Get your tiger on…
Rosanna is one of my new “must buy” authors for shifter stories. Her Gemini Island series presents a fresh take on bear and big cat shifters and her Orkney Selkies are hot! Highly recommended!
Well, another release has come and gone and I’m still reeling. That’s right, in case you missed it yesterday, Jan. 13 marked the release of my latest paranormal erotic romance, Predator’s Refuge, Gemini Island Shifters 3.
Predator’s Refuge begins where Predator’s Serenade left off, but each book in the series centers around a different couple, so you can read them independently. I often get asked how I treat my series as far as developing characters from one book to another. Yes, you will see previous characters make “cameo appearances” here and there in the newer books, but I really prefer to make each romance stand alone. I like to know my readers can pick up a book out of order and not be lost. Sure, it’s always best to read in order so you can watch each romance blossom, but not imperative.
And with Predator’s Refuge, I went in…
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Novel Grounds Literary Awards
Nominate your favorite 2013 books. The books MUST have been released between January 1, 2013 and January 1, 2014.
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Do You Own Your Copyrights?
by Susan Spann
Last month, I kicked off a new #PubLaw guest series here at Writers in the Storm with a brief look at copyright law and the rights it covers.
When authors learn that copyright protection is automatic and attaches to qualifying works at the time of creation, many assume that means the author owns those copyrights.
How could I not own my copyrighted works? Many authors ask. I wrote them, so I own them. Right?
Usually, but not always.
Copyright law recognizes several types of copyrighted works which are not owned by the creator, or which are owned by the creator in partnership with another person or entity.
Let’s take a closer look:
1.The General Rule: creative works are owned by their creator.
As a general rule, ownership of copyrighted works, and all the related rights, belongs to the author or creator.
However, an author may license…
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El Bachelor.
I have been a reality TV connoisseur since the first season of The Real World aired on MTV in 1992. Additionally, I avidly watched dating game shows like “Love Connection,” “The Dating Game,” and my all-time, these-couples-will-need-family-therapy-after-the-show-airs favorite, “The Newlywed Game.” If I see a Millionaire Matchmaker or Tough Love marathon on, I will make time to watch Patti and Steve deliver their stern, yet sage dating advice, to clueless women and men.
While I gravitate towards shows that focus on the cast’s talent, like So You Think You Can Dance, Project Runway, The Sing Off and The Voice, big personalities like the ladies of Double Divas, Dance Moms, and this season’s little gem, Kim of Queens, which follows a former pageant queen as she molds girls into pageant winners, are always worth a look-see.
When the first season of “The Bachelor” aired, I watched it, but never became a fan. Even when “The Bachelorette” spun off, I was not sold on the idea of “dating” 25 people in the bubble of reality TV. However, a few of my die-hard “Bachelor” friends started commenting on the last season of “The Bachelorette,” starring Desiree Hartsock. They really liked Desiree, and after following a few of their Facebook chats, I was intrigued enough that I started watching. I also became invested in Desiree and hoped she would find a man who genuinely cared for her. She did! Together with beau Chris Siegfried, they celebrated their first New Year’s Eve together.
As we watched Desiree “date” the preselected hunks, one man stood out from the pack. His name was Juan Pablo Galavis, the soccer-playing, single dad with the sexy Venezuelan accent. Desiree may not have been attracted to Juan Pablo, but America was! And so was I! ¡Ay papacito!
ABC listened! When they announced the next “Bachelor” would be Juan Pablo, people went crazy. My middle-aged, happily married self, included. Juan Pablo came across as a nice man, in a hunky package. He was devoted to his daughter, Camila Valentina, who was born on Valentine’s Day, and remained friendly with Camila’s mother. In other words, he was Central Casting directors’ wet dream. The pre-show buzz included the special, The Bachelor: Countdown to Juan Pablo. I watched it as research to prepare for the actual show. Mmmmm.
The first show aired last night and Juan Pablo (and America) met the contestants vying for a rose. ABC did not disappoint. There were the requisite beautiful, intelligent, accomplished women, who should be able to find long-term relationship partners, and there were the “unique” women. Some may categorize them as unconventional, quirky, socially awkward, overly emotional, but I like to call them reality TV “money.” Let’s face it, no one watches reality TV to see normal, balanced, happy people. We like our train wrecks, thank you very much. Providing last night’s entertainment were Shoeless Lucy, Creepy Massage Therapist Amy J., Bicycle Piano Player Lauren S., Mineral Coordinator and What-Not-to-Share-on-a-Date-Queen Lauren. Uninterested, Possibly Jetlagged, Opera Singer Sharleen received the first rose, but did not look as if she wanted to accept it. Ah, must see TV.
I will be pulling for Florida girl and single mom, Renee, Prosecutor Andi, and Pediatric Nurse Nikki. And, of course, drunk girl drama, which seems to be a staple of “The Bachelor” franchise. Popcorn, at the ready.
Cue the theme song for “El Bachelor” which could be Juan Pablo’s Lucha Libre alter ego, if he is unable to find love.
I live tweet during TV shows using Get Glue, if you would like to join the party!
Want to win an ebook from Totally Bound?
MsRomanticReads, one of my favorite book review blogs has a great way to win ebooks from Totally Bound. Check it out!
Brave New Bullying: Goodreads Gangs, Amazon Attacks—What Are Writers to Do?
Kristen eloquently expresses how to handle cyber bullying, with an emphasis on how authors may protect themselves.
Today is a tad of a touchy subject, but in this New year, I want everyone to have a the greatest gift any of us can have…peace. Bullies, in my opinion, are among the lowest known existing lifeforms. I wouldn’t want to insult cockroaches and fleas by drawing a comparison.
Kristen’s History With Bullies
I grew up most of my life being bullied. I switched schools at least once a year and there was always a new gaggle of Mean Girls to make my daily life a veritable hell. I think this is why I grew to love books. I skipped school so much (to seek sanctuary at the public library), that I’m fairly certain I’m the reason for the current Texas truancy laws.
I couldn’t get out of bed. I became ill at the thought of even walking through the front doors of my school. I was poor and…
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It’s Okay to be Odd by Vonnie Davis
Vonnie presents a serious issue with great insight. Please do not “dismiss the blues.” Self-care and awareness are not luxuries, but necessary to for a full life.
I love the Chicks!! If you do not already follow Chick Swagger…GO…NOW!
So Long 2013, I’m Leaving You.
2013 was filled with lessons. I learned to listen to my inner voice and my true self more than ever. I also learned there were things that I was not meant to conquer. While I was temporarily upset, I ultimately felt elated. The weight was removed from my chest and I was able to breathe again. It was empowering. Sometimes the best lessons learned are those associated with loss. They may be painful, and show us parts of ourselves we may not be comfortable or satisfied with, but the mirror they hold up to us reflects reality, and helps us move forward. Grieve, for what was lost, if we must. Then grin, as we say, “Whew! Time to try something new.”
Books were my constant companions and led me to amazing friendships with readers, authors and bloggers. These authors’ words helped me through a year of personal and professional failure. They provided bright spots on bleak days and a few moments of escape, while I regrouped. I will be forever grateful.
My “daughters,” Kristen and Sammy, and I solidified our bond and I look forward to meeting them in a few short months. They are some of the strongest women I know and unbelievable examples of motherhood. I thank Julie Richman for writing the books that brought Kristen and Sammy into my life.
Hayson Manning’s books brought this sumptuous Kiwi goddess into my life. She has been an amazing Facebook pen pal, whom I hope to meet someday soon. We have a date on a beautiful island in the South Pacific to sip frosty beverages and ogle gorgeous, shirtless, alpha men. For research purposes, of course.
Julie Leto, whose work I have admired for many years, joined the ranks of independently published authors with her Dirty Dare novellas, which have recently been released as one novel Dirty Dare (Sexy Suspense Novel). She has been writing intelligent, strong female characters for many years and I highly recommend her work. (I hope I don’t lose my fangirl mind, when I meet her in 2014, for café con leche. I really have loved her, since the old Blaze days at Harlequin. And, I do mean old days.)
Military romances, a longtime passion of mine, also featured predominantly in 2013 and I read books by Heather Long, Tonya Burrows, Kelsie Leverich, Bella Juarez, Jeanette Murray Melissa Schroeder, Laura Kaye, Kaylea Cross, Cristin Harber, J.M. Madden, Tawny Weber and Ann Mayburn. Many featured Veterans finding, and keeping love, while dealing with the aftermath of their service, like PTSD and injuries sustained in combat. These women write with an understanding and deep respect for men and women in uniform and I am excited to read their offerings in 2014.
Towards the end of the year, I “discovered” Robin Covington, Avery Flynn and Kimberly Kincaid or the “Man Warriors.” I was drawn to their quick, yet snarky, senses of humor and began to read their books. I was not disappointed, as their characters reflected each one’s unique style and attention to character development.
My paranormal “jones” was satisfied by Shelly Laurenston, Rosanna Leo, Milly Taiden, R.E. Butler, Lauren Dane, Alexandra Ivy, Lauren Wright, Laura Kaye, Heather Long and Christine Warren. Wolves, big cats and bears…oh my! Last, but not least, were Gina Maxwell who made tough, tattooed MMA fighters lovable and Tymber Dalton, Joey W. Hill and Cherise Sinclair, who have known how to push my “envelope” just right, for years.
My other constant companions were Hubby and our K9 kids. They kept me sane, grounded and made me laugh when I could not and smile when I thought I would drown in my tears. I am blessed to have them in my life. Hubby, your gentleness, strength and patience knows no bounds. I love you more today, than the day I married you.
So 2013, I bid thee adieu. Don’t let the door hit you on the ass, on the way out. You will not be missed.
Why Hello, 2014…you’re a sexy beast. Sit right down here and let’s get to know each other, shall we?
¡Feliz Navidad! Merry Christmas!
Video Posted on Updated on
I received the best gift I could ever hope for, on Nochebuena (Christmas Eve) – time with Papi, Mami, Hubby, Brother (PSM), Sister-in-Law, 2 Nephews and our Niece. Later today (Christmas Day) we will spend time with my Mom-in-Law and Hubby’s extended family.
We exchanged funny cards and gave the kids the “Harry Potter” boxed set collection. Nothing is better that time with loved ones. Several years ago, we decided to only give gifts to the kids and enjoy the joy of watching tear open their presents. It keeps the focus on our family and we love it!
Hope the spirit of the season fills you with joy.
Please enjoy “Navidad en Panamá.”
Be Careful What You Click On
I wonder if some of my new “followers” who have a decidedly reactionary tone to their blogs read my bio before “liking” this blog. Or are they simply trolls trying to “clean” up WordPress to conform to their narrow minded viewpoints? I may like individual posts, but I always look at the entire blog to see if it is something I support, and not a satirical rant. Look, before you click.
If you are new, please share what attracted you to my blog. Inquiring minds want to know.
Duck and Cover
I am not, nor ever will be, a fan of “Duck Dynasty.” However, the brouhaha over the suspension of a public figure who made ugly, unthinkable, regrettable homophobic and racist comments made me long for the days when “A&E” signified ARTS and entertainment, only. The duck person’s right to free speech was not infringed upon, as he spoke honesty and freely, in the GQ Interview. As a result, he was suspended from the show (I suspect due to violating terms in his contract with the network). People face these types of consequences every day, as corporations may create whatever policies they want for their employees. That is all that occurred, in this case.
Reality TV show “celebrities” opened themselves up for a greater degree of scrutiny when they signed their contracts and agreed to be filmed. They had the opportunity NOT to participate. Many who have been interviewed after their shows aired, stated their lives were forever changed and lamented the loss of privacy, relationships and sense of themselves. Notably, the Osbornes, who were no strangers to the public eye, ultimately regretted opening the doors of their private lives and homes to a television audience.
Unfortunately, the duck person was being touted as a “champion for Christian values,” and the angry mob of his “fans” began calling for boycotts of the network, petitions to be signed and have spewed more hate-filled speech towards A&E and organizations that promote LGBT equality and rights. This non-controversy will result in more sales for the duck people’s products as their “fans” rush to “support” them, enriching their coffers even more. Their “fans” will continue to vilify and marginalize people whom they believe are “beneath” them and continue their scorched earth campaign against “others.” Just as Jesus would do, I’m sure.
“Christians” could follow Pope Francis’ example…but they have already labeled The Pope as “anti-Christian.” Oops.
The aftermath will be must-see TV, although my sincerest wish is that the duck people, the baby pageants, and the Kardashians are canceled and replaced with educational programming. Or all shows of that ilk are grouped into a new network entitled “Dumb Me Down.”
Pass. The. Popcorn.
Make Your Own Book Trailer
Nancy provides inexpensive and relatively stress-free steps to creating a marketing video for your book. Please pay special attention to the fact that you should PURCHASE the licensing rights for music, video and photos they use in their book trailers. I have seen entirely too many that use other people’s copyrighted and/or trademarked material, which amounts to stealing. Kudos to Nancy on a great post.
Would you like to create your own book trailer in Windows Live Movie Maker? It’s a way to save money and to maintain control over your project. If so, be prepared to spend time on a learning curve. The first effort is the hardest, but then you’ll know what to do for subsequent titles. Just follow these steps for Windows 7, and you’re on your way. Most likely, if you have a PC, you already have this program on your menu. If not, Go Here and download it for free. (I also use the Windows Live Photo Gallery to store and edit my photos.)
My recent trailer for Hanging By A Hair cost me $58 for the images and music from 123rf.com. The images are perfect for the story, and the music adds tension. Click below if you haven’t seen it yet.
There are some companies that will…
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Another Year. Another Birthday. Hell, Yeah!
Ponder this thought for a moment: middle age rocks. I speak of this from experience, as a member of the last generation to have a truly “innocent” childhood and adolescence.
I grew up during the Cold War, learned what GRID/HIV/AIDS was and how it was really transmitted, in middle and high school. I watched the Challenger accident happen live. I remember the launch of MTV, and when the “M” was synonymous with music, like the “US Festival” and “Live Aid.” “Lollapalooza” was a little known festival advertised on college radio that took place in an empty field in Orlando, which now houses another shopping center. Trips to New York City included a stop on the observation deck of the World Trade Center, as well as, dodging drug dealers and prostitutes on Broadway and 42nd Streets.
Some days I feel every bit of my age, as I reach for my bifocals to read menus or an article online. Often, however, I do not. I have been told consistently that I look about ten years younger than I am. I have no desire to pretend to be anything but 46. I earned each grey hair, extra pound and stiff joint and muscle. I have also earned the right to look back upon my life fondly, but choose to look forward with a renewed sense of adventure. I have no desire to be in my twenties, or thirties, again. Did you hear that Madison Avenue?
The best part about being in my mid-forties is the ability to say, “fuck it,” and mean it. I am not going to be an attorney, police officer or super-heroine, as I dreamed about in my youth. I am happy to know it and move on. Age brings wisdom, but also self-reflection and self-care. It is liberating, sexy, peaceful and joyful.
My goal is to help contemporary fiction authors realize they are missing a rich demographic by not writing about middle-aged characters, who are sexy, intelligent, independent, quirky and fully developed. After all, we have more disposable income to purchase books, and will, if we see ourselves reflected back. The beauty of self-publishing is that consumers, not publishing companies, are driving demand. I will be demanding more experienced characters, loudly. I am 46 today, hear me roar!
Reading, Drinking and Dancing with a Chaser of Snark 