2010 GH finalists

The Ruby-Slippered Sisterhood blog, created by the 2009 Golden Heart finalists, are hosting the 2010 GH finalists today. Please stop by and say Hi!, or come and read how I was able to make a lasting (read: embarrassing) first impression in under five seconds. It's a gift, really. 

I'm honored to have been included among such talented writers. Come read the log lines--you're going to want ALL of these books!

First Lines

I never tire of this subject. First lines are little jewels holding the promise of endless treasure. Here are some of my recent favorites. (I admit, even when I buy books I have no time to read, I always dive into the first couple of pages.)

Hannah's List, Debbie Macomber: "I'm not a sentimental guy."

Bulletproof Bodyguard, Kay Thomas: "Sweat ran down Marcus's back and sides."

Married by Morning, Lisa Kleypas: "Anyone who had ever read a novel knew that governesses were supposed to be meek and downtrodden."

Promise Me Tonight, Sara Lindsey: "Seconds always seem inconsequential."

Original Sin, Allison Brennan: "No one could hear Moira's piercing screams; they were in her head, as trapped as she was by the ancient demon who was luring the man she loved to his death."

The God of the Hive, Laurie R. King: "A child is a burden, after a mile."

A Secret Affair, Mary Balogh: "Hannah Reid, Duchess of Dunbarton, was free at last. Free of the burden of a ten-year marriage, and free of the endlessly tedious year of deep mourning that had succeeded the death of the duke, her husband."  (Yes, it's more than one line. You're lucky I stopped here. I could quote the entire book. It's Mary.)

So, what has captured your attention lately? Isn't it wonderful when the promise of a perfect first line is kept by the rest of the book?