Writing Through Snowmageddon

I'm on a deadline. This is nothing new for me. I want to write all the things and love to say yes to new projects, and so I fill my schedule up. This makes me happy. Except, you would think, when something like snowmageddon happens.

I live in Austin, Texas. This February we were hit hard with an unprecedented storm. We get ice days about once a year (if that). They usually last they last 2 days at most. This one lasted 10 days with multiple rounds of ice and snow and then more ice. In addition to the power outages and water problems, we almost ran out of propane which powers our heat, hot water, stovetop, fireplace, and grill.

I feel like for ten straight days almost all our time was devoted to figuring out getting our house and our family (including our pets) through this. And yet, though all that, I managed to keep up with my deadline schedule, writing close to 12,000 words.

What I realized through the experience, maybe even more than the past year of pandemic, is how much writing is my escape. I have always made up stories in my head or on paper. To disappear into a world that isn't like this one can be a huge benefit. A world where the problems are different, where magic exists, and where the negativity of social media and the news can't touch me--seems like we would all want that.

Writing through a week that really sucked--and we were so, so blessed compared to many--got me through the suck. It was an odd relief to realize that the passion that got me into this career is still very much alive.

I hope that, if you are in Texas, you and yours made it through safely and are back to normal.

Oh! One of the other fun distraction was that I had a sale this month, and I always love watching my rankings during sales. That's fun for me. LOL.

Today is the last day to grab a copy of my multi-award-winning book, The Rogue King, the first book in my Inferno Rising series.

THE ROGUE KING - FREE 

Kasia Amon is a master at hiding. Who—and what—she is makes her a mark for the entire supernatural world. Especially dragon shifters. To them, she’s treasure to be taken and claimed. A golden ticket to their highest throne. But she can’t stop bursting into flames, and there’s a sexy dragon shifter in town hunting for her…

As a rogue dragon, Brand Astarot has spent his life in the dark, shunned by his own kind, concealing his true identity. Only his dangerous reputation ensures his survival. Delivering a phoenix to the feared Blood King will bring him one step closer to the revenge he’s waited centuries to take. No way is he letting the feisty beauty get away.

But when Kasia sparks a white-hot need in him that’s impossible to ignore, Brand begins to form a new plan: claim her for himself…and take back his birthright.

READ NOW

AMAZON | B&N | APPLE | KOBO | GOOGLE

Beta Readers by L. A. Kelley

Beta Readers

A beta reader is person who reads a manuscript for the good, bad, and the ugly, confusing or clever plot points, terrific or terrible scenes, or poorly or exceptionally written characters. It’s the way everyone reads a book, only now you’re asking someone to keep notes. A beta reader isn’t paid, but a token thanks such as a copy of the book is common. If you have cash for advice, don’t use a beta reader. Hire a professional.

 Beta readers are often family or friends, but can be fans, too. However, using someone close can be iffy. They’re afraid to hurt your feelings and may not be totally honest. If you have no one in mind, writing groups are good places to start, either online or face-to-face. They’re generally quid pro quo; someone reads your manuscript and you read theirs. This may not be something you’re comfortable with or have time for.

 If you decide on a beta reader here are a few tips for a positive working relationship.

 Agree on a time frame up front. You don’t want someone who takes six months to return comments. Once agreement is reached, give the beta reader a prompt sheet with a few questions. Are the characters actions realistic? Was there any part you didn’t understand? Any scenes drag or hold too much information? What were your favorite parts or characters and why? Your least favorite and why? Don’t give them twenty pages asking for detailed insight and a complete psychological profile of each character. Do that and they’ll head for the hills.

 Do you need a beta reader subject matter expert? You might if you’re writing a police or medical procedural or a book where the lead character is a different ethnicity. Try to find someone with specialized knowledge. The last thing you want to be accused of is stereotyping.

Accept all comments with a polite thank you, but don’t jump on the re-edit bandwagon too soon. Just because a beta reader didn’t click with a character or a scene, doesn’t mean it should be deleted or rewritten. Think carefully about the comments. Can you see their point of view? Is it valid? Any notes from the beta reader should be taken as suggestions, not gospel. The most important thing to remember is don’t take a critique personally. Comments can be ignored. After all, this is your manuscript and changes are always your discretions.

L. A. Kelley writes science fiction and fantasy adventures with humor, romance and a little sass. Her life is in constant edit mode.

#Vampires vs #Shapeshifters . . . Which would you choose? #$0.99 by Nancy Gideon

I’ve written two paranormal romance series – my “Touched by Midnight” featuring vampires and my “By Moonlight” populated by shapeshifters. If forced to pick one type of supernatural character over the other . . . I just can’t do it!

Thankfully, this is one of those rare months when I have two of my favorite books from two of my favorite paranormal genres for S*A*L*E! You can sink your teeth into both of them and decide for yourself!

First up (age before beauty!) is MIDNIGHT REDEEMER.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo Books | iBooks

Add to Goodreads TBR→

I love smart men and women playing dangerous cat and mouse games. But which one is which? Scientist Stacy Kimball is looking for a cure for the blood disease that will eventually kill her, as it did her mother. Gorgeous, reclusive philanthropist Louis Redman could provide the answer. All she needs is a sample of his rare blood type. What Stacy doesn’t know, is they share the same driving purpose. He wants her blood, too. A paranormal love story, a Who Done It mystery, Frankenscience ethics, sneaky government ops, and a return of characters and complications I adored from previous books . . . but you don’t need to have read them to sink your teeth in and enjoy MIDNIGHT REDEEMER! For just $.99!

Next, is REMEMBERED BY MOONLIGHT.

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Kobo Books

Add to Goodreads TBR→

I LOVE suavely dangerous businessman/shapeshifter leader Max Savoie and his love, tough as nails NOPD detective, Charlotte Caissie . . . enough to feature them as the main H/H in six out of 15 books in the “By Moonlight” series (though they figure prominently in most of them!). REMEMBERED BY MOONLIGHT is the perfect place for a new reader to jump into the series . . . so they can learn about the characters and previously plotlines as Max, who has been stripped of his memory, does. Here’s a taste of how that’s working out for him . . .

An Appetizing Sneak Peek from
Remembered by Moonlight…

It was well past the supper hour when Charlotte Cassie let herself into the apartment jugglingbags of Chinese takeout. Finding the rooms dark and empty, her mood sank. Appetite lost at the thought of dining alone, she slid the sacks into a nearly empty refrigerator, exchanging them for a beer. She studied the cool glass bottle then, with a heavy sigh, put it back, resigning herself to a comfortless evening.

Where was Max?

She paced and mulled over that question as shadows deepened along with her fears.

Had she expected it to be easy having him here so close and yet so agonizingly far away? Bad enough watching him in that antiseptic clinic cell, a prisoner of his own panicked madness, raving, raging, out of control. Worse was having him here,temptingly near yet impossible to reach in the lush, sexy surroundings he’d built for them to share together. A bargain made in heartbreak hell.

It was practical, logical, she’d argued with the others and with herself. Where better for the damaged Shifter King to recover his fragmented past than in surroundings rich with the memories they’d made? The high rise stronghold he’d erected to house his clan would become his own protective cocoon, where he could remain safely swathed in the details of his life. A huge walk-in closet filled with his designer suits and tailored shirts. The scent of his toiletries in the bathroom, of their bodies entwined together in the bedroom. He had few personal belongings and those he kept out on River Road in the mobster fortress where he’d been reared by Jimmy Legere, but his simple tastes were reflected here in the clean yet sophisticated line of each and every room. She’d been sure the proximity would provoke something . . . other than her frustration.

Max had come with her willingly enough. What option did he have? Remain locked away at the Institute as a subject of surveillance and experimentation? To make the transition less awkward, they had made an agreement to set up cohabitation with no pressure to fulfill the other’s expectations. She would walk him through the personal ins and outs of their life together in an effort to spark something familiar. She’d keep him safe from the outside world and from himself. And from her. What an excruciating Catch 22 that had become. To pretend not to ache for his touch. To keep her hands from reclaiming the long, powerful lines of his body, from absorbing his heat, tasting his lips with a hunger that just kept growing. To roll over in the huge bed only to find the two of them separated by more than just space. Or, more often than not, him absent, preferring the couch to her company for what little rest he was able to find.

Though she might be tortured by cherished memories, he was not. She was nothing to him but a protective port in his emotional storm. And that knowledge was driven home like a stake through her chest every time they were together. Every time he stared at her through those cool green eyes without the slightest flicker of response. Every time he took that distancing step back to evade the casually calculated graze of her hand. Every time he lay next to her in the night and silence created an unbreechable force field of discomfort.

Tripping over him every minute of the damned day only emphasized how much she wanted, needed him back. And underlined how far he was away.

Vampire or Shapeshifter? At just $0.99 you can buy both and decide for yourself . . . and please, let me know which one YOU choose!

♚♚♚♚♚

Nancy Gideon on the Web

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A Twist Writing Through Adversity by Tena Stetler

 

Well, this wasn’t the topic I’d planned for today.  But it is what it is.  I’m a very determined person, I plot my road ahead and follow my path.  Roadblocks do occasionally land in my way, I bulldoze a way around them and continue on.

2021 couldn’t get worse than 2020 could it? I never voiced those words until now. But February11, 2021 the COVID-19 possible UK variant  roadblock crashed in my path and was impassable. I’ve never been to the UK and this was not what I had in mind, either let me tell you! Talking about being knocked flat unable to get up or figure a work around. Luckily I’d finished the rough draft of my manuscript due the end of the month, however butt in chair with head held up for editing. Wasn't going to happen no matter how hard I tried!

What this experience has taught me is sometimes you just have to let the world roll over you for a few days. Get up brush yourself off and start again. You’re not a machine, but human. Hubby is the same way same date and diagnosis. He’s the second set of eyes for my manuscript after it's done. That didn’t happen either. After a trip to the ER a few days ago, today is day eleven and my butt IS in the chair and I am writing this post. Appetite is starting to return but food is still not my friend. The upside, weight loss is ongoing.  Yippee!

The month long promo planned for February/March is slower than anticipated, but I’m making it work with the help of friends. I’d ask you help with getting the word out on my sale of CHARM ME AGAIN. A blurb about it is below. 

A little about CHARM ME AGAIN on sale for 99¢ for a limited time.

For several months a Scottish Highland Ghost has haunted Daylan, in his personal life, his professional life and at his forge. Yet, being a talented warlock, he is no closer to discovering what the ghost wants or why he chose Daylan. A trip to his estranged sister’s home in Colorado may have unforeseen consequences especially when family history leads him to a shocking discovery.

As his attraction blooms for Josie, a yoga instructor in his sister’s studio, he realizes there may be more to Josie than he can imagine. When an ancient rogue Fae Warrior set on revenge kidnaps her in an attempt to claim her as his own, a devastating curse comes to light.

Daylan’s world spirals out of control as he searches for Josie. Can he break the age old curse to save her and their future, or will she be lost to him forever?

 Amazon,  Barnes & Noble, and Itunes 

 Next month I promise a sunnier post with odes to Spring and chirping birds. LOL

 Until then stay safe and wash your hands, mask up, wipe down your keyboard and mouse, and use hand sanitizer.  We're not out of the woods yet.  

 

 

How to be a Great Critique Partner

 When others talk about writing, and how solitary of a craft it can be, you might be inclined to think about a person sitting alone in a silent room, pouring over their novel. But, at least for me, it's quite the opposite. Sure, if you want to be a writer, you have to get the words out of your lovely head and onto a page for another human to read, but there's so much more to it than just the writing part. Easily, one of the most important parts is having a critique partner. 

A critique partner is the other writing human that reads over your stories/chapters and offers up suggestions based on their own knowledge as a writer. They differ from a beta reader, who may or may not be a writer and are just looking at the story as a whole once it's complete. A critique partner works with you during the project, offering helpful critiques to bring out as much of that story magic as you can.

You've landed yourself a fabulous partner. They read your chapters, give you fantastic suggestions because they really get what you're working on, and they're timely. So, how can you be an awesome partner back? Let's talk about a few things you can do to reciprocate.

1. Read, Stew, Then Reread

We all know how important it is to reread something because the first time you read something, you're simply trying to figure out what's going on. It takes that second time through to pick up on the magical bits that make a story come alive. The same is true when you're a writing partner. Luckily, you're usually moving through a story in smaller chunks, a chapter or two at a time, which should give you plenty of time to read through for story once, and then reread looking for plot holes or other inconsistencies. If you want to take your comments to the next level, give yourself some time (a day or two) to think about the story before the second read through. This will give you time to think about the story on several levels (word choice, plot progression, character development, etc.) before you offer up revision ideas. 

2. Compliment the Parts That are Working

Writing is hard work. As a writer, you're doing your best to entertain as well as connect with a whole bunch of people you've never met. It can be emotionally exhausting. But there are plenty of reasons you should be complimenting your writing partner outside of the sheer emotional costs of writing. 

It's so helpful to reinforce the craft elements that are working in a story. It helps the writer know what to keep doing. Don't let your comments focus only on what isn't working, but throw in some that compliment your writing buddy for what they are doing right. 

You're only seeing the outcome, not the process. In other words, you have no idea how long your writing friends spend on their scenes (unless, of course, they tell you). Compliments not only reinforce good writing techniques but also encourage your partner's efforts.

I use comments like, "I love the emotion here," or "I can tell you've spent a lot of time choosing the best words/verbs."

3. Ask Them What Kind of Feedback They are Looking For

Sounds too easy, right? Most of the time, we as writers, know better than anyone what isn't working in our story. You're writing friend might not want you to spend your time and comments on their character development because they know their story is struggling with imagery. So just ask upfront, "What can I help you with for this submission? What are some concerns you have this time around?"

The best and most basic rule is, of course, to treat your partner with respect. If you're genuinely trying to be helpful, that will help you build a long-lasting and lovely partnership.

What are some other pointers we should add to this list? Comment your favorite critique manners below. 

Happy writing, friends. 

Humanlike Androids - The future?

 

In the 2020 Paranormal Romance Guild’s Reviewer’s Choice Awards, Life for Sale was nominated in Romance/Sci-fi and the series (Love for Sale and Life for Sale about humanlike androids) was nominated in Romance/Sci-fi-Series. How much of these books predicts the future of android technology? 

 Most. It may take 10-20 years to achieve the programming necessary for android feelings and complete autonomous movement (able to walk on human-like legs), but robot technology is on its way to achieving the Special Editions in Life for Sale and Love for Sale, my sci-fi romances about humanlike androids. The Special Editions are totally human in almost every way. They do not eat (no digestive system). In Sleep Mode, they must be near a power outlet to absorb energy. Tears and other bodily fluids must be replenished by infusions into the android’s body. This only occurs every ten years in normal use.

 To add to the pages of sci-fi happening as we speak, humanlike robots are in development that will come near to mimicking human emotions and facial expressions. These robots are in their infancy but amazing!

 Recently, Toshiba introduced Junko Chihira, a very realistic human-like android. She is 5’5”, 26 years old, and her birthday is 6/1. She works in a new tourist information center in Japan. The android speaks Japanese, Chinese, and English—handy if you work in the tourist trade. A hotel in Japan has a robot staff though I read they hat to fire ½ of their robot workers. I wonder if it was for sexual harassment! A female android named Geminoid F stars in a Japanese film from director Koji Fukada. "Sayonara" premiered at the Tokyo International Film Festival.

Erika is a creation of Osaka University, Koyo University, and ATR. She was ‘born’ in Japan in 2015 (the year Love for Sale was published). When Erika is listening, she blinks and moves her eyes and head. The following link is a YouTube video of Erika and a child, illustration AI’s possibilities with children. She is pretty and interacts well. She pauses while she processes in this conversation, but her answers do not sound at all scripted but real-time.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFT7iM3FDUI&feature=youtu.be

Probably the most life-like is the android Sophia by Hanson Robotics. Sophia has appeared on The Tonight Show as well as addressed a UN committee. She has been granted citizenship by Saudi Arabia.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omgJi5-YT6U

Hanson boasts other robots, one designed to look like Einstein.

In 2005, Hanson debuted Philip K. Dick II. He was designed by David Hanson as a robotic version of the popular writer of sci-fi. The original Philip K. Dick android was lost on a flight from Dallas to San Francisco in late 2005. However, in 2011 Hanson Robotics, together with Dutch broadcasting firm VPRO, developed a new version, including state of the art computer vision technology. This robot employs 36 servomotors to power a complex and wide range of facial expressions. These days, PKD serves researchers at the Apollo Mind Initiative.

These are just a few representatives of the strides we are making in humanoid robots. The androids in my books, all products of imagination, are getting closer. In Love for Sale, the androids are being sold as the perfect lovers. Even now, robots are being used as companions for the elderly, in nursing homes, and as teachers with success.

 Would you buy one? I would.

Christian from Love for Sale and Life for Sale:

 

Why are Strawberries so Romantic? by Marilyn Barr

 Is it because they are red, heart-shaped, or a Roman remedy for halitosis?

The Romans were the first to give newlyweds strawberries as wedding presents to help…ahem…with fertility. While their aphrodisiac claims have not been scientifically verified by the US FDA, the Romans were on the right track. Without the aid of modern technology such as a mass spectrophotometer, they correctly identified the berry best consumed when expanding your family. Strawberries are high in folic acid, a B vitamin vital for a healthy pregnancy. Not only are they heart-shaped, but they are also high in Anthocyanins, potassium, and Kaempferol which keep your heart healthy. (plentifulearth.com).

This tradition is still carried on by the French who serve a cold strawberry soup at weddings.  The Romans declared the strawberry as a symbol of Venus and wrote poems about its beauty.  Even Ovid and Virgil wrote poetry about the gentle, sweet fruit.  However, in Roman times, strawberries weren’t considered snacking food.  They were weeds harvested for medicinal purposes or for decorating altars to goddesses such as Venus. (Source University of Illinois “Strawberry Lore”.)

Strawberries are valued in eastern medicine as well. As early as 2600 BC, Chinese royalty drank diluted strawberry leaf tea as an anti-aging tonic. (practicalherbalist.com) Strawberries are associated with the root chakra and increase a person’s ability to love by strengthening their sense of self. This is why I chose the Strawberry to name my fictional Kentucky town in the Strawberry Shifters series. In each book, the main characters find love, not because of a prophesized soulmate test, but because they go on a healing journey to become a stronger version of themselves. Here’s a snippet from Book 2: Round of Applause where Aurora decides she’s ready to take charge of her life.

“Thanks. I took control, made a decision, and followed through for the first time in my life. I wasn’t being herded around like in school or my group of friends. I want to own this. You know?”

“I get it. Your disability will show your story like a tattoo, only greater because your will to live had to be greater.”

“Exactly,” I say.   

Find out what happened to Aurora and how she ended up in a Louisville, Kentucky emergency room when she was headed to Asia in Strawberry Shifters Book 2: Round of Applause. For the Valentine’s Day holiday, this eBook installment of the Strawberry Shifters series is on sale for $1.99. Grab your copy and celebrate strawberries, modern love, unconventional family, and the ability to love growing from learning to love yourself first. Round of Applause on Amazon

Would you travel to the stars to meet your soulmate?

 

A long time ago in a land far far away, an inspiring author devoured novels in the burgeoning trope of SciFi romance. Finally, two of her favorite genres merged. But one thing about those stories bothered her. Why is it most of these books had the woman "kidnapped" or "stolen"? 

That got her thinking, what if an earth woman was given a choice? Would she take the chance to leave everything behind for the promise of true love? Of finding that one mate who would cherish her and never forsake her?

The thought inspired me to work on realizing my dream of becoming a published author. It took two years to complete the first book, and in late 2018, An Alien Exchange was released into the universe. 

Now that it's February 2021, I felt it appropriate to celebrate the month of love by dropping the normal price of  the first book in this series from $3.99 to $0.99! 

As a treat for you, dear friends, I wanted to share with you the scene where the heroine (Aimee) meets an alien (Qay) for the first time. Just before this scene, Aimee is offered the chance to leave earth to meet an alien mate. She doesn't believe the offer is real and insists they prove they are aliens. 

I'd love to hear any comments you may have... enjoy!   

Aimee smoothed her damp palms down the top of her naked thigh and sucked in a breath when he came closer. Damn. She wished she had something to cover herself. The cot didn’t have any removable blanket or sheet to use. Oh well, the T-shirt she’d worn covered the important parts. She crossed her arms over her chest as she watched the figure come closer.

Walking through the shadows, he was at least humanoid in appearance; two arms, two legs, a torso with a head between broad, muscular shoulders. Holy moly, he was tall. He had to be at least a foot taller than her average five-foot-five frame. As he got closer, she decided he didn’t walk but glided in a controlled, fluid manner like someone comfortable in his own skin. Sucked into his laser-like gaze, he reminded her of a predatory animal with prey in sight. He stopped several feet away inside the well-lit room. No longer thinking of making a run for it, she drank in his unusual features.

She stared at his booted feet and the thick black material that protected his calves and ended under his knees. His thighs…thick and firm were covered in a formfitting dark blue cloth that hugged his powerful frame.

Without pause, her eyes roamed upward. Yep…there a massive bulge sat at the apex of his thighs. If he was that big at rest, what….no, don’t go there, Aimee. She swallowed in a dry throat as her gaze skipped to a waist defined by a large black belt made of the same material as his boots. A lighter formfitting blue shirt covered his expansive chest framed by a black vest matching the boots and belt. His powerful arms crossed a thickset, muscled torso.

Star struck, she gawked at him with her mouth open. Any preconceived notion she had about masculine beauty changed. His overt, exceptional maleness matched the images she’s conjured while reading her sci-fi romances.

His skin was a light russet brown nestled by a pearlescent sheen. Hair black as midnight layered with strands of cobalt blue reflected when he moved. A subtle widow’s peak crowned a smooth, wide forehead. A tiny intricate braid at his right temple ended in a long curl at the front of his crotch, framing his manhood. Pulled hair bared ears larger than a human’s, the tips ending in a slight point. A small gold hoop pierced the left tip, twinkling as it danced and teased in the light. Aimee’s lips moistened as she envisioned savoring the combination of warm flesh and cool steel.

She took in his matching black eyebrows. They rose up and down like an upside down V over his almond-shaped eyes framed by a set of thick lashes. Instead of black, his pupils were a dark iridescent green, oval-shaped and surrounded by a ring of dual color. The first ring was a dark emerald with the outer ring a contrasting shade of lighter green. His full lips parted in a patronizing smile and displayed small fangs where human eyeteeth were.

He pulled his arms away from his chest and she noticed he had three fingers on each hand instead of four. Those fingers were long and thick, one digit not any shorter or smaller than another— his thumbs no different than a human.

She sighed, trying to picture how many toes he had.

“Satisfied?” His amused accented tone left no doubt he was making fun of her. “Believe in aliens now?” He leaned against the wall as he crossed his ankles. His dual-emerald eyes caressed and devoured her in a lazy roll.

His casual attitude bugged her. On one hand, she was glad he was an alien and not some sociopath wanting her eyeballs as trophies. He straightened and ambled toward her with a small grin on his full lips. On the other hand, his amusement at her expense was irritating.

A few feet away he stopped. A gape of shock replaced the grinning smirk.

He took in a deep breath and stepped closer. He raised a hand toward her as if he weren’t aware of his actions. Those bright emerald orbs bore into hers with widened pupils before he pulled his hand back and shuddered. Clutching his fingers into a fist, he straightened his back, turned around and left without saying a word.

Whoa, what in the world just happened?

If you'd like to see what happens next, get your copy for only $0.99 or FREE on Kindle Unlimited - 

Thanks for reading!

When Secondary Characters Demand their Story by Mary Morgan

 

As a writer, I’m constantly surprised by the secondary characters in my stories. Often, they emerge silently through a scene. Yet their powerful presence does not go undetected by me or my readers, and they soon demand their own story. Let me expand further with one of my favorite secondary character who also became one of the greatest heroes I’ve written.

The Journey of a Fenian Warrior Leader… 

To understand this great warrior, Aidan Kerrigan, let me tell you about the world of the Fae…

I have always been fascinated with Celtic mythology, so it only made sense that I would develop and expand the world of the Fenian Fae Warriors. Theirs was a world rich in legends, colors, and senses. I’ve based my own fictional account on the legend of the Tuatha Dé Danann—one of the invasions of Ireland. They were known as the Shining Ones or the Fae. The Tuatha Dé Danann were defeated in two battles by the Milesians, whom historians and scholars alike agree were probably the first Gaels in Ireland. It was agreed that the new invaders (Milesians) and the Tuatha Dé Danann would each rule half of Ireland. Therefore, it was that Amergin of the Milesians chose that half of Ireland which lay above ground, leaving the Tuatha Dé Danann to retreat below. They were led underground by Manannán mac Lir, God of the Sea, who shielded them with an enchanted mist from mortal eyes. As time passed, they became known as the Sidhe (Shee), or Ireland’s faery folk. 

The great Aidan Kerrigan was a tale I feared to write. When he first appeared in the story, Dragon Knight’s Medallion, Order of the Dragon Knights, Book 2, I panicked. I did not know he was a Fenian Warrior until he walked through the crowd of people at the airport to greet his daughter, Aileen. His presence loomed mighty and grew with the previous stories in the Legends of the Fenian Warriors. Regardless, I knew then his and Rose’s love story had to be told. 

With each Fenian Warrior’s story, I shared a layer about this Fae. Little did I know when I penned Aidan’s first line of dialogue that he was the leader of the Fenian Warriors, came from royalty, and his sister was Queen of the Fae realm. He chose not to reveal any of this to me. And this is why I became terrified. What more could he share?

Well, dear readers, Aidan made it simple. He told me to write a love story, stating, “For you see, love is greater than all the power attained in the world—be it human or Fae.” 

Therefore, I took you back in time to when Aidan was the leader of the Brotherhood. To when this great warrior had no blemish to stain his life and love tossed his world upside down, altering everything he knew. 

And the lovely Rose MacLaren was a perfect match. As he professed to her, “I saw beauty inside the depth of your soul. Your intelligence would rival any Fae in the herbal gardens, and you possess a wisdom that sparks from a desire to learn more. You challenge me, leannán.”

 

I hope you’ve enjoyed a glimpse behind the scenes of this powerful love story.

 

(Leannán = Gaelic for lover, sweetheart, beloved.)

 As leader of the Fenian Warriors, Aidan Kerrigan’s accolades are many and his loyalty to the Fae unwavering. When an unexpected mission sends him to the human world and a chance encounter with Rose MacLaren, he’s tempted for the first time in his existence to discard duty and claim what is forbidden.

 

Rose MacLaren, a Society of the Thistle member, yearns to expand her botanical knowledge with her love of history. After her rescue by a handsome stranger, she is compelled to look beyond what her rational mind comprehends and unravel the secret of the standing stones, as well as the man who captivates her. 

 

In a mystical world ruled by ancient laws and edicts, can a fierce warrior choose a path destined for love? And will a woman honoring the ways of the land believe in a myth only spoken of in legends? If they do, will their love be enough to defy death’s punishment?

 

On sale for 99¢ for a limited time! 2/12/21 – 2/26/21

AMAZON

 

 

The "Series Bible" by Jessica E. Subject @jsubject #AmWriting #AmWritingRomance #Romance

 

My "Series Bibles"

Hello everyone! It’s great to be back on Paranormal Romantics. This is my first post as a member of the blog in a few years and I'm so happy to be back. For those who don't know me, I write sci-fi and paranormal romance, some MF, some ménage, and some LGBTQ+. My recent series include Alien Next Door, Galactic Defenders, and Shifter Towers. You can find me here on the seventh of each month.

Today, as I work on the first book in a new series, I wanted to talk about my "series bibles." Some may think of them as a series planner, but, to me, they're much more than that. I use them to keep track of my characters, settings, and add multiple odd notes that I need to remember for subsequent stories in the series. Sometimes the information is very important, and other times, it's simply for my own musing. 

Depending on what platform an author uses to write their stories, these "series bibles" can be kept in many different places. I tried writing on the computer with Scrivener, and kept a "series bible" there. I have since gone back to writing in a notebook, and therefore, my "series bibles" are in their own separate notebook, as shown in the above picture.

I start my "series bible" while still in the planning stages of the series and while plotting the first book. And as I write and finish a book in the series, I add notes to my notebook, things to remember when writing the next book. I try to leave spaces so I can add information along the way, but sometimes the pages look like a brainstorming page from when I was planning a story in public school.

These "series bibles" make my life easier as an author. Instead of scrolling or flipping through the pages of an already published book from the series to find information I need, I rely on my "series bible." I can find things so much easier in there.

Map of Saramto from my Shifter Towers "series bible"

If you're a reader, would you be interested in seeing what's contained in an author's "series bible?"

If you're an author, do you use a "series bible," and what type of information do you include inside?

Check out my latest release...

DEMON ON JACKSON STREET

Shifter Towers #5

by Jessica E. Subject

Jet

Once upon a time there was a demon who was the best at convincing people to sell their souls. That was me. Is me. And now I have a new assignment, one Father told me would be difficult. I didn’t know what “difficult” meant until I met the young man, someone who has barely anything. Collecting his soul should be easy, right? There are so many things I can give him. Except, he doesn’t believe he deserves a better life. I have to find something he desires before the assignment is given to my brother. Because Crow uses the most villainous means to obtain souls. Lines I don’t cross. And I don’t want to see Toby hurt. There has to be another way.

Toby

I’m not like them. I can’t shift into a predator to defend myself, or even into a small rodent to run and hide. The wolf shifters know that every time they rough me up and steal my food. I always wish for a guardian angel to protect me from them. Then one day Jet appears, looking nothing like the angel I’d imagined. But I don’t know if I should trust him. He makes me feel things no other alpha ever has. Dangerous things. Not good when I have to stay focused on my grandmother. I don’t know how much longer I’ll have her around.

Available from:

Amazon US | Universal Book Link | Paperback

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A Virtual Book Chat & A Sale

 by Maureen Bonatch

I rarely take selfies and I've never been one to like my photo, but when I took a new job over 2 years ago that was completely virtual, I began spending every day on Zoom video meetings. It took some getting used to, but now, virtual has become the new normal to me, and many.

So when I was asked to do a virtual book chat about Destiny Calling, I hesitated for a minute before I said, sure!  What could be better than talking about books and some of my favorite characters while we are all in the comfort of our own homes? Because I admit, I've become more of a hermit over the past year and now that the temperatures are frigid in our neck of the woods, staying in seems like a good thing.

Win a Signed Book

To sweeten the pot for the virtual event, I'm giving away a signed paperback copy of both books in The Enchantlings series—AND the ebook versions of Destiny Calling and Not a Chance are on sale now for $0.99 cents so you can get your copies to read before the chat. 

Register for the free virtual chat at this link, or get details right here at Bosler Memorial LIbrary's Facebook page. 

The virtual event is Tuesday, February 16th from 5pm- 6pm EST- I hope to see you there!

On Sale Now for $0.99 cents

Destiny Calling (Book 1)

Hope only wants to find out if her ability to infuse euphoria or despair with her touch makes her the devil's spawn, or his exterminator. But when the woman who raised her is murdered by something not human, she loses the only family she knew and discovers one she might wish she hadn’t.

Not a Chance (Book 2)

The last thing Hope Hallows wants is to become the latest headline. Living in a town that likes secrets, she prefers to keep hers hidden. Avoiding a nosy reporter’s questions about her ability to infuse euphoria or despair with a single touch, and those who crave this bliss, is nothing new. But having her brother’s annoying girlfriend, Berta, go missing is—especially when it makes Hope suspect number one.

Have You Gone Virtual This Year?

Author Bio: Maureen Bonatch grew up in small town Pennsylvania and her love of the four seasons—hockey, biking, sweat pants and hibernation—keeps her there. While immersed in writing or reading paranormal romance and fantasy, she survives on caffeine, wine, music, and laughter. A feisty Shih Tzu keeps her in line. 

Find Maureen on her website, Facebook & Twitter Be the first to know about Maureen’s book sales and new releases by following her on BookBub, Amazon and/or signing up for her newsletter

Change by Diane Burton

 

It is not the strongest of the species that survive, nor the most intelligent, but the one most responsive to change.  Charles Darwin

That quote is particularly relevant over the past year. How we deal with change says a lot about our character. I've been known to grouse, complain, and cry over changes. Stiffening my spine and controlling my lip's quiver make me stronger. "Fake 'til you make it." Now that's something I can identify with.

Have you seen the commercial for a drug (an antidepressant, I think) where a woman holds a smiling mask in front of her face, telling everyone she's okay? I've done that, too. I don't want to admit my life is a mess. After a time of faking that I'm okay, I convince myself I am.

When our governor shut down schools last March, I watched in admiration as teachers changed from in-person teaching to virtual. Parents stepped up and worked with their kids using this new medium. Was it easy? No way.

Restaurant managers filled an empty spot in our lives and offered take-out. It sort of  replaced our weekly night out dining and kept their staff working. Door Dash, Uber Eats, and Grub Hub exploded in popularity. As did Shipt and Instacart.

We learned to adapt.

I hate to shop, especially for groceries, because I have chronic low back pain. I'd heard of grocery delivery but never tried it. Until covid. Hubs and I hunkered down and stayed away from people. For a while I did curbside pickup. Then came the time when I couldn't leave Hubs alone for fear of him falling. Delivery service was like a miracle.

We talk about the time when we can get back to normal. I don't think we ever will. At least, not the "normal" we knew. We will have a new normal. Mask wearing and social distancing will be around for a while. It's not easy. Change never is. We like our status quo. 

Change is always around the corner. How we adapt to change is the key. What changes have you had to make?