Delilah Devlin's Blog, page 9

Sliding Puzzle: Orb Fisher (Contest)

As an incentive to give the puzzle a try, for a chance to win a $5 Amazon gift card, solve the puzzle, then tell me what’s in those orbs! Have fun with this!

The post Sliding Puzzle: Orb Fisher (Contest) first appeared on Delilah Devlin.

Two Big Product Recommends If You Ever Face Injury or Disease

Just days after I was first diagnosed with Stage IV cancer, a little over a year ago, my daughter and SIL ordered me one of these.

She knew I was going straight into chemo, and that it was going to be rough. She and I googled the effects it would have on my body—the aches, the weakness—and she determined right then and there she was going to gift me with one of these to help me get my tired ass up. After my surgery to remove my cancer-riddled organs, this chair was also my bed because getting off a bed on my own was beyond my capability. Even though I’ve recovered a lot of my strength (not all) after my chemo ended and after my surgery, I still rely on it those days when my infusions make me fatigued. So, hell yeah, I endorse this product. You can find them for as little as $299, but the money will be well spent.

The other item I will endorse for its aid and comfort to me during this entire process is this—a bidet.

This is one you fit to your existing toilet. And it’s completely affordable. I think I spent $35 on it, and my SIL installed it in less than half an hour. When you’re weak or reaching to clean yourself properly, a bidet can save you having to rely on others to perform that kind of intimate care. Especially, after my surgery, I couldn’t reach or twist, which meant wiping my own a$$ would have been a problem if not for this device. TMI, I know, but a bidet has been…lifechanging, actually, and I wonder why we didn’t install one sooner. Not only do you save money in toilet paper and wet wipes, you are cleaner than if you used either. Not that it removes the need for either of those other products, but you use so much less. Not only does it wash your intimate areas, but, and I’m sorry if this really is TMI, but when you have difficulties with either constipation or diarrhea (which chemo and immunotherapy cause), it can really make a huge difference. The stream can stimulate you to release hardened stools and it’s a no-brainer that diarrhea can more easily be washed away.

I know, I know. Who wants to read about this? But I promised transparency. These two items were and are vital to my independence and self-care. I just thought I’d let you know that.

One more thing helps, too. Adult diapers. I resisted using them, still do. However, if I have to leave the house for any length of time, it helps me with the anxiety of whether I will make it to a bathroom on time. Pull-ons are more comfortable, and they make them so they don’t show through your clothing. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

So, that’s my PSA (public service announcement). You can go back to plugging your ears (or closing your eyes) and ignoring uncomfortable subjects, but I thought this might be helpful to someone else out there.

The post Two Big Product Recommends If You Ever Face Injury or Disease first appeared on Delilah Devlin.

Word Search: Heroic Qualities (Contest)

I have another puzzle for you to exercise that gray matter! Hope you enjoy it!

I chose “Heroic Qualities” for the theme of my puzzle today. I’ve been thinking about the things I’ve seen on the news lately, and about heroes—everyday heroes and the leaders of our world. Then I went to work, deciding which qualities I consider “heroic.” Courage came first to my mind—and I’m not necessarily talking about the kind of courage that has people rushing toward physical danger. I thought about Chef José Andrés, who has the courage of his convictions, trying to walk that fine line between politics and humanitarianism. His leadership in building the World Central Kitchen to mobilize during natural or manmade disasters is truly inspiring. I didn’t add “intelligence” to the list because I’ve seen stories about people with intelligence deficits who still manage to fight for what’s right or help others, and I think that’s heroic. I have a granddaughter with a touch of the “tism” who everyone discounted but is maintaining a 3.5 grade point because she works harder than anyone else around her despite her deficit. She’s heroic to me. I added compassion and kindness because I believe true heroes consider others, not just themselves. I added “honesty” because being honest requires courage to admit you’ve made mistakes and the willingness to “course-correct” when you do, despite the optics.

Well, this is my list. For a chance to win a $5 Amazon gift card, tell me what qualities you would add!

The post Word Search: Heroic Qualities (Contest) first appeared on Delilah Devlin.

Krysten Lindsay Hager: Summer Memories and YA Romance Novel

Summer was always a favorite time for me when I was a teen. Looking back, I can see how those summers shaped not just me, but the young adult novels I write as well. I thought I’d share some photos of places I spent time at as a teen that ended up in my books.

First is an ice cream shop in Saugatuck, Michigan that appears in both my novel Next Door to a Star, and also the “meet cute” location where Cagney meets hockey player Max Brazil in Summer of Possibility. It was such a cute setting that I thought it’d make the perfect spot for teens to hang out. We used to go there for ice cream in the summer, so I thought I’d have one of the characters, Sam, work there and flirt with Cagney and cause an embarrassing meet cute with her and Max. Sam was always the guy she crushed on from afar every summer, and I thought it’d be interesting to have him take notice of her when she goes to visit her aunt.

The next is a pier in Grand Haven, Michigan that has featured in Competing with the Star where Hadley and Nick go for a walk on their date. It also serves as a setting in my fictional town, Bloomington Shores, where in Falling for a Star in the City, Paige and Viktor go for a walk when they begin to grow closer. I spent year after year walking down that pier in the summer. I’d see people walking hand in hand and thought what a great spot for a teen couple on a date. The scene with Paige and Viktor is one of my favorites because she gets nervous going that far out and he helps her conquer her fear.

Lastly, this is a place overlooking the water in Holland, Michigan, where I spent countless summers at the beach and watching the sailboats. This place helped make up Bloomington Shores which features in When Stars Collide in the City, Falling for a Star in the City, and Summer of Possibility…and more to come as Summer of Possibility is the first book in the Bloomington Shores Series and the hometown for many of the girls in the Stars in the City Series. It also inspired Blue Arbor the setting of the YA pop star Cecily Taylor Series.

All my books are free in Kindle Unlimited.
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Krysten-Lindsay-Hager/author/B00L2JC9P2
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Krysten-Lindsay-Hager/author/B00L2JC9P2
Amazon AUS: https://www.amazon.com.au/stores/Krysten-Lindsay-Hager/author/B00L2JC9P2
Amazon CAN: https://www.amazon.ca/stores/Krysten-Lindsay-Hager/author/B00L2JC9P2
Website: https://www.krystenlindsay.com/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@krystenlindsay
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krystenlindsay/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/krystenlindsay/

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Report Card & Open Contests

Report Card

Last week…

School started for the two youngest! So, it’s back to an earlier morning schedule for me! Not that I mind. It just means I get more done!I continued working on edits for two authors.I continued reading entries for the  Burn: A Boys Behaving Badly Anthology !I had my every three weeks infusion on Monday. Told the doctor about some back pain I was experiencing. He waited for some bloodwork to run then scheduled a PetScan ASAP to make sure something (the big C) hadn’t popped up someplace new. Results? My cancer is being “held down” by my treatment. He has no clue about the back pain, but we’ll monitor. I have a small glowy spot in a lymph node alongside my jaw, but that might just be inflammation. We’ll watch that, too. So, for now, it’s mostly all good!I swam every day except for two stormy days!I completed some small paintings.

This next week…

I’ll complete edits of manuscripts for two authors.I’ll continue reading the  Burn: A Boys Behaving Badly Anthology  entries!I’ll attend a meeting with my local art guild on Thursday!I’ll continue to work on organizing & cleaning up my art room.I’ll swim every day the weather cooperates!I’ll paint when the mood (or insomnia) hits me.Open Contests

Be sure to check out these posts and enter to win the prizes that are still up for grabs:

Gabbi Grey: When Visiting Someone Else’s Town (Contest) — Last day to enter! Win a FREE book!Flashback: Watch Over Me (Contest — Two Winners!) — Last day to enter! Win a FREE book! Two winners!A Memory of Misspent Youth? (Contest) — This one ends soon! Win an Amazon gift card!Word Search: Back to School Supplies (Contest) — This one ends soon! Win an Amazon gift card!Gabbi Grey: When the unexpected happened… (Contest) — This one ends soon! Win a FREE book!Saturday Puzzle-Contest: Fantasy — Hero or Villain? — This one ends soon! Win an Amazon gift card!Memory Game: Some of My #100Day Faves (Contest) — Win an Amazon gift card!Get your F*R*E*E read! WITH HIS PARTNER! —  This one ends soon! Get your FREE story now!Gabbi Grey: My Gay Cinderella (Contest) — Win a FREE story!Saturday Puzzle-Contest: Just a Girl and a Dragon — Win an Amazon gift card!The post Report Card & Open Contests first appeared on Delilah Devlin.

Saturday Puzzle-Contest: Just a Girl and a Dragon

I’m just popping in to share a puzzle! It’s a fun one. Sometimes, I have no theme for my daily blog, and I head straight to my favorite stock photo site for inspiration. Based on my history, they present me with pictures they hope I’ll purchase. My history must be wild because the options I had today… :

I settled on this image, an illustration that makes me wish I wrote kids’ books. Or that I could find a grown-up version of this illustration for something more…adult-ish.  So fun! I hope you enjoy it! Happy Saturday!

For a chance to win a $5 Amazon gift card, tell me what fantasy story/series, whether book or movie, you’ve enjoyed recently!

The post Saturday Puzzle-Contest: Just a Girl and a Dragon first appeared on Delilah Devlin.

Genevive Chamblee: Why Some Authors Read Reviews

I will begin this post with a plea and disclaimer: Please don’t shoot the messenger. I understand that the topic may be polarizing for some. I write from a place of nonjudgment and, to the best of my ability, objectivity.

It has long been said that authors should not read reviews because reviews are for readers and not authors. Should an author violate this golden rule, they are warned to never interact with any poster or make comments on the thread. I won’t say that I disagree with this…for the most part. I agree reviews are for readers and not authors. I also believe any author reading reviews should only do so if they have a thick skin. Negative reviews (whether valid or not) are all part of the writing gig, and every reader has a right to have and voice his/her opinion. Also, authors should avoid commenting regardless of how egregious he/she believes the comment is. In short, book review sites should be viewed as readers’ safe spaces.

However… There is a reason authors may reader reviews, and it may not be for reasons many people think. Here’s the real tea. Some authors read reviews not to stroke their egos (although I’m sure some do) but to hear the voices of their readers. That’s right. Many authors want to know their readers’ opinions whether it’s good, bad, or indifferent. And they may not hear what readers are saying unless they go to review pages, and here’s why.

If a book is getting slammed or trashed (or the opposite—praised and all kinds of accolades), the author may want to know what about the book is working or not working; what to fix the next time around, and what to keep doing. I know; I know. I hear you. That’s what beta readers are for. Yeah, but…

I heard someone make a very eloquent argument regarding this very point. He/she argued that if authors want to know what’s wrong with their books, they should get more beta readers. However, he/she omitted something extremely important. Actually, I’m willing to bet it wasn’t an intentional omission. Rather, I don’t think the person making the argument knew what I’m about to say. See, many authors who are traditionally published do not get to select their beta readers or how many. That is done by the publisher, and this occurs after the manuscript is completed by the author and has entered the publishing house editing phase. It is edited by professional editors and then given to betas.

Second, some publishers do not allow authors to share their work with betas other than the ones selected by the publisher. And it makes sense. It makes no sense to have betas read it before it’s edited. The version the betas read may differ from the final version the publisher approves. For example, entire scenes or characters may be deleted. Betas need to read the draft as it nears its final form.

So, when the reviews of a book are different than the feedback given by betas, the only way the author understands what is happening is by going to the source. The source is book review sites. That is where authors bridge the gap between readers and betas.

Oh, did someone ask about ARC readers? Okay, here’s the skinny on that. For traditionally published writers, ARC readers are receiving the final version. This means the book is in production, and changes cannot be made at that point. So, using ARC reader feedback for future reference is perfect. But again, as with beta readers, for traditionally published authors, most ARC readers are selected by the publisher. The number of ARC books the author is allowed to give is limited.

Now, let’s put this into a scenario. Jane is a traditionally published author. Her publisher selects 20 betas. All the betas give excellent feedback (excellent in that they point out mistakes, issues, inconsistencies, and give valid/poignant feedback. Jane listens to this feedback and tweaks the issues. The book is then sent to 10 ARC readers who give Jane mostly positive feedback. Then, the book is released, and it is dragged in the reviews. Jane is baffled as to why. To find the answer, she reads the reviews. If she doesn’t read the reviews, there is a risk she will never know what went wrong. Low and behold, what she reads in the reviews is nothing that has ever been mentioned by editors, betas, or ARC readers. The author is in the dark. The only way for her to step into the light is to read the reviews.

By far, the biggest issues occur when the author interacts, and there’s a disagreement in opinions. All I can say is that authors are people, too, and sometimes emotions get the best of them. But I did hear one person express that authors have “all of the power” and it’s a “punch down” if they respond negatively to a reader. This is really only the case if an author is well-established and has a large following. When negative reviews are left for less established or new authors, the impact and affect is more devastating.

Remember grades back in school? If a student has 4 tests and makes 100, 100, 100, 40, his/her average is 85. If another student makes 98, 98, 98, 95, 95, 95, 95, 95, 95, 95, 40, 40, his/her average 86.5 or 87, which is slightly higher. When there are only a few scores, each one matters a lot. With lots of scores, a bad one gets lost in the crowd. In short, if you’re baking with just 4 ingredients, one bad spice ruins the whole dish. But if you’re cooking with a dozen ingredients, that one odd spice barely changes the flavor.

So, when it comes to less established or new authors, the power dynamic usually isn’t in their favor. It truly is in the hands of readers who can very easily destroy their writing careers before it starts, especially if what is expressed is incorrect, malicious, or done by bully. And while this is not a justification for authors to interact/respond on review threads, it is to dispel the ideology that authors have an “upper” hand in the balance between the reader-author relationship.

For authors, writing is their job. They put their creative effort (a.k.a., their babies) out there for the world for readers to consume. Many times, it opens a vulnerability, and it’s difficult to watch (especially to do so quietly) one’s hard work being ripped to shreds, especially if unduly so. It’s difficult not feel the need to defend. Yet, this is the position authors must take. It is an accepted liability when an author publishes a work that it becomes fair game. They are expected to handle criticism (and should) professionally. So, this isn’t to ask for forgiveness for those authors who have violated this or acted poorly, but it is to ask that maybe they be shown a tad bit of grace for being human with a full range of emotions who may have in the moment gotten into their feelings. Authors love their readers (all of them). Without readers, authors are… Fill in the blank.

Much love and respect to all readers.

And that’s all I’ve got for today. Now, it’s your turn to sound off. Let me know your thoughts below in the comment section. Your feedback allows me to know the content that you want to read. And if you like this post, consider clicking the like button and sharing.

Demon Rodeo

If Brokeback Mountain, 8 Seconds, Poltergeist, and Supernatural had an orgy, Demon Rodeo would be the lovechild.

Demon Rodeo is available now on Amazon. For video book trailers, visit my TikTok page. The full blurb is on my Instagram and Amazon.

Demon Rodeo is the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series but can be read as a standalone. It’s a friends-to-lovers romance set in the rodeo world. These are not your typical cowboys. It’s a widely diverse cast of characters and a mashup of genres that aren’t always seen together. If you’re looking for a palate cleanser, this may be a book for you.

Order
⇨ Amazon: https://readerlinks.com/l/4174852
⇨ All Stores: https://books2read.com/u/bP8RG7

*Note: All of my books can be purchased from brick-and-mortar bookstores (e.g., Barnes & Noble, Book-A-Million, etc.) as well if requested at the checkout counter.)

Until next time, happy reading and much romance. Laissez le bon temps rouler.

If you’re not following my blog, Creole Bayou, what are you waiting for? There’s always room at the bayou.

NEWSLETTER! Want to get the latest information and updates about my writing projects, giveaways, contests, and reveals first? Click here and sign up today.

Want to chat about writing, mental health, Cajun cuisine, Creole culture, or just spill some tea? If yes, let’s get connected. Follow me on one of my social links. There’s plenty to choose from.

Facebook: Genevive ChambleeInstagram: genevivechambleeauthorTikTok: CreolegurlNolaBluesky: Genevive ChambleeThreads: Author Genevive ChambleeBookBub: Genevive ChambleeAmazon Authors: Genevive ChambleeGoodreads: Genevive ChambleeX (formerly Twitter): @dolynesaidsoLocker Room Love
Locker Room Love Series

Are you searching for a sexy book boyfriend? You’ve come to the right place.

Out of the Penalty Box (book #1) One minute in the box or a lifetime out.Defending the Net (book #2) Crossing the line could cost the game. Ice Gladiators (book #3) When the gloves come off, the games begin.Penalty Kill (book #4) Let the pucker begin. Future Goals (book #5) The future lies between a puck and a net.About the Author

Hi, I’m Genevive, and I am a contemporary sports romance author. My home is in South Louisiana. If you like snark and giggles with a touch of steamy Cajun and Creole on the side, I may have your poison in my stash of books. Drop by the bayou and have a look around. The pirogues are always waiting for new visitors.

The post Genevive Chamblee: Why Some Authors Read Reviews first appeared on Delilah Devlin.

Gabbi Grey: My Gay Cinderella (Contest)

Hello, Delilah!  Thank you for inviting me here today to discuss my new short story in a great anthology!

You’re thinking…gay Cinderella? And the short story is entitled, Finding Mr. Rogers?

I’ll explain.

When The New Romance Café put together their list of 2025 anthologies, I did what I do best — I signed up for ALL of them.  Which meant Plot Whisperer and I had to get busy.  Some were easier than others.  For instance, for paranormal Jane Austen she did a retelling of Pride and Prejudice involving supernatural creatures.  Only she had the entire thing planned out in great detail.  I was like, you know this is 15k words…right?

She paused.

I asked is she’d like the story for herself.

Twenty-four hours later, she said she would.

I pushed, nudged, and shoved her until she wrote that book. Fingers crossed, she eventually publishes it because it’s freaking brilliant.

But I needed a story.  She helped me with a paranormal retelling of another Austen book (coming in October, stay tuned).

I said Fairy Tale.

She said…what’s it now?

We went back and forth. I’d done a gay retelling of Beauty and the Beast, so that was out.  She said, “How about Rapunzel?”  Since I was in the middle of my “hell, yes” year, I said, “Sure.”

Probably should’ve read the story first.  Anyway, Plot Whisperer whispered me a plot I couldn’t figure out.  I was tired, stressed, working on a full-length novel, so I pulled out of the anthology.

Yeah…that lasted a couple of months.  Then, I was talking to Plot Whisperer.  I asked what scenario, in modern times, could you be caught with someone and not see their face? Interestingly, I was the one who came up with an elevator.

BOOM. I had my story.

But what could “Cinderella” leave behind?  When they’re rescued, why does “Prince Charming” not see him?  To find out, you’ll have to read Finding Mr. Rogers which is contained in Love’s Forever Tale.  No magic…just real-life fairy tale situations.

Thank you for letting me share the genesis of my short story.

Contest: As a gift to one of your readers, I would love to give away a copy of my gay retelling of Beauty and the Beast, titled The Beauty of the Beast.  It’s a grumpy/sunshine story with an Aussie, a Canadian, a dog named Chip, and a diffident cat named Maurice.  Just comment – what was your favorite fairy tale growing up? Or, which fairy tale would you like to see as a story?  Random will select a winner. Good luck!

Love’s Forever Tale: A Contemporary Fairytale Retellings Collection

Classic fairytales reimagined for the modern world—where happily ever after is just a kiss away.

In Love’s Forever Tale, beloved fairytales are transformed into contemporary romance stories that blend timeless lore with today’s love stories. From swoon worthy kisses to fierce heroines finding their own way, each tale delivers a fresh twist on the fairytales you know and love.

From skyscraper castles to bustling small towns, these stories weave love and laughter into tales of passion and redemption.

Perfect for fans of fairytales, romance, and second chances, Love’s Forever Tale is a collection that will make you believe in happily ever after all over again.

Authors:
Marley Reese
Gabbi Grey
S.M. Potter
Faye Byrd
Lisabel Chretien
Jewelz Baxter
Michelle Moncrieff
MacKade
C.J. Laurence

The anthology will only be available for a limited time.

Links:
Universal Link: https://books2read.com/tnrc2025lovesforevertale
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0DMMN15GV
Add it to Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/221428451-love-s-forever-tale

Finding Mr. Rogers by Gabbi Grey

Jameson

This is the day from hell. My reviewer Robin rejected the paperwork I spent days finishing. And now the power’s cut off, trapping me in an elevator with a stranger. I hate confined spaces. I hate being helpless. My vision tunnels in, I’m shivering, and damn, I’m about to hit the floor in a panic attack. Only the soothing voice of the man I’m stuck with keeps me from falling off the emotional cliff. But then the doors open, and he’s gone, leaving me clutching the sweater he wrapped around me. I have no clue who he is. All I know is, he was kind and strong and compassionate in my toughest moment, and I want to thank him. If I can just find him again…

Finding Mr. Rogers is a 13K gay romance retelling of Cinderella about searching for the elusive stranger after that one perfect moment.

 

About the Author

USA Today Bestselling author Gabbi Grey lives in beautiful British Columbia where her fur baby chin-poo keeps her safe from the nasty neighborhood squirrels. Working for the government by day, she spends her early mornings writing contemporary, gay, sweet, and dark erotic BDSM romances. While she firmly believes in happy endings, she also believes in making her characters suffer before finding their true love. She also writes m/f romances as Gabbi Black and Gabbi Powell.

Personal links:
Website: https://gabbigrey.com/
Newsletter sign-up: https://sendfox.com/gabbigrey
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorgabbigrey/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/gabbi-grey
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15456297.Gabbi_Grey
Amazon Author Central: https://www.amazon.com/Gabbi-Grey/e/B07SJVFX1M
Audible Profile: https://www.audible.com/author/Gabbi-Grey/B07SJVFX1M
Facebook (page): https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGabbiGrey

The post Gabbi Grey: My Gay Cinderella (Contest) first appeared on Delilah Devlin.

Get your F*R*E*E read! WITH HIS PARTNER!

It’s Wednesday and the first day of school for the two younger kids. We woke up early, prepared lunch for the one kid who doesn’t like school lunches, and then off they went. I can’t wait to hear about their day!

In the meantime, how about a FREE story? Be warned! It’s a very sexy story!

This is a limited time offer, so be sure to download your copy today!

Stepbrothers Stepping Out: With His Partner

Fraternizing has never been this sexy!

Jenny has an itch only her stepbrother Matt and his sexy policeman partner can scratch. So the little vixen teases them, only to have the two men return the favor twice-fold!

Get your copy now!

The post Get your F*R*E*E read! WITH HIS PARTNER! first appeared on Delilah Devlin.

Memory Game: Some of My #100Day Faves (Contest)

 

Hey there! Today’s the last day before school starts. The last day to sleep in. I rose lazily at 7:30 and drank my coffee on the back porch with my daughter. We talked about the 11-year-old and how hard tomorrow’s going to be for her. We’ve been trying to get her to go to bed earlier, but my dd caught her after eleven last night on her phone with a friend. Yeah. Tonight, the phone gets taken away, and she can stare at the darkness until she falls asleep. Maybe I’ll make sure she swims twice today to tire her out. LOL

Anyway, here’s a brain game to exercise that gray matter! Enjoy!

For a chance to win a $5 Amazon gift card, solve the puzzle, then give me suggestions for themes for future memory games!

The post Memory Game: Some of My #100Day Faves (Contest) first appeared on Delilah Devlin.