Rachel Rossano's Blog, page 28
November 19, 2011
A Sweet Saturday Sample
Welcome back for another sweet sample for your Saturday. Today, I grabbed a moment from Myah's head. She is beginning to get some of her memories back.
~~~
After a pause, waiting for the floor to settle into place, I raised my head. My dark shadow sat across from me, keeping the slab of metal between us. His large hands clasped each other where they rested on the surface. The muscles of his wrists corded with the strain of his grip."What happened back there?" I ventured a glance at him. Lips pressed tight, he sat with eyes closed."Eat." The clipped syllable hit me in the face.I blinked. Something was wrong. I didn't know what, but…A massive wave of memories washed over me. I held a child. The warm softness of her head, the smell of her olive skin, the silk of her hair against my cheek, and the deep pleasure of holding a small, vibrant life in my arms filled my chest. Then it was gone. Moisture flooded my eyes. I closed my eyelids trying to keep the tears back."Eat. You need your strength for what is ahead.""What is ahead? You seem to know so much. Why? What don't I remember? I don't understand." A sob almost escaped. I clamped my mouth shut. He looked at me with sympathetic eyes. It wasn't helping. I didn't want sympathy; I needed answers.
~~~
Will she get all her answers?
Available on Amazon and Smashwords for 99 centsFor more sweet samples return to the link list
Thank you for visiting.Rachel Rossano
~~~
After a pause, waiting for the floor to settle into place, I raised my head. My dark shadow sat across from me, keeping the slab of metal between us. His large hands clasped each other where they rested on the surface. The muscles of his wrists corded with the strain of his grip."What happened back there?" I ventured a glance at him. Lips pressed tight, he sat with eyes closed."Eat." The clipped syllable hit me in the face.I blinked. Something was wrong. I didn't know what, but…A massive wave of memories washed over me. I held a child. The warm softness of her head, the smell of her olive skin, the silk of her hair against my cheek, and the deep pleasure of holding a small, vibrant life in my arms filled my chest. Then it was gone. Moisture flooded my eyes. I closed my eyelids trying to keep the tears back."Eat. You need your strength for what is ahead.""What is ahead? You seem to know so much. Why? What don't I remember? I don't understand." A sob almost escaped. I clamped my mouth shut. He looked at me with sympathetic eyes. It wasn't helping. I didn't want sympathy; I needed answers.
~~~
Will she get all her answers?
Available on Amazon and Smashwords for 99 centsFor more sweet samples return to the link list
Thank you for visiting.Rachel Rossano
November 17, 2011
Why did you name him that?
Ever wonder "why did the author choose that name?" Reading my books, you probably ask that question a lot. Yes, I like unusual names, made up or obscure. My children have my husband to thank that they were given classic names like Jonathan, Katelyn, and Daniel (he vetoed anything too unusual). However, I did get a Theodore in the middle name slot.
Having just read a
The Mercenary's Marriage
Darius - Darius the Great was a Persian king mentioned in the Biblical book of Daniel. I have always liked his name. So, when a fierce, decisive, surprisingly gentle mercenary with a noble heart popped into my head and demanded I tell his story, I named him Darius. Also, my character is Ratharian, a society similar in some ways to Persia, so it seemed to be a good name for that reason as well.
Brice - I chose Brice's name solely on the sound. I had never met anyone by that name before. It was only after I began writing about her that I discovered it is primarily a male name. However, many of my naming sources list it as unisex. The meaning, "son of a nobleman," doesn't really fit her, but the sound seemed to fit her. She is strong and feminine, but in a quiet, understated way.
Ewian - This time I was just playing with sounds. The poor guy got a bit of a raw deal. Sorry, Ewian.
Karyn - I pulled the name out of the air as I wrote and dropped it into the story before the character had even entered the scene. I have an Aunt Karen who bears little resemblance to Karyn except for sharing her strength and generous heart.
Kurt - Well, I needed a healer who could stand up to a bunch of brawny mercenaries and not be intimidated by the rigors of war and travel. The blunt sound of the name and the meaning (bold, wise councilor) seemed to fit.
The Crown of Anavrea
Labren/Tranhern - Labren's birth name in its entirety is Trahern Marcus Theodoric. This is significant because of the name meanings: Trahern means "strength of iron" and Marcus means "warlike." It is a name a king might name his first born son, which is Trahern's past. Labren, which means "brown one," is also significant. He chooses this name for himself to conceal his identity, but it also indicates his heart. Labren, in his heart, wishes for obscurity. Theodoric means "people's ruler." An appropriate name for a ruling family, wouldn't you agree.
Eve Ethan - Eve means "life." She symbolizes exactly that for Labren. He has given up, chosen to let his father kill him vicariously, until she intervenes. Her last name means "firm or strong" and also demonstrates an aspect of her and her brother's characters, displayed differently in each sibling.
Ruarc Ethan - A reader chose this character's first name. She named him well. Ruarc can mean champion, rain, or famous ruler. My character tends toward the champion aspect of his name. After all, he earns his sister's freedom price and then tracks her down when she isn't where he left her. He fights for her safety and well-being. A true brotherly champion, if only he were not so stubborn and hard of hearing. ;)
Han/Atluer - I don't recall why I chose to name him Han, but the name fit in my head. A diminutive of John (God is gracious), it defined him much more clearly than I thought at the time. His chosen name, Atluer, is an entirely made up creation from my head. I liked the sound. :)
Professor Olof - Olof was complete fancy on my part. He needed to sound eccentric.
How do decide the names of your characters (or children)? Did you consider the meaning of the names for any of them?
- Rachel Rossano (meaning "lamb from the peninsula")
Having just read a
The Mercenary's MarriageDarius - Darius the Great was a Persian king mentioned in the Biblical book of Daniel. I have always liked his name. So, when a fierce, decisive, surprisingly gentle mercenary with a noble heart popped into my head and demanded I tell his story, I named him Darius. Also, my character is Ratharian, a society similar in some ways to Persia, so it seemed to be a good name for that reason as well.
Brice - I chose Brice's name solely on the sound. I had never met anyone by that name before. It was only after I began writing about her that I discovered it is primarily a male name. However, many of my naming sources list it as unisex. The meaning, "son of a nobleman," doesn't really fit her, but the sound seemed to fit her. She is strong and feminine, but in a quiet, understated way.
Ewian - This time I was just playing with sounds. The poor guy got a bit of a raw deal. Sorry, Ewian.
Karyn - I pulled the name out of the air as I wrote and dropped it into the story before the character had even entered the scene. I have an Aunt Karen who bears little resemblance to Karyn except for sharing her strength and generous heart.
Kurt - Well, I needed a healer who could stand up to a bunch of brawny mercenaries and not be intimidated by the rigors of war and travel. The blunt sound of the name and the meaning (bold, wise councilor) seemed to fit.
The Crown of Anavrea Labren/Tranhern - Labren's birth name in its entirety is Trahern Marcus Theodoric. This is significant because of the name meanings: Trahern means "strength of iron" and Marcus means "warlike." It is a name a king might name his first born son, which is Trahern's past. Labren, which means "brown one," is also significant. He chooses this name for himself to conceal his identity, but it also indicates his heart. Labren, in his heart, wishes for obscurity. Theodoric means "people's ruler." An appropriate name for a ruling family, wouldn't you agree.
Eve Ethan - Eve means "life." She symbolizes exactly that for Labren. He has given up, chosen to let his father kill him vicariously, until she intervenes. Her last name means "firm or strong" and also demonstrates an aspect of her and her brother's characters, displayed differently in each sibling.
Ruarc Ethan - A reader chose this character's first name. She named him well. Ruarc can mean champion, rain, or famous ruler. My character tends toward the champion aspect of his name. After all, he earns his sister's freedom price and then tracks her down when she isn't where he left her. He fights for her safety and well-being. A true brotherly champion, if only he were not so stubborn and hard of hearing. ;)
Han/Atluer - I don't recall why I chose to name him Han, but the name fit in my head. A diminutive of John (God is gracious), it defined him much more clearly than I thought at the time. His chosen name, Atluer, is an entirely made up creation from my head. I liked the sound. :)
Professor Olof - Olof was complete fancy on my part. He needed to sound eccentric.
How do decide the names of your characters (or children)? Did you consider the meaning of the names for any of them?
- Rachel Rossano (meaning "lamb from the peninsula")
November 16, 2011
Seeking Honest Reviewers
I am seeking reviewers for my clean romantic fiction. If you are interested, please comment with your email and the title you are interested in reviewing.
To be clear, I am looking for your honest opinion posted on Amazon and Goodreads. If you don't like what you read, I promise not to get angry or upset as long as you are polite. No author bashing please. (There are two great examples of polite, less than rave reviews on Amazon for The Mercenary's Marriage already.) Kind honesty is what I am looking for. :)
The review doesn't have to be fancy. Just a few lines telling the reading public what you liked or didn't like about the book/short story and a star rating.
I am only offering the e-book versions for review.
The options...
The Crown of Anavrea - Book One of the Theodoric Saga(novella)
In a time when slavery was legal...in a place where kings were all-powerful…Eve, a slave, appeared in the right place at the right time.
Trained as a mercenary soldier, Darius was a man of decisive action. He was also a man of compassion. Seeing a young slave woman about to become the spoils of war, he claimed her for his own. Marrying her before God and king, he made her a free and respectable soldier's wife.
Isolated on a distant planet, she is incarcerated for a crime she doesn't recall. She has no name, no idea where she came from, or why she is injected with drugs daily to hold these vital facts from her grasp. Despite small rebellions, she wastes away, worn and losing hope of ever being whole again.
November 15, 2011
Looking for a brief escape?
In the daily chaos of life, I have found myself reaching for short stories or flash fiction to satisfy my fiction cravings. Sometimes a few moments caught in an ebook can be the best part of my day. I encourage you to try it.
In addition to being quick, short fiction is also a great way to try out new authors. I have discovered some interesting writers on Clever Fiction, a flash fiction website that offers fresh fiction weekly. I am on there too. *hint hint* ;) It is a fun and free way to spend a few minutes browsing stories.
If you are looking for something a bit longer, but still short enough to be read in a few hours, I have just the thing for you.
*****
"Roseanne Wilkins
Book Trailer
Available on Amazon and Smashwords for 99 cents.
There are more short stories to come soon, Lord willing. A prequel to Exchange and Word and Deed (excerpts here and here) are working their way toward publishing. Hopefully they will be appearing by the end of the year or January of next year.
Regardless of your preferences, I wish you the best on your search for fresh fiction to entertain you. :)
- Rachel Rossano
What have you been reading?
PS Abigail, I am roughly 1,700 words into your e-book (for the rest of you, see opening line contest in previous posts). :) I am really liking how it is beginning. Kayta (temporary name for heroine) is full of fire and Lord Ivraine is going to have his hands full convincing her he isn't a barbarian monster. The fun is just beginning.
In addition to being quick, short fiction is also a great way to try out new authors. I have discovered some interesting writers on Clever Fiction, a flash fiction website that offers fresh fiction weekly. I am on there too. *hint hint* ;) It is a fun and free way to spend a few minutes browsing stories.
If you are looking for something a bit longer, but still short enough to be read in a few hours, I have just the thing for you.
*****
"Roseanne Wilkins
Book Trailer
Available on Amazon and Smashwords for 99 cents.
There are more short stories to come soon, Lord willing. A prequel to Exchange and Word and Deed (excerpts here and here) are working their way toward publishing. Hopefully they will be appearing by the end of the year or January of next year.
Regardless of your preferences, I wish you the best on your search for fresh fiction to entertain you. :)
- Rachel Rossano
What have you been reading?
PS Abigail, I am roughly 1,700 words into your e-book (for the rest of you, see opening line contest in previous posts). :) I am really liking how it is beginning. Kayta (temporary name for heroine) is full of fire and Lord Ivraine is going to have his hands full convincing her he isn't a barbarian monster. The fun is just beginning.
November 12, 2011
A Sweet Saturday Short
Welcome back for yet another short bit of fiction. For more sweet succulence return to the full link list.
This scene happens as Brice is waking up from a fall from Darius' horse.
~~~
Pain! Waves of it washed over her and her head felt like it was going to explode. Brice slowly became aware of the rest of her body and rapidly regretted the discovery. Every bone and joint hurt."Brice." A warm male voice tinged with an accent spoke from somewhere above her. Turning her head toward the sound, pain erupted behind her eyes. Taking a sharp breath of air, she realized yet another agony as her chest screamed at the motion. She must have cried out at the pain for the voice spoke again, "Hush, little bird, hush." Large hands enclosed her ribs and began carefully outlining each with their fingertips. "No," the man decided, "None are broken.""Brice." One of the hands touched the side of her face. She had a strong feeling she knew the name of the man, but she was too tired to think now, too sleepy. "Brice," the voice insisted. "Open your eyes."Slowly she obeyed and instantly regretted it. The world outside was bright and it increased the throbbing behind her eyes."Good," the voice encouraged. "Now keep them open until the healer comes. That fall might have done some serious damage." Ever so slowly, Brice focused her eyes on his face. Darius. She smiled. How could she have forgotten Darius? He loomed over her like a dark thundercloud. Her brain told her she should feel fear at being so helpless and at his mercy, but strangely, she did not."Brice." Darius' voice interrupted her thoughts. "I need you to work with me." She turned her head very slowly until she could meet his eyes. He was kneeling at her side. Once her eyes were on his face, he asked, "Can you move your legs?""I can feel them." She closed her eyes, concentrated, and willed her legs to move. Pain shot up her left leg and her ankle throbbed, but they moved. "I think my ankle is twisted.""I brought the healer," Ewian announced from the other side of the clearing.Darius slowly rose from his knees and turned to greet the man still out of Brice's vision. "I have not moved her," Darius informed the healer. "She has struck her head, bruised her ribs, and possibly sprained her ankle.""How many times do I have to tell you, Darius?" A short older man came to stand at her side across from Darius. "I like my job and I cannot keep it if you keep diagnosing my patients. Now shoo." Waving a hand at the two warriors, he looked down and smiled at her. Brice found herself smiling back despite the pounding in her head and the dull ache that hummed through the rest of her. "Now, you must be Brice. I am Kurt."
~~~
Available on Amazon and Smashwords for $2.99.
Thank you again for visiting. If you leave a link to your website/blog with a comment, I will make a point to visit. :)Have a sweet and relaxing Saturday.
This scene happens as Brice is waking up from a fall from Darius' horse.
~~~
Pain! Waves of it washed over her and her head felt like it was going to explode. Brice slowly became aware of the rest of her body and rapidly regretted the discovery. Every bone and joint hurt."Brice." A warm male voice tinged with an accent spoke from somewhere above her. Turning her head toward the sound, pain erupted behind her eyes. Taking a sharp breath of air, she realized yet another agony as her chest screamed at the motion. She must have cried out at the pain for the voice spoke again, "Hush, little bird, hush." Large hands enclosed her ribs and began carefully outlining each with their fingertips. "No," the man decided, "None are broken.""Brice." One of the hands touched the side of her face. She had a strong feeling she knew the name of the man, but she was too tired to think now, too sleepy. "Brice," the voice insisted. "Open your eyes."Slowly she obeyed and instantly regretted it. The world outside was bright and it increased the throbbing behind her eyes."Good," the voice encouraged. "Now keep them open until the healer comes. That fall might have done some serious damage." Ever so slowly, Brice focused her eyes on his face. Darius. She smiled. How could she have forgotten Darius? He loomed over her like a dark thundercloud. Her brain told her she should feel fear at being so helpless and at his mercy, but strangely, she did not."Brice." Darius' voice interrupted her thoughts. "I need you to work with me." She turned her head very slowly until she could meet his eyes. He was kneeling at her side. Once her eyes were on his face, he asked, "Can you move your legs?""I can feel them." She closed her eyes, concentrated, and willed her legs to move. Pain shot up her left leg and her ankle throbbed, but they moved. "I think my ankle is twisted.""I brought the healer," Ewian announced from the other side of the clearing.Darius slowly rose from his knees and turned to greet the man still out of Brice's vision. "I have not moved her," Darius informed the healer. "She has struck her head, bruised her ribs, and possibly sprained her ankle.""How many times do I have to tell you, Darius?" A short older man came to stand at her side across from Darius. "I like my job and I cannot keep it if you keep diagnosing my patients. Now shoo." Waving a hand at the two warriors, he looked down and smiled at her. Brice found herself smiling back despite the pounding in her head and the dull ache that hummed through the rest of her. "Now, you must be Brice. I am Kurt."
~~~
Available on Amazon and Smashwords for $2.99.
Thank you again for visiting. If you leave a link to your website/blog with a comment, I will make a point to visit. :)Have a sweet and relaxing Saturday.
November 10, 2011
Opening Lines and the Winners!
Thank you all for submitting your opening lines. I appreciated the variety and quantity of the submissions, so much potential!
Here are the submissions:
With so many great lines, I had a very difficult time choosing. As it is, I might use more than one as I write. They will just appear farther along in the story. (If I end up using your line, you will get a free copy of the ebook along with the winner.)
The winner is...Abigail"The red one is mine," he said.
The plotting shall commence. :)
Thank you all for participating!Rachel Rossano
Here are the submissions:
It was early Monday morning when I died - gunned down in my own house on 223 Chesney Street. - Corey
Silence will speak, darkness will shine, and the dead will rise. - Corey
"He's my Mexican cabana boy, a warrior of God, my love and my best friend." Christi said with a half grin quite content with her explanation. - Katie
"You have got to be kidding me," Liseth whined to everyone and no one in particular. - Katie
Nights like this were the most beautiful of all, the stillness, the peace, it wouldn't last, but how delectable a treat for here and now. - Katie
The moonlight cast eerie shadows along the ground as Jada lay in wait for her long lost love. - Alyssa
Harvest time had finally come. - Alyssa
How could everything have gone so wrong? - Alyssa
As she was in the parlor in great distress, mother calmed her fears - Rachel
When the night began to fall I shivered to think about what was to happen - Rachel
When we saw what was under the Christmas tree we ran excitedly to Mom and Dad. - Rachel
What could send him/her running away in fear like that? - Sophia
Of all moments, he pick this one to step on- no, jump all over and crush- her tender heart. - Sophia
When informed of the unlooked for arrival of her sister, she stared at the ceiling and pictured Floridians preparations for an imminent hurricane. - Sophia
As she walked along the lonely road with cornfield's on both sides, she contemplated on what to do about this latest dilemma. - Lynn
The day had begun bad, became terrible, and ended worse. - Abigail
"The red one is mine," he said. - Abigail
"I know you have it, right there under that cloak, and I intend to take it." - Abigail
To stand on the edge of a cliff and know you are going to jump, to feel the twisting of your own stomach at the inevitable choice; is akin to when you are standing on the threshold of either the best or the worst choice of your life. - Morgan
A shadow crept out of a house. Clinging to the mottled darkness that was cast by the city torch lights, Reya moved quietly away from the city. - Hosanna
It wasn't exactly the best idea I ever had, but I sure didn't think it was the worst. - Katherine
She could feel the darkness like a living thing, growing ever stronger, pressing her more closely ever second that she lingered, waiting to hear her fate. - Katherine
It was the mist that did it, floating in off the sea in haunting eddies, bringing to mind that black day which he had spent the past six years in trying to forget. - Katherine
With so many great lines, I had a very difficult time choosing. As it is, I might use more than one as I write. They will just appear farther along in the story. (If I end up using your line, you will get a free copy of the ebook along with the winner.)
The winner is...Abigail"The red one is mine," he said.
The plotting shall commence. :)
Thank you all for participating!Rachel Rossano
November 7, 2011
100th post and a chance to win an e-book!
This is my 100th post!
Yeah, I know, not that impressive for a blog that has been going for so long. Being a writer, I should have reached this milestone long ago. However, I am willing to celebrate the small victories on the way to greater ones. Aren't you?
The Contest
I am looking for an opening line for a short story.
After being on a short story craze lately, I am looking for inspiration. So, pen your best sentence and submit it in the form below along with your name and email. The winner will receive a free e-book version of the story I write to follow their opening line. The book will appear on Smashwords and Amazon complete with cover designed by yours truly.
Just think of the boasting rights. ;)
For inspiration, I offer the following opening lines:
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a fortune must be in want of a wife." - Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
"Call me Ishmael." - Moby Dick by Herman Melville
"'Christmas won't be Christmas without any presents,' grumbled Jo, lying on the rug." - Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
"Rose sat all alone in the big best parlor, with her little hankerchief laid ready to catch the first tear, for she was thinking of her troubles, and a shower was expected." - Eight Cousins by Louisa May Alcott
"The trouble started the day Howard came home from school to find the Goon sitting in the kitchen." - Archer's Goon by Diana Wynne Jones
"'I've watched through his eyes, I've listened through his ears, and I tell you he's the one.'" - Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
Rules:
- Sentence must be of your own creation.
- Entries will be accepted Nov 7 - 9.
- Winner will be chosen solely on the writer's preference.
- The winner will be announced on Nov 10. Up to three entries are allowed.
- The e-book will be produced in as timely a manner as possible.
- All names and email addresses collected via this form are for the purpose of contacting the winner only. They will not be sold or distributed.
- Contest is open internationally.
- Prize is valued at the price of the e-book upon distribution.
- Please direct any questions to anavrea at yahoo period com.
Thank you for participating.
- Rachel Rossano
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Yeah, I know, not that impressive for a blog that has been going for so long. Being a writer, I should have reached this milestone long ago. However, I am willing to celebrate the small victories on the way to greater ones. Aren't you?
The Contest
I am looking for an opening line for a short story.
After being on a short story craze lately, I am looking for inspiration. So, pen your best sentence and submit it in the form below along with your name and email. The winner will receive a free e-book version of the story I write to follow their opening line. The book will appear on Smashwords and Amazon complete with cover designed by yours truly.
Just think of the boasting rights. ;)
For inspiration, I offer the following opening lines:
"It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a fortune must be in want of a wife." - Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
"Call me Ishmael." - Moby Dick by Herman Melville
"'Christmas won't be Christmas without any presents,' grumbled Jo, lying on the rug." - Little Women by Louisa May Alcott
"Rose sat all alone in the big best parlor, with her little hankerchief laid ready to catch the first tear, for she was thinking of her troubles, and a shower was expected." - Eight Cousins by Louisa May Alcott
"The trouble started the day Howard came home from school to find the Goon sitting in the kitchen." - Archer's Goon by Diana Wynne Jones
"'I've watched through his eyes, I've listened through his ears, and I tell you he's the one.'" - Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
Rules:
- Sentence must be of your own creation.
- Entries will be accepted Nov 7 - 9.
- Winner will be chosen solely on the writer's preference.
- The winner will be announced on Nov 10. Up to three entries are allowed.
- The e-book will be produced in as timely a manner as possible.
- All names and email addresses collected via this form are for the purpose of contacting the winner only. They will not be sold or distributed.
- Contest is open internationally.
- Prize is valued at the price of the e-book upon distribution.
- Please direct any questions to anavrea at yahoo period com.
Thank you for participating.
- Rachel Rossano
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November 4, 2011
A Sweet Saturday Sample
Welcome back to another Sweet Saturday Sample. I am sorry about the difficulty of finding the sample last week. I was having issues with Blogger and couldn't fix the problem. Hopefully this installment is easier to find.
In this excerpt from The Crown of Anavrea, the travelers, Labren and Eve, have been caught by a snow storm on their way to shelter.
~~~
[image error] The shelter of trees ended abruptly. Ice flecks masquerading as snowflakes bit into Eve's face while the wind froze her already cold nose. The violent gusts blew across the road, blinding them with a sheet of white. "Almost there. This is the property line. Only another mile to the house," Labren yelled above the screaming wind. Eve raised her head and peered ahead. Snow whipped sideways in the frigid wind. The horses' tails disappeared in the haze of heaving white. She ducked her face back down into her scarf. A rush of fear carried her stomach into her throat. A castle-like manor, an exclusive school for the nobility and future leaders of the world, the images summoned by Labren's partial descriptions did not comfort her. The storm interrupted their conversation hours ago. Now he devoted all of his attentions and waning energy keeping them on the road. Eve struggled to dwell on encouraging thoughts of a warm fire, hot food, and dry clothes. A lump formed in her throat. A huge gray-black structure loomed vaguely through the constantly changing mass of the snow. Even when they pulled to a stop near the door, Eve could not make out much of the building beyond the meager shelter of the porch. She glanced over at Labren and all fears of who might be inside vanished. He clumsily wrapped the reins around their hook and began a slow climb down. Eve rushed to beat him to the ground, but she was late reaching his side. He rested for a moment leaning against the side of the wagon. "I can knock," she offered. Waving her away, he hobbled toward the door. He pulled on the cord to announce their arrival and then sagged against the wall beyond. Eve moved quickly to his side. He welcomed her offered support with a grimace of pain when she moved his arm to her shoulders. She looked up at his face. "What hurts?" He had not answered when the door opened. Immediately a woman drew them inside and closed the door firmly behind them. Eve began to gather her bearings when someone exclaimed, "Trahern!" Labren's leg gave out and Eve put all her effort to keeping him off the floor.
~~~
Why did someone call him Trahern?
Now available at Amazon and Smashwords.
For more Sweet Samples return to the link list.
Thank you again for stopping by and reading.
Rachel Rossano
In this excerpt from The Crown of Anavrea, the travelers, Labren and Eve, have been caught by a snow storm on their way to shelter.
~~~
[image error] The shelter of trees ended abruptly. Ice flecks masquerading as snowflakes bit into Eve's face while the wind froze her already cold nose. The violent gusts blew across the road, blinding them with a sheet of white. "Almost there. This is the property line. Only another mile to the house," Labren yelled above the screaming wind. Eve raised her head and peered ahead. Snow whipped sideways in the frigid wind. The horses' tails disappeared in the haze of heaving white. She ducked her face back down into her scarf. A rush of fear carried her stomach into her throat. A castle-like manor, an exclusive school for the nobility and future leaders of the world, the images summoned by Labren's partial descriptions did not comfort her. The storm interrupted their conversation hours ago. Now he devoted all of his attentions and waning energy keeping them on the road. Eve struggled to dwell on encouraging thoughts of a warm fire, hot food, and dry clothes. A lump formed in her throat. A huge gray-black structure loomed vaguely through the constantly changing mass of the snow. Even when they pulled to a stop near the door, Eve could not make out much of the building beyond the meager shelter of the porch. She glanced over at Labren and all fears of who might be inside vanished. He clumsily wrapped the reins around their hook and began a slow climb down. Eve rushed to beat him to the ground, but she was late reaching his side. He rested for a moment leaning against the side of the wagon. "I can knock," she offered. Waving her away, he hobbled toward the door. He pulled on the cord to announce their arrival and then sagged against the wall beyond. Eve moved quickly to his side. He welcomed her offered support with a grimace of pain when she moved his arm to her shoulders. She looked up at his face. "What hurts?" He had not answered when the door opened. Immediately a woman drew them inside and closed the door firmly behind them. Eve began to gather her bearings when someone exclaimed, "Trahern!" Labren's leg gave out and Eve put all her effort to keeping him off the floor.
~~~
Why did someone call him Trahern?
Now available at Amazon and Smashwords.
For more Sweet Samples return to the link list.
Thank you again for stopping by and reading.
Rachel Rossano
A Continuation of "Blond Stranger"
A few weeks ago, I posted a short story on Clever Fiction, a wonderful website by Pat Sipperly, titled Blond Stranger. One of the characters is a secondary character from my novel titled Wren Romany.
In this installment, another character appears. This one never gives his name. For those of you who are Wren Romany fans, can you can you name the dark stranger?
~~~
Tragedy(rough draft)by Rachel Rossano
Rain pelted my head, ran in rivulets down my face, and plastered my wool cloak to my back. Frigid moisture seeped through to my bones. They absorbed the cold like reluctant rags unable to repel the deluge. My heart declared it would never warm again."Lenora, I can't feel my toes." My brother, Ander, clung to my hand with all of his seven-year-old strength.I hadn't the heart to peal my hand free despite the pain. Mother was gone. In many ways, I was the last anchor he had. Behind us, our home gave in to the fire with a groan and crash. The sound tore through my chest, leaving my heart raw and oozing pain like an open sore. I refused to glance back.Why hadn't father listened?I had passed on the warnings. The enforcer's men grew bolder with each passing day. Tales of destruction, ravaging, and pillaging passed from villager to farmer and back, taking precedent over the cost of feed and the lack of harvest. Additional news of Lord Mynth's movements and rumors of strangers appearing in the woods added an undercurrent of tension to every conversation. Life grew dangerous, yet father ignored the outside."Focus on the harvest. Focus on clearing the fields," he ordered. "Then we can take time to rest and gossip."A sob punched my gut, but I choked it back.The grain rotted. The barn flamed. The house burned with mother's broken body inside as father marched off at sword point to serve the Enforcer.Ander stumbled, pulling me down on my knees. Mud soaked my skirt. It sucked at my legs as I struggled to my feet. Ander rose crying, whimpering sobs that shook his thin shoulders. I tugged him close until his sharp edges pressed into my stomach. So young, yet so tall, he resembled father more each season, except for his hair. He had mother's hair, straight and thick. I ran my numb fingers across the slick strands."Preserve us! A pair of ragamuffins." The booming voice jolted through me. Indignation rose to the offense. I turned to face the man, shoving Ander behind me.He was tall and broad in the shoulders, but not as towering and solid as Svhen. Rain fell on his bare head, forcing the hair to conform to his skull."Leave us be.""Why should I? You are trespassing on private land.""Whose?" I didn't like the way his dark eyes studied me, almost as though measuring my worth."Lord Mynth. These woods aren't safe at night.""The valley isn't safe, we know well enough. I have lived here my whole life. Do you come from the ruins?"He frowned thoughtfully. "Aye.""I..." Ander pressed against my back. "We need to speak with Svhen Bejork."His thick eyebrows rose and his eyes widened as a grin pulled at one side of his mouth. "Is that so?" Then he laughed. "That explains a lot."Now it was my turn to frown."Come. Bring the shy one too. What is your name?" He motioned for us to follow and then set off perpendicular to our previous direction.I followed him, pulling Ander, but only to demand more information. "You will take us to Svhen?""Of course. Svhen never looked twice at a girl. Now one shows up with a kid in tow asking for him by name. Wait until I tell Arthus. He is going to be sorry he missed this."Pressing through the brush, he broke through into a small clearing. Water fell in heavy streams from the sky. Its path unbroken by the leaves, water pounded his head and shoulders. Ignoring the deluge, he strode straight through the tightly woven branches of two bushes on the other side. "Svhen!""Yes?" The reply came behind. I turned and came face to face with a looming shadow. He was taller than I remembered and more tangible. My chin lifted a few inches before I meet his hidden eyes below the hood. I opened my mouth, but no words came. My chin quivered. I clamped my jaw shut to still it and studied the mud."What is wrong?" A large hand, rough with an oilskin mit, forced my face up. "Lenora, what happened?"The gentle sound of my name broke through my defenses and tore them away. A sob convulsed my chest. I couldn't breathe as emotion welled up. "Mother...dead." I gasped. "How?""Press gang."Our guide swore. "They take your father?"I nodded. Ander's thin arms cinched my waist seeking or offering comfort. Pulling him close, I pressed his head to my middle and let the tears fall. The swells of ache overwhelmed my walls.Svhen's hand caught my head and gently guided it to his chest beneath the folds of his cloak. I breathed warmth and the musk of horse. The steady thud of his heart beneath layers of cloth was strangely reassuring. I let my tears fall, soaking his tunic. Ander's hair tangled in my painful fingers, his skull firm and whole beneath their span. Visions of my mother's body pressed behind my eyes."Does that mean we have gained two new recruits? They don't look like much." Our guide's voice was no longer laced with laughter."Tourth won't mind. They are his people.""True enough. At this rate they are going to be your people too.""Let Tourth know we are coming."The dark man left. One moment he was there, then the rain pelted only the three of us. I drank in Svhen's stillness, hungering for peace in the storm.
Who is the dark stranger?
What is your favorite line?
In this installment, another character appears. This one never gives his name. For those of you who are Wren Romany fans, can you can you name the dark stranger?
~~~
Tragedy(rough draft)by Rachel Rossano
Rain pelted my head, ran in rivulets down my face, and plastered my wool cloak to my back. Frigid moisture seeped through to my bones. They absorbed the cold like reluctant rags unable to repel the deluge. My heart declared it would never warm again."Lenora, I can't feel my toes." My brother, Ander, clung to my hand with all of his seven-year-old strength.I hadn't the heart to peal my hand free despite the pain. Mother was gone. In many ways, I was the last anchor he had. Behind us, our home gave in to the fire with a groan and crash. The sound tore through my chest, leaving my heart raw and oozing pain like an open sore. I refused to glance back.Why hadn't father listened?I had passed on the warnings. The enforcer's men grew bolder with each passing day. Tales of destruction, ravaging, and pillaging passed from villager to farmer and back, taking precedent over the cost of feed and the lack of harvest. Additional news of Lord Mynth's movements and rumors of strangers appearing in the woods added an undercurrent of tension to every conversation. Life grew dangerous, yet father ignored the outside."Focus on the harvest. Focus on clearing the fields," he ordered. "Then we can take time to rest and gossip."A sob punched my gut, but I choked it back.The grain rotted. The barn flamed. The house burned with mother's broken body inside as father marched off at sword point to serve the Enforcer.Ander stumbled, pulling me down on my knees. Mud soaked my skirt. It sucked at my legs as I struggled to my feet. Ander rose crying, whimpering sobs that shook his thin shoulders. I tugged him close until his sharp edges pressed into my stomach. So young, yet so tall, he resembled father more each season, except for his hair. He had mother's hair, straight and thick. I ran my numb fingers across the slick strands."Preserve us! A pair of ragamuffins." The booming voice jolted through me. Indignation rose to the offense. I turned to face the man, shoving Ander behind me.He was tall and broad in the shoulders, but not as towering and solid as Svhen. Rain fell on his bare head, forcing the hair to conform to his skull."Leave us be.""Why should I? You are trespassing on private land.""Whose?" I didn't like the way his dark eyes studied me, almost as though measuring my worth."Lord Mynth. These woods aren't safe at night.""The valley isn't safe, we know well enough. I have lived here my whole life. Do you come from the ruins?"He frowned thoughtfully. "Aye.""I..." Ander pressed against my back. "We need to speak with Svhen Bejork."His thick eyebrows rose and his eyes widened as a grin pulled at one side of his mouth. "Is that so?" Then he laughed. "That explains a lot."Now it was my turn to frown."Come. Bring the shy one too. What is your name?" He motioned for us to follow and then set off perpendicular to our previous direction.I followed him, pulling Ander, but only to demand more information. "You will take us to Svhen?""Of course. Svhen never looked twice at a girl. Now one shows up with a kid in tow asking for him by name. Wait until I tell Arthus. He is going to be sorry he missed this."Pressing through the brush, he broke through into a small clearing. Water fell in heavy streams from the sky. Its path unbroken by the leaves, water pounded his head and shoulders. Ignoring the deluge, he strode straight through the tightly woven branches of two bushes on the other side. "Svhen!""Yes?" The reply came behind. I turned and came face to face with a looming shadow. He was taller than I remembered and more tangible. My chin lifted a few inches before I meet his hidden eyes below the hood. I opened my mouth, but no words came. My chin quivered. I clamped my jaw shut to still it and studied the mud."What is wrong?" A large hand, rough with an oilskin mit, forced my face up. "Lenora, what happened?"The gentle sound of my name broke through my defenses and tore them away. A sob convulsed my chest. I couldn't breathe as emotion welled up. "Mother...dead." I gasped. "How?""Press gang."Our guide swore. "They take your father?"I nodded. Ander's thin arms cinched my waist seeking or offering comfort. Pulling him close, I pressed his head to my middle and let the tears fall. The swells of ache overwhelmed my walls.Svhen's hand caught my head and gently guided it to his chest beneath the folds of his cloak. I breathed warmth and the musk of horse. The steady thud of his heart beneath layers of cloth was strangely reassuring. I let my tears fall, soaking his tunic. Ander's hair tangled in my painful fingers, his skull firm and whole beneath their span. Visions of my mother's body pressed behind my eyes."Does that mean we have gained two new recruits? They don't look like much." Our guide's voice was no longer laced with laughter."Tourth won't mind. They are his people.""True enough. At this rate they are going to be your people too.""Let Tourth know we are coming."The dark man left. One moment he was there, then the rain pelted only the three of us. I drank in Svhen's stillness, hungering for peace in the storm.
Who is the dark stranger?
What is your favorite line?
November 2, 2011
Winners!!!
Sorry about the delay in this announcement (see previous post for reasons). Thank you, everyone who participated in the celebration this past weekend. I really appreciated all of your support. Now on to the real reason you are all stopping by...the winners!
Winner of an ebook copy of The Crown of AnavreaHaley Crenwelge
Winner of an ebook copy of The Mercenary's MarriageGrace
Winner of an ebook copy of ExchangeSarah Fall
Winner of an autographed paperback set of the old and new The Crown of AnavreaJoyce DiPastena
Winner of an autographed copy of The Mercenary's MarriageSarah Fall
Once again, thank you all for participating and watch for an email from me with details on how to claim your prize.
- Rachel Rossano
Winner of an ebook copy of The Crown of AnavreaHaley Crenwelge
Winner of an ebook copy of The Mercenary's MarriageGrace
Winner of an ebook copy of ExchangeSarah Fall
Winner of an autographed paperback set of the old and new The Crown of AnavreaJoyce DiPastena
Winner of an autographed copy of The Mercenary's MarriageSarah Fall
Once again, thank you all for participating and watch for an email from me with details on how to claim your prize.
- Rachel Rossano
