Jemi Fraser's Blog, page 13
March 30, 2020
Dancing With Dementia - Release Week!
(It's a terrible time for a book release, but with dates for set up so far in advance, there's nothing to be done but keep moving forward. I hope everyone is staying safe and staying home as much as possible. Sending good and healing vibes to everyone!!)
Dancing With Dementia will release tomorrow!! This book has been a labour of love and I'm looking forward to sharing it with the world.
Dementia is difficult. Writing about it and reliving the most difficult days of our lives is even more difficult.
So why did I do that to myself? In hopes that our stories and the lessons we've learned would help others who are in the early steps of the dance with this disease.
The lovely Mason Canyon has organized a tour for the book throughout the week. I hope you'll visit a stop or two this week and point anyone who this book might help in the right direction.
Monday, March 30:
Denise Covey – Guest Post
Mystery Writing is Murder – Guest Post
Defending the Pen – Q & A & Review
Constantine – Guest Post
Tuesday, March 31:
Joylene Nowell Butler – Guest Post & Feature
Mainewords – Guest Post
Tara Tyler Talks – Interview
Wednesday, April 1:
Alex J. Cavanaugh – Guest Post
Spunk on A Stick – Feature
Circle of Friends – Feature
Rockin’ Book Reviews – Feature & Top Ten List
The Girdle of Melian – Guest Post
The Warrior Muse – Top Ten List
Thursday, April 2:
Lisa Haselton’s Reviews & Interviews – Q & A
Thoughts in Progress – Review
Friday, April 3:
Pat Garcia Book Reviews – Review
Writer’s Gambit – Top Ten List
Ellen Jacobson Author – Top Ten List & Review
***
You can find Dancing With Dementia here
Amazon.com Amazon.ca. Apple Books. Kobo Barnes & Noble. BookBubAdd it to your Goodreads shelf here!
I have another blog to discuss more things dementia related and a YouTube Channel devoted to Quick Tips based on ideas in the book
Big hugs and thanks to everyone who has supported me and allowed me to get this book out into the world. There are many of you and I appreciate you all!
Dancing With Dementia will release tomorrow!! This book has been a labour of love and I'm looking forward to sharing it with the world.
Dementia is difficult. Writing about it and reliving the most difficult days of our lives is even more difficult.
So why did I do that to myself? In hopes that our stories and the lessons we've learned would help others who are in the early steps of the dance with this disease.
The lovely Mason Canyon has organized a tour for the book throughout the week. I hope you'll visit a stop or two this week and point anyone who this book might help in the right direction.
Monday, March 30:
Denise Covey – Guest Post
Mystery Writing is Murder – Guest Post
Defending the Pen – Q & A & Review
Constantine – Guest Post
Tuesday, March 31:
Joylene Nowell Butler – Guest Post & Feature
Mainewords – Guest Post
Tara Tyler Talks – Interview
Wednesday, April 1:
Alex J. Cavanaugh – Guest Post
Spunk on A Stick – Feature
Circle of Friends – Feature
Rockin’ Book Reviews – Feature & Top Ten List
The Girdle of Melian – Guest Post
The Warrior Muse – Top Ten List
Thursday, April 2:
Lisa Haselton’s Reviews & Interviews – Q & A
Thoughts in Progress – Review
Friday, April 3:
Pat Garcia Book Reviews – Review
Writer’s Gambit – Top Ten List
Ellen Jacobson Author – Top Ten List & Review
***
You can find Dancing With Dementia here
Amazon.com Amazon.ca. Apple Books. Kobo Barnes & Noble. BookBubAdd it to your Goodreads shelf here!
I have another blog to discuss more things dementia related and a YouTube Channel devoted to Quick Tips based on ideas in the book
Big hugs and thanks to everyone who has supported me and allowed me to get this book out into the world. There are many of you and I appreciate you all!
March 13, 2020
Shannon Lawrence, Bruised Souls & Urban Legends
My blog buddy Shannon Lawrence - AKA The Warrior Muse - has a new book out!
Fear resides in the soul.
A welcoming widow with a twisted appetite; a war-time evil lurking behind the face of a child; a father’s love gone horribly wrong; a deadly government solution; a new job with a demonic pay scale; a woman trapped in a mysterious house with no memory of who she is or how she got there. These are a mere glimpse of the terrors that lie in wait in this collection of horror short stories, sure to grip the psyche and torment the soul.
Order the book HERE!!!
Where can you find Shannon?
website Facebook Twitter. Pinterest Instagram Bookbub Goodreads Amazon Author Page
To join in celebrating her newest release, Shannon has asked us to post about 1 of the following
1. Your favorite urban legend2. Your favorite old wives' tale3. Something scary that occurred in real life and taught you an important lesson
As many of you know I am a wimp. Before I even entered school, my parents had taken me to a doctor to find out why I had such debilitating nightmares. His answer was that I had an extra-vivid imagination. Apparently I still do...
One of the urban legends that gave me nightmares for many years was about the gulley in our backyard. It extended the length of the street and then turned a corner and travelled three more streets.
Right up to the local jail.
Streets had been built over sections of the gulley and there were culverts in many sections to help with drainage.
Perfect for escaping criminals.
When we found scraps of clothing one day, an older kid in the neighbourhood told us the tale of Walter's Ghost. How the man had been jailed for slicing up kids. He'd escaped and his bones had been discovered "right there" - with "right there" being less than 100 metres from our back door.
Didn't sleep well that night. Or the next, or the next...
How about you? Any intriguing urban legends involving your neighbourhood? Anyone else looking forward to Shannon's tales? My copy's waiting on my Kindle ... to be read in the mornings
Fear resides in the soul.
A welcoming widow with a twisted appetite; a war-time evil lurking behind the face of a child; a father’s love gone horribly wrong; a deadly government solution; a new job with a demonic pay scale; a woman trapped in a mysterious house with no memory of who she is or how she got there. These are a mere glimpse of the terrors that lie in wait in this collection of horror short stories, sure to grip the psyche and torment the soul.
Order the book HERE!!!
Where can you find Shannon?
website Facebook Twitter. Pinterest Instagram Bookbub Goodreads Amazon Author Page
To join in celebrating her newest release, Shannon has asked us to post about 1 of the following
1. Your favorite urban legend2. Your favorite old wives' tale3. Something scary that occurred in real life and taught you an important lesson
As many of you know I am a wimp. Before I even entered school, my parents had taken me to a doctor to find out why I had such debilitating nightmares. His answer was that I had an extra-vivid imagination. Apparently I still do...
One of the urban legends that gave me nightmares for many years was about the gulley in our backyard. It extended the length of the street and then turned a corner and travelled three more streets.
Right up to the local jail.
Streets had been built over sections of the gulley and there were culverts in many sections to help with drainage.
Perfect for escaping criminals.
When we found scraps of clothing one day, an older kid in the neighbourhood told us the tale of Walter's Ghost. How the man had been jailed for slicing up kids. He'd escaped and his bones had been discovered "right there" - with "right there" being less than 100 metres from our back door.
Didn't sleep well that night. Or the next, or the next...
How about you? Any intriguing urban legends involving your neighbourhood? Anyone else looking forward to Shannon's tales? My copy's waiting on my Kindle ... to be read in the mornings
March 4, 2020
IWSG, Pinches, & Beta Readers
The Insecure Writer's Support Group is the brainchild of Alex J. Cavanaugh. He, his clones, minions, friends, and fellow authors make it an amazing event every month.
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
***
March 4 question - Other than the obvious holiday traditions, have you ever included any personal or family traditions/customs in your stories?
Not yet, but I have plans for several! This one is appropriate for March and is a potential memory for an upcoming heroine.
My parents were Scottish immigrants. When they were growing up there was a bit of competitive spirit with anyone and anything Irish. They were offended if anyone in Canada guessed their accents were Irish, not Scottish.
On St. Patrick's day, we were checked over to ensure we were NOT wearing anything green or remotely Irish in nature. In our school, the tradition was that people could pinch you if you weren't wearing green.
Best friend to the rescue! I stopped at my friend's house on the way to school and she painted my fingernails green. On the way home we stopped there and took the polish off.
No pinches. No upset family members. Win win!
How about you? Any goofy family traditions in your family?
***
Speaking of Insecurities... I'm looking for another 1 or 2 Beta Readers for my contemporary romance Reaching For Normal. It's a small town romance with light suspense. Here's the blurb...
After a childhood spent in hospitals and foster homes, Myla’s adventure-writing career suits her perfectly. A few weeks trying out new things then move on. Now, if she can only get her winter sports guide interested in helping her lose her V-card.Sawyer has lost his parents, his SEAL team, and his legendary Spidey senses. Now he’s faced with a sexy, secretive woman who makes him want things he has no business wanting.
When someone starts butchering the wolves Sawyer is helping reintegrate, he ends up in the bush with City Girl whose titanium attitude is more than enough to compensate for her weak leg.As danger escalates, Myla and Sawyer need to learn to trust themselves and each other if they’re going to make it out alive.
If you're interested let me know!
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
***
March 4 question - Other than the obvious holiday traditions, have you ever included any personal or family traditions/customs in your stories?
Not yet, but I have plans for several! This one is appropriate for March and is a potential memory for an upcoming heroine.
My parents were Scottish immigrants. When they were growing up there was a bit of competitive spirit with anyone and anything Irish. They were offended if anyone in Canada guessed their accents were Irish, not Scottish.
On St. Patrick's day, we were checked over to ensure we were NOT wearing anything green or remotely Irish in nature. In our school, the tradition was that people could pinch you if you weren't wearing green.
Best friend to the rescue! I stopped at my friend's house on the way to school and she painted my fingernails green. On the way home we stopped there and took the polish off.
No pinches. No upset family members. Win win!
How about you? Any goofy family traditions in your family?
***
Speaking of Insecurities... I'm looking for another 1 or 2 Beta Readers for my contemporary romance Reaching For Normal. It's a small town romance with light suspense. Here's the blurb...
After a childhood spent in hospitals and foster homes, Myla’s adventure-writing career suits her perfectly. A few weeks trying out new things then move on. Now, if she can only get her winter sports guide interested in helping her lose her V-card.Sawyer has lost his parents, his SEAL team, and his legendary Spidey senses. Now he’s faced with a sexy, secretive woman who makes him want things he has no business wanting.
When someone starts butchering the wolves Sawyer is helping reintegrate, he ends up in the bush with City Girl whose titanium attitude is more than enough to compensate for her weak leg.As danger escalates, Myla and Sawyer need to learn to trust themselves and each other if they’re going to make it out alive.
If you're interested let me know!
February 24, 2020
Tara Tyler's Beast World
Tara Tyler is a great Twitter friend and the host of the weekly #WedWrant chat for writers. (Wednesdays at 7:30 pm EST if you're interested in joining us!)
Taking Back Beast World, Phase 2. Disney/Pixar's Onward comes out Mar 6 with a setting eerily close to BEAST WORLD, and it's time to speak out again—in a positive way! And in coordination with BROKEN BRANCH FALLS just republished and CRADLE ROCK soon to follow.
Tara Tyler has some big ideas with awesome friends from the fantastic writing community backing her up. She's scheduled a month and a half of posts, interviews, reviews, and social send-outs. It's sure to be a Beastly Blast! Here's the schedule:
Heather Gardner 2/5 Adventure - Inside-Out Elizabeth Seckman 2/12 HS Hi-jinks & Teens Fessing Up Patricia Lynne 2/17 the Beasts (& Survey) Jemi Fraser 2/24 Reviews L. Diane Wolfe 2/24 Nothing New Under the Sun Alex J. Cavanaugh 3/4 Books into Movies - So many ways to watch C. Lee McKenzie 3/4 Cliques & Bullies--It's hard to be a teen, no matter when Sherry Ellis 3/9 Bullies Presentations & a Review Christine Rains 3/9 Review Heather Holden 3/23 Books Come Alive with Art!
Hope you can stop by!
My reviews
Broken Branch Falls
Goblins and Ogres and Pixies, Oh my!
This is a fabulous MG adventure with wonderful world-building that immerses you right into the story. Gabe, the main character, or should I say the main goblin, gets himself into trouble after a prank gone terribly wrong. That mistake starts Gabe on a series of adventures with companions from many of the other beasts populating his world.
Gabe and his friends don't agree with the adults who dictate who they should befriend and what activities they should enjoy. They're on a mission to change their world and they get a whole lot more than they bargained for.
The underlying theme of the story echoes the theme of many of our current young activists. We need change and we need to listen to our kids who often see the future more clearly than we do.
A fantastic story for all!
Cradle Rock
And the fun continues!!
This is an action-packed adventure story that keeps you turning the pages. The beast buddies from the 1st book are back and onto new adventures. When Ona, the ogress, gets lost on Spring Break, Gabe (goblin) and Rove (werewolf) head off to the rescue. What they find is a whole lot more than they expect - or want to believe. The adventure takes on a dangerous turn when the beasts meet mythology come to life.
This book should appeal to anyone in middle school or older. A fantastic read with heart!!
February 19, 2020
WEP & Discovery
“Careful. You must not damage any of it.”
Sopa controlled his response, careful not to let Maktin see how difficult it was to not react. “It is not my first job.”
Maktin paced behind him and Sopa worked to ignore the grumbles. The lead krako made him nervous. And being nervous led to mistakes. Mistakes led to being hungry and cold, two things he swore he’d never be again.
Ignoring Maktin became easier as he cleared more and more of the debris and his excitement grew.
This was different that anything he’d seen so far on the planet. The edges were smooth and straight, but beyond that, the object lifted and twisted in some kind of ornate pattern that repeated itself along the edges. Only along the edges.
As he cleared more debris it became apparent that the patterned shape was a frame of some sort. But for what? The inner texture was different. Softer. Flat.
Sopa angled his light and barely managed to keep in the gasp. He didn’t want Maktin rushing him, especially with such a special find. He didn’t even have a word for some of the colours on the item.
Blat after blat passed and Sopa continued his task, working until his lower extremities were numb from keeping his position. His uppers ached, but he kept them all moving, working to clear more and more of the wonderful object.
Eventually it was clear of the debris and Sopa straightened to pull it free.
When no one reacted behind him, he turned to find Maktin in a sleep cycle. Sopa must have been working for many blats.
But the object energized him. Bright with those colours he hadn’t seen along with the regular ones.
What beings had created such colours? The planet showed none of them, not that Sopa had seen. The air was smoky, the land devoid of anything alive. Had such colours once existed in this bleak place?
Sopa studied the item in front of him and wondered if it had a purpose or if it was a decorative piece. He rotated it to view it from all directions but couldn’t decide which orientation was up.
Sopa pressed along the edges and the various colours but didn’t get the item to react in any way. There was no indication it was to do anything other than be.
Decorative then. The first decorative find on the planet, proving that the beings had at least evolved to some level of sophistication.
Were some of the coloured shapes replicas of the planet’s one-time beings?
From the various orientations Sopa got different impressions. A landscape. Buildings. Beings. Nothing familiar and certainly nothing that resembled this planet.
But it was a clue. Perhaps a clue that would unlock the key to understanding the beings who had burned their planet and destroyed its atmosphere.
For long blats, Sopa allowed himself to appreciate the decorative item. Soon he would wake Maktin and they would record the treasure and search for more, but for now, he would simply enjoy.
***
This story is part of the WEP/IWSG Challenge. If you click on the link it will take you to a host of other stories using the prompt Cafe Terrace. Most of them will probably not involve aliens ... although that's just a guess.
Apparently my brain is still in SF land - even though I'm mostly a romance writer and this is the month of Valentine's Day.
Sopa controlled his response, careful not to let Maktin see how difficult it was to not react. “It is not my first job.”
Maktin paced behind him and Sopa worked to ignore the grumbles. The lead krako made him nervous. And being nervous led to mistakes. Mistakes led to being hungry and cold, two things he swore he’d never be again.
Ignoring Maktin became easier as he cleared more and more of the debris and his excitement grew.
This was different that anything he’d seen so far on the planet. The edges were smooth and straight, but beyond that, the object lifted and twisted in some kind of ornate pattern that repeated itself along the edges. Only along the edges.
As he cleared more debris it became apparent that the patterned shape was a frame of some sort. But for what? The inner texture was different. Softer. Flat.
Sopa angled his light and barely managed to keep in the gasp. He didn’t want Maktin rushing him, especially with such a special find. He didn’t even have a word for some of the colours on the item.
Blat after blat passed and Sopa continued his task, working until his lower extremities were numb from keeping his position. His uppers ached, but he kept them all moving, working to clear more and more of the wonderful object.
Eventually it was clear of the debris and Sopa straightened to pull it free.
When no one reacted behind him, he turned to find Maktin in a sleep cycle. Sopa must have been working for many blats.
But the object energized him. Bright with those colours he hadn’t seen along with the regular ones.
What beings had created such colours? The planet showed none of them, not that Sopa had seen. The air was smoky, the land devoid of anything alive. Had such colours once existed in this bleak place?
Sopa studied the item in front of him and wondered if it had a purpose or if it was a decorative piece. He rotated it to view it from all directions but couldn’t decide which orientation was up.
Sopa pressed along the edges and the various colours but didn’t get the item to react in any way. There was no indication it was to do anything other than be.
Decorative then. The first decorative find on the planet, proving that the beings had at least evolved to some level of sophistication.
Were some of the coloured shapes replicas of the planet’s one-time beings?
From the various orientations Sopa got different impressions. A landscape. Buildings. Beings. Nothing familiar and certainly nothing that resembled this planet.
But it was a clue. Perhaps a clue that would unlock the key to understanding the beings who had burned their planet and destroyed its atmosphere.
For long blats, Sopa allowed himself to appreciate the decorative item. Soon he would wake Maktin and they would record the treasure and search for more, but for now, he would simply enjoy.
***
This story is part of the WEP/IWSG Challenge. If you click on the link it will take you to a host of other stories using the prompt Cafe Terrace. Most of them will probably not involve aliens ... although that's just a guess.
Apparently my brain is still in SF land - even though I'm mostly a romance writer and this is the month of Valentine's Day.
February 6, 2020
Dancing With Dementia Release Date
Dancing With Dementia
has a release date!
March 31, 2020.
About 2 months away … so cue the freak out!
This book has been a labour of love for the last few years. The majority of the book is the story our journey. The collection of stories should make you laugh, sigh, shake your head, and blink back a few tears.
The latter part of the book includes lists for people who have someone with dementia in their lives. There are lists of early warning signs we’ve seen, tips to redirect and reassure those with dementia, ideas to ease communication, tips on how to make the move to a nursing home or other living situation, and tips to take care of the caregiver.
Dementia is NOT an easy disease. It’s horrific and cruel. We’ve managed to keep our Mom mostly happy and content. She's still laughing, still dancing. We hope our story will help others who are in the first steps of this dance with Dementia.
If you are interested in an ARC, please let me know (in the comments, email, or sign up for the newsletter).
The wonderful Mason Canyon (MC Book Tours) is going to help me out by hosting a blog tour for the release. If you are interested, you can sign up HERE.
My website is now active. I've set up another blog to discuss more things dementia related. I also have a YouTube Channel devoted to Quick Tips based on ideas in the book.
The only links I have available at the moment are for Amazon. Here are .com and .ca links, but it should be available in all countries. The price is set at $0.99 (US) for preorders and the first couple of weeks after release. After that, the price will jump up.
Amazon.com Amazon.ca
Once other links for the books are ready, I'll let you know!
So, that's the news! If you know anyone who might benefit from the book or tips, I hope you'll let them know. Thanks!!
March 31, 2020.
About 2 months away … so cue the freak out!
This book has been a labour of love for the last few years. The majority of the book is the story our journey. The collection of stories should make you laugh, sigh, shake your head, and blink back a few tears.
The latter part of the book includes lists for people who have someone with dementia in their lives. There are lists of early warning signs we’ve seen, tips to redirect and reassure those with dementia, ideas to ease communication, tips on how to make the move to a nursing home or other living situation, and tips to take care of the caregiver.
Dementia is NOT an easy disease. It’s horrific and cruel. We’ve managed to keep our Mom mostly happy and content. She's still laughing, still dancing. We hope our story will help others who are in the first steps of this dance with Dementia.
If you are interested in an ARC, please let me know (in the comments, email, or sign up for the newsletter).
The wonderful Mason Canyon (MC Book Tours) is going to help me out by hosting a blog tour for the release. If you are interested, you can sign up HERE.
My website is now active. I've set up another blog to discuss more things dementia related. I also have a YouTube Channel devoted to Quick Tips based on ideas in the book.
The only links I have available at the moment are for Amazon. Here are .com and .ca links, but it should be available in all countries. The price is set at $0.99 (US) for preorders and the first couple of weeks after release. After that, the price will jump up.
Amazon.com Amazon.ca
Once other links for the books are ready, I'll let you know!
So, that's the news! If you know anyone who might benefit from the book or tips, I hope you'll let them know. Thanks!!
February 5, 2020
IWSG & Emotional Imagery
The Insecure Writer's Support Group is the brainchild of Alex J. Cavanaugh. He, his clones, minions, friends, and fellow authors make it an amazing event every month.
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
***
February 5 question - Has a single photo or work of art ever inspired a story? What was it and did you finish it?
Interesting question.
At first thought, my response would be no.
Then I remembered the upcoming WEP prompt and had to go with yes for that piece.
That triggered other thoughts.
I enjoy photography and take a lot of photos of people and our scenery here in gorgeous Northern Ontario. The vast majority of pictures I take are because something triggered an emotional response in me.
I'm a writer who isn't triggered by people or problems first. Instead, it's always the emotion that traps me into a story. That emotion spawns a character feeling that emotion and then the trouble that created it.
Many paintings and photos create those emotions in me, so they probably have triggered more stories and ideas than I realized!
How about you? Anyone else like photography? Anyone else get those gut reactions to images?
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
***
February 5 question - Has a single photo or work of art ever inspired a story? What was it and did you finish it?
Interesting question.
At first thought, my response would be no.
Then I remembered the upcoming WEP prompt and had to go with yes for that piece.
That triggered other thoughts.
I enjoy photography and take a lot of photos of people and our scenery here in gorgeous Northern Ontario. The vast majority of pictures I take are because something triggered an emotional response in me.
I'm a writer who isn't triggered by people or problems first. Instead, it's always the emotion that traps me into a story. That emotion spawns a character feeling that emotion and then the trouble that created it.
Many paintings and photos create those emotions in me, so they probably have triggered more stories and ideas than I realized!
How about you? Anyone else like photography? Anyone else get those gut reactions to images?
January 8, 2020
IWSG & Writing Origins
The Insecure Writer's Support Group is the brainchild of Alex J. Cavanaugh. He, his clones, minions, friends, and fellow authors make it an amazing event every month.
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
***
January 8 question - What started you on your writing journey? Was it a particular book, movie, story, or series? Was it a teacher/coach/spouse/friend/parent? Did you just "know" suddenly you wanted to write?
This is going to sound a little weird and a lot naive ... which incidentally may or may not describe me as well...
I have been a voracious reader since I was 4.
Loved books. All books.
I created stories in my head from the same age. Adventures for my imaginary friends and my toys, then scenes for favourite TV shows and books.
Never, not even once, thought about writing them down. Maybe because we had exactly 2 creative writing assignments in school - both in grade 5 and limited to 1 page.
When my kids were little and both napping (miracle!!!) I decided to write down a scene I'd been thinking about for a couple of characters from Star Trek: TNG.
It was fun, so I did it again. And again. Eventually I had 180k+ words.
Probably terrible words, but it was so much fun!
It took me another MS (almost 200k words) before I realized that "real people" wrote books and that maybe I could be one of those "real people" writing books too.
Yep. A little weird and a lot naive.
How about you? Anyone else try their hand at fan fiction? Any fellow Trek fans? Anyone else a little weird and a lot naive?
Purpose: To share and encourage. Writers can express doubts and concerns without fear of appearing foolish or weak. Those who have been through the fire can offer assistance and guidance. It’s a safe haven for insecure writers of all kinds!
***
January 8 question - What started you on your writing journey? Was it a particular book, movie, story, or series? Was it a teacher/coach/spouse/friend/parent? Did you just "know" suddenly you wanted to write?
This is going to sound a little weird and a lot naive ... which incidentally may or may not describe me as well...
I have been a voracious reader since I was 4.
Loved books. All books.
I created stories in my head from the same age. Adventures for my imaginary friends and my toys, then scenes for favourite TV shows and books.
Never, not even once, thought about writing them down. Maybe because we had exactly 2 creative writing assignments in school - both in grade 5 and limited to 1 page.
When my kids were little and both napping (miracle!!!) I decided to write down a scene I'd been thinking about for a couple of characters from Star Trek: TNG.
It was fun, so I did it again. And again. Eventually I had 180k+ words.
Probably terrible words, but it was so much fun!
It took me another MS (almost 200k words) before I realized that "real people" wrote books and that maybe I could be one of those "real people" writing books too.
Yep. A little weird and a lot naive.
How about you? Anyone else try their hand at fan fiction? Any fellow Trek fans? Anyone else a little weird and a lot naive?
December 11, 2019
WEP & Tremors
Calla eased over the edge of the canyon once the ground tremor passed. Maybe today she would find some evidence of animal life on this planet.
So far, nothing. Not a beat of wings nor a roar from a throat. Not a scratch on a tree to mark territory, not a bone or a carcass. Not even a footprint or a piece of scat.
In her years as Pathfinder’s senior biologist, she’d never seen a planet like it.
Vegetation flourished on the sides of this canyon that looked like it had been carved in ancient times.
The whole planet was nothing but giant hole after giant hole. Some of these holes were full of vegetation and the botanists couldn’t contain their glee every time they found a new species. Some canyons were dry as Terran deserts while still others had barely any vegetation and looked like they’d been created the day before.
She was going to be stuck on this planet with absolutely nothing to do at this rate. They were scheduled for a yearlong stretch if they found anything interesting. And they had.
For the botanists.
Calla used the trunk of one of the tougher-looking plants to steady herself when the rocks beneath her feet tumbled away during another tremor. She moved along the ridge until she spotted an easier way down.
All this vegetation needed water and she was hoping to find a pond at the bottom. That might be her Terran brain in action again. Not all life required water. And she might have a year to catch up reading all about the other types of life if she didn’t find anything else to study.
The vegetation thinned to her right, so she moved that way and managed an easy trek to the canyon floor. If there was a pond or stream, it would likely be in the lowest portion.
Maybe she’d find evidence of animal life there. Even fossilized remains would be a thrill.
A few hours later, she’d found nothing but frustration.
The only thing different from the last few days was that the tremors were increasing in intensity and duration. The seismologists would be just as thrilled as the botanists.
After finding no sign of animal life near the only water source she’d spotted, Calla started back up the canyon. The first sun was setting and soon it would be too dark to find anything.
The tremors continued to increase and she found herself following the rhythmic pattern as she ascended.
Rocks and smaller pieces of vegetation slipped under her feet when she moved, and she had to slow her pace so she didn’t tumble to the bottom. When she scrambled over the edge, she threw herself to the ground and decided she needed to get in better shape.
A wild screech snatched the breath from her lungs and nearly deafened her. She searched the area for the cause.
The sky darkened and Calla looked up to find that it wasn’t clouds or vegetation blocking the setting suns.
The source of the screech was all the proof she needed that this planet had animal life after all.
Long lizard-like legs galloped toward her at an incredible pace. Upper arms flailed. Giant jaws opened and closed as shriek after shriek split the air and froze Calla in place.
At this distance, the size of the beast was impossible to gauge, but larger than anything on any planet humans had visited. Larger than Pathfinder. Maybe larger than five Pathfinders.
The rhythmic tremors continued as each foot crashed to earth, sending vegetation and dirt flying in all directions as it flattened whatever was in its path.
The creature raced closer, making dents in the earth and Calla looked back at the canyon she’d been surveying in horror.
It wasn’t a canyon after all. None of them were canyons.
They were footprints.
***
This story is part of the WEP/IWSG December Challenge. Check out the link and enjoy the other stories. It's always fun to see the variety of stories that spring from one prompt. And the talent is stellar!!
How about you? Any important footprints in your life?
I probably won't post until the New Year, so I hope those of you who celebrate enjoy a wonderful holiday season with your families.
Spread some love and kindness and joy!!!
So far, nothing. Not a beat of wings nor a roar from a throat. Not a scratch on a tree to mark territory, not a bone or a carcass. Not even a footprint or a piece of scat.
In her years as Pathfinder’s senior biologist, she’d never seen a planet like it.
Vegetation flourished on the sides of this canyon that looked like it had been carved in ancient times.
The whole planet was nothing but giant hole after giant hole. Some of these holes were full of vegetation and the botanists couldn’t contain their glee every time they found a new species. Some canyons were dry as Terran deserts while still others had barely any vegetation and looked like they’d been created the day before.
She was going to be stuck on this planet with absolutely nothing to do at this rate. They were scheduled for a yearlong stretch if they found anything interesting. And they had.
For the botanists.
Calla used the trunk of one of the tougher-looking plants to steady herself when the rocks beneath her feet tumbled away during another tremor. She moved along the ridge until she spotted an easier way down.
All this vegetation needed water and she was hoping to find a pond at the bottom. That might be her Terran brain in action again. Not all life required water. And she might have a year to catch up reading all about the other types of life if she didn’t find anything else to study.
The vegetation thinned to her right, so she moved that way and managed an easy trek to the canyon floor. If there was a pond or stream, it would likely be in the lowest portion.
Maybe she’d find evidence of animal life there. Even fossilized remains would be a thrill.
A few hours later, she’d found nothing but frustration.
The only thing different from the last few days was that the tremors were increasing in intensity and duration. The seismologists would be just as thrilled as the botanists.
After finding no sign of animal life near the only water source she’d spotted, Calla started back up the canyon. The first sun was setting and soon it would be too dark to find anything.
The tremors continued to increase and she found herself following the rhythmic pattern as she ascended.
Rocks and smaller pieces of vegetation slipped under her feet when she moved, and she had to slow her pace so she didn’t tumble to the bottom. When she scrambled over the edge, she threw herself to the ground and decided she needed to get in better shape.
A wild screech snatched the breath from her lungs and nearly deafened her. She searched the area for the cause.
The sky darkened and Calla looked up to find that it wasn’t clouds or vegetation blocking the setting suns.
The source of the screech was all the proof she needed that this planet had animal life after all.
Long lizard-like legs galloped toward her at an incredible pace. Upper arms flailed. Giant jaws opened and closed as shriek after shriek split the air and froze Calla in place.
At this distance, the size of the beast was impossible to gauge, but larger than anything on any planet humans had visited. Larger than Pathfinder. Maybe larger than five Pathfinders.
The rhythmic tremors continued as each foot crashed to earth, sending vegetation and dirt flying in all directions as it flattened whatever was in its path.
The creature raced closer, making dents in the earth and Calla looked back at the canyon she’d been surveying in horror.
It wasn’t a canyon after all. None of them were canyons.
They were footprints.
***
This story is part of the WEP/IWSG December Challenge. Check out the link and enjoy the other stories. It's always fun to see the variety of stories that spring from one prompt. And the talent is stellar!!
How about you? Any important footprints in your life?
I probably won't post until the New Year, so I hope those of you who celebrate enjoy a wonderful holiday season with your families.
Spread some love and kindness and joy!!!
December 9, 2019
Jane Godman & Finding Writing Inspiration
Please welcome the lovely Jane Godman back to the blog today!
***
Inspiration can strike at the strangest times, just as it can dry up when we least expect it to. Here are some of the things that I’ve found over the years to fire up my ideas: Read a variety of books
Stephen King once wrote, “If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot.” The links between reading and writing are well known.Within the pages of books other than your own, you will find ideas, learn about different writing styles, structure, and formatting. Research also helps you to relax and broadens your imagination, making it a great source for writing inspiration.2. Listen to MusicMusic can help you unwind while at the same time fuel your imagination, helping you write a piece conveying the same emotions as the songs you’re listening to.The lyrics of a song itself can also tell a story. It can be the inspiration for a setting, dialogue or scene. I use playlists to set a mood according to the scene I’m writing. Action. Romance. Sexy. Sad. Watch Television Television programs display different cultures, places and time periods. You can observe characters in situations that you wouldn’t see in real life. Take notes of memorable quotes from dialogues, turning them to inspiration for prompts or new topics.Engage with readersAsk your readers for opinions about what they’ve read and what they want to read next. This can present you with a different point of view and new ideas.By communicating with them, you’ll be able to know which areas you’re lacking. Take criticism as a way to improve and as inspiration for your next content.Always carry a notebook and a cameraWriting inspiration everywhere. It can be an old building, a painting, a newspaper article, even a person you pass in the street. Ideas don’t arrive when you want them to. They will often turn up when you least expect them. Keep a notebook and an album of photographs (or a Pinterest board). You can keep adding to it as you go along.
These are a few ways I use to ignite a spark but there are so many others. I hope you’ll share yours!***
JANE GODMAN is a 2019 Romantic Novelists’ Award winner and 2018 Daphne du Maurier Award finalist. She writes thrillers for Harlequin Romantic Suspense/Mills and Boon Heroes and paranormal romance for Harlequin Nocturne/Mills and Boon Supernatural and St. Martin’s Press Romance. She also self publishes her historical and gothic stories.Jane was born in Scotland and has lived in Germany, Wales, Malta, South Africa, and England. She still gets the urge to travel, although these days she tends to head for a Spanish beach, or a European city that is steeped in history. When she isn’t reading or writing romance, Jane enjoys cooking, spending time with her family, and enjoying the antics of her dogs, Gravy and Vera.
Connect with Jane Godman on the web:
Website Facebook Twitter Goodreads
Colton 911: Family Under Fire
An unexpected family
A once-in-a-lifetime reunion in danger…
After a bitter breakup, FBI agent Everett Colton never expected to see his ex-girlfriend, Alyssa Bartholomew, again. Suddenly, tragedy reunites them—and makes them guardians of an orphaned baby girl. Everett suspects that her parents’ deaths were anything but innocent. When his instinct for danger proves correct, it’s his job to protect the child he’s grown to love…and the woman he never forgot.
Buy on:
Amazon Kindle Amazon Paperback
Amazon Aust Amazon UK
Harlequin B&N
Kobo Book Depository iBooks
***
Thanks Jane! Those tips are excellent! For me, music is always a source of inspiration and a way to find my way out of a dilemma. Reading too - although that may be just another excuse to read more!!
How about you? What are your favourite ways to find inspiration?
***
Inspiration can strike at the strangest times, just as it can dry up when we least expect it to. Here are some of the things that I’ve found over the years to fire up my ideas: Read a variety of books
Stephen King once wrote, “If you want to be a writer, you must do two things above all others: read a lot and write a lot.” The links between reading and writing are well known.Within the pages of books other than your own, you will find ideas, learn about different writing styles, structure, and formatting. Research also helps you to relax and broadens your imagination, making it a great source for writing inspiration.2. Listen to MusicMusic can help you unwind while at the same time fuel your imagination, helping you write a piece conveying the same emotions as the songs you’re listening to.The lyrics of a song itself can also tell a story. It can be the inspiration for a setting, dialogue or scene. I use playlists to set a mood according to the scene I’m writing. Action. Romance. Sexy. Sad. Watch Television Television programs display different cultures, places and time periods. You can observe characters in situations that you wouldn’t see in real life. Take notes of memorable quotes from dialogues, turning them to inspiration for prompts or new topics.Engage with readersAsk your readers for opinions about what they’ve read and what they want to read next. This can present you with a different point of view and new ideas.By communicating with them, you’ll be able to know which areas you’re lacking. Take criticism as a way to improve and as inspiration for your next content.Always carry a notebook and a cameraWriting inspiration everywhere. It can be an old building, a painting, a newspaper article, even a person you pass in the street. Ideas don’t arrive when you want them to. They will often turn up when you least expect them. Keep a notebook and an album of photographs (or a Pinterest board). You can keep adding to it as you go along. These are a few ways I use to ignite a spark but there are so many others. I hope you’ll share yours!***
JANE GODMAN is a 2019 Romantic Novelists’ Award winner and 2018 Daphne du Maurier Award finalist. She writes thrillers for Harlequin Romantic Suspense/Mills and Boon Heroes and paranormal romance for Harlequin Nocturne/Mills and Boon Supernatural and St. Martin’s Press Romance. She also self publishes her historical and gothic stories.Jane was born in Scotland and has lived in Germany, Wales, Malta, South Africa, and England. She still gets the urge to travel, although these days she tends to head for a Spanish beach, or a European city that is steeped in history. When she isn’t reading or writing romance, Jane enjoys cooking, spending time with her family, and enjoying the antics of her dogs, Gravy and Vera.
Connect with Jane Godman on the web:
Website Facebook Twitter Goodreads
Colton 911: Family Under FireAn unexpected family
A once-in-a-lifetime reunion in danger…
After a bitter breakup, FBI agent Everett Colton never expected to see his ex-girlfriend, Alyssa Bartholomew, again. Suddenly, tragedy reunites them—and makes them guardians of an orphaned baby girl. Everett suspects that her parents’ deaths were anything but innocent. When his instinct for danger proves correct, it’s his job to protect the child he’s grown to love…and the woman he never forgot.
Buy on:
Amazon Kindle Amazon Paperback
Amazon Aust Amazon UK
Harlequin B&N
Kobo Book Depository iBooks
***
Thanks Jane! Those tips are excellent! For me, music is always a source of inspiration and a way to find my way out of a dilemma. Reading too - although that may be just another excuse to read more!!
How about you? What are your favourite ways to find inspiration?
