Writing and Reading

I like surprises. Even when they’re unintentional. The fact is I would’ve normally advertised this next edition of a blog exchange much earlier, but as you know–time got in the way.

So, yes, this is a surprise! Surprise guest for you all. I have a guest blogger on “Writing and Reading”, and I’ll be hosting her for two days. In exchange, I’ll be on her two blogs, http://writersanctuary.blogspot.com/ and http://dellanioakes.wordpress.com/, where you’ll get to witness my very first character interview with my heroine of THE CAIN LETTERS…the indomitable Alexandra Glade.

Here we have Dellani Oakes, though! Absorb the essence that is her INDIAN SUMMER. We’re talkin’ romance, intrigue, drama. We’re talkin’ good stuff. Enjoy!

Dellani Oakes has lived in Florida since 1989.  During her first visit to St. Augustine, Florida, she fell in love with the city.  Her admiration for the early Spanish settlers turned into inspiration for her novel, “Indian Summer”, available from Second Wind Publishing. www.secondwindpublishing.com.

Although she rejected most of the original draft, certain aspects of the tale remained.  For instance, it is told in first person by the youngest daughter of the Spanish Governor, Gabriella Deza.  Years of research went into the background of the story, as well as several trips to St. Augustine to immerse herself in the history and feel of the ancient city.

“Indian Summer” is as much an adventure as it is a romance.  Replete with spies, intrigue, mystery, enigmatic Indians and just a little bit of lust, it is a tale with something for everyone.  “Indian Summer” is Dellani’s first published novel.  Her second novel, “The Lone Wolf” is a science fiction adventure set in the distant future.  “The Lone Wolf” is due for release in 2009.  Dellani is currently working on a sequel to “Indian Summer” called “Savage Heart”.  Be looking for it soon from Second Wind Publishing.

Dellani is a former A.P. English teacher, editor and newspaper columnist.  She is now a substitute teacher, author and Mary Kay lady.  Which means she can instruct a classroom full students, correct your grammar and give you makeup and skin care advice, all without breaking a sweat.

To read more of Dellani’s work, follow her websites: http://dellanioakes.wordpress.com/ and http://writersanctuary.blogspot.com.

In the spring of 1739, Gabriella Deza stands poised on the verge of womanhood.  A product of her guarded upbringing, she is naive in the ways of love until dashing Manuel Enriques declares his love for her.  Quite by accident, Gabriella uncovers a plot hatched by British spy whose job is to capture the town and fort, Castillo de San Marcos.  Armed with her information, Manuel embarks on a dangerous mission to entrap the spy and save the town  from being overthrown by the British.  Unfortunately, Gabriella herself is caught in the trap and  kidnapped.  Can Manuel find and save her before it is too late?