Susan Hanniford Crowley's Blog: From Nights of Passion Blog, page 34

Life Tools: The Season of Change By Susan Hanniford Crowley

My favorite is Pumpkin Pie.

There’s more happening than leaves changing color. Things are happening to everyone. Some things we knew were coming our way. Some are unexpected. Operations. Rescuing a dog or cat. Having a baby. Saying goodbye to a loved one. All these experiences and more help us grow into a stronger loving person.

For me, I said goodbye to the Vampire Princess of New York. This book is no longer available anywhere except perhaps in used bookstores. But worry not. The rights have been returned to me and my brain is going over many options. I’m also in final edits for EverNight, the sequel to EverWarm. My editor tells me it’s even more wonderful than the first book.

Through tough times, having people who care about you is vital. Sometimes people don’t know we need help unless we tell them. Being together with others is what makes living a joyful experience.

This is also the beginning of the season for joy. So many holidays and so much to be grateful for. If you’re feeling down, I recommend making a gratitude list. It doesn’t have to be in the order of importance because this list is for you to keep and look at. It will remind you of the gifts you have in life, of what’s really important.

When I was a little girl around six, I was visiting Grandma Julia and my Aunt Helen in New York City. My grandma and I were cooking together. I dropped an egg and started to cry.

My grandmother held my hands and asked, “Are you hurt?”

I said, “No. I broke an egg.”

She smiled and said, “That’s not important. Things are not important. People are.”

I learned that from my grandmother. Remember all those who were good to you and taught you life lessons. As for those that weren’t kind to you, remember them for teaching you to become stronger and move on.

A dear friend of mine told me to “always move forward.”

So be kind to yourself and to those who love you. Cherish the moments of love. Remember as we go through the season of change, embrace the new gifts coming.

Now, I think it’s time for pumpkin pie.

Truly,

Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley

EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available on Kindle and Amazon Paperback. More to come.
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 Love Of…Character Questions Part 2 by Artemis Crow

Now that you’ve answered the most important questions in Part 1, here are more questions for those of you who love to dive deep into your characters!

* * *

200+ Character Development Questions: The Ultimate Questionnaire to Build a Character

By Dave Chesson

200+ Character Development Questions: The Ultimate Questionnaire to Build a Character

A lot can happen from the first time you think of a character, to when you begin writing them in your novel. One way to make things easier is to ask them a list of character development questions.

That’s right, I said ask them, i.e. your characters.

This is a discovery writing process that can be invaluable when beginning your story. Because the more you know your characters, the better your book will be.

By far the best way to get to know your character is with a character interview. The character questionnaire allows you to think of things you might not otherwise have done, and help you discover your character.

But first, let’s cover some basics.

What is a character interview?

The character interview is a time-honored method of discovering your character, learning what makes them tick.

Think of the process like outlining, but instead of a plot, you’re outlining a character.

Character interviews are one of the best ways to develop your characters and make them feel like real people.

Why are character interviews important?

It’s more than just building a character profile, although it can be that too. It’s a way to not only learn the outward characteristics but dig deep into their soul.

You want to build a real person, and what better way to do it than to interview that person.

For the pantser, this may seem tedious, and unnecessary. You may prefer to discover the character as they write the novel.

But think of it this way.

By taking the time to get to know your character, you engage in the discovery process ahead of time. Once you have a solid character, they will begin to take on a live of their own in the plot.

How to Use a Character Questionnaire

To conduct your character questionnaire, simply imagine that you are sitting in a room with your main character. You are allowed to be as nosy as you want, and they will understand everything you say. You simply ask them questions and see how they respond.

Repeat this process for any other important characters in your story.

Whatever you do, don’t use every question on this list.

Your character is unique, and you should tailor the questions you ask to that person, just as a real-life journalist would do in a real interview.

Pro Tip: There are more ways to flesh out a character backstory, but actually writing out their answers as if you were interviewing them is how we recommend building your character arc. It allows for the best immersion, and gives you practice writing in their voice.

Make sure you already have the broad strokes of your character in mind already. You should not start from scratch.

However, if you are starting from scratch, you can browse through these questions to brainstorm ideas. And you can start with the basic questions to build the character, then flesh out from there.

List of Questions

Without further ado, here is our full list of questions to ask your character.

Once again, you don’t have to use all of them, and you don’t have to go in order. Simply choose what works for you and run with that.

Basic Questions

What is your Full name?How do you feel about your name?Does your name have any particular meaning/history?Do you have any nickname?When were you born?What is your age?Sexual orientation?

Physical Attributes

What is your height?What is your weight?How are you built? (Skinny, fat, stocky, well muscled, etc.)What is your face shape?What is your hair color?How do you style your hair?What is your eye color?What is your eye shape?Do you wear glasses or contact lenses? If glasses, what style?Do you have any distinguishing facial features?What is your most prominent facial feature?What is your most prominent bodily feature?What is your skin tone?What is your race/ethnicity?Do you wear makeup?Do you have any scars, birthmarks, or tattoos?Do you have any physical handicaps or disabilities?What type of clothes do you typically wear? (at home, at work, out on the town, in bed)Do you wear any kind of jewelry or accessories?What type of shoes do you wear?Do you have any mannerisms?Would you say you are in good health?

Personality

Are there any words or phrases that you overuse?What about a catchphrase?Are you a glass-half-full or a glass-half-empty type of person?Are you more introverted or extroverted?What makes you laugh?What is your love language? How do you show affection?Do you have any mental disabilities?What do you want others to think about you?How do you see yourself?What is your strongest aspect?What is your weakest aspect?How competitive are you?Do you act on impulse or carefully think through decisions?What happens if someone praises your work?What happens if someone criticizes your work?What is your greatest fear?What is your biggest secret that you’ve never told anyone?What is the purpose of life?When did you last cry?What haunts you?What are your political views?What will you stand for?Who do you quote most often?Do you prefer the indoors or the outdoors?What is your guilty pleasure?What personal trait do you rely on the most?What do you value most in a friend?If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?What are you obsessed with?What are your pet peeves?What is your greatest regret?

Relationships

Do you have a large family? Who are they?What do you think of your family?What is your current relationship with your parents?Do you have siblings? Where do you come in?Describe your best friend.Who is your ideal best friend?Who are your other friends?Do you make friends easily?Do you have any pets?Who do you naturally get along with?Who do you surprisingly get along with?Do you believe in love at first sight?Are you in a relationship?How do you act in a relationship?How many relationships have you had?When was the last time you engaged in intimacy?What kind of sex do you like to have?How would you feel after a one-night stand?How do you break up with someone?Have you ever been in love?Has anyone ever broken your heart?Who do you trust?Do you live with anyone? How do you get along with them?Do you get along with your neighbors? Why?How would your family describe you?How would your lover describe you?How would your boss describe you?How would your enemy describe you?

History

What were you like as a baby/child?Did you grow up rich or poor?Were you nurtured or neglected in childhood?What is the most offensive thing a person has ever said to you?What has been your greatest achievement?How was your first kiss?What is the worst thing you did to someone you love?What is your greatest ambition?What advice would you give your younger self?What smells remind you of home/your childhood?What did you want to be when you grow up? Did it work out?What is your favorite childhood memory?What is your worst childhood memory?Did you have any imaginary friends as a child?What are you most ashamed of?What are you most proud of?Has anyone saved your life?Were you ever bullied as a child?What is the most embarrassing thing to ever happen to you?

Values and Desires

What are your values?What is the worst thing that can be done to a person?What is freedom?When did you last lie?What is your view of lying?Do you keep your promises?Who is your hero?If you could save one person, who would it be?If you could ask for help from one person, who would it be?What is your favorite proverb?Do you believe in happy endings?What is happiness?What is your dream job?What do you like to spend money on?What is something you would never do?What is something you would do that might surprise people?Are you a leader, follower, or lone wolf?Would you trade ten years of your life for money/beauty/intelligence?

Conflict

How do you respond to a threat?Do you prefer fighting with your fists or using diplomacy?What is your kryptonite?Your house is burning down, and you can only save one thing. What is it?How do you view strangers?What do you love to hate?What are your phobias?What is your ideal weapon?Who do you most despise in the world?What do you do when you get angry?Who are your enemies? Why?You witness a victimless crime, what do you do?You’re at a bar, and someone spills your drink, what do you do?Are you a forgiving person?Is there anything in your past that you can’t forgive?

Lifestyle and Habits

What are your bad habits?What is your job?What do you think about your job?What other jobs have you had?What are your hobbies?What is your educational background?Would you describe yourself as intelligent?Do you have any specialist training?Are you ‘naturally talented’ at anything?Do/have you played a sport?What is your socioeconomic position?What is in your fridge?What is in your car?What kind of car do you drive?What is in your pocket?What is your most treasured possession?Do you keep anything under your pillow? Next to your bed?What are your eating habits?Do you have any allergies?What does your home look like?Minimalist or hoarder?Are you organized or disorganized?Are you forgetful or easily distracted?Right brain or left brain?What do you do first on the weekend?What do you do first on a weekday?What do you do on a Sunday afternoon?What do you do on a Friday night?Are you comfortable with technology?How do you like to celebrate your birthday?What do you think about when you can’t sleep?What keeps you up at night?What is your morning routine?If you could relive any day of your life, what would it be?

Interests

What is your favorite color?What is your favorite animal?What place would you like to visit the most?What is the most beautiful thing you have ever seen?What is your favorite song?What type of art do you prefer? (fine art, music, reading, film, etc.)What is your password?What is your favorite food?What is your favorite movie?What TV show can you just binge all day long?Who is your favorite musician?What is your favorite alcoholic drink?What is your favorite non-alcoholic drink?If you could have a superpower, what would it be?

Emotions and Spirituality

Who could be your guardian angel?Do you believe in the afterlife?What religion do you follow?Do you believe in heaven or hell?What do you think it’s like in heaven or hell?Are you superstitious?If you could be reincarnated, what would you like to be reincarnated as?What is your spirit animal?How would you like to die?What is your zodiac sign?What is your Chinese Horoscope?What is your motto or mantra for life?

Other

What would you dress up for on Halloween?What would you do if you won the lottery?If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would it be?Do you have any food allergies or sensitivities?

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

Creation Through Show

When I first started writing, I remember my fellow writers stressing that I needed to show and not tell. At the time, it was a foreign concept to me even though I had read tons of books and watched tons of movies. It’s like I had gone through life in some sort of zombie state as far as writing was concerned.

Years later, I absolutely understand the difference between showing an emotion and telling an emotion—both in films and in written form. I have a completely different appreciation for an authors ability to make a scene come alive in my mind and even make me feel what the characters are feeling. I love watching movies and seeing someone’s raw emotion so plainly on their face. This could be love, or it could be hate or longing or sadness. The unspoken emotions bring a sense of depth to movie.

The portrayal of emotions through books and movies is surely an art, especially if done well. It’s some thing that seems unique to humans many times. Occasionally, I will see the raw emotions in an animal’s eyes but even then it is uncanny because it feels human.

A gifted storyteller does more than simply tell us a story. They can paint a world and make characters come alive in our minds. They can take away the worries of today if only for a short while, and transport us to a place commanded only by the imagination.

Happy writing this week!

The Pumpkin Whisperer’s Paranormal-Scope

The Pumpkin Whisperer

Paranormal folk and creatures love the season and plan to celebrate too. As for pumpkins, it’s hard to choose. You might have to take all of them home.

While I am not qualified in any way to read neither stars nor 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:
Pumpkins love when people gather and help each other. It’s joyful to see. Consider helping out your community.

Taurus:
When pumpkins grow, networking is vital to their growth hence all the vines. Networking could help you grow too.

Gemini:
Pumpkins love fall activities. They’re biased. Get together with friends and do an autumn activity.

Cancer:
Pumpkin carving or painting is art. Share this experience with someone you love.

Leo:
Halloween may have become a holiday for giving candy but it can be more. Consider giving more to someone else. Pumpkins make good gifts.

Virgo:
Relaxation is vital at this time. You might enjoy a hayride or baking a pumpkin pie. Both are fun and the latter tastes warm and wonderful.

Libra
Decorating for Halloween can be relaxing, restorative, and an expression of creativity. The pumpkins recommend that you use lots of them in your design.

Scorpio:
Pumpkins in the pumpkin patch use vines to communicate. Visit those close to you and don’t be afraid to chat.

Sagittarius:
People love to spend money on costumes and decor to prepare for Halloween. Don’t split your pumpkin or your budget on this. Decide on a limit and stick to it.

Capricorn:
Tis the season of cornstalk labyrinths and pumpkin pies, but don’t spend too much. Relax a little, be yourself, and appreciate the small stuff.

Aquarius:
This is a time of transformation for you, just as summer turns to fall. Pumpkins see this a lot. Embrace the new experiences coming your way.

Pisces:
Pumpkins love lighting up the world. You can too. Pay attention to your health and get help if you need it. Feel better about yourself.

A special thank you to our little Pumpkin Whisperer who has taught us more about pumpkins than we knew possible.

Thank you 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!

EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback. More to come.
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 Amazons 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 Princess of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 2 available in Kindle and Kindle Unlimited!
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).

Writing Tools: Great Programs for Making Book Ads By Susan Hanniford Crowley

This sweet teen vampire romance set in New York City is available in Amazon Paperback and Kindle! https://www.amazon.com/EverWarm-Susan-Hanniford-Crowley/dp/B09MYRBDXK/

Why is one of my books against a rainy background? I’ll get to that. While today’s post is mostly for authors, there is a part that the general public can appreciate.

There are various ways to be published: traditional with advertising included, traditional without advertising, and self-published. If your publisher doesn’t include advertising, then it falls to you. Knowing when to do it yourself and not is key!

It is worth it to have professional editing and a cover artist do your book cover. Book covers are tricky things with the different possible sizes and spines. It’s worth the money to pay these people. My editor also formats. My book cover artist is now working on the cover for the sequel to EverWarm.

Now for the programs. I’m going to talk about All Author, DIY Book Covers, and Canva.

All Author https://allauthor.com/ has many uses. First, it is another place to sell your books, and if that’s what you want pay for a membership. I have a free membership there which gives me some creation tools to work with. I’m going to tell you about my favorite.

Once you get your book covers (ebook and print) from your artist, you will want them to make book cards/ads for promotion on social media. I love All Author’s Magic Tool. First, you upload the ebook cover into your account. Their free account allows you to have four loaded. Then I go to Magic Tool and it instructs how to put your cover on a mockup of a print book or tablet. It has free options, but a lot more if you are a member. What you want to make is the PNG of your book in either print, tablet, or both. This puts your book cover on a transparent background. Save all the different versions you make to your computer. These are promotion gold. All Author also has premade backgrounds for every day and seasonal that you can choose from. A few are free. Most are for members.

DIY Book Covers https://diybookcovers.com/3Dmockups/#tabBody1 does the same thing as Magic Tool in All Author. It is free!

I use both for making mockups of my books that I can drag onto a photo and make my book ad!

Now the one I love so much that I bought a professional membership in is Canva https://www.canva.com/ I upload my books in their new paperback or ebook mock forms and drag them to a background. Add text! Canva has truly a lot to choose from and I make a lot of what I call book cards for Pinterest, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and more. These can be used for ads too.

How did I make EverWarm’s book card/ad with the rainy day background?

I received the ebook cover from my cover artist.I used All Author’s Magic to make a paperback mockup in PNG so the background is transparent,I went on Canva, chose a background, dragged the uploaded mockup of my book, chose the Instagram size, and added text font to my words.

The key to getting good at this is practice. Visit the websites and play with their programs. I had a free account with Canva before paying for a membership.

For the public in general, there are loads of things you can make on Canva: flyers, resumes, birthday cards, bookmarks, newsletters, etc. Like I said check them yourself!

Go and enjoy the world. Remember there is always time to play!

Truly,

Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley

EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback. More to come.
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 Amazons 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 Princess of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 2 available in Kindle and Kindle Unlimited!
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).

Trust

If someone were to ask you what is the glue that holds this world together or what can tear us apart, what would you say? For me that’s easy, I’d say trust holds almost everything together and distrust can tear it apart.

Trust is interesting. It is so simple a word and so easy to understand, but to gain it can be so complex. I think of the stories I write and the books I read and how trust weaves itself into the characters’ relationships. I look around me and see just how trust plays out in my own relationships at work and at home.

When I think of some of the major issues in our world, much of it stems from a lack of trust. We see it between countries and we can see how it has spread widely in our society and into our politics. Without trust, progress grinds to a halt.

So what can we do? This is a hard one to answer. Individually, I believe we can only ask questions and be open to hearing answers, even if we don’t agree with or like them. We can also set our own expectations. Again, it doesn’t mean everyone else has to agree with them but we are being open and honest. That’s a foundation and you can build from there.

Happy writing this week and good luck building trust!

The Fireflies Are Gone Paranormal-Scope

Summer becomes autumn. The fireflies are gone. Well, not entirely. The larvae have emerged from their eggs. After feeding this next generation burrow underground or under tree bark. As for their parents, they’re gone. Their dancing lights were their last chance for love! For more about fireflies, check out https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/11-cool-things-you-never-knew-about-fireflies/

While I am not qualified in any way to read neither stars nor 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:
Fireflies turn on their love light. They are open to new beginnings. Are you? You will have the opportunities to renew former relationships with new energy or start anew.

Taurus:
Fireflies are all about passion and following your bliss. Take out projects you’ve put aside. One of them may become your current passion.

Gemini:
Fireflies know opportunities are a mere blink away. Keep your eyes open! Change can be good.

Cancer:
Fireflies don’t get the chance to decorate for the coming holidays. But you do. A pumpkin teapot there! A spooky pillow here. Before you know it you have cozied up your place.

Leo:
Fireflies are not really adventurous and don’t travel far. You’re different. Plan a weekend trip or relax and open a book. There’s an adventure on your horizon.

Virgo:
Fireflies act on instinct. We’re more than that. Spending is highlighted for you this week. Buy a few things then rein your shopping in.

Libra
Fireflies actively look for love in others. Self-care is important. Let go of the past. Indulge in relaxation. Love who you are.

Scorpio:
Fireflies enjoyed grouping together to create a light display. Getting together with friends is just the thing!

Sagittarius:
Firefly friends blink together. This week is great for making new friends. Go slow. Share only what is already public knowledge.

Capricorn:
Fireflies don’t need to network. They blink with friends they grew up with. On the other hand, networking can benefit you.

Aquarius:
Fireflies work hard at mating and laying eggs in the short span of their lives. You’ve been working hard. Why not take a fun vacation?

Pisces:
Fireflies love their loved ones. Plan a party for those close to you.

Thank you and be safe.

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

EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback. More to come.
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 Amazons 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 Princess of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 2 available in Kindle and Kindle Unlimited!
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).

Writing Tools: What You Write Will Be Important to Someone! By Susan Hanniford Crowley

Photo by Ender Ergu00fcl on Pexels.com

A few days ago, I was on Twitter. A young writer talked about receiving a remark from someone that writing a book is really not that big of an accomplishment. I wrote back to ignore that person. Later I went on to Tweet this:

Dear Writers, Most people in the world talk about writing a book. Few accomplish it. So if you have written a book right to “the end, ” it’s a HUGE accomplishment! On top of that, someone somewhere will NEED your book. It will make a difference. So write!

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In the movie 2012, Jon Cusak portrays an author whose book was published but seemingly didn’t go very far as he has boxes of his book in his hallway. Now he is a part-time chauffeur.

On a day when you feel bad about your writing as if you aren’t making the headway in your career you had dreamed of, watch 2012 all the way through. Yes, it’s a disaster film but for writers everywhere, there is gold. Don’t skip the end.

I know authors like gauge their success by reviews on Amazon. What do you do if your readers are shy and won’t post on Amazon? Be grateful for their comments wherever you get them-as you’re walking through a conference, via email, or on social media.

You never know when someone somewhere will read your book and it is exactly what you need. I know, and once you have the experience of knowing, you won’t stop writing. Being able to reach beyond ourselves through the written word is a gift.

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Go and enjoy your gift!

Truly,

Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley

EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback. More to come.
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 Amazons 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 Princess of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 2 available in Kindle and Kindle Unlimited!
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).

Dragons Soar Paranormal-Scope

Sweet Romance with tons of dragon adventure. Available in lots of places including Amazon in Kindle and Paperback.

This is dragon weather. They love it. This morning they rolled through the sky of misty and filmy rain. This week is for the dragons!

While I am not qualified in any way to read neither stars nor 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:
It is true. Not all but some dragons are hot-headed, flaming before they know all the facts. Some mystifying stuff is coming your way. Don’t react. Get more information.

Taurus:
Dragons take to the air when it’s invigorating. They are always health conscious. Consider getting a checkup.

Gemini:
Dragons love this season for storing food in caves and then going pumpkin hunting. They think jack-o-lanterns are funny. Get out and enjoy some autumn activities.

Cancer:
Dragons know that when other dragons roar because they are upset, it’s often better to say nothing at all. Listen and let them have their space to calm down. Consequently, it will be a quiet week and good for reading or binge-watching a tv show.

Leo:
The truth is dragons don’t care about money. Shapeshifters that use a dragon form do. Be careful where you put your money this week.

Virgo:
Dragons aren’t much for fashion, but it tickles them that humans change their wardrobe. Consider buying some new long-lasting classic clothes. Trendy gets old quick.

Libra
Dragons understand politics. Getting a better, more hidden cave goes to that dragon who is best connected. Be a quiet listener this week. Don’t share dark secrets with anyone. It will come back on you.

Scorpio:
Dragons know how to take care of themselves. When you are hurting you need your friends and family.

Sagittarius:
Some dragons have a helping heart. They are always helping someone else. Consider helping with a charity you are close to.

Capricorn:
Dragons know when to show their strength. It’s your time too. Focus on a project and give it your all.

Aquarius:
A dragon might move to leave the past behind. Funny how the past can follow you. This is your time to resolve past issues and let go.

Pisces:
Dragons love the time of the Fall Equinox because they can savor the harvest yet enjoy the coming winter. To them, it means a cozy cave with family and friends. Plan a together with those you love.

Thank you and be safe.

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

EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback. More to come.
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 Amazons 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 Princess of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 2 available in Kindle and Kindle Unlimited!
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).

Writing Tools: Keep Them Handy! By Susan Hanniford Crowley

Photo by Susan Hanniford Crowley – I was at the lake at the perfect moment.

Being a writer is more than pounding the computer every day and trying to think up great stuff. For one thing, amazing stuff happens all around us. Some of it, I admit is very loud. Some are so subtle so quiet, that it’s easy to miss. Sometimes a great story falls in your lap.

The Girl Guides (known as Girl Scouts in the US and some other countries) and the Boy Scouts have the slogan: Be Prepared.

That should be the slogan of every writer. Be prepared with the essential tools of your profession as a writer. Always be able to write things down. Robert Louis Stevenson said, “I kept always two books in my pocket, one to read, one to write in.”

We would like to think we will always have the laptop with us. Stuff happens. Why not have a notepad in your pocket so you can quickly jot down the event, the scene, and great dialogue.

The cell phone has become the witness of events in the world. Writers can use it too. I did when I was up at the lake and the mirror event happened. I was there to capture it. It may still show up in a book of mine. I recently talked about atmosphere. This is an example!

I always have a pen in my purse. Always. I know that inspiration hits suddenly and you need to get it down. Actually, I usually have two pens.

You are now all set to write in a non-tech environment.

2 small books, one to write in.2 pensCell phone for photo taking, since photos are still worth a thousand words.

You might be writing by the sea or a lake or in a park. Enjoy!

I know some of you will be writing in a coffee shop with great Wifi. First off, you don’t need that Wifi if you have a writing program resident on your laptop. Plus, always back up that laptop before you walk out the door.

What is my 2nd book? The Zombie Survival Guide by Max Brooks.

*
Go and enjoy writing!

Truly,

Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley

EverWarm for ages 13-113 is now available at Kindle and Amazon Paperback. More to come.
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 Amazons 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 Princess of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 2 available in Kindle and Kindle Unlimited!
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).