Pam Crooks April 2004 Newsletter

Hi!

Here we are-the premier issue of my newsletter! Many thanks to Tami Sutton for organizing this for me. I've `known' Tami for years-she's reviewed all my books and is a real sweetheart. Every author should be so lucky to have a loyal friend-and reader-like her!

For those of you who don't know me, I've been writing a lo-ong time. Previously, I've released four books with Leisure, all westerns. If you'd like, visit my website to check `em out. www.pamcrooks.com

"The Mercenary's Kiss" is my debut with Harlequin Historicals. I haven't seen cover art yet-hopefully in June-and when I get it, we'll put it up on the website.

I've been married to the same man now for almost 29 years. We have four daughters. Ann Marie is married to Chad and a schoolteacher; Katie is engaged to be married in September and is an editor for a computer magazine, Kristi is a bilingual schoolteacher, and Amy, our youngest, is a freshman at an all girls high school. In addition to writing every spare minute I can, I work in an Emergency Room at a local medical center. No, I'm not a nurse-just the lowly front desk person who registers patients.

Tami and I have had fun working on this premier issue for you. I really appreciate you subscribing to my newsletter and taking the time to read about me and my books. I'd love to hear from you. Just stop by my website and drop me a note--I always answer!

Best always,

Pam

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CONFERENCE AND SIGNING INFO:

I'll be one of twelve authors featured at "Turning the Pages of Romance", a one day conference for lovers of romantic fiction. The event will be held in Lincoln, Nebraska, on April 17, 2004, and is sponsored by the Lincoln City Libraries, Omaha Public Libraries and the Lincoln City Library Foundation. Numerous workshops, Chat With Sessions and Book Signings will be offered. For more information, contact Rebecca at: 402-441-4465, or by e-mail at romance@mail.lcl.lib.ne.us or visit the library's website at: www.lcl.lib.ne.us

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APRIL CONTEST:

We'll have a new contest every issue of the newsletter, and I'll include some goodies from writing friends. Everyone who subscribes to the newsletter is automatically entered into the contest. This month's contest features a set of eight adorable handmade notecards perfect for spring! You won't find these in any store. Ann Marie made them for you, and when you see her work, you'll see how talented she is. In addition, longtime pal and fellow Harlequin/Silhouette author, Cheryl St. John, is helping me make the contest even better! This month's winner will also receive a signed copy of her contemporary romance, "Marry Me . . . Again." You'll enjoy it. Finally, I'll be including a signed copy of "Lady Gypsy," one of my books with Leisure. Reese and Liza's story has always been one of my favorites. I hope it'll be one of yours as well.

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FEATURED RECIPE:

I got this recipe from my friend and fellow critique member, Marie, who got it from her mother, who got it from her friend, who got it from . . . .

Well, that tells you right there how good it is!

TEXAS CAVIAR

1 can black eye peas
1 can black beans
1 can hominy
1 green pepper, chopped
4 green onions, chopped
1 large tomato, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
½ bunch fresh cilantro
½ bottle Fat Free Italian Dressing

Mix and chill. Serve with tortilla chips. May make one week ahead.

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