Writing The End by Tena Stetler

The End two of the post powerful words a writer puts to paper or computer screen. Means after much consideration, trial and error, I’ve crafted a beginning that will catch and hold my readers attention. Not an easy feat.

Then I slog through the saggy middle desperate to keep the pace moving and maybe even present a surprise or two to taunt my readers and uphold my characters mission.

In the end, I made sure all the loose ends are tied up in a neat little bow. My characters, cheered on by the readers, fought through major obstacles to receive their well-deserved happily ever after.

Whew! A lot of work, but so rewarding. Now it’s time to clean up my desk, tidy the writing cave, banish the remaining pesky voices in my head to a dusty corner of my mind, and turn out the light with a sigh. After a semi-thorough house cleaning and a camping trip in the pristine, oh so relaxing, Rocky Mountains of Colorado, I return, turn on the lights in the writing cave, boot up the computer and dive headlong into the next exciting fantasy adventure (reality is over-rated in my humble opinion). Fresh ideas and a renewed sense of purpose wash over me when opening the door to those voices in my head that I slammed (or at least attempted to slam—sometimes a few escape) the door over a week ago. So goes the life of this writer.

Speaking of voices in your head, here is an example of a character that I couldn’t silence. I argued, who wanted to read about the Demon Overlord’s enforcer from my debut novel and bestseller, A Demon’s Witch. As it turned out, my readers and reviewers clamored for Tristian Shandie’s tale.

A Warlock’s Secrets was born, part of A Demon's Witch Series. An enforcer with a moral compass, who knew?

Years ago, a sacred ceremony at the Dragon’s Moon Coven turned deadly. Son of the high priestess, Tristian Shandie’s life changed forever. With a price on his head and revenge in his heart, he has no choice but to follow in his father’s footsteps to a profession shrouded in secrets. Now his skills as an enforcer for the Demon Overlord are second to none. But dangerous secrets he harbors are a liability he can no longer afford.

 

A chance meeting with a woman he finds irresistible flips Tristian’s world upside down. Hannah is a cyber security specialist with secrets of her own. Bad boys never appealed to her until Tristian, who changes everything. In his darkest hours, she is dragged into his magical world.

If they survive, is she strong enough to heal his heart and tame the warlock? Or will their secrets destroy them?

Find out, grab a copy today! https://www.amazon.com/Warlocks-Secrets-Demons-Witch-ebook/dp/B071RJ7VNY/

Until next month, happy reading!

New Year’s Resolutions – Love ‘em or hate ‘em? by Tena Stetler

 It’s my birthday!!! Well.. that doesn’t have anything to do with New Year’s Resolutions, but thought I’d throw it out there. LOL

I’m really excited about the release of my book AN ANGEL’S WYLDER ASSIGNMENT. It’s a bit different than I usually write. It’s a western, historical, time travel, paranormal adventure with a dash of romance. Whew! Want to know a little more? Okay.

An impromptu assignment for a Scottish Warrior Angel and a Native American shapeshifter from present day, must time travel to 1878 in an effort to unravel a dangerous mystery and create their future. It’s available for preorder right now. Releases March 9, 2022. https://www.amazon.com/Angels-Wylder-Assignment-West-ebook/dp/B09PJQYXMX/

Okay, now back to New Year’s Resolutions:  For me resolutions are few and far between. More like goals for the year ahead. How about you? 

1. I cleaned up my writing cave and vowed to keep it organized in 2022. Like that’s going to happen. It’s where the magic and inspiration occurs for my novels. Ok, that’s not exactly true. Real inspiration usually strikes at the most inopportune times. Like standing in line at the grocery store, or while I’m driving on the freeway (I pull over before jotting down ideas). Which is why I always have paper, pen and ipad with me at all times. Yes, I even take them to bed with me. Well, at least I have paper and pen on my nightstand.
2. I’m working at filing all the 2021 paperwork away and start new file folders for 2022. Good for me. Running a little behind, but I’ll get it done!
3. Write everyday.
1. Finish editing the first novel in my cozy mystery series and submit it. It’s been waiting patiently for a while. Hope my editor loves it.
2. Start on the sequel to Mystic Maples. It’s going to be a fun one. Set in the family Irish Castle with a ghost to disrupt daily life and wedding preparations. Not to mention the mystery surrounding the ghost.
3. Write 4,000-5,000 words per week.
4. Get as much camping in as possible this year.
5. Enjoy life! Remember my motto: "Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, WOW what a ride!"

As you can see my resolutions are few but lofty and attainable.  Don’t you agree?

The best news of all besides my new release is that this season's camping adventures will be here in the blink of an eye.

On our agenda this year is Cheyenne Mountain State Park, Rocking M Campground in Cripple Creek, and Mueller State Park.

1. Then a week with friends at Pleasant Valley Campground near Salida, Colorado nestled along the Arkansas River at the foot of Monarch Mountain.
2. May make it to Steamboat Lake for camping and kayaking. We’ll see how the summer shakes out.

If you have any suggestions for camping areas, please for heaven sakes tell me. I still have a few camping slots to fill, not to mention settings for my upcoming novels.

Until next month, stay safe, have fun, read a book, and enjoy life!