Genevive Chamblee's Blog, page 6

Hot Alpha Cowboys and Muffuletta Deviled Eggs

Bonjour mes amis. Welcome to Creole Bayou and my month-long celebration of the upcoming release of my paranormal sports romance Demon Rodeo, which goes live on 09/05/24. Demon Rodeo is the first standalone book in my Chasing the Buckle series—a sports romance series revolving around the lives and loves of professional bull riders and rodeo stars. So, if Demon Rodeo is a paranormal sports romance, why am I writing a post about food? The answer is simple. As part of my cyber celebration, I am uploading on my blog daily about a topic or theme that occurs in or is related to something that happens in the story. So, let’s get to cooking in the bayou.

Muffuletta Deviled Eggs

Ingredients:

1 dozen eggs½ tsp Worcestershire sauce½ tsp oregano¼ tsp cayenne¼ tsp paprika¼ tbs garlic, minced2 tbs Dijon mustard¼ cup mayonnaise¼ cup provolone cheese, grated3 oz salami4 oz ham, diced7 oz pimiento-stuffed Spanish olives, drained6 oz kalamata olives, pitted and drained

Directions:

Boil eggs. Remove from heat and set aside until cool enough to peel.Fry salami, drain, and set aside.Peel the eggs, cut in half, and remove the yolk. Place the yolks in a medium-sized bowl. Place the halved whites on a medium-sized platter.With a fork, mash egg yolks.Add mayonnaise to the egg yolks and mix.Add Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard. Mix well.Add oregano, cayenne, paprika, garlic, and cheese. Mix well.Fold in ham, fried salami, and olives. Mix well.Fill the egg white halves with the mixture.Garnish with paprika.

Enjoy!

And that’s all that I have. Now, it’s your turn to sound off. What did you think? Is this an hors d’oeuvres you’ve had before? Is it one you would like to try? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section. If you like this post, please click the like button and share. Your feedback allows me to know the content that you want to read.

Saddle up for the cowboys.

My contemporary M/M paranormal sports romance, Demon Rodeo, is releasing on September 5, 2024, and is available now for preorder on Amazon. For video book trailers, visit my TikTok page. The full blurb is on my Instagram and Amazon.

Demon Rodeo is the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series but can be read as a standalone. It’s a friends-to-lovers romance set in the rodeo world. These are not your typical cowboys. It’s a widely diverse cast of characters and a mashup of genres that aren’t always seen together. If you’re looking for a palate cleanser, this may be a book for you. Also, expect a lot of goodies and giveaways.

Preorder

⇨ Amazon: https://readerlinks.com/l/4174852

⇨ All Stores: https://books2read.com/u/bP8RG7

Until next time, happy reading and much romance. Laissez le bon temps rouler.

If you’re not following my blog, Creole Bayou, what are you waiting for? There’s always room at the bayou.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click here and sign up today.

Want to chat about writing, mental health, Cajun cuisine, Creole culture, or just spill some tea? If yes, let’s get connected. Follow me on one of my social links. There’s plenty to choose from.

Facebook: Genevive ChambleeX (formerly Twitter): @dolynesaidsoInstagram: genevivechambleeauthorGoodreads: Genevive ChambleeAmazon Authors: Genevive ChambleeBookBub: Genevive ChambleeTikTok: CreolegurlNolaBluesky: Genevive ChambleeThreads: Author Genevive Chamblee

[image error]LOCKER ROOM LOVE[image error]

[image error] Locker Room Love Series [image error]

Are you searching for a sexy book boyfriend? You’ve come to the right place.

Out of the Penalty Box (book #1) One minute in the box or a lifetime out. Defending the Net (book #2) Crossing the line could cost the game. Ice Gladiators (book #3) When the gloves come off, the games begin. Penalty Kill (book #4) Let the pucker begin. Future Goals (book #5) The future lies between a puck and a net.

About the Author:

Hi, I’m Genevive, and I am a contemporary sports romance author. My home is in South Louisiana. If you like snark and giggles with a touch of steamy Cajun and Creole on the side, I may have your poison in my stash of books. Drop by the bayou and have a look around. The pirogues are always waiting for new visitors.

French the Creole, Cajun, Canadian, and European ways

Hello and bonjour. Welcome back to the bayou and my month-long celebration of the upcoming release of Demon Rodeo, my paranormal sports romance which releases on 09/05/24. Demon Rodeo is the first standalone book in my Chasing the Buckle series—a sports romance series revolving around the lives and loves of professional bull riders and rodeo stars. As part of my cyber celebration, I am uploading a daily post to my blog about a topic or theme that is somehow related to something that happens in the story.

It should be no surprise that Demon Rodeo has a diverse, multicultural cast of characters, and some of them are Creole and Cajun from the French-speaking parts of Louisiana. And that’s probably the least controversial thing I will write in this article. When it comes to discussing Creole and Cajun cultures, there’s a lot of debate and differences of opinion. Let’s start with the obvious and common misperceptions.

When most people think of Louisiana culture, they associate it with Cajun culture. However, most of the Cajun culture is centered in the southern part of the state.2. Not all Louisianans speak French. According to one census, less than 12% of Louisiana natives speak fluent French.Creole and Cajun are not the same. They are two different cultures. Yes, a person can be of both Creole and Cajun heritage. That isn’t uncommon. Naturally, being in the same region and proximity, the two cultures share many similarities.There are different types of French.

Let’s tackle the culture first. The histories of these cultures are extensive and complex. What is presented in this post is a condensed summary. (If interested in a deeper dive, I’ve discussed this topic multiple times on my blog.) Hang on. This is always a bumpy ride.

Cajun. The word Cajun derives from the word Acadians, cos, you know Southerners can decimate and demolish a word. In the mid-1700s, the British exiled the Acadians from Nova Scotia, an eastern province of Canada. This was known as Le Grand Dérangement (Great Deportation). After the revolution in Saint-Domingue, many Acadians elected to migrate to Louisiana. Louisiana was attractive to them due to Louisiana being a French colony at the time and many of the residents spoke French.Creole. Creole culture is more difficult to explain because the word Creole has several meanings. The word Creole derives from the Portuguese word crioulo. Crioulo means a slave born in the master’s household. Originally, the term Creole was used to describe a person born in or indigenous to Louisiana. This included both white colonists and African slaves who were “native-born.”Over time, the term has been used to refer to persons of mixed European and black descent.To further muddy the water, more distinctions were made: French Creole (European ancestry), Black Creole (primarily African ancestry), Creole of Color (mixed race ancestry), and to describe persons whose ancestry is from Francophone and Hispanic communities.The term also is used to refer to as blended French, African, Russian, Italian, German, Chinese, Spanish, and Native American.Others used the term to refer to only free people of color.I should pause here to make a note. Free People of Color (known as gens de couleur libres) usually was a term to describe a person who shares a European and African heritage, however, not all Creoles have an African ancestry.Additionally, the term Free People of Color was used to make a distinction between “mixed-race” people and African slaves who had been freed. Free People of Color are not the same as freed slaves or slaves who had been freed. Free People of Color were never slaves. They were a separate class and held a special role in society, given far more rights than freed slaves. Many were wealthy and educated, and fewer laws restricted them. However, this created much controversy during the American Civil War and changed after the war ended.Creole also is used to refer to anything “pertaining to New Orleans”. It is the blending of these cultures that form the Creole culture.Creoles can trace their French genealogy to Aquitaine, Brittany, Île-de-France, Normandy, and Poitou, Rouen, (these are not all-inclusive); their Hispanic ancestry to Brazil, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Guadeloupe, Haiti, Martinique, Saint Lucia, Spain, and Trinidad, (not all-inclusive), and their African ancestry to Angola, Bight of Biafra, Bissau, Cameroon, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Gold Coast, Guinea, Ivory Coast, Mali, Nigeria, and Senegal, (again not all-inclusive).

Now, let’s talk about language. Once it is understood that Creole and Cajun are two distinctive cultures, it is easier to grasp that the languages are also idiosyncratic. Yes, they are similar but different. As mentioned previously, the origins of the Acadians were in Nova Scotia, Canada. They spoke Canadian French. Canadian French changed from European French in the same way English spoken in the United States changed from the English spoken in Great Britain. Take that one step further. When the Acadians relocated to Louisiana, the Canadian French they spoke blended with English—and not only English but Southern slang. This yielded Cajun French.

France had colonized Haiti, and some Haitians lived in Louisiana—some brought as slaves and others arrived as Free People of Color. Add to that people from the other areas listed previously mixed with Southern US influence. Basically, Creole French developed largely as a result of slavery in Louisiana colonies. The French-speaking residents and slave owners needed to communicate with African slaves who spoke a variety of African languages depending on their native region of Africa.

Both Creole French and Cajun French are hybrid or pidgin languages. Many people argue this isn’t true, and the point to how French is taught in the Louisiana school system. As a side note, French was banned from being taught in Louisiana schools for many years, but that is an entirely different discussion. However, the languages have proven to be different as proven by Francophone tourist from Canada and Europe. Many have difficulty understanding Louisiana French, be it Cajun or Creole. Just like the Spanish spoken in Spain is different from the Spanish spoken in Mexico.

REMINDER: This is an oversimplification. There is a lot more that goes into explaining Creole and Cajun cultures and their languages. Some people are going to disagree, and generally, their disagreement starts due to the definitions they use. I do not present this post as gospel. It is what I have been taught and learned. I encourage anyone wanting to know more to conduct their own investigation.

So, that’s all I got. Do you agree or disagree? Was this post helpful? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section. If you like this post, please click the like button and share. Your feedback allows me to know the content that you want to read.

If Brokeback Mountain, 8 Seconds, Poltergeist, and Supernatural all had an orgy, Demon Rodeo would be the lovechild.

My contemporary M/M paranormal sports romance, Demon Rodeo, is releasing on September 5, 2024, and is available now for preorder on Amazon. For video book trailers, visit my TikTok page. The full blurb is on my Instagram and Amazon.

Demon Rodeo is the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series but can be read as a standalone. It’s a friends-to-lovers romance set in the rodeo world. These are not your typical cowboys. It’s a widely diverse cast of characters and a mashup of genres that aren’t always seen together. If you’re looking for a palate cleanser, this may be a book for you. Also, expect a lot of goodies and giveaways.

Preorder

⇨ Amazon: https://readerlinks.com/l/4174852

⇨ All Stores: https://books2read.com/u/bP8RG7

Until next time, happy reading and much romance. Laissez le bon temps rouler.

If you’re not following my blog, Creole Bayou, what are you waiting for? There’s always room at the bayou.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click here and sign up today.

Want to chat about writing, mental health, Cajun cuisine, Creole culture, or just spill some tea? If yes, let’s get connected. Follow me on one of my social links. There’s plenty to choose from.

Facebook: Genevive ChambleeX (formerly Twitter): @dolynesaidsoInstagram: genevivechambleeauthorGoodreads: Genevive ChambleeAmazon Authors: Genevive ChambleeBookBub: Genevive ChambleeTikTok: CreolegurlNolaBluesky: Genevive ChambleeThreads: Author Genevive Chamblee

[image error]LOCKER ROOM LOVE[image error]

[image error] Locker Room Love Series [image error]

Are you searching for a sexy book boyfriend? You’ve come to the right place.

Out of the Penalty Box (book #1) One minute in the box or a lifetime out. Defending the Net (book #2) Crossing the line could cost the game. Ice Gladiators (book #3) When the gloves come off, the games begin. Penalty Kill (book #4) Let the pucker begin. Future Goals (book #5) The future lies between a puck and a net.

About the Author:

Hi, I’m Genevive, and I am a contemporary sports romance author. My home is in South Louisiana. If you like snark and giggles with a touch of steamy Cajun and Creole on the side, I may have your poison in my stash of books. Drop by the bayou and have a look around. The pirogues are always waiting for new visitors.

Everything Can’t Be Number One

On the ride home, a friend and I were discussing television series. We both showed our age when asked, “What happened to the good old days when cable networks aired full seasons without repeats and two-year waiting periods in between? As some may have guessed, this conversation came on the heels of the alleged announcement that the next season of Bridgerton won’t air for approximately two years. This is said to be an industry standard. My question is, “Since when?”

Now, I realize I may be getting up there in years as I’m beginning to ache when I roll out of bed, but that’s not how I recalled things working when I was a child. Unless my memory has gone plain wonky, I remember the cable network having an evening to present their fall lineup. Actors from the series hosted it and gave a brief overview of each show’s premise. Clips from each series followed. If I’m not mistaken, new series were given more discussion time to entice viewers to watch. The dates and times of the premiers were made clear, and once the season began, there were rarely any reruns or missed days. And there definitely weren’t two-year breaks in between seasons. It was a summer break…three months, four max.

I understand that technology has advanced since I was young—which one would think advancement equals improvement. When I think of improvement, I think of better quality and faster production. If elaborate sets had to be built or a great deal of special effects or stunts had to be performed, I would understand. But let’s face it. Some of these modern sets are, at best, basic with CGI which is pure trash. Instead of dozens of people performing manual labor to design and construct elaborate sets, there are one or two people in an air-conditioned room piecing together images that look straight out of The Beginning of the End (1954).

However, that wasn’t the heart of the discussion. Despite the disappointment of having to wait for releases, the discussion centered on the criticism of the latest installment of the Bridgerton Netflix series. Here’s the thing. Most book-to-movie adaptations are going to have changes to the source material. Often, books have the time go into detail where movies do not. It may be difficult to find actors who look like the characters in the book. Advancements in technology from the time the book was written and the movie produced may have changed. For example, Superman today would be hard-pressed to find a public telephone booth to change in. How far directors and screenwriters stray from the source material is another issue.

Audiences enjoy a certain amount of predictability. However, they also enjoy surprises. Sometimes, watching a strict adaptation can be boring. What works on paper doesn’t necessarily translate well to screen. There needs to be a little switch-a-roo. But the thing is, when one change is made, it can cause a chain effect. For example, (SPOILER ALERT), in Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows, Harry doesn’t snap the elder wand. So, if a J.K. were to pen another book to the original book series that uses the elder wand, an adaptive movie would have some explaining to do—not saying it couldn’t be done.

One of the criticisms I heard about Bridgeton was that Queen Charlotte was “made Black for no reason.” In real life, there is controversy about the Queen’s race. I’m not going to dive into any of that because that is far beyond my scope. What is known is that Queen Charlotte is not a character in the books, therefore, the author does not identify her race. And she was “made Black” for a reason in the series. The series creators use the Queen as an explanation for the diversity in the ton which never existed in reality. Because the King married a person of color, other persons of color were accepted into the fictional ton. This is one of the main deviations from the books that made the Netflix series so popular with viewers. No hate or shade towards the author, but she doesn’t much describe race in her books, and when she does, the characteristics described are more often associated with someone who is Caucasian. And there’s nothing wrong with the author writing that. The point is the Queen Charolette character added something unique and complex to the Netflix series that wasn’t in the books. This is an example of how straying from the source material can have positive outcomes.

So, when there were some changes made at the end of season three, I had to pause with some of my thoughts. There were lots of negative speculations, but here are some of my thoughts.

The Michael/Michaela gender swap. So many people hate this because they say it negates Francesca’s storyline. Now, I can be a little clueless at times; so, when this scene occurred, I didn’t put two and two together to realize Michaela was Michael. Why? Although Michaela was introduced as John’s cousin, doesn’t mean she is Michael. She could be his fraternal twin sister. And how many twins share similar names—Don and Donna, Louis and Louisia, Samuel and Samantha?Francesca’s infertility storyline. I agree this one is a bit more problematic but not if my twin theory is true. Additionally, it appears that if the next season focuses on Francesca, there will be a time jump. (SPOILER ALERT!) At the end of season three, Pen and Colin have a baby. That means at least 9 months have passed. My guess is Francesca’s story will begin after John’s death. After all, Bridgeton is a romance. And with only eight measly episodes they have been giving us, they aren’t going to want to waste the majority of it with Francesca mourning. They are going to want to get to where she falls for Michael or Michaela. So, in that, they could write that she and John’s baby didn’t die. Or perhaps a storyline is developed that Francesca adopted a child—maybe John’s lovechild from a past discretion that he never knew existed and whose mother has passed away. Granted, this would add another complication to the original plot.Benedict’s exploration of his sexuality. Ben, Ben, Ben. This didn’t come as a shocker to me. In season one, I thought that was where Ben’s character was headed then and was surprised when it didn’t. (When he attended Henry Granville’s party put this notion into my head.) My biggest problem with Benedict’s arc was that it all seemed jammed, crammed, and crushed into a handful of scenes like an afterthought. They had plenty of time to build this.In the Netflix series, Penelope seemed like a hypocrite. In the first season, she was all about protecting Colin from deception. Yet, she was willing to marry him with a deception between them. Her apology to Marina Thompson hardly seemed sufficient, seeing how Lady Whistledown leaking gossip of her pregnancy could have destroyed her and drove Maria to the point of almost wanting to unalive herself. But Penelope exposing half the town (including those closest to her) was forgiven in a blink. And I don’t care that her family gave off all the icks. They were still family, and good folks don’t air their family’s dirty laundry no matter what. To be honest, I didn’t like Pen or Colin, and although it was their season, each time they were on the screen, my fingers hit the FF button. Thus, the criticism that there were too many side plots and not enough focus on PenLin, suited me fine. Of course, it wasn’t anything like this in the book.

But I digress. None of the previous was the point of the conversation with my friend. The main issue was that many cable networks and streaming services have developed a habit of yanking shows off the air if they are mega hits. These networks seem to think that if a show doesn’t have hundreds of thousands of followers that it’s not successful. So, they pull it off the air. But not every show can have that type of following. Not all can be number one.

Several years ago, it was announced in the paper that many of the town’s employees were being given a raise. Within days of the announcement—before the raise even hit the employees’ paycheck—prices of goods started increasing. Insurance went up. Rents and mortgages were increased. The raise didn’t help most employees because the cost of living increased to double the amount of their raises. When all is equal, the bar gets moved to maintain a hierarchy. There’s a balance in life. There can’t be an up without a down, an east without a west, or a left without a right.

Randomly, select ten shows on television and rank each one with one being at the top and ten being at the bottom. Now, take number ten away. Nine has become the new bottom slot. Take away number nine, and number eight is now the bottom. The bottom will never go away until there is only one choice remaining. And if there is only one choice, it is neither the top nor the bottom. It is the only. Thus, television shows that people enjoy are being labeled as poor viewership because the numbers aren’t as high as the networks “think” they should be. As a result, there is a string of one or two seasoners despite the shows having a loyal following.

Now, compile this with long breaks between seasons.

One show that I enjoyed suffered this tragic fate. It aired during the writer’s guild strike. During that time, not only were writers not working and many shows went on hiatus, but actors did not actively promote programs. There was no making the rounds of late-night and daytime talk shows or other publicity activities. It’s difficult to be successful if no one knows a thing exists. Then, after the first season of only eight episodes, there was more than a year before the second season aired. The return (another measly eight episodes) had little fanfare. I don’t know the specifics, but some say that viewership increased in the second season. I thought season two ran circles around season one, and part of this had to do with the writer’s strike ending. Then there was some studio administration switching gobbly-goo, and swoosh! Season three was canceled just like that. The show never stood a chance.

Granted, the show wasn’t what I would consider “mainstream.” However, television needs variety. One reason I love reading is because it gives me a variety that television does not. Television seems to want to dictate what is being watched, and perhaps that is one of the reasons people are turning away from cable networks. I know after the show I mentioned was canceled, I stopped watching the network. I was tired of becoming invested only to have the show snatched without a wrap-up. This “everything must be number one” attitude is ridiculous and frustrating. At least with streaming services, viewers can binge-watch complete seasons. They aren’t left waiting for more.

So, that’s all I got. Do you agree or disagree? Was this post helpful? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section. If you like this post, please click the like button and share. Your feedback allows me to know the content that you want to read.

If Brokeback Mountain, 8 Seconds, Poltergeist, and Supernatural all had an orgy, Demon Rodeo would be the lovechild.

My contemporary M/M paranormal sports romance, Demon Rodeo, is releasing on September 5, 2024, and is available now for preorder on Amazon. For video book trailers, visit my TikTok page. The full blurb is on my Instagram and Amazon.

Demon Rodeo is the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series but can be read as a standalone. It’s a friends-to-lovers romance set in the rodeo world. These are not your typical cowboys. It’s a widely diverse cast of characters and a mashup of genres that aren’t always seen together. If you’re looking for a palate cleanser, this may be a book for you. Also, expect a lot of goodies and giveaways.

Preorder

⇨ Amazon: https://readerlinks.com/l/4174852

⇨ All Stores: https://books2read.com/u/bP8RG7

Until next time, happy reading and much romance. Laissez le bon temps rouler.

If you’re not following my blog, Creole Bayou, what are you waiting for? There’s always room at the bayou.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click here and sign up today.

Want to chat about writing, mental health, Cajun cuisine, Creole culture, or just spill some tea? If yes, let’s get connected. Follow me on one of my social links. There’s plenty to choose from.

Facebook: Genevive ChambleeX (formerly Twitter): @dolynesaidsoInstagram: genevivechambleeauthorGoodreads: Genevive ChambleeAmazon Authors: Genevive ChambleeBookBub: Genevive ChambleeTikTok: CreolegurlNolaBluesky: Genevive ChambleeThreads: Author Genevive Chamblee

[image error]LOCKER ROOM LOVE[image error]

[image error] Locker Room Love Series [image error]

Are you searching for a sexy book boyfriend? You’ve come to the right place.

Out of the Penalty Box (book #1) One minute in the box or a lifetime out. Defending the Net (book #2) Crossing the line could cost the game. Ice Gladiators (book #3) When the gloves come off, the games begin. Penalty Kill (book #4) Let the pucker begin. Future Goals (book #5) The future lies between a puck and a net.

About the Author:

Hi, I’m Genevive, and I am a contemporary sports romance author. My home is in South Louisiana. If you like snark and giggles with a touch of steamy Cajun and Creole on the side, I may have your poison in my stash of books. Drop by the bayou and have a look around. The pirogues are always waiting for new visitors.

Hot Alpha Cowboys and RVs

Bonjour mes amis. Welcome to Creole Bayou and my month-long celebration of the upcoming release of my paranormal sports romance Demon Rodeo, which goes live on 09/05/24. Demon Rodeo is the first standalone book in my Chasing the Buckle series—a sports romance series revolving around the lives and loves of professional bull riders and rodeo stars. So, if Demon Rodeo is a paranormal sports romance, why am I writing a post about food? The answer is simple. As part of my cyber celebration, I am uploading on my blog daily about a topic or theme that occurs in or is related to something that happens in the story. Since the characters travel frequently for work in an RV, this topic seemed fitting. So, let’s get rolling in the bayou.

The basics

RV (recreational vehicle) is a general term for a trailer or vehicle with living quarters. The living quarters are meant for temporary use, however, in recent years it has become popular for people to sell their house and use RVs as their permanent residence as they travel around the world. RVs can be powered by their own motor or towed by another vehicle.

The Pierce-Arrow Motor Company manufactured the first RV in 1910 and debuted it at the Madison Square Garden auto show the same year. The model’s name was Touring Landau and the listed price was $8,000. Today, that would be the equivalent to over $200,000. The average cost for a towable trailer is between $20,000 to $100,000. Motorhomes are a bit pricier and average between $50,000 to $600,000, but some luxury lines can be as high as $2,000,000. While RVs come in many colors, many are white because white reflects heat, helping to keep the inside cooler.

There are many types of RVs

Ice fish houseHorse trailer RVTowablePark model RVSports utility RVPop-up trailerTruck camperFifth wheel trailerTravel TrailerClass A motorhomeClass B motorhomeClass C motorhome

RV must-haves/essentials.

Leveling blocks (also called jack pads or stabilizer pads)Leveling blocks have several functions.Keep the RV balanced and level with the terrainHelps appliances to function properlyHelps prevent items from falling off countersHelps doors to remain shutHelps prevent the RV from rocking or swaying when people are walking inside of itSafer movementComfortable sleeping

NOTE: Some RVs have hydraulics, but many do not. Leveling blocks are stackable. This makes it easy to get the right level.

Air Compressor

The function of the air compressor is to maintain proper tire pressure.

Hang onto your bootstraps.

My contemporary M/M paranormal sports romance, Demon Rodeo, is releasing on September 5, 2024, and is available now for preorder on Amazon. For video book trailers, visit my TikTok page. The full blurb is on my Instagram and Amazon.

Demon Rodeo is the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series but can be read as a standalone. It’s a friends-to-lovers romance set in the rodeo world. These are not your typical cowboys. It’s a widely diverse cast of characters and a mashup of genres that aren’t always seen together. If you’re looking for a palate cleanser, this may be a book for you. Also, expect a lot of goodies and giveaways.

Preorder

⇨ Amazon: https://readerlinks.com/l/4174852

⇨ All Stores: https://books2read.com/u/bP8RG7

Until next time, happy reading and much romance. Laissez le bon temps rouler.

If you’re not following my blog, Creole Bayou, what are you waiting for? There’s always room at the bayou.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click here and sign up today.

Want to chat about writing, mental health, Cajun cuisine, Creole culture, or just spill some tea? If yes, let’s get connected. Follow me on one of my social links. There’s plenty to choose from.

Facebook: Genevive ChambleeX (formerly Twitter): @dolynesaidsoInstagram: genevivechambleeauthorGoodreads: Genevive ChambleeAmazon Authors: Genevive ChambleeBookBub: Genevive ChambleeTikTok: CreolegurlNolaBluesky: Genevive ChambleeThreads: Author Genevive Chamblee

[image error]LOCKER ROOM LOVE[image error]

[image error] Locker Room Love Series [image error]

Are you searching for a sexy book boyfriend? You’ve come to the right place.

Out of the Penalty Box (book #1) One minute in the box or a lifetime out. Defending the Net (book #2) Crossing the line could cost the game. Ice Gladiators (book #3) When the gloves come off, the games begin. Penalty Kill (book #4) Let the pucker begin. Future Goals (book #5) The future lies between a puck and a net.

About the Author:

Hi, I’m Genevive, and I am a contemporary sports romance author. My home is in South Louisiana. If you like snark and giggles with a touch of steamy Cajun and Creole on the side, I may have your poison in my stash of books. Drop by the bayou and have a look around. The pirogues are always waiting for new visitors.

How to Write a Romance Novel in 8 Easy Steps

From now until September 5th, I’m posting daily on a topic that is in some way related to a topic/ subject mentioned in Demon Rodeo, my new sports romance. More information about the book is listed at the end of this post.

Today’s topic is inspired because Demon Rodeo is first and foremost a romance, meaning that the main characters’ relationship is the heart of the story. Make no mistake, sports (rodeoing) play a significant role in the story, but it does not trump the romantic plot. By definition from the most influential literary agents, editors, professional writing organizations, and publishers, for any book to be considered a “romance,” focus on the romantic relationship between characters must be the most significant element of the story. If the sports aspect was the focus, the book would be considered a sports novel with a romantic element. I’ll do a separate post on what it means to write a sports romance. However, today’s post is centered on writing a romance regardless of the subgenre.

DISCLAIMER: Readers may not agree with every point made herein. Writing has very few rules and is personal to every writer. What works for one person may not work for another. Thus, what is presented here is not gospel. However, these are useful tips to keep in mind while writing.

Let’s jump right in.

Decide that writing a book is something that you seriously want to do and make the commitment to do it. So many people claim to want to write a novel but never put pen to paper (or finger to keyboard). Otherwise, it’s just idle talk for conversation—like dreaming of a vacation in Hawaii but not saving money to go. It’s one thing to try and fail but quite another to flap one’s gums with zero effort for a follow-through.Believe that you can do it. Because most people learn to read and write in grammar school, many people do not appreciate writing as being a difficult craft. There will be plenty of naysayers who will spout that it’s a waste of time, make jokes at your expense, and intentionally impede on the time you set aside to write a socialization hour. It’s easy to fall into a trap of self-doubt.Avoid comparing yourself to popular and bestselling authors. This likely will lead to nowhere good. Those authors worked long and hard to get where they are. Very few were overnight successes. They had a beginning just like you have a beginning.Brainstorm ideas for plots and subplots. Depending on your writing process, this step may not be necessary. You may already have an idea. During this step, you can decide on the genre.Research your topic. Even if you’re an expert on a topic, it doesn’t hurt to fact-check. Some people are eager to nitpick and tear apart manuscripts over the tiniest details, even when those details are creative liberties and artistic freedom by the creator. If you’re taking risks, it needs to be understood that what is perceived as “incorrect” is by choice. To do that is to ensure that everything else is correct.Books are written in drafts. First drafts aren’t intended to be perfect. Write the draft to get the story written and worry about cleaning it up and polishing it in later drafts. Don’t strive for perfection right off the bat. The goal is to get the story told in the first draft, evaluate what you have, and go from there.Take time to develop characters. Don’t just physically describe them. Give them flaws and personality. Make them complex, interesting, and relatable. Consider what you want them to do, why they are doing it, and their function in the story.Story beats are important but not all are necessary. Define your beginning, middle, conflict, and end/resolution.

And that’s all that I have. Now, it’s your turn to sound off. What did you think? What is your take on the topic? Do you agree or disagree? Did you find this information helpful or informative? Did you learn anything new, or did it change your opinion? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section. Also, let me know if you would like me to cover more of these types of topics or dive deeper into this one. If you like this post, please click the like button and share. Your feedback allows me to know the content that you want to read.

Buckle up and get ready.

Demon Rodeo is releasing on September 5, 2024, and is available now for preorder on Amazon. For video book trailers, visit my TikTok page. The full blurb is on my Instagram and Amazon.

Demon Rodeo is the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series. Although this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. It’s a friends-to-lovers romance set in the rodeo world. These are not your typical cowboys. It’s a widely diverse cast of characters and a mashup of genres that aren’t always seen together. If you’re looking for a palate cleanser, this may be a book for you. Also, expect a lot of goodies and giveaways.

Preorder

⇨ Amazon: https://readerlinks.com/l/4174852

⇨ All Stores: https://books2read.com/u/bP8RG7

Until next time, happy reading and much romance. Laissez le bon temps rouler.

If you’re not following my blog, Creole Bayou, what are you waiting for? There’s always room at the bayou.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click here and sign up today.

Want to chat about writing, mental health, Cajun cuisine, Creole culture, or just spill some tea? If yes, let’s get connected. Follow me on one of my social links. There’s plenty to choose from.

Facebook: Genevive ChambleeX (formerly Twitter): @dolynesaidsoInstagram: genevivechambleeauthorGoodreads: Genevive ChambleeAmazon Authors: Genevive ChambleeBookBub: Genevive ChambleeTikTok: CreolegurlNolaBluesky: Genevive ChambleeThreads: Author Genevive Chamblee

[image error]LOCKER ROOM LOVE[image error]

[image error] Locker Room Love Series [image error]

Are you searching for a sexy book boyfriend? You’ve come to the right place.

Out of the Penalty Box (book #1) One minute in the box or a lifetime out. Defending the Net (book #2) Crossing the line could cost the game. Ice Gladiators (book #3) When the gloves come off, the games begin. Penalty Kill (book #4) Let the pucker begin. Future Goals (book #5) The future lies between a puck and a net.

About the Author:

Hi, I’m Genevive, and I am a contemporary sports romance author. My home is in South Louisiana. If you like snark and giggles with a touch of steamy Cajun and Creole on the side, I may have your poison in my stash of books. Drop by the bayou and have a look around. The pirogues are always waiting for new visitors.

Hot Alpha Cowboys and Skincare

Just because summer is coming to an end doesn’t mean one should stop wearing sunscreen. It’s a misnomer that the sun only damages skin during hot or summer months. That couldn’t be farther from the truth. A person needs to take care of his/her skin all year long. Skin is important. While most people desire for their skin to look healthy and youthful, it also should be healthy. It’s never too early to begin taking good care of one’s skin.

What do hot, alpha cowboys, and skincare have in common? No, the title isn’t clickbait.

Welcome to my today’s blog. On September 5, my paranormal romance sports, Demon Rodeo, is being released. It’s the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series but can be read as a stone-alone novel. In celebration of the release, I’m uploading a daily blog post that highlights or features something mentioned in or related to the story. The main characters of Demon Rodeo, are bull riders/ cowboys. They spend a great deal of time outdoors and in the sun, exposed to UV light. This is what sparked the idea for today’s post.

When people think of rodeos, most don’t immediately think of skincare. But cowboys live a life where taking care of their skin is imperative. The long hours in the sun and being exposed to many chemicals and pesticides frequently puts them at a higher risk for developing skin cancers and other skin ailments.

The four (4) main types of skin cancer are:

Basal cell carcinomaSquamous cell carcinomaMerkel cell skin carcinomaMelanoma

Many skin cancers are treatable with a good success rate/prognosis when caught early. Basal cell carcinoma is frequently considered the most harmless of the four main types of skin cancers because it spreads slowly and is usually confined to the face, neck, head, hands, and arms. Melanoma is generally considered the most dangerous due to its tendency to spread.

One way to prevent or reduce the risk of skin cancer is to wear protective clothing (e.g., hats with wide brims, lightweight long-sleeved shirts and pants, clothing made of nylon and polyester, sunglasses with UV protection, etc.) Another way is to wear sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen containing an SPF of 30 or higher. The higher the SPF, the more protection (i.e., the higher quantity of radiation protected from) that is offered. Some sunscreens have a broad spectrum of protection, and some are water-resistant. There are plenty of options and brands of sunscreen on the market, and this may leave one wondering what are the differences and which are best.

There are chemical sunscreens and mineral sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens are just that. They use chemicals to “soak up” UVB and UVA rays as they hit the skin. Mineral sunscreens, on the other hand, use titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to form a broad filter to block UV rays and are effective as soon as they are applied. There are pros and cons to both chemical and mineral sunscreens. Which to use boils down to personal preference. Consumers should be aware that some makeup/cosmetics that state to include SPF do not alone provide adequate protection against harmful rays and a sunscreen/sun lotion should be worn in addition to the makeup/cosmetic product.

DISCLAIMER: None of the products mentioned are sponsors or affiliates. I receive no commissions, discounts, money, or gifts from the bands and/or companies.

Some highly recommended sunscreens are listed below. These are in no particular order.

Alba Botanica Sport Sunscreen LotionBanana Boat Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50Coppertone Pure & Simple Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50EltaMD UV Clear Face SunscreenHawaiian Topic Everyday Active Sunscreen SPF 30

Also, it is important to use moisturizers to help keep skin hydrated and healthy. Moisturizers help protect the skin from environmental irritants and act as a barrier to water loss.

Aquaphor Healing ointmentCeraVe Moisturizing CreamCetaphil Rich Hydrating CreamDerma E Advanced Peptides & Flora-Collagen Night MoisturizerEltaMD PM Therapy Facial MoisturizerLa Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face MoisturizerWederm Restorative Lipid Replenishing Cream

The last thing I want to mention is facial cleanser. No good skincare routine omits a facial cleanser. Cleansers are important because they help control skin oil levels, restore pH balance, hydrate, exfoliate dead skin cells, soothe irritations, and prevent acne.

Aveeno Calm + Restore Nourishing Oat Face CleanserCeraVe Foaming Facial CleanserEltaMD Foaming Facial CleanserOlay Cleanse Gentle Foaming Face CleanserRoC Barrier Renew Gel-to-Foam CleanserVanicream Gentle Facial CleanserYam Root Vegan Milk Cleanser

And that’s all that I have. Now, it’s your turn to sound off. What did you think? What is your take on the subject? Do you agree or disagree? Did you find this information helpful or informative? Did you learn anything new, or did it change your opinion? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section. Also, let me know if you would like me to cover more of these types of topics or dive deeper into this one. If you like this post, please click the like button and share. Your feedback allows me to know the content that you want to read.

There’s more in the chutes than bulls.

My contemporary M/M paranormal sports romance, Demon Rodeo, is releasing on September 5, 2024, and is available now for preorder on Amazon. For video book trailers, visit my TikTok page. The full blurb is on my Instagram and Amazon.

Demon Rodeo is the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series but can be read as a standalone. It’s a friends-to-lovers romance set in the rodeo world. These are not your typical cowboys. It’s a widely diverse cast of characters and a mashup of genres that aren’t always seen together. If you’re looking for a palate cleanser, this may be a book for you. Also, expect a lot of goodies and giveaways.

Preorder

⇨ Amazon: https://readerlinks.com/l/4174852

⇨ All Stores: https://books2read.com/u/bP8RG7

Until next time, happy reading and much romance. Laissez le bon temps rouler.

If you’re not following my blog, Creole Bayou, what are you waiting for? There’s always room at the bayou.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click here and sign up today.

Want to chat about writing, mental health, Cajun cuisine, Creole culture, or just spill some tea? If yes, let’s get connected. Follow me on one of my social links. There’s plenty to choose from.

Facebook: Genevive ChambleeX (formerly Twitter): @dolynesaidsoInstagram: genevivechambleeauthorGoodreads: Genevive ChambleeAmazon Authors: Genevive ChambleeBookBub: Genevive ChambleeTikTok: CreolegurlNolaBluesky: Genevive ChambleeThreads: Author Genevive Chamblee

[image error]LOCKER ROOM LOVE[image error]

[image error] Locker Room Love Series [image error]

Are you searching for a sexy book boyfriend? You’ve come to the right place.

Out of the Penalty Box (book #1) One minute in the box or a lifetime out. Defending the Net (book #2) Crossing the line could cost the game. Ice Gladiators (book #3) When the gloves come off, the games begin. Penalty Kill (book #4) Let the pucker begin. Future Goals (book #5) The future lies between a puck and a net.

About the Author:

Hi, I’m Genevive, and I am a contemporary sports romance author. My home is in South Louisiana. If you like snark and giggles with a touch of steamy Cajun and Creole on the side, I may have your poison in my stash of books. Drop by the bayou and have a look around. The pirogues are always waiting for new visitors.

How Demon Rodeo Came To Be – Part One

Although Demon Rodeo has been a fun and exciting experience, it is perhaps the most challenging novel I’ve ever written. One may think this is because it is a departure from what I normally write, but it isn’t. I’ve written about the paranormal and the occult plenty of times in the past. Plus, Demon Rodeo is still a sports romance. No, what makes this story an outlier is its origins.

See, it began as a short story—one that didn’t quite work. But let me back up. The idea for Demon Rodeo originated when I was presented with an opportunity to participate in a collaboration/anthology. I eagerly wanted to be a part of it and jumped immediately. I threw myself into it. I can’t remember the word count, but it was less than 5,000 words, which is on the lengthier side for a short story. However, everyone who read it stated it felt like it was missing something, rushed, or cut off short. I agreed. In fact, that was what was gnawing at me before I submitted it to be included in an anthology. So, I was neither shocked nor offended by the feedback. Thus, I set it aside to revisit it later. Since, at the time, I was involved in another project, the revisiting took longer than expected.

One may assume that it was the gap in time that created my issues. That would be an erroneous assumption, too. Allowing a manuscript to sit and marinate isn’t necessarily bad. The elapse of time allows for a reset or “refresh” as I call it. The problem was, I am a pantser through and through.

A pantser is a writer who develops a story as he/she goes along. This is the opposite of a plotter who outlines his/her story before sitting down to write. I’ve always been horrible at outlines and hated writing them in school. Why? Because outlines need to be followed. Yes, I understand that outlines do not have to be strictly adhered to and can be flexible. But the point of an outline is for it to be a guide. I’m an unguided pantser and go where the story takes me. It’s like traveling without the GPS—venturing down roads and getting lost before finding the main road again. There are some interesting sights along those backroads even if they shouldn’t be part of the journey. Plotters think this is nuts, but my fellow pantsers get it. But what does that have to do with Demon Rodeo?

Well, Demon Rodeo, the short story, was serving as a kind of outline. Now, on one level, it didn’t work as short story, but on another level, it did. It had a beginning, middle, and end. It had a plot. It had character development. It had story beats and a story arc. Yet, something was missing. And here is where it became sticky.

I thought I could just “insert” where necessary—expand scenes. Others agreed. That had been the feedback. “This needs more.” However, each time I began a dissection, it interfered with the flow and completely screwed up the story. For anyone who can’t understand how this happens, consider when a producer discusses the complications of adapting a book for film. I was adapting a short story to a novel. Approximately two weeks into working on it, I didn’t know what I had, and I set it aside again. I had all but convinced myself that it couldn’t be done.

Fast forward to eight months later. It was time for National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo or NaNo). NaNo is an annual writing event that happens in November and challenges writers to write a 50,000-word novel in thirty days. That’s the general idea, but participants modify the challenge to fit their needs. Some writers may focus on editing. Others may already have 50k words but are aiming for 70,000. Some may be working on poetry, short stories, or microfiction. Still others, may not care about word count at all. There are no hard and definite rules to NaNo other than setting and meeting a creative goal in thirty days. My NaNo goal was to dig into Demon Rodeo (which at that time didn’t have a name or had some other name—I can’t remember) and to figure it out. Actually, my true NaNo goal was to clear out my “Hiccup” folder.

My Hiccup folder is a place where I save stories or story ideas that I need to set aside for some reason but intend to one day complete. In reality—and I think this happens to a lot of writers—that folder fills quickly with more ideas than time to write. Some of the projects in that folder require research while others are ones that just didn’t lead anywhere. Then, there are story ideas that have become dated or I have no interest in and need to be discarded. Or perhaps, as has happened on occasion, I have multiple story segments only to realize they are the same story that needs to be assembled. However, Demon Rodeo was different from anything else in the folder. Although other completed stories required severe editing, Demon Rodeo needed to be converted. Thus, I gave myself 30 days to complete the task.

All right, honestly, I began in October instead of November. (Yeah, I’m all about that cheating life when it comes to NaNo.) I knew it would be my NaNo project, and I knew it would be a huge undertaking. And more than anything, I knew I needed to determine how to overcome my problem. Yes, something was missing from the story. Something was wrong. But what? I couldn’t answer it, and neither could anyone else. The best I received was generic responses of “It doesn’t seem like a complete story.” Well, duh! But why? What needed more? What needed expanding? What needed omitting? What, what, what? Thirty days wouldn’t be enough time.

To solve my dilemma, I needed to think about the process of converting instead of the story itself. I began by exploring the differences between short stories and novels. The most obvious is that novels have chapters and short stories do not. That was my starting point—not to change anything but just to identify the “chapters” of the story. From there, I investigated ideas that supported (again not changed) what I already had written. And this is where life changed. As I was flushing out a chapter, I realized another character was speaking to me. (Not literally, of course.) My short story was told from a singular point of view—Easton. Although developed in dialogue, Royal’s thoughts weren’t communicated. I went through each chapter giving Royal a voice. By the end, I had more issues, but these were good issues to have. Since Royal’s POV hadn’t been written, there was no “outline.” I could pantser to my little heart’s content. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Let me know your thoughts in the comment section. If you like this post, please click the like button and share. Your feedback allows me to know the content that you want to read.

There’s more than bulls in the chutes.

My contemporary M/M paranormal sports romance, Demon Rodeo, is releasing on September 5, 2024, and is available now for preorder on Amazon. For video book trailers, visit my TikTok page. The full blurb is on my Instagram and Amazon.

Demon Rodeo is the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series but can be read as a standalone. It’s a friends-to-lovers romance set in the rodeo world. These are not your typical cowboys. It’s a widely diverse cast of characters and a mashup of genres that aren’t always seen together. If you’re looking for a palate cleanser, this may be a book for you. Also, expect a lot of goodies and giveaways.

Preorder

⇨ Amazon: https://readerlinks.com/l/4174852

⇨ All Stores: https://books2read.com/u/bP8RG7

Until next time, happy reading and much romance. Laissez le bon temps rouler.

If you’re not following my blog, Creole Bayou, what are you waiting for? There’s always room at the bayou.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click here and sign up today.

Want to chat about writing, mental health, Cajun cuisine, Creole culture, or just spill some tea? If yes, let’s get connected. Follow me on one of my social links. There’s plenty to choose from.

Facebook: Genevive ChambleeX (formerly Twitter): @dolynesaidsoInstagram: genevivechambleeauthorGoodreads: Genevive ChambleeAmazon Authors: Genevive ChambleeBookBub: Genevive ChambleeTikTok: CreolegurlNolaBluesky: Genevive ChambleeThreads: Author Genevive Chamblee

[image error]LOCKER ROOM LOVE[image error]

[image error] Locker Room Love Series [image error]

Are you searching for a sexy book boyfriend? You’ve come to the right place.

Out of the Penalty Box (book #1) One minute in the box or a lifetime out. Defending the Net (book #2) Crossing the line could cost the game. Ice Gladiators (book #3) When the gloves come off, the games begin. Penalty Kill (book #4) Let the pucker begin. Future Goals (book #5) The future lies between a puck and a net.

About the Author:

Hi, I’m Genevive, and I am a contemporary sports romance author. My home is in South Louisiana. If you like snark and giggles with a touch of steamy Cajun and Creole on the side, I may have your poison in my stash of books. Drop by the bayou and have a look around. The pirogues are always waiting for new visitors.

Hot Alpha Cowboys and Cajun Crab Dip

Salute mes amis. Welcome to Creole Bayou and my month-long celebration of Demon Rodeo, a paranormal sports romance and the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series. Although Demon Rodeo is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. It will be available on September 5. As part of my cyber celebration, I am uploading on my blog daily about a topic or theme that occurs in or is related to something that happens in the story. Both main characters and many minor characters are natives of South Louisiana. Not many authors who write stories set in or tied to Louisiana omit mentioning the cuisine. Therefore, it meets my criteria to be included in the celebratory posts.

Ingredients:

¼ tsp cayenne pepper¼ tsp black pepper1 tsp hot sauce1 tbs fresh lemon juice1 tbs horseradish1 tbs Cajun or Creole seasoning (Slap Ya Mama Cajun Seasoning or Tony Chachere Creole Seasoning)1 ½ tbs Worcestershire sauce4 oz Parmesan, shredded4 oz white cheddar cheese, finely shredded8 oz cream cheese, softened (room temperature)¼ cup mayonnaise1/3 cup sour cream½ cup panko breadcrumbs1/2 cup green onion, diced1 lb lump crab meat

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.In a large bowl, mix cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise thoroughly.Add the panko breadcrumbs and mix well.Add cayenne, black pepper, hot sauce, lemon juice, horseradish, green onions, Creole or Cajun seasoning, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.Fold in crab and half of the cheddar cheese.Transfer to a greased cast iron skill or baking dish.Add the rest of the cheddar cheese and all of the parmesan on top.Bake for 25 minutes or until the cheese has completely melted.Serve with chips, crackers, or toasted bread.

Enjoy! If you liked this recipe and are interested in more, visit again. Or better yet, hit the follow button. Creole Bayou. There’s always room in the bayou.

Let me know your thoughts about this recipe in the comment section. Will you try it? If you like this post, please click the like button and share. Your feedback allows me to know the content that you want to read.

Saddle up for the Cowboys

My contemporary M/M paranormal sports romance, Demon Rodeo, is releasing on September 5, 2024, and is available now for preorder on Amazon. For video book trailers, visit my TikTok page. The full blurb is on my Instagram and Amazon.

Demon Rodeo is the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series. Although this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. It’s a friends-to-lovers romance set in the rodeo world. These are not your typical cowboys. It’s a widely diverse cast of characters and a mashup of genres that aren’t always seen together. If you’re looking for a palate cleanser, this may be a book for you. Also, expect a lot of goodies and giveaways.

Preorder

⇨ Amazon: https://readerlinks.com/l/4174852

⇨ All Stores: https://books2read.com/u/bP8RG7

Until next time, happy reading and much romance. Laissez le bon temps rouler.

If you’re not following my blog, Creole Bayou, what are you waiting for? There’s always room at the bayou.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click here and sign up today.

Want to chat about writing, mental health, Cajun cuisine, Creole culture, or just spill some tea? If yes, let’s get connected. Follow me on one of my social links. There’s plenty to choose from.

Facebook: Genevive ChambleeX (formerly Twitter): @dolynesaidsoInstagram: genevivechambleeauthorGoodreads: Genevive ChambleeAmazon Authors: Genevive ChambleeBookBub: Genevive ChambleeTikTok: CreolegurlNolaBluesky: Genevive ChambleeThreads: Author Genevive Chamblee

[image error] Locker Room Love Series [image error]

Out of the Penalty Box (book #1) One minute in the box or a lifetime out. Defending the Net (book #2) Crossing the line could cost the game. Ice Gladiators (book #3) When the gloves come off, the games begin. Penalty Kill (book #4) Let the pucker begin.Future Goals (book #5) The future lies between a puck and a net.

About the Author:

Hi, I’m Genevive, a blogger and contemporary sports romance author. My home is in South Louisiana. If you like snark and giggles with a touch of steamy Cajun and Creole on the side, I may have your poison in my stash of books. Drop by the bayou and have a look around. The pirogues are always waiting for new visitors.

Writing Lessons 201

Welcome to the Celebration

Hello. Hi. Bonjour. Salute mes amis. Welcome to the celebration of my upcoming release of Demon Rodeo which will happen on September 5th. From now until then, I’m posting daily on a topic that is in some way related to something mentioned in the story. There will be recipes, behind-the-scenes gossip, giveaways, and my regular content blogs (mental health, writing, relationships/romance, and of course, all things Creole and Cajun). There will be something for everyone, and I hope everyone joins me for the ride.

I’m kicking off the celebration with what I learned about writing Demon Rodeo. Demon Rodeo isn’t my first rodeo at writing. (Sorry, but I couldn’t resist the pun.) Having written a few books, I’ve learned a thing or two over the years. I don’t consider myself an expert by any means, but I think I can offer a little something to the conversation.

When I first began writing, I began as a hobby—as a type of therapeutic release. However, writing as a hobby isn’t the same as writing as a profession. In fact, it is nowhere close. And unless one is writing a memoir, it may not be an easy crossover—and I’m not talking about typos. See, writing for a hobby can be ramblings with no structure. Writing professionally as a discipline has structure—not just formulation structure, but life structure. What I mean is, that writing is a type of lifestyle.

Journalists have to hunt and research their stories. Frequently, they have deadlines and word count guidelines. They may be dictated their assignment, but it’s up to them to figure out an angle and a way to make the piece relative, informative, entertaining, and something others will want to read. Simultaneously, they must make it their own. It sounds simple to say these things but can be complicated to achieve. More often than not, it is the background chatter that makes this difficult.

First, many people (not writers) dismiss writing as being easy. When someone tells others that he/she is planning to write a book, often it is met with an eye-roll or not taken seriously. A friend writer was often asked to babysit for relatives because “she was at home anyway.” Had she held a traditional nine-to-five job, her relatives likely wouldn’t have thought to make the request. What they did was a slight. They did not view writing as serious work.

Second, there is so much bad writing advice out there. If there is one piece of advice that I can stand by it’s that no one piece of advice will work for every writer. Some years ago, someone decided using adverbs was sinful and lazy/weak writing. Okay. Fine. If that’s what they want to believe. Obviously, many of them aren’t familiar with the Southern storytelling that is jammed full of adverbs. And if a writer is electing to write in that style, having characters that do not do this is going to take something away from the dialogue. Adverbs are words, and at the end of the day, can add value to stories.

I had a supervisor who reminded me of Miranda Priestly in The Devil Wears Prada. She had this huge chip on her shoulder that caused employees to want to avoid her. The difference was that Miranda had the power to make or break employee careers. My supervisor was overseeing dead-end jobs. Employees working for Miranda hoped to one day advance or be promoted. Employees working for my supervisor needed a paycheck and had no expectations of ever moving up. In The Devil Wears Prada people feared Miranda, and her opinion was valued. My supervisor’s employees didn’t fear. There was no admiration. It was just a dread of dealing with her and her ego.

How this relates to writing is that she once accused me (as well as other employees) that all my reports sounded the same. Well, of course, they did. She edited them. She was the one who demanded certain wording and information be used in each report. She is the one who decided on a template/outline for the reports. She created a report formula, and employees (at least the smart ones) picked up quickly that if they wanted a hassle-free life to write reports precisely as the supervisor wanted. When she would edit these reports or give advice, she was unconsciously shaping them all to be the same. Then, one day, she noticed. Actually, someone higher up than she pointed out that all the reports being so similar was problematic because they appeared to be either copied and pasted or computer generated. Either way, they did not appear to be personalized to the consumer which was something that it was supposed to have been. Some of the writing advice out there is based on trends or what well-established authors are doing. While that is all fine and dandy, it runs the risk of stripping less-established writers of their voice and personality. Not everyone is Stephen King. Stephen King is Stephen King for a reason. He made himself that way. He grew into who he is as a writer. If all the writing advice is to write like Stephen King and mimic what he does, everything is going to read like bad knockoffs.

It took me a while to find my writing voice. I had it long before I knew it but changed it listening to “expert” advice. Then one day I had a story critiqued. Let me tell you, I got dragged the length of two football fields. I thought I’d written the biggest piece of crap a dinosaur could poop. When I began making the suggested changes, my story completely fell apart. I had no story. When I mentioned this, I was accused of being too close to my story and not wanting to accept advice. What I wanted was to improve my story. What happened was jarring, and I took a step back to critically read the books of the people giving advice. I didn’t like the style or the content, and I began realizing that these were not “my people.”

Later, I received a rejection from one of the people in the group who was a self-proclaimed top-notch editor and had been a nominee (although he said finalist) for a prominent writing award. It later was revealed that anyone could be nominated and thousands were. It was the handful that were accepted for consideration that mattered. I was so upset—no, not upset, ticked—by his rejection that I went on a massive querying spree. (Here’s another piece of advice from me. Don’t do that.) What set me off wasn’t the rejection per se. It was the inclusion of others. All the stories that he had accepted into his “chance of a lifetime” anthology all sounded the same, as if, this was the only writing option. I did not want to write that way. But I also noticed something else—something more sinister in my opinion. I noticed that the stories accepted were written by either his friends or writers who had been brownnosing for months. I also realize the financial imbalance that loomed dangerously close to predatory publishing. While it was billed and I could see it as possibly being a big opportunity, I couldn’t believe this was the only way. Thus, I began querying.

Less than two months later, I had sold a short story to a not-too-shabby anthology and a novel to a publisher with some big-name clients. This proved that I did not have to follow a formula.

However, it wasn’t until years later that I recognized my writing voice, and actually, it was readers who did it for me. I wrote a book as part of an open call for submissions. The publisher was looking to expand in certain niches. I wrote the story as a challenge to myself. Looking back, I laugh. It was something that I had been doing from the beginning but never recognized. I’m at my best when I tell stories authentically.

Anne Rice is one of my favorite authors. She told stories that transported readers into the book worlds she created. She set the tone and scene, and she made everything vividly real. It was real because she tapped into who she was, how she spoke, what she saw, her experiences, etc. It was unique to her. Although I’m far from being an Anne Rice and wouldn’t dare care for myself, I do share something in common with the icon. I understand the importance and richness of culture. Much of what made Anne Rice’s writing unique is the way she delved into the cultural aspects of her settings to bring it to life. Once I embraced my culture, I found my voice. I stopped attempting to pretty up my language and write in trends. I leaped into my niche and told the story the way I’d been told stories, the way I talked to my friends.

And here’s the most important lesson for all writers. Each journey to writing will be different, but one path will be the same. Readers will know when a writer is authentic and will invest in stories with an authentic vibe. Does that mean a writer who has found his/her voice will appeal to all readers? No. It doesn’t matter how good a writer is. He/she will not be every reader’s cup of tea. But that is how it is supposed to be. It is essential for writers to find the readers they are writing for.

As a young girl, my father would always tell me it was easier to do something wrong than it was to do it right. That was because there are so many ways to do something wrong and usually only one way to do it correctly. A writer discovering his/her voice is the first step. Finding his/her audience is another. The two aren’t mutually exclusive, and the latter may be more difficult than the former. Rejection is often a matter of a writer not being in front of the appropriate audience as opposed to terrible writing. (But make no mistake. Sometimes it may be the writing.) As a writer, it is important to have faith in oneself and in the writing process.

Demon Rodeo has taught me that learning and growth are a continuum. There’s always something new, and the unknown isn’t unconquerable. Writing challenges shouldn’t be viewed as setbacks but, rather, as new opportunities. A story that seems to have been stomped into the ground for not following a formula may need to stray even farther from the formula to highlight that the break from “recommended” is intentional. When an author doesn’t go far enough into his/her voice, it may leave the reader stuck between the “formula” and the writer’s chosen style. This may not be a pleasant reading experience.

Last, is there anything wrong with using a “formula?” Absolutely not. Formulas account for the biggest success stories and sales. Think of large fast-food chains. Is it the best food out there? Not usually. But does it appeal to the masses? Yes. For one, consumers know what to expect. It’s familiar. Many times, they already know the menu and can walk up to the counter and order without contemplating choices. When going to a fine dining restaurant where the menu isn’t always the same, consumers are likely going to take more time to read the description of the unique choices. And chances are, more people are going to go to the fast-food joint than the fine dining place.

I hope sharing this experience has helped someone with their writing journey. Let me know how you feel about this. Leave a comment below.

Buckle up and get ready!

My contemporary M/M paranormal sports romance, Demon Rodeo, releases on September 5, 2024, and is available now for preorder on Amazon. For video book trailers, visit my TikTok page. The full blurb is on my Instagram and Amazon.

Demon Rodeo is the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series but can be read as a standalone. It’s a friends-to-lovers romance set in the rodeo world. These are not your typical cowboys. It’s a widely diverse cast of characters and a mashup of genres that aren’t always seen together. If you’re looking for a palate cleanser, this may be a book for you. Also, expect a lot of goodies and giveaways.

Preorder

⇨ Amazon: https://readerlinks.com/l/4174852

⇨ All Stores: https://books2read.com/u/bP8RG7

Until next time, happy reading and much romance. Laissez le bon temps rouler.

If you’re not following my blog, Creole Bayou, what are you waiting for? There’s always room at the bayou.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click here and sign up today.

Want to chat about writing, mental health, Cajun cuisine, Creole culture, or just spill some tea? If yes, let’s get connected. Follow me on one of my social links. There’s plenty to choose from.

Facebook: Genevive ChambleeX (formerly Twitter): @dolynesaidsoInstagram: genevivechambleeauthorGoodreads: Genevive ChambleeAmazon Authors: Genevive ChambleeBookBub: Genevive ChambleeTikTok: CreolegurlNolaBluesky: Genevive ChambleeThreads: Author Genevive Chamblee

[image error] Locker Room Love Series [image error]

Out of the Penalty Box (book #1) One minute in the box or a lifetime out. Defending the Net (book #2) Crossing the line could cost the game. Ice Gladiators (book #3) When the gloves come off, the games begin. Penalty Kill (book #4) Let the pucker begin.Future Goals (book #5) The future lies between a puck and a net.

About the Author:

Hi, I’m Genevive, a blogger and contemporary sports romance author. My home is in South Louisiana. If you like snark and giggles with a touch of steamy Cajun and Creole on the side, I may have your poison in my stash of books. Drop by the bayou and have a look around. The pirogues are always waiting for new visitors.

How to Avoid Writing Overload

Any writer will tell you how demanding and challenging writing can be, but in the overall scheme of things, putting words to paper is usually the easiest part. It is all the “other” stuff that almost sucks out the soul. By other stuff, I mean all the elements that need to come together for a book to be published—whether by traditional means or self-published. And oh yes, traditionally published (unless very well-established like Stephen King or Nora Roberts) have homework assignments just as self-published authors do. These assignments may vary slightly. However, don’t think after his/her novel is written that traditionally published authors do nothing but twiddle their thumbs and wait for a royalty check. There’s work to be done and lots of it. For this reason, it is easy for a writer to become overwhelmed, especially if there are areas in which he/she is not proficient. Here are some ways to avoid becoming overloaded.

Before I list these ways, I want to say some may seem like common sense while others may seem generic. I always have a distaste for useless or “fortune cookie” information. So, this is my disclaimer. I’m throwing all the tips out there in case some have been forgotten or overlooked. Hopefully, the information will help someone.

Take classes. I’m starting here, although, this, in most instances, is an expensive option. The reason I listed this first is if selected carefully, it likely is the most efficient option of anything. I’ll double back to this shortly.Research. Much free writing information can be found through internet searches or at the local library.

These first two points go hand-in-hand. With nearly every person having access to the internet, conducting internet searches for information is a no-brainer. So, what needs to be researched after the story has been completed? Well, that depends on the writer and his/her needs and weaknesses. For example, every book needs a marketing plan, but not every writer has a marketing background. And no, this doesn’t mean writers need a degree in business—although, it wouldn’t hurt. Yet, most writers (unless they hire someone) will need to develop a marketing strategy. This includes traditionally published authors.

See, for many (not all) traditionally published writers, the publishing houses put the majority of their time, energy, and finance behind the authors whose is a shoo-win to bring in the big bucks. I’m talking about name recognition that sells. These are authors with fanbases so large that they could write the same word 100,000 times and still have it sell for a profit. Lesser-known writers must actively promote their books if they want them to do well. And before anyone balks, “What is the purpose of having a publisher if the writer will still be required to do legwork,” understand that the publisher does help promote those books. However, it usually is on a much lower scale. Think about it in terms of movies. A big-budget film gets tons of advertisements while a smaller-budget film from the same studio receives less. Yet, the actors from both films will be promoting them.

Here’s another example. There was a cable series that wasn’t getting a lot of love from the network. Now, there were several reasons for this, and none of it had anything to do with the series. The series was collateral damage. As a result, many of the actors were active on X (known as Twitter at the time) during the airing of each episode. They interacted with fans who were watching the show and giving real-time reactions. This interaction helped build and maintain viewership.

As mentioned previously, much information is available on the Internet. Using marketing again as an example, a writer who lacked a marketing background could easily search online. This wouldn’t be an unreasonable action to take. The writer may learn good information. Here’s the problem. One doesn’t know what he doesn’t know. A writer may not know if the internet information is bad. There’s a lot of garbage and misinformation floating around on those cyber streets. Sometimes, it is difficult to sort through which is what.

Additionally, sometimes, information is purposely withheld or not shared by people who claim to want to help. They may share some but not all. Why? Because they may want a writer to do well but not too well. They have the attitude that if they help someone else too much that person may do better than them. However, the fact is, there is enough space for everyone. Some will argue this isn’t true because the book market is oversaturated. That’s a different discussion. The point here is that when using the internet as a source of information, one must be careful and selective about where they look. This leads to classes.

Again, one must diligently vet the course. Many are nothing more than a money grab. Courses through credited colleges and universities are likely to provide accurate and useful information.

One morning, I engaged in a conversation with a group of coworkers. The topic was cosmetics. When the cost of my lipstick was brought up, several of my coworkers balked that they would never pay that much for lipstick. They went on and on, practically ranting, about how insane I was. But then, I pointed out the math. While they used less expensive lipsticks and had to reapply them multiple times a day, I only needed to apply mine once unless I scrubbed it off intentionally. They were replacing their lipsticks at least monthly. I had used my one lipstick almost daily for over a year and still had plenty in the tube. The amount they’d spend on replacing their lipsticks in a year nearly doubled what I’d paid upfront. While college courses may be expensive, they may have a greater value in the long haul because they aren’t skimping on the information and the instructors are qualified. Their information is empirically based and not random guesses. Usually. Of course, there will be some exceptions to this. Again…vet well.

Being well-versed in what a person needs to do and how to make that happen greatly reduces stress. Recently, I tried explaining it to a colleague this way. If I had a flat, I’d know my tire needed to be changed. It isn’t helpful for someone to tell me to use the spare. That I would know. If I searched, I probably would locate the spare in the trunk. After all, that is where most spares are kept. What I might not know is how to unbolt it. Or perhaps, I wouldn’t know how to use the jack. This would be the needed information. And if no one were willing to share that information, I would struggle until either I figured it out on my own or until some poor soul pitied me.

Another way to look at it is like being given a recipe with some of the ingredients missing. Sure, you might make the dish, but depending on which ingredients are missing, it may not taste as it should. Furthermore, if you are unsure which ingredients are missing, you may not even know how the dish should taste. And do you want to serve your most important guest food that you don’t have full confidence in? More importantly, do you want to waste time and energy figuring it out when the person across from you could just tell you?

Okay, so, maybe you’re from the school of no one owes anyone anything—that each person needs to learn everything for himself/herself. Fine. But couldn’t someone at least point you in the right direction?

Do what you do well and make that the focus. In other words, write your strength. If you’re good at dialogue but not narration, include more dialogue or write in the first person which can be close to dialog. If you excel in worldbuilding, build a world. This is different from “write what you know.” Write what you know limits the subject matter. Writing your strength is elevating what you’re already doing. With good research, a writer can learn facts about any subject. Developing a writing style requires more time and effort. When a writer embraces his/her strength, he/she begins to create his/her brand. This enhances his/her creativity, thus, expanding his/her scope of writing.Avoid comparisons and maintain perspective when writing. Listen, I get that writing to market is popular. All professional writers, to a certain degree, write to market. Yes, they tell the stories they want to tell, but they also tell the stories audiences want to hear. It’s a two-way street. But when a writer focuses solely on the current trend when it isn’t something in his/her heart, readers will notice, and the author will miss an opportunity.

I remember when vampire stories were all the rage. It’s a trend that crops up every couple of years. One really good vampire story is written then suddenly the market is saturated with them. Some of these stories are written in haste and aren’t very good. And often the reason these stories aren’t great is because they weren’t written with any passion. The author just wrote chasing a trend, and it is reflected in a lackluster story. To make matters worse, these not-so-great stories get compared to the ones leading the pack, making them appear even worse than they actually are. Readers quickly become dissatisfied or bored. Unfortunately, this can sometimes harm the writer’s brand. It is better to “get in where you fit in” instead of following a trend that will only dim your star.

Remember to have fun. When a writer assumes writing a profession, it becomes a job. A job means work. There is a saying to never do what you love a job because once it becomes work you will come to despise it. There is some truth to this if one isn’t careful. Writing as a hobby can be therapeutic, but writing professionally can be challenging and stressful. The former happens at one’s leisure. The latter has deadlines and sometimes restrictions. Thus, when writing as a profession, it is important to maintain passion and to write about subjects one loves.

So, that’s it. What did you think? What is your take on the subject of creative freedom? Do you agree or disagree? Did you find this information helpful or informative? Did you learn anything new, or did it change your opinion? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section.  If you like this post, please click the like button and share. Your feedback lets me know the content that you want to read.

Hang onto your bootstraps. It’s coming. A different kind of romance—a contemporary spicy MM multicultural paranormal sports (cowboy) romance—that you never knew you needed. If Brokeback Mountain, 8 Seconds, Poltergeist, and Supernatural had an orgy Demon Rodeo (book #1 Chasing the Buckle) would be the lovechild. (Can be read as a standalone. Not a western.)

September 5, 2024

Preorder

⇨ Amazon: https://readerlinks.com/l/4174852

⇨ All Stores: https://books2read.com/u/bP8RG7

Until next time, happy reading and much romance. Laissez le bon temps rouler.

If you’re not following my blog, Creole Bayou, what are you waiting for? There’s always room at the bayou.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click here and sign up today.

Want to chat about writing, mental health, Cajun cuisine, Creole culture, or just spill some tea? If yes, let’s get connected. Follow me on one of my social links. There’s plenty to choose from.

Facebook: Genevive ChambleeX (formerly Twitter): @dolynesaidsoInstagram: genevivechambleeauthorGoodreads: Genevive ChambleeAmazon Authors: Genevive ChambleeBookBub: Genevive ChambleeTikTok: CreolegurlNolaBluesky: Genevive ChambleeThreads: Author Genevive Chamblee

[image error] Locker Room Love Series [image error]

Out of the Penalty Box (book #1) One minute in the box or a lifetime out.Defending the Net (book #2) Crossing the line could cost the game.Ice Gladiators (book #3) When the gloves come off, the games begin.Penalty Kill (book #4) Let the pucker begin.Future Goals (book #5) The future lies between a puck and a net.

About the Author:

Hi, I’m Genevive, a blogger and contemporary sports romance author. My home is in South Louisiana. If you like snark and giggles with a touch of steamy Cajun and Creole on the side, I may have your poison in my stash of books. Drop by the bayou and have a look around. The pirogues are always waiting for new visitors.