Jane Cousins's Blog
August 15, 2025
Latest news and a spoiler or two....
Let's get right down to the important stuff. I have started the editing process for book 15 of the Southern Sanctuary Series - To Crave A Curse.
At this rather early stage it's still on track for an October 2025 release.
What can I tell you about book 15?
It features Gigi - Chocolatier and Elemental Mage. Pairing her up with anti-love former treasurer hunter Nico Yanez.
Surely there's more hints I could give?
Ummm.... dead bodies, a purple poison testing bunny takes a major role. The babies are in the thick of things when it comes to smackdowns. Oh, and baby Sunny finally arrives, but that in no way goes smoothly.
More. More. More!
You twisted my arm. Expect more Gods and Goddess and other players to reveal that they are mixed up in the Deity Cabal that plan to rule the Earth. (Something I have been hinting was on the cards since book 3)
A major development occurs for one of the flyboy Maat twins.
... and the Fates arrive in the Southern Sanctuary.
And so much more. There is a truckload of Darcy. A sprinkling of matchmaker Alma. And Devon is forced to make herself useful, much to her dismay.
Sounds like a lot? Trust me, it is. Making all my recent books in the series that little bit longer to fit everything in. Which translates to longer writing and editing cycles - thanks for sticking with me on this journey.
Several people have reached out lately to ask me how many more books do I intend to produce for the series.
The answer? Even I don't know. My intention at this stage is to wrap up the Deity cabal plot over probably 3 (or more) books - both Flynn & Dash will be getting their own story... eventually.
What else am I working on?
I managed to get about half of book 3 Vexatious Valkyries series - Luck Be A Demon - drafted before my editing for 15 deadline came around.
I'll drop more details later in the year.
If you're interested in more hints, teases and even the odd quote or two - follow me on Facebook and Instagram.
If you have any questions, let me know, always happy to chat.
May all your reads be 5 star fantastic
At this rather early stage it's still on track for an October 2025 release.
What can I tell you about book 15?
It features Gigi - Chocolatier and Elemental Mage. Pairing her up with anti-love former treasurer hunter Nico Yanez.
Surely there's more hints I could give?
Ummm.... dead bodies, a purple poison testing bunny takes a major role. The babies are in the thick of things when it comes to smackdowns. Oh, and baby Sunny finally arrives, but that in no way goes smoothly.
More. More. More!
You twisted my arm. Expect more Gods and Goddess and other players to reveal that they are mixed up in the Deity Cabal that plan to rule the Earth. (Something I have been hinting was on the cards since book 3)
A major development occurs for one of the flyboy Maat twins.
... and the Fates arrive in the Southern Sanctuary.
And so much more. There is a truckload of Darcy. A sprinkling of matchmaker Alma. And Devon is forced to make herself useful, much to her dismay.
Sounds like a lot? Trust me, it is. Making all my recent books in the series that little bit longer to fit everything in. Which translates to longer writing and editing cycles - thanks for sticking with me on this journey.
Several people have reached out lately to ask me how many more books do I intend to produce for the series.
The answer? Even I don't know. My intention at this stage is to wrap up the Deity cabal plot over probably 3 (or more) books - both Flynn & Dash will be getting their own story... eventually.
What else am I working on?
I managed to get about half of book 3 Vexatious Valkyries series - Luck Be A Demon - drafted before my editing for 15 deadline came around.
I'll drop more details later in the year.
If you're interested in more hints, teases and even the odd quote or two - follow me on Facebook and Instagram.
If you have any questions, let me know, always happy to chat.
May all your reads be 5 star fantastic
June 18, 2025
Trends come and go... what's up next?
Hello gorgeous people,
Remember when everyone was raving about books with billionaire bear shifter Heroes?
And before that, it was dragons.
And before all that was the high stakes love triangle PNRs like Twilight and Hunger Games.
And lately, it's the 'dark' romance bandwagon, where every book has either Crown or Court in the title.
Trends come and go. Although some never seem to fade away. Vampire Heroes. Kick butt Heroines. Fairytale re-tellings.
The hardest thing ever about being an author is coming up with a fresh unique story trope. In fact, I might go so far as to say it's impossible. Occasionally an author will explode on the scene with a 'novel' take on a standard story approach. Alternatively it might just be a catchy title, or a can't look away marketing campaign that captures the reading population's attention.
But how long before a whole raft of similar books/titles/marketing campaigns swamp the trendy niche? Just saying there's a hell of a lot of books being published right now with Crown, Midnight, Court, Roses in the title.
I'm not sure there has been a better time than right now to be a fan of romance/PNR/fantasy/romantasy - the accessibility/visibility of books via libraries, bookshops and online offerings is staggering. Even better, there are people willing to blog, make lists and review a lot of those offerings to help us narrow down our purchase choices.
But what's going to be the next trend? Personally I prefer the one's that pop up spontaneously thanks to the readers. Rather than the 'big publisher' backed marketing campaigns. Though they are getting harder to spot as book influencers with large followings are getting paid for their reviews these days.
As for predicting the next trend... seriously, if I could do that I'd have written the book. As a reader, as long as I get an HEA, I'm not worried about the next trend. Because whether I like it or loathe it... wait two months and a new trend will emerge.
Like I said, best time ever to be a reader.
And may all your reads be five star fantastic.
Remember when everyone was raving about books with billionaire bear shifter Heroes?
And before that, it was dragons.
And before all that was the high stakes love triangle PNRs like Twilight and Hunger Games.
And lately, it's the 'dark' romance bandwagon, where every book has either Crown or Court in the title.
Trends come and go. Although some never seem to fade away. Vampire Heroes. Kick butt Heroines. Fairytale re-tellings.
The hardest thing ever about being an author is coming up with a fresh unique story trope. In fact, I might go so far as to say it's impossible. Occasionally an author will explode on the scene with a 'novel' take on a standard story approach. Alternatively it might just be a catchy title, or a can't look away marketing campaign that captures the reading population's attention.
But how long before a whole raft of similar books/titles/marketing campaigns swamp the trendy niche? Just saying there's a hell of a lot of books being published right now with Crown, Midnight, Court, Roses in the title.
I'm not sure there has been a better time than right now to be a fan of romance/PNR/fantasy/romantasy - the accessibility/visibility of books via libraries, bookshops and online offerings is staggering. Even better, there are people willing to blog, make lists and review a lot of those offerings to help us narrow down our purchase choices.
But what's going to be the next trend? Personally I prefer the one's that pop up spontaneously thanks to the readers. Rather than the 'big publisher' backed marketing campaigns. Though they are getting harder to spot as book influencers with large followings are getting paid for their reviews these days.
As for predicting the next trend... seriously, if I could do that I'd have written the book. As a reader, as long as I get an HEA, I'm not worried about the next trend. Because whether I like it or loathe it... wait two months and a new trend will emerge.
Like I said, best time ever to be a reader.
And may all your reads be five star fantastic.
April 21, 2025
How have I been staying busy lately...?
Hey there, Gorgeous People, long time - no-blog.
I've had my head down and been way writing focused for the last few months. First with publishing my stand alone romantasy - The Beast Of Gloomenthrall, in January 2025.
And then immediately diving back into the first draft of book 15 of my Southern Sanctuary Series - To Crave A Curse.
I had written about 50% of it in 2024, and for once left myself helpful and in-depth notes, so was able to pick it back up relatively easily.
So much so I'm only a few chapters away from finishing it.
Any how - thought it was probably past time that I dropped a stream of consciousness on my readers; news, teasers and general information.
What can I tell you about book 15 - To Crave A Curse?
Well, the main characters are Nico Yanez, bar owner and older brother of Copper (book 14) and Matias (book 10) and Chocolate and Cookie Emporium business owner, Gigi DeWitt, who you met all the way back in book 1, as she was one of Gaia's bridesmaids.
Hmmm, what else can I share about book 15? The babies are back. And Nell finally gives birth, poor queasy Drum does not handle it well.
The plotting by - as yet unidentified - deities to take over the earth is heating up, and our couple are roped into helping defeat them. There's loads of Darcy... being Darcy. And boy, does she have it in for that family matchmaker Alma.
When will it be published? Ideally, all going to plan, October 2025.
What about the Valkyries? Yes, yes, I've read your emails and Facebook comments. Don't worry, the Valkyries feature big time in my writing future. Next up, I'll start writing the draft for book 3 - tentatively titled - Luck Be A Demon Tonight.
It will be Monroe Bengala's story - Valkyrie Bounty Hunter, who always tags and bags her target - until now.
Book 4 in the series? Hmmm, have two options for book 4. I can tell Zuri Bengala's story. As the Valkyrie equivalent of James Bond's Q - master weapons inventor, I can tell you now Zuri will be clashing big time with an elf or two.
Alternatively, book 4 might end up being ex-berserker chaos demon Flagstaff's story. Mentally unbalanced after fighting centuries in a war that was nothing but a money making scheme orchestrated by his betraying older sister, Flagstaff is having a very tough time re-adjusting to civilian life. Worse, he's discovered he's kind of a famous reality star - and trouble follows him around like he owes it money. Lucky Valkyrie Hotshot Lawyer Jordan is around to bail him out, much to their mutual disgust.
Anyone have a preference for book 4 of the Vexatious Valkyries series?
Anymore stand alones coming down the pipeline? Maybe, I'm playing around with a sci-fi based series of books. I'll let you know - when I know.
Want to keep up with all the latest writing news? Follow me on Facebook. Where I drop scheduling updates, quotes and just generally tease and taunt you.
If you have any questions - you can contact me on Goodreads, Facebook or send me an email Jane.cousins_author@outlook.com
Happy five star reading everybody...
I've had my head down and been way writing focused for the last few months. First with publishing my stand alone romantasy - The Beast Of Gloomenthrall, in January 2025.
And then immediately diving back into the first draft of book 15 of my Southern Sanctuary Series - To Crave A Curse.
I had written about 50% of it in 2024, and for once left myself helpful and in-depth notes, so was able to pick it back up relatively easily.
So much so I'm only a few chapters away from finishing it.
Any how - thought it was probably past time that I dropped a stream of consciousness on my readers; news, teasers and general information.
What can I tell you about book 15 - To Crave A Curse?
Well, the main characters are Nico Yanez, bar owner and older brother of Copper (book 14) and Matias (book 10) and Chocolate and Cookie Emporium business owner, Gigi DeWitt, who you met all the way back in book 1, as she was one of Gaia's bridesmaids.
Hmmm, what else can I share about book 15? The babies are back. And Nell finally gives birth, poor queasy Drum does not handle it well.
The plotting by - as yet unidentified - deities to take over the earth is heating up, and our couple are roped into helping defeat them. There's loads of Darcy... being Darcy. And boy, does she have it in for that family matchmaker Alma.
When will it be published? Ideally, all going to plan, October 2025.
What about the Valkyries? Yes, yes, I've read your emails and Facebook comments. Don't worry, the Valkyries feature big time in my writing future. Next up, I'll start writing the draft for book 3 - tentatively titled - Luck Be A Demon Tonight.
It will be Monroe Bengala's story - Valkyrie Bounty Hunter, who always tags and bags her target - until now.
Book 4 in the series? Hmmm, have two options for book 4. I can tell Zuri Bengala's story. As the Valkyrie equivalent of James Bond's Q - master weapons inventor, I can tell you now Zuri will be clashing big time with an elf or two.
Alternatively, book 4 might end up being ex-berserker chaos demon Flagstaff's story. Mentally unbalanced after fighting centuries in a war that was nothing but a money making scheme orchestrated by his betraying older sister, Flagstaff is having a very tough time re-adjusting to civilian life. Worse, he's discovered he's kind of a famous reality star - and trouble follows him around like he owes it money. Lucky Valkyrie Hotshot Lawyer Jordan is around to bail him out, much to their mutual disgust.
Anyone have a preference for book 4 of the Vexatious Valkyries series?
Anymore stand alones coming down the pipeline? Maybe, I'm playing around with a sci-fi based series of books. I'll let you know - when I know.
Want to keep up with all the latest writing news? Follow me on Facebook. Where I drop scheduling updates, quotes and just generally tease and taunt you.
If you have any questions - you can contact me on Goodreads, Facebook or send me an email Jane.cousins_author@outlook.com
Happy five star reading everybody...
January 17, 2025
The Beast Of Gloomenthrall - OUT NOW!
A snarky, fun & hot stand alone romantasy. Released 17th January. Hop on over to Amazon to purchase https://mybook.to/TBoG
The Beast Of Gloomenthrall
Doesn’t every Beast deserve a Prince? And every Monster, true love?
Sisters, Alia and Perri Gloomenthrall, are seeking vengeance. Ten years ago Perri’s husband left them for dead. But arising from the ashes, irrevocably changed, one determined never to be a victim again, one horribly scarred – they swore they would see Regal Soutner in his grave.
When word arrives that Regal is back and hunting a new bride at the Golden Palace. The sisters have no choice but to concoct a wild scheme that sees Alia, the Beast of Gloomenthrall, join the annual bridal candidate competition - seeking the Prince of the Realm’s hand in marriage.
Assassination attempts. Plotting aristos. Scheming bridal competitors. Pretty pastel dresses and useless fans. All will need to be thwarted just so the sisters can kill one no good murderous vicious bastard.
But what would any quest for vengeance be without a love story or two…?
Can a Prince convince a Beast that love is worth taking a risk on? And can a too handsome man win the hand of a woman who spends her life hiding behind veils, rather than let anyone see her face?
The Beast Of Gloomenthrall
Doesn’t every Beast deserve a Prince? And every Monster, true love?
Sisters, Alia and Perri Gloomenthrall, are seeking vengeance. Ten years ago Perri’s husband left them for dead. But arising from the ashes, irrevocably changed, one determined never to be a victim again, one horribly scarred – they swore they would see Regal Soutner in his grave.
When word arrives that Regal is back and hunting a new bride at the Golden Palace. The sisters have no choice but to concoct a wild scheme that sees Alia, the Beast of Gloomenthrall, join the annual bridal candidate competition - seeking the Prince of the Realm’s hand in marriage.
Assassination attempts. Plotting aristos. Scheming bridal competitors. Pretty pastel dresses and useless fans. All will need to be thwarted just so the sisters can kill one no good murderous vicious bastard.
But what would any quest for vengeance be without a love story or two…?
Can a Prince convince a Beast that love is worth taking a risk on? And can a too handsome man win the hand of a woman who spends her life hiding behind veils, rather than let anyone see her face?
January 12, 2025
The Beast Of Gloomenthrall - 17th January RELEASE (Available for pre-order)
A snarky, fun and hot standalone romantasy.
Head over to Amazon.com to pre-order NOW - https://mybook.to/TBoG
Release date - Friday 17th January
THE BEAST OF GLOOMENTHRALL
Doesn’t every Beast deserve a Prince? And every Monster, true love?
Sisters, Alia and Perri Gloomenthrall, are seeking vengeance. Ten years ago Perri’s husband left them for dead. But arising from the ashes, irrevocably changed, one determined never to be a victim again, one horribly scarred – they swore they would see Regal Soutner in his grave.
When word arrives that Regal is back and hunting a new bride at the Golden Palace. The sisters have no choice but to concoct a wild scheme that sees Alia, the Beast of Gloomenthrall, join the annual bridal candidate competition - seeking the Prince of the Realm’s hand in marriage.
Assassination attempts. Plotting aristos. Scheming bridal competitors. Pretty pastel dresses and useless fans. All will need to be thwarted just so the sisters can kill one no good murderous vicious bastard.
But what would any quest for vengeance be without a love story or two…?
Can a Prince convince a Beast that love is worth taking a risk on? And can a too handsome man win the hand of a woman who spends her life hiding behind veils, rather than let anyone see her face?
Head over to Amazon.com to pre-order NOW - https://mybook.to/TBoG
Release date - Friday 17th January
THE BEAST OF GLOOMENTHRALL
Doesn’t every Beast deserve a Prince? And every Monster, true love?
Sisters, Alia and Perri Gloomenthrall, are seeking vengeance. Ten years ago Perri’s husband left them for dead. But arising from the ashes, irrevocably changed, one determined never to be a victim again, one horribly scarred – they swore they would see Regal Soutner in his grave.
When word arrives that Regal is back and hunting a new bride at the Golden Palace. The sisters have no choice but to concoct a wild scheme that sees Alia, the Beast of Gloomenthrall, join the annual bridal candidate competition - seeking the Prince of the Realm’s hand in marriage.
Assassination attempts. Plotting aristos. Scheming bridal competitors. Pretty pastel dresses and useless fans. All will need to be thwarted just so the sisters can kill one no good murderous vicious bastard.
But what would any quest for vengeance be without a love story or two…?
Can a Prince convince a Beast that love is worth taking a risk on? And can a too handsome man win the hand of a woman who spends her life hiding behind veils, rather than let anyone see her face?
March 1, 2024
The earworm story idea I just couldn't shake....
I don't know when the idea came to me - but it's been haunting me for the last few years.
What if there was a Beast, a woman.... and what if she won the Prince?
That's all it started with. But it's been rolling around in my head for what feels like forever. And I kept coming up with little additional awesome add-ons.
But she's awesome and independent, she doesn't want to marry anyone, let alone a Prince.
But see, there's this yearly competition for the Prince's hand. He's notoriously picky and hasn't chosen anyone yet.
And if my Beast entered the competition she would totally slay the other bitchy competitors. And of course bicker and banter with the Prince and win his heart... but
But why would she bother????
So she has a favourite sister - who has an evil ex who stole their son away - and he'll be attending all the posh Palace parties - they need an invite and a reason for being there - The competition for the Prince.
This was going to be a snappy little novella - but then the Prince muscled in and demanded some POV time. Then so did the the favourite sister (who has fantastic secrets of her own) and then her love interest - the prettiest man who ever lived (only second to her evil ex. So no way does she trust pretty men) cried out for some POV time of his own.
So long Novella - hello full length novel - with 4 (damn it) POV's and two love stories no less.
This is new for me - this approach. Not to mention it's a stand alone romance fantasy.
What to expect? Loads of humour and bickering/banter for a start. Miscommunications. Mistrust. Snobby royals & aristos. Revenge.
And there will be HEAs - two of them.
I'd like to think I am more than half way through writing the first draft. It's a pretty fast process so far - if things keep up you may even seen this published later in 20204.
Hmmm.... anything else to tease and tantalise you with?
Oh, the name of it - The Beast Of Gloomenthrall
There - you are up to date on all things writing related - however, if you have any questions, about my books, or anything writing related speak up. Contact me here on Goodreads. Send me a question or message. Or join my Facebook page and get weekly updates and wines... I mean whines.
May all your reads be five star fantastic.
What if there was a Beast, a woman.... and what if she won the Prince?
That's all it started with. But it's been rolling around in my head for what feels like forever. And I kept coming up with little additional awesome add-ons.
But she's awesome and independent, she doesn't want to marry anyone, let alone a Prince.
But see, there's this yearly competition for the Prince's hand. He's notoriously picky and hasn't chosen anyone yet.
And if my Beast entered the competition she would totally slay the other bitchy competitors. And of course bicker and banter with the Prince and win his heart... but
But why would she bother????
So she has a favourite sister - who has an evil ex who stole their son away - and he'll be attending all the posh Palace parties - they need an invite and a reason for being there - The competition for the Prince.
This was going to be a snappy little novella - but then the Prince muscled in and demanded some POV time. Then so did the the favourite sister (who has fantastic secrets of her own) and then her love interest - the prettiest man who ever lived (only second to her evil ex. So no way does she trust pretty men) cried out for some POV time of his own.
So long Novella - hello full length novel - with 4 (damn it) POV's and two love stories no less.
This is new for me - this approach. Not to mention it's a stand alone romance fantasy.
What to expect? Loads of humour and bickering/banter for a start. Miscommunications. Mistrust. Snobby royals & aristos. Revenge.
And there will be HEAs - two of them.
I'd like to think I am more than half way through writing the first draft. It's a pretty fast process so far - if things keep up you may even seen this published later in 20204.
Hmmm.... anything else to tease and tantalise you with?
Oh, the name of it - The Beast Of Gloomenthrall
There - you are up to date on all things writing related - however, if you have any questions, about my books, or anything writing related speak up. Contact me here on Goodreads. Send me a question or message. Or join my Facebook page and get weekly updates and wines... I mean whines.
May all your reads be five star fantastic.
January 13, 2024
A Demon Is Forever (Vexatious Valkyries - Book 2) OUT NOW!!!!!!
Come for the snark... stay for the sizzle. Want it? Just click on this link - https://mybook.to/ADemonIsForever
Demon Assassins. Surly Gods. Vengeful She-Demons.
Shaw Bengala’s life has definitely taken a turn for the worse.
Banned from the battlefields. Forced to take on a dreaded management role at Valkyrie Headquarters. Now, to keep her hormonally insane - vastly pregnant - boss happy, she must join forces with the most annoying Demon in existence. One who never stops talking, flirting, or dimpling.
He’s tricky, deviously brilliant… and hiding a butt load of secrets. But surprisingly useful when it comes to dealing with peeved She-Demons and wooing snotty God clients. More importantly, the Demon knows how to throw a kickass baby shower. Still, Shaw’s life would be so much simpler if she could just kill him.
Being King of the Conflict Demon Realm is a nightmare. Kaleb Chipp spends his days listening to political advisors bickering and thwarting non-stop assassination attempts. Determined to off load the monarchy, Kaleb just needs to stay alive ten more days. Forming an alliance with Shaw may be his only hope. Falling in love with a bloodthirsty snarky Valkyrie definitely wasn’t part of the plan. Frankly, he’s more likely to get dead than convince Shaw to claim him. It will take all his wily skills to prove to her that - A Demon Is Forever.
Demon Assassins. Surly Gods. Vengeful She-Demons.
Shaw Bengala’s life has definitely taken a turn for the worse.
Banned from the battlefields. Forced to take on a dreaded management role at Valkyrie Headquarters. Now, to keep her hormonally insane - vastly pregnant - boss happy, she must join forces with the most annoying Demon in existence. One who never stops talking, flirting, or dimpling.
He’s tricky, deviously brilliant… and hiding a butt load of secrets. But surprisingly useful when it comes to dealing with peeved She-Demons and wooing snotty God clients. More importantly, the Demon knows how to throw a kickass baby shower. Still, Shaw’s life would be so much simpler if she could just kill him.
Being King of the Conflict Demon Realm is a nightmare. Kaleb Chipp spends his days listening to political advisors bickering and thwarting non-stop assassination attempts. Determined to off load the monarchy, Kaleb just needs to stay alive ten more days. Forming an alliance with Shaw may be his only hope. Falling in love with a bloodthirsty snarky Valkyrie definitely wasn’t part of the plan. Frankly, he’s more likely to get dead than convince Shaw to claim him. It will take all his wily skills to prove to her that - A Demon Is Forever.
September 30, 2023
Dipping my toe into the streaming pond....
Gorgeous people, when it comes to online streaming content there have never been more options, channels, and offerings than right at this moment.
It's way easy to dive in, sign up for every streaming option and.... watch absolutely nothing.
I kid you not, the moment I sign up for a channel all I want to do is read or play Tears of the Kingdom on my Nintendo.
But I have cracked it. Yes. I have the solution. Gift certificates.
Not only does it mean I am not wedded to the streamer for life because I am too lazy to cut the line. More importantly, because I have a deadline for when the certificate expires, it actually motivates me to watch content.
The only rule I follow is that I can't have more than two streamers in my life at any one time.
It also allows me to get a feel for a streamer.
I like Netflix, they allow you to buy gift certificates for any amount. And send you a gentle reminder when it is about to expire but don't hound you.
Their content ( I find) tends to get a bit stagnate - so I often allow a few months to pass by before I re-up for another gift certificate.
A real eye opener for me was Disney Plus. First, I hesitated because the gift certificate has to be for a year. But man, their marketing dept do a great job and I didn't hesitate for long.
Honestly though, I found their content to be... lacking.
I like the Marvel world.. but quickly discovered their Marvel series were missing something... and then it hit me, joy and couples to ship for.
Now I'm not saying I need hot and heavy romance, but hints and teases inserted cleverly into the storyline would go a long way. I couldn't help but feel all the Marvel series writers were male... just a sense I got.
I thought Wandavision was well done (female writers here for sure) and kind of liked The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, those dudes had a hint of a bromance, but what they did to Sharon's character? Really annoyed me. And the plot collapsed in a big heap after like 5 episodes.
I thought I was going to love Loki, but it lacked joy. Same with Hawkeye. She-Hulk had potential, and didn't take itself too seriously.
The Mandalorian was a hoot and half. And you know why? Because there was love to ship for, even if it was between a father and a son.
The rest of the Star Wars series proved too grim and dark.
So I moved onto their other content - and this is where things got weird. So I'm watching the Mighty Ducks, and every single 14 year old female character has some kind of attraction for a male character. It was a bit creepy. Worse, they made one of the girls some kind of dating guru, as she'd been out with like a hundred guys - at 14?
Why couldn't these girls have other goals that didn't include males? Way to tip the boat in the completely opposite direction Disney.
Their movie options are on the whole woeful. Though it was great to see a couple soon after they'd had a cinema release. But other than that I found little on Disney Plus to keep me coming back - so long Mandalorian, you I will miss.
Next up I'm considering Amazon Prime - but maybe will wait until after Christmas. Lots of work to do and am still trying to complete Tears of the Kingdom.
Happy streaming people.
It's way easy to dive in, sign up for every streaming option and.... watch absolutely nothing.
I kid you not, the moment I sign up for a channel all I want to do is read or play Tears of the Kingdom on my Nintendo.
But I have cracked it. Yes. I have the solution. Gift certificates.
Not only does it mean I am not wedded to the streamer for life because I am too lazy to cut the line. More importantly, because I have a deadline for when the certificate expires, it actually motivates me to watch content.
The only rule I follow is that I can't have more than two streamers in my life at any one time.
It also allows me to get a feel for a streamer.
I like Netflix, they allow you to buy gift certificates for any amount. And send you a gentle reminder when it is about to expire but don't hound you.
Their content ( I find) tends to get a bit stagnate - so I often allow a few months to pass by before I re-up for another gift certificate.
A real eye opener for me was Disney Plus. First, I hesitated because the gift certificate has to be for a year. But man, their marketing dept do a great job and I didn't hesitate for long.
Honestly though, I found their content to be... lacking.
I like the Marvel world.. but quickly discovered their Marvel series were missing something... and then it hit me, joy and couples to ship for.
Now I'm not saying I need hot and heavy romance, but hints and teases inserted cleverly into the storyline would go a long way. I couldn't help but feel all the Marvel series writers were male... just a sense I got.
I thought Wandavision was well done (female writers here for sure) and kind of liked The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, those dudes had a hint of a bromance, but what they did to Sharon's character? Really annoyed me. And the plot collapsed in a big heap after like 5 episodes.
I thought I was going to love Loki, but it lacked joy. Same with Hawkeye. She-Hulk had potential, and didn't take itself too seriously.
The Mandalorian was a hoot and half. And you know why? Because there was love to ship for, even if it was between a father and a son.
The rest of the Star Wars series proved too grim and dark.
So I moved onto their other content - and this is where things got weird. So I'm watching the Mighty Ducks, and every single 14 year old female character has some kind of attraction for a male character. It was a bit creepy. Worse, they made one of the girls some kind of dating guru, as she'd been out with like a hundred guys - at 14?
Why couldn't these girls have other goals that didn't include males? Way to tip the boat in the completely opposite direction Disney.
Their movie options are on the whole woeful. Though it was great to see a couple soon after they'd had a cinema release. But other than that I found little on Disney Plus to keep me coming back - so long Mandalorian, you I will miss.
Next up I'm considering Amazon Prime - but maybe will wait until after Christmas. Lots of work to do and am still trying to complete Tears of the Kingdom.
Happy streaming people.
May 26, 2023
Romance.... anticipation
Treating male and female characters like negative and positive ions is nothing new in romance. The repulse or push away from one another.
As a plot device it is tried and true.
But it can be beyond frustrating, depending how long the couple takes to get their act together and whether the reason/s keeping them apart are sensible/valid/relatable.
I read a book the other day, it was over five hundred and fifty pages long, contemporary romance, both leads almost thirty, both virgins, and it was non-stop bickering, bantering, misunderstandings and wilful blindness until about page five-hundred and twenty-five.
It got me thinking about the journey of their relationship. And how much time, I, as a reader, had invested in what was essentially a negative relationship, until they acknowledged they were meant to be together
.
The author did manage to pull it off. But a lesser talented one would have had me DNF'ing that book maybe at the two hundred mark.
But keeping a couple apart. It isn't easy. And seriously, it is often required. Because otherwise the couple would clap their eyes on each other page five, and hook up by page ten - the end.
But I think we all have limits to what we deem acceptable when it comes to keeping a couple apart.
For many it's the length of time. Are they dragging out this repulsion just for page count? But you don't want them to fold too early, because again... page count.
There's a sweet spot and only each individual reader knows what theirs is. Pity the poor authors trying to please everyone.
Next up is the reasons the couple are apart. Miscommunication is often a key one. Interference from other players such as ex's, mothers, and the villains of the story often also feature. The damaged Hero, who doesn't think he's good enough or too broken. The self-esteem mess of a heroine, who's been dumped, or railroaded into becoming the family fixer/nursemaid.
Damn, those last two annoy me. Mainly because the h has to fix the PTSD/broken Hero with her magic va-jay-jay. And in the second, the heroine's self esteem issues whilst relatable, also make you want to shake her but at the same time we all have some of those issues and maybe it cuts a little too close to home.
What else keep a couple apart? Duty. Keeping secrets. Promises made in the past. Being different species. Well, I could go on and on.
I believe every reader instinctively knows their boundaries.
How many times have you tossed a book aside thinking, this is taking too long? Or wrinkled your nose as yet again the couple can't see the writing on the wall and cling stubbornly to their miscommunication beliefs?
It's a fine line authors are travelling. Not to peak too soon. Not to drag it on too long. Are the reasons relatable? When everything is resolved is it done so satisfactorily?
I often read reviewers state there wasn't enough grovelling on the part of the H when miscommunication is used as a factor.
So, yeah, when the reasons are resolved, no matter what they might be, because the author made a big deal of them, you want the resolution to be a feature, not just a throw away line after hundreds of pages of your time and energy.
Same with a couple who move from enemies to lovers or are fated mates. I need connection points along the way. Shared moments
A relationship isn't a flip of a switch from off to on, no matter the reasons the author is using to keep their H & h apart.
There has to be a breaking down of the barriers, where undeniable physical and mental connections are being made. The first laugh they share. The first time they work together to achieve something. Taking his hand to help him up out of a ditch. Connections and moments that eat away at whatever 'reasons' are keeping them apart.
Good luck to all the authors out there on the tightrope.
And to everyone, hoping all your reads are five star fantastic.
As a plot device it is tried and true.
But it can be beyond frustrating, depending how long the couple takes to get their act together and whether the reason/s keeping them apart are sensible/valid/relatable.
I read a book the other day, it was over five hundred and fifty pages long, contemporary romance, both leads almost thirty, both virgins, and it was non-stop bickering, bantering, misunderstandings and wilful blindness until about page five-hundred and twenty-five.
It got me thinking about the journey of their relationship. And how much time, I, as a reader, had invested in what was essentially a negative relationship, until they acknowledged they were meant to be together
.
The author did manage to pull it off. But a lesser talented one would have had me DNF'ing that book maybe at the two hundred mark.
But keeping a couple apart. It isn't easy. And seriously, it is often required. Because otherwise the couple would clap their eyes on each other page five, and hook up by page ten - the end.
But I think we all have limits to what we deem acceptable when it comes to keeping a couple apart.
For many it's the length of time. Are they dragging out this repulsion just for page count? But you don't want them to fold too early, because again... page count.
There's a sweet spot and only each individual reader knows what theirs is. Pity the poor authors trying to please everyone.
Next up is the reasons the couple are apart. Miscommunication is often a key one. Interference from other players such as ex's, mothers, and the villains of the story often also feature. The damaged Hero, who doesn't think he's good enough or too broken. The self-esteem mess of a heroine, who's been dumped, or railroaded into becoming the family fixer/nursemaid.
Damn, those last two annoy me. Mainly because the h has to fix the PTSD/broken Hero with her magic va-jay-jay. And in the second, the heroine's self esteem issues whilst relatable, also make you want to shake her but at the same time we all have some of those issues and maybe it cuts a little too close to home.
What else keep a couple apart? Duty. Keeping secrets. Promises made in the past. Being different species. Well, I could go on and on.
I believe every reader instinctively knows their boundaries.
How many times have you tossed a book aside thinking, this is taking too long? Or wrinkled your nose as yet again the couple can't see the writing on the wall and cling stubbornly to their miscommunication beliefs?
It's a fine line authors are travelling. Not to peak too soon. Not to drag it on too long. Are the reasons relatable? When everything is resolved is it done so satisfactorily?
I often read reviewers state there wasn't enough grovelling on the part of the H when miscommunication is used as a factor.
So, yeah, when the reasons are resolved, no matter what they might be, because the author made a big deal of them, you want the resolution to be a feature, not just a throw away line after hundreds of pages of your time and energy.
Same with a couple who move from enemies to lovers or are fated mates. I need connection points along the way. Shared moments
A relationship isn't a flip of a switch from off to on, no matter the reasons the author is using to keep their H & h apart.
There has to be a breaking down of the barriers, where undeniable physical and mental connections are being made. The first laugh they share. The first time they work together to achieve something. Taking his hand to help him up out of a ditch. Connections and moments that eat away at whatever 'reasons' are keeping them apart.
Good luck to all the authors out there on the tightrope.
And to everyone, hoping all your reads are five star fantastic.
May 14, 2023
I wonder...
Do other authors re-read their own books?
When I had fewer books I used to do so all the time. It allowed me to reconnect with characters, revisit the vibe I had created for the world, and more importantly, I have a lot of running secondary jokes/threads, that I don't take notes about because I assume I will remember. Mostly I do, but there is always this niggling concern at the back of my mind that I might have let a ball drop somewhere.
I took the time to re-read all 13 books in the Southern Sanctuary last year before I began my final edits on Book 14 - To Goad A Goddess. I had forgotten how much I love some of my earlier main characters, who only fleetingly appear in later books now.
God, Eli, my thief everyone forgets, I need to find more page time for her. Same with former mean girl, Devon. I miss her snarky ways.
The nice thing I found upon completion of the re-read and as I began my edits of book 14, was that the vibe, the feel of the world rang true to what I had created.
But it got me to wondering about other authors. Say J.D. Robb for instance. How many In Death novels are there now? Fifty plus? It must be close if it hasn't surpassed that number.
I imagine she has an underling to help with character/event continuity... but the vibe of those early books, do they match the last ten?
I always felt Peabody in the early books was steely and driven. Somewhere along the way she became pink obsessed and more of a humorous side-kick.
And what about Jayne Ann Krentz? I've read her entire back catalogue but has she lately? I kind of doubt it, how else to explain several glaring plot similarities between recent books and her early books. The overuse of asylums for one. Next, would be how the hero always (and I do mean always) has to stay with the h to protect her from the back guys.
Fogs. Coves. Secret passageways. Heroes who think they are going mad. Heroines with magic va-jays-jays that always cure the H of his PTSD or madness.
Like I said. I was just wondering...
May all your reads be five start fantastic.
When I had fewer books I used to do so all the time. It allowed me to reconnect with characters, revisit the vibe I had created for the world, and more importantly, I have a lot of running secondary jokes/threads, that I don't take notes about because I assume I will remember. Mostly I do, but there is always this niggling concern at the back of my mind that I might have let a ball drop somewhere.
I took the time to re-read all 13 books in the Southern Sanctuary last year before I began my final edits on Book 14 - To Goad A Goddess. I had forgotten how much I love some of my earlier main characters, who only fleetingly appear in later books now.
God, Eli, my thief everyone forgets, I need to find more page time for her. Same with former mean girl, Devon. I miss her snarky ways.
The nice thing I found upon completion of the re-read and as I began my edits of book 14, was that the vibe, the feel of the world rang true to what I had created.
But it got me to wondering about other authors. Say J.D. Robb for instance. How many In Death novels are there now? Fifty plus? It must be close if it hasn't surpassed that number.
I imagine she has an underling to help with character/event continuity... but the vibe of those early books, do they match the last ten?
I always felt Peabody in the early books was steely and driven. Somewhere along the way she became pink obsessed and more of a humorous side-kick.
And what about Jayne Ann Krentz? I've read her entire back catalogue but has she lately? I kind of doubt it, how else to explain several glaring plot similarities between recent books and her early books. The overuse of asylums for one. Next, would be how the hero always (and I do mean always) has to stay with the h to protect her from the back guys.
Fogs. Coves. Secret passageways. Heroes who think they are going mad. Heroines with magic va-jays-jays that always cure the H of his PTSD or madness.
Like I said. I was just wondering...
May all your reads be five start fantastic.
