Unedited

What genre do you dip in?

2012-02-17T06:30:00.006-06:00

Last week on twitter I announced the fact I was playing in the genre pool. Still not wanting to decide what genre to write in I wanted to get others opinions. Was I the only one genre hopping? Were there closet hoppers? Who would stand with me and share their honesty.

Turns out, lots of people genre hop.

I adore writing chick lit, thrillers, and dystopian YA. Which one do I like more? The one I’m writing at that moment. They’re all my favorites, that’s what makes it so hard to choose.

When the rain hits my mind shy’s away from the romance and a killer character comes rushing out, after all, he does his best work in the rain.

When my life feels like it’s falling apart, the young sixteen year old pops up and decides she wants to take charge of her life and we try and tackle real life AND her life.

When spring hits and my hearts all a flutter, the characters who want to find love embrace me.

However, if you’re a genre hopper you want to make sure you’re still doing the proper research. Reading is a writer’s best tool. It’s the one thing (next to trash television) that we can tell our significant others is actual research BUT also something we LOVE to do. You must read the genre you’re trying to write. After all, if you’re trying to write the next Stephen King novel and the closest thing you’ve read is Sophie Kinsella’s books, your book would be about a shoe murder. Not interesting and not relevant to thriller readers.
Do you genre hop? How do you juggle them?

Single in the City

2012-02-15T06:30:00.022-06:00

So it’s customary for Unedited to always have a few fabulous people on the blog throughout the year. I’d hate to short you right off the bat so I’ve scheduled someone fabulous for today!

Michele Gorman. For all you young adult lovers out there I’m afraid this one will have to have you step out of your YA shoes and step foot into your Adult ones. To make things a little more fun I’ll be GIVING AWAY a copy of this fabulous tale!!! Make sure to comment below for your chance at this little gem!

Single in the City is a Contemporary Fiction novel that will sweep you off your feet! Here’s a little blurb to get you excited…

Recipe for changing your life: Take one twenty six year old American, add to one two thousand year old city, add a big dose of culture clash and stir.

To think Hannah ever believed that Americans differed from Brits mainly in pronunciation, sophistication and dentistry. That’s been the understatement of a lifetime.

She lands upon England’s gentle shores with no job, no friends and no idea how she’s supposed to build the new life she’s dreaming of.

How is supposed to make new friends when she has no idea about the rules of engagement?

How can she win over her poisonous boss when she’s not even trusted to arrange the paperclips?

And could her nationality give her an exotic edge in the dating game over Britain’s home-grown lovelies?

Armed with little more than her enthusiasm, she charges headlong into London, baffling the locals in her pursuit of a new life, new love and sense of herself.

Of course I’m not going to leave you without some of the famous Unedited question and answers! So without further ado, I give you Michele!
We want details!

What was the first thing you learned when you moved to the UK?

I learned that I didn’t, in fact, speak English. From simple directions to different meanings for common words, this realization struck me at every turn… literally, sometimes! For instance, being raised in the US, I was used to directions that went something like “To get from A to B, you go straight/left/right for a certain number of blocks”. English directions are very descriptive, without ever giving me the information I need: “Come out of the Tube station and you’ll see a Waitrose, go past that until you come to the off-license, go along a bit more until you get to a set of lights, then go over the road.” I haven’t successfully followed directions here since 1998.

Most people know about some of the American/English word differences, but a few are big, Big mistakes, as I found out when I announced to my office that I need a good fanny pack. What is a polite way to refer to one’s backside to Americans is the c-word to Brits.

What dream did you follow that led you to London?

It’s the age-old story … I followed my heart. I’d met a sweet, fun man who lived 5 time zones away, and having to book a flight to kiss gets old after awhile. So I took the plunge after I finished graduate school and moved to London where he was working. The man is long gone but I fell in love with London instantly, and very quickly felt like it was home. In 2006 I became a UK citizen so now I have two passports.

Worst job you ever had? What made you stay as long as you did?

Well, I hold the record in my family for being fired the most times, so I didn’t really stay very long at any of them! To give you a flavour (though I wasn’t fired from all of these): I once worked at a paper factory, counting sheets of paper. Pallets would be fork-lifted in, I’d count 15 sheets at a time and put them in a box. Repeat. I worked in a sandwich-making factory. If you ever wondered where those sandwiches that come out of machines are born, I can tell you all about it. I worked as an office clerk for an insane plumber who constantly accused me of ‘ruining his filing system’. The filing system consisted of piles of paper on the floor. I worked in two restaurants as a very bad waitress. I was also a very bad auditor and a very bad secretary… Is it any wonder I’m a writer?

What’s the hardest thing about moving out of the country? Making new friends? Learning a new language?

I think the hardest thing for me was remembering that I’m in another culture and things are going to be different. It was very tempting when I first moved to London to compare the way things are done here with the way they are done in the US. And yet the whole point of living in a new country is that it is new. Getting out of that mindset takes awhile and until you do, it’s hard to appreciate where you’re living for its own sake.

And of course, as I’ve mentioned, learning a new language hasn’t been a piece of cake either!

If given a choice, who would you like your work to be compared to? What author?

I’d love to have my chick lit compared to Sophie Kinsella because she makes writing seem effortless. Her main character Becky in the Shopaholic series was winsomely ditzy, unerringly funny and the story galloped along, making me want to read it from cover to cover in a single sitting. She knew that women like to read happy, very funny women’s fiction, without the need for “issues” to be addressed. It would be a big compliment for me to hear that I’ve made women guffaw unattractively in public places.

One word answer, cupcake!
Heels or flats – heels
Cupcakes or cookie – cupcakes
Educational show or Trash TV – educational show
Kitty or Puppy – Technically my one word answer would be ‘both’, but in the spirit of the question: puppy
Polka-dots or Stripes – stripes

Thank you so much for stopping in! Isn’t Michele fabulous?

Be sure to stop by her website, twitter, and facebook and introduce yourself! To buy a copy of her novel visit here (Amazon) or here (Barnes & Noble)! She’s a doll! Don’t forget to leave your thoughts and email for an entry into the giveaway!

Monday Musings

2012-02-13T06:30:00.018-06:00

Here is yet another installment of Monday Musings, where I share just about anything that comes to mind... whether you're prepared for the facts or not.

This edition is the Come on, tell me I'm not the only one. And I really hope I'm not alone on any of these. That would just be tragic.

1. I've been WAITING for them to release Twilight Breaking Dawn Part 1. In preparation for this addiction I have watched all the previously released movies last week. Come on, tell me I'm not the only one.

2. I have a contract for my first home and it's AWESOME. I may or may not visit the house nightly just to see it's beautiful front entrance. The neighbors might start to wonder. Come on, tell me I'm not the only one.

3. Valentine's Day is celebrated inside our house, without flowers or chocolate. I prefer to avoid the masses who insist on going out the evening of. Bring me home a heart shaped pizza and mini champagne, love, and everything will be alright. Come on, tell me I'm not the only one.

4. I go to the bookstore just to read the acknowledgements. You never know what awesome agent you might have missed OR the awesome novel that catches your eye. Come on, tell me I'm not the only one.

5. My ability to clean has gotten, well, lazy. If less than a month left in the apartment making myself clean the place just seems hopeless. I might actually have to call someone to pick up after my lazy ass. We haven't resorted to that. I figured I should probably attempt to pack and see where I end up. Come on, tell me I'm not the only one.

Well, now it's your turn. Share something about yourself...or just agree with me on some of these. This is a day where we all come together and you tell me how awesome I am. Yup, that's how I'd like things.

Welcome to La La Land

2012-02-10T06:30:00.009-06:00

Hello, Jen’s followers. How are you? Nice to meet you and you and you too. I am L.A. DeVaul, author of Roxanne in La La Land and co-founder of CeleryTree.com.

Jen invited me here today to introduce you to the new website: CeleryTree.com.

Let’s face it, we writers are all over the internet: blogging, tweeting, FaceBooking, starting websites, tearing down old websites, basically doing everything we can to get people’s attention so we can sell one more copy of our books. I can’t tell you how many times I have felt an author’s pain when they say: “Marketing takes so much time, I feel like I don’t have time to write anymore.” Can I get an amen?

Besides marketing gobbling into our writing time, how effective is it for these marketing efforts to be scattered all over the internet? Sure you may have 153 blog followers, and 207 FaceBook friends, and that is just all kinds of wonderful, but wouldn’t it be simpler and less time consuming for readers and writers alike, if those marketing efforts were compiled onto one website? Writers need a central location where readers automatically go to discover new books, instead of accidentally stumbling across a writer’s blog, website, or FaceBook page.

CeleryTree.com is that website. And not only is it a central, ad-free, location for writers to market and discover new books, it is an online bookstore so readers can directly buy that book they are so excited to read.

The cost of membership? $35 a year and purchasing 6 books in a twelve month period. And get this: authors get to keep 90% of every sale. That is better than I could do selling directly from my personal website.

My advice? Leave the jungle and join Celery Tree.

Wanna know something even better? Today one commenter will walk away with a FREE SIGNED copy of Roxanne in La La Land purchased from Celery Tree! She walks away with 90% of the sale! See? We're already supporting authors! It's that easy!

Wednesday WiP

2012-02-08T06:30:00.001-06:00

Wednesday! Half way through the work week (at least for me). I figured today I'd do a fun book post. I used to do Tuesday Twists and since those disappeared the moment I stopped posting on Tuesday's I thought bringing it back with a new twist would be fun!

For newbies... WELCOME... for oldies... WELCOME (you know the drill). I'll share the first sentence of three novels. You tell me what you'd read based on those sentences. What's the twist? I'm providing cover art at the bottom. Not in order, mind you. After all, this is to see what your eyes tell you. What draws you in the most? Do any look more intriguing with cover art? DISH!

For me personally, I've chosen books that I've either enjoyed or I'm looking forward to devouring! So, here we go!

1. "Your blood looks funny." (Title Reveal)
2. I'll never forget the glimpse of Winterhaven as we pulled up the long, curving drive-gray stones bathed in the lavender haze of dusk, looking like an old European university, all flying buttresses and stone spires reaching toward the sky. (Title Reveal)
3. It starts with a crack, a sputter, and a spark. (Title Reveal)

Any sound interesting? What about the cover art? What's the most striking?

Monday Musings

2012-02-06T06:30:00.014-06:00

It's not fair to rid you from truth Thursday's just because I don't blog then anymore. I figured, why not Mondays? First day is always the hardest after a weekend... What better way to rid you and me that bad 'case of the Mondays'

1. I work against The Bachelor. Love the show. I'm an absolute addict. But when I see basket cases like Courtney I vote for them to steal the bachelors heart. Why? Because I highly doubt most of those girls are there to find love. They're looking for camera time. Oh, and because the drama is all the spicier.

2. Friday is the new Tuesday. For all you who know me, I had a Tuesday outfit. I'd purposely wash it so id have it Tuesday. It's been moved to Fridays. Hello, Coca-cola tee, I love you.

3. House hunting is fun, until you realize your dreams may take years. We love houses in our price range but my imagination runs wild on what all I'll buy to make it beautiful. It's then I realized I'm poor. That's right, little monies with big dreams.

4. The Vow stole my idea. Or, it was such a good one I want to call it my own. Either way you know where I'll be Feb. 10...

5. My cats have multi personalities. I hope it's not contagious. One minute they're cuddling up next to me, next minute they're plotting my death. I can't win, but those cuddly little monsters only defense is their cuteness and damn all to hell if it's my kryptonite. You win, cats, you win.

6. I had an extra confession today. I just purchased a delicious Coca-cola and it made me wonder, how the hell do the vending machines keep their cokes so cold? What an amazing freezer contraption that holds my delectable morning caffeinated beverage. Who needs coffee? This gem is cold and delicious, which is why I shared this precious piece from my thoughts.
What are your secrets?

Short Story Sanctuary

2012-02-03T06:30:00.036-06:00

It wasn't but a few months ago I found myself in a rut. I'd been writing novels and just started querying when the words stopped.

You know... your first rejection rolls in and you feel defeat? That's when I find myself stuck. I can't write anything and when I do, I hate it all.

Guess what? I found the silver lining. This novel-length-diva found herself an opportunity of a lifetime.

Still Moments Publishing just happened to fall in my twitter feed and it was there I embarked on a journey to prove something to myself.

That I was worthy of publishing.

Turns out, they had just as much faith in me as I did. In January I released my very first published works, Snowbanked (in the Snowbound Hearts Anthology). Coming soon is Latte Love (in the Valentine Delights Anthology). Even more exciting, I'll be having my very first single short in March titled When Love Aligns. That's right, just me and my beautiful baby! I am so excited!

Each month they have a fresh new idea for an anthology. With summer months approaching they're diving into Wedding Territory. What I love is they give you a few stipulations but let your mind do the rest of the work!

Do you have a bachelorette party idea? How about a character finding love before the bride & groom get to the alter? Check out details for these stories at Still Moments Publishing. They're wonderful to be a part of. They also do more than short stories so stop in today!

Their Romance Categories are: Chick lit, Romantic Comedy, Contemporary, Fantasy, Inspirational, Sensual, Suspense & Western.

It's kind of funny how inspiration is as simple as getting the small ideas out of your head to make room for the bigger ideas. Are you a short story writer? Ever though of dabbling?

Something Borrowed

2012-02-01T06:30:00.020-06:00

Agents are looking for the next big thing. Publishers are looking for great voices. All are looking for the next story that moves them, speaks to them, changes their way of thinking for those several hours they dive into the book.

You want to be the one person that drives them to think about your novel for days.

However, you can't be too unique. You have to borrow a story and give it a fresh take. No, I'm not talking about plagiarizing. That's wrong (obviously).

What I'm talking about is the unique take on an old idea.

Stephanie Meyer took the old idea of a vampire and turned them into 'vegetarians' and had them live kindly among humans. That's an entirely new take on the old vampires that suck your blood.

How about J.K. Rowling's wonderful tale, Harry Potter? Wizards and witches are used to being burned at the stake, using their brooms only at night. Cackling and warts? Nah, none of the above... they attend school regularly, learn how to properly ride brooms, and laughter is just like any child. See what I mean? A new take on an old idea.

See? Something Borrowed. It doesn't just apply to weddings.

Always Anonymous, We Thank You

2012-01-30T06:30:00.007-06:00

Fashion designers find inspiration in fabrics.

Chef's find inspiration in tasting foods.

Cyclists and marathon runners find inspiration in wide open spaces.

Photographers find inspiration in colors, architecture, and nature.

Writers find inspiration in everything. From fabrics to the people who are purchasing them, everything tells a story and we're the one's who were put in this world to share it. Isn't it an amazing thing to think about?

Question: When you tell someone you're a writer aren't they immediately open to sharing more with you?

I've never met a person who's shut down. In fact, if anything, they open up even more. Is it because we're more relatable? Something that makes these individuals safe to share their secrets with us? Do they realize we might find a story in what they're telling? Or is that what they want? For the story to be told, but they just don't have the heart to write it out themselves?

To those who will always remain anonymous... Thank you for sharing your story. It is because of you, we as writers will always carry the what if's of life. Thank you for breathing life into our words and making our characters more than just cardboard cut-outs.

Where do your ideas come from? Would you thank anyone?

Writing on the wall

2012-01-27T06:30:00.001-06:00

Today I'm keeping it simple. There is so much happening in the blogging world, I want to know what you're all up too!

What are you writing?

Have you recently switched genres?

What are you reading?

Should I be adding anything delicious to my TBR pile?

I love to hear what everyone has going on. I think it pulls us closer together as a community! For me, personally, I'm working on a new short story for Still Moments Publishing, working on adoption (can you save a cupcake? Look at the sidebar), and house buying.

Trying to mix both worlds can be so TOUGH! Are you one that's struggling?

Write on the wall and tell me what's happening!

Swapping Lives with Authors

2012-01-25T06:30:00.002-06:00

What if you had the opportunity to be on an episode of Author Swap (similar of Wife Swap <-- Yes, I watch a lot of TV). Who would you choose?

Lately after watching episodes of Celebrity Wife Swap it's had me thinking who I'd swap with. You ready? Here.We.Go.

Talli Roland. She's MADE OF AWESOME. Not to mention her blog posts are always whisking me off in the beautiful land she lives in. I'd be reading her non-fiction novels 24 Hours in London & 24 Hours in Paris running all about town seeing if her life really is as lavish as it seems.

Emily Giffin & Sophie Kinsella. Women's fiction geniuses, these ladies are! For Emily, it'd be all about her house and what it's like to have her book made into a movie (since Something Borrowed was just released). For Sophie Kinsella it'd be all about finding out what this Shopaholic's writer is all about.

J.K. Rowling. I think everyone would add this one to their list. There is just something magical about the world she'd created, it would just be interesting to see how life is AFTER Harry Potter. What does she do?
--
What would they look forward to swapping with me? Zumba and Kick Boxing classes. Eating out (BONUS... they wouldn't have to cook). Blogging and working on edits.

In all honesty, my life would be boring in comparison, I'd think.

Who would you swap with?

The Road to Publication is Pure Insanity

2012-01-23T06:30:00.005-06:00

Today I have the fabulous Jolene Perry stopping in to share her road to publication. I find hearing others stories inspire others. It also shows that no TWO PEOPLE are the same!

Take it away, Jolene!

My first book, The Next Door Boys, went like this –

1. Submitted to the largest publisher in the niche market.

2. Rejection.

3. Found a killer awesome beta reader.

4. Did some revisions.

5. Re-submitted to another of the three large publishers in the niche market.

6. Got offer of publication.

7. The Next Door Boys was signed in January of 2011, and came out in October of 2011.

(Seems so simple, right? BUT at this time I didn’t have an agent to help with my contract or to push for a two-book deal, or to push for ebooks to follow the paperback in a timely manner, or, or, or… I don’t care who you publish with, it’s really, really nice to have someone deal with the business/sales end of things)

Next two seem more complicated, but have really been WAY less stressful (aside from maybe the query part) – ready??

1. Begin querying in December of 2010.

2. Don’t eat. Don’t sleep. Hit refresh on email an embarrassing amount per day, or hour, or minute, or you know, whatever.

3. Some requests, some rejections. Keep writing frantically to have new material. This goes on until June of 2011.

4. Offer of rep. from an agent I met on #yalitchat (never underestimate the awesomeness that is twitter)

5. Notify other agents who have one or two of my projects, and pull out hair wondering WHO to go with.

6. My agent goes through almost the same process for submission as I went through for querying – WAY less stressful than querying. I turned it over to her. All I have to do now is keep writing.

7. An editor I really wanted to work with loved Night Sky – I thought this is it! A done deal, but it’s NOT. The board at the publishing house passed. Was told that the writing is stellar, but not enough of a commercial hook.

8. We continue to search, and continue to have editors like my writing, but can’t sell to their pub house.

9. Tell my agent – we’ve talked about finding me an epublisher – find me someone who loves my book as much as I do because I want it OUT. I have other projects I want to focus on.

10. Lauren (my agent) finds an epublisher who loves my story. Sign a two-book deal for Night Sky and Knee Deep. I’m SO SO SO excited to be working with Tribute Books who is in the process of shifting their whole line to the YA market.

The point of this whole long rambling post is that there are a TON of ways to get published. Everyone finds what works best for them, and not just for them, but for each project.

This is what worked for me, and for these particular manuscripts. Well, and my writing career is and always will be a work in progress…

Thanks for having me Jen!!

You can find me HERE
And on goodreads HERE

Click over and see what Jolene's doing these days! Feel free to share your story in the comments! I love hearing how different we all are!

Nancy's don't network... No, not you Nancy

2012-01-20T06:30:00.006-06:00

My friend and I were talking about networking and marketing the other day. When to start, how to start, and when to say ‘I suck at this, will anyone notice if I stop sucking at it?’

Blogging isn’t for the faint of heart. It takes a lot of work, a lot of time… BUT… can be a whole lot of fun.

I'm down to blogging three times a week and so far it’s freed up quite a bit of time to devote to commenting (which I adore). But with life comes more… life. Babies show up, houses go for sale, and books still go on sale.

My first short story, Snowbanked, was released last week and it was then the chaos hit me. What's fabulous is that I've already networked my way around the worldwide web and all I needed to do was ask my lovely friends to allow me to blog hop a few rounds.

Turns out, positive polly walks away with a lot more than negative nancy.

All the friendships I made through the two years of blogging allowed me to have the experience of a lifetime when my ebook went on sale. The congrats, along with virtual hugs and cupcakes was amazing. Not to mention everyone who RUSHED off my blog to go purchase my book.

It just shows that my personality reaches people, and my positive polly nature keeps you all coming back, (or so I'm telling myself).

The piece of advice I leave you with? Blog because you love too, don't think of it as a chore, but more as a time to meet with friends. You're grabbing the cup of joe, or enjoying take-out, while spending time with all your buddies.

Have you met negative nancy's around the blog? How do you handle the attitude? Any good news... share in the comments!

Explaining world building to those who don't build worlds.

2012-01-18T06:30:00.009-06:00

Explaining your story can get complicated. I’m talking golden-brown-marshmallows-over-a-fire-pit-because-you’re-the-only-one-who-doesn’t-like-them-burnt kind of complicated.

The horror writer. For those who write about serial killers, you don’t want to be viewed as the newest office stalker. Or, now that they know you how to murder someone without leaving evidence they tip toe around your cubicle, leaving you to be the one who feels uneasy.

The romance author. You want to promote your book but the office is filled with males and they think all already do is day dream about love and roses. They also think you’ll expect a man to sweep you off your feet and they’re not willing to take you out base on that fact alone… having to work from something.

The YA author. You write for kids therefore you use tiny words and still live in high school (which is probably half true).

I’m writing a dystopian YA and with that came this conversation.

“You world build?” Co-worker asked.

“Yup, it’s so much fun,” I said (with excitement).

“Well what world are you building?”

“It’s kind of hard to explain… but, there’s this world where there are three divisions, normals, recreated, and the elite. This girl uses her recreated leg to get her on a certain bus that rides into this place that has her sister.”

“Is this like Harry Potter?” <-- Everyone relates YA to Harry Potter.

“Not really.”

“But you said it was for kids.”

“Yeah, and I didn’t mention magic.”

“Magic might make it cooler,” they had to point out (clearly they know nothing).

*stares at co-worker with disgust*

“What, it would.”

“I’m just not explaining it well. It’s complicated and awesome, but you don’t have to read it.” <-- Unless I become famous of course, then you’ll want to know me and I’ll be like Ellen and NOT thank you when I win the People’s Choice Award.

*we stare at our respective computers and stay silent for the remainder of the day*

So yeah, I should probably get better at pitching. Or maybe stop telling people who don’t read. I choose the latter… for now. Any of your own encounters?

Plans to Adopt

2012-01-16T06:30:00.021-06:00

Hi.

This post is going to be a little on the serious side. For those of you who don't know, my husband and I are about to adopt our first child.

Long story short, we can't bear children.

So we decided, January 2012, was our month (and year) to start. Several of you have asked if I'd blog about adoption, as you'd find it interesting, and well, as you can see, I've decided to take you up on it.

Blogging could be very therapeutic (it works for my writing, anyway).

To give you an idea of what we're up against. The fee's are astronomical. Though I could never put a price on babies, the world has. That price is currently $20K. Not a walk in the park, that's for sure. That of course, doesn't count the birth mother fees.

My husband and I are not panicking. The world works in mysterious ways, and we're hoping that those mysterious ways are headed to Houston.

We are BEYOND excited at the opportunity to have children. We've already started creating our 'book'. It's this little gem that, once complete, will sit in front of the birth mother in hopes for us to be the perfect couple for her baby.

This will by no means be an easy process, and I'll keep you updated with what's happening. For now, you know all I know. If you have questions ask away in the comments, or shoot me an email. You've been the most amazing support system and I know this round will be no different.

AUTHOR NOTE: If there are any of you who'd like to help my husband and I adopt a child, please feel free to use the donate button below my About Me. Any amount would be splendid! I'm forgoing cupcakes and creating a 'baby jar' rather than my usual 'cupcake jar'.

What serious plans do you have for 2012?

I'm Published!!!!

2012-01-13T06:30:00.003-06:00

I'm keeping it simple today! I'm visiting Talli's blog and talking about my first published works, Snowbanked (and exes)! Go on, read away!!!

Editing Your Vocabulary

2012-01-11T06:30:00.000-06:00

We plot our ideas. Build our characters. Write our stories. We've spent time molding each chapter to our every specification.
Also known as the editing process.

Some find this portion an absolute disaster. No desire to flip through the notebook (or laptop) and make their manuscript shine. Not because they hate edits... but because they're scared.

I used to be one. I still have five novels untouched. Guess what... this is the first time I want to dig those broken pieces out of the invisible garbage and make them sparkle.

AJ Nuest... one of the editors at Still Moments Publishing showed me what fun editing can be. Yes, she pushed me farther than I probably wanted to be pushed. But every step of the way was worth it.

Who is my best friend while editing? AJ, definitely human wise... but I'm referring to the Thesaurus.

Words are fun! Us writers (misconstrued as geeks) have a love of words. I was forced (happily) to broaden my horizon in the writing world. I'm no longer writing simple sentences like - I ran through the forest. I allow myself to be more free and descriptive - I breathed deep, taking in the brisk air as the branches hit my ankles, my barefeet leaping across the leaves.

I stopped being afraid. I started to take chances. It's led me to three wonderful short stories being published in 2012. Sometimes believing in yourself is more powerful than others believing in us.

What's your favorite part about editing? How do you make it fun when it becomes daunting?

Dreaming is for ROCKSTARS

2012-01-09T06:30:00.002-06:00

So the other day I had a weird dream. For those of you in real life, who know me, know not only do I talk in my sleep but I have some vivid ass dreams.

My husband is SO LUCKY (yes, that's sarcasm). This is the kind of stuff he gets day in and day out...

Me: Damn, that was vivid.
Hubs: *rubs eyes* Huh?
Me: My dream, it was wicked. I lost a leg.
Hubs: Were you in the army?
Me: *giggles* That's absurd. I don't like war. It was in a doctor's office, or something like that. There was this bad guy, he drugged me with some weird stuff that makes you woozy and not feel pain. He cut off my left leg, only up to the knee cap, and then told me he was going to leave me there to bleed.
Hubs: Seriously?
Me: Yeah, but I wasn't scared. It was a trip, weird not feeling scared. There was a McDonald's out the window and a table that had my escape route planned out. It was wicked. There were two dead bodies, girls who looked just like me, no legs... wicked I tell you.
Hubs: I don't know how to respond.
Me: *ignores his comment* What's super weird was that was his profession. He made prosthetic legs... I don't know his plans for the real one's he was taking, but I was going to survive. I know I was.
Hubs: And then you woke.
Me: Yup. What's brilliant is it fits perfectly in with my young adult novel idea. Genius. I love weird dreams like that. They make my day.
Hubs: Cool (said in a dull tone, of course). You should shower or we'll be late.

Moral of the story: Don't go to bed hungry or McDonalds debuts (can't get away from them).

There you have it. I just proved dreaming is for rockstars (or the mentally unstable). How do you dream?

Sexy and Shopping do not mix

2012-01-06T06:30:00.022-06:00

Picture this.

Geez. Do I have to spell it out? Me trapsing through the supermarket with high heels, a southern bell gown, big blonde locks (purchased online... they're not natural), and plumped lip glossed lips (also paid for).

Yeah. Today I'm making a stand. Us woman, housewives, moms, any female with a man, have a lot to deal with. A lot of men expect a certain something special from their female (get your heads out of the gutter boys and girls).

They (as in male pigs... not my dear male bloggers) have this image in their brain that we as women have no problem wearing our best. While outside of the house (with something naughty underneath), watching the children (still looking incredibly sexy), cooking (with a chefs jacket - preferably nothing else), cleaning (in the provactive maid outfit we just so happened to have purchased from VS last week), and when the children are bathed and in bed, we're supposed to be ready to put on a damn show.

I'm here to put a stop to this madness. If I had children you'd be lucky for me to change the puke stained t-shirt I'm wearing after waking up at 3am to change a diaper, watching the little humans all day, (still getting blogging AND writing done), and putting them to bed, all while you finished an eight hour work day (with no screaming).

I've recently come across a few men and listened to how silly they're being with all the pressure they put on their wives. I couldn't help but share my thoughts (and most women's views in this world). It's a new year and it's about time these ridiculous images get out of the male head. Feel free to send them to Unedited, I think I've set the record straight... and if the words aren't working, here's a picture of what you'll actually get if you don't give your woman a break...

If you wanted a Victoria Secret model you should be a little taller, a little more chisled, and a little more famous (you don't see us complaining about your height or your recent weight gain...) You get what you get, so take it (and buy it - as in her - some flowers).

I should mention, my husband does none of the above. I clean (yes that's it, I'm not proud). The reason he married me was for my personality (at least I'd hope so or I remain clueless). This post has nothing to do with my personal life, and if it did it would no longer be my personal life... So really, this post is for anyone wanted to waste two minutes of your life. You're welcome.

Care to add any thoughts?

Welcome Back

2012-01-04T06:30:00.002-06:00

HOLY PANCAKE IT'S 2012!!!

Welcome to the new and improved (and by that I mean absolutely no change, whatsoever) UNEDITED.
I hope to bring you lots of random conversations in my life, quirky interviews, and reader twists. Yup, that's my New Years gift to you. Take it or leave it. Thank you for always stopping in and sharing your comments, I love EACH AND EVERY ONE OF THEM.

This post isn't just welcoming all of you back to the world of blogging... it's to remind you of two awesome ladies who were off the blogging grid for a bit. They've decided to start the new year right (with us, obvs).

Abby & Colene!! I'm so happy to have them back in the blogging world.

They're ROCKSTARS. Not to mention, having a ROCKSTAR giveaway because they're back in town. What are you waiting for... this screen isn't offering you anything, go on over and tell Abby & Colene just how awesome they are! And if you haven't met them... this is your opportunity.

I'm a YOU TUBE SENSATION! SO VOTE!

2012-01-02T06:30:00.022-06:00

Author note: Hermione didn't win... in fact, she was spanked by Clary. That being said it's been a WHOLE LOT OF FUN. Thank you to all who voted and helped me out. Look out for Wednesday's post... there is gonna be a link to a giveaway!

I thought, maybe if I said it out loud, it'd be true. Apparently that method hasn't worked... yet... I remain hopeful.

It's that time again! Hermione Granger made it to the FINAL FOUR! Now she needs your help to make it to the final two and this my friends, is NO JOKE! We're up against Cassandra Clare's Clary, and they've been walking away with upwards of THREE THOUSAND VOTES! I know our girl Hermione is a rockstar, I'm just going to hope we can get her close if not all the wayto the FINAL TWO.

How can you help? Vote, tweet, vote, facebook, did I mention vote? Yea, that'd be nice. And just to add a little more fuel the fire, here's me, making a fool of myself. Yup, a you tube sensation! To share the awesomeness find the linkage here!

VOTE HERMIONE!!!!

Lets Pretend This Never Happened

2011-12-30T06:30:00.020-06:00

Two days away from the big year made me want to end this year with a BANG.

April 17, 2012 is going to be a big day.

Let's Pretend This Never Happened by Jenny Lawson will make it's debut in the world.

If you don't buy a copy of this novel you're insane. Or maybe you're insane to buy this novel. Either way insanity will happen so buy the AWESOME.

If the name Jenny Lawson doesn't sound familiar but The Bloggess should (and if it doesn't, I suggest you move your ass right over there... she's brilliantly insane <-- that's the biggest compliment, trust me).

Enough gushing. Here's the scoop...

For fans of Tina Fey and David Sedaris-Internet star Jenny Lawson, aka The Bloggess, makes her literary debut.

When Jenny Lawson was little, all she ever wanted was to fit in. That dream was cut short by her fantastically unbalanced father (a professional taxidermist who created dead-animal hand puppets) and a childhood of wearing winter shoes made out of used bread sacks. It did, however, open up an opportunity for Lawson to find the humor in the strange shame spiral that is her life, and we are all the better for it.

Lawson's long-suffering husband and sweet daughter are the perfect comedic foils to her absurdities, and help her to uncover the surprising discovery that the most terribly human moments-the ones we want to pretend never happened-are the very same moments that make us the people we are today.

Let's Pretend This Never Happened is a poignantly disturbing, yet darkly hysterical tome for every intellectual misfit who thought they were the only ones to think the things that Lawson dares to say out loud. Like laughing at a funeral, this book is both irreverent and impossible to hold back once you get started.

AUTHOR BIOS: Known for her sardonic wit and her hysterically skewed outlook on life, Jenny Lawson has made millions of people question their own sanity, as they found themselves admitting that they, too, often wondered why Jesus wasn't classified as a zombie, or laughed to the point of bladder failure when she accidentally forgot that she mailed herself a cobra. Her blog (www.thebloggess.com) is award-winning, extremely popular, and she is considered to be one of the funniest writers of our generation by at least three or four people.

TOLD YOU. TOTAL ROCKSTAR. Now you know her... you're welcome.

I NEED HELP... not the clinical kind, yet

2011-12-28T06:30:00.020-06:00

Hermione Granger.

You know... she's that muggle who just so happens to have some of the coolest wizard talents known to mankind?

You're right, obviously not to mankind... after the Wizarding World is a fluke to some, but we know that in the Wizarding World she's an all out rockstar.

You also know she's won two brackets in the YA Tournament of Heroines.

I'd like today to be no different.

This one will be a little tougher. After all, we're going against Tris from Divergent, and I know a ton of you enjoyed that novel (I sure did), but I'm hoping that Hermione is still your all time favorite girl and it'll garner a vote our way.

VOTE HERE.

Today that's the kind of help I need. Tomorrow it might be clinical... but for today I'm counting on your vote to bring Hermione to the final four. I know it won't be easy, but I'd like to at least show her we give a damn.

Reasons to vote for her? Sure... I'll pass them along.

Loyal: She can get you out of a quick bind. If you some bullies bother you, she knows the spells (without speaking) to use to get them to shut up.

Girl: She has the biggest handbag known to the entire world. That girl makes spells look as easy as chewing gum. Oh, you want chewing gum? Just have her put it in her put it in her ever expanding handbag. (I wonder if it also has a weightless charm to it).

Family: She saves her family by making them forget they ever had a daughter. This was the saddest part but also the most powerful me. She's the ultimate sweetheart.

Access: Chocolate frogs, bertie bots every flavor beans, and pygmy puffs. This girl has the absolute best access to all things Harry Potter. She could hook you up in a second... who knows, now that Viktor Krum is single, maybe she'll even introduce you.

There you have it. Your superstar ready to move to the next level... if you so allow.

Is standing out the key?

2011-12-26T06:30:00.000-06:00

The other day I sat at my computer contemplating what to start next.

Here are my stats:

I've written six novels. Some young adult, some adult.

I've queried two.

One was too unique of an idea. In agreement I decided to step back and write another.

The other I queried for awhile, received a few requests, but overall the query didn't cut it. Agents weren't biting. I felt defeated.

Then, while staring at my computer, I changed my tactics. I went different, unique, quirky even. I decided to be myself. I rewrote my query.

It paid off. I gave myself the guts to take a chance. I emailed my query to an agent whom I adore and they asked for a full within the hour. It was thrilling. My quirkiness had paid off. I didn't ask anyone to look at it, I realized by doing so I was questioning the work I knew was good.

Now, I will note, it was later rejected but the euphoria that came with me being myself made it worth while. The agent also rejected it, not for my content, but due to the age of what she normally represented. The agent gave me hope, and without her even knowing, she gave me the courage to be myself.

Where do you gain courage? How do you pick yourself up when you've fallen? I want to hear your story!

A Christmas Story by ME

2011-12-23T06:30:00.000-06:00

Google and I wish you a very Merry Christmas (I'm only mentioning google because this is where I got the photo).

Are you traveling? Staying in? What are your plans this fabulous holiday season?

Mine? Gosh, you're so sweet... thank you for asking.

I'll be sitting with the in-laws sipping my mother-in-laws amazing Vodka Slush and watching the snow fall (oh lord I hope it snows!!!).

And since you asked... why not a holiday story! Jen style of course. Every year I'm asked what I want for Christmas and each year I run empty, so two years ago I decided to be ridiculous (is there any other me? No...)

Hubs: What do you want for Christmas?
Me: A pony.
Hubs: *blank stare* (probably waiting for the real answer... which isn't coming).
Me: Still want a pony, or polly pockets - the old school version.
Hubs: I'm not buying you polly pockets.
Me: Guess it's a pony then.

Few days later

Sister(s): What do you want for Christmas?
Me: A pony.
Sister(s): Anything more... realistic?
Me: Ponies are real
Sister(s): *silence*
Hubs: Where would you put it?
Me: Outside, duh. There is so much grass at the apartment complex. It could be their mascot.
Hubs: Apartments don't have mascots.
Me: Maybe they should.

Naturally,I expected a pony. Can't people just put their money together? If you've seen 2 Broke Girls they have a horse in the city. It's not impossible.

There was no big box. I didn't panic, what person would put a poor helpless animal in a box... not to mention, do they make boxes that big?? Wrappable boxes that is. No, my gift was outside. I would wait... the anticipation, my excitement, it'd be worth it.

There I was, everyone had opened their gifts and were passing the remaining one's my way. I looked at the beautifully wrapped boxes reminding myself to open quickly so we could go outside.

Guess what happened?

I got ponies alright. My little ponies... five of them.

Next time I'll specify real.

YA Tournament of Heroines - Round Two

2011-12-21T06:30:00.008-06:00

Update: Hermione won!!! We're up again December 28th... this one will be TOUGH! Get your wands ready!

We're up again! VOTE 4 HERMIONE HERE!

This round Hermione is against Emerson from Hourglass.

This one is going to be tough.

I'm hoping each and everyone of you can help out! Vote, tweet, facebook, or blog. I'm going to need quite a few votes. The author of Hourglass, the lovely Myra McEntire gave away the first ending last round.

She's ruthless... (probably not true), but her fabulousness is kind of awesome. I can't blame those for voting for Em... after all, I've read the novel and it's FAB.

But we're not here for Emerson. I'm hoping each and everyone of you will help Hermione make it one step closer to the finale!

Any who, that's enough of my blabbing. I've wrote over at YA Sisterhood why I think Hermione should pull a win in all her awesome. Check it out and share with others!

For the love of Chocolate...

2011-12-19T06:30:00.020-06:00

I’ve come across an amazing blogger and author, please welcome the fabulous Juliette Sobanet (fabulous name, is it not?)… She blogs over at Chocolate for Writers (I know, what’s not to love), and her novel Sleeping with Paris was released this fall! You’ll want to snag a fabulous copy!

Of course I asked her some super fun questions! Aren't you curious as to what they are??? Here.We.Go.

1. What makes you unique?

I danced for most of my life taking ballet, tap, jazz and modern dance, and since I'm not currently taking any dance classes, I get these extreme urges to bust a move. So, be it in the car with my husband or at home on a boring weeknight, you may find me doing wild, interpretive dance moves to whatever song happens to be playing. Sometimes I can convince my husband to join the party, but usually he just thinks I'm crazy. Lucky for him, I don't this in front of anyone else. Well, maybe it's not so lucky for him . . .

2. What do you have handy at your bedside?

The most important thing would be earplugs. I have a 20 lb. and a 14 lb. cat who both love to start meowing at the bedroom door and swinging from the doorknob (the smaller one actually does this!) around 4am every morning. Earplugs are essential. I also usually have two or three good books for before-bed reading, but I'm usually so tired I can only get through a page or two at the most before passing out.

3. Do you like your handwriting?

I do. I actually love my handwriting. I've kept a journal since I was really little, and one of the things I've always loved most about journaling is seeing my handwriting on the page. My husband always makes me write things because he loves it too:) Plus his is a little messy . . .

4. Do you think Lipton Tea employees take coffee breaks?

Definitely. For most people, tea doesn't cut it. I also think they take breaks to drink other types of tea, because with all the tasty tea options out there, why would they drink just plain old Lipton? Well, probably because it's free, but still.

5. Where else would your characters sleep besides Paris?

They would sleep in a few other select towns in France: My personal favorite being Lyon, a beautiful city about two hours south of Paris by train. And they would also sleep in a gorgeous town in the French Alps called Annecy. Maybe in a future book they'll be sleeping at the French Riviera or in a chateau in the Loire Valley. And of course, they will always be sleeping next to their sexy French lover;)

Five one-word randoms

1. Winter or Summer in Paris: Summer definitely. But I do love the decorations on the Champs Élysées at Christmas time. So beautiful.

2. Croissant or Cinnamon Roll: Tough one. I'll have to go with a croissant. Can I fill it with chocolate though?

3. Neon or Pastel: Pastel. After we painted our condo (I chose the colors), my husband's friend told me our place looks like an Easter egg. So Pastel it is.

4. Do you cook or bake: Cook. I would love to bake more, but who has the time? Plus I have to save room for the croissants.

5. Bear or Mountain Lion: I'll have to go with mountain lion. I have two miniature mountain lions on either side of my computer right now staring me down. Looks like the lions are hungry.

Have questions you want to ask Juliette? How about other authors? What interesting questions do you have up your sleeves??

Reader Twists

2011-12-16T06:30:00.016-06:00

Happy Friday! I've decided that even though I'm not blogging on Tuesday's that won't take me away from some fabulous reads! Instead of sharing the first line I've switched it up!

I've asked several readers and authors to partake in this funky idea. They've given me their favorite lines in novels and I'll have you decide if it's something you'd read!!! You can also weigh in on who you think wrote it and the title!!!

Most of all it's a way to get more readers into more novels (as if our TBR list isn't BIG enough).

Here's Talli Roland's favorite lines!

The year began with lunch. --> I LOVE this for its simplicity. (Title Here)

A man from the town of Negua, on the coast of Columbia, could climb into the sky. (Title Here)

On the coach, Lev chose a seat near the back and he sat huddled against the window, staring out at the land he was leaving: at the fields of sunflowers scorched by the dry wind, at the pig farms, at the quarries and the rivers and at the wild garlic growing green at the edge of the road. (Title Here)

Here's Jolene's favorite lines!

"My Mother is totally nuts." (Title Here)

"She may dress like a girl, but her romantic sensibilities are on par with most men I know - Jaron, excluded here, of course." (Title Here)

"I understand how easy it would be to lose yourself in the heart of another. It‘s frightening. Exhilarating. An ocean with no lifeguard." (Title Here)

What would you read? Any you're dying to jump over and read more about it?!

Who's on the Naughty List...

2011-12-14T06:30:00.033-06:00

Today I have the fabulous author Liberty Blake stopping. She has a fun short story out with Still Moments Publishing on Christmas Treats #1 - The Naughty List... (intrigued, aren't we)!

Let's not waste time... let's get to know this spicy girl!

1. Favorite holiday drink? Mulled cider
2. How do you eat your Christmas cookies? slowly
3. Would you rather be trapped in an elevator or a small room? (Depends on who I’m with, but) Small room
4. How many drinks does it take for you to get drunk? blush
5. Favorite spot to watch the snow fall? The woods of New England

Five One-Word Randoms

1. Egg Nog or Hot Cocoa: Hot Cocoa
2. Peppermint or Fruity Candy Canes: Fruity Candy Canes
3. Slippers or fuzzy warm socks: Fuzzy warm socks
4. Heat on OR heated blanket: Hot man
5. Hotel or Motel: Depends (On who I’m with. ;~}} )

Special treat: Here's the scoop on her delectable short story!

Christmas Treats #1

Santa’s Naughty List
Christmas Spirit

Genre: Contemporary Heat

Tagline:

Cross a Christmas phobic male with a caterer with Christmas bells on...can she ignite the Christmas spirit in him?

Blurb:

What the hell had just happened? One minute he was in heaven tasting the sweet nectar of the gods. The next the little vixen was running down the subway stairs. Harry pulled his wits together and gave chase. The turnstile wouldn’t budge. He was about to jump it when a voice said, “I wouldn’t if I was you. It’s a serious crime to steal from the Commonwealth. Buy a pass if you want to ride the train.”

Harry turned to find a T officer standing directly behind him. The man pointed a nightstick toward a row of machines. “You can get one over there in the Charlie machines.”

Card in hand, he was back at the turnstile in time to see the train Elle had jumped on pulling away from the station.

Damn. He didn’t know her last name.

Liberty Blake's Whereabouts!
Blog
Website
Facebook
Twitter

She's a little bit nice and a little bit naughty, isn't she? Stop in and say hello to her! Or stop and order her book over at Still Moments Publishing and give yourself a treat this Christmas!

In which I objectify men... or just Ryan Gosling

2011-12-12T06:30:00.004-06:00

For those of you who follow me on twitter (I won’t apologize for random dating advice – which I have no reason to give, seeing as I’m married and the dating game has probably change). Any who, you know I started this thing called #chicklitchat. If you didn’t notice, I suspect your still nodding your head to avoid looking like the one and only idiot in the back of the class (only to later google #chicklitchat to see what you missed).

What do we talk about?

Men. Ridiculously hot sexy, men. Sorry Erik… Alex… Matt… (and any other male that stops in whom I’ve failed to mention). Then again, who says we’re not actually ogling over them and just using code names (that’s right, you’ll never know).

This post is not about my twitterites or my blog buds, this is about…

Ryan Gosling and his all too perfect pectoral muscles. It’s not right. I need to put an end to this madness. My poor husband. My poor male readers (Erik…Alex…Matt…Other men).

Stop looking at me like that... *blushes*... stop it.

I figured in the form of a letter was most appropriate.

Ryan,

Crazy.Stupid.Love has turned into a Crazy.Stupid.Infatuation. Emma Stone wasn’t joking in reference to your photo shopped six pack. I don’t believe it. I can’t believe that someone so freaking hot isn’t in my presence right this very minute. Haven’t you ever heard of the Make A Wish Foundation? Yeah, well, I’m not on it… but if I could be, your name would be at the top of my list.

You think of no one else do you?

We watch you saunter in the bar with your ridiculously high priced clothing and all you do is taunt us with your sweet and over confident attitude. Not cool, Ryan. Not cool. And what’s with your ability to make us forget everything we were talking about the minute your face appears on the big screen. We’re woman. We have thoughts, feelings, and emotions. *stares at Ryan Gosling’s body… his lips move but my eyes are still on that glistening six pack*

Wait a minute? How the hell did you manage to break a sweat in the twenty seconds it took you to get undressed? Don’t tell me you use a spray bottle to keep those core muscles appearing tighter than they really are.

That’s disrespectful.

And hot.

Keep up the good work.

~Jen

Twists with YA Sisterhood

2011-12-09T06:30:00.025-06:00

Today I've invited YA Sisterhood to stop in! They have a kickass blog where there are tournaments with hot boys, and your favorite heroines. If you're not a part of this awesomeness now is the time to hop over. The YA Tournament of Heroines is going on and you'll want to get your votes in! These ladies are fabulous.

I've even asked them to partake in the usual Tuesday Twist! Obvs, it's Friday, but nonetheless I know you all enjoy it, why not get some readers involved! So let's interview them in our super weird and quirky way!

1. What made you start your blog? Why the tournaments?

We always sort of thought of ourselves as the resident book fairies. No matter where we lived, we were constantly giving people book recommendations, in college, at church, the students we taught, moms at grocery stores or teenagers in the YA section of our local bookstores. Finally one day we decided to compile all of our recommendations into one place and as they say, the rest is history.

In reference to the tournaments, we are a family full of coaches and sports fans. Our father was a coach before he retired, our uncles are coaches, and the rest of the family, husbands, cousins, and grandparents are all hardcore sports fanatics. Last year, during March Madness, we were casually joking around, how the only way this would be interesting for us is if it were a tournament of book characters pitting it out against each other (preferably our fictional crushes!) And, from there, our Crush Tourney and now our Tournament of Heroines was born!

2. What heroine would you have over for a sleepover? Why?

Luna, definitely Luna from the Harry Potter Series. Things are always bound to be interesting with Luna around-- from nargles to thestrals-- we will never be bored! Then maybe just maybe, after our sleepover, she'll paint our faces on her ceiling!

3. If you were to share your seat at lunch with your favorite hero who would it be?

Harry Potter for conversation & Jace for ogling!

4. What character are you most relateable to? Male or female....

(Amy) I would have to say Emerson from Myra McEntire's Hourglass. Not that I am an amazingly, beautiful blonde that can time travel, but more for her personality. Her internal monologue and her constant ability to nickname everyone or everything, mirrors my own. Several times while reading Hourglass, I was literally yelling out loud, "I would so say that!" Plus, I just love the name Emerson!

(Brittany) For me, I'd say either Mara Dyer or Hermione. Hermione because I've always been a know it all (ask my sister, she had to live with me). I identify with Mara because we have the exact same sarcastic, mildly violent sense of humor. Seriously, reading that book felt like reading my diary (if I wrote a diary, that is).

(Amy) BTW- so true! What 3rd grader would actually know the difference between affect & effect then have the gall to correct her high school age sister when using them improperly!

5. Three of your favorite one liners.
"It has a shiny buckle with PRADA on it, which is Italian for insecure." -Andy from... Find out here!
"I turn myself down occasionally, just to keep it interesting." -Jace from... Who is this hottie??
"One little joke involving hemorrhagic fever and they brand you 'unstable'" Jamie from this crazy awesome book!

Do you know what book these quotes are from? Guess in the comments!

Five one-word randoms

Hero or Heroine (readers POV): Hero
Vampire World or Wizarding World: Wizarding World of course!
Save the world WITH powers or WITHOUT: WITH
Peanut Butter and Jelly or Ham and Cheese: Ham and Cheese
Prep School or Public School: Public School

Visit YA Sisterhood. You won't regret it. They are awesome.

Writing Changes Lives

2011-12-07T06:30:00.005-06:00

Happy Wednesday! I love reading stories about those who started out in an impressive profession and moved to writing. Taking a huge change and watching it pay off. Today I have a very special story. Isabelle Lafleche is the author of J'adore New York and her courage and ambition is one that leaves me breathless.

This fabulous author once worked 14 hour days hoping for a corner office. Through her success she still felt empty and it wasn't until one day a psychic stopped her and told her she was an artist and she was missing her calling as successful writer.

Author Note: WHAT? Can I have her Pyschic?

Now of course it was months down the road before she took note... but, look at where she's at now. A published author who filled the void she'd always wanted filled.

These are stories that inspire. This is the exact reason I'm a writer and I love showcasing such amazing people on my blog. People like this are worth the space. She's incredible and you'd be wise to buy her book!

The cover is magical isn't it??? Head over to Goodreads, check out the blurb, and then head over to Amazon and buy this beauty!

You want more fun? You should! Here is her fabulous trailer! Also, if you want to hear the full story of how she became a writer check out her story!

What's your writing story? Do you have an author that inspires you because of their story?

YA Tournment: Hermione vs. Claire

2011-12-05T06:30:00.005-06:00

VOTING IS NOW CLOSED. HERMIONE WON!!!! THANK YOU FOR ALL WHO VOTED. KEEP YOUR CALENDARS MARKED, WE'RE UP AGAIN ON DECEMBER 21ST!

Today is the day. TOURNAMENT OF HEROINES where Hermione battles Claire from the Morganville Vampire series for the next 24 hours. I'm FREAKING out *eats her weight in cupcakes*.

Yeah. I'm that terrified.

I've never had so much pressure to impress.

TODAY IS A HUGE DAY IN BLOGLAND!!!

Hermione Granger needs your vote!! Why? Because we're voting in the Tournament of Heroines and she's top notch!

What do I need from you?

Grab your wands. Apparate to YA Sisterhoood. Click the Vote Hermione button!

You want to help some more? *blushes* You guys really are the greatest bunch!!!

Blogging would be amazing! I know, most of you plan ahead, but just in case you don't a blog post would be great. Let your people know the awesomeness that's going down! Here's the link for voting --> YA Sisterhood!

TWEET YOUR HEARTS OUT. Now there are logistics. Please! Please, provide a link for them to have the opportunity to vote! (Here's the link again --> http://ya-sisterhood.blogspot.com/)

For some extra fun make these 140 characters ROCK! Want some help with that writer creativity? Here are some examples:

You haven't voted yet? *throws pygmy puff* Now, go wrong your right! Vote #TeamHermione #HeroineTourney --> (ADD LINK)

It's raining pygmy puffs! Let's pull a win for our girl Hermione! Vote --> (ADD LINK)

AGAIN don't forget the link! Also if you add #HeroineTourney @YaSisterhood OR @jenunedited I'll be retweeting like a crazy wizard!
What are you waiting for?

Why haven't you left yet?

For Wizard Sakes GO!

WAIT! Don't forget to grab your chocolate frogs and a pygmy puff before you head on out. That is my gift to you! :D Thank you for your soon-to-be-votes! (PS - You'll get to read my advocate post over at YA Sisterhood so be sure to see the awesome I wrote. Yes, I'm that full of myself).

Three Days A Week

2011-12-02T06:30:00.000-06:00

I've decided to take the plunge. That's right, I'm following the blogging brick road and jumping down to a mere three days a week. You love substance, heck, so do I. That's what I plan on giving you. In blogging Monday, Wednesday, and Friday I hope to keep the blogging ideas fresh and more time to visit all of you!

I'm sure I'll have slip ups, and with the YA Heroine Tournament the days are most likely going to be screwed up this month. Alas, that's where the focus will be. Having fun in the blogging world and reminding myself why I joined in the first place.

So, is there anything special you'd like to see on Unedited? Favorite posts? More funnies? Just share in the comments and I'll make sure notes are taken!

Writer, Writer, Pants on Fire

2011-11-30T06:30:00.001-06:00

Mindy McGinnis stops by Unedited today. She's fabulous and everyone should know it! She's the owner of the awesome blog Writer, Writer, Pants on Fire. You all know when someone stops by we don’t ask the usual questions. That’s right, because I’m an unusual being (once seen as a negative, now viewed as a positive). So let’s get started on all things random.

Showing the Real Mindy

1. What guy’s name do you find sexy? Jack. It’s a ROMANCING THE STONE thing.

2. Do you like that manhole covers are always round? If you were to be more creative what shape would you choose and why? A triangle. It’ll add to the whole Illuminati mystique.

3. If Hollywood made a movie about your life, what would be the plot? No idea on plot, but I can say genre-wise it would definitely not be a romantic comedy. And it would have be animated. Just cause I say so.

4. If you were a salad, what kind of dressing would you be? Ranch. Yum-yum calories!

5. If you were forced to steal something, what would it be? Why would you choose it? A book. A really old one that there was only one copy of or something. Because I’m qualified to care for it much better than whatever museum it’s in.

One-Word Randoms

Elevator or Escalator: Escalator
Black or Striped Cat: BUH-lack
Writer or Reader: Ouch
Dancer or Singer: Neither
Query or Synopsis: Query!

Isn't she amazing? If you don't follow her, you should do so now... she's AWESOME!

YA Tournament of Heroines

2011-11-28T06:30:00.008-06:00

The YA Tournament of Heroines hosted by the YA Sisterhood (they really rock your socks off) is about to begin! Now this is beyond awesome but there is even more exciting news:

I've been selected as the advocate for Hermione Granger!
To see a list of the other advocates and their competitors click here.

You all know I'm a huge fan of the Harry Potter series, even more so I love Hermione as if she was my best friend. In this, I'll be asking for your assistance. As an advocate I'll be doing the during work... telling you (even though I don't need to) how awesome she is and why she deserves to win each match.

Wanna really show your support? Here are some ways:

VOTE! This is where it all counts. For each 24 hours the characters will be battling it out so watch out for Hermione and make sure you cast your vote for every match. Your votes do count!

Follow me on twitter! This will give you constant updates on where the matches are at and when our girl is up to bat!

Tweet with us using the hashtag #HEROINETOURNEY

Tell your friends! The longer the list of friends the better chance Hermione has! Don't be shy, this is our time to shine!

Post about the awesome! If you are a part of a Harry Potter fansite tell them about it! If you just have a love for Hermione, give a shout-out! Everything counts for our dear Heroine! Let us not disappoint!

Support with banners! I've made some super fun Hermione badges and banners! Grab them, utilize them! Stick them on your cats, your dogs, or just your blog... that's cool too! Just make sure they're plastered over the blog universe. We want her to shine! This is, after all, her debut! (link them back to YA Sisterhood so EVERYONE can join!)

The tournament begins December 1st, starting with two matches:

Clary vs. Kate
Juliette vs. Cammie

Don't forget to head over and vote! A new match will take place each day until the final victor is chosen. Hermione knows, statistically speaking, her odds are great.

Hermione's first match will be against Claire from the Morganville Vampire series. We're up December 5th, where we'll go head to head for 24 hours! SAVE THE DATE! Tweet it out! Tell your fan pages!

Keep your wands at the ready! The battle is about to begin and I'll want your help! Let's dominate the competition! Thank you for your future votes for the future champion, Hermione Granger!

TANGLED TIDES: Team Merfolk

2011-11-25T06:30:00.036-06:00

Hello? *knocks on computer screen* Are you there? I have something to share and the NEWS is HUGE!

TANGLED TIDES by Karen Amanda Hooper has been released and your hands NEED to be on this delicious tale!

There are so many amazing sea creatures but I've chosen Team Merfolk. You'll have to read the book and decide where you'd like to stand. So what better way to entice you then to share a blurb of this sea journey!

Yara Jones doesn’t believe in sea monsters—until she becomes one.

When a hurricane hits her island home and she wakes up with fins, Yara finds herself tangled up in an underwater world of mysterious merfolk and secretive selkies. Both sides believe Yara can save them by fulfilling a broken promise and opening the sealed gateway to their realm, but they are battling over how it should be done. The selkies want to take her life. The merfolk want something far more precious.

Treygan, the stormy-eyed merman who turned Yara mer, will stop at nothing and sacrifice everything to protect his people—until he falls for Yara. The tides turn as Yara fights to save herself, hundreds of sea creatures, and the merman who has her heart. She could lose her soul in the process—or she might open the gateway to a love that’s deeper than the oceans.

I know... I know... it's that awesome!!!

Now, the reason I chose Merfolk? First off... who doesn't want to have MER in their name? That's a given! Second, they are of the sun, need warmth, gifted singers, and can control water.

What? You want to know if possess any of those? Sheesh! Of COURSE NOT! That's why I want to be on their side. After all, I'm always cold so would love to be warm! The ability to sing?? I'm just looking for the ability to not be tone deaf... and can control water, I mean, that's just one bad ass ability!

GO TEAM MERFOLK!

--

So go buy this book! Karen is a doll in the blogging world and should be shown appreciation for all the hard work and dedication she gave to this book. She's a knockout role model and I know would be honored to have you snag a copy!

Here's her details:
Website
Amazon
Rhemalda Publishing
Barnes & Noble
Goodreads

Enjoy your Black Friday and get your hands on this book! You won't regret it!

Why do I share my secrets?

2011-11-24T06:30:00.019-06:00

Statistically speaking... (no, really, the statistics for this blog say so)... you guys adore Thursdays posts. And though some of you are lurkers (i love you so), those who comment always tell me to keep at it. So I do. And I'm not sure why. I'm airing out the dirty laundry that normally should be swept under the rug. Though, I can't help myself. Your longing as me longing to share. That is our twisted relationship in a nutshell, isn't it?

Let's not waste time on introductions. If you're new WELCOME, if you're seasoned WELCOME.

1. I never, and I mean NEVER, use the end of a the toilet paper roll. I would be the one who throws just enough for one more use, and yet, I don't like too. Thank God for husbands.
2. I'm a sucker for the street corner needy people. When they gaze into my eyes and I have cash on hand by the end of the transaction I'm broke. I don't know what it is, after all, I'm not rolling in the dough here, but they get to me. What's frustrating is when I see them at the same corner every day... (that's when they're shoveling a wad of cash to someone else who needs more then they do.)
3. I saw Twilight: Breaking Dawn and I'm not afraid to tell the world. I was the nerdy girl in line at the special preview 8pm showing mocking all the midnighters for having to wait in line (I felt slightly guilty). It was delicious. Since I'm also a Harry Potter fan I giggled with joy when I saw it still had the highest midnight showing (yes I love HP more than Edward & Jacob...)
4. I have too many idea notebooks and not enough time. This could be fixed if I stopped baking so many delicious pies for the upcoming holidays, or put down the cookie dough... alas, I love my sweets, therefore I must learn to multi-task. Outline while eating cookie dough. Why hadn't I thought of that before?
5. I've never had a week long vacation (until two weeks ago). This isn't counting those family vacations, when you're sixteen, you'd like to forget about. No, I'm talking a delicious pool side vacation, mixed with amusement park fun (HP WORLD YO!) It was amazing and I can't wait to do it again... in ten years.

So, what are your truths? Are they as detailed and boring as mine are this week?

Self-Publish Lifestyle

2011-11-23T06:30:00.019-06:00

Today I've brought in Heather Thurmeier, who has graciously decided to share with us, the reason she self-published! After all, as writers we should keep all our options open and dive in when we feel the timing and opportunity is right!

Heather has it all, from agented to published to self-published. She can tell you what each phase feels like and why she's recently taken the road to self-publish town.

Take it away Heather!!

Why I Self-Published

No it wasn’t for the fame and fortune of it. LOL. Do those things exist for people who are new to the business and go it alone? I don’t know. Ask me in a year and maybe I’ll have an answer. So far I can buy a fancy coffee at Starbucks, but not a fancy car. ;)

There’s been a lot of chatter around the web about self-publishing and whether it’s bad or good or great or will end the publishing world as we know it. Mwhahahaha! (Evil laugh.) I don’t know the answer to that. All I can offer is why I decided on this route for this book.

I’ll give you a hint… It’s not because I can’t sell my work to publishers or because it’s too crappy to land me an agent.

I am agented. I am published with an epublisher. I am actively perusing traditional publishing with New York. And I just self-published a novel. Why?

Because I can.

Amazon, Nook, and Smashwords are available options for authors looking to get their books into the hands of readers. Not every book written will get picked up by an agent and then picked up by a big publisher—that’s a fact. But does it mean that particular book is garbage? Nope. Well, I’m sure agents and publishers see their fair share of not-so-good manuscripts in the slush pile. But it could also be as simple as that particular book not fitting a specific mold. Is it possible that book still has a market and a readership out there somewhere? Yep. And you might be able to find it on your own.

I’m not a die-hard self-publisher on a mission to convert you. I’m not a die-hard traditionalist either. Heck, I haven’t been around long enough to have a solid opinion on either of them! Since I’m new to this whole writing and publishing business, I figured why not try out all the options available. The fact is self-publishing is an accessible, viable, and sometimes a lucrative option. And it’s definitely one that’s worth exploring.

Pros: You have full control over content, cover, price, and distribution. And you have potential to earn high royalties.

Cons: You have to do the work to polish that content, produce a good cover, monitor your price in the marketplace, and spend the HOURS it takes to format, upload and distribute your book. And you have to put up the cost for those things out of your own pocket.

Now that I’ve self-published one book, I’m not sure if I’ll do it again or not. It was hard and time consuming but also satisfying and rewarding. For me, exploring all options in publishing is important so that I can make the most educated decision for my books, for my career, and ultimately for my readers.

What you have to consider now is what’s best for your books, your career, and your readers. What option will you choose? Or will try them all?

Heather Thurmeier
~Heart, humor and a happily ever after

Website: http://heatherthurmeier.com
Twitter: @hthurmeier
Facebook: Heather Thurmeier, author
Email: HeatherThurmeier@gmail.com

Blurb for BUNNY HILLS AND BIKINIS:

Amelia Brooks agrees to a weekend retreat in California, thinking it will be held in sunny Malibu only to find out she’s stuck in chilly Lake Tahoe for four long days—just what a girl from Minnesota wants to hear in the middle of winter. Now instead of wiggling her toes in the sand, her feet are squeezed into her new manufactured-by-Satan-himself-uncomfortable boots. If that’s not enough, Amelia’s obnoxious colleague William has decided this is the weekend they'll finally be together and he won't keep his thoughts—or his hands—to himself.

Amelia’s ready to kick off those boots and peel off her wooly sweater once she meets Nate Miller—the workshop’s hunky presenter. But Nate's not ready to settle down. He's seen his workshop buddies fall in love then fall out of the running for being promoted to the big city workshop circuit and he's not about to let that happen to his life's dream—until he gets involved with Amelia. Now he's not so sure he can walk away at the end of the weekend with his heart intact and his promotion in hand.

Now Amelia's got four days to stave off William's persistent advances long enough to fall in love with Nate and possibly…learn to ski the bunny hill.

Available at:
Amazon.com -- http://bit.ly/sMZYXC
Smashwords.com -- http://bit.ly/sgV55A

Go check out Heather! She's amazing!

Giving Credit

2011-11-22T06:30:00.000-06:00

Do you give credit where credit is due?

I love to thank people. I think it's the most rewarding thing in the world that often people forget about. From the person who allowed you to pull in front of them out of a gas station to someone who might of saved your life, all deserve kindness.

I always wonder at what point someone gives thanks. With the holidays approaching I know that we can get stressed out on gift buying, setting up plans for who's house you'll visit and how long you'll stay, but don't get rude in the process.

Yes, this does relate to writing...

When writing my stories I'll start by outlining, then writing, and then asking someone to beta read. Those people I keep close to home. I send chapters to those I trust and when they send their feedback I thank them immediately. Why wait until the acknowledgements when you'll be thankful so many times that you better start now because you'll never think it's enough!

When do you give thanks?

E-books... Are you jumping?

2011-11-21T06:30:00.003-06:00

For those of you who don't know e-books are taking over the world of writing as we know it.

Think about it, Susan Elizabeth Phillips, JK Rowling, Stephen King, all of these writers sent our paper manuscripts to publishing houses, waiting silently without twitter, facebook, blogs, and such. COULD YOU IMAGINE? Here we're given free rein to follow our prey... stalk them even. All we want is to make sure they're still alive in their slush pile. Once we get word we are once again calm. What did they do? Fly to New York and drive in front of the building hoping to see anything... anything at all?

All of their short stories and novels were put in print. It's what I want. It's what a lot of writers want. Getting that can be a lot harder at times. With Kindles, Nooks, and iPads a reader is given a lot more options. Rather than leaving their couch to go to their local library they're scanning amazon for the latest 99 cents books.

Isn't our goal as a writer to be seen? If less readers are going in the bookstores then shouldn't we also be available online?

I won't lie, at first I was against all of it. However with people like Talli Roland, Anne Gallagher, and Juliette Sonabett I don't want to miss the chance at their amazing novels because I chose to boycott something that I shouldn't be against. That's right people, I'm giving in. I'm buying myself a Kindle Fire, and you want to know something? I'm actually excited! I can't wait to read an e-book on my ereader. I never thought I'd conform but I realized from the standpoint of a writer I was ruining my chance to- be heard and seen.

Could someone change your mind to pick up an e-book (like me *winks*)? Are you still not convinced at the awesomeness that is simplicity?

Don't get me wrong I will always love print and when it is available I'll always buy it but for all my friends who are going the self-publishing route I'm not about to miss out on awesome reads because I wanted to pretend I was stubborn.

So go ahead... buy your first e-book, you can thank me later.

Writers Support Groups

2011-11-18T06:30:00.020-06:00

Us as writers are naturally lonesome creatures. At least when it comes to writing that one last chapter - unless of course you buddy up while writing.

However one thing I love about blogging is how caring all the writers are. I've never felt more alive and complete then when I stop by each of your blogs and comment. The heartwarming feeling is unmatched by anything in the real world. Here writing is not only understood it's appreciated and welcomed.

The publishing world wants us to be better networkers and right now we're obliging. Each post is well thought out along with making new connections. We're finding that it's more than just for the agent or big publishing house, we're making life long friendships.

That doesn't mean we don't have off days. What does one do when this happens? Well email is a fabulous place to start, after all we are all friends. Venting is welcome because we as writers are here for one another, pushing each other to strive for the goals we set for ourselves. However sometimes we want advice that email just doesn't seem to get through fast enough to a good amount of people.

Writers Support Groups are amazing. After all we all need one another at one point in our lives. If you're not part of one you should be! There everywhere! Yahoo, NaNaWriMo, Facebook, Twitter, or all around the blog. The connections are everywhere. We need to continue to connect with one another and remember that we're in this together. There isn't a competition amongst us all because we all have our own unique voices. Kindness is what makes this profession one I look forward to always being a part of.
Join us in the support system us writers call home. Anything troubling you? Do you have a support group? How do you cope when you're stuck or just need some advice?

Destined for Greatness

2011-11-17T06:30:00.026-06:00

Today is Jessie Harrell’s BOOK BIRTHDAY (and REAL birthday)! It’s a double whammy people! Wake up! Wake up!

So, naturally, I’m going to interview her… cuz I’m cool like that.
She’s been on a blog tour (for details Jessie's place) so rather than ask typical writing questions (that you’ll find anywhere else) we are getting personal.

So here is the fabulous cover art of DESTINED... it's GORGEOUS!

Let's get personal with Jessie!

1. You find yourself in Greece, what’s the first stop? It's cliche but Santorni. The 1 day I spent there was a tease.

2. You are not allowed to be a lawyer or a writer… what do you do now? Open a high end bridal boutique. I <3 wedding gowns.

3. What do you eat most often for breakfast? Same thing M-F: Fiber One caramel granola bar.

4. If your girls flushed your most prized possession down the toilet what would it be? "hands down" it'd be my engagement/wedding bands.

5. If your husband told you he had a supernatural power how would you react? What would hope the power would be? He does and I'm totally cool with it. He's Super OCD Cleaning Man & thanks to him our house is perpetually spotless.

Fun & Random questions

1. Heels or flats – flats

2. Mermaid or Princess – princess

3. Bagel or donut – DONUT

4. Color of your umbrella – multi

5. Most common item hidden in your fridge – pickles.

How does this pertain to writing? It doesn’t. Duh. We don’t always have to ask the serious questions. But for the main event you MUST purchase a copy of DESTINED. It’s out today and it’s sure to be a fabulous read… based on the cover alone!!

Touch

2011-11-16T06:30:00.005-06:00

No, this will not be a talk about the five senses (six if you’re lucky). It’s a song that I’m addicted too. You know when you find that one song that describes everything you’re feeling at that exact moment? It’s captivates you, holds you and never lets go.

This one’s titled Touch by Natasha Bedingfield. I don’t know what it is about the song but it has me hitting replay every time.

It also had me thinking about my writing and how I feel all the emotions when a certain song hits me. Touch is definitely one that added the missing ingredient while I was writing.

I’m starting a new short story, this one is wedding related and this song just seems perfect. It’s like a story leading up to the love of a lifetime. While writing women’s fiction I do love feel good music, normally a beat that you can dance too. That doesn’t mean it’s the only thing that drives me, it just pushes me through the lighter portions of the story.

I also apply this to my reading. When I’m looking for strength I go for Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat, Pray, Love she empowers women to make a change in their life if needed. If I’m looking for a poetic read I go for Jessica Bell’s String Bridge. She’s amazing at weaving her characters through very complicated situations and coming out a winner. These women touch my heart just like Natasha Bedingfield.

Who’s touched your heart lately?

Young Adult is BACK!

2011-11-15T06:30:00.012-06:00

It's been awhile since I've shared some awesome YOUNG ADULT first sentences so I figured since it's my first week back from a nice long vacation I should take it easy and share some of my favorite reads of 2011. You're welcome.

First Sentences:
1. It starts with a crack, a sputter, and a spark.
2. The grease-slicked hair is a dead giveaway-no pun intended.
3. The eyes of London were watching Claire Jenkins.

Reveal:
1. Young Adult
2. Young Adult
3. Young Adult

What one's have you read? Is it at least on your TBR LIST?

If I were Coraline...

2011-11-14T06:30:00.002-06:00

So a few weeks ago I watched Coraline on ABC Family's 13 Days of Halloween.
For those of you who don't know it's about a girl who moves with her parents who are writers (how appropriate), they're stuck with deadlines and Coraline feels unappreciated. She meets her "other" family who's perfect. Obviously there has to be drama but you'll have to watch the film to find out.

For this post it just got me thinking on families. How do you write parents? In YA they have to be figured out before the story starts but in Adult stories they don't play as big of a part. I still like to account for mine though.

My question is how do you portray the parents? Do you make them what you wish you had growing up? Do you make them complicated to get rid of them?

I'm always curious how ones dig down deep to utilize the parent role. And for those who have their parents play a key part in the story, what made you go that route?

For me I love the complicated. The mom that means well but no matter what she does seems to complicate matters further. It makes an even messier path for my character to figure herself out before she reaches the terrifying age of thirty.

It's in your blood.

2011-11-11T06:30:00.008-06:00

You were born a writer. You may not be in fifth grade writing your first poem, or twenty attempting your first novel, but you're a writer.

I love writing. I'm a late bloomer, at twenty-five I found this beautiful opportunity to write novels and have never looked back. Looking back I saw all the tendencies, the lies, the storytelling before bed, buying as many books as money could buy.

I couldn't help myself, I wanted to write. I feel like I lost time with all the years I missed, then again I think they've given me years of ideas. I have a lot of catching up to do!

I figure there's no time like the present! I'm off to watch the latest chick flick for inspiration!

So when did you realize you want to be a writer?

It's about to get weird

2011-11-10T06:30:00.004-06:00

As you know my husband and I have several random conversations throughout the week. If I shared them all it’d be a daily blog about the ramblings of a writer and her poor husband. I figured today, based off of our conversations in the past I’ll give you answers to the many questions that have been asked in our house. I won’t tell you the question, you can guess if you’d like, this way it’s going to be fun.

It’s about to get weird in here.

1. I’d choose a purple couch out in Edward and Bella’s favorite chill spot.

2. If I had to be involved it’d definitely be a jewelry heist.

3. Every state has to have a ma and pa cupcake shop, if not that’s the saddest town ever.

4. It’s a burn pile because I pretend to burn it with my eyes.

5. Our cat is testing distance not attempting to commit suicide.

Yes, each one of these was a conversation my husband and I had and every one of them was as interesting as ever. Last night at dinner we played the “What would you do for 5 million dollar game,” I think our waiter thought we were nuts. Actually, truth be told, he’d have been right.

Care to add your conversations to the list? Want to take a crack at our crazy conversations?

Cruising Toward Love

2011-11-09T06:30:00.014-06:00

Christi Barth has dropped in for her newest novel Cruising Toward Love! As usual my quirky self has come up with some fun and silky questions!!!

1. Who is the last person you usually think about before you fall asleep? Cheesy, mushy answer, but true - my darling husband.

2. If you opened a Treasure chest what would you hope to find? A teleportation machine, because I hate to fly. And then ten million dollars. And the memory (pre-marriage, of course) of a one night stand with Daniel Craig.

3. If you had to choose to not ever wash your bed sheets again or not wash your bath towel, which would you rather not wash? Easy - my towel, because I'm always clean when I use it. Scares me that someone might actually choose sheets!

4. What's the weirdest thing you have done while driving? I'm originally from LA where all of life revolves around your car, so I've done just about everything while driving, including the alltime no-nos of reading and applying makeup/nail polish. The all time weirdest, though, would be changing into my various costumes back when I did singing telegrams. Nothing like driving down the road 1/2 in and 1/2 out of a harem girl outfit!

5. How do you eat your cookie? Very carefully. I abhor crumbs, and in fact avoid cruncy cookies pretty much for that reason.

Fun & Random (provide a one word answer)
Cruise or all inclusive resort: Cruise
Stilettos or Tennis Shoes: Tennies
Pilot or Doctor: Doctor
Grape Jelly or Strawberry Jelly: Strawberry
Choice of caffiene: Tea

Stop in and say hello to Christi! She's fabulous!!

Wedding Love

2011-11-08T06:30:00.001-06:00

This week my father is remarrying. Him and his soon-to-be wife are marrying on 11/11/11 and we're in Florida enjoying the fabulous weather, swim time, and a few blogging buddies!

So, it's only natural I share with you wedding inspired novels for this weeks secret reveals!

First Sentences:
1. Grief came in waves, hard and choppy, buffeting and breaking the heart.
2. Sam LeClaire was a good-looking son of a bitch.
3. Maddie drove the narrow, curvy highway with her past still nipping at her heels after fourteen hundred miles.

Reveal:
1. Adult
2. Adult
3. Adult

Any catch your eye? One intrigued me the most, personally, but I love her writing style!

String Bridge Tour

2011-11-07T06:30:00.041-06:00

Jessica Bell is on her tour and by far this is one of the most special days for me. I love the blogging community, the outpouring of support for every beautiful writer that crosses our path.

Today is a very special day for me... Jessica is one I've adored from the get go. Constantly captivated by her handiwork I can never get enough. If you've never read her poetry you must, the rawness cannot be matched.

I'm not here to talk about her poetry though, unless you want to chat about how poetic her debut novel String Bridge is.

The cover art is brilliant, is it not?

The Blurb:

Greek cuisine, smog and domestic drudgery was not the life Australian musician, Melody, was expecting when she married a Greek music promoter and settled in Athens, Greece. Keen to play in her new shoes, though, Melody trades her guitar for a 'proper' career and her music for motherhood. That is, until she can bear it no longer and plots a return to the stage--and the person she used to be. However, the obstacles she faces along the way are nothing compared to the tragedy that awaits, and she realizes she's been seeking fulfilment in the wrong place.

My thoughts:

Several of us understand giving up something for a family. In this case Melody puts down her guitar to raise her family. At the moment she knew it was the right thing to do. Having no idea that she'll lose everything that she is, her passion starts to dwindle as the emptiness creeps in. This is as story of pushing through what should have been comfortable and breaking through the barrier to find yourself again.

I simply could not get enough of this book. Bell's ability to show emotion from every character is what keeps me coming back for more. The rawness in the words had me feeling every emotion as each page turned. It may be cliche to say that it was one you couldn't put down but when you feel it, you feel it. The poetic nature of the read makes you feel like your floating on clouds through the whole thing.

I will always love Jessica's works. I cannot wait for the next novel of hers, it'll be just as captivating as everything else I've devoured.

This is a novel that must be read. Go on, get your copy.

Here's where to grab a copy of her book:
Amazon.com - ebook
Amazon.uk - ebook
Barnes & Noble - Print

The soundtrack you MUST have with the book:
iTunes
Amazon.com
Amazon.uk

What was the last novel you couldn't put down?

Research is Fun!

2011-11-04T06:30:00.002-05:00

Inspiration can come in many forms. Here I sit talking to a friend that's newly engaged! We're texting back and forth and I'm over the moon excited for her! She's dove into conversations about gowns, location, food.

I'm not sure if it's the time of year for engagements but I plan on finding out! In fact, it's gotten me excited to write about a wedding. That's right, I'm planning on a short story about a woman's wedding day. That one beautiful moment in time! Remembering those feeling I felt on mine!

I love research because you have the opportunity to experience something new or enjoy the old.

As a chick lit/romantic comedy writer I get the constant excuse to watch trash television, buy wedding magazines, the works!

Of course there are moments not everything is peachy. My characters do have their issues. Average divorce rate, worse dates, places where it snows continuously.

In saying that I still very much enjoy every aspect of the research, it's just not peachy for my characters.

What's your latest research project? I love to hear the depth one will go for a story!

Happy Writing! Happy Weekend!

Grape Candy is Weird... or am I?

2011-11-03T06:30:00.002-05:00

It has been far too long since I’ve talked with you about myself. I don’t know why you want to know more about me… it makes me sound into myself (maybe I am… maybe I’m not). Regardless seeing as I heart you like a fish hearts water I’ve decided I’ll share with you some random facts about myself.

You know the rules though, you must share as well.

1. I don’t eat grape candy. At all. Weird or not it won’t happen.

2. My purse is like a snack machine. I’m unstoppable. You’d think I have a kid but it all actuality there for me when my tummy is empty.

3. I love random people and randomly introduce myself to them. People in real life think it’s embarrassing but I’ve made some amazing friendships by talking about someone’s crazy socks and we learn we have a sock obsession in common. It pays to be random (you’ll make a new friend – ME!)

4. I don’t listen to a lot of music but when I do I’ll wear out the CD. Yes, I’ve yet to use or even understand iTunes. I’m pretty sure I’m broken.

5. I’ve given up my klout addiction. I was checking it every damn day and having nightmares worrying if someone would stop listening to me. Since letting go (after the 12 step I went through) I feel amazing. Now I only worry about who will mention me on twitter. Sometimes my mention box gets lonely.

There you have it. I’m a little rusty on the truths but I hope to be back in full effect come next week, after all I’ll be in the Wizarding World living it up while you’ll be here… reading my kick ass blog (I’ll try to keep you interested).

Weeds

2011-11-02T06:30:00.002-05:00

Even those with a black thumb (like myself) we know those with a green thumb spend their days picking weeds so their favorite flowers bloom every year.

The same goes for novels. We have to spend our days cleaning up punctuation, grammar, and plot to make sure their the best novel they can be.

We want to be proud of our work. Those green thumbs are looking for yard of the month as us writers are looking for a place to call home.

Every one of us has certain problem areas that, no matter how hard we try, it still seems to catch up with us. I work hard on character development but sometimes they still come out as cardboard cut-outs.

Flat characters is something I'm working on and improving. Every time I write they get deeper. For me, outlining is the key. Reading my old stories shows how far I've actually grown.

I now, to help myself, do pages and pages of character development. Half my journals are intricate details about them. From foods they're allergic to, all the way to why they like on polka-dot socks! Every thing may not benefit the reader but it helps me connect on a deeper level.

Watch out flat characters, you won't survive a day in jenland.

What are the weeds you pick out the most?

Tuesday Twist: Fall is Here

2011-11-01T06:30:00.027-05:00

Even though it's a day past Halloween I know some of us still like to be on the spookier side of things so some of my Tuesday Twist is still for those who like to be scared or love some suspense!!!

Let's check out this weeks awesome first sentences!

First Sentences:
1. My name is Kinsey Millhone.
2. What year these transpired is of no consequence.
3. The knocking at her door early Thursday afternoon might have sounded angry to an ear unschooled in the difference between panic and a bad mood, but Marie Toussaint knew better.

Reveal:
1. Mystery
2. Suspense
3. Suspense

What do you think of these? Any catch your eye? I'm not much for horror, watching movies scares me enough... picking up a book with my imagination? FORGET ABOUT IT!

Fight to Write

2011-10-31T06:30:00.001-05:00

Blogging and writing go hand in hand for me. I for one couldn't imagine not blogging five days a week OR not being able to write when the moment strikes.

When you feel like your blocked the world crumbles all around you. I, personally, find it hard to bypass the stress to get to the de-stresser.

For the first time in a long time I started running last week. I never felt more alive. My feet hitting the pavement put life back into me. It put the fight back into me. The needed inspiration to get my butt in gear.

I'm still querying for 30 GUYS IN 30 DAYS, and in doing so I lose the ability to write anything I like. It wasn't until a month ago I found that if I have faith in myself I can write anything.

Suddenly short stories have crept in my life. Little moments of heaven creeping in. I love writing about holidays and the small moments allow me to capture all my favorite parts!

I also love it because I don't feel pressure. I'm not having to submit to anyone. I do it for the love of writing.

I'm getting back my fight to write and those are the days that make me the happiest!

Have you dabbled in anything lately? How do you fight to write! Taking little moments to write a few words?

I is gonna be published

2011-10-28T07:00:00.000-05:00

So, like, today is a big day. I'm still floating on the clouds that started carrying me on the 26th of October. I received my very first contract!

Still Moments Publishing is compiling short stories for the upcoming holidays and I've been accepted for a Valentines Anthology to debut in February 2012! I'm over joyed by the opportunity and can't say enough things about how sweet they are to work with.

It will be an e-book which means I need to kick my butt in gear and get a Kindle (FIRE) that is released in just a few weeks. I need to be making up for lost time!

Anywho rather than the original post I had scheduled I hijacked it to share my good news. I know you wanted to hear it.

So a big thank you for Still Moments Publishing taking a chance on me, and a big thanks to YOU for always keeping me on my toes, supporting me, and HECK for just listening.

Have any good news to share?

My Quirky Bucket List

2011-10-27T06:30:00.017-05:00

People have been fascinated by my make-shift bucket list so I thought I'd share today. Consider this my truth Thursday.

1. I want to own hand towels that have every day written on them (Mon, Tues, etc). I want to then place them in the guest bathroom when a visitor arrives and see if they'll keep up on the days.
2. Watching someone get lips tattooed on their ass. (This one has already been completed... which is why it made my list).
3. Every place I visit (state wise) try a new cupcake shop. (This will really be until I hit the bucket so it's ongoing for life!)
4. Getting back into in-line skating... (my version of being a safe and chicken shit roller derby girl).
5. Create a haven for writers/bloggers that I'll one day be able to open and we'll get to have a weekend retreat... (this one I'd obviously need all my besties to join in on, but I'd love to do it before I die).

So it's small for the moment, but it'll continue to grow.

What's on your quirky bucket list?

Temps make awesome writers...

2011-10-26T06:30:00.017-05:00

As a temp you walk into a world of the unexpected. From dog walking, mental institutions, floral designer assistant, office receptionist, there really is everything in the world of temping.

How does it make you an awesome writer?

You see the world differently. I was a temp for years. When I got bored from one job I moved to the next. Something I've noticed in the world of the creative (singers, artists, painters, writers) we often say "I work four jobs" and I think it's because we don't want to feel tainted. Being stuck inside four white walls asked to push paper sounds depressing and the last thing you want to feel before writing a thousand words is depressed.

I temped for years and even though I now work in an office (for the past three years) I wouldn't change my life for anything. Those temp jobs were fabulous. They gave me great stories for the future, allowed me to learn a lot about people, and character quirks have never been a problem with all the people I've met.

Now that I've settled down I've noticed I chose a job where there are so many personalities that every day truly offers it's own individual story. It has never tainted my creativity, in fact, it is here that I first realized I wanted to be a writer.

Maybe settling down has it's positives too.

What route do you go? Do you that moving around a lot makes for better stories?

Halloween Special

2011-10-25T06:30:00.019-05:00

Today I thought spookiness should be brought forth on this special week! My husband's birthday is Halloween and we'll be having a big costume bash this weekend (if you're in HOUSTON email me... I'd love for you to stop in)!

Enough about my awesome 'off the blog' life... let's get to the sentences.

Sentences:
1. Three months.
2. There was stillness in the September-morning air that was like stillness in the heart of a gliding submarine, engines extinguished to elude the enemy's listening devices.
3. Jones Cooper feared death.

Reveal:
1. Spooky #1
2. Spooky #2
3. Spooky #3

I'm so used to writing women's fiction that when I fell across amazon's choices this week I was already a little freaked out. Each of these I read a little further... one of which (#1 to be exact) I've read all the way through and loved. She's a blogger and she's fabulous.

So what order will it be this week?

Self-Pubbed: Scary or Inspiring

2011-10-24T06:30:00.020-05:00

I know everyone's wondering. What's funny is I don't think as writers we ever used to consider it. So why now?

Lately a lot of my friends have gone the self-pub route. Several of them are chick lit authors just looking to make their mark in the world. Unfortunately a lot of them are having trouble interesting an agent with the current market not being well received because of the name.

So when do you call it quits in the agent world?

Simple answer: Go with your gut.

Hard time figuring out what your guts telling you? Gosh, if it were easy everyone would do it. For me I don't feel it's time. I'm still having fun writing, querying, and just trying to find out the perfect route for me. No method is a cake walk but I have to be honest, hearing my friends are self-publishing terrifies me. As if I'm in their shoes hoping not to drown.

I find them so inspiring. That might actually be the scariest part. Here I'm watching them take a leap of faith into a side of publishing that used to not be well received and I've yet to decide what's right for me. That's admirable, they're courageous and strong.

So what's your take on those who self-publish? Are you one stepping into the waters?

Short Story Endeavor

2011-10-21T06:30:00.014-05:00

I'm going to attempt to write a short story. My humorous womens fiction novel 30 GUYS IN 30 DAYS is still in the querying world and seeing as the novel ideas are still being perfected and I'm dreaming of a white christmas a short story was the perfect way to feel a void.

I might fail. Then again, I might soar. The point is I'm going to try it. I see so many fabulous bloggers who write poetry, short stories, and novels. I commend you, it cannot be easy but with your talents I'm sure you'll go far.

I'm not looking to publish anything, this is actually just my chance to get to write the christmas story I've always dreamed of. It also allows me not to butcher it too much with a much smaller word count.

How do you start to write a short story? Yeah, you won't get that advice here... when I'm finished I'll share, but for the meantime I'm still learning.

What random writing projects have you started? Working on holiday projects? Any advice on what to do about this short story I'm writing?

Muse it Up

2011-10-20T06:30:00.020-05:00

So rather than bore you with another edition of my truths I figured I'd talk about something close to my heart... my muse.

Let's talk muses. I'm fascinated by who inspires people, what you do to keep the inspiration alive. Is your muse music, an individual, a book? I wanna get to know you.

I'm imagining that you'll want to know about mine... one of those "I'll tell you mine, if you tell me yours," sort of deal.

Julie Andrews. Sandra Bullock. Muse.

No not necessarily in that order. However they each serve their own purpose. I like to have them all around at my beckon call, and they all oblige.

Julie Andrews is up first. I love her singing and dancing ability. She really does warm the heart. I just imagine us sitting down for a spot of tea while she tells me the writing will come and not to worry.

Sandra Bullock is my go-to-idea-girl. When I'm feeling alone, sad, and pitiful I stock pile all her movies and watch them from start to finish. By the end I'm raring to write my next novel.

Muse are Gods. They're genius rock out music keeps me pumped in the novel. They're my in the moment Muse and they've never let me down. I love them. I mean like really LOVE them.

So what's yours? Do you have more than one?

Ideas don't grow on trees

2011-10-19T06:30:00.020-05:00

There needs to be a store that has packets of idea seeds in the backroom. What? You seriously thought it'd be out in the open... I still want to maintain my writer status and not have everyone stealing our ideas. No, this would be the elite (meaning any writer who reads this blog).

I'd go home, plant them, and watch my fabulous idea tree grow. It'd be marvelous on days I'd run low!

Too bad that's not realistic.

So how does one come back with ideas? What are your little quirks that you do when saying good-bye to an old story and starting new?

I buy notebooks. The prettiest ones I can find so when inspiration strikes it gets the best of the best. I think drown myself in chick flicks, starting with the oldies (but goodies) like While You Were Sleeping and Sleepless in Seattle, then I move to more recent ones like The Proposal.

I then dive into new chick lits/women's fiction to see what the world of publishing is pushing on to it's fabulous and devoted readers. It is then the ideas normally flow... but during this season I'll drink apple cider for added inspiration.

What about you? What brings the ideas out in you? Is it all superstition?

Delicious Reads

2011-10-18T06:30:00.026-05:00

I haven't done a Tuesday Twist in a while but I know that everyone really enjoys them. For those unaware I'll share three first sentences of novels I find interesting and see in what order you'd read (if any), all by just sharing the first sentence.

The Sentences
1. He was running for his life.
2. The end came quickly, and there wasn't any pain.
3. "Keep in Touch," I called, waving a not-so-tearful goodbye to my co-workers for the last time.

The Reveal
1. Contemporary Fiction
2. Young Adult
3. Chick Lit

I love number one. I haven't read it but already ordered it. She's a well known author and has everyone at her fingertips!

Number two I had the honor of not only reading and enjoying, but got to meet the author as well at the Austin Teen Book Festival.

Three is a new author whom I adore, she joins me as frequently as she can over at my new hashtag #chicklitchat on Thursday evenings and I adore her. Seriously get to know her, she's amazing!

The many hats of a Writer

2011-10-17T06:30:00.002-05:00

Oh the responsibilities of a writer. I've noticed the networking world is being overtaken by so many fabulous writers as a way to make sure their books are being taken seriously. It's here I wondered what part of the process they started first.

Most blogger will tell you that starting your blog BEFORE your novel is out is key. I agree with them. It's a lot of work to up keep, it's a lot of work to gather an audience and keep them captivated. Though your main goal is to sell your book you can't overflow them with BUY ME! SERIOUSLY BUY ME! In doing that you'll alienate yourself completely and no one will want to even look in that direction. Nope, you need to look for friendships, long term relationships for book number two even.

Then shows up Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and more. When does it end? How does one keep up with it all? For me, it's impossible. In fact, just last week I gave up watching my klout score, the battle of the up and down was intense, the pressure to stay connected was too tough.

I forgot what I loved to do most. Comment and visit other blogs. It's where I want to spend my time. As well as writing. It's not easy juggling all the hats of a writer but when you start to juggle them all no one notices your trying to reach perfection because you're drowning in your own need to be everywhere.

I guess what I'm saying is focus on the loves and let the others go.

How do you handle all the hats of a writer? What's your number two (since I know #1 is writing.

Thinking Outside the Laptop

2011-10-14T06:30:00.022-05:00

Most of us use our laptop as our guide to the outside world and the stories we want to write, but how many of us take it outside the laptop?

As you all know I'm newest to the outlining world but rather than mapping it out on the computer I'm a notebook kind of girl.

I've heard of scrivener and several other places where you can map out chapters, sequences, the works, but for me the notebook does the same. Not to mention it's much easier access when sitting on the couch with ice cream in hand... less distractions.

Right now I have six notebooks, each with their own story idea. I fill the notebook full, the ideas, the plots, the character development. Anything and everything that comes to mind is in that notebook.

Also, for me, once I've written the book on the computer (yeah, that's NOT happening in the notebook), I'll add the dedication and acknowledgements to let me know that I've completed the work and thanked everyone for all their hard work and thoughts!

So... do you ever think outside the laptop? If not TRY it also keeps you away from all the distractions you'll find online!

HAPPY WEEKEND PEEPETTES (I would have said peepers for the guys but that would have been weird)!

When All Things Random Fall Here

2011-10-13T06:30:00.007-05:00

Happy Thursday, Happy People. It's been a while since I've done a truth post and seeing as I've needed a break from all things writing related what better than to dump some truth on you!

As you all know, if you read this, you must add your own truths. I hate to do it alone!

1. If I could have holiday decorations out all year round I would. My hubby already knows that when we buy a house half of the garage will need shelving for all the holiday decorations I already own... and plan to add.

2. I'm bummed knowing this weekend is the last Roller Derby Bout I'll see for several months. It's the championship and I hope my lovable team wins! And for kicks I'll show you just how addicted my husband and I are... This week we'll add red & black in our hair! (isn't my hubby the cutest!)

3. The Renaissance Festival began last weekend and we were there ALL DAY LONG. Oh the people you come across, it really is one of those disturbing, but you can't look away sort of events! If you ever visit Houston come in October or November to experience the fun!

4. This week my friend Rose Cooper's latest book Rumors from the Boys Room is out and she added me in her ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS! Talk about being overwhelmed by all the awesome! She's a rockstar and I feel privileged enough to be included!

5. It rained! For those of you not living in Houston it's been AWFUL not having rain. Fires everywhere and as I write this post it's thundering, lightening, and yup, it's raining. Joy to the world. Now if only it'd cool off so I can enjoy some apple cider!

So what are all your truths? Set me up on some of the fun, awkward, and memorable truths!

Facebook and poetry, do they go hand in hand?

2011-10-12T06:30:00.000-05:00

I have the fabulous Angela Felsted stopping in for a guest post on how facebook status updates can be like poetry! Why waste time with my blabbering... take it away Angela!

Five ways facebook status updates are like poetry:

1. A punch line is key.

“A transcript of the fight my girls had this morning.
Lainey: Look, Donna. My strawberry's bigger than yours.
Donna: No, it's not!
Me: Stop fighting girls. Size doesn't matter.”

2. Both are more effective if you leave a few things up to the imagination.

“You know you're a mom of little kids when you hear yourself saying stuff like this. ‘Keep your clothes on, please!’”

3. Sometimes the best stuff is the dirtiest.

“Took my kids to the pediatrician today. This is me, ‘Don't touch the equipment. No, stop, don't crawl on the floor. What are you doing? Don't ever play in the trash can!’”

4. Good things happen when you let your creative babies run free.

“Who knew the key to potty training my son was letting him run around naked? My eyes have been opened: naked children are happy children.”

5. Dialogue is good, but only if it has a purpose.

“Donna (age 6): Mom, can I have milk.
Me: You can have water.
Donna, stomping her foot: You're supposed to say yes or no!
Me: Just get your water and stop criticizing me.
Donna: Criticizing isn't even a real word!"

And just for fun, here’s a poem that makes use of my ‘status update’ guidlines:

advice

some say a happy marriage is
based on patience . . . roses
diamonds, strawberries dipped
in warm gooey chocolate.
but I say the state of a
marriage rides on the utterance
of one simple sentence,
“honey, where are my socks?”

Now for the other fun part... her poetry chapbook is being released in January!!! So, if you love Angela and you love poetry you should pre-order it! Aren't they adorable on the cover? There is also a nice little book trailer/music video too!

When comma's destroy you...

2011-10-11T06:30:00.022-05:00

So all those who read my work know that my lack of comma usage can be annoying. I write run-on sentences like nobody's business. If you met me, you'd get it.

The good thing about avoiding comma's is that I don't make silly mistakes. Here are some of the fun one's I made it and came across while searching Google!

1. My interests include:
Cooking dogs, shopping, dancing, reading, and watching movies.

Yeah, not sure how I feel about cooking dogs.

2. Slow children crossing.

I don't think that's for us to decide.

3. Let's eat Grandpa.

Let's eat, Grandpa. <-- Correct punctuation can save a person's life.

Care to add any to the list?? I am still giggling.

Kick A** Author Debut Spotlight - Lauren DeStefano

2011-10-10T06:30:00.043-05:00

Christina Lee got a bunch of us together to participate in a Spotlight for 2011 Debut Authors!!! We were each to choose a delicious book that is easily devoured and share with our awesome bloggers!!!

What did I choose? Well, it was tough to choose one, and several pounced at some of the first one's that crossed my mind, BUT I beat them when choosing WITHER!

Blurb:

Obviously, something went terribly wrong. Genetic mutations have festered, reducing human longevity to twenty-five, even less for most women. To prevent extinction, young girls are kidnapped, mated in polygamous marriages with men eager to procreate. Sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery, a recent victim of this breeding farm mentality, has vowed to break loose from its fetters; but finding allies and a safe way out is a challenge she can only hope she will survive.

Lauren DeStefano is brilliant! This is not a happy story but a story of survival! This wonderfully written tale is about a girl named Rhine, she is a deeply developed character that will leave you wanting more. Her raw emotions allows her to see the world for exactly what it is. She struggles not only what she wants to believe in but also with feelings she'd like to deny.

This dystopian novel was unique in every sense. Walking into a situation with sister wives in the adult world is definitely breaking molds so DeStefano using it in young adult was daring, but it paid off. Rhine is kidnapped and taken from her twin brother, she's forced to marry Linden Ashby. In doing so, she also finds Linden is wed to Jenna and Cecily. At the beginning their worlds collide, the only connection is Linden, but in time they create a very strong bond, leaving every reader to connect and understand them as they understand themselves. Throughout the story Rhine struggles against settling for future as a pampered but caged wife and escaping to her freedom and return to her brother.

As a reader you'll struggle on what life you want for Rhine. Here she's created such a unique bond and friendship with Linden and her sister wives you don't want to see it broken a part. However, the life she lived before still exist, and with the connection to her brother you'll understand why she's torn, because you will be as well.

THIS IS A MUST READ! So why are you still at my blog? BUY IT! Or... since I loved it so much why not do a GIVEAWAY? That's right, one lucky winner (yes this is international) will walk away a winner! Add your email in the comments and I'll choose winner this week!

Check out the other 2011 Debut Authors chosen!

Switching POV

2011-10-07T06:30:00.005-05:00

Last week I was at a complete standstill in the writing world. I often find this problem when I begin querying. I feel like I've lost myself and it takes a bit to find me and get back to action.

Everyone knows I have an idea bucket. When a seed is planted in my head, I love to write it down and keep it safely tucked in my idea bucket for a later day. After all those ideas don't stay locked up in the brain forever.

Now most of you know I've written six novels in the year and a half I've been blogging. Four of them were young adult and the other two were Chick lit. Switching my genre showed me I'd finally found my place in the big world of writing and feel safe and secure in my choice.

However, it then got me wondering. When an agent represents you and you've made your money in one genre, they often like you to keep within that genre. Now, I know they're not against you switching, but if they don't rep it, chances are you'll be thrown back in agent waters all over again.

It got me thinking if switching point of views was the same way. What if one was used to reading your work in first person. Would they be open to you switching to third person? What if it remained in the same genre?

What? You expected me to answer? This one is really open to my fellow bloggers and writers. How big of a difference is it if you switching POV's because you know it'll make the story that much stronger? Will agents still want that book? Are they more based on your story telling and personality versus how the story is actually told?

Ten foot blow up... No, not a doll

2011-10-06T06:30:00.022-05:00

It's thursday again and it's seeming like people love the days in which I talk about the crazy antics that happen in the Daiker household. Seeing as I'm such a giving person I graciously share my ridiculous antics.

This week my hubby and I were talking about Halloween decorations. This year we're going to be buying some fabulous stuff for the good old halloween party, it's tradition in our household. With the hubster a halloween baby it's only right.

Me: I really want that ten foot blow up door piece.

Hubs: No way is a door piece ten feet Jen. Are you talking about the thing we saw at Walmart? (Note to readers: This is Jen talk)

Me: Yup. The black and orange thing with like those things hanging down.

Hubs: We need to see what your mom already has before we start buying crap.

Me: It isn't crap and she most certainly doesn't own this, it's new. But she'll want to own it.

Hubs: I'm not buying it because you want it.

Me: Isn't that the only reason you buy stuff?

Hubs: *silent* (He knows I'm right)

Me: Besides I think we should buy everything, after all, options, options, options!

Hubs: Quit switching the realtors words around.

Me: She had a good point though.

Hubs: Yes about locations, that has nothing to do with halloween.

Me: Sure it does. That ten foot thing belongs at the front entrance. Location, location, location.

So I'm sure you'd like an update. That ten foot thing-a-ma-bob will be purchased by the time Halloween rolls around. I sold him the minute he said the word location. I think you saw it. It was all a setup. I take full responsibility for being completely unaware that he'd plant the seed that would allow me to sell him on the idea.

What weird conversations have you walked into lately?

Stars, Trees, Sunset...

2011-10-05T06:30:00.018-05:00

Today I have a new author, Lorena Bathey who wrote the novel Beatrice Munson!

You know the drill - I’ll ask some really random questions to get to know how the writer really thinks!

1. What was your favorite sitcom growing up?

One Day at a Time with Valerie Bertinelli

2. What’s the first thing you notice in the opposite sex?

I'm a romantic...the eyes...then the wrists. I know, weird!

3. What famous landmark would you love to see in person?

Well, this isn't exactly a landmark but the leaves changing in the fall on the East Coast.

4. What’s your current obsession?

Photography and the jewelry on Etsy.com!

5. Describe your perfect evening.

It's a toss up between two. First, is with the whole family together, kids, grand kids having dinner and laughing. Second, spending the night with my busband (more than a boyfriend, more like a husband) at a new restaurant enjoying a delicious meal and even more delicious conversation.

Okay now on to our one word answers…

1. Climb a tree or the tire swing: Tire Swing
2. Lavish party or small get together: Small get together
3. Cosmo or Margarita: Okay..that's a tough one. Gonna say Cosmo!
4. Take the photo or be the star: I'm a Leo...gotta say Star!
5. Sunrise or Sunset: Sunset...it's time for happy hour ;)

It's true, you really learn a lot about a person based on their answers! I love the LEO being brought out and her excuse to enjoy the sunset! She's one smart cookie! For more information on the fabulous Lorena visit the link at the top of the page!!

Carrie Bradshaw minus the sex

2011-10-04T06:30:00.020-05:00

Someone last week told me I reminded them of Carrie Bradshaw. Apparently my blog has a certain something laid on the table.

Since I'm, well, me, I decided I should disect the situation until I came to the truth.

For the record: I adore Carrie and the Sex and The City gang. It seems when writing this post I was in a snarkier mood therefore it may come off as.... snappish (yes I'm using Hannah's phrase from the comments). LONG LIVE THE COCKTAIL QUEENS!

In ways I'm like Carrie...

I'm blonde.
I can make bad decisions when picking out clothing.
Shoe hoarding would be possible if I was a fictional character with lots of money.

In ways I'm not like Carrie...

I don't sleep with every available guy (even if she claims it's 'research').
I don't get paid for my awesome posts.
I never cheated on Aidan.
I don't have uptight, overworked, sex addict friends.

Wow. This blogger is right. I am Carrie Bradshaw, minus the sex, the emotional instability, and the over the top friends.

Thank you avid follower for bringing this to my attention. Your flattery has gotten you everywhere. Keep on keepin' on.

Who do you remind people of? Dare I ask who you think I remind you of?

Why Twitter land Rocks

2011-10-03T06:30:00.001-05:00

Let's just say I've become obsessed with social media. What can I say, it suits me.

My therapist says I lack attention in reality.

Hmm, probably true Dr. House, probably true.

Then again I'd say he lacks bedside manner, yet people still want him to solve problems.

I suppose there's something there. I'll have to disect the facts later.

I'm not here to talk about my therapy sessions at 8 o'clock on FOX, I'm here to talk about why Twitterland rocks. For those of you who aren't conforming, hop on this here bandwagon. You wanna learn the ropes? Well, I'm about to help you out.

Reasons Twitter Land Rocks.

1. Cutting in on conversations is not only allowed, it's encouraged.
2. Random becomes your middle name. (If you don't find yourself funny, nor does anyone else, do not attempt this alone. Use backup). My best tweets (most retweeted) last week were as follows:

*rides onto twitterland on my little pony* Oh, hello twitterland *adds princess wave*

Let the DRUNK TWEETING begin.

Who would tattoo the Japanese word for Fishy Smell on their body? Apparently someone if it's an option --> Right next to the word Prison

You know you're a writer when progress is putting clothes on before noon.

3. No one has time to get bored in a 140 characters (unless you just suck).
4. Stalking is legal.

There you have it, you're allowed to stalk, cut in on conversations, talk about weird ass crap, and everyone loves you because it's only in 140 characters. That's why it rocks. That's why people find people fascinating.

I worry about future generations. I really, really do. Have you conformed?

Join me --> @jenunedited

You sure do talk funny

2011-09-30T06:30:00.016-05:00

I love blogging experiments. It's so neat to be a part of something great. I think all of you seasoned bloggers remember the Great Blogging Experiment, it was a lot of fun to see how people took a word 'Characters' and made it into something bigger.

Well this week, on Monday, I was featured on the blog Cruising Altitude. There are a few of us. What DL has done has taken a few bloggers/wrtiers, given them a sentence and asked them to write under 250 words. It can be anything, just be creative and be you.

The challenge? For others to guess who the blogger is. Do you think you could pick out my writing from others? Be careful though, some blog nothing like they write.

I had SO much fun joining in on this little blog experiment and I must encourage you to HOP ON OVER and take a look. I'd love to see if you can guess which one I wrote! I could be the most predictable!

My eyeball hurts

2011-09-29T06:30:00.005-05:00

So last week on our way to work my hubby and I had an interesting conversation, and since our last one did so well on the blog and you begged for more I thought I'd oblige. Here you are...

Me: My eyeball hurts.

Hubs: What did you do to it?

Me: I don't know but it feels like it's popping out.

Hubs: I'm sure it's fine.

Me: *closes eyes* *touches them* *analyzes size* No, the left one is definitely bigger.

Hubs: Are you sure it wasn't that way to begin with.

Me: With as much as it's bulging out I think you'd notice you married a girl with an oversized eye, so no.

Hubs: *silent*

Me: Well?

Hubs: Well what?

Me: What should I do about it? It can't fall out can it?

Hubs: No Jen, your eye isn't just going to fall out.

Me: It's in there tight enough?

Hubs: Can you see out of it?

Me: *blinks a few times* *carefully rubs eye* Yup.

Hubs: Then go to work.

And I'm still wondering why he sticks around. Though to be honest I'm still sure my eye was bigger than usual. Possibly due to swelling of some zombie like disease that will soon sweep that nation. I'm sure of it. You've all be warned - oversized eyeballs a serious illness (causes irritation, not blindness, weird looks, or inability to work. Unless people just find you weird, in which case that was well before the eyeball grew).

Embracing the Ugly

2011-09-28T06:30:00.003-05:00

Last week was interesting. Between twitter land discussions (see yesterdays post) that went wrong and family frustrations I can’t say it was filled with my usual dose of sunshine and cupcakes.

So rather than letting the online world and family gulp me up and spit me out, I decided to put all the positive spins I could on it! Some days were much easier than others, but with awesome friends and the ability to write the world really is at your beckon call!

So what the hell am I talking about?

My sisters. If you have siblings you know what I’m talking about. Those annoyances that only last for a few hours, but there enough to make you want to BLOW. The backhanded comments each one of us make, we know we shouldn’t, and yet the buttons are there to press so why not.

Yup, that’s what happened. Details not necessary. It could have been about my little pony or road trips to see one another. The conversation doesn’t matter, what matters is what I did to embrace the ugly.

You always hear write what you know. Well in that specific moment I knew my sisters were infuriating, they didn’t know me, and had no care for my feelings (yes, with anger comes over dramatics).

I’d been stuck with three great ideas for my next novel and yet no character wanting to chat. However, the moment my sisters and I were arguing, three voices showed up. They were sisters, each with complicated lives, looking to bond with one another but having no idea how to embrace their new lives and let go of their old ones. What a perfect premise, don’t you think?

I opened up my word document and wrote. There sat Claire Montgomery, Abby Winter, and Carolyn Granger, on the outside three lovely women, best sisters anyone had ever witnessed. Behind the scenes each had their own challenge to overcome and learning to appreciate one another.

It was there, amongst all the tears and frustration I’d come up with the rawest concept --> The Inadequacies of Sisterhood.

Have you ever embraced the emotion?

To Be or Not To Be Agented

2011-09-27T06:30:00.004-05:00

A conversation in twitter land erupted last week has left me jilted. It was regarding agent hood or lack thereof. I should warn you this isn’t one of my light hearted give you a chuckle sort of posts (though my cuteness still remains).
For all of you who are new (or legendary followers – sounds better than old), if you know me, you know I’m an avid supporter of any published author (and yes, those who aren’t as well). It doesn’t matter if you chose self-publishing, small publishers house, or went with the big six. Each method is designed solely for you to decide what the best route is.

What I had a problem with is when someone told me I was going the wrong route. If you’re unaware, I’m currently in the querying process for an agent. It isn’t an easy road and for those of you who aren’t patient… wait… that’s hilarious, as writers it seems none of us are patient… however you get my drift. It’s a long and tedious process.

To be told what I’m doing is silly because agents are a scam was very frustrating. Here are these business men and woman, working hard for us. They’re putting their neck out on the line each time they scoop up a first time author (or seasoned). They take risks just like we do.

I respect the agent world. I respect those who self-publish. I respect the small houses that give everyone a dream. I would never demean someone’s hard work just because they don’t believe in the process.

Here’s what I think. No matter what path you choose make sure it’s right for you. Don’t let anyone knock your dream down, no matter how big. If you don’t dream big, no one else will do it for you. I say go with your gut instincts, and if you fall pick yourself back up. No one is down and out in this world.

And for those who disagree with someone else’s route, don’t be the dream crusher. They worked hard; it’s not your place to say it was for nothing.

Phew. Glad I got that off my chest. *climbs off soap box* Okay peeps, it’s your turn.

What are your views on those who bully you into their agenda? Do you stand up for yourself and for your industry?

Wasteland

2011-09-26T06:30:00.010-05:00

Today we have the fabulous Lynn Rush!!! Her novel Wasteland is out this month!!!! Take a look at the gorgeous cover! Who wouldn't say yes to that!

Blurb:

Bound by the blood contract his human mother signed four centuries ago, half-demon, David Sadler, must obey his demonic Master’s order to capture fifteen-year-old Jessica Hanks. But as he learns more about her, he realizes she may be the key to freedom from his demonic enslavement.

The only obstacle—Jessica’s distractingly beautiful Guardian, Rebeka Abbott. He must not give in to their steamy chemistry, or he will lose his humanity. But fresh off a quarter millennia of sensory deprivation as punishment for not retrieving his last target, he may not be able to resist temptation long enough to save what’s left of his human soul.

So let's dive into the fun and quirky questions!!!
1. What ingredients would you put on a belgian waffle? Oh, girl. You don’t want me NEAR a kitchen **holds up latest finger cut while attempting the domestic activity**
2. You are trapped in a mysterious castle, are you one to run or explore? What would be the first room you'd search for? I’m so NOT like my brave, strong charactersI’d run. But if I suddenly got a brave streak…I’d search out the highest tower to look for the view (I’m a sucker for great views…especially sunrises)
3. Have you ever used white-out to paint your nails? I did once just to see what it looked like. Smelled good, that’s for sure…*wink*
4. If you had the chance to wake up and live someone else's life for a day who would it be? (You can't say you wouldn't do that... it'd be cheating) Angelina Jolie. She’s always intrigued me. I so want to know what’s going through her brain!
5. Which shoe do you put on first? Left

Fun & Random Questions

1. Feather or Foam Pillow: Feather
2. Sleep Talker or Sleep Walker: Both! Ask me sometime about the chocolate camera incident…
3. Pool or Lake: Pool
4. Hardcover or Paperback: Paperback (but now, mostly Nook!)
5. Rock Climbing or Cliff Jumping: Rock Climbing.

Thank you for taking the time to stop in Lynn! Thank you readers for stopping in to be a part of the fun!!! Now let's do a GIVEAWAY!!! This is open for anyone and everyone! For those who live in the US you'll have the option of a paperback or electronic copy! If it's an international winner you'll receiver an electronic copy!

So all you have to do is comment (something fun), your email address, and if you're in the US or International!!

Why outlining is smart

2011-09-23T06:30:00.003-05:00

I used to be a panster. I've only been writing for roughly two years, but my first four books were just me and my laptop, feverishly writing plotless ideas. It wasn't until I read a few writing books that I started to realize outlining might be my ticket to rid most of my writers block.

Those big scenes, the climax nearing, and yet I have no idea how I'll bring everything together. As a panster those BIG moments were the ones that I'd lose. The ones I wasn't able to answer because I hadn't given it much thought. When I picked up my notebook and began outlining, those weeks allowed me time to truly develop the story.

So... how does outlining help you? Well I can't speak for everyone but below I've listed why I enjoy an outline.

1. Development: Learning about your characters helps the depth of your story. I spent weeks outlining a novel, creating character profiles, mapping out big dilemma's they'd face. I'd set up things like their favorite ice cream all the way to how they'll handle the climax in the book.

2. Prevention: Setting up your characters downfalls gives you a warning on where you could get stuck. Will your character give you trouble on moving from Chapter Six to Seven because they're terrified of the change ahead? Big moves allow you better preperation and prevent you from the road block you'd normally have.

3. Breaks: If a family member passes, a vacation is up, you're about to move. Every day happenings can't be prevented and when you don't outline the book can ultimately be left behind, discarded, and unable to return because it'd just take too much time to catch up on where you left off. Taking breaks with an outline makes it easy for you to jump back in.

4. New Ideas: As writers we love the Shiny New Ideas. They're our favorites, and often times while writing it creeps in. You try and push it back but the curiosity and excitement sit for days. At the beginning we neglect our current WIP in search of that same excitement. If an outline is in place it's easier for us to return after we've taken care of our new idea.

What do you think outlining brings to the table? Why aren't you one to use it?

My Fives

2011-09-22T06:30:00.033-05:00

What up my peeps.

It seems as if thursday is always creeping up on me. Coming up with truths, fun questions, random facts can be tough. I figured telling you my five do's in life would give you something new to look at. Chick Lit is Not Dead asks all their authors to share their five do's and a don't. I love this little meme so I figured I'd join in on the fun!

So, that's what I'm going to do.

DO...

Be unique. Your quirks are a representation of you. Embrace them and others will. The more you hide you are the more difficult it is to shed later on.

Something random. Roller derby we tried on a whim and ever since then attend each bout they have once a month. They're addicting, and had we not chose to be random we never would have met amazing people, or learned about such an amazing sport.

Celebrate your accomplishments. If you finish a first draft, go through your first revisions, publish, get your first A. Everything should be celebrated. Even if it's over a couple of cookies and a glass of milk, be sure to take the time to remember those moments.

Be nice. The relationships you make in life show others how you want to be treated. Sharing good news with others, listening, and forming relationships is a way to stay humble.

DON'T...

Be afraid of rejection. They make you stronger. In the moment no one enjoys rejections but later on we realize there was something to learn. Each time we're rejected we become stronger in our own right.

What are your five do's? How about your don't?

Crazy Cat Lady?

2011-09-21T06:30:00.017-05:00

I just found this amazing author via twitter the other day and HAD to get her on my blog! Naturally (because she’s made of awesome), she said YES! So who is this awesome? I don’t give in that easily… I want to show you the reason she caught my attention.

Gorgeous, intriguing, and oh so creepy! I know… I know, your wanting to run off and buy a copy immediately (which you should), but FIRST you should read the fabulous interview. She sat down with me (okay, so it wasn’t like we had coffee, this is the world of email folks. However, we can day dream) and answered questions!

Let’s dig in. Don’t you want to know strange things about Marianna Baer now?? I do! I do!

I give you the five ultimate randoms:

1. What room in your house would you consider the creepiest?

This question made me laugh! I live in NYC, alone, so my apartment is only one room! Well, not including the bathroom -- I'd forgotten about that. Okay, I'll choose the bathroom. It's creepy because when you flush the toilet, the pipes in the wall make this super loud, low groaning noise. It spooks kids who visit, that's for sure!

2. Would you wear a fancy dress to a roller skating rink?

I'd wear a fancy dress anywhere! Fancy dresses are one of my passions. But I'd only wear a fairly durable one to a rollerskating rink, as I'd probably spend half the time falling on my butt.

3. What food can put you instantly in a fabulous mood?

This special lotus root appetizer at my favorite Japanese restaurant.

4. What is the wallpaper on your cell phone?

A picture of my cat looking beautiful but evil.

5. First thing you’d save in a fire?

My cat. Unfortunately, the proximity of this question to the previous one makes it seem like I'm a crazy cat lady. Which maybe I am.

I'm kind of digging the cat lady thing... makes you seem more badass... or is that maybe because I have cats?
I give you the five one-word randoms:

1. Frost or snow: Snow. (Is it disloyal of me not to pick frost? I love snow...)
2. Cookies or Brownies: Both.
3. Haunted house or Haunted forest: Haunted house. (After watching Blair Witch Project, I could never, ever choose haunted forest.)
4. Hugs or Kisses: Kisses.
5. Favorite place on earth: I'm sorry - I can't possibly pick. Here are a few: islands off of Maine, beaches in the Caribbean, back roads in Vermont, the Isle of Skye off of Scotland, Paris, Brooklyn, New Mexico...

There you have it… the most important things about Marianna. I know you’ll all sleep better knowing what the wallpaper on her cell phone was. Go ahead, you can thank me!

Write for yourself

2011-09-20T06:30:00.021-05:00

Recently I've gotten quite a few emails asking about my writing journey. Yes, I'm in the querying process. Yes, it's slow. Nothing in the writing world is easily done or everyone would be doing it.

We cope the only way we know how, through copious amounts of caffeine and sweets. We also ask friends for help and confidence when we're done. But most of all, we write.

The first book I read regarding writing was Stephen King's. He's a brilliant writer and quite the eye opener when you're finished with his novel. It taught me quite a few things, most of all, was the fact that he loved writing.

"First we write for ourselves, then we write for others."

That spoke to me. I still use it to this day when I feel the going gets tough. When I first get an idea I put it in a pile. I should honestly have a little tin next to my bedside table so when I have an idea it's written immediately. For now it's on a post-it or in a new notebook. I'll read through them every once in awhile and start an outline. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. However, when I start writing, it's all about what I'd want to read. After all, if I don't want to read my own work, who else will?

So if I were to leave anyone with a piece of writing advice, it'd be to always keep writing. Eventually you'll find something worth finishing.

What keeps you going? What's your favorite piece of writing advice?

The Beginner Housewife

2011-09-19T06:30:00.023-05:00

You will think I'm crazy, but I've started a new blog. I know, I know, how the hell am I going to manage you ask? Truth be told, I don't know.

I've had a bad case of writers block since I began querying two weeks ago and this is the first time life has come back into my writing. I need it. It needs me.

I went to the Metro Cooking Show in Houston this weekend and saw Paula Deen. She was a doll, as I expected, but part of the experience with my fellow Houston Blogger Chicks was that we got to meet someone else. Tara Wilson, an events guru. For those of you who don't know me, I was headed to interior design school before I switched to writing.

Decorations, holidays, new home ideas, they're what I live for! So when the story of The Beginner Housewife came to me, I was so excited to dive in. To bad when I started to outline I fell short.

Since the housewife and I have so much in common I figured it was best to write a new blog of me trying out my recipes (and failing), decorating tips, creative tips and more. You're welcome to stop in and check out the new digs.

Do not feel obligated to follow. This is my experiment, and so far the outlining is in full effect, and the blog is a nice relief I've needed.

The low down on the story The Beginner Housewife: Kate Phillips is dying to be Carrie Bradshaw, too bad the only column up for grabs is the newest article The Beginner Housewife. Desperate she grabs it for some income, worrying about ironing out details later. Considering she doesn't know anything about cooking, cleaning, or how to load a washer she's in way over her head. So when she meets Neil, the owner of her favorite restaurant rather than telling the truth she lies, and when they fall in love and marry she decides to keep up the charade. Any chance she gets she tries to horribly teach herself how to cook, having no success. With the help of her new found friends she manages to make a few items, until all comes crashing down when the truth comes out. They'll have to decide if love truly conquers all.

So there you have it. I'll allow you to peruse my new place as I stop in on yours! But I have to ask, how to you curve your writers block when nothing else seemed to work?

Don't be afraid to Network...

2011-09-16T06:30:00.007-05:00

Last week Elana Johsnon gave awesome tips on how to keep your life but still be interactive on the web. After all we’re all in this together, looking to network for mulitple reasons. She teaches you that with 15-30 extra minutes you can utilize your time wisely.

Roni Loren taught us last week that there are four types of bloggers. She goes as far to explain the pro’s an cons and I have to say, personally, I think she’s right on.

I’m here to talk about networking as well. It’s been a big topic that’s raided my inbox and not enough people know where to start.

I’m asked – how do you get your followers? How do you make time? I’m so frustated I don’t even know where to start.

I find that there are several who give up before they even start.

DON’T. GIVE. UP.

Isn’t that what we’re always told when it pertains to writing? If you haven’t given up on writing then you shouldn’t give up on blogging. We’re all a team, a happy family, one who supports and carries you when needed.

So you want to create a platform, get your book out there, SELL, SELL, SELL. Well you’re not going to do that with a blog that reaches no one. You have to work towards it.

How did I get followers? I became friends with them. I emailed them, commented, tweeted, etc. We interacted with one another, formed a connection. It’s not solely about selling books, it’s about buliding a relationship.

How do I get blog ideas? The blogging world is a beautiful place. There are so many ideas forming it’s bound to leave you with a fresh bucket of ideas. I have a post-it board at home. Wheneve I’m intrigued by a topic I jot it down. It’s perfect because when I have an off day the post-it board is filled with little seeds to get me going again.

How do I start? Write. Who are you? Why are you blogging? What are you hoping to gain from this journey? The more people know about you, the more they’ll want to learn.

The point is to connect. Make a relationship. Don’t consider this a business venture. Consider this a friendship, a place where we’re all looking to learn about one another and support each other. If you’re wanting to sell books, you need to know who your market is.. the only way to do that is to share things about yourself and learn about your newfound friendships.

How do you blog? What made you start?

Strange Conversations at Home

2011-09-15T06:30:00.019-05:00

Conversations in our house are strange. Which is why my husband is awesome. Today I figured I’d give you a sneak peek into Jenville (I know, you’re excited).
Me: Would you catch stars with me?

Hubs: Why the hell would I want to catch stars?

Me: Lucky dust. *gives the ‘duh’ stare*

Hubs: How lucky?

Me: I can’t guarantee it will win us the lottery. (Answering the question he didn’t ask, but wanted too).

Hubs: Then no.

Me: Why not? You’re not doing anything else.

Hubs: I’m going to make dinner.

Me: *remains silent* Hmm, okay, you win.

Who knew conversations like that led to my husband making dinner! WRITERS EVERYWHERE, feel free to try it out on your spouse… it just might WORK!

A few days later…

Me: What if we actually turned into our cats?

Hubs: Two nights ago you were worried about our cats plotting to kill us. Now you’re thinking about being them so we want to kill ourselves?

Me: I never thought about it like that. If we were still ourselves though, in fur, we wouldn’t have to worry about it. (PS – Seriously you’ll think your cat has a plot to kill you after reading THIS).

Hubs: If you’re still you there’s no way in hell you’ll eat the cat food. We’d be screwed.

Me: You’re saying you’d eat it?

Hubs: I’d at least try it. If I’m a cat it wouldn’t be so bad I’d think.

Me: What would happen to our cats if they were still cats in human bodies?

Hubs: Why the hell do we have to do this now? The games on.

Me: I’m just worried they’d spend all day sleeping and my back would hurt even worse the next day. Or worse, they’d get stuck in a weird cat like position I couldn’t get out of when I change back.

Hubs: *watches game*

Silence enters the room. Both cats awake and staring at me (again, probably plotting to kill me).

Me: Well at least one thing is for sure. I DO NOT WANT TO BE MY CAT FOR A DAY. Sounds like too much work.

Hubs: This conversation is too much work.

Silence fills the room, AGAIN. I walk to the refrigerator, grab a carton of ice cream – and a spoon. Cats stare at me… I walk to cupboard pull out kitty treats, disperse appropriately… okay maybe I give them to many. After this conversation I don’t want to die. I value my life. And my husbands – even if tires of my conversations.

If I Could Be Anyone, I'd be...

2011-09-14T06:30:00.001-05:00

Talli Roland is so creative when it comes to launching her latest book, I see no reason NOT to jump on the bandwagon! With her latest novel - Watching Willow Watts, she's come up with the cutest idea! Willow Watts impersonates Marilyn Monroe in the novel so now it's bloggers, tweeters, and facebook's turn!

If you could be anyone... who would it be?

Below I've played along... and cheated (as usual). I've decided that there are several people I'd love to be like (or in this case, INSPIRE) so I've decided why not list them all!
First Up: JK Rowling

Her genius keeps me motivated. I've written four young adult novels, and though I have no plans to publish them she taught me how to find my inner youngin and bring out the best in them. The love, friendship, and magic she teaches is intoxicating. She made me adore writing and appreciate everyone who writes.
Second Up: Emily Giffin

I write chick lit/women's fiction and Emily Giffin knows her novels! I love how she broke molds writing Something Blue, allowing you to know that even when a character isn't all that likeable there is still the ability to root from them. If you've never read an Emily Giffin novel I urge to pick one up! You won't regret it!

Third Up: Claire Cook

This is a woman to look up to. I once tweeted her and said "You're my hero." Her reply was simple, "Be your own hero." Instantly I loved her all the more. Her stories are heartfelt and inspiring. She really does allow every woman to be their own hero.

Fourth Up: Susan Elizabeth Phillips

How could I not? Anyone who knows me knows that she's the ultimate woman in my eyes! She brought me to love words, love romance, and most of all love writing women's fiction. I devour her books (Chicago Series being my favorite - if you're looking to pick one up). I hope to one day meet her. She is fabulous.

Each one of these woman allow me to push to success. They share their stories and it pushes me and inspires me to keep towards my goal. Who inspires you?

Be sure to join in on the fun with Talli! I can't wait to see who people are talking about!

When doubt gets you down...

2011-09-13T06:40:00.000-05:00

Last week I talked about what agents are buying. The more I thought about the post, the more I realized with all the ‘we’re looking for’ in the agent world it’s easy to get down. As writers part of the job description is doubt. There are several points in my writing that I have a moment of weakness.
It is then I call my go to buddies – You know who you are.

However I can’t always rely on awesome blogger buddies (this is a hypothetical… of course I’ll ALWAYS rely on them… they’re better then chocolate chip cookies – maybe).

When doubt gets me down I go for the basics:

1. Watch a good chick flick (if you’re male or just don’t like chick flicks seek alternative movie option): I normally go with heartfelt and warming and lovey dovey (cuz that’s my thing). It always puts me in a good place.

2. Bubble baths (If you’re male or hate baths – what’s wrong with you?): I love the scent of lavender, oh so soothing, and relaxing. It allows me to clear my head of negativity.

3. Writing prompts: When I’m feeling down these normally blow… BUT… it helps gain my life back. I’ve written something along the lines of – what does an apple feel when left in the basket on the kitchen counter. I start off saying “what the hell” and end with something silly creative. Gets the juices flowing.

4. Ask for positive feedback: I’m a sucker. When in need I ask my hubby, friend, cat (meowing counts), or blog buddy to share something positive about me. Yes, it sounds conceded (make sure it’s about writing) but it’s that go to letter that brightens your day on the bluest of days (Sarah Pearson is my fabulous letter).

5. Remember why you write: You write because you love. Even if you’re at the querying stage and nothing is going write NEVER GIVE UP. Writers don’t say it to keep you going; they say it because it’s true. Keep writing you’re good at it because you’re hardworking and love it. Each word allows improvement.

How do you deal with doubt? Any remedies I might have missed?

3 Daves... 3 Jens

2011-09-12T06:30:00.001-05:00

Today Nicki stops in to talk about her novel Three Daves! She's a total sweetheart so enjoy!

Go figure that when I gave Jen a choice of Daves to feature at her blog, she chose the beautiful bad boy. I must say, she made a very good choice. Of the three Daves in my novel, this one (Dave #2) was the most fun to write. And not just because he’s got a killer smile…although that didn’t hurt. Before we delve further into Dave, I’d like to say a big THANKS to the marvelous Jen Daiker for being one of three Jens to host me this month during my Three Daves blog blitz to celebrate the brand new cover!

Jen is always posting helpful tips for character development, including ways to make them three dimensional and give them “life.” I think the type of music a person prefers to listen to can say a lot about them, and since I immersed myself in 80s “mix tapes” while writing the story, it was only natural that music would play a big part in character development.

Dave #2 is punk rock all the way: Sex Pistols, Ramones, Brother Kitty (okay, that last one was made up for the story. Despite my lack of musical prowess, I always wanted to be in a band and that’s what I would’ve called it.) This Dave very much represents the chaotic and edgy nature of punk. Like the genre, he’s exciting and fun—and a little scary. It’s not just his good looks that make girls’ insides flip upside down at the slightest gesture.

Since we’re talking 80s, I thought it would be fun to cast the imaginary Three Daves movie with actors from the 80s. So, from the tidbits you learned above, who do you think should get the part of Dave #2?

Here are my top three picks:

Rob Lowe
He’s got the looks for sure…but is he too pretty?

Matt Dillon
He was smokin’ in every way possible in 1989’s Drugstore Cowboy

Val Kilmer
Attractive? check; Scary? check, check

So, who would you pick to play the beautiful bad boy? I personally would go for Val Kilmer!

Thanks for stopping by! :)

You can meet the other daves and find out about the 99 cent back to school sale for her novel Three Daves by hopping over to Nicki's for more information!

Can I be famous yet?

2011-09-09T06:30:00.001-05:00

Every writer has a dream. Some are looking to be self-published, pushing their own book out in the big bad world of publishing and see how it survives. Some already have the hotties they want playing their main characters and supporting roles in the upcoming film adaptation. Others just want to have an ARC in their hands.

What do I want?

Crap *blushes* you really put me on the spot.

I’d love to be repped by someone who loves my quirky personality and adores my novels. I want to receive my ARC and be the first to show it to the world. I can’t wait to attend a book signing and have people interested in ME.

Fan mail. I think that’s one I’m most excited for.

I want to be an author who does their best to talk to everyone who is moved by my writing, supports me, and wants advice on how to be the best writer they can be. Being able to help writers after certain one’s helped me would just be magical (don’t you think?).

Oh and I’d love to be asked to be in photos. I know it sounds so silly but I want that one girl who is so overly in love with my book is a bundle of nerves to ask for an autograph and picture. I want to be able to calm her down, answer her questions and know that she is going to post the picture of us on her blog (much like I did with my first author) and gush about how awesome I was.

Yes, I want to change people’s lives with my words. Even if it’s just to implore them to not give up on love and don’t forget to enjoy time with friends.

What are you looking most forward too?

When holiday's throw up in my house...

2011-09-08T06:30:00.009-05:00

Happy Thursday my gems! Even with the new change of blogging pace I can’t give up my honesty days! It just doesn’t work. You guys listen to me oh so well. I can’t give it up. Not to mention I think you love venting days!

1. Pier 1 Imports and Kirklands love my business. If I had it my way I’d be broke all thanks to them. From cherry blossom trees to wonderful Halloween figurines my heart loves it all. Last weekend I picked up three sparkly pumpkins complete with three awesome Halloween teddy bear figurines. I could have picked more, after all when the holidays roll in it looks like they threw up.

2. For every book I’ve written I own a pair of shoes that was designed just for it. I can’t help it, it’s an addiction. They’re so awesome I want to share them to the world. And when I do, everyone loves them. I think it might be my thing.

3. I’m addicted to Big Brother… I’ve watched it from the first season and can’t help myself. Each year is more exciting than the last. I still tell myself I’d be really good at the game; however I’m now to chicken to sign up. Yup, never gonna happen – even though I know you’d all watch!

4. I’m a creature of habit (aren’t we all)… however from time to time I change up my driving routine. With all the criminal investigative shows I have learned that being a creature of habit is a very bad thing, they watch you, then attack you when you follow your usual routine. Yes, that’s exactly why I switch it up.

5. At work I’m known as the iPhone guru. It’s sad, I don’t know crap about a phone – Google does. I use their guidance to show me the path to completion. However the ladies in my office only need things like finding their misplaced App Store button or how to get rid of voicemails. I welcome their sweetness, after all, they make me feel important an awesome.

What are your truths?

Love and Lattes

2011-09-07T06:30:00.019-05:00

We have a special guest today! The fabulous Heather Thurmeier has agreed to an interview and of course nothing would be complete without talking about her novella!!! Love and Lattes will be out for purchase on September 10th! Just days away!!!

Here is the fabulous cover!!!

Now let's ask some RANDOM and UNRELATED questions!!

1. Are you a good bowler? Nope. Absolutely not. The last time I took my DDs bowling, we had to have the bumpers up the whole time (old system). Well, the 4 year old had a better score than I did...by a lot. I can't even bowl with bumpers.

2. If you were a bouncer at a club who would you make stand in the line a little longer? Easy. The 'Juicehead gorillas' and the 'guidettes'. I'd let in all the super uncool people like myself. And now you know my dirty little secret—I love watching Jersey Shore!

3. Who has more fun, blonde's or brunettes? What's your evidence? I'm gonna have to go with blonde on this one. I could throw out a blonde joke about how even if they weren't having fun they wouldn't know it...but that would be rude to blondes and since I am one (Sort of. Was one?) I really shouldn't fall in line with the cliche stupid blonde joke.

4. If you were stranded in a small town would you embrace being in a quaint town or panic for fear of being murdered? I'd embrace it. While I don't enjoy living in a little town long-term, I love to visit quaint towns. I wouldn't fear being murdered, well unless the little down was in the deep south and there were a few questionable looking people playing banjos on the the front porch of a run down general store. Anyone else hearing the Deliverance movie song in their heads? And I would never walk to an old creepy farmhouse looking for help if I run out of gas... Did it just get darker in here? What was that noise?

5. What's more important to you a fancier car or a fancier home? Can I be a spoiled brat and say both? Really. I do a lot of driving kids around so my SUV with DVD is essential. And I'd get lost without built in Navigation. But I also spend a lot of time at home, working, relaxing, playing with the kids, chillin' with my hubby, so a nice living space is important too. I wouldn't want a huge mansion or anything—Who the heck would clean all those rooms? Not me!—but a modest house with nice features would be cool.

Fun & Random Questions: (Haha! You mean those first ones weren't fun and random?)

1. Being chased or doing the chasing: Being chased. As long as it isn't one of the banjo people chasing me.

2. Laying by a river or a beach: Beach, preferably with strawberry margarita in hand.

3. Cosmo or Margarita: Margarita. Always margarita. I even have a machine that makes them on my counter. Yum.

4. Moonlight or candlelight: Moonlight. I love looking up at the stars.

5. Stripes or polka-dots: Polka-dots.

Such a cute cover! Such a cute story! Such a cute author!!! Leave a hello in the comments for her! She's fabulous!

Are you buying it?

2011-09-06T06:30:00.006-05:00

There’s been talk (when isn’t their?) about what sells a book. Is it the author with their awesome credentials? Bahahaha, what a thought – if you count Snooki, JWOW, Theresa Giudice I wouldn’t say their credentials were awesome.

However they are being smart. If I was a trashy girl or one who loved being Italian and landed myself on a show you bet your ass I’d take full advantage.

Is it adding a paranormal aspect? Stephenie Meyer seemed to have it going on.

But what does it take to be a newbie? What makes you the next Sophie Kinsella or Suzanne Collins? What pushes as us writers to find that brilliant book idea and write it?

You’re told to be unique, but not too unique. They want a fresh take on an old idea. How the heck do we pull that off?

With the what if’s in life.

What if the sun stopped shining? What if there was a boy who had a gift to give the world light but he had to stay recharged? What if that same boy had parents who did nothing but abuse them? How could someone so unhappy provide light to the world? The one person who can help is someone he considers his own sunshine, the girl of his dreams, but how do they meet when they know nothing about one another?

Will that be the idea that sells?

The truth: No one really knows. An agent or publisher reads your work and goes with their gut. It’s all in the words, the uniqueness, the fresh take, and a whole lot of personality. They’re not sure what they’re looking for. More or less they know their tired of vampires… however that doesn’t mean the vampire book you just completed isn’t the one. You’re fresh idea on them might be exactly what they need.

I guess what I’m saying is you never know what won’t work. If you’re still loving the books you pick up from the bookstores then there is a chance that the book you write someone will love.

Are you still buying books? Are they the ones your writing?

Is blogging wasting your time?

2011-09-05T06:30:00.002-05:00

I get a lot of bloggers who lately have said they’re exhausted, overworked, and unaware if they’re making their mark in the blogging world. Some question if it’s worth taking time away from their writing.

For my view it’s all in how you perceive blogging. When you read others posts do you feel your taking time away from something you could be doing? Or, are you learning something? I have certain bloggers that teach me things and others that lighten the mood. I believe the balance is necessary for me. I love the perfect mix of learning something and having a little fun.

Agents and publishers now want writers who have a great following. They want someone who blogs, understands the online world. With e-books at an all-time high they want to make sure that your name online is being heard.

So what happens when you aren’t having fun?

Then they don’t like the platform anymore. The key is to have fun, if you’re not enjoying yourself no one who stops by your blog will! I blog because I love it! Going a day without blogging would kill. Now, I’m not able to comment every day, but I’ve been blogging Monday thru Friday for the past year and a half… and none of my posts have been duplicated.

So when a writer asks if blogging wastes time you want to ask yourself just a few questions.

1. Why do you blog?

2. What do you get out of blogging?

3. What kind of writer are you looking to be?

My answers:

1. Because I adore it (people and all).

2. Tools it takes to become a great writer, brilliant writer buddies, a great platform.

3. One with strong values, wonderful friends, and a whole lot of fun. Oh, and to sell my books.

Why do you blog? Are you one that second guesses? Do you need a cheerleader on your side (yes, I’m available)?

Hello Fellow Blogger Addicts!

2011-09-02T06:30:00.019-05:00

I'm keeping today short and sweet.

I finally feel myself again. Querying has opened up time for outlining and BLOGGING!

I want to let you all know I heart you! Hello to all my new followers, and to all my old! You mean the world to me! Without you I wouldn't be having near as much fun!

Though the summer is coming to a close I'm excited at all the future possiblities. I can't wait to see the fall books hit the shelves, the authors who start querying, those who snag agents, and those who get a publishing date!!!

Your journey's are just as exciting as the one's I am currently diving into. I love how supportive everyone is in the writing world and each day you stop in and comment it warms the heart!

What's your favorite thing about blogging?? What process of writing are you in? Are you sad or excited that summer is coming to a close?

Query Land and INSANITY

2011-09-01T06:30:00.006-05:00

1. I tend to mimic other individuals wardrobes. I always hope I can pull it off, and never succeed. Apparently I was just born with a quirky personality and not a quirk wardrobe.

2. I love Bravo but recently joined both LOGO and VH1 with their versions of "housewives"... LOGO does gays, and VH1 does Basketball Wives... All so fabulously addicting.

3. I used to be organized, now I'm a writer. My poor husband is tired of picking up book after book, paper after paper with my writing and reading habits! I literally lay stuff everywhere. He's sweet to put up with me.

4. Ive been on the INSANITY challenge for four weeks now, no soda, no candy, just healthy eating and hardcore workouts... I feel like ass.

5. I love holidays and with Halloween around the corner I've already busted out the Halloween paper on my iPhone and will be putting up decorations soon!!

6. An extra!!! Today is the first day of querying! I'm excited and OH SO NERVOUS! Hoping to share awesome news in the next few months! *fingers crossed*

So what are your truths?

Stepping back or Giving up

2011-08-31T06:30:00.013-05:00

We all have those days where the writing isn't working. We second guess ourselves, we eat one too many brownies and then re-evaluate.

Some give up, others step back.

We don't realize the damage we do to ourselves when we don't step back to get a clear head.

"finish this chapter then you can rest" you tell yourself but your body knows your lying. It knows the minute you finish the first chapter you'll move to the second because you feel pushing isn't wrong.

Sometimes you need to step back.

That doesn't mean people think you're giving up. I, personally, commend those who take blogging hiatuses, I'm sad I can't let go some weeks. The passion is what keeps me. I have a love for blogging and though I can't comment at times, I'm making compromises, which is what's needed in this business.

When it comes to writing I must take breaks. Some say you should write every day, I say I'll be the judge of that. Sometimes forcing a word count is worse than taking a day off. Sometimes taking a step back, breathing and relaxing is just what's needed, and you know what... you're allowed.

Do you associate a day off with giving up? How do you cope with writing frustrations?

Why People Like Me

2011-08-30T06:30:00.017-05:00

"Jen that's conceited."

"Not if it's true," I countered.

"Good point."

Those of you who are avid followers of me know that I'm not conceited... and if you do... well, let's just hope you're not. I get several emails asking the secret to how I gain all my followers.

Guess what... there isn't a secret formula, at least, I don't think.

I think it all comes down to what you blog about and how you share it. I, for one, love random posts. The crazier and quick the post, the more I stick around. If you make me giggle within the first three sentences (or by the title alone) you've caught my attention.

Understand? I write what I like, in doing so, each time you visit I look to entertain you. It's my main goal. Whether or not it happens each time remains to be seen but it's my goal.

Another great way I gained all you fabulous people is by chatting! Each day I'd hop over to your blog and comment on your incredibly creative post. I thought it was genius so I told you. Guess what, you followed back.

I suppose you should ask yourself.... why did you visit this blog? If you're answer is beacuse it's funny... then maybe you should be funny too. Just an idea.

So I'm curious, why do you love me?