Anabelle Bryant's Blog

Songs are composed about it, ballads are written, and artists continually become inspired by the muse. With any luck we’ve all experienced its impact at one time or another, but how does one truly define the Power of Love?

As a romance author, I believe in happily ever after. My heroes and heroines are strong, determined people who pursue the one most important quality missing in their lives, true love. But the stories I create are not so far from the pursuit of most every person I know. Aren’t we all looking for some kind of love? Doesn’t everyone desire a relationship, whether it familial, pet centered, or romantic, that offers support, happiness and satisfaction?

Love has many definitions and I doubt I’m able to concentrate such vast emotion into a single discussion, but when considering the Power of Love, one central theme combines all varieties of affection – unconditional dedication. The ability to overlook and accept without fault.

After the excitement and euphoria of a new relationship, when your idiosyncrasies and habits are bared, and your emotions are confessed, when the “pixie dust” settles, the Power of Love lies in the ability to return love without judgment; to choose to grow within the relationship. Only then can love realize its true power.

The same strength that helps couples endure, whether good times or bad, sickness or health; the enduring fortitude to accomplish goals, comfort and care, forgive, encourage, redirect and sometimes rebuild because the outcome is worth the effort−that’s the true power of love. It’s a realization that doesn’t always reach fruition. It’s a gift that should be treasured when accomplished.

Love comes in every shape and size, color and variety, and how lucky we are that love itself encompasses all without a critical eye. Feel free to love and be loved. Experience the Power of Love within you and share that joy with the world.

Tis the season…

Whenever I finish reading a book I’ve enjoyed I find myself imagining the characters in their continued life…so here are a few friends from my Regency romances and how they’ve chosen to spend this Christmas.

Constantine and Isabelle have traveled to Italy from Grosvenor Square. Aside from the exquisite wine and rare talent of the artists of the region, Con has planned for a private gondola on Christmas Eve to take his lovely wife for a romantic evening spent on the water beneath the Venice firework display.

Devlin and Lexi have invited all of London’s elite society to Kenley Manor for the most spectacular event of the season. Musicians, fine food and sleigh rides under the constellations led by Orion and the other excellent thoroughbreds in Devlin’s stable. Roasted chestnuts, wassail and warmed cashmere blankets are arranged for a delightful and traditional celebration.

Phineas and Penelope, along with their two daughters and doting Grandmere, are spending a cozy Christmas at Betcham Estate. Tired of her rigorous social schedule, Julia will be there to dote on her two nieces and join the family in spirited games of beggar-my-neighbor and charades. Caroling around the pianoforte will set the mood before a sumptuous feast prepared by Chef Pierre.

Dash and Whimsy will also be staying home and Kirby Park is decorated to the rafters. Enormous, fragrant boughs of evergreen and kissing balls bedecked with red ribbons hang in every alcove. Aunt Kate and Livie will join in the festivities and Wilhelmina can hardly wait for the gift exchange, for she has the most timely news to share with her husband, a gift to grow their family.

Jasper and Emily have spoiled the children at the Foundling Hospital with gifts and treats and set off for France where a scientist works to perfect an invention he calls the camera obscura, a machine able to reproduce a true likeness in eight hours. Jasper is intrigued although whenever Emily objects to the long hours traveling, Jasper silences her with a long heated kiss. Naturally she complains as often as possible. The two have been known to have full conversations with their eyes, but they confess to a preference of allowing other parts of their anatomy to communicate.

Kellaway and Angelica intend to share an unconventional holiday in bed, in their seaside estate. Once their newborn son is asleep, they’ll count the stars as they walk along the beach, ending the night lost in each other’s arms, a celebration they’ll enjoy repeating into the new year and forever after.

~ Happy New Year and Seasons Readings! ~

How do you measure success? It’s as individual as choosing what to wear or recommending a popular movie. Everyone seems to have a different interpretation of success and I think that’s what makes it absolutely perfect – no judgment, no right or wrong and in the long run, more pleasure with the progress in the struggle to succeed.

Recently I posted this same question on an author loop where I’m a member and as I suspected, the answers varied greatly. I mentioned that for me, success was represented by achieving publication with a major publishing house. I’d tried for a long time and turned down offers from smaller houses, hoping to recognize the dream I’d held onto for more years than I wanted to count. A few authors agreed with my view of success, many more did not. Here’s a quick list of what others had to say!

-Sales. Getting their story to as many readers as possible.

-Print. Holding a material book in the hand.

-Validation. Good reviews and recommendations.

-Recognition. Winning an award or contest.

-Accomplishment. Number of books written, offer of a new contract.

When you look at the bigger picture, success is actually an intimate measure. Relationships, marriage, children…scoring in the game, acing the exam, graduation…quitting a bad habit, eating healthy…the list is endless and it should be.

Success. Seven letters with fierce empowerment. Find your success. Pursue your dream. Don’t let anyone steal your joy. And celebrate. Celebrate every little and big success and then look forward to more to come.

Happy Thanksgiving and here’s to your success, present, past and future.

Today marks the two year anniversary that I became a published author and signed my first contract with HarperCollins. I should celebrate, but I’ll probably spend the day like most others…trying to accomplish as much as possible on the weekend before the workweek reclaims me.

These past two years have been amazing and I am grateful beyond any words I could type. Several people have asked me how I managed to write six novels in two years and I explain that the road to publication for me was long – very long, in fact.

Life led me in different directions, but I always wrote. Editors sent me rejections, but I always wrote. I became discouraged at times, but I always wrote. There were times when I wrote a lot, and others when I wrote a little, but the stories were always there.

When I finally succeeded, I had a trilogy written and waiting. It provided me the time to write new stories while publishing the others and well, all those rejections that felt so heartbreaking at the time, led to a happy prolific future.

Now I have more stories in my head than I have time to commit to paper. Like many authors, my characters keep me company patiently waiting for their turn to have a story.

As I look toward 2016, I’m a little sad the Regency Charms series will be ending. I had so much fun writing these books! Yet I don’t dare waste time…too many characters shoving their way to the front of my brain and suggesting their romance be next.

The New Year brings with it bright hope for the future. My stories have been well received and I hope to continue to learn and improve as an author. I enjoy meeting readers and if not in person, just love when I hear from someone on social media or email. Join my newsletter mailing list or tweet me a “hello”.

I am forever grateful for all the readers, bloggers, reviewers and teachers who have aided in my journey. I try to give back as much as possible and had over twenty giveaways this year. As with my stories, I’ll always be a giver. It feels good.

All my best,

xo

Anabelle

If we’re linked on social media, you already know I’m a Disney fan, happy to escape to sunny Florida and embrace the child within as I visit family and spend time with the ultimate mouse, Mickey. We’ve cruised together, chatted and maintained a long distance relationship for more years than I care to confess.

 And maybe it’s not just Mickey, but mice in general. All over my home, in corners, on shelves and in shadowboxes, you can find mice peeking out; my favorite collection created by artist, Annette Petersen. Unlike their ominous reputation, I find mice adorable and whimsical…able to express a huge amount of personality in their tiny little bodies.

 Here’s a favorite nestled near my Knickerbocker Shakespeare classics. The Wee Forest Folk piece is only 2 and one-half inches, so don’t let the miniature books fool you. I also collect others made of mohair, felt or wool.

My love of Beatrix Potter and fond memories of classic works of literature like Stuart Little, The Tale of Timmy Tiptoes and Santa Mouse also encourage this miniature passion.

But enough about mice. I promised men too, didn’t I? Again I default to social media where I frequently post photos of handsome heroes and inspirations for my historic romances. Most recently, I posted Brad Pitt in a random photo from many years ago which served as an influence for Kellaway, my Regency pirate/gentleman in Regency Charms Book 3 ~ Society’s Most Scandalous Viscount.

When all is said and “posted” there’s only one male who looks good in every photo and has surpassed the test of time, while maintaining a pristine reputation to accompany his timeless handsomeness. (Al least, I think so.) Of course, I speak of David Gandy, the iconic British model.

Best known as the face of Dolce & Gabbana, Gandy has an admirable heart to join with his rugged, smoldering appearance, often donating his time and energy to worthwhile charities around the world for people, animals and fundraising causes.

Timeless, classic handsomeness…yup. That sums it up for me. When you close your eyes and picture the man of your dreams (all husbands, boyfriends and significant others excluded) who do you see? I’d love to hear about it or better yet, have you post a photo here. ~ Enjoy!

If you’re like me, when you’re pulled into a good book you become part of the story. You don’t stop to consider what the author was thinking, how he/she developed the plot or what agony might have been faced to manage the happily-ever-after. When you’re reading, you just go with the flow and enjoy the read. As it should be…

But a writer’s reality is somewhat different. Scenes can be unmanageable, plot unreasonable and characters throw tantrums when forced to do things outside their comfort zone. All too often a rewrite is required; sometimes twice. Scenes are flipped and words exchanged.

So what gets us by when the writing becomes more work than play? Here’s a list of secret author indulgences, confessed to me by fellow author friends and revealed to prove the desperate and sometimes bizarre levels of behavior we pursue to provide the reader with the ultimate story…the very best we can write.

Read on and enjoy!

A L Michael Mindful colouring, tea in pretty mugs and marmalade and cheddar cheese on toast (no really, it’s delicious). And re-reading the authors who are doing what I want to do! www.almichael.com

Kathleen McGurl OK, my secret indulgence when I’m too tired to write in the evening – knitting. I inherited a lot of wool from my mum, and am knitting squares to make a blanket, just like she used to! http://kathleenmcgurl.com/

Katie Oliver   Weirdly, I watch Father Brown episodes and it somehow inspires me to go on.  http://katieoliver.com/ko/blog/

Lynsey James  My Jam and Jerusalem box set, Grantchester and Nutella!  http://lynseyjames.wordpress.com

Jennifer Bohnet Porridge made with milk served on a plate not a bowl, single cream poured around it and a stream of maple syrup poured on top. Apologies to any Scots out there who have it with salt! http://www.jenniferbohnet.com/

Terri Nixon  Mine isn’t the slightest bit outrageous, I just tend to hit the Twiglets and the wine, and go for a ‘Thick of It’ marathon! I embrace my inner Malcolm Tucker www.terrinixon.com

Karen Aldous Write anything in my notebook with a pen for a while or, grab the dog’s lead and go for a walk or, read! http://www.karenaldous.co.uk/

Raven McAllen Fizz and chocolate, watch Bull Durham… www.ravenmcallan.co.uk/

Ann Troup Tassimo carte noire lattes, by the gallon and reading children’s classics. Comfort zone central! http://anntroup.wordpress.com/

Katlyn Duncan I take a walk and listen to the soundtrack of the book I’m writing (usually a compilation of movie scores). It frees my mind from a block and usually inspires me! www.katlynduncan.com

Martin Lee I just get out from behind the computer and take a long walk. Miraculously, the plot issues have usually worked themselves out by the time I get back.  http://www.writermjlee.com/

So, perhaps they aren’t truly outrageous. Lol! My secret author indulgences include flavored coffee, going for a good run and watching a favorite movie. I guess that makes authors “regular people”, living out our most daring adventures on the page!

It’s not about doing more, proving things or making money. Success is measured differently for everyone. Living well begins as an inward journey. So many of us focus on what we need to achieve without examining the motive and inspiration.

Find balance. Play fair. Respect. Achieve peace and acceptance. I strive for all these goals.

I practice.

Often.

Goals that begin in the heart, not with a focus on a bank account or material gain, improve one’s quality of life. Better living leads to success in outward endeavors. Take responsibility. The only person who prevents me from realizing my dreams is the person I see in the mirror each morning.

Accept failure and learn from the experience. It does not define you but makes you stronger. Embrace change and interpret it as learning.

Keep an open mind and an open heart.

Breathe into the moment.

Let go of what you cannot change. Embrace what brings you happiness.

All you get when you look back is a kink in your neck. Keep going. Don’t quit.

I’m always thinking, reviewing, rewriting my life. To be well, you must appreciate the now and share your gratitude. Living well is a decision that has nothing to do with power or influence or wealth.

But there is undeniable power in discovering the life you were meant to lead.

One day at a time.

Be well.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve enjoyed stories that ended on a happy note. It didn’t matter which type of delivery: written word, movie, or television program, I only felt satisfied if the story ended with the idyllic solution; couples together, problem solved, a bright future promised.

As I grew up I realized life doesn’t work that way. As the old saying goes, sh*t happens. A decision one thinks is beneficial can turn out to be disastrous. Health issues, money problems, the daily grind, all have a way of wearing the shine off the most optimistic person, no matter how strong a positive attitude.

Lucky for me, there will always be books. I read for escape. I read for pleasure. I read to remind myself that no matter what life offers, there is always a place I can go to feel comfortable again. A place to lose my worries, find satisfaction and restore hope. A place I choose to belong.

For years, romance novels have been burdened with a poor reputation. For numerous inane reasons, critics complain romance is not credible literature. That this genre depicts unrealistic situations and promotes unhealthy expectations… and after I stop laughing, I agree, because those same characteristics are among the reasons I choose romance.

I don’t read to educate myself. I’ve all but completed my doctorate degree and don’t need my escape to be my vocation. As an adult, I have a clear assessment of what life holds. I don’t mistake Regency romance for what I might find at a local restaurant. Critics insult my intelligence with that kind of accusation.

It’s much simpler, really. I’m in love with happy endings. In a world where terror threats and senseless crime fill the daily news, I yearn for the respite found in romance, whether I read or write it. I know romance novels aren’t real life, but neither is a galaxy far far away or a journey through middle earth or an alternate world where people play games with thrones, yet these literature adaptations get lauded with acclaim.

So next time you see me, don’t be surprised if I have my nose buried in Jane Austen or another timeless classic. Perhaps I’ve just begun the new Lisa Kleypas or Sherry Thomas book. I’ll never change and I don’t want to. It’s fun being in love with happily ever after. You should try it sometime.

Charms on a bracelet, links in a chain, people are made of so many diverse components. I think my favorite part of character development is not inventing their appearance, but rather the quirks and personality traits that make them human, even when some of those same qualities may be unlikeable.

Book 2 in my new Regency Charms series releases in less than a month. The hero, Jasper St. David and the heroine, Emily Shaw, are not titled aristocrats, but people just like you and me. I wanted to step back and create two characters who could be a friend right now, never mind Regency England 1817.

Jasper doesn’t disappoint. He’s easygoing, handsome (of course) and eager to succeed beyond the expectations and shadow of being labeled younger brother to an earl.

Emily is burdened with a troubling past and difficult present. She dreams of a future she dictates, instead of bearing the circumstances which compose her life. In the novel, she reaches beyond the limitations imposed on females of that time…and instead discovers true love.

As each novel releases, I’m putting another charm on my silver bracelet so when the series is complete, I’ll have a representation of each novel, but the symbolism extends beyond having a lovely piece of jewelry to wear. I hope each charm serves as a reminder to embody the same traits I wish for my characters to possess, each charm another link to strengthen my character as well.

Don’t miss UNDONE BY HIS KISS (my most romantic novel yet) on August 6th.       Preorder today! http://amzn.to/1KpZt25

Just in time for the 4th of July, I’ve snagged the latest news from Gina Henning, author of How to Bake the Perfect Apple Pie, a fabulous new romance in her Home For The Holidays series.

  Here’s a little blurb to get your mouth watering!

A scrumptious pie. A long distance guy. 4th of July fireworks guaranteed. Lauren Hauser has it all…nearly. With a shiny new job and sparkly new engagement ring on her finger, the only thing she’s missing is her gorgeous new fiancé by her side. Should she be worried? Jack’s kisses are as sizzling as always and, sure, long distance is hard but, she and Jack are solid, right?

Of course the stress of planning a wedding—or not—is nothing compared to the stress of baking an apple pie. Because it’s not just any apple pie that Lauren must bake for the 4th of July contest; it’s her grandmother’s famous, award-winning apple pie! Yet Lauren is determined to make this pie her own and a little apple pie should be no problem for the Hauser clan dessert queen…!

But with her new job taking up so much time, a prize pie to perfect and the growing distance between her and Jack, Lauren begins to wonder if she can really have it all… Only one things for sure, there’ll be fireworks this 4th of July!

How to Bake the Perfect Apple Pie is available now! Don’t miss it!

Amazon US  Amazon UK  Nook

Nook  GB  Google Play  Kobo   iBooks

And for an extra treat I’m interviewing Lauren Hauser, the heroine of How to Bake the Perfect Apple Pie too! Keep reading!

What was the hardest challenge you needed to overcome in your journey to love? Tell us a little about your story.

Ooh, that’s difficult. I would say my insecurity. I haven’t had many relationships in my life. And my most recent was a long distance one with Scott…*shudders*. It didn’t last. And I felt like if it hadn’t been for the long distance I would have ended it sooner. When Jack and I cross paths, there is definitely something there but I’m on a mission and flirting and/or falling in love is not on my to-do list. Further, he lives in Texas, I live in Baltimore…I don’t want to try a long distance relationship again.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

Wow, another great question. I would hope to be a little more trusting in people in general.

What is the quality you most like in a man?

You are knocking these questions out of the park! Physically, I love strong shoulders and a winning smile. ;) But besides physical attributes, I love a man with a sense of humor and not like slapstick. I mean a man that is clever and can make me laugh days later, when I think about something he said.

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

A delicious dessert shared with the one you love.

What is your most marked characteristic?

I guess people say that I’m funny and at least I’d hope to be. Otherwise it’s just me laughing alone…like ALF saying “I kill me”. Haha!

What do you most value in your friends?

My dear friend Brianna has always been there for me and I love that about her. Even when she has a million things going on in her life, if I call and need to chat she is there no begging required.

You can learn more about amazing author, Gina Henning, here:

Gina Henning currently resides where bluebonnets line the highways in the spring, but she prefers the rock flower anemone from under the sea. Above the ocean’s surface Gina likes to dance with her three boys and travel to exotic places like the grocery store with her husband. Her pooch Schatzi is a mix between German Shepherd and possibly pig. One of Gina’s favorite pastimes is running. She recently completed her one-and-done marathon. At the end of the day her glass of wine is always half-full.

Website: http://www.ginahenning.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ginahenningauthor

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/henningland

My sincere thanks for stopping by, Gina! Best of luck with your new release!