Beliefs and Hypocrisy

Hey there everyone!

Sorry for posting late and for not keeping things moving this weekend. As it happens to be my 6 year anniversary with my husband today, I kind of took the weekend off the Internet and some other things too, but not before writing a prequel story to my Centurion 54 novels, but you'll see that another day.

Early this morning, before I went to bed and when I should have been writing this blog, I chad the opportunity to watch a movie that was my favorite when I was a child. To this day, I'm not sure why I like it, but I have a few theories. The movie is from 1943 and is called The Song of Bernadette.

This is supposed to be a movie based on the account of St. Bernadette Soubirous. For those of you not familiar with her, she is said to be the girl who saw a beautiful lady appear in the town dump of Lourdes. According to legend and lore (I say this because it happened so long ago that neither science nor the religious investigation group did not have the same abilities then that we do today to investigate this claim properly and satisfactorily), a young, sickly girl was waiting for her friend and her sister to return from gathering wood on private land. She had a "vision" of beautiful lady that told her to do things, etc. No one else saw the lady, and she never said who the lady was, but others around her claim it was the Virgin Mary.

The lady apparently told this girl to return every day for 15 days. So, she does this, but it turns into a spectacle that both the French government and religious "higher-ups" want to ignore and make go away. Convinced that this is a fraud, the local priest tells Bernadette to tell the lady to make a miracle and have the rose bush underneath where she stands bloom now in the last week of February. The funny thing is, I don't think the rose bush ever bloomed because the lady apparently told the girl to eat some plants and wash in a seemingly non-existent spring. At some point, the girl starts to dig and rather than keep digging, she washes herself in the mud that she finds there. Everyone laughs and calls her a crack-pot and begins to leave the area. Then, before everyone has a chance to completely vacate, water starts to bubble up from the spot where she was digging. The interesting thing is that her father is one of the first to "use" the water and he has his sight miraculously return, even though there is no sign that his injury has corrected itself. He couldn't read, so there was no real way to test how good his vision really was in the first place. Since he started out as a stone carver, he easily could have been good at what he did, even an eye down. Yes, there were people who supposedly were injured and miraculously healed by bathing in/drinking the water.

Again, I say that the medical field in the late 1800s was not sophisticated or educated enough to handle an investigation of these people because they had more trouble properly diagnosing people then than we do now (although many do still fall through the cracks). The question is, what was in the water? Was it truly blessed or was it the fact that it was just a fresh water spring that made a difference?

I don't think we'll ever know because there's no way to test the water, and even if we could, any supposed healing properties it may have had, probably disappeared long ago. We must also not forget that she was so sick with asthma and who knows what else. The town dump was also where a lot of diseased cloth and remains would be burned, so who knows what was surrounding them.

So, could it really have been that it was just a matter of "clean" water that really did the trick? Also, how many people were really sick and not just "depressed"? Seriously, at that time, people were suffering from economic hardships and as we now know, depression and stress can cause and exacerbate a variety of problems. With the "mental idea" of being healed, many of these issues could easy just "go away," indicating the true power of mind over matter.

Case in point, before 2007 (when I did suffer from the effects of CO poisoning albeit low and over the course of about 4 months), I was sickly and stress always seemed to make me sick, very sick. However, since I have a "new lease" on life, and different point of view, things that bothered me then, don't bother me now. What I mean is that I thought my tolerance for pain was high then, but it grew even more. My allergies, as nasty as they've ever been and really still are, don't seem to be as bothersome, but I think it's just that I am not as bothered by them because my head doesn't feel like it has spikes driven in it when I think and I can read with ease and when I do have headaches, they are manageable, even when I am hanging over a toilet. Medication will make them go away.

For me, it was a shift in thinking that seems to be making my body work better, even though it's still in as much if not more pain than it's ever been in. For me, it's about fighting against the pain, not letting it win. It's hard and can be very depressing, but I don't let myself feel depressed about things for too long anymore because I can still wake up to see another day. I can still tell my husband I love him and I still write and create.

The skeptic that I am, I totally feel that these "miracles" seemed that way because they caused a shift in thinking from negative to positive. Positive thinking does have power.

I don't mean that you have to become religious and pray and all that. No. What I mean is that you need to just appreciate what you have and focus on that rather than what it is you don't have. Right now, even though my husband had to take a pay-cut, he still has a job and a steady income, insurance, a roof over our heads and each other. I am grateful for that.

That being said, I think the reason I always liked the movie is that the girl used logic to defend herself and never fell for their trickery (such as agreeing when they tried to say she said something when she didn't) and it also (in my opinion) brought to light the ever present hypocrisy of the current religious leaders. How can I say that? Well, they didn't believe her in life and continually ridiculed her all her life, why did they all of a sudden believe her in death? What made the situation so different that they made her a saint after she died? It makes no sense to me, even though I do believe that these "miracles" did happen during her lifetime.

Tarot Card Reading....

Hi, all! *wave* I hope everyone has had a wonderful week and hope you have an even better weekend! :-)

Tarot Cards. I do not know much about them. The concept and idea fascinates me. But then any anything and everything supernatural fascinates me. I have been tempted to buy a deck several times, but have always resisted the urge because of fear basically. What if I bought them and screwed them up? I don’t even know if that’s possible, but I don’t want to take the chance either. But what if I bought them, did it right and got a scary reading for the future or something? Honestly, I think I’d rather not know.

In preparation for this blog, I visited a free online Tarot reading at Tarot Lotus, http://www.free-tarot-reading.net/. Thanks to Scorpio, a/k/a Alessandra, for this website. I did this in fun, because I am not sure I believe in a tarot reading that is computer generated, but I will not discount it either. There are forces at work in this world that are way beyond my knowledge and understanding. And I was able to relate almost every card to my question. So, accurate or not? What do you think? I would love to hear how accurate you think it is.

Here’s how it went

First off, I was supposed to focus on my question while quieting my mind. No easy task when there are 4 boys in the house at that time. ;-) I did the best I could and asked about the future of my books.

This is what I got

Strength card: It predicts that regardless of my past challenges, I will find not only the strength, but also the courage, to succeed. It went on to say that if I was looking to overcome a bad habit, now was a good time to do it. I’m thinking my obsession with the television show Supernatural and my fellow Bust Dean Outta Hell Brigadiers does NOT count because I’m not looking to overcome that at all and do not consider it a bad habit. I’m sure my husband would disagree. ;-) But, since this reading was about my books, the only bad habit I can think of is my inability to stick to a strict writing schedule. I tend to allow myself to become distracted easily. So, maybe now is a good time to set aside a couple of hours each day to write at a particular time. I’m just not sure how I’m supposed to tell the world and life to take a flying leap during those hours. *shrugs* Any suggestions are extremely appreciated?

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The Hermit card: It suggested that I want to know what to do at this time and that I felt somewhat lonely at this time. LOL! Lonely? I’m rarely lonely and I often would prefer more alone time. I tell my good friend that being with people over-stimulates me. I don’t mean this in a bad way, I love people, but I need that downtime of being alone to reboot, so to speak. I could probably thrive as a literal hermit at times. Sad, I know, but at least I know myself this well. So, I’m wondering how does this apply to my books? The only thing I can think of is I’m not listening to the voices in my head (my characters), but instead I’ve been ignoring them and putting them aside for life. So, yeah, I guess in that respect, I do feel lonely. I actually feel better, more focused, and more alert and I’m a much happier person when I’m writing. It’s kind of like exercise…so, why do I deny it from my life?

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The Temperance Card: It suggested that I was afraid that the harmony in my relationship or life is not going to last. Harmony? Are they serious? The cards obviously do not know my life. Harmony does not reign in my house among my relationships or life. I certainly do not worry that a rival is going to disrupt my household. It did say that I needed to be patient because life would soon have normalcy again. Yeah, right. I have two boys actively involved in sports, not counting the boys in the neighborhood that visit daily, so my life hasn’t resembled normal in ten years. How harmony relates to my writing and books stumps me. I’m open to suggestions and ideas though. Maybe it means I'll get back to the harmony of writing soon.

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The Hierophant Card: It tells me that help is here. YAY. But I have to ask for it. Yeah, I’m not so good at this. If I ask for help, then I really should have asked for help weeks ago. I don’t like bothering people with my troubles, so tend to bottle them up and keep them inside until I burst with the need for help. It goes on to say that if I’m anxious about making the correct decision then I know someone that has the right moral fiber to help. That’s pretty cool, don’t you think? It suggested I could receive counsel and honesty from a teacher (hmm…okay, gotta think about who this could be), pastor (LOL, he’d kick me out of the church if he knew how demoralized I am) or parent (my parents are too critical as it is at times, so don’t think I’m asking for advice from them), or anyone else I might highly respect (that is actually doable). Now, as it relates to my writing and books, I do actually ask for help. My friend, Bridgette, is a whiz at creative genius. Too bad she doesn’t put that to use in the written word, but she’s an awesome source of help! Thanks, girl! You’re awesome and I’m so happy to have you!

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The Star card: This cards means that I am in a period of disturbance and stress and that I am afraid and cynical that all my hopes and dreams will be dashed. Um…who doesn’t suffer from this a little? Especially if they really want to succeed at a life-long dream, like with my writing? While this may sound negative, the card went on to say that any of the bad luck I’ve been having (and I’ve had a lot lately, which is unusual really because my life tends to rock along without any major upheaval) is primarily down to your self-doubt and negativity. (Not sure how this is viable, since my bad luck has been more centered toward house and health.) It encouraged me to have faith that my luck will change. Thank you! Best news I’ve had in a while.

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The Empress Card: It tells me that now is a fertile and creative time. Woohoo!! I need a creative and fertile time! I am to expect only the best if I’m contemplating starting a creative mission. Hmm…just so happens I have one going on at the moment. One is the sequel to my currently unpublished book that stars Aysha as the angry witch and Rogh as the frustrated, desperate vampire. The sequel is about Aysha’s sister, Azira and Beld, who is a god from another dimension. Okay, so the card goes on to tell me that this is a time of wealth, pleasure, happiness and encouragement, with best of all, a solid underpinning for future progress. WOW! I am loving this card. Can I sleep with this one under my pillow and receive a double dose of it? Anyone know?

So, that was my reading. What’d you think? Any suggestions for me? I recommend you take the plunge and visit Lotus Tarot at http://www.free-tarot-reading.net/ and get your own personal reading. Whether you believe in it or not, it was fun. Have a great weekend everyone! Don’t forget to check back tomorrow for our weekly Saturday giveaway! I promise, you won’t want to miss it!

Rites of Passage Part II

Not long ago, I wrote about how I had to get through the Baccalaureate ceremonies at my daughter's school. And how I just barely made it through without becoming a blubbering mess. Which made me believe that I was going to be a total embarrassment come graduation. What can I say? I am a very empathic person and I feel things deeply. And when I do, I cry.

I am happy to report, however, that I made it through the graduation without embarrassing myself or, more important, my daughter. Yes, there were times when I nearly lost it, like when my daughter won an award for "dedication, perseverance and loyalty" to her school (one of the most prestigious, according to my aunt, who drove up from Pennsylvania for the ceremony) and when her name was called for the diploma, of course. But, all in all, I somehow managed to keep it together. And I am so glad I did because I would have missed so much if I didn't. I would have missed how surprised she was when she received that award, how proud she was when she accepted her diploma, how thrilled she was when she saw how many people came to her party to celebrate with her.

Graduation. It is the one rite of passage we all think is "somewhere off in the future," but it comes around sooner than we think. One day, we are putting our little girls and boys on the bus for their first day of kindergarten and the next, we are watching them file out of their school for the last time after receiving their diplomas. The times between may seem long when you're a new parent, but they rush past in a flash, so enjoy every minute of it while you can. Before you know it, you will be dropping them off at college.

So to the members of the Class of 2009, from Hudson, Massachusetts (go, Leah, Catie, Katie, Shayna, Corinne and Julia!) to Los Angeles, California and everywhere in between, my heartfelt congratulations. It was a rollicking twelve years of work, study, projects, dances, games, parents' night, science fairs, class trips, snow balls and prom, but you made it through and the future is just waiting for you to transform it. I wish you all the best of luck in all of your endeavors and I know that you will continue to make your parents proud.

Please feel free to share you graduation stories here. Let's all celebrate the wonders of parenthood and the joys of raising these bright and wondrous people who are going to make their mark on the world. ~ Margay Leah Justice, incredibly proud mother of Leah.

A Little Mayhem With Judi Fennell, author of In Over Her Head

Thank you for taking the time to interview with us! Judi's newest release is In Over Her Head. Her full length paranormal romance novel became available in paperback on the New Release and New Romance towers at Barnes & Nobles and Borders or online at:


http://www.borders.com/online/store/SearchResults?type=1&contrib=Judi+Fennell

http://books.barnesandnoble.com/search/results.aspx?WRD=judi+fennell&r=1

http://www.booksamillion.com/search?id=4421462044575&type=author&query=Judi%20Fennell

http://www.indiebound.org/book/9781402220012

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/search-handle-url/ref=ntt_athr_dp_sr_1?%5Fencoding=UTF8&search-type=ss&index=books&field-author=Judi%20Fennell





How long did it take you to become published?

I joined Romance Writers of America in 2004 with one manuscript that needed a lot of work. Since joining, I fixed that manuscript and wrote 3 more. The fourth complete manuscript was In Over Her Head which sold to Sourcebooks.



How long does it usually take for you to research a book? And what is the most unusual method you've used in the process?

The nice thing about writing paranormal and creating your own world is you can make up a lot of it. However, when I was writing In Over Her Head I did have to do a lot of research on the ocean. I bought books of Caribbean fish, poured over Google Earth, a lot of research online, and personal research in Ocean City, NJ when we went on vacation - including climbing on boats in a marina to get that research correct. I'd have to say walking into a marina and telling a boat salesman that I was writing a book about mermen and needed to check out the boats was probably the oddest bit of research I did. Bob, the salesman was incredibly helpful and professional, not even blinking an eye when I told him what I needed. I've been back since to research the next books in the series and he's been fabulous.

(Ha! Now, that would make an interesting story itself, don't you think? Can you imagine what Bob told his friends after that first meeting? "You'll never guess what I did today...")



Many authors are doing strictly e-books, do you think this is just a trend, or does it spell the end of real books?

I don't think it's the end of "real" books, or p-books because people do like to have the physical thing in their hand. You don't want to drop your Kindle/eReader in the bathtub, but if you drop a paperback, it'll be soggy, but it can be saved. I have a few friends who have Kindles and they say they really miss the cover art, so I can't see all books going electronic. That being said, I do know my publisher (Sourcebooks) is looking at e-versions for our print books. I think having them available in other formats can only keep readers happy. Whatever way we can get our stories in readers' hands is great.


How long does it take for you to write books?

Once you're under contract, you no longer have the luxury of time. You have deadlines and there are schedules to be kept to. My deadlines were tight for this series, so I had the third book in by the time the first one came out - and we only had a 10 month turn around for In Over Her Head from sale to shelves.



Is there any character in your books that you can really relate to?

Well, it's no secret that I gave Erica (the heroine) my irrational fear of the ocean - and that she realized it's irrational. That is definitely me. But all in all, these are fictional characters. I'm sure some of my beliefs come through, but I don't base characters on any one person.



Do you see yourself writing in the same genre in 10 years? If not then what?

I love paranormal, but I also love other genres. Where I'll be in 10 years is anyone's guess. I want to be in the business and as long as the stories are flowing, I'll be writing them.



Where do your story ideas come from? Do you use people you know as characters sometimes or even sometimes a certain event from real life happenings?

My story ideas have all shown up in my head differently. Sometimes I just wake up with them, other times it's a "what if" question that happens. Other times I'll see something and think... hm. I could have a lot of fun with that. I don't base my characters on people I know, but I might give one of them a friend's name, just to have fun.



Getting back to your books coming out soon. Tell us a little about what to expect from them.

The three books are about Mers and the Humans who love them. The first book, In Over Her Head, which is out now, is about Reel Tritone, 2nd in line for the Mer Throne who has no chance of inheriting. He's The Spare who talked to a Human years ago and ended up getting royally punished (pun intended) for it. Erica is the Human and when she ends up almost drowning years later, he saves her and then they're off on a series of adventures to recover stolen diamonds and escape a sea monster or two. Wild Blue Under, which comes out November 1, is about Rod Tritone, the Heir to the throne, and Valerie Dumere, the Half-Human/Half-Mer. Rod has to bring her to Atlantis to fulfill a Mer Prophecy or it could be the end of their world. The problem is, she lives in Kansas and has no idea she's half Mer. Catch of a Lifetime is about Angel Tritone, their sister, and Logan Hardington a Human who finds a naked woman on his boat who just might not be what she seems.



How do you feel about fans doing fan fiction and/or roleplaying on the web based on your or other author's works?

They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, so I think it has its upside. I'd love to have enough fans who would want something like that.

(Personally, I'd want to be Chum - he has some of the best lines!)


A new trend for authors seems to be creating a playlist for their books. Did you play certain music as you wrote yours that symbolizes all or parts of your book(s)?

I wish I could say yes to this, but I need to block out sound when I write, and if I'm playing music I can sing to, I won't be able to immerse myself in the story. So, I write with a selection of classical music, some Yanni and a soundtrack of ocean sounds. Does it inspire me? I don't think so - they block out sound and fade into the background as "white noise."



Give us three "Good to Know" facts about you.

Three fun facts about me:

1. I was the only girl in 4th grade who got down on the floor with the classroom pet: an iguana. The rest of the girls were screeching on top of their desks, while the guys and I were crawling around, steering "Ozzie" through the maze of desks and chairs.


2. I was a majorette from 6th grade through 12th and was captain and feature performer. I twirled fire batons, rifles, machetes, sabres in addition to batons. It was my life and I loved every minute of performing, especially when we won State Champs in my junior year.

3. I lived in Spain for a semester while I was in college. Talk about a growing experience! I ended up engineering a 1300-mile, 8 day road trip through the south of Spain with 3 others who didn't know how to read a map, drive stick shift or pack for a road trip. I came back from that Spring Break trip with a whole new attitude - don't tell me there's something I can't do. I did that; I can do anything I put my mind too.



How do you structure your day for writing?

It's easier when the kids are in school. I put one on the bus and head to the gym. I do my workout then come home, shower, answer email, have breakfast then start writing. Depending on where I am in the process I might work until 11:00 pm. I am working all the time; if it's not on a story, it's on promotion or blogging or coming up with the next stories. It's a full time job for me now.



What are your experiences with publishers and agents?

Joining Romance Writers of America was the best thing I could have ever done. I go to conferences and luncheons and other industry functions so I've met a lot of editors and agents. I've done pitches at conferences. I've queried. I've had friends introduce me to their editors/agents. A lot of networking and getting to know them which came in handy when I was looking for an agent during the First Chapters Contest.



Do you have any advice to fledgling authors?

Join a writers' group. Go to industry functions. Get to know the people in the industry. Do your research. Put your stuff out there for critique and be willing to look at it from other perspectives.



What will the role of the Internet play in the future of publishing?

If the amount of blogging I'm doing is any indication, it's an excellent way to get your name out and connect with readers.



What's your next project?

I just turned in Catch of a Lifetime and my editor and I were discussing whether we're going to go with another Mer book next or another idea I have for a series, so I'm putting together a proposal for them and we'll go from there.

(I can't wait to see what you come up with!)



Why and how did you get started writing?

I've always written. I have a story I wrote in first grade; in 2nd grade I won honorable mention in a Caldecott Award contest. It's just something I've always done.



Why did you choose your genre?

It wasn't a conscious choice - it's what I liked to read. I recently had a high school reunion and my books were a topic of discussion. I was amazed at how many of my classmates remember me with my nose buried in a romance novel, or carrying a bunch on the bus to trade with a friend of mine.



What do you consider your best work and why?

I love all my stories as I write them, so I can't really point to one and say "that one." It's like children - each one has their own strengths and weaknesses and you love them because of who they are. I can't pick a favorite child and I can't pick a favorite story.



How do you create your characters? What determines their characteristics and names?

Names are very important in my stories - they could be a play on some part of the story, a certain characteristic I want them to have, a pun, in honor of someone... Each character creates him or herself and their name follows.



Have you ever gotten to a point where a story wouldn't come? If so, how did you get back on track?

I have, but now that I'm writing on deadline, I don't have the luxury of putting it aside and coming back to it. I tend to write linearly, so I've learned that if something is stuck, skip the scene and move on. I usually have an idea where the story is going, but since I'm a pantzer (as opposed to a plotter, i.e. write by the seat of my pants), the story can go in any direction. I've found I end up with a harder path if I try to direct it. If I let it direct me, it's a smoother ride.



What do you think is the most important characteristic of a prolific writer?

Professionalism. It's a job if you're under contract; treat is as such. Behave in a professional manner; don't put anything on the internet you don't want to "own." The internet is forever. Remember that.



How do you come up with original story lines?

They just pop into my head. It could be a character, a scene, a line, an ending, a black moment... I have so many ideas that my problem is not enough time instead of lack of ideas.



Many writers have had success writing in different genres. Do you think it is difficult to switch over to another genre?

I can't see myself ever writing straight thrillers, but there are enough subgenres within Romance: Romantic Suspense, Historical, Contemporary, etc. that I don't think it'd be hard to switch from paranormal to one of those, providing my voice fits it. But this is my first love, so I'll hang out in paranormal for a while - until some new idea shows up and directs me down that path.



Where did you receive your most valuable lessons in becoming a writer?

My first critique from the first contest I ever entered - and it was from my (now) critique partner. She read my story and said, "It's good but you need to lose the first 20 pages." She was right, but it hurt to hear that. But that experience taught me to disassociate myself from my writing - she wasn't being personal. She taught me about not doing an info dump at the opening. She taught me how to get a thick skin. All of that in one sentence.

(That is some great advice - learning to disassociate yourself from your writing when get another's opinion on it. Must remember that.)


Do you belong to a critique group or have a critique partner? Which do you prefer?

Perfect segue from the last question! Steph and I used to belong to a critique group of 4, but the other two women are no longer writing. She's published with Ellora's Cave and has very tight deadlines for her book. We still bounce things off each other and if I need an emergency read, she's right there. I also got involved with Charlotte Dillon's online critique group right after I joined RWA and that was INVALUABLE! I met a couple of great women on there who were excellent writers and critiquers and we broke off from the group and created our own. Of the 6 of us, four are now published and the other 2 are close! I have a few other very good friends - one is fellow Gather-er Beth Hill who is a goddess! - who will read something and offer me their honest opinion when I need it



Would you recommend critique groups to other writers? If so, what elements, in your opinion, make a successful writer's group?

I wouldn't be where I am today if not for my critique group/partners. Their feedback was invaluable and everyone should have one - but you need to make sure you're working with people who will help you.



Do you ever look back and think, "I wish I had written this differently?"

No. If it's not working, I don't continue. No matter how much work it takes, I'll rip the piece apart if I have to to make it the best it can be.



Is writing your full time job or do you have another job also?

I had a part time job, but it got eliminated due to the economy - and it actually came at a good time for me because I had two books to write.



How do you cope with the inevitable stress of deadlines?

Take out pizza. The kids love it, I love not having to cook, and the folks at the pizzeria love it.



How do you keep your books fresh?

The characters. Instead of looking at the three stories as a related group, I look at them as individual stories that have some similar characteristics, like setting and relationships, but each one has to be a complete story and able to stand on its own because a new reader might pick up book 2 without reading book 1 and I want them to know everything they need to know and to feel that the story is complete in that one book.



How important is it to attend writing conferences?

I can't stress enough how important writing conferences are. The workshops, the industry professionals, being around other authors, hearing what they're doing, what works, what doesn't work, what editor is looking for what type of story... and the sheer motivation of being with all those creative and successful people. I told my husband that the six months between events from the NJ conference in October to the Romantic Times Convention in April is entirely too long to go without attending some type of industry function, so I'll be keeping an eye out this year for another conference to attend.



What kinds of books do you like to read? Who is your favorite author?

I like to read the same kind of books I like to write. But I also like to read any story that's going to sweep me away in a world of romance and adventure and emotion... and of course, that happily ever after. I have favorite books as opposed to favorite authors. My favorite books are: Bewitching by Jill Barnett, Knight in Shining Armor by Jude Devereaux, When He Was Wicked by Julia Quinn, Sexiest Man Alive by Diana Holquist and Cardinal Rules by Barbara Delinsky.



For now. I'm always discovering new books that I love.



What do you do to unwind in your free time?

Free time? What's that? LOL. Seriously, right now, I don't have free time. When I'm not writing, I'm with my family or taking care of them. I do try to keep up with my Thursday night group of ladies in my neighborhood - we get together to watch Survivor and have been doing so for the last 6 years. It's a nice bit of real life sanity in the midst of the insanity.





Thank you so much for having me, Margay. This has been an amazingly fun ride since entering the First Chapters Romance contest. I'd love to hear what you think of the story, and don't forget that I'm raffling off three romantic beach getaways on my website: www.JudiFennell.com

Judi, thank you for allowing me and Moonlight, Lace and Mayhem to be a little part of your journey. I knew the first time I read your first chapter in a certain little Gather contest that it was destined for publication and I am so happy to say I was right. Much continued success! I can't wait to get my hands on a copy of this book! ~ Margay

World Building and the Chaos it Creates

Hello again everyone!

Yes, I know, I know, I've blogged about world building before, but I am so fascinated by it. I've read about some very neat worlds. One created by Jayne Ann Krentz, of course, there was middle earth (J.R.R. Tolkien) and then there was the planet of Toril (R.A. Salvatore). One thing that I noticed with each of them is that, while they had unique and interesting things, they also had very similar things as well like schooners, trees and horses. I just find it very interesting that while creating a world with magic, fantasy creatures and such, that they would have such mundane things like trees and horses. In the case of Jayne Ann Krentz, her futuristic world had very neat cars. Even though they used different methods to start them (amber or jelly ice), they were ultimately car styles we have here on earth.

I wonder why that is? Do authors use mundane, everyday things because it's easier, or because it helps the reader feel more at home?

I suppose it would be able to just use the word trees because now I have to work on what rumble trees and humming trees do and what they look like and how their names came to be, which isn't necessarily an easy task, but one that excites me.

So tell me, how many nuances need to be covered in worlds you read about? Do you ever find yourself wondering about such mundane things as insect pests like mosquitoes, gnats, flies and ticks?

Has there ever been a time when reading about a different world, that you have been left wondering about something in that world that you wish the author went into detail on? If so, what was it? Was it a minute detail or was it something that came into play throughout the story?

How detailed do you want a world you read about to be? What small nuances would you like to see given some detail, even if it is in passing? How much detail is too much?

Carrie

Mayhem-Making With Sandy Lender, author of Choices Meant For Gods

Giving Henry His Due

By Fantasy Author Sandy Lender

http://www.todaythedragonwins.blogspot.com

When Carrie, Gracen and Margay invited me to provide a guest article for today, they didn’t specify a topic. And I’ve written so many of these guest posts in preparation for my online tour this month that I wasn’t sure I had another fresh and exciting topic in me. Then poor Henry Bakerson peaked in on me and said, “You could stop neglecting me for a while.”

He’s got a very good point. For all the promotion and marketing I do for CHOICES MEANT FOR GODS, I rarely mention Henry. I let the hero Nigel Taiman have his own blog (at http://sandylender.blogspot.com). I talk about the heroine Chariss all the time. I put short stories with her wizard guardian Hrazon in my chapbook WHAT CHOICES WE MADE without ever making any mention of poor Henry. And he’s not chopped liver.

The guy is a solid, strong, bad-boy kind of character who saunters in on a wing and a prayer and throws a hitch in everybody’s giddyup (if you don’t mind me throwing a completely inappropriate analogy into the fantasy genre, here). When the reader meets Henry in chapter eighteen of CHOICES MEANT FOR GODS, she’s already heard of him and his raucous days with Nigel when they were younger lads drinking every bar in Arcana City dry and seeking “female companionship” in less-than-reputable places. So he shows up and tells some tall tales over too many ales and reveals that he’s got a contract to carry goods for the bad guy in the novel.

You can imagine what that leads to.

But Henry’s one of those ruffian-on-the-outside-good-guy-on-the-inside kind of characters that women are attracted to. He’s a kind ol’ fellow who teases little Kaylin Taiman and sends the miserly ol’ Godric Taiman into a much-needed tailspin. He gets Nigel into enough minor trouble, but keeps him out of any real trouble, if you know what I mean. Yet I forget to talk about this fabulous guy. I forget that he’s got important stuff to do in the subsequent books. I forget how dear he is to Chariss and to the matriarch of the Taiman family and to the folks who start to depend on him.

So this blog post is dedicated to Henry Bakerson. His decision to sell off his family’s bread-making business to go off to sea (which really was an escape from a young lady claiming to be “with child”) may have made him appear rash in the past, but his decision to stay on land and help an old friend in CHOICES MEANT FOR GODS proves he’s a trustworthy partner after all. Scoundrel…perhaps. But he’s a scoundrel with heart.

If you’d like to know more about Henry, or the heroine he languishes over, be sure to type up a question for me here. I’ll be checkin’ in to answer! And thank you to my hostesses for letting me give Henry some much-needed attention today. (Henry thanks you, too.) “Some days, I just want the dragon to win.”

Blurb:

Not even the gods noticed when Chariss was born with the mark of The Protector. Now she and her wizard guardian seek shelter from a mad sorcerer in a household not just full of secrets and false hope, but watched by the god who will unwittingly reveal her role in an impending war.

When an orphan sets aside a lifetime of running and fear to accept the responsibilities of guarding an arrogant deity, can she face the trials in the prophecies she uncovers? Will Nigel Taiman of her latest refuge dare to use his dragon heritage to bind her to his estate or to help her in her duty?

Excerpt:

This is a romantic scene as Nigel Taiman and Amanda Chariss ride from the estate at Arcana to Arcana City. Her wizard guardian has already clued her in to the fact that Nigel wants to court her, and she's upset over it. The scene mentions the bear-like ryfel creature that nearly killed Nigel in the training arena...

Nigel frowned at her. Spurring his horse slightly, he reached out to take hold of Shadow’s bridle. Bringing them both to a stop, he turned in the saddle to face her.

“Hey!” she objected.

“Indeed. Have I done something to anger you?”

Her cheeks reddened with embarrassment.

“’Manda?”

“You’re staring at me.”

“By the gods, Woman. All right, I’ll look at your horse. ’Manda,” he said to Shadow, “what have I done that’s made you angry?”

“I’m not angry.”

“You’re not a liar,” he spoke to Chariss again.

“All right, so I’m a little angry. It will pass.”

“And you don’t want to tell me what it is?”

She couldn’t blame her reticence today on worry over Drake. She also couldn’t blame her health because she’d completely recovered from her telabyrinth poisoning. With Hrazon and The Master attending the summer festival, she couldn’t blame some sort of timidity at being ‘alone’ in the city. No, she had to take a deep breath and be honest with him. Considering the number of suitors she’d sent packing in the past few years, this should have been an easy thing to do again. It wasn’t. She sighed, closing her eyes as if she could make the scene disappear.

“Do you agree that you’re my friend?” she finally asked.

He watched her open her eyes then, realizing where the conversation must be going.

“Yes.” It was said with exasperation.

“And that I’m your friend?”

“Yes.”

“And does that please you?”

He sighed, but didn’t get a chance to answer.

“You see, Nigel, it pleases me. I appreciate your kindness, and I would be disappointed if we hadn’t built such a…such a…”

“Friendship?” he retorted.

“Such a rapport.”

He rolled his eyes. “A fancier word with even less affection.”

“My stay at Arcana is much more pleasant because I have this relationship with you. But someone has tried to convince me that your…your…”

“Feelings?”

“Well…your…”

“Intentions?”

“Well…your opinion of our relationship might be somewhat different from mine.”

“’Manda, just say what you’re thinking. You won’t hurt my feelings.”

She looked miserable then. “I don’t want to say what I’m thinking.”

“Good!”

“No, that’s not good. Hrazon thinks you’re…Hrazon believes you spend time with me because…” She paused, searching for the words.

“Because I’m in love with you?”

She nearly fell backward. “Just blurt it out!”

He chuckled slightly. “This is uncomfortable, isn’t it? I’m sorry to embarrass you. This conversation would be better in a darkened corner of Arcana’s parlor. ’Manda, I’m not going to lie to you. Hrazon has every reason to believe I’m after his ward because I am. It’s no secret to anyone I enjoy your company. What, where are you…You’re the only woman I know who can scoot that far away on a saddle without falling off.”

“I don’t think you should say those things.”

“Aye,” he sighed, watching her fidget with Shadow’s reins. But he made a decision to press the matter. “I’m going to say them and get them out in the open. Then we can decide if you’re to die of embarrassment, or slap me across the face.”

She couldn’t help smiling, even though her heart beat as if it would burst through her bodice from the tension she felt.

“I enjoy being with you because you’re my perfect match,” he said. “Have you noticed that we agree on almost everything? And the few things we don’t agree on are intriguing to argue because you make them intriguing. There’s no one at that entire estate, The Master and every intelligent student combined, who can hold my attention as you do. None of them compare.

“I’m attracted to everything about you, including your compassion. Even now, when you’re on the verge of falling off a horse with embarrassment, your concern is for my feelings, not your own. Godric, who doesn’t deserve to wash your feet, who finds every excuse to correct you, gets your respect because you remind yourself that he’s your benefactor. Do you know what strength of character that shows? Do you know how it endears you to me to know you bite your tongue after his arrogant remarks to save my mother’s feelings?”

She merely nodded, her eyes cast down.

“And do you know how it endears you to me to know you would fight to the death for little Kaylin?”

She nodded again.

“And do you know how it endears you to me to know you instinctively threw yourself into healing spells to save my life?”

“You shouldn’t assume that means—”

“I remember sliding toward death that night, life spilling out of me, and poison seeping into me from that thing’s claws. But do you know what I remember most distinctly? I remember you commanding me not to bleed to death…and I remember your hands afterward. Once I was healed, once Master Rothahn became preoccupied with the dead ryfel, you crawled over to me and put your hands on me again, as if you had to be sure He’d done a good enough job of healing me. But you would’ve done it for any member of my family. I daresay you would’ve done it for any student in the school. And it’s because you care about others, and you want the best for everyone around you. And you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.”

The last comment caught her off guard. It didn’t seem to fit with the logical argument he tried to make.

“I fail to see how these things tell you you’re in love. Kaylin enjoys my company. Mia enjoys arguing with me. I saved Sorne’s life once. Does this mean they’re in love with me?”

“If love could be explained that easily, it wouldn’t be real.”

“But what makes you think it’s real now? If you can’t explain your feelings, how do you know you’re not misled?”

“How does the rose know to bloom in spring?”

“Oh, now that talk I’ve heard before. I didn’t believe it then, and I don’t think you should let yourself believe it now.”

“’Manda, I’m telling you the truth and I’m telling you what I know. If I’ve made you angry by falling in love with you, you’re just going to have to deal with it. Because you’re not currently interested in me, you have to give me time to change your mind.”

They were silent then; he waited for some sign that she wasn’t going to cast him aside, she waited for her heart to stop beating so loudly in her ears. As far as she was concerned, she was often a foolish girl, but her intentions at the beginning of this conversation were foolish beyond compare. She realized—with alarm—that the blood rushing through her veins, the lightheadedness, the excitement at getting to spend an afternoon with him, were all signs she had chosen to ignore.

She swallowed hard against the fear in her throat, and, with as much calm as she could muster, said: “What gives you the idea that I’m not interested in you?”

Thank you, Sandy, for creating Mayhem in the Moonlight with us today! And thank you to Goddess Fish Promotions for inviting us to be a part of this tour, who promise "at the end of each week one commenter will be randomly drawn to win an autographed, hard cover, first edition" of Choices Meant For Gods. So be sure to leave a comment for Sandy!

Children's Book Author, Barry Eva!

Thank you for taking the time to interview with us! Storyheart’s newest release is Across the Pond. His full length YA Romance novel became available in paperback in October, 2008!

(Let me just say you are in for a treat. I connect with Barry on a chat loop and he is always fun and informative. Some of you may recognize him from commenting here - Storyheart - so give him a big welcome for me!)


Barry Eva (Storyheart)
Author of "Across the Pond"

Across the Pond Website
Click here to follow my daily blog
Click here to follow my Blog Talk Radio Show
Click here for Amazon Reviews
Click here for the video trailer.

When/how did you know you wanted to write?
Who knows, I just used to tell stories, then jot poems down before they became songs. The songs became children’s stories which merged into short romance stories and now into my YA novel.


How long did it take you to become published?

I did the rounds of publishers and agents, which is one circle, worse than the chicken and the egg. One will not take you without the other, and the other will not look at you before the first.

How long does it usually take for you to research a book? Write the book?

My book took my a year, 5 months to get the first three chapters, rhythm, pace and voice, then a chapter a week after that, before re-writes.

Is there any character in your books that you can really relate to?

Fred definitely has plenty of me in him, and many of the stories and actions have happened to me since moving to the US myself.

What advice do you give to those who are just starting out or trying to become published?

Listen, look, learn don’t be afraid to ask for help, and above all have faith in what you write.

(Great advice - especially the having faith in yourself.)

Where do your story ideas come from? Do you use people you know as characters sometimes or even sometimes a certain event from real life happenings?

They say write about what you know. I moved from England to the US in 2000, so I know plenty about what I’ve written, and many of the events in the book have some reality behind them.

You just recently were published. How does it make you feel?

The publishing is only over shadowed by the wonderful reviews, interviews and comments I have received. That is what keeps a writer going.

(Barry has been getting tons of fantastic reviews for Across the Pond.)

Getting back to your books coming out soon. Tell us a little about what to expect from them.

The next book will follow straight from the first and be called “Across the Pond and Back Again” many of the characters from the first book will appear and it will take place in England.


All online book shops. and as from the end of July, in many of the normal book stores.


What are you reading right now?

“The Accidental Bestseller” by Wendy Wax. I recently interviewed her on my radio show and her book is a must for all authors.

(It's on my to be read list already!)

Are there any authors (living or dead) that you would name as influences?

Of course being English, one has to relate to Shakespeare, but know the book is just me, even though it has been compared to Judy Blume.

(Wow, that's some comparison! Way to go, Barry!)

What was the book that most influenced your life — and why?

Tough, I think Reach for the Sky by Sir Douglas Bader. It taught me never to give up and keep on fighting, if you're told do 10, do 20, if you're told you'll never do this or that, do it.

(Good advice for anyone, not just aspiring authors.)

If you had a book club, what would it be reading — and why?

I think there is never a book club for the adventure type books, I love sea fairing stuff like Alexander Kent and the Sharpe books, anything with adventure.

What are your favorite books to give — and get — as gifts?

I give what I can, I never tend to receive, just use the local library.

Give us three "Good to Know" facts about you.

Only three lol okay.

I once danced with Margaret Thatcher
I run a karaoke show
I can’t spell.

(Wow, you've led an interesting life - dancing with Margaret Thatcher!)


What else do you want your readers to know?

I love all sport, I ran 5 London Marathons in my 40’s all in costume, I played rugby for 35 years, I still at heading towards 60 play softball. I love to sing, enjoy a beer, and love to have a laugh.


What are your experiences with publishers and agents?

Let us just say “no good” there are not enough exclamation marks to tell you some of my thoughts.

What will the role of the Internet play in the future of publishing?

IT IS THE WAY FORWARD!! As anybody who has heard my radio shows, interview or read my blogs will know the internet, virtual tours, blogs is the way ahead. Book shops are mainly just warehouses these days. The internet spreads the word across the world.

What's your next project?

Completing my second book

Why did you choose your genre?

I decided I wanted to write something for a younger age group than my short romance stories.

Have you ever gotten to a point where a story wouldn't come? If so, how did you get back on track?

Just stopped for a week, and waited for it to happen, you can’t force yourself.


What do you think is the most important characteristic of a prolific writer?

What is prolific? A person who writes a chapter before breakfast or one he just sits down and churns out 2000 words a day?

Me, I write when the muse hits me, when the words are ready they will come.

If you could choose one thing to be remembered by, what would it be?

That I was able to bring a laugh to people's lips and a smile to people’s hearts.

(You do that every day, Barry! I can attest to that. And you will be remembered for it.)

How do you come up with original story lines?

Life’s Experience.

Some authors start out with a plot in mind, others with characters whom they’ll follow to reveal the theme. What works best for you and why?

I start with some form of plot and build the characters, I often don’t know the ending until I write it, and love having twists to make people think they know the ending but are proved wrong.

Do you use a pseudonym? More than one? Why?

Stroryheart is my non de plume, it stems from when I was chatting on the internet in chat rooms. My wife chatted under the name Tenderheart, I wrote stories so became Storyheart.



No, you just have to be that age when you write, for young adults the main thing is not to talk down to them.

When did you start writing?

At the age of 10

Where did you receive your most valuable lessons in becoming a writer?

My SCBWI group (Society of Book Writers and Illustrators)

Do you belong to a critique group or have a critique partner? Which do you prefer?

I have done been in a critique group and found it very helpful. Perhaps when I get into this next book I’ll look for help again.

Would you recommend critique groups to other writers? If so, what elements, in your opinion, make a successful writer’s group?

They don’t judge, they try and help, and you listen and take on board what they say.

Do you ever look back and think, "I wish I had written this differently?"

All the time.

Is writing your full time job or do you have another job also?

Writing is about 2% of my life, I have a young family, my singing, a full time job plus anything else that come along.



A year, I tend to write in my lunch breaks at work.

How important is it to attend writing conferences?

It depends on what sort of writer you are, attending at least one is an experience, but too many perhaps can be just be confusing, you end up writing what other people say, not what your mind is telling you.

Do you write more than one kind of book? Do you have a preference? Is one type of book easier to write than another?
I write YA, children’s plus romance short stories. The short stories are more easy, churn over the idea, 45mins dash down and there you are.

What kinds of books do you like to read? Who is your favorite author?

Bernard Cornwell is my favorite author, his sea faring and Sharpe books, I like science fantasy as well.

What do you do to unwind in your free time?

Have fun!

Well, you certainly brought fun to us today, Barry! Thank you for spending time in the Moonlight with us and creating a little Mayhem while you were at it! Everyone, do yourselves a favor and check out Barry's blog. One of the things he likes to do is get to the bottom of English words and/or traditions, such as why they drive on the opposite side of the road from us. It's not only entertaining to read, it's educational. And Barry's such a fun guy, you'll be glad you did. ~ Margay

Which Super Villain Are You?

Last Friday I wrote about superheroes. We can’t have superheroes without super villains.

Mwhahahaha…*rubs hands evilly together*…pretend that was my evil laugh. :D

I think I mentioned last week that I adored Catwoman from the Batman series growing up. Unfortunately, my family wasn’t happy with that love and refused to allow me to pretend to be Catwoman. I’m not sure what it was that drew me to her. I know I loved that husky purr she had. And I thought she was beautiful, so I probably was intrigued by the lure she had on men. But, since I was a child, who knows why I was drawn to her.

Just like with the various superheroes, there are various super villains. Just think about the super villains of popular culture and their different aspects: Green Goblin, Dr. Doom, Lex Luthor, The Joker, The Penguin, Darth Vader, The Riddler, Catwoman, Angelus, Spike and, I’m sorry, but I have to add the Yellow Eyed Demon from Supernatural because he was an outstanding super villain. That’s just to name a few. Like superheroes, super villains are an ever evolving creature.

I took the “Which Super Villain Are You” quiz, located here:

http://www.thesuperheroquiz.com/villain/

It said I was super villain Mystique because I’m “Sometimes motherly, sometimes a beautiful companion, but most of the time a deceiving vixen.”

ROFL Is it wrong that I found that villainous definition to be a compliment? Those that know me would probably agree with this assessment of my villain-ish description. :D

Like last week, I asked my boys which villain they would want to be and here are their answers:

B (my oldest): “The Joker”.

N (my youngest): “Sandman”, but he wanted to add the power of “invisibility”.

I’m at the beach this week with my friend and her son. Their answer to this same question was:

P (my friend’s son): “Venom”, but he wanted to add the powers of “laser vision and unlimited artillery”.

My friend didn’t have a particular super villain she wanted to be, but she did want to have “x-ray vision and zapping powers”.

Similar to last week, my question to you is if you could be a super villain, whom would you be or what type of powers would you have if you created your own super villain? Also, share your super villain name with us if you’d have one. Or take the above quiz and share with us which super villain it said you were and why.

I hope everyone has a super villain weekend! ;-)

Tree Hopping with Plot Monkey Carly Phillips!

Hey there everyone!

Currently, I am reading Hot Stuff and I am listening to Cross My Heart by Carly Phillips. Let me tell you, this is another fabulous author! Hot Stuff is the first of three novels about three sisters (Annabelle, Sophie and Micki) who are forced to live their bachelor uncle when they are young because their parents are killed in a plane crash in the Andes. While I would love to be able to read more about their uncle, the story really begins when the girls have actually grown up.

What caught me was the following exchange in the Prologue:

The youngest, whose name he thought was Michelle, bent down and picked the paper up off the floor. Before she tossed it into the trash, Yank caught sight of white panties beneath her short dress.

"Well, I'll be damned. You've got a bow on your butt," he muttered aloud.

His niece turned, "You have a foul mouth, Uncle Yack."

"That's Yank and you're darned right I do. Any of you got a problem with that?" he asked all three girls.

.....

"If you can curse, does that mean I get to do what I want, too?" The youngest faced him with hands on hips, a determined tilt to her chin.

She obviously had gumption. "That depends, what do you want to do?"

"Ditch the dress!"

***end of excerpt***

That little exchange had me hooked not only on the trilogy, but on the author too! She obviously has a great sense of humor which is evident throughout this book. I can't wait to read the other two.

Cross My Heart is a book that demonstrates the range of her talent. It's going to be interesting to see how this story turns out. This book focuses on three children who met at a foster home when they were young and what happened to them as a result of something they did when they were 17. It's quite interesting so far. It makes for a nice audiobook!

I discovered Carly at the same place I discovered Julie Leto, on Plot Monkeys. By searching through her website, I have found that she is very photogenic too, so be prepared ladies!

Carly is definitely a woman who makes wearing glasses sexy! And yet, one more reason to pick up any of her books!!!!

If you're doing the same thing I am right now, thinking that she reminds you of someone, but you just can't figure out who, just wait. This one will blow you away, especially if you haven't seen it yet....

For fun and mayhem.....

Young Carly (left) and Jennifer Grey (right, from Dirty Dancing)
Talk about using your assets! Way to go Carly!!!!

Now that I've had my fun, let's get to the real reason you're reading this blog post, Carly's blog for her new book,

Lucky Streak
But first, a little back ground, since it is the second in a series
Lucky Charm which is in stores now!
Long ago, as revenge on a Corwin who stole her son's fiancee, a witch proclaimed an eternal curse that every Corwin male who married for love would be destined to lose his love and his fortune ...

Derek thought he could outsmart the long-standing Corwin curse by breaking up with Gabrielle, his first love— and marrying someone else. Now, divorced and broke, all he has left is his teenage daughter and a healthy respect for ancient sorcery. But then Gabrielle returns, determined to defeat the curse and rekindle their passion. But will her stubborn streak and her unwavering love be the lucky charm Derek so desperately needs?

And now....Carly Phillips! Yay!!!!!

I love asking people what they think about LUCK. I always get different answers and it’s so interesting to me. I guess that’s what led to the LUCKY series.
Everybody fantasizes about going to Las Vegas and winning big. And certainly, we’ve all seen the “Whatever Happens …” TV commercials and secretly wished we were experiencing the spontaneity and frenzy of Sin City shown in these ads. Excitement and luck run rampant there. Everywhere you turn, someone or something is beckoning to you to try your LUCK!

Mike Corwin, the second Corwin cousin heads to the gambling capital for just such an experience, but will the infamous Corwin Curse that has plagued the males in his family for generations follow him? Or will he end up on a lucky streak that lasts a lifetime? This is the premise of my newest novel and the second book in my “Lucky” series, Lucky Streak.

And sometimes, thankfully, luck pays off for me! I definitely don’t like to presume good things will happen, I like to hope. I’m afraid of jinxing something. Can you really do that? I rarely tempt fate. But it’s an interesting concept, isn’t it? Luck?

LUCK is fickle. And yet many of us believe. When I ask myself why, I realize it’s because of HOPE. It’s the possibility that Lady Luck will step in and pick us up that provides a ray of hope. LUCK causes us to play the lottery, pick up a heads up penny, read fortune cookies, and many more crazy, superstitious things. It was the concept of LUCK that drove the idea for my new LUCKY series and book two is in stores now!

Fortune hasn’t been so kind, however, to the men in the Corwin family. And Mike Corwin is the latest to cross her path. Where? LAS VEGAS! The good news is that Mike, a police officer, awakens after some hard partying in Vegas $100,000 richer and married to Amber, the gorgeous woman he met the night before. The bad news: His last name is Corwin. The really bad news is that Amber's a consummate con who took his money and ran. Seems the family curse has finally hit him.

But to Amber, Mike isn't business as usual. Something about her new husband softens her steely heart, even as she betrays him. And Mike, first hell-bent on divorce, welcomes a second chance to defy the curse... and turn his run of bad fortune into a lucky streak!

Jason Corwin's story is in
Lucky Break

which will hit store shelves in October 2009.

I wanted to extend LUCK to my readers so I’ve created an on-going contest, which encompasses all three books in this series for those who read them. I call it the “Lucky You” Contest! Six lucky winners will receive a special gift! For more information on how to enter, visit: www.carlyphillips.com.

Still feeling LUCKY? Enter the Lucky Streak Reader Contest courtesy of (me) and HQN books! One winner will receive $1,000 to spend anyway they want … Again, visit www.carlyphillips.com for entry rules!

There’s also my monthly contest (a beautiful, LUCKY necklace); the sizzling book video – you should see and hear the hero! And of course the book itself, Lucky Streak in stores now!

So, what do you all think of LUCK? Does it exist? Can you create your own luck? Or does luck follow you? Tell me YOUR thoughts!

Frankie the Walk 'N' Roll Dog

My Review

Told from the point of view of Frankie, a spunky Dachsund with a big heart, Frankie, the Walk 'n' Roll Dog is an uplifting story of a brave little pooch facing adversities we humans can easily identify with: disabilities. Frankie is an active and playful dog until an accident takes away her ability to walk. Her back legs paralyzed, she must undergo surgery and physical therapy. Still, she cannot use her back legs, so her owners discover a new way for her to get around - a cart! They have one specially designed for Frankie and soon, she finds herself actively pursuing her life as she did before the accident.

When I first became aware of this book, I was interested in it because I am raising a daughter with disabilities and though hers are more of an emotional and behavioral nature, they still present many challenges when dealing with every day issues - such as the perception of others regarding her problems. Frankie eloquently addressed these issues in her story, making me forget, for a moment, that I was reading about a dog and not another girl. I think this story will have that affect on everyone who reads it, including children with disabilities. This story shows that, despite our differences, despite our issues or disabilities, we still have a lot to contribute to society and our lives and experiences could make a difference to others. I would recommend this book to people of all ages. It serves as a good reminder that we are only limited by our own ideas of what we can and cannot do. This book is a treasure.

In Frankie's Own Words:



Thank you for reading about Barbara Techel and Frankie the Walk 'n Roll Dog. To learn more, and to order a copy of this multi-award winning picture book, please visit http://www.joyfulpaws.com/ Other Sites to Check Out: Barbara's Blog: http://joyfulpaws.typepad.com/ Frankie's Blog: http://frankiethewalknrolldog.blogspot.com/ To See the Tour Schedule: http://virtualblogtour.blogspot.com/2009/05/frankie-walk-n-roll-dog-virtual-book.html There will be a SPECIAL OFFER FOR VISITORS TO THE VIRTUAL BLOG TOUR. Each guest who comments on a post in Barbara and Frankie's tour will be entered in a drawing for some fun, unique gifts that will especially appeal to Frankie fans and other dog lovers. We will give away several items from Frankie's store -- http://www.cafepress.com/Joyfulpaws. These include two Frankie t-shirts and two Frankie tote bags.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION THAT YOU MAY USE:

About Barbara Techel

Barbara is a writer and animal lover. Her column, "For the Love of Animals" has appeared in the Depot Dispatch. Frankie the Walk 'n Roll dog, her first children's book, was awarded the 2008 National Best Book Award (children’s picture book soft cover) by USA Book News, the Merial Human-Animal Bond Award by Dog Writer’s Association of America, and the Editor’s Choice Award by Allbooks Review. It was also a finalist in the 2008 Indie Excellence Awards. Frankie herself was inducted into the 2009 Wisconsin Pet Hall of Fame.

About Frankie the Walk 'n Roll Dog

Frankie is a dachshund, and this story is told from her point of view. She survives the normal challenges of puppyhood, including a struggle with house training, after Barbara and John adopt her. After a spinal injury, her human family nurtures her through a long period of rehabilitation and buys her a custom-fitted wheelchair. It takes a while to adapt to her new wheels, but soon she is joyfully rolling and playing.

Barbara wrote this book to offer hope and inspiration to people who face challenges. A lifelong animal lover, she realized Frankie's paralysis was an opportunity to spread a positive message.

Thank you, Barbara and Frankie, for sharing your story with us. You are truly an inspiration. ~ Margay