Chocolate Reality

Do we really need to feel passionate about writing?

2011-08-15T08:50:00.001-07:00

Come on over to my new site and lets discuss if the passion to write is really necessary.

www.steenaholmes.com

Let's Celebrate! Free Books!

2011-08-10T07:09:00.001-07:00

Come on over to my new website and comment on a chance to win free books.

Who doesn't love free books????

Sweet Smell of Success!

2011-08-08T05:52:00.000-07:00

There's nothing quite like the sweet smell of success. It has a certain chocolate aroma to it :)

Come on over to my new website - www.steenaholmes.com to read my new post and find out what's new!

Come Visit Me!

2011-08-06T18:30:00.000-07:00

Sorry I've been silent. What a wild ride. I switched my blog over to my new website at and lost the ability to post on here!

I hope I've fixed it. I hated having to start from scratch again.

But ... I think if you come and check out my new blog look - you'll agree moving was a good decision :) I even made a special treat for you ;)

5 Tips BEFORE You Self-Publish

2011-07-20T10:00:00.000-07:00

Thinking about self publishing?
Do your homework first!
Top 5 Tips BEFORE you self-publish!

It's My Birthday :)

2011-07-20T06:49:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to me :)

Check it out - we've moved - please follow me on my new website.

www.steenaholmes.wordpress.com

The Chocolate MOVED

2011-07-18T10:07:00.001-07:00

DO NOT CLICK - it will take you to a blank page.
Go to http://www.steenaholmes.wordpress.com/ and then follow me on my new website

We've MOVED!

2011-07-18T10:05:00.000-07:00

This blog has moved to http://www.steenaholmes.wordpress.com/
Please redirect your feeds and follow me over there ;)

Where does the Chocolate Trail lead today?

2011-07-15T09:28:00.000-07:00

There's a theme to today's chocolate trail. Can you see it?

The Bookshelf Muse: First Page Tips from the Pros - I love this blog. If you don't follow it, you need to.

How Much Editing Does a Contracted Book Need? by Jodi Hedlund. A great insight and help to me especially.

Secrets of a Great Pitch - this one I'm paying extra attention to. The fall conference for CaRWA has Deidre Knight coming and I want to ensure my pitch is perfect!

Are you thinking about self publishing but the concept of being your own marketer gives you heart palpatations? Pick up a copy of Dollars & Sense: The Definitive Guide to Self-publishing Success. I am loving this book.

Get Thee To An Editor - this is huge. In my venture into self publishing there is one thing I am learning the hard way. Editing. It is huge. Important. Essential. Trust me. Copy editing is not my strong suit, so I will pay for someone to do this for me. What I'm learning though - you need to do your homework. Find the right editor for you and then go through it again. And again.

Can you guess what I'm eating today?

Don't Take The Chocolate Away - Tips for Working with your Editor

2011-07-13T08:18:00.000-07:00

I'm over at Stina Lindenblatt's blog today Guest Post: Tips on Working with Your Editor.

I dish dirt on my favorite editor - Tracey West at Liquid Silver Books. She's awesome. Just don't threaten to take her chocolate away. Then she gets down right nasty ;) (look who's talking though, I don't even share my chocolate).

Go check it out ;)

On that note - Tracey, you are a doll ;) This is for you!

Are you an Influencer?

2011-07-11T05:31:00.000-07:00

When you have a passion for something, you talk about it. A lot. You'll blog about it (hello ... chocolate anyone?), you'll tweet repeatedly about the new dessert you made or found, you'll post it on your Facebook and you'll find yourself blabbing about it to everyone you meet.

This is what an Influencer is.

When it comes to the the book world, an Influencer is one who will read a story (often after being asked by a publisher/agent/author/pr group/ect and will then post a review on their blog/website, offer to host the author, do some fun contest or anything else to help that author with their book launch. You can do one or all of these things.

I love being an influencer. LOVE IT. When I find an author that I love or a story I enjoy, I don't mind shouting it from the rooftops! I'll retweet posts from these authors, I'll tell everyone I know about the latest book out ... this community of writers is an amazing thing and I love being a part of it.

Which comes to a question.

I need some influencers. Pretty please. I wrote a steamy romance (not erotica) that I self pubbed on Amazon under my p. It's called Stampede Fever and it's up just in time for the #CalgaryStampede but now I need help spreading the word.

If you would like to read and post a review for me, I would love to send you the PDF version :) Just send me an email to steenah(@)telus(.)net and I'll be glad to forward it to you.

Hey - did you hear? Not only did I self pub this story, but I made my own cover!! I love it! It's a new venture for me and I've started to create covers for other writers/authors. Need a cover but don't want to spend $$$ on it? Send me an email!

Is the Stigma for Self-Pub Still There?

2011-07-06T05:30:00.000-07:00

One of the best posts I read last week was from Rachel Gardner.

Will Self Pubbing Hurt My Chances at traditional pubbing? If you haven't read it before you should.

Since 2005 I have been told to distance myself from my first novel because it was self pubbed through Word Alive by winning a contest. For years, after the inital exhuberance of actually being published wore off, I felt ashamed of this story. Sure, it's not perfect and has flaws, but for someone writing for the 1st time - it's not bad.

I'm in the stages of updating it, working on a new cover and will be self pubbing it again. Some of the story will be changing - enough that it won't be the same story that many read when it first came out. I'm excited about it. No, it's not erotica either. LOL

In the past year, the stigma of self pubbing has changed. More options are now available for us, writer, to reach our goals. Do I want that agent? Sure I do. Do I want to write books for a living? You betcha. Do I need an agent to do this? Not anymore.

I'm so glad Rachelle wrote this piece. I met her over a year ago and was able to talk with her for a bit. I'm amazed by her. Really am.

If you have ever thought about self publishing your work but was worried that it would hurt your future chances of landing an agent. Read this post. It's a shame to have novels hidden in our drawers, on our computers that we've laboured over but are ignoring. They don't need to be ignored anymore. Sure, they might need some or even alot of polishing - but its not in waste.

I fell in love this weekend

2011-07-04T05:37:00.000-07:00

I fought it. I really did. But at first glance, I knew this relationship was right, real and going to last.

I discovered 5 Ingredient Fix this morning. More specifically Dessert Bar.

Let me apologize up front. This is a chocolate post. But I can't help myself. I'm my weakness :)

Miranda Baker - I love you for introducing me to ganache. Claire Robinson I love you for showing me how to use it!

By now you should know - I'm a baker, not a cook. I love to discover delectable recipes and add my own personal touch. Usually with chocolate. (I know, go figure).

From simple homemade truffles (so making these)

to mouth watering cream puffs.

I now am fascinated with Master Pastry Chef Keegan Gerhard. If I had to go back in time, I would pursue this as my passion (and then writing).

(sigh) I love ganache.

Follow the Chocolate Trail ...

2011-07-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

Today is all about chocolate. 100%.

Why? Other than the obvious? Well, the amazingly cute Royal Couple is here in my country on their first tour. I'm a little obsessed with them - but not for reasons you might think! I'm writing another short about the Calgary Stampede and since Wills & Kate will be opening the Stampede this year, I figured I would have them appear in my story :)

Plus ... it's Canada Day! (I'll take any excuse to eat chocolate)

Enjoy :)

cause we all know how much I love these ;)

From my heart to yours!

These bowls aren't easy to make. But they sure are worth it!

Happy Canada Day Sweets :)

The D Word - another Summer Read!

2011-06-29T10:52:00.000-07:00

What's better than finding new summer reads to add to you beach bag?

I just finished reading The D Word by Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke. THE D WORD allows readers to walk in the shoes of Jordan and Elle as they vie for the attention of the same man ~ and discover that sometimes you’re not that different from the person who makes you feel the most insecure.

I don't think I've read a book by co-authors that is a seamless and flawless as this one. I was shocked. I kept trying to figure out each author's voice - see if I could catch who was writing what scene. Nope. Couldn't do it. They did a fabulous job!

And the story. The opening is something every woman can sympathize with - whether they've experienced it or imagined it (or even feared it). But the ending ... my lips are sealed on this one. Not what I expected :)

This book is so good - you need to head to Amazon and buy it. The D Word get it. Don't even bother with downloading the sample. You'll love it. I promise. If you love Allison Winn Scotch and Jodi Picoult, you'll love these ladies. This is my chocolate guarantee!

A great summer read - The One That I Want by Allison Winn Scotch

2011-06-28T11:11:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a summer read The One That I Want, is now available in paperback!

I read this story and loved it. My original review and why I loved it so much can be found here. I also di an interview with Allison here. She is a writer that you want to discover if you haven't already.

Allison Winn Scotch has the gift to bring a reader into her world and make them wish they could stay. The One I Want tells the story of Tilly Farmer (love the name) who think she has everything until she realizes everything isn't what she wanted after all.

Living in a dream world.

2011-06-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

I'm living in a dream world. I admit it.

I find milestones hard to take in. They remind me of what I've lost, or missed.

My oldest daughter is graduating today. From grade 6. When I was growing up, I had to wait till grade 8 for this experience. I remember the shopping trips I took with my mom to find a dress innocent enough for her yet old enough for me. Wasn't easy.

Now my daughter on the other hand - maybe because she's two years younger than I was, or maybe because she doesn't like to wear dresses, but she didn't care to go shopping. I found two dresses for her, bought them and brought them home. She picked one (the one I didn't think she would like) and I returned the other. Easy.

Our bonding moment wasn't the dress. But the shoes. Go figure. She wanted heels. I wanted flats. She wanted dressy. I wanted sandals. We took the middle road and found a pair of nice white strappy sandals. If she wears them again I'll be shocked. My oldest loves to be comfy. Sweats. Sweaters. Long shorts. Flip flops. She would fit it on the beach with a surf board in her hand.

I have to remind myself to slow down. Take a deep breath. Enjoy the moment. She's growing up. The one I prayed for before I found out I was pregnant. The baby I cried over when she was placed in my arms. She's growing up.

Milestones can suck for the ones who don't want to experience them. Let her stay innocent. Young. Carefree. I'll gladly take on all the hardships for her to keep her innocence.

Living in a dream world. I know.

Is It Hot In Here - 1st Page Blogfest

2011-06-25T09:02:00.000-07:00

So, the awesome Shelley Watters is hosting yet another first page contest of awesome on her blog Is It Hot In Here, Or Is It This Book?, Birthday Blowout First Page Contest with Victoria Marini i of the Gelfman Schneider Literary Agency!

Below is my entry. It's about a mother trying to find her kidnapped daughter.

Title: Finding Emma
Genre: Women's Fiction
Word Count: 76,000

You should check out the other entries - after you help me with mine :)

~~~~

A child’s scream shattered the peaceful silence of the Sunday afternoon.

Megan shot up from the blanket on the grass, her heart hammering as she scanned the street in front of her. She groaned when two of her daughters squirted each other in a water gun fight as they came up the walkway. She’d dozed off. Again. The late nights of working on Peter’s books had to stop. Yesterday she’d woken up to find Emma across the street at the neighbors, half crawled into their dog house.
She glanced down at her youngest child who played with a dandelion on the blanket. Thank God she was still there. Her two year old gazed in rapture at the sky.
“Red balloon, Momma?”
Megan twirled her fingers in her daughter’s tight curls. “Later, honey.”
“Red, Momma. Red balloons,” Emma gestured towards the sky with her pudgy fingers. Megan turned her head and noticed the explosion of color that filled the air. Red, yellow and blue balloons danced with the breeze as they swept across the sky.
The annual carnival arrived just in time for the end of school celebration their small town always held. It was also Emma’s birthday. Megan wished for time to stand still. Her baby was growing too fast.
“Mom, can we have a popsicle?” Hannah shook tendrils of water over Megan’s bare legs. The little twerp, that water was cold.

*edited based on awesome comments below. Thanks guys!

Follow the Chocolate Trail ...

2011-06-24T05:25:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered what an agent meant when they asked for revisions after you sent them your novel? If so, then you need to read this blog post by an agent.

Natalie Whipple talks about what makes a book real. Is it the physical book in your hands? Is it the time when you write The End? Is it when you see your story come live on a epublisher's website or even when it is on sale on Amazon?

Nathan Bransford talks about the Five Openings to Avoid when starting your new WIP.

K.M Weiland asks the one question all writers don't want to hear. Can Your Heroine Be Too Strong? She hosts the FABULOUS character therapist Jeannie Campbell and discusses this.

And finally ... Life is good. The Blindfold is selling well (thank you!), The Master is getting some nice reviews and I have a fabulous new side project about to start. My next story in the Masquerade series is almost completed ... so I think this deserves some chocolate. Don't you?

This little piece of cheesecake is currently in my oven baking. HMMMM ... I can't wait to share it. Some neighbours from my village (Monday's post ... check it out) are coming over and I'm sharing my chocolate chip cheesecake with them.

I know, I know - you're shocked :)

Happy Friday everyone!

Is the World Ending for YA Writers?

2011-06-23T11:34:00.000-07:00

The YA world is about to implode.

Jonathan Koranth posted on his blog JK Rowling Will Self-Pub Harry Potter Ebooks .

WOW.

That's huge. For some people. For others I'm sure they are sticking out their hand and saying 'welcome to the club'.

For a long time now all I've been hearing is that epublishing isn't something that works in the YA world. A lot of YA writers I know won't even think about dipping their toes into epubs. Not because they are scared of it, or think it's the wrong way to publish (or maybe they do) but because it's not something that has taken off, been successful for any large name YA writers.

Until now.

So now what? Will epublishers start to open up the ranks and invite YA manuscripts for submission? An industry that is successful mainly for romance and erotica? Wouldn't that be nice? Maybe then women's fiction can get on board too.

What are your thoughts about this?

It Takes a Village to Write a Book.

2011-06-20T11:19:00.000-07:00

Writing is NOT a solo work. For anyone who labours under this misconception, let me steer you in a new, clearer direction.

I repeat. Writing is NOT a solo work.

Yes I know, it might be only little ole you sitting away at your desk writing your story. That's true. Only YOU can write the story. But ... are you alone on this journey? Nope. (unless you really are and then please email me so that I keep you company).

Even if you are new to this journey, you're here, aren't you? You're checking out blogs. You're on Twitter, hopefully (and if you haven't followed me yet, why not?? @steenaholmes). There are unlimited resources at your fingertips. You are NOT alone. All you need to do is yell for help and you'll be heard. By millions. Cause there are a million of us on this same journey with you. #MyWaNa is a good resource if you don't want to feel alone.

I experienced the village this weekend and it was like a slap in the face that I am not alone. I have an amazing group of writers to back me up, whenever and however I need it. From helping me with ideas, confronting me on my story structure, encouraging me to push the boundaries - this is what your village should be doing. You need the support. You need the encouragement. You need the odd kick in the pants. If you don't have it yet, FIND it. Let me help you find it.

Here's a perfect example. There was a girl who came as a 'visitor' to my writing group. She's only testing the waters with her bare toes. Nothing else. She hasn't written a single word yet. But she wants to. She just doesn't know how. She 'thought' she was headed in one direction, only to discover that there are more possible options out there than she knew. If she hadn't come to the 'village' she would never have realized the potential.

Do you have a 'village'? Do you utilize them? Do you give as much as you get? Have you thanked them today?

A HUGE thank you to everyone who has bought and read The Blindfold and The Master under my pen name Anya Winter. I hope you liked them.

Hotel No Tell Review

2011-06-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

Are you in the mood for a sassy and feisty read? Hotel No Tell: A Novel might just be the perfect summer read for you.

Daphne Uviller's novel was a bit of a surprise. It's been a bit since I read a good detective story and I tend to be a bit picky with my choices. But Hotel No Tell sucks you in from the very beginning. Zephyr (love the name) Zuckerman works her way into you heart with her sassiness and spunk (and seriously, how could she not?). The story is cheeky and leaves a smile on your face as you read it. Perfect for the beach bag :)

Here's a bit about the book ;) The link is above. You should check it out.

The smart and sassy detective Zephyr Zuckerman is now armed and undercover in a Greenwich Village hotel where mysteries—from garbage-grabbing guests to the reservation system—lurk around every corner.

Now working as a junior detective with the New York City Special Investigations Commission, Zephyr’s gone incognito as a concierge to find out who laundered a hundred grand off the hotel books—and why. But the discovery of a prone, flush-faced guest gasping for air in room 502 only hints at the sinister goings-on inside this funky establishment. While the rapid response of the fire department leads to a sweaty date with a smooth-talking, rock-climbing rescue worker, Zephyr finds herself even more hot and bothered by an attempted murder on her watch. Could the smart-mouthed Japanese yenta across the hall know more than she’s telling? How are cryptic phone calls from a mysterious corporation linked to the victim in 502?

Under pressure and overwhelmed, Zephyr soon finds that a concierge cover is no protection in a place where crime, like the city itself, never sleeps.

Follow the Chocolate Trail ...

2011-06-17T05:30:00.000-07:00

This has been such a busy week for me. Work has been a tad bit crazy. I'm 2 weeks away from ending the current novella I'm working on (praying it will be sooner ... oh wait ... 2 weeks was a week ago ... shoot) and I've been trying to get the word out about my novella, The Master which came out this week :)

Rachelle Gardner has a timely blog post this week.The Gift of Insecurity. We all deal with it. One moment we're on a high, the next wondering where we managed to pull the last bunch of pages from cause they're about to be deleted (right?).

Michelle over at Operation Awesome mentions Fun Things in the Blogosphere. Along with my story, Elana Johnson is celebrating her new release Possession and Rebecca Knight is celebrating Legacy of the Empress. You should check them out :)

I really liked this post by Angela Knight over at Carina Press.How to: withdrawing your book from consideration. Personally I think we all wish to be able to do this. What do you do when you have multiple submissions out and an agent or publisher you queried responds with a YES, WE LOVE YOU? Angela has some words of wisdom for you.

I happened upon this wonderful
The Cupcake Blog. And since I'm in the mood to celebrate this week with cupcakes - this one is perfect!

And ... to end the celebration for the week (many thanks to everyone who hosted me on their blog!) I am giving away a copy of The Master! You must be a follower and comment below. That's it :)

The Act of Submission

2011-06-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

Submission.

How many of you cringed when you read?

Submission isn't an easy place to be. It hurts. It tests our patience. It tests our faith in ourselves and in our writing.

Submission sucks.

And yet - without it, we'd be lost. Right? If you never submitted, you would never get anywhere as a writer. Never find an agent. Never find a publisher. Never find that book deal.

Submission is beneficial.

It's the stepping stones to achieving our dreams. Whether in life as a person or in our writing career. (I know - you were probably wondering which direction I was going with this whole submission topic, right?)

So tell me - how has the submission process helped you as a writer?

I'm still in the submission process. I have a novel out to a publisher and agents still. The waiting is torturous!

Oh ... and Alyssa and Nicole - thanks for the cupcake links! You both win a copy of The Blindfold ;)

Did ya hear - I have a book out :)

Harmless Bit of Smut shares the Love

2011-06-14T06:45:00.000-07:00

Several awesome blogger friends/twitter buddies and critique besties are sharing their love with me this week.

Today you can find me on Monica Kaye's blog. She's an absolute darling. I met her on Twitter and not only does she know how to write a sassy romance but she's a hoot to boot ;)
You can find her blog here.

I still have my contest going on. For every comment you have a chance to win ;)

Today is the day!

2011-06-13T05:30:00.000-07:00

It's FINALLY here! The Master!

It's amazing how excited/nervous/anxious/scared I am right now. I am at the point where I have always dreamt I would be. The road hasn't been what I thought or hoped, but regardless, I am here.

I think this calls for a celebration, don't you?

I will be guest blogging at several wonderful blogs this week - don't worry, I'll post a link each day.

But I can't celebrate alone either. Throughout the week I will be having Chocoholic Worthy giveaways. Yep, you heard me. All of my favourite things will be up for grabs! From chocolate to free books, it's my way of saying 'thank you for believing in me!'.

First up - is a FREE copy of The Blindfold - a short erotic story I wrote to help celebrate the release of The Master. It's available on Smashwords and Amazon.

I do need something from you though. You need to be a follower and post a link to a cupcake - chocolate, vanilla ... doesn't matter. Just a link. Whether to a recipe or a picture, doesn't matter :) I figure if I can't celebrate in person with you by sharing cupcakes, we can do it this way. (if you want to opt out of the free copy but want to share your cupcake - that's all right too!)

Happy Release week from me to you :)

The Chocolate Trail leads to Me

2011-06-10T06:00:00.000-07:00

You do remember that The Master is being released on Monday, right?

Instead of having a chocolate trail this week, I figured I'd just share my own. I have some fun treats scheduled for next week - so be ready. I believe chocolate was the prize of choice:)

Below is a treat for you - from The Master. I made a promise to myself to always have chocolate in every story I write. I think I accomplished that. Tell me what you think?

After everything was said and done, Madison was in heaven.

The dessert table looked scrumptious. Every type of chocolate delicacy known to women had to be on this table and it was all she could do not to fill a plate. The chocolate aroma in and of itself was enough to…

“Oh, just take one. You know you want it,” a male voice teased her.

Madison jumped, startled, and hugged her small notebook close to her chest. Her assistant, Josh Brown, smirked as he reached to steal a piece of heaven from the table.

“Don’t you dare, there’re too many guests around.” She slapped his hand and forced her lips into mock frown.

“Honey, they all think I’m a guest anyway,” Josh shrugged his small shoulders and peered up at her under his black framed glasses. A sneaky smile spread across his face as he grabbed a mini chocolate cream puff and popped it into his mouth.

“Have you found our elusive host yet? Who is this guy anyway?” Josh licked tidbits of cream off his fingers as he glanced around the room.

“No. I’ve asked some of the staff he provided, but they only said he would make himself available when the timing was right. Whatever that means?” She shrugged her shoulders. She’d dealt with plenty of strange customers in the past, but this one cut the cake. Never had she had a host so adamant to remain in the background as this one.

“As long as he signs the necessary papers and gives me a moment to speak to him, it doesn’t really matter. I would like to thank him though. Without this location...” She angled her body so she could look out over the crowd behind them.

A favorite of mine. Yours too?

2011-06-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

This is something about the delectable chocolate covered almond.

Maybe it's the way it melts in your mouth as you suck on it. Or when your teeth gently bite down and the thick chocolate slowly gives way to the healthy part of the treat.

Maybe it's the crunchy almond and chocolate mixture as you savor each and every piece.

Either way. I love these tasty little morsels of chocolate goodness.

It really doesn't take much to excite me ;) As you can tell.

Hmmm ... chocolate covered almonds. They appear to be a favorite of mine. What would it take for me to share?

Guess you'll have to wait until next week when The Master is released ;)

Hmmm...

2011-06-08T16:38:00.001-07:00

You know...with my book release on Monday...I'm thinking some giveaways are in order.

Something chocolate perhaps?

what do you think??

The Power of the Falls - Guest Interview of 'Bridges'

2011-06-07T17:35:00.000-07:00

I grew up in Ontario. Going to Niagara Falls was a family tradition. At first we would do all the 'touristy' things. But I remember discovering life around the Falls. The towns beyond it. The culture. Tradition. It's an honor to host an interview by DK, author of Bridges, a story that revolves around the something that is dear to my heart. (Seriously, I'm not kidding. The Hershey store is in Niagara Falls).

Thanks for coming on my blog! Can you tell me what your story is about?

‘Bridges’ is a tale of camaraderie and historical fact, weaved together in a unique fashion, with a twist of mystery and revelation involving a group of 1962 teenagers caught up in the complexities of a changing world around them. A faded picture from a by-gone era sets in motion a perilous quest; five young men not only encounter harrowing danger in the forbidden, historical laden Niagara Gorge, but confront the swirling illusions of the world they knew – changing their lives forever. Interwoven are four stories from Niagara’s past that are stand alone yet have tentacles into the group in 1962.

I love finding out about peoples passions especially when it comes to their stories. So tell me, what compelled you to write this novel?

A combination of a Niagara few people know about coupled with the decade of the '60's which was the best and worse times of America. A decade when America was at it's prime and it's base. When young people thought everything had been done and there was nothing left for them to do, yet, next to the revolutionary era itself, it was the most revolutionary decade in American history.

Totally selfish question here, but I just finished looking over some family photos taken last summer in Niagara Falls, so I gotta ask - what is it about Niagara Falls that you love?

What is there to not love about Niagara Falls? Except for the way it's been disrespected and misused. Niagara is a gift from the Creator to us on earth. Not only the Falls itself, but the rivers - the gorge - the lakes. Splendid and magnificant. Take an afternoon and walk the Niagara Gorge and I guarentee you will not come out the same as you went in. You'll meet God in the Gorge. Unfortunately, no one alive today has seen the full power and majestiy of the Falls. It's been stripped, raped and used for the most mundane of purposes - human greed.

What life lesson hit you the hardest while writing Bridges?

Nothing is new in human history. Technology changes, transportation changes, all facets of living change - but people are the same today as they were thousands of years ago. The same drives, needs, fears and wants. "Bridges" attempted to show that.

Do you have an excerpt you would like to include?

“The Falls roared its thunder and anger at us, challenging us

to come down and visit again. We had taken away its ice bridge,

denying its wintry kingdom. It remembered us and had something

it wanted to say to us.

I leaned against the icy railing, with the mist slowly freezing

my face into a mask of shimmering frost, the same as it had those

many years earlier, and stared into the turbulence, listening to the

thunder – hearing the voice.

“It’s calling us,” Chuck said.

“I know,” I replied.

“Does it remember us?” Lennie asked.

“It wants us,” I answered.

“Why?” Lennie asked.

“Revenge,” Chuck said.

“It’s gotten its revenge,” Lennie said.

“Some. It wants it all—it wants us,” Chuck answered.

“Why?” Lennie asked again.

“We stole a piece of it,” Chuck said.

“It’s immortal. We’re not,” I said.”

dk:author of 'Bridges-a Tale of Niagara"
http://www.bridgesataleofniagara.com/

'Writing in the Woods'
http://dklevick.wordpress.com/

Oh Sweet ... Sweet ... Chocolate

2011-06-07T10:14:00.000-07:00

My mouth is salivatating. I am so making these! And they are totally going into my store. I can see this in a 'morning after' breakfast scene.

Chocolate-Filled CrepesAdd the fruit of your choice to the inside and don’t forget to drizzle warm chocolate over the top!

Make Chocolate-Filled Crepes »

Step INTO Your Fear

2011-06-06T08:38:00.000-07:00

What are you scared of?

What is holding you back from taking that step to becoming the type of writer you need to be?

Each step that propels us forward in our writing can also push us back - if we don't face the one thing that scares us the most.

What is it that's holding you back?

Having to write the query? Pressing SEND? Facing rejection? Discovering you might not be as good as you thought you were? Getting bad reviews? Not selling enough books?

I'll be honest - my fear right now is what happens AFTER my novella sells. Will I get bad reviews? Will people even buy it to write the reviews? What if it sucks. What if I've been wasting all my time perfecting my writing only to #epicfail.

Before it was the waiting. Waiting for the query rejections. Waiting for the partial rejection. I'm still waiting for the full rejection. Rejection hurts. No matter what form. I think it's something we all will have to face.

But are you holding back because of the fear or are you embracing the challenge?

So tell me - what is it that's holding you back? What is it your afraid of right now? Is there a 'next step' for you that you're hesitating to take?

When we step into our fear - that's when we'll see our biggest success!

Introducing Anya Winter, my COVER & Release Date!

2011-06-01T11:46:00.000-07:00

I'd like to introduce (officially) Anya Winter - my alter ego.

It was a bit of a flux to discover that a quick novella I wrote around Christmas was okay. Better than okay, it was good. And then to discover that it was not only better than good but chocolate worthy for publishing.

GET OUT!

I honestly didn't expect it. I'd had so many rejections for a book out on query, that I fully expected the email from an epublisher to be the same. The only reason I actually sent it was because I was afraid to. Conquer my fears and all that.

I had a few hurdles - self created hurdles - to jump over before I accepted the contract. One - that it was an epublisher and not through an agent. For someone so focused on trying to get an agent, this is a hard thing to wrap your mind around. Then it was the genre. Seriously - a steamy romance - me? Next was the name. Do I go under my own name and possibly destroy relationships built over the years my husband and I were pastors, or do I create a pen name and keep it separate from who I am.

I couldn't do either. So I decided to do both.

I don't 'only' want to write steamy romances. Nor do I want to push away people I love and cherish because of my creative imagination. I figure having a pen name for romance and not keeping it secret does two things - one it still gives me the freedom to write in a new genre and not worry about the erotic aspect to my name, plus it gives those who can't handle the fact their previous pastor's wife is writing contrary to their beliefs a blindfold (persay) so they can ignore me if they want to.

Thus Anya Winter. With a new cover and a release date :)

June 13th - less than 2 weeks away. What do you think???

Want to Win SoloPlay?

2011-05-31T09:05:00.001-07:00

Just thought I'd mention - if you want to win a copy of SoloPlay - you can ;)

Head on over to Chocolate & Spice. Read the review. Leave a comment. Preferably a chocolate themed one (I have been dreaming of chocolate lately - wonder why??).

I promise, you'll enjoy SoloPlay.

My Favorite Pick Me Up!

2011-05-30T05:30:00.000-07:00

I have a few favorite pick me ups. My new one is in Miranda Baker. Not only does she love to bake, she loves chocolate, is a fabulous writer with a gift to enspell her readers to the point of ectasy and is a hoot to follow on Twitter. She has a new book out called "SoloPlay". I'll be posting a review over at Chocolate & Spice blog on Tuesday - with a chance to win a copy of her story. Trust me - you want a copy of this! But you'll have to be a follower of the blog over there...so why not head on over now, become a follower :)

Now to Miranda ....

It’s safe to say I don’t have a food fetish. Like my heroine Destiny, there are some pleasures I don’t like to combine. I’ll take my chocolate straight, thank you very much. I can’t imagine writing a food and sex scene (although I’ve read some very good ones) however food usually makes its way into my writing.

I love a man who can cook - literally. My husband and I met in culinary school at the Culinary Institute of America, and he does most of the cooking at our house. Actually, he’d say he does all of the cooking, but I make breakfast five days a week and pack the school lunches, so I want my props too. Food is so much a part of my life that at first I didn’t realize I was making it a part of my characters’ lives too. In my first erotic romance novella Bottoms Up, the hero cooks dinner for his heroine and then serves her chocolate cheesecake in the bathtub. In SoloPlay, the next book in the Come Again series, the hero arrives with take-out from the Italian restaurant on the corner, including tiramisu for dessert.

I was introduced to tiramisu (“pick me up” in Italian) at Amerigo, a restaurant in Nashville, TN across the street from Vanderbilt University where I did my undergrad. I don’t know if the restaurant is still there but that tiramisu will live forever in my memory. Rich, creamy mascarpone mousse layered with espresso-soaked ladyfingers. Bittersweet perfection, made even more magnificent by two sauces – vanilla crème anglaise and espresso fudge. Ahh… pick me up, indeed.

I’ve also had excellent tiramisu at The Olive Garden. It’s a chain, sure, but they do it right. In fact, it’s their tiramisu that inspired my recipe. I had to do something; it was getting expensive to buy a whole one for my birthday every year!

Technically, the only chocolate in tiramisu is the cocoa powder on top, but it satisfies my chocolate craving just the same. I hope it will satisfy yours, too. Mangia!

Miranda Baker’s Favorite Tiramisu (OMG - I so want to make this!!!! Better yet - Miranda, will you come to my house and make it for me? Pretty please?)

(13X9 Pan)
3 Egg Yolks
¼ Cup Whole Milk
1 Cup Granulated Sugar
1 Pound Mascarpone Cheese
1 Pound Cream Cheese, room temperature
½ teaspoon Vanilla
2 Cups Heavy Cream combined with 6 Tablespoons Powdered Sugar, then whipped to soft peaks.
Ladyfingers – the soft cake-like kind. They can usually be found in the grocery store bakery.
1 Cup Cold Espresso or strong coffee
Cocoa Powder, for sifting

1. Make a double boiler: Fill a medium saucepan with a few inches of hot water, and bring the water to a simmer. In a medium-size metal bowl, whisk the egg yolks and milk together, then add the sugar. Place the bowl on top of the simmering water in the saucepan and whisk until the sugar dissolves, the mixture begins to thicken and turn light yellow, and the temperature reaches 160 degrees. This pasteurizes the eggs to make them safe to eat. Remove from the heat to cool slightly.

2. Use an electric mixer to cream the cream cheese until no chunks remain. Scrape the bowl frequently. Add the mascarpone and vanilla and continue to cream the mixture.

3. Combine cooled egg yolk mixture with the cheeses. Do this slowly, a little liquid at a time to prevent lumping.

4. Fold in the whipped cream.

5. Pour espresso mixture onto a dinner plate. One by one (or sheet by sheet) dip the bottom of each ladyfinger into the espresso mixture. The top half should remain dry. Arrange the soaked ladyfingers side by side in the 13 X 9 pan.

6. Spoon half the cheese mixture over the ladyfingers and spread it evenly.

7. Make another layer of espresso-soaked ladyfingers, and cover them with the remaining cheese mixture. Smooth the top.

8. Dust with a generous layer of cocoa powder.

9. Cover and chill for several hours. Serve to people who deserve it. 

About Miranda Baker

It makes me chuckle to think about all the romantic short stories I wrote in my rather too literary creative writing classes in college. If only one of my professors had steered me toward popular fiction! On the other hand, if I had discovered my calling back then, I wouldn’t have gone to culinary school, I wouldn’t have met my husband, we wouldn’t have had three children and I wouldn’t have turned to erotic romance to get my mojo back during all this hair-raising kid raising.

Visit http://www.mirandabaker.com if you’d like to talk about romance, writing or recipes. Warning: most of my recipes are aphrodisiacs!

Follow the Chocolate Trail ...

2011-05-27T08:52:00.000-07:00

I haven't been this happy to see a friday in a long time! There's so much to celebrate. Let's start with the basics.

I bought a new laptop (Mac Book Pro) cause my Vista finally crumbled.
I got my new book cover (to be revealed soon)
I got my new laptop (now I can get back to writing).

I feel like I've missed out. On Twitter. On blogs. On writing.

But ... there are a few chocolate trail worthy blogposts I wanna mention. Wanna go with me to check them out? I'll even supply the Dove chocolate!

Roni Loren has her new cover! It's HOT. HOT. HOT. HOT!

I seem to have a problem with writing an unlikeable character. At least one per story. Sometimes this is intentional - but when that character is the MC, it's not such a good thing. Jody Hedlund blogs about avoiding that traps we all seem to find ourselves caught in when it comes to this.

Nathan Bransford blogged this week about indie publishing. It's a guest post on getting to the Skinny of indie pubs and if it's something you've thought about - you should read this. I know I did and will again. Some good points are made.

As for the chocolate ... I'm craving a chocolate trifle with whip cream ... anyone have any good recipes?

The Process - Guest Post by Kate Lord Brown

2011-05-24T11:27:00.001-07:00

Maybe the difference between writing editorial or a blog post and writing a novel is like the difference between a short sprint and a marathon. There’s a lot of ground work goes into both, honing your ‘writing muscles’ as it were, thinking it through, doing research – but a novel of maybe 80 – 120,000 words is a big undertaking and you need to be up for that.

I’ve always said to my students that novels are written one word at a time. It’s amazing how the work adds up, but I really do believe you need to work every day. Write something every single day – even a short scene or a snatch of dialogue. Stay hooked in to your story. Boondoggling is the writer’s greatest enemy – it’s amazing how attractive walking the dog/cleaning the oven/making one more cup of coffee becomes … and whoops! There goes the morning.

So, in terms of process, I write something every day. That way, I stay current with my characters, and you can pick up the pace where you left off. There’s a lot of research goes into my books, and I write far more than I use in the story in terms of historical notes – there are files and files for each book. Each day is filled with a bit of research, writing, and revising. The calibration of the three shifts depending on which stage of the book I’m at.

First comes research – with ‘The Beauty Chorus’ I spent months in archives and museums learning about the amazing women who flew Spitfires during WW2. Then, in the early stages, when I’m still thinking the story through, still visualising it, I tend to run or swim first thing. I find it’s really helpful to come at a story ‘sideways’, let the scenes unfurl while you’re taking a walk for example. Then, I’ll get to my desk and start work pinning those scenes down. I like to have a structure, a rough idea of where the story is heading, but it is always great to leave yourself enough room for the story – and characters – to surprise you. There’s nothing like the exhilarating feeling when the story takes wings and gets a life of its own. Once you reach that stage, basically you want to write and write. It’s wonderful – you’re up and running.

******

Kate studied Philosophy at Durham University, and Art History at the Courtauld Institute of Art. She is currently taking a Masters degree. She worked as an art consultant, curating collections for palaces and embassies in Europe and the Middle East, and was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. She was a finalist in UK ITV’s the People’s Author competition in 2009. Her debut novel ‘The Beauty Chorus’ is published by Atlantic in 2011.

THE BEAUTY CHORUS – PUBLISHER’S OUTLINE:

Romance, glamour and adventure in the skies: an enthralling debut inspired by female pilots in World War Two. 166 women signed up to fly Spitfires and bombers from factories to airfields across the country. It was an adventure that would cost many their lives.

New Year’s Eve 1940: Evie Chase, the beautiful debutante daughter of an RAF commander, listens wistfully to the swing music drifting out from the ballroom. With bombs falling nightly in London, she is determined to make a difference to the war effort. Evie joins the ATA – the civilian pilots who ferry fighter planes to bases across war-torn Britain. Two other women wait nervously to join up with her – Stella Grainger, a forlorn young mother from Singapore, and Megan Jones, an idealistic teenager who has never left her Welsh village before. Billeted together in a tiny cottage, Stella, Megan and Evie learn to live and work together as they find romance, confront loss and forge friendships that last a lifetime.

‘The Beauty Chorus’ is published by McArthur and Company http://thebeautychorus.blogspot.com

Why You Shouldn't Self-Publish

2011-05-19T09:39:00.001-07:00

Before anyone jumps down my back about what you think I might say about self-publishing, take a deep breath, finish that piece of chocolate your eating and read. Then comment. Cause I'd love to know your thoughts.

Within the past year, or even in the last six months, the taboo of self-published authors has lifted - to a degree. More and more authors are considering pubbing their own writing and those who finally have the rights to their novels back are seriously considering taking this option (after all, the 70% you'd get from your back titles has to be more enticing then the tiny percentage they get otherwise).

For some authors it has become a first choice. But here's the word of caution. It might not be the right choice for you.

If you think it's easier than finding an agent or a publisher - you're wrong! Self-publishing is a tremendous amount of work. You're not just writing a query now to entice an agent, you've taken on the role as a business person - to entice readers. It's all on you.

If you think it will fast track you to success - consider taking a mountain climbing course. It's very rare that you can climb a mountain in a straight uphill line. Being impatient because you want to see your 'baby' in a book format will only hurt you in the end. Take your time. Do your research. Not one self publishing phenom became that way with their first novel.

If you are tired of getting rejections from agents who don't understand the gem they hold in their hands - please please please do not think that by being self published that 'gem' will attract others. There are lots of hugely successful books that have been rejected many times by agents. We've all heard the stories. All it takes is one. ONE agent to see the potential in you and your story. It could be the absolute last agent on your list to query - how will you know if you give up too soon?

And please, for the love of all things chocolate - if all you get is rejections do not ... I repeat DO NOT self publish instead. Think about rewriting it. Find an editor who can help you. Stop sending it to friends and family (unless they are editors) and get it in front of someone who knows what to look for. That novel MUST be in perfect condition before you can self-pub it. Readers can be brutal (and if you disagree with me, then you're not a reader). Vicious. Dream killers to those who can't handle rejection.

So please, before you take the step and self-pub your own work, take a step back. Then another. And another. Do your research. Take your time. I'm not saying that self-pubbing isn't the way to go, I'm just saying that it might not be the way to go for you. Not right now.

An Author Who Doesn't Like Chocolate! OH MY!

2011-05-17T06:30:00.000-07:00

I have a special treat - and its surprising that I'm actually letting this happen on my blog, but I love Reece's Peanut Butter Cups, so I'll forgive Kaira this time :)

******

In HERE, HOME, HOPE, my protagonist, Kelly, loves Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups. In fact, she craves them. It may be surprising then that I don’t like chocolate. I know, I’m here, as a guest on a Chocolate and Writing blog and (shhhh) I never have liked chocolate. Trick or Treat was a complete bummer. Everyone gave out chocolate candy. The only choices left to me? Candy corn, and there’s only so much candy corn a girl can take.

So why in the world does Kelly crave chocolate? I’m not sure, but I imagine it’s due to the influence of all my chocolate-loving friends. And that’s the writing life, really. It’s not about your story – it can’t be. It’s your take on the world, sure, but with a twist.

Kelly has many of my characteristics – many more we don’t share. I love her like a friend, but I don’t have a friend exactly like her. That’s what I love about fiction, that’s what I love about creating stories. My life is enriched through my characters, and I hope, in turn, my characters enrich readers’ lives.

Naturally, my recipe includes Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups! Enjoy!

Kaira Rouda, Author,

HERE, HOME, HOPE – debut novel

Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JRcsMDKlccY

Author website: http://www.kairarouda.com

FB Fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kaira-Rouda-Books/125389587505763

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/KairaRouda

REESES PEANUT BUTTER CUP COOKIES

1 egg
1/2 c. butter
1/2 c. peanut butter
1/2 c. white sugar
1/2 c. brown sugar
1/2 tsp. vanilla
1/2 tsp. salt
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1 1/4 c. flour
1 (14 oz.) bag Reese's mini peanut butter cups

Mix together all ingredients except Reese's cups. Roll dough into small balls. Place balls in small paper candy cups and place on cookie sheet. Bake 8 to 10 minutes in 350 degrees or until light brown. Place 1 Reese's peanut butter cup in center of each cookie. Let cool completely on cookie sheet. Makes 4 dozen.

The Decisive Moment

2011-05-16T10:34:00.001-07:00

Take a step back from your writing for a moment. We tend to focus on the craft with so much zeal and energy, that we often forget to look at the bigger picture.

Do you remember that moment when you wanted to be a writer? What about when you DECIDED to be a writer?

Yes - they are two separate moments. Wanting is when the seed of hope, the dream of your future, is planted. But deciding is when you actually take the steps necessary.

There is a huge gap between wanting and deciding though. It's not a one step process.

Even if you've already written a story or two, you haven't necessarily crossed that gap. So how do you know if you have?

When you've stepped INTO your fear.

Yep, you heard me. Fear. The one thing that holds us back. Wanting to be a writer does 'diddly squat' for you until you decide to become one. You BECOME a writer by learning your craft. By realizing that your dream is so important to you that you will do ANYTHING it takes to succeed. Take courses, ask questions, read books, read blogs, improve your writing, understanding the lingo. KNOWING your craft. You embrace your fear by sending out what you've written. Hopefully to beta readers first before you query an agent. You accept that you have a lot to learn and your desire to learn it, to become a better writer overcomes whatever fear you have.

Before you and step into your fear though, you need to ask yourself 3 questions.

What do YOU want?

Why do YOU want it?

How important is it to YOU?

The moment you ask yourself those questions and attempt to honestly answer them - that is your DECISIVE MOMENT.

Have you had that decisive moment in your life? Can you remember when it happened?

I do. And it was a kick in the pants, but it was worth it.

Book Covers

2011-05-13T09:11:00.000-07:00

What do you look for in a book cover? What draws you in?

Depending on the genre, I love simplistic covers with a bold picture. Possession by Elana is a prime example of this. But I also find myself drawn to dark, mysterious and enticing covers like 7 Day Loan by Tiffany Reisz when it comes to romance.

A cover sells a novel at first glance. We all know the importance of this. It's drilled into us by agents, editors and all over twitter. Especially if you are planning on self pubbing yourself - pay the extra to have someone design your cover. It's important. It's crucial. You'll sell more.

I received a mock cover today for my novella coming out. I've been so excited to receive this cover, I couldn't wait to see what the artist would come up with. When I saw it this morning - my first thought - OMG! For a steamy romance, it draws you in. There's an enticing appeal to it. And that's what you want your cover to do. You want it to entice readers to buy. The artist who worked on my cover did an amazing job :)

So here's a question - does it matter to you as a reader if the cover accurately portrays the novel or do you find that once you get lost in the story, the cover doesn't matter as much? Do you remember the book by the cover or the story itself? Have you ever found yourself disappointed with a cover but in love with the story or in love with the cover but disappointed by the story?

Help Write Now

2011-05-11T11:10:00.000-07:00

If you are on twitter - I'm sure you've already heard about this blog/auction. But if not, please go and check it out. Help Write Now. There are fantastic items up. Including agent/editor critiques. Novels. Partial and query critiques and more. If you have been outbid on the Brenda Novak auction - then check this one out.

"More than half of the country has been affected by this continuous band of damaging weather, disrupting people’s lives from North Dakota to the East Coast.... More than 1,600 people sought refuge in 65 Red Cross shelters Wednesday night as the storms forced them from their homes. Red Cross shelters are open in Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Missouri, Indiana, Kentucky, Arkansas, North Carolina and Texas."

- Thursday, April 28, 2011 press release from the American Red Cross

Because the April 2011 storm outbreak affected so many areas, we are donating auction proceeds to the Red Cross's general disaster relief fund.

What's In A Pen Name?

2011-05-09T05:30:00.000-07:00

There's a mystery behind the pen name. Once upon a time they never mattered to me. I would find out my favorite author (Amanda Quick for instance) was actually a pen name and I wouldn't even bat an eye.

Then I became a writer and began to question the WHY behind having a pen name. There has to be a reason. There is always a reason for the creation of a pen name. But what? Many agents will caution authors on creating a new persona. There must be a reason behind the decision.

Some people want/need to hide. And that makes sense. For some, their 'real' life and their writing doesn't always mix. A kindergarten teacher writing erotic romance might want to keep that part of her secret.

But for others it might be as simple as they write in various genres and they don't want to confuse their readers. A non-fiction health writer may decide to start writing a foodie romance - a pen name might be a good idea. Or a romance writer who also writes children's novels, non-fiction and even thrillers should think about creating separate persona's for each genre. Why? They've already created a brand in one genre and it would only confuse their reader to all of a sudden pick up a different genre. Plus ... what if the person who loves romance sees a thriller by their favorite author, decides to read it and realize they hate it. Do you think they'll buy the next new romance release as quickly as the last time?

Sometimes creating a pen name is a good idea.

I have one. I wrote an erotic romance that will be coming out with Liquid Silver Books. But, in my 'previous' life, I was also a pastors wife. I'm not trying to hide who I am, in fact, I'm quite proud of my story. But, I am conscious of the relationships created throughout the years and I realize that a lot of those people will have a hard time with this genre. And that's okay. By creating my pen name, or my new persona for this genre creates two things for me.

1. Those who love me as Steena but can not stand erotic romance then don't have to feel guilty or even worried that one day they will come across my novel online or in a book store and wonder if they should read it or not.

2. It allows me a freedom to create a new brand set apart from the commercial fiction that I also write.

I'm excited about this new journey I'm taking. My goal was to be published and this is me reaching my goal. I'm all about being real, so I won't be hiding who I am. Once I get my cover and have more information, I'll be posting it on here. I'll even have a page just for Anya Winter (my pen name). But until then, if you are interested in this genre or in my new persona, feel free to follow me on twitter at @AnyaWinter or on a blog where I post once a week called Chocolate & Spice. You can even find a post about inspiration at The Dirty Birdies where I talk about where my inspiration for The Master (my novella) came from.

Follow the Chocolate Trail

2011-05-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

There's one thing that I love about Friday's blogging. Finding those posts that list the best articles/blogs ect for me to read. When it's been a busy week for me and I haven't been able to read the blogs - this has been a life saver for me.

And if it helps me, it should help you too. Friday's I'll try to dedicate to "Follow the Chocolate Trail" - where I will post the best links I've found for the week - whether on writing, books, chocolate or anything else :)

~~~~

Will you be ready for that First Call from an agent? Do you know what type of questions to ask? Vickie Motter at Navigating the Slush Pile has a great post on this. My suggestion - write your questions down in a place you can easily find it. The last thing you want to do is make that agent wait while you search through piles or folders ;)

Interested in the ebook explosion? The Ellora's Cave Crew gave some insight. Did you know that the percentage of print book consumers who say they download e-books jumped from 5% in October 2010 to nearly 13% in January 2011?

Jodi Hedlund talks about the 3 Stages of Querying. If you are getting ready to query, are in the midst or are trembling at the thought of having to write a query - you'll want to read this post.

Talking about queries - Author and speaker Mary DeMuth knows about queries. She's written a free guide called Queries Now to help you navigate the next step of your journey to publication.

But here's the best ... the chocolate part of this trail ... Miranda Baker has a new erotic romance out called SoloPlay and to celebrate she has a Super Sexy Chocolate Mousse. This is sinful, let me tell you. And oh so good. Definately worth checking out (and the book too ... I read her Bottoms Up and it was delicious).

Medieval Recipes? Yes - there is chocolate! & a Prize!

2011-05-05T06:08:00.000-07:00

One of my crit partners has a new book out! Champions of Valor! If you love to read about the medieval times - this book is for you. Nicole Zoltack was nice enough to share some delicious recipes with us. Plus ... there's the chance to win her trilogy and more!

Hi everyone, I'm so glad to be here as part of the Champion of Valor blog tour.
First, I thought I would share a medieval recipe:

Appulmoy (Apple Stew)

3 cup apples, cored and peeled
2 ½ cup water
½ cup almond milk
4 saffron threads
2 ¾ tbsp rice flour
2 ¾ tbsp honey
2 tsp powder fort
Large pinch of salt

Powder fort is a combination of spices ground together - 1 tbsp clove, 1 tbsp mace, 4 tbsp ground pepper, 1 tbsp grains of paradise, 4 tsp ground ginger, 4 tbsp cinnamon

To make almond milk boil 2 cups of water, add 1 cup of ground almonds, steep for five minutes, stirring occasionally. Blend the mixture until smooth.

Place apples in a saucepan. Add water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Cook until apples are soft. Drain excess water. Add the almond milk. Ground saffron in 1 tbsp water in pestle and mortar. Add saffron. Transfer to a saucepan and add the remaining ingredients. Mix well. Bring to a simmer. Stir constantly. Done once thickened. Transfer to serving bowls. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

I have more medieval recipes on my website - http://nicolezoltack.com/medieval_recipes.html and http://nicolezoltack.com/more_medieval_recipes.html

And now for a recipe that I'm sure Steena would enjoy! (And me too, I'm a diehard chocoholic and anything that combines chocolate and peanut butter is divine!)

Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups

1 package milk chocolate chips

1 cup peanut butter

¼ tsp salt

½ cup confectioners' sugar

Trim 12 muffin cup liners to half their height. Place ½ of the chocolate chips into a microwave-safe container. Microwave for two minutes, stirring halfway through. Spoon the melted chocolate into the muffin cups until halfway filled. Use the spoon to draw the chocolate up the sides of the cups until evenly coated. Cool in the fridge until firm. While they set, mix together the peanut butter, confectioners' sugar, and salt into a small bowl. Once the chocolate is cooled, divide and add droplets of this mixture into the chocolate cups. Melt the remaining chocolate as before and cover the peanut butter. Make sure the chocolate covers the edges of the cups. Cool in fridge until firm. Delicious!

Be sure to leave a comment to be entered to win some signed post cards and magnets. Each comment during the Champion of Valor Blog Tour gives you an entry for the grand prize: a copy of the entire Kingdom of Arnhem trilogy - Woman of Honor, Knight of Glory, and Champion of Valor.

Writing a Foodie Romance

2011-05-04T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have a special treat. The delicious Rebecca Lynn, a special friend of mine, has agreed to talk about Foodie Romance - a genre I think I could write in regards to chocolate ;)

*******

Thanks for having me, Steena. What is life if not an excuse to eat chocolate. I'm sure you'll agree. ;)

Most people, after I tell them I write "foodie romance" ask, "what exactly is that?" My answer is twofold. First and foremost, foodie romance is romance. It's the story of two people's happily-ever-after. How did the hero win the heroine, or vice-versa. That's the most important part.

Second, foodie romance is a universe that revolves around food. There may or may not be professional kitchens involved (some, like Louisa Edwards, call that "culinary romance", because it's about the culinary word), and the presence of foodies is even sort of negotiable. But the one thing that's not negotiable is the food. I've read culinary romances that are not foodie romances (and of course, vice versa), which is quite disappointing. But foodie romances are all about the food. This is their natural habitat. In fact, I think that the best foodie romances make you hungry as much as they make you happy.

Foodie romances are to food what erotic romance novels are to sex. They delve in, slow down, savor, and celebrate. Foodie romances are about food *experience* in the same way that erotic romances are about sexual *experience*. When I write a food scene, I want you to feel like you've just eaten, or like you can't wait to eat. Like you want to cook / eat what my characters just cooked / ate / baked.

Also, I really think food needs to be part of the trajectory of the plot in a true foodie romance. People execute this in different ways, of course, from the professional kitchen to the home cook. A foodie romance hero/heroine might be an executive chef, a sous chef, or just a regular person with another job. But somehow, the food they prepare will play a part in their happily ever after.

Different authors accomplish this in different ways, but the one consistent factor is that there's a level of food experience detail that only comes from experiencing food yourself. I always tell people, if you think you want to write foodie romance, start cooking and eating. In fact, when I teach my "Romancing the Palate" foodie romance workshop, the first exercise we do is always to write about our own food experience, focusing on the specific sensory details. I assign my students to have a NEW food experience and write about it right away, so the details are fresh in their mind.

So if you're thinking about writing foodie romance, start eating and cooking. Make the foods your characters are going to make. Eat the foods your characters are going to eat. Do it slow. Pay attention. The littlest details can be important. In one of my foodie romance scenes, the temperature of the water drives the whole context of their relationship. It's the details that matter. So get eating, get cooking, and then get writing!

Happy Food Writing to you!

Romance Addiction

2011-05-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

I normally focus on two things here. Writing and chocolate. I'd like to introduce another passion to focus on.

Romance.

I'm finding this genre addicting. In life and in my books. Is that so wrong? I think not ;) I have a life filled with passion and it's a life I never want to lose. I'm in love with a man who swept me off my feet almost 15 yrs ago and never let go even when the road was filled with boulders instead of pebbles.

Not only that, but I've found a genre that agrees with me. I agree with everyone's thoughts on Friday. You CAN write in multiple genres. As an unpubbed author - why not? Write what you are passionate about. But when you do land an agent, then you have to be careful. You are building a brand - and that brand is as much a part of your first published piece as anything else. If your first novel is a YA Fantasy and you decide for your second novel to write a Contemporary mystery - you're gonna have a hard time selling that novel. You've already built your core of readers with that first novel and they are going to expect another like it.

But...until you've sold your first novel, have fun. Play. Experiment and enjoy the writing experience.

So for the next little bit ... will you come play with me? I'll be hosting some special romance focused blog posts by some published authors in the next little bit. This genre is huge and fast selling - especially in the epub world right now.

I'm addicted to romance. Let me share my addiction with you. Will you join me?

The Genre Game (Personal Info Involved)

2011-04-29T05:30:00.000-07:00

This is a hard and exciting post for me. WARNING - up close and personal info below (and rambling)!

Discovering your genre is akin to discovering secrets about yourself. For me at least. I feel like it lets you open one of those secret doors the fill up the house of 'me'. Except this secret door was even a secret for me! Go figure!

There are so many genres out there. YA, Women's Fiction, Contemporary, Suspense, Horror, Romance. And then all the sub-genres that go with those. You have YA Romance, YA Thriller, Contemporary Steam-Punk, Paranormal Romance ... the list can go on and on and on ...

So many authors out there started out in one genre and literally 'fell' into another. And it worked for them. When we start our writing journey, there's a passion inside of us for a certain genre. But as we grow as writers, as our talents expand - sometimes we can find ourselves 'testing' the waters.

I know I did. (GULP).

My first story that I ever wrote was an Inspy Romance. Cute, sweet, full of chocolate and tender hearted sighs. I won a contest and had my novel published. Amazing. It really was. But then I tried my hand at a Christian Suspense ... only to realize it was should have been labeled as a Paranormal and the Inspy theme didn't mesh. So I wrote a Women's Fiction - and fell in love with my story. Agents have it now. But an editor mentioned it 'might' be in the wrong genre (again). Contemporary Fiction - huge difference. Hopefully I will find an agent who loves the story despite the genre and will have the wisdom I seem to lack (if there is an issue - don't you hate this unsettled ground we seem to live in as unpubbed writers?)

But...while writing another Women's Fiction and finding myself extremely frustrated, I decided to try my hand at a novella. Just something to get my mind off of my frustration but keep me writing. It took me a month to write the story, a month to send it out to two of my good friends/betas and then I decided to do the unthinkable ... and I submitted.

Turns out - this novella was good enough. But here's the scary part (for me at least). It's in another genre!

So ... it's a Friday. I'm not going to continue with the up close and personal right now ... but I would love to know your thoughts.

Are you happy in your genre? How did you know this was the right genre for you? Do you write in other genres? Have you even figured out what genre best fits your writing?

Writing Tips From Twitter Authors/Writers

2011-04-20T05:30:00.000-07:00

I asked around Twitter for some advice for new writers. There is such a wealth of information on there - all you have to do is search for it.

Sometimes as a new writer you think you are alone. That there is no end in sight. That's not true. You are not alone. There is an end and when you write THE END there will be thousands of others who will celebrate with you - if you just give them the chance.

Here are some amazing writers who understand what you are going through. Click on their link and follow them. Ask them questions. Get involved in the discussion. Remember - you are not alone!

@alyslinn: I would say to find other writers, because you can learn a lot from them. Have them read your work, & get used to crits

@NicoleZoltack: Find wonderful and honest beta readers. Nothing is more important than having their invaluable feedback.

@authorViviAnna : Consider EVERY opportunity given to you, you never know what might come out of it

@jwwfantasywrite : BICHOK - Butt In Chair Hands On Keyboard.

@AnneMhairi: Dare to dream. Whether it's the plot of your book or your own ambitions don't be afraid to think big.

@SarahWoodbury: Write a second book.

@WriMuse: Keep writing what YOU want to write, no matter what other people think or say (including agents).

@AnyaWinter: Stay off Twitter when you’re writing. Procrastination comes in many forms.

@tusenordmalin: Listen to what others say, and follow every advice at least once before rejecting it.

@VickiEssex:How about simply KEEP WRITING. And maybe keep your cat out of it.

@ Cassandra_Carr: Publishing is a business - a very subjective business. Rejection is not personal.

@LiaKeyes:Take your time. Make it the best it can be.

@pagan_paul: Write everyday, in the genre you feel most comfortable with. 2 lines, 2 pages, all is fine. Just write. Enjoy it.

@stupidgirl45: Just get the words out, edit later (bit like #nanowrimo) oh, and also, be kind to yourself!!

What about you ... any words of advice you want to share?

You Want to Write ... So Now What?

2011-04-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

Over six years ago I decided to do the unthinkable. Write. It was something I always wanted to do but didn't know the first steps into starting. Do you remember being there as a writer? The very beginning steps?

Well, if you are there now - I can promise you that starting isn't as difficult as you may think. Do you have a story in mind? That's the first key to writing your story.

There are a few programs out there that can help you write your story. I love ywriter. It's my personal favorite. There is also Scrivner. It used to only work with Macs, but now there is a windows version.

Do you have a plot already planned out or are you just going with the flow? You'll hear terms like Plotter vs Panster. Figuring out how you write is helpful. Knowing methods that work best for you can help, so it's always good to figure it out. I do both. Being a Panster means I get to go with the flow. I have a general idea of what I want to happen in the story - I know how it will start and an idea of the ending but getting there is where the fun happens. Being a Plotter on the other hand equates to organization. You know every single step your character will take. You know the scenes, the characters, the issues that will arise. Many writers like this approach. I've discovered that I like to do a general plot - I create an outline of what will happen but then give myself the freedom to let my character grow and tease me.

Okay - so let's assume you are either in the midst of writing this fabulous story or you've finished it. Your mother, BFF and neighbour have all read it. Now what? Now you go back to the beginning. Edit. Print off your manuscript or work right from the computer. Use track changes. Visit the Bookshelf Muse and learn how to describe things in a way you never realized. Get rid of your cliches.

Then find beta readers. If you write Christian fiction - ACFW is fantastic for a new writer. They have critique groups you can join and share your story chapter by chapter. If you write Romance - Romance University is fantastic in offering tidbits, helping you as a writer grow. RWA is also a good resource if you want to find an organization to belong to. Sign up and find a chapter that is close to you - or one you can join online. I love my Calgary chapter - CaRWA is full of seasoned and new writers and the resources I have found through RWA is phenomenal. If you are on Twitter ask around, find fellow writers to connect with. I have an amazing community because of this.

Please Read. Read. Read in whatever genre you are writing!

More tips for new writers on Wednesday - from Twitter writers themselves :)

Self-Pubbed - The Good, The Bad and The Ugly

2011-04-15T06:15:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, to proclaim you were "Self Published" was literally labeling yourself as the black sheep within the industry herd.

Not so much anymore.

If you frequent Twitter and read the blogs, you'll have heard about the explosion within self publishing. Or indie-publishing. What are your thoughts?

Amanda Hawking, the once poster child for self-pub took a brilliant contract. I know many of us were envious. Jealous even. Alot of people questioned her motives. Why would someone so successful as a self-pub go this route? She was quite honest in her blog about it. Being self pubbed puts the onus on YOU - the author - for EVERTHING. She was tired. Wanted to focus on writing and writing alone.

Yet, there are others, who have been traditionally published who are now saying they will only go the self pubbed route. Like Barry Eisler who turned down $500,000 to self publish his book instead. And for you YA lovers - have you heard about Sarra Cannon? According to her website she has sold over 12,000 books by the end of March - and if I read her website correctly, she started in October 2010. OMG.

It makes you think. Scratch your head. Eat loads of chocolate while you ponder where you should go with your writing future. I know I am. I think it all depends on what your goals are and how you decide to achieve them.

Let's discuss. I would LOVE to know your thoughts on this. Have you thought about it? Are you tempted as an unpubbed author to go this route? Perhaps, if you are interested, this is something we can discuss together - what it means to self-publish, what it takes and if its really worth it.

Change

2011-04-13T11:34:00.000-07:00

There's nothing that brings more fear into my sweet little heart than the mention of change.

I hate it. Yet crave it at the same time.

I'm not sure what it is. Maybe it's the fear of the unknown, or the disruption to a routine I've managed to create. Perhaps its the uncertainty of the outcome.

Whatever it is - I don't like it.

Why can't we just know what the outcome will be when we make a decision that changes everything? Almost like the choose your own adventure type books - I used to ALWAYS cheat and read ahead before I could pick a choice ... which one ended better? Which one was more fun?

No, there's nothing drastic in my life that is changing, it's just a thought that popped into my head today ;) well - other than I'm trying to change my diet so I can actually lose some weight - which means I have to give up on chocolate ... a change I detest ;)

When you think of change, how does it make you feel? Do you pursue it? Fear it? Find it intimidating? Relish it in your life?

The Power of Deep POV

2011-04-11T05:30:00.000-07:00

I've had a wonderful weekend of starting and finishing two novels. Yep, you heard me. Two.

The first one I devoured. Literally. I went to bed late, woke up early and stayed in bed until the last possible minute before I had to take my daughter to Aikidu to read. I had a long luxurious bath complete with a bath bomb from Lush and finished the novel. And loved it. The words drew me in.

The second novel I started this morning. And hated it. Okay, lie - I didn't hate, but I kept wincing at the writing. But I have to really really hate a story to put it down without finishing and the premise was unique. So I read. And analyzed (cause that's what we writers do, right?)

It took me a while, but I figured out why I had such strong reactions to each book. The POV. The first novel had a Deep POV (Point of View) whereas the second novel had the regular third person POV. Do you know what the difference is?

One told while the other showed. Can you guess which one did the showing? The Deep POV. Dialogue tags weren't used, ordinary verbs such as see said, notice, think, thought and felt weren't used.

Still don't get it? Here's a comparison taken from Daily Writing Tips website:

Judy ran down the alley. She thought she could hear footsteps behind her. She realized now that she should have stayed on the main street. Her tight skirt and high heels were slowing her down.
Judy picked up her pace. Footsteps sounded in her ears. Imagination? Maybe, but what if that spooky-looking man at the corner had followed her into the alley? Damn this tight skirt. She could hardly move her knees, let alone run. And these heels! What had possessed her to buy anything this high? Momma warned her about vanity.

According to Daily Writing Tips - writing in limited Third Person usually involves the expenditure of more words, but, if done effectively, the extra words add to the reader’s enjoyment by pulling him more deeply into the events narrated.

Here's what I like about Deep POV. The writer becomes the character. They aren't writing it as if they were the observer. They write is as if they are experiencing it. Which is fantastic for the reader because then we are there in the scene, experiencing it, feeling the passion of that first kiss, the terror as the vampire approaches.

I've realized that I love stories written in Deep POV. I've also realized how hard it is as a writer to perfect this for our reader. What about you? Do you notice the Deep POV when you are reading a novel? Does it matter to you? Do you find it a challenge to write it or does it come easy for you?

TAG - You're It!

2011-04-07T11:24:00.000-07:00

Fabulous ElanaJ is getting geared up for her POSSESSIONS release date.

Get ready, cause it's a book you won't want to put down!

She has a fun TAG game going on right now - you should check it out on her blog. She even gives away some tidbits to the story ... just enough to reel you in ....

Cause I love this girl, believe in her and simple because she loves chocolate covered bacon - let's play our own TAG game to get the word out ... let's create the buzz to get her on the NYT list!

In Possessions - ElenaJ's book that's coming out - being TAGGED isn't a good thing. Like d'uh. Who wants to be tagged anyways? I hated playing the game TAG because of that ... it was much more fun to hide and see who could outlast ...

To me, being tagged means you lose your individuality, your uniqueness ... your YOU. If you were tagged ... what is that ONE thing about you that you wouldn't want to lose? That one quirk that makes YOU unique.

Me? My love for chocolate. Dang it all - without it, I'm a blah person. My love for chocolate is like a brand for me - it's who I am. Take away my chocolate and this Steena Chick just becomes a Steena Girl. Not fun.

SO ... TAG ... you're it. If you are reading this blog - tell me ... What is that one quirk that you could NEVER give up? Leave a comment below ... post it on your blog ... link to twitter ... let's play TAG and see how far this can go! Get the buzz out :)

Listen to Your Dreams!

2011-04-06T06:45:00.000-07:00

We all dream. We all have dreams. Sometimes they are coincide with each other.

For instance - I have a dream to be a writer. Not just a writer but an author. Not JUST an author either - but a good one.

And I dream. Weird things. Crazy things. Things that can go into my stories and things that I would never share with another living soul. Ever.

But sometimes when I listen to my dreams ... well, I believe that God can speak to you in your dreams if you are open to it. I also believe that your subconscious will tell you things - things you don't normally let yourself think about.

KWIM?

For the past 4 days my dreams have been trying to tell me something. I think it's time to listen. And act. When I do ... I'll let you know it goes ;)

My Fingers Are Itchin'

2011-04-04T10:58:00.001-07:00

My fingers are itchin to write. Or should I say type? I'm not a pen and paper type of girl unless its writing outlines. I need to hear the tap tap tap on the keyboard - it's become music to my ears.

But that music is silent. Still. The only noise I hear is the drip drip drip of the kitchen faucet.

Why?

My harddrive crashed and I've been without my computer since Wednesday of last week. It's horrible. Really - it is! Thankfully I have my iphone - I can still grab my emails and go on twitter, but that's about it. My story has been stagnant for the past 6 days and I hate it.

Amazingly though, I've found ways to occupy myself. Angry Birds is probably the number one time waster. I've started and finished a few books, played some Wii games with the kidlets and even baked some cookies.

But I'm ready for my computer to come back. I need to write. NEED to write.

You get it? Right? Please tell me I'm not the only crazy writer out there ;)

Life Lessons with Cake

2011-03-31T11:45:00.000-07:00

My oldest daughter turned 12 yrs old yesterday.

I had a hard time with that. Not only do I have to accept that she's growing up, but that so much time has gone by. Time that I've wasted off and on when I shouldn't. My daughter is almost a teenager, which means she's that much closer to an adult. AUGH.

But it also means that she needs to know how to make life choices to the best of her ability. She's not going to know how to do that unless I show her.

And I can't show her unless I make the decision to do so.

I made a cake for her birthday. I started it at 9:30pm the night before. I thought I had a cake mix to use so I wasn't stressing about it - yes, I left it to last minute. It ended up I didn't have a cake mix. So I had to do the one thing I hate to do.

Make a homemade birthday cake.

Now - don't shake your head at me. I can make MANY things homemade and they are delicious. Cake - not so much. I've NEVER made a cake that turned out. NEVER.

But I made the cake. And my middle daughter decorated it - that was her gift to her sister - she made a specatuclar horse design. We all loved it. But ... I went out and bought a second cake - JUST IN CASE.

Where's the light bulb moment right?

Here it is.

I didn't trust myself enough. I gave up too easily. I bought a second cake, took away from the awesomeness of the real cake all because I seconded guessed myself. I didn't think I could actually make a cake that would turn out.

And guess what? IT DID. It tasted better than the store bought.

I realized that I've done this, not only with my baking (and that's a huge deal) but also with my writing. I have works in progress that I've given up on because I didn't think I could do them. I didn't think I could write the story that needed to be written - I gave up. I gave in. I allowed my fear to overcome my passion.

Don't do this. Please.

Today is a new day. And it's a day where I'm not giving in to fear. Of anything. My passion will always be first and foremost. In everything.

What about you?

Celebrate The Little Things

2011-03-28T09:59:00.001-07:00

Every step that brings you closer to having your dream fulfilled is important.

EVERY STEP.

No matter how insignificant you may think it is, celebrate it. Give yourself permission to gloat for an hour or two. Pat yourself on the back. Eat some ice cream or buy a new pair of shoes. Whatever you do that makes it special for you - DO IT!

I submitted a little piece to the Oh Canada! edition of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series that comes out in November. This isn't the first time I've sent them something, but it is the first time I get an email back asking me to sign some forms :) Only 5% of those who submit to any of their editions make it through to the final round. 5%.

I think that calls for a small celebration, don't you?

I won't know until October if my piece actually makes it into the book, BUT ... (here's the good part) the majority of their submissions that make it this far do. YIPPEEE!

It's a small accomplishment, but its still a step towards my goal of publication. Every single step matters. EVERY STEP.

Don't you think?

What can you celebrate about today? Did you get that partial or full request you've been wanting? Sign with an agent? Get your novel finished? First draft complete? Let's celebrate together ;)

Are You Branding? If Not ... WHY?

2011-03-24T08:48:00.001-07:00

If you are a writer that's been around the block a few times, then when I say the word BRANDING, you already know what I'm talking about.

But, what if you are new to the whole concept of writing as a passion, not just a hobby and you've just figured out how freakishly fantastic the world of blogging writers really is. What if you have NEVER heard of the term BRANDING? What then?

Right? (Oh please God, tell me you do. If not, we need to talk. Seriously.)

Don't freak out. Really. Don't. Freak. Out. Take a deep breath. Yep, there's a heck of a lot to learn as a newbie writer (don't be offended by that term either), but it's all worth it in the end. Trust me.

I was introduced to Kristen Lamb today. UM, HELLLOOOOO ... this girl is worth sharing your chocolates with. I promise. If you want to grow, not only as a writer, but as an author (yes, there is a difference), then you want to follow this woman. Find her on twitter, facebook, sign up for her posts to come to your email and FOLLOW HER BLOG. If you're serious about branding then you should also consider buying her book. WE ARE NOT ALONE: The Writer's Guide to Social Media.

Seriously. 'nough said.

Okay, so ... are you branding? Do you even know what that is?

Branding is basically all about getting your name out there. Getting known. Get on Twitter, Facebook, have a blog, be a part of goodreads (and not just sign up), do reviews for others, get your name known.

I've started. My blog title, while is Chocolate Reality - did you notice my url? It's under my name. My twitter handle - @SteenaHolmes (lets become friends if we aren't already). I do writer reviews for SparksBooks - for a reason - because it gets my name known. When I review a book for them, not only do I get to meet wonderful authors, but I get to know the girls there and they post links back to my blog on twitter too. It's a win-win situation.

Notice what I'm doing? I'm branding. In a basic and general way. Getting my name out there. Because when I have a book deal - I want people to be able to look up my name and FIND ME. Not 'chocolate diva' or that 'chocolate girl on twitter' but ME ... Steena Holmes. Cutsie names are all fine and dandy on twitter, but if you are serious about this ... when your book is out and you want people to buy it ... when they are at Amazon or their local book store - who are they going to remember - that 'chocolate chick' or my real name - Steena Holmes?

(shrug) I don't know about you, but I want them to find my real name. Wouldn't you?

Because I know we have some AWESOME authors, writers, bloggers here ... tell me, help me ... how are you branding?

Show Me the Voice! Blogfest

2011-03-20T11:47:00.000-07:00

Writer, Brenda Drake, is hosting an awesome contest on her blog. And the top three winners will win critiques from agent Natalie Fischer from the Bradford Literary Agency. Agent Natalie is looking for strong voice.

Pass up on an offer like this? NO WAY.

Here's my entry for a commercial fiction called Pink Tiger. I would love it if you wouldn't mind commenting. I want this to be perfect. This is my REVISED version based on the awesome comments :)

Megan reached for the cold metal handle; her hand shook like an addict on withdrawal. Get a grip woman. She’d faced larger giants than the pint-sized ones beyond the gymnasium door. One. She took a breath. Two. The roar of the crowd as it echoed throughout the empty corridors of the school surged towards her, resounding in her ears like the echo of a freight train in an empty station. An explosion of panic threatened to overwhelm her as tiny dots swam in front of her.

Not now. Please God, not now.

Over one hundred children waited inside the gymnasium for her. This was not the time for a panic attack to hit. Megan took a deep breath, her nostrils flared as she wrestled to calm herself. She reached for the handle again, only to have her hand slip. It was drenched in sweat.

Her body trembled as her heart beat thundered in her ears. Dammit, her pills were at home and there wasn’t enough chocolate in her purse to get her through. She pictured Peter’s smug stance this morning when he told her she should just concentrate on being a mom.

Except she was. That’s what he refused to understand.

If she didn’t step through those doors, she’d hate herself forever. One more thing to add to the guilt. Through gritted teeth she yanked open the door and plastered a smile on her face. Jill Maguire, Meadowvale Elementary's principal, stepped forward and pulled her into a crushing hug.

“I saw today’s paper. I’m amazed at your strength,” she whispered.

Strength had nothing to do with it. The attempted abduction plastered all over the news last night only fueled the fire and determination in Megan’s heart.

She wiped her sweaty palms on her thighs and groaned. Her dry cleaning budget was already over its limit. Anything more and Peter would put her on an allowance. If he dared.

Anything Dipped in Chocolate Must Be Good - right?

2011-03-18T10:54:00.000-07:00

Chocolate covered ants or grasshoppers anyone?

No thanks! I will admit to eating these 'back in the day'. Let me tell you right now - there is not enough chocolate in this huge country that I live in to induce me to eat one again. NO WAY. NO HOW.

My husband swears that if we were ever on Amazing Race (which is impossible since it's closed to Canadians ... Hey Phil ... we love you just as much too ...) and this was considered a roadblock (chocolate covered anything disgusting) - we would lose. (SIGH) He's probably right.

But ... chocoalte covered fruit? UM, HELLOO! I'm having a fondue with my children tonight and I can't wait. Bananas, strawberries, kiwi, oranges, marshmellows ... anything else to add to the mix?

Remember that 'contest' I mentioned on Monday to celebrate National Chocolate Week? (A few of you have...) Nicole Zoltack sent in this delightful little piece. I hope you enjoy it :)

P.S. Thanks Nicole :)

~~~~~~~~~
Carrie covered her face with her hands. Tears leaked from the corners of her eyes. How could Brad be so heartless - so cruel?
I mean, who breaks up with a person through a text? They weren't fourteen!
Carrie reached for a tissue but the closest box was empty. She picked up the box and took it into the kitchen. She threw it into the trashcan.

A small box of chocolate caught her eye, the lid still ajar from when she had last swiped a piece.

She carefully placed the lid beside the box on the marble counter. Most of the little wrappers were now empty.

Carrie brought the box to the couch. She turned on the TV and flipped around until she came across "Ten Things I Hate About You."
She could immediately recall several reasons why she now hated Brad.
She plopped a small dark piece into her mouth. Cherry juice exploded from the chocolate shell, and Carrie closed her eyes, savoring the delicious tardiness of the chocolate, the sweetness of the juice.
There was one thing she would miss about Brad.

He had great taste in chocolate!

Luck of the Irish To You! From me to you ... some treats

2011-03-17T11:29:00.000-07:00

Other than green beer and singing your sorrows in your local pub, there's nothing else that can signify St. Paddy's day like an Irish Hat! Hand me the knife and I'll gladly share today :)

I will share these cake pops too ... cause after all, it's a day to celebrate :)

I won't share this one though ... cause I'll have made enough for everyone.

But these ... sorry ... they are already gone. Poof! Like the wind. These I refuse to share. Not even with my hubby or kids. No way. No how. Seriously - how can chocolate covered strawberries and share work together in the same sentence!

Chocoholic Anonymous

2011-03-16T12:33:00.000-07:00

Hello. My name is Steena and I'm a chocoholic.

I feel so much better now ;)

Let's celebrate shall we? I'm thinking of a slice of turtle cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory. Hmmmm ...

Hello Gorgeous!

2011-03-15T08:57:00.000-07:00

The light breeze kissed her skin before it twirled with her hair and little tendrils teased her eyes to open. Something like a smile flirted with her lips as she glanced about her. It was the perfect spring day. Tiny shoots of tulips struggled to face the sun and the tender blades of grass danced to a whispered song played by the wind.

Sophia sighed as she leaned back in the wicker chair. Life couldn’t be any sweeter. A tiny foot kicked at her hand and she rubbed her rounded belly. “Soon little one,” she whispered. Soon she would be able to share her beautiful world with her child. It had been such a difficult pregnancy and Sophia was ready to begin life again. Bed rest sounded like heaven until one actually experienced it.

The screen door squeezed open beside her. Sophia glanced over her shoulder and a tiny flutter of excitement nestled in her heart.

“Hello gorgeous.”

Sophia breathed deeply as the striking specimen of a man walked through the door and knelt before her. Sophia’s skin sizzled at his nearness and her heart skipped a beat as she glanced down at what he held in his hands.

Chocolate cream puffs stuffed with strawberries and cream.

She was in heaven.

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

So am I!

OMG - don't they look delicious! If you want the recipe, follow the link. I think I'll be making these sweet treats this week!

And thank you to a fellow writer who wishes to remain anonymous for the cute little story.

Let's Celebrate Chocolate! Contest involved!

2011-03-14T09:09:00.000-07:00

I feel like a kid in a chocolate shop! It’s National Chocolate Week!

And to celebrate – I need your help! From one chocoholic to another …

I have a delicious treat any chocoholic would enjoy, but to get it I need for YOU to write ME a short story about chocolate (max 250 words). It can be anything – as long as there is chocolate involved. You can email me your delicious, mouth watering stories or post them in the comments section.

I may post some of these on the blog – so if you are shy about having your work posted – please let me know and I will refrain from sharing your delicious morsel with everyone.

But that’s not all! Every day I will be posting a little tidbit about chocolate, a chocolate recipe and will even throw in a story or two of my own ;)

If you have a chocolate recipe you’d like to share – I would love to post it! Feel free to email me at steenah(@)telus(.)net . And if you have a photo … even better!

Come, let’s take a journey together. Let’s indulge in our favorite passion as a group ;)

The Emotional Ending to Your Story

2011-03-08T06:30:00.000-08:00

The End. It's not always an easy thing to write. Endings are hard. About as hard as writing that first sentence.

The first time I wrote the end for my current novel, I walked away with a smile. It wasn't perfect, but I had no idea what it needed and it would do - for now.

Then I had a wonderful editor suggest an ending I totally should have thought about. I'm ashamed that I didn't. It was a perfect ending.

Which I wrote today. Just finished. And cried. Literally. My eyes are still filling up as I think about it. It was the PERFECT ending, if I do say so myself. There are at least 3 places in my novel with an opportunity for tears. This is one of them.

Now I just need an agent to agree ;)

It's Coming ....

2011-03-07T04:58:00.001-08:00

Thought you'd want a heads up.

Cause I know I did.

Are you ready for it?

National Chocolate Week starts March 14th.

So get ready.....

Things I Never Knew About Chocolate

2011-03-04T11:19:00.000-08:00

I know - go figure - something Steena doesn't know about chocolate! That's like Einstein not realizing he knew how to create electricity or Angela Knight not knowing how to write romance. AS IF!

But it's true. I have been 'researching' chocolate and ran across some interesting tidbits of information.

Such as ....

Those gory scenes in Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Psycho’, was all chocoalte syrup! Although the scene finishes in about 45 seconds, it took 7 days to get that shot done perfectly! Now that’s a sticky plot!
Some chocolates may cost you but did you know that Cacao or chocolates beans were used as currency by Aztec and Maya tribes? If we had that today we would be eating out of our wallets! (I'd need a rich man to support my wallet passion, let me tell you!)
We’ve heard of rice and pasta, but chocolate as a staple? Yes, ask the South Mexico Olmec tribe back in 1000 B.C. They ate chocolate all the time! Strange, but true! (Can we say, I LOVE this tribe!)
Heard of Mexican Emperor Montezuma? He drank liquid chocolate before getting busy in his harem. Since chocolate make you feel good, it is considered an aphrodisiac.(I so need to write a story about this!!!)
So who thought of solidifying chocolate? Thank Mexican nuns from the 1700’s as they created and exported the first chocolate product as a fund raiser for their convent. (You GO Nuns! Who said only men had the bright ideas?)
Talk about sweet ceremonies! The Maya drank liquid chocolate during weddings, engagements, baptisms and even funerals! Whoever thought there was something ceremonial about chocolate! (okay, well, I already KNEW chocolate was important)

Forget about February - we are talking about Easter! All the goodies are out on display and I'm in chocolate glory. It helps that my current story is about a chocolate diva ... can we say research? LOL

Okay - your turn. Do you know any tidbits about chocolate you want to share?

Trying To Find Chocolate!

2011-03-03T20:24:00.000-08:00

I am in the midst of trying to change the 'look' of my blog.

Can you tell? LOL

I want a chocolate theme that is basic, simple and elegant. I like this ... except for the pink background. I want it white. Or a soft cream. I wish I was html literate.

So bear with me while I try to find my 'look' ;)

Why Pay when you can get it for FREE?

2011-03-02T10:43:00.000-08:00

I’m going to piggyback onto Stina’s fantastic post this morning about writing courses.

We both took the same course – and here is my formal apology to Stina for making her take that course with me (I would say I owe you chocolates, but I just ate a bag full of chocolate covered almonds and being the good friend that I am, I want to save you from my fate…)

She made some fantastic points though. If you haven’t checked it out yet, you should.

As a fellow writer who is seeking an agent to love her work, I get it. Really I do. We will do anything to grab that agent’s attention. We search the web for contests to enter, we follow agent after agent after agent desperate for any tidbits of advice they throw our way. We spend hours reading blogs and then spend more hours trying to figure out how the ‘petunia’ we are supposed to apply all these ‘words of advice’ to our writing.

And then we discover a writing course. Maybe through the organization you are a part of, maybe you see the tweet about the fantastic so & so who is offering … you know the drill. We spend the little money we have and we take the course praying we will discover some tidbit to boost us into that “OMG I HAVE AN AGENT” category.

I know that’s what I did.

I’m not saying all courses are evil and you should shun away from them. But do your homework first. Just because some big named author is hosting the course doesn’t mean you need to eat the cheap chocolate they offer. Go for the good stuff. If you have only a small amount of money to spend, please don’t waste it on the cheap stuff. Make sure what you are paying for is worth it. To you. Everyone has their own needs. But not everyone’s needs are the same.

For me, what I need … is feedback. I need to learn how to apply what I’m being taught to my writing, then I need to be shown if it is working or not.

I’ve taken some fabulous courses (like a recent romance foodie course) that was brilliant. I’d recommend it to anyone and everyone (and will soon have that teacher on this blog, trust me). But then I’ve taken some courses that were full of self-promotion and contained little in the way of substance.

It’s like stepping into an expensive chocolate store, eyeing a gold foil wrapped delicacy, paying a stupid amount of money for that foil only to discover the thing was hollow. Three tiny bites and it’s gone. AUGH.

Don’t just jump at every writing course offered. Take your time. Do you your homework before you spend good money on something you can get for free (as in, stuff your fellow writers discuss daily on their own blogs).

Have you Heard? March Maddness is all about Books!

2011-02-27T12:48:00.000-08:00

I wanted to share a fun book opportunity and giveaway with I found out about. Over at MaNicMoMMy - www.manicmommy.blogspot.com, during the month of March - as in - EVERY SINGLE DAY - a book will be reviewed along with a giveaway. At the end of the month, one lucky person will win all 31+ books that have been reviewed. Every entry during the month counts as an entry so the more you enter, the more chances you have to win.

All the details, including the authors and their books can be found here: http://manicmommy.blogspot.com/2011/02/manic-mommys-march-madness-book-day_23.html. Please feel free to enter and share MaNiC MoMMy'S March Madness Book A Day Giveaway!

You're totally going to check it out, right? I love her selection of books - I've only read one - Perfection by Julie Metz (remember her guest post?) - so I can't wait for this to start!

Rewriting Your Characters

2011-02-24T07:18:00.000-08:00

Writing a character isn't easy.
In fact, it's hard. We use character interview sheets, take characterization courses and read loads of books and blog posts about crafting the perfect character.
We spend hours on our characters.
All for what?
To rewrite them ;)

Has that ever happened to you? The character you start out with grows, evolves into someone you barely recognize?
Or perhaps your character needs to be stronger/weaker? Maybe that character doesn't even exist anymore in your story.

Frustrating right?
Yep.
Trust me when I say my chocolate stash will soon be empty as I go through this very process. I've known for awhile my character had issues. She's a stronger woman than I give her credit for. And as I start to rewrite - I am slowly realizing my shortcoming as the writer. I'm actually rewriting my opening chapter. Where before she was a weak woman who cried 'woe is me' all the time, she's now a strong woman with a backbone of steel. The only weakness is when her bedroom door is closed and the shower water drowns out her cries.

Yep. Rewriting sucks, but is rewarding.

I've learned my lesson. I knew way back when this might be a problem. A few of my betas mentioned it to me, but I ignored them. I had my reasoning for her weakness. Apparently my reasoning was wrong. Go figure!

Anyone wanna make bets on how much weight I gain after this re-write??? LOL

The Mother-Load of Chocolate WOWness with editing

2011-02-16T11:37:00.000-08:00

OMG.

I just had a light bulb moment in the size of the world's largest easter egg. Seriously - do you see how huge that is? Now - if they would have used a pink ribbon, that would have been nicer - just sayin'.

But seriously. I'm working through Margie Lawson's Empowering Character's Emotions. I'm only in Lecture 1 (second time around). But she made a comment that hit me like a bag of bricks.

"Writers do not have to interpret most of the nonverbals for the reader. They don't have to say why the character is blinking more rapidly - or write that character X probably shifted in his chair because the topic made him uncomfortable."

Don't get me wrong. I already knew this. It's nothing new. But .. in context of getting ready for edits and plotting a new story ... it became clearer to me.

We hear so much about tell vs show. We all know how wrong it is to always be telling. Yes, there are times we need to tell the reader why the character behaves the way they do ... but only when it further serves to bond your reader to your character.

I'm going through a chapter right now where I am getting rid of all the 'explanations'. Granted, there aren't that many, but ... HOLY FREAKIN MOTHERLOAD OF CHOCOLATE ... when I delete the ones I do have, it makes the scene pop more. LOVE IT. (yes, I was yelling).

Why don't you try it. I double dog dare you. Take one scene and highlight all the telling you do after you've just showed. Then try to take it out. Doesn't it look better? Doesn't it read better? Your pace faster?

Just Kiss Already!

2011-02-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

I've entered the Just Kiss Already Blogfest over at Stina's blog - Seeing Creative (see's in this with Christina Lee - Write Brained - you want to be following her blog too).

Here is my excerpt. Fair warning - this is intended for adults. No sex is involved but you know it's coming.

Now ... my kissing scene from The Master (a short story I wrote):

Anderson stepped closer. When he reached out his hand and touched her fingers, a fire spread throughout her nerves.

“It was important to me that you succeed.”

Madison traced Anderson’s mouth with her gaze. She swallowed as he licked his lips, then inhaled as his face inched closer to hers.

“Why?” The word rushed out.

“Because I realized I loved you.” His warm breath covered her lips before he claimed them for her own. His mouth was soft and inviting. A hot fire gathered between her legs as she melted beneath him. His lips teased her, tasted her and drank her in.

She grabbed his shoulders for support as her knees gave way. Anderson fisted his hand in her hair and angled her head before his tongue thrust its way into her mouth. Madison moaned. Her whole body throbbed as he stroked her with his tongue. She ground her body against his, her nipples taunt with desire and realized she detested the clothes that came between them. His erection bulged against his pants and pushed against her. She ran her hands across his hard chest and memorized with her fingers the rigid plane of muscles that crisscrossed his body.

Guest Post & Yep, you guessed it ... a chocolate recipe!

2011-02-11T06:30:00.000-08:00

Remember the House of Six Doors by Patricia Selbert? I have a treat for you - a guest post! I love to find out how writing has changed and enhanced a fellow writers life. Especially one who is published. I always find tidbits from these guests posts that I can apply to my own writing life and I love it.

So without further ado ... (be sure to read to the end, there is a fabulous recipe ....)
********

Thanks so very much for the wonderful review. I’m thrilled you enjoyed my book and grateful to be on your blog.

I rode horses for 27 years before I took a pen in hand and started writing. I had no idea that a novel was being conceived. It just happened organically. One night at 3 o’clock in the morning, when I couldn’t sleep and was frustrated with the chatter in my head, I decided to sit down and write. After about two hours at it, I went happily back to bed and fell asleep instantly. This quickly became a habit and soon I had accumulated a number of stories. I’m a neat freak, and recycle anything I don’t have a use for. One day, as I was clearing out my desk, I considered consigning what I’d written to the recycling bin, but before I did, I reread some of the stories, and they intrigued me.

I’m dyslexic, and English is my fourth language, so my nocturnal writing definitely needed a lot of work, but I was inspired to work on it. I took time each afternoon while my nine-month-old was napping to edit what I had written and show it to my husband. He had yet more edits, but he loved the stories. Then I joined a weekly woman’s writing group, which became the womb where my writing was read, nurtured, and could grow into The House of Six Doors.

Writing has allowed me to master yet another one of my challenges, and has tremendously enriched my life. It has opened up a locked door to a whole new world. Granted, I had to chip away at the door for years with every tool I had, but it was incredibly worth it.

About chocolate – well, in my mind it’s a food group. Personally, I’m a huge fan of Rogue Chocolates. Rogue’s 25-year old chocolate maker handpicks his beans from all over the world, and makes his chocolate as if he were making a fine wine. He even describes the flavors in his chocolate bars so that you know what to expect and can choose the bar to accompany your mood. Tasting Rogue Chocolate is definitely a luxurious experience. http://www.roguechocolatier.com/

My favorite recipe is for Infused Hot Chocolate.

INGREDIENTS

3.15 oz tablet of chocolate (Mexican)
4 cups milk, almond, coconut or soy milk

Here's the trick! You can add a single flavor of these:

1 tsp. Cinnamon

1 tsp. Chili powder

1 tsp. Lavender Extract

1 tsp. Raspberry Extract

1 tsp. Almond Extract

1/2 tsp. Orange Extract (or better yet: half an orange peel)

1 tsp. Orange Water (Agua de Azahar)

1 tsp. Coconut Extract (or use coconut milk for a dairy free treat)

1 tsp. Cherry Extract

1 tsp. Rose Water

8 fresh Mint Leaves

8 fresh Lemon Verbena leaves (incredible!)

Let your imagination be your guide

INSTRUCTIONS

Bring milk to simmer. Break a tablet of chocolate into pieces and add to simmering milk. Stir the mixture until the chocolate has melted and is well combined. Then beat it to a froth, by putting a small amount at a time in a blender (or use a hand blender) and briefly pulsing it. Add the flavoring essence of your choice.

Help bring Kareen Home to her Family

2011-02-10T20:18:00.000-08:00

I found out about an incredible family with a heart from God. They have a precious child they have adopted from Eastern Europe with Downs Syndrome and they are trying to bring her home.

I scoured through the blog and found unexpected tears flowing down my face as I read the stories on there, not just about Kareen but of other families who are adopting these precious children.

Please go over and check out the blog.

It's Hard to Say Goodbye

2011-02-08T06:00:00.000-08:00

I hate saying goodbye. I really do. I get all teary-eyed, my nose glows beat red and there's a frog that lodges in my throat at just the thought of the word.

But sometimes it's necessary. As hard as it may be, sometimes ... just sometimes ... it's what we need to do.

The funny thing about goodbye, something I tend to forget ... it's not forever.

I realized this weekend that I needed to do the dirty deed. Say goodbye to a novel idea I've had for awhile. I started it, oh ... what, maybe 6 months ago ... and I'm still at only 10K words. I LOVE the idea. But I'm fighting with the story. Too much. I write, delete, write again and then delete again. There's more to this story and I'm not getting it down.

This is one of those goodbye's that doesn't mean forever ... just for a bit. For a time. When I'm ready, when it's ready ...

I know it's time because I'll start new short stories instead of working on this one. I'll even finish these short stories and then start another one before I give myself the chance to go back to this one. Not a good thing.

Not good when I've fallen in love with another story idea, with another set of characters.

I'm sure I'll reopen these files and see the potential. I'm sure I'll fall in love and find those words and NOT struggle like I have been.

But until then, I'll head into a new direction. Just like life. Sometimes we end up taking roads we never thought we would. It helps when you have friends along the way to hold your hand, feed you chocolate and even give you a good kick in the ... lol

The House of Six Doors - by Patricia Selbert

2011-02-07T06:00:00.000-08:00

I just finished an interesting read. Take a look at the cover and ask yourself - what draws you to this book?

The answer won't be what you expect. It wasn't for me. I expected to be immersed in a Caribbean culture. I expected to feel like I lived in this house. Nothing was as I expected.

That's the point right?

Otherwise, why read. Why continue to read each page if you already know what's going to happen.

You will find yourself torn between cheering for the mother and wanting to sit her down for an intervention. You will think about yourself and how you would deal with things if you were in that situation. You would wish to be enveloped by Serena's grandmother's arm and hear her wisdom. You'll take that wisdom to heart for your own life. You will want to take Serena and hide her away from herself but then on the next page feel a sense of pride for her achievements.You will wish to live in Curacao but then thankful to live in your own town.

You'll find yourself wanting to read more of this book. And that, my friend, is the whole point, isn't it?

About The House of Six Doors

Moving somewhere new is never easy, but for 13-year-old Serena, leaving her Caribean island home to come to America presents unimaginable struggles. A tumultuous blend of culture shock, homesickness and mental illness tests her power to survive and flourish in a new country. In The House of Six Doors, Selbert delivers an inspiring story about family, failure and perseverance.

More About The House of Six Doors

Thirteen-year-old Serena is torn from everything that’s familiar on her island home. She leaves her beloved grandmother, her father, and two of her siblings to move with her mother and older sister to Florida and then to California.

“Everything will be better in America,” her mother tells her. They arrive in the US to find nothing as they expected. Speaking fluent Dutch, Spanish, and Papiamentu (the language of her home Caribean island of Curacao), but limited English, Serena learns to pretend that everything’s fine while struggling to live up to her mother’s impossibly high expectations; always afraid to send her mother into another downward spiral of depression. She juggles responsibility for her mother’s well-being with school, a secret boyfriend, and a growing desire for independence, in a foreign land: Hollywood.

The wisdom of her grandmother, a mixed-race mystic, gives her solace, which she clings to tenaciously despite the thousands of miles between them. Coming of age in a foreign land, faced with enormous obstacles, Serena finds her own feet and the acceptance that sets her free.

What NOT to do with your writing

2011-02-02T07:00:00.000-08:00

Rules. It's a part of life. Especially when it comes to writing. I know if were to list all the rules we could literally write a book (hey, good idea). I thought I'd share some basic ones that apparently run a 'red' flag for most agents.

Don't start your novel off with dialogue. Now I know there are different theories out there right now, but the general consensus (especially from what I read on twitter) is that agent's don't like this. Why? Not exactly sure, since one would think a good line of dialogue may just grab a readers' attention, but hey, since I'm not agented yet, I'll listen to what the experts have to say :)

Watch your grammar and punctuation! Like, really, as if we if need to know how excited you are, all, the, time!!!!! Seriously!

Voice - figure out what it is. Submitting a query without voice will get you as far as your 'sent' box. That's it. Agent's want to get a feel for your character, who they are - they need to be sold. Sell them your character by being your character when you write your query. If you write YA - get your teens in there! If you write MG - same. Now I know it's harder with adult, but it can be done.

Get the names right. Seriously - we've all done it - but let's not do it anymore, okay? Know which agent you are submitting to and make sure their name is not only spelled correctly, but that it's the correct name!

Get rid of those cliches. You know the ones - especially in queries - 'will risk it all', 'more at stake than she knew', 'but it's not as she thought' ... be original. You are creative. So use that creativity!

So tell me, you don't use these, right? Can you add anything more?

The Effects of Writing - Guest Post by Michelle McLean

2011-01-31T05:30:00.000-08:00

One thing I've realized about myself is - that I like to promote others and their accomplishments. It makes me happy. So on that note - I want to celebrate with Michelle McLean (remember our fantastic logline judge??) and her recent book (click and buy her book ... you totally should) that is out ;) I wish I had this when I was in school writing term papers - ouch. But ... not only do I have a guest post from her ... I also have a new treat that will accompany all new guest posts ;) Something that is totally me and my gift to you .... a chocolate recipe!!!! (I was quite excited when I thought of this new twist ...)

Here goes ... from Michelle's fingers to you:

Steena asked me both how writing has affected my life, and how my life has affected my writing. In a nut shell…writing has affected everything about my life and my life has affected everything about my writing :)

Like any writer, my experiences, my personality, my relationships, my emotions on any given day…all of these affect my writing. But these things affect non-fiction and fiction differently.

Fiction is very much an emotional sport. You sort of have to be in the right mood to write fiction. Because you take all your emotions and past experiences and make them a part of what you are actually writing, all the aspects of your real life that affect you tend to affect your work as well.

But non-fiction is very non-emotional (unless you are talking about creative/narrative non-fiction like a memoir or narrative personal essay). Actually, in my book, Homework Helpers: Essays and Term Papers, I’m trying to calm emotions down. I want to remove the stress and anxiety my readers feel about writing these assignments by making the process as entertaining and easy as possible. So, whatever is going on in my life at the moment doesn’t really affect my non-fiction writing.

Now, how has writing affected my life? Wow. In every way imaginable. In ways I never even dreamed. If I were to make a pro and con list, writing would probably seem like it affected my life negatively. My house is a mess, my kids live on cereal more often than I’d like to admit, I don’t spend as much time with them (or with ANYONE for that matter) as I should, I tend to spend all my time in front of my computer instead of out in the world…

But the pros are pretty awesome. Because of my writing, I’ve met the most wonderful people; I now have an amazing outlet for both the more analytical/educational non-fiction side of me, and the overly imaginative/dreamer fiction side of me; I get to spend my free time doing what I LOVE; I’ve learned to be patient and persevering and PROUD of who I am and what I do. There is nothing quite like working toward your dream. I’ve found out just how strong and determined I can be. Writing is helping me develop into the person I always wanted to be. :)

*****

And now for the RECIPE (and seriously this is one of those YUMMMMY ones)

We always call this the Pollyanna cake because it looks like those big, huge cakes they had at the fair in the Hayley Mills movie Pollyanna :D

1 ¾ cup sugar 2 ½ cups flour

2/3 cup shortening 1 ½ teaspoons baking soda

2 eggs 1 ½ teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup milk

To Be Mixed Separately: ½ cup cocoa and ½ cup boiling water

Cream sugar, shortening, eggs and vanilla. Sift together dry ingredients and alternate with the 1 cup of milk, adding to creamed mixture. Mix the cocoa and boiling water together, then add to the cake mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes.

Makes 3 round layers…smoother each layer in chocolate frosting and dive in :)

*****
Michelle McLean is a writer and the Chief Editorial Consultant for PixelMags, LLC. In addition to her non-fiction work, Michelle writes YA historical novels and other children’s books. If she's not editing, reading or chasing her kids, she can usually be found in a quiet corner working on her next book.

My website: http://authormichellemclean.com

My blog: http://michellemclean.blogspot.com

Operation Awesome Blog: http://opersationawesome6.blogspot.com

Facebook Author Page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Michelle-McLean/183714415115?v=wall

Twitter: http://twitter.com/michellemclean.com

Gesture Crutches

2011-01-27T06:58:00.000-08:00

I recently read a post on gesture crutches and it caught me by surprise. First off, I've never heard of these and so I had to do some research. Please tell me I'm not the only clueless writer out there ;)

So it took some digging, but I think I figured it out. Gesture crutches are those words we writers LOVE to use. Shrug, nod, sigh, smile ... as I'm going through my current story I'm going to highlight all these words and figure out different ways to SHOW vs TELL.

It’s hard though to be original, to show our character react without using these crutch words. And to be honest, it's not fair to expect our beta readers to catch them either. It's our responsibility to deal with these words, to familiarize ourselves with them and to know how to NOT use these crutches.

The more I think about it, the more involved it is with the whole 'show vs tell' that we groan about. Don't tell me he smiled, show me. But how? When we say 'she smiled', while we might understand what WE mean by it, I can guarantee our reader doesn't. She she smile to entice? Smile to show agreement? Smile to show she was happy?
When we say 'she smiled' it only tells how our character reacts, not how or even why.
Sigh. Since I'm not in the editing process, you know what this means, right?

Cocoselle - You missed the point!

2011-01-20T17:50:00.000-08:00

It's no secret that I love chocolate.

My beta reader even mentioned that I somehow manage to insert chocolate into every story I write - whether a romance, thriller or women's fiction. Go figure, huh?

So my husband brings home a treat today. A co-worker recently returned from Columbia and brought goodies.

This. Apparently they are a 'big' thing down there.
He sold it to me as a coffee crisp but better.
Okay seriously, better than a coffee crisp?
I gotta try it!

Imagine my disappointment when I tear into this delicious treat only to find a wafer. A WAFER (okay, there were two long wafers, but still). NO CHOCOLATE.

Listen up Columbians. While I agree, it has a delicate coconut taste that is fairly delicious - you are missing the picture my friends.

WHERE IN HEAVEN'S NAME IS THE CHOCOLATE?????

It's All About the Process

2011-01-19T06:00:00.000-08:00

I'm not one to follow the process with much. I have no choice when it comes to work since there are check lists to follow and if I don't sign on the dotted line then there's trouble to pay. But in most anything else, I have to admit, I hate following the process.

I love to bake (surprise surprise). I have a habit of glancing at the recipe, figuring I 'got it' and then I add it my own little splashes. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. But over the years, I have learned (albeit the hard way) that with some recipes, the process really does matter.

I made some cake pops today (bear with me, I will talk about writing). If you don't know what they are ...
visit Bakerella but be warned, you'll get hooked (cause I am). The first time I discovered Cake Pops, I decided to make them on my own - I glanced at her recipe, figured it wasn't too hard and went at it. They did NOT turn out like this

Instead they turned out like this:

Now, bear in mind, while they don't "look" the same they look "good". But under all that melted chocolate was a cake ball that had too much icing and tasted gross. I didn't follow the process. And there is a process.

Much like with writing. Right? There is a process, as much as we all grumble and complain, there is a way that works when you write a novel, short story, article ... anything. And if you don't follow the process - it's noticeable. Agents will take one look at your query and KNOW you didn't do your homework. Your critters will start to read your story and beg you to rework it ... and unfortunately, as much as I hate to admit it - this process is necessary.

Have you found that? Have you realized just how necessary that process is with writing a novel? Do you sometimes find yourself shaking your fist and wishing you could ignore the rules and just write how you know, but then realize that you really can't? Sure, sure, there have been writers who ignored the process and they're on the New York's bestsellers list. But how many of them are debut authors?

How To Write a Query Letter - free e-book!

2011-01-18T08:52:00.000-08:00

Are you stuck on your query letter?

Have you sent it out only to be rejected again and again and again?

Then check this out. Noah Lukeman is offering a free e-book on "How to Write a Great Query Letter".

Take advantage of it. I know I am!

Learning How To Pitch

2011-01-17T07:50:00.000-08:00

I said it. The other dreaded word writers hate to hear. Pitch. As in, pitch to an agent, pitch to an editor ... you know, the important stuff so you can land a book contract.

We spend countless hours learning how to write a fantastic query and then spend more hours on the dreaded synopsis, but when it comes to pitching, let's face it, we wait until we've signed up for those pitch sessions at a conference, don't we.

Here's a thought - why wait?

I found a place called "Pitch University" - its fantastic. Here's a list of the months topics (wait - did you think I was going to tell you how to pitch? Not likely, I need to learn first too ;)

Go on, check it out. Yes, it's ONE MORE THING to add to the ever growing list of things we need to know in order to land that book deal, but if we are serious about that book deal, then it might be worth just checking out!

Let me know what you think of it. Do you like the site? Did you check out what they have to offer? What are your thoughts on pitching?

Lessons -Pitching 101

These basic lessons will give you the skills to create your pitch.

Querying Partners

2011-01-16T08:38:00.000-08:00

I don’t know about you, but when you are trenched in the bunker called “Query Life”, it’s nice to know you are not alone.

And by alone, I don’t mean just knowing there are thousands, if not millions, of other writers out there who are vying for that agent you just queried.

I mean, having a partner, a good friend, a beta reader, who knows and understands what you are going though – not just because she’s been there, done that and either has the signed contract to say she climbed out of the muddy trenches and claimed her victory or gave up, dug a hole deeper into the dark pit and waved her white flag with trembling hands.

I mean, there, in the midst, risking everything just to take a peak over the safety zone and research agents, send out queries and is now sitting in that filthy, god-awful trench sharing a box of chocolates with you while you not only wait but gain weight from all the dang baking, drinking wine and any other type of comfort food you can imagine.

There to share the victories of those partial and full requests and to share recipes for a new chocolate brownie or cheesecake when the rejections come, not only once but sometimes three times (yes, I did say three times) from an agent you ONLY QUERIED ONCE! (yes, I did yell that. It’s hard enough getting one measly rejection letter from an agent you spent half a day researching, personalizing your query and then proof reading that dang email a millions times over before you hit send – but to get three rejections from that one query … I believe I ate a box of chocolates that day).

There’s nothing better than having a query partner! Well … there is … if ‘said’ partner would hurry up and start querying! (LOL)

(cause we all know that I can not afford to be eating these chocolates, baking these cream puffs and drooling over cheesecake recipes alone)

Stuck in a Rut or Climbing Out of It?

2011-01-13T07:06:00.000-08:00

With our writing, as in life, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. We write the same things, the same plot ideas, use the same words, recreate the same type of characters or at least character weaknesses – because it’s easier, more comfortable, feels safer.

But if we do that, then we’re not growing. We’re not helping ourselves in any way. Our writing will never improve, never grow, never change – never become ‘beautiful words’ if we continue to keep ourselves stagnant.

“But it’s hard” you say. Yep, sure is. When we force ourselves out of our comfort zones, that’s when we grow. When we accept that maybe, just maybe, that rejection letter did have something to say, or when our betas try to show us where we are getting stuck or use certain phrases over and over … it might be worth listening to.

If we are want to be the absolute best writer we can be, then we should be growing and sharpening our skills. Don’t get trapped into thinking that “good enough” is going to be enough. Talk with your critique partners (or find one) that will help you. Take those writing courses, sign up for those workshops, read all those writer/agent blogs (but don’t spend hours reading them, if you aren’t careful, you’ll find yourself reading blogs rather than writing), the magazines and yes, try to read between the lines of some of those rejection letters (if you can). If we stop learning, we stop growing. When we stop growing, we stop writing. And I don’t know about you, but when I’m not writing, I’m not in my happy place. And if I’m not in my happy place, no one else is either!

What are you doing to stretch yourself? What are you doing to improve your skills?

Your Words Played Out

2011-01-10T05:00:00.000-08:00

I'm a cry-baby through and through. It doesn't take much for me to cry. Trust me - there's been plenty of commercials that cause my eyes to leak.

My daughters generally laugh at me when they catch me crying during movies. My youngest thinks its funny - it takes a lot to bring tears to her eyes during movies. "It's not real, mommy" she always tells me. I try to explain that it 'felt' real - but she's 7 and really doesn't understand. She'll pretend to - 'but she's really not dead, right?', but I know she doesn't get it. My oldest - she's turning out to be like me - I think. She turns her head away from me so I won't catch the tears, but the tiny hiccup of a sob can't be hidden. Trust me. My middle daughter - she's just a mystery, so I have no idea if she gets it or if she's trying to be tough for her dad. Who knows.

I love to cry at a good movie. Especially when I know the movie was made from a book - because if I cried during the movie, can you imagine how awesome the book would be at showing the emotional impact? At least, I hope ... We watched Bridge to Tarabithia tonight - my middle daughter is doing a book report on it. (shhh ... I can already hear the gulps from the other mom's - don't worry, they read the book in class and then watched the movie ... she just wanted to watch it again).

I couldn't stop to enjoy the movie just for the movie - I found myself thinking about the book, the writing and the impact a story can have. It's my dream - and I'm sure it's yours - to one day have one of my novels turn into a movie. The one I have out on submission right now would make a terrific movie (saying so while I pat myself on the back - lol). Can you imagine your words being shown on screen? Those scenes that we slave away at, desperate to ensure we are showing and not telling - to have it play out and bring tears, laughter, deep thought to others? How awesome would that be!

What about you? Do you often dream about your novel being made into a movie? Do you often find yourself thinking about the impact of the book when you are watching a movie? Does it drive you to want to read that book now?

Beautiful Words

2011-01-04T09:09:00.000-08:00

I finished a book last night that gripped my heart with it's beautiful prose. It wasn't poetic by any means. When I first picked it up and realized it was a story that was translated from one language to another, I was worried the initial spell of the prose would be lost. I was wrong.

The novel is described as "lucid and gripping ... prose is illuminating. Clever and artfully told, it is also a rarity ... both a galloping good read and a magical, intricately wrought work of art that reveals layer upon layer, nuance upon nuance."

This is not a review. Rather, it's a post about me being lost to a book that was 'beautiful'. How often do you put a book down and find tears cascade down your face, not because of the heart wrenching emotional impact of the story, but because of the words? My husband is always bothered when I cry over a book and wanted to know if I needed to talk about it (apparently I usually do need to). The only words I had for him was it was a beautiful book. Yes, the last 10 pages were sad, but if you had read them on its own, there would been no impact.

This is how I want to write. Beautiful. I'm not there. But I will be. Because now I 'get it'. I get it. The beauty of words. The plot, the structure, the characters - they are all nothing without the words. I will buy this book. I'll read it again and again, because of the words. I hope you do too.

The Breakwater House by Pascale Quiviger.

I'm ready for the book challenge. Are you?

2011-01-02T18:15:00.000-08:00

I love the freshness of a new year! There's nothing like knowing you have a year ahead of you to do everything possible to make your dreams come true. A year to do those extra pushups so my arms don't look as fat in my gorgeous dress, a year to work on my eating habits to lose some weight, a year to come up with fresh new ideas and write them down, a year to find an agent and a year to read more books ;)

I've already finished one. Read it in a day. Room. Have you read it? Told in the POV of a five year old boy. LOVED it. Awesome first book of the year!

Have you joined me yet in the challenges? I have two going - a debut author challenge (just to read debut authors) and then a reading challenge (push yourself to read this year more than you did last year). The links are on my side blog. If you haven't joined me yet, you should ;)

The Secret To Writing about Yourself - by Frances Lefkowitz

2010-12-29T05:00:00.000-08:00

As part of my determination to read more books outside my comfort zone – I would like to introduce you to Frances Lefkowitz, the author of TO HAVE NOT: A MEMOIR. I have the privilege of having Frances guest post here. I hope you enjoy this as much as I did!

You may recognize her name as Frances is the book editor for Good Housekeeping. Coming from meager upbringings and a handful of hardships, Frances tells an inspiring and interesting story of her rise from poverty in San Francisco to her Ivy League education and becoming a magazine editor out East. From the publisher that brought us A Time Traveler’s Wife comes this amazing story that I hope you'll add to your must-read list.

Torch Songs & Diaries

The secret to writing about yourself

At the reading events for my memoir To Have Not, one of the Qs that always comes up in the Q+A is some variation on this: “Was writing this book therapeutic for you?” It’s a fair question, given that the book is about overcoming a rough-and-tumble childhood to become the fairly presentable well-adjusted person I am today. But the answer is a resounding “No.” In fact, I’d venture to say that if your writing feels therapeutic, it is probably not ready to go public.

I’m all in favor of writing for therapy; indeed I have 35 years worth of journals hanging around, and those notebooks have often been my best friends and only confidantes. At times I have written snippets in them that I’d go on to refine in some of my published work, including my book. But I would never want anyone else to read them. That’s because there’s a giant gap between writing to express or process your own experiences and emotions, and writing to find the salient or universal story in your experiences and then to communicate it to the world. The first is therapy; the second is literature.

The secret to writing about yourself in a literary way is to create a balance between closeness and distance to what you are writing about. If you are too close to the events and people (including yourself or your younger self), your emotions will get in the way, skew your perspective, and make you unable to see the whole picture. If, on the other hand, you are too far from them—too many years have passed, or you have protected yourself from powerful memories—then your writing will feel flat. Try for someplace in between, where you can tap into the feelings, but not get overwhelmed by them. When I was writing about myself in To Have Not, it felt like I was writing about a fictional character who I knew intimately; I often referred to her as “she,” rather than “I.” That’s how I knew I had achieved the balance between distance and proximity.

Imagine one of those great torch singers belting a he-done-me-wrong ballad. She must reach into her own experience of heartbreak; otherwise, how could she get it so right with every nuance of her voice? But a few seconds later, she’s singing an upbeat, I’m-so-happy tune. It’s this same ability to tap into, then out of, authentic emotions that makes good writing, especially when writing about yourself.

www.franceslefkowitz.net

www.goodreads.com/book/show/6697449-to-have-not

www.facebook.com/pages/Frances-Lefkowitz/117607708273667

www.twitter.com/MeetFrances

New Day, Same Dream

2010-12-28T06:36:00.000-08:00

It’s so hard to believe that a new year is just around the bend. Where did this one go? How did it seem to go by so fast?

In the past I used to make New Years Resolutions. You too? I stopped a few years ago when I realized that they were just thoughts, ideas, unlofty goals that I never planned on fulfilling. So instead I just gathered that dream that was close to my heart and made a decision to continue to follow it. Whether it was to continue to eat healthy (and pray that one day my body will realize all my hard work), to love my family more, to nurture the friendships already in my life or to continue with my goal to be published.

My dreams are the same ones I’ve had year in and year out. The only thing that has changed was me.

I read the following (below) in my devotional today and it made sense. Everything that it will take to make my dreams come true is already within me. I’m the one who determines what happens to my dreams, no one else. Yep, I may stumble a few times, want to throw in the towel and yes, I’ve been known to consume a few chocolate bars here and there (or boxes of chocolates like the ones I have in front of me) … but as long as I pick myself back up and dust myself off – I will be okay. My dream will never go away. It will grow with me, expand as I expand (not width wise thankyouverymuch) and give way to new dreams when these ones have come to pass.

Resolutions are just things we’ve already decided in our heart to do – yet they have a bad rap when we make them every year on January 1^st. Why not make it a part of you? Have that resolution be your goal, your dream - that thing that you are already pursuing?

What do you think?

“When God puts a dream in your heart, when He puts a promise on the inside of you, He deposits within you everything you need to accomplish that dream. He wouldn’t give you the desire to do something without giving you the ability to fulfill it. In fact, the scripture tells us that God gives us the desires of our heart. In other words, He puts the desire inside of us and then works with us to bring it to pass.

Oftentimes, people set out to accomplish their dreams, but they face a setback or disappointment, and then they feel like their time has passed. But let me tell you today, no matter where you’ve come from, no matter what’s happened in your past, God wants to make you new. He wants to give you a fresh start. If you feel like you’ve missed opportunities in your life, if you feel like your time has passed, remember, today is a new day. You are a new person, and God has new opportunities in store for you. Lift up your eyes of faith and look forward to the new thing God has for you in this New Year!” Joel Olsteen

I Want a Hippopotamus For Christmas...(Lyrics in MORE)

2010-12-24T14:03:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas!

I have one wish that I know won't come true. Why do I know it won't come true? Because my 7 year old daughter loves this song and won't stop singing it.

So I thought I Would share my experience with you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7oOzszFIBcE&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Sent from my iPhone

The Emotional Secret to your Story

2010-12-20T05:00:00.000-08:00

There’s a secret to grabbing your reader and have them surprised at the time when they put your book down. Wanna know what it is?

Emotions.

Sounds simple doesn’t it. We all know how important emotions are in our story. Our scenes come alive when we SHOW the emotional impact of our story. (No, saying ‘she felt, she was scared, ect does not give that emotional charge that we need. You’re telling, not showing.) Through building off our characters emotions we interact with our readers on a personal level. When we interact with them, bring them into our story that’s what hooks our readers, keeps them reading and make them want to read more.

But, don’t skimp on the emotions. Weak writing kills a story faster than anything else. If there is weak writing – make sure it’s only in your first draft! That’s the ‘she said angrily (omg adv), she felt strangely confused, she appeared flustered’. We all do it. But let’s stop, shall we?

How do we showcase emotions then? You can’t always tell your reader how your character is feeling. But you can show it. If a character is biting their lip, wringing their hands or tapping their fingernails ... what type of emotion does that show? What about how they see the world around them? Take the physical description of the emotion above and pair it with their scene. I doubt they will notice the gentle breeze as it flows through the field of daisies. Instead, they notice the annoying buzz of bees and scouring the area around them to make sure they don’t get stung.

Take the time to enter your character’s head. Feel what they are feeling. Don’t be afraid to. Go deeper, deeper than you have before. That’s what brings the emotions out front and center. That is what grabs your reader. If you can show them, make it real – I promise it will be worth it.

Where's the Conflict?

2010-12-16T08:57:00.000-08:00

We all know that conflict needs to be upfront in our plot. Without the conflict the plot droops. It looses its flavor and readers faster than an empty box of turtles will at an office Christmas party.

So what do you do when you send out our novel to your beta's and it comes back with 'where's the conflict in this scene/chapter/section/story?' You go through and to you it's there. This is when you start to eat more chocolate, start an email with "what are you talking about, didn't you read the story, the conflict is SO evident ...." only to realize if they don't see it, then it's not there. You waste hours going over that scene, but you don't know what to do, what conflict to add ... it's almost as if you have writers block for this one small thing.

Well .... I'm reading this book (it's a top secret book but it's about writing) and I had an eureka moment (imagine huge flashes of chocolate bonbons dancing before my eyes - for me that's my flashbulb moment). But the author (Susie Bright) has this exercise to use when you need to insert conflict into a scene or story. It's perfect and full of cliches' but that's what makes it so perfect.

Find that scene that lacks conflict. Now insert one of the three choices - your protag gets sick/loses her job/finds out a secret about herself she/he didn't know. Cliche right - yeah, I know. Bear with me though.

Now write a few paragraphs about it - yes, squish it into your scene, make it fit even when it doesn't. Don't worry about how stupid it makes the scene or how much you HATE the whole secret life aspect. Just do it. Write those paragraphs, have some fun with it. Just let loose. That writers' block you thought you had - GONE. 9 times out of 10, as you are writing that redundant scene about your character finding out a stupid secret that you hate to even think about - you'll have your own lightbulb moment. It will come to you - the perfect conflict!

Delete the conflict addition you wrote just for the sake of it and include this new idea that just came to you. Rewrite it a few times until it's perfect. Then resend it to your beta with a "I'm so smart, look at what I wrote, I'm going to each chocolate now to celebrate" type of post :)

See how easy that was!!!

Have you thanked your Beta's lately?

2010-12-11T09:50:00.000-08:00

Beta readers. They are your lifeline. For a writer, they are the next best thing to getting an agent.

Why? Because they go through your chapters with a fine tooth comb and no matter what will love you after the process too! Your writing will thrive, increase and garner that agents attention due to your Betas.

Have you thanked them lately?

On Thursday I met one of my betas - Stina. She's freakin' fantastic. I love her to bits - enough so that I even shared my chocolate with her (remember my post about finding that little chocolate shoppe? Well, the chocolate is THAT good!) The chocolate was my way to say Merry Christmas and THANK YOU (just in case I didn't say it girly - THANK YOU ... I LOVE YOU ... YOU ROCK).

To my other betas - when we meet I will gladly share my chocolate with you (and you should realize the honor since I don't share my chocolate with just anyone). The day I get an agent - it will be because of YOU. Yes - I wrote the words, but you helped me to perfect them, to go deeper than I thought possible.

2011 Reading Challenge

2010-12-08T07:45:00.000-08:00

I have really enjoyed my 2010 100 book challenge. I read new books. Discovered new authors. Read new genres. I challenged myself and I'm so glad that I did!

So now I double dog dare you to challenge yourself and join me in my 2011 Reading Challenge.

I will attempt to read 100 books again. You may find it a challenge to read 30 in the year. That's okay. Challenge yourself. You decide your limit. Set the goal and lets all join together to help you accomplish it!

Sign up using the form below. Place my Challenge graphic on your blog. Let us know what your challenge is - whether it's 20 books, 50 or even 100 books in the year. But they have to be new books (books you haven't read yet). Self pub, ebook, books on tape ... doesn't matter. Fiction/non-fiction. Just as long as you are reading. Keep a post where you keep track (you'll see on my side bar I have a 2010 100 Book Challenge - I linked it to a post where I'm keeping track - I'm almost at 100 books!!!

Do it. Join me. Let's keep reading!

Update: Jan 2011 - I read 10 books
Feb - so far at 6 books and only 1/2 way thru the month
1. Room - Emma Donoghue - Completed Jan - loved this novel, told in a childs POV. Read in one day.
2. The Breakwater House - Pascale Quiviger - Completed Jan - Beautiful words that capture your heart
3. The Weight of Silence - Heather Gudenkauf - completed Jan
4. The Secret of Lost Things - Sheridan Hay - Completed Jan
5. Girl Unwrapped - Gabriella Goliger - Completed Jan
6. On these Silken Sheets - Sabrina Darby - Completed Jan
7. Fated - Shayla Black - Completed Jan - ebook
8. Haven - Justin Kemppainen - Completed Jan - ebook
9. The House of Six Doors - Patricia Selbert - Completed Jan
10. Not My Daughter - Barbara Delinsky - Completed Jan
11. Red Demon - Deidre Knight - Completed Feb
12. Lucinda, Dangerously - Sunny - Completed Feb
13. Frostfire - Lynn Viehl - Completed Feb
14. My Fair Succubi - Jill Myles - Completed Feb (great series for those who like their paranormal romance)
15. Gentlemen Prefer Succubi - Jill Myles - Completed Feb
16. Succubi Like It Hot - Jill Myles - Completed Feb
17. Bloodfever - Karen Marie Moning - Completed Feb
18. Red Hot Fury - Kasey Mackenzi - Completed Feb
19. Wicked Enchantment - Anya Bast- Completed Feb
20. Atlantis Betrayed - Alyssa Day - Completed Feb
21. Possession - Elana Johnson - Completed March
22. ShadowLight - Lynn Viehl - Completed March

23. To Serve and Submit - Susan Wright - Completed March

24. Dream Fever - Karen Marie Moning - Completed March

25. Kiss a Demon King - Kresley Cole - completed March

26. Shadow Blade - Seressia Glass - completed march

27. Wicked Pleasure - Nina Bangs - completed March

28. Faefever - Karen Marie Moning - Completed March
29. Nightshade - Michelle Rowen - Completed April
30. Personal Demons - Completed April
31.

Debut Author Challenge Info

2010-12-08T07:35:00.000-08:00

We all want to experience the dream of holding our book in our hands. So why not support those who get to have their dream come true? Once a week I will post links to any debut authors to help you in this quest. There's no limit of books - just do what you can. Keep track on your blog. Take this picture below, post it on your blog somewhere (like I have it on my side link) and link it. Link it to your blog post so you can keep track of it. Make sure you sign up so I can check out your lists and others can follow you too!

I dare you.

Are you in?

1. The Weight of Silence - Heather Gundenkauf (completed January)
2. Girl Unwrapped - Gabriella Goliger - Completed Jan
3. The House of Six Doors - Patricia Selbert - completed Jan