Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Fa-la-la-la AHHHHHHH!
Monday, November 29, 2010
Turkeys, werewolves, and publishing
Without capitalism, turkeys would have become extinct along with bison and other animals. By taking ownership (through property rights) we've been able to not only save turkeys, but the iconic bison still roam somewhat free in large ranches specifically designed to maintain and foster these remarkable creatures. Before, when they truly roamed free, they were hunted until only approx. 2,000 head were left in the world. Some smart cattle ranchers saw an opportunity to save the animals through a profit motive. Today, ranchers across the west raise bison, like the Jayjak family.
Today, much of the American lifestyle is attributed to individual entrepreneurs who saw an opportunity and put in the effort to make it work. My hats off to you all, as well as my deepest thanks. Because its dreamers like you who make reality as good as the imagination.
That leads me to another front. Publishing.
I'm still awaiting word from yet another agent. Its tough waiting it out, because I'm eager to find someone who will represent me. But I can imagine how difficult it must be for agents and editors who scour through pages and pages of unsolicited requests to find something golden. I know I'm not the only writer out there with potential, so it is a difficult thing to pick and choose among the throngs of voices. I just hope my voice resonates with someone very soon.
What has me all excited is the release of World of Warcraft: Cataclysm. I'm especially excited because this expansion features my favorite paranormal creature, the werewolf. After all, The Shaman's Beacon is about werewolves. Naturally, I'll be rolling a worgen. Now if only they were cowboys too.
Initially I wasn't going to write a paranormal novel, because I feel its being done ad nauseam. That changed after I read Sarah McCarty's, Running Wild. Although she isn't a well known author, her books are a combination of erotica meets adventure. I love her Hell's Eight series, so when I picked up Running Wild I expected something good and she delivered. The premise is not outstanding, but the writing and scenes are well done. So I found myself wondering what my werewolf story would be if I did write one. One thing led to another and Linda Menendez came to be. Then came Clayton McIntyre. It took me about three months to write that novel. Its the fastest project I've written to date, and the most exciting. In fact, I'm so excited about it, I want to share some of it with you.
Here's a little sample of what's in my current book:
“Linda sat in a corner on a stool, the only available seat in the room. At least she had some food in the way of a peanut butter cookie, which was the size of a small pizza. Milk would have been good right about then. The damn stuff was beginning to stick to the roof of her mouth.
Most of the cookie remained on the napkin on her lap. Clayton moseyed on over and gestured to the cookie. “You going to eat that?”
“I was going to save it to feed a small village in Africa,” she quipped.
He chuckled, took the cookie, and in a couple of bites it was gone.
Damn it! She wanted that cookie. Just because she didn’t have a mouth the size of Montana didn’t mean she wasn’t going to eat it. She pouted as she looked down at the crumbs on the napkin and nibbled on them. “Cookie thief.”
His eyes glittered with laughter. “I asked.”
“Uh-huh.” Booger. “I’m going to the kitchen and see if there’s anything for that small village in Africa…in my stomach.” Everyone turned to look at her. So much for reticence. Okay, maybe she did have a temper. But the man ate her cookie!
“Can you get me something too?” He didn’t just ask all sweet and nice, did he? Yep, he did, looking as innocent as the honey-bunny he was.
If all eyes weren’t on her she’d have pinched his nipple again. “Uh-huh.” She grumbled on the way to the kitchen, passing pink versions of the Hulk who tipped their cowboy hats and handed out ‘howdy-dos’ without a single inflection in their voices. They were all a sober bunch, including the women, but neighborly too. The humans weren’t so big and nasty. In fact, most of them seemed to enjoy the excitement. Some were talking about their emergency preparations with enthusiastic pride, while others discussed who they reached on their ham radios from allying packs and what information they gathered. The children—or were they cubs?—played war games wearing Fatigues. Tiny Velveteen Rabbits were apparently over the top for werewolves. No doubt it was like idolizing lunch. Speaking of lunch… Her stomach rumbled again.”
Be sure and let me know what you think by commenting to this post.
Friday, November 5, 2010
A birthday and several rejections later...
I have done some writing in my new project that I'm calling Between The Lines. No werewolves. No fantasy worlds outside our own. Just a regular cattle rancher who meets a woman stranded on the side of the road who falls in love over the course of several years through letters they write to one another. Problem is, she's about to marry another and he's just realized she is his soul mate. Lots of twists and turns, but eventually this odd couple manages to work things out, but even the future isn't sunshine and ponies. And poor Wayne Ayres is about to learn what love really means when he has to make a choice between saving his wife or their unborn daughter.
As far as the moving front, Clint and I are still working on getting situated in Texas. I really look forward to moving there and already have a fellow guild mate interested in getting together should we move near the Houston area. I'm crossing fingers, toes, and eyes on this one.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Finished...again!
The novel has been sent to my editor for final comments and edits. Whew, its a lot of work writing a book. But boy, I love it!
Now, I can enjoy World of Warcraft: Cataclysm when it hits the stores in December without worrying about finalizing the novel. I might have to dedicate some time during Blizzcon here in late October, but I hope to have it done by then.
Clint's father is doing much better. Its a slow recovery, but its a solid one and we'll take that. Now more than ever I realize Clint and I need to save up resources for these emergencies. This economy is making things difficult for us, especially considering the higher cost of living here in California. Eventually we'll make our way to Texas, but for now I'm content with enjoying my work at the firm, writing novels, playing World of Warcraft with friends and family, and spending time with the most wonderful man in the whole world.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Good news...
October is my favorite month of the year. There are several reasons for that:
1. Harvest time
2. Turning leaves
3. Cooler nights
4. Pumpkin everything, particularly bread and soup
5. Ghost Hunters (one of my favorite TV shows)
and most of all...
6. HALLOWEEN!
I have a birthday on Halloween. I was born at 11:45 pm, pretty close to the witching hour. What can I say? I was perverse from the time I was in the womb, bless my mother's heart.
Each year I decorate for Halloween, but nothing on par to what I used to do when I lived in a house. I've sold all of my past Halloween frock in a garage sale. Made a grundle too. But I'm getting a hankering for the old days when I would turn my modest abode into a cemetery-mausoleum. I'd hang around the front with make up that brought out my inner-ghoul and unleashed The Scream Of Death upon people who approached the door for candy. Fun times.
So this year, bring out your worms, your skeletal candelabras, your green goo and all the other macabre accouterments and have yourself a very happy hallow-scream and enjoy this wondrous month, October.
In the spirit of the season, I've provided a little YouTube clip that truly gave me a start. Its genius. Honestly.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Some sad news
Still...
My poor husband feels helpless out here in California. That's because his father is in South Africa, my husband's homeland. So, he pines to see his father all the while wondering when he'll make it back there.
But...
We're hopeful. With the plans to move to Texas where the cost of living is lower than California and job prospects brighter, it won't be long before we'll be able to make that trip and finally visit his folks.
So...
We're keeping our chin up, though admittedly I have to keep my finger under the hubby's chin to keep it upright. It's all good. Especially given that Dad will be back home soon.
We love you, Dad!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
The Close Talker
But wait! I have found a solution.
Mind you, this should be a last resort.
When she bends her face towards you, don't shrink back. Instead, take the opportunity to stick your tongue out and give her a long lick in the face. Explain that you just had surgery in your mouth and still can't control your tongue. Take a sip of something before speaking for effect and viola!
It works like a charm.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Pimp My Novel: The Never-Ending Battle Continues
This intrigues me, because since ebooks have become more prolific in the market I am purchasing more books in the last six months than I have my entire lifetime. I find myself buying whole series in ebook format, as well as single titles. Ironically, the books are more expensive ($8 to 10 each) than if I buy it at the local B&N, but its easier for me since I live in front of a computer. That's because I read the books while I fish in World of Warcraft, wait to do quests in the game, stop writing/editing and read a few lines when I need a break, etc.
Either way this guys, I'm grateful for people like Eric in the literary industry who take the time to inform us ignorant masses with the latest.
I probably should follow the news more often than I do. Doh!
Pimp My Novel: The Never-Ending Battle Continues: "As I mentioned last month, there's a battle going on for control of Barnes & Noble (BKS). Leonard Riggio, chairman and largest stockholder o..."
Monday, September 20, 2010
More edits
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Jumping through hoops in the Fall
The protagonist in the first book, The Shaman's Beacon, was essentially the easiest because of her love interest, Clayton. He was such a pleasure to write that he nearly wrote the story for me. The subsequent books aren't so forthcoming. I know what I want to do, but its how I wish to present the story that is a challenge. It feels like jumping through hoops. A challenge I look forward to, despite the fact its driving me nuts. lol Yeah, I'm just masocistic that way.
Fall is my favorite time of year. One, because Halloween is coming and yours truly celebrates her birthday that day, and two, because of the changing of the seasons...not to mention pumpkin everything! Pumpkin bread. Pumpkin muffins. Pumpkin cookies. Pumpkin cake. Okay, okay. I get that its overkill. But its pumpkin!
Pimp My Novel: The Ten Commandments of Blogging
Thank you, Eric!
Pimp My Novel: The Ten Commandments of Blogging: "1. I am thy blog. If you're an author, you should already have a blog. If you're not yet published, now is the time to start. 2. Thou shalt..."
Friday, September 10, 2010
Criticism...scorned and cherished
"Criticism is one of the hardest things to take and one of the most valuable things to embrace."
(Source: http://twitter.com/chickenbuttlips)
Over the years I've come to realize just how true that statement is. I've winced, bristled, and listened with rapt appreciation to individuals who have been both brave and patient enough to impart pearls of wisdom to help me improve my skills. I hated it at the time, only to realize what special allies these people were to help me in the first place.
It takes humility to endure the sometimes brutally honest assessments, but I learned it takes wisdom and a certain type of pride in one's work to analyze, process and eventually integrate what is imparted. And what I found most intriguing is that the more vehemently defensive I was about the critique, the more I needed to listen.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Simon's Cat by Simon Tofield
This is why a person should never stop pursuing their interests, which eventually can turn into a dream.
I discovered my passion for writing one day after writing some fan fiction. I didn't care for the ending of a novel and started creating my own ending. For obvious reasons, I was doing it for my own enjoyment to read. However, I realized how much I loved the creative process in writing and then embarked on my own writing venture. That led to several other books, then a series, and now another book I've just completed.
Essentially, never quit dreaming.
Werewolves and goblins and vampires...oh my!
True Blood's season finale is this Sunday. I am champing at the bit for this one.
I was able to do some of the pre-Cataclysm quests in World of Warcraft. They were so cute and fun. I really enjoyed them. You can read more about it here: http://www.worldofwarcraft.com/info/underdev/3p9/echoisles2.xml
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Getting organized
I've sent in another query letter for The Shaman's Beacon (paranormal romance) to an agent. I did write a synposis, but didn't submit it to this agent, since she feels they're "evil," bless her little heart.
I'll be working on improving the query letter for By Virtue's Design (the first book in The Judge fantasy series) to submit that as well. We'll see if I can finally get agented and get these books out that people are already dying to read (thank you very much!).
I'm still conceptualizing/plotting for The Wolf Witch. I've got several books in each series to work on. We'll see which one captures my imagination.
Friday, September 3, 2010
Grand Canyon
Pictures and Queries
I've posted pictures of my vacation adventures on Facebook, but they're being stingy who can view them. I'll post a few here for a taste of what Clint and I experienced, but the full experience will have to remain in Facebook. Sigh!
Saturday, August 14, 2010
Deep In The Heart of Texas
Tomorrow around this time I'll be near to Flagstaff, which will be the place we rest before heading to the Grand Canoyon the following day. After that we head deep in the heart of Texas to Austin.
I'll be armed with a camera, a Droid to post occasionally on Twitter, and a pen and notepad.
This trip gives me an opportunity to learn more about life in the Lone Star State. I look forward to meeting new people, going to new places, and learning a bit of history.
So, hang onto your cowboy hats. Its time to hit the trail and blaze into new territory--Our first family vacation.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Texas Trip
Yeah, I'm just a freak that way.
"It's a quest..."
Warning: Language
Monday, August 9, 2010
A Vampire's Guide To Surviving Werewolf Attacks
I found this little gem after a vicious were attack the other night. Although I survived with only minor scratches, I realized there were certain precautions I ignored that I'd like to share in this video. With were attacks on the rise, it is in your best interest to take the time to watch this insightful and educational piece to help you avoid severe injury in the case of a werewolf attack.
Disclaimer: Note that these instructions are for vampires and do not demonstrate viable alternatives for humanoids. Thus, one must proceed with caution when facing down a werewolf to ensure safety. Silver is highly recommended.
Ep. 32: Postmortem - A Vampire's Guide to Surviving…Sunday, August 8, 2010
Query Revision No. Bazillion...
My problem is two-fold: 1) I work in marketing, which by default leads to slurs of gratuitous adjectives; and 2) I write tomes. Even my e-mails can get long-winded. My shortest novel to date is my current one, with less than 140,000 words. I consider that a personal feat. Now I've revised yet another query in the hopes of getting to the point. I think I'm close, but only a successful contract will prove the effort was worthwhile.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Rewriting the synopsis...
"The story is set in the small town of Lander, Wyoming which boasts a natural wonder as remarkable as the size of the secret werewolf pack that spans most of the state. Sure the natural wonder is something to see, but Linda Menendez is on the lookout for wolves. When they start finding her she realizes something is different about these wolves. There is far too much behind those feral eyes to be anything but intelligent. And the cowboy she meets at Lupine Lodge only reaffirms something isn’t right. Clayton McIntyre’s gray eyes aren’t just feral they’re the same color as those of a wolf her father captured on camera years ago near the very same town. Eventually she figures out they are one and the same. That’s when things get hairy..."
There's more to it than that, but this is just the intro.
I found that reading other similar paranormal romance novel hooks there was a common theme of action or drama, which helped me determine what to focus on first. Honestly, writing an elevator speech version of my novel is as easy as pulling teeth, and almost as painful. I can only hope it gets easier over time.
On a side note, all the feedback on the newest book has been very positive. Looks like I'm building a fan base among my friends already. LOL
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Faster than a speeding gyration...
Friday, July 30, 2010
Photos of South Africa
http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2044997&id=1497890985&l=7c9d336215
It includes captions and thoughts. I really did have a fabulous time.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Query Dissection: Kelly Gay's The Better Part of Darkness
Query Dissection: Kelly Gay's The Better Part of Darkness
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Pendulum 'Witchcraft'
This song really has inspired my newest work. Not only because it is entitled Witchcraft, but because the energy and sound suits many of the action scenes in the novel.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Plots and things
I've gotten back into raiding in World of Warcraft. Fortunately, I've been able to finally reach the Lich King, which was something I thought I wouldn't see. I'm very happy to be part of a guild that is progressing nicely. It helps we have a good group of people. Which brings me to another subject...
My mother used to say, "People are stupid." Honestly, I have a more positive experience with people. Ever since I've started playing World of Warcraft, I've met some doozies and I've met some gems. Over the years I've developed friendships with people I not only associate with in the video game, but in real life too. They are good people with hearts of gold and I am tickled pink to know them. When I consider that I would never have met them had I not played the video game, it makes me realize just how amazing technology can be. More over, I am grateful to those who had a dream of making the best MMORPG in the world. It allowed people like my husband and I to connect while apart (my husband lived in South Africa while we 'dated' on-line), meet like minded individuals, and participate in a club-like environment to build and achieve goals as a team. I find it ironic that although the game has a more positive impact on people's lives, both the media and politicians focus only on the few individuals who can't seem to get a real life and use the game as an excuse to destroy their lives. Playing a video game is like anything else in life, you are in control not it. To blame video games for the ills of society is as foolish as spending 48 hours playing it without eating or working. So, play on my fellow gamers. And let the lootz roll.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Desperately Seeking An Agent
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
What it takes to write a novel
Yes, you have to love to write, have a good story, and know how to market your product. But you have to actually write something first. The difference between successful writers and those that only have a dream is tenacity.
Like anything worthwhile in life, you have to work at something until you hone your skills, find the right resources, and figure out timing. Imagine that it's like a good poker hand. You've got to be patient, know when to hold 'em, know when to walk away, and know when to play the game even when everyone will tell you you'll never make it. The way to make it is to buckle down and write.
There are days every writer goes through when life keeps wiggling to the fore, while pushing creativity back. Tenacity will see you through at these times, to make sure you keep your butt on the chair and your fingers on the keyboard. If you need a break, make sure its not a long one and keep a note pad nearby when your muse decides to whisper into your ear. You'll be amazed when ideas crop up, but don't let them stew too long. Jot them down, get them onto the pages. Even if they're chapters way into the book, write them down and put them aside until its time to integrate them into the rest of the novel. I did this on my latest work, because I was ready for that part. With only some minor edits, it went straight into the end without a hitch.
Tenacity also describes getting published. I've been writing novels off and on for over ten years. Throughout that time I've written books in fantasy and paranormal fiction, and though I've been working to find a good agent, I know my dream will become a reality because I won't give up. I don't need positive affirmations. I'm my own affirmation, because I work hard and I keep at it. I am fortunate to have the support of friends and family now (not something I've always had, which sucked), and I feel strongly that my success is within reach, because I've labored hours upon hours to hone my writing skill until I could produce a quality product. I'm not boasting that I'm the best author out there. I'm certainly not writing literary classics, but I know my stories are fun entertainment that takes you to another place in time where endearing characters touch your heart as well as your funny bone. I know it, because each time I read my stories I actually enjoy them too. Yeah, that is odd since I couldn't say that at the beginning when I started over ten years ago. Tenacity kept me at the keyboard to keep working on all these stories I've conjured up since I was a kid.
So you have a novel you'd like to write. Good. Excellent! Then by golly, sit down already and write it. When your butt starts to lift off the chair, weight it down with some tenacity and keep writing.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
New Book (Book 2 in The Beacons Series)
The story will take the reader from Chelsea's home in Los Angeles, California to Austin, Texas, where the Sloan, Inc. headquarters is located.
Her story is one of intrigue and romance, which begins the moment she finds a sealed wooden box in her attic. It takes a heck of an effort to open the damn thing, but once she does she wishes she never had. Inside is an effigy of her with symbols that appear Wiccan in origin. Her mother was an avid Christian who would never allow anything like that in her house, so how it got into the attic is a mystery. What makes the thing so frightening is that Chelsea remembers some of these symbols and they don't hold the the negative connotations she was raised to believe. Instead, she remembers these symbols with a fondness and warmth, as though they came from a source of love rather than anything Satanic. But after the box has been opened, all hell breaks loose and it isn't long before Chelsea becomes the target of a nefarious plot perpetuated by creatures from her nightmares. Honestly, who could possibly believe vampires exist? Really, who? Well, they do and they are out for blood--her blood.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Editing...
Monday, June 21, 2010
Just finished...
I will be querying agents on this one. Who couldn't love a woman who can face down a barrel of a gun and still keep her sense of humor? Linda will no doubt push, pull, and pry her way into the hearts of many. At the very least, she'll give it a good try.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010
New Book
Cross your fingers. I hope to get this published this year.