Finished Reading “Darius” and Cleaning Up

For years, we’ve had two DVR boxes in the living room. Mainly because we watched so many series, that sometimes two would be recording and we’d want to watch some sporting event. Or we wanted to record a third and it wouldn’t do it.

But a lot of the series we watched are no longer airing. One DVR is hardly used, we didn’t need two. And when the main box acted up (couldn’t fast forward through the commercials on some of the recordings—annoying), we figured we didn’t need to pay for two DVRs.

So yesterday we finally disconnected that unreliable DVR and moved the backup to its place (after a long time of testing to make sure the backup didn’t also act up). Never realized how many wires were no longer needed (because we didn’t need the splitter). It looks…cleaner! On Monday I’ll return the unreliable DVR and start saving some money, too.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 56

Dates read: November 16-19, 2023
Title: Darius
Year of publication: 2022
Author: J.R. Ward
Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: Black Dagger Brotherhood #0
# of Pages: 295
Paper or plastic: Hard cover
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from book: Darius, son of Marklon, isn’t looking for love the night destiny comes to claim him. He’s also not interested in crashing his new car. But when a human runs out into the road and he must swerve to avoid killing her…everything goes off course.
    Disillusioned by his King’s lack of leadership and the losses in the war against the Lessening Society, Darius finds purpose in protecting a woman he cannot make his own. Love finds a way, however—until the truth of what he is comes out and she leaves him in horror.
    Unbeknownst to them both, Anne is carrying his young, a female who is destined to be Queen—and after a tragic reunion, he vows to protect their daughter. Resigned to perpetual sadness, he is determined to serve the memory of his beloved no matter the cost…unless, by some miracle, fate sees fit to once again bring them together.
Recommend: Yes
My thoughts: Darius died in book 1 of the series (practically the first chapter!) and I’ve always wanted to know more about him. So glad she gave us this story. Yes, I cried at the end!!

I was reading the Epilogue of Darius yesterday when I had to leave for my COFW meeting. I was hoping to just squeeze in those last pages, but nope. Then I got home, watched the OSU game, had dinner, and never sat back at the table where the book was to remind me to finish it! Not that I had the time to savor it then. Glad I waited until this morning, where nothing rushed me and I could just enjoy it.

Editing has slowed a tiny bit. Not due to anything except…doctor appointments. Plus, I’ve gotten to the point in Ghostly Protector where I actually added stuff (actually, the part that kept me baffled for two years), so I need to pay more attention and beef it up with more emotion and description. And being disrupted with appointments is quite annoying. Not to mention that the appointments themselves are quite annoying.

This week is pretty free, though (aside from Thanksgiving). I have hope I’ll finish soon.

Happy Reading! And Happy Thanksgiving!

Stacy

Finished Reading “Democracy Awakening” and It’s a Lazy Day

I had my treatment this morning, which makes me lazy the rest of the day. I figure it’s my right. Not that I’m all that active on other days. But no shopping, no laundry, no chores. I’ll read or watch TV and crochet instead.

Treatments don’t seem so bad (mentally) now that I’m in remission, but it can still mess with my body if I don’t watch out. Especially with a headache. I try to avoid those as much as possible.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 55

Dates read: November 10-15, 2023
Title: Democracy Awakening
Year of publication: 2023
Author: Heather Cox Richardson
Genre: Non Fiction
Series: N/A
# of Pages: 253
Paper or plastic: Hard cover
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from book: In the midst of the impeachment crisis of 2019, Heather Cox Richardson launched a daily Facebook essay providing the historical background of the incessant torrent of news. It soon turned into a newsletter, and its readership ballooned to more than two million dedicated readers who rely on her plainspoken take on the present and past in America.
    Now, in Democracy Awakening, she explains how, over the decades, a small group of wealthy people have made war on American ideals. By weaponizing language and promoting false history they have led us into authoritarianism. In this compelling and original book, Richardson reminds us that it is up to us to reclaim the principles of which the nation was founded, principles that have been repeatedly championed by marginalized Americans. Their dedication to the promises embodied in our history has renewed our commitment to democracy in the past. And it is in that commitment where we will find the road map for the nation’s future.
    Richardson’s talent is to wrangle our giant, meandering, and confusing news feed into a coherent story that singles out what we should pay attention to, what the precedents are, and what possible paths lie ahead. In her trademark calm prose, she is realistic and optimistic about the future of democracy. Her command of history allows her to pivot effortlessly from the Founders to the abolitionists to Reconstruction to Goldwater to Mitch McConnell, highlighting the political legacies of the New Deal, the lingering fears of socialism, the death of the liberal consensus, and the birth of “movement conservatism.”
    Many books tell us what has happened over the last five years. Democracy Awakening explains how we got to this perilous point, what our history really tells us about ourselves, and what the future of democracy can be.
Recommend: Yes
My thoughts: I follow Heather on Facebook and also get her letters via e-mail (in case I can’t get to Facebook). They are usually the first thing I read every morning. I love the way she explains it all. I think if I had her for a history teacher, I might have paid more attention! She makes history interesting reading. And this book is no exception.

I can’t believe Thanksgiving is next week! With the way my reading has slowed (because I’m writing/editing—yay!), I doubt I’ll post before then. So… I hope you all have a wonderful holiday and that you get to spend it with the people you love (or like).  And try not to eat too much. I know, it can be a difficult thing to do. But I’m gonna try. I’ll probably fail, but I’ll try!!

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Finished Reading “Binding Their Hearts” and Redraft is Done!

Would you believe it? After starting the redraft of Ghostly Protector in September 2021 (over two years ago!) and wondering if I would ever write again, I finished! And the best part? I had fun fixing it! Whew! This was truly a day I never thought would come.

Next up: read it, add some more details or clues (if needed), and then send it off to my editor. Ghostly Protector is ALMOST READY!!

I should probably send out a newsletter and share the news, huh?

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 54

Dates read: October 26 – November 9, 2023
Title: Binding Their Hearts
Year of publication: 2023
Author: M.Q. Barber
Genre: MMF Erotica
Series: Neighborly Affection Book 7
# of Pages: 350
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Goodreads: Planning a wedding for three is the least of their problems.
    Since nearly losing Jay, Henry is driven by an inescapable urge to collar his submissives. Jay's certain to be all in, but Alice has fled from commitment before. Negotiating their needs is a treacherous tightrope. Can he sketch a path to forever?
    As Alice's career takes off, the new demands steal time from Henry and Jay. The stress is crushing when every decision hurts the ones she loves. She'll have to rig a solution before she cracks under the strain and takes her lovers down with her.
    After years of resisting, Jay is learning big lessons in therapy. Loosening his family's stranglehold leaves him free to explore what—and who—he wants in his life. But with Alice at work all the time and a deadline looming for the trio to vacate their apartment, stability is hard to find.
    Can Henry, Alice, and Jay hold themselves together when the world keeps pushing them apart?
Recommend: Yes
My thoughts: I love this series. It’s not a typical genre read for me, but the characters really grabbed onto me from the beginning and I really want to know how they turn out. Last book in the series comes out soon and I’ll be ready.

A couple of ideas are actually bouncing around in my brain as to what I’ll write next (another thing I thought I lost). I had started Book 7 in the Bitten by Love series, but stopped when I realized it really wasn’t good enough for a book. But now my brain is thinking…novella! Yeah, that would totally work. I think. Anyway, that’s one thing. The other is my alien series (which book 1 is still in my computer and not the store). I’m thinking if I finally clean up book 1, then an idea for book 2 will come. I really want a second book ready before I release book 1. Or… I re-write book 1 to be a stand alone without any hint that the story could continue on. That would be an option, too. Something to think about. And I have plenty of time to do that. It’s not like I’m in a rush or anything!

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Finished Reading “Tuesdays with Jay and Other Stories” and Still Writing!

Well… it seems when I write, I don’t read as much. And I’ve been writing—or rather, re-writing—a lot. I’m almost done with the fixes to Ghostly Protector. Then I get to start over, read from the beginning, and maybe stick in some clues (since this is sort of a mystery—it was to me!). But I can see the end from here and I’m so happy!!!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 53

Dates read: October 4-25, 2023
Title: Tuesdays with Jay and Other Stories
Year of publication: 2020
Author: M.Q. Barber
Genre: MMF Erotica
Series: A Neighborly Affection Companion
# of Pages: 327
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Goodreads:  Finally, readers of the Neighborly Affection series get the other side of the story...
    Jay Kress knows his lover is into the girl next door. As a polyamorous bisexual guy, he’s cool with that. And he’s pretty sure the gal is into Henry, too, if their explosive dinner party is any clue.
    But now he'll have to tackle a submissive’s toughest job: getting his lovers to make the leap from occasional sex to the permanent triad relationship he knows they deserve. Their hearts are made for each other—and the sexual perks ain’t bad, either.
    With an overcautious dominant on one side and a newcomer to the lifestyle on the other, Jay knows he has to tread lightly, but he can't help pushing for more. Can he bring Henry and Alice together before their fear of losing each other dooms them all?
    Read Tuesdays with Jay and Other Stories side by side with Playing the Game and Crossing the Lines to see the bigger picture of how Henry, Alice, and Jay found their forever love.
Recommend: Yes (for readers of the series)
My thoughts: I had read these shorts from the newsletter M.Q. sent out quarterly, but thought it would be good to read them again to get ready for book #7 in the series (since it’s been awhile). It was fun reading. I love Jay.

Cruise News: It was great. While the weather was a bit hot and humid at every island we visited (Grand Turk, Aruba, Curacao, Barbados, St Lucia, St Maarten, and St Thomas), we explored some new places and created some memories. Not all great, though. I ended up getting a cold (not COVID) and while I was looking for a tissue on the way back to the ship in Barbados, I tripped over a pothole and really skinned my knee good. And then it took several people to help me up (since I couldn’t get on my knees to do that). At least I didn’t break anything!

Also on the cruise, it turned out that one of our table mates at dinner had read my books! We were just talking about Facebook and social media and I mentioned that I was only on Facebook because I was told that’s where my readers are. The next day she asked what kind of books I wrote. I mentioned the series and her eyes lit up. Did I make her cruise? I don’t know, but she sure helped make mine better!

Who knew that diving back into Ghostly Protector would get the characters to start talking to me again? Who knew? I didn’t. Although, I really don’t think I was ready to hear them before. Some people think it was getting that clear CT scan that did the trick. Maybe it was the cruise. I really don’t know what did it. But I’m glad it happened.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Finished Reading “Grave Secrets” and Writing Again

Well… it’s happened. I’m writing again. And with Ghostly Protector! Man, if I can get this thing finished, I might just sign up for next year’s Literary Love Savannah. I got until January 1 to decide, but I’m hoping I’m finished long before then. I’m feeling pretty good about it.

And I haven’t felt like that in YEARS!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 52

Dates read: September 29-October 3, 2023
Title: Grave Secrets
Year of publication: 2020
Author: Alice James
Genre: Paranormal mystery
Series: The Lavington Windsor Mysteries
# of Pages: 251
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Free from Barnes & Noble
Blurb from Goodreads:  An adventure with zombies. And vampires. And romance. And croquet.
    Toni Windsor is trying to live a quiet life in the green and pleasant county of Staffordshire. She’d love to finally master the rules of croquet, acquire a decent boyfriend and make some commission as an estate agent...
    ...but first she’s got to deal with zombies rising from their graves, vampires sneaking out of their coffins and a murder to solve.
    It’s all made rather more complicated by the fact that she’s the one raising all the zombies - oh, and she’s dating one of the vampires. Really, what’s a girl meant to do?
Recommend: Yes
My thoughts: I thought this book had ghosts (don’t know where I got that because the blurb clearly doesn’t mention them), but got vampires instead. Win for me! While the graphics were a bit wonky on my Nook, the typeset wasn’t (thank goodness). This was a cute read. There is apparently more in this series, so I may check them out. But fair warning… this isn’t a romance (as the blub suggests). It has romantic elements (as a lot of cozy mysteries do—at least the ones I’ve read).

It’s been a bit warm on this cruise. I’m not used to it being hot over water. At night.

Spent the day in Aruba today. Took a walking tour that we’ve taken before. I don’t think I ever want to take another walking tour. Especially when it’s hot and humid. Too much work!! Tomorrow is Curacao and we’ll be visiting an ostrich farm. No walking! But it will be hot. Probably 90.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Finished Reading “Unclean Spirits” and Going Cruising Again

I’m leaving on another cruise tomorrow. Fifteen wonderful days. We’ll be hitting Grand Turk, Aruba, Curacao, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, St. Lucia, and Barbados (not in that order). We’ve never been to St. Lucia or Barbados, so some new territory to explore!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 51

Dates read: September 16-28, 2023
Title: Unclean Spirits
Year of publication: 2013
Author: Chuck Wendig
Genre: Horror?
Series: Gods and Monsters #1
# of Pages: 248
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Free from Barnes & Noble
Blurb from Book:  Five years ago, it all went wrong for Cason Cole. He lost his wife and son, lost everything, and was bound into service to a man who chews up human lives and spits them out, a predator who holds nothing dear and respects no law. Now, as the man he both loves and hates lies dying at his feet, the sounds of the explosion still ringing in his ears, Cason is finally free.
    The gods and goddesses are real. A polytheistic pantheon—a tangle of divine hierarchies—once kept the world at an arm’s length, warring with one another for mankind’s belief and devotion. It was a grim and bloody balance, but a balance just the same. When one god triumphed, driving all other gods out of Heaven, it was back to the bad old days: cults and sycophants, and the terrible retribution the gods visit on those who spite them.
Recommend: Ummm…
My thoughts: This book did not grab me enough to want to pick it up and read it. It was just…bizarre (I can’t even tell what genre it is). I’ve always wanted to read one of his books and now I have. I’m kind of disappointed. I don’t think I’ll pick up another of his.

I don’t know if I’ll get any writing done on this cruise, but stranger things have happened. Sometimes I think I need to write something else and forget about Ghostly Protector (for now). I just don’t know what to write about. No one is talking to me! And that’s what is really disconcerting.

Who knew I’d miss the voices in my head?

Got any suggestions on how to get them back?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Read: Dead Silence. Slowly Back to Writing

Thought I would try something different in regards to my blog titles. Especially since I plan on posting after reading a book, so I wouldn’t have to put in several titles. We’ll see how that goes.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 27

Dates read: May 17-23, 2023
Title: Dead Silence
Year of publication: 2022
Author: S. A. Barnes
Genre: Sci-Fi Horror
Series: N/A
# of Pages: 339
Paper or plastic: Trade paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Book: Claire Kovalik is days away from being unemployed—made obsolete—when her beacon-repair crew picks up a strange distress signal. With nothing to lose and no desire to return to Earth, Claire and her team decide to investigate.
    What they find is shocking: the Aurora, a famous luxury spaceliner that vanished on its maiden tour of the solar system more than twenty years ago. A salvage claim like this could set Claire and her crew up for life. But a quick search of the ship reveals something isn’t right.
    Whispers in the dark. Flickers of movement. Messages scrawled in blood. Clair must fight to hold on to her sanity and find out what really happened on the Aurora before she and her crew meet the same ghastly fate.
My thoughts: When I started this book, didn’t realize it was in first person present tense. I can understand why it’s in first person, but not present tense. Still, it didn’t stop me from reading because this book sounded interesting. And it was! It was a great horror story. Set in space at that! Highly recommend.

I have been slowly getting back to work on Ghostly Protector. I’m getting a little excited about adding certain aspects to my story (certain aspects I can pound my head with for not realizing they were missing in the first place!), which is something I haven’t felt in a very long time. I also talked about my alien story with a friend and would like to get back to that one too. But I must finish Ghostly Protector first. I’m just glad I’m starting to feel excited about writing again!

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and Got a New iPhone

So… I finally broke down and bought a new iPhone SE (3rd generation). So far I’m okay with it. It’s not all that different from my old SE (except it doesn’t reboot all the time and the battery seems to work a whole lot better!). I have to get use to the feel of it until my case comes in, which I hope makes it easier to pick up and hold. It just feels way too fragile now.

I also had to order some adapters so I can use my head phones (I like the ones I have when walking) and the aux jack in the car. I could probably hook up the phone via blue tooth in the RAV4 (it’s a 2017)—can’t on my Xterra (a 2010)—but I don’t want to confuse the RAV4 on which iPhone to link with. Better to just use the jack. I know how to use that!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 26

Dates read: May 12-17, 2023
Title: Forever
Year of publication: 2023
Author: J. R. Ward
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Series: Lair of the Wolven #2
# of Pages: 433
Paper or plastic: Mass market paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Book: For Lydia Susi, there is no sweet sorrow in saying goodbye to the man she loves. As a wolven hiding among humans, she became used to being alone—until destiny gave her the kind of love she didn’t dare hope for. But then came a devastating diagnosis that ended all her dreams. Grief is the only thing she sees in her future now.
    As an operative for a clandestine arm of the U.S. government, Daniel Joseph always expected to die an early death. He just assumed it would be out in the field…not in a hospital bed in an underground lab. With his time running out, he refuses a potentially lifesaving treatment to focus on making sure that Lydia finds her wolven clan.
    Following an attack on the lab’s compound, Daniel fears his former boss is coming after him and Lydia. Marshaling his strength, he must call on all his training to protect the female he loves…even if it means her moving on, without him.
My thoughts: Kind of wish I’d read book 1 again, because I was a little lost. My fault. Stuff doesn’t seem to stick in the brain like it used to. I hope book 3 comes out soon so I’m not lost reading that one. I like this series, and the way it ties into the Black Dagger Brotherhood books, but this book kind of ended on a cliff hanger. And I’m beginning to think that maybe the first one did too.

My brain is starting to get interested in writing again. I’m realizing several MORE things I need to fix in Ghostly Protector. Now I just have to open the document and get to it. Easier said than done, though. ***sigh***

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and Procrastination

I procrastinate. A lot. I seem to find other things to do to keep me from doing what I should. This is not news to me. I know I do it. I just don’t know why.

Why don’t I want to write? I used to look for time to write. Now, I just can’t seem to get my imagination to run wild (I sure loved it when it ran wild).

So instead of writing, I read. And crochet. And watch TV. I used to watch TV all the time, before writing. I hate that I watch TV during the day now, but yet, I do, because I like the TV on when I’m crocheting. And right now crocheting is more fun than writing.

I have excuses as to why I don’t write. I don’t like the set up I have in the sunroom. I don’t like my glasses. Yeah, these are things I can fix, but I just don’t. Actually, I’m not sure HOW to set up my sunroom without removing/replacing furniture. And I don’t know what kind of furniture would help.

And then, I get a thought that maybe I should just quit. Just retire. And the next thing I do, I sign up for another book convention, hoping that will motivate me.

So far they haven’t.

I want to finish Ghostly Protector. I NEED to finish it. And maybe it’s the finishing it that is causing me to procrastinate. Because if I finish it, I may just be finished. I don’t know.

It sure is hard being honest with yourself, isn’t it?

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 11

Dates read: March 14-19, 2023
Title: A Terrible Fall of Angels
Year of publication: 2021
Author: Laurel K. Hamilton
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Series: Zaniel Havelock #1
# of Pages: 477
Paper or plastic: Mass Market Paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Book: Meet Zaniel Havelock, a man with the special ability to communicate directly with angels. A former trained Angel Speaker, he devoted his life to serving both the Celestial beings and his fellow humans with his gift, but a terrible betrayal compelled him to leave that life behind. Now he’s a cop who is still working on the side of angels. But where there are angels, there are also demons. There’s no question that there’s evil at work when he’s called in to examine the murder scene of a college student—but is it just the evil that one human being can do to another, or is it something  more? When demonic possession is a possibility, even angelic protection can only go so far. A race is on to stop a killer before he finds his next victim, as Zaniel is forced to confront his own very personal demons, and the past he never truly left behind.
My thoughts: Not exactly a fast-paced book. Lots of back story to get through and lots of events that don’t seem connected to one another. Plus, the author can overdo it with the description (like she does in the Anita Blake series). Parts of it were enjoyable, though, so I will probably try the next book in the series (when/if it’s released) just to see if maybe the pace picks up.

So… are you a hopeless procrastinator? Think there’s a cure for me?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and an Online Class for Writers

Are you a writer? Are you always looking to better yourself? Central Ohio Fiction Writers (COFW), my writing organization, is offering an online class April 1-30, 2023, on Crafting Your Character’s Internal Conflict, presented by Linnea Sinclair. Here are some of the details…

It’s the bottom of the iceberg. The fuel for the fire. It’s the secret engine for the story-line conveyor belt. It’s internal conflict—that illusive and often ignored element in your character’s GMC. Yet, like fuel, it’s a powerful element in crafting your character and your story, and it’s the irresistible element that will keep your readers turning pages.

In this in-depth workshop, RITA® award-winning author, Linnea Sinclair, will show you how to dig deeper to unearth your story’s hidden power by writing to this primal force. (A working knowledge of GMC: Goal, Motivation and Conflict is helpful for this class.)

So join Linnea Sinclair on the COFW digital class site as she teaches us how to create that iceberg’s foundation.

The course is presented via e-mail, with lots of homework assignments! Linnea Sinclair has taught me a lot and I absolutely love her classes. Cost is $30 for members, $35 for non-members. Here’s the link to register: Classes - Central Ohio FictionWriters | Official Website (cofwevents.org). After you pay, please wait for the Google form to pop up so you can finish your registration (we need the information to get you signed up correctly).

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 10

Dates read: March 8-14, 2023
Title: An Accidental Goddess
Year of publication: 2006
Author: Linnea Sinclair
Genre: Sci-Fi Romance
Series: N/A
# of Pages: 434
Paper or plastic: Mass Market Paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Book: Gillaine Davre is wondering where the last three hundred years have gone. Waking up in an unknown space station, the last thing the Special Forces captain remembers is her ship being attacked. Now it seems that while she was time-traveling, she was ordained a goddess. But if she’s to survive, she can only hope no one notices.
    Admiral Mack Makarian suspects Gillaine may be a smuggler. But he can’t begin to imagine the truth. For the ethereal beauty is now Lady Kiasidira, revered by countless believers, including Mack—an irresistibly commanding man who inspires feelings in her that are far from saintly… Feelings that are clearly mutual. But when a longtime enemy attacks the station—again—can Gillie stop the invasion without revealing her true identity and losing the man she loves?
My thoughts: I had a hard time putting this book down. Action-packed and the romance… yum (and not overly sexual). My ONLY issue with this story was the names of certain things, and if I was pronouncing them correctly. But then, that’s my issue with a lot of books!

So, I finished reading all the Linnea Sinclair books I could get my hands on. You don’t need to have read her to take one of her writing classes, though. Although, she writes some really good books. Especially if you love sci-fi romance. But if you are a writer and need some help with internal conflict in your story, then her class will definitely help. Plus you get to see what other writers are struggling with. Kind of helps to keep you from feeling like you’re all alone. Because you’re not.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and a Writing Contest

The writing organization I belong with (which used to be a chapter of RWA, but broke out on its own in 2021) is having a writing contest. Ignite the Flame is a little bit different than other writing contests. It is geared toward romance as you submit the scene where your couple first meet. You can register and read all the details here: Contest - Central Ohio FictionWriters | Official Website (cofwevents.org). Submissions accepted through August 31.

It costs $30 and all submissions will get valuable feedback on their work. It’s why I entered contests before I was published. If you know anyone who would be interested, please share with them. Thanks!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 24

Dates read: August 9-14, 2022
Title: Waking the Dead
Year of publication: 2019
Author: Kerry Blaisdell
Genre: Paranormal/supernatural suspense
Series: The Dead Series #2
# of Pages: 248
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from the Goodreads: Hyacinth always assumed dying would simplify her life. But when her new boss, Archangel Michael, sends her on her first official mission—to retrieve a powerful rock from a collector in Germany—things go downhill fast. For one thing, the Dead keep popping up, expecting her to guide them to the Afterlife. For another, her part-demon nephew Geordi's powers are starting to leak out, at age seven. What if Michael finds out about him? Worse, what if Satan does?
    Then there's her love life-after-death. Rooming with a dead French cop no one else can see is complicated enough. But when Jason, Geordi's lying Dioguardi Demon cousin, resurrects himself—so to speak—all Hell breaks loose. Literally. Can Hyacinth get Michael's rock back before Satan steals its powers and breaks free of his prison? Or will her single-minded pursuit put those she loves—and the rest of the world—in the path of Satan's fury?
My thoughts: This is a fun series. And they aren’t romances (if that matters to you). If you enjoy Supernatural, you’ll probably enjoy these books too. I’ve already purchased book 3.

The weather sure has cooled around here. The mornings have been awesome for walking! Don’t know if the humidity is gone for good, but I will certainly enjoy what I got while I got it.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

It’s a Start and Other News

BOOK NEWS
I registered for a book signing that will take place June 2023 in Cleveland, OH. I will also register for Literary Love Savannah soon for that convention which takes place in July 2023. Have I finished Ghostly Protector yet? Nope. But… I’m actually working on it. So… it’s a start. If these events don’t motivate me, nothing will and I’ll have to face that fact… next year.

HEART NEWS
I feel great. Actually, I don’t feel all that different from before the surgery (except I haven’t attempted steps yet—hopefully get the clearance tomorrow). But, because my heart went into AFib during surgery, I have to wear a heart monitor for 30 days AND take blood thinners during that time. The heart monitor itches (well, the tape securing the monitor itches) and is driving me a little nuts. I’ll be glad when July 20th comes around. I return the monitor then and find out whether or not I need to be on the thinners any longer. Keeping fingers crossed all goes well!

CANCER NEWS
I see my oncologist on July 19 and will find out when I start treatment on my cancer then. I’ve got some trips coming up (family reunion in August, DragonCon during Labor Day weekend, and a tour through national parks in mid-Sept), but he said they’d be able to work around our schedule. We’ll see!

I didn’t finish reading a book this week, so no update, but I wanted to share my other news with you. Stuff is actually happening! Maybe life is finally going back to normal. I can hope!

So… got any trips scheduled for this summer?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and I’m Back Home

I made it back home safe and sound.

The cruise was great. Loved being relaxed. Now I’m home and I’m stressing over Christmas. Or at least just stressing over the work I need to do. See why I cruise? Oh well… Next cruise begins in roughly two months. Yay!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 56

Dates read: December 7-10, 2021
Title: A Gift of Ghosts
Year of publication: 2011
Author: Sarah Wynde
Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: The Tassamara Series Book One
# of Pages: 170
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from the book: Akira has secrets. But so does the town of Tassamara.
    Akira Malone believes in the scientific method, evolution, and Einstein’s theory of relativity. And ghosts. All the logic and reason in the world can’t protect her from the truth—she can see and communicate with spirits.
    But Akira is sure that her ability is just a genetic quirk and the ghosts she encounters simply leftover electromagnetic energy. Dangerous electromagnetic energy.
    Zane Latimer believes in telepathy, precognition, auras, and that playing Halo with your employees is an excellent management technique. He also thinks that maybe, just maybe, Akira can help his family get in touch with their lost loved ones.
    But will Akira ever be able to face her fears and accept her gift? Or will Zane’s relatives be trapped between life and death forever.
My thoughts: The story idea (of how Akira sees ghosts) is similar to the new series “Ghosts,” although this was written years before the series and it’s not a comedy. It’s light reading and enjoyable, but rather short (for my tastes).There isn’t a cliff hanger (yay) as this story could be read as a standalone. Seems the series has to do with the inhabitants of the town and not just one couple. Don’t know if I’ll continue to read the rest of the series, because while it was fun, it really didn’t grab me to want to read more. Heck, I’d completely forgotten I’d bought this book in the first place. I can only imagine I found it while looking for books as keywords (Amazon advertising), and checked B&N to see if it was there, since that’s the only place I buy e-books. If you’re looking for a short romance with ghosts and a little suspense, give this one a try.  

After stating on the last post that I wasn’t working on Ghostly Protector during the cruise, I went and worked on Ghostly Protector! Finally got past the part that was holding me up. Actually, finally FIXED the part that was holding me up. Boy, did that feel good.

I still have to organize my photos (stuff I need to do), so once I do that, I’ll post some pictures here on the blog. Hopefully I won’t take too long, but hey, when I get stressed to do stuff, I tend to not do it. Or other stuff gets priority. Something like that.

So… Are you ready for Christmas? I haven’t even gotten the tree up yet. But it is on my list of things to do. Probably should do it first though, huh?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and Headed to Dragon Con

As you’re reading this, I’m headed to Atlanta and… Dragon Con! They said they were capping attendance at around 40K (less than half that attended in 2019 and about the number that attended at my first DC in 2010), requiring masks, and you must show proof of vaccination or a COVID-free test (taken within the past 72 hours), so that’s great. Of course, they’re also limiting how many people can go into the rooms for panels. I don’t see where that matters so much, unless they’re purposely spreading the chairs apart. Which could be what they’re doing. We’ll see.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book 44

Dates read: August 21-28, 2021
Title: Ghost Shadow
Year of publication: 2010
Author: Heather Graham
Genre: Paranormal Romantic Suspense
Series: The Bone Island Trilogy #1
# of Pages: 351
Paper or plastic: Mass market paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from book: There are those who walk among us who are no longer alive, but not yet crossed over. They seek retribution…vengeance…to warn. Among the living, few intuit their presence.
    Katie O’Hara is one who can.
    As she’s drawn deeper and deeper into a gruesome years-old murder, whispered warnings from a spectral friend become more and more insistent. But Katie must uncover the truth: could David Beckett really be guilty of his fiancée’s murder?
    Worse—the body count’s rising on the Island of Bones, and the dead seem to be reenacting some macabre tableaux from history. The danger is increasing by the moment—especially as Katie finds herself irresistibly drawn to David, who may be responsible for more than just one killing…
My thoughts: I really liked this. It’s set in Key West, a city I really came to like when we visited for a few days way back in 2019. Oh, and I liked the ghosts, too (which is the main reason I bought the book to read).

FYI: The e-book box set for Books 4-6 of the Bitten by Love series is now available! So now you can get the whole series in two box sets for less than purchasing them separately. That’s a great deal, don’t you think? You can purchase it at Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Apple, Kobo, Google, or Smashwords.

I bought a white board to help me get my timeline straight on Ghostly Protector. I realized I created a huge mess when I moved scenes around (and of course, I don’t remember why…). That could be why my brain is having issues with moving forward on this project! I started to document the timeline, but stopped since I’ll be gone a week. I’ll only forget what I did (or why I did it—I know me too well), so better to wait and start when I return home. At least, that’s what I’m telling myself!

So… Got any plans this Labor Day?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and Writing News

I had a light bulb go off in my head regarding Evie in my current project, Ghostly Protector. In the first draft (which is finished) she doesn’t do much. And since she’s the heroine, she needed to do… something. She needed to be more involved in Adam’s life. More involved in solving Spencer’s murder (Spencer is the ghost in my story, and was her friend and roommate). So glad I figured out what those somethings should be. It sure created a lot of cutting and pasting, but that’s better than rewriting the whole story. I just replaced another character who was involved in Adam’s problems with Evie. And moved the timelines around. I still have to write some new scenes (so that it shows Evie’s involvement), but at least I have it all figured out. So far. I hope.

Ain’t writing fun? I’ll eventually get Ghostly Protector finished. Again.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #2

Dates read: January 5-11
Title: Glass Houses (Morganville Vampires Vol. 1)
Year of publication: 2006
Author: Rachel Caine
Genre: YA Paranormal
Series: Morganville Vampires #1
# of Pages: 222
Paper or plastic: Trade paperback
How obtained: Borrowed from daughter
Blurb from book: Morganville is a small college town in the heart of Texas that has its share of quirky characters—and some evil ones, too. When student Claire Danvers moves off campus into one of Morganville’s oldest houses, she finds that her roommates don’t show many signs of life. But they’ll have Claire’s back when the town’s deepest secrets come crawling out, hungry for fresh blood.

My thoughts: After I read about Rachel Caine’s passing, I realized I’d never read these books. And lucky me, my daughter has the first four volumes (first 8 books, actually) of this series. I was instantly hooked. Didn’t care for the cliffhanger at the end of this one, but hey, I’m ready to read the next.

So… don’t you love it when you figure out a problem that’s been hounding you? It really was a relief for me.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and I Reached My Goal!

Back in January, I set a reading goal of 50 books. Today I am posting my 50^th read! So nice to have accomplished at least ONE goal this year.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #50

Dates read: December 9-15
Title: A Warm Heart in Winter
Year of publication: 2020
Author: J.R. Ward
Genre: Paranormal romance
Series: Black Dagger Brotherhood #18.5
# of Pages: 479
Paper or plastic: Mass market paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from book: Blay and Qhuinn always intended to do a proper mating ceremony, but life has a way of getting in the way. With a pair of young, responsibilities to the King, and a grueling fighting schedule, the two are exhausted and overwhelmed. Plus, Lassiter has declared himself head of the Party Planning Committee in the household.
    When a nor-easter landlocks Caldwell in a fierce blizzard, things in the mansion go from lighthearted to deadly dangerous. Battling nature and responding to the emergency, Blay and Qhuinn go out into the storm—and a tragedy occurs that changes everything. In the aftermath the future is unclear for them, for everyone.
    A startling discovery offers a way forward, however, if only Qhuinn will allow his heart to be warmed and his mate’s love to light the darkness the consumes him… but will it be enough?

My thoughts: I think I teared up at least three times during this read. It was soooooo good!

I do have a writing goal this month: edit/revise 100 pages of Ghostly Protector. I’m a little short of that goal right now, but I have hope that I will get my act together and reach it. That’s because I finally fixed the beginning, which was my biggest stumbling block. I also hate not reaching a goal, so there’s that motivation, too.

So… Have you completed any goals this year? Are you close to completing? Did you set any? I guess I should have asked that first!

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and Fixing the Beginning of my WIP

I’ve written the next Ghostly Encounters book. Finished the first draft back in April. By now I SHOULD have finished the revisions, but COVID hit and really disrupted my routines. Or maybe that’s the excuse I just like to use. Because in reality, I know my book is a hot mess and I just couldn’t figure out how to fix it. Then I realized that maybe I started it in the wrong place. Or maybe started with the wrong point of view (POV). Or had I? Really, I couldn’t figure it out. I was too close to the story and kept second-guessing myself. So I called a friend to bounce off my ideas. Boy, am I glad I did.

I have a better idea of how to start it now (and with the correct character’s POV) and look forward to getting back to work on my WIP (which I haven’t felt like in ages). I’m hoping once I get going on Ghostly Protector, I’ll come up with an idea for the next book.

Because, yeah, I seemed to have misplaced my ideas somewhere.

It should be part of the Ghost series, since that one is selling the best, but for the life of me I can’t think of another story that hasn’t been told already (in my series). I need something new that will encompass the world I already have, but man, nothing is coming to me. Looks like I’m going to need another brain storming session with someone (preferably with someone who has read all my ghost books).

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #46

Dates read: November 11-15
Title: Fashion Faux Paw
Year of publication: 2012
Author: Judi McCoy
Genre: Mystery
Series: Dog Walker Mystery #6
# of Pages: 311
Paper or plastic: Mass market paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from book: Professional dog walker Ellie Engleman is more used to dog runs than catwalks, but when she gets involved in a fashion show, she learns a designer’s life can be murder…
    When Ellie is hired for a Fashion Week event—caring for the dogs who will model outfits that match human models’—she’s more than ready to escape her world of pet-a-porter for the glitz and glamour of the fashion world. But the glitter rubs right off when a designer drops dead of anaphylactic shock, her EpiPen useless after someone tampers with it.
    The victim’s peanut allergy was as well-known as her dress designs. With a little psychic help from the designer’s miniature Schnauzer, Ellie and her canine sidekicks are determined to sort through a coterie of backstabbing rivals and bitter enemies to find out who wanted the designer out of the competition—permanently…
My thoughts: This was the last of the series before the author passed away (and I do miss her, she taught me a lot about writing), so some questions will never be answered. Don’t know if I would have read this as a standalone, mainly because I don’t understand (or care) about the fashion industry, but since it was the end of this particular series, I read it and yes, liked it. The whole series was enjoyable and anyone who likes cozy mysteries with a little bit of strange will enjoy this series, too.

So…  Do you have friends you can bounce ideas off of? Have you ever felt like you ran out of ideas? I really envy those people who can write 20 books in a series. I’m having problems not duplicating stories and I’m only 3 books into the series!

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and Meeting with Writer Friends

On Monday I was able to attend an in-person plot group meeting with some writer friends. What joy! We met at a Panera Bread that has outdoor seating (gotta be safe!). Only four of us showed, but it was wonderful. I really missed talking books with people and they helped me a lot with my own (which is a mess). Plus, they’re my friends and it had been so long since I’d seen them. It was the boost I needed to get back to work, especially since I now have some ideas of what needs fixing.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #35

Dates read: September 4-10
Title: My Bonny Heart
Year of publication: 2016
Author: Synclair Stafford
Genre: Historical romance
Series: Pirate’s Progeny, Book #1
# of Pages: 277
Paper or plastic: Trade paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from book: A treacherous past haunts ex-pirate Anne Bonny’s attempt at a fresh start. Rescued from a Port Royal jail, she’s forced to marry a prominent landowner to retain custody of her children. She vows no other man will ever dictate her life again. But the lord she is to wed is more tempting and infuriating than the devil himself.
    Addison Blackhurst agreed to wed a fellow merchant’s daughter, solidifying the expansion of his rice plantation and trading business. Not mentioned in the contract? A temperamental, out-of-control widow who is unlike any woman of his acquaintance, complete with not one, but three children. But from the beginning, he’s drawn to her wild spirit and seductive charms.
    Through Anne’s husband-repelling schemes—and Addison’s equal endeavors to ignore them—they find an exasperating, yet most fascinating attraction. When Anne’s past threatens her future, and Addision believes he’s lost her for good, only a pirate’s resolve can determine if love will prevail. 
My thoughts: This was a fun read. If you like historical romances NOT set in England, this will be a treat for you. I hadn’t realized until after reading it that Anne Bonny was a real person, and that no one knows what happened to her after giving birth in jail. This story COULD be a possibility.

In sports… The Rams and Steelers won their first games of the season. Yay! But the Vegas Golden Knights season has come to an end with their loss Monday night. My hockey watching days are now on hold until the next season starts, whenever that will be. I’m thinking there won’t be much of a break after the finals.

So… what has brought you joy lately?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and I Started the Next Project

On Monday I finally came up with a decent title and on Tuesday, I started writing it. Yay! Book 7 of the Bitten by Love series (and my 11^th book!) will be titled Embracing Her Vampire. I think coming up with the title helped make me figure out what my story will be about. Kind of important, don’t you think?

Yeah, I still have to revise Ghostly Protector, but I’m not ready for that, yet. I’m still learning about police officers/detectives (my hero character is one) and need to get that all sorted out before I start making changes. And then I still have to decide whether or not my heroine character is biracial. I pictured her that way, but I still have to figure out why I did and if it matters. I always seem to create myself problems (or rather, deep-thinking) when it comes to the ghostly books. So glad I don’t have those issues with the vampire ones.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #18

Dates read: April 24-25
Title: Amazon Decoded: A Marketing Guide to the Kindle Store
Year of publication: 2018
Author: David Gaughran
Genre: Non-fiction
Series: NA
# of Pages: 52
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Free for signing up for newsletter
Blurb from Goodreads:. The author of Let’s Get Digital and Let’s Get Visible is back to reveal the inner machinations of the biggest bookstore in the world. By reading Amazon Decoded: A Marketing Guide To The Kindle Store, you will:
    *Learn what “visibility marketing” is and how factoring Amazon’s bookselling philosophy into your promotions can boost your sales;
    *Discover what goes into Sales Rank and dispel some remarkably common myths in the process;
    *Understand the critical differences between the Best Seller list and the Popularity list, and why that is important for marketing strategy.
    And you will get practical, actionable advice, turning all this new knowledge into marketing plans you can implement right away.
My thoughts: I learned a little from this book. I’m trying to understand Amazon ads and this was a good overview of the Kindle store and how it works.

Book #19

Dates read: April 21-28
Title: A Bad Day for Sunshine
Year of publication: 2020
Author: Darynda Jones
Genre: Romantic suspense
Series: Sunshine Vicram #1
# of Pages: 390
Paper or plastic: Hardback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Book:. Del Sol, New Mexico, is known for three things: its fry-an-egg-on-the-cement summers, strong cups of coffee—and now, a nationwide manhunt? Del Sol native Sunshine Vicram has returned to town as the elected sheriff—thanks to her adorably meddlesome parents who nominated her—and she expects her biggest crime wave to involve an elderly flasher named Doug. But a teenage girl is missing, a kidnapper is on the loose, and all of this is reminding Sunshine why she left Del Sol in the first place. Add to that the trouble at her daughter’s new school, plus a kidnapped prize-winning rooster named Puff Daddy, and, well, the forecast looks anything but sunny.
    But even clouds have their silver linings. This one’s got Levi, Sunshine’s sexy, almost-old flame, and a fiery-hot U.S. Marshal. With temperatures rising everywhere she turns, Del Sol’s normally cool-minded sheriff is finding herself knee-deep in drama and danger. Can Sunshine face the call of duty—and find the kidnapper who’s terrorizing her beloved hometown—without falling head-over-high-heels in love…or worse?

My thoughts: While Darynda Jones is better known for her urban fantasy books, this one doesn’t have any paranormal/supernatural stuff going on. And I was okay with that. I enjoyed reading this (still has her wonderful humor). Just wish it hadn’t ended on a semi-cliffhanger. I understand it’s a series, but I still don’t like cliffhangers. Makes me feel like I didn’t get the whole book, ya know?

So… if you’re a writer, do you need a title before you can start writing? How about an outline? Thankfully, I don’t need one of those. I might try to come up with a blurb (or copy ad). That helps sometimes, too. But not an outline. I like the discovery of issues/conflicts as I write the story. That’s what makes writing fun for me. And if you’re not a writer, ever think about being one?

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and Vote for Biting the Curse

Biting the Curse is up for a RONE award. The first step is to get enough votes to make it to the second step. That’s where you come in. You can vote for my book!

Here is the link: https://indtale.com/rone-awards-week-one-april-13-19

First, though, you have to register on InD’tale before you can vote. Registration is free and you also get subscribed to their free magazine. You can cancel it at anytime.

I realize not everyone likes to register for stuff they don’t want, and if that’s you, I understand. But if you are already registered, or don’t mine registering, I would really appreciate your vote. The top 5 vote getters go on to the next round, which means someone (or many someones) will READ my book and judge it accordingly. I’d really like to get in that round. So please vote!

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #15

Dates read: April 5-10
Title: The Third to Die
Year of publication: 2020
Author: Allison Brennan
Genre: Crime/Suspense
Series: Mobile Response Team #1
# of Pages: 458
Paper or plastic: Hardback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Book:. An edgy female police detective… An ambitious FBI special agent… Together they are at the heart of the ticking-clock investigation for a psychopathic serial killer. The bond they forge in this crucible sets the stage for high-stakes suspense.
    Detective Kara Quinn, on leave from the LAPD, is on an early morning jog in her hometown of Liberty Lake when she comes upon the body of a young nurse. The manner of death shows a pattern of highly controlled rage.
    Meanwhile in DC, FBI special agent Mathias Costa is staffing his newly minted Mobile Response Team. Word reaches Matt that the Liberty Lake murder fits the profile of the compulsive Triple Killer. It will be the first case for the MRT. This time they have a chance to stop this zealous if elusive killer before he strikes again But only if they can figure out who he is and where he is hiding before he disappears for another three years. The stakes are higher than ever before because if they fail, one of their own will be next…
My thoughts: It was a little more procedural than I like in my crime/suspense. This might be a series where I wait until it’s out in paperback before I read the next one.

I have more good news, too. I finished the first draft of Ghostly Protector! How sweet is that? I’m taking a mini writing break now, especially since I’m signed up for a couple of classes this month. It’s nice to be able to just concentrate on those, although it also feels weird not writing, too.

My next book might be in the Bitten by Love series. A friend asked for a certain couple. Now, this was a couple I hadn’t thought about writing, but once she put that thought in my head, the characters started talking to me. Now I have to write it. Right? Because I’m sure it’ll be difficult to shut them up!

Happy Reading!

Stacy