Last Blog for a while

Hello everyone -

Due to my mounting duties as a writer, self-publisher, and horse trainer, I have to cut my time on the computer in half.
Unfortunately, blogger.com is one of those sites that have to suffer a cut. Until further notice I won't blog here anymore.
However; now you can subscribe to my newsletter which will update you on book signing events, poetry, special offers, and of course: the all so anticipated sequel to my award winning romantic suspense Relocating Mia, named The Acronym.

Since mid-September The Acronym is with the editor and I should have a publishing date very soon.

Please visit my website and sign up for my newsletter. You will find a sign up box conveniently located on the bottom of every page.

http://www.rebeccalerwill.com/

I appreciate you interest!

Cheers and happy reading,
Rebecca~

Summer's in the stretch

Hello friends,

Where did August go?? My apologies, I haven't been around to share my newest happenings with you.
Awesome news!!! Relocating Mia won the Sabrina Book Awards. Many great books participated in the romance genre and Relocating Mia received the honors. I'm very pleased and also humbled that my novel is liked so well.
Of course the sequel, The Acronym, is in full swing. The publication process has started and even though I don't have a pub date yet, the manuscript has been submitted and is being worked on by the editor.
Stay tuned, I should have news including a pub date, very soon.

I would like to invite you to read my newest short story. A reflection on the horrific events of 9/11/01
Please click here to read more.

Thank you, and happy reading,
Rebecca~

http://www.rebeccalerwill.com/

Hits, hits, hits

Hello friends,

have you ever heard about www.authorsden.com?
A great site for poets, authors, and readers.
All I can say is - Wow!
When I started to publish my humble poetry on the den, I never anticipated so many people actually interested in my rhymes. Fifty thousand hits and counting, and I haven't even been very active, lately.
Now I'm thinking, if only half of the hits on 'Relocating Mia' would have actually bought the book, I'd have more change for publishing my next one ;-)

My second novel 'The Acronym - White Nights in St. Petersburg' is done and will go to the editor this week. A few kind souls have donated their time to read the first draft back in May and I'm overwhelmed by their positive feedback. I will keep you posted on 'The Acronym's' process and remember; I give away two signed copies of Relocating Mia every month through a drawing on my website.
Visit www.rebeccalerwill.com for more info.

Happy reading, Rebecca~

Book Signing in Prescott, AZ

If you are in the Prescott, Arizona area for the 4th of July celebration, please visit me at the Barnes and Nobles. Don't miss out! You have the chance to catch me on TWO different days.

July, 2nd AND 3rd 2008 3:00p.m. - 6:00p.m.
Barnes & Nobles
3250 Gateway Blvd.
Prescott, AZ, 86303
928-443-8574

See you there!
Rebecca~
www.rebeccalerwill.com

Book Signing in Garden City, Kansas

Hi friends,

are you in the greater Garden City, Kansas area?
Come and join me for the signing of my award winning romantic suspense Relocating Mia.
It should be a lot of fun!

June, 7th 2008 3:00p.m. - 6:00p.m.
Hastings Bookstores
2108 E. Kansas Ave.
Garden City, KS
620-275-2289

See you there!
Rebecca~
http://www.rebeccalerwill.com/

The Acronym - Chapter 6

The following material is subject to copyright.
This is an un- edited and preliminary version of 'The Acronym'.

Chapter 6

“When did you find out?” Mia asked Douglas after the briefing. They sat on the porch together, watching the sun disappear behind the Rockies.
“The Department of Justice notified us of the possibility before Brian and I left for Mexico. But I didn’t want to tell and worry you until it was confirmed. I received the brief just this morning in Denver. Believe me, I would have told you under different circumstances if I’d had the chance.”

Mia’s back rested against his chest. He had his arms wrapped around her, holding her close. The hammock was swaying them slightly and it would have been one of those rare but perfectly serene evenings if there wasn’t the issue of that damn trial hovering above them like a thunderstorm cloud.
She could feel his heart beat strong and steady. It was a habit of hers to listen to and feel the very core of his essence. Normally it soothed her, knowing he was there for her, especially when times got scary, which she was still learning to adapt to.

Mia got up. She couldn’t be close to this man and think reasonable. She crossed the porch and leaned against the hand railing, facing Douglas who remained seated.
She was distraught since the meeting had ended and she had every reason to be. He had watched her confidence deteriorate in the last hour and now she just stood with her hands buried in the pockets of her slacks, looking quite vulnerable.

For a little while Mia was deep in her thoughts. She was gnawing on her lower lip and stared holes into the air in front of her feet. Finally she said, “I don’t understand. Why would the Russian government change their mind? I thought they had a deal figured out to exchange Lagunov with a Russian looked up in D.C. Doesn’t the Attorney General have enough influence to force a deportation?” Mia did not try to keep the despair out of her voice, “Do you know what this means?”

“Of course I know what this means, love...”

“No you don’t!” She interrupted him fiercely, “You don’t understand what this means to me! I’m going to have to go back there to testify. I prepared myself to re-live the nightmare, but now, I have to do it on their turf. What about the mafia? Won’t they be all over the place? How close will they be able to get?” Abruptly she stopped the flow of unanswered questions. With her eyes closed she turned her head and clamped her arms around her midst as if she could shield herself from the after effects of the horrific encounter she’d survived. Terrorizing pictures of the past quickly flashed through her mind and pure horror waked through her and robbed her of composure.

Douglas didn’t know what to say. He certainly did not want to give her another speech about how safe she was going to be and that they would protect her.
She looked at him. Dark shadows pooled in her eyes and he would have given anything for being able to slay her dragons. But it was not in his power, all he could do was helplessly watch her fight the same desperation she had experienced in the past.
Mia finally got her speech back.
She went on, quieter this time, “I need you to understand something. I am not like you. This is not what I do. Don’t you think I can’t see the hunger in your eyes when you get briefed on a new assignment? And how satisfied you are when you come back here, after you succeeded? You are fearless. I don’t have that in me, Douglas. And I wouldn’t want to. Please, you mustn’t forget that!”

Of course, she was right. She wasn’t a warrior and she’d never intended to be one. All she ever wanted to be was a regular girl in a somewhat normal job. Well, until a series of bad circumstances had gotten her involved.
Members of the Red Mafyia had abducted her and she’d been held hostage by a bunch of unimaginable low - lives. She’d been a victim of a vicious crime and her life had spiraled quickly out of control. After she’d been dragged across Siberia and over the Russian border into Mongolia, she spent agonizing days and nights knowing with utter certainty that she was going to die. Douglas and Bao rescued her in an outrageously, crazy mission. She was shot in the process and nearly killed.

Luckily she’d recovered quickly after he’d brought her here. Soon, she proved to be an extraordinary woman with a lot to offer. But she still felt fear in a way he never had. She simply wasn’t carved out of the same wood, and he was guilty of forgetting this at times.
Douglas just sat there, looking miserable. There was nothing he could say to take away the paralyzing feeling of being afraid.
“I’m sorry, love,” was the only thing he could come up with, “I’m sorry for having to put you through this.”

She studied the tips of her shoes, “It’s not your fault.” She took a deep breath, trying to find courage. Finally she straightened up, “With you there I’m going to be okay. I’m sure the trial has already begun. When do we have to leave?”

Douglas swallowed. His eyes suddenly stung. He wished she wouldn’t have asked him this right now. He wanted to bring the really bad news to her another time. Maybe tomorrow or the next day, after she’d gotten used to the idea of having to travel back into the core of the evil.
He continued to study her, uneasy, not knowing how to explain. Then he rose from the hammock and took a step toward her. He wanted to hold her as if he could physically keep the harm away from her, but she placed one hand on his chest to keep distance.

“Why don’t you answer me? I’d like to know when we have to leave for Russia.” Mia looked up to him, her warm, brown eyes searching his.
He scratched his jaw and drew a deep breath, “Ludvika will be going with you and the new guy as well. In addition the FBI will send someone for your protection. You are scheduled to leave in three days.” He looked down at her, sadly, and thought how wrong this situation really was.
Mia narrowed her eyes. A sudden anger flushed through her body like heat. “What are you saying? You’re not going?” Douglas silently shook his head. He had promised her to be there for the duration of her testimony. But just as life takes its turns, he had to follow a lead he could not withdraw from.

He expected that Mia would unload on him, that her fiery temperament, he so loved, would push her to rip his head off. Instead, she just looked at him, incredulously. She looked at him for a while, and did not say a word, and then she finally turned and walked away.

Book Signing in Mesquite, TX

Friends,

if you are in the Dallas/Fort Worth Area June 1st, please come and join me for a signing of my award winning romantic suspense, Relocating Mia.

June, 1st 2008
2:00p.m. - 5:00p.m.
Borders Books
2709 N Mesquite Dr
Mesquite, TX 75150
972-279-5203

For a synopsis and more info about Relocating Mia and myself visit my website:
www.rebeccalerwill.com

See you there!
Rebecca~

The Acronym - Chapter 5

The following material is subject to copyright.
This is an un- edited and preliminary version of 'The Acronym'.

Chapter 5

Agent Ludvika Bogdan had to adjust her stance as she aimed.
The vision in her right eye still gave her still a little trouble focusing. She held her breath. Her weapon did not move as her right index finger added pressure and finally pulled the trigger.

Bulls eye, as usual.

Within nine seconds she emptied the remaining twelve rounds of her Browning Hi Power and the time it took her to re-load was close to her personal record.
Not too long ago she’d switched weapons and Ludvika liked how the Browning balanced better in her hand, compared to the Ruger she’d been using for years.

She exhaled and straightened her shoulders. By pushing the button to her right she activated the target receiver and it raced toward her. Only the solid black center of the paper target had holes in it. Satisfied she noticed that all thirteen rounds had hit within half an inch.

“Nice! Looks like you still got what it takes, Bogdan.” A deep, familiar voice praised her as she took off her ear protection.
Ludvika smiled but she didn’t turn around. Earlier, she’d sensed Brian Secona standing behind her but kept her attention on the target.
Indeed. She still had what it took and she couldn’t wait to put it to good use. She was ready to face the evil which had almost destroyed her.

“Thanks man.” She acknowledged him and turned around. The two agents greeted each other with a firm handshake. Brian studied her face and found the evidence of a bad assault. During a mission in Siberia a member of the Russian Mafia had caught her and almost beaten her to death. Tied up for hours, in the poisoning air of an underground Meth lab, Ludvika experienced brutal force and unimaginable pain as they’d pressed for answers. Withstanding the torture she had not broken the silence and protected the anonymity of her mission and the Acronym’s as well.

“How is your eye?” Brian asked and she touched the pink scar beneath her right eye where her cheekbone and eye socket had been crushed to pieces.
“It still gives me grief, but it’s getting better.” Ludvika stood six foot tall but she still needed to look up to Brian. “Did you and Farland come in together?”
“Yeah, we flew back from Mexico last night and decided to drive back here early this morning.” Brian smiled and added, “You know the procedure. I wanted to stay put in Denver for twenty - four hours, but you know Farland. There ain’t no way to keep him away from his woman longer than absolutely necessary.”

Ludvika returned a smiled back at the big man and joked in her hard, Eastern European accent, “Well, I guess you are going to be my date for the evening.” She let Brian take her by the arm. “My pleasure. Come on Bogdan; our briefing is about to begin.”

The team gathered around the large oak table in the great room. The rambling, two story log lodge was an architectural masterpiece and easily provided living space for fifteen people. The five bedroom suites upstairs were the sizes of small apartments. Three large bedrooms on the main floor with attached living quarters offered additional room and privacy. Next to the fully equipped gym, the shooting range was located in the basement.

The kitchen was big enough to comfortably feed an entire football team. Colorful native hand woven rugs and big game trophies, including a massive mount of a Rocky Mountain big horn sheep, accented the high walls. A wide, light colored pine staircase led to the upper floor. Its steps and hand carved railing was detailed with stunning two-tone wooden inlay work.
The brown L shaped leather couch reached from one end of the downstairs living room to the other and its many seats were littered with a dozen overstuffed cow hide pillows.
The lodge’s generous floor plan would have been a favorite subject for any interior design magazine.

But this place was top secret. None of the agents actually knew who it really belonged to. Rumor had it that it used to be a wealthy politician’s hunting retreat who provided it to the Acronym after the agency’s privatization. The ranch sat located in a narrow valley, deep in the heart of the Colorado Rockies. Shaped like a horse shoe the valley bordered the Rocky Mountain National Park and protected the ranch and it’s surroundings with rolling hills and thick forests of pine trees, white aspen, and fir.

One had to come in either by helicopter or on a rough dirt road from somewhere close by Estes Park. Several check points and a very sophisticated security system made sure that nobody would find it, not even by accident. Spying eyes and ears from orbiting surveillance high above was blocked by a private satellite.

“Okay everybody, take a seat.” Douglas stood on the head of the table. After uploading the latest intel, he arranged the high definition holographic projector for everyone to see. The Acronym’s symbol, an impossible triangle, hovered three dimensionally just above the table top as if it was suspended from invisible strings. Transparent it slowly spun around its own axis, to be replaced by the first image as soon as Douglas activated the remote.

Brian took a seat to his left and Mia opposite of him. Ludvika sat next to her. Bao joined in as well. He folded his hands on top of the table and looked expectantly at Douglas, who was in charge.
The slightly enlarged head shot of a man with short, blond hair appeared in front of everyone. His jaw was set and square and his cheekbones were pronounced and high. His blue eyes sat close together and looked intelligent. Overall, the man’s features sent the message of a very determined person.

Douglas began. “You all have been informed about a new agent. This gentleman you see here will join our happy, little family very soon. His name is Uwe Hirsch, a former member of special forces of the federal police in his native Germany. After moving to the United States he joined the force at SFPD and later became a member of their SWAT team. An introduction will take place here in a day or two. HQ in Maryland has included him in our next mission, which I will come to in a minute.”

Immediately Ludvika spoke up with a concerned voice. “He will join our team right away? Without being checked out first?”

Douglas understood why she was asking. Normally newly recruited agents had to prove themselves first in a less compromising position. Being part of her team, which would leave for Russia very soon, Hirsch could jeopardize the Acronym if he’d not turned out to be legitimate. They had to trust that their boss O’Neil knew what he was doing.

Douglas explained. “Yes. O’Neil ran several extensive checks on him, in California as well as overseas. He is one hundred percent motivated. Brian and I have met with him in Utah a few weeks ago.”

Douglas studied Ludvika’s face. She didn’t reply but her body language said it all. Crossing her arms in front of her chest, she leaned back in her chair and held Douglas’ gaze. She pursed her lips in disapproval. She was very protective of the agency since she had joined not too long ago. As a former Interpol agent, she’d assisted the Acronym in a few top priority cases until finally, she’d been recruited herself.
New agents, even though they successfully completed the intense screening process, still had to work hard to gain Ludvika’s trust. Douglas knew how much of a pain in the neck she could be, but she was outstanding in her field and so he allowed her attitude.

Then Douglas’ attention went to Mia.

He had hoped to be able to bring up the next issue in a private moment, but time was of the essence, and the sooner she got the news, the sooner she’d be able to deal with it.

“Here is the subject of our next mission,” Douglas continued as he removed Hirsch’s image. The ruthless face of Sergei Selkin appeared and immediately Mia’s stomach turned. The memory of her encounter with the Russian Mafia boss jolted through her mind like high voltage. Her heart rate doubled and small beads of perspiration appeared above her upper lip.
She stared at the latest photos someone had taken of him recently. She saw the same detached look in those cold eyes she’d seen when they’d met face to face.

The virtual imaging system instantly converted the photos into three dimensional images of Selkin and his weightless head hovered in front of Mia as if its sole purpose was to burn deeper and deeper into her already troubled mind.

Douglas went on once again, “As we all know, despite our intelligence in Russia and our own repeated attempts of his capture, Selkin is still at large…”
Ludvika’s face got hard. She narrowed her eyes and looked like she was going to attack the image in front of her.
“…which is not your fault, Bogdan, we all know that. So stay calm,” Douglas knew exactly what she felt. Still with Interpol she’d been after Selkin and clipped his heels several times, but never got close enough to take him into custody. Sergei Selkin was one of the high-ranking and menacing heads of the Russian Mafia and he’d always seemed to be just in front of her nose, yet unreachable.

“Now, we have an insider in St. Petersburg, "Douglas announced. "A big advantage I don’t need to explain. The feds have also promised full assistance and there will be a perfect opportunity to strike.”

Standing behind his chair Douglas placed his hands on top of it's back rest and slightly leaned forward. He looked intently to every one of his partners as he further explained, “Selkin will stay close to Lagunov during the trial. We are absolutely certain of that. Selkin won’t miss out on the action.”

Ludvika interrupted again, “And how can you be so sure? You don’t honestly believe that that sonofabitch will leave Russia to come here for Lagunov’s trial? That’s ridiculous!”

Douglas shook his head “No, Selkin certainly wouldn’t be stupid enough to enter the U.S.” He paused as his eyes found Mia’s. Her face paled as Douglas explained, “The Russian’s won’t extradite Lagunov. There won’t be an exchange. You guys are going to Russia. His trial is taking place in St. Petersburg.”

by Rebecca Lerwill - copyright -

www.rebeccalerwill.com

Unique Mother's Day Gift Idea

Hello friends,

Mother’s Day is only two short weeks away and if you are scrambling to find the right gift for mom, here is an idea:
An autographed copy of a wonderful, award winning romantic suspense.
Below you will find a quick description of my novel ‘Relocating Mia’ and a link to my website. Order a copy through PAYPAL for only $12 between now and May, 7th and shipping is free!!

Relocating Mia, Award - Winning Finalist of the National Best Books Awards in 2007 is a highly entertaining adventure, full of romance and suspense which is loved by readers who appreciate the drama of international crime, the gut - churning twists and turns of well woven intrigue, and the heart - warming effect of a great love story.
Order today!

http://www.rebeccalerwill.com/bookstore.html

Make your mom a happy mom and give the gift of a great read!
Best,
Rebecca~

Book Video Trailer

Relocating Mia now has its own book video trailer. Check it out!
Relocating Mia is available on amazon.com, jexbo.com or for a signed copy visit www.rebeccalerwill.com

The Acronym - Chapter 4

The following material is subject to copyright. This is a slightly edited and preliminary version of 'The Acronym'.

Chapter 4

Northern Colorado

Douglas stepped out on the porch. His eyes wandered over the several hundred acres of lush, green pastures laid out in front of him. The mountains around him still had snowcaps on them and the bright mid-afternoon sun pierced his eyes. There was just a light breeze. The temperature was comfortable, in the low 70’s.

Henry, the live-in housekeeper, nodded down at him through a second story window. “Hi Buddy,” Douglas greeted Blue, an unusual mix of Australian shepherd and something else. The dog was obviously glad that Douglas had returned. He jumped up onto the porch to greet his master, wagging his tail and licking Douglas’ hands. After a few moments of giving Blue his full attention, Douglas’s gaze fell on the small herd of horses grazing the sweet, early summer grass. The sorrel mare had given birth to a beautiful filly a few days back. He watched as she hesitatingly tested her ungainly, long legs close to her mother.

The man they called “el pirata” was captured: his dirty money seized. His source of income had indeed turned out to be young women who’d been promised legitimate work and a prosperous future in the United States, so they could support their families in Mexico. Instead they had been forced into the dangerous and filthy business of cheap prostitution. The U.S. border patrol had been investigating for months, but a shooting at the border and a dead illegal immigrant had given the border patrol bad press, so the government had asked the Acronym for assistance.

Douglas shook off the memory of what he had witnessed and focused on the reason why he’d hurried back here. He took a seat in the big hammock, a favorite place he had shared with Mia so many times. And there she was, standing in knee high grass, several hundred feet away, with her back to him. Her shiny, auburn hair gathered in a ponytail and her slender frame dressed in GI bottoms and a t-shirt. She was in the middle of a training session with the Cambodian agent Bao Shuang. They did a series of quickly executed high kicks followed by a sequence of slow flowing movements. The small Asian man seemed to be Mia’s shadow. There was no delay in his motions: they moved in total unison. Douglas smiled. As he kept watching her the last bit of tension eased out of his body. He kicked off his boots and relaxed in the hammock, enjoying the view.

Bao focused on Mia’s position. He silently stepped behind her to assist her in a deeper stretch through her lower spine. There was no need to touch her. He just guided her wordlessly with his presence. Mia felt the light breeze on her sweaty skin. She focused on the endless distance of the horizon. Not allowing her thoughts to trail off, she let her mind and body become one as she took every breath in harmony with her movements.

Bao had been teaching her for almost six months, sharing his bottomless knowledge of eastern philosophy, yoga and martial arts. In the beginning the agents had tried to talk her into learning how to shoot. But she had never handled a gun in her life and had been apprehensive since it was a bullet that had almost shortened her life and gotten her involved with the Acronym to begin with.

Douglas and his partners had tried very hard to convince her that her best chance of survival in case of an encounter with an intruder was a firearm. But Mia didn’t want to know about it. She had been frustrated. “Don’t talk to me like you’re going to send me into battle. Who do you guys think I am?” Then she had turned to her fiancée and her beautiful, brown eyes had darkened with fear. “Douglas, aren’t you guys supposed to protect me? Why do I feel I’m going to be on my own out here?” He had understood her fear but explained, “We just want to make sure that you can protect yourself. I can’t always be here with you. You know that.” Sometimes he had wondered if it had been a good idea to bring Mia to Colorado. He had been responsible for Mia’s involvement with the Acronym. At the time he hadn’t had much of a choice. It had been either that, or he’d have to hand her over to the FBI. They would have stuck her in protective custody. His experience had taught him that the Fed’s safe house was anything but.

She had agreed to work for the Acronym and she’d been doing a hell of a job, but she hadn’t had any combat experience. The secret location of the ranch was unlikely to be discovered by an enemy, but nobody could guarantee safety a hundred percent, not even Douglas. And Mia was a smart woman; she understood that she had to undergo some sort of training in order to be able to defend herself. Nevertheless, she had refused to use a firearm. Douglas needed Mia to be able to fight back. He had racked his brain trying to figure out how to approach the issue, without any success.

Then Bao Shuang had voiced an idea. He requested that he be allowed to take charge of her training. Douglas had been skeptical, but something had to be done. At first Bao introduced her to the ancient Oriental art of T’ai Chi, teaching her to open her senses. He explained to her that she needed to know and trust herself. Douglas had been there, with watchful eyes. He knew that the quick, five foot two Asian was a master of close combat and all kinds of self-defense techniques. He had beaten Douglas many times in practice. Watching, he thought Bao was wasting time with repetitious exercises. Douglas had wished he’d be more aggressive with her training. Finally, he had voiced his concerns when Bao began to teach Mia postures with ridiculous names like Single Whip, Cloud Hands or Sparrow’s Tail. Douglas had been sitting on the fence, mouthing his opinion. Mia had been standing in the pasture, just the way she was now: barefoot and soaked in sweat. She’d gotten fed up with his negative remarks and shouted, “Why don’t you leave! As long you don’t understand what Bao is trying to do, I don’t want you here watching us!” He had mumbled something in return, but had known better than to argue with her.

A satisfied smile came over Douglas’ lips as he watched her now. How beautifully she moved. She looked so powerful and graceful. The intense training had turned this fearful woman into someone radiating confidence and calmness.

Mia was exhausted. She finished today’s exercise with the ‘Shoushi’ and closed her eyes for a moment. Her elevated heartbeat slowed momentarily; the warm sun on her body soothed her aching muscles. She turned around to face Bao and he said nothing. He just nodded in approval. He was proud of his student. Very proud. Then she saw Douglas and all the calmness was suddenly gone. He was home! But he wasn’t supposed to return until tomorrow! Her face lit up and a surprised scream escaped her. She came running across the pasture. Douglas rose and took the few steps down the porch to greet her. He opened his arms and Mia threw herself into him. God, how badly she’d missed him!

He laughed and hugged her tight. She let him embrace her for a moment and then raised her head to look up into those bright blue eyes she loved so much. “Hey stranger,” he drawled quietly before he kissed her passionately, starved for her touch. It had been two weeks. Not a very long time for a mission like the one he’d just wrapped up, but when a man like him had a woman like her to come back to, two weeks was almost unbearable.
Mia had to stop this kiss or she’d pass out. She peeled herself away from him, just a little. “You are crushing me, Douglas.” She didn’t really complain. She had missed him too much to be too close. She had her arms wrapped around his waist and her head sunk against his chest. She closed her eyes and inhaled his marvelous, masculine scent.
He loosened his hug but didn’t let her go. His mouth was buried in her hair. He wondered how someone could go through a rigorous workout and still smell as sweet as she did.
Mia lifted her head just to study his features, as if he could have changed in the past few weeks: his strong jaw, thin lips, the small dimple in his chin. His short dark hair, which always seemed to be in boyish disarray. His surprisingly black eyebrows that contrasted with his amazing eyes.

She rested her head back against him and murmured, “I’m so glad you’re back. You have no idea.” “Hmm. I think I do. And I brought a surprise.” Mia raised her head and smiled, “Really? What is it?” “Brian is here.” Douglas knew how much Mia liked and trusted his partner. Very seldom did they have a chance to get together, but with Bao and Ludvika already here, the team was complete. He beamed at her, “You looked amazing out there. You must have been working very hard.” Mia rolled her eyes in playful complaint, “Four hours a day. Boa is a slave driver, but I bet I’ll be able to take you down, one of these days.”

Mia was rightfully proud of her progress, but Douglas chose to interpret her words a different way. His voice instantly became a bit raspy and his southern drawl intensified as he said, “Well, I certainly hope so, Ma’am. I’d be happy to be your sparring partner a little later on.” His hands caressed her back and when she saw the mischievous sparkle in those bluer-than-life eyes her knees weakened and her heart missed a beat.

www.rebeccalerwill.com

Serenity (Tanka)

Earth’s most perfect spot

wings, serenity and peace

victor over pain

deep belief in love prevails

vicious dragons will be slain

Hello friends,

I composed the above Tanka for a friend of mine a while back. She needed a place to curl up and to find comfort. Since we live several thousand miles apart, I could give her comfort only in verse.
I would like to offer it to anyone in need of a little serenity.
Would you like to know more about my work?
I will be on Blog Talk Radio today, Tuesday, March 25th, 4:30p.m. EST speaking with host Rita Schiano.
You will find us here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/rita

Have a wonderful day!
Rebecca~
www.rebeccalerwill.com

Blog Talk Radio Interview

Hello friends,

today is the official calendar start of Spring!
Beautiful! I can't wait to plant flowers and let the awakening of nature inspire my writing.

I would like to announce, that I have been invided as a guest on Rita Schiano's blog talk radio show "Talk To Me...Conversations With Creative, Unconventional People"
The show will be boradcasted live on Tuesday, March 25th at 4:30p.m. EST and I hope you will join us.
Also, if you have questions or comments for me regarding my novel 'Relocating Mia' or my upcoming book 'TA - The Acronym' you will have the chance to talk to me directly.
Call in, Live! 347-327-9158

Talk to you soon!
Rebecca~
www.rebeccalerwill.com

Click here for Rita's Radio Show

Spring Has Sprung

Hello friends,

With melting snow and temps into the upper 50's, I don't care if the calendar
says it's not yet official, I'm going to announce that Spring has finaly Sprung!

At least in Utah :-)

I planted some greenery and pansies in a couple of containers in front of the door and hope, that father winter will not return.

He shall stay absent! I say, and draw my imaginary sword to fight of any mysterious creatures which might bring additional frost.

So, with that going for us I figured, I take the opportunity to remind you, that signed copies of my novel 'Relocating Mia' are available on my website for purchase. After all, there seem to be a bunch of Birthdays coming up, as well as Easter. Nothing better than a good book as a great gift, ain't it?

Happy reading!

Rebecca~

http://www.rebeccalerwill.com/bookstore.html

The Acronym - Chapter 3

The following material is subject to copyright. This is a slightly edited and preliminary version of 'The Acronym'.

Chapter 3

St. Petersburg, Russia. One week later.

The English ivy was growing out of control.
Green and healthy, the heart shaped leaves reached along spider leg stems from the mossy hanging basket all the way down to the cast iron, white radiator. Fifteen hours of daylight near the large, fourth story window seemed to have had an invigorating effect. With a few snaps this happily growing fellow would be put back to a manageable size. But she would have to trim it some other time. Right now, she had to hurry.
Dressed in a black skirt, a white blouse and apron, the maid was watering the array of house plants. Her sneakers squeaked quietly on the polished white marble floor as she walked quickly through the large entry hall which was tastefully decorated in light beige, taupe, and warm bordeaux tones.

After a short knock the tall wooden pocket door slowly, disappeared into the wall, and opened the entrance to the adjoining office. It was comparable in size and furnished with hand-crafted antiques made out of exotic woods. An exquisite, pale blue, hand woven Berber accented the dark, hardwood floor. The maid did not pay any attention to the visitor; instead, she set down her copper watering can and respectfully stepped outside through the side entrance.
The man standing in the door way to the office was young, barely in his twenties, and he was very nervous. He removed his round glasses from his pale and from fearful sweat gleaming face. He fumbled with them as he cleared his throat.
Sergei Selkin looked up without lifting his head. He sat behind his antique, Brazilian Santos mahogany desk reading the evening issue of the St. Petersburg Press. The latest article on the trial of Siberia’s biggest oil tycoon, Piotr Lagunov, did not reveal anything new. It seemed like Selkin’s contact within the authorities had been correct and they were still chasing their tails, or the investigators withheld vital information from the press - and his informant.

His last conversation with the Prosecutor General himself had been promising. Selkin knew just how much pressure was enough. He was, after all, one of the most significant business men in west Russia; but once again, the Americans seemed to have found a way of obstructing his plans.
He lowered his eyes back to the paper and continued to ignore the fidgety man standing in his door way. Selkin stroked over his short, sandy blond hair, sneering about that phone call he’d have to make very soon. Leverage had to be applied over seas in a very serious way. Someone would have to make it very clear, that the days of playing these fucking cat and mouse games were over.
He would take no more of this!
God dam Americans!
Pure enmity crawled up his stomach like the sour taste of raging acid. Selkin lost himself in more loathing thoughts as another embarrassed sound came from where the young man stood. He held his hand in front of his mouth and tried to make himself noticeable, again.

“I heard you the first time, Dimitri,” Selkin said annoyed. His voice was low. It sounded like a warning. He stood and motioned to the young Russian to step closer. “Show me what you’ve got.”
Dimitri placed his glasses back onto his narrow face and wiped the sweat from his brow with the back of his hand. He walked closer and held a large envelope in his other sticking it out in front of him, like a knight’s shield which would protect him from the brutal rage Sergei Selkin was known for.
His quiet voice held a bit of a tremor. He explained, “This is my preliminary work. They still have to be digitally enhanced and I will be able to clean them up a lot more. I have been told that you would like to see the first ones as soon as I have them done.”
Selkin had walked around his desk while Dimitri spoke. He now stood close to the young man who was about his height, average but he was a bit narrower framed. Dimitri studied the envelope he held in his hand, unable to withstand his boss’s piercing, cold eyes. Selkin smiled to himself. If he’d say boo, he was sure the man would piss in his pants. People were afraid of him, and he made sure they had every reason to.

He took the envelope and placed it behind him, on top of his desk. “That’s all,” Selkin said briskly and Dimitri turned around and was obviously very glad to get the hell out of there.
Selkin refilled his water glass from the crystal carafe the maid had left for him earlier; his eyes were glued to the envelope. He was a calculating man with a cool demeanor and an unusually high IQ, a full blown professional, not easily excited. But his heart beat quickened and a good dose of Adrenalin shot through his veins, now that he was turning this operation to his advantage. If the content of this envelope was anything near to what he’d been promised, he would be a great step closer to fully succeed.

Becca's Birthday Bash

Hello romance lovers!

As I said in my previous blog; thank Goodness it's March!
The best thing about March is not just the end of the
(Winter) tunnel in sight, but also my Birthday!
This year I would like to treat my readers to a gift, instead of receiving presents on my own. Don't they say that giving is better than receiving, anyway?
Well, here is your chance of being given to. Enter my Birthday Bash contest by clicking on the link below. You will get all the details on what to win and how to get there.
http://www.romancedesigns.com/contests/rebeccacontestfeature.cfm
Good luck, y'all!
Rebecca~

February Book Drawing Results

Hello friends,

It's March - thank Goodness! Spring is almost here.

I say almost, because a sunny 55 degrees day

beginning of March smells like a big nature's tease to me.

After all this is Utah and we are known to ski clear into June sometimes...

But hey - no complains, I take the sun any day!

The book drawing for my contest in February is done and here are those lucky winner who will receive their signed copy of 'Relocating Mia' very soon:

Holly in Ontario, Canada and
Debbie Colon in New Jersey

Congratulations, guys!!

If you would like to try your luck just visit my website and sign up. Your information is of course handled with discretion. No spam, no junk!

http://www.rebeccalerwill.com/funstuff.html

Good luck!

Rebecca~

Authors - Increase your book sales!!

Hello friends,

Have you heard of http://www.jexbo.com/ ?

I believe it is a relatively new website and it offers 1, 2, 3 or more - time authors to get their book out in the open.
It is a very user friendly website, for buyers and sellers alike. Becoming a member is a free of charge and quickly performed task.
If you like to browse for a new read, the listings are very easy to navigate through and if you like to offer your creation for sale; you have the possibility to upload your cover, write your own little blurb about your work, or post a review. The only cost to you as a seller is a monthly charge of 99 cents. There aren't any other fees involved, no matter how many books you sell.

I added my romantic suspense 'Relocating Mia' just a few days ago and have received orders already.
I offer my book below retail price; don't charge for shipping and Relocating Mia will be personalized with my autograph signed to the buyer.

Please take a minute and check out this new website, which focuses purely on books and might increase your sales as well. I think it'll be worth your time.

Rebecca~

find me on jexbo: http://www.jexbo.com/items/47

Authors Event at the Peteetneet in Payson, Utah

Hello friends,

You might ask... Peteetneet - what in the world is that?

The Peteetneet school was erected in 1901 and named after Chief Peteetneet, a leader of the Ute Indian tribe. This beautiful building has been a school and academy for many years, until it was named a historic building, and turned into a museum and arts center.

The Peteetneet is located in historic downtown Payson, Utah and borders the picturesque Scenic Nebo Loop.
On Saturday, March 1st 2008 we have planned our first author's event, introducing three Utah authors reading poetry and chapters from their published books.The genres have been carefully selceted. A biography, a romantic suspense, and a mystery for young adults will cater to a diverse audience and a wide spectrum of readers.
Besides the author's written words, home baked brownies and hot coco should delight a few hours of this late winter's evening.

Please join us to this event and help us making it a success, so hopefully our vision of a semi annual poetry reading and book signing event will take a small step closer to become reality.

Please click on the link below for further information on our event.
http://www.rebeccalerwill.com/pressroom.pdf

Hope to see you there~

http://www.rebeccalerwill.com/

Romance reviewers needed!

Hi friends,

do you like to read romance novels? How about not just reading those spicy tales, but also reviewing them?
I just received an e-newsletter from one of my favorite websites, www.romancedesigns.com It looks like they are in need for reviewers. So, incase you are interested click on the link below. It will get you right to the newsletter and you can go from there.

Happy reading!
Rebecca~
www.rebeccalerwill.com

http://romancedesigns.com/specialnewsletters/RDhelpFeb08.cfm

Book Signing in Rapid City, SD

Friends,


a quick hello from chi-chi-chilli Rapid City, South Dakota. Hubby Troy and I are working the Black Hills Stock Show & rodeo this weekend and I took the opportunity to schedule a book signing at Borders Books.

So, forget about football and come on out to join me on this super bowl Sunday for a few hours of fun as I sign my novel 'Relocating Mia' at the following location:

February 3rd 2008 4:00p.m. - 6:00p.m.
Borders Books 2130 Haines Ave.
Rapid City, SD 57701
605-394-5334

Hope to see you there!

Rebecca~
www.rebeccalerwill.com

The Acronym - Chapter 2

The following material is subject to copyright. This is a slightly edited and preliminary version of 'The Acronym'.

The Acronym
by
Rebecca Lerwill ©

Chapter 2

An hour later they were on their way. Heading northwest toward the Salt Lake City International Airport to drop Hirsch off; he was scheduled to fly back to Maryland.
Brian and Douglas had been instructed to join an investigation in Mexico to assist the U.S. border patrol and the FBI in the hunt of a Latin American man called ‘el pirata’ - the pirate. Years back someone had shot him in the face and he’d lost his left eye. The black eye patch he wore gave him his name.
He was one of the worst.
Ruthless and very dangerous, he supported the smuggling of illegal south American immigrants into the U.S.
The FBI had received a tip. As usual, the feds had not yet shared all their intel with the Acronym. So far Douglas and his partner only knew that the tip came apparently from a young Mexican woman who had managed to escape an alleged prostitution ring which was supposed to be run by ‘el pirata’s’ vicious group.
Douglas explained what was to be expected of Hirsch after his final briefing in Maryland, so he could be prepared.
“When they’re done with you in Ocean City they will send you to a location in Colorado. As far as I know, your first assignment should begin rather soon.” Hirsch felt excitement creeping up his spine, “Can you tell me what’s involved?”
Douglas’ focus went out the windshield. They had been told to outline the op to him, but he didn’t want to tell him too much.
“As far as we know you will accompany another agent to Russia for observation purposes. But I don’t have the details. Let me give you a brief rundown on whom they’ll team you up with in Colorado.”
Hirsch voiced another question before Douglas could continue, “You guys belong to the team I will be working with?” Leaning forward he looked from one to the other, as if he was trying to figure out, which one of them would spit out more details.
Brian shot Douglas a look out of the corner of his eye. There was no reason not to tell the German that they were indeed, but Brian still wanted to test how easily he could push Hirsch’s buttons.
“Let me explain something to you,” Brian began, “as of now, it ain’t you who is asking the questions. We’ll feed you information as we think is necessary.” Brian sounded borderline rude and he insulted Hirsch further with not establishing eye contact. His view stayed on the road.
To the men’s surprise Hirsch just shrugged again and looked out of the tinted windows. He watched the white Salt Flats along side Interstate 80 fly by and just said, “Okay, understood.”

Douglas knew a lot about Hirsch’s past. What caliber he was and how he had ended up in the States. He had looked forward to meeting this guy and had thought that he would be a good addition. Now, that he saw in person whom the Acronym had recruited he was more than pleased.
Douglas smiled to himself but kept his facial expression aloof and continued, “The Acronym consists of several teams and each team embodies four to six agents, depending on their expertise and assignments. Besides Secona and me, you will be grouped with a very capable man from Cambodia, Bao Shuang and Ludvika Bogden a female from Eastern Europe.”
Female?
Instantly Hirsch laid his forehead in wrinkles. He didn’t say anything but Douglas could see his doubt.
“Don’t let her gender fool you, Hirsch. She is more, shall we say inveterate, than some of the men you have worked with in the past. She’d been with Interpol for several years and brought a long sheet of combat experiences from her native Bosnia.”
Uwe Hirsch didn’t look convinced and Douglas was aware that in their line of work some men had a hard time excepting women. He gave it some thought.
Would Hirsch be trouble? Was he a man who’d let his ego get in the road of being a dependable agent? Hirsch could certainly be proud of what he has accomplished in his life and Douglas sensed that he could trust him and finally continued, “There is one more person you will meet at that time. She usually stays at the location in Colorado and takes care of translations and is responsible for anyone in need of protective custody. She is fluid in four languages but has never been engaged with any governmental institution.”
“A civilian?” The question popped out of Hirsch before he could think.
“At the Acronym we are all civilians, Hirsch. I’m sure that has been explained to you at headquarters,” Douglas said calmly. He remembered his own recruitment by an agent of the Acronym. He had been with the bureau’s hostage rescue team at the time and it had been a tough decision to give up the status of a federal agent.

For the last five years Hirsch had been a SWAT member of the San Francisco PD and very soon, he’d lose that status, too.
“I understand that you guys don’t want me to nose around. But tell me how someone who has not worked in this field ends up with this particular agency?” Hirsch’s question was legitimate and Douglas knew it. The Acronym existed only to the involved agents and a few departments. It was a clandestine operation, highly classified. The taxpayer had no knowledge about it, however, there was someone else involved.
Douglas thought about a proper explanation. He felt a bit uneasy talking about this part of the past. His focus fell on the airport exit as Brian eased the Rover down the off ramp and was glad that his time to explain the situation with Mia Trentino was limited, so he offered, “Mia Trentino was employed by a company that relocated people around the world. Unknowingly to them her company was our cover as we went after a drug manufacturing outfit lead by the Russian Mafia. Let me just say that a chain of events had pointed her in our direction and she stayed with the team. She is a great asset and she is due to testify against the red Mafyia.”
He didn’t want to get more into detail about her involvement with the Acronym, or Douglas himself for that matter. Hirsch would figure it out by himself.

Secona stopped the Rover next to the departure gate and kept his view ahead. “Okay then. I guess I’ll see you guys in a couple of weeks,” with that said the German grabbed his bag and got out. They watched him disappear through the glass sliding doors at terminal two of Salt Lake City’s International Airport. Brian maneuvered the truck away from the curb and merged into traffic.
“So what do you think?” Douglas asked.
“I think you have a hard time talking about your woman in a professional manor.” Brian teased his friend.
“Ahh shit. Is it that obvious?” Douglas looked at him. He knew Brian was picking on him but went along with it. Smiling Douglas said, “What can I say, she has total and utterly control over me.”
Brian laughed out loud. “Is that so? Then let’s get the hell out of here so I can get you back quickly to where you belong.” Brian accelerated and the Rover shot east toward Bangeter Highway and Interstate 15. After a minute of silence Douglas observed, “Hirsch will fit in really well.”
“Yeah,” Brian agreed, “I just hope he ain’t gonna have a problem with Bogdan.” Douglas kicked his seat back and closed his eyes. They had a six hour drive ahead of them to meet up with the second team in Las Vegas before flying to Mexico.
He thought about his partner’s concern. He knew what Brian meant, but Ludvika Bogdan was very capable of changing one’s opinion about her, if one did not immediately accept her as an equal. Douglas grinned, “I can’t wait to see what happens if he does.”

How a poem educated me the hard way

Dear friends,

as you might now I'm an avid composer of poetry and a member on a great website called http://www.authorsden.com/

I have a very funny story to tell, but before I make a complete nerd out of myself let me explain something first.

This story is about a certain form of poetry. It goes back 1200 years and I believe it came from Japan.

Here is a quick explanation for those of you who don't know what a "Tanka" poem is:
A Tanka poem always consists of 5 lines:

Line 1 – 5 syllables
Line 2 – 7 syllables
Line 3 – 5 syllables
Line 4 – 7 syllables
Line 5 – 7 syllables
Tanka poems are written about nature, seasons, love, sadness and other emotions.
(explanation copied from www.edu.pe.ca/)

Just recently I shared a little story with one of my friends at the authorsden website. She thought it was hilarious and since I believe in laughter, I would like to pass this on.
It does mean for me to make a fool out of myself, the joke - after all - is on my side but I don’t mind.
Though I have enjoyed writing poetry for a while, I never really studied the different styles. To be completely honest, I never thought that poetry might come with ‘rules’. I just like to speak in rhymes when there is something special I like to ‘talk’ about.
I guess you can call me a light hearted poet.

With that said, I came a cross a poem written by someone who obviously has a lot more knowledge about the styles of poetry, than I do.
I don’t recall the exact name of the title, but it was something like “Remembering – Tanka”
It was a heartfelt write, sad, and it reminded me of someone losing something close, like a person or a pet.
And since the title contained the ‘name’ Tanka and I am blessed with a vivid imagination, I really thought this person had composed a poem about remembering – their dog. (Since Tanka sounded like a nice name for a big dog) I was the first to review this poem and left a note offering my condolences for the loss.
....
Okay, are you done laughing?
Let me just add, that often I return to poems I really enjoy to re-fresh them in my mind and this Tanka poem was one of those. As I scanned the reviews I got a little confused since nobody else seemed to care about a dead dog.
And just a few days ago, I learned the true meaning of ‘Tanka’. Needless to say, I was embarrassed first and then I had a good chuckle about my own ignorance. I guess sometimes we learn (even about poetry) the hard way.

I promise I will be better in the future and do my well-needed studies!
Have a great day!
Toodles,
Rebecca~

http://www.rebeccalerwill.com/

P.S. Are you interested in my poetry and short stories? You can find me here:
http://www.authorsden.com/rebeccalerwill

The Acronym - Chapter 1

The following material is subject to copyright. This is a slightly edited and preliminary version of 'The Acronym'.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Acronym
by Rebecca Lerwill ©

Chapter 1

Utah

The distant mountains to the east were still snow covered. But 2 p.m. in the Great Salt Lake Desert in the middle of June meant temperatures already into the upper nineties. The hot, never-ending wind blew tumble weed the size of small trees effortlessly from west to east. The night would be colder, much colder, but as long as the sun stood high in the south it mercilessly broiled the bone-dry region.

Bordering on the U.S. Army’s Dugway Proving Ground, the terrain was unfriendly and very rugged. The ten-foot fence was reinforced by razor wire on top. Even though the government had approved the ongoing operation for the second year in a row, the watchful, cold eyes of security cameras were hard to miss.

Men fought their way through the dusty heat in full combat gear, including gas masks and rifles. Twenty-two teams consisting of six men each conquered individual exercises simulating all kinds of different combat situations and task force drills. The design of the obstacle course was more demanding than the previous years. The shooting range was very sophisticated with a brand new, cutting edge, target retrieving system. Half way through the competition, the dominant unit seemed to be the one from Texas.

Four hundred yards out the Acronym’s agent, Douglas Farland, and his partner, Brian Secona, sat in a black Rover with dark tinted windows. They watched as SWAT teams from all over the United States, Canada, and Europe competed for the much sought after winning title of the SWAT World Challenge. This annual competition offered an opportunity for the top international SWAT teams to gather and prove who truly was the best of the best in law enforcement’s elite branch of special weapons and tactics.

The two men had been following the competition all morning without saying much. Finally Douglas lowered his binoculars and let out a sigh, getting his partner’s attention. Brian looked over to him and noticed the somber look on Douglas’s face. Brian asked, “What’s the matter, Doug. Having a hard time sitting still? You want to go play with the young and spry?”
Douglas turned his head, looked at his partner and made a face. His position with the Acronym offered him plenty of physical challenges, but the recovery time of his still very athletic body was not as fast as it used to be. “Well, watching these young guns, don’t you want to be twenty again?” Douglas asked.
“Hell, no!” Secona didn’t even have to think twice about it. He had had his fair share of rigorous physical and mental training, countless hours of target practice, and most of all, just like his partner, pain. Together, they had survived extreme situations in the Middle East, even though it seemed like a century ago.

Brian lifted a hand as big as a bear’s paw to his face, wiping the sweat off his dark skin. The Rover’s engine was running, but the air conditioner wasn’t doing the job. He continued to rub his hand through his coarse salt and pepper hair and asked, “What’s wrong with aging gracefully?” Douglas grinned and shook his head.
“Nothing, brother. You see, you too have aged, just not gracefully.” He focused his binoculars back on a member of the NYPD SWAT team who seemed to be mastering the tough course of the Three Gun Challenge with ease.

They continued to watch the event from just inside the barrier. The Acronym had provided them with proper ID to visit the venue. Their security clearances said Ocean City P.D., but they were fake. Douglas changed his focus from the competing men to an area with several camouflaged tents where vendors offered everything from Ghillie suits to tactical armor.
A blond, medium build man caught his attention. Standing by a small group of spectators, he was not wearing camouflage and field boots like most of the others. He was dressed in jeans, a black t-shirt and tennis shoes. He looked their way.

“I got a visual on our new friend,” Douglas said as he zoomed in on the man’s face. It displayed determination as he seemed to stare right at Douglas and Brian sitting in their vehicle. After a moment the man shouldered an olive green duffel bag which had seen better days. He separated himself from the group and began to walk toward the Rover.
The climb up the sandy hill, over-grown by knee deep sage brush, did not take him much effort. The steep incline did not slow him down; his walk was long-strided and powerful. As he approached the Rover, the determined look on his face didn’t soften. He knew who they were and why they were here. They were here because of him.
When the man was just fifteen feet away from the vehicle, Douglas let down the passenger side window. His eyes scanned the man’s body language for a moment and Douglas was instantly reminded of himself.

“You are the guys Ocean City sent,” the man stated. His German accent was distinct. He looked stronger now from up close. Not quite as tall and broad as Douglas, but about six foot, athletic and a few years younger.
“Hirsch,” Douglas called the man by his last name, “Step in the vehicle.” Uwe Hirsch ducked into the back of the Rover. The truck rocked slightly as he took a seat and shut the door. “Secona, Farland,” Douglas introduced his partner and himself briskly, gesturing with one hand between Brian and himself. Brian didn’t say anything, his face was expressionless but his dark eyes spied the German through the rear view mirror.

Douglas took a green folder off the dashboard and opened it. He knew its contents by heart, but he took his time so they could study the German’s demeanor. There were several eight-by-ten photographs of Hirsch along with some other documents. Hirsch stole a glance over Douglas’s shoulder and recognized himself in his black SWAT uniform during an exercise about eight years ago when he still lived overseas. In the photo, Hirsch wasn’t wearing a mask to conceal his face and was easily identifiable.
“Confidential doesn’t mean anything anymore, does it?” Hirsch said dryly. He wondered how in the hell these guys got the pictures. The undisclosed identity of his unit was, until today, crucial for the effectiveness of the team and the safety of its members. Even though he did not work for the German government anymore, he still felt uneasy and responsible as it occurred to him they all could be effortlessly exposed.

“Confidential? You ain’t kidding,” Brian commented dryly. He eyed the German for a while longer through the mirror, than he turned his wide upper body around in his driver’s seat as far as he could. His gaze intensified as he finally asked, “Why us? Why did you choose to work for us?” Hirsch withstood Brian’s probing eyes and leaned back in his seat. He crossed his arms in front of his chest and returned the question. “Why me? Your people came to me.” There was a sudden change in the man’s body language; he set his jaw and stared with narrowed eyes at Brian.

Secona ignored the hostility and asked, “I know, but why did you accept? You must understand what’s involved.” Hirsch relaxed and shrugged. His eyes shifted between Brian and Douglas as he explained, “Sure do. It sounded like a good offer at the time.” “At the time? What about now?” Brian was quick to ask, quizzing the man some more. Only if this guy was absolutely certain could they proceed further.

Hirsch’s focus left Brian as he gazed straight out the windshield. This black man was reflecting a bad-ass attitude. He seemed like he’d already made up his mind about him, and it clearly wasn’t in Hirsch’s favor. His eyes narrowed as he stared into the distance. Hirsch asked, “You see the team which is up next for the Scott Entry?”
“Yes, I see them.” Brian had followed Hirsch’s view and so had Douglas. The German set his timer on his wrist-watch as the team was getting ready to storm through doors and secure a room provisionally framed with four-by-four lumber. The room’s interior was visible from all four sides. Two judges on each side of the premises observed closely to judge the team’s efficiency, technique and time during the exercise.
“Do you gentlemen care to bet? I’ll go with a minute twenty.” Hirsch offered.
“No way!” Brian exclaimed in disbelief. He still wanted an answer to his question, but this guy woke his ambition.

Wordlessly the three men watched until a faint beep came from Hirsch’s watch as he stopped the timer the very same second the German team finished the task. Checking his watch, he smiled, “1:18:35, not even a minute twenty. I believe they were the last team in this event. Fastest time; they should take the over-all lead with this.” Hirsch was obviously satisfied and couldn’t suppress a strong note of pride in his voice. He leaned back again and looked at the two men in the front of the Rover with a challenging grin.

Douglas hadn’t said anything. He focused back on Hirsch. “So, why us?” He repeated Brian’s question from earlier. Now Douglas was the one who turned around to Hirsch and studied him with eagle eyes, not letting him off the hook quite yet.
“You’ve just seen their capability. As you both know, I used to be one of them. After I left the federal police in Germany and came to the States,” Hirsch paused and tapped himself on the chest, “I still wanted to be part of the best.” That statement pretty much said it all but Douglas continued his questioning, “What do you know about us?”
The German was aware that they knew every detail about his previous conversation with their superiors in Maryland. He was beginning to get annoyed and wasn’t sure how long he’d put up with this nonsense, but he understood why they quizzed him personally. He wasn’t trustworthy yet. Not to them, anyway, and that was fine with him. He had nothing to hide and thought about the question Farland had just asked him. He recalled what they had explained to him in Maryland.

“The Acronym is a top secret configuration of carefully selected former members of the FBI, CIA and military. It was established by the government several years back, but now it is a private organization. Since the privatization, certain agencies from overseas have joined the force as well. Interpol in France, the British SIS, the German federal police and so on.
They haven’t offered any insight into why and how it came to be private, but as far as I understand it the Acronym is financially independent and you guys get all the fun toys from the military. If it’s a joint case, the Acronym has the full support of the government and has seniority over other agencies. Your main focus is espionage and counter terrorism within the States, but you also support operations abroad. I believe that included a few major drug and weapons busts just last year.”

He paused, scratching the stubble on his square jaw, and smiled as he added. “I certainly like the idea of a private, and to the public, unknown, task force. I imagine that not being restricted by a federal agency’s protocol means you guys are able to push the rules a little, without having some fucking reporter watch what you do and bother your unit with under-qualified comments and uncomfortable questions.”
Douglas raised his eyebrows. He liked this guy. And so did Brian; he could feel it. But his partner did not show any sign of approval yet. Instead, his facial expression remained unimpressed and he had more questions.

“Why do you think you will fit in?” Hirsch shrugged again. He was rather humble and didn’t like talking about himself much. But he knew he had to convince these two men, regardless of headquarters in Maryland already having consented.
“You guys seem to know as much about my past as I do myself. You understand that my training has been….” “That’s not what counts, Hirsch!” Brian interrupted harshly, “I’m sure you’re very good with the rifle and you know how to negotiate situations in a tight spot, but that has nothing to do with getting friendly with some scumbag and putting a tab on him while you’re anticipating his next move. You could be eye to eye with the worst thugs imaginable and have to smile at them.”

Brian pointed his right index finger at him and said, with great emphasis, “Our operations are often up close and personal. You understand that your commitment to us would be indefinite. No contracts, no benefits for your family, no rescue mission if you’d get captured and especially, no fame!” Brian paused to see if the German showed any sign of concern, but he just looked back into Brian’s challenging black eyes.
Hirsch kept his calm and steady demeanor as Brian continued, “I want to know what really makes you think you’ll fit in. And don’t give me some bullshit story about pride and honor and your love for this country!”
Hirsch’s intelligent eyes narrowed. What did this guy want to hear? Instead of coming up with a sales rep line, he took a long moment to dig deep down inside. “I guess you can call it purpose,” he replied simply.

Aussie Greetings

G'day Mate!

Wow, am I behind!!!
I guess my biggest challenge for the new year is to keep up with it!
But no complains – it’s all good!
I didn’t blog our December book drawing results and feel extremely bad for neglecting the issue. December was a very busy month for everyone, so I won’t try to come up with a lame excuse.
Here are the lucky winners:
Carol Gowett, Chelsea, Oklahoma and Joy Isley, Mesa, Arizona
Congratulations, Ladies – I hope you’ll enjoy the read!

With the NFR wrapped up and 2008 welcomed, I enjoy two weeks at the Gold Coast in Australia.

Hubby Troy has been hired to work an international Bullriding as the barrelman and entertainer. Though it’s summer here here, the weather has been so / so but it’s so incredibly beautiful here and I have been struck with a new kind of inspiration to write.
I decided to introduce my upcoming novel ‘The Acronym’ to my readers in a special way.
Every month, I will post a new chapter, so visit back to keep reading about the happenings with Mia, Douglas and the rest of the gang you have met already in my first novel ‘Relocating Mia’.
There is not yet a pub date set for The Acronym, but I’m shooting for the fall of 2008 and of course I will keep you updated.

Remember you can always enter the book drawing for a chance to win a free copy of ‘Relocating Mia’ on my website. http://www.rebeccalerwill.com/funstuff.html
For now, I’m sending warm Aussie greetings from the beautiful Australian east coast!


No worries, Mate!
Rebecca~