Susan Hanniford Crowley's Blog: From Nights of Passion Blog, page 62

Love to Heal

Another Valentine’s Day gone by as we roll further into 2021. This Valentine’s Day I indulged in chocolates and I have to say they were amazing, but they weren’t a replacement of everything important.

So what do I mean by this statement? Well, Valentine’s Day is usually a day of celebrating love and most years this means a nice restaurant or pizza and wine with the hubby. This year though, I couldn’t help but focus on the other types of love out there and our friends and family we’ve missed dearly. In writing romance novels, I’ve also focused more on well… the romance between a couple, but love really is so much more.

Love is what binds couples, families, friends and sometimes strangers. In this past year, we’ve been forced in many ways to stay away from those we love. It’s been hard and as we come out of this pandemic or begin to get vaccinated it feels as if there is finally a light at the end of the tunnel even if the tunnel is quite long.

So where am I going with this? I’m saying it’s important to let ourselves heal. We’ve gone through a rough year— some more so than others. Yes we’ve got to climb out of this economically but we also need to recover emotionally and love in its many forms is a big part of that. So as corny as it sounds, let it happen.

Happy writing this week!

Shuffling Through the Snow Paranormal-Scope

We will not let the continuous snow let us down. That doesn’t deter paranormal creatures from making their rounds. They are there when we least expect it.

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 purposes only and is not meant to guide your life by.

Aries:
Unicorns are drawn to love. You are going to find more love in your life. Keep your eyes and heart open to it.

Taurus:
Dragons like to help others even if it’s just a chat or doing something creative that can be shared like a song, art, writing, etc.

Gemini:
Winged horses love to soar and roll through the sky, but no matter how much fun they’re having, they know when to rest. Napping rejuvenates the body.

Cancer:
Werewolves like to share in the household chores when they are not rolling on the floor. Show appreciation for those close to you.

Leo:
Aslan is large, in-charge, and soft-spoken. Someone will share something with you that will make your day. Hold onto that joy!

Virgo:
Shapeshifters staying in shape. Check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.

Libra:
Gnomes enjoy decorating and beautifying their home sometimes with art. Try your hand at painting and drawing.

Scorpio:
Leprechauns are very busy making fairy gold. Your job is about to become very busy. Heads up!

Sagittarius:
Goblins will be your friend if you give them mayonnaise. Consider some healthy choices for your meals.

Capricorn:
Elves are committed to their work. They love to focus and get things done. This will work for you too. 

Aquarius:
Pixies have a maniacal laugh. Watch some funny movies and laugh more.

Pisces:
Faeries love intricate projects. Such a project on a subject you love could make you happy in the long run.

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

New: The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 is now available in Amazon Print and Kindle, Nook, Kobo, Apple, Walmart ebooks, and 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!
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).

 

 

Thank You By Susan Hanniford Crowley

Photo by Jon Tyson on Unsplash

I know people have been aware that I’ve been scarce lately especially in social media. I’m working on the editing and production end of a new novel. My editor, cover artist, and I are working full tilt.

Thank you to Artemis and Toni for their devotion to this blog.

I want to thank the readers of Nights of Passion Blog for their support and readership. I want to thank my readers who have been waiting patiently for the new book. As soon as I have a cover, you will see it first.

All the best,
-Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley, Amazon Kindle Bestselling Author of Vampire Romance
www.susanhannifordcrowley.com
Where love burns eternal and whispers in the dark!

New: The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 is now 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!
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).

 

For The Love Of…Finding Your Confidence by Artemis Crow

“Stay afraid, but do it anyway. What’s important is the action. You don’t have to wait to be confident. Just do it and eventually the confidence will grow.” —Carrie Fisher

I so love this quote. We all have fears; it seems to be a condition of life. Fears about survival, fears about worth, fears about not being able to see the road ahead and thus not being able to control the path we’re on. But most, if not all, fears you can do something to address. Some you learn to overcome, others you realize aren’t important, some are valid and need to be addressed often.

For me the toughest is the little voice in my head that says, “You can’t do this. You can’t write stories that anyone will want to read.” It can be crippling if you let it, and for so many writers it does stop them from writing their stories and releasing them into the world.

That fear slowed me down for years. That awful feeling of knowing you’re in the tunnel, but unable to see any light at the other end to guide you through. Fearing that no will understand what you’re trying to say because you didn’t say it well enough.

That’s why Carrie’s quote means so much to me. When I’m struggling with a storyline, when I can’t figure out the next scene, or the next, I remember what she said and I plow through, finding my stride and the scene’s point along the way.

Whatever it is you’re trying to do, or say, or be, do it. Do it now and push through the fear until you have written or painted or crafted or have discovered yourself. Give yourself permission to follow the path that frightens you the most until you find that you no longer fear the next step, or the next bend, or the patches of shadowy doubt that threaten to suck you in.

Step by step, keep moving through the fear until the only companion you have by your side is your confidence.

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

Were-Puppies Paranormal-Scope

Were-puppies have taken over Nights of Passion. They are cute, fun, and just want to play ball.

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 purposes only and is not meant to guide your life by.

Aries:
Were-puppies know just what to do to help a person feel better. A friend is going to need your help.

Taurus:
Were-puppies are loving and dear. If you’re feeling love for someone dear to you, let them know.

Gemini:
Were-puppies understand when it’s been a hard week. Make allowances for others that are suffering stress.

Cancer:
When a ball appears out of nowhere, were-puppies will chase it. Expect the unexpected this week. Opportunities to move forward will arise.

Leo:
Were-puppies know that when the unexpected happens, roll like a ball. Try not to take things personally.

Virgo:
Someone says hotdogs and were-puppies come running. Make yourself a wonderful healthy meal. Think of what foods make you feel better and put them on the grocery list.

Libra:
Were-puppies love to sing. Play your music more often and sing along. Lighten your mood with song.

Scorpio:
Were-puppies love art projects. Leave paints out and you’re sure to get some colorful pawprints. Indulge in a hobby that makes you happy.

Sagittarius:
Were-puppies bark at each other when they want to play. Call a friend and catch up!

Capricorn:
Were-puppies can get all lovey. Share your love with others close to you.

Aquarius:
Were-puppies often encourage their siblings to explore. Chat with someone close and be supportive of their dreams.

Pisces:
Were-puppies will eat too much if you’re not careful! You be careful too. Overindulging can make you ill and cancel your plans.

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

New: The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 is now available in Amazon Print and Kindle, Nook, Kobo, Apple, Walmart ebooks, and 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!
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).

 

 

Winner of the Contest to Celebrate Nights of Passion’s Birthday By Susan Hanniford Crowley

Shabby Chic Paris Pendant by thependantemporium on Etsy

I want to thank everyone who entered my contest. Be sure to subscribe so you will know about future events and giveaways.

The winner this time is Jill. Congratulations, Jill! Watch for my email.

Happy St. Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, and All Hearts Day!

All the best,
-Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley, Amazon Kindle Bestselling Author of Vampire Romance
www.susanhannifordcrowley.com
Where love burns eternal and whispers in the dark!

New: The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 is now 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!
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).

 

Nocturnal Paranormal-Scope

Photo by Simone Scholten on Unsplash

If you are looking for the contest, scroll down past the paranormal-scope and you’ll find it.

Nocturnal creatures are visiting the Paranormal-Scope. Let’s see what lurks around at night. You might want to stay in bed. Giggles.

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 purposes only and is not meant to guide your life by.

Aries:
Vampires have long spread the rumor they only come out at night. They use sunblock. May your sunlit days be filled with fun and productivity.

Taurus:
Owls hide their wisdom and their keen eyesight. They see things crystal clear. You have a gift of seeing things that others don’t.

Gemini:
Were-geckos are usually quiet and more spiritually minded, unlike the one selling insurance. Consider keeping a journal of your experiences.

Cancer:
Ghouls tend to prefer dead things, so make a lot of noise. Sing. Dance. Be merry and you’ll chase any ghoul away.

Leo:
Were-mice whisper and keep secrets before scampering away in the dark. An old secret is coming to light. Be prepared.

Virgo:
Bats love to take wing at sunset. Traveling is in their blood. Consider planning a vacation once the pandemic is over.

Libra:
Werewolves love the moon and cookies. Baking can be a fun hobby. Expand your recipe collection.

Scorpio:
Were red foxes love to play. Playing is healthy and fun. Look at your many choices for playing and relaxing.

Sagittarius:
Nine-Banded Armadillos leave their homes at twilight to look for takeout food. Cook something you’ve never tried before.

Capricorn:
Were-cougars are on the prowl. Schedule in some me time as a reward for your good work.

Aquarius:
Were-raccoons like hanging with family and friends. Be sure to keep in touch with those you love.

Pisces:
Were flying squirrels are very small, almost unnoticeable.  No matter how small, an achievement is worth celebrating!

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

New: The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 is now available in Amazon Print and Kindle, Nook, Kobo, Apple, Walmart ebooks, and 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!
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).

 

 

Contest to Celebrate Nights of Passion’s Birthday By Susan Hanniford Crowley

Shabby Chic Paris Pendant by thependantemporium on Etsy

This Shabby Chic Paris Pendant is 1 inch in diameter and the silver-tone chain is 24 inches long.  It is a stunning pendant. I chose this pendant this year to honor my book – Vampire Princess of New York. The main character is Noblesse, who originally came from France.  Half the book is also set in Paris.

February 14th is the birthday of Nights of Passion Blog. To celebrate, I am giving away this beautiful pendant to one lucky commenter. All you have to say is why you want to win it in the comment box here.

Comments close on Feb. 13 at 11 p.m. The winner will be posted on this blog on Sunday, February 14th. The contest is void where prohibited by law. Good luck.

All the best,
-Susan
Susan Hanniford Crowley, Amazon Kindle Bestselling Author of Vampire Romance
www.susanhannifordcrowley.com
Where love burns eternal and whispers in the dark!

New: The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 is now 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!
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).

 

For The Love Of…Taking a Day by Artemis Crow

You know what I mean. We’ve all had those days when, from the moment you wake up until your head hits the pillow, nothing goes right. Or, despite consuming enough coffee to jitter your way down the hall like a pogo stick, you can barely find the energy to walk across the house. 

The causes of this could fill a notebook: depression, too little sleep, allergy attack (me raising a hand and limply waving it), stress of all kinds, etc. A combination of any or all… The solutions range just as widely, basically from person to person because we are unique. 

I’m not a doctor, nurse; I have no medical training. So this post isn’t going to be a serious discussion of that which I do not know. Instead, I’m offering the broad stroke advice of taking a day.

This morning, I had an allergy attack. Sneezing and sniffling and coughing and sinus headache; oh, what a joy it was not. Not severe enough to need an Epipen, but bad enough that I had to take allergy medicine I usually reserve for night because it makes me sleepy. So I climbed back in bed and blew my nose with the tissue equivalent of a tree branch, floating in the no-man’s-land of too tired to do anything, but too awake to actually sleep.

Why, you ask? Because I couldn’t make my brain stop running the infinite loop of worry about not writing, not plotting the next book, or continuing my study of advertising so I can get my books in front of readers. I just couldn’t shut it down to rest. That’s when I told myself it was okay to take a day for myself. To rest, watch a movie if I wanted to, snuggle with my dogs, doze.

With the past year we’ve had, I think it’s particularly important that we give ourselves permission to take a day and tune out. What makes you relax? Do it. What gives you joy? Pursue it. How many deep breathes do you need to let it all go? Huff and puff until you figure that out.

Give yourself the gift of taking a day when you need it, without guilt or apologies. *off to go blow my nose*

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

It’s Okay Not to Know it All

My husband and I have this conversation often—the one about feeling like a fraud. I’m not talking about in some sort of criminal sense but more like in the sense that we are adults and as adults we should know things. We are experts in our fields of study and again, we should therefore know things. The truth is while we do know things, we certainly don’t know everything, but you know what? Neither does everyone else.

Now, I’m not saying we are all a bunch of dummies. I’m just saying that learning for many if not most of us, is never complete. We will never know everything and this doesn’t make each of us frauds. It makes us humans, constant students of life.

This is important to remember because we live in a world full of pressures and measures and each time we fall short, we tend to get mad. We don’t deserve this and it certainly doesn’t help us move forward. So the next time you want to criticize yourself for not knowing something or not meeting s goal, try to praise yourself for what you do know or what you have achieved. It will help you grow.

Happy writing this week!