Musings of An Independent Artist

New Rave: Interactive Character Storytelling

2011-10-07T07:30:00.000-07:00

A fantastic author and friend of mine recently introduced me to yet another world to explore! I invited her today to share some information about this latest, intriguing genre called interactive character storytelling. RP World Group is a group of talented writers with a site dedicated to this genre. Enjoy the video below (The Aeonian Guard) - it's one of theirs!

Interactive Character Storytelling

By LaVerne Thompson

There is an interesting genre of writing right now that is popular on Facebook and other sites around cyberspace called Role Playing. But it’s not your Dungeons and Dragons kind of role playing. It’s a lot more adult. It’s where the writers tell their stories in character form and stay in character form even when they interact with their fans.

The most common dictionary definition for traditional role playing I found on Wikipedia is. NOUN:

1. Psychology A therapeutic technique, designed to reduce conflict in social situations, in which participants act out particular behavioral roles in order to expand their awareness of differing points of view.

2. An instance or situation in which one deliberately acts out or assumes a particular character or role.

The second definition is what’s popular now. Most of the role playing done on Facebook is really fan fiction based. In that the writers adopt the characters from popular New York Times authors and role play the published stories, usually without the permission or support of the authors whose works they are role playing. Sometimes, these characters are also from popular television or motion pictures. Then there are other role players who craft their own original characters and role play them in much the same vein. Developing a character and role playing the character on Facebook.

Then there are the role playing sites or groups that role play based on games, board games or electronic game programs or characters based on games. Much like Dungeons and Dragons. Interactive storytelling stems more from these electronic game programs.

Interactive Storytelling [IS] is a form of digital entertainment in which users create or influence a dramatic storyline through actions, either by issuing commands to the story's protagonist, or acting as a general director of events in the narrative. Interactive storytelling is a medium where the narrative, and its evolution, can be influenced in real-time by a user. Wikipedia.

Usually role players on Facebook or the other game sites just set up a character or group and begin to role play. Much of it is free form, in that anyone just begins to write about the copyrighted character and behave in a manner that may or may not be in line with the author’s work, sometimes it’s more organized in that it’s loosely done around events in the published works or the game goals. Good writing isn’t necessarily required sometimes it’s more important to know the book, or game, and the character you are role playing. And even in those instances where the characters being role played are original creations of the writers, there usually isn’t a real storyline or plot. Just loose events or more journal style writing. More character development rather than story or plot.

Neither type of role playing really addresses the most recent format and what’s being pioneered by RP World Group. http://rpworldgroup.org RPW combines it all, what they are calling “interactive character storytelling”. Membership there is free, all that’s needed is an email addy and to create a password and the stories are free. This is where the original characters tell their parts of the story themselves but more importantly their original stories are actually plot as well as character driven. The writers are more storytellers who focus on the story as opposed to role players focusing on a role. They too post parts or a chapter at a time of their storylines, and fans come back each week to read the continuation of the story or book. But unlike a publication, the story is more like a soap opera because you get it in pieces. And the story is told from the point of view of each character within the story. It’s a fascinating phenomena, and one RPW is pioneering by having some of the most talented writers as part of their storytelling line up. For one thing RPW is run more like a publishing site, in that, unlike Facebook and other sites, you are not allowed to just join the site and begin to role play. You must go through a process. First submit an application to become a registered role player on the site. The application must have a bio of the character or characters you want to write, a brief of the storyline, and a sample of your writing. A group of five site admins go over the applications. And not everyone who submits is accepted.

So keep your eye on this new phenomenon. It’s another form of popular writing.

http://rpworldgroup.org

Renee Wildes' Hero: Riever's Heart

2011-10-04T16:00:00.000-07:00

BONUS ENCOURAGEMENT!

(we can always use a little more of that)

Write What You Know--You Know More Than You Think

Renee Wildes

As writers we create characters that are at best a true reflections of real life. We've all experienced love, loss, triumph, fear, despair, joy. As writers we tap into a well of (1)what we know, (2)what we've experienced, and (3)what we've learned to create three-dimensional characters people can relate to—and will remember.

We all bring a unique palette by which we color our stories:

· I’m a Navy brat and a cop’s kid. I know what it is to live every moment as if it’s your last, the lows of dread and fear and highs of relief. I’ve learned to travel light and to not place too much importance on things. I’ve learned to appreciate the struggle and have learned that no victory comes without cost. I’ve learned you can’t place a limit on the “human equation” and there’s nothing that can’t be accomplished—unless you never try.

· I’m the only vet tech in a family of nurses. I know what it is to buck tradition, to get in the face of family expectations and how freeing—and lonely—it can be to march to your own tune.

· I’m a Taurus. Level-headed, practical, stubborn. Best way to get me to do something is to tell me it can’t be done.

· I’m the bossy older sister. Hardest thing in the world for me is to delegate.

· I’m a mom. I know what a “Joan of Arc” complex is like, wanting to make everything better, everything RIGHT. The desire to protect my kids wars with the knowledge they have to grow through their own trials and tribulations. My job isn’t to catch them when they fall but to pick them up and brush them off and send them back out there to try again. Football and figure skating? Both involve bruises.

What do YOU bring to YOUR palette? When you want to channel disappointment, what do you remember? What movie makes you cry? What song makes you dance? What was your “enough already” moment? What do you regret? What makes you smile? Are you a half-full or half-empty? Are you a turtle (hide from confrontation) or a wolverine (confront a challenge head-on)

What gets you moving? What was your proudest moment? What was your lowest point? What got you PAST that lowest point?

Dig deep. Your characters are on the stage for only PART of their lives in your book. They have a past. How did they become the person they are? What gets their story started? The heart of story movement is CONFLICT. What gives your heroine the courage to change things? The courage to face off against the hero? How are they right for each other? How do they make each other grow? How are they wrong for each other? What makes the Black Moment believable? What about each character makes the reader think“They’re never going to make this work”? How do they grow and change to bring about the HEA? And once the story’s done, your characters live on. They have a future. This isn’t Armageddon. There is life after that sunset!

None of us are perfect. Our characters shouldn’t be perfect either. The key to a “real” character is to give them weaknesses, let them have a dark side.

Dara in Duality is a compassionate healer, but she has a temper hot enough to set the palace aflame. She also can coldly stand by and watch a mass murderer bleed to death.

Maleta in Hedda’s Sword frees children from slavery, also avenges the wrongfully dead—but she also slaughters the bad guys and rejoices in their deaths.

Finora in Lycan Tides loves her children, would do anything for them—including seduce a captor (not the hero) in order to get freed to return to them, even though she knows Trystan will never forgive her.

Pryseis in Dust of Dreams abandons her duties and position to help one enemy child. Noble to help a child? But what about her abandoning her crucial role in helping everyone else?

Verdeen in Riever’s Heart turns her back on her family, abandons her post as ladies maid in order to become a warrior. When the war mares don’t choose her for advanced training, she’s stuck as bodyguard for a human riever. All dreams of elven grandeur die when confronted by the harsh life of human mortality.

How do they face adversity? How do they turn disappointment and adversity into triumph? The “human equation” is a bottomless well you can use each and every time to make unique and memorable characters…every single time. They are all facets of ourselves…glimpses of “real person” readers can relate to and remember long after THE END.

THE POWER OF A DREAM

Renee Wildes

RIEVER’S HEART came out on Tuesday, 9/27/11. The hero Daq Aryk is a man with a dream—a warrior prince who dreams of peace. He loves his children, his people and his land. He’s tired of his people being cold & hungry, of warriors dying young and illness taking its toll. They’ve been professional raiders for generations but Aryk has a vision of their children growing up to other career options.

The problem is old habits die hard. His own people can’t see themselves doing anything else. Even Aryk’s best friend Valkyn accuses Aryk of turning his back on their fathers. The outside nations are clearly skeptical of a message of peace coming from a riever leader. The only ones to give him a shot are the elves in Poshnari-Unai. King Loren assigns his best warrior Verdeen to accompany Aryk back to Isadorikja as a helper and witness. Part bodyguard, part counselor and part spy.

Aryk has enough on his plate with stubborn clansmen and skeptical neighbors. The last thing he needs is a beautiful cadet with no real battle experience. She’s a distraction he can’t afford. Even though she makes him burn with desire, he has to focus on the mission. He’s got to no time to think of his own needs.

With everything he’s got against him it would be so easy to give it up, to just continue things as they are. Unpopular leaders can be replaced. He takes a big risk following his dream but sometimes a dream is all a man has.

Ask Martin Luther King, Jr.

How many things have changed in history because someone stood up and said, “You know what? This is wrong. I think we can do better.”

A dream can make change happen.

Everyone has dreams. What they do about them is what defines who and what they are, and can define the future for everyone else. We have to believe in the power of the possibilities of their dreams. Words like “can’t” and “never” should never enter your vocabulary. Dreams can inspire change. Dreams can affect change. Don’t laugh at the dreamers—embrace them. Join them. Become them.

I’ve always loved to write—I was writing horse stories when I was six, and I was the only kid in school who got a maximum word count in school. I always dreamed of being a published author and even though the odds were against me (I got a LOT of rejections when I was first starting out) I never gave up on my dream.

RIEVER’S HEART is Book 5 of the Guardians of Light series for Samhain Publishing! Can’t have Book 5 without Book 1. What if I’d given up? Quit?

Never give up. Ever. No matter what other people say, you have to believe in yourself. Don’t ever listen to the naysayers. I hope Aryk’s and Verdeen’s story can inspire you to keep your own dreams alive. - Renee

Thanks so much for visiting with me, Renee! May God bless your writing and continue to lighten our days with your characters.

2011-10-03T07:00:00.000-07:00

What I have in Common With Verdeen

Renee Wildes

Riever’s Heart came out Tuesday, 9/27/11 from Samhain Publishing. I have a lot in common with the elven heroine, Verdeen and thought I’d share a bit about the both of us. Maybe you’ll see a bit you can relate to as well.

Verdeen was born to high parental expectations. Her parents were so proud when she became lady’s maid to the queen, Dara, in Duality. They though “queen” but she saw “lady’s maid” and it wasn’t enough for her. Dara asked what she wanted and Verdeen was honest and told her. So Dara helped her enter the military academy—first female to do so in generations. Her parents were…disappointed. I used to be a waitress, and living off tips getting pinched by drunk businessmen was not where I saw for the rest of my life either. So I went back to college—and became the only vet tech in a family of nurses.

We’re both black sheep, following our own dreams instead of that of others’.

Verdeen and I are both tomboys. We’re both bookworms, both inclined to “look it up” when we have a question. I’m terrible about never wanting to stop research to actually WRITE. There’s so much interesting stuff to learn! But she and I both learned that sometimes, there’s no substitute for actually getting out there and LIVING life instead of just reading about it! Research is also EXPERIENCE. (And we both love to read just for fun, too.)

We’re both major horse lovers. I’ve always had Arabians and have two half-Arab mares now. Temptation Fyre N Ice (aka Sassy) is a gray 7-year-old Morab and Moonlight is a white 20-year-old half-Welsh pony who technically belongs to my daughter Tami. Verdeen’s always dreamed of having an elven war mare select her to partner in becoming a full elven ranger—those beautiful, glowing white, sentient war mares. Only when she graduates from the military academy, Verdeen DOESN’T get her war mare. None of them choose her. For me, I just had to buy one. Verdeen doesn’t have that luxury and her disappointment is crushing. What to do when the one thing you want most in the world is denied you? How to come up with Plan B? I’ve also had to deal with disappointments and roads not taken.

Sometimes it’s not about what you want. It’s about what you need.

I’ve started gaming on Dragons of Atlantis with my son, but because I never do anything halfway I’m now second in command in our mutual alliance. I’m basically the go-between between the overlord and the rest of the tribe. I’m counselor, resource allocator and diplomat. I also fight when necessary to protect what’s ours and defend my fellow alliance members. Verdeen is assigned by King Loren to accompany the human riever Daq Aryk back to his kingdom of Isadorikja and help him unite his warring clans into a single cohesive nation. She also is a go-between between Loren and Aryk. Part counselor, part spy. But she’s also right there to guard his back and defend him when threatened. Diplomacy when you can, war when that fails, diplomacy again when the war is over.

Always have a plan, and a backup plan, and a backup to the backup. Turn disappointment into triumph. See a failure as a new opportunity.

We both struggle to balance “warrior and woman.” Career vs. family. Time constraints. Choosing one thing means NOT choosing another. Time management and prioritizing. Coming to grips with the realization that you can’t do everything. Recognizing that every day you set an example, both good and bad. Learning to accept that your best is all there is, but it’s always enough. If you can look yourself in the eye in the mirror every night then you have nothing to apologize for.

We’ve both faced our fears. Verdeen had to climb a mountain, face her fear of falling. I’ve gone rappelling and faced my own fears of heights and falling. We both trusted the person holding the other end of the rope (belaying) not to let us die. Sometimes it’s out of your hands and in the hands of another. Sometimes you just gotta check that rope and step over the edge.

Both of us have dealt with the insecurity of wanting another’s approval, not getting it and slowly coming to the painful realization that we can’t please everyone all the time. You have to be secure within yourself. You can’t let others’ opinions dictate who and what you are.

The best characters are like real people with the triviality burned away. They’re multi-faceted. They have insecurities, weaknesses, moments they’re not proud of and things they want to do over. But they’ve got a good heart, learn from their mistakes and always try to do the right thing. Learn and grow. Be open to change. Be able to adapt. Celebrate life’s triumphs both great and small.

I loved hanging out with Verdeen, seeing how much she’s grown between Duality and Riever’s Heart AND how much she’s grown from the beginning of Riever’s Heart to the end. I hope you all find some part of her and her story to relate to your own life. - Renee

Come see us tomorrow to meet the hero of Renee's fantasy romance!

Renee Wildes is My Guest Blogger Today

2011-10-02T07:00:00.000-07:00

Renee will be visiting me for the next few days. We worked on a project together a couple of years ago and I was impressed by her writing and our mutual love for animals. Visit us each day and share your thoughts. We'll be talking about everything from Renee's new release, "Riever's Heart," to writing what you know.

Renee Wildes is an award-winning Wausau WI writer. She grew up reading fantasy authors Terry Brooks and Mercedes Lackey and is a huge Joseph Campbell fan, so the minute she discovered romance novels it became inevitable that she would combine it all and write fantasy romance. Renee is a history buff, from medieval times back to ancient Greece, esp. Sparta. As a Navy brat and a cop’s kid, she gravitated to protector/guardian heroes and heroines. She’s had horses her whole life, so became the only vet tech in a family of nurses. It all comes together in her Guardians of Light series for Samhain Publishing – fantasy, action, romance, heroics and lots of critters!

Stop by tomorrow to meet the heroine in Renee's new fantasy romance!

Visit Renee At:

Website: www.reneewildes.net

Personal Blog: www.reneewildes1.wordpress.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/ReneeWildes (@ReneeWildes)

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/renee.wildes

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B003ZMXWQE

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/2465877.Renee_Wildes

MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/renee.wildes

Yahoo Group: www.groups.yahoo.com/group/reneewildesromancefantastique/

Publisher: http://store.samhainpublishing.com/renee-wildes-pa-319.html?PHPSESSID=af835b2df90961e336f60f4aaf69b518

Banishing the Scene Stealer: Show, Don't Tell

2011-09-29T12:10:00.000-07:00

Let’s just jump right in. Think of our stories as movies. How do we convey the same excitement and garner the same involvement from our readers? By showing instead of telling. Here’s an example of telling:

The two people had just met – or so it seemed. They exchanged words. It was obvious that she was furious with him as she turned her back and started to walk away. Suddenly, he wrapped his arms around her waist, pulled her around to face him, and suctioned his lips to hers. The crowd went wild.

Sound interesting? Obviously there’s some interest between these two characters, right? What about this one?

“H-hi.” Her voice wavered a bit as she stood facing him.

“Hey.” He smiled tentatively. “H-how are you?”

She took a deep breath, steadied herself, and plunged. “How am I?” She kept her voice low. This was nobody’s business but theirs. “I am pissed. That’s how I am. Do you really think I planned this? That I wanted this? You landed on my turf, did God only knows what to me with your, your unreal green eyes,, disappeared, and now you, you, you think you can just walk away?…Oh! Go back wherever in hell you came from!” Iris took a step back from him. She had to get away and forget about all of this.

One moment she was turning to walk away, the next she was flush against him.Gideon. She opened to him instinctively as he foraged her mouth – a searing kiss of ownership. So he didn’t want to walk away after-all. Good. Right now she just wanted more of this.

Somewhere, she heard the dull echo of a crowd cheering and opened her eyes. That’s when she remembered she was about to allow Gideon to have his way with her at the observatory with 30 pairs of middle school eyes bearing witness to her madness.

Excerpt from draft of The Alerians: Gideon

Same story, different style. The first paragraph is telling, and although it’s not the worst telling incident I’ve seen, it’s still a no-no. Whenever we can show instead of tell, using dialogue, more action, etc., that’s better writing. Long narrative is dull and breaks the flow of the story. A little tip that I like to use is to think of your novel, novella, or short as a movie. Within the movie there are scenes and within each scene there are acts. Telling instead of showing is like having a narrator step into the scene in the middle of an act and start telling you what’s happening. We want our readers to see, hear, smell, and feel our characters as much as possible, and as writers we draw them into the story through dialogue, action, and minimal description or narrative.

New Series Blurb: "The Alerians"(wip)

2011-09-20T14:05:00.000-07:00

Just submitted the beginning of my new series, "The Alerians," to a publisher for consideration. The name of this one so far is "Jordan's Wings." There are three more in the works already about a race of warriors who are the descendants of the Nephilim. Only one female Alerian is born to every 500 males. Wouldn't that be nice! Anyway, imagine the possibilities and consequences. As each warrior's story is told, I'll give you more of the "big" story behind it. Here's the blurb. Tell me what you think.

Jordan is a sexy, strong BBW with a no-nonsense attitude, but when she meets a tall, gorgeous, steel-gray-eyed hunk with wings who looks like an angel but defintely doesn't act like one, unexpected, unimaginable things begin to happen.

Jacoby’s been alive more than 200 years, yet he’s only seen a female once. He’ll have to break the most sacred law of his brothers, abandon everything familiar to him, and stay two steps ahead of a special force of law enforcers to capture the heart of the woman meant for him - and wouldn't you know that woman is Jordan. As if all of that isn’t enough, he’ll need her blood to stay alive.

Friends for Real

2011-08-01T23:13:00.000-07:00

In this age of instant online “friends,” I thought it would be nice to do sort of an ode to friendship. I celebrated another birthday yesterday, and over the years I’ve gained a better understanding of and appreciation for true friendship. Generally, friendships are give and take. You do certain things for your friends and they do certain things for you. What happens, though, when you’re unable to do the things you’ve always been able to do for your friends and you may never be able to do those things again?

That’s when you find out who your real friends are. They’re the ones who are there, doing their best to supply whatever you need just because they love you – not because of what you might be able to do for them in return. That’s also when you learn to be a better friend. You begin to understand that being a good friend is not only about doing things that are convenient and easy for you, but learning to truly appreciate your friends and help them to have more fulfilling lives. Like most things of value, it’s a process – we learn as we go.

Found this poem online – author unknown, and decided to borrow from it and write one of my own…

My ABC’s of Friendship

A – Accepts you as you are

B – Believes in you

C – Calls you just to hear your voice

D – Does for you what others won’t

E – Envisions the whole of you

F – Follows through

G – Gives unconditionally

H – Helps you

I – Invites you

J – Just likes to be with you

K – Keeps you in her/his prayers

L – Loves you for who you are, not just what you can do for him/her

M – Makes a positive impact on your life

N – Never judges you unfairly

O – Offers whatever s/he can give to help with what you need

P – Picks you up when you are down

Q – Quiets your tears and fears

R – Respects you

S – Says nice things about you to you and others

T – Tells you the truth whether you like it or not

U – Understands you

V – Values you

W – Walks beside you

X – Explains things you don’t understand

Y – Yells when you need to listen

Z – Zaps you back to reality

Yeah, and remembers to genuinely wish you a happy birthday. To all my friends who sent cards, e-mails, and hit me on Facebook, thank you!

Healthy Holiday Gifts

2009-11-27T02:00:00.000-08:00

In honor of "Black Friday," I'm taking a break from the Newbie writers' series this weekend to share these gift ideas. This is a reprint of an article that I wrote with the assistance of my Divas and Diva Dudes from Romance Divas. I consider it priceless! Look them over and tell me about your favorites.

Looking for healthy gift ideas? Well, you’ve come to the perfect place! Here’s a list of 50 holiday treats to boost the physical and mental health of your loved ones.
*
cookie mix layered in a jar, with instructions on the tag
*handmade soap, lotions etc
*chili or soup mix layered in a jar, with instructions on the tag
*bath salts
*herb seeds and those little peat pots (and maybe recipes to make once the herbs grow
Seeley DeBorn of Romance Divas
1. Wii Fit Video Game
2. Juicer
3. Grill Pan
4. Vegetable Steamer
5. Puzzles
6. Exercise Video
7. Nutrition Counseling Session
8. Running Shoes
9. Gym bag packed with new water bottle, workout clothes, iPod and gift gym membership.
10. Subscription to health magazine
11. Day at the spa
12. Massage
13. Books (we could get a list of them ranging from physical and mental health books to relaxing novels)
14. Financial portfolio session
15. Relaxing jazz (we could get a list of some faves)
16. Trial gym membership
17. Mini vacation (weekend stay at a hotel)
18. Planning session with a professional organizer
19. Tuition for a community step, ballroom, or belly dancing class
20. Gift certificate for yogurt shop
21. Health journal
22. Tuition for a community stress management course
23. Season tickets to university or city arts events
For kids: Seeley again

Science kits, like crystal growing kits.
Anatomy colouring books
Geodes
Dinosaur bone dig kits

For Men:
Booze made from organically grown products. We have organic vodka, hemp beer, hemp vodka at our local liquor store.
Hand made shaving soap and aftershave balm (this is a hard to find product!)
Massage GCs
Fair trade coffee and hand thrown mug made of local clay
Chaeya gave me these:
1. Trial yoga membership
2. Music for Yoga and Other Joys - Jai Uttal (CD)
3. Coffee gift cards
4. Power vs. Force by David R. Hawkins, M.D., Ph.D. (Book)
5. Nature hikes (some areas host edible herb tours)
6. Digs (depending on where it is there are places where you can go dig for gemstones)
7. Tai Chi or Qi Gong class
8. Pilates
9. Reiki Session
10. Gift card for vegetarian restaurant
11. Suze Orman - The Road to Wealth (Book)
12. Gift card to iTunes or Rhapsody Membership
13. Sessions with a Nutitrionalist/Dietician
3jen gave me these:
Ooh, Seeley's idea made me think of a home brewing kit. A male friend of ours is really into making beer.

One of my favorite gifts is the stylin' reusable shopping bags I use myself from Envirosax. They fold up really tiny and are cool enough to use as a bag anytime.

Golf clubs (and $10000 cash for course time )

Sled/skis/skates for kids (winter, and all that)

Yoga mat & video

Aromatherapy oils and burner

The Hunger Site (www.thehungersite.com) and it's affiliate sites have a lot of cool gifts. I especially like the gifts like "Send two girls in Afghanistan to school for a year" or "buy a Rwandan family a goat" and they have stuff like that in all price ranges. You could check out the site just for ideas. Great gift for the guy who has everything "Sweetie, here, I'm giving you a goat." "What??" "Don't worry, someone else will milk it for you. On the other side of the world." )

Organic/free trade/recycled clothing items (something seasonal, like a scarf made from recycled milk jugs would work)

Nature guide (i.e. birds, trees, whatever)

Star gazing guide

My 7 y/o daughter adores Folkmanis puppets. Not sure if they're "healthy" but they're incredibly beautifully made and encourage creativity. You can have a really fun time with just one.

Dance Dance revolution (if that's not too old-hat)

Musical instrument (for kids) ie bamboo flute, bongo drums, etc

Scrapbooking kit might be a fun gift for a girl--papers, stamps, ink, etc. My DD loves that stuff.

Other art supplies too. Watercolor paints and paper, clay, anything that people wouldn't normally buy as school supplies would be fun for kids (and maybe adults too)

Nell Dixon gave me these:

Men's ideas - a smoothie maker, a stunt kite
kids - roller blades, pavement chalk
December Q/Anna J. Evans gave me these:
A food dehydrator, maybe?
A mortar & pestle to grind fresh herbs?
Beeswax, coca butter, almond oil, and a small double boiler--that sort of think, like a make-your-own-lotion/lip balm kit?
A lot of toy stores carry kits for kids to make that kind of thing, too.

And for men you can get those make-your-own-beer kits. So they can drink beer with no preservatives or anything like that in them. (Not that women don't drink beer, of course. I love beer. It's just you asked about men.) They have winemaking kits too.
Rob Graham gave me these:
For adults who could use a good read that can reset your mental state, I always recommend The Doubter's Companion: A Dictionary of Aggressive Common Sense. It never fails to make me smile and calm me down when I read it. It's the heretic's Bible.

For kids I think there's only one choice, The Chronicles of Narnia. I can't think of a better choice to bring the joy of reading to a young person.

Allow me to add that other great gifts include a copy of copies of Got Wolf? Anthology 2: Taming of the Wolf, gift certificates to The Wild Rose Press.com, and gift certificates to Black Classics Books and Gifts (251) 476-1060 :)
Don't forget to tell me about your favorites!

Thanksgiving Homage

2009-11-25T20:11:00.000-08:00

Some years ago, when I was still working in the public school system, mornings were even more hellish than they are now. Each morning, I would drag myself out of bed and go to what seemed to be a thankless job. I still had my grandmother, father, and mother, and for the most part, I still had a clean bill of health. My New Year’s resolution was to say a prayer of thanks before getting out of bed each morning.

Since then, I’ve lost my grandmother, my father, and my clean bill of health. Ironically, I’m still saying a prayer of thanks before I get out of bed each morning. I’m thankful that I still have my mother, and I’m thankful for the many abilities God has preserved in me. A year ago, today, I didn’t know if I’d ever be able to work full-time again due to my health, yet now I’ve developed a love-hate relationship with mornings. I’m a night owl, so I never want to get up in the mornings, but I’m thankful for being able to – thankful for having some place to go each morning where I’m expected and needed, and where I can touch lives in a positive way.

If I had to say what I’m most thankful for, it would be God’s grace – that he has allowed me to piddle along and take many of the gifts he’s allowed me to use for granted – that he has still allowed my curiosity about him – that he has welcomed me into a closer, deeper relationship with him – that he has been patient - that he has clarified things I wasn’t even aware I didn’t know – that he has taught me to appreciate my mother and others who love me more and more each day. Have a blessed and peaceful Thanksgiving.

Newbie Writers Series #2

2009-11-21T02:00:00.000-08:00

All You Need to Know About Publishing (for now)

You’ve decided you love writing enough to go forth. You’ve set some goals about writing. You’ve joined a writers’ board or two or three. It’s time to set some goals about publishing. First things first. Don’t rush into anything. Do your research. The publishing industry is ever changing. Just a few years ago, our options were much more limited. I’m constantly learning about resources that probably didn’t exist a short time ago. That said, let’s talk about your present options and touch on a few elements common to the process of publishing. There are at least six ways to publish or get published. Their differences range from submission requirements to whether and how much the author has to pay, to the availability and extent of editing and marketing services.

This is my take on the six types of publishing houses: large publishing houses (usually called New York publishing houses because many are located there – author doesn’t pay), small publishing houses (some of these are also located in New York, but they generally limit themselves to a particular genre or type of book – author doesn’t pay), vanity presses (you pay these companies to store, print, list, and distribute your work), POD presses (Print on demand. You pay these companies to store, list, and distribute your work, and readers pay for printing as they order), basic printing presses (these presses offer bare bones services to authors for a fee. Basically, they print what you send them and you pay to have your book printed and bound), and my favorite, E-publishers (online publishers – author doesn’t pay). We also have several publishers that are a combination of two or more of these six types of presses.

Publishing houses that do not require you, the author, to pay, nearly always require a query letter (a one-page letter introducing yourself as an author and telling the main plot of your story) and synopsis (a two to five page summary of your story including the conclusion) before you get their permission to send your entire manuscript. NEVER send a manuscript without an invitation. This is a major no, no. Publishers receive so much to read, let alone the editing, marketing, and simply dealing with multiple personalities, that they can not tolerate unsolicited manuscripts. Many of them also require you to have an agent (the person who negotiates your contract and usually takes 15% of your pay to do so). These publishers are also considered to offer the most assistance to authors with editing and marketing. Don’t get nervous. We’ll talk more about the query letter, synopsis, and editing later (note to self). Yep, they’re that important.

For now, let’s continue with the similarities and differences between publishers.
POD and vanity presses do not require agents. While some POD presses require a query and synopsis before they’ll agree to print your work, many of them do not. You’re paying, anyway, so they’re not taking much of a risk on your work. Most vanity presses don’t require the query and synopsis. Remember, though, that before either of these presses will print anything, they require payment. They usually offer a variety of “packages” to authors with a different number of services for different amounts of money. Generally, with these presses, the author has to pay for any editing and marketing services not included in the initial package chosen.

E-publishers were the best fit for me. Authors don’t have to pay, so e-publishers nearly always require the query and synopsis, but unlike the larger presses, turn-around time (the amount of time it takes for your published book to actually be available) is relatively quick (usually 6 – 12 months). Also, unlike the larger presses, you, the author, have a lot more say about the finished product – even the cover of your book, and you don’t have to have an agent. You have to be willing to work for yourself (editing, marketing, and selling your book, that is), but e-pubs offer editing and marketing services free of charge. Again, you have to be willing to work for yourself. Unlike the large publishing houses, e-publishers don’t have big bucks to shell out marketing your book, so you learn a lot about marketing yourself. There are lots of ways to do this. We’ll talk about marketing later, too (note to self). I’m still a newbie at marketing, but so far, it’s enjoyable.

Okay. Take a deep breath. It’s nearly over. Here are a few resources to get you started. Consider them a sample of what’s out there. Take some time and look at them. This is just an inkling compared to the number of resources and choices you have as a writer, so take time to do your research, decide which publisher fits you best, and go for it.

Six Ways to Self-Publish
http://mashable.com/2009/03/01/publish-book/

How to Get a Book Published
http://www.rightreading.com/publishing/howto.publish/howto.publish.htm

Getting Your Book Published for Dummies by Sarah Parsons Zackheim
http://www.rightreading.com/publishing/howto.publish/howto.publish.htm

Karen and Raven's "no-kill" shelter Benefit

2009-11-18T01:00:00.000-08:00

Raven and I are so happy you could come and support the “no-kill” shelter! He's in the back playing games with some of our other friends. Kick off your shoes and join in the fun. If the music's too loud, just hit the pause button. We have something for everybody. Over here, there’s dancing, a variety of games, puzzles, and even a bit of piano playing. We also have Raven’s favorite game right here. You might even want to check out some of the excerpts and Dariel’s WIP, “Jordan’s Wings” while you’re here. Oh, and before you go, make sure you visit the shelter support site.

“Raven’s Shelter” is one of the hot novellas in the Got Wolf? Anthology 2 – Taming of the Wolf.

New Writers' Series - The Beginning

2009-11-14T02:00:00.000-08:00

People always ask mega-questions about writing. Since it can’t be summed up in one conversation (not even a very long one), I decided to write a series of articles to answer the questions most new writers have. This is my first article in the “Newbie Writers” series. Since I’m relatively new to the industry myself (publishing, that is), consider me a peer tutor  While there’s no way I could know what a veteran in the business knows, the best thing is that information is still new and fresh for me. Feel free to send me questions or information ad libitum.

Where Do We Begin?
Who was it that said “the forest would be mighty quiet if the only birds that sang were those that sang best?” Often the first thing we must do as writers is shake off self doubt and destructive criticism. Accept the fact that no matter how good you are at whatever you do, there’s always somebody better. She might not have even come into her own yet, but she’s somewhere lurking – just waiting for you to screw up. Oh, sorry. I’m supposed to be encouraging – not dredging up the hateful critic who lives inside my head. What was I saying? Oh, yeah. Um…believe in yourself.

Writing, like art, music, and dance, is a jealous mistress. You must love it or leave it. Make time to write. The beauty of the arts is that you never arrive. You’re never really finished, and you’re never as good as you can get if you keep working at it. While you’re working on your manuscript, read everything in your genre of interest. Determine your position on the writers’ continuum and set goals consistent with reaching the next rung. No one knows your strengths and weaknesses like you do. Develop a list of small, attainable goals and get moving. Most important – enjoy the process.

When I decided to actually finish a story, I turned off the television and set a schedule which I shared with my family and friends so they wouldn’t interrupt. I read and re-read the work of my favorite authors. In fact, everyone was hard pressed to find me without a book. I still have stacks of their books beside my bed. I started with a short-short (only 10 pages long) paranormal multi-cultural romance. My goal was not to publish it or even enter it in a competition. My goal was simply to finish.

As I worked on the story with the finish line looming ahead, I realized how exhilarated I felt just developing the characters and sharing their world for the duration – the awe of watching my story become my characters’ story. For the second time in my life, I had found something that I loved so much, a part of me would be missing if I didn’t continue to do it – the process of creating something beyond my expectations – something that grew and lived through me, yet apart from me. I was honored just to share, and I was hooked.

One of the best books on getting started as a writer is How to Write and Sell Your First Novel by Oscar Collier and Frances Spatz Leighton. Collier’s “how-to” guide even has excerpts from the beginnings of famous writers such as John Grisham, Stephen King, and Jackie Collins. Yahoo and other internet service providers also have a large number of groups dedicated to beginning writers. Some are genre-specific, while others are for writers in general. According to your needs and interests, you can join groups offering free critiques, pointers, and support. So...tell me about the beginning of your journey. How'd you get hooked on writing? Stop by next weekend and I’ll tell you about publishing as I understand it.

Interview with Captain Jonathan Hackett from "Sweet Redemption" by Susan Macatee

2009-11-11T02:00:00.000-08:00

Jonathan, I've been looking forward to this for some time. It's a pleasure to finally meet you.
1. First, let’s dispense with the formalities. What is your full name?
Captain Jonathan Hackett

2. Where are you from?
I was born in York, Pennsylvania in 1832.

3. Vampirism – that must be frightening. How did it happen?
Just recently, I was pinned down by Rebels on the battlefield at Fredericksburg. All of my troops who hadn’t escaped had been killed or died and I was left alone until a strange man came to my aid, or at least that’s what I thought. But he attacked me and shortly after, I began to exhibit an aversion to daylight and a craving for blood. All attributes of a vampire.

4. What are you going to do?My immediate plan is to protect Mrs. Emery, the widow who took me in, and fight off the creature, who did this to me. I can’t allow him to harm her.

5. I understand that you left the church. Tell me about that.
Sighs. I fear I lost my faith and couldn’t live a lie. I left and, when the war broke out, I joined the Union army.

6. Do you think leaving the church and being bitten by a vampire are related in some way?I’m sure my sin of breaking my lifelong vows caused God to turn his back on me and send this demonic creature to take my soul.

7. How can you make a life with Maddie Emory with impending vampirism looming over you?I’ve decided I can’t and have to leave, because my cravings for her will doom her as well.

8. Don't you think you can be what she deserves?
I wish I could, but there can be no future between us. At least that’s what I believe.

9. I'm sorry to hear that, Jonathan. If you could turn back time, what would you do differently?
My only wish is that I could have met Maddie years ago before I took my vows and could’ve made a life with her.

10. How do you want this conflict to be resolved?
My hope is that by destroying the vampire, this curse can be reversed, but if not, I only wish for Maddie to live and find another man who can take care of her and love her. I want her to be happy, even if it must be without me. Shakes head.

Thank you for speaking with me, Jonathan. I pray that things will work out for you and Maddie.

Susan, thanks for visiting with me, and good luck with Sweet Redemption.

To order your copy of Sweet Redemption, click here.

Visit Susan at http://www.susanmacatee.blogspot.com/

Susan Macatee is here today!

2009-11-10T02:00:00.000-08:00

“Sweet Redemption” by Susan Macatee

On a cold December night, Union infantry captain, Jonathan Hackett, is pinned down on the Fredericksburg battlefield trying to escape Confederate fire. But a creature of the night, more dangerous than any enemy soldier, stalks him. Jon must fight for his life as well as his soul.

Maddie Emery has lost everything dear to her. Her husband and parents have passed on and her brothers are off fighting in the Confederate Army. She’s alone, trying single-handedly to hold onto her family’s farm, when a Yankee soldier collapses across her stoop.

Maddie and Jon soon form a bond of love and tender desire. But when Jon begins to exhibit signs of becoming the creature he fears most, is their love enough to fight off the evil of a centuries old vampire bent on destroying them?

Hi, I’m Susan Macatee and am happy to be a guest here on Dariel’s lovely blog. Sweet Redemption is a stand-alone novella available at The Wild Rose Press, and my second vampire story. I write romances set during the American Civil War, both straight historicals and a few with paranormal elements such as time travel, reincarnation and, of course, my two vampire tales.

Excerpt:

Those knocks were not made by a wolf, but he suspected the wolf had something to do with Reverend Arnwolf. “Is the wolf his minion, or can he transform himself?” he said, under his breath.

“What?” Mrs. Emery moved close. Her scent invaded his thoughts. “Please, tell me what’s going on?”

Jon sighed. “When I said I was attacked by a wild dog, I lied.” He moved back to the settee and sat, his hands dangling between his knees.

She sat beside him, but held herself ramrod straight. “What or who attacked you?”

“I was pinned down on the battlefield. Spent the night in the freezing cold. All of my men had died. A man appeared. Claimed to be a minister from Austria.” Jon grimaced as he recalled Arnwolf’s blood-red eyes and the sharp pierce of his fangs as they entered Jon’s throat. “He offered to help me, but...instead he led me to an abandoned barn and attacked me.”

Mrs. Emery gasped. “You’re not saying this man—”

“He bit me on the throat.” Jon pushed his hand through his hair. “I don’t know exactly what he is, but he’s not human.”

“That’s who you believe was at the door?”
Jon nodded. “I don’t know how, but I now have a connection to him.” He fingered the bumps on his throat. “I know things about him I shouldn’t possibly know.”

To learn more about Susan’s Civil War romances, visit her website: www.susanmacatee.com

Sweet Redemption is available tomorrow at www.thewildrosepress.com

Come back tomorrow when Dariel will interview my vampire hero, Jonathan Hackett.

Interview with Author Melinda Elmore

2009-11-06T02:00:00.001-08:00

Author Melinda Elmore's love for Native American culture makes for some exciting stories!

Tell us something about you and your books

To my surprise, I started writing and creating my very own world. A place where I could go and lose myself with just a pen and paper.
I grew up with the fascination of the American Indian. My love for them grew by leaps and bounds as I read about them from my history book. I wanted to show, in my writings, of the proud people that the American Indians truly are. They show honor and respect for all living things. If I can capture just a small portion of that in my writings then that would be an added bonus for me.
Native American Romance and Native American mysteries is my passion. I hope to reveal in my books the uniqueness of the American Indian. I feel truly blessed to try and reveal how special the American Indians truly are.

Are there any new authors who have grasped your attention?

I love Margaret Coel, Linda Broday, Carol Ann Didier, and my all time favorite Tony Hillerman

Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?

I do a lot of research. I find my information from other books, computer, and library.

What promotional ideas can you give to other beginning authors?

Promote yourself as much as you can. Whether it is guest blogging, being interviewed, go to public TV and do an interview, book signings, etc.

What advice would you give to somebody trying to get a literary agent?

Submit to every literary agent you can find until you land one. Never give up.

Are there any words you would like to say to other aspiring writers?

Believe in yourself and your work. Never give up on your dreams of becoming a published author.

As a child what did you want to do when you grew up?
Of course, I wanted to be a writer, not just any writer but a best-selling author. One day that will come to for me.

As a writer and published author how do you feel about e-publishing

I feel E-publishing is the future. I hope that books stay in the market but e-publishing is taken off and it is a lot easier for people.

How long does it take you to do research on the books you write?

Well its according. Usually I research for however long it takes, usually a couple of months but sometimes longer.

What inspired you to become a writer?

I always loved to read and write. I read every Laura Ingalls Wilders books and from that point on I decided that I too wanted to become a famous writer and hopefully make a difference in the world.

What is your novel, “Native Dreams” about?

Here is an excerpt:

Precious Hawk is viciously taken from her people
and forced to live in the white world, causing
inner turmoil. Many years later, Cloud Feather, a
perfect stranger, arrives to work on her
husband’s ranch. Experience the “awe” when Cloud
Feather rescues his beloved Precious Hawk, who
has come to him in many of his dreams. His heart
is to return Precious Hawk to her ancestral lands where she rightly belongs.

On the run, the daring couple nearly lose their
lives. Cloud Feather is gravely wounded. He is
taken to his village in hope that Red Wing, their
medicine man, can save his life. All the while,
Precious Hawk is with child, Cloud Feather’s child.

But Precious Hawk knows the evilness of John
Altan. Will he ever leave her alone? No, not until he is dead.

The Great Spirit joins their love, faith keeps
their minds hopeful, and their spiritual guides deliver guidance.

Where do you do most of your writing?
I set at my desk and write looking out at the creek that runs behind my home, taking in all of the animals that happen to wonder by.

Are you working on other things? If so, what are they?

Most definitely, I am working on a Native American Mystery Novel. I have found that mystery is really my thing.

What do you enjoy most about your writing?

I really enjoy making the characters come alive and the scenery of each area that I bring them to. I also like the use of my animal characters that I incorporate with the American Indian beliefs.

Dariel, thanks for having me here. I really enjoyed it.

Walk in peace and harmony,

Melinda

Melinda's website
Melinda's blog:

"Native Dreams" is available at www.amazon.com/ and www.barnesandnoble.com/

Author Mary Pritchard has Caught My Eye!

2009-11-04T02:00:00.000-08:00

Ghostly Mistakes
Lizzy planned to make this mission short and sweet, but thanks to her client, Carl Taylor's inability to provide details, it looks as if she was in for an extended adventure. A dangerous farmer with buried secrets, and the zealous accusations of a lady's church group keep her on her toes. If all this isn't enough to complicate her task, her growing attraction to the highway patrolman who caught her speeding, adds spice to the brew. If she doesn't solve the puzzle left in her hands, she could find herself stuck with Carl for life. Oh, did I mention he isn't a paying customer? Well, being a ghost does limit your financial abilities.

Jaguar Nights
Can the calming energy of a human empath prevent a dangerous, untamed weir leader from destroying his pard? Will Cole be the answer to Syndee’s longing for acceptance and a home, or will he be her destruction?

For more information about Jaguar Nights, Mary's newest release click here. http://www.thewildrosepress.com/jaguar-nights-p-3710.html

For more information about Ghostly Mistakes, click here.

Here's an Interview with Mary...

1. Tell me about when and how you started writing professionally.

I started writing for publication about six years ago. I went to a reader’s convention and decided I would try and write a book. I came back and immediately started writing. Took me four months to write an 80,000 world book.

2. Did you always want to write, or was your decision more of an epiphany?

I have always written or at least since I was around 10 years old. I would write stories to entertain myself. I loved to read and would write stories about how I would have done something I had read about. I quit writing when I started working and then started back again about 15 years ago only to quit again after a year of trying.

3. Where do you get inspiration for your characters/stories? Give examples from some of your stories.

I dream about some of them and some of them I talk to, learning about them as I write. For example, I started writing about Gavin in See How They Die and then talked with him to find out more about him before I finished the book. I dreamed about Coal from Jaguar Nights and wrote what I dreamed about.

4. Experts say we often build characters to fulfill our fantasies/desires. What characteristics do you desire in your main characters (hero/heroine)? Give examples from some of your stories.

I like strong Alpha characters who expect their women to be strong as well as need their help. I want the men to be capable of most anything and almost be dark but the strong heroine can save them even as the hero saves her.
In Jaguar Nights, Cole is a dark dangerous hero who needs the strength of Syndee’s love to keep his dark side under control. She makes him into a better leader and man.
In Leopard Dreams, Zack is a dark protector hero who’s love is a strong woman/cat both in need of help and able to help him balance is job as First in his pard and his need for love.

5. What do you find most fulfilling about writing? Most challenging?

Seeing my books come to life as I write them. I write from the gut. I don’t outline, though I will jot down things I plan to happen sometimes. It really gets to me when I finish a book and feel like I told the story like it needed to be told.
Most challenging? I suppose the editing process is my most challenging problem. I hate that part but it is very important. I love my baby so much I hate to pick it apart even though it is to make it the best it can be.

6. I’m sure you could write a book about this, but writing is a journey. What advice would you give to those just embarking on the journey?

The most common answer is to write. Just write. Another answer is to accept criticism with a tough skin and learn from it. It hurts for someone to suggest big changes but don’t get angry and ignore them. Seriously think about what they have said and take from it what you can. If you get the same thing from several other writers, you should really listen to it. It’s hard but you will grow as a writer.
Another answer is to read what you like to write and write what you enjoy reading.

7. What are some of your most cherished resources?

I use the Internet quite a bit for research but books are my first love so I have a very large library of resource books concerning what I write. The dictionary and synonym books are really important to me.
I also appreciate critique partners. You need one if you can find one that suits you. It’s not easy.

8. Any helpful hints on balancing self, work, family, and writing?

I am one of the worse people to ask this question. I’m not married and have no children so I can’t imagine how people with kids find the time to write. I write at night and on weekends around my job. I am an avid reader and have to choose many times between the two. It’s not easy.
You need to take time for self because if you don’t, you can’t take care of your family and you can’t write when you don’t.

9. I agree whole-heartedly. Actually, our writing schedules sound similar :) What do you do to re-energize, restore, and recover?

Read, read, read. I also spend time with my zoo. I have seven cats and two dogs. They relax me and help me think about my stories. Exercise is a great way to relax but I am an avid lazy person and tend to put that off for as long as I can.

10. LOL. You have a zoo, too? I have three large house dogs, and yes, they definitely keep your feet firmly planted on solid ground. They're wonderful. I don't see how people live full lives without them. Tell me about your WIPs.

I just finished a round of edits for Book Two of Tales of the Cat. It’s called Leopard Dreams. The first books was Jaguar Nights which is now out.
Leopard Dreams is a continuation of Jaguar Nights with different main characters .
I’m also working on a series of short stories concerning a pack of wolves who are considered outsiders from the main pack. Each short story will be about one of the pack and their trials and falling in love.

It's been a pleasure having you visit with me today, Mary. Here's wishing you a thriving writing career and many sales!

Book signing at Black Classics Books and Gifts!

2009-11-02T09:43:00.001-08:00

If you're on the Gulf Coast, please come by and visit me on Friday the 13th! I'll be signing copies of "Taming of the Wolf" at Black Classics Books and Gifts from 5:30 - 7 p.m. A drawing will be held and 5 people will receive a "goody bag."

Introducing Author Lynne Roberts

2009-10-28T01:30:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to have Lynne Roberts with us today. She's the author of new release, After Hours. Sit back and take a look at the workings of her creative mind...

1. Tell me about when and how you started writing professionally. Wow. I think I’m still learning to write professionally. : ) I started writing about six years ago. I’d had a dream that wouldn’t leave me. I gave in one day and started to write the story down. It was 100 pages long. I decided to join a critique group and the 100 pages turned into a quartet. I didn’t have any luck placing it but I was bitten by the bug.
2. Did you always want to write, or was your decision more of an epiphany? I’d always been a writer. I wrote scripts for my sister’s Barbies or rewrote the ending of books. I wrote my first story when I was 18 in a spiral bound notebook. I don’t know if I always wanted to be a writer but it was always there.
3. Where do you get inspiration for your characters/stories? Give examples from some of your stories. Everywhere. I was inspired to write AFTER HOURS after watching a very sexy younger man walk across the street. CREATIVE LICENSE (a WIP) was inspired by a song on the radio.
4. Experts say we often build characters to fulfill our fantasies/desires. What characteristics do you desire in your main characters (hero/heroine)? Give examples from some of your stories. LOL. Oddly enough, none of my male characters are my dream man. One of the things that keeps ending up in my books, which I know is because it’s important to me, is that the hero always knows how the heroine likes her coffee. It might be a small thing in the grand scheme of things but he cares enough to pay attention to the details.
5. What do you find most fulfilling about writing? Most challenging? That one is easy. All it takes is one reader to tell me they loved my story. Suddenly every edit, every frustration, every thing is worth it. The most challenging for me…promotion. I don’t have whatever it takes to be a salesperson. I had trouble asking my bf of 30 years if she’d bought FIRST DATE.
6. I’m sure you could write a book about this, but writing is a journey. What advice would you give to those just embarking on the journey? The first advice I would give would be to think about it. Really think about it. If you can not write, then don’t. I know that sounds harsh. I thought it did when I first heard it. Once you’ve been writing for awhile, it begins to make sense. This is not an occupation in which you’ll make a lot of money. It’s not easy. It’s not a job where you can stay in your comfort zone. You’ll be criticized, knocked down, and rejected over and over. You can work for five years and still not ‘make’ it. Which means you’re working for free. Still want to write? Welcome! Now read. Read everything you can get your hands on. Especially the genre in which you intend to write. Find a good critique group or partner and write.
7. What are some of your most cherished resources? My CP and fiancé. He tears my work to shreds and it’s always better because of it.
8. Any helpful hints on balancing self, work, family, and writing? I’m still finding that balance myself. I have dedicated times to write but because I have small children, I have to be flexible. Sometimes I have to tear myself away from the computer to spend time with the kids. Other times I have to tear myself away from the kids to spend time with my characters. Me time? I’ve almost forgotten what that is.
9. What do you do to re-energize, restore, and recover? This is important because if I don’t re-energize, I find my writing is flat and lifeless. So to recover my creativity, I do some of that me-time stuff. That can mean I clean my house (It gets way cluttered when I’m working) As odd as it seems, having a clean house relaxes me. Spending time in the garden also helps. Lately, I’ve had the urge to drive up to the forest and just be quiet. Sorry, I guess that’s not a tried and true thing that would work for everyone.
10. Tell me about your WIPs.
I am totally jealous of those writers who can just start talking about his or her books. Me? As soon as someone asks me, I draw a blank. I am really going to work on that. But for now, I’m using blurbs. : )
I’m getting a paranormal short ready to submit. I wrote this one about four years ago. I stumbled across it a few months ago, read it and realized it had potential. Here’s a blurb:
On assignment in the Oregon wilderness, John encounters a mystical pool, but it’s the pool’s guardian, a Naiad, Alia, who challenges everything John believed about the world around him. In Alia’s arms, John finds the enthusiasm he’s always lacked and a passion he never knew possible.
When a crisis back in Seattle demands his attention, he leaves the pool and Alia. Once in the midst of civilization, John must decide if he will relegate Alia to the world of fantasy and continue living the mediocre life he’d created or give into the dreams that haunt him and return to the Naiad.
My short, AFTER HOURS, is contracted with The Wilder Rose Press but I don’t have a firm release date yet. I’m currently in the editing process with this one. Here is the blurb :
Elle Simpson doesn’t deny that the new intern is sexy as hell but he’s also ten years her junior -- and she doesn’t date men from the office. Of course, dating isn’t what comes to mind when David Nelson enters a room. When Elle’s boss assigns her to work an important account, she’s thrilled—until David volunteers to help. Working one on one with her desirable new assistant is bound to test the limits of her restraint.

Everything about Elle, from her professional savvy to her hot body, turns David on, but first he has to unravel her mixed signals. After a few late nights alone with Elle in the office, David is at the end of his tether. It was hard enough during the day; keeping his hands off her after hours could prove impossible.
I’m also working on a longer story tentatively called “Creative License” but it’s still in its first draft so I’m keeping mum about it.

Author Jeanne St. James is here with us today...

2009-10-26T02:00:00.000-07:00

Take a peek at author Jeanne St. James' new release!

BANGED UP
Two scarred souls: one physically, one mentally. Both on the mend, hiding from their pasts…
Mace Walker can’t wait to get home.
Being buried deep undercover for the past two years, on the most complex case of his career, has torn him down physically and mentally. Now the FBI agent has come home to recover after having his leg badly injured from a gunshot wound. Arriving home late one night, his relief is short-lived as he’s faced with a stranger pointing a gun to his head, acting like he is the one who doesn’t belong there!
Colby Parks, a biochemist at the local university, had come to town a year earlier to escape an abusive relationship. She vows never to put herself in that situation again.
Then the perfect opportunity comes along: house-sitting for Mace’s sister while making the house she purchased habitable. But she couldn’t anticipate this big snag: the one wearing the tight Levi’s and worn leather jacket, looking like he had just escaped prison.
Being forced to share a house creates sparks between them in more ways than one. However, things take a turn when their pasts catch up to them, threatening to pull them apart forever.

Chapter OneHome.
Relief flooded over Mace Walker as he twisted the key in the lock, gave the front door a shove, and stepped over the threshold. Finally home. About time.
Time to heal.
The foyer was dark, but he didn’t need to hit the light switch. Even being gone for as long as he had been, he still knew the house well enough. He made his way to the stairs and set down his bags. Those two small duffels didn’t hold much evidence of his life for the past couple of years. Just some toiletries and a few basic items of clothing.
As he straightened, the foyer lit up, blinding him for a second. He blinked when a young voice rang out from the top of the steps. “Hold it right there! Put your arms up and back away from the stairs.”
What the fuck?
Mace had expected to see his sister bounding down the stairway of his two-story colonial, excited after not seeing her brother for the past two years. Actually, more like one year, eleven months and fifteen days. Not that he was counting. But instead, he stared up into the deadly eye of a Glock. And from his viewpoint it looked like a model 23, a .40 caliber. A compact but still a decent sized gun in a very small, very uneasy hand. Instantly, the hairs on the back of his neck rose.
Damn. He’d dealt with crime bosses and their flunkies--from drug to porno rings--and had managed to survive. Now he was going to be killed by some measly punk he surprised while burglarizing his house? The cruel irony made him want to laugh. Instead, he did as he was instructed. With caution, he raised his hands above his head before stepping back toward the middle of the foyer. He avoided standing directly under the light, trying to get a better view of the top of the steps. But he didn’t have much success; the upstairs hallway and the upper section of the stairway were hidden in shadows.
If he played his cards right, this little situation would be under his control in no time at all. He just had to keep the kid calm and make the skinny punk believe he was the one in command. From experience, Mace knew the Glock didn’t have a conventional safety. All the kid had to do was pull the trigger and pull it again and again until all the rounds in the clip emptied into Mace’s body. And from what he could see in the limited light, the kid’s fingers were twitching from nervousness.
Not a good sign.
Where had a young punk gotten an expensive handgun like that? It certainly hadn’t been in the house. And if it had been, it would have been locked up in the gun safe.
If only he could see the boy’s face. He needed to see the eyes. Without seeing his eyes, Mace couldn’t even begin to predict what the kid would do.
“Don’t you dare move or I’ll blow your face off!” The kid’s voice raised an octave, making him sound more and more like ... a girl.
Tension ran through Mace’s body as the person started down the steps. At first he could see bare toes, a slim calf, then another. His gaze flicked to the gun, before returning to the shapely naked thighs which couldn’t belong to a kid--no way. Especially not a boy. Those smooth legs definitely belonged to a woman--and he couldn’t wait to see the rest of her. So far, the view almost made it worth being held at gunpoint. Almost.
He was disappointed when an oversized T-shirt--shit, was that Marmaduke on it?--blocked his view of creamy flesh. His arms were tired, his leg throbbed painfully, and his patience was wearing thin. But he still wasn’t going to move, since he had no idea who this woman descending the stairs was. His curiosity piqued when she stepped down into the light, which highlighted her long, curly red hair and made her wide, green--glaring--eyes sparkle and snap.
A twitch shot through his lower stomach and landed in his groin. Fear or pain didn’t make him suck in his breath. It was her unrestricted breasts bobbing under the cotton shirt with each step she took. Her nipples stood out like two beacons under the worn cotton. Jesus.
He had to clear his throat twice before he could ask her, “Are you robbing this house, dressed like that?”

JEANNE ST. JAMES loves to write hot, steamy romances. BANGED UP (a m/f erotic contemporary romance) is available NOW at Liquid Silver Books. You an get your copy here: http://www.tinyurl.com/bangedup.

Take a look at one of my WIPs

2009-10-22T10:01:00.000-07:00

Image courtesy of Tiberius Viris

JORDAN’S WINGS

Night blanketed Aleria as Jacoby strode out of the warriors’ quarters. As one of the highest ranking warriors of his race, he was responsible for ensuring that all males were accounted for. Frowning, he stopped for a moment to look at his mentor’s quarters. Jacoby leaned in the doorway of the area the older man had called home for more than forty years. He marveled at the fact that the narrow bed was made and everything was in place. He found it hard to believe that his mentor and friend, Rehobeth, had been missing for nearly two years. Looking at this room, anyone would think Rehobeth was to return the next day. His whereabouts were no mystery – he had defected to live among the humans.
Zion clapped him on the shoulder. “I know you miss the old one, but you best put him from your mind. You know the Seekers have decommissioned him.” He gave Jacoby a pointed look.
“I do not believe that. Ree is smart, strong, and agile. He even served five years as a Seeker. He would never allow his interest in the humans to get him caught.”
“Jacoby, Rehobeth was fascinated with the humans. Serving as a Seeker and living among them are two very different things. His mind would have quickly gone to mush without the constant reality of Alerian laws. I think…”
“Zion.” Jacoby’s voice had a hard edge as he interrupted Zion. He sighed, pulling away from the other man. “I must confirm something.”
Jacoby left the quarters, a thin golden line visible on the horizon. He felt Zion staring at his back. Rehobeth had often regaled him with tales of his years as a Seeker – tales of the humans and their easy ways, where it was no less common to see a female moving freely about business as it was to see a male. Lifting his head, he caught a light breeze and allowed his wings to take root.
The youngest son of a line of renowned warriors, in two years Jacoby had quickly risen through the ranks, passing fighters who had been training for more than ten years. His skills were unrivaled, his senses impeccable, and tonight, he was on a mission. He arched his spine, freeing his wings so that the wind carried the impact of his steps. No one would hear him coming.
He had heard something hidden along the sidelines of the training field that disturbed him – footsteps. Continuing as if he was oblivious to the intruder, Jacoby moved stealthily along the embankment until he heard a soft gasp.
Jacoby stood completely still, his wings flaring to their full size against his will and alerting his prey to his presence.
The unknown female turned, facing him, an expression of pure terror etched on her features.
Jacoby reached for her, wondering if something about him frightened her, or if she simply feared being caught. Could it be his wings? He dismissed the thought as he lowered his arms. Surely she had seen wings before. Wanting to look at her as long as possible, he had no intention of alerting the other males, but her appearance was so foreign to him, he couldn’t speak. He found that he was riveted to the spot as she backed away from him.
Jacoby allowed her to go, but something inside him twisted as he watched her, highlighting his need for something that he could not name until that moment. This was the closest he had ever come to a female.
He was Alerian, descended from an ancient son-worshiping race believed to be the disinherited children of angels. Due to a genetic anomaly, the Alerians consisted of very few females. In fact, five-hundred males were born for every female, and only the leaders of his race were guaranteed lifemates.
Born into a family of warriors, Jacoby had been expected to fight with no aspirations of love or family, and he had rarely even been allowed to catch a glimpse of a female, as those males with lifemates were extremely protective of them. Born without wings, females were rarely allowed out of doors, and never without the company of their lifemates or sires. Continuing to watch her as she moved farther and farther away, Jacoby wanted nothing more than to touch her. He thought he was beginning to understand just how very precious females were, and more than anything, he wanted one meant for him alone.

Got Wolf? Blog Tour

2009-10-17T21:51:00.000-07:00

The authors of the two Got Wolf? anthologies will be on tour soon! Watch for us on the web and win a few prizes. You'll also catch a glimpse of our stories. I'll keep you posted.

New Release - Last Man on Earth by Michelle Pillow

2009-10-15T11:51:00.000-07:00

Last Man on Earth - Now in Ebook from Ellora's Cave by Michelle M. Pillow

Dr. Micco Hagan has been charged with pairing up the last of Earth’s survivors based on genetics for optimal survival of the species. He can’t resist the opportunity to be with his dream girl, Rena Gates. Though she rejected him before the Earth ended, he hopes now she’ll find a soft spot for him.

In the time before, Rena thought Micco had only come on to her to win a bet. She never expected them to be rescued together, or to be eventually partnered. Unable to resist following orders, she discovers they have a lot more going for them than DNA matching. The sex is explosive, but can it eventually grow into love?

BUY NOW

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Excerpt Code
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Last Day in the Spotlight

2009-10-14T09:49:00.000-07:00

This is my last day in the "spotlight" at Andrea's blog. Check it out and please leave a comment after my entry. How d'ya like my wolf? Made me think of Raven from "Raven's Shelter."

Got Wolf? Taming of the Wolf - "Raven's Shelter" excerpt

2009-10-08T16:13:00.000-07:00

Here's the excerpt...

Karen rubbed her patient’s head and removed her surgical gloves. Surgery had gone well and the freshly neutered dog was doing fine. Fia approached her as soon as she stepped into the hallway.
“Boss, there’s this gorgeous guy here to see you. He says he’s a vet, too. He was asking Auriel if he could look around the clinic.”
“Look around? Damn it, Ron must have sent him.” She stepped into another room, removed her scrubs, and washed her hands. “Where is he? Waiting room?”
“Yep. I must say all the female clients are enjoying the view.”
Karen frowned, genuinely puzzled. “What are you talking about?”
“The view! You know--good looking man--enjoying the view? Even the pets stopped whatever they were doing and looked at this guy when he walked in.”
Karen shook her head. “Well, view or no view, he’d better not be one of Ron’s minions coming in here to piss me off or he’s gonna get cussed out today.”
“And that would make today different how?”
Karen gave Fia a no you didn’t look. “I don’t cuss every day.”
Fia laughed. “Ahem. Okay. You’re the boss, but I’ve never met another woman who can cry real tears over a dog or cat getting hurt or lost and turn around a minute later and cuss every human around her like a sailor. I’m just sayin’.”
Karen rolled her eyes and started walking back to the waiting area. “Where’s my guest?”
“Dr. Adler?” Fia called Raven to the front counter to meet Karen.
Karen stared as a tall man with wide shoulders and wavy black hair approached the counter. She knew her lips were parted, but couldn’t seem to force her jaw closed as she watched him in awe. He moved with the grace of a predator--slow, sensual movements as if his muscles rolled when he walked.
“Hi doctor.”
A few moments passed before Karen realized Dr. Adler still held his hand out for her to shake. All suspicions about him working for Ron flew from her mind as her lower abdomen lit up like a furnace and her lower limbs melted from the heat.
“Oh, hi doctor. You are from?” She tried to cover, something she seldom had to do. She was not a woman who spent much time thinking about men, let alone falling all over one. She was not accustomed to having to control her reactions.
“I’m from Washington State. I do apologize for keeping you from your patients, but I only…”
Karen found herself staring again, his words dropping to a low hum. His eyes were like water--liquid pools of baby blue in an olive-colored complexion framed by the blackest hair she had ever seen on a white man. He had high cheekbones, full lips, a straight nose, and as he spoke, she could see just a hint of pearl-white pointed incisors. The imperfection made his features perfect.
“Doctor Marshall? Are you all right?”
Karen noticed as the baby blue pools narrowed, his entire expression becoming one of concern. She blinked slowly, realizing he was awaiting a reply from her. She covered again. “Oh, I’m sorry. I didn’t get much sleep last night. You were saying?”
“If I could bother you for just a few minutes longer in private.” He smiled.
Bother? His smile gave her an even better view of his imperfect yet perfect white teeth, and she felt as if a light switch had been turned on causing the fire inside her to flare. “Oh, no bother.” She looked around the waiting room. “Five minutes?”
That smile again. “Five minutes.”

Got Wolf? - Taming of the Wolf - "Raven's Shelter"

2009-10-08T08:45:00.000-07:00

Local “no-kill” expert, Dr. Karen Marshall, has spent her life learning about animals. When she rescues an extremely large wolf from an untimely death at the animal shelter, she has no idea what she has unleashed…

Raven, a sentinel wolf shifter, is captured and locked in his wolf form until Karen, a veterinarian, tries to tame him and unleashes a 6'5" baby blue-eyed surprise.

Dr. Karen Marshall is a veterinarian with a calling – save as many stray animals as possible. The only child of wealthy, yet distant parents, she’s convinced that love is not for her. Until…

Raven’s search for his twin sister leads him to Karen. Born into a rare species of wolf shifters whose main purpose is protecting others, he has always been forced to fend for himself, but Karen’s loving, protective nature draws him – and not a moment too soon. Together, they must learn to trust each other enough to overcome a new, deadly enemy.

Be sure to tune in for an excerpt!
Click here for your copy of Taming of the Wolf

Zerah's Chosen

2009-09-27T16:50:00.000-07:00

Zerah's Chosen by Isabelle Santiago will be released tomorrow at Drollerie Press. The hero is Death's guardian. Sounds interesting...

"Raven's Shelter" blurb

2009-09-27T11:57:00.000-07:00

Thanks again, Fallon! Here's a blurb for "Raven's Shelter."

Raven, a sentinel wolf shifter, is captured and locked in his wolf form until Karen, a veterinarian, tries to tame him and unleashes a 6'5" baby blue-eyed surprise.

Dr. Karen Marshall is a veterinarian with a calling – save as many stray animals as possible. The only child of wealthy, yet distant parents, she’s convinced that love is not for her. Until…

Raven’s search for his twin sister leads him to Karen. Born into a rare species of wolf shifters whose main purpose is protecting others, he has always been forced to fend for himself, but Karen’s loving, protective nature draws him – and not a moment too soon. Together, they must learn to trust each other enough to overcome a new, deadly enemy.

2009-09-25T12:33:00.000-07:00

Taming of the Wolf is out! It's an anthology about wolf shifters, weres, and all manner of sexy wolves. My story is "Raven's Shelter." Click here to get your copy...

http://www.thewildrosepress.com/taming-of-the-wolf-volume-2-paperback-p-3663.html

or go to.....

http://www.thewildrosepress.com/

Literacy for Black History Month

2009-01-23T10:26:00.000-08:00

As we celebrate Black History, wouldn't it be delightful if everyone spent some time becoming familiar with a few great works by Black authors? Sort of a cultural expedition? Here's a list of 100 to get you started.

1. The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano - by Olaudah Equiano

2. David Walker's Appeal - by David Walker

3. Narrative of the Life and Times of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, Written by Himself - by Frederick Douglass

4. Clotel: or, The President's Daughter - by William Wells Brown

5. Our Nig: or, Sketches from the LIfe of a Free Black, in a Two-Story White House, North - by Harriet E. Wilson

6. Lyrics of Lowly Life - by Paul Laurence Dunbar

7. The Conjure Woman - by Charles W. Chestnutt

8. Up From Slavery - by Booker T. Washington

9. The Souls of Black Folks - by W.E.B. DuBois

10. The Philosophy and Opinions of Marcus Garvey, or Africa for the Africans - by Marcus Garvey

11. Cane - by Jean Toomer

12. The New Negro - by Alain Locke

13. The Blacker the Berry - by Wallace Thurman

14. The Mis-Education of the Negro - by Carter G. Woodson

15. The Ways of White Folks - by Langston Hughes

16. Black Reconstruction in America - by W. E. B. DuBois

17. Their Eyes Were Watching God - by Zora Neale Hurston

18. Native Son - by Richard Wright

19. Black Boy - by Richard Wright

20. Black Metropolis: A Study of Negro Life in a Northern City - by St. Clair Drake and Horace R. Cayton

21. If He Hollers Let Him Go - by Chester B. Himes

22. The Street - by Ann Petry

23. From Slavery to Freedom: A History of African Americans - by John Hope Franklin

24. Jesus and the Disinherited - by Howard Thurman

25. Annie Allen - by Gwendolyn Brooks

26. Invisible Man - by Ralph Ellison

27. Go Tell It On the Mountain - by James Baldwin

28. Maud Martha - by Gwendolyn Brooks

29. Stolen Legacy - by George G. M. James

30. Black Bourgeoisie - by E. Franklin Frazier

31. Things Fall Apart - by Chinua Achebe

32. A Raisin in the Sun - by Lorraine Hansberry

33. Blues People: Negro Music in White America - by LeRoi Jones

34. The Fire Next Time - by James Baldwin

35. The Black Jacobins - by C. L. R. James

36. The Wretched of the Earth - by Frantz Fanon

37. Africa Must Unite - by Kwame Nkruman

38. Letter From Birmingham Jail - by Martin Luther King, Jr.

39. Before the Mayflower - by Lerone Bennett, Jr.

40. The River Between - by Ngugi wa Thiong'o

41. The Autobiography of Malcolm X - as told by Alex Haley

42. Manchild in the Promised Land - by Claude Brown

43. Jubilee - by Margaret Walker

44. Black Skin, White Masks - Frantz Fanon

45. The Crisis of the Negro Intellectual - by Harold Cruse

46. Black Power - by Stokely Carmichael and Charles V. Hamilton

47.The Man Who Cried I Am - by John Alfred Williams

48. Two Thousand Seasons - by Ayi Kwei Armah

49. Soul on Ice - by Eldridge Cleaver

50. The Spook Who Sat by the Door - by Sam Greenlee

51. We a BaddDDD People - by Sonia Sanchez

52. Soledad Brother: The Prison Letters of George Jackson - by George Jackson

53. Seize the Time: The Story of the Black Panther Party and Huey P. Newton - by Bobby Seale

54. A Black Theology of Liberation - by James H. Cone

55. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings - by Maya Angelou

56. God's Bits of Wood - by Sembene Ousmane

57. The Destruction of Black Civilization - by Chancellor Williams

58. The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman - by Ernest J. Gaines

59. Mumbo Jumbo - by Ishmael Reed

60. The Hero and the Blues - by Albert Murray

61. Faith and the Good Thing - by Charles Johnson

62. For Colored Girls who have Considered Suicide/ when the rainbow is enuf - by Ntozake Shange

63. They Came Before Columbus - by Ivan Van Sertima

64. Roots: The Saga of an American Family

65. Song of Solomon - by Toni Morrison

66. Elbow Room - by James Alan McPherson

67. Sally Hemings - by Barbara Chase-Riboud

68. Black Macho and the Myth of the Superwoman - by Michele Wallace

69. The Chaneysville Incident - by David Bradley

70. Damballah - by John Edgar Wideman

71. The Color Purple - by Alice Walker

72. The Women of Brewster Place - by Gloria Naylor

73. Praisesong for the Widow - by Paule Marshall

74. Sister Outsider: Essays and Speeches - by Audre Lorde

75. Brothers and Keepers - by John Edgar Wideman

76. Fences - by August Wilson

77. The Life of Langston Hughes - by Arnold Rampersad

78. Beloved - by Toni Morrison

79. Kindred - by Octavia Butler

80. Notes of a Hanging Judge - by Stanley Crouch

81. Miles: The Autobiography - by Miles Davis and Quincy Troupe

82. The Famished Road - by Ben Okri

83. Tapping the Power Within - by Iyanla Vanzant

84. Waiting to Exhale - by Terry McMillan

85. Your Blues Ain't Like Mine - by Bebe Moore Campbell

86. The Daughters of Africa - by Margaret Busby

87. A Lesson Before Dying - by Ernest J. Gaines

88. Race Matters - by Cornel West

89. A Hard Road to Glory: A History of the African American Athlete - by Arthur Ashe

90. Kehinde - by Buchi Emecheta

91. W. E. B. DuBois: Biography of a Race - by David Levering Lewis

92. Black Betty - by Walter Mosley

93. Conversations with God: Two Centuries of Prayers by African Americans - by James Melvin Washington

94. Krik? Krak! - by Edwidge Danticat

95. Guide My Feet: Prayers and Meditations on Loving and Working for Children - by Marian Wright Edelman

96. My Soul is a Witness: African-American Women's Spirituality - edited by Gloria Wade-Gayles

97. The Substance of Things Hoped For: A Memoir of African-American Faith - by Samuel DeWitt Proctor

98. Brother man: The Odyssey of Black Men in America - An Anthology - edited by Herb Boyd and Robert L. Allen

99. Sojourner Truth: A Life, A Symbol - by Nell Irvin Painter

100. Spirits of the Passage: The Transatlantic Slave Trade in the Seventeenth Century - by Madeline Burnside and Rosemarie Robotham

Jax Cassidy - Diva Extraordinaire

2008-11-14T17:07:00.000-08:00

http://www.jaxcassidy.com/bookshelf/ArtOfSensuality.jpg[/img]

Art was not only a passion of Machiko Barrett, but also a destiny…a way of life she has known since her talent was discovered at three years old. Caught in a turbulent storm of celebrity, scandal and corruption, she disappeared from the art world only to re-emerge fifteen years later as an au pair to the two young children of renowned Parisian gallery owners. Her sheltered existence is disrupted when she is lured back to her one true passion: painting.

While Machiko struggles to find her own identity through her art, she encounters Caleb Holden, a sexy, unpredictable and irresistible neighbor with a penchant for collecting art, and women. As he discovers the girl within the woman, the secrets of Machiko's past return to haunt her, revealing scars she never knew existed. She must learn to conquer her fears and allow him into her heart or risk slipping back into a cold, lonely world that once held her spirit captive.

Through Caleb's determination to educate Machiko about trusting herself and her abilities, he opens her eyes to the art of sensuality, and awakens the woman buried deep inside the broken girl.

Author Bio:
Jax Cassidy is a multi-published author and has written under the pen name Cassidy Kent. She is Co-Founder of Romance Divas, an award winning romance writer's website and discussion forum.

In between skydiving for charity and campaigning against human trafficking, she enjoys the company of close friends and indulges her caffeine fix at the nearest cafe. An avid traveler and an adventurous spirit, Jax has drawn inspiration from her experiences and often blends the exotic mix of Eastern and Western lifestyles into her writing.

When she isn't locked up in her office penning her latest manuscript, Jax can be found creating abstract paintings for future art shows, or dividing her time between California, Texas, and Florida.

2008-11-09T21:53:00.001-08:00

Got Wolf?

2008-11-08T07:25:00.000-08:00

I am SO excited! Just got the request for my snail mail address from The Wild Rose Press. I won 2nd place for my wolf shifter novella, "Raven's Shelter." I'll let you know when the anthology will be available.

Interview

2008-11-01T00:12:00.000-07:00

How long have you been writing? Started writing short stories and winning essay contests as a child, and wrote some rather dreary poetry in high school, but my first release was Vashti’s Star in 2003.

What's the hottest love scene you've ever written? (Excerpt- optional) What’s hot is extremely relative, but right now, Aidan’s will (paranormal romance that I’m working on) has the hottest love scene.

David began to pull back out, allowing the pearls to slide across his teeth…..

Who's your favorite hero? Heroine? My favorite hero is always the one I’m writing at the time. Right now, his name is David, a 6’3’’ Native American Aries with creative bedroom interests and lots of secrets.

What's your writing routine? I’m most creative late at night, say from 10 p.m. until 2 a.m., and I write all day on Saturday when I’m not working in the studio.

Where do your ideas come from? God has blessed me with a childlike imagination fit for adult fancy:)

Which do you create first: characters or the plot? Definitely characters.

Is your glass half empty or full? Always half full. Who’s gonna say their glass is half empty?

What's your favorite genre? Paranormal romance with the inherent suspense and mystery. I mean paranormal in the broadest sense (voodoo, clairvoyance, reincarnation, angels, deities, unusual shape-shifters, etc.)

True or False: Do your characters reinact your secret desires? False. They’re just a pleasant escape. Unlike real life, their stories always end well.

What are your thoughts on writing erotic romance? Your genre? Erotic romance is the best of both worlds. There’s a storyline for those of us who need a plot, and there’s hot sex for those of us who enjoy the “steamy” side of life. Paranormal is my favorite because it allows me to bend and break even more rules.

What's under the covers? (Upcoming releases)? Working frantically on Aidan’s Will, the story of two lovers, a Vodouin empath and a medicine man, who die tragically in the 19th century and are reincarnated in the 21st century. This time, however, she does not know who he is, and he is in danger of possession by an ancient deity that has stalked his family for more than 100 years. After it’s edited, I’ll work more on Gabriel’s Keep, my take on the ancient story of an archangel who is born into a human family with a frightening mission. The woman chosen to share in the fulfillment of this mission is an abused housewife who has no idea who or what he is.

Diva starter: 12 hunkiest male professions

2008-10-31T23:35:00.000-07:00

Saw this on the Diva board and thought it was great. What are the 12 hunkiest male professions? Personally, I have a thing for smart men who are good with their hands.

Doctor (any specialization - MD, DVM, Ph.D.)

Architect

Artist

Computer tech

Engineer

Electrician

Contractor

Musician

What do you think? What are some of the hunkiest male professions in your opinion?

Time - again

2008-10-15T16:36:00.000-07:00

Okay - remember my post about time? The last 10 days are proof that time - actually, the lack of time - is still a problem. I didn't get to post my novel excerpt because I'm working on rewrites, but I'll get it loaded soon.

Follower Feature

2008-10-05T22:40:00.000-07:00

Later this week, I'll post an excerpt from one of my novels. Check back and let me know what you think. Also, since time is so limited and essential, register as a follower of my blog so keeping in touch will be easier.

2008-10-05T20:07:00.000-07:00

Hi. I'm Dariel Raye, and this is something I've wanted to do for a while. Mostly, I'll talk about my writing and other projects, but occasionally I muse at random. The past few weeks have been particularly hectic and stressful, and I guess that's why I've been thinking a lot about time - how valuable it is, and how I might use it more wisely...

I once read that the best way to know what you value is by looking at your checkbook and figuring out what you spend most of your money on. Since time is even more valuable than money (you can't recapture time - once it's gone, it's gone), I figure that same method will work by noticing how you allocate your time. What do you spend most of your free time doing? If you have almost no free time, why is that? How do you spend your time - even if it's earmarked for someone else? I'll go first.

Probably the most significant thing about me is that I've always got several "projects" going at once. Sounds nice, but it's a double-edged sword because I'm always running here and there either trying to keep up or catch up. It's amazing I ever get anything done, but somehow I manage - slowly, but creatively. Somewhat.

I'm a mom, writer, musician, counselor, and student. I tend to dream big, so I'm never really satisfied for long :) Right now, I'm actively working on 4 novels ("Aidan's Will," "Jordan's Wings," "Raven's Shelter," and "Vashti's Star"). Obviously, I like two-word titles. I have 3 more novels in note form just waiting in the wings, I write a newspaper column, and I write for a magazine. Because I'm working on a dissertation, I have very little free time, but what I have is spent writing my novels, reading other people's novels, playing the piano and singing, and playing with my 3 dogs. When I'm tied up with other people's demands (not to mention the demands of paying for housing, utilities, transportation, food, etc.), those are the things I long to get back to.