Susan Hanniford Crowley's Blog: From Nights of Passion Blog, page 35

September 14, 2022

For The Love Of…Character Questions Part 1 by Artemis Crow

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I recently read a Kindlepreneur article by Dave Chesson about building a character questions by asking questions; an interview, if you will. It’s lengthy so I’m breaking it into two posts: The most important questions, then a long list of other questions that you can use fully or pick and choose.

I do always ask and answer the four most important questions as they go to the great plot triangle, goal, motivation, and conflict. The longer list I utilize at times. I hope this helps you build the characters for your next story. November’s National Novel Writing Month perhaps?

* * *

The Most Important Questions  By  Dave Chesson

That list can be a bit overwhelming. So I thought I’d spend some time discussing the most important questions that you should know before you start writing your book.

And I’ve boiled it down to four essential questions:

1. What Do They Want Most?

Every character should start by wanting something more than anything. It can be living a peaceful life, it can be wanting to explore the wide world out there, it can be protecting someone, it can be finding revenge.

Whatever it is, they have to want it badly.

Desires are what motivate our characters, and they provide us with action and logic behind that action.

They can be especially enticing when pursuing those desires create conflict, the driving fuel behind any good story.

character’s motivation can change and evolve over the course of the novel. This may be in relation to our character flaw that we talk about below. Perhaps that person will realize that the thing they thought they wanted, wasn’t actually what they truly desired.

You’ll see this a lot in Hollywood. Pixar, for example, has got it down to a science.

Character wants something > they try to get it > they encounter challenges to their desires > those challenges help them understand the truth.

Combining that desire and change is a great way to create a satisfying character arc.

2. What Is Their Greatest Fear?

If your character wants something, there must be something else that stands in the way. In a satisfying character development arc, this is done by creating something that your character fears.

Fears create tension in the story, and they provide a superbly personal form of conflict for the character.

They also deepen a character’s backstory, giving us a more well-rounded look at what makes them tick.

If you create a situation where your character must confront their greatest fear to get what they want, you have just created one of the most memorable moments in the character’s development.

3. What is Their Greatest Flaw?

Let’s face it, no one is perfect. We all have some vice, a quirk, or a history we are not proud of.

Characters have these too, or at least, the good ones do.

When you give your character’s personality a flaw, you create internal conflict.

A flaw is a great place to start on your hero’s journey toward change. This is part of what makes a good story, watching the character overcome their flaws, and gain something in return, because that’s essentially what all of us go through.

The flaw in your character’s life will (and should) create problems (conflict). And by combining all three of these essential traits (desire, fear, flaw), you can create real depth to your character, and help chart their motivations when they encounter the situations you put them through.

4. What Is Their Character Type?

Each character has a character type that they usually fit into. This can be the role of protagonist, antagonist, mentor, love interest, etc.

The nature of this role will determine what questions you ask in your questionnaire, and help you get an idea of what kind of character they should be.

Why is your antagonist antagonizing? What causes your protagonist to take action? Why would the love interest be appealing to your protagonist?

In short, knowing your character type can help you determine what kind of person they are. It’s a great place to start.

May Your Words Flow Freely,

Artemis

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

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Published on September 14, 2022 21:00

September 13, 2022

A Raining Paranormal-Scope

[image error]Einar H. Reynis on Unsplash" data-medium-file="https://nightsofpassion.files.wordpre..." data-large-file="https://nightsofpassion.files.wordpre..." src="https://nightsofpassion.files.wordpre..." alt="" class="wp-image-27695" width="-31" height="-15" srcset="https://nightsofpassion.files.wordpre... 1024w, https://nightsofpassion.files.wordpre... 2048w, https://nightsofpassion.files.wordpre... 150w, https://nightsofpassion.files.wordpre... 300w, https://nightsofpassion.files.wordpre... 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" />Photo by Einar H. Reynis on Unsplash

With all the thundering, I couldn’t help but think of Thor. It is pouring rain where I am. We were having a drought. I hope it rains just enough to help and not flood. All creatures know what to do when it rains, even paranormal ones. Maybe there will be a rainbow.

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:
The Vampire loves taking a walk on rainy days. They don’t get wet but always use an umbrella so they look like everyone else. There are moments in life to be individual and moments to blend in. This is a blend-in and low-profile week.

Taurus:
The Mermaid comes to the surface to feel the rain. To her, the rain is relaxing and rejuvenating. Plan time to relax and relieve that stress you’ve been carrying.

Gemini:
Pegasus soars above the clouds. Soar above your troubles this week. Smile. Listen. But take the high road.

Cancer:
Aslan roars and seeks protection in a cave. Being king doesn’t mean you push others around. Sometimes you have to share a cave. Sharing is key for you this week. Not secrets but giving to charity.

Leo:
Faeries dance in the rain. They celebrate the nourishing of the plants. Honestly, they tend to celebrate everything. Find something to celebrate and just do it.

Virgo:
Pixies hide under leaves from the raindrops, but sometimes they get wet anyway. Consider starting a rainy day fund for those unexpected expenses.

Libra
On rainy days, Elves spend a lot of time with their books. Set aside a restful place to read what you enjoy.

Scorpio:
Gremlins like taking apart appliances but aren’t very good at putting them back together. Replace those appliances that are on their last legs.

Sagittarius:
Goblins are counting money. Big expenditures are coming up, so it’s time to save.

Capricorn:
Dragons can soar or spend time with those they love in a warm toasty cave. Come out of the rain. Get things done, and spend time with loved ones.

Aquarius:
Shapeshifters know when it’s not time to change. Be consistent this week with friends and family.

Pisces:
Werewolves can be very cuddly, but not when they’re all wet. It doesn’t matter in a pack. Plan time to get in touch with those dear to you. Your ‘pack’ is important.

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).

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Published on September 13, 2022 06:45

September 10, 2022

I Love This Movie! By Susan Hanniford Crowley

Many of you don’t know I was once a movie reviewer. I reviewed for a newspaper and also for a shopper publication. Sometimes I agree with the general public opinion rather than the critics’ view.

If you loved the original Ghostbusters, the odds are high that you’ll enjoy Ghostbusters: Afterlife. If you’re a big Ghostbusters fan, the odds are even higher that you’ll love this.

Ghostbusters: Afterlife has become my go-to favorite. I tend to like family and friends movies that are paranormal or supernatural.

I give it 5 *****. Even though this has been out for a while, I’m going to try not to include spoilers. Here are my reasons for loving this movie.

I love kids as heroes.I love nostalgia. I love legacy pieces. I think Mckenna Grace and Finn Wolfhard are top-notch young actors. You’ve seen Mckenna in Young Sheldon, as a young Sabrina in the Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, and lots of roles in TV and film. Finn is probably most recognizable for his role in Stranger Things. I love a heroic adventure. I enjoy an excellent ensemble cast. I really love action films.

A family who is down and out inherits a farm from an estranged grandfather, only to learn when they arrive that their new community thought he was strange and called him ‘dirt farmer.’ That’s all I’m willing to tell you.

I loved this movie and every time I see it, I find a piece I missed. When I feel down, I watch Ghostbusters: Afterlife and I feel better. There was even a part where I cried in a good way.

So go forth and watch this movie or another. Find your go-to movie.

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).

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Published on September 10, 2022 15:19

September 5, 2022

Creatures that Sing Paranormal-Scope

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Many of the creatures that sing paranormal qualities. What they are singing about is often a mystery but you can guess. Be aware the weather is changing again and affects all creation on the planet.

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:
Humpback whales sing to their kin over great distances. Get in touch with those closest to you. You may benefit from their advice on a subject that’s been weighing on you.

Taurus:
The chickadee has a song that sounds like its name. Indulge your creativity. Talk to others about it. Learn from others and get the word out about your talent.

Gemini:
The red-eyed tree frog is quite the crooner attracting mates. He’s wealthy with bugs. While he never counts his wealth, this is the time to get your finances in order.

Cancer:
The Pacific tree frog loves music. The alpha frog is the soloist, while other males sing backup. It’s time for you to step out front and conquer new challenges.

Leo:
The Katydid or longhorn grasshoppers sing their name to attract mates. They sing with their wings and hear with a space in their knees. Things are tough right now and people are sensitive about words. You will need to express yourself differently to ask for help.

Virgo:
The Antelope Squirrell sings when it feels threatened. Be calm and observe everything before making decisions.

Libra
Crickets are world famous for breaking their ice with a potential mate with their songs. If you feel tongue-tied this week meeting new people, then spend the time instead relaxing and alleviating stress.

Scorpio:
Mexican Free Bats can change their songs so mates don’t lose interest. Change up your life a bit. Take a class. Explore a favorite topic. Avoid those who gossip.

Sagittarius:
Wood Mice sing but the pitch is too high for humans to hear. Spend time with those you cherish. They will hear you.

Capricorn:
The New Guinea Singing Dog loves to sing. Now is not your time to sing your praises. People are in a bad mood that has nothing to do with you. Keep a low profile.

Aquarius:
Because Cheetahs have a differently shaped thyroid bone they chirp instead of roar. Don’t roar this week. People may misunderstand. Work on self-improvement instead.

Pisces:
Orcas (Killer Whales) not only have their own songs but can imitate others. They can even say hello and bye-bye in imitation of humans. They are so creative, and so are you. Put renewed efforts into your creative projects.

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).

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Published on September 05, 2022 09:31

September 4, 2022

It’s Eat An Extra Dessert Day! By Susan Hanniford Crowley

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Most special holidays are off my radar. I’m never in time to get a free donut or extra hot dog. But I found out about this day just in time.

No one knows when this holiday started or who started it. In researching it, I found a delightful and inspiring article on https://nationaltoday.com/eat-an-extra-dessert-day/

I can’t think of anything that tickles me more than an extra piece of pie, cake, or cookie. Ice Cream dates back to 3,000 B.C. But my question would be: How many flavors would they have?

My favorite dessert is pecan pie. Let’s celebrate Eat An Extra Dessert Day!

What is your favorite dessert?

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).

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Published on September 04, 2022 09:57

September 1, 2022

For The Love Of…World Letter Writing Day by Artemis Crow

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This information was found on the website, National Today! https://nationaltoday.com/world-letter-writing-day/

In the age of computers and cell phones, letter writing seems increasingly rare. But there is art and a personal touch to taking pen to paper to communicate. Today is a celebration of that form of conveying messages about our lives, our loves, our hopes. Be not afraid to write a letter today, the first day of the first of the ‘ber months of 2022!

From National Today:

Are you ready to celebrate World Letter Writing Day on September 1? If yes, now is the time to pick up a pen and pour out your feelings on a piece of paper. Yes, writing something down may seem like a peculiar idea in this day and age, but it will definitely be one of the most interesting things you have done in a long time. The letter can be a love letter, one filled with anger, or even one simply written to create memories. All you have to do is write it, and hand it over to the one it is addressed to. So grab your pen and get started!

HISTORY OF WORLD LETTER WRITING DAY

The day was founded by Australian author, artist, and photographer Richard Simpkin, who adores writing handwritten letters. It all started when he began writing to individuals he considered as Australian Legends, and also received their responses! In 2005, his experience in writing letters to legends made it possible for him to publish the book “Australian Legends.” In the book, he paid a tribute to the art of writing letters and looked back at how it changed everything for him. To further honor handwritten letters, he created the World Letter Writing Day in 2014. He also holds letter-writing workshops in schools to promote the art.

Letter writing itself has existed for centuries and was present in ancient Egypt and Greece times. At that point though, letters were written on materials such as metal, lead, wax-coated wooden tablets, pottery fragments, animal skin, and papyrus. Earlier in the 17th and 18th centuries, letters were merely used to send information, specific news, information, or greetings. Others used letters to exchange ideas and formulate critical thinking regarding particular subjects. This is why several letters gathered from the past serve as an archive of personal and diplomatic interactions for historians. They are even used to determine how many events in history played out.

From thereon, letters became an art form and stood out as a genre of literature. Things changed a great deal when postal services were created and people started using letters for personal interaction. In fact, during times of war, letters were the only way families and lovers could stay in touch.

Do you write letters? If not, give it a try!

May Your Words Flow Freely,

Artemis

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

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is bookcover6x9_cream_380-front-cover-only.jpgLyon’s Roar – https://amzn.to/2IBThis image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is 5mb-leonas-descent-b-purchased-spot-healed-2.jpgLeona’s Descent – https://amzn.to/2yaDfjWThis image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is limboa-2-6x9-copy-1.jpgLibra’s Limbo – https://amzn.to/2q3VkNgThis image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is leonas-cage-6x9bloodhigh-saturation.jpgLeona’s Cage – https://amzn.to/2QTbVypThis image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is ga-cover-lightened.jpg

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Published on September 01, 2022 03:06

August 30, 2022

Complexity of Love

I have a friend who is getting married soon. I have had many friends get married over the years and my own wedding happened near 20 years ago. Gosh how the times have changed. Listening to her describe everything involved with planning her wedding, it’s astounding. Once again, we have somehow managed to make this special act extremely complicated and very costly.

It is sad to see someone debate on being able to share this special day with friends and family or simply running off to elope due to frustration. Weddings these days are a whole production and quite a daunting investment of time and money.

When I think of all of the lovely romance novels we read and how we tend to focus on love stories in general, I can’t help but reflect on how much of the happily ever after is dependent on what happens after the wedding. Marriage is tough. Love at the beginning May not be complex, but the tests along the way will surely change this.

So what is one to do? Only each one of us can answer what is right for ourselves. Still, I would say to choose what feels good. We don’t get married to put on a production for the world, it is a celebration of a special union and one that you hope lasts a lifetime.

Happy writing this week!

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Published on August 30, 2022 21:37

August 29, 2022

Take Flight Paranormal-Scope

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Many of the creatures that fly have paranormal qualities. We just get to know them and they fly off. They definitely carry an air of mystery about them.

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:
Some people consider cardinals to be angelic visitors to tell you that someone you loved that has departed is thinking of you.

Taurus:
Robins keep an eye on the worm. Self-wellness is important to them. They know when to take a break and just sing. Consider scheduling in some rest time.

Gemini:
Swans are enjoying that last bit of summer. Do the same.

Cancer:
Owls see everything. Sadly, we do not. What is great news for one person, may be bad news for another. Take care with her interactions with others this week.

Leo:
Nightingales are attracted to safe people and places. Do a safety check of your home and car.

Virgo:
Sparrows appear humble but they are capable of great things. New opportunities are coming your way.

Libra
Eagles fly high. You can fly high also but be gentle with words this week. People are fragile.

Scorpio:
It is said that Ravens can read minds. But you can’t. Share and communicate with those important to you.

Sagittarius:
Ducks share with their mates but don’t share the hurtful words of others. It’s a good habit. Keep it in mind.

Capricorn:
The Osprey loves to eat fish. Take a serious look at your nutrition and health.

Aquarius:
The Woodpecker loves trees by eating the bugs on them. He hears them before he sees them. Be a good listener to others. It will benefit you.

Pisces:
The Gold Finch is a bird of good fortune. You have been budgeting your money, saving to your benefit. Spend some time 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).

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Published on August 29, 2022 13:40

August 28, 2022

Writing Tools: Atmosphere

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I am still in edits but I am pausing to talk to you about the importance of atmosphere in a story.

I placed a photo of lit Christmas trees as an example. Some people would see these trees and think of joy, togetherness, and a sense of peace. For others, they would think they don’t have their gift shopping done. Others, still get depressed as they think of being alone and all the people they missed or are gone.

Feelings are different for each person. Be aware of that in your writing.

In my book EverWarm, I start with my heroine looking in a decorated store window based on The Nutcracker ballet. She loves the animated ballerinas and it takes her back to a loving home before her life as a street kid.

I created the atmosphere of the decorated holiday window and her feelings about it. That began the story. Here is an excerpt to show you how I created the atmosphere.

*

For Maeve, every moment on the streets was about two things: where she could find food and a safe warm place to sleep. But today she stood in a crowd transfixed by one of the many Christmas display windows. She allowed herself this time to just be sixteen in New York City. 

The faces of the tiny ballerinas were painted perfectly, each different, unique. The only thing they shared was that they lived in a sugar plum village and performed a synchronized dance. There were toy soldiers and other fantasy characters in the window, but she stood entranced, remembering when she was five and her mother gave her a ballerina doll. A tear rolled down her cheek and she turned away from the sweet memory.  

*

Mike Harris pulled his peacoat tighter and slipped his hands into his gloves. Even though the wind rushed through him with its fierce cold, he did not move from his space in the crowd. She was here again today. 

As much as he admired the perfect art of the automated figures in the store window, he admired her more. 

For the last few days, Mike had stopped by this window to watch the tiny flawless ballerinas pirouetting in their sugar plum world, all glistening beneath swirling snowflakes.

The girl had her own perfection in his mind with her bright green eyes and soft cinnamon red hair topped by a green wool hat with a white pom. While he didn’t understand her choice of the red plaid coat, he respected it. Looking so pretty and sweet, she watched the figures moving in the window and never once looked his way. 

Mike guessed she was around his age. Moving around the woman beside him to get closer, he summoned his courage. Today he would talk to her. He moved again. 

*

The purpose of atmosphere is to allow readers to get to know the main character or characters (if a couple) and have a bit of insight as to how they feel and any big problem they have to overcome.

For those interested, EverWarm is available at Amazon in Paperback and Kindle. It’s a sweet romance/YA paranormal novel. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09MPPTVS5/

Now you know how to create atmosphere. Where is the main character?

Physical locationWeatherFeelingsMemories brought on by locationOvershadowing of a continual problem

Go and enjoy writing. For me, I will be watching a movie about a boy who lives in a cupboard under the stairs. A woman unlocks and bangs on his door. Another boy stomps on the stairs so the sawdust falls on the first boy’s head. Laughs. I just gave another example of atmosphere.

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).

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Published on August 28, 2022 08:10

August 23, 2022

We Make Mistakes

This summer, my house smells like a playground. I can tell you that this is not very easy place to get work done. Still, when you have young kids like I do, you can easily see how one friend turns to two friends and then three friends and then for friends and so on. Next thing you know, you feel like more of a babysitter than anything else.

Having spent the summer around so many kids is a reminder that we are constantly learning and making mistakes. Don’t get me wrong, we are constantly learning and making mistakes as adults but the learning is deeper and the mistakes are usually bigger and therefore not as frequent—thank goodness. Kids, however, are still finding their way true even the most some full of situation and therefore, they tend to make little mistakes frequently. It’s all part of the learning process.

I do believe that the reactions from both adults and kids as we make mistakes are similar. The main difference is that as adults, we know when our mistakes are going to cost us a bit more whereas kids haven’t really felt this out. At times, I could see it in their faces—the concern that they had done something irreparable. But most everything has a solution, doesn’t it? Even if it means pondering it for a while.

The lesson? Mistakes are natural. They are big and they are small. Some come at a greater cost than others but there usually is some sort of solution and life moves on.

Happy writing this week!

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Published on August 23, 2022 21:36

From Nights of Passion Blog

Susan Hanniford Crowley
Susan Hanniford Crowley is the founder of Nights of Passion Blog, a romance blog shared with four other romance authors that explore a variety of topics on life, romance writing and the writing craft ...more
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