Interview with historical romance author B.J. Scott

Welcome to the first day of a virtual book tour for historical romance author B.J. Scott. We're talking about her newest historical romance, Highland Homecoming (Book 3 of the Fraser Brother Trilogy.

One lucky, randomly-drawn commenter will win a $50 Amazon gift card, Scottish shortbread cookies, can cooler and mouse pad (US/Canada ONLY) during B.J.'s tour. You know what to do! Leave a comment below (and a way for BJ to get in touch with you) for a chance to win. And to increase your chances, feel free to visit other tour stops between now and December 20 and leave comments there, too!

Bio:

With a passion for historical romance, history in general, and anything Celtic, B.J. always has an exciting work in progress. Each story offers a blend of romance, adventure, suspense, and, where appropriate, a dab of comic relief. Carefully researched historical facts are woven into each manuscript, providing a backdrop from which steamy romance, gripping plots, and vivid characters—dashing alpha heroes and resourceful, beguiling heroines you can’t help but admire—spring to life. A PAN member of RWA, World Romance Writers, Celtic Hearts Romance Writers, and Savvy Authors, B.J. also writes contemporary, paranormal, time travel, and romantic suspense.

C.S. Lewis first captivated B. J.’s imagination in the fourth grade, and her desire to write sprang from there. Following a career in nursing and child and youth work, B.J. married her knight-in-shining-armor, and he whisked her away to his castle by the sea. In reality, they share their century-old home in a small Canadian town on the shore of Lake Erie with three dogs and a cat. When she is not working at her childcare job, on her small business, or writing, you will find her reading, camping, or antique hunting

Welcome, B.J. Please tell us about your current release.

This is the third book in a trilogy following the lives of three brothers, their dedication to the fight for Scottish independence, and the women who impact upon their lives and change them forever.

We meet Alasdair Fraser in book one of the series, Highland Legacy. The eldest of the three brothers, Alasdair is a larger than average, outspoken warrior with a gruff demeanor, no use for women, but a strong sense of duty to family, king and country. Despite being the oldest, he has turned down the leadership of the clan—a duty assumed by his brother Connor.

In the second book of the series, Highland Quest, Alasdair and his youngest brother Bryce continue to fight with Robert the Bruce and we get to know him a little better. His need to protect his younger brother at all cost.

Book three is Alasdair’s story. With both his brothers married, Alasdair continues to fight for the cause on his own. During a break in the fighting he decides to visit a life-long friend. The last thing he expects to find on a secluded beach in Northern Scotland is an unconscious lass. Having no idea how she came to be in the water and unable to turn his back on someone in need, Alasdair delays his journey to offer aid to the mystery woman. When she awakens with no memory of who she is or how she came to be on the beach Alasdair realizes he is in for the battle of his life, one that pits duty against desire. The question is will he let down the shield that guards his heart or will the secrets she remembers and fails to disclose drive an impenetrable wedge between them?

What inspired you to write this book?

As mentioned it is the third book in a series. When I wrote the first, I was not 100% sure I would write a series, but set the book up so I could. The response to book one and requests for the second book helped me to make my decision. As I wrote book two, the plot of the third book fell nicely into place and was the logical next step.

Excerpt:

An onslaught of desire threatened to override Alasdair’s good sense. He fought the urge to plunder Lauren’s sweet mouth with his tongue, to lift her nightrail, to make her his own.

He broke their kiss and raised his head, knowing if he didn’t stop himself now, he might not be able to harness the unbridled passion heating his blood.

“Forgive me.” He forced the words out on a strangled breath. He swept an errant wisp of hair from her brow and locked his gaze with the wide, hazel eyes of a woman obviously shocked by his impulsive actions.

He cupped her chin, stroked her cheek with the pad of his thumb, then brushed it across her lips. “I dinna mean tae make inappropriate advances or tae take liberties. I—”

She pressed two fingers to his mouth to silence him. “You have naught tae apologize for. I appreciate you staying with me, Alasdair. After my nightmare, I canna bear tae sleep alone.” 

This was the first time she’d used his name, and it sounded as melodic as the Celtic lullabies his mother used to sing. At a loss for words, he stared back at her and smiled, but inside, his stomach churned in turmoil.

What to do?

He’d rather be drawn and quartered than remain on the pallet with her lush, shapely body pressed against his side, and not sate his carnal needs.

She’d begged him to stay, so why shouldn’t he take her? But she also trusted him enough to seek safety in his arms. He could not betray that trust.

What exciting story are you working on next?

I am currently working on another Scottish historical, but is had nothing to do with the series. I don’t want to spoil the plot, but the title of the new manuscript is Bedded by Her Highland Enemy and the title is a great clue to what the book is about.

When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I have always loved to read and jotted down stories since I was in my teens, but the day my first book released, is the day I considered myself a writer. Everything prior was the steps you need to take to reach your ultimate goal.

Do you write full-time? If so, what's your work day like? If not, what do you do other than write and how do you find time to write?

I wish I could write full time but bills need to be paid so I work during the week as a child care provider specializing in children with special needs. My education background and previous careers being in Nursing and Child and Youth Work. I also have had a small business for eight years making heat pressed items (mugs, clocks, coasters, etc.) and doing machine embroidery. For many years I attended local dog shows to sell my items, but of late do more private orders from Clubs, authors etc. I also make beaded book thongs, jewelry, and key chains. Needless to say there are never enough hours in a day.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

When I am stuck on a chapter or faced with writer block, I run a hot bath, fill the tub (we have the old claw foot tub) add some lavender and it is amazing how much I can accomplish.

As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I love animals and was always trying to help an injured bird or bringing home strays so thought a Vet would be a good job for me. But things have a way of changing when you get old enough to decide.

Ways to connect or find out more:

Website | Blog | Facebook | Amazon

Thanks, B.J. Readers, don't forget to leave a comment for a chance at the wonderful gifts!