Veronica Cline Barton's Blog: Mistletoe and Mayhem: Yuletide at Castlewood Manor listed as, "One of the best suspense books of all time." - BookAuthority, page 18

Veronica’s #WritersDiary, What’s the First Thing You’re Going To Do?

Although we don’t have any firm dates, we have been told there is a light at the end of this #quarantine tunnel. I’m not sure that I believe it yet, but let’s hope in fact it’s true. I don’t think we’ll have a mass ‘open for business’ day, certain parts of the country are still in a pretty bad way. But let’s say, around the beginning or middle of May, we can start to resume at least some of the activities I know I took for granted. What will you do first? I plan to take a drive along the coast to listen to the waves and feel the sea breeze against my cheeks. I’m putting my little convertible top down, listening to some groovy tunes from the 70s (loudly), and enjoy being in a place I love. I thought I’d share a few of my favorite beach scenes–until I can get there in person and take more, enjoy!

View of Santa Barbara coastline from Hwy 154; Sunset in Laguna Niguel

Sunrise, north of Malibu on PCH; Sunset in Cambria

Central coast scene from PCH; Monterey coastal view

Sunset from Port Hueneme; Coastal inlet south of Carmel off PCH

What I’m most concerned about is will I be able to adapt to society once this lockdown is lifted? Thank goodness for social media and ATT, I’ve felt I’ve lived my life these past weeks/months (what day is it?) glued to my cell phone and tablet. Will we still wear masks? Will we ever shake hands with a person again? Will we ever stop talking about disease and invisible enemies and daily death counts/infections flashed on the TV screen? I can’t wait to go to a restaurant for a sit down dinner, dressing up in something other than yoga pants and tees–not so much for the food, but just to hear the sound of people talking and laughing around me, LOL. I have no idea when this will happen, or what new protocols or testing procedures will be needed before you can enter a facility–but I do know this–when the lockdown is lifted, I will be venturing out, and hope to be with family and friends that I’ve missed so much. It’s Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:

[image error]

#AmEditing and working on #Promo materials!

What a treat to hand over the manuscript for the latest tale to my editor, Theresa Snyder! Double Trouble has left the building and I get to wait and see what the pronouncements will be! You can check out Theresa’s editing and proofing services here:

https://affordableproofedit.blogspot.com/

I’m very excited about my nanny in town character, Figgy McEwen. She’s a Scottish fireball that certainly has livened up the halls of Cherrywood in this tale. McEwen is my ancestral clan, so it has been fun researching some of that Scottish history. You just never know when the spirit will grab you when writing, but grab me, Figgy did!

[image error]

#AmReading #AmReviewing

Self-help from the most unlikely of sources this week from the #writers of Twitter…

Author S.S. Bazinet, Vampires Suck But You Don’t Have To, 5 STARS

No time like the present to take a bit of personal inventory in your life, to see what just might be sucking the life out of you spiritually and mentally!  Author Bazinet’s witty, vampiresque, self help tutorial explores some very serious subjects that we all face in our lives at one time or another. The question is, are you a social vampire that feeds upon the weaknesses or generosity of others, using people for your own gain, or are you a victim, letting yourself by devoured mentally and spiritually?

The choice as it turns out, is yours, but the good news is that you don’t have to suck the life out of others to live your life, and you don’t have to be drained in order to be liked. Identifying the toxic behaviors is a key step, and ridding them from your life the next. This book gives you many helpful hints as to what to look for, and how to step away from the behaviors you no longer want in your life.

I found this book to be an uplifting read in these #quarantine times when I think all of us are reassessing our own behavior, dreaming of how we want to be and act when the lockdown is lifted, and figuring out what we need to do to get there. Its witticisms and charming narrative style make this an easy read that lifts you to recognize harmful habits and behaviors that ultimately confine your spirit. An insightful read for the times, highly recommended!

Next up in the #reading queue:

Oh Deer!

I am very proud of myself for finally getting around to constructing the 3-D deer head puzzle sculpture I bought in Savannah during our southern #roadtrip last January, B.P. (Before Pandemic). It took me a few tries and fumbles, but in the end I made it. My little #quarantine Hygge project–Rikkhe would approve!

Welcome to my #writer world. Have a peaceful, healthy #week and #weekend friends!

Crowns and Kisses,

Veronica

P.S. I’m posting this video sound bite made during our anniversary trip to Las Vegas last August. We were dining at the Paris Eiffel Tower restaurant and had seats overlooking the beautiful Bellagio fountains. I really enjoyed the view, but what I love most about this clip now is the sound of voices in the background, laughing and having fun…one day! Gemma and Rikkhe approve

Veronica’s #WritersDiary, Words of the Season, #Adapt and #Change…

When life hands you lemons….make lemon drops, LOL! I can still remember starting our 2019 cruise and going by the huge O2 stadium in London–it was a sunset I won’t forget. We just found out our May Viking Ocean cruise to Stockholm, St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Estonia and Copenhagen, Denmark has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 #pandemic. We were expecting this given the #pandemic, but it still stings a bit since we were looking forward to it so much. After looking at the options, we rescheduled the cruise for June, 2021. By then, hopefully this crisis will have passed and the world will be up and running once again. Viking has been a wonderful company to work with and I really appreciate their excellent customer service. I thought I’d post a few pics from the ports we visited on the last cruise–I can’t wait for the next trip!

I feel like we’re in a huge transition phase these last few weeks, changing shopping habits, cleaning practices, social distancing…everything we do has been adapted and changed. Masks are the new fashion accessory when we do go out (we’re using paint masks from Lowes and scarves). The mantra for the moment is to stay inside as much as possible the next few weeks as this plague peaks.

This crisis is going to change all of our lives in one way or another–work habits, relationships, school, medical needs, religion, you name it–the time has come to prioritize what works, and get rid of what doesn’t. My one big take-away from this is that nothing is certain. So, pick the things that mean the most to you, doing all you can in the time you have. It’s Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:

[image error]

#AmEditing

Another week and I’m ready to turn the manuscript over to the professionals. I’ve not been as efficient as I’d like to have been the past few weeks, but the stress of the pandemic impacts you some days worse than others. I’m being kind to myself during this period, and do what I can each day. The good news, is that slowly but surely, it’s getting done…

On the release front, my original plan was to shoot for a June, 2020 launch. Given the current uncertainties, I’m going to hold off for at least a month or so from that date. I don’t think now is the time for a book launch, personally–people have too many other things on their minds as we hold our breath and wait. I want the launch to be a joyous time, when we’re not tethered with the pandemic worries. Stay tuned, updates to follow!

[image error]

#AmReading #AmReviewing

Suspicion and doubts from the #writers of Twitter this week…

Author Brenda Guiton, Suspicion, 5 STARS

Web designer Holly’s life is about to change as she heads to her mother’s villa for a well deserved holiday. A handsome stranger on her flight, Nathan, captures her interests and heart, resulting in a steamy romance and a whirlwind marriage. As they settle in to life at the luxurious log cabin park Nathan’s family owns, Holly finds that all is not what it seems.

Nathan’s surrogate brother, Kyle lurks around the newlyweds every move, causing Holly to question the seemingly close knit family ties. Circumstances lead to wrongful accusations, threatening the fragile bridge of trust in Holly and Nathan’s marital world. Will they be able to overcome the seeds of doubt that threaten their newly founded relationship?

Secrets of the past emerge, revealing years of coverups and deceit. As Holly learns the truth, will she ever be able to trust the man she loves? Author Guiton takes us on a gripping tale of dangerous suspicions at every turn. How well do you know the one you love? A page turning read, highly recommended!

Next up in the #reading queue:

[image error]

Herbs, it’s a good thing!

Hubby decided to freshen up the herb garden from last year and put in a few more containers for me. I love to add fresh herbs to salads, pastas and soups when I cook, nothing better, IMO. Basil, parsley, thyme, oregano, and even a few jalapeno plants were added to our little garden space. We’re getting lots of rain this week, so hopefully they’ll get off to a good start.

Welcome to my #writer’s world. Wishing you a peaceful, healthy week and weekend.

Crowns and Kisses,

Veronica

P.S. During this holy week, I wish you and your families and friends much love and serenity. Gemma and Rikkhe approve! 

Veronica’s #WritersDiary, #AprilFools???

Well hello, April! Is it just me, or have you felt like you’ve been in a continuous April Fools prank/hoax/say it ain’t so #QuarantineLife do-loop for the past few weeks? Rationing toilet paper (so not funny), binge watching Christmas movies on spring weekends (thank you Hallmark Channel), watching the stock market crash and burn (I can’t look anymore), social distancing (anyone, anyone?), washing your hands (my finger wrinkles have wrinkles) and stalking the grocery stores for supplies has become the new norm (Raiders of the Lost Wipes). Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like we’ll be returning to normal (whatever that is) anytime soon. So, for this post I thought I’d try to lighten the mood by sharing pictures I find humorous, and just perhaps might put a hint of a grin on your face too, enjoy!

My fav horse head in Hyde Park; Sign outside of the Bergen airport–don’t they know?

Hot air balloons in Albuquerque; It is real…(I-64 in North Carolina)

I think Ebbie is over #QuarantineLife; love that British pub humor

Eyeballs, Texas (Dallas) style!; Yee-hah! Are we having fun yet? (Jackson Hole)

The good news is that we are getting closer to the end of the quarantine—I don’t know exactly when, a month, two months, but it will come. In the meantime, help yourself to a little extra TLC, you deserve it! We are in weird times, but you’re not alone, it will get better, and one day soon we’ll be in better days. It’s Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:

How are your book sales going?

I’m interested in finding ways to promote my books as well as the works of others. I’ve tried price reductions, and that doesn’t seem to motivate much. I’ve heard from other authors who have given away free copies for a limited time–and many have not had great results with that strategy either. I’m interested to hear your ideas on what has worked for you if you’d be willing to share–I’d like to do a blog post on the topic and feature #writers and their #sales strategies experiences. Leave me a comment below if you’d be willing to be interviewed and be featured in an upcoming post. Thank you!

[image error]

#AmReading #AmReviewing

Treasure hunt escapism this week from the #writers of Twitter…

Author Don Johnson, Haiti’s UnderWater City, Dime Store Novellettes, 5 STARS

What a treat to read a ‘real life’ treasure hunter’s tale of adventure, fun, local life, and a little history thrown in the mix to get the blood flowing! Author Don Johnson gives readers a unique perspective of life in the treasure hunter lane with his Dime Store Novellettes. He has a one of a kind narrative style, filled with his insights, observations and 45 years of experience from his world travels that keeps you wanting more.

This adventure starts with the tale of a lost Haitian city, which was felled into the ocean by a deadly earthquake in the 1600s. Rumor had it the city was filled with pirated treasures, but with these adventures comes sharks, more earthquakes and the realities of a nation in poverty. Within each chapter, we explore new areas of the underwater city, live through the dangers first hand (the wigglies), and celebrate when the bounty is found. We also get the behind the scenes experiences of interacting with the locals and abiding by their customs and traditions, all told with respect, humor and joie de vivre spirit.

As Author Johnson explains, his Dime Store Novellettes are “short ‘bookes’ designed to ‘inform, educate and entertain’ in the style of ‘Mark Twain, O’Henry’ and our own creative flavor…” Author Johnson is a treasure hunting adventurer with a heart of gold, offering a unique perspective of what is happening on our planet. This was my first Dime Store Novellette read, but it won’t be my last! A fun, exciting, inciteful read, highly recommended!

Next up in the #reading queue: 

[image error]

Anyone interested in #quarantini recipes?

It certainly seems to be a topic of interest on social media these days–‘is it 5 o’clock yet?‘ seems to have gone with the wind as the cocktail hour is now 4pm, 2pm, well whenever, lol! For those of you who would be interested in a drink from my favorite series, I thought I’d post a few pages of my fav #DA libations, enjoy!

Click to view slideshow.

Welcome to my world. Wishing you a very peaceful, healthy #week and #weekend friends!

Crowns and Kisses,

Veronica

P.S. Thought I’d sneak in a few ‘pupparazzi’ shots of my favorite little doggie who has captured everyone’s heart at Cherrywood Hall in my upcoming book, Double Trouble. Seems like Teddy is living quite the high #QuarantineLife at the lake. Lucky pooch with his beautiful ‘Mama’ Gemma most definitely approves

Veronica’s #WritersDiary, Life in the #Quarantine Lane

My apologies to the Eagles, but this #QuarantineLife is pretty much like life in the not-so-fast lane these days–#CaLockDown (and I’m sure by this post, many more states); #ShelterinPlace, #StaytheFHome, #QuarantineandChill…the lights are on and everyone’s home, LOL. I’ve been getting a kick from reading the tweets and posts by folks who are sharing their funny experiences, thoughts, witty analysis on social media these days–sometimes it takes a crisis to bring out the best of us. (Although a message to those who elect to bare their bits in the Twitterverse–um, that would be a no.) To get this blog party started I thought I’d pull a few of my favorite coastal pics to share:

These were from our #roadtrips last year–our Amtrak coastal trek to San Francisco, driving on PCH north of Malibu, the central coast drive, and lastly beautiful Monterey. I can’t wait to get back out on the road once this #quarantine is lifted.

I’ve been self isolating this past week–off and on cough, slight fever, sore throat. I don’t think it’s the COVID-19 virus, I’ve had no breathing issues and have kept busy every day. Better safe than sorry, #JustSayin. I did want to give a #shoutout to two young women who were in line behind my husband at Trader Joes this past weekend. Hubby was stocking up on a few faves for me (muesli and frozen blue berries–life in the #senior lane). He had four packages of each (they’re small), but was told there was a two/person limit of any one item. The young ladies behind him overheard this exchange and immediately jumped in with, “We’ll get it for him.” This random act of kindness really touched him, and me, when I heard about it. So to those young ladies, and to all of you who reach out and help others during this #quarantine time, A BIG #THANKYOU!! It’s Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:

[image error]

Double Trouble is Now in #AmEditing Mode!

Oh, how I have laughed and cried this past week. This story has come to a close and wow, I really love this one. As per #cozymystery usual, the good times are always sprinkled with a bit of mur-dah and mayhem, causing many to head to the cocktail bar of course! Gemma has a fantastic psychic nanny who will capture you with her wit and cheeky charm. I also loved working Rikkhe St. Claire into this latest tale. I think I found my new MC’s voice and personality, and I can’t wait to put her front and center in the next book!

So, I’m in editing mode now and will soon engage the professional editing and proofing services of Theresa Snyder and Mark Schultz once again. They are both terrific to work with and add so much to the end product–I could not do it without them. You can check out their services here:

Theresa Snyder (@TheresaSnyder19)  http://affordableproofedit.blogspot.com/

Mark Schultz ( @wordrefiner)  https://www.wordrefiner.com/

[image error]

#AmReading #AmReviewing

The Martian’s infiltrate the earth this week from the #writers of Twitter…

Author H.E. Wilburson, The Lake on the Moon, Volume 2 The Martian Diaries, 5 STARS

It’s 1919, and the Martian drama continues with Author Wilburson’s second volume in The Martian Diaries Trilogy. The menacing tripods have vanished, but a new hazard surfaces; the proliferation of a mysterious Red Weed that threatens to infiltrate and wipe out life as we know it, changing the course of human destiny. Astronomer Ogilvy and his trusted friend George are on a mission to obliterate the weed from the planet, but will their heroic efforts be effective?

Time travel, alternate realities and an evolution conundrum gives the reader/listener plenty to ponder as this SciFi saga unfolds. The story is skillfully narrated, complemented with sound effects and a custom musical score that takes you back in time, allowing the listener to delightfully experience the story events with the characters.

Author Wilburson’s trilogy is a enthralling companion to H.G. Wells War of the Worlds.  The Lake on the Moon is an audiobook treat, highly recommended!

https://www.amazon.com/Lake-Moon-Martian-Invades-Diaries/dp/B07V9W7N5P

[image error]

Next up in the #reading queue:

[image error]

A bit of #QuarantineLife Travel Courtesy of Google and Viking Cruises–Next Stop, Versailles! 

It certainly looks as if our booked cruise in May is going to be postponed, for how long, who knows? I’m very impressed with Viking Cruise’s emails they’re sending to enable folks do a bit of virtual traveling. I thought I’d share this link with you that has several clips on the history, decor, and art from the stunning Palace of Versailles. Very worthwhile when you have the time, you can check the clips out here:

https://artsandculture.google.com/partner/palace-of-versailles

Welcome to my world. Wishing you a lovely and healthy #week and #weekend!

Crowns and Kisses,

Veronica

P.S. Special thanks and #shoutout to Hallmark Movie Channel! I’ve really enjoyed the Christmas movie marathon this past weekend! Gemma and Rikkhe approve!

Veronica’s #WritersDiary, My 5 #Positive To-Dos for These #Pandemic Times!

Well the world has certainly changed a bit in the past week, #Wowza! Looks like I may have just taken my last #InspirationResearch (IR) trip for a while–flights are canceled, cruises dry-docked, and where has all the #toiletpaper gone? (my sincerest apologies, Peter, Paul and Mary) Now I know this spread of #coronavirus is very serious, and I’m all for staying safe and doing the right thing. I just want to put this in perspective and not give up #living while we wait for this to blow over (which it will, #Fact).

I decided for this post, to keep in the spirit of #optimism (with a bit of campy wit) and share my 5 positive to-dos for these #pandemic times. They’re not for everyone, and probably not that #earthshattering–but I’m not quite ready to throw in the towel just yet (especially the paper towels–if you can lay your hands on them, LOL). Here’s what I’m doing to get through the next few weeks with a #smile on my face:

Since world travel is pretty much at a standstill, I have plenty of pics from our travels I’m going to share on social media–I’m sure you do too! Pick the pics that make you smile, share a beautiful sunset, and let’s all do a bit of virtual traveling! When this is over, I’m hittin’ the road, but ’til then…views from Bergen (feature pic) Laguna Beach, Victoria, Banff, and London…

2. Buying take-out foods, locally: Times are going to be tough for the small businesses the next few weeks+, especially the restaurants. We’re going to see closures and limited working hours enforced. As long as I’m feeling healthy, experiencing no signs or symptoms of being ill (if I do, I will #StaytheFHome, Tweeps, no worries

Veronica’s #WritersDiary, #Mystery Mansion #InspirationResearch (IR)

An edgy, paranormal, folklore littérateur ; a mystical, world building, fantasy storyteller; and a slightly older, crown toting, cozy mystery word slinger visit a reputed haunted house–what could possibly go wrong? This week I’ve spent time with fellow #BWFs (Best Writer Friends) Bibiana Krall and Emmy Bennett, for a haunting tour of the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose. One-hundred sixty rooms on 6 acres; 10,000 windows; 2000 doors; built over 38 years…

The Winchester Mystery House is a mansion in San Jose, California, that was once the personal residence of Sarah Winchester, the widow of firearm magnate William Wirt Winchester. The Queen Anne Style Victorian mansion is renowned for its size, its architectural curiosities, and its lack of any master building plan. It is a designated California historical landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (Wikipedia)

We splurged on not only the main tour, but a special trek to see the attic and basement. I don’t know what’s more fun–seeing this historic, rumored to be haunted house, or meeting up with some dear #writer friends I’ve come to know the past few years–reading their books, speaking on the phone, and now visiting in person. I think I’ll take the visit with the #writer friends anytime–more pictures from our visit next week!

Welcome to the Winchester Mystery House®

Don’t forget, next Tuesday is St. Patrick’s Day, where the whole world goes green! I’m once again plugging my favorite Irish coffee recipe–Erin Go Bragh! It’s Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:

[image error]

#AmWriting #ElevatorPitch

This past week on Twitter, there was one chain that intrigued me. In 25 words or less, you had to give your #ElevatorPitch for your novel. I adore these type challenges, for it forces you to focus on the key selling points for your book. What is going to capture a #readers interest?

Here was my attempt: Trouble is brewing at Cherrywood Hall, as newly titled American marchioness, Gemma uncovers buried royal secrets and sabotage on the film set. And BTW, TWINS!

Okay, I have some work to do…but this is a great way to hone in on the selling points for your book! #AmMarketing, 25 words at a time. What’s your #ElevatorPitch? (25 words or less) 

Veronica’s #WritersDiary, #SpringTime Wishes, Hello #March!

Time to get those Irish eyes a smilin’ (everyone is an Irish lad or lass in March, lol)! What better way to kick off this lovely spring time month than with song lyrics (courtesy of Roger Whittaker and sung magically by Bing Crosby) that make me smile everytime I hear them:

When Irish eyes are smiling

Sure, ’tis like the morn in Spring

In the lilt of Irish laughter

You can hear the angels sing

When Irish hearts are happy

All the world seems bright and gay

And when Irish eyes are smiling

Sure, they steal your heart away

Of course at the Barton abode, the green lights went up (everywhere)! I’m still on cloud nine after my #bookcover reveal last week. Thank you to everyone for the kind comments and words of encouragement I’ve received!

The feature pic today is one of the stock photos we used for book 2, Cast, Crew, & Carnage; the Filming of Castlewood Manor (watch out for those hot air balloons, #JustSayin). Cherrywood Hall is becoming quite the sparkling wine, sherry and gin distillery in the area. The bright greens of the vineyard countryside in the photo reminded me of our trips to Ireland, where everything always seems to have a hint of green. I pulled out a few of the pics from our cruise last year for you to enjoy:

The sunset pic was from our cruise last May as we headed over to Dublin from England. I’m hoping the next cruise will have the same stunning evening views, they were lovely for sure. Wishing you a fabulous month–its Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:

[image error]

#AmWriting

I am loving this latest story so much. I adore being back at Cherrywood Hall, it’s become my second home (I wish!). The interesting thing for me is having my two leading ladies, Gemma and Rikkhe, working together on the hunt for clues and ne’er do wells. I’m getting to know Rikkhe’s style and mannerisms a lot better–I’m glad to have her on the case (Gemma is too!).

It’s been fun with this new endeavor, pulling in bits and pieces from the first and second book that tie into this storyline. It’s all about the continuity when you’re writing a series. I’ve done loads of cross referencing this week to make sure I’m consistent. I don’t want any unhappy readers telling me I missed important details! More updates coming….dun-dun-dun…

[image error]

The Power of a #BookReview

This past week I was blessed to receive a fantastic 5 STAR review for Mistletoe and Mayhem, Yuletide at Castlewood Manor. It came from a #reader in the UK, ‘Lady Bracknell’. I was absolutely chuffed when I read the review, and honored to receive her comments. #BookReviews are a must have for authors, and to receive one with such high praise made this #writer’s day. Give a #WriterLift–buy a #book, #read it, and leave a #review!

[image error]

#Amreading #AmReviewing

A romantic journey of self-discovery this week from the #writers of Twitter…

Author Soulla Christodoulou, Unlocked, 5 STARS

Helen has reached a dark place in her life that many do not escape. A bitter divorce has obliterated her spirit, leaving her listless in mind and body. As the months pass, her despair grows. A chance encounter with spirit lifting words sets her soul on fire, and reignites her will to join the living again.

She travels to India to fulfill her dreams. The country enchants her spirit with its spicy fragrances, scenic beauty and mindful spirituality. Her companion Anil makes her feel safe and cared for, bringing out emotions she thought were long gone.

On her final night in the area, she attends a family wedding as Anil’s guest. As the dancing and swaying commence, Helen knows she is about to take a new step in her life journey–will it set her free? I loved this short story by Author Christodoulou. The journey of darkness to self awareness tugged at your heart, and slowly brought a smile to your face. A powerful, uplifting, romantic read, highly recommended!

Next up in the #reading queue:

[image error]

I Always Know When I’m Back at Cherrywood Hall…

Let the cocktails begin, Irish style! I was hoping to get to the Buena Vista in San Francisco next week to sample one of my favorite Irish libations, but alas, the city has pretty much gone on lockdown with the #coronavirus. Not to worry–I pulled out my BV tea towel that gives you all the ingredients and steps to make this yummy cocktail. Plenty of time to practice before St. Patrick’s Day! Enjoy

Veronica’s #WritersDiary, My Big #Reveal!

Dust off those crowns, what a way to close out the month of February!  I am super excited this week to finally debut the #bookcover and #title for the 5th book in My American Almost Royal Cousin Series— Double Trouble, Showtime at Castlewood Manor! The writing is going well and I’m on track (knock wood) with my schedule. I want to give a special shoutout once again to my step-daughter, Danielle Gregorio for doing the cover design, I have to say this is definitely a favorite! I always love having the book cover designed early–it helps me focus on the writing and storyline having a visual in place. I even splurged on a new ornament (love Mackenzie Childs!) for my book series tree–another visual to keep the #writing muse motivated! #Adorbs

Veronica’s #WritersDiary, “Enter These Enchanted Woods, You Who Dare…”

I think this line from the poem, The Woods of Westermain, by George Meredith is a perfect lead in to describe our visit to the enchanting Butchart Gardens during our stay in Victoria, B.C. We spent a chilly afternoon walking along the paths, taking in the magical garden vignettes of this botanical paradise. You truly felt as if you had been transported into an enchanted forest, filled with whimsical settings and fairy inspired creatures. The only thing we were a bit early for is their extensive rose gardens–filled with topiaries, arbors and the wave of fragrances I’m told you get when they are in bloom. I guess we’ll just have to come back in the summer!

This week I’m especially grateful to fellow #blogger and #writer, Jessie Cahalin. She nominated me and 10 other bloggers for the Sunshine Blogger Award, an honor that was totally unexpected but a great #writerlift indeed! Check out her own inspiring nomination write-up here:

The Sunshine Blogger Award – Nominated by Patricia Furstenberg

I’m paying it forward by nominating eleven bloggers I love to tune into as well–see the post below↓ to read my answers to Jessie’s questions, and see who I’ve nominated! It’s Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:

[image error]

#AmWriting

Stay tuned–I’ll be doing the #bookcover and #title reveal next week for my current #WIP! So excited for you to see it! (and read in June, 2020!) 

Veronica’s #WritersDiary, #Victoria, B.C., Empress Style!

Oh, Can-a-da, I’m in seventh heaven this week, visiting the beautiful city of Victoria, British Columbia! We’re staying at the Fairmont Empress, a stately hotel overlooking the gorgeous harbor. It’s cold, with a bit of drizzle and overcast skies, and I am lovin’ it–perfect #InspirationResearch venues for book 5. The Fairmont Empress is chock full of nooks and crannies, perfect to curl up in to read or write. We’ve been exploring the stately chambers and rooms–it’s a breath taking castle venue for sure, bringing much inspiration for my next Cherrywood Hall adventure with it’s detailed, carved mouldings and elaborate, stone masonry. And have I mentioned the chandeliers (Jewel on the Crown, 250,000 crystals–that’s a lot of bling)? #Swoon…

[image error]

I have to say the sunsets over the harbor are just over the top. I love how the buildings light up at night, adding even more enchanting colors to this marvelous sky/seascape.  We love watching the seaplanes take off and land in the harbor too–what a way to travel! We’re off to explore this exciting city with planned visits to Craigdarroch Castle, the Royal BC Museum, the Butchart Gardens, and for our final day–high tea at the Empress. More pics and stories to follow! It’s Wednesday, time for #DearDiary:

[image error]

#AmWriting

The plans/plotlines/characters are in place, editors and proofing services secured, so now we just need to get this little gem written. I am tickled pink with this new story. The cover has been completed but I have some awesome #bookcover animations and audio production in the works for my #cover reveal from the fabulous Morgan Wright and Gee Gee Music Productions. Enhancements are underway, stay tuned…dun-dun-dun…Check out Morgan’s fabulous animation services here to learn more:

https://www.morganwrightbooks.com/morgan-wright-book-cover-animations

[image error]

#AmReading #AmReviewing

Witchery and lore galore this week from the writers of Twitter….

Author Elijah Barns, The Shadow Cutters, Book 2, the Witch and Jet Splinters, 5 STARS

Unbelievable treks and giggles galore in this second book by Author Barns in his Witch and Jet Splinters fantasy series. An encounter with a conniving Herne the Hunter with dubious ties makes Witch Jinny Lane in the need for a holiday! Jinny and her adorable feline companion Jetty are off on a road trip like no other with witchy friends Riz and Lou. They’re off to see the fairie hills in Scotland, traveling in style in a posh motor coach that happens to be a fav of a few, ahem, smelly goblins–but before the trip begins, we first are swept away to ancient Egypt in a time-machine, where one of the travelers learns of surprise royal origins…there is never a dull moment with this crew–expect the unexpected!

As we travel back to the present, the motor coach journey begins, and new pets (and old) join the witches on their journey, including a tarantula who tragically was believed to be lost forever, a beloved former pet who has magically returned as an impressive Indian fruit bat, a green alien cat with two tails and an encyclopedic mind (there’s a story with this one!), and a fabulous crow with a heart of gold. As this witchy group travels the Scottish country side, they encounter more witches, shadow cutters, and even Satan himself, Mr. Nick–who is rumored to have a bit of a past with one of one of the ladies…

I was absolutely enchanted and delighted with this latest story from Author Barns. His stories are cracking reads–filled with fantastical adventure (and sometimes the odd mis-adventures), hilarious dialogue ( yes, witches and animals do talk to one another, frequently!), and witty storylines filled with charmed creatures that storm your imagination. The ladies are coming into their own in this story, and the pets will keep you laughing and gobsmacked with their adorable antics. This is a must read series for me, feel good fun and lore galore–highly recommended! I can’t wait until  the promised book 3 is done!

Next up in the #reading queue:

[image error]

Loving these custom bookmarks from the fabulous Sonia (@IsaScribe)!

My customer #bookmarks arrived from my Twitter friend, Sonia. I love the graphics and glittery paper–they remind me of the décor in Cherrywood Hall! These will be great, custom giveaways for my books–love them!

And of course it wouldn’t be a trip with V without some royally inspired cocktails! 

The first pic is of the Empress 75, a specialty house cocktail made with gin, prosecco, Cointreau, St. Germain and the luscious grapefruit juice pearls served on the side–Yummeaux! The lovely violet concoction is a specialty gin, the Empress 1908, that gets its vivid violet hue from an infusion of pea blossoms, who knew?

Welcome to my world! Enjoy your #week and #weekend friends!

Crowns and Kisses,

Veronica

P.S.Exclusive.  Enquiring minds want to know….While in the air, getting ready to land at the Victoria airport, my sleuthy eyes happened to hone in on a mansion that has been in the news quite a bit lately due to a former #royalcouple who are now on the path of financial independence….I think I spotted the ‘secret’ Russian hideaway….Gemma and Rikkhe agree, what say you??