Author Archives: Alicia Dean

Alicia Dean's avatar

About Alicia Dean

Author of paranormal and romantic suspense. Follow her on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/pages/Alicia-Dean/131939826889437) or twiiter (https://twitter.com/Alicia_Dean_)
August 2, 2016 · 1:23 pm

Tuesday Two-Minute Writing Tip – Creating Characters that Resonate

Got two minutes? Then check out this week’s quick tip ~ Ways to make your characters memorable.

Hello and welcome…I am a freelance editor and an editor for The Wild Rose Press, as well as an author. I often struggle with my own writing, and I have found that sometimes, a little reminder of ways to improve the process can be helpful, so, I like to share these moments of brilliance with others :). But, in this busy world of ours, who has time for pages and pages of writing tips? That’s why I’ve condensed mine down to quick flashes you can read in (approximately) two minutes. Enjoy…

TWoMinuteTip

Disclaimer: All of my tips are suggestions, and are only my opinion. And, for the most part, there are exceptions when going against my advice will make your story read better. Take what works, leave the rest.

 

One of my weaknesses is characterization, so please don’t think that I think that I actually FOLLOW all of these suggestions. However, many of my Tuesday Tips, as I’ve mentioned, are things I need to work on myself. This is one of them.

Remember, characters to not only have to be likable, they have to be real, relatable, and memorable. And, please, please, do not make them perfect. Do you know any perfect people? Do you know those who THINK they are perfect? How irritating are they? See, you don’t want your characters to irritate your readers. 🙂

A few ways to create characters readers will want to hang out with:

  • Have a character do something. Don’t just let them sit around waiting for things to happen to them, have them make things happen. This is something I often fail at, but I am working to improve.
  • Characters should do the unexpected. Especially in the beginning. If you want readers to connect with your character and your story, you need to surprise and intrigue them. Although it’s one of my older books, I loved writing the opening scene of Heart of the Witch. The story opened in the POV of a serial killer who had a victim in his clutches. I’ve read tons of books like this, and don’t get me wrong, I enjoy them. But, with mine, I decided to change things up a bit. My killer was being all twisted and threatening and delighting in what he was about to do. However, the tables turned on him when his ‘victim’ used her witchy powers to set his genitals on fire. As it turned out, she was the heroine of the story. 
  • A symbol/trait/catch phrase/habit/object, etc, or any combination thereof (but don’t go overboard). Give your character something tangible and something intangible to make them more vivid and ‘real.’ Who can think of Scarlett O’Hara without thinking of ‘Fiddle dee-dee!’ and Tara?
  • Give your character contradictions. For example, in my Isle of Fangs series, I have a vampire hunter who is afraid of blood. That allows for some interesting (I hope) conflict.
  • Have them want something different from what they need. In Devil’s Promenade, Camille wants to prove the spook light legend to be false for the book she’s writing, but she needs to believe in the supernatural, so she can help a ghost find closure.

So…what do you think? Do you have some character creating tips to share with us?

Until next time…Happy Writing!

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Get your  two-minute tips all in one handy reference guide:

(Click on the cover to be taken to the Amazon Buy Page)

2 minute writing tip final

 

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*** If you would like to send me a few sample pages (around 7500 words or so, even though I will not edit that many on the blog. It just gives me more to choose from) for me to edit and share on an upcoming blog post, please do so in the body of an email to AliciaMDean@aol.com. Please use the subject line: “Blog Submission” This is for published or unpublished authors. In the email, please include whether you would like me to use your name or keep it anonymous, and whether or not you would like me to include any contact info or buy info for your books. Also, you can let me know if you would like for me to run my edits by you before posting on the blog. Please keep in mind, this is for samples to use for blog posts. I will not edit or use samples from all the submissions I receive, but I will use as many as possible. 

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16

How to write a novel? That is the question. There are probably as many answers to that question as there are people who ask it.

Wanting to write and actually doing it are two very different things. I am well acquainted with the sometimes grueling process of churning out a story. Over the years, I have tried many methods for creating and completing manuscripts, and have tweaked and honed it down to a workable (for me) process.

Using specific examples from one of my own novels, Without Mercy, I share my method in this mini how to book. The first eight steps actually deal with plotting while the last two are designed to help expand your outline into a well-developed draft. There is no one, perfect way to create a story, but there will be a method, or methods that work for you. I’m not sure if this is the one, but it works for me. Only you can decide if it also works for you. Fingers crossed that it does!

*** Warning – Please do not purchase without reading a sample. (This is solid advice for any book, fiction or non. If you are not intrigued in the sample, you will likely not enjoy the book)

Amazon: Click Here

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August 1, 2016 · 1:02 pm

Author Interview with Sylvia Hubbard – New Release: Tanner’s Devil

Please help me welcome the lovely Sylvia Hubbard with an interesting interview and her latest release!

Where did you get the idea for your new novel, Tanner’s Devil?

I was researching another novel and came across street doctors and loved that I could put a woman in the place of a “profession” little knew about, but with a past. I loved the tainted unperfect woman kind of story that was not looking for love but found the most perfect man for her. Combining her past, with this story line, I created Tanner’s Devil.

Why did you choose this genre?

I’ve always loved the romance suspense genre since I was in my twenties. When I was young, I fell in love with romance the moment I stole a Johanna Lindsay book from the library (which I later replaced when I was in my thirties because I didn’t want to go to hell). Yet, I didn’t want just a straight romance. Growing up in Detroit, I never saw a straight romance in real life and because of what I know being an urban girl, going romance suspense was the only way to go.

Was there anything unusual, any anecdote about this book you’d like to share?

Love is never perfect, but it’s the imperfect people who try to fall in love make love perfect.

What was the most difficult thing about writing this book?

Making Devlin face his past as well. He’d been put on a pedestal by everyone and as his life is falling apart, he comes to realize maybe everything he’s meant to believe even about himself  is not true. He needs Tanner’s voice as much as he needs her love to see the truth.

What do you love that most people don’t like and wouldn’t understand why you do?

I hand write my stories before I type them. I’ve used electrical pens to keep track of my writing because I kept losing pieces of paper. I also must have it loud and not quiet, like some writers. Due to the fact that I am a single mom and I needed the noise the kids made to make sure they weren’t hurt, now that they are grown, I continue to need a lot of noise outside of my head in order to hear the quiet voice of storytelling in my head.

What’s the main thing that you could get rid of in your life that would give you more writing time?

Facebook. I think you could agree.

What do you want readers to come away with after they read your book?

Imperfect people need love too.

What genre have you never written that you’d like to write?

I’ve love to write sci-fi and hope to do a three part book on YA Sci-Fi with a religious twist called The Trinity soon. I want to incorporate faith, fallacy and fiction for those who have forgotten about mercy.

Fantastic interview…yes, I agree about Facebook. And, I also love Romantic Suspense!! 🙂 

Check out Sylvia’s great cover and intriguing book…

 

ACSylviaHubbardTannersDevilBookCover

What does an ex-prostitute, duke and pimp have to do with each other in 21st Century Detroit?

Excerpt:

“Take off your clothes.”

Would that mean this cornbread fed giant take off his? And if he did would he look just as magnificent without his clothes as he did with clothes?

Using this opportunity to move away from him and catch her own breath, she walked over to the bed to place the cell phone and condoms there. He hadn’t followed her and Tanner looked down at the candle to gather her own thoughts together. He’s just some weird perv john probably from the boondocks Michigan trying to get a taste of city life before he goes back to Pinkie, Michigan.

That had been a running joke when she had been out in the life doing this all the time. Pinkie, Michigan was actually nowhere, but it was a terminology used occasionally to say that since Michigan was shaped by a glove this was where this john was from – where no one black in their right mind would be, so they came down here to Detroit to taste life by requesting a black girl to their room.

Concentrating on the candlelight, she pushed off the peach summer dress along with her underwear over her boots and kicked them off.

She started to unzip her boots, but he barked, “Leave’em.”

His hands came behind her and firmly gripped her waist. “Lay on the bed on your stomach,” he ordered.

She did as she was told and forced her rapidly beating heart to relax.

ADSylviaHubbardAuthorPhoto

Author Bio:

Detroit Author & Founder of Motown Writers Network, Sylvia Hubbard has published over 37 books on suspense romance and one book on Internet Marketing for Writers.

As a happily divorced mother of three, Ms Hubbard has received numerous awards and recognitions for her work such as the Spirit of Detroit from Detroit City Council and State of Michigan Governor’s Certificate of Tribute Emerging Minority Business Leader Award. She’s spoken all over the United States and Canada about independent publishing, social media, 21st Guide to Marketing Online & Offline for writers and authors, How Readers can make money promoting their favorite authors and even how to be a single mom.

Recognized as an avid blogger by HoneyTech Blogs, Ms. Hubbard runs over five blogs including How To Love A Black and has had five #1 Best Sellers on Amazon. Her current work is Tanner’s Devil and she has six books coming up in 2016, including four live stories on her website. http://sylviahubbard.com

Related websites:

www.SylviaHubbard.com

www.MotownWriters.com

www.HowToEBook.org

Social Media:

www.facebook.com/sylviahubbard

www.twitter.com/sylviahubbard1

www.instagram.com/sylviahubbard1

www.youtube.com/sylviahubbard1

www.periscope.tv/sylviahubbard1

www.snapchat.com/sylviahubbard

Get Your Copy of Tanner’s Devil at the following bookstore:

SMASHWORDS (ebook)| AMAZON (Paperback & Kindle) | B&N/Nook| Kobo Reader|  iTunes Apple Bookstore

Also Available in Paperback wherever books are sold 

Excerpt |Video

 

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July 29, 2016 · 12:27 pm

Ramblings of a Lifelong Elvis Fan – Part 82 – The Movies 23-25 (1967) – Easy Come, Easy Go – Clambake – Double Trouble

[INTRO: I am a die hard, card carrying Elvis fan and have been for as long as I can remember. There is so much about Elvis to love; his incredible singing voice, his generous spirit, his looks (the most gorgeous man ever), his movies (yes, his movies. They make me happy, so critics can just shush), his service in the army, his magical presence on stage, his transcendent charisma, and…I could go on and on. As a matter of fact, on my 50th post, I believe it was, I DID go on and on. I listed 50 things I love about Elvis. It wasn’t difficult. I am an author and I mention Elvis in almost every story I write. I named my son Presley. I was fortunate to see Elvis in concert three times. I have been to Graceland five times… See? I love Elvis. I have been blogging weekly for more than a year, but going forward, I will blog every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month. My life is insanely busy and I found myself missing weeks from time to time. This way, I’m more likely to be consistent. Hopefully, even if you are not an Elvis fan, you appreciate something about him and will find my posts interesting. Feel free to comment. Thank you so much for stopping by!]

Easy Come, Easy Go:

Not one of my top Elvis movies, but as long as I can look at him, I enjoy ANY of his movies.  I didn’t feel Elvis and his love interest had much chemistry, and Elvis usually has great chemistry with his leading ladies. Also, their love story didn’t really develop. They didn’t have many moments or sexual tension, etc, but at the end, they were just together.

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About: Elvis plays Lt. Ted Jackson, a Navy frogman who recently got out of the service and is singing for a living. He discovers a buried treasure and decides to go after it. The treasure belonged to the grandfather of Elvis’ love interest (played by Dodie Marshall who was also in Spinout). She is none too pleased to learn Elvis is after it, but she decides to help him after extracting a promise that he’ll donate the money to a commune for her hippie artsy friends. Someone else is after the treasure too, and although there are some dicey moments at the end, with a little help from his friends, Elvis gets the treasure and the girl. However, they discover the coins are not gold and are almost worthless. The ‘team’ donates their shares to the girl anyway, so she has enough to help her friends. 

Side notes: The move was originally planned by Paramount as a vehicle for Jan and Dean, but after a train wreck that injured them an many of their crew, the project ws scrapped and the script was rewritten for Elvis.

This was the last movie Elvis and Hal Wallis did together.

The director, John Rich, is the only director in Elvis’ movie career he didn’t get along with. He’d also directed Roustabout. While filming a scene in Easy Come, Easy Go, Elvis and Red West kept screwing up and laughing. The director was pissed and threw all of Elvis’ buddies out. Elvis was furious. He told the director and producers, “Now, just a minute. We’re doing these movies because it’s supposed to be fun, nothing more. Now when they cease to be fun, then we’ll cease to do them.” 

Favorite Song: I wasn’t crazy about the songs in this movie, but I suppose my favorite would be You Gotta Stop. The title song isn’t bad. 

Favorite Scene: It would probably have to be him in the all-black shirt and pants doing yoga. Adorable!

 

Double Trouble:

I enjoyed this movie because it was different, since it took place in Europe and had sort of a crime caper feel to it. It was actually filmed in California. Other than when in the army, Elvis never visited Europe.  Elvis had many scenes in fog,  which is very sexy. 🙂

 

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About: Elvis plays Guy Lambert, an American singer who falls for a teenage heiress whose uncle, it turns out, is trying to kill her. They are chased and murder is attempted throughout the movie until the end, where the bad guys are caught and Elvis gets the girl. 

Side Notes: An Elvis fan bought a jacket as a gift to Elvis. Elvis told her to watch the movie carefully when it came out. The film came out and she saw that the jacket was in the suitcase which belongs to Elvis’ character on film.

This was the first and only movie Annette Day (his leading lady) ever made.

Elvis gave Annette a sports car as a gift, which she later gave to her brother.

Favorite Song: Probably Long-Legged Girl. 

Favorite Scenes: I loved any of the scenes where he fought. And there was a really sexy part where he threw a chair through a glass window. I loved this line after the rich uncle says that as a musician Elvis can’t have much money. Then he says, “I didn’t mean to offend.” Elvis says, “I’m not  offended, I’m just in a hurry. I don’t want to lose my place in the brad line.” In this really annoyed sexy way. (Are you sensing a ‘sexy’ theme to my recap of Elvis movies???) 🙂

 

Clambake

LOVE this movie. Sigh…Elvis was so sexy and I always love Shelley Fabares as his leading lady. And, Bill Bixby is in it, and I loved watching him in Elvis movies. He plays the perfect cad in Clambake. This was another movie where people said Elvis was fat. UGH…SO not true.

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About: Elvis plays Scott Heyward, the rich son of a rich oil field magnate who is discouraged because he feels women only love him for his money. (Yeah, right!). He takes off for some ‘me-time’ and heads to Miami Beach. On the way, he meets poor water ski instructor, Tom Wilson, and they switch identities so Scott can see what it’s like to have people know him for who he really is. He meets Shelley (Dianne), who is there to look for a rich man and finds him in the form of Bill Bixby. But, of course, she ends up falling for Elvis, he wins the boat race and all live Happily Ever After. One reason I love this movie so much is that there was true chemistry between Elvis and Shelley, and there were some emotional, angsty moments that I always enjoy. You could really see the romance develop, which was lacking in some of his films.  

Side Notes: 

The movie was set in Florida but filmed in California. In some shots, you can see the California mountains in the background. 🙂

Elvis was becoming more discouraged with his film career at the time this movie was made and he and his buddies pulled more shenanigans than usual on the set.

Elvis’ character used a mobile phone and the gas station attendant remarked something to the effect of, “That must be one heck of a long cord.”

One of the children at the playground during the song “Confidence” is Corbin Bernsen.

Lee Majors visited the set and filmed a cameo; he can be seen in the background of the restaurant scene, wearing a fake mustache.

Favorite Song: Probably “You Don’t Know Me” – Check it out here: 


Favorite Scene:  Just before he sings the above song. Shelley comes to see him before her big date with Jameson (Bill Bixby) and the scene is charged with sexual tension. She turns to leave and Elvis says, “Hey, come here.” (in this cave-man sexy way) She returns to him and he takes her hanky from her purse and says, “Blot.” He blots her lips and then tosses the hanky away aggressively and tugs her hair out of its pins and settles it loosely around her shoulders. He gives her a smoldering look and says, “Unless Jameson is blind, maybe he can see the forest for the trees.” Sigh…

Thank you for joining me. Have you seen these movies? What did you think? 

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EOLS Charity

Elvis was known for his giving heart and charitable work during his lifetime. Lisa Marie and Elvis Presley Enterprises have continued that tradition with their involvement in various charities. In 1984, The Elvis Charitable Foundation was formed. The EPCF created a scholarship fund for students majoring in the arts. The charity also contributes to one of Elvis’ favorite charities, Goodwill Homes, a Memphis facility that provides counseling and services for abused children and their families. The EPCF also assists numerous other charities, especially focusing on arts, education and children’s programs.

Learn more here, including how to donate:

http://www.graceland.com/epcf/

END OF LONELY STREET – Now Only 99 Cents!

On Elvis’ birthday this year, I released a Vintage Romance short story set in 1957, and of course, my heroine is an Elvis fan. 🙂 As a tribute to Elvis’ generosity, and in order to assist with this worthy cause, 10% of my proceeds for End of Lonely Street will go to the EPCF.

EndofLonelyStreet_w9180_FINAL

All Toby Lawson wants is to go to college to become a teacher and to be free of her alcoholic mother and some painful memories. But when her mother nearly burns the house down, Toby must put her dreams on hold and return home to care for her. The only time she isn’t lonely and miserable is when she’s listening to her heartthrob, Elvis Presley. His music takes her away and helps her escape from everything wrong in her life.

Noah Rivers has always loved Toby, but no matter what he says, she can‘t get past the fact that her drunken mother once kissed him. He soon realizes the true problem lies in Toby’s belief she’s not good enough for him and in her fear she will be just like her mother.

What will it take to prove to her that she deserves to be happy, and that he would give anything to be the man to make her dreams come true?

Click Here for Kindle

Click Here for Nook

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July 26, 2016 · 10:59 am

Tuesday Two-Minute Writing Tip – Don’t Do What I Did

Got two minutes? Then check out this week’s quick tip ~ Some examples of my errors and how to avoid the same.

Hello and welcome…I am a freelance editor and an editor for The Wild Rose Press, as well as an author. I often struggle with my own writing, and I have found that sometimes, a little reminder of ways to improve the process can be helpful, so, I like to share these moments of brilliance with others :). But, in this busy world of ours, who has time for pages and pages of writing tips? That’s why I’ve condensed mine down to quick flashes you can read in (approximately) two minutes. Enjoy…

TWoMinuteTip

Disclaimer: All of my tips are suggestions, and are only my opinion. And, for the most part, there are exceptions when going against my advice will make your story read better. Take what works, leave the rest.

Without Mercy 07-09-16

Nothing can bring a story to life like listening to it on audio. I am currently in the process of having Without Mercy made into an audio book. My narrator is fantastic. She is so good that sometimes, I’m caught up in my own story, and I’m anxious to see what happens next, even though I know exactly what happens next. 🙂

On the down side, it also brings mistakes or poorly worded sentences to light in full blown clarity. Some of the issues I’ve ‘heard,’ and this doesn’t include just good old-fashioned typos and such, are…

Times when I use pronouns when I should use proper names:

1 – “Shut up.” Royce whacked the butt of the gun into his chin. Steve’s head jerked back, and he grunted in pain.

~ Sure, it’s obvious Royce wouldn’t whack the butt of the gun into his OWN chin, but this part still took me out of the story for a second. Would have been better off to word it as: 

“Shut up.” Royce whacked the butt of the gun into Steve’s chin. Steve’s head jerked back, and he grunted in pain.

2 – During the trip up, Aiden had removed the handcuffs, and Bishop made a few calls to Royce with updates, making him think all was going according to plan. He seemed convinced he had to help them for the safety of his family.

~ Better: 

Bishop seemed convinced he had to help them for the safety of his family.

3 – Bishop trailed behind him as if concerned he’d rob the place. “I don’t know what you expect to find.”

Aiden shrugged. “Maybe nothing.”

He rifled through dresser drawers, kitchen drawers, every potential hiding place.

~ Better: Aiden rifled through dresser drawers, kitchen drawers, every potential hiding place

It’s preferable to repeat names than to have readers pause or be confused, even a little.

Unnecessary information:

“Steve, I’m sorry, I told you, Emma’s ill, and I don’t think—”

“Steve!” Emma’s voice sang out from behind her, and China cringed. Damn, she was hoping to send him on his way before Emma found out he was here. “I missed you!”

If you read the entire section and know the context, it’s obvious that China was hoping Steve would leave without Emma seeing him. This part just sounds telling: she was hoping to send him on his way before Emma found out he was here. I should have eliminated that phrase completely. 

Poor word choice:

He was comfortable, a rock. Exactly what she needed.

A rock is comfortable? I don’t think so. Better: 

He was comfortable, solid, a rock. Exactly what she needed.

Misplaced modifier:

Moments later, coming from outside, he heard a grunt and a strangled yell.

~ Sounds like he was coming from outside. Better: 

Moments later, he heard a grunt and a strangled yell coming from outside.

Yes, I used a filter word, ‘heard’ as well. I could have done this:

Moments later, a grunt and a strangled yell came from outside

As many times as I went over this manuscript, those issues never occurred to me. But, with some distance and hearing it all read aloud, I’m picking up on things that need improvement. I know I’ve previously suggested reading aloud into a recorder, but I want to reiterate and show examples of issues you might not notice until you do.  So, if you can, set your story aside for at least a few weeks, a month is preferable. And, definitely read it aloud into a recorder. Or, ask someone else to read it for you. You’ll be amazed at what you pick up. You can also have a PDF read aloud to you, or you can have your Kindle read aloud to you. Those voices can be a little robotic, but it’s much less time consuming than reading it all yourself.  😉

Until next time…Happy Writing!

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NEW RELEASE – Now Available 

(Click on the cover to be taken to the Amazon Buy Page)

2 minute writing tip final

 

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*** If you would like to send me a few sample pages (around 7500 words or so, even though I will not edit that many on the blog. It just gives me more to choose from) for me to edit and share on an upcoming blog post, please do so in the body of an email to AliciaMDean@aol.com. Please use the subject line: “Blog Submission” This is for published or unpublished authors. In the email, please include whether you would like me to use your name or keep it anonymous, and whether or not you would like me to include any contact info or buy info for your books. Also, you can let me know if you would like for me to run my edits by you before posting on the blog. Please keep in mind, this is for samples to use for blog posts. I will not edit or use samples from all the submissions I receive, but I will use as many as possible. 

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16

How to write a novel? That is the question. There are probably as many answers to that question as there are people who ask it.

Wanting to write and actually doing it are two very different things. I am well acquainted with the sometimes grueling process of churning out a story. Over the years, I have tried many methods for creating and completing manuscripts, and have tweaked and honed it down to a workable (for me) process.

Using specific examples from one of my own novels, Without Mercy, I share my method in this mini how to book. The first eight steps actually deal with plotting while the last two are designed to help expand your outline into a well-developed draft. There is no one, perfect way to create a story, but there will be a method, or methods that work for you. I’m not sure if this is the one, but it works for me. Only you can decide if it also works for you. Fingers crossed that it does!

*** Warning – Please do not purchase without reading a sample. (This is solid advice for any book, fiction or non. If you are not intrigued in the sample, you will likely not enjoy the book)

Amazon: Click Here

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July 23, 2016 · 11:36 am

Author Linda Bailey Interview ~ On a Knife’s Edge

Please help me welcome Lynda Bailey with an author interview and her new release: ON A KNIFE’S EDGE 

 

  1. Where did you get the idea for ON A KNIFE’S EDGE? Why did you choose this genre? What was the most difficult thing about writing this book?

The original idea for On a Knife’s Edge started percolating in my head 6 or 7 years ago when a local news reporter came and spoke to our writers’ group. She had an interesting perceptive about some of the dealings of a neighboring county’s sheriff department, and my imagination was off to the races. 🙂 Over the years, the plot obviously morphed and changed until it became the final product. OAKE is the first romantic suspense I’ve written – and it very well may be my last…though I’ve learned the hard way never to say never.

I found having to sustain a proper level of suspense/mystery that complimented the romance to be quite the challenge. And because I’d never written anything like this before, there were countless times when I had to chuck what I was working on and go back to square one. As a result, this book took me over  eighteen months to write and publish. Something I’m in no hurry to repeat.

  1. Are there any tricks or habits you use when creating a story?

I’m a total plotter so the first thing I do when starting a new project is get a bead on the main characters’ GMC – goal, motivation and conflict. Once I get that dialed in, I usually (though not always) write the blurb. This helps me to finalize my H/h’s GMC. Then it’s just a matter of going through the story, point by agonizing point, and fleshing out the whats and the whys of the plot.

  1. What do you want readers to come away with after they read ON A KNIFE’S EDGE?

What I hope readers take away from not just OAKE, but all my books is a sense of emotional satisfaction. They bought, they read, and now they’re happy.

  1. Would you rather have a bad review or no review?

A bad review absolutely. It can help you make your next book better.

  1. What is your favorite quote?

“You fail only if you stop writing” Ray Bradbury

  1. What celebrity would you most like to be stranded on an island with?

Ooh…tough question… I think I’d hafta say it’s a tossup between Robert Downey Junior and Chris Hemsworth. Both are beyond swoon worthy…

 

Great interview, Lynda. I agree, writing suspense is a challenge, but it’s my favorite, so I keep putting myself through the torture. 🙂 LOVE the quote. And, your book sounds awesome. Thanks so much for joining me!

Leave a comment for the chance to win one of the following eBooks…

BATTLE-BORN LOVE

BATTLE-TESTED LOVE

EROTIC ESCAPADES OF A MARRIED COUPLE

NAUGHTY NEIGHBORHOOD

ON THE CORNER OF HEARTACHE AND HOPEFUL – MIC

ON THE CORNER OF HEARTACHE AND HOPEFUL – KIRA

ON THE CORNER OF HEARTACHE AND HOPEFUL – GRACE

SHATTERED TRUST

WILDFLOWER

 

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Blurb

She was once his sweet salvation…

Lynch Callan has been a dead man walking most of his life—nothing out of the ordinary for a member of the 5th Street biker gang. There was a brief period, though, when she made him believe he could be more. That he could be worthy of her, and her love. To protect her, and keep their relationship from being discovered, he went to prison. Except now the Streeters are in danger. But in order to save his crew, he must first betray them. If caught, he’ll end up dead for sure. It’ll be the mother of all balancing acts—especially with her in the picture. But Lynch will do whatever is necessary to protect the people he loves. 

He was once her deepest desire…

Shasta Albright doesn’t break the rules. Not anymore. As an unruly teenager, she defied her family at every turn…even secretly befriending, then dating, then falling in love with a bad boy Streeter. Finally her recklessness caught up with her—with lasting and even dire consequences. Now she leads a pristine existence, always staying within the lines and keeping her secrets hidden. That is until he gets released from prison. Can Shasta hold her perfect world together, or will everything get hurled into chaos?

With young girls going missing, the sleepy town of Stardust, Nevada becomes an unlikely epicenter for an illicit slave trade—with Shasta and Lynch caught in the middle. Amidst the rising body count, they fight to keep their loved ones—and each other—safe. A single slipup could have deadly repercussions. It’s an untenable and treacherous position. Much like walking On a Knife’s Edge…

Excerpt

A loud thump from the bedrooms jolted Shasta’s heart. She hastened to her feet. Adjusting her sweaty hold on Newman’s gun, she tiptoed toward the unlit hallway. Slow, steady footsteps approached.

“Agent Newman?”

No answer. But the footfalls grew nearer.

She retreated as an indistinguishable figure gradually walked forward. She knew it was a man, but she also realized it wasn’t Agent Newman. This man was taller and not as broad in the shoulders.

The first thing she saw were his shoes. Even in the weak illumination, she could tell they were expensive, with a polished shine. Next came slacks with crisp, tight creases. Newman wore a disheveled suit.

“Agent…Newman?” She hated that her voice quaked.

“No…not Agent Newman.”

Shasta recoiled at the familiar baritone voice.

Buy Links

Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Knifes-Edge-Lynda-Bailey-ebook/dp/B01GALSKHM?ie=UTF8&*Version*=1&*entries*=0#nav-subnav

B&N

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1124065619;jsessionid=164B0CF593640F94E223D098BFC53460.prodny_store01-atgap05?ean=2940153177632

Kobo

https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/on-a-knife-s-edge

 

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Bio

I have no doubt I was born a storyteller.

I remember telling my first “story” in kindergarten. I informed my teacher, Mrs. Downing, that my mom had just had a baby boy. She hadn’t, of course, and while I got thoroughly admonished for my “storytelling,” I wasn’t deterred from what would become a lifelong passion.

From making up tales as a kid which centered around my favorite TV shows to today, I love telling stories! Stories with handsome guys and spunky gals, that always…always end with a happily-ever-after.

My romances are full of passion, with heat levels that range from hot to sizzling! I’ve been a finalist in numerous writing contests, including RWA’s® prestigious Golden Heart® in 2010. Please join me for laughter, love and that all important HEA.

 

Stalker Links

Website: https://www.lyndabailey.net

Blog: http://www.lyndabailey.net/category/blog/

Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/LyndaBaileyRomanceAuthor

Twitter: https://twitter.com/authorlyndab

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/baileylynda/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6472849.Lynda_Bailey

Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Lynda-Bailey/e/B007UQHW9E/

 

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July 21, 2016 · 9:41 am

Author Kris Bock, on Finding Inspiration in the Southwest

Please help me welcome today’s guest, Kris Bock, with an interesting and informative article, plus some books that look like great reads!

Finding Inspiration in the Southwest

I live in New Mexico, and the Southwest inspires my work, as I bring suspense with a dose of romance to the land I love. Here are some of my favorite spots – heavy on the adventure.

Socorro: For most people, this town in the middle of the state is mainly a rest stop between Albuquerque and El Paso, except in October/November when huge flocks of cranes and snow geese fly in to the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge. But as a local, I know the special sites nearby. Hikes can take you out in the desert or up to the mountains, visiting native petroglyphs or hunting for fossils. Hundreds of rock climbing routes provide adventures for anyone, beginners to experts. Plus, you have a good chance of seeing unusual wildlife, from roadrunners to foxes to great horned owls.

In my treasure hunting adventure, The Mad Monk’s Treasure, the heroine and her best friend hunt for the lost Victorio Peak treasure, a real Southwest legend about a heretic Spanish priest’s gold mine, made richer by the spoils of bandits and an Apache raider. I drew on personal experiences hiking in the desert for Erin and Camie’s adventures – though fortunately I’ve never stumbled on a rattlesnake nest or gotten caught in a flash flood!

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My treasure hunting series now includes three books, which stand alone, with no cliffhangers. The second, The Dead Man’s Treasure, also has scenes in Socorro, as well as at other sites around the state. (I’d name them, but that would involve spoilers. In the novel, the heroine has the chance to inherit a fortune – if she can decipher clues that lead her on a treasure hunt.)

My most recent novel, The Skeleton Canyon Treasure, also starts in Socorro. From there, Camie and her feisty cat Tiger help a burly geologist who says he’s searching for his missing uncle. But can they trust him? Their adventure takes them into southeastern Arizona, including the famous town of Tombstone. My husband and I have visited Tombstone several times. It’s touristy, but still fun and full of the history of famous gunslingers and gunfights, such as the shootout at the O.K. corral.

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Jemez Springs: This small town in the mountains of northwestern New Mexico is known for its hot springs. You can also visit the ruins of an old Spanish church; Soda Dam, a cool rock formation formed from the mineralized water flowing in the river; and Battleship Rock, so named because it resembles the prow of a battleship. (Pictures on my Pinterest page.)

I’ve attended many writing retreats at a camp north of the town, and those experiences inspired Counterfeits. Of course, in the book, the site isn’t quite so relaxing. When Jenny inherits a children’s art camp, she discovers that her grandmother’s death might not have been an accident after all. The men who killed her grandmother are searching for stolen paintings, and they think Jenny and her old friend Rob, the camp cook, are involved. Doing research at a real camp tucked away in the woods, and hiking above Battleship Rock for a scene where Jenny gets lost, helped the setting feel realistic.

Hovenweep National Monument: This one is not actually in New Mexico, but it’s close. Located on the southern border between Colorado and Utah, these ruins once housed 2500 people between A.D. 1200 and 1300. It’s one of many sites left behind by the ancestral Puebloans, also known as the Anasazi. It’s a small site, but that’s part of its charm, as you can hike and camp without crowds.

In my romantic suspense Whispers in the Dark, my heroine is an archaeology Masters student working at the fictional “Lost Valley” monument, which is closely based on Hovenweep. The lonely location allows for an almost Gothic atmosphere – mysterious lights in the canyon, spooky moaning sounds, and plenty of people hiding secrets.

Whispers in the DARK

Lincoln County: What We Found is loosely based the mountain resort town of Ruidoso. The forested town at nearly 7000 feet elevation is not what most people probably imagine when they think of New Mexico. Yet it seemed like the perfect place for the story of Audra, a young woman who stumbles on a dead body in the woods. More than one person isn’t happy about her bringing the murder to light, and in a small town, it’s hard to avoid people who wish you ill.

What We Found was inspired by the true experience of finding a body, as I described in this blog post. I also spent time with a man who raises falcons and hawks (photos on my Pinterest page), and that comes into play in the story. It’s real-life adventures like these, both good and bad, that make New Mexico a great place for a writer!

Leave a comment for a chance to win an e-book copy of one of these books. Let me know your favorite spot in the Southwest, or where you’d like to visit if you have the chance.

 

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Kris Bock writes novels of suspense and romance with outdoor adventures and Southwestern landscapes. The Mad Monk’s Treasure follows the hunt for a long-lost treasure in the New Mexico desert. In The Dead Man’s Treasure, estranged relatives compete to reach a buried treasure by following a series of complex clues. Whispers in the Dark features archaeology and intrigue among ancient Southwest ruins. What We Found is a mystery with strong romantic elements about a young woman who finds a murder victim in the woods. In Counterfeits, stolen Rembrandt paintings bring danger to a small New Mexico town.

Read excerpts at www.krisbock.com or visit her Amazon page. Sign up for Kris Bock newsletter for announcements of new books, sales, and more.

Kris Bock’s Newsletter signup

Kris Bock website

Kris Bock’s Amazon page

Kris Bock at B&N/Nook

Kris Bock at Smashwords

Kris Bock at iTunes

Kris Bock at All Romance Ebooks

Kris Bock on GoodReads

Kris Bock on Facebook

Kris Bock on Twitter

Kris Bock on Pinterest

 

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July 20, 2016 · 10:08 am

Min Edwards: Co-Authoring a Novel

Please help me welcome today’s guest, Min Edwards. She’s talking about a subject that has always intrigued me…

Co-Authoring a Novel

Min Edwards

Up until my recent work-in-progress, I was an author of contemporary romance and romantic suspense. The scene of each novel was set in the fictional village of Stone Bay, Maine, a place loosely based on my own village of Lubec, Maine, the most eastern town in the U.S. People flock to our lighthouse on New Year’s morning, if they can make their way through the snow, to view the first light falling on America. We’ve had some pretty severe winters lately, so the ‘flock’ is more like a ‘meeting of friends’, a very small meeting.

But I’ve left Stone Bay behind for a while for my true passion… Archaeology. And I’ve taken on a co-author, L.W. (Linda) Ellis. We’re both professional archaeologists with advanced degrees, mine from The University of Texas at Austin and hers from The University of Texas at San Antonio. Linda is semi-retired and continues to do work as an analytical specialist under contract with other archaeologists. I retired from archaeological illustration a couple of professions ago when I decided to open an independent bookstore/wine bar in 2004. But our passion for the profession remains undimmed.

This sounds cool, doesn’t it? And it is, or will be when we’ve ironed out all the wrinkles and finished the book, The Ruby Eye, Book 1 in the TARE: Talon Archaeological Research and Exploration Series. The problem as I see it is that we started off with a complete novel—that doesn’t work, or isn’t working for us. I’m a ‘fill in the blanks’ writer, leaving lots of holes in a story to fill with description or characterization later. My co-author is not a ‘fill in the holes’ writer. It makes her crazy I think when she sees a comment, ‘fill this in later.’ So this was our first stumbling block, but we’re getting through it and have learned a lesson.

Also, I struggle with description. My descriptive black hole is probably because during my years in archaeology I spent most of my time at a drafting table drawing maps, cross-sections, artifacts. I never actually had to describe anything with words! I illustrated them! Yes, I was an archaeological illustrator, one of the few in the country who actually had an advanced degree in Archaeology! And I worked in a repository (The Texas Archeological Research Laboratory at The University of Texas at Austin) used by the entire State of Texas… a place where archaeologists stored their artifacts and notes for their projects. They’d done this for decades and our collections were incredible. I was immersed. Really, I never thought about context; I focused on the physical. I needed to feel that stone tool in my hot little hands.

Linda on the other hand did field work and wrote reports about what was found. She also studied ceramics, both from a descriptive macro view as well as looking at the clays microscopically. She knew how to describe what she was seeing so that the rest of our colleagues could understand without having been on site what the importance of the project was. She’s the perfect person to write an archaeological adventure novel. She can describe a site in words that will make the reader believe they’re sitting in the dirt with their Marshalltown Trowel and a paint brush, whisking sediment away from a 13,000 year old spear point, the sweat running down their face, the sun beating down on their back, fire ants making a home in their shorts!

So Linda was the perfect choice as a co-author. She not only made her living describing things… with words… she’s a genius in detecting holes in a plot and when to kick my fanny for not using my words. She brought this home to me not long ago with this email: I know this scene is clear in your mind, but readers can’t get these descriptions by osmosis. You need to use your words! What does the village look like? Was the morning cloudy or crystal clear? Can someone standing on the beach see the mountains across the waters of the bay?

And she’s correct. I spent time in the location of this story, Lingayen Gulf, the Philippine island of Luzon. I remember every leaf, every grain of sand, every snake slithering out of the cane fields. We just need to make sure our readers can see these things, too.

So here we are, muddling our way through this ‘finished’ novel—adding, subtracting, polishing. And we’re saying to ourselves… co-authoring has to be easier than this.

And we’re correct, it has to be. Not only do we love the way this story is going now, and it’s a relief that so much dialogue and plot are already in place, but we’re beginning to get an idea of the organization that we need to write the next books in this series.

And you might ask, “You didn’t have any idea of organization when you started?”

Nope, I didn’t. Linda probably did because she thinks differently about writing than I do. She’s a plotter, an outliner. I’m a ‘sit down at the computer and jump in’ kind of writer. I don’t have a clue where the story will go until it gets there. This is probably the reason why my debut novel needed 17 versions before my editor deemed it ‘done.’

So the first things on our To-Do list before starting the next novel will be:

1) Plot the whole story including all the characters and their development. We’ll do this by writing a ‘bible’ of the story, building the hero, heroine and secondary characters’ personalities and histories even though we’ll probably never use this information in the novel. But we’ll know our characters, by gum!

2) Decide on our individual roles. Each take a character? Each take a chapter or scene? We’ll probably do this for each novel so we don’t find ourselves stuck in just one role.

3) Before going further into plotting another story in the series, we’ll need to plot a novella setting up the TARE company (Talon Archaeological Research and Exploration), a division of Talon Global, Marc Talon, owner. And we’ve already begun his ‘bible.’ We’ve learned something already.

4) We’ll be talking to other authors who’ve attempted co-authoring. Tips are always appreciated.

Follow along with us on our Facebook page at TalonArcheo to see what we’re learning along the way. There’ll be excerpts, triumphs and failures (we hope not too many of those), and of course, interesting stories about archaeology.

Oh wow, thank you, Min. This is fascinating, helpful information. I’ll be sure to file it away in case I decide to collaborate on a novel. Speaking of novels…OMG…your cover…a shark!! LOVE it!!

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Min Edwards is the pen name of Pam Headrick, owner of A Thirsty Mind Book Design. She holds advanced degrees in Anthropology with a focus on archaeology and geography as well as geology and art. She’s published four novels in two series: Stone Bay Contemporary Romance and High Tide Romantic Suspense. And later this summer will publish the last (perhaps) novel in the High Tide series, Precious Stone.

You can visit with her or contact her on her website at www.minedwards.com or her business site at www.athristymind.com. Her Amazon Author’s page lists her current titles published in digital and print format, Stone Bay, Stone Cold, Stone Heart and Stone Fall.

You can also find her on social media:

Blog

Twitter @ MEdwards Author

Facebook @ Author Min Edwards

Facebook @ TalonArcheo

Goodreads @ Author Min Edwards

Pinterest @ Min Edwards

 

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As a professional archeologist, Linda (the L. in L.W. Ellis) spent more than 25 years delving into the interesting nuances of past civilizations. She’s a contributing author to more than 100 professional reports and journal articles, and writes an educational blog that she hopes will encourage people to explore and appreciate the world’s varied cultures. Recently, she’s taken her knowledge of science and history and ventured into the world of historical and women’s fiction. In addition to co-authoring the The Ruby Eye, she has a novel currently under review by a major publisher.

You can find her on social media sites:

website: http://www.nurturethemind.com/

blog: http://nurturethemind.com/blog2/

linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/nhome/?trk=

MinEdwards_Image_20July

Excerpt:

“Juan,” Bryn Carmichael said as she pulled up short on the pier just out of earshot of the rest of her dive crew. “Who’s the new guy?”

“That’s Ford Sutton. The new Brit.” Juan’s brow furrowed when he glanced at Bryn. “You don’t know him?”

“No. When did he show up?”

“He walked into the village last night, while you and Bert were taking Stevie into town to the doctor.” Juan’s jovial mood evaporated. “Sorry, Bryn. You didn’t get back until so late and since he had a hiring form from Talon, I just assumed…”

“Wait… he has a hiring form?”

“Well, it’s more like a letter of introduction, but it’s on Talon letterhead and Marc’s assistant, Della Cameron signed it.”

“Well, damn.” The mumbled curse was punctuated by an aggravated burst of air. “Marc didn’t tell me he was sending a new crew member.” Now, her temper was threatening to get the best of her. This was her project. She was supposed to be in charge. If Marc valued her so much then why was he hiring someone without even discussing it with her… and for the guy to just show up…?  Bryn swallowed another curse.

Juan quickly added. “He has a resume and a list of references.”

“What does his resume say? Does he have some special skill?”

“He has a BSc in Maritime Archeology from Oxford, but it doesn’t say he has any special expertise. He’s definitely experienced—the letter from Talon lists quite a few projects he’s participated in.

Bryn cast an irritated glance in Sutton’s direction trying to decide whether she should delay the work day while she tried to reach Marc and find out what the hell was going on. Maybe she was just being overly cautious, or a bit defensive, but she didn’t like Marc hiring some guy without consulting her or even letting her know he was coming.

“Sorry I didn’t mention it sooner.” Juan apologized. “What do you want to do, Bryn?”

Bryn drew in a steadying breath, trying to tamp down her anger. She shouldn’t be taking her frustrations out on Juan. “Maybe I’m just being overly suspicious, but it seems odd that he’d show up just when we’re suddenly down a man. I’d like you to stay in today and check him out. Put in a call to the Talon office and find out what’s going on. Then check out those projects and his references. I’ll call Marc tonight.”

“Sure thing, boss. I’ll email the people he used as references, and I’ll follow up with Della.” Juan swiped a hand through his thick dark hair. “Sorry, Bryn,” he said again.

“No need to apologize.  It’s not your fault. Marc should have told me.” Bryn muttered as she glared down the pier toward the tall man leaning against the railing of the boat.  “I’ll let him ride along today since he has the letter from Talon, but I don’t want him diving until we’ve checked him out.”

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July 19, 2016 · 9:31 am

Tuesday Two-Minute Writing Tip – Suggestions to Tweak Your Wording

Got two minutes? Then check out this week’s quick tip ~ Words that can be rearranged or eliminated for better flow.

Hello and welcome…I am a freelance editor and an editor for The Wild Rose Press, as well as an author. I often struggle with my own writing, and I have found that sometimes, a little reminder of ways to improve the process can be helpful, so, I like to share these moments of brilliance with others :). But, in this busy world of ours, who has time for pages and pages of writing tips? That’s why I’ve condensed mine down to quick flashes you can read in (approximately) two minutes. Enjoy…

TWoMinuteTip

Disclaimer: All of my tips are suggestions, and are only my opinion. And, for the most part, there are exceptions when going against my advice will make your story read better. Take what works, leave the rest.

 

This is going to be very brief today, and probably not all that helpful. But, I notice this sort of thing often, either unneeded words or poorly arranged words. 

Examples: (I am aware, even with the ‘better’, that the below sentences could be improved further, but these are just quick samples of minor tweaks)

He had his hands cuffed in front of him. ~ Better: His hands were cuffed in front of him.

They both sat at the table. ~ ‘They’ is all you need, ‘both’ isn’t necessary. Better: They sat at the table.

With a sour expression on his face, he left the room. ~ Where else would his sour expression be but on his face? Better: With a sour expression, he left the room.

She refused to answer his calls, because she wasn’t going to go down that road again. ~ ‘Because’ is telling and sounds like you’re stopping the story to explain. Plus, ‘going to’ is unnecessary. Better: She refused to answer his calls. She wasn’t going down that road again.

“I wish you’d listen to reason”—with that he stood abruptly—“but I suppose that’s too much to expect.” ~ “With that” isn’t needed. Better: “I wish you’d listen to reason”—he stood abruptly—“but I suppose that’s too much to expect.”

She aimed toward the couple at the bar with her camera. ~ The couple at the bar didn’t have her camera. Better: She aimed her camera toward the couple at the bar .

In these last few, it’s not necessary to name the body parts. What else would you kick, nod, or shrug with?

He kicked him with his foot.

She nodded her head.

He shrugged his shoulders.

As I said, a brief one today. Just a suggestion to be aware of crowding your prose with unnecessary and obvious words. 😉

Until next time…Happy Writing!

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NEW RELEASE – Now Available 

(Click on the cover to be taken to the Amazon Buy Page)

2 minute writing tip final

 

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*** If you would like to send me a few sample pages (around 7500 words or so, even though I will not edit that many on the blog. It just gives me more to choose from) for me to edit and share on an upcoming blog post, please do so in the body of an email to AliciaMDean@aol.com. Please use the subject line: “Blog Submission” This is for published or unpublished authors. In the email, please include whether you would like me to use your name or keep it anonymous, and whether or not you would like me to include any contact info or buy info for your books. Also, you can let me know if you would like for me to run my edits by you before posting on the blog. Please keep in mind, this is for samples to use for blog posts. I will not edit or use samples from all the submissions I receive, but I will use as many as possible. 

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16

How to write a novel? That is the question. There are probably as many answers to that question as there are people who ask it.

Wanting to write and actually doing it are two very different things. I am well acquainted with the sometimes grueling process of churning out a story. Over the years, I have tried many methods for creating and completing manuscripts, and have tweaked and honed it down to a workable (for me) process.

Using specific examples from one of my own novels, Without Mercy, I share my method in this mini how to book. The first eight steps actually deal with plotting while the last two are designed to help expand your outline into a well-developed draft. There is no one, perfect way to create a story, but there will be a method, or methods that work for you. I’m not sure if this is the one, but it works for me. Only you can decide if it also works for you. Fingers crossed that it does!

*** Warning – Please do not purchase without reading a sample. (This is solid advice for any book, fiction or non. If you are not intrigued in the sample, you will likely not enjoy the book)

Amazon: Click Here

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Filed under For Writers, Promo Tips, Tips from an Editor, Tuesday Two-Minute Tips

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July 17, 2016 · 9:11 am

A Plethora of 99 cent ebooks!!

99 Cent Ebooks galore

Check out our monthly list of 99 cent reads. All different genres, all great bargains! 

***Just click on the cover to be taken to the purchase page.

PLEASE CONFIRM BEFORE ORDERING!!! – We are not responsible if prices are no longer 99 cents

Hope you discover some enticing reads!

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thicker than water 310_BO1,204,203,200_

A deadly, long ago secret and an old love resurface in this short romantic suspense. 

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1

Take a naughty trip around the world this summer!

Naughty Escapes: Eleven Naughty Vacation Getaways including BBW, BDSM, Contemporary, Dark Fantasy, M/M, Ménage, Paranormal, & Shapeshifter romances from bestselling authors known as The Naughty Literati!

Check out the Naughty Literati Bookshelf for more 99¢ anthologies! http://naughtyliterati.com/naughtybookshelf/

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2

She’s lucky he’s a charmer; he’s lucky she doesn’t bite … much. Lindi Parker works hard at being human, not an easy task for a snake shifter. She has no desire to search for others like her—until a new case changes everything. When Lindi learns that she she’s not the only shapeshifter in the world, she also realizes she might be next on a killer’s list. 

Find Margo Bond Collins here: http://www.margobondcollins.net

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3

My name is Zoe Tempest. Don’t let this blonde-haired, blue-eyed Barbie Doll exterior fool you. I’m a vampire hunter.

Find Sandra here: http://www.amazon.com/Sandra-Cox/e/B002BM3AKC/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1468509031&sr=1-2-ent

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4

Kidnapped by aliens? By mistake?

When wise-cracking Jessie Wyndom is beamed from her farmhouse in Ann Arbor, MI aboard an Alliance starship, she meets a regular Mr. Spock. Captain Marcus Viator’s well-organized life is turned upside down by a free-spirited Terran. Fate brings them together. Treachery tears them apart.

Find Diane Burton here:  http://amzn.com/e/B00683MH5E

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5

Devlin Sawyer, a retired Navy SEAL turned gun club owner meets Summer Riley, a yoga instructor and also a powerful elemental witch, when she enrolls in a women’s weapon’s class.  Their attraction is immediate.  But both have dark secrets they may not be willing to share. Will love find a way?

On sale for .99 from July 22 – July 29.

Find Tena Stetler here:   http://www.tenastetler.com

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6

When Detective Brittany Russell goes undercover to expose a murderer, she had no idea what she was getting herself into—especially after meeting wealthy businessman, Austin Reeder…who happens to be a suspect.

Marie Higgins’ blog – http://mariehiggins84302.blogspot.com

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7

Lindsay Lennox, worries she’ll never have the chance to meet a man and fall in love. Disaster strikes when she meets a handsome sea captain and is mistakenly whisked across the sea to England. Unfortunately, the devastating Captain Braxton proves more temptation than her lonely heart can resist.

Marie Higgins – http://mariehiggins84302.blogspot.com

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8

Time Travel / Erotic Romance

With visions of battle still fresh in his mind, Roane Bradfield returns home to find the woman he loves betrothed to another. He corners Kendrick Moreland at Dowager Huggins’ Grand Ball and whisks her into the secluded library. One way or the other, he will know the reason the duplicitous beauty cut him from her life when she promised to wait forever.

Keta’s Amazon Page – http://www.amazon.com/Keta-Diablo/e/B002BODURI/

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9

Western Romance Boxed Set

From firefighters, bronco busters, and wealthy ranchers to bad boys, we have them all for you! If you’ve ever wanted to fall in love with a sexy, alpha cowboy of today…now’s your chance.

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11

Gillian traveled to the Dalmatian Coast to close the door on tragedy. But an adventurer with a private yacht may be just the type of enticement she can’t resist…for better or for worse.

Find Carly Carson at http://www.carlycarson.com

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12

High school sweethearts meet 12 years later & sparks still fly. Both are shocked to learn the truth of their breakup & who was responsible. Is it too late to rekindle the love once shared or will their dreams be shattered forever?

Find Diana Stout at http://sharpenedpencilsproductions.com/

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 13

Heartwarming and sassy romance… Sparks fly in this small-town romance when a city girl arrives in Whistle Stop determined to strike a deal that will save her father’s company from bankruptcy. But she hasn’t counted on clashing with a sexy but stubborn cowboy who has no intention of selling his ghost town–or on falling in love… 

Find Jennifer Faye here:  http://jenniferfaye.com/ 

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14

Harmony Duprie enjoyed her quiet life as an internet researcher until her arrest for drug trafficking. Cleared of all charges, she needs to find out what is behind the series of events that throws her life into chaos and why. And she better take it seriously, like her life depends upon finding the right answers.

Find P.J. MacLayne here: Facebook: https://facebook.com/pjmaclayne

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15

Ljluka is the enforcer for the Vargas Dynasty, and he’s up against his most intriguing enemy on his quest for the Book of Life. Nalini is sent from a secluded harem to kill the immortal Prince, but that would foil destiny’s plan for them to be together.

Find Elizabeth Alsobrooks at: http://www.elizabethalsobrooks.com

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16

Prince Nicholai must participate in the Betram ritual, a sexual rite for all unbonded Stiyaha of age. Hidden behind a mask a certain honeyed female takes him by surprise, but as much as he longs to forget her, he can’t, for she’s unforgettable.

Find Rosalie Redd at: http://www.rosalieredd.com

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https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NEX4Z5Q/

17

A French MBA grad with a magical legacy. An investor in search of his great-grandfather’s gravesite. Can these two independent freethinkers work together to prevent chaos from triumphing and find love in time in the labyrinth of roses?

Connect with Beth Barany at her site http://author.bethbarany.com/ .

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18

Sarah Redman, a bank project manager, wants adventure in her life, and trainer extraordinaire, Josh Kleine, needs to pull off a successful presentation at a Paris conference to land more clients and save his company. Together they may hold the key to the strange disasters striking the City of Lights. Can Sarah unravel the secrets of the city and of her heart in time to save them all?

Connect with Beth Barany at her site http://author.bethbarany.com/ .

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19

She must choose between a life of adventure with the man she loves or a settled, secure life with her betrothed. Flora Vass forced Gavin Munro out of her heart and mind until he returned to Scotland after an adventurous five years in the New World. Gavin leaves no doubt he returned to make the bonnie Flora his own and intends to fight for her.

Connect with Brenda: http://www.historicalheartbeats.com

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20

Seventeen magical stories from NY Times and USA Today bestsellers and award-winning authors that will entice you to the darker side of faerie tales! Discover this anthology full of adventure, dark powers, and ultimately the enduring power of true love.

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Christmas this year feels full of loss and strife, but a star in the East, an abandoned child and a quest for holiday cheer might just convince these two that love is the best gift of the Season.

Find Deb Marlowe, the Half Moon House series and fun features at www.DebMarlowe.com 

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It’s warring nations, dueling philosophies and the battle of the sexes as American-born Miss Liberty Baylis takes on Simon Lansing, Viscount Brodham, in the fight for her friend’s happiness.

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Smart-mouthed Meg Quinn and former Marine Easy MacLain, co-guardians of a dying woman’s seven-year-old son, are drawn into a search for a missing veteran and soon find out the truth about life, love … and murder.

Connect with Edie Ramer at http://edieramer.com/

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23

Sometimes in order to find yourself, you must become someone else!

She’s a runaway bride…he’s looking for a wife.

Connect with Sylvia McDaniel at www.SylviaMcDaniel.com

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24

Tappe Vanderberg, Kate’s childhood friend and high school sweetheart, has sold his lucrative internet security business to return to Little Heron Shores and fulfill his dreams of owning a marina. Now the handsome Dutch-born businessman is making waves with single women all over town—including loony, post mistress Eva May Poole. Can he find away to shake the dingbat post mistress and convince bistro owner Kate to give him a second chance and the sweet kiss he remembers from an earlier time?

Connect with Judy: http://judyanndavis.blogspot.com/

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25

Covert CIA agent Matt Kincaid, back in his hometown, finds the girl he left
behind, Janey Blackmon, waiting to ask about her missing brother. Janey hasn’t
forgotten her first love but Matt can’t divulge government secrets. When they
find themselves trapped by a flood, will their second chance turn into more than
just dancing in the dark?
Find Virginia Kelly here: 
http://www.amazon.com/Virginia-Kelly/e/B001KDD8FK/

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26

Getting him in handcuffs was the easy part… Keeping the star system’s most wanted psy-criminal out of her heart might be too much, even for the system’s best bounty huntress.

Find Athena at http://athenagrayson.com and at

http://www.amazon.com/author/athenagrayson

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27

What if a life-changing letter arrived in today’s mail? Now imagine it leads to love and adventure! From the northern British Isles, across the mainland of Europe, and on to Turkey, nine international Award-winning and Multi-published Romance Authors share spellbinding love stories told across time.

Connect with the World Romance Writers: http://worldromancewriters.blogspot.com/

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28

In a small southern town where everyone normally knows each other’s business, veteran detective Larry Robbins must solve the disappearance of eighty-year-old widower, African-American George Beason.

Connect with Cathy: http://www.amazon.com/Cathy-Perkins/e/B006K0IKUQ

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Witty banter, suspense, romantic comedy, and fantasy and paranormal elements make for an entertaining romp set in the present day, but touching on history from medieval Chartres to the Civil War. It’s a fairy tale where “Da Vinci Code” meets “Murder She Wrote. 

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I’m having wild, superpowered adventures despite being an absolute beginner. Reluctantly, I’ve embraced my destiny as a superheroine.  Big problem: I have no clue how to save the day.

Connect with me at http://www.irenevartanoff.com

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31

Can a famous pop star right the wrongs of her past and embrace the life she was born to live?

Corinne has returned home not only for the offer of a lifetime but to change her life. She’s sick of the secrets and lies she was forced to show the world in order to become a pop culture phenomenon.

Now is the perfect time to reveal her true self to her fans. But it might be too late to right the wrongs of the past and embrace the life she was born to live.

Lesbian Rock Star Romance for only .99 cents! 

For more great books by KT Grant, check out her works at https://ktgrnt.wordpress.com/

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33

All bodyguard Tess Miller wants is a vacation. But when a wounded stranger stumbles into her isolated cabin in the Arizona mountains, Tess becomes his lifeline. And in the days to come Shane Burkhart will need a guardian angel while being hunted by someone who wants him dead.

Find Margaret Daley here: http://margaretdaley.com/all-books/

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2 minute writing tip final

NON-Fiction Writing Book: A ton of quick and helpful writing tips for the busy author.

 

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July 15, 2016 · 10:20 am

Ramblings of a Lifelong Elvis Fan – Part 81 – The Pure Beauty of Elvis

[INTRO: I am a die hard, card carrying Elvis fan and have been for as long as I can remember. There is so much about Elvis to love; his incredible singing voice, his generous spirit, his looks (the most gorgeous man ever), his movies (yes, his movies. They make me happy, so critics can just shush), his service in the army, his magical presence on stage, his transcendent charisma, and…I could go on and on. As a matter of fact, on my 50th post, I believe it was, I DID go on and on. I listed 50 things I love about Elvis. It wasn’t difficult. I am an author and I mention Elvis in almost every story I write. I named my son Presley. I was fortunate to see Elvis in concert three times. I have been to Graceland five times… See? I love Elvis. I have been blogging weekly for more than a year, but going forward, I will blog every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month. My life is insanely busy and I found myself missing weeks from time to time. This way, I’m more likely to be consistent. Hopefully, even if you are not an Elvis fan, you appreciate something about him and will find my posts interesting. Feel free to comment. Thank you so much for stopping by!]

I was listening to Elvis radio this morning, and the DJ, Argo, said he was going to play a song that most of us probably hadn’t heard, one that wasn’t a big hit for Elvis. My ears always perk up when I hear statements like this. I think… “Challenge accepted!” 🙂 I believe, in my years of listening to Elvis radio, I’ve only heard them play one song I hadn’t heard before. (Can’t recall the name right off hand). In this case, though, he played “Where Did They Go, Lord” – And, my oh my, have I ever heard that one. It’s one of my favorites. As I listened, tears welled up, just because it was so damn beautiful. No one could convey a song like Elvis. No one ever sang with such heart, such emotion. 

See for yourself: (Many who have heard this song think it’s one of his gospel songs, but it’s actually not.)

As if I wasn’t already emotional enough, the sadistic Argo followed up with this: (Sorry there aren’t any fun photos, but the videos I found with photos were either subtitled or showed his funeral. I can’t handle that, so…this is the one I’m sharing)

As I listened to both, it hit me (as if it hadn’t already done so many, many times before :)), Elvis was so…beautiful. His voice, his delivery, his smile, his looks, just pure, unadulterated beauty.  Enjoy…

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And don’t think Elvis only did his world-famous rocking songs in the 50’s. He performed some gorgeous ballads as well: (My hero and heroine in End of Lonely Street dance to this one, just as an FYI :))

One of my favorites, maybe my all-time favorite, of his early career:

So…there you have it. Kicking off your weekend with a whole lot of exquisiteness. Thank you for stopping by…have a wonderful weekend! 

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EOLS Charity

Elvis was known for his giving heart and charitable work during his lifetime. Lisa Marie and Elvis Presley Enterprises have continued that tradition with their involvement in various charities. In 1984, The Elvis Charitable Foundation was formed. The EPCF created a scholarship fund for students majoring in the arts. The charity also contributes to one of Elvis’ favorite charities, Goodwill Homes, a Memphis facility that provides counseling and services for abused children and their families. The EPCF also assists numerous other charities, especially focusing on arts, education and children’s programs.

Learn more here, including how to donate:

http://www.graceland.com/epcf/

END OF LONELY STREET – Now Only 99 Cents!

On Elvis’ 80th birthday, I released a Vintage Romance short story set in 1957, and of course, my heroine is an Elvis fan. 🙂 As a tribute to Elvis’ generosity, and in order to assist with this worthy cause, 10% of my proceeds for End of Lonely Street will go to the EPCF.

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All Toby Lawson wants is to go to college to become a teacher and to be free of her alcoholic mother and some painful memories. But when her mother nearly burns the house down, Toby must put her dreams on hold and return home to care for her. The only time she isn’t lonely and miserable is when she’s listening to her heartthrob, Elvis Presley. His music takes her away and helps her escape from everything wrong in her life.

Noah Rivers has always loved Toby, but no matter what he says, she can‘t get past the fact that her drunken mother once kissed him. He soon realizes the true problem lies in Toby’s belief she’s not good enough for him and in her fear she will be just like her mother.

What will it take to prove to her that she deserves to be happy, and that he would give anything to be the man to make her dreams come true?

Click Here for Kindle

Click Here for Nook

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