Susan Hanniford Crowley's Blog: From Nights of Passion Blog, page 29

Stuck for a Moment

It’s been a week.

I am stuck, or maybe I’m drowning – I’m not sure which. I know we’ve all been here at some point or another. If we are fortunate enough to never have been here, the truth is, that will be here at some point throughout our lives. For some of us, these times last, mere seconds or minutes or hours. For others, these moments can last in eternity.

I’m not sure how long I’ve been here, stuck in this moment. I probably stumbled into it sometime during these last couple years. My core is still there. I want to do well at my job, by my family, and for my friends. But at the same time the treadmill of life just keeps speeding up and it feels like at any moment I’ll be thrown off.

As I reflect on this, I’ve come to realize that I have to do right by myself first of all. I need to make sure my legs, my arms, my lungs—all of me—are able to go the distance. it is going to take some time to prepare my mind and body to pull myself out of this moment and up to the surface. I know I am capable of doing this. I’m just not sure how.

So yes, we’ve all been here or will be here at some point in our lives. That’s OK, it’s all part of life. Accepting this is half the battle when trying to move forward. Happy writing this week!

A Feline Paranormal-Scope

Apologies for missing last Monday. It couldn’t be helped. Above is a picture of my cat who is working to keep me focused. She also suggested today’s theme: Felines. She is wide beyond her fur.

While, I am not qualified to read either stars or planets I am intimately linked to the paranormal in the world in many ways. So are you.

The paranormal-scope is for entertainment and is not meant to guide your life.

Aries:
While, finding cats who you agree with and share a similar few of success and future, take care to remain on the good side of those who disagree with you. Respect everyone’s views.

Taurus:
The Jaguar doesn’t act on impulse and treads lightly before obtaining what it desires. Do the same. Keep focused. Know your plan. Keep those cards close.

Gemini:
The domestic cat is endlessly curious and wants to learn about everything from all angles. Your need to know is intensified at this time. The cat has great instincts about learning “everything from all angles”.

Cancer:
Sometimes the Lion lets his emotions get the best of him. Roaring in someone’s face doesn’t do anyone any good, especially you. Make suggestions paired with benefits. People love hearing those.

Leo:
Tiger moms love their cubs. This is the time to nurture family and friends relationships. You will enjoy times with those dear to you.

Virgo:
The Mountain Lion is also called the puma, panther (in Florida), cougar, and catamount. Do you have a lot on your plate? What work can you delegate? What can you give up? Lighten your loads of job titles.

Libra
The Ocelot is smaller than the other great cats. Don’t underestimate talent by size or looks. You’re going to meet someone that surprises you with their talent.

Scorpio:
The Leopard has beautiful dark rosette markings on its golden fur. Everyone is unique and beautiful. Some beauty is unseen. Get to know new people to appreciate

Sagittarius:
The Cheetah is the fastest cat on the planet. You may think you’re going super fast and getting a lot of things done, but pace yourself.

Capricorn:
The Black-footed Cat is native to South Africa. Even though it’s small, it is feisty and the best hunter in the feline world. Don’t let a situation, self-doubts, or self-limits get you down. If you need help, contact a counselor.

Aquarius:
Lynx have a large family and furry soles on their feet. Contact those that love you and plan a gathering.

Pisces:
The Bobcat doesn’t have tufts on the top of the ears or furry soles. Native to North America, it won’t back down from a fight. There are some fights where it’s better to walk away. Consult an older friend or family member.

Enjoy life and be safe.

-Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley, Amazon Kindle Bestselling Author of Vampire Romance, and now YA sweet adventure novels too.
susanhannifordcrowley.com
Where love burns eternal and whispers in the dark!

New Release: EverNight for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback
EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback.
Lady Fallon’s Dragons for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback, Nook, Kobo, Smashwords, BAM online bookstore sells the paperback, Scribd, and in paperback in the UK at Waterstones, also in Amazon around the world.
The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 is available in Amazon Print and Kindle, Nook, Kobo,  Apple, Walmart ebooks & Smashwords.
Vampire King of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 1 now in Kindle and Print! Walmart Bookstore Online
Vampire in the Basement, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 4 available in Kindle.
Poseidon’s Catch(mythology romance) available in Kindle.
Mrs. Bright’s Tea Room (steampunk romance) available in Kindle.
A Vampire for Christmas, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 3 available in Kindle.
The Stormy Love Life of Laura Cordelais, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 2 available in Kindle and Print and Barnes and Noble Print
When Love Survives, Vampires in Manhattan Book 1 available in Kindle, Nook, Kobo, Smashwords, and iBooks (on Apple devices).

Now we wait!

Writing Tools: Roadtrip By Susan Hanniford Crowley

Available in Kindle, Amazon Paperback, and B&N Paperback

Years ago, I had a dream that involved a vampire named David and he began the Vampires in Manhattan Series even though it was only a secondary but very important character in the first book When Love Survives.

This is the book where David meets Laura, and his quest to win her love by taking her home to New Orleans, where everything goes wrong and love becomes a life and death matter.

I call it a roadtrip because this winding story of adventure and love takes the reader to many places.

What does an author do when that happens:

Collect maps of all the places where one of your main characters will stop.Figure out driving distances or flying distances if the vampire is flying at nightMake notes on what happens in each place. You have to justify why that character is there and how is stopping there moving the story forward.Put up your main map and put pins in each place. Study that place for the advantages and disadvantages it gives your main character.Underworld or other world places. Yes, my book has those kind of places. Make them real by making a list of stops, how to get into these places. How long it took your character to get there? What is good or bad about each place? When dealing with other world places, it is important that you know how your character or characters are going to get out. Getting out can be an urgent matter.Doing this legwork will make it easier to keep track of time and where your character is. It’s also fun!

An Excerpt from The Stormy Love Life of Laura Cordelais:

When she fell unconscious, David took to the sky again. Dawn was near, and he had to get her somewhere safe. The cemetery on the other side of the river would suffice. In the sheltered dark of the city’s ancestors, David embraced her. He understood the pain she held. As it radiated into him, he knew more and more about her. David could not let her die; he just couldn’t.

Her body was limp, beyond misery.  If he didn’t act quickly, she’d be gone.  David ripped her blouse to bare her neck, and then pierced the delicate flesh with his fangs.  He drew her blood slowly into him and closed his eyes to concentrate.  He had to catch that last beat.  One, two, three, four.  Each grew slower and fainter.  Five.  Then there was silence.  Withdrawing his fangs from the wound, he bit his lower lip and allowed some of his own blood to seep into her.  Then he licked the wound to help it close.  A tear slid down his face.  He mourned for the loss of her humanity and hoped she would accept his gift. The sun came up beyond the mausoleum’s walls, and David wrapped her in his coat.  It would be hours before the change, but he would watch over her as if she might awaken any moment.
 
She was the loveliest creature he’d ever seen with her flowing blonde hair, the pale blue eyes he’d glimpsed just before they closed, the delicate features, and rose petal lips.  He so wanted to taste those lips.  Was it possible to love someone so completely when you first meet?  Was she the answer to his eternal loneliness?  He took her sweet hand in his and kissed it.  He would wait.

*

Laura struggled through the dark and burst through a great light.  She gasped for breath and it filled her. Warmth spread through her every part, then a surge of energy she didn’t understand.  Her heart beat. Differently.  Odd.  Different from any feeling she’d ever had.  Her eyelashes fluttered and then in the dim light of a strange windowless room, she saw a man’s face.  

His dark, curly hair framed his chiseled features.  What struck her most were his dark, fathomless eyes.  I can get lost in those eyes and never want to leave.    

He smiled.

She flushed.  I hope he can’t hear what I’m thinking.

I can.

She sat up, smiling with embarrassment.  “You pulled me out of the river?”

“Yes.”

“Thank you.”  Laura trembled.  “I don’t understand.  I was dying.”

“You were very badly injured in the fall.  I was going to take you to the hospital, but you said, ‘No hospital.’  That you’d keep trying to kill yourself.”  His jaw tightened.  “I couldn’t bear the idea of your death.  Please, forgive me, but I couldn’t let you die.”  He gazed deeply into her eyes.  

Laura moved her tongue inside her mouth and came across the fangs.  

“Oh, my God!”  She tried to sit up, but he pushed her gently down.

“Don’t get up just yet.  You’re still healing.”

“You made me a vampire?”  Every tale she’d heard as a child in New Orleans rushed back to her.  Vampires were monsters.  “Now I’m a monster!”  Anger flushed through her.  How dare he make her this!  He had no right.  She seethed.  

“No.  You are not a monster.  Neither am I.  I gave you a life.  It’s your choice how you live it.”

Then another emotion unexpectedly filled her, when she gazed up into his eyes. I couldn’t bear the idea of your death.  His tender words echoed in her entire being and soothed her broken heart, as if he’d kissed her lips without touching her. She looked at him with wonder, reached up and caressed the young beard on his chin. He smiled and she could see his fangs now.  Strangely, she wasn’t frightened.

*

If you want to find out what happens next, The Stormy Love Life of Laura Cordelais, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 2 is available in Kindle and Print and Barnes and Noble Print

Stay safe and well, my friends! Keep warm.

Truly,

Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley
https://susanhannifordcrowley.com
https://www.amazon.com/Susan-Hanniford-Crowley/e/B004YXOGXG

EverNight for ages 13-113 is now available on Kindle and Amazon Paperback.
EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available on Kindle and Amazon Paperback.
Lady Fallon’s Dragons for ages 13-113 is now available on Kindle and Amazon Paperback, Nook, Kobo, Smashwords, BAM online bookstore sells the paperback, Scribd, and in paperback in the UK at Waterstones, also on Amazon around the world.
The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 is available in Amazon Print and Kindle, Nook, Kobo,  Apple, Walmart ebooks & Smashwords.
Vampire King of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 1 now in Kindle and Print! Walmart Bookstore Online
Vampire in the Basement, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 4 available on Kindle.
Poseidon’s Catch(mythology romance) is available on Kindle.
Mrs. Bright’s Tea Room (steampunk romance) is available on Kindle.
A Vampire for Christmas, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 3 available on Kindle.
The Stormy Love Life of Laura Cordelais, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 2 available in Kindle and Print and Barnes and Noble Print
When Love Survives, Vampires in Manhattan Book 1 is available on Kindle, Nook, Kobo, Smashwords, and iBooks (on Apple devices).

Now we wait
for the return of the princess.

For The Love Of…Writing A Series by Artemis Crow

So you want to write a series? There are questions to ask yourself before starting that might help you make that final decision. Claire Bradshaw has a great article on the Writer’s Edit website, titled “Ultimate Guide: How To Write A Series.” I’m going to give you the gist of what she said. I highly recommend you check it out!

What story do you want to tell over multiple books, and will it lend itself to that?

For me, writing a series about paranormal assassins with powers of the zodiac signs very much pointed to a series, and a long one.

The genres that seem to be best suited to being a series:

FantasyScience FictionCrime/MysteryHistorical FictionChildren’s/Young Adult

Is your story idea meaty enough to sustain a trilogy or an even longer series?

Questions to ask yourself:

Does my plot follow a single narrative arc, or does it contain many separate threads that can be woven together?Does the timeline of my plot span a short or lengthy period?Is there potential for extensive character development, world-building and subplots within my main plot?

Are your characters going to work for a series?

Can you see how they will undergo a compelling journey, both physical and emotional?Do they have enough potential for development that can be sustained across multiple books?

Do I want to invest the time it will take to write a series?

Whether it’s a duology, a trilogy, or a longer series, there is an obligation to finish what you start.

Ask yourself:

How much you love writingHow much you love your storyHow badly you want to achieve the goal of creating a series.

Okay, so you’ve answered all these questions and you still want to write a series. What’s next?

PLOT!

Whether you’re a pantser or a plotter writing a series requires at least some organization to keep you from getting lost in the weeds or, worse, falling off a cliff.

The most important thing here is that you know the beginning and end of your series.

The inciting incident, kicking off the events of your seriesThe ending, tying up the majority of your story’s threads.

Next, according to Claire, answer the following questions about your plot:

Does it raise enough questions? And, more importantly, does it answer them all? If not, why? Will readers be disappointed or will they understand the purpose behind any open-ended aspects?Does the plot have potential for creating tension? (Tension is one of the most important driving forces in fiction, and without it, your series is likely to fall rather flat. Take a look at these eight effective ways to write page-turning tension for some inspiration and ideas.)Is the plot driven by characters’ actions? Can you spot any potential instances of  deus ex machina ?

STRUCTURE!

How many books will be written for the series?

Each book in a series should stand on its own as its own entity with a contained plot that feeds into the larger plot of the whole series. I agree the main plot should have resolution, but to propel the reader into the next book, there have to be compelling, unanswered questions at the end, a natural starting place for the next book.

Break the overall story into sections, whether it be 2 or 3 or more, and use them as stopping and starting points for the individual books. 

What and where are the climaxes?

Claire notes: There’s one key thing to remember here: your series as a whole must have a climax point, but each individual book must also have its own climax as well.

What theme is a throughline for the entire series?

I’m quoting the article directly here: “A series is united as much by its themes as it is by the events of the story. A series will usually have recurring themes that span the entirety of the story, but it may also have themes that are explored or emphasised individually in each volume. Overall, a series’ themes must weave together to create a broad, relatively complex tapestry.”

CHARACTER!

If your story is going to work, readers must care about them, especially when they’re investing their time in reading the whole series. Give them characters they have to know more about, that they can become so deeply invested in, they’ll one-click every book.

Pantser or plotter, you must invest time in getting to know your characters. Character profiles, especially for your protagonist (and the love interest if you’re writing a romance) are critical. Their history so you can glean their backstory and ferret out their wound. That will help you understand who that protagonist is at the beginning of the story and what kind of character arc they need. You may not have much of this information in the story, but it will help keep you on track as the plot progresses.

Speaking of character arcs, your protagonist and others must undergo a transformation over the course of the series; they shouldn’t be the same people they were at the beginning. 

Claire poses these questions:

What does each character want? What are their desires, goals and motivations?What changes and developments will each character undergo throughout the course of the series? Will their desires change? Will their mindset and worldview be different by the end of the story? What will happen to put this change in motion?What are the key events or turning points in each character’s arc?Is there any information you can withhold about a character, in order to reveal it with impact later in the story?How will the relationships between various characters change and develop throughout the story?

SETTING!

Is vitally important! 

“If readers are to stay with you for multiple books, you must create a setting rich enough to immerse them and complex enough to sustain their interest. They must want to return to the world you’ve created, whether it be completely imagined (as in fantasy or science fiction) or realistic (as in a crime or mystery series).”

Worldbuilding in Fantasy and Sci-Fi

In fantasy, lay groundwork for your world-building. Consider the following elements of your world and if/how they will come into play throughout the series:

Magic or technologySystem of government/power structuresCulture and societyClimate and environment

Setting as mood in crime/mystery

“Setting is just as important in a crime and mystery series as it is in speculative fiction. In this genre, however, the primary function of the setting is to help create the mood of the series as a whole. It’s all about atmosphere; about a sense of place; about creating a setting so vivid and detailed that it could almost be considered a character itself.

As Stuart Evers points out in an article for The Guardian:

A sense of place is important in most novels, but in modern crime fiction, I believe, it’s practically an imperative. It’s something hinted at in the smog-soaked London of Holmes’s cases, and in the country houses of Allingham and Christie.”

To plan the setting of your crime or mystery series, think about the sort of atmosphere you want to create. For example, if you’re writing a bleak, gritty detective drama, you should aim to let those feelings (bleakness, grittiness) infuse your setting. You can achieve this through descriptions of things like the weather and the environment in which your characters find themselves.”

Start writing!

Final tips for writing a series

Keep a digital or physical folder of your notes and ideas (your bible) about the series. Do not lose it! Back it up everywhere!Every writer has their own way. For me, moving ahead with the story, not editing as I go, not backtracking, is necessary to keep up the momentum. If I need to add vital information or an addition to a scene, I type it up in a separate file and hold onto it until it’s time to edit.If you’re stuck in a particular part of your series, take notes about where you were stuck and power through. I write chronologically, but others write random scenes then insert them where they belong. You do you!Clichés have their place but there are some that are overdone. “In fantasy, for example, the ‘chosen one’ character arc is a little overdone; likewise, the tough, virtually invincible action hero is a tired trope of the crime/thriller genre. Try to turn these kinds of clichés on their head and subvert reader expectations with original plot, theme and character elements.”

You chose to write a series because you have a larger story to tell. Let your passion for story be your guide!

Have you written a series, or are planning to write one???

May your words flow freely,

Artemis

The Zodiac Assassins series
Available on Amazon Kindle and Print, Nook and Kobo

Lyon’s Roar – https://amzn.to/2IBLeona’s Descent – https://amzn.to/2yaDfjWLibra’s Limbo – https://amzn.to/2q3VkNgLeona’s Cage – https://amzn.to/2QTbVyp

Gemini Asunder – https://amzn.to/2PyNUig

Getting Prepared for Snow By Susan Hanniford Crowley

From the Blizzard of 2013

Where I live, we’re having a winter without snow so far! We’ve had lots of rain and some snow that melts a few hours later. Snow brings a lot of work with it. When I was a kid, snow meant sledding. I loved sledding. I still sled when no one is watching. Shhh! LOL!

For adults living in the snow belt, it means shoveling or paying for snowplowing and shoveling. You can get what I call the mini plows but they break down. Again you’re paying for repairs.

When the word goes out that a snowstorm is headed our way, we have a list to get done!

Confirm with our snowplow person that we do want to be plowed.Go to the store and buy essentials including edibles that do not require cooking. Get cases or jugs of water! Charge all the items that need charging including those batteries you can plug into when your devices’ batteries are drained. Get batteries for flashlights and lanterns.Charge up the tablets and readers. Have a book handy to read by the light of a booklight. In our case, it’s getting the wood together. Having an alternate heat source is important. Have extra warm clothes to wear in layers. Bring out the extra blankets.Put jugs or buckets of water in the bathroom to help the toilet flush. (For those that don’t know. I lift off the lid of the modern toilet and add water if it’s been flushed and the water doesn’t rise as normal.) Adding the water helps the toilet keep functioning.Make the decision that once you are inside, you do not go out into the storm! I know some people are curious but it can get worse with no visibility very fast. People have died in such storms. Don’t take chances. Have a notebook and pen so you can write or draw by lantern light. (Okay, that may only be on my list. Smiles.)

If anyone has something to add to this list, please, add it in our comment box.

Stay safe and well, my friends!

Truly,

Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley
https://susanhannifordcrowley.com
https://www.amazon.com/Susan-Hanniford-Crowley/e/B004YXOGXG

EverNight for ages 13-113 is now available on Kindle and Amazon Paperback.
EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available on Kindle and Amazon Paperback.
Lady Fallon’s Dragons for ages 13-113 is now available on Kindle and Amazon Paperback, Nook, Kobo, Smashwords, BAM online bookstore sells the paperback, Scribd, and in paperback in the UK at Waterstones, also on Amazon around the world.
The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 is available in Amazon Print and Kindle, Nook, Kobo,  Apple, Walmart ebooks & Smashwords.
Vampire King of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 1 now in Kindle and Print! Walmart Bookstore Online
Vampire in the Basement, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 4 available on Kindle.
Poseidon’s Catch(mythology romance) is available on Kindle.
Mrs. Bright’s Tea Room (steampunk romance) is available on Kindle.
A Vampire for Christmas, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 3 available on Kindle.
The Stormy Love Life of Laura Cordelais, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 2 available in Kindle and Print and Barnes and Noble Print
When Love Survives, Vampires in Manhattan Book 1 is available on Kindle, Nook, Kobo, Smashwords, and iBooks (on Apple devices).

Now we wait
for the return of the princess.

Bring Back Your Calm

Okay, so I’m back into this new year. Vacation is over and work is in full swing. I am probably describing what most of us are experiencing. Gone is the light hearted jolliness of the holidays. It certainly feels like a full steam ahead type of year and, of course, it hasn’t been without its drama thus far. As such, I’m going to share a couple beautiful pictures from our vacation with you and hopefully they will bring you back to some of the calmness you felt if you had a break this holiday season. If you did not have a break this holiday season, well, then, perhaps it’s time to consider having one now.

These are from Norway and it was absolutely stunning there. Yes it was quite cold, but also calm and inspiring in so many ways. Just the visual brings me back and reminds me of the need to relax

So… Happy writing this week and find your good, awe-inspiring place!

Supernatural Libraries Paranormal-Scope

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Libraries hold treasures that we can only dream of. Have you read every book in the world? Neither have I. Their paranormal night patrons aspire to do just that.

While I am not qualified to read either stars or planets I am intimately linked to the paranormal in the world in many ways. So are you.

The paranormal-scope is for entertainment and is not meant to guide your life.

Aries:
When gnomes head to the library it’s to get new recipes to try out. Where I am, the snow is falling, so of course, I’m thinking of warm things to eat.

Taurus:
When vampires head to the library, they are looking for how-to books to expand their skills or careers. Consider doing the same.

Gemini:
Elves are often librarians. They consider the depository of books/knowledge to be sacred. Spend some time reading in the corner of a library. Relax and leave the outside world on the other side of the doors.

Cancer:
Dragons like to sleep in the children’s books section. That’s why they are often mistaken for stuffed toys. Indulge your inner child by reading a children’s book to yourself or your young relatives.

Leo:
Pixies have so little time. They are in a hurry and instead use the ebook lending program at their nearby library. Did you know about this? Do try to slow down. It is healthier.

Virgo:
Pegasus soars just above a snowing sky. When they get back from their errands, they will eat some fortifying food and of course, sip tea before reading a good book. Fortify yourself with food that makes you feel healthy and strong. Visit your library.

Libra
Faeries have a large amount of friends in addition to big families. It feels like time for a reaching out to everyone to see how they are. Perhaps a visit to the library will provide a new book on relationships.

Scorpio:
Werewolves sniff out the details when meeting a new and interesting person. Sniffing doesn’t work for most people. Smile but exercise caution when someone new wants to get close to you. Being true to yourself. Indulge in a book on day home spas.

Sagittarius:
Sirens looking to redecorate some coral reefs. You know, to brighten up the place. Take a look around. How would you brighten your place? Find a book on home decorating.

Capricorn:
Griffins can be a bit gruff but they love taking care of their homes. Save up for upcoming repairs. Remember to ask the librarian when looking for something very specific.

Aquarius:
Goblins are counting their money. Saving is recommended instead of spending this week. Also start preparing your paperwork for taxes. Some libraries have the tax forms or are able to tell where they are online.

Pisces:
Mermaids love to sing. Music spreads joy. Consider expanding your music collection. Read about a favorite singer or musician.

Enjoy life and be safe.

-Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley, Amazon Kindle Bestselling Author of Vampire Romance, and now YA sweet adventure novels too.
susanhannifordcrowley.com
Where love burns eternal and whispers in the dark!

New Release: EverNight for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback
EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback.
Lady Fallon’s Dragons for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback, Nook, Kobo, Smashwords, BAM online bookstore sells the paperback, Scribd, and in paperback in the UK at Waterstones, also in Amazon around the world.
The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 is available in Amazon Print and Kindle, Nook, Kobo,  Apple, Walmart ebooks & Smashwords.
Vampire King of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 1 now in Kindle and Print! Walmart Bookstore Online
Vampire in the Basement, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 4 available in Kindle.
Poseidon’s Catch(mythology romance) available in Kindle.
Mrs. Bright’s Tea Room (steampunk romance) available in Kindle.
A Vampire for Christmas, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 3 available in Kindle.
The Stormy Love Life of Laura Cordelais, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 2 available in Kindle and Print and Barnes and Noble Print
When Love Survives, Vampires in Manhattan Book 1 available in Kindle, Nook, Kobo, Smashwords, and iBooks (on Apple devices).

Now we wait!

What Am I Up To? By Susan Hanniford Crowley

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I am up to a lot for a person whose health is precarious. I need to achieve balance in all things. I have goals every year that are unsaid.

The main goal is to have at least one book published. Currently, I am working on the second dragon book.

Long ago I realized that only writing and nothing else may not be entirely healthy. We all need exercise and sunshine. So yesterday I went to the Olde Mystic Village with my oldest daughter. The rain picture is up because yes, it was raining on and off there. But still, it was a wonderful shopping and dining experience.

We went to the Cloak and Wand for their Winter Wizarding Festival. My daughter did “Divination” and “Magical Creatures.” I did the “Magical Creatures.” I gave the link above so you can read about the Winter Wizarding Festival for yourself and decide if it’s something you want to do! Bravo to Cloak and Wand!

We went on to Becca Rose. I love their pens with the little crystal on top. Did you know they have goat-milk soap? It smells wonderful. I’ve put in the link so you check it out.

As we came out of the store, it was raining. So we high-tailed it to the Bleu Squid and had a delicious breakfast! 5 stars to the Bleu Squid for the delectable breakfasts and great service. My daughter and I ate, chatted, and watched the rain outside the window next to our table.

The rain stopped long enough for us to visit Alice in the Village, which is a tea room and gift shop, and Alice’s Haunted Little Bookshop. Both places are such fun and definitely worth checking out.

When we got out, it was raining again. Time to return home and write. There are so many different kinds of shops there and a variety of restaurants that I have visited in the best and will again.

Stay safe and well, my friends! And if needs be, carry an umbrella! Lol.

Truly,

Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley
https://susanhannifordcrowley.com
https://www.amazon.com/Susan-Hanniford-Crowley/e/B004YXOGXG

EverNight for ages 13-113 is now available on Kindle and Amazon Paperback.
EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available on Kindle and Amazon Paperback.
Lady Fallon’s Dragons for ages 13-113 is now available on Kindle and Amazon Paperback, Nook, Kobo, Smashwords, BAM online bookstore sells the paperback, Scribd, and in paperback in the UK at Waterstones, also on Amazon around the world.
The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 is available in Amazon Print and Kindle, Nook, Kobo,  Apple, Walmart ebooks & Smashwords.
Vampire King of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 1 now in Kindle and Print! Walmart Bookstore Online
Vampire in the Basement, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 4 available on Kindle.
Poseidon’s Catch(mythology romance) is available on Kindle.
Mrs. Bright’s Tea Room (steampunk romance) is available on Kindle.
A Vampire for Christmas, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 3 available on Kindle.
The Stormy Love Life of Laura Cordelais, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 2 available in Kindle and Print and Barnes and Noble Print
When Love Survives, Vampires in Manhattan Book 1 is available on Kindle, Nook, Kobo, Smashwords, and iBooks (on Apple devices).

Now we wait
for the return of the princess.

Moving Forward into 2023

Happy New Year! Yes, I realize we are into our third week of the New Year and I apologize for the delayed well wishes. I hope everyone’s 2023 got off to a good start and if not, I hope it gets better.

My own New Year has been a bit mixed. In some ways, it was incredible as we rang in the year on vacation and as such, I returned to work super refreshed. On the other hand, I learned a dear aunt of mine is quite sick with ALS and of course that reminds me of how short life is and why it is important for us to take time to pause and enjoy life overall.

So I move forward, sad but feeling blessed and thankful. Also determined to make the most of the time I have with those I love. Regardless of how your New Year started, I hope you all feel some of the same.

Happy writing this week!

What Do Dragons Do Paranormal-Scope

Above is a proof copy of my novel Lady Fallon’s Dragons. I go through it with sticky notes to indicate changes and give that to my editor. That was done over a year ago now and the book is out in the world. My Paranormal-Scope title asks what do dragons do? We’re going to find out.

While I am not qualified to read either stars or planets I am intimately linked to the paranormal in the world in many ways. So are you.

The paranormal-scope is for entertainment and is not meant to guide your life.

Aries:
Dragons are very social. They know how deep to go before they get into trouble. You have the opportunity to socialize. Remember your parameters.

Taurus:
Dragons know how to align themselves with their ambitions through planning. Do the same.

Gemini:
Dragons love going on adventures. Plan one for yourself. It could be visiting a farmer’s market in the next town. It could be more.

Cancer:
Dragons can live a long time but sometimes they reach a time period when everything is golden. It’s their best time. Now is yours.

Leo:
Dragons pay attention to their loved ones to strengthen their connections and devotion. Reach out to those you care about and spend quality time with them.

Virgo:
Dragons extend themselves to help the little woodland animals. It makes for a better community. You might like to volunteer to help others too.

Libra
Dragons live so long that they even know who started some of their traditions. Start a fun tradition of your own!

Scorpio:
Dragons love a cozy warm home. Cozy up your homes. Think happy and warm when you consider what to add where.

Sagittarius:
The Dragon doesn’t randomly soar. She knows where she’s going. Make some life plans on what you want to do and where you’d like to go.

Capricorn:
Dragons sometimes drag their baggage with them. Don’t be like that. Let go of anything you no longer need. Declutter your home.

Aquarius:
Dragons are always in style. It wouldn’t hurt to update your look. Buy something that makes you feel happy when you wear it.

Pisces:
Dragons love their work but it can stress them at times. Self-care is the most important thing you can do for yourself. Hang out with friends. Make your own spa day. Have a cookie.

Enjoy life and be safe.

-Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley, Amazon Kindle Bestselling Author of Vampire Romance, and now YA sweet adventure novels too.
susanhannifordcrowley.com
Where love burns eternal and whispers in the dark!

New Release: EverNight for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback
EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback.
Lady Fallon’s Dragons for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback, Nook, Kobo, Smashwords, BAM online bookstore sells the paperback, Scribd, and in paperback in the UK at Waterstones, also in Amazon around the world.
The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 is available in Amazon Print and Kindle, Nook, Kobo,  Apple, Walmart ebooks & Smashwords.
Vampire King of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 1 now in Kindle and Print! Walmart Bookstore Online
Vampire in the Basement, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 4 available in Kindle.
Poseidon’s Catch(mythology romance) available in Kindle.
Mrs. Bright’s Tea Room (steampunk romance) available in Kindle.
A Vampire for Christmas, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 3 available in Kindle.
The Stormy Love Life of Laura Cordelais, Vampires in Manhattan, Book 2 available in Kindle and Print and Barnes and Noble Print
When Love Survives, Vampires in Manhattan Book 1 available in Kindle, Nook, Kobo, Smashwords, and iBooks (on Apple devices).

Now we wait!