Showing posts with label Thanksgiving. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Thanksgiving. Show all posts

Monday, November 25, 2024

Life Is But a Dream . . . by Nancy Gideon

I’m not much for napping, but on bone-achingly cold days like this week’s here in Michigan, after staying up too late (a rarity for me!) and getting woken up too early by hungry cats, stretching out atop the covers for just a minute of shuteye in my upstairs bedroom away from family and felines had undeniable appeal. I’d planned to just relax and get comfortable while mulling over some plot stickers in my newest project, but just like that, hours disappeared.


I don’t know about you, but daytime dreams are vastly different for me than nighttime dreams. They linger there on the edge of conscious thoughts, so real it takes a minute to determine if you’ve been asleep or mulling over future plans and past mistakes. But the instant you try to grab on to their content – poof – gone. I could have plotted out that next novel. I might have figured out how to juggle two upcoming holidays meals or how to maneuver that shy little kitty that’s been hanging out on our deck into the house. But all I have are achy muscles and rumpled clothes . . . and the feeling that I’d discovered something important in that out-of-body state that I can no longer recall.

But then. Maybe it’ll come back to me . . . in a dream.

Wishing you happy events, over-loaded tabletops and safe travel this upcoming week wherever and with whomever you may be celebrating!

♚♚♚♚♚
Nancy Gideon on the Web

Wednesday, November 22, 2023

Thankful Author by Tena Stetler

 


What am I thankful for? First and foremost, I’m thankful for the ability to record my favorite TV programs and fast forward through all the political ads! The mudslinging, public airing of dirty laundry (we all have some, but know better than publicly declare it), outright lies, and finger-pointing by all involved are fast-forwarded away.

Regardless of your candidate or their platform, we all have to pull up our big girl and boy pants and support this country. It may not be perfect, but in my book, it’s still the greatest nation in the world, just my humble opinion, and don’t you forget it. <giggle>

Jamming my soapbox back under the bed. (Whew) Now let’s get on with the other things this thankful author is thankful for. First of all, I’m thankful to have food on the table, I am nearly healthy enough to enjoy life (had a bout of health issues the last couple of years), and for the roof over my head.

Bless the hearts of my wonderful readers, I am so thankful for them. I hope my tales of paranormal creatures have helped them forget their troubles or relax by slipping into worlds of magic, fantasy, and mystery, if only for a few hours.  Though it’s been nearly ten years and eighteen books published, I still wake up and pinch myself every morning, thankful to be living my dream of being a published author.  A dream made possible by my supportive, extraordinary husband of many moons, and The Wild Rose Press, my amazing publisher. My editor, (though she’s retired now), well, let’s just say…she rocked! I’m so thankful for her patience and understanding.  Next chapter of publishing will be with a new editor. He/she’s got some big shoes to fill, but I’m sure they’ll be up to the task. Oh, yeah, and I’m thankful for the helpful, supportive authors of The Wild Rose Press!  They are always willing to lend a hand.

When my characters run amuck, the story plot flows in ten different directions and none of them what I had in mind. Like my recently completed manuscript and soon to be submitted. (Yeah, I know you plotters never have that happen, but us pansters… well just saying.) Three little words, “You’ve got this” are music to my ears from my family and friends. I am eternally thankful for their encouragement and support.

I am thankful for the unconditional love of my chow dog, spoiled parrot and box turtle. No matter how bad I feel or screw up, in their eyes, I’m darn near perfect. And I’m certainly not going to tell them any different!

Finally, a day never passes without my thanks to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces whose dedication keeps our great nation free. (Comes from living in a military town all my life & marrying a soldier.)  We are one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. You may not agree with me, but that’s what is great about this nation.  You don’t have to.  I’m entitled to my own opinion, as are you. I can write books on any topic I choose without fear of a midnight knock on my door or being carted away. Unless of course, our characters come to life, then we’re all in trouble. ROFLOL

While this thankful author has lot more to be thankful for, those are the biggies. I wish you all love, laughter and happy Thanksgiving!

Okay, one more shameless promo for my feel-good Christmas tale, Meringue Snowflake Magic.

After being in the wrong place at the wrong time Wynter Dahl finds herself with a new name and new home.  Whisked into the Witness Protection program she finds herself in the Podunk town of Raven’s Hollow, Colorado.  She has more than one secret to keep and is not sure who she can trust, though the deputy sheriff is hard to resist.

Braydon “Blaze” Nightwing, owns Dragon Fire Pizza and takes his job as deputy sheriff seriously. He means to protect his town and its residents, including the mysterious newcomer. He rescues her after a tumble and finds himself in over his head.  He senses she’s more than she seems but so is he.

When her cover is blown and her life is in danger, it will take the whole town to save her and their annual holiday festival and cookie contest. What is Christmas without a little magic?

Tiny Sneak Peek between the pages of Meringue Snowflake Magic

The sun was warm through her large side window as she stood sipping her tea and admiring the newly fallen snow that sparkled like diamonds on the ground. Several children were running up and down the hill diagonally across the street with old-fashioned wooden and newer sleds that looked like strips of brightly colored plastic. They flew down the hill at break-neck speed. She took another sip of tea, choked, and spit it all over the window, blinds, and herself. Did that little girl just unfurl blue iridescence wings and hover above the others, throwing snowballs? She blinked, rubbed her eyes and stared at the scene outside her window. Sure enough, there were now three children hovering in the air, waging war with snowballs on the others sliding down the slope. One had fallen off a sled and transformed into a furry wolf rolling down the hill. What kind of a place have I been relegated to?

Suddenly the doorbell rang, she bobbled her mug spilling more tea on the light gray carpet in front of the window.  Geez, what now? On her way to the door, she tore off a couple of paper towels and dropped them on the stain. Pausing to look through the peephole, she hissed out a breath and yanked open the door. The children with wings, pointed ears, and fur were temporarily forgotten.

Meringue Snowflake Magic makes a great Christmas gift for book lovers Kindle or other electronic devices.

Tuesday, November 29, 2022

Harvest Moon by @meganslayer #gay gayromance #thanksgiving #romance #hotholidayread #PNR

 


Harvest Moon by Megan Slayer

Contemporary, Paranormal, LGBTQ, Holiday Romance

Thanksgiving Romance

Short Story

Megan Slayer Publications

 

What’s a guy to do when the time to be with family is the time he dreads the most?

All Matt Green wants for Thanksgiving is to propose to his boyfriend in the most epic way he knows—in front of their families. There’s only one catch. His boyfriend, Reed Jordan, doesn’t do family gatherings. To be honest, Reed isn’t wild about Thanksgiving, but he won’t say why.

Matt’s willing to do anything in order to get Reed to talk, but will it make the holiday perfect or ruin all of Matt’s plans? The Harvest Moon just might be the right omen to make everything all right.

This book has been re-edited for this re-issue.

 

Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09R6T9Q2J

          Universal Link: https://books2read.com/u/4ApdOq

Read the full series on amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09R29FJVG

Also in print: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XLVCQXG

 

 

EXCERPT:

©Megan Slayer, 2022, All Rights Reserved

 

Reed stood at the counter. He’d told his boyfriend he’d be home at three. The way things were looking, he’d be more than an hour late. Damn it.

Beside him, his co-worker, Jagger, rang up a female customer with a little girl. The woman had bought a couple of Thanksgiving books. The brightly colored turkey and leaves on the top book caught Reed’s attention.

Thanksgiving. He didn’t mind giving thanks for the good things in his life. He also didn’t mind the food. What he hated were the gatherings. He wished the need to bring family to one house was not the rule. Maybe he was losing his mind, but he hated the togetherness. He’d been able to dodge the holiday for the last ten years, but since he’d met Matt, he knew he wasn’t going to get around the festivities for much longer. Matt liked family functions and preferred big parties. Reed wasn’t even sure a big family party was possible.

He finished typing out a reply email to the customer in search of an out-of-print book. Thankfully, the store had the book. He sent the customer the expected price and shipping options. He glanced at his watch once more. Less than two days until Thanksgiving. The store would be open on Wednesday, but he wasn’t working. If the customer needed the book, he could wait until Friday.

The last time he and Matt had talked about the holiday, Matt’s sister, Emily and her boyfriend were supposed to be spending the day with them. He could handle that. He liked Matt’s sister and loved her son, Nattie. Still, he wanted a small dinner, not a gigantic situation. He sighed. At least with Em and Matt, he wasn’t going to have to deal with accusations.

“I’m off until Friday morning,” Reed said to Jagger. “If there is a crisis, call me, but try not to have a crisis.”

“That’s the plan.” Jagger grinned. “You can trust us. We won’t let you down. Now go, so Matt doesn’t think you got lost.”

“Deal.”

Thursday, November 25, 2021

Being Thankful by Nancy Gideon


We made it to November 2021. Be Thankful! After the year we all had, enough said.

Of course, being a writer I couldn’t leave it at that. I have a list a mile long of people and things that have stuffed this year full of gratitude. Here are just a few of them:
  1. Family, all well and (mostly) together for the holiday after a year of isolation! Who thought eating together in a restaurant would seem like such a cause for thanks?
  2. A dream trip to Ireland for three weeks with writer friends,
  3. Starting a new project during above listed trip,
  4. The CDC and Anthony Fauci for getting us this far,
  5. My sister for housing my grouchy butt along with my grouchy son for the past five years,
  6. My cats for keeping me grounded and reminding me that my main purpose in life is to keep their bowls filled,
  7. My office’s window on the world – just treetops changing with the seasons and sky changing as fast as my moods . . . and sometimes hot guys roofing the family room!
  8. My virtual assistant who handles all the tech aggravations. THANKS, Florence, My Girl Friday (and every day!),
  9. My critique group who still supports each other after 30 years,
  10. Netflix.
  11. Food on the table, every day,
  12. HEALTH! (never to be underappreciated!),
  13. Higher brain function . . . even though finding the right word or where I left my phone sometimes becomes a Mapquest event,
  14. Community. I never realized how much I missed seeing neighbors (even when they host loud parties!),
  15. Going to the store (a loathed event now a celebrated occasion!), and, last but hardly least...
  16. YOU GUYS, for filling my month with inspiration (and sometimes a guilty conscience) along with the desire to get back to the keyboard!
That’s far from everything, but I have Thanksgiving Part Deux to get ready for. Hope it finds you healthy, happy, well fed, and surrounded by family or at least, memories to last a lifetime.

♚♚♚♚♚
Nancy Gideon on the Web




Monday, November 22, 2021

Thanksgiving is coming and I'm Thankful! By Tena Stetler

I have to say this year has been difficult from beginning to end. But when I sit down and think about it, I have many things to be thankful for. While my hubby and I both contracted COVID in February 2021,(still have lingering effects), we survived. So I’m thankful! Then there is the first responders, nurses, doctors, and others, thank you, without all of you things could be a lot worse.

My wonderful readers are fantastic and I am so thankful for them. I sincerely hope my tales of paranormal creatures sweep them away from their ordinary world into a magical, romantic fantasy adventure or mystery if only for a few hours.  We all need fantasy these days. Don’t you agree?

Thinking back to when I was able to meet my readers at book signings we had a blast! Hope to be able to do it again in 2022. Fingers crossed

Six years and fifteen books later, I still wake up and pinch myself every morning, thankful to be living my dream being a published author.  A dream made possible by my supportive, extraordinary husband of many moons and The Wild Rose Press my amazing publisher. My editor, Lill, well, let’s just say…SHE ROCKS! I’m so thankful for her patience and understanding. (Discovering new and creative way to screw up seems to be my specialty.) Yep, my face turns bright red every time I think about it. Oh, yeah, and I’m thankful for the helpful, supportive authors of The Wild Rose Press!  They’re always willing to lend a hand.

When my characters run amuck, the story plot flows in ten different directions and none of them what I had in mind AND a deadline looms, (yeah, I know you plotters never have that happen, but us pansters… well just saying), three little words, “You’ve got this” are music to my ears from my family and friends. I am eternally thankful for their encouragement and support.

I am thankful for the unconditional love of my chow dog, Mystic; spoiled parrot, Taco; and box turtle, Sammie. No matter how bad I feel or goof up, in their eyes, I’m darn near perfect. And I’m certainly not going to tell them any different!

Finally, a day never passes without my thanks to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces whose dedication keeps our great nation free. (I know you’ve heard me say this before, but I can’t help it. Comes from living in a military town all my life & marrying a soldier.)  We are one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. You may not agree with me, but that’s what is great about this nation.  You don’t have to.  I’m entitled to my own opinion, as are you. I can write books on any topic I choose without fear of a midnight knock on my door or being carted away. Unless of course my characters come to life, then we’re all in trouble. <Giggle>

While I have a lot more to be thankful for such as a roof over my head — About the roof over my head, I’m still waiting for a self-cleaning house. LOL January will bring a long overdue kitchen remodel. I can’t wait! I’m thankful to have enough to eat and clothes on my back.  What are you thankful for?

Having listed the biggies, I wish you all love, laughter and Happy Thanksgiving!

After the big dinner is done and you sit down to relax, I have a suggestion. A WITCH’S QUANDARY now out in audiobook.  Just put on those headphones and be whisked away!


What’s A Witch’s Quandary about you ask?
A Broken Engagement leads to the discovery of stolen magic and malice. Can they weather the storm?

Gale's engagement is off because she refuses to leave her thriving business in Ireland to follow Dillon to Scotland. Her family and friends are on the emerald isle. Yet, when Dillon returns with the whole story and asks for her help, she must follow her heart.

 Becoming a Solicitor, then partner in the family law firm was never Dillon's dream. Now it's his nightmare. Called to Scotland, his father demands he take his rightful place in the firm or be disowned and disinherited. Something is terribly amiss in the firm and family.

 During Gale and Dillon's investigation, they discover the enforcer for the Demon Overlord is also delving into rumors the firm is acting illegally. Magic has been stolen, someone is being blackmailed, and a member of the Witch's council is corrupt. If Gale and Dillon want a life together in Ireland, they have to unearth secrets threatening to destroy the firm and family in Scotland.

 Buy Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Witchs-Quandary-Demons-Witch-Book-ebook/dp/B095291TGN

 Audible:   https://www.audible.com/pd/A-Witchs-Quandary-Audiobook/B09LXTG2SX?

Wednesday, November 25, 2020

BE THANKFUL . . . by Nancy Gideon


Who can’t wait to leave 2020 behind! Raise your hand. What has this year given us to be grateful for? Panic. Anger. Loss. Isolation. Misinformation. Fear. We huddle in our homes mourning the loss of the freedoms we took for granted, including the ability to gather together on this holiday with those we love. We isolate because we love them, because we look ahead to that time when we can open our doors and put this quarantine safely behind us. Face it, in the future when we look back on this year, this will be our overwhelming reaction: 


(Thanks to my very clever bakery owner niece whose Mad Batter, LLC offers these socks for sale on her site: The Mad Batter).

This constant anxiety has done more than affect our day-to-day freedoms. It’s also placed a burden on our creativity. Our COVID brains struggle with those happily-ever-afters and plot twists our WIPs demand. One saving grace for me, since I just started a new contemporary project, is Zoom. I’ve been able to real time with my two writing groups and listen to speakers from across the country. I’ve been able to chat and critique with my PotL writing pals several times a month – more frequently now than when we were face-to-face. Real people, real conversations! So, this is me in the COVID world, doing what I do, remembering my motto: “Writers are never on break, They are either writing, thinking of writing or rewriting what was written.” 


Another way to put things into proportion is this article on things 1st graders are thankful for this Thanksgiving. Out of the mouths of babes . . . 



Me and my household will be enjoying a carry-out meal from Bob Evans (probably for days!) doing our part to keep local businesses going. (Yes, I’m happily taking one for the team by sacrificing those five hours at the stove!) We’ll be messaging family and friends to keep them close in our hearts, if not our homes.

Enjoy this holiday quiz while preparing or consuming your feast c/o Meebily. Visit this link for more holiday fun: Thanksgiving Trivia


Another thing I’m thankful for . . . YOU!! Stay safe and happy holiday!

♚♚♚♚♚
Nancy Gideon on the Web


Friday, November 29, 2019

Thanksgiving, Windstorms and Power Outages with @MeganSlayer #gay #gayromance #erotic #life

It's craziness at my house. It's the day after Thanksgiving and we lost power on Wednesday due to the horrible wind storm, then due to the same storm, lost internet on Thanksgiving, so I'm getting back up to speed on things...like blogging. Thankfully, we have power and internet, so I'm back in business. But it made for an interesting Thanksgiving, wondering if we'd have power to cook with. Internet, it's not the best thing to lose it, but it's not horrible, either. I kind of liked having the day to be with family and not worry about anything else.

Since I'm getting back up to speed, here's a preview of one of my Thanksgiving themed stories. I love this series and am happy to share it with you!


Harvest Moon by Megan Slayer

Moon Series, book 2
Also part of the Bleh! Turkey! Series
MLR Press
Contemporary, Paranormal, Holiday
Short Story
M/M, Anal Sex
What's a guy to do when the time to be with family is the time he dreads the most?


All Matt Green wants for Thanksgiving is to propose to his boyfriend in the most epic way he knows-in front of their families. There's only one catch. His boyfriend, Reed Jordan, doesn't do family gatherings. To be honest, Reed isn't wild about Thanksgiving, but he won't say why.


Matt's willing to do anything in order to get Reed to talk, but will it make the holiday perfect or or ruin all of Matt's plans? The Harvest Moon just might be the right omen to make everything all right.

Available now at:


EXCERPT:
©Megan Slayer, 2019, All Rights Reserved

Reed stood at the counter. He’d told his boyfriend he’d be home at three. The way things were looking, he’d be more than an hour late. Damn it.
Beside him, his co-worker, Jagger, rang up a female customer with a little girl. The woman had bought a couple of Thanksgiving books. The brightly colored turkey and leaves on the top book caught Reed’s attention.
Thanksgiving. He didn’t mind giving thanks for the good things in his life. He also didn’t mind the food. What he hated were the gatherings. He wished the need to bring family to one house was not the rule. Maybe he was losing his mind, but he hated the togetherness. He’d been able to dodge the holiday for the last ten years, but since he’d met Matt, he knew he wasn’t going to get around the festivities for much longer. Matt liked family functions and preferred big parties. Reed wasn’t even sure a big family party was possible.
He finished typing out a reply email to the customer in search of an out-of-print book. Thankfully, the store had the book. He sent the customer the expected price and shipping options. He glanced at his watch once more. Less than two days until Thanksgiving. The store would be open on Wednesday, but he wasn’t working. If the customer needed the book, he could wait until Friday.
The last time he and Matt had talked about the holiday, Matt’s sister, Emily and her boyfriend were supposed to be spending the day with them. He could handle that. He liked Matt’s sister and loved her son, Nattie. Still, he wanted a small dinner, not a gigantic situation. He sighed. At least with Em and Matt, he wasn’t going to have to deal with accusations.
“I’m off until Friday morning,” Reed said to Jagger. “If there is a crisis, call me, but try not to have a crisis.”
“That’s the plan.” Jagger grinned. “You can trust us. We won’t let you down. Now go, so Matt doesn’t think you got lost.”
“Deal.”

Tuesday, November 29, 2016

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year by @MeganSlayer

The most wonderful time of the year...is now! 

Have you heard that a ton of times? I have. For the longest time, I wondered what that meant. Now, follow me here. I don't mean, I didn't know Christmas was awesome. That's not it. 

In the last few years, it's been tough around this time of the year. Two of my grandparents passed away in December - not the same year, but it's never easy. I was blessed with extra grandparents. At one time, I had four sets. Yep, four. Grandparents and Great-Grandparents. Honestly, it was very cool. Also a culture clash, but I miss it. I miss them. I see ornaments given to us by them or even just the stuff we inherited and it's tough.

Besides, 2016 has been a tough year. Our first dog, the one we've had a long time - almost 14 years - passed away. This has been the first holiday season without her. We have other dogs and the cats, but she was one of our children. Explaining to people why a song or a commercial makes me cry is rough. Canon in D makes me think of when I got married, which makes me think of being young and getting the dog... and yeah, tears.

But over Thanksgiving, I came to a realization. I looked at all of the reasons I wasn't fond of this time of the year and got depressed. But that's now that the holiday season is for. Sure, we should look back on the year and our lives and reflect. But it's more than that. For me, it's looking back on the things that happened and the fun. What did we accomplish? How did we grow.

I managed to deal with health problems, survived surgery and am so glad I went through the trial. I feel better, that's for sure.

I wrote in a Kindle World. That was big. I did a completely self-published project and put it out. 

I'm raising the boy and successfully got him through another Cross Country season. He improved his time and is doing 5k races after the season. 

Dh is my biggest support and I love him. We've grown a ton through the year.

I visited the Cincinnati Reds baseball park. #win

I've got great friends who have my back and I cherish them.

I've got goals for next year. Writing another kindle world book, continuing the Sanctuary series, continuing the Cedarwood series... writing as much as the muse allows... and being happy for what I have and those in my life. 

What about you? What are you looking forward to? What's on your 2017 bucket list? I'd love to know. Maybe we can compare notes. :-)

Here's a book that was a bright spot for me in 2015, Harvest Moon :-)

Harvest Moon by Megan Slayer  
Moon Series, book 2Also part of the Bleh! Turkey! SeriesMLR PressContemporary, Paranormal, HolidayShort StoryM/M, Anal SexWhat's a guy to do when the time to be with family is the time he dreads the most?
All Matt Green wants for Thanksgiving is to propose to his boyfriend in the most epic way he knows-in front of their families. There's only one catch. His boyfriend, Reed Jordan, doesn't do family gatherings. To be honest, Reed isn't wild about Thanksgiving, but he won't say why.
Matt's willing to do anything in order to get Reed to talk, but will it make the holiday perfect or or ruin all of Matt's plans? The Harvest Moon just might be the right omen to make everything all right. Available now at:MLR Press: http://www.mlrbooks.com/Bookstore.php?bookid=MSHARVMNAmazon: http://www.amazon.com/Harvest-Moon-Megan-Slayer-ebook/dp/B00PYVBTBY/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1416954595&sr=8-9&keywords=megan+slayer * * * * * 
Megan Slayer - It's Always Fun to Squirm
Subscribe to our newsletter ~ http://ymlp.com/xgjmjumygmgj 

Sunday, November 13, 2016

Traditions in World Building by Diane Burton


We take for granted holiday traditions in our lives. Thanksgiving, for most of us, means turkey with myriad accompaniments followed by tryptophan coma and football. The accompaniments are dictated by regional preferences and family expectations. At our house, I always made a sage dressing the way my mom did. Despite Hubs’ dislike for sweet potatoes, I made Mom’s version of candied sweet potatoes by drizzling maple syrup over canned yams, dot with butter, and bake. Never mind Aunt Cora and I were the only ones to eat it. LOL Now that my daughter has taken over hosting family Thanksgiving dinner, she combines our food traditions with her husband’s. He cooks the turkey with his family’s stuffing recipe, and she makes Grandma Burton’s cranberry salad. But one thing never changes—both daughter and her husband and Hubs and I celebrate our wedding anniversaries. We followed in my mother and grandmother’s tradition of being married on Thanksgiving Day.

In my science fiction romances, I lightly explore traditions on planets far, far away. On Traish, one of the Central Planets in my Outer Rim series, the inhabitants revere the First Mother. Matriarch’s Day, celebrates First Mother and all mothers. When Traishans, like other explorers from the Central Planets, left their homes for the Outer Rim, they brought religious and secular traditions with them. But with so many differing customs, the Rim became a melting pot (sound familiar?) and an amalgamation of traditions. Even inventing new ones.

World building can be a fun exercise prior to writing a story. Or, as the story develops, the need for certain aspects of culture arises. I don’t plan my stories too far ahead. I’m sort of a combination plotter and pantser, heavy on the latter. When I start a new story, I have the beginning already in my mind. I know the ending (usually) and a couple of key plot points. If I had to plot out the whole story, I’d lose interest, because I’d already “told” the story. Besides, I love seeing how my characters will direct the story.

Because I like writing a series, I need to keep track of all the details, which I do in a separate file entitled “details.” Real original, huh? As I write, it will occur to me to question why the characters do or say certain things. Was that a remnant from the culture of their home planet or one cultivated in the new environment? Then I add that to the details file—so I remember for the next story.

Why go to all this trouble with customs and traditions? Because they make the story richer. Because readers can identify with strangeness if it’s similar enough to their own lives.

What stories have you read that take place in another world and made you think how similar it was to your own life?


Diane Burton writes science fiction romance, romantic suspense, and cozy mysteries. Whether they take place in this world or in space, she combines adventure, romance, and humor in all her stories.

Thursday, November 28, 2013

What would you do if your neighbor were a...?



Happy Thanksgiving to all of my American peeps out there! I hope you're feasting on wonderful food and enjoying time with your family and friends. Oh, and get lots of sleep so you can shop tomorrow at the Black Friday sales.

I'm from Canada, so we already celebrated our Thanksgiving in October. It's a good thing we have ours earlier, because in November, weather is so unpredictable in Canada. It was nice at the beginning of the month, and this past weekend, temperatures dropped to below freezing, and we got snowed on. That leads to neighbors helping neighbors clear the snow in their driveway and more. I live in a neighborhood where we all pretty much know each other. And when it snows, we do help each other out. Those with snowblowers help those who don't have them.

But what if you don't know your neighbors that well? Or what if your neighbors have secrets that they don't want anyone to find out? In the city I live in, many people work shift work at factories. Someone on the midnight shift could easily be a vampire. And you never know who might be a demon.

In my Alien Next Door series, the neighbors are aliens, and will only reveal what they are to their true love. But, what would you do if you found out your neighbor was an alien? Would it help if they were sexy? ;)

*Alien Adoration, the first book in the Alien Next Door series is ON SALE for only 99 CENTS at All Romance eBooks!


Bio:

Jessica Subject is the author of contemporary and science fiction romance, ranging from sweet to sexy. In her stories, you could meet clones, or a sexy alien or two. You may even be transported to another planet for a romantic rendezvous.

When Jessica isn't reading, writing, or doing dreaded housework, she likes to get out and walk. Fast. But she just may slow down if there is a waterfall nearby.

Jessica lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband and two energetic children. And she loves to hear from her readers. You can find her at jessicasubject.com and on twitter @jsubject.

Friday, November 22, 2013

Wereturkeys

I've read a lot of paranormal stories in my life. Oodles of them. Creative use of shifters, histories and explanations can make an okay book into something amazing.

That said, some things leave me scratching my head. I love werewolves, and I love when the classic is revamped with a great explanation or starting point. I also love other shifters. Some, however, just don't do it for me.

Shifters That Just Don't Do It For Me:

ducks-quacking isn't sexy

platypus-funny, yes, but so awkward

giraffes-I think it's the neck. I imagine the human form having the unreasonably long neck and get all giggly.

Shifters I Haven't Read, But Think I Might Like

snakes-I think it's the eyes. I have in mind a series that includes a snake shifter--could be super sexy.

elephant-Okay, I get the size ratio thing might take some logistics fussing, but I can just imagine what the guy would look like...and I don't hate it.


What trips your shifter trigger? Have you read any that were unique and really got your attention?

Oh, and happy Thanksgiving to my American friends. I hope you have a blessed day with those you love, and keep the attitude of gratitude all year round.

All the best,
Stephanie Beck
www.stephaniebeck.net
www.facebook.com/StephanieBeckAuthor
www.twitter.com/StephBeck123

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

I blame Thanksgiving!

It's been mentioned that I'm in the Christmas spirit a little too early this year...by my British friends on Facebook. This is true, I have been in the festive mood prematurely. And I've found this happy, seasonal feeling is sneaking upon me earlier and earlier each year I'm in the States. I've only just clicked why this is.
Thanksgiving!
The lead up to this holiday, and Black Friday, means Christmas is on my mind much earlier. Holiday shopping will be completed if not before then on Black Friday (around Thanksgiving for my non American Friends -- it's the day when all stores have door busters and supposed mega sales). And the decorations go up before November is finished because of this extra winter holiday we now partake in.

If that isn't enough to get me in the spirit sooner than usual, I've also got parcels coming in from family who, like myself, have sent out the presents early to beat the extra charges the post office like to slap on boxes with promises of delivering before the holiday.

It's no wonder my writing has slowed down considerably with all these holiday arrangements going on. I've even got to order our Christmas foods this week, to ensure our favorites from the UK will make it to our table on Christmas Day. Crazy!

It won't be long before I'm making a huge batch of Mince Pies! It isn't the holidays without these babies.

MINCE PIE RECIPE: http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/recipes/mincepies_73207
MINCE PIE FILLING IS AVAILABLE AT WORLD MARKET and AMAZON. It's a fruit blend, not meat - thought I should clear that up, just in case)

Also, I wonder if the fact that I have a holiday romance coming out in a few weeks has something to do with my extra early celebrations? Could be...


Coming November 30th 2012
HOT WINTER KISS, book 4
Hot winter kisses are all this couple needs to stay warm this Christmas, but will the heat stay long after the magical season of mistletoe has finished?


A small tease from Hot Winter Kiss
She scuttled in and sat near a window, her back to the ugly painting so she could admire a beautiful view instead, albeit it one covered in a blanket of brilliant white snow. Wind danced around the evergreens and whistled around the walls of her winter paradise. In the distance, a wee stone cottage sat by itself, a little boy building a snowman by the front door. Had it snowed like this back in London? Were her grandkids sledding through the estate and playing games? She’d have been black and blue from snowballs by now. She chuckled. Guess it’s not Christmas without some injury or other. A bruised ankle, I can deal with. But no more, you hear me, St Nick?


ALSO AVAILABLE from the bestselling Irish Kisses 1Night Stand series:
Sweet Irish Kiss, book 1
Shamrocked, book 2
Threesome Sweetness, book 3

Get exclusive sneak peeks at JoAnne Kenrick's new and upcoming releases by signing up to her quarterly newsletter here: http://tinyletter.com/joannekenrick 
Discover more about JoAnne's books here: www.joannekenrick.com

Monday, November 12, 2012

Creating a tradition by breaking the mold.

I love Thanksgiving. Hands down it’s my favorite holiday. Eating without guilt. An excuse to make FIVE different pies! What’s not to love? But my Thanksgiving wasn’t always moist turkey with cornbread stuffing, sweet potatoes, and FIVE pies.  My mother’s idea of Thanksgiving dinner was a turkey roll (not sure what kind of meat this was), a box of stovetop stuffing and a hostess pie warmed up with ice cream on it. Now don’t get me wrong, I looked forward to picking out my pie every year but as I became a mother I decided I want my tribe members to have a different memory of Thanksgiving.
A romance is about falling in love. As writers we take this and twist it into our own.  Like my Thanksgiving dinner is different than my mother’s no two writers will tell the same exact story.  Some may write of werewolves, vampires, or mermaids (like my January release). Other’s may stick all humans and throw in a serial killer for spice.
Readers want a variety. So as a writer don’t be afraid to try something new but know sometimes it will work sometimes it won’t. I could share my Thanksgiving horror stories of raw turkey or of sweet potatoes I baked for three hours but I won’t. Instead let me tell you, my turkey is juicy and my sweet potatoes are the most requested dish in our family.  Just as some of the stories I’ve written should never be read, others are good and as I write more - I improve.
I think this year for Thanksgiving I’m going to make a pumpkin soup. Something I’ve never tried. And in 2013, I’m going to try to write a steampunk.  
What would you like to try to write?

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

A Time for Thanks

This post will be short and sweet because it’s a busy day. The day before Turkey Day, folks, when everyone gets to gobble till we wobble!

Anyway, I’m taking this moment to utter a few words of thankfulness. This last year has been incredible in my writing career. I’ve expanded out of my comfort zones and written things I’ve never dreamed I could—or would ever—write. What’s more, I enjoyed every moment of it.

This week signals the third anniversary of signing my very first book contract, the time when I took my first fledgling steps into the big, bad world of publishing. I’ve floundered a few times but I’ve kept on going.

Now, as I get ready to celebrate starting my fourth year of writing for publication, I can’t help but feel that I’m standing at the edge of a new adventure. I can’t wait to find out where I can go from here.

And readers, if you’re lurking about the blog today, a hearty THANKS to you. Without you none of this would be possible.

I also want to give thanks for my wonderfully patient husband who has to listen to my plot ideas, character issues and general up and down moments in my life. We survived the bad times this year, babe, and here's to another year down.

Everyone, I hope you enjoy your holidays this weekend and shop till you drop. Eat turkey responsibly and enjoy fun and fellowship with all those you see this weekend.

Friday, November 20, 2009

Where has it gone?

Summer, fall both just slipped by. Thanksgiving is next Thursday! Where did it go, I haven't gotten warm yet and the cold is already here. One thing that is good: these two months laden with holidays and celebrations fly by and before we know it - it'll be January, then February and, HOORAY! March. I know I'm getting ahead of myself but it helps to think nice weather is just around the corner. Although, I am thankful for the last few days the weather hasn't been too bad.

And that brings me to all the different things I'm thankful for. The list below IS in order.

My cats: Lord, Patty, Wolf and Jewel.
My kid. (okay maybe I could shuffle these around)
My sisters: Boz, Gilda and Edy without whom I'd have no heroines. Truly.
My girlfriends, Pat and Nancy who've been so encouraging. Without their constant prodding, I'd have never taken the steps to be published.
My critters: who may fall last on the list but are in no way least. I mean that, sincerely.

Above all, God, for giving me so much this year.

Have you looked around your city, our country and the world! To be able to sit here and type this - I'm one of the lucky ones. Pay attention to those you love, prayer for others less fortunate will never hurt. If you can't be with those you love over the next few weeks, call them and tell them. If you are fortunate enough to be surrounded by loved ones, hug them, tell them.

Enough. I'm not the mushy type so that's it for now.

A few things I'd like to remind people of is today Queen of the Ghost Drakon releases and Liena Ferror did an awesome interview over at A Sovereign Spot. Drop by and give her your good wishes. It's her FIRST release day. Remember those and how good it felt to have other's drop by and say congratulations?

Also the 12 Days of Christmas Blog Party is fast approaching, December 13th is only around the corner. Sandra Sookoo has put together quite an event with lots of wonderful authors, you won't want to miss it. She created a masterpiece of a video to advertise the event and HERE'S the link if you'd like to view the names of the authors who will be looking forward to seeing you and there will be great prizes. Mark this on your calendar.

Remember: Growl and roar-it's okay to let the beast out. - © J. Hali Steele