Sloane Taylor's Blog, page 3
May 18, 2025
Those Pesky Garments
Paranormal worlds are fun to create, but one of the biggest issues writers have to deal with when writing about were-animals is the clothing problem.Traditionally, were-animals remove their clothes, or shed their skins if they are animals changing to humans, in order to accommodate their human/animal shifts. In the case of some, like selkies (seals who become humans), they also have to have their clothes (or skins) back in order to change back to humans.
Having to remove clothing before shifting into animals can be advantageous when the author wants to get the couple together, naked. Needing one’s clothing to return to human form can also create humorous situations, especially when the shifter is trying to hide why they are running around in their birthday suits.
When we began to develop our world of shape shifters, we had to address the clothing issue, in more than one way. Not only do our shifters become animals, but they can take other human forms, too. So, clothing created an additional challenge for us. Should we take the traditional route and have the shifters hide their clothes before becoming animals? Or should we just let their clothing disappear and reappear without explanation?
After bouncing several ideas off each other we decided that we would utilize the magic of the magical bloodstone ring, that is primarily responsible for the shape shifting in our world, to our advantage when addressing clothing issues, with a few twists. The magic in the ring would allow an animal shift to absorb the wearer’s clothing. The ring would become an integral invisible part of the animal, as would anything else on or in the shifter’s body or clothing. Except for the ring’s magic, nothing on his human form would be accessible to the shifter when he was in animal form. This rule allowed the shifter to be able to blend rapidly into the animal or human world and thus keep the action scenes moving. Unfortunately, this meant no humorous birthday suit scenarios or convenient naked scenes, but that was okay, since we decided to make the human shifting follow different rules.
When our characters shift from male to female, their clothing does not change. This rule has created its own set of problems. We have to be careful that we choose appropriate clothing when our characters are going to shift. A rapid exchange of clothes had to be written in once scene when one shifter mimicked another shifter and was about to be caught. We also had a few interesting male /female shifting scenarios created by this rule, especially when a male shifter ends up in decidedly female clothes. It’s not often that you see a male walking down the street in a dress or tottering on high heels. Fortunately, with the unisex nature of clothing today, this shifting rule hasn’t created a huge problem for us the writers.
However, it did create a conundrum for the police and our main characters in our first book The Promised One. In this story a shape shifter is murdered and returns to the natural persona: a man. The problem was he had been shifted into a smaller female whose dress did not fit will over his muscular male body. Trying to keep the police from drawing the wrong conclusions keeps the main characters busy coming up with plausible explanations for a man in a dress that is too small for him.
The following is the excerpt from The Promised One that points out the issue:The woman stared at him, blood seeping from the corner of her mouth. “Return the ring, or you’ll be sorry.”
With a short laugh he stood. “Big words for someone bleeding to death.” After dropping the ring into his pocket, he gathered the scattered contents of her purse and started to leave.
“Wait.” The words sounded thick and slurred . . . two octaves deeper . . . with a Scottish lilt.
Shaw frowned and spun back toward her. The pounding in his chest increased. On the ground, where the woman had fallen, lay a man.
He wore the same slinky blue dress she had—the seams ripped, the dress top collapsed over hard chest muscles, instead of smoothed over soft, rounded curves. The hem skimmed across a pair of hairy, thick thighs. Muscled male thighs. Spiked heels hung at an odd angle, toes jutting through the shoe straps. The same shoes she’d been wearing.
The alley tipped. Shaw leaned against the dumpster to steady himself. He shook his head to clear the vision, then slowly moved his gaze over the body.
A pair of steel-blue eyes stared out of a chiseled face edged with a trim salt-and-pepper beard. Shaw whirled around scanning the alley.
Where was the woman? And who the hell was this guy?
Terrified, Shaw fled.
The dying man called out, “You’re cursed. Forever.”
As you can see the change can be quite startling when not expected. Shape shifters can have a rather costly garment expense unless they are careful.
Putting words and stories on paper is second nature to co-authors C.D. Hersh. They've written separately since they were teenagers and discovered their unique, collaborative abilities in the mid-90s. As high school sweethearts and husband and wife, Catherine and Donald believe in true love and happily ever after, and that’s why they write romance.
In addition to writing Catherine and Donald love antiquing, traveling, singing, and going to the theatre. Catherine is also an avid gardener and has drawn Donald into her garden as a day laborer. They figure the couple who plays together and works together, stays together—and that's just what they aim to do.
Second Editions Coming Soon:
Ghosts and Gardenias
The Promised One The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 1
Blood Brothers The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 2
Son of the Moonless Night The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 3
The Mercenary and the Shifters The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 4
Social Media Info:
May 11, 2025
Keeping Britain Tidy
From Carol Browne
One of my favourite activities isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, although I wish more people would take it up. Once a week, I join a couple of neighbours and we go litter picking in our local area.
There’s an expression in the UK – “It’s like painting the Forth Bridge.” Said bridge spans the Forth Estuary in Scotland and is so big a structure that, in the days before new tech, painting it was a question of getting to the end only to have to start again at the beginning. It was a task that was never finished and so it is with litter picking.
Have humans become more thoughtless with their rubbish over the years? It does seem so. There’s more packaging on everyday purchases too, and people eat fast food on the go. When did everyone start taking bottled water and cans out with them wherever they went? What is the mentality of fly-tippers who are happy to make their rubbish someone else’s problem rather than dispose of it responsibly themselves?
Litter isn’t just unsightly; it poses serious danger to wildlife and the environment. Broken bottles can injure dogs’ paws and start forest fires. Plastic can holders trap and strangle animals – they should be cut up before disposal. Plastic that is loose in the ecosystem breaks down into tiny fragments that enter our food and water and, eventually, our bodies.
In past ages, rubbish was biodegradable. Forest floors were littered with dead leaves not crisp packets. Broken clay pottery returned to the earth from which it was made. Textiles were mended and reused. Leftover food items became compost to grow more food. There were no cigarette ends ground underfoot, no plastic bags taking flight over windswept fields.
So, my neighbours and I do our bit to clean up the detritus of modern life. We have fun doing it – you’d be surprised what we find! It’s a satisfying pastime because we can see that we’ve made a difference to our neighbourhood, and it sets a good example to others – litterally! Imagine if everyone just kept the area outside their own home litter-free, wouldn’t that be something!
The characters in my epic fantasy trilogy The Elwardain Chronicles would be horrified to see the rubbish-strewn vistas of the 21st century. They would be appalled by our carelessness and lack of respect for nature. Their 6th century world is unspoilt and unpolluted. If you would like to escape to a cleaner, simpler time, why not take a trip through my trilogy and walk into a world of beauty and magic.
The journey begins now with Book 1, The Exile of Elindel, available in eBook and print.
Banished from Elvendom and forced to seek refuge among the Saxons, young Elgiva faces a grim future - until she crosses paths with Godwin, a Briton enslaved by the people she must now call allies.
When a dark power rises to claim dominion over Elvendom, Elgiva and Godwin set off on a dangerous quest for the legendary Lorestone: the only thing that can stop the looming darkness. With a reluctant elf boy as their guide and a stubborn pony by their side, they must navigate the treacherous land and harness ancient magic before it’s too late.
As battle lines are drawn, Elgiva must embrace her true heritage, and Godwin must learn to wield the secret power he possesses. But can they find the Lorestone in time - or will Elvendom fall forever?
An historical fantasy adventure set in 6th century Britain, THE EXILE OF ELINDEL is the first book in Carol Browne's The Elwardain Chronicles series.
Once upon a time a little girl wrote a poem about a flower. Impressed, her teacher pinned it to the wall and, in doing so, showed the child which path to follow.
Over the years poems and stories flowed from her pen like magic from a wizard’s wand.
She is much older now, a little wiser too, and she lives in rural Cambridgeshire, where there are many trees to hug.
But inside her still is that little girl who loved Nature and discovered the magic of words.
She hopes to live happily ever after.
Stay connected with Carol on her website and blog, Facebook, and Twitter.
May 4, 2025
Breakfast or Dessert? You Decide.
From Stella May
My family lovesbreakfast, especially a cook one. Because we all work and are usually in a timecrunch the first meal of the day is cereal or a bowl of fruit. But on theweekends the house is filled with wonderful aromas of brunch. This recipe isone of our favorites, especially mine because it’s easy to prepare and delicious.
This recipe makes 7-8 regular waffles, or5-6 Belgium waffles, depending on your griddle.
Keto Waffles
2large eggs½cup of sour cream1tsp. vanilla extract½tsp. baking powder½cup shredded coconut, unsweetened1cup finely ground nuts, I use a mix of walnuts, pecans, and almonds Witha mixer, whisk eggs thoroughly until combined, then add sour cream, vanilla,and baking powder.
Manually,stir in shredded coconut and ground nuts. Let mixture sit for 5-10 minutes.
Ifthe mixture is too thick, add a splash of heavy cream.
Heatup a waffle maker, brush it with the oil of your choice. Use an ice cream scoop(I use the large one) to pour on the batter. Cook per your griddle directions.
Enjoywith cream cheese, double cream, or syrup. It is perfect for breakfast or desert.
Romance author Stella May steps away from her time travel books to share The Rostoff Saga. Here's the cover and intro for New Dawn, Book 1 of the exciting four book series.
Love wasn’t part of their agreement. Neither was being caught in a brutal web oflies.
International playboy and owner of a jewelry empire that spreadsacross three continents, Dmitry Rostoff holds a memory close to this heart thatnot even his best friend Vlad Albrecht knows. When Dmitry learnsthe Russian ballerina, he had a passionate affair with died in childbirth, bitternessand hate to overrule all other emotions.
Taking the baby out of Russia is an impossible snarl of red tape,but Dmitry gets his way, even if he leaves a trail of chaos in his wake.
Natasha Sokolova planned to turn over the baby to Dmitry then walkaway. Instead, she is on a plane to San Francisco with the baby and a cold,emotionless man who makes her heart pound with scorching attraction.
The family matriarch and evil to her core Elizabeth Rostoff plotsto gain control of the baby, no matter what it costs or who it hurts, and willdo anything to make that happen. She blackmails Marie Dubois, the manager oftheir elite Paris store, to seduce Dmitry. But Marie reneges on the deal when formerSpecial Forces officer Vlad Albrecht storms into her life.
Once in America, Natasha finds herself entangled in a sticky webof lies created by the brutally calculating family matriarch. A web that forcesNatasha to make a heartbreaking deal with the devil to protect the children—andman—she’s come to love.
Stella May is the penname for Marina Sardarova who has a fascinating history you should read on her website.Stella writes fantasy romance as well as time travel romance. She is the author of 'Till Time Do Us Part, Book 1 in her Upon a Time series, and the stand-alone book Rhapsody in Dreams. Love and family are two cornerstones of her stories and life. Stella’s books are available in e-book and paperback through all major vendors. When not writing, Stella enjoys classical music, reading, and long walks along the ocean with her husband. She lives in Jacksonville, Florida with her husband Leo of 25 years and their son George. They are her two best friends and are all partners in their family business.
Follow Stella on her website and blog. Stay connected on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
April 27, 2025
Writers: Are You a Tortoise or a Hare
We writers tend to fall into two categories. You’re either atortoise or a hare. What do I mean by that? I guess what I’m trying to getacross is that some writers write fast, and can crank out thousands of words inone sitting, while other writers are slower, and write at their own speed andpace to get their books done—even if it takes them years. I’m not talking aboutwhether you’re a plotter or a pantser (writing by the seat of your pants),though you can find out more on that subject in this guest post HERE.I’m talking about whether a writer is prone to being a ‘hare’ (fast writer) ora ‘tortoise’ (slow writer). So, let’s get real, and be honest. Which one areyou? A hare or a tortoise?I must admit, I’m definitely a proud tortoise. Though Imentally (and emotionally) kick myself at times for being such a slow writer. Agood day of writing (3-4 hours) consists of over five hundred words—a great dayis over a thousand. I know a lot of my slow-downs happen when I need to do someresearch in the middle of a scene. It’s been suggested to me by the powers thatbe (my publisher) that I should just highlight the area where the research isneeded, and continue on with my writing. Of course, boss-woman is correct, and what she advises makes aheck of a lot of sense. But…um, no. I want, correction need to KNOW whathappens in that scene, and if I’m using the proper terms and things found inthe time period I’m writing in to move the story forward. For me, finding thehistorically correct information is vital to finishing the scene. Sigh. I mustbe built that way.
At times I envy all you, hares out there, with your nimblefingers flying across the keyboard, and your devil-may-care attitudes. You’rethe writers who get more than one book written in a year. I truly applaud youfor that accomplishment. You’re also the writers who probably have a messy,mucky first draft, and need to go through many drafts to get your final story.Me? I usually have a clean first draft that’s closer to publication than thehare’s speedy attempt at a novel. My mantra in this crazy writing gig is, ‘Slowand steady progress assures success’. So I plod along like the tortoise, muchlike the one in Aesop’sfable, who ends up crossing the finish line to win the raceagainst the confident, cocky hare. Perseverance, after all, will keep uswriters going and going—like that pink Energizer Bunny.Or is it really a hare? Wink.Confession time! Are you a tortoise or a hare? How has beingeither one effected the way you approach writing a novel? Do you love theprocess? Does writing energize you? Would love to read your input and comments.Thank you for spending time with me by reading my blog! Cheers, and have agreat week!
For your readingpleasure, may I suggest a visit to FairyFalls, or if you’re feeling really adventurous, a trip back in time with TheLast Timekeepers? Just remember to pack lightly.
SharonLedwith is the author of the middle-grade/young adult time travel adventureseries, THE LAST TIMEKEEPERS, and the award-winning teen psychic mysteryseries, MYSTERIOUS TALES FROM FAIRY FALLS. When not writing, reading,researching, or revising, she enjoys anything arcane, ancient mysteries, andsingle malt scotch. Sharon lives a serene, yet busy life in a southern touristregion of Ontario, Canada, with her spoiled hubby and is happy to spend many hours with her amazing grandson.
Learn moreabout Sharon Ledwith on her WEBSITE and BLOG. Look up her AMAZONAUTHORpage for a list of current books. Stay connected on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, PINTEREST, LINKEDIN, INSTAGRAM, and GOODREADS.
BONUS: Download the free PDF short story TheTerrible, Mighty Crystal HERE
April 20, 2025
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Style
Many people believe Cinco de Mayo is MexicanIndependence Day. Nope, that is actually September 16. May 5 celebrates theBattle of Puebla which was Mexico’s victory over France in 1862. Anotherinteresting fact – Americans celebrate Cinco de Mayo more than the people inMexico.
I met a wonderful lady in the Hispanicaisle when I was shopping for these ingredients. Lydia literally took me by thehand and taught me a great deal in just a few minutes especially abouttortillas and refried beans which I’m sharing with you. I am thankful for Lydiaand the time she spent with me.
MENUGuacamole &Tortilla ChipsBeef TacosFlour TortillasRice with Tomatoesand OnionRefried BeansMexican Beer –Corona, Dos Equis, Modelo, TecateGuacamole
Thisdish can be made hours in advance of your dinner and stored in the fridge.
2lg. ripe avocados1tbsp. (15ml) onion, chopped fine5drops Tabasco sauce1med. tomato, peeled and chopped⅛tsp. (.60ml) cumin⅛tsp. (.60ml) garlic powderFreshlyground pepper to tasteCutavocados in half. Lift out pits and save. Scoop out avocado from shell andplace into a glass bowl. Mash with a fork. Stir in remaining ingredients.
Tastefor seasoning and adjust to suit you.
Placeguacamole into a serving dish. Bury at least one pit into the dip. This helpskeep the avocado from turning black. Cover with cling wrap and refrigerateuntil ready to serve.
Servewith tortilla chips.
Photo by The BlackRabbit on UnsplashBeefTacos1 lb. (500g) 90% lean ground beef½med. onion, chopped1cup (250ml) canned tomato sauce2tsp. (10ml) chili powder½tsp. garlic powder½tsp. (2.5ml) dried oregano½tsp. (2.5ml) paprika½tsp. (2.5ml) ground cumin½tsp. (2.5ml) cayenneFreshlyground pepper to tastePreheatoven to 220° F (100°C).
Brownbeef in a large skillet set over medium heat. Be sure to stir and break upclumps. Stir in onion and cook 3 – 4 minutes.
Pourtomato sauce over meat mixture. Sprinkle on spices. Stir well. Cook 5 – 8minutes longer, stirring often.
Pourinto an ovenproof dish. Set in oven until ready to serve.
FlourTortillas1package store bought flour tortillasWhenyou return home open the package, separate tortillas and lay directly onto yourkitchen counter for 10 – 15 minutes. Restack tortillas, wrap lightly in a papertowel. Replace them in their original package, seal, and refrigerate untilready to use.
Heata flat skillet over medium heat. Lay in a tortilla and warm for a minute or so.Turn. Fold tortilla in half. You now have a perfect taco shell.
Layshells on a plate and serve.
Ricewith Tomatoes and Onion¼cup (60ml) olive oil1med. onion, sliced thin2cups (200g) rice, not instant2cups (450ml) chicken stock, not broth2cups (450ml) water14½oz. (411g) can diced tomatoesHeatoil in a large saucepan set over moderate heat. Swirl oil to coat pan bottom.Add onion. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 5 minutes or until onion istransparent but not brown.
Pourin rice. Stir well for 2 – 3 minutes to coat all the grains. Do not let therice brown or the dish will be bitter.
Stirin stock, water, and tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Cover pan and reduce heat to asimmer. Cook for 20 minutes or until rice absorbs all the liquid.
Ifneed be, keep rice warm in a low oven until you’re ready to serve.
RefriedBeans1can refried beans*2strips baconScoopbeans into a microwaveable bowl.
Frybacon until crisp. You want to render as much fat out as possible. Eat thebacon (no joke) and then stir the rendered fat into the beans.
Dependingon how powerful your microwave is, heat for 1 – 2 minutes before serving.
*Buying canned beans is much easier than using dried pinto beans for this dishand probably better tasting. Be sure the can reads Authentic Refried Beans. LaPreferida is the brand Lydia recommended. She was right. It was delicious as ithas bits of bean in it instead of just being a heavy paste.
May you enjoy all the days of your life filled with good friends, laughter, and seated around a well-laden table!
Sloane
Sloane Taylor is an Award-Winning author with a second passion in her life. She is an avid cook and posts new recipes on her blog every Wednesday. The recipes are user friendly, meaning easy.To learn more about Taylor go to her website Stay in touch on Blogger , Twitter , and LinkedIn .
Taylor's cookbooks, Hot Mean Wear Aprons, Date Night Dinners, Date Night Dinners Italian Style, Sizzling Summer, and Recipes to Create Holidays Extraordinaire are released by Toque & Dagger Publishing and available at all book vendors.
April 13, 2025
To Friend or not to Friend, that is the Question
Yes, we all want to have friends, but sometimes you have to hit delete.
Take the time to look at those friend requests. If something feels off, click delete.
Ever since we were wee tots, the notion that we had friends was intoxicating. Pals, buddies, chums, mates: whatever you call the folks with whom we share an affinity, the mere thought of them evokes feelings of warmth and happiness, ebullience and high spirits. With friends, what could go wrong?
Well, today, a lot. I’m talking here about certain Facebook friends. You know, the ones whose pictures you barely look at, before gleefully clicking on their Please Be My Friend- requests, all in the hope of adding another notch on your friend-list belt, which, of course, proves to everyone in cyberspace just how popular you really are.
But here’s the thing. We need to be careful whom we clutch to our electronic bosom. When I first began the considerable task of building my platform – that heady combination of social media accounts that today, as much as solid writing, determines whether an agent, editor, or publisher will sign an author to a contract – I didn’t pay any special attention to the folks who wished to befriend me.
Then, I started getting odd messages from men. “Saw your picture and had to contact you. What a lovely smile!” one bearded gentleman exclaimed. “How sweet!” was my initial thought. Then another mentioned something about “cuddling” and still another bemoaned his status as a divorced man, saying he was “lonely.”
After a few of these overtures, I started taking my time. I’d actually check out my possible friend’s page and I noticed a few similarities. First, their postings were woefully slim. In many cases just a few photos, which might show them in uniform – admit it ladies, uniforms are sexy – or with small children and/or cuddly little dogs. Some claimed to have attended school in exotic locales like Budapest or impressive places like West Point. Others offered that they could think of no better way to spend an afternoon than shuttling between farmers’ markets, or sipping wine, or watching a romantic sunset. It was a quick glance at the About section that showed all of these online admirers had but a handful of friends – or none at all – and little or no background information that finally had my spidey senses tingling.
So, who are these electronic suitors? Scammers in many cases, who are after your personal information in an attempt to steal your identify. Or people who want to befriend you, then share a sob story to convince you – kindhearted soul that you are – to part with some of your hard-earned cash.
The logical response is to only friend people you know. But for authors, and other people doing business on the Internet, that’s not possible. We are trying to build a clientele. What can we do? Slow down. Take a breath. Then click on your possible new friend’s page. Ask yourself, does something feel off? Once you’ve look at a few of these requests, you’ll catch the pattern. While they might look damn cute in that uniform, go ahead and click delete. You’ll be glad you did.
Here is a brief peek at Anne's latest release.Bud Richardville is inducted into the Army as the United States prepares for the invasion of Europe in 1943. A chance comment has Bud assigned to the Graves Registration Service where his unit is tasked with locating, identifying, and burying the dead. Bud ships out, leaving behind his new wife, Lorraine, a mysterious woman who has stolen his heart but whose secretive nature and shadowy past leave many unanswered questions. When Bud and his men hit the beach at Normandy, they are immediately thrust into the horrors of what working in a graves unit entails. Bud is beaten down by the gruesome demands of his job and losses in his personal life, but then he meets Eva, an optimistic soul who despite the war can see a positive future. Will Eva’s love be enough to save him?
Praise for Your Forgotten Sons
“Although a defty crafted work of original fiction, “Your Forgotten Sons” by Anne Montgomery is inspired by a true story. An original and inherently interesting read from start to finish, “Your Forgotten Sons” will prove to be an immediate and enduringly appreciated pick.” Midwest Book Review
“This was a quick, riveting read that really challenged me to think differently about our servicemen and women, especially those who take on the jobs that don’t get heroically depicted in the media or news…I really highly recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a different take on American history. I left it with a newfound appreciation for the unsung heroes.” Bekah C NetGalley
“This is the truth. It’s gritty and painful and bittersweet – and true. When you think you’ve read every perspective of WWII, along comes Bud to break your heart.” Bridgett Siter Former Military Reporter
“Anne Montgomery writes a strong story and I was hooked from the first page. It had a great concept and I enjoyed that this was inspired by a true story…It was written perfectly and I was invested in the story. Anne Montgomery has a great writing style and left me wanting to read more.” – Kathryn McLeer NetGalley
Available at Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Google Books, and Kobo
Anne Montgomery has worked as a television sportscaster, newspaper and magazine writer, teacher, amateur baseball umpire, and high school football referee. She worked at WRBL‐TV in Columbus, Georgia, WROC‐TV in Rochester, New York, KTSP‐TV in Phoenix, Arizona, ESPN in Bristol, Connecticut, where she anchored the Emmy and ACE award‐winning SportsCenter, and ASPN-TV as the studio host for the NBA’s Phoenix Suns. Montgomery has been a freelance and staff writer for six publications, writing sports, features, movie reviews, and archeological pieces. When she can, Anne indulges in her passions: rock collecting, scuba diving, football refereeing, and playing her guitar.
Learn more about Anne Montgomery on her website and Wikipedia . Stay connected on Facebook , Linkedin , and Twitter .
April 6, 2025
A Writer's To Do List
If you’re like us, you have a to-do list. It’s filled with the mundane - but necessary - things that must be accomplished to make life run smoothly: go grocery shopping, pay the bills, do the laundry, call the plumber to unstop the toilet. Sometimes these things, and life in general, can get in a writer’s way. But just sitting down at the keyboard isn’t the only thing a writer needs to do. There’s more to writing than putting words to paper or on computer screens. Here are a few suggestions we came up with for your to-do list. Don’t just write - feed your soul and your muse too.1. Read. Read books, magazines, newspapers, the back of cereal boxeswhatever you can get. Writers must be readers.
2. Visit McDonald’s at lunchtime and pretend you’re a kid again. Buy a Happy Meal, eat it slowly, play with the toy, play with your food, make kiddie noises, and watch the other kids play. Writers must be able to get into the skins of other people to write realistically.
3. Make a journal entry. Write about your dreams, your past, your goals, your feelings. Free-write to let creativity reign. Writers must tap into the unconscious, creative brain functions that allow characters to come alive, ideas to bubble to the surface, and creativity to flow.
4. Take a walk, jog around the block, visit the gym. Writers need exercise to stay healthy.
5. Spend time with people. Writers can’t be lone wolves all the time. We need the stimulation of companionship to recharge.
6. Pull your lawn chair under a tree and look up at the sky. Writers need time to stare into space and dream.
7. Sleep late, go to bed early, take a nap. Writers need their rest so they can be alert to the world around them.
8. Remember a time when your emotions ran high and re-experience it. Feel the anger, love, hate, fear, loneliness, sadness, courage, and jealousy. They are part of life. Writers must be able to pull emotions to the surface in order to write with passion.
9. Close the office door and spend time by yourself. Writers need to be alone to create.
10. Write today, tomorrow, and every day. Writers aren’t writers unless they spend the time doing the one thing, they, by their very nature, can’t avoid doing. Spill your passion onto the page and release the magic into your writing life.
Putting words and stories on paper is second nature to co-authors C.D. Hersh. They've written separately since they were teenagers and discovered their unique, collaborative abilities in the mid-90s. As high school sweethearts and husband and wife, Catherine and Donald believe in true love and happily ever after, and that’s why they write romance.In addition to writing Catherine and Donald love antiquing, traveling, singing, and going to the theatre. Catherine is also an avid gardener and has drawn Donald into her garden as a day laborer. They figure the couple who plays together and works together, stays together—and that's just what they aim to do.
Second Editions Coming Soon:
Ghosts and Gardenias
The Promised One The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 1
Blood Brothers The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 2
Son of the Moonless Night The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 3
The Mercenary and the Shifters The Turning Stone Chronicles Book 4
Social Media Info:
March 30, 2025
6 Steps to Bolster Your Self-Esteem
Set Big Goals! I’m not kidding. Make plans tocarry out how you’re going to achieve your humongous goals. This is soimportant. Think about it. If you’re going on a trip, you enter all the info inyour GPS or purchase a map to mark out your destination. Businesses needbusiness plans or the bank manager will look at you sideways when you comeasking for a loan. What’s the difference when it comes to planning out yourlife goals? Mark down your Values and Ideals! Set your biggoals based on your values and ideals. Don’t make your goals to easy toachieve, instead aim high, and the higher the better. For example, some authorsI know (me included) would love their novel or novel series to be turned into amovie. Or some authors would love to sign with a traditional publishingcompany, while others would rather go it alone on the self-publishing route. Aword of caution—know thyself—don’t set your goals so far out of reach that yougive up before you even get started.Measure your Successes! This is soimportant. Define what the standard is for YOU, and no one else. Understandyour strengths and weaknesses, and use both to help you accomplish your goals.Form alliances with other like-minded individuals or groups and delegate whennecessary.
Stop comparing yourself to others! This is so hardNOT to do. But if you continually compare your successes to other people’ssuccesses you’ll find that there’s always one person doing better than you.Better sales. Better book covers. Better stories. Better life. STOP IT! Yourplans are not their plans. Stick to YOUR plan, and keep positive. The bestthing you can do for yourself is to develop a positive mental attitude, andkeep moving forward with purpose.Recognize your Accomplishments! When someoneyou admire pats you on the back, don’t shrug it off. Take it. Embrace it. It’sgood for you. People have a habit of fluffing off compliments, especially whenthey’ve earned it. So my take advice and savor that pat on the back for a jobwell done. Besides, it’s good for us to stand in the spotlight—it makes usshine all the brighter!
Reward yourself! This is the icing on the cake.Make sure you select a reward that is consistent with the goal you have justachieved. Signed a book deal? Go out for supper to celebrate or buy thosebeautiful shoes you keep passing in the store window. Graduateduniversity? Car keys please! You get theidea. When I have a book release, I usually reward myself with an expensivebottle of cognac and a cigar (and I don’t smoke!). Go figure.So, how do youbolster your self-esteem? Love to hear your voices…
Depending on the time of day, pour your favorite beverage then head to your comfy reading spot and all a good book to seep into your soul. May I suggest a visit to mysterious Fairy Falls, or if you’re feeling reallyadventurous, a trip back in time with TheLast Timekeepers? Whichever you choose, either series willtransport you to another time and place, taking you away from the troubles ofthe real world.
SharonLedwith is the author of the middle-grade/young adult time travel adventureseries, THE LAST TIMEKEEPERS, and the award-winning teen psychic mysteryseries, MYSTERIOUS TALES FROM FAIRY FALLS. When not writing, reading,researching, or revising, she enjoys anything arcane, ancient mysteries, andsingle malt scotch. Sharon lives a serene, yet busy life in a southern touristregion of Ontario, Canada, with her spoiled hubby and is happy to spend many hours with her amazing grandson.
Learn moreabout Sharon Ledwith on her WEBSITE and BLOG. Look up her AMAZONAUTHORpage for a list of current books. Stay connected on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, PINTEREST, LINKEDIN, INSTAGRAM, and GOODREADS.
BONUS: Download the free PDF short story TheTerrible, Mighty Crystal HERE
March 23, 2025
BREAKING RULES CAN BE DEADLY
In a moment, the magnificent Sonoran Desert can become merciless, even deadly. I will never venture there again without following the rules.
In my YA novel The Scent of Rain, as in all my books, the beautiful but sometimes treacherous southwestern desert plays a part. I’ve lived in Phoenix, Arizona for over 25 years and I’d always believed that, in the event of a Zombie Apocalypse, I could manage to stay alive in the wilderness that butts up against our urban landscape. Years of Girl Scout camp, rock collecting in remote abandoned mines, and scuba diving in wild locales made me confident I could outwit the elements, if I found myself stuck in the middle of nowhere.
The key to survival is planning. Make rules and stick to them. As a sports official for over thirty-five years, I tend to be quite dedicated to rules. Still, one awful day, I committed the worst mistake imaginable. I broke my own rules: a decision that could have been fatal.
I was headed for a day of rock collecting in the Superstition Mountains. As always, I’d left a detailed map of where I planned to be and when to expect me home. Since finding a person in hundreds of square miles of mountainous wilderness is always a daunting task – especially when cellphone access is rarely available – the rule was that I would stay with the vehicle, which would be much easier to spot than a lone individual. My old Ford pickup was stocked with water and food, a sleeping bag, books to read, a tent, a bottle of tequila – to disinfect wounds, of course – and dog food. I traveled that day with Georgie, my aging sheltie collie, and a young spotted cattle-dog mix named Sadie.
Once off the two-lane road, I drove about a mile on a well-maintained dirt trail. But quickly, the ground became rocky and steep. A few twists and turns later, I stopped. The track was too rough. Unfortunately, I was between a rock wall and a small ledge leading into a sandy wash, so I couldn’t turn the truck around. I draped my arm over the passenger seat and started backing down the trail. Almost immediately, my rear tire slipped over the ledge, and the pickup slid into the wash. When I gunned the engine, the back tires sunk into the sand.
I swore loudly and jumped out, landing in a jumble of sharp rocks. My leg slipped into a crevice, and I fell, slicing my arm on a jagged boulder. Blood ran down to my elbow in bright red streaks. I swore some more.
I stared back in the direction of the road. I was only about a mile-and-a-half in. It would be a short hike on a cool, cloudy day. I could flag someone down and call home. I strapped two water bottles around my waist, grabbed some energy bars, reapplied my sunscreen, and squashed on my Aussie hat. I put the dogs’ leashes in my pack.
I walked on the sandy wash for a short time, admiring the rocky desert beauty: spindly ocotillos, majestic saguaros, and twisted mesquite trees dotted the landscape. The dogs bounded around me. Then I stopped. Two trails, right next to one another, led away from the wash. I thought for a moment. Which one had brought me here? I took the fork to the left. I can’t remember why.
Later that morning, I stood near the top of a small mountain. The dark, open face of an abandoned mine yawned at me. I’d taken the wrong trail. I turned and gazed out at the valley. With the exception of the massive Ray Copper Mine edging the horizon, I saw only wilderness. Where was the road?
Then, the sun came out, strong and hot. I squinted and saw what looked like a white roof way off to my left. We started down the trail, which forked again. This was a mining road, composed of jagged rocks. After about 30 minutes, Georgie stopped. My collie had cut her paws on the rough trail and sat down, refusing to budge. Both animals stared at me, tongues lolling out of their mouths. I reached again for the water bottles and was stunned that only about an inch of precious fluid remained.
The heat became stifling. I tried carrying Georgie, but she was too heavy. I looked for shade, knowing that we should wait out the heat and hike at night. But could we all survive on the little bit of water that remained? Death can come quickly in the desert.
Feeling sick to my stomach, I walked away from my girls. I’d leashed them to the meager shade of a scraggly bush, hoping to find help before dark. The coyotes would be out by then. Two tied dogs would have no chance against them.I wiped tears from my face as I built cairns: trail markers that could lead me back. I’d had heat sickness before and recognized that I was beginning to succumb again to the light-headedness that precedes passing out. I finished the water.
Later, when I put my foot on a flat piece of pavement, I was stunned. The road simply appeared with no warning. Then, out of nowhere on that lonely stretch, a single car pulled up and stopped next to me. A young man, incongruously wearing a white button-down and tie, leaned out the window and asked if I needed help.
“You’re hurt,” he said looking at the dried blood on my arm.”
I cried.
The kind young man dropped me off at the Kearny sheriff’s office, where Mayberry-esq matrons in floral-print blouses fussed over me. “No, I don’t want a paramedic,” I assured them, red-faced, crying. “I want my dogs!”
Several hours later, Sheriff Joe Martinez drove his cruiser into the desert with me on the seat beside him. We followed the trail of stone markers. I worried about my girls and was afraid to look when he said, “There they are!”
To my relief, we were greeted with wagging tails. Later, Sheriff Martinez, in true western hero fashion, pulled my truck from the sand and waved me off.
Prior to my brush with disaster, I could sometimes be heard mocking ill-prepared visitors who would end up lost in the desert without food, water, sunscreen, or proper clothing: hikers who approached the desert environment like a walk in a pastoral garden.
I don’t do that anymore.
And I never, ever, break the rules.
Here is a brief peek at Anne's latest release.Bud Richardville is inducted into the Army as the United States prepares for the invasion of Europe in 1943. A chance comment has Bud assigned to the Graves Registration Service where his unit is tasked with locating, identifying, and burying the dead. Bud ships out, leaving behind his new wife, Lorraine, a mysterious woman who has stolen his heart but whose secretive nature and shadowy past leave many unanswered questions. When Bud and his men hit the beach at Normandy, they are immediately thrust into the horrors of what working in a graves unit entails. Bud is beaten down by the gruesome demands of his job and losses in his personal life, but then he meets Eva, an optimistic soul who despite the war can see a positive future. Will Eva’s love be enough to save him?
Praise for Your Forgotten Sons
“Although a defty crafted work of original fiction, “Your Forgotten Sons” by Anne Montgomery is inspired by a true story. An original and inherently interesting read from start to finish, “Your Forgotten Sons” will prove to be an immediate and enduringly appreciated pick.” Midwest Book Review
“This was a quick, riveting read that really challenged me to think differently about our servicemen and women, especially those who take on the jobs that don’t get heroically depicted in the media or news…I really highly recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a different take on American history. I left it with a newfound appreciation for the unsung heroes.” Bekah C NetGalley
“This is the truth. It’s gritty and painful and bittersweet – and true. When you think you’ve read every perspective of WWII, along comes Bud to break your heart.” Bridgett Siter Former Military Reporter
“Anne Montgomery writes a strong story and I was hooked from the first page. It had a great concept and I enjoyed that this was inspired by a true story…It was written perfectly and I was invested in the story. Anne Montgomery has a great writing style and left me wanting to read more.” – Kathryn McLeer NetGalley
Available at Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Google Books, and KoboAnne Montgomery has worked as a television sportscaster, newspaper and magazine writer, teacher, amateur baseball umpire, and high school football referee. She worked at WRBL‐TV in Columbus, Georgia, WROC‐TV in Rochester, New York, KTSP‐TV in Phoenix, Arizona, ESPN in Bristol, Connecticut, where she anchored the Emmy and ACE award‐winning SportsCenter, and ASPN-TV as the studio host for the NBA’s Phoenix Suns. Montgomery has been a freelance and staff writer for six publications, writing sports, features, movie reviews, and archeological pieces. When she can, Anne indulges in her passions: rock collecting, scuba diving, football refereeing, and playing her guitar.
Learn more about Anne Montgomery on her website and Wikipedia . Stay connected on Facebook , Linkedin , and Twitter .
ANNE
THIS IS THE TIME FOR ALL GOOD MEN TO COMETO THE AID F THEIRCOUNTRY
Here is a brief peek at Anne's latest release.Bud Richardville is inducted into the Army as the United States prepares for the invasion of Europe in 1943. A chance comment has Bud assigned to the Graves Registration Service where his unit is tasked with locating, identifying, and burying the dead. Bud ships out, leaving behind his new wife, Lorraine, a mysterious woman who has stolen his heart but whose secretive nature and shadowy past leave many unanswered questions. When Bud and his men hit the beach at Normandy, they are immediately thrust into the horrors of what working in a graves unit entails. Bud is beaten down by the gruesome demands of his job and losses in his personal life, but then he meets Eva, an optimistic soul who despite the war can see a positive future. Will Eva’s love be enough to save him?
Praise for Your Forgotten Sons
“Although a defty crafted work of original fiction, “Your Forgotten Sons” by Anne Montgomery is inspired by a true story. An original and inherently interesting read from start to finish, “Your Forgotten Sons” will prove to be an immediate and enduringly appreciated pick.” Midwest Book Review
“This was a quick, riveting read that really challenged me to think differently about our servicemen and women, especially those who take on the jobs that don’t get heroically depicted in the media or news…I really highly recommend this book to anyone that is looking for a different take on American history. I left it with a newfound appreciation for the unsung heroes.” Bekah C NetGalley
“This is the truth. It’s gritty and painful and bittersweet – and true. When you think you’ve read every perspective of WWII, along comes Bud to break your heart.” Bridgett Siter Former Military Reporter
“Anne Montgomery writes a strong story and I was hooked from the first page. It had a great concept and I enjoyed that this was inspired by a true story…It was written perfectly and I was invested in the story. Anne Montgomery has a great writing style and left me wanting to read more.” – Kathryn McLeer NetGalley
Available at Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Google Books, and KoboAnne Montgomery has worked as a television sportscaster, newspaper and magazine writer, teacher, amateur baseball umpire, and high school football referee. She worked at WRBL‐TV in Columbus, Georgia, WROC‐TV in Rochester, New York, KTSP‐TV in Phoenix, Arizona, ESPN in Bristol, Connecticut, where she anchored the Emmy and ACE award‐winning SportsCenter, and ASPN-TV as the studio host for the NBA’s Phoenix Suns. Montgomery has been a freelance and staff writer for six publications, writing sports, features, movie reviews, and archeological pieces. When she can, Anne indulges in her passions: rock collecting, scuba diving, football refereeing, and playing her guitar.
Learn more about Anne Montgomery on her website and Wikipedia . Stay connected on Facebook , Linkedin , and Twitter .
