Full disclosure: Margot Johnson and I belong to the same writing group in Saskatchewan, Canada. Though I haven't lived in Saskatchewan for over 20 years, I still belong to the Saskatchewan Romance Writers, of which Margot is also a member. And since I grew up in Saskatchewan, I'm very familiar with all the places where she finds inspiration in our home province. Great to have you here, Margot. I hope to see you at a retreat this year!
Let it Melt is book two in the Merilee Tours series.
In book one, Let it Snowball, Merilee reinvents her boring life by launching a tour business which leads to fun adventures and surprising romance.
In Let it Melt, Merilee hosts a Valentine’s Sweetheart Tour where love is in the air…maybe.
How on earth did Jill, a single divorcee, land on a romantic Valentine's Sweetheart Tour for couples? Worse, she’s paired with Jack, her daughter’s brash father-in-law, and everyone thinks he’s her valentine. Stranded in a Canadian prairie blizzard, how soon can she kiss this awkward evening goodbye?
Long divorced, Jack would love to charm Jill with his toned body and dynamic personality, but his wisecracks and obsession with fitness get in the way—especially when he nabs a post at the same school where she teaches.
Even the most romantic month of the year can’t melt their differences and sweeten Jill's feelings….or can it?
Some of Margot’s inspirations…
The dogs in my books are inspired by my old golden retriever, Sophie, who makes me smile every day.
Merilee’s tours are inspired by my love of my home province of Saskatchewan and the many wonderful places to visit here including these five examples…
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| Winter sunset in Saskatchewan |
1. Moose Jaw, SK – a city with a small-town feel, I set my first book, Love Takes Flight, there. Legend has it that Al Capone hid out in tunnels under the city, and it has a great mineral spa for a relaxing soak.
2. Waskesiu, SK – This touristy town sits on the shores of a lake in Prince Albert National Park in northern Saskatchewan. Our family visits every year to breathe the fresh, pine-scented air, hang out at the beach, and watch for wildlife. Elk often cruise the town, and you might see a bear along the road.
3. Madge Lake, SK – Another beautiful lake setting in Saskatchewan where our family has started an annual holiday tradition.
4. Eastend, SK – This small town is best known for the nearby discovery of a Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton nicknamed "Scotty" in 1994. We stayed in a country cottage and had fun exploring the area.
5. Regina, SK – a city of about 250,000, it’s the capital city of Saskatchewan with many attractions including beautiful Wascana Park and the RCMP Heritage Centre and police training academy.
Excerpt, Let it Melt:
Circling the rink, she stretched her free leg and arced toward and then away from Jack. Her bulk floated away, and confidence expanded in her chest like a balloon that would never pop. She soared as alive and free as the old, energetic Jill. Goodbye to the tired woman who crumpled on the couch with potato chips to comfort her while she coped with the disappointments and adjustments of a failed marriage. Intermission from regular, active life was over.
For a few moments, only the crisp, cutting sounds of their blades broke the still, silent air.
“Will you—”
“I wish—” Hearing Jack speak at the same moment, Jill slowed and curved side to side.
“Ladies first.” Jack swung forward an arm.
“I wish every night could be this beautiful.” She glanced at the starry sky. Did it twinkle the promise of happy days to follow?
“In my amazing presence?” He stuck a thumb in his chest.
“I mean…I don’t know what I mean. What were you about to say?” She lowered her gaze to his profile and absorbed the cold, peaceful air brushing her cheeks.
“Will you allow me to hold your hand?” He gave a slight bow and extended an arm
The bold man disappeared, replaced by a hesitant gentleman. At the same time, she melted from a mature woman into a fluttery teen. Passing fragrant evergreens, she couldn’t quite take a full breath. Would she? Should she?” Under her blades, the ice snapped. Her mouth dried so she couldn’t speak, so she nodded and held out a hand.
About Margot Johnson:
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| Margot and Sophie |
Margot Johnson writes feel-good stories of dreams, family, and romance.
She is the author of two sweet romance novels, LOVE TAKES FLIGHT and LOVE LEADS THE WAY, and two novellas, LET IT SNOWBALL and LET IT MELT. Her characters can't possibly find their happy endings...or can they?
Before turning her focus to the fun writing life, Margot held leadership roles in human resources and communications. Her motto is "Dream big and work hard."
When not writing, she loves to connect with family and friends, volunteer with SK Writers Guild, and walk at least 10,000 steps a day (except when it's minus 40!)
Margot lives in the Canadian prairies with her amazing husband and adorable golden retriever.
Where
to connect
Website: margotjohnson.ca
Facebook: MargotJohnsonAuthor
Twitter: @AuthorMargot
Find her books here:
Thank you for hosting me here, Jana! It's always fun to connect with readers and other authors. I'm also glad we're part of the same writing group, and a retreat would be great!
ReplyDeleteI'm always happy to have you here! I'm glad we're part of the same writing group, too. I can't wait till we can have a retreat again. I miss everyone!
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