Welcome First Timer--Callie Hutton

Today, First Timers Presents is delighted to welcome Callie Hutton and Tori Henderson, heroine of A Run For Love, a November 23rd release from Soul Mate Publishing.

First, to get a flavor of A Run For Love, let's take a look at the tag line and excerpt:

The Oklahoma Land Run gives TORI HENDERSON a fresh start, and the arrogant JESSE COCHRAN for a neighbor. To right a wrong he corrals her into marriage, but she won’t ever give him her independence!

EXCERPT:

Annoyance stalled her steps when she saw the man from the woods yesterday washing dishes in the creek. With the hundreds of people getting ready for the race at noon, the only empty space remained next to him. Tori knelt and wet her washcloth, averting her gaze. Her heart thudded, hoping he wouldn’t notice her.

“Still here, are you?”

She clenched her jaw at the sound of that voice. He stood over her, a grin on his face. Now that she saw him without shadows, it irritated her when her heart sped up.

Lord save me from another handsome face and charming smile.

“Yes, I’m still here.” Her voice rose. “And I plan to spend tonight camped on my own lot.”

“Easy honey, I’m not the enemy.” He put his hands up in surrender.

“Don’t call me honey!”

“Sorry.” His smile contradicted his apology. “A woman alone dragging a wagon and a passel of kids will most likely spend the night right outside Arkansas City pushing on her horse’s rump.”

This man had all the nerve in the world. “I will get my lot in town, sir. And I will make a life for myself and my family. Believe it or not, I’ll even do it without anyone’s help.” She raised one eyebrow and flicked her fingers at him. “Now I’ll thank you to leave me in peace and mind your own business.” She turned back and mumbled, “And your manners.” She splashed her face with such vigor that water went up her nose, causing her to cough and choke.

Now, let's meet Tori Henderson:

Where are you from, Tori? Kentucky/Kansas/Oklahoma

Tell us about A Run For Love. In 1889, I’ve just become the sole parent to my four nieces and nephews. Bad enough I’ve never met them before, and the oldest is already sixteen, but the bank just notified me we’ll be homeless in two weeks.

I made a daring and difficult decision to enter the Oklahoma Territory Land Run. Thousands of would-be land owners will be racing on horse, in wagon, by train, by bicycle, even on foot to secure a dream. Dressed as a man to avoid unwanted attention, I will be among them.

Before I made the run, I clashed with arrogant Attorney at Law, Jesse Cochran, who dismissed my ability to be successful. He sure sets my teeth on edge with his condescending attitude. I took the train and succeeded in obtaining a town lot! The children were on their way in the wagon to meet me, and everything was wonderful. That is, until I discovered Jesse Cochran was my new neighbor in Oklahoma.

When one of my nieces decides she’s had it, and runs back to Kansas, Jesse and I hit the road to bring her back. The sparks that had been building between us exploded and not too long after our return, I discovered I was pregnant. Jesse forced me into marriage, something I was not at all interested in, but the contest to see who can be the most stubborn came to a halt when a tragedy devastated me. Jesse says he wants me, needs me, but I just want to call it quits. I don’t know who will win this latest battle of wills.

What did you think the first time you saw Jesse? That he was an arrogant, know-it-all, condescending man.

And your second thought? He may be annoying, but he wasn’t too hard on the eyes. He also had this way of smiling that did strange things to my stomach.

Did you think it was love at first sight? Heavens, no!

What do you like most about Jesse? His strength, determination, willingness to fight for what he wants.

How would you describe him? Tall, dark hair, broad shouldered, piercing blue eyes. And he has this way of smiling…

How would he describe you? Besides cantankerous? Slightly overweight (I think), spectacle-wearing, pretty face, freckles scattered over my nose. And, he does say ‘curvy.’

What made you choose teaching as a profession? I loved school, was good at it, and I enjoy seeing children learn something they’d never known before.

What is your biggest fear? That something terrible will happen to one of the many people I love.

How do you relax? Hmm. Well, Jesse and I go into the bedroom…

Who's your favorite fictional character and why? The Queen from Through the Looking Glass, because everyone had to do what she said without argument.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received? Never give up.

Kat's turn to ask author Callie: What movies or books have had an impact on your writing? Gone With the Wind probably got me interested in Historical novels. I also enjoy books and movies that are funny. Even though my stories have serious elements, they also have a bit of comedy. I love any book or movie that makes me smile at the end, and say “aww.” I’m a sucker for a happy ending.

Tell us a bit about your publisher. How did you hear about them? What influenced your decision to submit to them. Soul Mate publishing is a new e-book publisher. I heard about them on the RWA Pro Loop. Debby Gilbert was seeking submissions to get her publishing company up and running. What attracted me to them was the information on her website that indicated she liked stories that crossed genres. Since I’d been told by other publishers that A Run For Love didn’t fit in the ‘exact’ guidelines for romance, I thought it might be a book she would consider.

How long did it take from query to release? I queried Debby, and within hours had a request for a full. I sent it in, and had a contract within ten days.

Kat: Whoa, baby! That is quick. I understand A Run for Love has a sequel. Can you confirm or deny? A Wife By Christmas will be released on December 1^st

Kat: Two novels released inside two months? That's great! Soul Mate Publishing will certainly have some hits on their website after hearing your success story, Callie. Thanks for joining First Timers Presents today—and much luck in your writer's journey.

To learn more about Callie and the stories she creates go to: www.calliehutton.com

To purchase A Run For Love, go to www.soulmatepublishing.com

For the trailer, go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kCfE1_F4g