Blair Bryan's Blog, page 7
July 21, 2024
The TMI: July 21, 2024
Readers have fallen in love with the Midlife in Aura Cove series. It is breaking all my previous pre-order records and still has two months before the release. This is my first completed long series, and it has been such a joy to watch these characters grow and transform over the course of six books.
There are four reasons why women over 50 love the Best-Selling Midlife Aura Cove Series:It's a break from dark and heavy literature. The magic is unique.Its revenge-based plot hits the sweet spot for women who have been through life's challenges.It features three generations of powerful women righting egregious wrongs. PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
Check out my FREE full-length Audiobook on YouTubeBefore Aura Cove, I spent three years trying to break out in contemporary women's fiction. One of my first published books had great narration, but it never found the success I hoped for. That's why I've decided to make the entire book free for everyone to enjoy. Listen to it here, and be sure to subscribe to my channel so you don't miss future content!
For fans of Sherryl Woods, Barbara O’Neal, Mary Kay Andrews, Jennifer Weiner, Emily Giffin, Pamela Kelley, Mary Ellen Taylor, Fredrik Backman and Kristin Hannah. Uplifting fiction featuring relatable characters over 40 facing insurmountable obstacles.
Currently Reading: The Heaven and Earth Grocery StoreThis is a beautifully woven tapestry of richly detailed characters and a story about kindness, the inequalities of race and religion, and the ability of one person to affect change in their small part of the world. It can seem like it meanders, but stick in there, it all comes together at the end.
Currently Writing: Outline for my Next Series. More Details to Come.I'm chasing lots of plot bunnies right now, just to see where they lead. This is the fun part!
Currently Binging: Poker Face "The series centers on Charlie Cale, a casino worker with an innate ability to detect lies, traveling across the United States on the run from a casino boss following a suspicious death. Along the way, she encounters colorful characters and solves homicides in a variety of settings." It's highly entertaining and full of twists, on Peacock.The Weekly Gift Card Winner is: Amy Reginald(Enter for your chance to win at the bottom of this page.)
P.S. I Need Your Help!
More reviews=More visibility.
You can write as much or as little as you want and I would be forever in your debt!
NO AI TRAINING: Without in any way limiting the author’s and Teal Butterfly Press’ exclusive rights under copyright, any use of this publication to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models.
July 14, 2024
The TMI: July 14, 2024
I’m thrilled to announce that tomorrow marks the start of the final editing pass for the grand conclusion of the Midlife in Aura Cove series! This sixth and final book, the longest in the series, is packed with more thrills, magic, and heartwarming moments than ever before. I truly believe it’s the best one yet!
As I prepare to send it off to my editor at the end of the month, I can’t help but feel a bit bittersweet. Saying goodbye to the beloved characters I've spent the past two years with is hard, but rest assured, they’ll be making cameos in future series.
PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
Currently Reading: Expiration DatesIf you love stories with a hint of magic set against the vibrant backdrop of L.A., you'll adore Expiration Dates. Her delightful, easy page-turners are perfect for fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid, blending magical realism seamlessly into everyday life.
Currently Writing: Outline for my Next Series. More Details to Come.
You'll get to meet Nevermore, a neurodivergent time traveler with a mouthy grey parrot. She's on a mission and I am working now to uncover the details and get a framework for the next series I plan to write. She's got ties to Aura Cove too!
Currently Enjoying: Cooking on Cast IronI know I’m late to the party, but over the last few months, I’ve become an evangelist for the wonders of cooking with cast iron. I had an old cast iron skillet gathering dust in my pantry. Frustrated with my grill's inability to achieve that perfect caramel-colored sear on my chicken breasts, I decided to dig that bad boy out, re-season it, and throw it on the grill.
Talk about a game changer! On the grill or off, it's my new MVP.
Now, I use it for everything I want to have a satisfying crunch: pancakes, French toast, quesadillas, homemade pizza, and yes, the humble chicken breast. Holy cow, you guys, it’s amaze-balls. I’m now on the hunt to expand my cast iron collection.
Plus, they say cooking on cast iron is great for people with low iron. It’s got to be better for you than ingesting flecks of the nonstick coatings, right?
The Weekly Gift Card Winner is: Heather Sutton(Enter for your chance to win at the bottom of this page.)
P.S. I Need Your Help!
More reviews=More visibility.
You can write as much or as little as you want and I would be forever in your debt!
NO AI TRAINING: Without in any way limiting the author’s and Teal Butterfly Press’ exclusive rights under copyright, any use of this publication to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models.
July 7, 2024
The TMI: July 7, 2024
I'm currently taking a little breather before diving into the final read and polish of Flash of Love, the grand finale of the Midlife in Aura Cove series. (So many "finals"—it's got me all kinds of excited!)
In the meantime, I've been having a blast experimenting with some TikTok recipes to up my protein game. If I had my way, I'd live on pasta, rice, and bread alone, but a little variety never hurts, right? Here's the scoop on my latest culinary adventures:
Eggs, Cottage Cheese, and Chili Crisp on English Muffins⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (10/10)
This is hands down my favorite breakfast. I can't stop eating it—it's that good! If you're in Iowa, grab some AE whipped cottage cheese; it's a game-changer and saves so much time.
High Protein Cookie Dough
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (7/10)
It tastes "cookie dough adjacent," if you know what I mean. There are a ton of variations, and it's perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth without making you want to eat the whole batch.
High Protein Flatbread
⭐️ (0/10)
The flavor was promising, but I couldn't get it to cook all the way through. When it finally did, it was inedible. Definitely a no-go for me.
If you try any of these, let me know what you think! And if you have any high-protein recipe gems up your sleeve, I'm all ears.
Currently Reading: Strange Sally DiamondThis grabs you in the first chapter and takes you on a wild ride with a neurodivergent character who comes across perfectly imperfect. Strange and beautiful.
The first reviews for book 5 in the Midlife in Aura Cove Series are rolling in. Check out this one:
"In a Flash" is a wonderful story of female empowerment, which is the theme in every book in this series. As I read, I was again inspired to embrace my womanhood, to slow down and enjoy the sweet moments of being a mother, a sister, and a friend. I was reminded to live each day to its fullest. Like Katie, her coven and friends, I have learned the art of aging gracefully and accepting that, like a fine wine, the passage of time only serves to make me better!
PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
The Weekly Gift Card Winner is: Heather Sutton
(Enter for your chance to win at the bottom of this page.)
P.S. I Need Your Help!
More reviews=More visibility.
You can write as much or as little as you want and I would be forever in your debt!
NO AI TRAINING: Without in any way limiting the author’s and Teal Butterfly Press’ exclusive rights under copyright, any use of this publication to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models.
June 30, 2024
The TMI: June 30, 2024
We hit a big one this week, you guys!!!!! According to Publishers Weekly, an average book published by a professional publisher sells only 3,000 copies over its entire lifetime. This week, Hawt Flash, an independently published book, crossed the 5,000-copy threshold in just one year, far surpassing the typical 100 copies that indie books sell. I am incredibly grateful and extend a huge thank you to you, my amazing readers, for helping me achieve this remarkable milestone.Currently Enjoying: This Dippity DO-DA-DAY!It's summer on a plate! To Make: Warm Boursin cheese and spread it out on a plate. Add quartered cherry tomatoes, snips of fresh basil and a drizzle of balsamic syrup. Serve with crackers or tortilla chips. Special thanks to my friend Andrea for sharing this recipe—I'm absolutely hooked on it!
PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
With just 28 days left to put the final polish on the last book in the Midlife in Aura Cove series, I am dedicated to crafting the most satisfying ending possible. These beloved characters, who have grown and evolved over the series, truly deserve it. Get ready to experience magical moments of goosebumps, tears, and joy one last time with Katie, Yuli, and Zoya.
The book description has some spoilers for previous books in the series. Read with caution.
This book is a gripping page-turner, offering a believable thriller with a main character you'll find yourself rooting for.
The Weekly Gift Card Winner is: Wanda Fowler(Enter for your chance to win at the bottom of this page.)
P.S. I Need Your Help!
More reviews=More visibility.
You can write as much or as little as you want and I would be forever in your debt!
NO AI TRAINING: Without in any way limiting the author’s and Teal Butterfly Press’ exclusive rights under copyright, any use of this publication to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models.
June 2, 2024
The TMI: June 2, 2024
Can you believe it’s been a whole year since I released the first book in the series? Right now, I’m busy weaving the final details of the last installment, and let me tell you, it’s a bittersweet journey. Watching Katie and the rest of the Coven grow has been nothing short of amazing, and now I’m wondering what’s next for us all.
But don’t worry, Aura Cove isn’t going anywhere! I’ve fallen in love with this enchanting place, and it’s going to be the heart of all my future books. Expect to see some familiar faces and make new magical friends along the way.
Stay tuned for more adventures in Aura Cove. Start the series today.
Something New Witch Way Comes: The Secret Society!Ever wish you could step into a magical world filled with powerful women over 40? Now you can.
Welcome to Aura Cove, an exclusive gated community where magic comes to life. Here, you'll gain insider access to the series, enjoy exclusive content, and become part of the creative journey. Join us and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Aura Cove!
PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
I’m almost finished with my draft and will soon be sending it to my alpha readers, who always give me the best feedback and make my stories even stronger. This is just one step in the long process I undertake to bring you the best books possible. You're going to love this one! There's a new character who's so exciting, she's getting her own series. I can’t wait for you to meet her!
This one will rip your heart out and turn all your misconceptions about trauma, poverty, and love on their heads. The main character's resilience and choices can be hard to understand at times, but it is a beautiful book.
The Weekly Gift Card Winner is: Annie Holler (Enter for your chance to win at the bottom of this page.)
P.S. I Need Your Help!
More reviews=More visibility.
You can write as much or as little as you want and I would be forever in your debt!
NO AI TRAINING: Without in any way limiting the author’s and Teal Butterfly Press’ exclusive rights under copyright, any use of this publication to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models.
May 26, 2024
The TMi: May 26, 2024
Spotlight on the Mortal Coven: Three Generations of Powerful Women
This weekend, I channeled my creativity into designing character cards for the inspiring women of the Mortal Coven in Aura Cove. Allow me to introduce you to these three remarkable generations:
Katie (50 years old): The quintessential empathetic mother who has just uncovered the family secret. Her nurturing spirit and newfound knowledge set the stage for an exciting journey ahead.
Yuli (98 years old): The no-nonsense protector and founder of Kandied Karma, Yuli serves as Katie's guide. Her wisdom and strength are the backbone of the coven, ensuring its legacy endures.
Zoya (133 years old): The powerful coven leader who lives life on her own terms. Zoya uses her magic as a fountain of youth and wields her beauty as a weapon, embodying both power and independence.
Explore the magic that binds them together! Start the series today.
Something New Witch Way Comes: The Secret Society!Ever wish you could step into a magical world filled with powerful women over 40? Now you can.
Welcome to Aura Cove, an exclusive gated community where magic comes to life. Here, you'll gain insider access to the series, enjoy exclusive content, and become part of the creative journey. Join us and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Aura Cove!
PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
I’ve reached the 2/3's mark of the first draft, and it’s is even surprising me! That's the magic of writing and I live for that feeling. The growth of the three generations of witches has astonished me. They are not the same characters you met in Book 1—this journey has transformed them beyond recognition. I KNOW you will see bits of yourself in them.
A book hug. That's the easiest and best way to describe this delightful low fantasy read. The middle meandered a bit, but the ending is wonderfully satisfying and ties everything together perfectly.
(Enter for your chance to win at the bottom of this page.)
P.S. I Need Your Help!
More reviews=More visibility.
You can write as much or as little as you want and I would be forever in your debt!
NO AI TRAINING: Without in any way limiting the author’s and Teal Butterfly Press’ exclusive rights under copyright, any use of this publication to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models.
May 19, 2024
The TMI: May 19, 2024
Have you ever felt frustrated with the trajectory of your life? That’s exactly where I found myself when the idea for the Midlife in Aura Cove series took root. I wanted to create a world where the bad guys get their just desserts, and it's been incredibly fulfilling to see this concept come to life.
Readers have fallen in love with the perfect balance of ridiculous humor and heartwarming family moments in this series. If you're looking for a delightful escape that will leave you both laughing and feeling uplifted, Midlife in Aura Cove is for you.
Don't miss out – dive into the series today and join the fun!
Ever wish you could step into a magical world filled with powerful women over 40? Now you can.
Welcome to Aura Cove, an exclusive gated community where magic comes to life. Here, you'll gain insider access to the series, enjoy exclusive content, and become part of the creative journey. Join us and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Aura Cove!
PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
I’ve reached the halfway point of the first draft, and it’s coming together beautifully! The growth of the three generations of witches has astonished me. They are not the same characters you met in Book 1—this journey has transformed them in unexpected ways.
I can't wait to share this evolution with you and hear your thoughts.
(Enter for your chance to win at the bottom of this page.)
P.S. I Need Your Help!
More reviews=More visibility.
You can write as much or as little as you want and I would be forever in your debt!
NO AI TRAINING: Without in any way limiting the author’s and Teal Butterfly Press’ exclusive rights under copyright, any use of this publication to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models.
May 12, 2024
The TMI: May 12, 2024
My mom passed years ago, and I have spent at least one Mother's Day balled on a sofa in my living room waiting for the day to pass. When the pain, grief, and jealousy ran so deep from parenting my own children through what seemed like insurmountable challenges was so debilitating I could not get in the shower or even feed myself.
If you are hurting today, I see you. Mother's Day is not always brunches in your Sunday best surrounded by smiling faces. Take solace in the fact that everything is temporary and know that your rainbow is coming. You are loved. Motherhood is not for the faint of heart. It is not the easiest road and it is valid to feel crushing loss, burning jealousy, and deep sadness. But also remember, it is also not your only identity. Rise today and find a glimmer of happiness and joy in whatever way speaks to you.
And for those who love and celebrate it surrounded by loved ones. Happy Mother's Day! You deserve more than a day. Currently Reading: Go As A River
A fantastic character driven read about a young girl's life who is deeply affected by a chain of events that was set into motion when she was seventeen. It's a beautiful story with incredible imagery.
Up in the Middle of Nowhere. Highlighting the Unbreakable Bond of MotherhoodHere's an exclusive excerpt from the Real Life Tree House Adventure featured in my book Up in the Middle of Nowhere. "There were several takeaways from the treehouse journey for me. I realized that although my nest will be empty soon, a mother’s heart never is. Over the course of your children’s lives, you get the chance to transform over and over in tandem with them as they shift into adulthood. If you’ve done the work, your children will return to your empty nest, begging for the chocolate chip cookies you used to bake when they were little.
I am looking forward to watching the next stage of their lives unfold. I hope I’ve modeled the courage required to persevere through tough times and go after their dreams. No matter where life takes them. Mistakes will be made, that much is expected, but life is long and endlessly forgiving when you approach it with an open heart. I vow to not give advice unless expressly asked for it, and to encourage and support whatever their heart calls them to do. Even if it means being a full-time tattoo artist. Now, I can say without fear, GO FOR IT!
I can’t wait to see them soar and someday build their own nest and hatch an egg or two. I’ve learned so much from parenting my children. It’s tested my strength and brought my weaknesses to light and forever changed me from the inside out."
ESCAPE INTO THE GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS ORDER HERE
RUN, do not walk to Trader Joe's. These little balls of sweet and salty goodness are impossible to resist.
PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
I am 1/3 through the drafting process of the final book and the words are flowing. This is the magic of writing where I have all the pieces, but I'm not totally sure how they fit together. It's also bittersweet since it is the final book in the series.
(Enter for your chance to win at the bottom of this page.)
P.S. I Need Your Help!
More reviews=More visibility.
You can write as much or as little as you want and I would be forever in your debt!
NO AI TRAINING: Without in any way limiting the author’s and Teal Butterfly Press’ exclusive rights under copyright, any use of this publication to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models.
May 5, 2024
The TMI: May 5, 2024
Currently Reading: Don't Forget to WriteA spunky Jewish princess gets banished to her great-aunts home for the summer after an embarrassing incident. Set in the 1960's, it's a wonderful story with lovable characters.
The Perfect Mother's Day Gift. Up in the Middle of Nowhere. Inspired by True EventsThis book was inspired by a real-life adventure and a desire to reconnect with my child, J, who was on the cusp of becoming an adult. In the middle of a relentless Iowa winter in 2021, I woke up in a panic when I realized their childhood was almost over. Fueled by coffee in the early morning hours, I schemed my craziest adventure yet—a treehouse tour in Tennessee. Over the course of the next month, I booked four treehouses, and we set off for our grand adventure in June 2022.
Tennessee was beautiful. A curvy southern belle that welcomes new beaus with open arms. The drawl of the native tongue had such a warmth to it, I wish it would have stuck to my staunch midwestern syllables. It was lyrical, combining words together yet shortening them at the same time. The roads were dizzying, spinning us through hollers and chugging up peaks while we baked in the sun of a decadent summer.
ORDER HERE
PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
I am 1/3 through the drafting process of the final book and the words are flowing. This is the magic of writing where I have all the pieces, but I'm not totally sure how they fit together. It's also bittersweet since it is the final book in the series.
(Enter for your chance to win at the bottom of this page.)
P.S. I Need Your Help!
More reviews=More visibility.
You can write as much or as little as you want and I would be forever in your debt!
NO AI TRAINING: Without in any way limiting the author’s and Teal Butterfly Press’ exclusive rights under copyright, any use of this publication to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models.
April 28, 2024
The TMI: April 28, 2024
I can't believe its been two years since I wrote the first words of the Midlife in Aura Cove Series. My goal was clear: craft a multi-generational narrative featuring powerful female characters over 50. At that time, I was grappling with personal challenges, feeling let down by karma, and it became a vehicle for me to right some wrongs.
Kandied Karma is the heart of the series where three generations of powerful witches must learn to work together to bring the evil men to their knees. It's a heartwarming, laugh out loud ROMP!
Escape into a supernatural small-town world filled with hilarious karmic revenge and powerful women over 50.
SAVE 20% off Amazon pricing when you order the bundle here.Currently Reading: Hidden PicturesThis is a believable thriller that kept me engaged. There are so many outrageous ones on the market that are so far fetched, but not this one. Great storytelling.
The Perfect Mother's Day GiftOne book that truly holds my heart, yet hasn't garnered the audience it deserves, is "Up in the Middle of Nowhere." It marked my final venture into contemporary women's fiction before shifting towards paranormal women's fiction. Crafting tales centered around relationships, particularly the intricate dynamics between mothers and children, is my forte—it's where my writing truly shines. I'm confident you'll be captivated by Tessa and Nova's poignant journey back to each other. ORDER HERE.
PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024. This is it! The final book in the Midlife in Aura Cove series, my first proper series in Paranormal Women's Fiction and after slaving away for four years trying to figure out where I belong, I have found my home.
I have two different magical spin-offs that I am considering and we are delving into audiobook creation. 2024 is going to be a whirlwind!
(Enter for your chance to win at the bottom of this page.)
P.S. I Need Your Help!
More reviews=More visibility.
You can write as much or as little as you want and I would be forever in your debt!
NO AI TRAINING: Without in any way limiting the author’s and Teal Butterfly Press’ exclusive rights under copyright, any use of this publication to “train” generative artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to generate text is expressly prohibited. The author reserves all rights to license uses of this work for generative AI training and development of machine learning language models.
