Sloane Taylor's Blog, page 4

Sure and Begorrah! Wishing you all a safe and fun day!

Sure and Begorrah!
Wishing you all a safe and fun day!

Generating Story Ideas

from C.D. Hersh 

People frequently ask how and where we got our ideas towrite one story let alone a series.

Our collaborative writing journey started when our dramadirector asked us to write a play for the upcoming Christmas project the churchwas planning. That project turned out to be an interactive, walk-through dramawith over one hundred characters. From that we did some skits and even have acouple of plays, radio shows and musical dramas WIPs. We really got to doingromance novels because of one Catherine gave to Donald. As he read it, he saidno man would act like or say what that character said. He said we could dobetter, so we started looking for ideas.

The catalyst for the series happened during a trip, where we often plotto pass the time. We were reading road signs, brainstorming book ideas. We cameup with several book ideas, but the one that caught our interest came from aroad sign in New York State pointing to a place called Turning Stone. That ideajust took off for us.

As we developed the book concept, we decided that we wanted somethingdifferent than the normal were-shape shifters. In reality, we can thankDonald’s psychology courses for the idea of the various forms of shifting. Oneof the psyche theories is that we all have three parts to our psyche, commonlycalled id, ego and super-ego. We added a twist to that theory using male,female, and animal egos, and a magic ring that could tap the various forms.

So how do we find ideas that allow our imaginations to runrampant? Ask, “What if?” of something you’ve just seen or heard. Many times,ideas come from commercials on television or just a snippet of conversation youhear in the grocery store or mall. Our newest book series coming out in thespring is based on one our travels where we stayed at a haunted B&B. Theroom we stayed in freaked Catherine out. She refused to raise her eyes from thefloor and learned the next morning that the room had a ghost. You just neverknow what is going to spark an idea when you ask, “What if?”

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:

Website

Blog

Facebook

Amazon Author Page

Twitter

Goodreads

CELEBRATE THE GREEN

from Sloane Taylor

Presenting the traditional St. Patrick's Day meal most North Americans will enjoy with a cold Harp Lager, Guinness Stout, Killian's Irish Red Lager, or Smithwicks Ale. But here's a newsflash, Boyo, except for the beer you'll never find corned beef served anyway on the Old Sod. That's right. Our Irish brethren look at us in amazement, but that's never stopped us Yanks from creating traditions. So pour another wee dram and let's get cooking.

Corned Beef
Cabbage
Carrots
Potatoes
Bakery Rye Bread
Horseradish Sauce
Mustard
Irish Beer and plenty of it

Corned Beef
1 5lb. corned beef brisket*
2 med. onions, peeled and quartered
4 peppercorns
1 bay leaf
3 bottles of beer
water to cover

Preheat oven to 300 F°.

Place beef in a Dutch oven. Add remaining ingredients, including spice packet that comes with the beef.

Bring to a boil on stovetop. Place in oven and roast for 3 hours or until meat is fork tender.

*Don't stint on the beef. It cooks down to approximately half. I learned this lesson the hard way.

Here's a tip from my butcher Raoul. Always buy corned beef flat cut. It has less fat than the point. Therefore you get more meat for your money.

Vegetables
6 med. red potatoes, peeled and quartered
6 carrots, scraped and cut into 2" pieces
1 celery stalk, cut into 2" pieces
1 med. green cabbage, cut into 8 wedges
1 cup corned beef cooking liquid
water

You can prep all the veggies and store in a large container covered by cold water until you're ready to cook them. Refrigerate so vegetables remain crisp.

Place veggies in a large pot. Stir in corned beef cooking liquid. Add water to cover vegetables by 2 inches. Cover pot. Set cooking temp at medium. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat so the pot doesn't cook over but maintain a soft boil. Cook about 30 minutes or until veggies are fork tender.

Horseradish Sauce
1 cup sour cream
2 tbsp. prepared horseradish
1 tsp. fresh chives, snipped short

Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl. Stir well.

Transfer to a serving dish, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve.

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.

DEPENDING ON THE KINDNESS OF STRANGERS

 from Anne Montgomery

In A Streetcar Named Desire Blanch DuBois believed she cou ld rely on the kindness of strangers. Many authors seemto feel the same way.

I’vewritten quite a lot recently about the never-ending quest for reviews, thecurrency which sells books. To get these critiques we authors “depend on thekindness of strangers,” as Blanche DuBois said so pithily as she descended intomadness.

When Ifirst started asking for reviews, I would scan bloggers’ websites, check theirguidelines, compose my query. And then, I’d see that dreaded line: “I am notaccepting submissions at this time.” I would react a bit crankily, at thatpoint. I mean, why have a review blog if you don’t want to do reviews? Geez!

“I’mtaking a short break from taking on any more books,” wrote one blogger. “I willstill be reviewing, but my list of to-reads has become a little over whelming,”

“I amstill digging out of the hole of book review over-commitment, and Icontinue to over-commit,” said another. “Is there a support group for thisproblem?”

Eventually,I started to think about reviewers in a new light. Mostly, these are regularpeople, not professional journalists drawing a paycheck for reading books andsharing their thoughts. These are folks who love literature and generallyimpart their opinions for free, who – when authors are very lucky – post theirreviews on Amazon and Goodreads and Twitter, and lots of other social mediaplatforms. These are moms and dads with day jobs.

“Weare back on Earth and reviewing. Unfortunately, we’re so busy, it’s unlikelywe’re going to accept a request.”

Whilerummaging for reviews, I am also sometimes taken aback by a subtle whiff ofsnark.

“Iwill no longer reply to emails that don’t follow this policy. If you ignore mehere, I’ll ignore you. Yes, that sounds harsh, but I get nearly 70 requests aday. I’m only one person and I don’t have the time to search for missinginformation or reply to every email that fails (to) include what I need to makea decision.”

Yikes!Maybe not so subtle in this case, but again, consider the reviewer’spoint-of-view. They are interested in your book’s premise, but you forgot toadd the link they requested, or your contact information was wrong, or youfailed to include your cleverly composed synopsis, leaving them without theimportant facts they need to decide if you’re an author they’d like to workwith.

Thebottom line is let’s have compassion, people. Let’s think of the reviewer as afriend. A busy friend. We can make their lives easier and they can help us sellbooks. So, carefully follow the directions bloggers lay out on theirsubmissions and policy pages. Even if, sometimes, those directives are just awee bit strange.

“Idon’t do demon/human/angel love, but bad demons are fine, same for angels. Ijust don’t like them in romances.”

Indeed.

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 .

 

Let's Go Italian!

from Sloane Taylor

I enjoy experimenting with different foodcombinations and creating new recipes. This delicious dish is perfect forbreakfast or even lunch, but then you may want to add a small salad and a glassof crisp white wine. 😊

Italian BreakfastSoufflé for 2½lb. Italian sausage, bulk or links2– 3 tbsp. butter, softened4lg. eggs¾ cup milkChopped onion to taste1 tsp. dried mustardFreshly ground black pepper to taste2slices provolone cheese½cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded¾cup mozzarella cheese, shredded3– 1-inch slices Vienna or French bread, cubed* 
Preheatoven to 350° F.

If you use links, then squeeze the meatfrom the casing before cooking. 

Fry sausage in a small pan until no longer pink.Be sure to break up any clumps. Set aside.

Spread butter on the insides and bottomsof two baking dishes approximately 500ml or 17-ounces.

The following ingredients are to beequally divided between the 2 dishes when added. All stirring should be donegently.

Break 2 eggs in each prepared dish.Lightly scramble. Pour in milk. Stir in sausage and onion. Sprinkle on mustard and pepper. Stir.

Tear provolone into pieces then add tomixture along with cheddar and mozzarella. Stir.

Fold in bread.

Bake 45 – 55 minutes or until a knifeinserted in the center has no egg clinging to it.

Set the soufflés on dinner plates to serveso as not to scorch your table.

This dish can be assembled a one or twodays ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate, but allow the soufflé to sit on yourcounter 1 hour or so before you bake it.

*I’veused day old homemade bread and unseasoned cubes from stuffing mix. They bothworked great.

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.

A Delicious Taste of Canada

 FromSharon Ledwith

ACanadian staple, peameal bacon (Canadian bacon is a comparable substitute), andeggs have graced many a table every Sunday for brunch, including mine. However,sometimes we do things a little different in our home by cooking a peamealroast as the main course for supper. Served with hash browns, air-fryer roastpotatoes, or wedge fries, and veggies of your choice (we love the garden beanmedley), this meal makes extra for sandwiches or breakfast. Yum! So get yourtoque on, and maple syrup out of the fridge, it’s time to embrace Canada’sculture and cuisine. Can you give me an ‘Eh’?

Maple-GlazedPeameal Roast
¾cup pure maple syrup (125 ml)¼cup grainy mustard (60 ml)1tsp. finely chopped fresh thyme (5 ml)1½pound piece of peameal bacon, whole
Preheatoven to 325° F.

Gentlyboil maple syrup, mustard, and thyme in a saucepan until reduced to almost halfand thickened, about 10 to 15 minutes.

Brushglaze over peameal and roast for about 30 to 45 minutes, basting occasionallywith the glaze, until peameal is heated through. Transfer peameal to a largeplate and let stand, loosely covered with foil, for about 15 minutes.

Sliceroast and serve with your choice of potatoes and veggies.

Thismeal is perfect at campground get-togethers or cottage retreats when you need ameal in a pinch to serve for dinner or even brunch. Once dinner or breakfast isfinished and the dishes are done, it’s time to relax, kick back, and let yourmeal digest in peace. Depending on the time of day, pour yourself a cup ofcoffee, tea, or a favorite beverage, and head over to the porch, parlor, orpatio and allow 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

 

 

 

Priming the Muse

from C.D. Hersh

Have you ever used a news story as a starting point for your writing?

Here’s an interesting idea to get your brain pumping in the new year. Several years ago, medical ethicist Art Caplan told CNN that an invitro fertilization procedure using DNA from three different people may be able to prevent illnesses passed from mother to child via the mitochondria, diseases like muscular dystrophy and respiratory problems, or mitochondrial disorders that can lead to heart or liver problems.

The technology, called oocyte modification, involves scooping out potentially mutated mitochondrial DNA from a woman’s egg and replacing it with the DNA of an unaffected donor woman. By doing this the hope is that the transmission of inherited mitochondrial disease can be prevented. Once the DNA is swapped, the egg is fertilized in the lab with the father’s sperm and implanted back in the mother to be carried to term.

Caplan believes that this procedure, often nicknamed three-parent IVF, will be useful in preventing diseases that can be passed down from generation to generation and would be ethical as long as it proves to be safe. We’re all for preventing diseases, but messing with our DNA could potentially be disastrous, in our humble opinion.

The writer in us however, started constructing scenarios the minute we read this, not the least of which has to do with what one could do using this technology for the opposite of good. Before we go any further in this idea exercise, we must emphasize that any scenarios we list here are purely from our imaginations, and not something that the creators of this procedure have planned. We are not saying we believe this is right or wrong, and we are not inviting comments or opinions about the ethicalness of this subject. This is merely an exercise in how to take an idea or news clip and turn it upside down to create a fiction story.

So, without any further disclaimers, here are some interesting concepts we came up with from reading this article.

• Stepford Children, based on the Stepford Wives movie concept; perfect mothers and housekeepers who bent to every whim of their husbands. You remember that creepy story from the 60s? Ooh, what could go horribly wrong?
• The unintentional creation of a new disease from the combining of three parental sets of DNA. Think Zombie War here or I am Legend, but different.
• A realignment of the basic family concept. Lots of room for conflict there. It takes two females and one male for this procedure. If you changed the basic family unit, the poor child would have two moms nagging him to clean his room, find a wife, get a job. You get the idea. And we won’t even mention the polygamous adult relationships in this complication.
• When you can create the perfect child, what happens to the rest of the children who didn’t get that chance to be created perfectly? Would there be a rag tag population who live in a dystopian setting on the border of the perfect children and their perfect three parent families in their perfect world?

These are only four possible story scenarios we came up with using a controversial news clip as a jumping off point. We challenge you to go find your own interesting news article and come up with some new twists using the basic concept of the story. If this helped you see how to use the news to create a book idea, please let us know. We’d love to hear from you.

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:

Website

Blog

Facebook

Amazon Author Page

Twitter

Goodreads

FREE Just for You!

from Sharon Ledwith

Tips, Tools & Tricks for the Tenacious Writer is the perfect resource for writers who want to know the ins and outs of what it takes to be a published author. Available Free for download… https://www.sharonledwith.com/tips-tools-tricks-for-the-tenacious-writer/

Forward…

It begins with INTENT. Back when I started blogging, I was so green and didn’t have much to offer writers or even knew what to say. I was scared, insecure, and filled with tons of self-doubt. BUT I moved forward with tenacity and embraced the desire to be a published author, and dare I say, Bestselling author. I’ve built my blog, and my writing career brick by brick, word by word until I’ve amassed quite a collection of helpful and heartfelt content to assist anyone who is remotely interested in delving into the murky, yet exciting world of writing and all the challenges a writer might face. Today, I still have a long way to go, but I’m definitely on the right track with my goals and aspirations as a young adult author.

It is my hope that you find the following compiled content insightful, inspiring, and illuminating as you begin your writing journey or just need some tips, tools, or tricks to help you shine in this crazy publishing business. All the best. All the success.

All Systems Go…

First, let me introduce myself—my name is Sharon Ledwith and I write young adult fiction. My genres include: time travel mysteries (kind of like a mesh of fantasy with a splash of sci-fi meets Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys), as well as paranormal stories where teens deal with psychic powers like psychometry, telekinesis, animal communication—stuff like that.

My intention of this blog is to:

#1 Get you to know me as a writer, and post my experiences as an indie publisher of eBooks.

#2 Introduce and showcase my stories and characters.

In a nutshell—market myself and promote my work.

That’s it really. You see, writing is all about the reader. My goal is to influence and empower today’s youth—the next generation—through the stories I create. I believe everyone is here at this time with a mission and a purpose, and every child has something to add to our evolutionary advancement. Children truly are the keys to our future. It is my hope to unlock this portal.

To Grow or Not To Grow…

I am a dinosaur. I freely admit it. No, no, not the kind with fangs and scales—although my kids may have something to say about that—I’m talking about keeping up with the times. Technology is my biggest and scariest hurdle. It is harsh, unknown territory, and yet without computers, the internet, social networks, texting—I could go on, but you get the drift—there would be no growth, no challenges for our wonderful evolving lives. And let’s face it technology DOES make our lives a heck of a lot easier! Dinosaurs had to make way for humanity (actually, they had no choice in the matter), and so, I too must bow to the changes and challenges technology offers OR become like the scaly beasts of the past and disappear forever.

Here's a glimpse of the premises of both my young adult series.

The Last Timekeepers Time Travel Adventures

Chosenby an Atlantean Magus to be Timekeepers—legendary time travelers sworn to keephistory safe from the evil Belial—five classmates are sent into the past torestore balance, and bring order back into the world, one mission at a time.

Children are the keys to our future. And now, children are theonly hope for our past.

Mysterious Tales from Fairy Falls Teen Psychic Mysteries

Imagine a teenagerpossessing a psychic ability and struggling to cope with its freakish power.There’s no hope for a normal life, and no one who understands. Now, imaginebeing uprooted and forced to live in a small tourist town where nothing muchever happens. It’s bores-ville from the get-go. Until mysterious things startto happen.

Welcome to Fairy Falls.Expect the unexpected.

The Last Timekeepers Time Travel Adventure Series:

The LastTimekeepers and the Noble Slave, Book #3

MIRROR WORLDPUBLISHING׀ AMAZON ׀ BARNES & NOBLE ׀

The LastTimekeepers and the Dark Secret, Book #2 BuyLinks:

MIRROR WORLDPUBLISHING׀ AMAZON ׀ BARNES & NOBLE ׀

The LastTimekeepers and the Arch of Atlantis, Book #1 Buy Links:

MIRROR WORLDPUBLISHING׀ AMAZON ׀ BARNES & NOBLE ׀

MIRRORWORLD PUBLISHING ׀ AMAZON ׀ BARNES& NOBLE׀

Blackfliesand Blueberries, Book Two BuyLinks:

MIRRORWORLD PUBLISHING ׀ AMAZON ׀ BARNES& NOBLE׀

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 a moody calico cat.

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

 

 

No internet? Yikes!

How will I survive?

from Anne Montgomery

Several months ago, my internet was finicky.It went on and off several times each day. I considered that, since it’ssummertime, perhaps lots of people were home sucking up those internetresources.

But then the internet went outcompletely. After a few hours, I called my provider. I always get a tickle outof the recorded message telling me that, if I’m having problems, I should goonline and check the company’s website.

“But I have no internet!” I wanted toscream at the robotic voice that kept steering me away from contact with areal human.

After being disconnected for noapparent reason—maybe I said something to offend the AI operator—I tried again.

“Our wait times are currently verylong,” the voice explained.

I didn’t hang up.

“Just a reminder, you can go to ourwebsite…”

I wanted to throw the phone but heldmy ground. After a about ten seconds of silence, the voice said, “You’re stillthere.”

I jumped! It sounded like anaccusation.

“Let me get someone to assist you.”

I let out a breath. After aconversation with a real person, I learned that, indeed, the service was downall over my neighborhood. They hoped all would be well at about 6:00 PM thatevening.

But twenty-four hours later, I still had no access to the Web. After standing around with my hands in my pocketswondering what to do, I tried to remember what life was like before we allbecame addicted to e-mail and social media and instant messaging. And Iconsidered the number of times each day I would run to check if I’d missedsomething vital.

Ah…good old snail mail. Remember how exciting it was to get somethingwith your name on it?

You know…like some huge publisherwants my newest book.

Or Netflix is interested in producingan eight-part series on my fabulous life.

Or some impressive university wants tobestow upon me an honorary doctorate for my literary brilliance.

Then, I had to admit that generally Ifind nothing horribly important in my daily correspondences. And yet, I can’thelp myself. I remember a similar feeling each day when I was a kidanticipating the mail, the kind with paper and ink and stamps. (For youyoungsters, Google it.) But back then we understood the mailman only arrivedonce a day, a vast difference from our current 24-hour model, that has many ofus desperately seeking…I don’t know…some kind of validation, maybe.

I checked the mail on my phone—not soeasy since I have four accounts—and confirmed just how unimportant I am. Itried to deal with my social media accounts, but dislike working on the tinyscreen, so I put the phone down.

It was in the evening that the horrible reality hit. Nostreaming! There we were in Season 6 of Peaky Blinders withno access. We were forced to try TV from the antennae, compelled to sit throughendless commercials. I wanted to weep.

Okay! I feel better now.

Yep, I’m a spoiled brat.

Later, I considered what I might doinstead of “working” online. I closed my eyes and considered the things I dofor joy: bake brownies, read a book, call a friend, play my guitar, plan a nicemeal, see what’s still eatable in the garden, go for a swim.

When I opened my eyes, I was embarrassed, because Irealized what I needed to do: Be grateful for what I do have.

Still, right now, the brownies are winning. So, pardon mewhile I go mix up a batch.

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 .

 

No internet? Yikes! How will I survive?

from Anne Montgomery

Several months ago, my internet was finicky.It went on and off several times each day. I considered that, since it’ssummertime, perhaps lots of people were home sucking up those internetresources.

But then the internet went outcompletely. After a few hours, I called my provider. I always get a tickle outof the recorded message telling me that, if I’m having problems, I should goonline and check the company’s website.

“But I have no internet!” I wanted toscream at the robotic voice that kept steering me away from contact with areal human.

After being disconnected for noapparent reason—maybe I said something to offend the AI operator—I tried again.

“Our wait times are currently verylong,” the voice explained.

I didn’t hang up.

“Just a reminder, you can go to ourwebsite…”

I wanted to throw the phone but heldmy ground. After a about ten seconds of silence, the voice said, “You’re stillthere.”

I jumped! It sounded like anaccusation.

“Let me get someone to assist you.”

I let out a breath. After aconversation with a real person, I learned that, indeed, the service was downall over my neighborhood. They hoped all would be well at about 6:00 PM thatevening.

But twenty-four hours later, I still had no access to the Web. After standing around with my hands in my pocketswondering what to do, I tried to remember what life was like before we allbecame addicted to e-mail and social media and instant messaging. And Iconsidered the number of times each day I would run to check if I’d missedsomething vital.

Ah…good old snail mail. Remember how exciting it was to get somethingwith your name on it?

You know…like some huge publisherwants my newest book.

Or Netflix is interested in producingan eight-part series on my fabulous life.

Or some impressive university wants tobestow upon me an honorary doctorate for my literary brilliance.

Then, I had to admit that generally Ifind nothing horribly important in my daily correspondences. And yet, I can’thelp myself. I remember a similar feeling each day when I was a kidanticipating the mail, the kind with paper and ink and stamps. (For youyoungsters, Google it.) But back then we understood the mailman only arrivedonce a day, a vast difference from our current 24-hour model, that has many ofus desperately seeking…I don’t know…some kind of validation, maybe.

I checked the mail on my phone—not soeasy since I have four accounts—and confirmed just how unimportant I am. Itried to deal with my social media accounts, but dislike working on the tinyscreen, so I put the phone down.

It was in the evening that the horrible reality hit. Nostreaming! There we were in Season 6 of Peaky Blinders withno access. We were forced to try TV from the antennae, compelled to sit throughendless commercials. I wanted to weep.

Okay! I feel better now.

Yep, I’m a spoiled brat.

Later, I considered what I might doinstead of “working” online. I closed my eyes and considered the things I dofor joy: bake brownies, read a book, call a friend, play my guitar, plan a nicemeal, see what’s still eatable in the garden, go for a swim.

When I opened my eyes, I was embarrassed, because Irealized what I needed to do: Be grateful for what I do have.

Still, right now, the brownies are winning. So, pardon mewhile I go mix up a batch.

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 .