Thursday, December 29, 2011

That Time of Year



Yep, it’s that time again – time to list the New Year’s resolutions.

Usually I resolve to lose weight, and blow that one in a week. That’s not my fault; grocery stores should not have cookie and snack aisles. Somebody ought to file a lawsuit.

Back on topic. I’m making different resolutions this year. Some of them relate to writing; I’ll get to them in a minute.

First and foremost, I resolve to cut back on and possibly eliminate all clutter in the house. My 30+ year book collection and I went from a two-story house with an attic into a mobile home. I have few flat surfaces in the house that aren’t covered by some form of paper. The Book Room looks like something from Hoarders. Therefore, I resolve to throw out at least one item per day for the entire year of 2012. That includes magazines I don’t look at, old papers I don’t read, clothes I don’t wear any more and the socks with the holes in the heels. If I get rid of enough stuff, I’ll have room for newer, shinier stuff. Not to mention I’ll actually be able to move around in the Book Room. In theory.

(Don’t worry about the books. I won’t be throwing them out. Any book I decide I don’t want will go to a friend of mine, who has dibs on my ‘70s and ‘80s SF paperbacks. Anything she doesn’t want will be donated to the library for their annual book sale. Somebody somewhere will give them a good home.)

Now for the writing resolutions. I’m going to double my backlist for 2012. I’ve got five out right now, so I’m aiming for ten by next December. That’s doable if I write novellas. In my mind, a “book” is still anything over 50,000 words, but I notice a lot of the works available run in the 30K range. The real pros can do that in a month, some of them in a week. I take a little longer because I tend to fart around. That’s my other writing resolution: no more farting around. There’s no reason I can’t turn out at least 1000 words every day if I set my mind to it. There’s nothing on daytime TV anyway. Or nighttime, for that matter.

Plus I have a book coming out from Siren in February, so I’m already ahead of the game. I only have to sell four more and I’m good for the year. Yay, me!

Farther down the resolution list, I’d like to dip my toes in the self-publishing waters. I’m going to check with my former SF publishers and see what rights I have to the stories I sold back in the ‘80s and ‘90s. If things go well with those, I’ll try a novel. These are all in the fantasy and science fiction genres, so there won’t be any conflicts with my romance publishing. I’ve got my pen names lined up and everything. I’ll let you know how it goes.

That should hold me until December 31, 2012. Or December 21, when the Mayan calendar says the world will end. Hmmm, better get started.

What the hell, might as well try to lose weight while I’m at it. Couldn’t hurt, and I want to look good when the world goes kablooey. Happy New Year, everybody!

Monday, December 26, 2011

Angelic Forecast from Volcano ~ December 26, 2011



Weekly Angelic Forecast from Volcano

Straight from the Carnal Cherub himself...

Angelic Forecast ~ #173

Let the Year of Miracles and Mayhem Begin ~ From Winter Solstice 2011 to Winter Solstice 2012, divine miracles and mass mayhem will occur across the globe on a larger scale than ever before.

The following week will be a mini foreshadowing of not only what will likely occur on the world stage, but also a foreshadowing of the upcoming year for you personally. This knowledge is powerful, and gives you the opportunity to plan, and make a course change if necessary.

Many in the year 2012 will be making course changes in their lives from small to a major shift in direction on a greater scale than has occurred for the last fifty years. Also, starting this week, there will be a population shift away from metropolitan areas. This will only increase in the following months for several reasons. However, the Land is calling people to return.

During this week, you will receive blessings from unexpected sources. Be grateful regardless of how they show up, or from where, or from whom. For, they have been sent by the Divine. And they are gifts to you.

This week it is important to take inventory of your relationships. Who in your family, and which of your friends, truly believes in you? Knowing this will be absolutely crucial as life unfolds in the new year. As well, you will know where to devote your emotional energy, and the love of your heart.

As was said last week, now is the *time of the human heart*. While this Heart Awakening surges worldwide, the soulless ones plan for all-out war. Their unconscionable manipulations toward bringing humanity into this dark and unnecessary time of war will continue at a dizzying pace. It should be known, 'they' will use any and all of their psychopathic cunning and their ill-gotten fortunes to bring more conflict about, while blaming others who are blameless.

Only a real stand for freedom by humanity, and for all that is Good, will halt the dark side from enslaving us all with war. Only resistance will stop the completion of their tyranny.

The continued downfall of the economy has been created for this purpose, as well. For, the evil ones plan to use their octopus-tentacle economy to keep everyone down -- to keep all of us begging for solutions.

Once again, the dynamic forces of the coming week are complex, and there will be several twists and turns, all of them manufactured for public consumption.
However, as more and more people 'see' behind the curtain, there will be huge backlash after huge backlash, as was spoken about in the previous forecast.

Trendwise, this week is about reflection. Even though, there will be the usual preparations for the New Year and for celebrating, the real underlying force will be taking a serious look at what has been. This is extremely important for soul growth, and to move into a brighter future.

Another trend is 'make your soul rich with romance and relationships'. As money 'very' gradually becomes less and less important in our culture, and loses its grip on much of humanity during the Aquarian Age, the richness of human experience will be in your relationships, and in how you romance your life -- how you romance others and those you love.

Take time to rejoice. Take time to be prepared. For, the magic, mystery and mayhem of 2012 is nigh.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~

MORE...Volcano’s Angelic Forecast for this week ~ sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com ~
~~~~~~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

Thursday, December 22, 2011

On Tap for 2012



The topic-tank’s running low again, so instead of an actual blog I’m going to run excerpts from a couple of WIPs. One’s M/M, one’s M/F, one I hope to send to a fantasy market, and one I’m entering in this year’s Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award contest just as soon as I clean up that one last pesky chapter. Enjoy.

Snippet A:
The cab left Holland Temminck off at an ornate iron gate just off the main road. Beyond the gate twin lines of hedges and a wide drive led the eye directly to its intended target, the grand, two-story mansion that crouched like a hungry cat at its end. Holland’s imagination saw the wings as paws with claws extended, and the front doors as a mouth just looking for an excuse to gape. The windows even glinted green, like greedy eyes. Holland took his time extracting his single bag from the cab’s trunk. He was in no rush to fling himself into that ravenous maw.

“That’s quite the hike,” the driver remarked. “You want me to take you to the door?”

Holland hesitated. No, take me to the airport poised on his tongue like a diver on the edge of a cliff. He had just enough cash left on him to escape Georgia. He could disappear into the Pacific Northwest or perhaps slip into Canada, where even Judge Minsk’s riches couldn’t find him. All it would cost him was his family’s continued survival.

Sold to stud to save the family solvency. Not the fate he’d imagined for himself when he was a kit.

“No, thanks.” Holland slammed the lid of the trunk. “This is fine.”

Snippet B:
There’s no way you can mistake a dragon when one stalks into your life. I recognized this one the second he strode through the door of my shop, in spite of his human form. It’s all a lie anyway, only a disguise, and not a very good one at that. When a dragon enters a certain space, he stands and moves as if everything, and everyone, within range of his senses is his. Dragons are greedy. It’s their nature.

This one had picked a human shape that was both imposing and attractive. The body bearing down on me topped six feet easily, every inch of it molded into male physical perfection. Naturally. He would want to draw all females to him. Greedy, remember?

Snippet C:
Clay Beddoe rode into the town of Fortune on the back of a buckskin mare, with a rangy bay stallion trotting along behind. The bay wore neither pack nor bridle, only a native blanket. It followed Clay up the street like a dog and never once spooked at the bustle.

And quite a bustle it was, Clay thought, even for a railroad stop like Fortune. So many people all over the place, you’d think it was the Fourth of July. Men mostly, and a lot of them rough customers. Clay thinned his eyes and thinned his mouth and tried not to look like he was watching.

And the horses! Near as many as the people. Cow ponies, native paints, bucket-hooved giants that ought to be back on the farm pulling plows instead of hogging much-needed street space. Quite a few horses showed speed in their lines and quality in their breeding. The rough crowd held the reins on these. Clay’s narrowed eyes got thinner.

Two cowboys on horseback charged up the street, slapping the rumps of their mounts with their hats and howling like a pair of coyotes. Clay barely reined his mare out of their way in time. The bay shrilled a protest and shot a nasty look after the racers.

“Better put that horse on a lead,” a bystander advised, “or he’s gonna get tromped on.”

Snippet D:
Johnie Ishida wasn’t thinking about the end of the world. He was thinking about the overripe pigpen stink rolling off the flesh and clothes of the fat man crammed into the booth opposite him. When pressed for a meeting place, Johnie had picked this hole-in-the-wall dinette because the LA smog patrol had rated today a Defcon-3, and besides, the place served a smokin’ Gutbuster Gordito. But now, with the man’s stench smothering him like an antique Amish quilt, he wished he’d put his lungs at risk and insisted on an open-air meet after all.

But the man had an offer, Olmos has said. Something lucrative. Something unique. Right up Johnie’s alley. So he sipped his cola, kept a wary eye on the two beat cops at the counter, breathed through his mouth as best he could, and listened. And vowed that, once the job was done, he would bitch-slap Olmos silly.

The fat man shifted a butt the size of Madagascar on the crimson vinyl seat and mopped a gallon of sweat off his face with the back of a beefy hand. A chunk of odor wafted in Johnie’s direction. The dinette’s ancient air conditioner, industriously throbbing away, made little dent in it. Johnie cringed back, but the reek got its hooks in his nostrils anyway. It tasted raw and slimy, like day-old fish, or panic.

# # #

My biggest problem, along with my procrastinative nature, is going to be word count. I’m not sure if A is going to reach the mandatory 20,000 word minimum required by the publisher I’m aiming for. I guess I can throw in an extra sex scene if I have to. I thought I had two possible markets for C. One tops out at 10,000 words; the other is looking for novellas between 20,000-40,000. Snippet C, of course, runs 15,000. It’s probably easier to cut instead of pad, so I’ll give it a thorough go-over with my virtual butcher knife and send it to the shorter market. If that doesn’t pan out, you could be looking at my first foray into self-publishing. I’d like to move into that arena for 2012. The romance market may be booming, but I’m tired of the long wait times even e-mags are inflicting on SF/F writers. I had two different mags each hold two different stories for over a year and a half before rejecting them. Another held a story for TWO YEARS and eventually folded, all without notifying me even though I sent a nudge note. I found out about its demise in a market report. I can have a story up on Smashwords and Amazon just as soon as I figure out the formatting instructions, and I get to keep the bulk of the money. So there.

This should keep me busy for the first couple of months of the new year, at least. And what are your plans for 2012?

Monday, December 19, 2011

Angelic Forecast from Volcano ~ December 19, 2011


Weekly Angelic Forecast from Volcano

Straight from the Carnal Cherub himself...

Angelic Forecast ~ #172

During this week of the Winter Solstice, then the Christmas celebration, there will be miraculous events that will be obvious to many. This will occur in your personal life and on the world stage. Keep your eyes and your soul wide open. You will not be disappointed.

The following week is also extremely complex in all of its dynamics. At this time, freedom lives as a never ceasing burn inside the soul. However, those on the dark side will use every dirty trick to stop true liberty for humanity. Also, every manner of subterfuge is in play to conceal the Light, especially the 'new' light frequencies now raining down on us directly from the angelic realm.

Once again, the failing economy will be used to pummel everyone into compliance, into what some label as the new world order. Desperation has taken over these soulless ones at this point. The mass AWAKENING on Earth threatens to throw off their yoke of economic tyranny forever, and they are scrambling.

As well, a battle still rages in the ranks of the bankster gangsters, and this, in the long run, will accelerate their downfall. In the meantime, they will use the 'might makes right' tactic to gain their ends, and keep their ill-gotten gains. This means using military might, and the might of advanced technologies most don't know exist.

With miracles on the rise, there will be an attempt to coopt the divinely miraculous. Given that holo technology is real, and in use now, this technology will be used to create false miracles -- to lead us all astray. Only discernment from your intuition, your spiritual center, will reveal the truth.

As more of humanity realizes the importance of TRUTH, they will seek it out, and there will be backlash after backlash against those who have used a trillion lies to ruin so many lives.

From now until the end of the year, and likely beyond, home is where the heart is, and wherever those who need a home can find to live. The 'whole' way housing has been in this country will change dramatically, and in unexpected ways. Also, being on the land will become all-important in the near future.

Trendwise, this week is about spirituality, and whatever that means to you, and your loved ones. For, the time of the human heart is here. With the rise of the Aquarian Age, everything you are, everything you think and feel, will now intensify, magnified by the new cosmic energies. *YOU* will be ramped up by one hundred percent.

Take moments to cherish the miracles in your life. Take even longer moments to cherish your loved ones.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~

MORE...Volcano’s Angelic Forecast for this week ~ sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com ~
~~~~~~

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Six Sentence Sunday ~ Not Where Stockings Are Hung


Greetings everyone, this is the season of magic and miracles. And I've had my share recently. Why? Because even though I am tech-challenged, I managed...with lots of help from other Indie authors...to format, then upload my first Indie book. Here's six sentences, according to the computer count, from ~

Santa Baby, Several Stars Away

Chapter Two:
Not Where Stockings Are Hung

Kaily hung the bow between her breasts, for now. Thinking her freshly washed hair could use more of a 'take me to the bedroom' look, she shook her head vigorously, then swiped her fingers through the long strands several times.

''Tousled enough," she murmured. Of course, who knew whether Dylan got off on tousled or not. He hadn't dated any of the single women in town, all four of them.

The gossip would have burned her ears off by now -- like a damn flamethrower -- if he'd put the moves on any of the married women.

~~~~~~

Now Available ~ SMASHWORDS | AMAZON | BOOKSTRAND | AllRomanceEbooks
~~~~~~

Have a Magickal Holiday Season!

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~~~~

~~~ Find out more about Six Sentence Sunday at ~ sixsunday.com ~~~

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Pointing Out the Views



I go both ways. Hey, settle down. I’m talking about POV. First person, third person, writing it or reading it, I’m okay with both. I made it all the way through Bright Lights, Big City, so I can handle second person present tense, though I wouldn’t care for a steady diet of it. That one’s best saved for special occasions, in my humble opinion.

Most romances are written in third person. First person seems to go better with urban fantasy, maybe because of UF’s grittier nature. First person in UF recalls laconic voiceovers in 1940s film noir. Third is the voice of the people; first is the voice of one person. If you’re going with first, better work on that voice to make sure it isn’t annoying.

Which is better? I won’t say best, because that’s not up to you. The story will tell you how it wants to be written. When in doubt, try writing a scene or a couple of pages in both first and third and see which one sounds righter. If you go with first, you’ll be stuck in one person’s head for the duration of the story, unless you write multiple first-person sections. I’ve seen that done, and it can work. Third person lets you roam around with abandon in various characters’ perceptions, which sometimes leads to head-hopping. I don’t think you can head-hop in first person, unless your characters are telepaths. Yeah, I write science fiction on the side.

Fortunately, if you’re writing standard romance, third is pretty much the default position, so POV’s set right off the bat. I’ve seen first used in M/M/M+, as a solution to dealing with all those confusing “he’s.” Third gives you distance. You’re observing this person as she falls in love with that steamy hunk with the dimples and the six-pack abs. With third you have the added advantage of getting the guy’s reaction. Some people go for that; others would rather stay with just one character. Again, it’s up to the story to tell you what it wants to be.

Can first person work in a romance? I may get a chance to find out. I’ve been fiddling around with a dragon story that started life as a flash piece for Shapeshifter Seductions. It went a couple of pages beyond what I posted before it petered out. Then I read a Nocturne Bites story told in alternating first persons between the girl and the guy. It had an immediacy you don’t always get from third person, which worked well in a fast-paced action/romance story.

Two things hit me as I read this. 1) I didn’t know Harlequin buys first-person stories. Maybe just for their shorter e-books, since the category print books are always in third. Or maybe you have to be well-established for them to take the chance. 2) I’ll bet this would work for my moribund dragon story. If nothing else, a switch in POV might get the juices flowing again.

So I tried it. And it worked. The story came to life. Instead of slogging through turgid descriptions, we get the full, immediate impact of her reactions when this powerful, deadly creature (in human form, of course; it’s a romance) stalks into her shop. We won’t be getting into his head, but in this case it’s okay. Really, did anybody want to know what Hannibal Lecter was thinking?

I still don’t have a plot, but with the POV question settled I get the feeling that won’t be a problem now.

Will this work for 20,000 or so words? We’ll see. Even if it comes out okay, will publishers be interested, or will they demand a rewrite back to third? That depends on how compelling I can make it. If I can pull this off, you’ll hear about it here first.

Monday, December 12, 2011

Angelic Forecast from Volcano ~ December 12, 2011


Weekly Angelic Forecast from Volcano

Straight from the Carnal Cherub himself...

Angelic Forecast ~ #171

The following week is likely to be a strange one in several respects. What is called the 'paranormal' is making itself known to humanity. This will be on a large scale, so much so it will become undeniable to many.

Also, from this point forward, intuition, psychic abilities will increase dramatically, especially for those who welcome these powers. If you feel a sudden imbalance in these abilities, it is wise to consult with someone who is already familiar with this part of the human nature.

During the midweek there will be event(s) on the world stage that could be, at their core, puzzling, even random. However, the truth behind them will be revealed. The knowledge of this truth will coalesce into a widespread protest against the system. This protest will be ignored by the powers-that-be, and by their media henchmen.

Once again, 'space' becomes a major story with the real truth hidden from the public. Many in the know are tired of the spin and the lies. They will begin telling All to anyone who can spread the word.

On a personal level, if your world seems to tilt or become off kilter this week as you prepare for the holidays, the best remedy is to engage in the activities that are most enjoyable to you. Music will also act as a balm, and will help you think clearly.

Right now, there are several undercurrents rising more and more to the surface. As the AWAKENING soars, the rise of the renegade, the rise of the magician, the rise of the feminine, and the rise of the artist, will be in direct conflict with the agenda of the soulless ones. These global elite, as they are sometimes called, will tighten the reins of their tyranny.

This tightening will be enforced by an increased use of the military, and come in the form of severe economic controls. At this time, freedom is in a fight for its very life. In the year, 2012, freedom will stand or fall. It's all up to humanity, and those who are assisting humanity to live free.

Once again, prepare as you are able. Lay in stocks of food and water, plus all the necessities you normally use. The weather will become unpredictable at times, the storms brutal in some areas of the country, and all over the planet. It is only wise to prepare.

With the activity on sun about to ramp up, there could be electronic failures during the next three weeks, and likely beyond. Become adaptable in your ability to communicate with others.

This Christmas season miracles will abound, and there will be more major miracles this week -- both worldwide, and on a personal level. Be on the lookout, and be appreciative for yours. These 'true miracles' will take place amidst the chaos and the unraveling that is escalating across the globe at a mind-bending rate.

Trendwise, a new independence emerges. Any product or service that assists in an independent way of living, especially for growing food, and producing energy, will be a successful venture.

As more of heaven falls to Earth, guided by the hand of the angels, know we are all being transformed in wondrous ways. Know also, now is the time to anchor yourselves to each other in love, and in true community.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~

MORE...Volcano’s Angelic Forecast for this week ~ sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com ~
~~~~~~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

Saturday, December 10, 2011

Six Sentence Sunday ~ Santa Baby, Several Stars Away


Greetings, here's six sentences, according to the computer count, from ~


Chapter One:
Santa Baby, Waitin' Just for You

Okay yes, Kaily admitted, now she did look good and trussed up, the way the length of red ribbon wound around her body. At least, by what she could see. There was a slice of her reflection in the tall narrow mirror near the fireplace mantle.

With the bow dangling from one hand, Kaily wondered if she should position it over her well-furred pussy not completely covered by the ribbon. Or maybe, the large showy bow should nestle between the swells of her breasts...or be placed like a centerpiece above her ample-enough cleavage.

"Ooooh...Santa baby, waitin' just for you," she crooned like the song, then pursed her lips in an attempt to look sexy.
~~~~~~

Now Available ~ SMASHWORDS & AMAZON
~~~~~~

Have a Magickal Holiday Season!

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~~~~

~~~ Find out more about Six Sentence Sunday at ~ sixsunday.com ~~~
~~~~~~

Santa Baby, Several Stars Away ~ Magical Reading for the Holidays


Consumed by curiosity, Kaily gives herself to a mystery man for Christmas.

Will Dylan be able to resist her waiting naked, but gift-wrapped beneath his tree?


~ A Short Shapeshifter Erotic Romance ~

Santa Baby, Several Stars Away

by Savanna Kougar


Excerpt ~


Chapter One:

Santa Baby, Waitin' Just for You


Rarely reckless, Kaily flung off the negligee she'd first thought to wear. It landed in a red ephemeral heap beside the tastefully trimmed Christmas tree.

So what if she'd just broken into his house...well, she hadn't exactly broken in...more like she spied on him until she found out where he hid the extra key...lodged in a crack of the frame above the door of the Victorian mansion he'd resurrected from certain crumbling death, and now obviously treasured

There was only one thing Kaily could see amiss in the traditional holiday atmosphere he'd created with the help of the town's local historical club a garish red ribbon. The long sash had a simple bow attached to one end, and practically shone despite the low lighting.

Kaily stared at the unexpected invitation.

Certainly, the river of red ribbon didn't belong on the floor as a decoration, and she couldn't see anywhere else it belonged...except wrapped around her.

Since she was giving herself to him as a gift for Christmas...well, why not?

~~~~~~

Blurb:

Kaily has been consumed by curiosity ever since Dylan suddenly appears in her small town. Surreptitiously, she watches the mystery man restore a rundown Victorian mansion, all while his charm and sincerity gain him the good will of most everyone. This is especially true when he volunteers to become the annual Santa Claus for the children at the town's park.

The problem for Kaily: No one really knows anything about Dylan's past or where he came from. With her attraction to him growing day by day, she becomes a driven woman. On a desperate whim, she gives herself to him as a Christmas present. Will Dylan be able to resist her waiting naked, but gift-wrapped beneath his tree?

~~~~~~

Now Available ~ SMASHWORDS & AMAZON

Coming Soon to other ebook vendors.

~~~~~~

Have the merriest of holidays!

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~

Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Daily Grind



I don’t know about you, but for me sometimes writing can be a stone chore. I sit there at the keyboard or with pen in hand and the words get stuck in my head. It’s not a block, it’s sluggishness. Who knew writing could be drudgery?

Therein lies the problem. I’d like to make a living at this. Trouble is, even on the best of days I’m not what you’d call speedy. My usual output is one or two pages a day. That’s maybe 1000 words if all goes swimmingly. A career can be built on that, if you’ve got 10 or 20 years to spare. I was hoping to move it along a little faster, but caffeine only takes you so far.

Some days it’s okay. I’ll get caught up in the story and whip out five pages or more. Over the years I’ve discovered that even on a good day I can only work about three or four hours straight before enthusiasm starts to flag. I try to make the most of those times, and whip out as many words as possible.

Then there are the bad days. You know what they’re like: when you know you should be writing, but the dishes are piling up in the sink and you’re almost out of underwear and the fridge is looking a little sparse inside and when’s the last time you vacuumed? Trust me, I’m good at frittering away writing time. With a little practice, laundry or trips to the grocery store can take up the bulk of the afternoon. Afterwards you take a TV break. Why not? It takes effort to scrub those dinner plates. You earned it.

In the end, though, the blank screen and the empty page just won’t go away. If I want to make a serious go of this, sooner or later I’m going to have to fill them up.

Back in 2006, after years of sporadic writing and waiting for inspiration but mostly goofing off, I made a vow: I would write something every day. It might be several pages. It might be a paragraph. But it would be writing. Not notes, not outlines, not a list of excuses on why I couldn’t put pen to paper on that particular day. If I couldn’t advance my current WIP, or had no current, WIP, I’d write a scene or a character sketch or a flash piece of a couple hundred words. Typing up a longhand draft or editing pages counts because I always make substantial changes every time I have a go at a story. As long as I made an effort, and produced some form of fiction so I could hold my head up and face myself in the mirror and truthfully say I wrote that day.

That was July 1, 2006. To date I have not missed a day.

Sometimes it’s tough. Sometimes I have to force myself to put down a couple of lines. I’ve had periods where the daily writing was a string of entries in my “flash book.” But I wrote every day. Dang, I feel just like a professional.

It’s paid off, too. Some of the scenes jotted down in the flash book have led to stories and novels. It’s a great place to stockpile ideas. Whenever I hit a dry spell I go back and read over these to see if they spark anything. Maybe a page a day isn’t much, but write a page every day and at the end of a year you’ve got yourself a novel. It’s like a muscle. You use it on a regular basis, you exercise it every day, and it gets stronger and stronger.

Maybe it’s time for a new vow. How about two pages a day? The dishes can wait another couple of hours, and nothing’s on TV anyway. I could probably cram two pages in between the endless commercials. This is the perfect time to establish new and better habits, with snow season coming on and nippy temps urging me to stay indoors. By next spring I should have enough manuscripts stockpiled to take the summer off. Then I can head down to the shore for a week and write my two daily pages on the beach. Definitely a goal to shoot for.

Monday, December 5, 2011

Angelic Forecast from Volcano ~ December 5, 2011



Weekly Angelic Forecast from Volcano

Straight from the Carnal Cherub himself...

Angelic Forecast ~ #170

For the following week, and during the month of December, the wild ride into the year, 2012, begins. To have an idea of what that means, picture the difference between riding a reluctant pony versus being atop Secretariat, the Triple Crown Champion, as he's racing for the finish line.

This is because 'everything' ramps up. The massive arrival of energies from the galactic center will cause planet-wide turbulence and worldwide turmoil. Or in other terms, this means bigger and badder weather, more land changes, and also societal changes that will burst forth like storm waters over and through a broken dam.

From this point forward the idea of freedom and free humanity will become even larger in concept. Strong action toward this goal begins in many major population areas, and there will be no let up by the groups who embrace this Awakening.

As well, discontent erupts like an angry volcano all over the globe, and rises beyond what is taking place currently. In general, humanity is enraged by the huge amount of inequalities they are suffering. This will only be exacerbated as the face of evil becomes like a neon sign in the darkness, all while their past horrific deeds are being constantly revealed.

On the disastrous economic front, the bankster gangsters will be moving monies back and forth like ping pong balls. As their criminal fraud continues to be exposed, they will be pointing fingers at each other in an attempt to become king of the financial pile. That is, once their OverLord banking system is established -- beginning with Europe.

Right now, too-big-to-fail banks as a way doing commerce are being brought down by many forces. First and foremost, by their incomprehensible and psychopathic greed. Second, by certain secret groups devoted to the welfare of human beings. And thirdly, by the demands of the Aquarian Age. This process, of course, will be brutally ugly. Take care.

At this point in time, there are benevolent beings who have taken up humanity's cause against the soulless ones. However, it is up to each and every one of us to take a stand, and keep on standing against those who would steal our lives, our livelihoods, and our very souls.

The best strategies for the upcoming times are simple. As has been encouraged before, form like-minded communities. Learn the ways of trade, barter and creating your community's own currency. Bring forth the talents and abilities that will best serve you and everyone else. And don't forget large doses of love and caring for All who are truly deserving.

Remember, as the world changes around you, how fast you adapt, along with those you love, will be the key to bringing forth a good life. Learning to live on the land, and with the land, is also a key. And, as has been talked about before, the ability to communicate with animals will increase, and be helpful.

Trendwise, beyond the seasonal holiday festivities, it's all about getting off the grid. Any service, advice, product offered that will assist folks in accomplishing more self-reliant living will become all the rage, especially once the year, 2012, begins.

This is a week of miracles, gifts from the angels to let all of us know they are present. Smile, and say thank you, when one comes your way.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~

MORE...Volcano’s Angelic Forecast for this week ~ sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com ~
~~~~~~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

Thursday, December 1, 2011

The Creative Process


Where do writers get their ideas? Well, there’s this place in Schenectady – just kidding, that’s an old joke among SF writers. The answer is, damn near everywhere.

I’ve been having a lot of luck with cable TV lately. In addition to pilfering actors and characters, I find story nuggets on factoid networks like The History Channel and NatGeo. Having a twisted imagination helps.

For instance: I was channel surfing the other day and found a show on Animal Planet called The Skunk Whisperer, about a group of animal control experts who remove pesky varmints from homes and such. Got a raccoon in your attic? Skunky and crew are your go-to guys. Snakes, skunks, bees, they handle that sort of thing.

On this particular episode a wildlife rehabilitator called up the boys to help her catch and crate a pair of bobcats for release back into the wild. Being a paranormal/shapeshifter romance writer, I couldn’t help reflecting on how much easier things would go if they had a shifter on their staff who could speak to the animals in their own tongue and talk them into leaving houses or climbing into crates on their own, without all the biting and scratching and yowling and spraying and stuff. It wouldn’t make for exciting TV, but it would save wear and tear on the nets, not to mention the removal guys.

Of course, since they’d never know what kind of animal they’d be dealing with next, they’d have to be conversant in more than one language …

And just like that, I had a character. I christened her an omniwere – a shapeshifter who can assume any animal form. Yes, her. Since I write M/M as well as M/F, I considered both possibilities before deciding on a her. Given her talents, some evil being, human or otherwise, will want to capture her and exploit her, so she’s going to need a male to rescue her – and, of course, fall in love with.

Or two. I came up with a pair of males: James and Cliff, a wolf and a cougar, respectively. They’re friends and partners, but not lovers. They’ve heard about the omniwere and are trying to protect her from the bad guys. But can she trust them? James especially might be a problem. A woman who can assume the form of his deceased wife might prove too great a temptation to resist …

That’s all I’ve got so far. The premise is too flimsy to stand on its own, and will need another idea or two to prop it up and make a workable book. Plus there’s the problem of creative overlap. The day after I drafted this blog, fellow writer Savanna posted a flash on Shapeshifter Seductions about a wolf-and-cougar duo. Sometimes ideas just float around and we all grab the same one. I like her cougar, Dontoya, better than mine, so maybe Cliff’s a bear. If they’re cops or special agents, as things are starting to look, having a bear as the muscle guy makes a lot of sense.

At this point in the development process everything is fluid. I’ll let this simmer for awhile and see what if anything occurs to me. If I develop this into a story, you’ll read about it here.

The bobcats? They got safely released into a wilderness area, hopefully one with lots of birds and rabbits, and none of the guys got bitten. Another happy ending all around.

Monday, November 28, 2011

Angelic Forecast from Volcano ~ November 28, 2011


Weekly Angelic Forecast from Volcano


Straight from the Carnal Cherub himself...

Angelic Forecast ~ #169

For the following week, the theme is ‘home is where the heart is’. Now is the perfect time to explore what ‘home’ really means to you. This is also an ideal time to search for another home if there is a nudge from your Inner Guidance.
During the next three months, many people will be ‘moving’ to a different location that calls to their soul. Also, many people will be leaving their current relationships to form new relationships and new families. As well, some will return to the fold, as in returning to their families of origin.

This is due in part by the need to hunker down in this great time of turmoil. Metaphorically, the gloves are off now. And this has become a bare-knuckle world -- the good, the bad, the beautiful, the ugly. The more you are with others you trust, and who trust you, the better life will be for All.

Another major transitional shift will begin this week. This can be seen in the turbulent events that take place around the worldwide financial debacle. As the face of evil is further revealed, a mighty backlash against the ‘soulless ones’ will sweep across the globe like a raging tsunami.

There is likely to be a dramatic increase in earthquake activity for the next six months, and volcanic activity will follow. There are few safe areas because Mother Earth is changing her landscape. Also, super duper weapons are being used in weather and tectonic warfare in a battle to dominate the world.

Look for ‘more’ shocking events to unfold midweek. As well, from this point forward every excuse will be used to bring in a draconian and militaristic control over the people.

On the personal economic front, be aware the game has changed, and will continue to change at a rapid rate. The more you can remove you and your family from the system, the better off you will be in the long scheme of things. Banks will continue to fail, and some of them cannot be relied upon. Use your money wisely at this time, and plan for the future in a realistic manner.

Trendwise, seek out ways to celebrate the holiday season that are truly meaningful to you, and those you love. What has been is crashing down and coming to a quick end. For those of you not currently living in a rural community, now is the time to look at returning to a simpler and more sustainable way of living.

This week is all about taking advantage of good opportunities that come your way, especially if they include family and friends. This is also a magic time to find the right love partner.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~

MORE...Volcano’s Angelic Forecast for this week ~ sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com ~
~~~~~~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Thanks Giving




So this doesn’t end up sounding like an Oscar acceptance speech, I’m going to limit my list to the writing-related things I’m thankful for. Such as:

The Muhlenberg Township School District, who held a typing class as part of their summer school program. They opened up a whole new world of speed to me. I could now write as fast as all eight fingers and both thumbs could type. I suspect I used to get better grades because I typed my term papers. Less eyestrain for teacher, more points for me.

Steve Jobs and everyone else involved in the creation of the personal computer. Back around 1990 I bought my first PC and laser printer and never once looked back. No more whiteout, retyping drafts, endless Xeroxing manuscripts or carbon paper smears on my hands. The actual writing didn’t get any easier, but editing, formatting and printing reams of final copy just became a snap. My first drafts are all or mostly longhand, but subsequent drafts are always typed on computer. I’m writing this blog on the laptop right now. Where’s the one that plugs into your head and prints your thoughts directly on the screen? Invent that one next!

Al Gore, or whoever really “invented” the Internet. No more lugging bulky packages to the post office! Hit a couple buttons and an entire novel goes zipping off to the publisher. Except when the system crashes and you lose a month’s work, but I’m trying to stay thankful here.

The global economy, which got me laid off the last time it took a nosedive, and ageism, which is making it difficult for me to find replacement work. Between the two of them, I now have plenty of time to write. I really should be doing that instead of playing Spider Solitaire or cruising fanfic sites.

The readers, who plunk down their hard-earned bucks for my imaginings. You folks get the biggest thanks of all. I’m going to work harder on my end to create the most entertaining books I can, so you’ll be thankful you bought them. Happy Turkey Day, everybody!

Monday, November 21, 2011

Angelic Forecast from Volcano ~ November 21, 2011


Weekly Angelic Forecast from Volcano


Straight from the Carnal Cherub himself...

Angelic Forecast ~ #168

For the following week chaos and rage will own the streets, and the entire world will appear to be falling apart. Simultaneously, a new spiritual nature emerges, and will be most recognizable at the grassroots level. This is because all those of good conscience are coming together to help each other, and work toward a greater Good for everyone.

This week, the fraud that has taken over the system will be your greatest enemy. Take heed to follow your own Inner Guidance. This is more crucial than ever when protecting yourself and those you love.

At this time, be aware that the rate of social change is accelerating. And like a herd of stampeding elephants anything in the way will be trampled. You have three choices: Fight it and be trampled. Step out of the way, and learn what it takes to survive and thrive. Or, three, leap astride an elephant and enjoy the wild ride.

Even though, the major events that take place during this Thanksgiving week will not be tame, the rise of the renegade spirit continues. Surprising new expressions of this rebellious spirit will occur, and grow throughout the year, 2012.

With the economic war between the global elite escalating this week, watch out for the ‘metaphorical’ dead bodies falling like Autumn leaves. For one thing, the world’s supply of available gold is nearly gone. That is, what has been sold on paper does not exist.

Once again, there will be odd happenings in the space program, and in space itself. Nothing will be told to the public except for misrepresentations and outright lies. However, as has been said before, the truth is out there. And will be leaked.

The most important thing about this week for all of us, is that old standby, LOVE. Whatever loving act you can do for someone who is ‘truly’ deserving... this will mean a better world for all of us, because the goodness will ripple outward forever.

Trendwise, this week of Thanksgiving encourages our gratitude. Search your heart to discover what you are most grateful for. This may ‘not’ be what is considered the ‘right thing’, or the popular things to be grateful for. However, what ultimately matters is that you find out what resonates as real and sincere gratitude.

This week when someone shows you kindness, let them know you are grateful. It’s all about spreading the universal love.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~

MORE...Volcano’s Angelic Forecast for this week ~ sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com ~
~~~~~~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

Thursday, November 17, 2011

Central Casting



It took me long enough, but after close to a year of writing (and avoiding writing, but that’s another blog) I finally finished Legacy, my sequel to Belonging, and sent it off to Siren, who were kind enough to accept it. I’ve never denied my male leads were inspired by Sam, Dean and Castiel from Supernatural – or, in my version, Jeremy, Wallace the vampire, and the mysterious slayer known as the Preacher. (I chose that particular photo because the Preacher favors black. Tan trenchcoats tend to stand out in the dark.)

This isn’t the first time I’ve cast a favorite actor as the lead in one of my stories. Dialogue writing gets so much easier when you can “hear” the words spoken in a specific voice and rhythm. (Probably why I’ve never used William Shatner.) If you’re the kind who visualizes as you write, then hey, who wouldn’t want to imagine a naked Christian Bale or shirtless, Star Wars era Harrison Ford for weeks on end? I love romance writing.


Waiting patiently in my closet is a romance in draft I’ve been meaning to get back to. The lead, Sam McCollough, is a Texas boy and art thief looking to leave the biz, buy a boat, and sail around the world. The voice I heard when I started writing him was 1980s Don Johnson. Sam became a rough-but-tender guy with piercing eyes, a quick, boyish smile, and a perpetual five o’clock shadow. I’d sail around the world with him any day of the week.


Vin here was an accident. I wrote a flash scene for my other blog, Shapeshifter Seductions, about a dragon shifter. I described a tall, muscular male with a bald head and cavernous voice. After the fact I realized I’d imagined Vin Diesel. Picture that body covered in flame tattoos and that drifting-up-out-of-a-cave voice drawling at you and yeah, you’ve got a dragon. I’ve already seen Pitch Black and The Pacifier, so when I finally get around to expanding the flash, I think I’ll rent Fast 5 for research. That way I get both Vin and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. This job gets better and better.


Speaking of shapeshifters and wrestling, I wanted a menacing, no-nonsense Russian assassin, so I based Sergei on WWE’s Undertaker. Mark Calloway’s 7-foot, pumped-up frame was perfect for my white tiger. Picture that guy over there as an albino with icy blue eyes and that’s Sergei. Tough? Calloway has his wife’s name tattooed on his throat. Now that’s tough.


My current WIP concerns cat shifters. I haven’t quite decided on my lead yet, other than he’s blond, but I’ve got a good match for his romantic interest: Ian Somerhalder from The Vampire Diaries. Check out those eyes. Is that a cat or what? Mee-yow.

You’ll notice there are no pictures of actresses up there. I usually have only a vague idea of what, or who, my heroines look like. My mental image of their men is always more concrete. Can’t imagine why that would be … If I ever cancelled cable, I’d probably have to give up writing. Now, about that M/M/M ménage …

Monday, November 14, 2011

Angelic Forecast from Volcano ~ November 14, 2011


Weekly Angelic Forecast from Volcano

Straight from the Carnal Cherub himself...

Angelic Forecast ~ #167

For this week, the theme will be ‘duality at superspeed’. This is particularly true for events on the world stage. What has been termed ‘high strange’ events will be happening in contrast to the down-to-earth, ‘if it bleeds it leads’ news stories that will be used to keep the public at large ignorant of the most important news in these times.

Of course, every effort will be made to suppress the truth about these high strange occurrences, and the spin machine will be burning gears to explain them away. However, given the force of Magick is rising, everything considered paranormal will be on the increase during these times, and the ‘truth’ is out there.

As has happened before, what was once sci fi will show up as reality in the coming months, and during the year 2012. This will also be true for certain aspects of fantasy, or what has been thought of as the fantastical, the impossible.

This will be a complex week in many ways. On a personal level there is likely to be several areas of your life pulling on you all at once. Take a step back and decide which area needs attention first, then act using your experience and wisdom.

On a personal level there is another highly important aspect to this week. That is, be careful about outside forces that could negatively affect your relationships, especially a love relationship. Your best defense is to keep the lines of communication open. Have an intimate dinner together, and remember why you love each other so much.

On the economic front, this will be an up and down week that benefits no one in the longer scheme of things. There are rival forces at work -- a fierce war behind the scenes between the dark siders themselves, and those who wish to preserve ways to create a better future for us all. To that end, predictions are useless, except to say the tactics used by the global bankster gangsters will backfire. Thus, new draconian measures will be initiated.

With the now-announced worldwide depression, an avalanche of people across the globe will wake up to what is occurring, and take action against the real perpetrators, ‘those’ who are the soulless ones. This will mean, in part, that riots will become bigger, and a true force to be reckoned with.

For many the upcoming week will be a ‘strange’ one. Relying on your Inner Guidance will see you through and give you a greater understanding of the true nature of the Universe and the Divine.

As the evil ones seek to loose the big dogs of war, an unexpected opposition will arise. This group of individuals will mostly act in secret. Their success depends on those of us who will stand for freedom against any form of tyranny.

Trendwise, it’s all about the ‘good surprise’ this week. Take time to create a wonderful surprise for someone you love. A surprise birthday party. A surprise night out. Anything will be appreciated if it truly shows the other person how much you care about them. How much you cherish them. Now is also the time to bring forth your creativity.

Besides preparing for winter, showing someone how much you cherish them is the best thing you can do this week.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~

MORE...Volcano’s Angelic Forecast for this week ~ sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com ~
~~~~~~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~


Thursday, November 10, 2011

Today's Topic Is ...


You got me. I think I’ll just ramble for a couple of hundred words. There’s bound to be something useful in there somewhere.

Last week I e-subbed a novel. Now I’m waiting to hear back. I know I’m supposed to be working on my next book, but this publisher has a quick turnaround and I figure I’ll hear something shortly. This is one of my hang-ups as a writer. Not only can I only work on one story at a time, once I send something out I’m tempted to sit back and see how things turn out. That’s fine when the wait time is only a week or two, but I’ve had stories out at places that held them for close to two years. Am I supposed to stop writing for two years? Tempting thought, but no. Looks like I just went back to work.

The anthology with the horror story I wrote as “Gerald S. Parker” may be back on. They think they've found another publisher. The drawback in this case is the antho was pay on publication. I don’t see a penny unless and until the book actually comes out. That happens a lot with smaller magazines. Moral: aim for the “pay on acceptance” markets first. That way if something like this happens, you still have cash in your wallet. Still want to be a writer?

Assuming the book I sent out is accepted, I’ll then have to deal with the edits. The book clocked in at 86,600 words. Gahhh! What was I thinking? I still feel the last several chapters were rushed because I knew the thing was running long and tried to wrap it up in a hurry. Let’s see what the editor says. I know you’re supposed to let the book run as long as it needs to, and length doesn’t make that much difference in e-publishing, but c’mon. There needs to be a limit. Oh, and that word count was even longer in draft. I found myself cutting lines and whole paragraphs when I did the final type-through. One chapter got eviscerated by at least a third. And it STILL came out to 86K+. That’s it. My next project will be a novella. No more War and Peace.

In fact, I could probably benefit from limitations. Discipline and I have only a nodding acquaintance, which is why it takes me so long to write stuff. I work much better with set deadlines. Not the deadlines I set for myself either, because I just ignore those. It’s not like there are any consequences beyond not earning any money. I should talk with the publisher and have her set specific deadlines for me. Then I know things will get done by such-and-such a date, because if they don’t I won’t get paid. Last month I wrote a story on assignment (different genre) and got it out two days before deadline. I had a month and a half to write 6000 words and I waited until the last minute. I used to write my term papers the night before class, too. The point is, they got done within a specific time frame because I had a deadline. Maybe I should hire somebody to set deadlines for me so I get more writing done in a timely manner. If I miss deadline, I pay that person $100. That ought to speed me up. Any takers?

As for the length problem, I’ve been toying with an idea for Harlequin’s Nocturne Cravings. They have a specific word limit. If they had a deadline, I’d be set.

And lookie here, I wrote a blog, and by deadline, too. Maybe next week I’ll talk about ways to find the discipline to write and not just veg out in front of the TV. Hey, that’s not a bad idea. Why not, I’ve got a week …

Monday, November 7, 2011

Angelic Forecast from Volcano ~ November 7, 2011



Weekly Angelic Forecast from Volcano

Straight from the Carnal Cherub himself...

Angelic Forecast ~ #166

This week, and for the rest of November 2011, it is all about ‘relationship’ and ‘relationships’.

First, it will be about how you personally relate to the world, and also how you relate to everyone around you. The Universal Force will be highlighting your strengths and weaknesses at this time.

Second, through this process, personal relationships which are not fundamentally sound, cannot withstand the rigors of the future, and are not based on love -- will be dissolved. In counterbalance, during this period, new and stronger relationships will be forged. This will be both love partnerships and enduring friendships.

The cosmic energies during the last two months of 2011 is about preparing for the future -- the immediate and long term future. Opportunities will appear and it is best to take advantage of them. Quickly. Decisively.

From this point forward, the pace of life will ‘quicken’ beyond the current hyperspeed. This means, in part, whatever is essential and most valuable in your life will be revealed to you. Out of this make your decisions for the future.

As usual, this is a critical time that will determine how the year 2012 plays out for humanity. In that regard, divisiveness will be the main theme for this week. Be aware that the ‘soulless ones’ are attacking with ‘divide and conquer’ strategies as never before.

Know also, the decision is upon you. Which side will you choose? Freedom or non-freedom? For, that is what 2012 will be all about, the rise of true freedom for humanity.

On the economic front, big-time deception will be the name of the game. Most likely every news story fed to the public at large, will be the exact opposite of the truth, or completely misleading.

For the best direction to go in pay heed to those who are the financial renegades. This ‘does not’ include any big name in the system currently. For, they are the false gods, and meant to lead all of us astray.

Several major conflict-events that will occur this week, have been initiated from the dark side of magck -- conjured by those who serve the soulless ones. Duck and cover spiritually.

This ‘black cloud sorcery’ is being done to cover up the Light streaming to us all from the cosmic center. This Light, straight from the heart of the Divine, is meant to reanimate our highest natures, and to give us the power to become strong in the face of evil.

Trendwise, this week, and through the holidays, people will be searching for new ways to celebrate -- ways that are more meaningful to them and their families. There will be a return to more ‘homey’ celebrations, as well as the opposite, all-out elegant affairs. Everything cheap and commercial will be shunned more and more this holiday season.

Exercise your personal power this week for your benefit, and the benefit of your loved ones. It is all-important.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~

MORE...Volcano’s Angelic Forecast for this week ~ sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com ~
~~~~~~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Blocked



I’m stuck for a topic today. This is normal. I just sent out a manuscript this week and it takes me a couple of days to get revved up again. I’ve been using the time to rake leaves and get caught up on the housework. When’s the last time I vacuumed the house? I can’t even remember.

There’s no lack of ideas, fortunately. I’ve got the sequel to the book I just sent out and a pile of other stuff. Trouble is, it’s logjammed in my head. They’re all clamoring equally for attention; nothing’s standing out. At some point one of them will scream more loudly than the others and that’s the one I’ll work on. When will that happen? No telling. It better not take too long, because I don’t want to go a year between submissions again. The one I just sent out clocked in at 86000 words. I think I’ll listen for a novella to start yapping this time.

While I’m waiting, there are tons of things I can do to get the juices flowing again. Reading works. Nothing sparks ambition like a monumentally awful novel that makes you go, “A monkey with a typewriter could do better than this.” Believe it or not, TV can be your friend. My favorite show sparked that trilogy I’m working on, and to some extent two other books I may get around to eventually. Sometimes it helps to just get outside and move around a bit. What’s that big, bright thing up in the sky? How long has it been there? What’s it called when you’re not seated in front of a keyboard? Standing upright, yeah.

To keep the writing muscle limber, I have a disturbingly-large number of spiral notebooks and pens piled up beside my bed. I don’t know how many stories I’ve started and abandoned in these things. If I want to blow off a couple of days, I can do an inventory. One notebook I keep reserved for quickie scenes, descriptions and ideas, so I can tell myself I wrote today. Some of those could probably be sold as flash fiction, or developed into stories. Again, I have to wait for one to poke its head above the herd. I’ve tried to force writing in the past. The results weren’t pretty, folks.

If all else fails, just sit your butt down and have at it. Don’t worry about plot, characters, or having it make sense. Gag your inner editor, tie her up and stick her in the corner and let your imagination go to town. You might end up throwing out every page you produced at the end of the day, but so what? You wrote. That’s what matters.

See, it worked. I just wrote a blog entry. I’m good for another week. Now, about that vacuuming …

Monday, October 31, 2011

Angelic Forecast from Volcano ~ October 31, 2011


Weekly Angelic Forecast from Volcano

Straight from the Carnal Cherub himself...

Angelic Forecast ~ #165

During this pivotal week for all of humanity, a new level of POWER is Rising like the Phoenix. Consider this cosmic shower of power to be like the hammer of Thor. Know too, this vibration is up for grabs, and can be used for a good purpose or for a bad purpose.

Thus, it becomes more important than ever to claim your own personal power, and use it to better your life, and the lives of others. As well, at this time, all of your issues around power will surface.

Now is the time to clean house, rid yourself of your emotional and psychological issues, and learn how to wield your power effectively. Now is the time to bring the hammer down where needed.

In the continuing horrific drama that is the worldwide economy, look for even more surprises -- a crash here, a crash there. It is advisable at this juncture to remove your funds from any bank that is faltering.

However you can prepare for winter, do so now. Possible power outages are a real danger as was demonstrated earlier in the year by the outage in the southwest that cascaded through southern California. It is likely there will be excessive snow and ice in some areas of the country this winter, so stocking up on necessities is a wise move.

Likely during the midweek a ‘high strangeness’ event will occur. This event will be suppressed. However, there will be news leaks and exposure via the internet.

At this point in time, a band of journalist renegades will rise to more prominence. All while the current crop of TV and newspaper reporters will fade in popularity. This is because, in part, many will no longer identify with traditional newscasters.

It’s a new day and age in America proper. Every despicable tactic and psi op will be used to stop this demand for freedom and equality by the American people. The levels of violence will escalate, and the time is near where choices must be made similar to the Revolutionary War era.

Remember, Magick is now at your fingertips. Tune into the vibration, and follow your Inner Knowing. This attunement is vital to continue the new surging Renaissance, and also for creating your future.

Trendwise, this is a tricky week. Magick, Power, getting prepared for the realities of winter -- that said, everything related to becoming more magickal and more personally powerful will be what is desired. Plus, folks will be looking for everything and anything that will get them through the winter ahead.

This is a good week to make certain family, friends and good neighbors are getting prepared for the winter and the times ahead. Also, establish ways to communicate if the normal channels are down.

Angelic blessings from Volcano & Sedona
~~~~~~

MORE...Volcano’s Angelic Forecast for this week ~ sirenbookstrand.blogspot.com ~
~~~~~~

Savanna

Savanna Kougar ~ Run on the Wild Side of Romance ~
~~~

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Welcome to the Family



So what is it? Multiple Personality Disorder, or Multiple Pen Name Syndrome? Whichever, it’s what happens when the urge hits to you to write in multiple genres. Lots of fun for the creativity. Not so hot for sales.

I’m one of those folks who writes as the ideas strike me. I used to write science fiction and fantasy. I still knock out a fantasy story occasionally. I’ve got an entire series abandoned in my closet. Maybe I’ll go back to it some day.

For now I’ve jumped genres into paranormal romance. Same general conventions and storylines, just more emphasis on sex. However, there are a ton of subgenres, and I’ve got ideas for several of them. Therein lies the problem.

When I started writing romance, I went with traditional M/F. Then I got an idea for an M/M story. Then another M/M story hit. That spawned an idea for an M/M/F sequel. I’ve currently got notes for an M/M/M and at least three other M/Ms in a holding pattern in my head, along with about half a dozen M/Fs I really should get to at some point. Then there’s the entire M/F novel sitting in the closet awaiting rewrite. Plus the fantasy novel awaiting a chapter overhaul, but that’s another genre.

What I didn’t realize, until a publisher pointed it out to me, is that each subgenre has its own set of fans with their own tastes and expectations, and they won’t necessarily follow an author into different waters. For example, my M/F followers must have been thrown for a loop when I published my first M/M. (“What the hell is this? Where’s the woman? What are these two guys doing to each other?”) Conversely, I’ll bet the readers I picked up with my two M/Ms were confused as all get out by my M/F backlist. (“What’s he doing with a woman? Why isn’t he with the other guy?”) Can’t wait to see what the M/M/F does to both parties.

In short, I’ve splintered my readership. I’m slowly building a following, but I’ve fractured it between two subgenres. Hopping around has been a blast creatively, but it doesn’t do squat for the checkbook.

Which is why I’ve decided to go the pen name route.

I know, I know. I should have done that to start with, when I broke my M/F pattern with that first M/M. Well, better late than never. The M/M/F will be under my established name, Pat Cunningham. So will its sequel, which fortunately turned out to be M/F. Pat started as an M/F writer, and that’s where she’s going to stay. The next and subsequent M/Ms that come out of my laptop will have a different name on them. That should clear up any confusion.

This isn’t the first time I’ve done this. Those SF/F stories were published under a “P. E. Cunningham” byline. When I switched to romance I went with Pat to differentiate the genres, so anyone looking for my SF stuff wouldn’t get put off by the sex. To really confuse things, I wrote a horror story. Imagine looking for fantasy or paranormal romance from me and finding serial killers instead. Talk about alienating the readership.

So, if it all pans out, my little writing family will be growing. The first me, P.E., still writes the occasional fantasy story. My twin sister Pat writes M/F paranormal romance. Our illegitimate half-sister Jenna Wolf, who showed up unexpectedly at the door one day, writes M/M paranormal romance. Our evil half-brother, Gerald S. Parker, writes horror, and never remembers our birthday. I’ve been thinking about tailoring one of those M/Fs for Harlequin’s Nocturne line. I don’t know if they’ll require a different name or not. Cousin Dana Stewart, who also writes M/F paranormal romance, is standing by just in case.

Unless I wake up tomorrow morning and decide to start writing mysteries. Better flip through the phone book again.