Thursday, December 29, 2011

Nightmares

For the past two days I've been having nightmares, although I should probably call them daymares as I sleep during the day. I think I may make them into books, but I'm not sure yet. I've so far written down the skeleton of each of the dreams, and will check back once I'm finished with the next two books I'm currently writing to see what I might do with them. One is about a witch, another is a young adult murder mystery, and the last is a young adult vampire horror. All three scared the crap out of me as I was sleeping.
I've got to tell ya, when you start dreaming about cooking the hacked pieces of your best friend, you know you need to rethink sleep.

Saturday, December 24, 2011

sleep

The past few nights I've been woken to the song Pyromania by Cascada running through my head, along with the quiet voice of Victoria wanting her story heard. I've been trying to put it off, knowing that I want to work on the Zombie sequel, but she's very persistent. The pain, betrayal and hurt she's endured throughout the ages makes it difficult for me to ask her to wait. So, as I sit here, sick with a sinus infection, dizzy, and tired of being woken to what I'm now dubbing "Victoria's theme song", I'm starting her story. It's not what I wanted to do right now, but apparently she's tired of waiting.
I'm still attempting to write the Zombie sequel, but it's been very difficult with Victoria sending me images of fire and torture. She's beyond ready for someone to know her, to understand her, and to finally have someone reach out to her with love. It's been over 400 years since someone listened. Her tale is dark and difficult, but needs to be told.
So here I write, in the wee hours of the morning, the sun still tucked away in sleep, and I'm starting her story. Maybe once we've started, she'll give me a break, and let me work on the story I've been wanting to write.

Friday, December 9, 2011

It's arrived!

Yippie!! It's official- Changed is available as an eBook!! It will be available in print in about two weeks. I'm so excited about this book! I can't believe how much I've grown this year as a writer, and I hope you enjoy it just as much as I do! The first chapter is available to read, just like the other two books. Happy reading!

Saturday, December 3, 2011

Changed is finished!

Oh. My. God!!!! It's so freaking good, I can't believe it!!! I laughed, I cried, I hugged the book to my chest when it was finished! It amazes me still that I wrote this. I can't believe it. I'm in awe. I love it, love how this story's going, love where it's headed. I can't wait to start on the next one and I hope you all love Changed as much as I do. It will be available on eReaders on Friday. I'm so EXCITED!!!!!

Friday, November 25, 2011

Thanksgiving

Things have been so busy here lately! I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving, spending time with those they love. Mine is always bittersweet as I have family all across the country and can only see one faction of them at a time during the holidays. This year Bry and I spent Turkey day with his mom and older brother's family. It was surprisingly more fun than I'd anticipated. I was going on 20+ hours of no sleep, after a horrible night at work, but we had a good time. As usual, I missed those I couldn't spend time with, but appreciated being able to connect with Bry's family.
Today I decided to skip the insanity that is Black Friday and finish Changed. I've been up writing since 6:30, and am very happy to say that it's finished!! Finally!! I love it, and hope that you love it just as much as I do. I have to finish with edits and publish it, but am hoping to have it available by Dec 9th.
I think this one ends better, there's more of a conclusion and doesn't leave you hanging like Choice. I can't wait to start on the third one, but Natasha and I need a break, so the next book on the agenda is Zombie War: Little Apocalypse on the Prairie.
As always, I will do my best to keep you updated. Happy Reading! :)

Saturday, November 5, 2011

Vacation

Holy cow. Bry and I just got back from a romantic getaway to Disneyland. It was so much fun and so good for us. We've decided that we need to get away from responsibilities more often and just enjoy each other.
 I love Halloween. I look forward to this holiday like children look forward to Christmas. It's just amazing to me. This year was the first year since being an adult that I haven't decorated for Halloween. It was very strange. Instead, we went to Disneyland in CA for Halloween. Let me tell you, it was a blast! We went to the Halloween party they host. I dressed up like Poison Ivy and Bry was Quail Man. He got so many compliments, including a "woman" who bounced her boobs for 20 feet to get his attention while he was draped all over me. Really? You're trying to get my man's attention while he's hanging on me? Wow. Anyway, the lines were relatively short as most of the people there were trick-or-treating, so we were able to go on all the rides in 4 hours. We had so much fun.
The next day we went to 6 Flags where the fun ended. We will never go back to this park. It was filled with unhelpful staff, rude teenaged patrons, and filthy facilities. We were so disgusted that we actually left a line to leave. The only good part of this was the Viper and the Whoo girl. Every time she sent the coaster away with new people she would say something like "Take a ride on the mighty Viper. Whoo Whoo!" We laughed every time she did this. Once we were done with the Viper, Bry was shaking in his seat and I was saying, "Let's do it again! That was fun!" He was terrified.
At a loss of what to do since we only stayed at 6 Flags for 3 hours, we decided to see what an IMAX movie was all about. We saw Puss in Boots 3D IMAX. Such a fun movie, but I still don't see what the IMAX fuss is. It wasn't any better than the Digital 3D at home, but it sure cost a bunch more. We both loved Puss. We are cat lovers, and this movie had great subtle cat people humor. I can't wait to see it again! So cute! :)
Sunday we were supposed to go to Six Flags again, but couldn't bring ourselves to do that. We decided to go to the Aquarium in Long Beach and end the vacation with a Pirate Dinner Adventure. Both were wonderful. While we were walking along the pier in Long Beach we saw a Pirate themed long boat complete with Captain Jack Sparrow!! I played paparazzi with my phone. It was awesome. The Pirate Dinner Adventure was a blast. I'd recommend it to anyone who likes good food and a very fun show. Reasonably priced and just a lot of fun.
On the whole, Bry and I had fun in California, renewed our passion for each other, and are more relaxed, happy and content then we've been in a long while.
When we returned, the cats greeted us by vomiting everywhere. They were not to happy to have us gone. It stresses them out. One of them even decided to puke on my keyboard. I'm now typing on a very old, very uncomfortable keyboard until I can get to the store and replace the one that was destroyed by kitty puke.
The house has been cleaned and sterilized, the cats are happy again, and we are back to our normal routine. I've been writing today while Bry works, and have been very successful with my day. If things keep going the way their going, I may actually finish this book soon! Yea!
Happy Reading, and I hope everyone had as wonderful a Halloween as I did!

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Exhausted

I've been in a serious funk lately. My job is completely, utterly draining on my psyche. It's all I can do to get through the day without screaming at someone. By the time I get home, I'm so exhausted I can barely drag my butt into bed to crash. This time of year always brings out the worst in me, but it usually doesn't start until November 1, so I'm not sure what the problem is right now. What I do know is that there seems to be a rash of Brief Psychotic Bipolar issues in this town right now- basically that means people are freakin nuts! And they all seem to think it's my fault. I'm tired of walking on eggshells and trying to kiss ass to people, but I have to cuz if I don't they'll try to beat me up. We've been so short staffed that this would result in a gang of psychotic people trying to kill me while the nurse fumbles with inaction. The joys of working in Psych.
I still have hives, and no one can figure out why. It's frustrating and extremely itchy.
Top it off with my mother telling me she doesn't like the beginning to Changed, and well- I'm in a funk. I keep trying to remind myself that she didn't like Zombie War either, and that seems to be a hit, so she may not be the right person to critique my work. I don't know. I know that I miss my old coworkers, the ones that would read my rough drafts and threaten my life if they didn't get more. It's good for the soul to know that people like my stories. Watching someone read my work is one of my favorite things. Even if they don't particularly like it, I like watching the emotions cross their face as they read. To know I struck some chord with my writing makes me smile. I miss that.
Sorry for the downer, I just thought ya'll would like to know what's been going on and why you haven't heard from me in a bit. I keep trying to get into a positive place, but it has been evasive lately. Hopefully tomorrow will be better. :) ttyl

Friday, October 14, 2011

Don't Fear The Reaper

This book was great! I have to be honest, I got a little irritated at Keely's inability to cope with being dead. I mean, I get it, it's a traumatic thing. It's just, I would have liked her to have gotten a handle on it a lot earlier. It was as if we were going on a journey with the character, but focusing on the holy crap I just killed myself and there's no going back part and ignoring the vast unknown that's ahead of us. I loved Daniel instantly, and continued to enjoy him throughout the book. I'm still on the fence about Banning.
Michelle did an excellent job of creating a world and characters that I could connect with emotionally. I felt free to like and dislike characters and actions as if I were actually there observing them. The emotional turmoil Keely has from realizing the truly selfish nature of suicide was amazingly written. I couldn't imagine walking into that tub scene if I were her parents! Wow.
All in all, I would recommend this book to my friends. I enjoyed it, and hope there's a sequel that has more to do with Daniel. I'd love to know what happens to him now.

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

slammed

My life has been crazy this month. First I helped a good friend with her gram who has Alzheimer's, then my folks came to visit for the weekend, and I started allergy shots. I'm FINALLY back on my normal schedule, but behind on the writing. :'( So very sad about that. I'm not going to make my self imposed October publication deadline. I'm not even finished typing up the 20+ pages I have written, let alone started editing anything after Chapter 6. I'm trying though. I want to publish a good version, continue to improve as a writer. You guys deserve a good sequel. I promise, I'm working my tushy off to get a quality book out for you!
Work has been miserably awful, by the time I get home I'm so physically exhausted and mentally drained, I haven't been able to do anything extra. Things are getting better though.
My wedding anniversary is in 5 days. I can't believe we've been married 7 years already. Some days it seems like yesterday, others feel like an eternity.
My favorite holiday is coming up- Halloween! I can't wait! We're going to Disney this year to celebrate. I've been working on my costumes along with the book and cover. All three should be great. :)
I'm very excited about the cover for Changed. I should have it finished this weekend, and will try to get it and the first chapter up for your opinions by Saturday.
Happy reading, I'm going to bed.

Friday, September 9, 2011

Insight

This week has been amazing.
I hand-write my books, didn't know if you knew that or not, but thought I should mention it. It's a way for me to get the ideas out, and I can write at any time, almost any place. I carry a notebook with me everywhere I go so that when inspiration strikes- I'm ready.
I've tired the whole tape recorder thing, but it's really awkward for me. I feel narcissistic when I use it, like I want to listen to the dulcet sounds of my voice over and over and over- but I really don't.
When I sit at the computer, I tend to get easily distracted. My cat's want to cuddle, I need to market, blog, chat on Facebook, search things, whatever. If I don't have the pages sitting next to me, staring at me in accusation, I tend to not find the motivation to type. So I hand write everything.
As I type it into the computer, I do my first round of edits and usually expand or delete scenes.
This week, I've hand-written 20 pages. I'm beyond excited about this because I'm getting closer and closer to connecting to the pinnacle scene that I already have written. Natasha and I have gotten a better insight on her new life as an Atlantean shifter, and are finally starting to feel like she has a tentative place in her new society. It's awesome.
By the time I finish typing it into the book, I will have quite a bit more than the 20 hand written pages and more detail wrapped up into the emotional upheaval that is at the core of her being. She's more complex than I'd originally thought she would be, and while it's a bitch to write, I love it. I love that Natasha is her own person, and that this really does feel like someone just telling me about their story so I can share it with others.
I have to get back to writing now, still have 12 more pages to go. Happy reading! =D

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

News

Both of my books are available on CreateSpace.com as paperbacks. I just received an email from them stating that Zombie War: The Beginning is now available for greater distribution- to online book retailers!! I'm SO excited!!!! I have absolutely no friggin idea what this means, but in 6 weeks or less, I'm thinking Zombies could be available in paperback on Borders, B&N, and other bookseller websites. I'll definitely keep you posted on the happenings! This is so exciting!!
In other news, Changed is progressing slower than I want, but still progressing. I'm completely in awe of how much I've improved as a writer this past year. Re-reading Choice then following it with Changed makes me want to go back and do another round of edits and clean-up with Choice. I'm not sure if I should though. I kinda like being able to see the growth and progression of my writing, although if doing another round of edits would make Choice more attractive, then....
Changed has been so much fun to write. The challenges to create a culture within cultures, define the origins of myth and mystery, adding historical and relevant facts to make my fiction believable, has been a challenge that I'm absolutely loving. I seriously can't wait to share this book with you! I think it's my best so far. =D
In my personal life, my hives are finally starting to go away. YES!! I still itch, but it's not as distracting and all-consuming as it has been. Three months of hives are three months too long. Work has been adding  unnecessary stress to my life, but it's my Friday, and I can write and play this weekend. I look forward to the days when I get to scribe the life of my characters.
I love writing.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

allergies

I have awful allergies that have been kicking my tail for three months now. I've had my first case of hives in 24 years. They were the worst case that the nurses I work with had ever seen. Joy. Finally, after three months of itching, bitching and basically begging for someone to skin me, I have some relief. Steroids can be wonderful things. :)
I've been able to write more, not be so exhausted, have a ton of energy, and function like normal-for me. It's bliss! If I wasn't so busy, I think I may actually be able to reach my target publish date for October, but as it stands, I don't know when I'm going to have time to write in the next month. Grr. Hopefully things will work out. I'll hear back from the songwriter's attorney in a positive manor, find time to write, get edits back, format, and have it out before Halloween. Oh yah- and stay relatively healthy for the remainder of this year! I hope I hope!!!!

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

hmmm...

I wonder how many authors actually take the time to get permission to quote or use things in their books. While writing Choice I ran across a couple of blips as I wanted to have the reader get a feel for the time period while not infringing on any copy writes. You may have noticed references to Janice Kansas, or Bite- those are my little creative twists on two very important things of their time. They were important to me in developing my character's personalities and little foibles. I've read some books where the references to things are blatantly obvious, and some have their entire books based on an idea of some famous movie/series/thing. To me as a reader, depending on how much the writer bases their books on that particular thing, it can be really cool or really irritating. A series I read about 8 months ago mostly irritated the crap out of me with all of it's references to something else. It was like the author didn't have a unique thought in her head, she just based her entire series on a combination of something else, and then told the reader about it. It got me wondering if she thought to get permission to use all those references/quotes, or if she just wrote it and said "To hell with it- writers prerogative."
It also got me into thinking about my own writing. What have I based my writing on? Do I sound similar to others, or are my thoughts truly unique? I know my stories are my own, that I didn't use anyone else's storyline to create mine. However, I have noticed a similarity to mine and another Atlantean writer. I love this author, and I hope that while our subject is very similar, people notice the obvious differences. It has also made me rethink wording and structure of certain scenes in this series. I hope to be unique, interesting, exciting and moving with my writing.
This whole thought process started because I desperately want to use a portion of a song in Changed. I could do this scene without it, but it dramatically pulls the emotion I want out of the reader. Every time I read it I'm overwhelmed. So, I emailed the artist and sent in a request to quote her. I was actually kind of excited to do this, it made me feel like a real professional. And now I feel like a dork. :) I'm currently waiting on her response, but it got me to thinking, how many authors actually take the time to get permission to quote something or state the title of something in their books? Is it even necessary with the vast amounts of media out there? How would the artist ever know their information was used, unless by some random act they read the book?
I think I think too much. ;)

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

ramblings of a frustrated author

Oh dear muse! Why do you torture me so? I have perfected a scene that brings tears to my eyes, yet cannot get from where we are to there. It is SO frustrating!!! I know what happens, I know how I want to get there, but we keep getting sidetracked in things that aren't ready to be explored and developed yet. Natasha doesn't want to feel what she has to in order to appreciate where she's going. She want's to be numb to it all. I understand, I really do, but sometimes we have to take the good with the bad in life and in stories in order for growth to be complete. I'm amazed daily at how much I love this book and how much I've learned since writing Choice.
I've been so crazy busy with work and home life I've barely been able to find time to write. It's been beyond irritating, but I'm working on it. I want to get this book out in October. I don't have to, but I really want to. Badly. It needs to be finished, I need to be off this roller coaster of emotions.
I think after this I may do another short for the Zombies and then focus on something dark and twisty. I'm starting to feel dark and twisty and need to put it on paper.

Saturday, July 30, 2011

movies

Ok, so I re-watched Prince of Persia today and was happily reminded of soul mates and my book that I have been seriously neglecting as of late. The struggles, the uncertain love, the suppressed passion, it is all so beautiful. It made me wonder if they would still have the same passion, the same love if they weren't faced with such difficulties. I started thinking more about Changed and if we were headed down the right path, if I was speeding things along too fast because I want it to be finished, and if I could end it differently and still accomplish everything I want to.
I don't know about other authors, but I know I project a ton in my writing. Either it's venting frustrations out through my character's lives (which by the way, isn't always a BAD thing) or projecting my feelings of the moment onto paper. Sometimes it works for the scenes, sometimes I find myself rewriting chapters. I know that I love love and I want Natasha to have that love that surpasses the test of time. I want her to be strong, capable and compassionate. I want so much for her that I can't talk about right now because it will ruin the book for you. grr. :) I want to talk about it with someone, and I can't. It's sometimes very frustrating to be an author. I'm very excited about Changed. I think I've grown in my writing and in my storytelling, and I'm very excited to see how her life is when this book is finished. I hope you all love it just as much as I have been. :)

Friday, July 22, 2011

writing

Changed is coming along so nicely I can hardly believe it. It is everything I originally wanted for Choice, finally coming to fruition. Excitement, affection, knowledge... I think we had to get the background established in Choice before Changed could even begin to be developed. I want to tell you all about what's happening, how Natasha is growing, where she's headed in this book, but it would ruin it for you. I will just say that she is amazing me more and more every day. I'm so loving this book! I know I should because it's my writing, but it wouldn't be anything without Natasha whispering her story in my head. I love where we're headed here. I can't wait to finish it and share it with you!!!

Monday, July 18, 2011

Post Birthday

Well, Saturday was my birthday- a big one- 30! I had an amazing time with friends and family, drinking, laughing, goofing off at the casa. The conclusion: I'm never drinking again. Hangover's suck, and the older I get the more often I get them after drinking. I have still yet to puke though. That's gotta be something! lol.
Changed is making huge progress, I'm so excited where this book is headed. There is so much involved in it, I hope people don't get lost. I've also decided to write out a glossary and perhaps a cast of characters. I started in on that the other day, and wow! I was amazed at how many characters played a small roll in Choice. Not to mention the ones that show up in Changed. I'm really enjoying this series. Watching my characters grow and develop into their own people- it's amazing. I can't wait to finish Changed and get feed back.
I will do my best to write a sequel to Zombie Wars. I've been getting gobs of people craving more of that book, even though it was just meant to be a fun little quick read. I've got the title, so the rest should be easy- right. Off to write now. Happy reading to all!

Thursday, June 30, 2011

Wow, I'm slacking hard-core

I know I have a hard time writing on here, but geez. Someone should kick my butt for me. :) Sorry folks!
Zombies has been more of a hit than I imagined it would be- I'm in seventh heaven with all the wonderful feedback I've been getting from people! Thanks guys! To answer the question everyone seems to be asking: I wasn't planning on writing a sequel to this book, but I will do my best to write one after I finish with Changed. (still hoping and praying for an October release date)
My personal life this month has been in the crapper. I've been struggling to remain afloat in the insanity that is my life, and have not been writing nearly as much as I've wanted to. I apologize now. That being said, I'm up to Chapter 5 in Changed, and have a very nice handle on the rest of the book. I've got my outline, something I only seem to do when I get frustrated about where things are at, and need to organize every aspect of life. I found a new editor, one that I think is going to work better than the last one I had for Choice. (I didn't have an editor for Zombies) I just enrolled in a class that I don't want to take, but have to, so...yea? So now I'm working full time, going to school, being a wife, and writing. The pressure of life is on, and I'm thriving. There must be something seriously wrong with me to be able to thrive in mass chaos. lol.
Anyway, I just wanted to post an update and let you know that I am still writing, not stuck in a bunker warding off the undead. ;)

Friday, June 3, 2011

random stuff

Yea! I figured out how to upload Zombie War to Goodreads! Awesome. I also helped someone today with their publishing frustrations. Yea! Feeling good on the work site today.
I am completely frustrated with Changed and have not wanted to sit and write for days now. I keep waiting for that to change, but can't figure out why I feel stuck in the first place. Grr.
Today I feel like utter crap- thank you allergies- so I haven't wanted to do anything anyway. I watched season 3 of True Blood because I like it and also because people keep telling me that Alcide the werwolf  would make an excellent Raif if I ever made a movie out of Choice. I still don't see it. Don't get me wrong, Joe Manganiello is totally hot, and should never have been allowed to wear a shirt in this show, but I just don't picture him as Raif. I picture someone like the Rock or Vin Diesel as Raif. I may have to create a character specifically for Joe Manganiello though, simply because he really is yummy. This is all assuming that I will one day make a movie out of my books. That would be awesome. I think I'd have to pinch myself.
I have to go try to sleep off some of my allergy drugs. I'm way too loopy. This is why I hate allergies and asthma. I cannot breathe, so I take meds, then I lose my dang mind. If I don't take the meds, I cannot breathe. Where is the happy medium here?!? I just want to BREATHE!!! argh!!!!
I hope your day is better than mine. Although, I did get to watch a whole lot of sexiness, so it wasn't all bad. ;)

Monday, May 30, 2011

Memorial Day

Today is a day of remembrance. A day where we thank the men and women in the military for their sacrifice to our country. So many people forget that sacrifice doesn't just include lives. The service men and women fight for the ideals of the American way of life. They allow us to be able to bitch about anything and everything we want. They allow us the freedoms we take for granted every day. They don't do this because they want prestige or fame, they do this because they believe in the idea, the foundation of America.
I for one, am grateful everyday for the sacrifices they make. They sacrifice their young adulthood to train and fight for my rights. They sacrifice life and limbs in protection of the freedoms I treasure. They sacrifice their psyche in order to protect mine. They truly are heros.
Today, as in all others, I thank-you for fighting for me when I am unable to.

Friday, May 27, 2011

Busy

Holy cow life's been kicking my butt lately! I'm so ready to just hang back and relax for a bit. I went on vacation last week, which was amazing. I had tried to post something before I left, but blogger didn't like me for a couple of days.
I had an absolutely wonderful time in Baltimore MD. The people were mostly nice, my friends were awesome as usual, and the weather was beautiful. I had forgotten how green everything could get, and how wonderful rain was.
The most exciting part of my trip was the trapeze class I went to at the Trapeze School of New York in Washington D.C. I am terrified of heights and the instructors there were so wonderful. They were patient with me, joked and talked with me about stupid things to take my mind off the fact that I was jumping off a perfectly good platform. I can't really say that I flew through the air with the greatest of ease, but I jumped. Then signed up for another day because it was so unbelievably amazing!
On my second day, I was still nervous but considerably less than the first day. By my last three swings I was doing backflips off the bar!!! The workout, the thrill, the fun- absolutely wonderful!! I hope there is a school here that I can go to because I am now addicted for life. :)
I did quite a bit of the touristy things that people go to D.C. for, saw Annapolis and all the wonderful sailors there, and took in some sights in Baltimore proper. All in all I loved it. I can't wait to go back.
I told my friend that I had a book in the wings that was a sci-fi military thriller, and that I would be picking her brain in a year to get some info to make the book more realistic. She seemed very excited about the premise of the book, gave me some reference material, and told me that what I had so far wasn't too far off the mark. My creative brain wants to jump right into this book now, but I seriously have to get Changed finished first!!!
Changed has been progressing very nicely. I finally have an intro that I'm happy with, a good start to the second chapter, and scenes further into the book that I am amazed with. I'm looking toward an October release date, and so far, it looks like it might actually happen. Awesome. :) Zombie War is doing great at the moment. I'm still working out a few kinks with some of my websites, but it's for sale and doing well.
Many thanks to my wonderful fans- you guys rock! I hope the books are entertaining, fun, and memorable to you. Must get back to the writing. Happy Reading!!

Saturday, May 21, 2011

returned

I totally tried to post a see-ya-soon blog here a week ago and apparently was having Blogger issues with my computer. grrr. I went on my first vacation in forever to Baltimore. What a beautiful place. I met with some very interesting people and had a wonderful time. I'm hoping to have more later when I haven't been up for ??? hours and have jet lag. I'm exhausted right now, the kitties are all cuddling with me, and hubby's picking up dinner. Goal this week: give a synopsis of my vacation and type what I wrote on the plane. Changed is coming along well. I'm excited so far.
In the meantime, I apologize for my absence. I need to sleep. Goodnight and happy reading to all!

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Zombiezzzzzzz

Whoo hoo!! I'm doing my happy dance!!! Zombie War: The Beginning is officially available today!!! I'm so totally and completely excited right now!!! YEA!! I love seeing my books out there. It's like my baby's all grown up and ready to play!
I'm REALLY tired right now; totally living on the euphoria of publishing my second book this year. Can we do a third?!!?! Dare I dream!?!?!
I think I'll go dream the possibilities now. Happy Reading to all and good night! =D

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

So close

I'm so close to publishing I can taste it- and it's yummy! The final edits were amazing. I have a few small tweaks, things that didn't work after I edited, and one more read-through and we should be good to go. I can't wait! I think the release date of May 1 for Zombie Wars: The Beginning is completely feasible. One of my favorite beta reader's read it last night and yelled at me. She absolutely loved it, and wanted more. She said that I had to write a second one to this to continue on with the story. She could see the action unfold in her mind, and she loved it.
I love when people are asking for more; especially when I didn't have a cliffhanger. It's awesome. I am so excited about this book coming out I can hardly contain myself! I think I have improved as a writer with everything I have been learning from Choice. I love that as a writer, I have the freedom of learning and growing and experimenting with different writing styles. I love being able to apply this to my writing, as well as my day-to-day living. I love writing.
It's a good day. :)

Friday, April 22, 2011

slackin

I will completely and totally admit that I am slacking today. I woke up all set to work on edits two hours ago, decided to check my e-mail first and haven't gotten off the computer yet. I did get a whole bunch of things done that I have wanted to do for the past three months, but still. I want to play and somehow magically have all my edits done perfectly by the end of the day. Oh, and if I'm really dreaming; I will have networked with super awesome people who love Choice and have sold 40000 copies today as well. Someday...
Meanwhile, I live in reality and have to quit procrastinating and GET TO WORK! :)

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

whoops

I totally didn't realize it has been forever since I posted something! I have been working on Zombie edits. I have to say, it is turning out to be an awesome short story. I thought it was gory before, but wow. Not sure if that is going to turn some people off on it, but I totally think it's awesome! :)
Life is way too busy with work, edits and family stuff; but I promise I will get on here more often! Even if it is a short blurb!
Happy Reading!

Friday, April 8, 2011

Crazy days

Almost exactly two years ago, someone stole my moped. I loved that thing so much. It was what had gotten me over my fear of motorcycles and into the peaceful freedom that riding brings.
<backstory>
 I had been raised by my mother to fear motorcycles as death traps; horrible things that once you sit on, you will be instantaneously hit by something and either deceased or become a vegetable. Then I moved out and started working in Healthcare, where I was able to see first hand what happens to people in motorcycle accidents. To be frank, it was bad.
My husband (boyfriend at the time) bought a moped for transportation as the car he had guzzled fuel like it was stoned and had the munchies. Mopeds are very economical, as one tank of gas takes you 300 miles and it doesn't need to be registered or insured. I was terrified for him. I refused to ride the thing, even though it only went 35 mph downhill with wind pushing it. Finally, after months of nagging, prodding, and finally daring me; he got me to ride on the back of it. I was terrified of any and every vehicle that drove near us. When we reached our destination I had changed. I saw that it was no longer the death-trap that I had always been led to believe, but a wonderful, liberating piece of equipment.
We had the yellow Yamaha moped for three years before the accident that reaffirmed my fears. I was driving behind a seasoned Harley rider; both of us obeying the traffic laws perfectly. Someone ran a red light and smashed right into the Harley rider. I got out of my car, completely in shock and petrified. I helped him as much as I could until the paramedics arrived. He survived, but I shook for the rest of the day.  That could, at any time, be me.
I went home and ranted at my husband to get rid of the unsafe moped, retelling the story of the accident in as much gory detail as I could; even adding to it. He wisely ignored me. It took me another 6 months for me to ride again.
The first time I got on the back of our moped, I thought I was going to vomit from fear. By the time I reached the first light, I remembered how much fun it was to ride. That was the day I vowed to never let fear control my life again. I refused to drive my car for that entire summer. I rode the moped instead. I loved it. It was liberating, exciting, amazing. I was in heaven. I was always sad for winter, as it was too cold to ride. I made a cover for it so that it wouldn't get damaged from the elements. I washed it, I learned how to change the oil. I loved that moped.
During a nice spring day, I rode it to my first job then parked it in it's spot so that I could nap for a few hours before my second job. I was going to a shady neighborhood, it was night, so I took my car. I remember leaving and thinking that it was odd that my husband had taken the moped, so I called him. He had no idea what I was talking about.
During the four hours I was home, someone had stolen our moped.
I was devastated. I filed a police report, filed a complaint in our apartment complex, called everyone I knew. Nothing.
Last year, we upgraded to motorcycles. I was the proud owner of a blue Kawasaki ER-6N, thanks entirely to the moped that my husband forced me to ride. While I have never forgotten those fun Summer days on the back of my moped, I let go of the sadness at losing it that those memories brought.
Two days ago I got the strangest call. The police pulled someone over riding our stollen moped. We picked it up from the tow place yesterday. It was a bittersweet day as I was so excited at finally getting something back that meant so much to me, but sad because they had completely destroyed it. The seat flops all over the place, the lights are held on by tape, it's missing one mirror, the exhaust smokes.

I will never fully understand the capability people have to destroy the joy in another.

I am forever grateful to that officer for finding my moped; reuniting me to the physical thing that helped to open my heart to the possibilities that growing past your fears can bring. Had I never ridden that moped, I would still be stuck in the life I had; afraid to venture out of my comfort zones. It liberated me. I am now unencumbered by fear of the unknown.

Sunday, April 3, 2011

YEA!

Choice is officially available in paperback at CreateSpace.com and Amazon.com! I have posted links to the right.
I also thought it would be nice to post a link to my first review. Here it is.

http://ekfamilybooks.blogspot.com/search/label/Adult%20Romance

Thanks again K for taking the time to do this for me! I hope this helps anyone on the fence about reading Choice. Changed has started and will hopefully come out late fall. Have a wonderful Sunday everyone!
Happy Reading!

Monday, March 28, 2011

Finally

I am finally unblocked from writing Changed! I think I had enough of a break from this story and that Natasha has finally accepted her fate. I have been trying to start this story for months now, only to get blocked and hate what was written. If I can't get through it, I can't expect anyone else to either. Last night I was able to write four pages. This is epic for what has been previously done. We are starting in a whole new way, attacking the issues from a different angle and finally, finally enjoying the ride.
Tonight is my Friday. I hope to write on my whole five days off and make some serious headway into Changed. Zombie War is entering the editing stage, of which I am seriously excited for. It is so much different than my (adult) paranormal romance series; it was a joy to see that I am capable of venturing out of the sensuality that so many have told me they love from me.
What a positive, wonderful night it was to finally rejoin Natasha on her journey. I hope others enjoy her story as much as I do.
Happy Monday and Happy Reading!

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Something rare- a review. :)

An Apple for Zoe: The Forsaken by Thomas Amo

Intense.
*Warning, there may be spoilers*
I started this book not having a clue as to what it was about. (I like to do that on occasion, makes things interesting;)) Anyway, I had a bit of a problem keeping all the characters in order in the beginning. I don't know if it was just lots of people, or a few people known by different monikers, or the fact that I was reading it at work and having to get up every 5 minutes to check on my peeps, but it was a bit tangled for me for a minute. The story started out intense, then moved so quickly, that I didn't want to stop to figure out where everyone was placed; I didn't want to miss what was happening. Just as you think the characters are at a point where they can rest, adjust and think about the next step, something else happens.
It was exciting, edge-of my seat, stressfully intense. I can't wait until the sequel!

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Excitement

I am very excited today! Choice received its first review!! YEA! To view it go to www.ekfamilybooks.blogspot.com/
As well as receiving awesome news like this, I am also very excited to note that I picked up my proof of Choice in the mail last night! I have to tweak some things on it, but hopefully in the next two weeks it will be available on paperback!!! I am beyond excited about this!

I am very thankful to those that do an honest review of my book(s). I am a very new writer. Sometimes the things that are in my head are not as clearly depicted on paper, or sometimes reiterated too much on paper as to be annoying. I take constructive criticism to heart, both good and bad. I am not naive enough to believe that what I write is going to be perfect, or that everyone is going to like it. I do think that everyone has room for improvement, and it's silly to ignore completely the suggestions of others.

I am very pleased with the review from K.
Good things are happening, and will hopefully continue on this path.
Happy reading!

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Spring!

Yeah!!! It's Spring!!! I cannot wait for it to stop snowing so that I can go out and enjoy the flowers, animals, and SUNSHINE!!! We barely received any snow during winter, so of course we are getting it now when it is supposed to be nice. grr. I love Spring, Summer and early Fall. I am a warm weather girl, and cannot wait till it gets warm enough to go motorcycle riding.
I'm still working on the final chapter and edits for Zombie Wars; and am still stuck. I don't have any idea why anymore, but there it is. I think the cover looks great, and have been in an angry zombie mood for the past few days; yet have not been able to think of a single thing. Hopefully the next few days will bring some sort of inspiration to me.
Happy Spring to all!

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Realization

Some days I wake up and realize that I am a naive, gullible, optimistic moron; while other days make me feel jaded and old. Today is a jaded and old day, while yesterday was a moronic day. I always seem to hope for the best in people and get crushed when they prove to be the assholes that they have always been. I have yet to figure out why I do this. I thought that with age came knowledge, insight, some type of freakin intelligence, but I guess it just depends on the day. Chalk it up to a learning experience and never do it again, I suppose. Ah, well.
Happy St. Patty's Day to all!

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

excited

I am super excited today! I signed up for Createspace and sent off another formatted copy of Choice. This is an amazing website that was actually very easy to use. I'm currently awaiting my proof in the mail. It will be so surreal to actually see my first book in print, I don't even know what to do with myself!  I can't wait to be able to share my novel with those who have not latched onto the eReader fad. YEA!

Monday, March 14, 2011

still off

Let me start out by saying, that while I enjoyed the easy read of the Twilight saga, I am not a fan. I love the genera, but just wasn't the gigantic fan that so many are. That being said, I took my husband to see Red Riding Hood, thinking "Awesome, a werewolf movie; this is gonna be GREAT."(I LOVE shifters!!) It reminded me of Twilight, without the vampires. The main male lead even had messy hair like Edward. I was extremely disappointed. Granted, it was an entertaining, fun movie; just felt like an old played-out plot. The whole teenage angst with the love triangle just is crap to me. Maybe I am just out of the teenage loop, or just having an off month, but I was just eh about the whole thing.
That seemed to be the theme to my weekend: high expectations, low results. I did have a few positive things occur though.
1. I think I have the cover for Zombie War: The Beginning. It is strange and creepy, just like I wanted it. My sister says that the zombie on the cover looks like her friend's husband. Not quite the response I was looking for, but......
2. I went to an Unnamed Writer's group that was encouraging. I was informed of a way to create an actual paperback book for my books, and how to do it. I am beyond excited and am working on getting Choice in paperback. While I was doing my formatting, I realized that Choice is 302 pages long. I had no idea it was so long. It was only 189 in my word doc, so I am beyond thrilled.
3. I feel like I am finally getting a hang of the whole publishing/formatting/editing thing. I still have a long way to go, but I'm getting there. I am trying not to berate myself for not blogging, fbing, and twittering as much as I would like, but to enjoy the process. I am super excited about my followers, and hope that some part of my journey into the writing process is helpful to at least someone. (Also, I hope you like my books as much as I do!) ;)
Happy Reading!

Thursday, March 10, 2011

In a rut

It has been a while since I posted here and I suppose I should say something. Truth is I am totally and completely in a rut. I have not been able to type out the last chapter of Zombies and am stuck on what to do for the cover. I think I am obsessing about that and it is halting the creative flow. Anyway, I have been unable to write anything of substance for a week. I am frustrated and want things to flow again.
Maybe I will sit and paint tomorrow after Red Riding Hood. Get something down on the canvas to see if that is what I was looking for, create something, even if it sucks. I can always do another.
I unfortunately won't be doing any painting now; I had a horrible, yet entertaining night at work last night and just want sleep. I hope to be out of this mental block and still publish Zombie War by the end of the month. Keep your fingers crossed!

Thursday, March 3, 2011

busy

I've been working on Zombie Wars; and I have to tell you, I love it. It is exciting, gross, and really gory. I have also been getting very helpful feedback for the writing, as well as for the blog. I am working on all of these things while still trying valiantly to maintain some semblance of a life. I am still not willing to let go of that yet. ;)
I also decided that I needed to do something drastic. So.... I donated my hair to locks of love. I still have some atop my head, but a whole foot is gone. I feel naked. It is the shortest my hair has ever been. I feel a wonderful sense of contentment, that while I feel weird, at least there will be a child out there who can feel a bit better about themselves.
Now back to the murderous crazed zombies. ;)
Happy Reading!

Sunday, February 27, 2011

writing with Damian

The other day I was writing a very suspenseful scene, where the two main characters are walking through an abandoned (maybe) house to claim it as their own, when I realized it was getting dark and difficult to concentrate on my computer screen as it was the only light in the room. I got up to flick on the light and get a  drink of water. I have dark blue carpet, and my hallway is always dark- even during the day. I opened my office door, clicking on the light as I started to leave and suddenly my black cat, Damian, thundered past me in the hallway! He scared the absolute crap out of me. It was awesome, and I had to call my sister. 
I am now fighting a lovely head cold and can't seem to form a coherent thought. Goodnight.

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Zombiezzz

I love this short book. I know I should because I'm the one writing it, but I honestly love it. The gore is just what I have needed lately, and I love the escape and release I have by writing and editing it. So much fun! I sent it to my sister to read (she's my editor), and she couldn't get past the second page. She made her husband read it, to see if it tamed any, and he told her that she could probably read the second chapter, but that was it. I have thought about taming it many times since then, but can't bring myself to eliminate any of it. I just like it too much. Two more chapters to bring it to a nice close and I'm done. I will have to do my edits myself <eeek!> and hope for the best! My goal is to have it written by this weekend, and available by next weekend. We shall see......

Monday, February 21, 2011

surreal

I am so exited today! People are buying Choice that I don't know, (I don't get a list of who purchases it, I just get a number of book sales and my friends tell me if and when they have gotten it, and the number of sales is more than the number of friends and family that have gotten it!) I have started my author's blog/webpage thingy, I am learning how to market and have been starting to network. I am really starting to feel like an actual AUTHOR! This is exactly what I want, and yet it is terrifying. I almost feel as if I am living someone else's life right now and that they are allowing me a small glimpse into the intricacies of what being a responsible, hard-working, self-employed author is all about. It is so much more complex, interesting, and difficult than anything else I have ever done in my life. I love it. The thrill of not knowing what is going to happen next, and how am I going to reach that next hurdle, is almost as nauseating as it is exciting. I think I was almost this nervous the first time I rode my motorcycle. I hope that like it has with my bike, this still holds joy for me, but calms down in its nerve-wracking intensity.
I feel as if I am almost finished with the Zombie short, and hope to have it available mid-March. We shall see. All the other things involved in selling books are occupying more of my time than I thought they would, but I am trying. I have to sleep now as I feel like I am getting loopy. I wish you all Happy reading!

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Aha!

I have officially discovered book bloggers and am very excited! Yea! Zombie War is coming along great; I have to say I am definitely enjoying the change of pace from the romance to the gore. I did decide on elaborating on the graphic details, and hope that everyone ends up enjoying it just as much as I am. (and by enjoying it I really mean you read it and go ewwww) :) Off to work I go now, oh the joy. Happy Reading!

Friday, February 18, 2011

Zombie War

Oh. My. Lord. I started the day out without a clue as to where to begin. It is snowing, and while I know we desperately need it, I detest the snow. I have to run errands today, and have other things that sound a lot more fun than trying to get this story to flow. Instead of wallowing in all the things that I had to do today, I sat down and wrote. I vowed that I would write for at least an hour, and no matter how bad, I would at least get something down on paper. I can always fix it later. I just needed something.
I am now applauding that decision. While it took a minute to get it started, I have just written one of the goriest scenes I have ever read. I am not sure at this point wether to keep it, elaborate on it, or delete it completely. It is disturbing. The fact that it came from my head makes me want to hug someone and be told that I am not as disturbed as I feel right now.

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

zombies

It's time to start back up with the writing. I have placed everything on hold to promote and publish Choice, then my gramps died, and now I have to get back to the actual writing part of this process. The part that I actually enjoy. I have been tinkering on some of the books, but haven't seriously sat down and concentrated solely on one book. Zombie War: The Beginning is my short story. At least it is starting out to be a short story. We will see where Sarah, the main character, takes us. Right now we are both leaning more toward a short story. Hopefully it will be finished, complete with edits, by July. That's my goal.
After Zombie War comes out, I am hoping to have some type of inspiration for Changed. For some reason I am totally and completely blocked for the second installment of the Origin's series. Grr. It will get there.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Loss & Remembrance

My gramps died on Sunday night. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather & great-grandfather. He was the perfect example of a retired military "Man's man." They really just don't make them like that anymore.
We got together as a family to remember the good times with gramps, and while I couldn't be there physically, I was via phone and spirit. It is hard when so many miles separate those you love so dearly.
My husband and I had a day for each other today where we cuddled and held on tightly to the gift of each other today. It was a great day to add to our memories, and one that I will cherish.
I hope you go and hug your family today. You never know how many tomorrows you have.

Sunday, February 13, 2011

A Glimpse

Life can be so cruel sometimes. I have been preparing for a great week, and by all accounts should have accomplished just that. I relaxed all weekend with my husband, finished all my to-do's for Choice, went on an epic motorcycle ride, cuddled with my kitties, and had a (rare) wonderful night at work last night. Oh yah, and Fatburger is opening this week in a town very close to me, so Bry (my husband) and I are finally going to have good cheeseburgers. I am very excited about all of this.
Unfortunately, it is all now shadowed by the fact that my grandfather is in his last hours of life. I have worked as a hospice CNA for a few years, and my aunt, who is an RN, is taking care of him. She told me his symptoms today, and we are both convinced that he has hours, not days to live. That is, if you call gasping for breath, living. I am very upset by this news as I thought for sure I would have a few more months to try and see him before he left this world. I want to be there with my family, to love and support them, especially my gram. She and grampa just celebrated their 60 some odd wedding anniversary, and I don't know what she is going to do now. I want to give her a hug and an excuse to do all the baking that she loves but I can't, because I have to work and they live across the country. Life can be so cruel sometimes.

Saturday, February 12, 2011

The bike

I absolutely love riding my motorcycle and think that everyone should at least learn to ride one. It is an experience that is so unbelievable, awesome, and completely unexplainable completely. Maybe one day I will try to verbalize this experience...
Today we took a nice long ride up and down a mountain. It was chilly and absolutely beautiful. We had just finished lunch and were on our way home when a heard of wild mustangs galloped toward us. They came within twenty feet of running over my husband when they made a quick right and galloped next to us for about five seconds. It was beautiful. Completely something out of a storybook or in some sappy movie. Absolutely completely breathtaking.

Friday, February 11, 2011

smashwords.com

I really wish I would have found this website way earlier as they have a link to a free book called Smashwords Style Guide by Mark Coker that is simply amazing.
Every place I have looked for formatting questions has been like reading Greek, but more irritating. I have changed the formatting on the book about 10 times to try and get it to look good on various e-Readers. The last time I was so frustrated I cussed out my computer and everyone around me for about three hours and said simply that I give up and hopefully people won't mind if it has a few oddities.
SSG walks you through the entire formatting so that it looks decent as an eBook. For those of you that purchased Choice already, I do apologize for any weird font, and for those who were waiting to get it, yea! You get the updated one. (content is EXACTLY the same, just better format) I really really wish I would have found this before I started this publishing fiasco. I had never thought myself as computer illiterate, but after attempting to publish in various vendors.... wow.
Anyway, Choice should now be available for every type of eReader created thanks to Smashwords.com in the next two days.
I'm going to ride my motorcycle now. Happy Reading! :)
I couldn't think of a title today. Guess it is just one of those days. I made my first ham today for the family. It rocked. Didn't do anything new for the books today, but I still have to get the formatting corrected for Smashwords. Hopefully I will have that done this weekend. I'm freezing right now and going to bed. Have a great weekend! :)

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Friday!

Thank God it's Friday!! I am so happy that I have my weekend coming soon! Saphyra is helping me to type right now so... she's awesome. :) I hope to get some good work on Changed this weekend and feel like I am progressing a little bit. It has been a challenge to work full time, write, market the book (As I have absolutely no idea what I am doing), and still have some fun time with my family; but it is a challenge that I think I have done fairly well. I wouldn't say perfectly, because I think that no matter how good you anyone has done something, there is always a way to make it better. I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Monday, February 7, 2011

Muse

I have decided that my muse does not like my job. She has only been inspiring me to write about death, murder, and chaos the past month and I don't want to write about that at the moment. I am desperately trying to send her down the path to guide Changed, but she is stuck on The Head Hunter. So frustrating.

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Football

One of these years I will actually be able to watch this game. I used to love it. The excitement, the food, the fun people competing with each other on who's team is better. It's fun. Unfortunately I have worked every football game in the past few years and have missed out. I secretly love the commercials and have before they became popular. They are always very strange and seem to contain the energy of the game. Maybe next year I will get lucky and the Titans will play the Lions and I will have it off to watch my husband and brother battle it out in the living room. :) That would be fun.

New computer

My computer has been wigging out for the past couple of months. As I have been searching more and more for different places to advertise the book, I have been having an increasingly harder time doing anything else on my computer.
I now have a new one. I have spent an entire day trying to figure out the new computer as well as downloading all the necessary apps and files from the old computer. I really wish that when you purchased a new computer it came with all the basics already installed and ready to go out of the box. Plug it in and go. Oh well.
Changed has two separate beginnings so far. They are very similar to each other yet different. I will probably end up combining it, or deleting the whole thing and starting over like I did with Choice about 5 times. I have a very difficult time starting the book. Once it begins, it flows better, but the start is my tricky moment. I'm very critical of my writing and want people to be captivated by the start. I'm still getting good feedback from Choice, and for that I am very excited.

Thursday, February 3, 2011

It's in the details

So, my eventual goal is to quit my day (night) job and write full time. I have wanted to share my stories with others who are interested in traveling to places unknown for a long time, and have just recently decided that I am ready to take that challange. I am discovering that it is much harder than I had originally anticipated.
I work a minimum of 40 hours a week at night at a local hospital, and am married with cats. As anyone who really knows me can tell you, the cats equate to eight little toddlers running around my house. Between running my household, working, and taking care of my families' needs, my books often go on the back burner. It has been extremely frustrating. Choice, the first book in the Origin's series has finally been self-published onto Kindle and Nook. I am very excited to finally see it for sale, and have now entered the advertising stage of this process. It is a much more complicated and time-consuming process than I had thought or wanted, forcing my writing back onto that back burner again.
I am having to remember, and remind myself constantly, that once the details are set-up and flowing, the book will sell, and time will appear. To those of you just entering the writing process, I say to you, find a very understanding support system. They will be lifesavers in the next year. Having people tell me Choice was great, begging me to get to Changed, has often been the only thing keeping me going when I felt like it was just too much.

Monday, January 31, 2011

Frustrated

So, I have decided that I absolutely love writing, yet hate the edit and publishing process. It has been so frustrating trying to get all the configurations correct when it gets onto the different formats. I am frustrated and tired. I just want to work on the next book and be done with all this extra crap.
I also don't know what book I want to work on next. It would stand to reason that I should work on Changed as that is the second in the Origins series, however I cannot stop thinking about The Head Hunter. It has been haunting me day and night wanting to be told. I don't know if I am ready for it though. It is a rather disturbing and graphic tale, and with still being employed outside of writing I don't know if I have the stamina or strength right now to see this gore through. I was hoping to wait until Changed was closer to being finished or completed all-together. I guess it all depends on sales and who wants to be heard the most.
I never really believed the author's when I read that they have little control on where the character's take them, but every word is true. It has been strange and fun to experience and write about the lives of my characters. Some just sit back and quietly wait for me to ask about their lives, while others scream incesssently at me to tell their stories. When that happens I can't seem to type fast enough.
I have to get back to getting Choice placed on Amazon. Have a wonderful day!

Saturday, January 29, 2011

Beginnings

Choice was published on Barnesandnoble.com for Nook last week. I have a meeting with the computer guy to fix some formatting issues that occurred with this publication and hope to have them fixed by Monday after which Choice will be published on Amazon.com for Kindle. This is the first book in the Origins series and I am very excited about it! This has been tons of fun to write, and I hope that you enjoyed it just as much as I did.