B.R. Myers's Blog, page 7

Are You Starting Your Story Too Soon?

Most agents and editors will tell you the first few pages of your story are the most important. You have to set the stage for the story while still hooking the reader.Easier said than written though because the set up information is not always the best way to grab a reader's attention. So how do you know where the best place to start your story?Here are two simple rules that will help you determine the most effective starting point in your story's timeline.Rule #1  You’re beginning your story too soon if there is nothing happening in your first chapter.

Read your first chapter and then ask yourself these questions.

1. What is happening?
2. If you take out all the backstory does the scene move forward? If yes, then take out the backstory.

Here's a handy dandy checklist for essential elements for every scene.

Rule #2 You’re beginning your story too soon if your opening chapter does not contain any conflict.

Your MC wants something, but they can't get it = conflict

This gets even more exciting if there's a way to get what they want, but it's going to cause a MAJOR dilemma and push the plot forward.

Keep these two rules in mind and your opening will be awesome!

The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins is a classic example of a great opening.




If you found this helpful, check out these other posts.

Prologue? The Best Place To Start Your Story.

How To Stop The Middle Of Your Story From Sagging.

How To Write A Nail Biting Climax.

How To Give Your Readers An Unforgettable Ending.

Happy writing!

13 Book Nooks To Die For

The only thing better than settling down with a good book is a dreamy book nook to settle down into. And with a snow storm on the way, there's no better time to day dream about these mini escapes that you can create in your own home. 1. I love how this little nook is tucked away with its own curtain. The whole L.L. Bean vibe is charming too. pinterest.com


2. Sheep skin blankets, pillows, and a panoramic view get my vote for this book nook.


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3. Call the constable! A body has been found in the rose garden. This squishy armchair by the cast iron wood stove, complete with a lap blanket and a bouquet of lilacs practically scream, 'hello, cozy mystery.' 

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4. Climb up the ladder to your own starry night getaway. Perfect for reading Peter Pan!


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5. Who is the genius who designed this? It's like a two in one book nook. Level one for the more social, or the top floor for when you just want to hide away with your books.


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6. Closet space is overrated. Toss out all those clothes you don't wear anymore and make yourself one of these.

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7. Calling all nomads! Isn't this gorgeous? Gypsy caravan or a genie's lamp? I'm not sure which, but I know I like it.


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8. Clever use of any awkward space. Wall sconces and pillows make this space inviting.


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9. I love the U shaped seating. It's like book club for really, really close friends.


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10. Just in case you live in the bottom of a well...

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11. I love the green and the pocket lights.


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12. A book nook make out of bookshelves. Fun and functional.


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13. The steps behind the archway are so smart. Plus, there's a fireplace under the stairs.


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Which is your favourite?

15 Inventions That Prove It's A Great Time To Be Alive

1. 'Hoverboard' Skooter

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Marty McFly was on to something, people...

A pair of electric gyroscopes (one under each pad) to balance automatically, allow the rider to speed forward, backward and around by slightly shifting their body weight. The result is all kinds of fun, ranging from hallway races to motorized dance routines. And while this doesn't actually hover *darn* the smooth effortless ride is addictive and maybe the future of city travel.


2. Colour In Wallpaper

Holy macaroni! Hours of free therapy await you and your kids. Get it here.




3. Underground Park in New York




The Lowline, an abandoned subway terminal beneath New York City, has been given a new life. Architects and engineers have developed a sophisticated sunlight delivery system by using a remote skylight dish that captures sunlight from surrounding rooftops and funnels it underground via fiber-optic cable; once there, it’s beamed out via reflective dome, enabling plants to grow. Awaiting further approval and finances, the park at its completion would be an acre of greenery in an otherwise forgotten landscape. 


4. Doppler Earbuds

dopplerearbudshere.comUnlike conventional hearing aids that amplify all noise, users of the Doppler Earbuds, with a smartphone app, can customize which sounds get filtered or amplified. This means you can easily carry on a conversation in a loud bar or drown out the sound of a crying baby on an air plane.


5. Microsoft Hololens

Microsoft.comVirtual reality headsets allow you to experience a swim with dolphins or ride a roller coaster, however, the Hololens takes this a step further and gives you the experience to overlap the fantasy within your own environment. So instead of fighting zombies in a post apocalyptic setting, you can battle in your own home or take it outside for a dragon race in your neighborhood!


6. Jet Puffed Stackable Marshmallows

For perfect smores in minutes!

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7. Donut Ice Cream Cones

peoplemagazie.comA Prague café called Good Food Coffee and Bakery is gaining worldwide attention for its trdelniks: cinnamon-flavored, deep-fried dough spirals that make sumptuous vessels for ice cream, apples, whipped cream, berries and Nutella. It's only a matter of time before our own version of trdelníks hit North Amercia. These 'pastries with a purpose' may be the best thing on this list. The future is bright, my friends. Lick it up.

8. A Frying Pan that Teaches You How to Cook

Pantelligent frying pan...never burn supper again!

Just type in the recipe to your smart phone. The electronics in the pan talk to the app, the app monitors the temperature. It tells you when to flip, add ingredients, when to stir and when to adjust the stove temperature. 




9. Pizza Vending Machine

No explanation necessary.

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10. Parking Lot With Lights To Show Empty Spots

This is so brilliant, I can't even...

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11. Skittles Vending Machine

Customize your own package of 'taste the rainbow'. Finally!




12. Backpack With A Hood

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13. Rotating Benches

With a simple turn of the handle you'll always have a dry seat.

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14. Personalized Flip Flops.

Get yours here.

Mine would say, Turn Back. Danger.


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15. Zipped! Ear buds that will NEVER tangle.


pinterest.com   What are some of your favourite inventions?   

Common Writer Mistakes That Ruin The First Chapter

The opening pages are the most important in your story. It determines whether the reader is going to stay with your characters on this journey, or put your book back on the shelf and keep looking. 

Here are a few common mistakes to avoid.


#1. Generic Opening  

Avoid the 'day-in-the-life intro': Your character wakes up, looks at themselves in the mirror, describes what they look like, talks about what they'll wear that day...

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Who cares?

A good opening shows three things: who the main character is, why the reader should care for them, and what their conflict is about. There should also be a question early on that hooks the reader.


#2. Too Much Backstory

This should be held back until we have a solid idea of the main character and their conflict. The backstory should be meaningful and propel the plot forward. Plus, don't give up all the answers at once, keep the mystery going for the reader.


#3. Inner Monologue That Goes Nowhere

Don't allow your characters to talk uninterrupted for more than a few paragraphs. The reader usually ends up feeling preached to and the story loses all sense of setting. And most importantly, it stops the action...dead! 


#4. No Conflict or Mystery

Instead of getting stuck in describing the everyday activity of your main character to establish their normal world before the inciting incident, you need to set up a situation that shows how they would normally tackle a problem. This will create reader sympathy and show the everyday world of your main character without boring the reader.


#5. Stilted Dialogue

Unless your character is Henry Higgins, your dialogue shouldn't be too formal.

"I cannot think of a better time to enjoy a walk out doors with you, Deidre."

Most people don't speak perfect English in regular conversations. For the reader it will come off as unnatural. Besides, dialogue is a great opportunity to show specific characteristics as well.

And beware of the fillers that take up valuable space on the page as simple, generic conversation that add nothing to the story.

"Good bye."
"So long."
"Thanks so much."
"You're welcome."


#6. Unclear POV

Otherwise known as head hopping. Stay in one person's point of view for a scene, especially for the first chapter when you need to convince the reader to invest in your main character. The less time they spend with them, the less likely they'll find them interesting or sympathetic. And if the reader doesn't care what happens to the main character then your plot doesn't really matter.


#7. Too Many Characters Introduced

The first chapter is not the place to bring out the whole cast. Think of a play or your favourite movie. Introduce each character in a way that makes them memorable to the reader. It's also handy to remember that you don't need EVERY character in EVERY scene.

What are some other pitfalls for the first chapter?

If you found this useful, check out these other posts for writers.

Ten Commandments For Writers

How To Make Your Readers Believe Anything

Tips To Secretly Work On Your Novel While At Your Day Job

How To Write A Nail Biting Climax

Official Cover Reveal for NIGHT SHIFT

I did it. I finally did it.

The idea came to me almost twenty years ago when I got lost inside Harrods. I remember wandering around the sumptuous confectionery wishing I had the whole store to myself.

And now, after eight years of writing, revising, querying, two agents, and countless submissions, I've made the decision to make this dream come true on my own.

I'm self publishing NIGHT SHIFT!!!!!!

Having published three books the traditional route, (with a fourth out this July, DIADEM OF DEATH) and the wonderful support from Wattpad readers, I knew this was the best time for me to take the plunge into self publishing.

The first thing I did was contact the editor who had worked on my other books—lucky for me she was available. Next, I hired the artist who had done the cover for ASP OF ASCENSION. Emma Dolan was able to give NIGHT SHIFT a slick new look.

Here's a little bit about the book:

At Willard's department store, none of the night security guards survive for long, and eighteen-year-old Daniel Gale is about to discover why.

Tired of endless hotels and living out of his backpack, he ignores the clerk's gossip about the old building being haunted and takes the job as the newest night guard. On his first shift, Daniel narrowly escapes a fatal drop down the elevator shaft, and is rescued by Mary, a bossy and intriguing girl who is far too beautiful for after hours inventory.

Anticipating every night shift as a chance to be with her, Daniel thinks his traveling days are over hoping that New York City is the place to call home. But as his life becomes more entwined with Willard's, Daniel senses unnatural changes and bizarre coincidences, both with Mary and the store itself. Soon he suspects Willard's is hiding something more sinister than gossip about ghosts—something that could make him the next casualty of the NIGHT SHIFT.


Okay, enough words. Scroll down for the official cover of NIGHT SHIFT.
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Emma Dolan was able to come up with this design simply from the query letter. She has no idea how intuitive she is! I love the colour scheme and of course the one tiny light on at the top.
Order now!
Amazon (Canada)Amazon (US) 
Check out NIGHT SHIFT's inspiration board on Pinterest here. Add it on Goodreads here.


Here's a sneak peek. Enjoy!
CHAPTER ONE T he gray-haired security guard narrowed his eyes, taking in Daniel’s faded pea coat over the hoodie, and his worn out backpack. Months of travelling had left its mark; his clothes were dingy, he hadn’t shaved in a few days, and even his skin was pale and tired-looking. Daniel caught his reflection in one of the video monitors that lined the opposite wall, tracking all the movements inside Willard’s department store. No one from school would recognize the zombie he’d become. The man’s wrinkled fingers drummed on the antique wooden desk beside Daniel’s pathetic, half-page resume. “You left the education section blank,” he said curtly. “I’m a few credits short of graduating from high school.” A few plus some more, Daniel thought to himself. Then he added quickly, “I’m hoping to finish by correspondence in the next few months.” A lie. A diploma was the last thing on his “to do” list.“You dropped out?” “No.” Daniel’s cheeks grew warm. He faked a cough, hoping to disguise the blush. He hadn’t anticipated having to explain his circumstances. “I just didn’t finish the last semester.”“Any trouble with the law?”“No, sir.”“You can call me Mr. Oliver,” he instructed. His eyes barely stayed on Daniel before his attention returned to the paper. “Okay…” There was an uncomfortable pause, then he added, “Mr. Oliver.”“Daniel Gale,” he read, his finger going over the resume as if reading it by brail. “Not a very common name.”Daniel stayed quiet, unsure how to respond. He didn’t think his name was all that special.The questions started again. “You’re a long way from home. Why?” “I’m eighteen,” Daniel answered, slightly put out by the insinuation he was a helpless kid. “I’ve been travelling.”“But not anymore?” One white eyebrow arched, but Mr. Oliver didn’t look up.Daniel was struck by a heavy gloom. He needed this job; it was his last hope. The thought of getting on another plane made him sick. Long ago, he’d made a game of trying to guess which of his fellow passengers had someone waiting for them. A woman with an infant would more than likely be embraced by anxious grandparents, waving a new teddy bear. The middle-aged man wearing a baseball cap was always picked up by his brother or sister. And the girl who checked her makeup just before the plane landed was meeting a boyfriend. But there was never anyone waiting for Daniel.Before he could put a spin on his situation, Mr. Oliver spoke again. “Next of kin is your lawyer.” It wasn’t a question, but he paused, waiting for an explanation.“My parents are, um…gone.” Daniel looked down at his scuffed loafers, taken from his father’s closet the day he left home.  “Ever work in a department store?” Mr. Oliver asked. Clearly, the fact that Daniel was on his own didn’t concern or interest him. Daniel guessed if he’d been purposely going for the sympathy angle, it wouldn’t have worked on this tough crank. “No,” he answered.“Any experience with security?”“No.”“How long have you lived in the city?” he asked suspiciously, as if trying to catch Daniel in a lie.“Just arrived.” Daniel felt like he was in his school’s state hockey championship all over again, but this time, every slap shot was missing the net. His fingers slipped inside his jacket pocket and found the small round object. He managed a half smile—feeling the Magic 8 Ball keychain always made him relax. “I see,” Mr. Oliver said, studying him. He smoothed out his royal blue tie, letting his fingers pause at the golden W on the clip. Daniel squirmed, making the wooden chair squeak.  “Do you believe in ghosts?”  He cocked his head to one side, unsure if he’d heard correctly. “Um, ghosts?” Daniel didn’t dare crack a joke; in fact, the old guy was creeping him out. Why was it important for a night security guard to believe in ghosts? He shifted his weight in the chair again, trying to buy time to think. He was totally unprepared for this interview. The silence grew painfully long; he had to say something. Daniel took a deep breath. He knew all about the finality of death. “No,” he said. “I don’t believe in ghosts.”“Good. Willard’s has a bit of a reputation—unfortunately. The store goes through a lot of night guards.”“Oh,” Daniel said. His gaze flicked around the room, wondering if there was a hidden camera on him. Maybe this was some psychological component of the interview? “Excuse me, but by ‘go through,’ what do you mean?” “They quit.” “Oh,” Daniel said again.Mr. Oliver folded his hands on the green blotter and stared back. “Why do you want to work here?”Daniel’s fist squeezed the keychain inside his pocket. He met Mr. Oliver’s gaze and told him the truth. “Because it’s just what I need.”Mr. Oliver let out a long breath, and then added Daniel’s thin resume to a pile of more substantial hopefuls, making the outcome of this disastrous interview obvious. Daniel’s last bit of hope faded, and the disappointment weighed on him like a wet blanket. “Thank you for your interest in Willard’s,” Mr. Oliver said, nodding toward the door. “Come to the office tomorrow, half an hour before the store closes. We’ll get you fitted for a uniform.”Daniel almost fell out of the chair. “I got the job?” “Don’t be late,” he said, then paused, and his voice dropped a few notes. “Daniel Gale.”  “I won’t. Thank you!” Daniel was stunned for a moment, unable to move. Mr. Oliver frowned at him, and then motioned impatiently to the door again. Daniel left the security office, shouldering his backpack, suddenly giddy with his change in luck. He leaned against a long glass counter and grinned. He was finally getting closer to finding an answer.
Now available from Amazon Canada and Amazon US .

13 Awesome Ways to Use Old Sweaters

Some of these projects look so fun I just might buy extra sweaters to make them (I love a good thrift store shopping spree). 


1. Make Mittens: from Homestead Survival

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2. Wine Bottle Covers from CreateMyEvent

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3. Felted Sweater Blanket from Recovergirl


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4. Leg Warmers: from createbellacreate


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5. Upcycled Sweater Slipper Boots from Drawings Under the Table


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6. Cup Warmer from Less Than Perfect


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7. Baby Hats made from Old Sweaters from Make It & Love It


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8. An Infinity Scarf


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9. Pillow Cover from Brassy Apple

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10. Cozy Slippers from We Can Re-Do It!


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11. Sweater Macbook Case from the Merrythought


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12. Cable Knit Lampshade from Farm Fresh Therapy


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13. Sweater Wrist Warmers from What Will We Do Today


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Which is your favourite idea?

Great Crossover TV Shows from the 70's and 80's

Twitter is in a frenzy, my friends. Supergirl and the Flash will be sharing an episode!!!

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Who doesn't love a good crossover?

And this got me thinking about my favourite crossover shows from when I was a kid and TV was king.

Okay, it's still king, but today it goes by the name of Netflix.

Anyway, get your Orange Crush t-shirt on, turn the speed dial on your record play to LP, and open up the ketchup flavoured Humpty Dumpty potato chips because we're taking the station wagon on a trip to the 70's and 80's.

1. Nancy Drew and the Hardy Boys Meet Dracula



This special two part episode was fantastically insane on so many levels. On the search for a missing friend, Joe and Frank end up in Europe. They bump into Nancy and Bess and end up at a mascaraed party in a real castle hosted by Lorne Greene. Bodies start turning up with puncture wounds on their necks. Weird? Not even close until Paul Williams shows up as some kind of rock god. Then Sean Cassidy takes to the stage (which is awesome) and we find out Lorne Greene is Dracula.


2. The Jetsons meet The Flintstones

Who else would George Jetson meet when he travels back in time?







3. The Bionic Woman and the Six Million Dollar Man

These two super human lovebirds shared several crossover episodes, I think my favourite was The Big Foot episode since it also involved aliens.




But really, Jamie Summers was absolutely at her finest while fighting the fembots.




4. Mork & Mindy meet Laverne & Shirley and Happy Days




Mork & Mindy and Laverne & Shirley were both spin-offs from Happy Days. This pilot episode brought it all three together, transporting Mork to Earth with a surprised greeting from the Fonz and a date with Laverne.


5. St. Elsewhere meets Cheers



The staff of St. Elgius stop by Boston’s most famous sitcom bar for a drink. Apparently Norm is Dr. Auschlander’s former accountant and Carla gave birth to her last child in the St. Elsewhere hospital. The interactions between Norm, Carla, and the St. Elsewhere staff are a fitting nod to the strengths of both shows and it feels like a cleaver one act play rather than a publicity, crossover gimmick.


What are some of your favourite crossover shows?

Seven Characters That Will Strengthen Your Story

This is a great tool for outlining a new idea, but I mostly find its real worth when I'm revising. During this phase of writing I need to add meat to the bones of the story. I want to make sure the characters stay true, but this exercise also helps me tweak out something unexpected from them.


The Protagonist:

The character whose goal and transformation drives the story.



Needs to be likable. Show the reader the redeeming qualities as soon as you can.

Needs to be in trouble. What does she want and why can't she get it.

Needs to have a weakness. Primarily it should be her weakness that is her downfall. Whatever she fears the most should be the thing she needs to overcome at the end.

Needs to sacrifice something to get what she wants. She'll risk pursuit of a goal that she feels has a greater significance than her own comfort zone. Show how she changes/learns/grows through this transformation. In the end, she'll have to battle obstacles that would have stopped her at the beginning of the story.


The Antagonist:

The character whose goal drives the conflict and push the protagonist toward transformation.



Needs to have motives that make their ambitions opposite to those of the protagonist. Why are they in competition with the protagonist?

Needs to make sense. They can't be evil for evil's sake. Give them their own story arc. After all, the villain thinks they are the hero of the story.

Needs to be interesting, mysterious, and a little stronger than your protagonist.

Needs to go after goals in a way that sets up obstacles for protagonist to overcome, the more entertaining and extreme, the better.

Needs to have own transformation. Do they become a better person or do they get more desperate?

A Foil:

A character used to reflect and illuminate specific aspects of the progtagonist's strengths and weaknesses.




Needs to serve as an example or voice of reason through the story. Helps protagonist learn essential lesson.

Needs to be contrast to protagonist's logic.

Should have own character arc throughout story, but more behind the scenes than on the page.


A Threshold Guardian:

Someone who likes things the way they are and opposes the protagonist when she wants to change the situation.




Can be an ally of either the protagonist or the antagonist, or a completely neutral party.

Should be introduced to the reader before the turning point of the story.

Should add conflict to the B story by testing the protagonist or antagonist by pushing them to solve their problem by making discoveries or creating conflict by their actions.

Helps propel the story forward by either helping or hindering the protagonist.

May be come a mentor by the end.


A Mentor:

Someone in the story who give the protagonist answers, tools, or advice she needs to achieve her transformation or reach her goal.





Similar to the foil, but has a direct influence on helping the protagonist win past the threshold guardian.

Provides help to the protagonist based on respect or love or kindness. Through their actions, protagonist makes choices that lead to their change/growth.

May have a story arc of her own. Could be a foil who has fallen on hard times and resurrects for one last stand against the antagonist. Or she may be the foil who can't be brave enough when it comes to the showdown.
A Minion:

An agent of the antagonist or someone who wants the same thing as the antagonist does.




May oppose the protagonist for different reason, but assists the antagonist to help reach their goal as they share same desire to see protagonist fail.

Unlike a mentor, the minion is motivated to help antagonist by greed or hate.


A Ficelle:

A character who helps you avoid infodump but may create worse problems.



Has same motives as protagonist, but doesn't have the same obstacles.

Is useful for discovering information through dialogue or action that will help add detail or clues about the story without baring all the responsibility on the protagonists story line.

Is the most effective when they are introduced in a way that will be brought back and tied in to the story resolution.

How do you outline your list of characters? Who else would you include? 

My Year In Writing, 2015

I usually post this the end of December, but I was knee deep in revisions for two different books, and then Christmas came ... and Netflix.

Anyway, the 'year in review' post has become a bit of a tradition for me. I recommend all writers (published and otherwise) take on this annual exercise. I've found going through the year a great way to re-examine my original goals and help set new ones for 2016. Plus, there's all those 'oh yeah, that happened' moments.

Here are my posts for  2012 , 2013 , and 2014 .

So ... grab your popcorn folks, here's what happened in 2015. 


January 

THE ASP gets a title change and becomes ASP OF ASCENSION: A NEFERTARI HUGHES MYSTERY.

Sent in second round of edits for ASP OF ASCENSION to Fierce Ink Press. Get to talk 'cover talk' with my publisher.

Most popular blog post for the month is Twelve Awesome Ways to Reuse Old Books


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February

Outlined sequel to ASP OF ASCENSION.

We have a huge snow fall in Halifax, then it rains, and then it freezes over for a hundred years. No one goes outside except to buy storm chips.

Ordered Netflix and binge on THE WALKING DEAD.

Most popular post of the month is a recap of The Bachelor Episode 6, "Crying, Catfights, and Cray-Cray"

Remember this girl?

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March

Sent off final edits for JUST JESSE (companion novel to BUTTERFLIES DONT' LIE) to Nimbus Publishing.

Met with Fierce Ink Press to discuss cover ideas and book launch venues (whoo-hoo) ANNNND signed contract for book two of the series, DIADEM OF DEATH! (double whoo-hoo)

Traveled with family to Barcelona! So, so, so wonderfully gorgeous and delicious. I recommend the bikini sandwich at Tapas 24.





Halifax has two crippling snow storms three days apart. No one can remember why we still live here.

Most popular blog post that month is my recap of Once Upon A Time, Season 4, Episode 16 "Poor Unfortunate Soul"


 April

Happy Easter!


Worked on first draft of DIADEM OF DEATH.

The last of the snow finally melts. No, seriously.

New title for JUST JESSE is *drum roll* ... GIRL ON THE RUN. The editor and I discuss cover options. Good times!

A few rejections roll in for NIGHT SHIFT. It's still a featured novel on Wattpad and has consistently ranked in the top fifty since it was posted a year before.



Most popular blog post for month is my coming of age epiphany simply titled "The First Time I Touched 'IT'"


May

Cover reveal for ASP OF ASCENSION and pre-order campaign launches. This is the most exciting part, my friend.



I discovered picmonkey and wasted invested time creating some lovely book art for my Pinterest boards like these...







The executive editor from Nimbus, the awesome Whitney Moran, drove to my house with an arc of GIRL ON THE RUN. I hugged it like a pillow.

I brought shenanigans to Authors For Indies Day and got to hang out with Alexander MacLeod and Kate Inglis at the cozy BookMark on Spring Garden Road.



I turned forty-four and eat all the cake pieces with the most icing.

Most popular post of the month is my recap of Once Upon A Time, Season 4, Episode 21 "Mother"

June

Made a few promotional videos for ASP OF ASCENSION, and sent off blog tour interviews.

My kids finished out their final years at their elementary and junior high schools. Everyone is pumped for summer.

NIGHT SHIFT is chosen by the movie 'The Gallows' to be part of it's official reading list on Wattpad. 

Most popular blog post of the month is "Top Ten Most Ridiculous Moments In Jurasic World"


July

Went camping for the Canada Day weekend with kiddos and hubby and Cody (beloved cocker spaniel).

Sent first draft of DIADEM OF DEATH to editor (four days before deadline *cough* awesome *cough*

After discovering she was tweeting from Chapters in Halifax, I rush there and manage to get a selfie with the adorable RAINBOW ROWELL!!!!



Had book launch for ASP OF ASCENSION!

My niece gave me a pompadour hairdo and I felt like a super star!





Most popular blog post of month is "Hosting A Writing Workshop for Teens"


August


Ate my weight in smores while camping and kayak the heck out of summer. Ah, sunsets...




Most popular blog post of month is "I Am Currently..."


September

Lovely weekend spent in Old Quebec city. Let me tell you, they do poutine and coffee like nobody's business.


Had book blitz and cover reveal for GIRL ON THE RUN. The fantastic publicist at Nimbus, Tom Ryan (who also happens to be a prolific YA author) made the snazzy trailer.



Celebrated Word On The Street at the bee-u-tee-ful Halifax library, or as Sarah Sawler likes to call it, Halifax's Book Palace. I had the opportunity to share a YA panel with the effervescent and hilarious, Melody Fitzpatrick. I don't have a picture of us together, but here's the Nimbus gang working hard at the book signing booth.



Had book launch for GIRL ON THE RUN! Some of the prizes included ...






Received four stars, highly recommended reviews for both ASP OF ASCENSION and GIRL ON THE RUN from the CM Magazine!


"... an amazing mix of reality, mystery, and fantasy. Asp of Ascension is a really gripping tale that will keep readers on the edge of their chairs right to the end."  

"Quick-paced with lots of twists, readers will love Girl on the Run."

I celebrated with sushi from Wassabi House.

Most popular blog post of month is Once Upon A Time, Season 5 Episode 1 "Dark Swan"


October


Now that all the books had been launched, it was time to get to my reading pile. I was thrilled to discover, AMRITA by Banana Yoshimoto. I also finished GIRL ON THE TRAIN, and THE MARTIAN.

Most popular blog post for month is "Once Upon A Time, Season 4, Episode 5 "Dream Catcher"

Went to my first Hal-Con and signed copies of ASP OF ASCENSION; fitting since Star Trek is mentioned in the dedication.



November

Book signings galore! I love book signings when the store is all decked out for Christmas. I was especially grateful to have three books on the table this time. 






Received my last EVER rejection for NIGHT SHIFT. That's because I made the decision to stop querying and self-publish the series. *takes deep breath, plugs nose, jumps from high diving board*

Lucky enough to enlist Penelope Jackson (editor super star) to edit NIGHT SHIFT.
Worked on creative portfolio for cover artist.

Began first round of edits on DIADEM OF DEATH.

Most popular blog post for month is "How To Be As Happy As Your Dog"


December

Began work on final edits for NIGHT SHIFT!
Got a sample of covers that are all beautiful. Picked the one that was a perfect mix of style and mystery. (I'd love to show you, but you'll have to wait for the reveal).

Tackled first round of edits for DIADEM OF DEATH. I can't wait to make book art for this one!

Enjoyed getting my skates on again as the Oval opened for another season.



Most popular blog post of month is Once Upon A Time Season 5, Episode 11 "Swan Song"


Goals for 2016

Write a combined novel for both Kelsey (BUTTERFLIES DON'T LIE) and Jesse (GIRL ON THE RUN).

Skate on the Oval more.

Somehow get chosen to be a parade marshal.

Outline third novel for The Nefertari Hughes Mystery series.

Find the agent who is the right fit for my secret project.

Learn how to knit socks.


What are you writing goals for 2016?

Once Upon A Time Season 5 Episode 11 "Swan Song"

Or better title "I Have No Idea"

abc.com
Let's recap: Seeking revenge against Emma for turning him immortal to save his life, Hook (now a Dark One with the inability to make choices based on empathy) is attempting to literally drag Emma's entire family to Hell.

Why?

I have no idea.

Maybe because the mid-season finale needed a ticking time bomb.

There's been so much build up to Hook revealing himself as the man he truly is that I was hoping for a flashback of some substance that would explain why he's unable to fight the darkness like Emma. Who, by the way is acting very much like her pre-Dark One self. And wasn't that the whole motivation for season 4? Making Emma's heart dark? Not really much of a threat after all.

Ever Been To Sea?

Okay, so we see a young Killian and his brother, Liam abandoned by their father. Actually, he sells them into ship slavery before mounting a swimming horse...I think.

Mental note: Are all the parents in Fairy Tale Land vicious? Not one character has had a descent upbringing. Except maybe Grumpy, but he hatched out of a huge egg fully clothed.
 
Meanwhile, back in Storybrooke, the Dementors had arrived!

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And everyone is being branded with a Dark Mark that actually looks like a bumble bee, which acts like a one way ticket on the ferry boat to hell—literally.

The dwarves show up because they have a pivotal role to play in this episode.

Bwhahaha! Just kidding. I have no idea why they're there.

While everyone does nothing and just waits for the moon 'to become it's fullest' Mr. Gold saunters out from the alley to give everyone a lesson on the latest plot hole. If you have a bumble bee mark on your arm you will be swept into hell, no passing Go, no collecting $200.

So everyone, dwarfs included, decide to run to the library because there must be a book about this "Moon That Sends Everyone To Hell".

Before anyone gets a paper cut, Mary Margaret monologues about how she's ready to see the end of the world eating cheese burgers at Granny's with all of her loved ones by her side.


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Instead of riling up his wife to channel her inner Snow White and kick some Dark One butt, he says, "True dat, babe. Besides these old books smell like book farts."

Emma says she'll meet them there, then she pulls Regina aside and I'm so excited because finally these two will proclaim their love for each other and it will be the love that spilt the world in half and True Love's kiss will sweep all those dementors/Dark Ones back to hell.

But, no. Emma says she has a plan to save everyone. She's going to use Excalibur to suck all the darkness from Hook and the Dark Ones. Then she'll absorb all that darkness, and kill herself with Excalibur.

I liked my plan better.

Anyway, putting an arm around her shoulders Regina takes Emma to Mr. Gold's shop asking for Excalibur. He hands it over without asking for anything in return and says, "Your a brave woman."

This was a perfect scene based on the inner struggle of all three characters with good and evil and the choices we make and who we love...it was awesome.

The show should have ended right there.

Then Emma tearfully tells Regina before she carries out this epic plan to save everyone, that she wants to spend her last moments with the people she loves the most, so could Regina go to Granny's with her?

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Kiss her, Regina! Kiss her now!

And completely out of character, Regina is like, "Thanks, but I have to hang out with Robin and Baby Hood."

Why would she abandon Emma when she needs her the most? They've been there for each other during the highest stakes! Why?

I have no idea.


Family Ties

Regina leaves Emma in order to deal with Zelena, which is ridiculous because all it took was the use of a sparkly wand which Regina was unable to use until this episode because...why?

I have no idea.

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Emma drops by Granny's and leaves a goodbye note explaining her save Storybrooke plan even though she's still a Dark One. Saving others by murdering yourself is the most unDark Oneish thing imaginable.

In a desperate attempt to create some kind of last minute loop hole, Regina corners Hook down by the docks and eludes to a super secret past they have together. "Remember the time I hired you to kill my mother?" she starts.

Why would a magical Queen need a drunken pirate to kill her even more magical and even more evil mother?

I have no idea.

But first Hook had to prove he had the gumption to carry out the deed by murdering his own father. Wow, could it really be him? After all those years? Yes, Hook's dad works in a pub. But he reveals that he's a changed man and is truly sorry for selling little Hook and his brother, Liam. He fell under a sleeping curse, was kissed awake by his nurse (his true love) but then she died from a plague.

Though Hook was a fierce pirate who was bent on revenge, he can't kill his dad. Instead he demands he leave the country. His dad is fine with this, but then Hook discovers his dad had another son and called him, Liam. How dare he!

Hook is so upset that he ends up killing his dad anyway.

This dude is out of control.

Fare Thee Well, Love

Back in Storybrooke, the pure hearted Mr. Gold does his best acting and suggests that Belle take his car and go see the world. He gives her a talisman that will allow her pass the town line and says, "Go on, no one uses the library anyway. Enjoy some espresso and IMAX. We'll be waiting when you get back."

Belle is easily fooled and grabs the keys without looking back.

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After applying some lipstick Emma gets Excalibur but is confronted by Hook. All the drama and tension has led up to this moment. They argue about love and who will pay the mortgage on the house now. Then suddenly Henry is in front of her. Emma goes all slack. Henry takes the sword and transforms back into Hook.
Why did she fall for that?

I have no idea.

Suddenly everyone is at the pond (portal to hell). Hook confronts Emma (AGAIN!) about how he couldn't wait to get revenge on her for saving his life and making him a Dark One.

Um...before he was like, "I love you, let's live together in this house with an awesome view of the sea." And now, just because he's a Dark One, he's sending her entire family to hell—except baby Neal because everyone has forgotten about him.

Anyway, he snatches Excalibur away from Emma so easily while everyone just shuffled around and watched. Regina finally shows up and says, "Hook, you're being a big jerk. Grow up."

Hook replies, "Shit, you're right. I'm going to suck all the Dark Ones into this sword and then Emma will stab me and I will save the day."

Why did he change that quickly?

I have no idea.

Emma's like, "No! I can't lose you. I should be me."

He says, "Your family needs you. I deserve to go to the underworld. And there's that kiss between you and Regina that still needs to happen."

FYI: You can't be the hero if you fix the mess you made.

Emma stabs Hook!!!!

abc.com

Instantly, red leather jacket Emma Swan is back. Hook's grotesque neck wound reappears and he dies in her arms.

Regina is by Emma's side, "Be strong girl. Chin up, buttercup."

Kiss her, Regina! Kiss her! 


Dumb and Dumber

Across town, completely naïve about the portal to hell, Belle returns red cheeked and runs to Mr. Gold's arms. She says, "You can't get rid of me that easily." They kiss and make-up and Mr. Gold is starting to realize that Belle, while well read, has zero street smarts.

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Wandering Storybrooke, Emma senses Excalibur is close by. She follows the sound to Mr. Gold's shop. And he's all, "Okay, you got me. I performed a quick spell that somehow cleaved apart the Excalibur. When you stabbed Hook, all the darkness returned to the dagger. I'm the Dark One again." And he shows her the dagger, now engraved with the name, Rumplestiltskin.

How come Emma isn't still the Dark One? Her name was the last on the dagger? Why?

I have no idea.

She says, "You fooled us all. So all that awesome character development and struggle with your character these last few seasons was...?"

"Pointless," he answers. "Yes. It's just like season one again. Including your wardrobe."

And here's the big cliffhanger!

Emma makes a deal with Mr. Gold for the thousandth time, she'll keep his secret from Belle if he gets her into the underworld to save Hook.

Ugh.

Who was the MVP?

#1. Hook's half brother

#2. Emma's lipstick

#3. Mr. Gold's car