Author: jrpace

Finally, Mountain Countdown (prequel novella in the Mont Blanc Rescue world) is out in the world. The best thing about writing a prequel novella like this one, is getting to meet the characters anew, and exploring their world from a different point of view.

In this case, this is Rémy’s story. He’s a Chamonix mountain guide who often works together with the PGHM team, but his story is his own, and I have to admit I found myself rooting for him and Sierra, even when the odds against them seemed insurmountable.

The rest of the team is there as well, of course. Damien, Drake, Kat, Jens, Gael, Hiro … they all play a role in Rémy’s story, which is set before any of team meet their significant others, of course. Seeing them at this point in their lives was a powerful reminder to me of how strong they are as a team, but also of how much they each had to offer to the people who would soon come into their lives! Let’s just say I was smiling a lot as I thought about it 🙂

Do reach out and let me know how you like the novella, if you pick it up! It’s available here, at multiple ebook retailers.

As part of my research this month for Three Times Ablaze (Sharp’s Cove Book 3) I’ve been reading a lot about firefighters, and trying to go beyond the obvious (though I can’t help but appreciate how ripped most of them look).

If I already had a lot of respect for the profession before—and I did—I’m now feeling pretty amazed. It’s difficult to imagine such level of community impact and engagement.

Let’s just say I’m more excited than ever about bringing Darryl Berner’s character and the Sharp’s Cove fire department to life!

Some of my favorite inspiring quotes:

I can think of no more stirring symbol of man’s humanity to man than a fire engine.

–Kurt Vonnegut, “The Sirens of Titan”

If Prometheus was worthy of the wrath of heaven for kindling the first fire upon earth, how ought all the gods honor the men who make it their professional business to put it out?

–John Godfrey Saxe

This year started with the biggest snowstorm Madrid has seen in over 60 years. I’ll admit that week, when the city was covered in snow and it was impossible to get out and do anything, was probably one of my most productive ever. 

Then the snow melted, and it’s like the rest of the month went on fast-forward. To the point where I can’t believe February is already here. Am I the only one to feel this way?

Two things I’m looking forward to this month:

• February 1st, because Cold and Bitter Snow: a Winter Adventure Romance Novella goes live. Let me know what you think about it if you pick it up!
• Valentine’s Day 🙂

Happy reading,

J.R.