun. You’re all the absolute best! THANK YOU!! 🙂
And, yes, a Tart Trip to Scotland would be fantastic.
Yes, dear Sir M and Duncan will definitely ride again. It’ll be a while. I have another series coming out first. But Sir M and Duncan will be back with flying colors before you know it. As noted above, they’re enjoying a much deserved break just now and making merry at Eilean Creag. (when they aren’t arguing, of course)
Feb 10, 2012 @ 20:53:10
I’ve been to England over a dozen times but I was never able to venture north to Scotland. I would love to take a trip and devote a week or two to exploring Scotland. Until then, I will have to get my fix by reading books with heroes from Scotland.
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:45:49
StacieD, England is wonderful. I hope you will head north next trip. A few days in London, then the train north with a fun stopover in York is how I’d do it. (or vice versa) Best of both worlds.
Thanks so much for looking in tonight. 🙂
Feb 10, 2012 @ 21:00:04
The picture of the man in action with his kilt flying up had me laughing! So good thing they wear compression shorts when in competition.
Speaking of great pictures (I know others have commented on them too but how can you not?) both of you, Zina and Sue-Ellen post amazing pictures on your blogs. Peaceful scenery that takes you places, I love it and look forward to seeing what you have posted every day. A great, but brief, moment of piece in my otherwise hectic life.
And…YAY for men in kilts!!!
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:48:52
Hi Lexi! Good to see you in here tonight. Zina did pull out some wowser photos for us, didn’t she? I’ll (finally) be doing the rest of the Haunted Warrior setting photos this weekend. Back to back, tomorrow and Sunday. So you can see more Scotland photos in the tea room then. 🙂
For tonight, we can all dream of Zina’s gorgeous West Virginia. Big sigh…
The kilties are super, aren’t they?
Feb 11, 2012 @ 04:54:07
Fun weekend for you! I can’t wait to check them out in your tea room!!! So for now I will enjoy WV…later Scotland. You ladies enrich my viewing pleaseure (the kilts don’t hurt either)!
Feb 10, 2012 @ 22:47:55
BEAUTIFUL pics Z! LOVED the guys in Kilts too, Sue-Ellen 😉 Z, thank you for introducing me to another new to me author…very nice to meet you, Sue-Ellen. Your books look VERY good…covers are VERY nice to look at too 🙂 Thx for this giveaway opportunity!
barbbattaglia @ yahoo.com
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:52:57
Hi Barbara! Thank you for your good words about the blurbs/covers, etc. I hope you’ll enjoy the books. (under both my names) It’s always lovely to hear from new readers, so thank you again. I hope you’ll also visit me at my own blog, Tartan Ink. http://tartaninkblog.wordpress.com/
You’re very welcome re the giveaway. (Tails of Love comes from Zina. My short story in Tails of Love is also Scottish, set on Loch Lomond)
Feb 11, 2012 @ 00:45:03
Hi Zina and Sue-Ellen! Zina, I absolutely love the pictures you have posted of WV. I want to visit there now. Sue-Ellen, I am a member of Tartan Ink and follow your website. Love your books! I really enjoyed seeing all the covers and the excerpts of all your books above. How did you and your husband meet?
kscathy@yahoo.com
Feb 11, 2012 @ 01:00:45
Hi Cathy! I agree – Zina really chose some stunning photos for us today. Just breathtaking. I would love to head up there right now, too. Stunning country. Thanks so much for your kind words. I’m so glad you enjoy the books and Tartan Ink and my mailing list. 🙂 I met my husband many moons ago when I worked for the airlines. I speak German so mostly flew international. I worked as foreign language speaker on my flights. I met my husband on a layover in Munich, Germany. That’s why I lived there for so many years.
Feb 11, 2012 @ 01:05:57
PSS – Re my husband, we actually met in a tiny Bavarian pub. I was out to eat dinner (on layover) with friends and he came in the pub and joined us at our table. That’s common practice in Bavaria… strangers share tables, sitting wherever there happens to be available free space.
Feb 11, 2012 @ 01:03:03
PS – I love how Zina presented all the blurbs and covers, too. I am saving the post so I have them all together. Thanks, Zina! 🙂
Feb 11, 2012 @ 01:03:52
WOW Zina and Sue-Ellen! What an awesome response and participation today on the blog. I just had to pipe up and say HI (waving at all of you 😉 ). I’ve had a big day and I’m all tuckered out. I wanted to say Hi and don’t enter me in the drawing either. I have all SE’s books and working on reading them all. Haunted Warrior is up next :-). Wonderful pictures Z and SE I hope your Spa day was refreshing. Boy do I need one. I did take an hour to myself yesterday and got my Valentine nails done. THEY MAKE ME SMILE. They are glitter pink for Valentines. Clear at the cuticle to medium pink glitter in the middle and by the time you get to the tip they are hot pink. Then she put these cute little white iridescent hearts on the outside middle. They are so ME :-). I need all the smiles I can get while looking for a new home for my mother…I haven’t told her yet. I will next week just before we move her. Enjoy your evening ladies.
Feb 11, 2012 @ 01:11:58
Lenna, (((HUGS))) to you for looking in here tonight. I know how busy you are. Good for you treating yourself to Valentine’s Day nails. Woot! They sound gorgeous. And so you, yes. Enjoy them! (I know you will) So sorry about the ongoing stress with your mother. I hope everything settles down and works out for the best soon. Also hope you can get some rest soon.
Zina knows how to throw a party, doesn’t she? Didn’t she do a fantastic piece for us today? And, of course, it has been so good of all of you to swing by and hello. I appreciate it so much. Thank you!
Feb 11, 2012 @ 01:19:42
Zina… A thousand thank yous for inviting me here today. It’s been such a honor to be a part of your celebration for Denny’s Naval Retirement. You made this such a beautiful post and I appreciate that so much. It has just been perfect, all around. Thank you!
Everyone… You have been absolutely amazing! Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy Friday to drop in and chat with me today. It’s been fun and wonderful and I’ve loved every minute we’ve had together. You’ve been and are great! THANK YOU!
(((HUGS))) to Everyone! And dream of the Highlands. (and Kilties) 🙂
Feb 11, 2012 @ 01:22:08
“… such ‘an’ honor..”
Ha ha.. looks like George (or Devorgilla?) wouldn’t let me slip away without a typo. 😉
Goodnight, all. And thank you again for making today extra-special for me. I love you all!
Feb 11, 2012 @ 04:04:45
Escapist fiction is a really good way of describing romance, because honestly, it’s not like I ever start reading one expecting it to be realistic, that’d be boring. And wow, I’ve heard of Highland Games a little, but seeing pics is fun.
jessicamariesutton(at)msn(dot)com
Just to Say… | Tartan Ink
Feb 11, 2012 @ 12:00:44
Feb 11, 2012 @ 20:39:52
I really love Sue Ellen’s books and infact have a lot of her books in my “keepers collection” at home under both names. They are true comfort reads- ones I like reading over and over again. Enjoyed learning more about her. Like her, I don’t watch a lot of TV but always am reading when time allows.
Lori
lorih824@yahoo.com
Feb 18, 2012 @ 17:28:53
I would love a copy of HAUNTED WARRIOR thank you. I have my fingers crossed for the re-draw.