L.E. Waters's Blog, page 7
March 21, 2012
March 19, 2012
Does this novel make my butt look big?
Seriously, I don't think I picked a worse second profession for my figure. Right now I'm attempting to lose the baby weight (it seems "I just had a baby" doesn't work as well after six months). So I'm now caught in this battle between sitting in my chair typing away furiously and lacing up my sneakers—that are still far-too white.
Writing is so sedentary. There are only a few ways that you can do it while being active, and believe me I've tried.
I've tried to bring a voice recorder on a walk (but that only works for brainstorming and plot outline)
I've tried to go for walks with friends that will listen to me babble on about my book (you can only do this once in a while, or you'll find them suddenly very busy when you ask to go for the next walk)
I even made a shelf on my treadmill for my laptop (only works for light editing and you have to go at a slow pace)
I admit, I get manic when I get into my writing/editing groove and there is very little that can tear me away from my chair and laptop. It's like there is this force pulling me between getting out into the world and holing up to delve into my imagined worlds. I feel guilty if I don't sit and write for a few hours, and I feel guilty if I don't get out and move. And unfortunately, with a five-year old and a six-month old, there's really not a lot of free time there for me anyway.
Do you all feel this pull between your writing and staying active? How do you cope?
March 11, 2012
SE7EN
I just figured out what *tagging* is. I'm ashamed to say someone told me they tagged me before and I just said thank you to them! Apparently, when you get tagged you have to go to their blog, follow instructions, and tag other unsuspecting campaigners.
(There really is no end to my techno-lag.)
Anyway, I've been tagged for the Lucky Seven Meme by Sara Flower:
The Rules:
1. Go to page 77 of your current MS/WIP
2. Go to line 7
3. Copy down the next 7 lines – sentences or paragraphs – and post them as they're written. No cheating
4. Tag 7 authors
5. Let them know
This is from the third book in my reincarnation fantasy series, titled Infinite Loss.
*A little sneak peek for my readers*
I'll let you figure out where my character has ended up while revisiting her past lives from this little sample: (Warning—my amazing editors have not slashed their machetes through this yet, so read at your own risk)
"Of course not, but when I saw her she cried, 'I am Lakota! Otaktay's first wife!', and I couldn't believe what the Great Spirit was giving me."
I laugh and look back to see the rejoined couple but see Chase's angry face instead. He too must realize what this means.
I turn back. "Well, then you won't be too mad now that I saved Chayton's life."
He scoffs and sees Chayton up ahead, still holding his head as he rides on. "Nothing could make me happier than to have Chayton and Chase alive to watch Otaktay hand me Mika."
I really almost cheated since this was not the most poignant moment in the following pages but rules are rules.
Now for my tagging victims (and I picked the following writers since I would love to see what they're up too!):
You're it!
March 5, 2012
Second Campaigner Challenge
Yes, I have figured out how these campaigns work, and unfortunately I didn't sign up in time to be eligible to win any places. Still, I find it so much fun and it's so exciting to see how all the other writers handle the challenge—even though I'm not a contender.
This last challenge was a real doozy. Here are the rules taken from Rach Writes' Blog:
Use one or some or all of these prompts
Prompt 1:
Two people are sitting together under the remains of a concrete bridge. Their backs are against a rusted bridge support. One person's leg is cut. The other person has wet hair.
Prompt 2:
Prompt 3
Prompt 4
Prompt 5
Do one or more of the following:
1. Write a pitch/logline for a book based on the prompts (less than 100 words)
2. Write a short story/flash fiction piece of less than 200 words based on the prompts
3. Write a poem with a twist using the prompts as inspiration (in less than 200 words)
4. Write a story/poem in five sentences, each sentence based on one of the prompts
5. Write a poem/flash fiction piece (in less than 200 words) about the water pear *without* using the words "pear", "spoon", or "droplet".
Here's my go at it.
Hero
As I watch from a bridge where seagulls soar,
the sun-kissed children searching rocky shore,
a squeal spins me to a red coat flashing by,
after an orb-like ball the wind let fly.
The small boy's parents, busy with friends,
neglect to see the ball roll off the bridge's end.
Luring the boy after, beneath my frozen stare,
the flash of red splashes—a dreadful water pear.
Darting to the edge, I barely take a breath,
don't calculate the jump, don't even think of death.
The water much further, more time regretting the fall,
pieces of me scream and shatter, as I hit the liquid wall.
The spot of red floats beneath, the glue-water hard to stir,
I reach the boy and struggle, up under the bridge in a blur.
Against a rusted support, I tiredly slump and stare,
at the red river trickling, from my leg's deep tear.
The boy lets out a panicked cry,
as the water drips from his hair to his eyes.
"You're safe now." I try, searching for aid,
as a flash sparks before us—a glimmering cascade.
A tunnel of living light—heaven's hall,
a knowing tear burns…I didn't save us after all.
By The Sword: Book Review
Sara Flower is not only a fantastic blog writer, she is now a published author! I couldn't wait to read her debut Christian Fantasy novel, By The Sword, and I'm so pleased to tell you about it.
Description (from Amazon):
Seventeen-year-old Talya's main goal is to bring down the Malinorian Empire. And Jalarn, the empire's prodigy general, is at the top of her list of enemies to kill. Not only has Jalarn murdered Talya's king, he's almost killed her. Twice.
But things don't go as Talya planned when a visiting prophet sends her on a mission to the highly feared Hunter Forest. It is there that she must gain the allegiance of the forest's inhabitants before Jalarn and his men do.
Then, memories of a haunting vision resurface when Talya comes face to face with Jalarn. She makes a rash decision that sends her down a path she never imagined she would follow.
By The Sword is a captivating novel that takes you on a journey (literally as well as spiritually). The main plot consistently fuels the story while the momentum of the subplots keep the pages turning. Since this is the first Christian Fantasy novel I've read, the storyline intrigued me. I was amazed by the wonderful detail of the powers of the dark side as well as how, through the powers of prayer, miracles occurred. Given the heavy religious undertones that takes place midway through the book, I predict it might only appeal to readers with Christian beliefs, as the title of the genre reflects. Aware of this before reading, I was so surprised and compelled at the descriptive, haunting scenes of the lure and practises of the Dark Prince. Truly frightening and authentic.
Flower creates strong, tangible characters with realistic motivations. I originally was worried about the stereotypical 'strong female warrior', but I was incredibly relieved how realistic the action scenes were written. I found Tayla's actions during battle very credible, especially for a slight girl. The battle scenes were exceptionally well written and did not feel overdone. The writer also did a good job introducing each main character slowly and carried a lesser developed cast to aid with subplots. My favorite character was Jalarn. He has deep, deep layers and I found his actions and thoughts compelling and plausible. There was no part in the book where I felt comfortable setting it down, and the writer is adept at leaving each chapter on a cliffhanger. She then transitions beautifully to another POV in the novel without losing pace. I was very satisfied with the ending as a standalone, yet the possibility of a sequel exists (and I hope she writes it!)
Since I've never read another work of Christian Fantasy, it's hard to judge if this is original, but I was deeply engaged by this subgenre of fantasy. It was so interesting to see how the usual good and evil sides of fantasy play out with the specifics of the Devil and Jesus Christ. I realized while reading this that most of your high fantasy—although they use imagined names for Lords of good and evil—are basically depicting earthly religious struggles after all. I highly recommend this book to Christian readers and to others interested in learning more about the Christian Fantasy genre.
I was hoping I would enjoy Sara's book as much as I enjoy her blog, and I am so happy to say she did not disappoint. She has done all the revising, editing, and formatting required of an author and has delivered a professional and captivating product. You can purchase By The Sword here.
Great job, Sara!
February 25, 2012
Infinite Devotion Giveaway!
Goodreads Book Giveaway
by L.E. Waters
Giveaway ends March 25, 2012.
See the giveaway details
at Goodreads.
February 24, 2012
Flash Fiction Challenge
Sara Flower has written a fantastic entry and has inspired me to partake in the Flash Fiction Challenge. The Rachel Writes blog began the challenge of writing flash fiction that is exactly 200 words.
More about this fun challenge:
Write a short story/flash fiction story in 200 words or less, excluding the title. It can be in any format, including a poem. Begin the story with the words, "Shadows crept across the wall". These five words will be included in the word count.
If you want to give yourself an added challenge (optional), do one or more of these:
* end the story with the words: "everything faded." (also included in the word count)
* include the word "orange" in the story
* write in the same genre you normally write
* make your story 200 words exactly!
Since I have a terrible cold and couldn't sleep, I wrote this until 2am:
Shadows crept across the wall
The bokor's fire reaching tall
Exposed pin-stuck sawdust dolls
Watching scattering critters crawl
Buccaneer, survived it all
In the midsts of Titan's squalls
Heard the screaming cannon balls
Dodged a limey's Musket ball
Yet on his Haitian port of call
The looser of last night's brawl
Shrieked his feeble warning call
'Leave her now or harm befall!'
Was she worth it all?
Her curvy feel, her voodoo drawl
Hips that roll, lips enthrall
Still, was she really worth this fall?
Salty shipmates carried him tall
'Go to bokor, he heals all'
Pulled back the whore's ruined shawl
Stuffed in his wound, a cotton ball
Bokor said, 'Do you recall,
Who lay with you before the maul,
In dirty, straw-thrown stall?
My wayward daughter, sweet Chantale
The devil charmed her with your gall
Hell has claimed her for his all
Now I claim you as my thrall
In this jar, death's cure all'
His eyes widened in smokey pall
Cryptic mumbo-jumbo scrawl
Zombie juice, all in all
His undead future he must forestall
He kicked the jar against the wall
Orange splatter quickly sprawls
His soul saved—his heart stalls
Everything faded, once and for all
This just goes to show everyone: don't write poetry on cold meds!
February 16, 2012
Sunshine Award!
I love getting these awards and thank you SO much Sara Flower, blogger and soon-to-be published author (*eek*), for nominating me for the Sunshine Blogger Award.
This is how this award works.
Rules: Thank the person who gave you the award. Write a post about it. Answer the questions that come with it. Pass it along to ten other bloggers and let them know they've received the award.
Questions:
Favorite Color: Silver Sage (thank you Restoration Hardware for addicting me to this color)
Favorite Animal: Oh, this is so hard. I love so many. If I had to pick, I'd say Canadian Geese. I raised an orphaned one when I was little and she has a special place in my heart.
Favorite Number: 7
Favorite Non-Alcoholic Drink: Lattes (I have a whole post about this)
Facebook or Twitter: Ugh, I have to start to use these more, but I feel ancient when it comes to technological thingies (it's a miracle I've figured blogging out)
My Passions: Writing, reading, animals, hiking, family, antiques, gardening, and crafty stuff.
Getting or Giving Presents: Giving. I get such a thrill out of finding the perfect present for someone.
Favorite Pattern: Wow, I've never thought of this before. I have to say ribbons and roses.
Favorite Day of the Week: Saturday, since my husband's home and I actually get some writing time!
Favorite Flower: Pansies
My Nominees:
Sara Flower- I have to nominate her back since I just worship her style and her romantic/fantasy inspired posts. They have a way of transporting me to a place that is critical for everything imaginative.
Bethany Yeager- I have so much love for this amazing blogger and writer. Not only is she just the best crit partner in the world, her posts are always so fun and full of sagacious writing advice.
Yesenia- Now this aspiring writer is just about to give birth, so she gets a free pass not to respond to this award. But she has terrific insights into writing with tips and resources to help aspiring writers. Good luck with the new baby!
Brian James Freeman- I'm new to Brian's blog, but his novellas looked so interesting, I snatched them up right away. I'm half-way through his collections of short stories titled Seven Stories and he has a wonderful voice. He has such a professional blog and I look to him as model for a successful author.
David Shutter- David's blog is wonderful for staying on top of the latest self-publishing news and occasionally he speaks about his journey toward self-publishing. I love the title of his first sci-fi action thriller, The Doomsday Door.
Hollister Ann Grant- I owe this blogger a lot. She found my blog early on and provided such wonderful advice since she had just published herself. She has two books out right now (both so enjoyable) and I know she is busy right now writing a third. She writes fantastic guest posts and is so helpful.
Shéa MacLeod- Talk about prolific writer! This lady puts me to shame. Every time I check in on her blog it seems she's written another amazing book. I love her blog, love her guest posts, and I love her voice.
Caitlinnicoll - Exceptional YA reviews. I don't know how she does it, but I'm astounded by how many books this girl can read! Her blog is always fun and creative.
Brigid Kemmerer- Author of the Elemental series, who is just about to have her debut release! She provides great advice and insight into the traditionally published route. I can't wait to get my hands on Storm, the first of her series.
Katie Mills Hilarious, hilarious blogger whose blog title, Creepy Query Girl, says it all. Every post she writes makes me laugh. Don't miss this one, especially if you've been down the query rejection path.
Thanks again, Sara and be sure to check out the above blogs—they will not disappoint!
February 14, 2012
Happy Valentine's Day
Devotion
The heart can think of no devotion
Greater than being shore to ocean -
Holding the curve of one position
Counting an endless repetition.
~Robert Frost
Happy Valentine's Launch Day!
All those clutching their valentines and stuffing their faces with Godivas: pull cupid's arrow out of your backside for one moment to feast your eyes on this…
Ta-da!
I've launched the second book in the Infinite Series!
Finally!
If you haven't heard me talk about it before, here is a description of the sequel:
Maya continues to delve into her past lives after death, and strives to complete the tentative journey required to reunite with her loved ones in heaven.
She must relive and explore her former incarnations as the scandalous and misunderstood Lucrezia Borgia in Renaissance Italy; a young stowaway on the doomed Spanish Armada fleet; and the rebellious Irish Robin Hood, Count Redmond O'Hanlon.
Her companions prove truer while her enemies grow stronger as her bygone adventures spin forth. This time she must experience the trials of loyalty and endure the hardships that only supreme devotion brings.
As an extra treat for being such amazing blog supporters, I want to offer my sequel's ebook for free!
No strings attached!
Email me for your Smashwords coupon today.
*In a rushed, hushed voice* Offer ends either at midnight tonight or until after the first fifty requests; whichever comes first.
However, if after reading this epic novel you cannot resist posting me a review, I will not be upset 
To all those interested in a print copy: they will be available in a few days via Amazon.
(And Dad, you're not allowed to buy eight copies like you did before!)
Thanks everyone for your support and have a wonderful day!
Special Note: Infinite Devotion is not a standalone; side effects of reading the series out-of-order include headache, confusion, and, though extremely rare, disinterest in continuing the series.
Commence Valentine's day proceedings…
February 9, 2012
So it's now February…
and I haven't launched Infinite Devotion yet.
Due to unforseen baby showers and baptism parties (and extra editing) I've had to delay my release a tad. Since the title of this sequel is titled Infinite Devotion, I thought it would be fitting to attempt to release it on Valentine's Day.
That's a terrible day for a launch you say?
Yes, while many people will be enjoying the day filled with sappy cards, chocolates, dinners, and romantic interludes, there will be plenty of people looking for something to entertain them (as I remember from my single days). And my husband and I will be lucky to enjoy a dinner without disruption from our little kiddies, so why not add some thrill to the day!
So, be sure to meet me back here on V-day! (Unless you have better plans 
)
