Abbie Zanders's Blog
July 2, 2019
It's All About the Books
I love books. I love reading them. I love writing them. I love talking about them, collecting them, hoarding them. I not only have books in every room, I also have a Kindle, a Nook, and/or an iPad with me at all times.
Some people might call that a tad bit obsessive, but if you’re an avid reader like me, you’re probably nodding your head right now, because you get it.
And, since you're here on Goodreads, I'm pretty sure that's a thumbs-up on both counts.
But where can we bibliophiles go to share the love?
Social media has allowed many of us to connect through our shared penchant for books, and that is, in a word, awesome. We can talk about them, share them, promote them, recommend them, but even more than that, we’ve found friends in kindred spirits we might never have met otherwise, and not just in our respective neighborhoods, but all over the world.
Think about that for a moment: you can share your love for that new romcom or whatever with someone on the other side of the world.
That’s some heady stuff, and for that, I am truly appreciative.
Things are changing, however, as things have a way of doing. Facebook, in particular, is implementing some new rules that are going to make those connections and interactions less visible and more difficult to maintain.
I have no intention of stepping away from Facebook. I’m pretty active there, and I enjoy hanging out in my reader group, the Zanders Clan . I will be trying to build up a presence in other places, though, because I’m really not fond of all the “Big Brother” changes these days, and I’m really, really tired of someone else forcibly controlling what I can and can’t read, write, post, or like.
One of those places I’ll be exploring is right here on Goodreads. It's all about books and readers and bringing those two things together – at least for now. I’m still learning; Goodreads isn’t exactly intuitive and it’s not always easy to navigate (sorry, but it's true), but I’m willing to give it a try.
If you’d like to do some exploring with me, please reach out! Follow and/or friend me, recommend books, comment on reads & reviews...
Because it really IS all about the books. 🙂
Some people might call that a tad bit obsessive, but if you’re an avid reader like me, you’re probably nodding your head right now, because you get it.
And, since you're here on Goodreads, I'm pretty sure that's a thumbs-up on both counts.
But where can we bibliophiles go to share the love?
Social media has allowed many of us to connect through our shared penchant for books, and that is, in a word, awesome. We can talk about them, share them, promote them, recommend them, but even more than that, we’ve found friends in kindred spirits we might never have met otherwise, and not just in our respective neighborhoods, but all over the world.
Think about that for a moment: you can share your love for that new romcom or whatever with someone on the other side of the world.
That’s some heady stuff, and for that, I am truly appreciative.
Things are changing, however, as things have a way of doing. Facebook, in particular, is implementing some new rules that are going to make those connections and interactions less visible and more difficult to maintain.
I have no intention of stepping away from Facebook. I’m pretty active there, and I enjoy hanging out in my reader group, the Zanders Clan . I will be trying to build up a presence in other places, though, because I’m really not fond of all the “Big Brother” changes these days, and I’m really, really tired of someone else forcibly controlling what I can and can’t read, write, post, or like.
One of those places I’ll be exploring is right here on Goodreads. It's all about books and readers and bringing those two things together – at least for now. I’m still learning; Goodreads isn’t exactly intuitive and it’s not always easy to navigate (sorry, but it's true), but I’m willing to give it a try.
If you’d like to do some exploring with me, please reach out! Follow and/or friend me, recommend books, comment on reads & reviews...
Because it really IS all about the books. 🙂
April 14, 2019
Me? Plotting?
It's true. Well, kind of.
I'm what you call a panster when it comes to writing, which means I basically fly by the seat of my pants. I have an idea, I sit down, and I start writing. Most of the time, I have no idea where things are going to go. My characters help me figure that out as we go.
That used to be all fine and good when I wasn't a publishing author. I was still working as a software engineer and raising 3 kids. I didn't have a lot of time to write, so I would daydream about my plots and characters and things would just develop organically.
I had years to develop characters and story lines. And, once I did actually put pen to paper (or, more accurately, fingers to keys), I could write and rewrite, adding layers and filling in. I had the luxury of setting the story aside for weeks, months, or even years until the characters started saying "hey, what if..."
Now, though, writing isn't something I do in only a few stolen minutes here and there. I have hours to invest nearly every day. And while it really is a dream come true to be able to say that, my writing process hasn't adjusted accordingly. Once I jot down that scene in my head, I spend hours writing and rewriting what comes next, trying to capture the stuff that used to come naturally, in its own good time.
It can be frustratingly destructive and a tremendous blow to the self-confidence, let me tell you. So, I'm trying something a little different with one of my current WIPs.
I'm just starting the 2nd book in my Sanctuary series. My hero Heff is all over the place. He has no idea what he wants, so I'm going to try to nail down a few things before I let him have the reins. Tough love, if you will.
I don't know how this "plotzing" is going to work, but two things I do know: my characters always end up surprising me, and my stories never end up going the way I think they're going to when I start.
Wish me luck.
I'm what you call a panster when it comes to writing, which means I basically fly by the seat of my pants. I have an idea, I sit down, and I start writing. Most of the time, I have no idea where things are going to go. My characters help me figure that out as we go.
That used to be all fine and good when I wasn't a publishing author. I was still working as a software engineer and raising 3 kids. I didn't have a lot of time to write, so I would daydream about my plots and characters and things would just develop organically.
I had years to develop characters and story lines. And, once I did actually put pen to paper (or, more accurately, fingers to keys), I could write and rewrite, adding layers and filling in. I had the luxury of setting the story aside for weeks, months, or even years until the characters started saying "hey, what if..."
Now, though, writing isn't something I do in only a few stolen minutes here and there. I have hours to invest nearly every day. And while it really is a dream come true to be able to say that, my writing process hasn't adjusted accordingly. Once I jot down that scene in my head, I spend hours writing and rewriting what comes next, trying to capture the stuff that used to come naturally, in its own good time.
It can be frustratingly destructive and a tremendous blow to the self-confidence, let me tell you. So, I'm trying something a little different with one of my current WIPs.
I'm just starting the 2nd book in my Sanctuary series. My hero Heff is all over the place. He has no idea what he wants, so I'm going to try to nail down a few things before I let him have the reins. Tough love, if you will.
I don't know how this "plotzing" is going to work, but two things I do know: my characters always end up surprising me, and my stories never end up going the way I think they're going to when I start.
Wish me luck.
October 15, 2018
Life Imitating Art?
A phrase we hear often is, “art imitates life", and I suppose that in many respects, that’s true. But does it work the other way around? Can life also be inspired by art?
The answer, at least for this author, is: you bet it can.
Take my newest release, for example. Seizing Mack: A Contemporary Love Story features a strong heroine – Heather “Mack” MacKenzie. Joining the Marines changed her life and helped her define who she really is. She now applies the lessons she learned about discipline, service, and gratitude through her fitness center, aptly named Seize after her favorite saying, carpe diem (“seize the day”).
Like most authors, I get really close to my characters. Getting in their heads, understanding who they are and what makes them tick, is essential to bringing them to life. I am especially proud of Mack. In the process of writing her and Nick’s story, I admit that in many ways, she has become more than my creation; she has become a source of inspiration as well.
Am I about to enlist? No. But I do love Mack’s no-nonsense, kick-ass approach to life. I love that, despite her many accomplishments, she still struggles with self-image like so many of us do. That even though she appears so tough on the outside, she’s dealing with the same unrealistic expectations bombarding us day in and day out in terms of ‘what a woman should be’. It’s easy enough to pretend not to care what other people think or say or do, but let’s face it – negativity does have a way of slithering its way in through the cracks, chipping away at our confidence and making us doubt ourselves. Mack, like us, is flawed and therefore, relatable.
That makes me wonder… if I can relate to her struggles, can I then also relate to her triumphs?
I’m taking some of the things “Mack” has taught me and trying to incorporate them into my own life. For example, I’m trying to eat healthier (I’m including some “lean & green” recipes in the next couple of monthly newsletters, if you’re interested, you can sign up here: Abbie's Newsletter ). I’m trying to get away from my desk and move around a little more (I hesitate to use the term “exercise”, because that would be a gross misrepresentation). And I’m trying to believe more in myself and less in what others think, because as Mack says, to thine own self be true.
Hell, I may even follow Mack’s example and get that as a tattoo…
… or maybe not.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy Mack and Nick’s story. I had a lot of fun going back to Covendale, where the main dialect is sarcasm and love runs deep and true.
Stay strong and happy reading,
Abbie
The answer, at least for this author, is: you bet it can.
Take my newest release, for example. Seizing Mack: A Contemporary Love Story features a strong heroine – Heather “Mack” MacKenzie. Joining the Marines changed her life and helped her define who she really is. She now applies the lessons she learned about discipline, service, and gratitude through her fitness center, aptly named Seize after her favorite saying, carpe diem (“seize the day”).
Like most authors, I get really close to my characters. Getting in their heads, understanding who they are and what makes them tick, is essential to bringing them to life. I am especially proud of Mack. In the process of writing her and Nick’s story, I admit that in many ways, she has become more than my creation; she has become a source of inspiration as well.
Am I about to enlist? No. But I do love Mack’s no-nonsense, kick-ass approach to life. I love that, despite her many accomplishments, she still struggles with self-image like so many of us do. That even though she appears so tough on the outside, she’s dealing with the same unrealistic expectations bombarding us day in and day out in terms of ‘what a woman should be’. It’s easy enough to pretend not to care what other people think or say or do, but let’s face it – negativity does have a way of slithering its way in through the cracks, chipping away at our confidence and making us doubt ourselves. Mack, like us, is flawed and therefore, relatable.
That makes me wonder… if I can relate to her struggles, can I then also relate to her triumphs?
I’m taking some of the things “Mack” has taught me and trying to incorporate them into my own life. For example, I’m trying to eat healthier (I’m including some “lean & green” recipes in the next couple of monthly newsletters, if you’re interested, you can sign up here: Abbie's Newsletter ). I’m trying to get away from my desk and move around a little more (I hesitate to use the term “exercise”, because that would be a gross misrepresentation). And I’m trying to believe more in myself and less in what others think, because as Mack says, to thine own self be true.
Hell, I may even follow Mack’s example and get that as a tattoo…
… or maybe not.
Anyway, I hope you enjoy Mack and Nick’s story. I had a lot of fun going back to Covendale, where the main dialect is sarcasm and love runs deep and true.
Stay strong and happy reading,
Abbie
September 27, 2018
Crying Happy Tears
I knew September 26th was a special day. Why, you ask? Well, because it was on September 26th, exactly 19 years ago, that my beautiful twin daughters were born. I was a little bummed this year, though, because it was the first time I wasn't able to celebrate with them (they're both away at college). No family dinners, no homemade buttercream cakes. Phone calls, FaceTime, and packages delivered by a stranger had to suffice.
Let's face it: letting go can be rough.
BUT... something else happened yesterday that helped take my mind off the fact that my babies are growing up and moving on. One of the best things that can happen to an author, in fact. Something I never thought would happen to me.
Love Under Siege: A Limited Edition Military Romantic Suspense Collection hit #42 on the USA Today Best Seller List!
I won't lie. Seeing that lifted my spirits. Yeah, I was still wishing my daughters a Happy Birthday long distance, but being able to share the news about hitting the list definitely added a positive vibe.
Making the USATBS list was (is) awesome, but that's not even the best part. Over the last year, I got to work with, get to know, and become friends with nine amazing women: Samantha A. Cole, Patti Fiala, Maryann Jordan, Caitlyn O'Leary, MJ Nightingale, Lindsay Cross, KaLyn Cooper, Drue Hoffman, and Debra Presley. These ladies symbolize everything good about romance in the indie world. They are talented, knowledgeable, encouraging and supportive, and I am honored they included me on this wild, wonderful ride.
Also amazing is the amount of love and support readers have shown us - both those who were already following us and those who took a chance and tried something new. HUGE thanks to everyone who bought Love Under Siege , posting glowing reviews, and shared with their friends and fellow readers.
Now I'm going to take a few minutes, sit back, and stare at all the screen prints until it actually sinks in...
Abbie (USA Today Best Selling Author :-) )
Let's face it: letting go can be rough.
BUT... something else happened yesterday that helped take my mind off the fact that my babies are growing up and moving on. One of the best things that can happen to an author, in fact. Something I never thought would happen to me.
Love Under Siege: A Limited Edition Military Romantic Suspense Collection hit #42 on the USA Today Best Seller List!
I won't lie. Seeing that lifted my spirits. Yeah, I was still wishing my daughters a Happy Birthday long distance, but being able to share the news about hitting the list definitely added a positive vibe.
Making the USATBS list was (is) awesome, but that's not even the best part. Over the last year, I got to work with, get to know, and become friends with nine amazing women: Samantha A. Cole, Patti Fiala, Maryann Jordan, Caitlyn O'Leary, MJ Nightingale, Lindsay Cross, KaLyn Cooper, Drue Hoffman, and Debra Presley. These ladies symbolize everything good about romance in the indie world. They are talented, knowledgeable, encouraging and supportive, and I am honored they included me on this wild, wonderful ride.
Also amazing is the amount of love and support readers have shown us - both those who were already following us and those who took a chance and tried something new. HUGE thanks to everyone who bought Love Under Siege , posting glowing reviews, and shared with their friends and fellow readers.
Now I'm going to take a few minutes, sit back, and stare at all the screen prints until it actually sinks in...
Abbie (USA Today Best Selling Author :-) )
September 11, 2018
Limited Opportunity
Admittedly, I’m not much of a blogger. A good 75% of my “author time” is spent on non-writing tasks, like education, social media, marketing, promotions, graphics, etc, so when I do sit down to write, I’m usually putting that time toward one of the several works in progress I have actively going at any given time.
That said, I just finished the first draft of Seizing Mack (finally!), the 3rd book in my Covendale series. I got it sent off to my wonderful editor, Meg, which means I have a few days to catch up on all the things I let slide in my rush to the finish line. Included among those things are letting you know about the quickly-closing window on Love Under Siege .
Love Under Siege: A Limited Edition Military Romantic Suspense Collection is slated to release on September 18th. Eight romantic suspense authors (including myself) have put together a set of new (or mostly new*) full-length stories featuring military alpha male heroes.
Tuff Enough by Samantha A. Cole
Never Forget by KaLyn Cooper
Ravished River by Lindsay Cross (*Ravished River is based on the previously published KW story Aaron’s Honor, it has been significantly re-written and expanded into a full blown novel.)
Lincoln by PJ Fiala
Mace by Maryann Jordan
Black Jack by MJ Nightingale
Her Guarded Hero by Caitlyn O'Leary
Not Quite Broken by me, Abbie Zanders (if you’re a fan of the Callaghans, this is Brian McCain’s story)
You can visit my Love Under Siege page to read a brief description of each book and get yours for only 99 cents.
Here’s the important part: 🔥🔥 Love Under Siege releases September 18th and disappears on September 26th NEVER to be sold again. 🔥🔥
So if you like military heroes and romantic suspense, you might want to put that clicking finger to use and get yourself a copy before it’s gone. If anthologies aren’t your thing, no worries. Each of the books included in this set will be individually published and sold separately in a couple of months (probably at full price).
Oh, and if you like giveaways, I cordially invite you to participate in our big release celebration going on right here on Goodreads from September 20th-24th. Prizes include Amazon gift cards, ebooks, signed paperbacks, and swag!
If you’d like updates more often than every other month or so (😳), feel free to join my readers group on Facebook (where I post nearly every day, I swear) and be sure to sign up for my monthly newsletter and new release alerts .
Until next time, happy reading 💕📖
Abbie
That said, I just finished the first draft of Seizing Mack (finally!), the 3rd book in my Covendale series. I got it sent off to my wonderful editor, Meg, which means I have a few days to catch up on all the things I let slide in my rush to the finish line. Included among those things are letting you know about the quickly-closing window on Love Under Siege .
Love Under Siege: A Limited Edition Military Romantic Suspense Collection is slated to release on September 18th. Eight romantic suspense authors (including myself) have put together a set of new (or mostly new*) full-length stories featuring military alpha male heroes.
Tuff Enough by Samantha A. Cole
Never Forget by KaLyn Cooper
Ravished River by Lindsay Cross (*Ravished River is based on the previously published KW story Aaron’s Honor, it has been significantly re-written and expanded into a full blown novel.)
Lincoln by PJ Fiala
Mace by Maryann Jordan
Black Jack by MJ Nightingale
Her Guarded Hero by Caitlyn O'Leary
Not Quite Broken by me, Abbie Zanders (if you’re a fan of the Callaghans, this is Brian McCain’s story)
You can visit my Love Under Siege page to read a brief description of each book and get yours for only 99 cents.
Here’s the important part: 🔥🔥 Love Under Siege releases September 18th and disappears on September 26th NEVER to be sold again. 🔥🔥
So if you like military heroes and romantic suspense, you might want to put that clicking finger to use and get yourself a copy before it’s gone. If anthologies aren’t your thing, no worries. Each of the books included in this set will be individually published and sold separately in a couple of months (probably at full price).
Oh, and if you like giveaways, I cordially invite you to participate in our big release celebration going on right here on Goodreads from September 20th-24th. Prizes include Amazon gift cards, ebooks, signed paperbacks, and swag!
If you’d like updates more often than every other month or so (😳), feel free to join my readers group on Facebook (where I post nearly every day, I swear) and be sure to sign up for my monthly newsletter and new release alerts .
Until next time, happy reading 💕📖
Abbie
July 20, 2018
7 Books in 7 Months
Yep, I did that. Published 7 books in seven months. I don't recommend it for anyone particularly fond of their sanity. Or sleep.
Did I write a book a month? Hell, no. It takes me ages to create a complete story, even a novella length. But writing the book is only a small part of getting it out there. There are edits (several rounds), proofing, covers, formatting, pre-orders, promos... (you get the idea), all which need to be coordinated and scheduled.
So why did I do it? Mostly, I just have a hard time saying 'no', especially when a great opportunity comes along. Like collaborating with fellow authors, for instance, or flexing my creative wings in fun, new ways. My muses like it, too, because they are a wild bunch, taking pleasure in goading me away from whatever path I'm currently on. Seriously, I have the attention span of a goldfish and they gleefully take advantage of that.
[To prove my point, know that I stopped writing this post to Google "animal with shortest attention span" (to get a proper, accurate analogy), which of course led me down an entirely different path. But I digress...]
Just look at the content of those seven books and you'll see what I'm talking about:
December 2017: A Very Beary Christmas (Howls sweet bear shifter novella)
January 2018: Just For Him (Cerasino Family novella)
February 2018: The Jewel: Dark and Sexy Paranormal Romance (dark, sexy paranormal suspense)
March 2018: Two of a Kind: A Callaghan Family & Friends Romance (Callaghan Family & Friends)
April 2018: Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind: In the Stars Romance (In the Stars sci-fi comedy suspense)
May 2018: Rock Hard: BAD Alpha Dads (BAD Alpha Dads lion shifter)
June 2018: Immortal Dreams: A Mythological Romance (mythology based romance novella)
Kinda makes your brain hurt, doesn't it?
The truth is, as hard as it was, it was a good thing. I was facing some life challenges and writing helped me deal with them. Well, writing and bad (comfort) food choices. I know which one is better for me in the long run, but pasta aglio and bacon and chocolate chip goodness...
Now the sprint is over and I'm allowing myself to take a step back and breathe a little. I'll be traveling to some signings this summer, which is always fun and exciting. There will be no new release this month, but that doesn't mean I've walked away from my laptop entirely. Brian McCain's book ( Not Quite Broken , Book 2 in the Callaghan Family & Friends) is scheduled for release in the Love Under Siege: A Limited Edition Military Romantic Suspense Collection on September 18th, 2018. And I've gone back to Covendale to finally finish Nick Benning's story ( Seizing Mack ), which has been a work in progress for nearly two years now (see? long time).
Will I get distracted? Of course, I will. There is that medieval romance with the sexy, dark rogue prince that's been whispering in my ear. And Church and Heff are sparring over who's going to be next in my new Sanctuary series. Oh - and Karthik, the demon lord of Mythic has been skulking around, looking for his mate...
Did I write a book a month? Hell, no. It takes me ages to create a complete story, even a novella length. But writing the book is only a small part of getting it out there. There are edits (several rounds), proofing, covers, formatting, pre-orders, promos... (you get the idea), all which need to be coordinated and scheduled.
So why did I do it? Mostly, I just have a hard time saying 'no', especially when a great opportunity comes along. Like collaborating with fellow authors, for instance, or flexing my creative wings in fun, new ways. My muses like it, too, because they are a wild bunch, taking pleasure in goading me away from whatever path I'm currently on. Seriously, I have the attention span of a goldfish and they gleefully take advantage of that.
[To prove my point, know that I stopped writing this post to Google "animal with shortest attention span" (to get a proper, accurate analogy), which of course led me down an entirely different path. But I digress...]
Just look at the content of those seven books and you'll see what I'm talking about:
December 2017: A Very Beary Christmas (Howls sweet bear shifter novella)
January 2018: Just For Him (Cerasino Family novella)
February 2018: The Jewel: Dark and Sexy Paranormal Romance (dark, sexy paranormal suspense)
March 2018: Two of a Kind: A Callaghan Family & Friends Romance (Callaghan Family & Friends)
April 2018: Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind: In the Stars Romance (In the Stars sci-fi comedy suspense)
May 2018: Rock Hard: BAD Alpha Dads (BAD Alpha Dads lion shifter)
June 2018: Immortal Dreams: A Mythological Romance (mythology based romance novella)
Kinda makes your brain hurt, doesn't it?
The truth is, as hard as it was, it was a good thing. I was facing some life challenges and writing helped me deal with them. Well, writing and bad (comfort) food choices. I know which one is better for me in the long run, but pasta aglio and bacon and chocolate chip goodness...
Now the sprint is over and I'm allowing myself to take a step back and breathe a little. I'll be traveling to some signings this summer, which is always fun and exciting. There will be no new release this month, but that doesn't mean I've walked away from my laptop entirely. Brian McCain's book ( Not Quite Broken , Book 2 in the Callaghan Family & Friends) is scheduled for release in the Love Under Siege: A Limited Edition Military Romantic Suspense Collection on September 18th, 2018. And I've gone back to Covendale to finally finish Nick Benning's story ( Seizing Mack ), which has been a work in progress for nearly two years now (see? long time).
Will I get distracted? Of course, I will. There is that medieval romance with the sexy, dark rogue prince that's been whispering in my ear. And Church and Heff are sparring over who's going to be next in my new Sanctuary series. Oh - and Karthik, the demon lord of Mythic has been skulking around, looking for his mate...
June 24, 2018
Behind the Scenes: Immortal Dreams
On the outside, there is nothing remarkable about Ellie Cavannaugh. Of average height, average looks, she is sensible and wholly competent.
But inside, she has the soul of a goddess.
Nik Deimos is a god. The son of Ares and Aphrodite, his duplicitous nature often has mortals cowering in fear or writhing in lust. Except for his personal assistant, that is.
She seems wholly unaffected. And it intrigues him. The more he learns about Ellie, the more he is convinced she was meant to be his.
There is only one problem: Ellie is already married.
Mythology has always been a favorite interest of mine, especially Greek mythology. I find it absolutely fascinating, and love to lose myself in tales of gods and demigods, heroes and heroines. But I also have a personal interest in it as well, because Greek culture is part of my ancestry.
Not only do I enjoy classical mythology (Perseus & Jason, I’m looking at you), but I like reading mythology-based paranormal romances as well. I mean, I love my shifters and vampires, but Greek gods and demigods? Sign me up, baby.
It seemed a foregone conclusion that I would eventually write one as well, creating my own heroes and heroines based on myths and legends and putting my own spin on things.
It started with a simple question: what if the ancient Greek gods of myths and legends were still around? (Yeah, I think about stuff like that). What would they do? Would they be all "look at me, I'm a god and I'm awesome" or might they have mellowed over the years and learned a little humility?
Enter Mystikos, the company founded and run by ancient deities incognito. Among those in upper management is one Nik Deimos, a terror of a boss (in human terms, anyway; as far as Greek gods go, he's pretty tame).
And, since every super powerful being needs an Achilles' heel (more myth!), I gave him Ellie, a completely ordinary human woman with superhuman patience and tolerance.
The result is Immortal Dreams: A Mythological Romance, a sometimes funny, sometimes heart-wrenching story about two people who should be together, but aren't.
But don't worry, I'm upholding my promises to deliver "happily ever afters, always" and "no cliffhangers, ever".
Intrigued? You can read an excerpt on my website HERE.
Happy reading!
But inside, she has the soul of a goddess.
Nik Deimos is a god. The son of Ares and Aphrodite, his duplicitous nature often has mortals cowering in fear or writhing in lust. Except for his personal assistant, that is.
She seems wholly unaffected. And it intrigues him. The more he learns about Ellie, the more he is convinced she was meant to be his.
There is only one problem: Ellie is already married.
Mythology has always been a favorite interest of mine, especially Greek mythology. I find it absolutely fascinating, and love to lose myself in tales of gods and demigods, heroes and heroines. But I also have a personal interest in it as well, because Greek culture is part of my ancestry.
Not only do I enjoy classical mythology (Perseus & Jason, I’m looking at you), but I like reading mythology-based paranormal romances as well. I mean, I love my shifters and vampires, but Greek gods and demigods? Sign me up, baby.
It seemed a foregone conclusion that I would eventually write one as well, creating my own heroes and heroines based on myths and legends and putting my own spin on things.
It started with a simple question: what if the ancient Greek gods of myths and legends were still around? (Yeah, I think about stuff like that). What would they do? Would they be all "look at me, I'm a god and I'm awesome" or might they have mellowed over the years and learned a little humility?
Enter Mystikos, the company founded and run by ancient deities incognito. Among those in upper management is one Nik Deimos, a terror of a boss (in human terms, anyway; as far as Greek gods go, he's pretty tame).
And, since every super powerful being needs an Achilles' heel (more myth!), I gave him Ellie, a completely ordinary human woman with superhuman patience and tolerance.
The result is Immortal Dreams: A Mythological Romance, a sometimes funny, sometimes heart-wrenching story about two people who should be together, but aren't.
But don't worry, I'm upholding my promises to deliver "happily ever afters, always" and "no cliffhangers, ever".
Intrigued? You can read an excerpt on my website HERE.
Happy reading!
May 21, 2018
Apparently, I have a thing for writing arseholes...
Rex Løve. Lion Shifter. International Sex Symbol. Rock God. Creative genius. And to those closest to him: a royal pain in the arse.
~ * ~
I love shifters - reading about them and writing about them. You can do so much more with them as characters than you can with humans. For one thing, they have cool special abilities, like superior strength, speed, and acute senses. For another, their animals can get away with a lot of "questionable" behavior we wouldn't tolerate from a regular guy (or gal). And what's more "alpha male" than a true "alpha male"?
When paranormal romance writers Gwen Knight and C.E. Black came up with idea for the BAD Alpha Dad romance line, I was intrigued. The concept added a nice twist to the usual trope. Yes, these guys are badass shifter alpha males, but they are also pretty clueless when it comes to kids - which is where the "bad dad" part comes in. For anyone who has watched a "this is what happens when you leave dad with the baby" video on YouTube, you can begin to see the potential here.
So my guy Rex is a lion shifter and a rock star, which means he's incredibly vain and kind of clueless - especially when it comes to his daughter. He might think he knows everything, but he finds out pretty quickly otherwise, and only when he could lose everything does he begin to see what's really important.
I really enjoyed writing this one and bringing the king of the jungle to his knees. If you'd like to know more about this new book, click HERE to read an excerpt.
Rock Hard: BAD Alpha Dads is hitting the Amazon stage on May 22nd, 2018. Hope to see you there!
~ * ~
I love shifters - reading about them and writing about them. You can do so much more with them as characters than you can with humans. For one thing, they have cool special abilities, like superior strength, speed, and acute senses. For another, their animals can get away with a lot of "questionable" behavior we wouldn't tolerate from a regular guy (or gal). And what's more "alpha male" than a true "alpha male"?
When paranormal romance writers Gwen Knight and C.E. Black came up with idea for the BAD Alpha Dad romance line, I was intrigued. The concept added a nice twist to the usual trope. Yes, these guys are badass shifter alpha males, but they are also pretty clueless when it comes to kids - which is where the "bad dad" part comes in. For anyone who has watched a "this is what happens when you leave dad with the baby" video on YouTube, you can begin to see the potential here.
So my guy Rex is a lion shifter and a rock star, which means he's incredibly vain and kind of clueless - especially when it comes to his daughter. He might think he knows everything, but he finds out pretty quickly otherwise, and only when he could lose everything does he begin to see what's really important.
I really enjoyed writing this one and bringing the king of the jungle to his knees. If you'd like to know more about this new book, click HERE to read an excerpt.
Rock Hard: BAD Alpha Dads is hitting the Amazon stage on May 22nd, 2018. Hope to see you there!
April 15, 2018
Eve Langlais Reads Close Encounters
One of the great things about participating in groups like "In the Stars" is interacting with other authors, including those who are the literary equivalent of rock stars for me. One of those authors is Eve Langlais.
I'm a huge paranormal romance fan, and Eve's books are among those at the top of my 1-click list. I actually got to meet Eve in person at last year's RT Booklover's Convention in Atlanta, and it's kind of a funny story.
You see, I was in the hallway, waiting for a workshop to start and shooting the breeze with a few people. I didn't find out until afterwards that I was talking to one of my favorite writers. It went something like this:
My friend: "So, what's she like?"
Me: "Who?"
My friend: "Eve Langlais."
Me: "OMG. She's here? Where?"
My friend: "The lady you were just laughing with. That was Eve Langlais."
Me: "Get outta town! Oh, God. I didn't say anything too moronic, did I?"
My friend never did answer that question, but I must not have made TOO bad an impression because this month, Eve offered to do a short video of her reading an excerpt from Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind: An In the Stars Romance to help share the love. In return, Jessie Lane and I each made a short video of us reading excerpts from Eve's In the Stars romance, First Mate's Accidental Wife, which released on April 10th.
If you'd like to watch the video of Eve reading from Close Encounters, click HERE.
If you'd like to watch the video of me reading from Eve's book, click HERE.
And if you'd like to add Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind (releasing April 17th) to your TBR list, click here: Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind: An In the Stars Romance
I'm a huge paranormal romance fan, and Eve's books are among those at the top of my 1-click list. I actually got to meet Eve in person at last year's RT Booklover's Convention in Atlanta, and it's kind of a funny story.
You see, I was in the hallway, waiting for a workshop to start and shooting the breeze with a few people. I didn't find out until afterwards that I was talking to one of my favorite writers. It went something like this:
My friend: "So, what's she like?"
Me: "Who?"
My friend: "Eve Langlais."
Me: "OMG. She's here? Where?"
My friend: "The lady you were just laughing with. That was Eve Langlais."
Me: "Get outta town! Oh, God. I didn't say anything too moronic, did I?"
My friend never did answer that question, but I must not have made TOO bad an impression because this month, Eve offered to do a short video of her reading an excerpt from Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind: An In the Stars Romance to help share the love. In return, Jessie Lane and I each made a short video of us reading excerpts from Eve's In the Stars romance, First Mate's Accidental Wife, which released on April 10th.
If you'd like to watch the video of Eve reading from Close Encounters, click HERE.
If you'd like to watch the video of me reading from Eve's book, click HERE.
And if you'd like to add Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind (releasing April 17th) to your TBR list, click here: Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind: An In the Stars Romance
April 8, 2018
Behind the Scenes: Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind
She’s a detective with something to prove.
He’s an exiled Prince from another world, just trying to blend in.
I'm the first to admit it: I'm not really into sci-fi romance. I could count the number of alien hero/heroine books I've read on one hand (Sherrilyn Kenyon is an exception. It doesn't matter what she writes, I'll read it). So when fellow indie author Jessie Lane suggested writing one together, I thought she was kidding.
But then I started thinking - it could be kind of fun creating an alpha hero who was not just out of his element, but way out of his element. Of course, he'd have to be attractive to Earth women, intelligent and unknowingly funny.
The heroine would have to be pretty special, too. Someone relatable with a sharp mind and a tender heart beneath a tough exterior.
And I do so like a challenge, so...
Fast forward several months (and many rewrites) later, and the result is a fun, sexy romantic comedy that I think even non-sci-fi fans will enjoy. I'm pretty proud of it. It's got plenty of laughs, lots of feels, and even some suspense.
Want to know more? Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind: An In the Stars Romance
Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind is releasing in a galaxy near you on April 22nd, 2018, but you can pre-order and add it to your TBR list right now.
He’s an exiled Prince from another world, just trying to blend in.
I'm the first to admit it: I'm not really into sci-fi romance. I could count the number of alien hero/heroine books I've read on one hand (Sherrilyn Kenyon is an exception. It doesn't matter what she writes, I'll read it). So when fellow indie author Jessie Lane suggested writing one together, I thought she was kidding.
But then I started thinking - it could be kind of fun creating an alpha hero who was not just out of his element, but way out of his element. Of course, he'd have to be attractive to Earth women, intelligent and unknowingly funny.
The heroine would have to be pretty special, too. Someone relatable with a sharp mind and a tender heart beneath a tough exterior.
And I do so like a challenge, so...
Fast forward several months (and many rewrites) later, and the result is a fun, sexy romantic comedy that I think even non-sci-fi fans will enjoy. I'm pretty proud of it. It's got plenty of laughs, lots of feels, and even some suspense.
Want to know more? Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind: An In the Stars Romance
Close Encounters of the Sexy Kind is releasing in a galaxy near you on April 22nd, 2018, but you can pre-order and add it to your TBR list right now.
