Blair Bryan's Blog, page 8
April 21, 2024
The TMI: April 21, 2024
"In a Flash: Midlife in Aura Cove Book 5" is available now on my website. (The retailers have to wait until May 1st.) Check out chapter one here.
Currently Enjoying: Egg Tortilla BakeLooking for an easy breakfast with lots of protein that eats like a quiche? This is it. I take an extra step and use the immersion blender so the cottage cheese isn't chunky and fill the tortilla base with protein and veggies before smothering it in the cottage cheese and egg mixture. Garnish with green onions and green chili corn salsa and it's so good and so filling!
This is a great character driven historical novel with lots of Midwest references. He even mentioned Des Moines. Touches on topics of race and sexual abuse.
Currently Writing: Flash of LovePRE-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.
April 14, 2024
The TMI: April 14, 2024
"In a Flash: Midlife in Aura Cove Book 5" is available now on my website. (The retailers have to wait until May 1st.) I am putting in my first order tomorrow for the autographed paperbacks. When you order direct you get BOTH the e-book and the paperback for instant enjoyment.
E-Books that were pre-ordered were delivered to your email address last week. Sometimes they land in Spam or Junk. Look for an email that comes from Bookfunnel. I can't wait to hear what you think!
The series finale, "Flash of Love" was just chosen as an upcoming, Top Indie Favorite by Barnes and Noble. Every book in the series (except the one I forgot to submit) has been selected for this honor. I LOVE Barnes and Noble and my Nook readers.
Currently Enjoying: Porch Rocker CocktailThe mancake took me to Texas Roadhouse to celebrate finishing "In A Flash." While there, I ordered a delightful cocktail called "The Porch Rocker." It was so delicious that I snapped a photo of the menu. Mancake surprised me by buying the ingredients a week later. The strawberry version was incredible too, but he hates strawberries, so we opted for the bottle of Blackberry Syrup. (It's a big bottle—so big that I'll have to plan who gets custody of it in my will.)
I love them both, but you do you, Boo!
RECIPE:
Over ice, add 1 shot of Deep Eddy's Lemon Vodka. (MUST BE DEEP EDDY'S; other generic brands are NOT the same. Full disclosure: I did not try Smirnoff.)
Add 1 scant tablespoon of Monin's Blackberry or Strawberry Premium Syrup. (MUST BE MONIN'S. Torani's and Rose's are both chemical-tasting garbage. You deserve better!)
Stir the first two ingredients together well, as the syrup is THICK. Then add the club soda, or all your bubbles will disappear and you'll cry like the child who let go of their balloon.
Add 7 oz. of club soda, gently stir, and enjoy!
Currently Writing: The drafting process has begun for the FINAL Book in the Midlife in Aura Cove Series.Flash of Love.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.
April 7, 2024
The TMI: April 7, 2024
"In a Flash: Midlife in Aura Cove Book 5" This book is the longest one yet, and it's setting the stage for the epic finale. I can't wait for you all to dive into this adventure with me. I get the final files sometime this week from my editor, then it's over to formatting and early release for all of you who ordered on this site. (The retailers have to wait until May 1st.)
Over a year ago, I added an e-bike to my vision board. My mancake is a cycling enthusiast who rides thousands of miles in year (really, really fast!) and I wanted something that would help me keep up with him and fight the extra weight gain that peri-menopause delivered. Finally, after four years of toiling away at writing my books, I got my first real royalties check, and I channeled my inner Donna and treated 'mah self. This summer is going to be so much more fun! I can't wait!
Currently Reading: Butcher and BlackbirdI'm no prude, (Velvet Guild....cough cough.) but I got a little bored with the graphic sex scenes. That said, I was delighted by the twisted humor for such a dark story. It's serial killer rom-com with a Dexter vibe, and I had to see what all the fuss was about. It was well written, fast paced, and outside my usual comfort zone, but I like to do that from time to time. And the (anti) hero has got an Irish accent and you know I'm a sucker for those!
Currently Writing: The drafting process has begun for the FINAL Book in the Midlife in Aura Cove Series. Flash of Love.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.
March 31, 2024
The TMI: March 31, 2024
I'm excited to give you a peek behind the curtain at the making of my latest cover! It all started with a simple idea and a rough mock-up (shown on the right). With the magic touch of a talented designer, Hannah Sternjakob, that idea transformed into the gorgeous cover you see below. Each cover in the series has been meticulously crafted by Hannah, whose skill and creativity shine through in every design.
Drawing on my background as a professional photographer, "In a Flash: Midlife in Aura Cove Book 5" offers a glimpse into that world. Within its pages, you'll discover a captivating story where a cursed camera takes center stage, guiding the coven through their latest Karmic rebalance. Trust me, this is a story you won't want to miss!
Pre-Order your copy here.
This book is the longest one yet, and it's setting the stage for the epic finale. I can't wait for you all to dive into this adventure with me.
This was a fast read with compelling characters. There were a few imperfections like a run on sentence that lasted forever, but the story was gripping and I enjoyed it.
Currently Eating: Pesto Chili Crisp EggsIntroducing my latest breakfast obsession! It's a breeze to make and bursting with flavor. Start by heating 1/2 tablespoon of Chili Crisp in a pan. Then, scramble 2 eggs and mix in 1/2 tablespoon of Pesto. Fry them up in the Chili Crisp until perfectly cooked. Sprinkle some cheese on top and serve it all open-faced on a toasted English muffin alongside crispy bacon. (It's a happy breakfast, see the smile?)
PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
(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.
March 24, 2024
The TMI: March 24, 2024
I've got some awesome news to share—I've just finished the 5th book in The Midlife in Aura Cove series! It's been a wild ride, with 12-hour writing marathons and 8-hour editing sessions over the past fourteen days. But guess what? It's done! Heading to editing and then will be released for early access in about three weeks for orders on my website. Grab your copy here.
This book is the longest one yet, and it's setting the stage for the epic finale. I can't wait for you all to dive into this adventure with me.
Here's the Book Description:
In the hallowed halls of Aura Cove High School, Principal Adrienne Thorne is a beloved beacon, guiding teenagers toward their destinies. The school board's decision to elevate her to Superintendent feels like a mere formality until an ominous email threatens her career and reputation.
During a routine truffle stop by her estranged sister, Davina, a reading from Karma spurs Katie and the coven into action. Bound by a mission to rectify the past, they join together to salvage Adrienne's future.
Meanwhile, Zoya shares a revelation with Yuli that will shake the mortal coven to its core. The next successor in their supernatural legacy has been conceived, triggering a cascade of events forcing them to confront their deepest fears and embrace the impending transformation that awaits them all.
Escape to Aura Cove for another captivating battle of good versus evil and wicked female empowerment.
Hilarious Revenge is My Specialty!Midlife in Aura Cove is feel-good fantasy. It's not heavy hitting literature that will tear your heart out and make you cry. It's a light hearted romp with relatable characters you will fall in love with. Here's a peek of what is waiting for you in Hawt Flash: Midlife in Aura Cove 1.
Next Up: The Outline for the FINAL Book in the Midlife in Aura Cove Series. Flash of Love.PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
(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.
March 3, 2024
The TMI: March 3, 2024
Meet Katie's next assignment from Karma. Adrienne Thorne.
Adrienne Thorne pulled into the well-manicured parking lot at Aura Cove High School and parked her reliable Camry in the designated spot. She pulled her bag and the pyrex container she filled with fresh baked banana nut muffins from the backseat and walked in the darkened school. She was often the first one in and the last one to leave and over the last seven years as principal, the school had quickly become her second home.
Dressed in a cobalt blue power suit with a pencil skirt that hit just below the knee of her long legs, the converse sneakers on her feet made her more approachable to students. They were also infinitely more comfortable than the heels she stashed in her back pack for the meeting with the school board later that evening. At forty-seven her classic beauty still turned heads, and she knew how to dress herself to play up her attributes. Thanks to good genes, an efficient metabolism, and a natural knack for makeup application, she easily passed for early thirties.
Juggling her keys and the muffins, she swiped her key card to open the door at the faculty entrance. She quickly navigated the darkened halls with ease and turned on the lights in the main office, taking the time to set a warm muffin on a napkin in front of her secretary’s computer. She pulled out the Thank You card she’d hand written and set it in front of the muffin. Dory Miller was an invaluable member of her staff and Adrienne never missed an opportunity to appreciate her hard work.
Desperate for caffeine, she stumbled into the teacher’s lounge and made herself a steaming mug of breakfast blend that she brought back to her office. She sipped it slowly savoring the final moments of calm before the storm of students would rush through the doors before classes would begin.
She tucked an thick chunk of her blond highlighted hair behind her ears as she logged into her computer to take a look at her email and drummed her red lacquered fingernails on the desk as she culled through the thirty-three emails she’d been sent since seven p.m. last night.
A few minutes later Dory arrived and ducked her head Adrienne's office, holding the muffin aloft, “Thank you.”
“You're welcome. I know who keeps this school running and my schedule manageable. I never want you to ever feel you contribution around here is unappreciated.”
“You’re the best boss I’ve ever had.” Dory said. Her gray hair was pulled into a bun at the base of her neck and she was wearing a conservative blue cardigan sweater with a long skirt. She pulled the liner from the muffin and look a bite murmuring with pleasure. “You know, if this principal gig doesn’t work out, you would have a real future as a baker.”
“I’ll keep that in mind.” Adrienne grinned as she checked the watch on her wrist. She spent the next ten minutes prioritizing her schedule and at precisely seven fifty five, she walked to the front entrance of the school and stood in the sun soaked atrium. A few minutes later, like a well-oiled machine, a bright yellow school bus yawned open its door and a flood of teenagers made their way to the front entrance, moving slowly as they started down at their phones in the palms of their hands like zombies.
Hope you enjoyed this first peek! In a Flash is book five in the Midlife in Aura Cove Series and is filled with twists, turns, and relatable humor. I cannot wait to share it with readers.
"Hawt Flash is full of amazing characters. There is Arlo, Katie's rescue dog, and only man in her life, who talks. Her best friend Frankie, whose sassy mouth and uncouth sexual innuendos, make her a perfect counterpart to sugary sweet Kate.
Only a truly creative and gloriously funny writer could come up with Frankie's love interest, Harrison (Harry) Willey! I laughed until I couldn't breathe when Harry and Frankie first met! Blair Bryan redefined the meaning of "meet cute" with that scene.
I especially enjoyed Katie's ball-busting lawyer, Davina. Why is it when male snarky divorce lawyers pin their opponents to the wall, they are shrewd but when women nail them they are bitches and shrews? Blair Bryan threw away the mold when she created Davina. We need more Davina's in our lives!
Let's not forget the two other members of Kate's magical family triad, her great-great grandmother Zoya, and her grandma Yuli. The two matriarchs are so well-developed I could swear I heard their Ukrainian accented English and saw their picturesque manner of dress in whatever scene they showed up."
Hilarious Revenge is My Specialty!Midlife in Aura Cove is feel-good fantasy. It's not heavy hitting literature that will tear your heart out and make you cry. It's a light hearted romp with relatable characters you will fall in love with. Here's a peek of what is waiting for you in Hawt Flash: Midlife in Aura Cove 1.
Currently Writing: The Outline for the FINAL Book in the Midlife in Aura Cove Series. Flash of Love.PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
(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.
February 25, 2024
The TMI: February 25, 2024
The drafting process is complete! Now I wait for my alpha readers to provide their valuable feedback before the final month of revisions begins. Then it's off to my editor who will polish it up until it shines. In a Flash is book five in the Midlife in Aura Cove Series and is filled with twists, turns, and relatable humor. I cannot wait to share it with readers.
Each book in the series has been handpicked by Barnes and Noble as a top indie favorite, which is a huge honor!
This time around, I'm drawing inspiration from a previous lifetime where I roamed the Midwest as a professional photographer.
But hey, here's a little secret just for you - if you can't wait until May, you're in luck! Pre-order now and get exclusive early access in April. Be among the first to dive into the adventure by ordering right here.
Hilarious Revenge is My Specialty!Midlife in Aura Cove is wicked fun. It's not heavy hitting literature that will tear your heart out and make you cry. It's a light hearted romp with relatable characters you will fall in love with. Here's a peek of what is waiting for you in Hawt Flash: Midlife in Aura Cove 1.
Currently Reading: Things I Wish I Told My MotherJames Patterson collaborations are usually a hit or miss for me. This one is a true exception. It's a mother daughter story that will tug at your heartstrings. My mom passed away from cancer several years ago and though she was very different from the mother in this book, it resonated with me on many levels. I adored this book. 
The pressure is on to give my readers the ending this series deserves. I've been living in Aura Cove for almost 2 full years and the idea of leaving is giving me the willies.
I walk and I read, and I walk and I read, and out of those moments the ending is being shaped into something wonderful. I scribble the outline on actual paper free hand, then it goes to digital index cards. This is the time where I turn things over in my head, looking for connections and trying to bring all the plot threads together in the most satisfying way possible.
PRE-ORDER FLASH OF LOVE NOW for Early Access in September 2024. Available Worldwide Wherever Good Books Are Sold on Oct 1, 2024.
(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.
February 11, 2024
The TMI: February 11, 2024
Step into the enchanting world of Aura Cove, where magic, mystery, and laughter await. And here's the best part: when you order here, you can dive into the bundle 20% less that Amazon and other retailers!
Have a leather sofa past it's prime? We did and instead of replacing, I found this repair kit online that worked like a champ. IMPORTANT NOTE: It only works on certain leathers that are absorbent. So if you attempt a repair using this product you need to test the leather to make sure it absorbs water immediately, or you need a different kit.
It did change the overall color to a more burnt orange, (which was a planned change.) It's amazing what this stuff and some elbow grease can do!
Currently Reading: The Villa I dabble in many genres, but when I crave that exhilarating read that keeps me on my toes, thrillers are my go-to. And let me tell you, this one nails it! The dual timelines? Absolutely fascinating. And the way the author seamlessly weaves them together? Pure brilliance!
I'm thrilled to share that I'm currently deep in the creative trenches, putting the final touches on book five of the enchanting Midlife in Aura Cove Series. Crafting this installment has been a whirlwind adventure, as I meticulously weave together plot lines to ensure a truly satisfying conclusion for the entire series.
Each book in the series has been handpicked by Barnes and Noble as a top indie favorite, which is a huge honor!
This time around, I'm drawing inspiration from a previous lifetime where I roamed the Midwest as a professional photographer. So get ready to embark on a journey filled with captivating moments and unexpected twists!
But hey, here's a little secret just for you - if you can't wait until May, you're in luck! Pre-order now and get exclusive early access in April. Yep, you heard it right! Be among the first to dive into the adventure by ordering right here.
The Weekly Gift Card Winner is: Lauren Wright(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.
February 4, 2024
The TMI: February 4, 2024
Ever felt like throwing in the towel on your passion? Trust me, I've been there. After four years of writing without hitting the jackpot, I was on the verge of calling it quits. But then, something magical happened...
I made a pact with myself to give it my all, pouring my heart into a series that I hoped would be my breakthrough. And guess what? It worked! Suddenly, my words started resonating with readers, and before I knew it, I was on the path to turning my passion into a full-time gig.
It wasn't an instant win, but it was a journey filled with growth, perseverance, and plenty of memorable moments. As one reader wisely said, "Don't you dare quit - you're so close to the gold."
Now, I invite you to join me on this exhilarating journey. Step into the enchanting world of Aura Cove, where magic, mystery, and laughter await. And here's the best part: when you order on this site, you can dive into the bundle 20% less that Amazon and other retailers!
We returned from our honeymoon to this masterpiece waiting for us from Turn Me Royal. I opened the box and laughed out loud for fifteen solid minutes. It's so hilariously awesome and will adorn our the walls of our home prominently so every visitor can experience it.
My rack has never looked so good and I can't stop staring at the hub's ascot. :)
If you are responsible, FESS UP! We are dying to know which one of our people is the clever comedian/enne.
This is a brilliant book that feels more like a series of interconnected short stories.
Now, I'll be honest, it might be a tad too intellectual for my taste, but hey, I can still appreciate some top-notch word wizardry when I see it. If you're up for a challenge and love to exercise those brain muscles, this book is definitely worth a go. Plus, it snagged a Pulitzer, so who am I to argue with that?
I've got just ten days left to polish up the first draft of "In a Flash" before it lands in the hands of my alpha readers. The countdown is on, and let me tell you, the pressure is real!
This fifth book in the series is shaping up to be an absolute gem, and I'm pulling out all the stops to make it the best yet. Mark your calendars because come May 1st, it's going to hit the shelves worldwide, ready to captivate readers everywhere.
But hey, here's a little secret just for you - if you can't wait until May, you're in luck! Pre-order now and get exclusive early access in April. Yep, you heard it right! Be among the first to dive into the adventure by ordering right here.
The Weekly Gift Card Winner is: Suzanna Pugh(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.
January 21, 2024
The TMI: Jan 21, 2024
✨Immerse yourself in a world of magic, mystery & laughter. SAVE 20% on the bundle now and discover your supernatural powers!
My shelves are empty! A record breaking day of paperback sales the week after Christmas cleaned me out of my entire Aura Cove series in one day.
But this time, Amazon is taking twenty times longer than usual to fulfill orders for authors. It's so frustrating for me and for readers. The guilt I feel, seeing all your orders sitting there in the queue, while they take their sweet time to ship the books is reaching a fevered pitch. I put the order in the first week of Jan and just learned they won't ship until Jan 31st. Insane in the membrane!
I am so grateful for the orders that are placed on this website and always do my best to ship them as soon as humanly possible. Having my hands tied like this is beyond frustrating, especially when they can print and ship regular orders through their site in 2 days or less.
I'm taking additional steps to ensure this never happens again, but if you placed an order and you're waiting, I offer my most sincere apology. I'm having growing pains and I appreciate your understanding. (Remember all my paperback orders come with the e-book version for instant enjoyment. Hopefully that helps ease the ache while you wait!)
Currently Reading: The WhispersThis was a fast-paced, compelling read filled with characters you'll love to hate. It's filled with sharp insights into life in suburbia, and the judgement of the ambition of mothers.
Currently Writing: In a Flash: Midlife in Aura Cove Book 5
(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.
