Susan Hanniford Crowley's Blog: From Nights of Passion Blog, page 66

Those Wonderful Elves Paranormal-Scope

[image error] Photo by Kenan Kitchen on Unsplash

Elves come in all shapes and sizes and differ from country to country. Some are generous and some have wicked ways. Not all make cookies. I’m am suspicious of the elf in the Christmas tree that just stares.

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:
Elves of the Golden Wood love painting and writing. Explore your creative side. Delight in it for your own sake. You don’t have to share it with the world if you don’t want to.

Taurus:
Elves are solitary by nature and only gather when there is a purpose to it. This can be a time for self-reflection and indulging in all your favorite things.

Gemini:
Elves of the North choose their daily tasks with care. We tend to overload ourselves. Balance your work. Put somethings on another day.

Cancer:
Elves of the highlands could daydream all day and get no work done. Planning a vacation is fun, but don’t let it get in the way of completing your work.

Leo:
Meadow elves dance and delight in music. Play your music more often and sing along or dance. It’s healthy.

Virgo:
High elves are spiritually-minded. Turn to what you believe in and spend some time studying it.

Libra:
Santa elves are workaholics. Don’t do that to yourself. Build in some relaxation time and enjoy life.

Scorpio:
The elves in the valley know that when the wind blows, you save your money. Create a gift-giving budget and try to stay within it.

Sagittarius:
Some elves look like beautiful humans. A magical gift is bestowed by their smile. Draw a smile on your mask to uplift those around you.

Capricorn:
Elves cherish their ancient ones. Get in contact by phone, email, Facetime, Zoom, etc., and tell the people you love that you love them.

Aquarius:
Elves of the West listen to the sounds of the world. Listen to the world around you to learn what you might not have known.

Pisces:
Elves of the South are all about theatrical entertainment. Plan a movie night and don’t forget the snacks.

-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 available in Amazon Print and Kindle!  Now in Nook, Kobo, 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 and Smashwords and iBooks (on Apple devices).
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Extend Your Daydreaming with An Excerpt by Susan Hanniford Crowley

As Artemis was discussing, even though we may be travel restricted there’s no reason we can’t think of all the places we’d like to be. My list is actually very similar to her, except adding on Japan (Studio Ghibli in particular), Hawaii, and some alternate historical time periods. When I daydream I don’t limit myself to physical places.

Why not daydream inside a book? I invite you to the alternate history of Victorian England and inside Mrs. Bright’s Tea Room! This is a world of dirigibles, and you are about to visit a lavender dirigible of infamous repute. Here’s an excerpt.

*

A heavy hand knocked on the door.  Goshev.  “My dear, why don’t you go into the bedroom, and I’ll meet you once I have concluded my business.  I believe we’ll make an arrangement that will be mutually agreeable.”  The knock came again in a more insistent fashion.  He lifted her off his lap and patted her bottom.  “Now off with you.”

Euthalia scurried into the bedroom and shut the door.  

The Russian’s impatience infuriated him.  Travers crossed the floor and opened the door.  Goshev pushed past him.  The captain locked the door against any disturbances.  Then he saw the bedroom door slightly ajar.

“Travers, I have something for sale; your queen would be interested.”  The Russian headed for the table and with a sweep of his arm crashed the tea service to the floor.

The captain shook his head. What a terrible waste, and Travers hated wasting anything.  He stood silent as his informant spread a rolled up paper across the table.  When he caught sight of the revealed plans, a burn spread through his gut. The blueprints for the Britannia, her majesty’s new air ship, the flagship of her fleet, revealed in all its glory.

“Where did you get this?”

“I cannot reveal my sources.”

Seeing Goshev’s tight-lipped expression, Travers knew the queen was betrayed at the highest level.  What puzzled him most was why the Russian would reveal this to him?

“Well, will you buy?”

“I must examine it for authenticity first.”  Travers leaned over it.  He was stalling for time.  Of course, the plans were worthless to him, since the Russians had already seen them.  On the other hand, the name of Goshev’s informant had the highest value.

A flash caught his eye.  He turned fast enough to see Euthalia plunge a crochet hook through the Russian’s neck, a dagger dropping from his hand.  He turned blue, grabbing at his throat, and making a hideous gurgling sound.

“What?”

“Goshev?  Goshev?”  Two distinct voices shouted from the other side of the door.

“It appears Goshev didn’t come alone.”  He rolled up the plans and stuffed them into his jacket.

Two men continued yelling and then pounding on the door, as if to push it in.

With his arm snuggly wrapped around Euthalia, he ran to the window.

“What are you doing?”  She squirmed, pushing at him.

“We’re leaving.”

“I don’t have to leave.  He tried to kill you!”  She wiggled and he tightened his grasp.

Throwing the window wide open, he jumped to the window seat.  “My dear. Hmpf.”  He adjusted his grip on her.  “Your life is forfeit. Crochet hook in the neck.  Need I say more?”

“Let me go!”  She squeaked; her entire body trembled against him.

“No!”  He kissed her on the forehead.  “Now be a good girl and hold on.”  Fearing she would get away, he jumped through the window into the darkening sky and aimed for one of the ropes that fluttered around the airship.   

Travers caught one with his free arm and eased them both onto a thin railing below their room’s level.  Then came the hardest and most delicate task of moving from rope to railing and back again.

*

Mrs. Bright’s Tea Room is available in Kindle at https://www.amazon.com/Mrs-Brights-Room-Tales-Book-ebook/dp/B00M4U4TKG

Books can carry us away for a bit and change our perspective on life. The worlds between the pages of books are an invitation to travel in your imagination. 

Have fun and stay safe.

-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 available in Amazon Print and Kindle!  Now in Nook, Kobo, and Smashwords.
Vampire Princess of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 2 available in Kindle!
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 and Smashwords and iBooks (on Apple devices).
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For The Love Of…Dreaming of Traveling Again by Artemis Crow

Ah, COVID, you are a true party pooper. The world is locking down again as the cold weather drives us inside to sneeze and cough on one another. Lovely. *heavy sarcasm*

And with the number of our at-risk family, there’s no possibility for us to visit them for the holidays. Sooo, rather than put on a poopy face and think about what I’m missing, I decided to regale you with my thoughts about where we’ll go when COVID has gone the way of the Dodo…or at least until we beat it back enough to fly far, far away.

I have so many places I want to see before I’m so old that my carry-on is packed full solely with Depends diapers to get me through the flight. Not that there’s anything wrong with Depends, they are a godsend. It’s just after years of having to fill a carry-on with feminine products when I traveled, it would be nice to, say, have room for my e-reader, or some tissues, or a snack instead of the modern day versions of chastity belts for the maid and mother, or the crone.

Anyhoo, on to the topic at hand and away from the bane of men’s existence. Travel, ah, yes, those were the days. You could plan an extended trip to some exotic land, or get a wild hair and jet off at a moment’s notice to Las Vegas for its version of exotic. Which for the rpice is a great alternative with the added bonus of the old saying, “What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.”

I mean really, you don’t hear the Scots say, “Whatever happens when you eat the haggis, goes back in the haggis.” Nope, just doesn’t have the same ring.

For this blog I thought I’d share some of the destinations I’d like to see after our lives return to some semblance of normalcy. If you’re so inspired, share where you’d like to go in the comments!

First, in light of the aforementioned Depends issue, I’m thinking I should start my days around the world by flying to the farthest place I’ve dreamed off: New Zealand.

Lord of the Rings country, or the Land of Mordor as my editor calls it, is a country I’ve wanted to see for a long time. Scotland was at the top of my list and my hubby kindly let me drag him off on out first international trip together (outside of the Bahamas, which technically is another country, but it’s within spitting distance of the US so it doesn’t feel the same).

I want to do the full on LOTR tours, I want to climb the mountains and gaze upon the jaw-dropping vistas. I want to play in the clear waters of the Pacific and see the land and aquatic wildlife that abounds there. I’d also like to meet my editor face-to-face and give her a great big bear hug as thanks for her patience. Or maybe, no bear hug, if that’s not her jam…

And since we’d already be at the opposite side of the world, I’d like to go on to Australia and wander. Do a walk about. See all the wonderful, unusual, and frankly, deadly creatures that I’ve only seen in documentaries and in magazines. There is such beauty and splendor, such uniqueness to both countries that I’d love to explore.

Where else? Definitely, Italy. My FIL’s family is from Sicily, and he was stationed in Italy when my husband was a boy. I want to see all the famous sights, I want to drive along the Amalfi coast, stopping to eat in small cafes that are perched above the beautiful sea. I want to see Sicily, I want to see it all, truth be told.

I want to go to Iceland and walk the starkly beautiful landscape, soak in the stunningly colored hot springs.

I want to spend time in England, Wales and Ireland.

Oh, heck, there are few places I don’t want to visit, though I do have a list.

We are living in a strange and difficult time, no doubt. To mitigate some of the stress, I daydream about these places and others, and plan.

So spill, my friends! Where do you plan to go in the future? 

May your words flow freely,

Artemis

www.artemiscrow.com

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

Lyon’s Roar – https://amzn.to/2IB







Leona’s Descent – https://amzn.to/2yaDfjW







Libra’s Limbo – https://amzn.to/2q3VkNg







Leona’s Cage – https://amzn.to/2QTbVyp

Important Lessons

These days, I like everyone else, am binge watching Netflix, Prime, Vudu, HBO, etc. I try to limit it somewhat; otherwise my family and I will come out of quarantine twice our size and lacking in muscle mass, but each day that effort gets a bit more difficult to put forth, especially as the days grow colder.

This week we watched Rise of the Planet of the Apes. I’ve seen this movie before but love it for the many lessons it teaches us. What lessons you ask? Where do we start… Never underestimate those around you, don’t punish others for being different, Try to understand what others may be feeling… I could keep going. But perhaps the reason these lessons resonated so much this time around is that I couldn’t help but think of how much these lessons would help us during these current times if we would be open to them.

I am not going to get political here but I am going to admit a pride in this country. The United States of America is far from perfect, but there is something about Americans coming together— in times of struggle or need or disaster. We are a passionate people, possessing innovative minds and warm hearts. My wish for the future s that we remember this and we recall the rights and wrongs we committed over time, so that they may guide us forward.

Happy writing this week!

Sweet Magical Winter Creatures Paranormal-Scope

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Sweet magic creatures are seldom seen but when they are, it is to help make things better. Very much like that dog is making his tongue feel better on a hot day with an ice cream cake.

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:
Snow faeries dance among falling snowflakes. They make it a magical experience, so that you may forget your worries for a time. Don’t be hard on yourself.

Taurus:
Were otters play in the waves enjoying the company of family and friends. Try to balance your attention to work with your attention to loved ones,

Gemini:
Were cardinals are preparing for winter. They are very clear with their mates on what they need to survive. Have open and honest communications with those you hold dear.

Cancer:
Were hares are all about building the perfect burrow and family. Look around your home and consider what would make it more cozy.

Leo:
Were seals love fish and can’t get enough. Sometimes they are impatient. People need time to do things well.

Virgo:
Were squirrels are all about getting nuts into the nest. Their chirping mate makes them laugh. Look at a critique as a possible way to do things easier.

Libra:
Arctic foxes are idealistic. They like things just so. Spend the extra time to do things well. Others will appreciate it.

Scorpio:
Were owls can get overwhelmed by life, until they just don’t give a hoot. Give yourself space to breathe and rest your mind. Do one thing at a time.

Sagittarius:
Were chipmunks are singing. They divide up nuts fairly. Always be the best you.

Capricorn:
Were Penguins are dancing. Dedicate special time to share with loved ones even if it is long distance.

Aquarius:
Were baby polar bears love rolling down hills. When things change, just roll with it.

Pisces:
Reindeer have a map they follow through the sky when helping Santa. Make of a map of what you want to accomplish and what to do to get there.

-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 available in Amazon Print and Kindle!  Now in Nook, Kobo, 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 and Smashwords and iBooks (on Apple devices).
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Surviving the 2nd Wave by Susan Hanniford Crowley

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In surviving the 2nd wave of coronavirus, we are going to get closer to those in our immediate household.  During the 1st wave, pet adoptions were up. Everyone needed someone to hug in their own home.

The 1st wave saw a lot of cooking shows and many of us gained weight. The country reached the shut down point, and we only went out for groceries and visits to the drug store. I rescheduled most of my in-person doctor appointments and did video visits with some. We learned a lot during the shut down. Some of us took up hobbies, listened to music, cleaned our house until it was immaculate, and more.

Experts have asked us to forgo family get-togethers for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Too many people are ending up in the hospitals with covid after attending family events. It is a horrible disease and what’s worse is that they really don’t know who will get it badly. Old people, yes, but maybe no.  20 and 30 somethings might get a mild case or could lose their lives. Children may just pass it along or get very sick. Each case presents a new challenge to doctors. 

So how are we going to survive this 2nd wave? Wave from a distance! FaceTime and Zoom family events. Make new recipes. Take up a new hobby. Binge watch your favorite shows. What are mine?

Murdoch Mysteries (Acorn) Also you can buy (Acorn) as an add-on to Amazon Prime Video. We bought Acorn because there are many worthy detective shows on it.  It has a lot of British and Australian shows and movies.
Corner Gas (Amazon Prime Video) (IMDb TV) (CTV) (Crave)
Truth Seekers with Nick Frost. Simon Pegg is in it too. It’s on Amazon Prime video.
The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina on Netflix. (It’s not for the faint-hearted.)
Bob’s Burgers (Hulu)

People made it through the 1st wave by making things. This time we’re going to make things and send them to friends and relatives.  I can see this as a continuing pattern.

People who could, worked remotely. I know many remote workers, but I also know essential workers too, who are putting their lives on the line everyday for us.

We’re going to buy tons of things online. Black Friday will be online. I stood once for 4 hours in the freezing cold outside a store. When I got inside, they didn’t have my item anyway and showed me something twice the price. I left without buying.

Now I buy things before Black Friday. Because of the 1st wave, many stores that were not online are now. The ones that were only got bigger. I am buying Christmas presents now to ensure they arrive on time. Shopping online takes a lot of time since you will want to read everything especially the information on returns and warranties.

I’m going to exercise to get rid of the weight I gained in the 1st wave. With the weather getting rough in places, you may want to confer with your doctor and devise an exercise you can do inside. Putting your Fitbit on your dog’s tail does not count.

I’m going to read books some in paper and some in Kindle. In my case, I’m going to write a lot. I already have been. (A new book of mine will be coming out soon. Date to be announced.) I know musicians are still practicing and writing new songs. (I’m going to take up my glass flute again.) Everyone in the creative arts have been working full-tilt and showing performances online.

I’m going to be wear a mask, if I need to make a grocery/drug store run. I’m going to wash my hands and linger in a bubble bath. I’m going to stay over 6 feet from the masked person I’m talking too. I am going to be sending presents.

Everyone is worried about the gift-giving holidays. Send the gift, but remember it is only a thing. The true gift you can give the people you love is to stay alive.

-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 available in Amazon Print and Kindle!  Now in Nook, Kobo, and Smashwords.
Vampire Princess of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 2 available in Kindle!
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 and Smashwords and iBooks (on Apple devices).
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A New Season

What a whirlwind of a week- a big election, COVID, a possible vaccine and wait, that has been this whole year almost! And here we are in November and gosh the year is almost over!

No but really, time has flown by and yet stood still during this crazy year and the truth is that today I don’t want to write about any virus or about our recent Presidential election. Yes they are important but before this whirlwind of a year goes by, I’d like to take a moment to remind us of the time of year we are entering.

In a couple weeks or so, it will be Thanksgiving- a time for giving and a time for caring. A time for giving thanks for what we have. Like anybody else, I have my up and down days. No lie, 2020 has been a difficult and crazy year, but as we enter this season of changed attitude, I can’t help but feel how lucky I and my family are to have our health and to have each other.

So what is my ask or thought to leave you with today? It is to remember the time of year we are at. Reflect upon all that has happened this year and ask yourself if you have anything to be thankful for.

Happy writing this week!

Trolls Rule Paranormal-Scope

[image error] Obviously, the Princess of Trolls rules at this birthday party!

Apparently, when trolls aren’t touring and dancing, they like their privacy. According to Norse mythology, they live in rocks, mountains, or caves and far from the things of man. They have mastered social distancing. Let us see if they will spare any of their wisdom with us.

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.

Aries:
Trolls have a lot of self-control. You will need some of that to let any negativity roll off you. Keep focused on your success.

Taurus:
Very few trolls can take a joke. Unfortunately, people are sensitive right now for lots of reasons and may take humor offensively. Save your jokes for another time.

Gemini:
Trolls are truly one with nature. Some are in great condition. You might want to spend some time on your health. Consult a doctor regarding an exercise for you.

Cancer:
Trolls have a lot of time for reflection. With the surge in the pandemic and spare time on your hands, consider some reflecting time. You might want to keep a journal.

Leo:
Sunlight may turn a troll to stone. Give yourself time to move obstacles out of the way. Don’t let an obstacle turn you to stone.

Virgo:
Trolls enjoy the company of their own kind. Keeping in touch is important to everyone’s well-being. You may hear from some old friends.

Libra:
Trolls are on time when it comes to getting their tasks done. Be on time to impress others. Being punctual shows others you value their time.

Scorpio:
Trolls had a way of handling higher-ups like Thor. They ran for the hills. Avoid conflict this week. If you can’t, just listen.

Sagittarius:
Trolls take care of the little things and keep to themselves. You don’t have the luxury of solitude this week, but you can get all the little things done.

Capricorn:
Family members are vital to trolls. Remember those friend and/or family close to you. Make a call.

Aquarius:
Trolls bit out pieces of big problems, so don’t annoy them.  You can do the same except not with your teeth.

Pisces:
When trolls do converse, they do so simply. They are not about impressing others. Just be geniune (and forget about making a splash). Be yourself.

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

The Vampire with a Blanket of Stars, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 3 available in Amazon Print and Kindle!  Now in Nook, Kobo, 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 and Smashwords and iBooks (on Apple devices).
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Dream Writing Exercise #1 by Susan Hanniford Crowley

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Dream Writing Exercise #1

Every fiction book I write comes from a dream. How do I do it? Dreaming is as much a science as it is an art. You can inspire yourself. Choose a photo of a place you would like to go to. Place a notebook and pen on your nightstand. As you lay down to sleep, make a request to see that place. Go to sleep.

The next morning before you do anything else, sit up in bed and write down your dream. Write feelings, impression, colors, sounds, if you started in one place and went to another. If you visited the place you wanted to see, write down everything about it. Were you alone? Were there others? Who did you meet? What did you do there?

Some people draw their dream instead. That works too. Just write down everything you experienced. Some people verbally record their remembrances of their dream.

If you used a photo, be sure to paste or tape it in the notebook. If you are recording, say that I started by looking at a photo about this and describe it.

When you have recorded everything you can remember, now start your day. It is important that you stay in bed. Once you step out, you have entered this world again. As we focus more on this life, dreams might fade.

When you have practiced this long enough, your memories of dreams will be more detailed and remain with you longer.

Happy Dreaming!

*

Upcoming Event!

On Wed., Nov. 11th, I will be on I LOVE Romance Books group on Facebook, talking about my books, writing in general, and life. You are welcome to join me. I will be on from 10 am to 6 pm Eastern time. https://www.facebook.com/groups/262774088092512

I would love to chat with you! Until then, be safe and take care of yourself.

-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 available in Amazon Print and Kindle!  Now in Nook, Kobo, and Smashwords.
Vampire Princess of New York, Arnhem Knights of New York, Book 2 available in Kindle!
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 and Smashwords and iBooks (on Apple devices).
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For The Love Of…Excerpts #6 by Artemis Crow

Here’s the first chapter of the 6th book in my Zodiac Assassins series, titled “Abella All In”. She’ll be released in late November or early December of this year and I can’t wait to send her out in the world!

Enjoy!

Luck. Elusive, vagarious, yet the hope of everyone—especially in Las Vegas—and the downfall of those who believed in it, relied on it, devoted their lives trying to control it. There were no shortcuts to be taken; there were no formulas to be invented; there were no miracles to be conjured. John Milton said, “Luck is the residue of design.” Abella had used those words to profit at the poker table, but this time the stakes were too high, this time she was gambling for children’s lives. There were no options to be had…save one.

Abella lowered the limo’s window, allowing the cool lights of the Strip to dance over her face as it traveled down the road. The garish neon blazed so brightly that it penetrated her closed eyes, the illumination a kaleidoscopic celebration of greed and vice and revelry unmatched by any other American city. She loved every square mile of it, and she alwayscame to Vegas with a design. But her plans were for naught if she couldn’t find that damn residue and mold it to suit her needs.

She opened her eyes to take in the artificially opulent facades flashing by, fighting the fatigue that demanded she close them again and sleep. The jet, despite its luxury, had failed to entice her to trust Baker’s men enough to rest, or ignore what had transpired in the last twenty-four hours. The FBI had taken Lyon and Persephone’s children to some undisclosed location, the probability of experimentation on the non-humans high. Abella had helped Baker’s men apprehend Persephone’s son, and her disloyalty to her half-sister, no matter how valid the reason, weighed as heavily on her conscience as Jacob Marley’s chains. Like a carrot on a stick, a chance to get the children back had been dangled before her, but it required that she sacrifice all she had built over the years.

She glanced at the men occupying the limo with her and had to force herself not to roll her eyes. General Baker’s demand that she be watched during the poker game was an insult. As if she’d do anything that would risk Lyon and Persephone’s children, like run away and break her agreement with the man. She would play the game, she would win the game, she would get the location of the children for Lyon so he could rescue them, just as she had promised.

For now though, she needed to sleep. Then she’d have the energy to plan.

The sleek, black stretch worked its way down the Strip, the progress slowed by the parade of cars driven by gawking tourists and irritated residents trying to get to work at the casinos, hotels, restaurants, and wedding chapels in constant attendance by said tourists.

The driver flipped on the turn signal and slowed for the showplace hotel coming up on the left.

“Not there,” Abella called out.

“That’s where we have reservations,” one of her muscle-bound escorts said.

“Good for you. I, however, will not be staying there,” she said, rubbing her temples, unable to keep weariness-fed impatience out of her voice. 

The man stared at her, his brown eyes narrowing. “You know the rules.”

She dropped her hands and shot the man a look that, had she been a demon, most certainly would have sent him straight to Hell. “You are to be my guard, but I didn’t agree to stay in the hovel your accommodations will surely be.”

He crossed his arms, his disgust stinking up the roomy vehicle. The other men shifted, their discomfort palpable as their heads swiveled between her and their leader.

Abella mirrored his posture, but a grin spread across her face. “Brooding doesn’t suit you.”

“Neither does this mission, but I have my orders.” 

He returned her stare, and that’s when she saw it. The truth. He didn’t want to be here anymore than she did; something to keep in mind. 

She broke the stare-off and looked into the rear-view mirror, catching the driver’s eye. “Go straight, past the Bellagio. I’ll tell you when to turn.”

“Sir?” the driver called back.

“We stay with you,” the crotchety male said.

Abella heaved a sigh. An Oscar-worthy gustatory effort, really, but lost on these buffoons. “There’s room.”

The leader nodded at the driver and they continued down the Strip, inching forward in the traffic jam, the minutes passing in silence.

“Take the next left,” Abella said, unconsciously leaning forward, as if that could ensure the driver didn’t miss the turn.

“That’s a service road, ma’am.”

“I realize that; take it anyway.”

The men around her sat up and rubbernecked, their dominant hands easing toward their firearms.

“What? You think I’m setting a trap?”

“The general said you were not to be trusted.”

She placed both hands over her heart and cocked her head. “Aw, I’m hurt.” She looked to the driver. “Take another left here, then pull under the portico.”

The driver eased through the tight turn down a one-way street that by all rights should have been zoned an alley, the vehicle clearing the corners by inches. Even after straightening, the walls on either side of them were so close that Abella wasn’t sure they could open the doors wide enough to exit. 

The perfect kill box.

“I don’t like this,” the leader said, his head on a swivel. “Feels like a trap.”

“Oh, for god’s sake,” Abella said, despite agreeing with the man’s assessment. “Don’t be a ninny. It’s a private drive.” She pointed ahead. “See?”

The narrow street curved and widened at the same time, the extra space on each side of the limo lined with huge, terracotta pots holding palm trees and rimmed with ivy. Strands of white lights twinkled, highlighting the path to the entrance, their singular note a relief after the multitude of colors on the Strip. Despite the light pollution that permeated Las Vegas, this tiny oasis was a cool, quiet haven away from the chaos.

The two-story white portico showcased the ornate double doors, while the white of the columns supporting the structure were almost completely covered by ambitious, twining ivy reaching for the sky.

The driver stopped at the doors.

A pair of doormen eased out from some hidden spot, their green jackets the same color as the foliage, like camouflage. Unobtrusive was their aim, privacy their fame. They flanked the vehicle and opened the doors with barely a sound.

Abella reached out and gripped one of the doorman’s extended, gloved hands. 

He helped her out before smiling. “Ms. Cara, it’s wonderful to see you again.”

Short, dark hair showcased a handsome face; his chiseled jaw and bright blue eyes were startling in their symmetrical beauty. The man could have tried for Hollywood, but fame held no interest for him…he lived for his family. 

“It’s been a long time, Jerrold. How’s your wife?”

He rolled his eyes, even as one corner of his mouth canted up. “She’s pissed at me again.”

Abella pictured the petite blonde with the fiery attitude and laughed. “Another baby?”

Jerrold closed the door when the last of the men exited, his smile broadening. “Due soon. She’ll make three.”

“A girl? Finally. Congratulations.”

He chuckled. “My wife is as giddy as she can be this far along. God knows the nursery is filled to the ceiling with all manner of pink frills and frippery.” He glanced at the trunk. “Any bags?”

“Not on this trip. My traveling companions can carry their own. They will need rooms, though.”

“Done.”

“Fiona?”

“Bringing in supplies for you as we speak.”

“Then let’s go.”

Jerrold tipped his cap and jogged ahead of her to open the door, his expression flattening, his eyes growing more watchful. That attention to detail made him the best doorman in town.

Abella strode into the intimate, luxurious lobby. Cream and white furniture dotted the space, standing out against the black, marble floor and dark gray walls, while accent colors of cobalt blue, deep red and eggplant purple were splashed in pillows and paintings and planters.

“What is this place?” the leader whispered.

“It’s a private hotel, of sorts. The lower floors have luxury suites that are available to the public. The top two floors are a private penthouse. And you don’t have to whisper; it’s not a church.”

“The general won’t want to pay for expensive rooms.”

“He’ll only have to pay for yours. I own the penthouse.”

He cocked an eyebrow. “You own it?”

“I won it in a game, along with most everything I have. Baker knows that; it’s why he picked me.”

The leader frowned, but didn’t continue that line of questioning. “And how do we keep an eye on you?”

Fatigue fed Abella’s frustration. She wanted to scream, “You don’t!” but she didn’t think he’d take it well. “There are three elevators: a private one that only goes to my place, an elevator to the suites, and a freight elevator in the back of the hotel that goes to every level including the private garage. Plus, there are stairwells at each end of the hotel. Have a man covering each place and you’ll be guaranteed that I can’t slip out of your clutches.”

“I’ll have to check that out, along with your penthouse.”

“Of course. Jerrold, will you please show these men the elevators and stairs, then their rooms.”

“I will. Anything else you need?”

“Not for now, thank you.” 

She pulled a thick wad of money out of her tote bag and slipped it to him.

He stared at the tip, frowning. “I can tell it’s too generous just by the feel.”

“Not for that precious girl you’re about to have. Believe me, you’re going to need it.”

“Then thank you.” He pocketed the money. “Come with us gentlemen. We’ll give you a tour then show you to your rooms.”

The leader stayed by Abella’s side while his men split into groups, their heads on a swivel. She had to hand it to them—they were attentive.

“Ready?” she asked.

“After you.”

May your words flow freely,

Artemis

www.artemiscrow.com

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

Lyon’s Roar – https://amzn.to/2IB







Leona’s Descent – https://amzn.to/2yaDfjW







Libra’s Limbo – https://amzn.to/2q3VkNg







Leona’s Cage – https://amzn.to/2QTbVyp