Vivienne Diane Neal's Blog, page 52

When Searching For That Special Someone, You Can Produce a Simple Video with Music, by Vivienne Diane Neal

When it comes to meeting someone for romance, dating, marriage or friendship, a simple video clip with soft music is one way to advertise your personal details. You can hire a videographer to put together a nice clip, but it will probably cost you an arm and a leg. If you have disposal income, than go for it. However, if you are on a limited or fixed income, you may want to create your own video or have a college student majoring in film to make your video, as a class project, to fulfill his or her credits. There are many movie-making software on the market, from simple to elaborate, and your computer probably has a couple of movie making programs, namely Windows Movie Maker or Muvee Auto Producer. Both of these programs are easy to use, and you can always upgrade for more features, styles and special effects.
If you decide to produce your own personal video, make it simple. Give a brief introduction about yourself, which you think may be of interest to the viewer, such as your age, occupation, education and income level, special interests or hobbies, physical attributes or other characteristics and contact information. You want to piqué the audiences’ interest in you and not overshadow your video with long-winded talk. When putting together your video, a 30 to 60 second promo should be adequate.
Adding music to your personal clip is a big plus. However, be careful. Just because the music is in the public domain, or is free music, does not mean you have the right to use that song in your video. Purchase royalty free music to be on the safe side.
With royalty free music, you pay a one-time fee for a particular melody. You pay no extra fees. You have permission to use that music on any of your commercial motion picture productions, broadcast, cable and satellite, TV and radio commercials, trailers, and promotional DVDs. As a rule, you will have a lifetime right to use that composition. Of course, there may be other conditions for using that royalty-free tune. Some online sites may offer music for personal or commercial use. Before buying any music, read the license agreement.
Royalty-free music albums or compact discs are usually more expensive than single tracks, but single tracks can also be pricey. An alternative may be royalty-free loops, which are usually the least expensive. A music loop is a sample of streaming music. Loopsound Royalty Free Music Library offers a wide choice of music loops that will fit into any budget. Royalty Free Music offers a broad variety of music tracks, and loops, and BBM Royalty Free Music has music tracks, sound effects and flash loops.
When searching for royalty-free music, it is very important to comparison shop. The prices for these royalty-free melodies can vary from $9.95 to $99.00.  Of course, most royalty-free sites offer subscriptions that will give you access to thousands of music tracks and sound effects. Prices can start at $299.95.
Many royalty-free sites offer free music for personal, educational and non-profit undertakings. To take advantage of these services, you will have to complete and send an application form to download their free music, sound or special effects.
Once you have produced your personal video, you can upload your clip to the many video streaming and social network sites such as YouTube, Twitter, or Facebook.
Links to purchase royalty free music:
http://www.royaltyfreemusic.com
http://www.loopsound.com

Meet Opal Carew, Author of My Best Friend's Stepfather

My Best Friend's Stepfahterby Opal CarewGenre: Step romance, erotic romance My Best Friend's Stepfather was originally published as a three-part novel (November 2015) and is now available for the first time with all three parts bundled together (in both print and digital).

AmazonB&NiBooksKobo

She’s always craved his touch…even though it’s forbidden.

When Ash is assigned her first feature as a reporter, it should have been simple: interview a real life Dominant for an article about BDSM. But her subject is none other than Darien Gallagher, her best friend’s stepfather…and it’ll be an interview she never forgets.What started for Dare as a lesson in sensual domination suddenly has become so much more. He can't deny the spark between them, even though he knows she’s completely off limits. With every seductive word, every lesson, Dare tests Ash's resolve and pushes her boundaries. But at the same time, her boss Adam has her craving things she shouldn’t.

While Ash finds herself dreaming of both men, a dark secret threatens to destroy everything. But how can she hold onto a relationship that isn’t even real?

Hi. I'm Opal Carew, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. I write erotic romance for St. Martin's Press and Samhain Publishing, and I self-publish stories. I also write romance as Amber Carew.

So why do I like writing erotic romance? I like being able to push beyond traditional boundaries. I like dealing with a female character who is growing and evolving - questioning her sexual boundaries and pushing past them. My stories usually include menage a trois. It is great fun to write a heroine choosing between two equally appealing heroes... or more.

These aren't women who just jump into bed with anyone. They find themselves in an unusual situation - something exciting and erotic - but a situation where they have to push themselves beyond their comfort level. As a result, they grow as a person. So often fear holds us back - of what others will think of us, of what we will think about ourselves - and we don't follow our hearts. These women push past that fear.
Author Media Links:
http://www.OpalCarew.comhttp://OpalCarew.com/newsletter
http://www.facebook.com/OpalCarewRomanceAuthor
http://twitter.com/OpalCarew

Meet Opal Carew, Author of My Best Friend' Stepfather

My Best Friend's Stepfahterby Opal CarewGenre: Step romance, erotic romance My Best Friend's Stepfather was originally published as a three-part novel (November 2015) and is now available for the first time with all three parts bundled together (in both print and digital).

AmazonB&NiBooksKobo

She’s always craved his touch…even though it’s forbidden.

When Ash is assigned her first feature as a reporter, it should have been simple: interview a real life Dominant for an article about BDSM. But her subject is none other than Darien Gallagher, her best friend’s stepfather…and it’ll be an interview she never forgets.What started for Dare as a lesson in sensual domination suddenly has become so much more. He can't deny the spark between them, even though he knows she’s completely off limits. With every seductive word, every lesson, Dare tests Ash's resolve and pushes her boundaries. But at the same time, her boss Adam has her craving things she shouldn’t.

While Ash finds herself dreaming of both men, a dark secret threatens to destroy everything. But how can she hold onto a relationship that isn’t even real?

Hi. I'm Opal Carew, a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. I write erotic romance for St. Martin's Press and Samhain Publishing, and I self-publish stories. I also write romance as Amber Carew.

So why do I like writing erotic romance? I like being able to push beyond traditional boundaries. I like dealing with a female character who is growing and evolving - questioning her sexual boundaries and pushing past them. My stories usually include menage a trois. It is great fun to write a heroine choosing between two equally appealing heroes... or more.

These aren't women who just jump into bed with anyone. They find themselves in an unusual situation - something exciting and erotic - but a situation where they have to push themselves beyond their comfort level. As a result, they grow as a person. So often fear holds us back - of what others will think of us, of what we will think about ourselves - and we don't follow our hearts. These women push past that fear.
Author Media Links:
http://www.OpalCarew.comhttp://OpalCarew.com/newsletter
http://www.facebook.com/OpalCarewRomanceAuthor
http://twitter.com/OpalCarew

GRAND CELEBRATION is coming your way!

What better time to celebrate The Romance Reviews anniversary than in the month of hearts? It's time for the MEGA ANNIVERSARY and VALENTINE'S PARTY (MAVP) in February 2016! And they are celebrating in style with over $500 cash prizes and more than 300+ book giveaways. Grand Prize: $200 Amazon GC. 
DATE: February 1 to 29, 2016 

PRIZES: Over $500 Amazon GC prizes and more than 300+ book giveaways, etc. Grand Prize: $200 Amazon GC 

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There are 4 ways to participate: 

Method # 1: Donate a book giveaway 

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Instructions to donate books and to purchase the ad packages can also be found on the link above. 

DEADLINE: January 20, 2016 

For questions and clarifications, please send an email at event@theromancereviews.com. 

Due to the expected huge volume of email, please allow 10 days before sending a follow up email.

She Wants to Relocate for Love?

Welcome to 2016, Leap Year, where the woman proposes to the man, traditionally on February 29. So, we thought you might enjoy helping these women who are seeking love, romance or a lifetime partner by providing them with some common sense guidance. We know that love at first sight has always been a ‘catchphrase’ that people use when cupid captures their heart. Sometimes it works, but at times those touchy feely moments fade as fast as a sun shower.
Recently, I was watching a talk show that has a segment where selected audience members can ask questions about love, romance, relationships, and dating. A 24 year old woman, with no children, asked the host should she move to a foreign country with a man she has only known for one month stressing that she was madly in love with him and the feeling was mutual. He is 14 years her senior, has 5 children, and one grandchild.
The host answered “No,” and my answer was the same, but then I decided to put forth this same question on a couple of the social networks, and some of the answers got me thinking: how many women have found themselves in this situation, decided to take that leap of faith and move halfway across the world with a man whom they have known for only a split-second and did it end happily ever after or did it end on a sour note?
 
Comments have been edited or modified for clarity.
Sure, if the country is found acceptable and safe. If the relationship fails, the woman can always return to her residential home/country. I think she should take the risk. Hey, you never know; this move may be a godsend. Go for It. Enjoy! Des
But what if the guy is violent, forces her to stay in his country, and the country is not
women friendly. KF
It all depends on which country the guy lives in, and if he’s employed, or better yet, does he have his own business? This will tell you a lot about him. MM
Sure, why not. You only live once. And love and adventure are always a great life changer. But just make sure you get to know this guy quite well; run some background check on him and for sure meet with him online such as on Skype. VB
Yes, I am with you on this. MM
My advice would be for her to sit down and weigh the pros and cons of this hasty decision. And think about why she feels the need to do this without even knowing this man..... What's the rush? Is he rushing her? And if she does decide to go, DO NOT GIVE THIS MAN HER PASSPORT!! Register at the US Embassy. Provide them with family/close to kin information. She's 24 years old. At the end of the day, she can do what she wants. However, as a friend or loved one watching this, I would be very worried and would do anything in my power to stop this from happening. MC

I did. I moved from Canada to the US for my (now) husband. But get to know him first and visit several times first. We talked online for 6 years before finally meeting in person and then another 3 years long distance relationship. It's hard, but it can work. Good luck to you. JT
Don’t do it. KH
Without over analyzing it, go for a holiday. MM  What advice would you give? Please submit your answers in the comment box.

You Can Never Buy a Man’s Love by Vivienne Diane Neal

Women who have invested so much money into a relationship sometimes turn a blind eye when a man is no longer interested in pursuing that bond. This is not to say that women are the only ones who suffer from this syndrome. Men also have a tendency to want to continue a relationship that has seen its days. But we are talking mainly about some women since they seem to want to hold on to a relationship that is no longer working.
A woman should never support a man financially who refuses to bring something to the table or add something of value to her life, just for the sake of saying, “I have a man in my life.”  If you choose to buy a man’s affection when there is no reciprocation on his end, then the union is doom to fail.
Take the following scenario: A woman has just met a man at a social event. To her it is love at first sight, and she wants this man, no matter the cost. After knowing him for only two weeks, she buys him a cell phone.  One month later, she co-signs for him to buy a car. Two months later, he leaves her, but she doesn’t realize that he never really wanted her as much as she wanted him. He read her like an ATM. The operative word is wanted. She wanted him to the point where she was willing to buy his love, thinking the relationship would last indefinitely but that was never his intentions. Now he has disappeared, and she is left paying off that loan and decides to take him to small claims court, but the blow is that she still wants to pursue the relationship even though he insists the cell phone and the car were gifts. “I didn’t ask for those items; she gave them to me. We were never lovers, we were just friends.” Of course it never occurred to him to just say “No.” A real man would have said, “When I save enough money, I will buy my cell phone and car.” What makes this even more heartbreaking is that he has moved on to the next desperate female who will fall right into his trap.

There are many, many stories like this one and lessons to be learned: When you meet someone, take your time before jumping into a relationship; study that individual’s deeds and true intentions. Does he share the same values and aspirations as you do. Is he financially secured, has good credit and has worked longer than just two months. You will never really get to know someone at the drop of hatpin. Think before giving yourself or your money away. Desperation not only leads to a bankrupt relationship but can also leave you financially in the hole for years to come.

Thank You for Being A Part of Our Blog

Each year, we ask the same question: Where does the time go? Can you believe 2015 is on its way out, and a New Year is about to begin. That is right. Two thousand sixteen is just around the corner with two big events: The presidential election and leap year. Since we are a Blog dedicated to helping singles and couples with their love lives and adding more zing to their relationship and finding love, romance and life-time partners, we are concentrating on Leap Year, the time when women propose to men, and leaving the news on the presidential campaign to the political pundits.
One World Singles Blog would like to take this time to thank you for your continuous support, for visiting our site and for leaving great comments. We also want to extend our thanks to the guest bloggers and authors who took the time to make our Blog one of their stops during their Virtual Book Tours. Your input and contributions have made our Blog the success it is today, and we will continue to bring you inspiring articles, people, and authors on the move.
The staff is going on hiatus and will return on Monday, January 4, 2016.
Have a joyous and safe holiday and a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous New Year.
One World Singles Blog Team 

Showcasing Ella D. Curry, President and CEO of EDC Creations Media Group

Ella D. CurryElla D. Curry is the president and CEO of EDC Creations Media Group. She brings more than 25 years of PR and marketing experience to clients in film, music, publishing and corporate event planning. Her expertise as well as her love for all things literary, and collaborative approach with clients have earned her a reputation as a respected leader in the publishing industry.
Ms. Curry has enjoyed an extensive tenure in media promotions and book publicity. EDC Creations is the parent company to BAN Radio Show and Black Pearls Magazine.  Before entering the literary world in marketing, she started her career as a corporate event planner and website developer; later becoming a buyer for the legendary Karibu Book Store chain. Her career now includes services such as keynote speaker, blog tour coordinator, branding coach, video journalist and literary publicist.
Ms. Curry lives in Maryland with daughter and partner. When she's not working, she loves to travel, write short stories, and chatting in Internet groups with her international group of friends. As her entrepreneurial spirit guides the way upward, she continues to involve herself in challenging, life enhancing projects. 

To connect with Ella on social media visit: http://about.me/elladcurry
Black Pearls Magazine Online-Founder
Black Authors Network Radio-Founder
Social Media Expert - Internet Publicist - Brand Strategist
EDC Creations Media Group
  
EDC Creations is an award-winning lifestyle marketing company specializing in marketing, media, and publicity for entertainment, faith, corporate, sports and non-profit organizations. We develop and implement marketing programs that have impact and provide measurable results. We offer a pre-publication service that is customizable to any genre or publishing house with a very competitive price, especially when you have a tight budget. We strive to create a unique online experience for each of our clients as well as our blog tour hosts. Please visit our website to explore our many options for those in publishing or small business: http://www.edc-creations.com

Awards for BAN Radio and Black Pearls Magazine
BPM has won the African American Literary Awards for three years in a row:  2013-2015 for the BEST ONLINE LITERARY MAGAZINE.
BAN Radio was the 2012 African American Literary Award winner for the BEST ONLINE RADIO SHOW.

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Virtual Book Tour - Meet Varsha Dixit, Author of Only Wheat not White, A Contemporary Romance Story

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Q: What is your favorite ice cream flavor? A: Rocky Road Ice cream. It is like the path to good writing it starts rocky but ends sweet.
Q: Which mythological creature are you most like? A: Phoenix.
Q: First book you remember making an indelible impression on you.A: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
Q: How do you develop your plot and characters?A: Sometimes an idea comes to mind and sometimes a character. Then I mull over it for a few days, weeks or months adding more characters and twist and turns to the story. When I feel I have somewhat of a beginning point and end point to the story, I commence writing it.
Q: Describe your writing space.A: I write on my bed, with the TV on in front and chocolate or steaming coffee within my hand’s reach.
BLURB:
What if following your heart means failing your family? Eila Sood leaves India for the U.S., hoping to unite her family and mend fences with her estranged older sister. She soon learns that her sister’s intercultural marriage, which outraged their parents, has hit rock bottom. To help pay the bills, Eila accepts an accounting job at a strip club, working for the fascinating yet infuriating Brett Wright. As their friendship and mutual desire builds, Eila chooses keeping family peace over following her heart. After Brett misinterprets her fears and accuses Eila of prejudice, his ex-girlfriend steps in to offer solace. Eila realizes that whichever choice she makes will rip her life apart. What will Eila choose? Love of her life or a life ruled by tradition? Fall in love with love, in this steamy saga from a best selling romance author.
Excerpt
“Shoot!” All her required paperwork sat snug in a folder in the carry-on. Abruptly Eila dropped her carry-on. She mindlessly bent down to unzip the bag’s front pocket. A push from behind nearly sent her flying to the floor. Someone caught Eila at the waist and brought her back to her feet. Her face just missed kissing the mosaic floor.
The grip was firm and steadfast. Eila felt the stranger’s fingers through the layers of her clothes.
“Hey!” Peeved, Eila pushed herself up, struggling against the stranger’s lean length. Thoroughly vexed, she swiveled glowering over her shoulder.
Eila found herself staring into a pair of rapier blue eyes – the blue so deep, so intense and so mesmerizing that for an instant she was speechless. The angry sheen in the stranger’s eyes brought Eila back to reality. Hurriedly, Eila moved away.
“This is a place to stop?” His arrogant tone stung.
 “I don’t see a sign that says otherwise.” The Caucasian man in his late twenties, was tall, well over six feet. Eila hated that in her sensible traveling pumps she had to look up at him.
“Common sense!” he barked.
“I had stopped for a reason. And.You, pushed, me.” Eila’s eyes boldly viewed the horrible man with his sharp straight nose, high cheekbones and a mouth pulled in grim lines. What an utter waste of good looks! A red ball on that beak, a multi colored wig on that uncouth head and a red and white polka dot jumpsuit would do wonders for his personality. Eila tried to avoid the completely unexpected grin at that sudden thought.

At Eila’s impudent smile, his eyebrows came together as his chin lowered challengingly. He gave a disparaging glance to her heart-shaped face, with its dark almond shaped eyes and long thick eyelashes, cheeks plump around the middle and high at the end and mouth that was small but perfectly bow-shaped with a fleshy lower lip.
AUTHOR Bio and Links Varsha Dixit, AuthorVarsha Dixit is the best selling author of four successful contemporary romance books. Her debut book, Right Fit Wrong Shoe was a national bestseller for the year 2010. Varsha was a part of the Indian Television Industry and worked as an assistant director and online editor. She considers herself a dreamer who thinks deep but writes light. Even though creativity is gender free, Varsha feels blessed and enriched to be a woman. Currently, with her family, Varsha resides in CA, USA.
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