Monique DeVere

So Near And Yet So Far!

2012-01-25T11:32:00.000Z

Have you ever felt the devil is out to get you?

I have to say I've been under this impression for some time now. Talk about distractions and discouragements.

At the end of December I decided that since Meg's chemotherapy was scheduled to finish at the end of this month I would get January out of the way then work till I sweat to get stories and scripts out this year. Then Meg caught a cold in December which weakened her already weak immune system and she ended up in hospital with Pneumocystis Carinii pneumonia. We only just got out of hospital.

Praise God she's almost back to normal, but for a few weeks things got a little scary.

Now I find I've lost all of the enthusiasm I started the new year with and I'm left wondering if life will ever be as I once knew it.

If that sounds depressing that's because it's the way I feel. I just want to scream and cry and rant and rave and curse. But instead I'm focusing my energy on God while I diligently read my bible because it's where I find my strength.

Megyn's last monthly chemo is now rescheduled for tomorrow. After that, two weeks of daily at home chemo will follow. Then she gets her final bone marrow and lumbar puncture, signalling the end of two and a bit years on this journey.

It's been an emotional roller-coaster story. One I prayer this family, in all the generations to come, NEVER has to live through again!

Thanks for spending time with me here on the blog. With the help of God, I'll be back to blogging about something other than my woes very soon.

Until next time may God's love and blessings be with you!

Just Getting Out The Duster

2011-12-12T22:00:00.000Z

I can see cobwebs growing over the door and in all the corners of my blog! So I thought I'd get out the duster and do a little dusting.

It's been a hard two and a bit years where I saw my world come to a horrifying standstill. On one hand, it feels as though Meg was diagnosed with Leukaemia only yesterday, and on the other, it feels like a lifetime ago. I guess you can say it's been a lifetime. Everything--life!--as we knew it imploded that October just over two years ago.

And now finally we are at the end. In approximately eight weeks Meg is scheduled to finish her chemotherapy, praise God! Sure, we have a whole heap of other hurdles to leap over, but it's a small price to pay for her well-being.

With the end so close, I find myself looking to the New Year with quiet anticipation and a whole lot of trepidation. Will I ever get back into the swing of writing again? It's been so long since we've been able to plan ahead I've forgotten what it feels like to make plans and be sure I'll be able to follow them through.

I'm looking at Indie publishing, but so far I've been deterred by my absolute lack of time to market and promote my work. Perhaps with the New Year I'll have a better view on that option. But then I've had quite a few ideas for films and TV series. I think I'd like to spend some time exploring that area of my arsenal. To tell you the truth, I think I'll be far better suited to screenwriting than novel writing since I much prefer the idea of quietly writing in an area where I don't have to worry about spending hours each day marketing but instead can spend my days writing. As a screenwriter no one needs to know who you are in order for people to go to see your movies.

I really like the anonymity of screenwriting. But I guess I'll see once the New Year blossoms.

I hope all of you know where you're going and that you get there without too many stumbling blocks.

In case I don't get around to dusting the place before the New Year, I pray you have a very Happy Christmas, Chanukah (Hanukkah), Happy New Year!

God bless!

When You Can't Please Everyone

2011-10-24T22:52:00.001+01:00

I have a confession. I've been sitting on my hands for a few months now. Yes,I've been writing, but not as much as perhaps I ought to be. I get so far, putthe story aside, and start another one.

After writing several half stories I had to ask myself what gives? Then itfinally came to me. Each day I begin my writing day with one glaring thought—I'mnot good enough. I mean I can't please every reader, so that must mean I'mreally not that good, right? Sure, lots of readers love my stories, but I still lacktotal faith in my talent—much like every other author out there.

Recently I started looking at reviews for the authors I admire. I won't namenames for the simple fact that I discovered, much to my surprise, all of theseauthors fail to please all of their readers. They all have hundreds of reviewswhich range from five stars to one star reviews. The one star reviews usuallycome from disappointed readers who bought the book on the strength of the fivestar reviews then found the books lacked what they were looking for.

This made me realise that if even the big name authors can't satisfy everyreader of their books, why do I think I should hold back until I can achievethis impossible task? I may be slow in coming to this raw fact but it is indeeda very real reality that you just can't please all of the people all of thetime. You can only hope to please some of the people some of the time and, for me,this is a freeing insight. I can only push ahead and do my best. And pray thatmy stories bring joy to the majority of my readers.

It's liberating to forge ahead with the decision that I'm only aiming toplease some of my readers. Those who love my work will come back and those who don’twill find someone they love instead.

I'm finally okay with that.

This sounds simple, but I like people to like me, so to come to theacceptance that not everyone will is indeed a huge physiological step to scalingthe wall I’ve been running into for a while now.

If the big name authors can put out book after book even though they knowtheir books aren’t well received by everyone who reads them, what makes me anydifferent?

The only difference is they are doing their job and putting out books whileI am not! Time to change that I think cos I discovered something—when you find you can't please everyone, it's okay just to please yourself!

The Scary Beast Called Book Marketing

2011-10-08T10:27:00.001+01:00

With four months to go until my little girl is finally finished chemo I findmyself looking at my writing career once again. It was in 2009 that Meg wasdiagnosed with Leukaemia. Needless to say the diagnosis totally turned mypriorities on its head. Before that, I had a great plan--which fell by thewayside for the last two years.

Now I can see light at the end of the long chemotherapy tunnel I realiselife will soon return to normal...what's that again? Before I know it, she'll returnto school fulltime and back to her independent self which will leave me free toget some serious work out into the world.

And with that comes the need to market. I am the world’s worstself-promoter. As an introvert I always feel vain talking about my books andoperate under the belief that people will somehow happen upon my books, readthe excerpts and of course buy the books--cos, well, after all...they'rebrilliant...as is every other books out there, right?

Since this belief system hasn't worked for me up to now, I've decided I needto learn how to market my books and myself. I've been learning lots from JoannaPenn of The Creative Penn. This woman is amazing in her diligence in providingthe information she has for writers. Right now, she is my number one resourceand I absolutely love her! She has tons of audios on her site, which works forme since it allows me simply to listen rather than having to read hundreds ofposts. Did I mention I love her?

If you get a chance, pop over to The Creative Penn. You won't regret it.

On the other hand, if you have any great marketing advice you wouldn't mindsharing with me, please leave a comment. Thanks :)

NOTE: The links take you away from this site. If you pop out to visit Joanna, please pop back here and leave a comment. I'd really appreciate it--thanks again.

If It's Good Enough For Films, It's Good Enough For Books!

2011-09-05T14:54:00.002+01:00

Recently I found myself appalled by the stuff that's making it onto the book market. There are certain things I don't want to read. I'm not speaking of genre--we all have our preferences--I'm speaking of language. For many years I stuck closely to Harlequin Mills & Book Modern Romance because I knew when I picked up one of those romance novels, I was assured a clean read. I loved the sexual tension, banter, emotion, characters etc and I knew I could relax and simply enjoy because I felt assured I wouldn't encounter my absolute pet hates--the use of the F word or having to read blasphemies. I can't stomach the use of my Lord's name as a curse word!

So you can imagine my shock when I happen across not one--but two! HMB romances which used Jesus' name in this way. Needless to say, it ruined two stories I'd been enjoying and I instantly stopped reading the novels. I can't bring myself to purchase any of the new stories for fear of the same thing happening.

That said, I've been looking at the indie stuff at Amazon and was amazed by some of this stuff--and not in a good way. Thankfully, as I read the reviews of one particular book I was about to purchase, I noticed a couple of readers complained about the over use of the F word. These reviews saved me wasting my money.

Don't get me wrong. I have nothing against authors who feel they lack the necessary vocab to express themselves or their characters; I just don't want to read that sort of stuff. I am aware some authors cater to the market and I'm sure these books sell by the ton.

But there are still a few of us who like clean reads. I'm not jumping on a soapbox to blabber on about flooding the market with bland books. I won't buy them either! Cos I like my books sizzling, emotional and feel-good. What I am saying is: please, oh, please can we find a way to give books a rating?

As I inspect my DVD shelf, I see BBFC ratings on every single one!

When you look at any DVD case you’ll see a rating symbol on the front and back of the case. This is the film’s classification or rating. In the UK films are rated by The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC). And in America it’s The Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA).

Film classification gives viewers a guide to the age requirement of the viewer and an idea of the film’s content. Why can't we have something like this on our books? And, like DVDs, give a reason for the rating.

I grabbed a few random DVDs from my shelf and had a look. Here is what I found:

Knight And Day {(12) Contains moderate violence and one use of strong language}
What Happens In Vegas {(12) Contains moderate sex references and language}
Cougar Town {(15) Contains frequent moderate & crude sex references}
Dream Girls {(12) Contains one use of strong language and hard drug references}
Something's Gotta Give {(12) Contains infrequent strong language and moderate sex references}
The Lake House {(12) Contains mild language and accident scene}
Red {(12) Suitable only for persons of 12 years and over}
Two Can Play that Game {(15) Suitable only for persons of 15 years and over}

I can keep going, but I'm sure you get the idea. The fact is, I can read the DVDs' blurbs, look at the ratings, and decide whether I wish to go ahead and purchase/watch these films.

I then look at my bookshelf and grab a novel. I read the blurb and it looks like a fantastic story. I can't wait to snuggle down and start reading! I want to get lost in this story and it does not disappoint. Then bam!! Without any warning, I'm knocked sideways by something I consider to be offensive. Had that book a rating/warning I would've been able to decide whether I wanted to read it or not.

I'm not asking writers to change what they write, I'm simply asking for the opportunity to buy or leave books based an informed choice. I feel we seriously need to have books rated. If it's good enough for films, why, pray tell, isn't it good enough for books!

Do You Want Writing Romance Question Forum To Return?

2011-09-03T10:04:00.000+01:00

I've noticed I'm getting a lot of hits on the WRQ Forum post. I wonder whether this is out of curiosity, or because writers are genuinely interested in this forum.

I started the forum because I had a brainwave and thought it would be something every aspiring writer would be interesting in, but it didn't go down as well as I'd hoped.

We had some fabulous authors, editors and agents on the board to answer questions and more amazing authors, editors and agents scheduled. I ended up shelving the forum because only the same few writers bothered to participate and it was stealing way too much of my time.

I am, however, willing to get the forum up and running again if enough writers are interested in participating.

Please note, I've made every effort to keep the board private. Meaning the various forums are password protected. Therefore, everyone who joins must let me know--via private message on the board--which forums they are interested in joining and I will forward the relevant passwords.

This must be done in good time to allow you to be added and your passwords sent.

In the past a few members would join, don't bother to read the instructions, then complain when they couldn't get into the forums. This boggled my mind--what part of This Is Important Information You Need To Know translated as Please Ignore Then Bellyache!

If you are interested in having the chance to talk directly to your favourite authors, editors and agents. To have the opportunity to ask them everything you wanted to know about the world of writing, I urge you to leave a comment letting me know. If enough writers are interested, I'll start that baby up again! :)

Left Brain Interruptus

2011-08-08T14:07:00.000+01:00

"Pat you head and rub your tummy!" said my little girl to me.

An instant memory of my playground days flashed to mind. I used to be brilliant at this feat. Somehow I doubted I'd still be able to do it. I mean, it's been more years than I care to admit since I'd attempted to pat my head and rub my tummy at the same time.

But if it entertained her, I'd give it a go. To my amazement, it was like no time had passed at all. With easy dexterity I patted and rubbed, then reversed direction and, just to check, I swapped hands and got the same smooth a result.

Needless to say, Meg was very impressed and I was so shocked I had an epiphany!

For years I've been bemoaning the fact that I just can't shut up my internal editor (what I call left-brain interruptus) and spend all of my writing hours fighting and resisting the need to make sure each word is perfect, every sentence constructed clearly, and all the other editorial tasks that ensures a great read, which, let me tell you, slows output right down. I'm not talking about the editing, simply the resistance that grinds creativity to a halt.

It was only while patting and rubbing that something dawned on me. To achieve this simple childhood exercise you must be able to use both sides of your brain simultaneously. So while I'm completely right brained, I am super-capable of multitasking--to the point where I get compliments for it. In case you don't realise, you use both sides of your bran when multitasking.

Anyway, back to the point.

The point I'm making is, it's possible to write and edit and still write fast IF you embrace left-brain interruptus as you natural way of writing. I've always had to write and edit before I can move on--you can see where the trouble came in if all I did was fight myself. I was convinced I had to write an entire first draft before starting all over again with a second draft and on and on until I had my story polished to a high sheen--well that's what the experts would have us believe, isn't it?

But what if we go crazy and write and edit as we go? We may not finish a first draft in six weeks, but when we do finish the MS in two to three months it will be completely finished and polished! To my way of thinking, we can have two authors: Author A and Author B. Author A writes at a cracking pace and finishes an entire novel in no time at all. But she has to start all over again and write another draft and another and another and... Then we have Author B who writes--to her mind--at an excruciatingly slow pace and finishes a novel in three months. But once she types The End she's finished. Perhaps she'll go back and tinker-- because that's what she does--but her novel is finished.

By this time Author A is also finished.

Both authors took the same length of time to write their books, they just took different routes to get there. So whether we write one draft after another, or accept our super ability to polish as you go, chances are two authors starting from the same point, but travelling in opposite directions to an end point, will finish at the same time.

This is my theory, anyway. <*grin*>

Want to know what I learned while trying to entertain my daughter? I learned not to fight myself ever again--to embrace my natural ability to multitask and allow myself to write the way my mind works! I bet this alone will increase my output.

Do you suffer from left brain interruptus?

Perhaps you, too, might consider embracing your gift and using it to excel. At the very least, your writing day will be a LOT less stressed!

Free Read Romance Story

2011-08-05T12:09:00.002+01:00

Hello-hello!

It's the middle of the year and I suddenly realized it's been ages since I last gave away a story. I LOVE-LOVE free reads, I'm sure you do too. Free anything and I'm there. My two eldest kids have made it a joke. One will say to the other, "What's mum's favourite price?" And they'd croon in unison "Freeeeeee." Yes, it's very hilarious...at my expense. But nonetheless true!

To my way of thinking, EVERYBODY likes *free*. So I've beavered away this week and came up with a lovely romance story for you. It's a best friend story about finally taking that step. Sometimes you just have to be ditched at the altar in order to discover that the person who's been there for you through it all... wants you forever!

I've also put up my first free read story. You can download both of these stories by clicking the link to my Free Reads page just above my blog posts.

Please look out for other stories. I hope to add to my collection of Free Reads in the coming months.

Thanks for stopping by!

How Fast Do You Write?

2011-07-30T23:30:00.004+01:00

It's been a while!

What have I been up to? I hear you ask. Apart from my screenwriting course, which was just a fab learning process, I've been doing a lot of learning and trying to nail down the illusive skill of writing a successful category romance.

But most recently I've been trying to figure out how some authors manage to churn out words at the speed of light while others--like myself--take a good three months or longer to finish a 50,000 word book. I've heard authors say write a bad first draft then re-write. What I'm curious to discover is whether authors who write 20 pages in two hours do that. Do they write total nonsense then re-write until it makes sense?

See, I don't get that. Surely it makes more sense to stop and think about where your story is going and get it right the first time rather than toss out any old pants then try to fix it. Another thing I'm wondering is: is it possible to write a word a second?

I ask because I've become fixated on this subject, if only because it's another handy stick to beat myself with. But if you look at this logically--1 manuscript page is somewhere around 250 words. Therefore 20 pages would total approximately 5000 words. Okay so, 5000 words written in 120 minutes would give a writing speed of about 42 words per min. which would require a typing speed of around 0.7 word per second continuously!

WOW!! Some people can think super-fast!

I'm no typing slouch but there is no way I can think that fast to come up with dialogue, sexual tension, conflict, back story, portray traits, characterization, motivation, create sensual emotive love scenes, emotion, quirks, scars, weaknesses, strengths, etc, etc in continuous seconds without stopping to test whether these story moments make any sense or are even remotely entertaining.

To do that, you'd have to write without thinking. I'd love that gift, I can tell you! Or do these authors spend hours planning and prewriting each scene before they transfer words to keyboard? It takes me a whole day to write 1000 words, so do forgive me if I'm a little sceptical about such claims.

I'm not saying it isn't possible to write a word and a half a second, I'm simply saying....hmmm...I might need to train as a Stenographer...

How fast do you write? And can you tell me how? I've made it my goal to increase my output. I'd love you to share your tricks with me.

Divorce Etiquette Is Now On Kindle

2011-06-11T11:29:00.000+01:00

I'm please to share the news that Divorce Etiquette is now on Amazon Kindle!

Divorce Etiquette
by Monique DeVere

A Contemporary Romance (Reunion/Second Chance Romance) available from The Wild Rose Press and several other online book stores including Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk.

Blurb:

They're breaking every rule of divorce etiquette!

Sometimes, a whirlwind marriage doesn’t lead to happily-ever-after…Nor does a quickie divorce.

Turnaround expert Andrew Boston can turn any failing business into a huge success, but he couldn’t fix his marriage. A family tragedy left Andrew unable to commit to fatherhood, but he can’t let Michelle walk away. He’s determined to win her back and prove a relationship between the two of them can work perfectly well without bringing children into the equation…

Corporate lawyer Michelle Boston divorced Andrew two and a half years ago—and for good reason. She learnt a whirlwind marriage did not mean happily-ever-after. Nor, unfortunately, did a quickie divorce.

Especially when neither Andrew nor Michelle can stick to the first rule of divorce etiquette: no kissing!

Excerpt:

He hunched down next to her chair, leaned in a couple of inches to add intimacy to his deep rumbling tone. "I have a few rules of my own."

Michelle gulped. This was going to be harder than she thought. "You're breaking the second rule."

"Am I?" He was so close her stomach did a little flip. She wanted to lose herself in his beautiful smoky gaze. "You made five rules. I want five too."

"You do?" What restrictions could he possibly put on her? She was completely innocent in this. If he would just keep his distance, she could move on, and everything would be fine.

"Rule six," he began, his gaze roaming over her face. "Stop looking at me as if you'd like to lick ice cream right off me."

Michelle gasped under the shock of his evocative words. A memory of her doing just that hit her low in her belly.

Before she could recover, he continued, "Rule seven. No wearing sexy little hipsters that flash your underwear when you bend over."

That did it. Her gasp turned to a splutter, her face suffused with heat that had nothing to do with the warm sunshine.

"Rule eight," he continued, as though she wasn't about to suffocate under the weight of embarrassment. "Don't wear your hair down. It makes me want to bury my hands in it.

"Rule nine. No wearing little black dresses--they make me want to see you naked."

His cultured voice reverberated through her until every nerve in her body jangled, her bones melted, and a shuddering sigh escaped her.

"And ten, no more crying." He didn't even seem to notice she'd practically dissolved at his feet. "It makes your mouth pouty and far too kissable." He stood and took the Maplewood chair opposite Michelle's, his knee brushing hers as he sat down.

Obviously, rule five meant nothing to him.

View Trailer on YouTube or on my Author page @ Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com

Characterize Your Characters

2011-06-02T20:33:00.003+01:00

I'm not a very faithful blogger, am I? But I hope when I do get time to blog you find the content worthwhile.

Today I'd like to give you a quick tip on characterization. I know-I know, everybody and his dog talks about characterization, but I'm hoping you find a gem in here somewhere.

Don't worry; I'm not going to suggest you spend hours interviewing your characters so you can "get to know them". I value my time—as I’m sure you do too—and can't stand anything that waste it. This is why I've never been able to bring myself to interview my characters. By the time I've filled out one of those arduous character profiles, I've lost the will to write!

The way I see it, if I have a scene where I need to know my character’s favourite ice cream, or most embarrassing experience, she or he will tell me when I need the info. I'm happy to write on a need-to-know basis. As far as I'm concerned, any information I have on my character that isn't necessary for the reader to know can only mean I've got lots of padding available should I get lazy and decide to bore my reader with nonsense.

But I hasten to add: this is my opinion!

I take my hat off to anyone who enjoys interviewing their characters and filling out 100 Qs questionnaires before putting finger to keyboard. If this is your way and you're happy with it...(I tip my hat).

However, if you are a busy author and recognize the need for effective writing tools, stick with me, I'll tell you how I characterize my characters.

Have you ever written a scene and your CPs point out that your POV character is behaving out of character? The reason is most likely you didn't take the time to give your character traits. Yes, character traits are an amazing way to ensure your character always stays in character.

Character traits are characteristics, which makes your character special. Things like habits, likes and dislikes, values, manners, personality, behaviour. For example a hero who is: daring, unpredictable, creative and a terrible timekeeper. Or a heroine who is responsible, work-orientated, guarded and generous.

I believe you only need a few things in your character profile to bring your character to life:

Ø Give your main characters three or four basic character traits. Having one subtext trait as well would add another dimension to your character.

Ø Ensure your character has a GMC (Goal, Motivation, Conflict).

Ø Make your character interesting by giving them a paradox to their personality. (ie the supermodel who is a gourmet cook. The tough footballer who has a marine biology degree). Paradoxes create fascinating characters that will continually surprise your readers. Give your characters a paradox if you want your characters to be unique and memorable.

Ø Does your character have a secret he or she is hiding? Secrets can add depth to your story as well as your character and provide opportunities for subtext, suspense, and surprise.

Ø Give your character a flaw—nobody is perfect! Flaws make characters more human.

Ø Is there something special about your character? This is the one thing that completely separates your character from every other character—even those with similar personalities.

Keep your characters in character by making sure you have them act and react in relation to their traits.

That's my handy tip for today.

Join me again soon when I'll be talking about subtext and subtext traits.

Character Profile Recap:

-GMC

-Three or four traits

-Character Paradox

-Secret

-Flaw

-What makes your character special

If this helped you, or you would like to share your own method for characterizing your characters, please leave a comment.

Thanks so much for stopping by.

Why It's Difficult For Some Writers To Write And Listen To Music

2011-05-05T18:24:00.000+01:00

Have you ever wondered why some people can listen to music and write, while others can’t?

I’ve heard many writers tell how great it is and how they love to write to music.

I’ve lost tract of the times I’ve tried to mellow out and listen to music while I write, only to get frustrated when every thought seem to dangle out of reach in the back of my mind. Or I end up so distracted I don’t write a word for hours!

I was convinced something was wrong with me. Everyone else could do it, why can’t I? Why couldn’t I concentrate while my favourite song played? In fact, music seemed to have a very negative effect on my writing day. I put on some great pop music and all creativity stopped dead. I tried turning it down low so it wasn’t so in my face, but that didn’t work either. Even my favourite, beloved Josh turner, didn’t do it for me.

Finally, I discovered why. And boy did that breakthrough make all the difference to my ability to write with music playing in the background.

If you’re reading this because you just can’t make yourself write while music plays read on. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by what you’re about to find out.

Music is a right-brain function.

Yes I know you know that. But did you know that speech is a left-brain function?

Therefore music with words will actually stimulate your left brain, making it impossible to create if you, like me, are right brained. The words in the song will keep pulling you back to the left hemisphere and disrupting your right hemisphere creative flow.

It took me a while to realise why listening to music while I wrote was counter-productive. But I love music and wanted to enjoy the creative stimulation listening to music brings, so a little research brought me to the finding that I could indeed listen to music while I wrote as long as it was soft INSTRUMENTAL music—string or classical, or my absolute joy, soft sax.

You are correct if you guessed that I ran out and got some wonderful romantic sax music! I can now listen to music while I write without it stemming my flow.

If you find yourself unable to write while listening to songs, chances are you’re right brained. Try listening to music without words. It just might turn things around.

Why Backstory?

2011-04-29T11:52:00.000+01:00

Every novel must include some background explanation on your characters—everybody has a past that shapes who they are. I know many people don’t like background because it tends to stop the forward flow of a story. And no one wants that, right? But background information is essential for the reader to understand the story, or your character’s reason for a certain choice, behaviour, or attitude.

However, the trick is to find clever ways of working background information into your story so your reader hardly notices it’s there.

Backstory adds characterization, story dimension and helps to draw the reader into the story. Therefore, whenever possible, cut background information into bite size pieces so your reader isn’t smothered under a heaping dump of info. Pare down the information so the reader gets only what’s necessary for the story to make sense right now. And find ways of presenting background information through dialogue, because dialogue is far more active than narrative.

Not only does giving the reader small tasters of backstory make the information less intrusive, it also helps to build suspense and can move your story forward, making your reader anxious to know the rest of the backstory.

Drip-feeding your reader background raises questions in the reader’s mind—questions the reader must keep turning the pages to find answers to. So you look for ways to withhold background information in order to create a question which pushes your reader through you story.

Happy Resurrection Weekend!

2011-04-23T09:28:00.000+01:00

It was near the dawning of a new morning, the morning of a new day destined to be a great day. While yet dark there come a number of women out of the city gate toward the tomb where Jesus' body had been laid. They carry spices and ointment. With woman's ever tender thoughtfulness they are bent upon some kindly service for that precious body.

They had followed up the burial and noted the arrangements with a view to this morning's early service. Their whole thought is absorbed with a tomb and a body and a bit of loving attention. They wonder as they come along whom they can get to roll the heavy stone over into its groove at the side of the opening. Mary Magdalene is in the lead. With her in the darkness is her friend Mary, the mother of John and James. Others come along a little behind, in small groups.

As they get near to the place the keen eyes of Mary Magdalene notice at once with a quick start that the stone is rolled away. Somebody has been tampering with the tomb in the night.

Leaving her companion, she starts back on a run into the city and finds Peter, and tells him that the Lord has been taken away, and they don't know where He has been laid. Peter, too, is startled. He gets John, and the two start back on a run.

Meanwhile the other women have gone on toward the tomb. As they approach they are startled and awed to find a man there, with the glorious appearance of an angel, sitting upon the stone. To these awe-stricken women this angel being quietly said, "Do not be afraid. I know you are looking for Jesus who was crucified. He is not here. He is risen, as He told you. Come and see the place where He lay." And as they gaze with wide open eyes, he adds, "Go quickly and tell His disciples, and be sure you tell Peter, that He is risen from the dead, and lo, He goeth before you into Galilee. You will meet Him there. Lo, I have told you."

POLICE INFORMATION:This Info Could Save Your Life!!

2011-03-28T15:02:00.000+01:00

Hi, guys,

When this arrived in my email, I almost didn't read it. The only reason I bothered was because it was from my mum and she never sends me nonsense. When I read this, it made me shudder.

Please take a moment to read this information. I will educate you and can save your life!!

POLICE INFORMATION

The first bit is mainly for women, but gents , please read it and send it on to any women you care about. The second bit is a warning to all of us! Some sound advice for us all, as we all sometimes forget to take our commonsense with us when we go out.

This is from Northants Police.

Women......Please read, and pass on!

An important message from the Police - please pass this along to all the women you know.....This actually happened a few weeks ago on the M3 FLEET SERVICES!!!

It was early evening, and a young girl stopped to get petrol. She filled her tank and walked into the store to pay for her petrol. The cashier told her, 'Don't pay for your petrol yet......walk around the store for a while, and act as if you're picking up some other things to buy. A man just got into the back of your car. I've called the police, and they're on their way'.

When the police arrived, they found the man in the back seat of the girl's car and asked him what he was doing. He replied, he was joining a gang, and the initiation to join is to kidnap a woman and bring her back to the gang to be raped by every member of the gang. If the woman was still alive by the time they finish with her then they let her go. According to the police that night, there is a new gang forming here, originating from London . The scary part of this is, because the guy didn't have a weapon on him, the police could only charge him with trespassing....

He's back on the street and free to try again.

Something similar to this happened at the Tesco garage on Cardiff Road in Newport recently, but luckily the cashier saw the man get into her car. Please be aware of what's going on around you, and warn your family and friends.

LADIES, you or one of your family or friends could be the next victim. Please forward this on to everyone you know. Please do not discard this message; it is very important that everyone knows what is happening. Please be careful when leaving your vehicle, and make sure it is ALWAYS LOCKED to prevent this from happening to you.

MET POLICE

In light of the recent kidnapping and now murder of Leigh Mathews, I think it is important to read the following info for your own safety. Things women should know to stay safe:

Please take the time to read these pointers. There may be just one or two you hadn't thought of. After reading this, forward it to someone you care about. It never hurts to be careful in this crazy world we live in.

1. Tip from Tae Kwon Do: The elbow is the strongest point on your body. If you are close enough to use it, do!

2. if a robber asks for your handbag, DO NOT HAND IT TO HIM. Toss it away from you..... He is probably more interested in your handbag than you, and he will go for the handbag. RUN LIKE MAD IN THE OTHER DIRECTION!

3. if you are ever thrown into the boot of a car: Kick out the back tail lights, and stick your arm through the hole and start waving. The driver won't see you, but everybody else will. This has saved lives.

4. Women have a tendency to get into their cars after shopping, eating, working, etc, and just sit (doing their cheque book, or making a list). DON'T DO THIS! A predator could be watching you and this is the perfect opportunity for him to get in on the passenger side, and attack you. AS SOON AS YOU GET INTO YOUR CAR LOCK THE DOORS AND LEAVE.

5. A few notes about getting into your car in car park:

a) Be aware: look around you, look into your car, look at the passenger side floor, and check the back seat.

b) If you are parked next to a big van, enter your car from the passenger door. Most attacker’s surprise their victims by pulling them into their vans while the women are attempting to get into their cars.

c) Look at the car parked on the driver's side of your vehicle, and the passenger side. If a male is sitting alone in the seat nearest your car, you may want to walk back into the shop, or work, and get guard/policeman to walk you back out. IT IS ALWAYS BETTER TO BE SAFE THAN SORRY. (And better paranoid than dead.)

6. ALWAYS take the lift instead of the stairs.Stairwells are horrible places to be alone, and the perfect crime spot.

7. if the predator has a gun and you are not under his control, ALWAYS RUN! The predator will only hit you (a running target) 4 in 100 times; and even then, it most likely WILL NOT BE A VITAL ORGAN.

8. As women, we are always trying to be sympathetic: STOP IT! It may get you raped, or killed. Ted Bundy, the serial killer, was a good-looking, well educated man, who ALWAYS played on the sympathies of unsuspecting women, He walked with a cane, or a limp, and often asked "for help" into his vehicle or with his vehicle, which is when he abducted his next victim.

9. Another safety point: >Someone just told me that her friend heard a crying baby on her porch the night before last, and she called the police because it was late and she thought it was weird. The police told her, 'Whatever you do, DO NOT open the door.' The lady then said that it sounded like the baby had crawled near a window, and she was worried that it would crawl to the street and get run over. The policeman said, 'We already have a unit on the way. Whatever you do, DO NOT open the door.' He told her that they think a serial killer has a baby's cry recorded and uses it to coax women out of their homes, thinking that someone dropped off a baby. He said they have not verified it, but have had several calls from women saying that they hear babies' cries outside their doors when they're home alone at night.

I'd like you to forward this to all the women you know. It may save a life.

A candle is not dimmed by lighting another candle. Send this to any woman you know who may need to be reminded that the world we live in has a lot of crazies in it, and it's better safe than sorry.

TO ALL CAR OWNERS AND CAR DRIVERS: PLEASE READ

Warning!!!! Be aware of new car-jacking scheme ..You walk across the car park, unlock your car and get inside. Then you lock all your doors, start the engine and shift or put into reverse. You look into the rear-view mirror to back out of your parking space, and you notice a piece of paper stuck to the middle of the rear window. So, you shift the gear stick back into park or neutral, unlock your doors and jump out of your car to remove that paper, or whatever it is that is obstructing your view.

When you reach the back of your car that is when the car-jackers appear out of nowhere, jump into your car and takeoff!! Your engine was running, you would have left your handbag in the car, and they practically mow you down as they speed off in your car.

BE AWARE OF THIS NEW SCHEME THAT IS NOW BEING USED IN LONDON , MANCHESTER , AND MAKING ITS WAY ACROSS THE COUNTRY!!!

Just drive away, and remove the paper later! It is stuck to your window, and be thankful that you read this email. I hope you will forward this to friends and family, especially to women! A handbag often contains all identification, and you certainly do NOT want someone getting your home address. They already HAVE your keys!

JUST BE AWARE AND TAKE CARE --IT WILL PROBABLY SOON ARRIVE IN YOUR AREA....

Screenwriting

2011-03-07T10:24:00.000Z

I can't believe it's been so long since I last posted to my blog! You probably wondered where I disappeared to. I've been buried under loads of learning with a screenwriting course, and I love it.

For as long as I can remember, I've had people suggest that I should write scripts. I have to say I resisted for a long time, then a few months ago something happened to make me reevaluate my choices and my future as an author. Have you ever had that moment when it suddenly hits you that what you're doing is no longer doing it for you? Well that's what happened to me and I spent some time in a funk, not sure which direction to go. Then a series of events occurred and it was like bam-bam-bam--things just sort of fell into place.

And now I'm on a whole new journey. Don't get me wrong, it's mega hard work but I'm loving it. It's by far the best decision I've made for my career. The funny thing is, several years ago I has a dream where I was handed a Comedy & Tragedy Masks trophy. How cool is that? I now wonder whether that dream was trying to tell me something all those years ago?

Have you ever had a dream that seemed strange, then you later discover it to be a glimpse of your future? Have you experienced a crossroads in your career? How did your decision turn out? I'd love to hear about your change in direction.

Is He The One? Ten Ways to Be Sure!

2011-01-15T12:35:00.001Z

I saw this article and it's so spot-on, I simply had to share it! Do you agree with the article? How did you knew your beloved was The One? Do leave a comment and share your romantic stories with me...

Part time fling or long term lover? It's the eternal question. He's cute, funny and your friends love him, but is that enough? How do you know he's 'the one'? Here are 10 factors to consider and if you can meet at least nine of them then hold tight because he might just be the one you've been looking for.

He makes you laugh until you cry

A sense of the humour is one of the most appealing qualities in a man and sharing the same jokes will keep you close, whatever comes your way. It doesn't matter if no one else finds you funny, as long as you can make each other laugh out loud.

You want the same things out of life

If you want to settle down and have a family and he wants to travel the world with no commitments then you are not on the same page. Although all couples have to make compromises you should essentially want the same things out of life and be able to work towards them together.

He likes you best with no makeup on

Yes, you may think he is lying but the chances are that he really does prefer you au natural. He loves you for you, not for the clothes you wear or the make up you doll yourself up in. If he tells you you're pretty when you are cuddled up in your pyjamas then chances are that he means it.

You love him because of his flaws

It is wrong to think that to be ‘the one' your man has to be perfect. Nobody is perfect. He is ‘the one' when you know him well enough to see all his flaws, accept them for part of who he is, and love him just as much anyway.

He supports you in everything you do

Whether you are going for a job promotion or planning a night out with your friends - he should be your biggest cheerleader. He may not agree 100% with all your decisions but he will never stop you doing anything, will be there to offer advice and pick you up when things go wrong.

You trust him implicitly

If you have been hurt in the past it can be difficult to trust again, but it is an important part of any relationship. Your partner should earn your trust by proving that he always keeps his word and treats you with respect. No, you can never be 100% sure he won't stray but 99.5% will do.

Even your dad/best friend/dog likes him

OK, it shouldn't matter what other people think of him, but it is still nice to know that they approve. Your dad and best friend are only looking out for your best interests and it is difficult to convince them that somebody is good enough for you. If your boyfriend manages to get them on his side then you are probably on to a winner.

You wake up and feel lucky each morning

As you roll over in the morning and see him lying next to you, you are struck with a great sense of contentment. Here, out of everywhere in the world, is where you most want to be. You feel lucky to have him in your life and can't imagine sharing it with anyone else.

You stop noticing the cute guy at the coffee shop

Of course you are still going to find other men attractive but it is amazing how much less you notice them when you have found ‘the one'. Think about it, have you met anyone recently who really got your juices flowing? No? Then chances are he's right in front of you.

You just know

Sometimes there is no defining factor or moment that confirms he is ‘the one' - you just know. When your life is brighter with him in it (even with his annoying habits and football obsession), when you feel happy each morning and can't imagine your life without him, when you smile thinking about him - you just know.

Thanks to Handbag.com.

Check Out More Than a Playboy

2011-01-11T10:14:00.001Z

More Than a Playboy
by Monique DeVere

A Sweetheart Romantic Comedy Rosette. Available from The Wild Rose Press.

Purchase Links: Buy More Than a Playboy from The Wild Rose Press
On Kindle from Amazon.co.uk
On Kindle from Amazon.com

Blurb:

She has a shield...he has one too...and they’re both hiding secrets.

Serious-minded Sandy Donovan has one unbreakable rule—never fall for a rich playboy. Falling for a playboy destroyed her mother and ruined Sandy's childhood. She's determined never to let the same thing happen to her. Unfortunately, the only man to make her hormones sit up and take notice is a playboy who doesn't know the first thing about taking life seriously.

A lonely, miserable childhood taught Cameron Berkeley-Scott to hide his feelings in humour, but his comic nature is pushing away the one woman he wants to draw near. She thinks he’s a playboy—a title he has no desire to have—and ignores his outrageous flirting.

Now it’s time for Cameron to show Sandy he isn't the irresponsible pleasure-seeker she thinks—but will she run when she finds out who he really is?

Excerpt:

Cameron came up behind her, covering her shoulders with his jacket in a gesture so caring it forced the tears she'd been fighting, as she’d thought of her mum, to her eyes.

He didn't remove his hands from her shoulders. "Why can't you, Sandy?" he asked on a low voice snatched away by the breeze. If he weren't standing so close, she would have missed his words. "I know you want me as much as I want you. We've been dancing around this attraction for three years and I'm ready to move to the next level."

"There isn't a 'next level'. What we have can never go anywhere."

He turned her to face him. "Why?"

She dropped her gaze to their feet. Her strappy red high-heels were only a couple of inches from his shiny black dress shoes. "Because it can't." Even to herself, she sounded defeated.

"It can't or you won't let it?"

She moistened her lips, raised her gaze back to his. "It's the same thing."

His eyes, dark with desire, dropped to her mouth. "I disagree." He held her chin with one hand while his other hand gently stroked her cheek. "Can't suggests something outside of your control stops you. Won't implies internal conflict. Which is it, Sandy? What’s really stopping you?"

How could she tell him she had a father wound so wide and deep she feared she'd never heal enough to let any man in? Taking a deep breath, she said, "You are, Cameron...you."

His brows shot up. "Me?"

"You're nothing more than a pretty-boy with daddy's millions to play with. I can't be with someone like you."

Snaking an arm around her waist, he drew her against him. "You're wrong, sweetheart...I'm so much more than that." In a smooth move, Cameron dipped his head and settled his lips on hers.

View Trailer: YouTube
Purchase Links: Buy More Than a Playboy from The Wild Rose Press
Or on Kindle from Amazon.co.uk
Or on Kindle from Amazon.com

Do You Speak The Language of Love?

2011-01-07T17:03:00.000Z

Recently, while procrastinating, I happened upon a comment on the Internet where someone had said they didn’t like that some romance stories no longer have the hero and heroine saying “I love you”. This resonated with me, since I too have been finding this same change in some romance books rather sad. It’s almost as if saying “I love you” is out of fashion when reading about falling in love is why most readers pick up romance novels.

That said, as romance authors, we are continually looking for ways to convey our characters' journey to falling in love. It is such a quest that brought me upon a book entitled The 5 Love Languages® by Dr. Gary Chapman, a practical guide on powerful ways for couples to express love. This book has inspired me to use these “languages” to communicate my hero and heroine’s ever-after, eternal love. Here is a brief description of the five key categories or five love languages to help you build your Hero/heroine’s romantic relationships. And boy am I juiced that saying “I love you” is #1!:

#1. Words of Affirmation

Actions don’t always speak louder than words. If this is your love language, unsolicited compliments mean the world to you. Hearing the words, “I love you,” are important—hearing the reasons behind that love sends your spirits skyward. Insults can leave you shattered and are not easily forgotten.

#2 Quality Time

In the vernacular of Quality Time, nothing says, “I love you,” like full, undivided attention. Being there for this type of person is critical, but really being there—with the TV off, fork and knife down, and all chores and tasks on standby—makes your significant other feel truly special and loved. Distractions, postponed dates, or the failure to listen can be especially hurtful.

#3 Receiving Gifts

Don’t mistake this love language for materialism; the receiver of gifts thrives on the love, thoughtfulness, and effort behind the gift. If you speak this language, the perfect gift or gesture shows that you are known, you are cared for, and you are prized above whatever was sacrificed to bring the gift to you. A missed birthday, anniversary, or a hasty, thoughtless gift would be disastrous—so would the absence of everyday gestures.

#4 Acts of Service

Can vacuuming the floors really be an expression of love? Absolutely! Anything you do to ease the burden of responsibilities weighing on an “Acts of Service” person will speak volumes. The words he or she most want to hear: “Let me do that for you.” Laziness, broken commitments, and making more work for them tell speakers of this language their feelings don’t matter.

#5 Physical Touch

This language isn’t all about the bedroom. A person whose primary language is Physical Touch is, not surprisingly, very touchy. Hugs, pats on the back, holding hands, and thoughtful touches on the arm, shoulder, or face—they can all be ways to show excitement, concern, care, and love. Physical presence and accessibility are crucial, while neglect or abuse can be unforgivable and destructive.

According to Dr. Chapman, everyone has a primary way of expressing and interpreting love—their own “love language”. He says, too, that people are often drawn to others who speak a different love language to them.

I’m curious to find out which love language I am, how about you? I thought you might be!

Okay, go ahead, learn your love language. Take the fun quiz below.

With thanks to http://www.5lovelanguages.com/

I'm Ba-ack

2011-01-03T13:57:00.001Z

I can't believe how long it's been since I last blogged! By now I expect I've lost all of my trusty followers (delicate eye-dab...sniff).

I've had a crazy time this last year. Talk about life interrupting big time! But it's a new year and I'm back now. Computer virus is history and while I'm still balancing on the edge of where I'm taking my writing next, I do have my screenwriting course to look forward to.

I know you will all be wondering what happened to the story I had with HMB. Well, I got a second revision letter but decided not to pursue it. Before you throw your arms in the air and proclaim me crazy, let me defend myself. While I got the fab revision letters, I didn't get any real guidance, therefore I could very well spend the next five years shooting in the dark trying to guess what the editor wanted from the story. In the end I had to face the facts...I will NEVER be a Harlequin Mills and Boon author. It was a hard decision, since I've been targeting HMB on and off for the last 20-odd years, but in the end I decided I needed to leave the past behind and move forward.

Zach's Rebound Girl is with my TWRP editor and I'm waiting to hear what she has to say. Meanwhile, I'm writing a story set on a private island and it's turning out to be a lot hotter than I normally write--perhaps it's the sultry Caribbean weather that's heating things up in the story.

So keep your eyes peeled for news about Zach's Rebound Girl and Island Fling.

Hope you are all having a fab start to the new year.

God bless.

Love & Hugs x

Literary Elements~Theme

2010-11-05T17:07:00.001Z

Let's talk about theme. I remember when I first started writing (many years ago now) one of the first things I came across was theme. I just couldn't get my head around the subject, so I stopped trying to consciously figure out the theme for each story I wrote. I relied on the theme to emerge on its own.

Now I know far more about theme and the role it plays within my stories, I take it for granted. However, I think some of you will benefit from a quick breakdown of the subject if you so happen to be seeking this information.

Theme is the underlying meaning of the story you are telling. What your book is really about, if you like. I know some people take this to mean plots like: Secret Baby, Marriage of Convenience, Pretend Marriage, Best Friends to Lovers, Cinderella story, Second Chance Love etc.

These are not the theme of your story. They are plots/topics/genre themes. But they are not your story's theme.

Since the theme of your story is the hidden message—an opinion or statement about the plot/topic/genre theme you’re tackling—then we look for the basic emotional conflict of your story. Many writers will stick to the same message or concept without even knowing it. Do you find all your stories have something to do with the hero and/or heroine learning how to trust? Perhaps even learning responsibility? Acceptance? Or freedom? Unresolved grief? Fear of rejection?

Whatever your theme, I believe it's linked to your character's internal motivation and even your character's arc. What does your hero/heroine learn through the course of the story?

For instance, you can have a Pretend Marriage genre theme and the theme of your story can be ACCEPTANCE.

Perhaps the hero is looking to land a major contract for his company and he needs the decision-makers of the company he wishes to do business with to ACCEPT him in a certain light—that of a stable and loving married man.

While the heroine agrees to the idea of a pretend marriage with the hero because she is looking to make her matchmaking friends ACCEPT she’s off the market so they can stop trying to set her up with guys.

And in the course of the story your hero and heroine would have learned acceptance of a different kind, which finally leads to acceptance of each other and everlasting love.

Do you see how that worked? So genre theme is not the same as the theme of your story. You can relay this theme to your readers in several ways: through your character's actions and the story events; through their thoughts and feelings and also through dialogue and conversations. (I mention both dialogue and conversation because the two are not the same. Keep a look out for a future post on this subject).

Another example is, suppose you have a theme about death. Your characters will mention death in some form or other. Death will show up in other forms through the story: ie your heroine/hero is incapable of keeping plants alive. Perhaps the story might be set in winter when all the trees are bare and look a little dead. All these sorts of things help to convey theme.

Sometimes you can use more than one theme. When we use a couple of themes, we then have a major and a minor theme for our book.

I used two themes in Divorce Etiquette, a reunion/second chance story. My minor theme was fear of rejection and the major theme was unresolved grief. This meant death invariably came up through the course of the story—death of relationships as well as people. To show life and new beginnings in Divorce Etiquette I set the climax in spring and used the new green leaves on trees to symbolise life and new beginnings. No doubt this is lost to the reader on a conscious level but she'll feel the story has an added depth she enjoys. Or at least I hope so! ;)

Theme can really add depth to your story, so if you don't usually bother with finding your story's theme, please reconsider because it also gives your writing focus and saves you wandering off in all sorts of directions until you trip up, and fall into a plot hole :).

Thanks for dropping by to hang with me and garner my take on the literary theme.

Until next time~

Writer's "Cheat Sheets"

2010-10-27T10:35:00.000+01:00

Recently I happened across this little gem of a collection of writer's cheat sheets from Michele Albert—inkalicious.com and thought I'd share it with you. The sheet consist of quick break downs on:

» Plotting

» Conflict

» Sensuality/Sexuality

» Romance Plots

» Character Archetypes

» Editing

» 5-Minute Pitch

PLOTTING:

Polti's 36 Dramatic Situations

•01. Supplication: Persecutor, Suppliant, Authority Figure

•02. Deliverance: Unfortunate, Threatener, Rescuer

•03. Crime Pursued by Vengence: Criminal, Avenger

•04. Vengence taken for Kindred upon Kindred: Avenger, Guilty Remembrance, a Relative of Both

•05. Pursuit: Punishment and Fugitive

•06. Disaster: Vanquished Power, Victorious Enemy, Messenger.

•07. Falling Prey to Cruelty or Misfortune: Unfortunate, Master

•08. Revolt: Tyrant, Conspirator

•09. Daring Enterprise: Bold Leader, Object, Adversary

•10. Abduction: Abductor, the Abducted, Guardian

•11. Enigma: Interrogator, Seeker, Problem

•12. Obtaining: Solicitor, Adversaryor Arbitrat or & Opposing

•13. Enmity of Kinsmen: Malevolent Kinsmen, Reciprocally Hated Kin

•14. Rivalry of Kinsmen: Preferred Kinsman, Rejected Kin, Object

•15. Murderous Adultry: Two Adulterers, Murdered Spouse

•16. Madness: Madman, Victim

•17. Fatal Imprudence: Imprudent, Victim, Object Lost

•18. Involuntary Crimes of Love: Lover, Beloved, Revealer

•19. Slaying of Kinsman Unrecognized: Salyer, Unrecognized Victim

•20. Self-sacrificing for an Ideal: Hero, Ideal, Creditor, Sacrifice

•21. Self-sacrificing for Kindred: Hero, Kinsman, Creditor, Sacrifice

•22. All Sacrificed for Passion: Lover, Object of Pasion, Sacrifice

•23. Necessity of Sacrificing Loved Ones: Hero, Beloved, Necessity

•24. Rivalry of Superior & Inferior: Superior, Inferior, Object

•25. Adultery: Two Adulterers, Betrayed Spouse

•26. Crimes of Love: Lover, Beloved, Social Norm

•27. Discovery of Dishonor of Beloved: Discovered, Guilty

•28. Obstacles to Love: Two Lovers, Obstacles

•29. An Enemy Loved: Beloved Enemy, Lover, Hater

•30. Ambition: Ambitious Person, Thing Coveted, Adversary

•31. Conflict with (a) God: A Mortal, an Immortal or Holy Principle

•32. Mistaken Jealousy: Jealous, Object, Accomplice, Perpetrator

•33. Erroneous Judgement: Mistaken One, Victim, Cause, Guilty

•34. Remorse: Culprit, Victim or Sin, Interrogator

•35. Recovery of Lost One: Seeker, One Found

•36. Murder of Loved One: Slain Kinsman, Spectator, Executioner.

Five Basic Conflicts (from Polti's 36)

•01. Man against Nature
•02. Man against Man
•03. Man against Society
•04. Man against Himself
•05. Man against Fate

Ronald Tobias' 20 Master Plots

•01. Quest
•02. Adventure
•03. Pursuit
•04. Rescue
•05. Escape
•06. Revenge
•07. The Riddle
•08. Rivalry
•09. Underdog
•10. Temptation
•11. Metamorphosis
•12. Transformation
•13. Maturation
•14. Love
•15. Forbidden Love
•16. Sacrifice
•17. Discovery
•18. Wretched Existence
•19. Ascension
•20. Descension

CONFLICT:

Essence of Conflict

•Protagonist+Goal+Opposition (Antagonist)=Drama

Devices to heighten suspense(notes from David Freeman workshop)

•An obstacle or enemy interferes with a hard goal

•A enemy or obstacle interferes with a soft goal

•Hero forced to face his emotional fear, limitation, block, or wound

•Unclear motives

•Question of whether a character can pull off a bluff

•The uneasy mix, or "odd couple" situation

•The fish out of water situation

•Presence of ambivalence

•A character forced to make a difficult moral choice

•Mystery or a puzzle to solve

•A reminder of the stakes or increase stakes

•Increase stakes of the character so that this is the only way they can succeed

•Situation is out of control

•A surprise or unexpected disaster

•Foreshadowing (many ways to do this)

•Any scene in which a danger is present

•Any scene that has conflict in it

•Any scene where a seduction occurs, or might occur

•Technique of cutting back and forth between a dangerous scene and one that isn't dangerous

•Draw out a tense moment, i.e., "waiting for the other shoe to drop"

•Resolution of a tense moment

SENSUALITY/SEXUALITY:

Desmond Morris' 12 Steps to Intimacy

•01. Eye to body

•02. Eye to eye

•03. Voice to voice

•04. Hand to hand

•05. Arm to shoulder

•06. Arm to waist

•07. Mouth to mouth

•08. Hand to head

•09. Hand to body

•10. Mouth to breast

•11. Hand to genitals

•12. Genitals to genitals

CLASSIC ROMANCE PLOTS

(from Patricia Ryan's "Pat's Premises: Popular Plots, Conflicts and Elements in Romance Novels," Romance Writers' Report, 17(4), April 1997)

Enforced Intimacy

•Marriage of convenience
•Hero as protector
•Arranged or forced marriage
•Pretend marriage or relationship
•Stranded together on an island
•Snowbound
•Matchmaker contrives to throw lovers together
•Must share office or home

Love Conquers All

•The healing power of love
•Redemption through love

One Lover Rehabilitates or Cures the Other

•Amnesia
•Physical disabilities
•Emotional problems
•Disfigurement
•Mental illness
•Alcoholism

Emotional Baggage or Internal Forces Keep Lovers Apart

•Inability to trust, especially opposite sex
•Fear of commitment
•"I am a rock;" emotional detachment
•Some past incident, e.g., abuse, has left emotional scars
•Lover blames other for some hurt to self or loved one
•Lover harbors a secret that threatens love
•Lover must find self or solve problem before committing
•One lover has lied to other about something important
•Lover can't forgive other for some flaw
•Fear of abandonment
•Sense of unworthiness
•Feeling that one doesn't belong or fit

The Lovers' Differences Keep Them Apart

•Lovers from different social, religious or ethnic worlds
•A difference of opinion on critical matter
•Bad boy, good girl; or vice versa
•Lovers have opposing loyalties
•Lovers are business competitors
•Lovers personalities are too different
•A large age difference
•Unrequited love

The Lovers' Similarities Keep Them Apart

•Lovers engage in a battle of wills
•Lovers share goal, but only once can achieve it

Babies and Children

•Secret baby
•Arranged pregnancy
•Accidental pregnancy
•Reunited with child given up for adoption
•Child play matchmaker or otherwise brings lovers together
•Child lost or threatened
•Heroine plays nanny

Comedy of Errors

•Heroine pretends to be male
•Mistaken identity
•Misunderstandings
•Masquerade
•Twins

Evolving Relationships

•Platonic friends fall in love
•Ex-sweethearts are reunited
•Divorced spouses rediscover their love

Mythic or Fairy Tale Elements

•Kidnapping (Persephone)
•Taming of the savage male (Beauty and the Beast)
•Transformation (Pygmalion)
•Rags to Riches (Cinderella)
•Awakening, emotional rebirth (Sleeping Beauty)

"QUICKIE" CHARACTER ARCHETYPES:

(From "Heroes and Heroines: 16 Master Archetypes," by Caro LeFever, Tami Cowden, & Sue Viders.) Beyond Alpha: The Eight Male Archetypes (more info at Romance Central workshops)

•The Chief - The quintessential "alpha" male: tough, decisive, and goal-oriented

•The Bad Boy - Dangerous, but fascinating: charismatic and street smart, hates rules and regulations

•The Best Friend - The "beta" hero: kind, decent, and responsible

•The Charmer - The quintessential smooth operator: Fun, irresistible, and often unreliable

•The Lost Soul - The "theta" hero: Tortured and secretive, he's got a vulnerable heart and discerning eyes

•The Professor - Logical, introverted and inflexible, but also genuine in feelings, extremely faithful and honest

•The Swashbuckler - The Man on the Go: Action and adventure is his motto; he's physical, daring, mercurial

•The Warrior - The "delta" hero: The reluctant rescuer; dark and dangerous, driven and remote

Beyond Cinderella: The Eight Female Archetypes (more info at Romance Central workshops)

•The Boss - The "Take Charge" woman: outspoken and persuasive, confident and competitive

•The Seductress - "I Will Survive" woman: mysterious and manipulative, distrusting and cynical

•The Spunky Kid - Spirited and loyal, reliable and supportive, more of a "tomboy"

•The Free Spirit - Genuine and fun-loving, impulsive, an "original"

•The Waif - Classic "damsel in distress": Child-like innocence, naive and docile, she endures

•The Librarian - Conscientious, orderly, bright; she leads with her brain, not her looks

•The Crusader - A woman on a mission: tenacious, headstrong, courageous

•The Nurturer - Altruistic to a fault; calm, optimisic, a listener, pleasant, takes care of everyone

EDITING:

After the final draft, edit using the "find" function for the words on the following list. Next, read the sentence containing the offender, and either correct it or leave it be, depending. They are all valid words, if used in moderation, but are prone to misuse, overuse and abuse.

"Fine Tooth Comb and Red Flags and Snags"

•and - but (can indicate run-on sentences)
•that (unnecessary in most sentences)
•that (when you mean "who")
•just
•very
•nearly - almost
•really
•seem - appear
•felt - feel
•begin - began
•would - should - could
•quite
•few
•rather
•thing
•stuff
•anyway
•because
•"ly" adverbs
•so
•then
•even
•only
•down - up (as in sit down, stand up - can be redundant)
•got - get

Look for passive use

•it - is
•am
•are
•was
•were
•has
•had
•have
•been
•to be
•there is
•there are
•there was
•there were

(My thanks to Lynda Hales for compiling this list and graciously allowing me to share it!)

"PITCHING" A BOOK:

(by Michelle Jerott, from Wisconsin RWA's The Write Touch Newsletter, April/May 2000)

If the thought of an editor/agent appointment at the conference has you chowing down Tums, relax! It doesn't have to be an ordeal. When pitching an idea, keep it simple and keep it focused on the romance--don't bog yourself down with unnecessary back story, secondary characters, or subplots. All the editor wants to know is if you have a good grasp of your main characters, a balance of internal/external conflict, and the story's marketing angle ("hook.") Five to ten minutes is plenty of time, so speak slowly and carefully, maintain eye contact, and allow time for questions.

If I were going to pitch my latest book, A GREAT CATCH, I'd say something like this:

"After years of working her way upward in the male-dominated maritime world of Great Lakes shipping, Tessa Jardine lands her dream job as First Mate on the passenger ship SS TALIESEN--a dream job until she meets her captain, Lucas Hall. Ten years ago, Lucas broke her young heart when he walked away from her without a word of farewell, and she can't forgive him for that--or for his more recent part in a failed rescue attempt that cost her younger brother his life. Now Lucas, the ex-Coast Guard hero, is back to complicate her life. Working together day after day, Lucas and Tessa discover the attraction between them is still hot and heavy--but can Tessa forgive Lucas, or ever learn to trust him again? And what will Lucas have to do to win back her love?"

This brief paragraph introduces the main characters, given enough back story to provide motivation, shows the basic balance of external and internal conflict, focuses on the romance, and tells the editor it's a reunion story.

Hope this helps, and good luck pitching your book!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The easiest way to create a summary paragraph like the above is to take a formula adapted from Dwight Swain: Situation, Character, Conflict, Opponent, and Disaster. To show you what I mean, here's the paragraph I wrote broken down according to Swain's equation:

1. SITUATION:

After years of working her way upward in the male-dominated maritime world of Great Lakes shipping

2. CHARACTER:

Tessa Jardine

3. CONFLICT:

lands her dream job as First Mate on the passenger ship SS TALIESEN--a dream job until she meets her captain, Lucas Hall. Ten years ago, Lucas broke her young heart when he walked away from her without a word of farewell, and she can't forgive him for that--or for his more recent part in a failed rescue attempt that cost her younger brother his life.

4. OPPONENT:

Now Lucas, the ex-Coast Guard hero,

5. DISASTER:

is back to complicate her life. Working together day after day, Lucas and Tessa discover the attraction between them is still hot and heavy--but can Tessa forgive Lucas, or ever learn to trust him again? And what will Lucas have to do to win back her love?

That's it! Not too painful, really...

Credit Info

You're welcome to share this resource with others, but please keep my information intact. The direct URL for this page is:http://www.inkalicious.com/cheatsheets.php

Michele Albert writes for Pocket. Her most recent books are HER LAST CHANCE, TOUGH ENOUGH, HIDE IN PLAIN SIGHT, ONE WAY OUT, OFF LIMITS, and GETTING HER MAN. She also wrote four books as Michelle Jerott: HER BODYGUARD, A GREAT CATCH, ALL NIGHT LONG, and ABSOLUTE TROUBLE, which won the 1997 RWA Golden Heart Award for best single title contemporary romance. Michele is currently working on her next book. Please visit www.inkalicious.com for more information.

Heroes in the Making

2010-10-16T12:47:00.000+01:00

Every Friday Morning my youngest, Megyn, goes swimming with her school. Since her treatment makes her tired and her legs hurt, I get to drive her to the swimming pool, then back to school.

The class has only been attending swimming lessons for a handful of weeks and I'm happy to say Meg has come a long way. At the beginning, she wasn't very confident. And most certainly didn't like putting her face under the water.

If you've watched you little ones learning to swim you may have notice the couch spends a little while throwing weighted rings into the water then encourage the children to dive underwater to collect the rings from the pool floor.

It was while I was watching this part of the lesson a couple of weeks ago that I noticed something so sweet and heart-warming it melted me. One of Meggie's classmates, a cute little boy, noticed she was hesitating to duck beneath the water's surface. I could see him gazing at her while she surreptitiously maneuvered so she could pick up the ring with her toes.

The part that really touched me was: the instant the couch turned her back the little boy dove down, collected a couple of rings and handed one to Meg!

Isn't that just the sweetest thing? Great future hero potential, wouldn't you say?

I don't know whether you agree, but that made me think all isn't lost with this world of ours just yet! So what about you? Have you encountered any little heroes in the making lately?

Writing with Emotional Depth

2010-10-02T13:34:00.000+01:00

Using the senses can add emotional depth to romance writing. Most writers include sight in description. Unfortunately, they often forget the other senses can greatly enhanced story depth, emotion and tone. I know many writers speak of several more senses, but I’m focusing on the five senses here. By using all of the senses—hear, see, smell, taste, and, touch—throughout the story, we draw the reader in so she experiences the characters’ emotions which connects her to the story you are telling. Without emotion, stories are unexciting, lifeless and leave the reader cold. This will surely result in rejection since your first real reader will probably be the editor for the publisher you wish to contract your story.

Say it with me: emotion is the spark that lights the firewood of your story and draws the reader in. And strong emotions/feelings capture the reader’s attention and keeps her hooked because it adds reality to your story. Emotion is by no means all you need to keep your reader hooked, but this is what we’re speaking about at the moment, so I’ll stay on topic.

If you can weave good human emotions into your fiction, you will form connections with the reader and she'll invest her heart in your story. We all experience emotion, even the hard, ruthless alpha hero who has been hurt so badly he thinks he’s buried his emotions so deep he no longer has any.

I don't mind telling you I'm an extremely emotional person. In fact, I’ll freely admit I live on my emotions. I laugh at things most people find not very funny (if someone fall over, I might very well wet myself! There’s just something about taking a spill that tickles me hugely) and I cry at things as simply as the beauty of nature.

Emotions affect all of us in many ways, both psychologically and physiologically. We couldn’t function without emotions, so why do we think our characters can? They must have moods as we do—personalities and temperaments. They must have feelings about the things they see, hear, touch, taste and smell.

I’m not suggesting you overload each paragraph with all five senses, merely to use them throughout the story to add depth. Each of the five senses, when used within relevant scenes will allow the writer to show the reader the story as oppose to telling her what’s happening.

Just remember to arouse all of your character’s senses and you’ll do the same with your reader. It will result in a story that is significant and satisfying. Your reader will be fully invested in your story because she was able to connect with your hero and heroine, feel as if she was right there experiencing their experiences and she'll want them to have that happy-ever-after.

So the next time you sit to write a scene, try to use as many of the senses as you can to describe your scene and add emotional depth.

One Year On

2010-09-26T16:37:00.001+01:00

As some of you know, my little girl, Megyn, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL) last year.

This is the most common form of childhood Leukaemia. It's when the white blood cells go into rapid reproduction and increase until they crowd the bone marrow, preventing the production of healthy blood cells. ALL needs immediate treatment since the blast cells rapidly progress and accumulate, then enters the bloodstream and spread to other organs of the body.

We are coming up to the one year anniversary of Meg's diagnosis. But before we get there, we have to pass the one year anniversary of her falling ill. It was on September 24th 2009 that I picked her up from her after school dance class to be told she'd almost fainted halfway through class. Thinking she'd probably picked up a bug, I took her home and cared for her. Normally, Megyn bounces back from any illness within three to four days, so it came as a shock when five days went by and she was still feeling unwell.

By this time, bruises started popping up on her body and I couldn't figure how she was getting them since she hardly moved around.

I would pray over her, we would claim her healing and she'd feel better for a day or so then fall ill again. I couldn't seem to get a hold of my doctors for love or money so we took her to the out of hours doc, who calmly informed us that though Meg was covered in bruises and petechiae she was perfectly fine and if she starts to bleed from any part of her body bring her back. I know my anger doesn't translate here (and I'm glad it doesn't) but you can't know how badly I wanted to punch that female doctor!

Needless to say it was another week of praying, claiming and trying to see a doctor.

By the third week, Meg was still up and down. Then on the 17th of October she woke with blood smeared across her face where her nose had bled in the night and she'd wiped it with the back of her hand.

I can't tell you how frantic I was at this point! It took NHS Direct THREE hours to get back to me. After each hour, I'd phone them only to be told the doc was going to phone me. Finally at the third hour, they said they'd tried to contact me but my phone didn't accept withheld calls and did I know why that was? I ask you!

If I hadn't kept phoning them they would not have bothered. That also adds another heap of anger. But since I know anger is a very negative and destructive emotion, I've chosen to let it all go. As a family, we focus on God's goodness and grace.

All of that agro ended in a trip to A & E to discover Meg's liver and spleen were hugely swollen. She was admitted and had her blood checked for Blast cells, which they found.

From the moment we found out our precious little girl had Leukaemia, life became a massive emotional roller coaster and five weeks living at Leicester Royal Infirmary Hospital.

I think being able to focus on finishing Let's Pretend, the story I was writing at the time, helped me to keep it together.

So it's been one year since Meg fell ill, and a lot has happened in that year. But, praise God, Meg is now on maintenance chemo and is doing extremely well. We estimate she'll finish treatment around March/April 2012. She'll never be free of doctor's visits for check-ups but I know she'll always be healthy, and nothing else will touch her, because Jesus healed her in her first week of treatment!

This is Meggie on her seventh birthday last year:

And this is her on her eighth birthday this year:

She is still gorgeous! And when her hair grows back this time around, she'll get to keep it. I can't wait to post those photos!

I'll post the symptoms of Leukaemia in case it could help someone out there. My advice to anyone suspecting your child may have Leukaemia, is first, don't listen to anyone who tells you your child is fine if you know in your heart something is wrong. The medical profession still fails to recognise a mother's intuition when it comes to her child. Second, push for tests! It is better to come across as an overprotective mum than fail your child!!! And all it takes is a simple blood test.

Symptoms of Leukaemia

Symptoms might include feeling sick, fevers, chills, night sweats and other flu-like symptoms, or feeling fatigued. Some patients experience nausea or a feeling of fullness due to an enlarged liver and spleen; this can result in unintentional weight loss. If the leukemic cells invade the central nervous system, then neurological symptoms (notably headaches) can occur.

Red blood cell deficiency leads to anemia, which may cause dyspnea (shortness of breath) and pallor (paleness to the skin due to low hemoglobin). Because normal bone marrow is rapidly being replaced by a higher number of immature white blood cells, the lack of red blood cells results in a lack of blood platelets, which are important in the blood clotting process. This means people with leukemia may easily become bruised, bleed excessively, or develop pinprick bleeds (petechiae).

It is true also that all symptoms associated with leukemia can be attributed to other diseases. However, leukemia is always diagnosed through medical tests.

Zach & Maddie have left the building

2010-09-22T08:54:00.001+01:00

I've finished the revisions for Zach's Rebound Girl and have re-subbed it to HMB! Now to get on with a few other stories. I expect it'll be a while before I hear anything from HMB, but I'll be sure to let you know how it goes.

More Than a Playboy Got Five Siren Stones

2010-09-09T09:30:00.001+01:00

Ask me where the weeks have gone. I don't know! What with getting through each block of chemo with Meggie and revising a manuscript for Harlequin Mills and Boon Modern Heat series, I've lost track of my life. Don't get me wrong, I'm not complaining, because I have a great life.

I get to spend my days doing a job I really LOVE. Which brings me to the reason I'm blogging. Google alerted me to this lovely review for More Than a Playboy and I thought I'd share. I've had nice reviews for my books but it's never dawned on me to share until now.

Siren Book Reviews gave More Than a Playboy five Siren Stones and had this to say:

More Than A Playboy is a wonderful and well written story. Monique DeVere’s character development and story premise are fantastic. This is a truly enjoyable story. Bits and pieces of each character are revealed slowly adding depth to a very emotionally moving book.

As the reader, you just can’t help but fall in love with Sandy and Cameron, and feel for both their plights in life. They are quite a comical couple, and I thoroughly enjoyed their witty repartee. Their encounters had me laughing out loud and crying.

More Than A Playboy has surprising plot twists and turns that will keep you engaged and unable to put it down. I highly recommend this romance story for anyone that likes a hopeful and happily ever after ending.

You can visit Siren Book Reviews Here!

Join Robyn Grady at WRQF!

2010-08-20T16:01:00.000+01:00

I am beside myself with excitement to have one of my very favourite authors joining us at Writing Romance Question Forum tomorrow 21st August 2010. Who is this author? I hear you ask. None other than Robyn Grady, author of both Harlequin Mills & Boon Modern Heat and Silhouette Desire! Robyn is a very prolific author who started writing for Silhouette and Harlequin in 2007 and 2008 respectively. In only three years, she's written around twenty category romance novels. (pause for awed gasp)

I just love this author. I'd blindly buy anything she writes. That doesn't sound like a big deal but believe me it's big for me! I can honestly say I only do that for a couple of authors. Not only is Robyn talented, she's also down to earth and one of the sweetest people I've ever met.

Please don't miss you chance to ask this wonderful author your questions about writing the Modern Heat or Desire novel.

If, like me, you love to relax with Robyn's books, here are a few of her new ones for you to check out!

Since Blogger won't co-operate and let me place purchase links in the covers, you can visit Robyn's website for purchase information.

You can visit Robyn at www.robyngrady.com

Heard From HMB

2010-08-16T10:14:00.003+01:00

Well it's been a while since I sent the requested complete MS of Zach's Rebound Girl (aimed at HMB's Modern Heat series) to Harlequin Mills & Boon. To say I fully expected an instant reject would be putting it calmly!

I heard from the Modern Heat senior editor last week and to my immense surprise, she gave me wonderful feedback, mentioned that if I revised Zach's Rebound Girl, she would be happy to assess it again!

I'm juiced and petrified all at once! Afraid to make a wrong choice and excited to finally get so close to a contract offer from Harlequin Mills and Boon. If I manage to get my secondary characters under control, fix the things the editor suggested and am offered a contract, it would be a twenty-year-long dream come true.

Twenty years sounds like a long time when I look at it but, in reality, Zach's Rebound Girl is only the fifth MS I've subbed to HMB--I pouted a lot and for a long time between each rejection! My advice to any writer targeting a specific market? Don't get so disheartened that it takes you over twenty years to reach the same place many authors do in two, three or six years.

Pouting is bad!!

To begin with, after reading the revision letter several times, I couldn't settle on the right direction for ZRG. I mean, cut the secondary character scenes and you have to change quite a bit of the story's direction.

I think I have a handle on where I'm taking Zach and Maddie now so my head doesn't hurt half as much any more.

Thanks for dropping by, I'm off to duck back into revision mode.

Will continue to keep you posted on the Zach's Rebound Girl journey.

Bye for now x

R.I.P Daddy

2010-08-14T10:46:00.000+01:00

In loving memory of my DAD who passed away on August 1st 2010 from throat & lung cancer. He is being laid to rest today, 14th August 2010.

Daddy, I know you're in Heaven, I saw you sail there. How amazing that your crossing would be by the means you loved best! I'm grateful for the time I had with you and for the opportunity to tell you I love you one last time.

Rest in peace, Daddy—my friend, my hero, my dad with the ever-present playful smile and naughty sense of humour. We will all miss you!

Until we meet again, I know you'll be watching over us.

Join Nicola Marsh at WRQF!

2010-07-28T13:50:00.000+01:00

Come join Nicola Marsh for a day of questions and answers at Writing Romance Question Forum on July 29th!

She'll be on the WRQ forum to answer your questions on writing romance for the HMB market. Nicola has around twenty books published with the Modern Heat/Presents Extra and tender Romance lines. She is a very prolific and popular HMB author who knows what she's talking about. Don't miss the opportunity to speak with Nicola!

Writing Romance Question Forum: http://wrq.forums-free.com

Stephanie Parent, TWRP Champagne Rose Editor

2010-07-16T08:44:00.001+01:00

Stephanie Parent, one of The Wild Rose Press Champagne Rose Editors, is at WRQ Forum today to answer your questions.

Do you have a question about TWRP Champagne line? Come and ask Stephanie!

http://wrq.forums-free.com/

And don't forget to join the mailing list so you never have to miss an author, editor or agent Q&A event: http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/wrqforum

WRQ Forum Launch

2010-07-11T13:38:00.004+01:00

Great news!

Bestselling author Julie Ortolon will be launching the first of Writing Romance Question Forum Q&A days on 14th July 2010!

If you haven't already done so, you might wish to join the WRQ Forum. This is the closest some of us will ever get to spending a day hanging out with our favourite authors or any uber-successful member of the writing industry. It's a great opportunity to ask the pros whatever questions you have in relation to writing and publishing.

Let's all take advantage of the chance!

WRQF has a great line-up for the coming months. Look out for Q&A days this month with Julie Ortolon, Stephanie Parent (TWRP Champagne line editor) and Nicola Marsh (HMB Modern Heat and Romance bestselling author).

Are you curious yet? Why not sign up to wrqforum mailing list to make sure you never miss an author, editor or agent's Q&A event? http://uk.groups.yahoo.com/group/wrqforum

Pop over and register with WRQF now. You don't want to miss your Q&A session with Romantic Comedy author Julie Ortolon on Wednesday July 14th, and don't forget the lovely Stephanie Parent, editor for The Wild Rose Press Champagne line, is joining us on Friday July 16th. Then we have Harlequin Mills & Boon author Nicola Marsh on the 29th.

These are events no writer interested in growth wants to miss. Especially with guest authors like: Natalie Anderson, Robyn Grady, Joanna Aislinn, Kristan Higgins and Lucy King coming up in the next couple of months.

Join WRQF here: http://wrq.forums-free.com (don't forget to introduce yourself as well as email Admin to let us know which forums you wish to join. The forums are password enabled, so don't leave getting your passwords until the last minute).

I've been reliably assured that word of mouth is powerful! So with that advise in mind, how can I resist asking everyone who comes across this blog entry to please help to spread the word. Writing Romance Question Forum is a great place for writers to speak directly to popular bestselling authors as well as editors and agents in our Q&A sessions.

Looking forward to meeting all of you!

Don't forget to join the forum, as well as the mailing list!

Go and do it now before you forget... :)

You can visit Julie Ortolon at www.julieortolon.com

Falling for You--Julie's newest release--is available now from Smashwords priced $2.99

Writing Romance Question Forum

2010-07-08T14:24:00.001+01:00

Ever wished you could grab your favourite author and ask everything you're dying to know about writing? Here is your chance.

Would you like to have an opportunity to speak with editors and ask them what they’re really looking for in a story?

Come and join the Writing Romance Question Forum* where you’ll have just such an opportunity. Each week we have a guest author or editor on hand for a day of questions.

WRQF has a wonderful star-studded collection of best-selling authors, and Editors, lined up for the coming weeks. Don’t miss your opportunity to pick their brains.

http://wrq.forums-free.com
(*Registration required)

Audio Books

2010-06-25T13:26:00.002+01:00

I love books! I know you do too. But like every author I know, time is something I battle with every day. I don't know if you agree, but I'm convinced the Earth is spinning that little bit faster. So that an hour is shorter than it used to be, making twenty-four hours seem like twelve. These days, there’s never enough time to do everything we need to do in a day, and so we end up sleep-deprived and behind on everything.

Which means I’ve collected a huge TBR (to be read) pile of books I can't seem to plough through.

My solution?

Audiobooks! I've found myself listening to more audiobooks of late. Sure, they're more expensive than paperback or eBook downloads but I'm a child of convenience and audiobooks are super convenient. I'm also big on multi-tasking. I can download an audiobook to my mobile phone, iPod, or MP3 Player and listen while I do my household chores--I'm telling you, it's the only way they'll get done! *g*

It's a fantastic way to get through my stack of To Be Reads while I do all the other things I need to get done. I love grabbing my phone, popping in my earphones and listening to a book or a Sermon while walking or spending a bit of time on my Elliptical trainer or Exercise bike, or while I'm gardening. I even listen while on the school run... Oh the joys of modern technology.

Like eBooks, audiobooks seem to me to be a fast-growing segment of the publishing industry, although it isn’t new—Harlequin Mills & Boon brought out a number of their Presents/Modern books on tape in the early 90s. I still have all of mine!

However, while HMB no longer produce their Modern/Presents line on audio, their Blaze & Desire lines are often released in audio format. Perhaps more lines go to audio, but I haven't seen them, so please forgive me if you know of others I haven't mentioned. And please feel free to share any knowledge you have on this.

For me, audiobooks are a godsend. And even better is the fact that I will soon be able to get a hold of my favourite TWRP authors since my publisher (The Wild Rose Press) has announced a deal to produce some of their author's stories on audio! So keep an eye out for details of audiobooks coming soon to The Wild Rose Press.

The Reason

2010-06-16T20:57:00.001+01:00

My blog posts are more sporadic than I would like. Who wants to be a once-on-an-occasion blogger, right? But that's unfortunately been the case since my Meggie got ill.

A couple of weeks ago, she caught mumps. This week we began the second and last block of intensive chemo. After this, she'll still be having chemo for the next two years but it wouldn't be as intense.

I have to say, I am having a hard time torn between trying to market my books--which, sadly I hardly do--and being completely there for Meg. When I'm writing I feel guilty, and when I'm not I feel guilty. How is it possible to have so much guilt?

For the moment I'm pulling back on the amount of time I spend on the Internet, which will more than likely kill my sales. But I'm sure there will be a day when I can look back on these years without beating myself up too badly.

The point is: Megyn! Without her my life would be pointless. And really, she and my other three are the reason my life makes sense.

I have to remind myself of this cos, right now, I feel as though I'm letting my writing career down. I wonder: is there such a thing as a supermum? And if so, can someone tell me how to attain this amazing status?

My Books on Kindle at Amazon.com

2010-06-09T10:18:00.000+01:00

Let's Pretend by Monique DeVere on Kindle at Amazon.com

And...

More Than a Playboy by Monique DeVere on Kindle at Amazon.com

Release Day: More Than a Playboy

2010-05-26T09:41:00.002+01:00

My sweet rom-com, More Than a Playboy, goes on sale today! You can pick up your copy for a quick feelgood read from The Wild Rose Press.

Excerpt:

Cameron came up behind her, covering her shoulders with his jacket in a gesture so caring it forced the tears she’d been fighting, as she’d thought of her mum, to her eyes.

He didn’t remove his hands from her shoulders. “Why can’t you, Sandy?” he asked on a low voice snatched away by the breeze. If he weren’t standing so close, she would have missed his words. “I know you want me as much as I want you. We’ve been dancing around this attraction for three years and I’m ready to move to the next level.”

“There isn’t a ‘next level’. What we have can never go anywhere.”

He turned her to face him. “Why?”

She dropped her gaze to their feet. Her strappy red high-heels were only a couple of inches from his shiny black dress shoes. “Because it can’t.” Even to herself, she sounded defeated.

“It can’t or you won’t let it?”

She moistened her lips, raised her gaze back to his. “It’s the same thing.”

His eyes, dark with desire, dropped to her mouth. “I disagree.” He held her chin with one hand while his other hand gently stroked her cheek. “Can’t suggests something outside of your control stops you. Won’t implies internal conflict. Which is it, Sandy? What’s really stopping you?”

How could she tell him she had a father wound so wide and deep she feared she’d never heal enough to let any man in? Taking a deep breath, she said, “You are, Cameron...you.”

His brows shot up. “Me?”

"You’re nothing more than a pretty-boy with daddy’s millions to play with. I can’t be with someone like you.”

Snaking an arm around her waist, he drew her against him. “You’re wrong, sweetheart...I’m so much more than that.” In a smooth move, Cameron dipped his head and settled his lips on hers.

If you love Cinderella stories and believe in Happy-Ever-After, leave a comment along with your Email addy for a chance to win a FREE PDF copy of More Than a Playboy.

Please note: This giveaway is strictly for a free copy of More Than a Playboy and is offered only in PDF format.

Award Update

2010-05-14T09:41:00.001+01:00

Well, the wait is finally over and, although Divorce Etiquette didn't win the Joan Hessayon Award, my heartfelt congrats goes to Lucy King who did. It was an honour to be included in this years shortlist. Thank you all who wished me luck and rooted for me.

This is what they had to say about Divorce Etiquette: "A sophisticated love story in which the relationship between the hero and heroine is marred by cleverly-worked misunderstandings. The sexual conflict is tangible, and the story concludes with a real ahh-factor ending which brings the book to a very satisfactory close."

Great big hugs!

Update on Megyn

2010-05-11T16:41:00.002+01:00

Just a quick update on Meggie. We are about halfway through her maintenance before we start another seven-week block of intensive chemo.

In this photo she has about two weeks of hair growth this time around. By the time we hit the end of this phase she will have a good bit of hair. Unfortunately, she'll lose it all again and it won't start to regrow until she comes off the intensive block of chemo.

By mid August she should be finished with all her intensive chemo and will spend the rest of her two and a bit years of treatment on a maintenance plan. This consists of chemo, but nothing like what she's been through or is about to go through again.

It is no exaggeration to say Meg is an extremely brave little girl. None of this has made her lose her faith. There isn't a day she doesn't smile or giggle even when she's in pain.

Thank you all of you who has emailed to ask about her and send your love. She tells me to give you all back her love and cuddles.

Love & hugs to all from Meggie, and from me.

Joan Hessayon New Writers' Scheme Award 2010

2010-05-06T19:18:00.007+01:00

I blogged earlier this year to mention that Divorce Etiquette had been shortlisted for The Joan Hessayon New Writers’ Scheme Award. Well, the awards night is almost here. Only days now until the winner is announced. This award is organised by the Romantic Novelists' Association here in the UK, and is sponsored by Dr David Hessayon in honour of his late wife, Joan (she was a longstanding member of the RNA and a great New Writers’ Scheme supporter). The award is given to the best of the published debut novels which went through the previous year's New Writers’ appraisal scheme.

I am happy to be a nominee this year. Previous winners have gone on to recognise big success, so to win would be a great honour.

The winner will be announced at the RNA's Summer Party on 13 May in London. Sadly, I won't be able to make it. My youngest daughter will be going through another block of intensive chemo, and I can't risk being away from her in case we need to make a hospital dash. But I will be there in spirit to offer support to the other two nominees.

They are:

Georgia Hill for "Pursued by Love"

and

Lucy King for "Bought: Damsel in Distress"

Please join me in wishing these two ladies good luck :)

Update: Lack of Motivation

2010-05-01T08:45:00.001+01:00

I am happy to report that I have gotten my motivation back!! I got some really great advice from fellow authors who've been there. While you're in the slump, you feel as though it will last forever--much like when you have a new baby and they go through that first growth spurt at six weeks. You're tired all the time and you start to wonder if it will ever end. Then suddenly, you get a breather. I'm sure I'm not alone in either of these experiences.

So, how did I get back the will to write? I decluttered my house!

Since last year Spring, I had the job to do, but you know how it is when you're an author--nothing else matters when you are in full flow of a new work in progress--and you can't let hubby do it cause you just know he'll throw out all the keepsakes you have of your babies. I still have some cupboards to tackle, but I was shocked to discover that the very first day after getting started I actually wrote! Now I'm back in the flow and don't want my To Do list to block me again, so I'll take a few days and finish what I started.

If you too find yourself not able to write, my advice would to ask yourself what is weighing on your subconscious mind? I am, quite frankly, shocked by how the things we put off in order to work can affect our creativity.

A fellow author was kind enough to email me one of her articles entitled "Ten Ways To Boost Your Creativity", and has given me permission to share it with you. She has some great advice on getting over writers' block and I'll be sure to keep this handy in case I open a Word doc again and find I haven't the motivation to write. I found this time to be an awful experience because writing has always been a part of my life. To not be able to do it was like losing a valuable part of myself.

If you find yourself in the midst of the dreaded writers' block, try Liana Laverentz's advice and see if it helps.

Ten Ways to Boost Your Creativity

As I’m blog-hopping, I read a lot about different kinds of creative endeavors and people wondering how to deal with getting stuck in the middle of a project. I don’t have that problem to any serious degree, my problem is more like one of time management, (hence the blog-hopping), but I’ve uncovered a few things along the way that can help me get unstuck if I find myself wallowing around in a project that just isn’t going where I think it should.

I have a tendency to think too much, to not relax enough to let my creativity flow. So I procrastinate. But I’m not really blocked, per se, just stumped for a while. So here are a few things that have worked for me, to get me unstuck when my mind won’t cooperate. My muse would do just fine, if my mind wouldn’t keep getting in the way.

Most of these apply to writing, but they can also apply to any creative pursuit such as painting, music composition, organizing a spreadsheet, decorating a house, planning a meal, creating jewelry or other artwork, or just feeling stuck in your life in general.

Journal: It’s just for you, nobody’s going to read it, it doesn’t have to be perfect or even make sense. If you’re an artist, doodle. A musician, write nonsensical lyrics. A cook, write weird recipes. Give yourself time to let your mind roam free, without any goal of producing something worthwhile. Just sit down for five or ten or even twenty minutes and write whatever comes to mind. Do it several days in a row and see if a theme emerges. I bet it will.

Free Associate with sticky notes: Get a pack of sticky notes and write just one thought or word on each. See what arises out of your subconscious. Then lay them out in some kind of order (but don’t stop to think about it or consciously organize the words), right on the spot. Do this on a piece of posterboard, or cardboard, whatever you have handy. Use different colors for different thoughts or moods if you want to. Stick them on the board where your impulse tells you that you need to put them, even if it doesn’t make sense. Later, you can go back and try to figure out the association(s) between the words.

Better yet, do this with a couple of friends. Each get a different color of sticky notes, and play it like a board game, where you each take a turn. One puts a sticky note in the middle, with a word or phrase on it, and you build a spider web of sorts from there, with words that come to you as a result of whatever you see on the board overall. You don’t have to respond to the last note posted. Again, later you can go back and see if any pattern has developed. But while you are posting the sticky notes, don’t stop to think. Just go with whatever comes into your mind.

Imitate/play with your pets: Animals have instincts. They don’t stop to think, should I do this, or should I do that? What if I make the wrong choice? They just “do.” Or, “be” as in the case of a cat basking it in the sun. When a cat basks, it basks. If a threat comes along, the cat will deal with it. If hunger arises, the cat will do the same. The cat doesn’t worry about what’s for dinner. The cat just “is.” And if a cat goofs up, misses the mark or whatever, they always shake it off, lift their heads and walk away unconcerned. I’ve always admired that skill.

Try being like a cat or a dog sometime, and just go with what your instinct tells you. If you goof, just shake it off like a cat does. Your instincts will get better over time.

In the short term, playing with a cat with something soft attached to a piece of string can be soothing and relax you enough to let your mind change gears. The same goes for rolling around on the floor with a puppy or playing fetch with a bigger dog. The point is to give your own mind a break.

Push a child in a swing: This is a wonderful opportunity to get some sunshine, exercise, spend quality time with your loved one, and make a child happy. Meanwhile your mind is free to wander. If you can do this while playing a simple board game or building blocks, more power to you. Or you can put on a video like Winnie The Pooh and hold the child in your lap. The child is thrilled you’re spending time with him or her and your mind is free to relax.

Clean your house: This includes folding laundry, sweeping the floor or (I recommend) washing it by hand (as opposed to just sailing through with the mop), doing dishes, dusting, or anything you can do without having to think about it. Your hands and body are in motion, you’re burning calories, your house is getting cleaner, and your mind is again free to wander. Painting walls works for this, too. Or gardening, or weeding. Or simply watering the plants.

Read something totally different from what you are working on: If you write non-fiction, read fiction. If you write fiction, read non-fiction, or read something in a genre totally different from yours. Good writing is good writing. Bad writing is bad. You can learn something from every book you read, good or bad. Reading is also a passive activity. Writing and editing are active. Again, it’s a way for your brain to switch gears and relax.

If you do art work, go to a show or page through books in a totally different medium. The same goes for music. Listen to something totally different from what you are trying to create. Either go to a concert you wouldn’t ordinarily be caught dead at or listen to some CDs. Not with judgment, but just for the experience. If you feel like your life is in a rut, go do something you’ve never done before. Just one step outside the box is enough to get you kick-started into trying new things again.

Take a nap: Pose a question in your mind about whatever is blocking you, ask for an answer to the problem, then forget about it, let it float away, put on some soft music and go to sleep. This does not always work the first time, or even the first few times, but eventually you will relax enough for your subconscious mind to come up with a solution.

Brainstorm with a friend: You can do this by phone or email. Play what if. What if my character did this? What if I re-wrote the scene from another point of view? What if I turned the painting upside down, or composed the song backwards? Think outside the box. Or, in a personal situation, play “What is the worst that can happen?” Eventually you’ll come up with scenarios so outrageous you’ll both be laughing, and who knows, you might unveil a kernel of truth or a new idea along the way.

Create a collage: (Note: click HERE see Monique DeVere's article on Collages). This is one of my personal favorites. Get a piece of posterboard. You don’t have to use the whole thing. A half or a quarter will do—whatever you have time for. Go through magazines and tear out whatever appeals to you. Then arrange them on the posterboard, and see what emerges. If you do artwork, simply mix and match colors. If you write, you can create collages for your books, your characters, or yourself. This will work for any situation you can’t seem to get off of your mind. For more information on creating a collage, see my January 9, 2009 blog post and/or read my article on the Musings Page of my website at www.lianalaverentz.com.

Go to a conference or a workshop: Even if it’s not in the area you write or paint or cook or do crafts in. Learn something new, or revisit an old interest. Get inspired by what others are saying and doing. I’ve never been to a workshop or conference or class that I didn’t come home with a host of new ideas. Sometimes just being around real live people who do the things you do and think the way you think is enough.

Liana Laverentz is the author of three contemporary romances, Eppie and NJRW Golden Leaf award-winner Thin Ice, Golden Leaf winner Jake’s Return, and Ashton’s Secret, a murder mystery romance now available at The Wild Rose Press. For more information, go to www.lianalaverentz.com.

Lack of Motivation

2010-04-26T21:48:00.002+01:00

Have you ever lost your motivation to write? Lately, this has happened to me. I've procrastinated and procrastinated until I've turned it into a fine art.

But I'm a professional right? So I ought to be able write no matter what. The trouble is, professional or not I'm a perfectionist and just can't move forward if what I've written isn't just right. Even when I allow myself to write badly, I still can't do it. My gaze keeps drifting back to the last sentence until I can't stand it any longer and have to fix the thing before I can continue.

I know this is not a good thing, and I've been actively looking for ways to get myself back in the zone. I've purchase the AlphaSmart in the hopes that I'll be able to produce something if I'm not distracted by emails and word count. This is not working for me. I finally figured out the problem with my Dragon Naturally Speaking software--there was a program conflict--I fixed it but even that isn't motivating me. I even tried posting word count widgets for my WIPs on my blog in the hope that seeing the stagnant counters will motivate me to write. No such luck. I have no idea what to do to get myself writing again.

But I'm going to make it my top priority this week to try just about anything in an effort to find motivation to write.

Plan for tomorrow: Do school run, then go for a walk. Since that used to be part of my routine before Meggie got sick, I'm hoping it will get a few words out of me.

I'll let you know how I get on.

Hugs x

More Than a Playboy Release Date

2010-04-24T11:33:00.000+01:00

My new Sweet Rom-Com is to be released on 26th May 2010 from The Wild Rose Press

Plot Devices

2010-04-17T18:03:00.000+01:00

If, like me, you scratched your head and gazed into the middle distance in wonder the first time you heard the term Plot Device, then stick around.

This is what Wikipedia has to say: "A plot device is an object or character in a story whose sole purpose is to advance the plot of the story, or alternatively to overcome some difficulty in the plot. A contrived or arbitrary plot device may annoy or confuse the reader, causing a loss of the suspension of disbelief. However a well-crafted plot device, or one that emerges naturally from the setting or characters of the story, may be entirely accepted, or may even be unnoticed by the audience."

Okay, so we can agree that such things as extraordinary coincidence, hinging the plot on finding an object, or using ghosts to suddenly pop up and explain or give back story that wasn't originally known to anyone, are all plot devices we don't want to use.

But what about the devices we use in romance writing? Things like:

The Secret Baby plot device?
The Hero with Deep Mummy Issues?
The Virgin Plot;
The dreaded Amnesia plot (sorry if you like this one :))
Mistaken Identity,
The eye-rolling Misunderstanding?

Secret Wounds or Past Trauma?

All of these are plot devices, whether we acknowledge them as so or not. So my question is this: What's wrong with using plot devices? Okay, I'm not trying to sanction the really annoying ones that no author worth her career would touch! But they are some we can't deny sells well.

My favourite plot device? Reunion stories! I just love, love second chance romance.

In the article, Pitching The Category Buzz Words by Carol Stephenson, she gives an extensive list of romance plot devices--we hear these "buzz words" and we instantly know what kind of story we're picking up.

With thanks to Carol Stehenson and Roxann Delaney, here's the list:

• Babies/kids: abandoned, arranged, lost, found, adopted, biological, inherited, borrowed, secret, switched-at-birth, matchmaking.

• Single parents: struggling unwed mothers, clueless divorced dads, surrogate, blended families.

• Pregnant heroines: stranger, estranged husband or ex as the guilty culprit.

• Cowboys & western settings: think taming.

• Amnesia/repressed memory: Is s/he married, a criminal, parent, missing groom/bride, presumed dead? Did s/he kill someone?

• Twins: so different/so alike, identical, fraternal, triplets, switched identities, mistaken identities.

• Weddings & brides: marriages of convenience, fake fiancées, mail order brides, virgin brides/grooms, runaway brides/grooms, green-card, royal, shot gun, jilted, on the rocks, terms of the will, fight for child custody, by mistake, stop that wedding!

• Reunion: estranged, lost, thwarted, divorced lovers.

• Boss/secretary: or any other combination where will he ever notice her as a woman?

• Favorite sexy 'occupations': doctor, cop, attorney, cowboy, small-town sheriff, FBI agent, secret agent, charming criminal with a heart of gold, bodyguard, journalist, fugitive, former military, mysterious man.

• Bad boy/bad girl: think a challenge to tame, think misunderstood.

• Makeover/transformation: Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, Pygmalion, Ugly Duckling.

• Fairy tales/myths: Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, Taming of the Shrew.

• Mismatched Pairings: May/December, wrong/right side of the tracks, star-crossed, mentor/protégé, virgin/rogue, best friends/lovers, opposing occupations [arsonist/fire investigator], she's the boss/he's not, rolling stone/homemaker, country/city, hermit/socialite, gambler/conservative.

I'm curious to find out whether you have a favourite plot device? What about ones you just can't stand? Do you have any of those?

Thanks for dropping by. I can't wait to read what you have to say.

Hugs x

How To Create A Collage

2010-04-10T10:24:00.003+01:00

A collage is a collection of photos of your characters, pets, setting, furniture, inspiring objects, places, clothes, landscape, vehicles or whatever you might need to help you with a visual or to trigger ideas. Collages can be a source of creative inspiration or simply used as added information when you fill in your character sheet for your publisher.

I create collages for all of my WIPs in the prewriting stage. Since this can be a great time-stealer, I tend to hunt out my heroes and heroines, then any photos I need and can find quickly. Otherwise, I add as I go along, but only if I feel the need. Some of my collages have only a few photos and some have every available space filled. To me, the most important thing is to get the right hero and heroine for the job!

So how do I go about doing this?

1. Google appropriate photos (I’d either hunt out actors and actresses or check out fotosearch.com for my photos)

2. Open Microsoft Office PowerPoint.

3. Add book title and tag line. (This is not compulsory; you don’t have to do this if you don’t wish to)

4. Add photos I’ve collected. (Do this by either clicking on Insert Picture, which will take you to your computer User pictures or wherever you’ve saved the photos you’ve collected, or you can copy and paste onto the PowerPoint slide)

5. When you’ve arranged the photos to your liking (I prefer a higgledy-piggledy arrangement, but I know some author friends who can boggle my mind with their fantastic ability to create straight-lined arrangements—you decide what works best for you) select them all by moving the cursor to one of the slide’s corners. Now click and hold down the left button on your mouse and drag the highlight square to form a box over the entire slide. Right click and select Group. This stops the photos from accidentally being moved.

6. Now for the good bit. Save your slide as a JPEG, this will allow you to upload the image to websites/groups or wherever you wish to put them on the Internet.

7. The next thing I do is print it off and blu-tak it to the wall in my study so I can see it. I also make it my desktop background.

That’s it, folks! How to create a collage in just a few steps. Let me know how you got on, won’t you?

Interviews

2010-04-08T20:48:00.001+01:00

Hi, guys,

Just a quick entry to let you all know of my recent interviews.

You can check them out here: Just Me & You

You'll also find me in the Author Spotlight at Cate Masters Blog.

Do stop by and say hi, won't you?

See you soon.

Rolling Up My Sleeves

2010-04-05T14:03:00.002+01:00

Okay Holy week and Easter is now over. We have today as a bank holiday to get over, for some, a long week of church services and for others, copious amounts of chocolates. I didn't do the chocolate overindulgence, but I only made a few services since Meg tires easily and I have to be conscious of exposing her to too many germs and sudden weather changes, which can make her sick.

Anyway, I haven't been writing much these last few weeks and I am anxious to get some more work out there. Let's Pretend just go released on Wednesday and I'm waiting for More Than a Playboy's galley. Also, Harlequin Mills & Boon is considering the full of Zach's Rebound Girl for their HeatTM line. All good stuff, but I would like to buckle down and see what I'm really capable of.

This said, I'm working on another story to submit to HM&B and a couple more for TWRP. This is Meg's last week of intensive chemo for a little while--she's still on chemo but not as invasive a treatment--so I have seven weeks in which to make real progress.

Wish me great time management & inspiration!

Happy Easter!

2010-04-04T14:40:00.001+01:00

Happy Easter, Everyone! Have a blessed day.

And The Winner Is...

2010-03-31T19:40:00.000+01:00

Neecy!

Thanks for leaving your "pretend" comment. You've won yourself a free copy of Let's Pretend. Please contact me and I will send it to you.

Enjoy!

Win a Copy of Let's Pretend

2010-03-29T09:35:00.000+01:00

My new romantic comedy novella, Let's Pretend, is on sale from Wednesday 31st March, so I thought I'd celebrate by giving you a chance to win a pdf copy. All you have to do is leave a comment telling me about anything you might have pretended about.

I've heard of women who would spray furniture polish just before hubby walks in the door to make him think she'd been cleaning, when she spent the day doing other things.

For my part, I've only pretended once. I was in college and a guy I didn't fancy used to follow me everywhere trying to get me to agree to a date. Finally, one day when he was especially persistent, I saw a group of really cute, tough-looking guys, so I sidled up to them, placed myself in the middle of their group and said to the cutest one "pretend you know me", then chatted and laughed as though we were long lost friends. Mr Persistent got the message and left. I said a rushed thanks to my pretend guy-friends and made a hasty exit.

Have you ever pretended? What's the craziest thing you ever did for the sake of pretence? And why? Share your stories for the chance to win a copy of Let's Pretend.

I will announce the winner on Wednesday!

Please note: this is for a PDF copy of Let's Pretend only. No other book or monetary value is an option!

More Than a Playboy Has a Cover

2010-03-06T04:44:00.005Z

I've told you about my latest rom-com, right? This one is called More Than a Playboy and is for The Wild Rose Press Sweetheart line. I know you've been waiting to see the cover--or is that just me? Regardless, here is my lovely new book cover!

Isn't it fab? I just love it.

I suppose you want to know what the book is about? Yes? No? Either way, take a look at the blurb:

She has a shield...he has one too...and they’re both hiding secrets.

Serious-minded Sandy Donovan has one unbreakable rule—never fall for a rich playboy. Falling for a playboy destroyed her mother and ruined Sandy’s childhood. She’s determined never to let the same thing happen to her. Unfortunately, the only man to make her hormones sit up and take notice is a playboy who doesn’t know the first thing about taking life seriously.

A lonely, miserable childhood taught Cameron Berkeley-Scott to hide his feelings in humour, but his comic nature is pushing away the one woman he wants to draw near. She thinks he’s a playboy—a title he has no desire to have—and ignores his outrageous flirting.

Now it’s time for Cameron to show Sandy he isn’t the irresponsible pleasure-seeker she thinks—but will she run when she finds out who he really is?

Are you curious, yet? Would you like to have a sneak-peek at the inside? I'm such a pushover, here you go.

Excerpt:

Cameron came up behind her, covering her shoulders with his jacket in a gesture so caring it forced the tears she’d been fighting, as she’d thought of her mum, to her eyes.

He didn’t remove his hands from her shoulders. “Why can’t you, Sandy?” he asked on a low voice snatched away by the breeze. If he weren’t standing so close, she would have missed his words. “I know you want me as much as I want you. We’ve been dancing around this attraction for three years and I’m ready to move to the next level.”

“There isn’t a ‘next level’. What we have can never go anywhere.”

He turned her to face him. “Why?”

She dropped her gaze to their feet. Her strappy red high-heels were only a couple of inches from his shiny black dress shoes. “Because it can’t.” Even to herself, she sounded defeated.

“It can’t or you won’t let it?”

She moistened her lips, raised her gaze back to his. “It’s the same thing.”

His eyes, dark with desire, dropped to her mouth. “I disagree.” He held her chin with one hand while his other hand gently stroked her cheek. “Can’t suggests something outside of your control stops you. Won’t implies internal conflict. Which is it, Sandy? What’s really stopping you?”

How could she tell him she had a father wound so wide and deep she feared she’d never heal enough to let any man in? Taking a deep breath, she said, “You are, Cameron...you.”

His brows shot up. “Me?”

“You’re nothing more than a pretty-boy with daddy’s millions to play with. I can’t be with a man like you.”

Snaking an arm around her waist, he drew her against him. “You’re wrong, sweetheart. I’m so much more than that.” In a smooth move, Cameron dipped his head and settled his lips on hers.

Thanks for checking out More Than a Playboy. I'll let you know when I have my release date.

Until next time x

Brain Dominance

2010-03-04T19:13:00.000Z

Right brain, left brain or both? Which are you?

I always knew I was right brained. But after taking Dr. Loren D. Crane Cognitive Style Quiz I've discovered I'm strong right brain.

I thought it might be fun to share Dr. Crane's quiz with you. If you don't know which dominate side of your brain you use, take the test and find out. It might help you to discover the best way you learn/make decisions/edit.

When you've taken the test don't forget to leave a comment and share your results.

Exercise – Cognitive-Style Quiz – Brain Dominance:

Choose the one sentence that is more true. Do not leave any blanks.

1. A It's fun to take risks.
    B I have fun without taking risks.

2. A I look for new ways to do old jobs.
    B When one way works well, I don't change it.

3. A I begin many jobs that I never finish.
    B I finish a job before starting a new one.

4. A I'm not very imaginative in my work.
    B I use my imagination in everything I do.

5. A I can analyze what is going to happen next.
    B I can sense what is going to happen next.

6. A I try to find the one best way to solve a problem.
    B I try to find different answers to problems.

7. A My thinking is like pictures going through my head.
    B My thinking is like words going through my head.

8. A I agree with new ideas before other people do.
    B I question new ideas more than other people do.

9. A Other people don't understand how I organize things.
    B Other people think I organize well.

10. A I have good self-discipline.
      B I usually act on my feelings.

11. A I plan time for doing my work.
      B I don't think about the time when I work.

12. A With a hard decision, I choose what I know is right.
      B With a hard decision, I choose what I feel is right.

13. A I do easy things first and important things later.
      B I do the important things first and the easy things later.

14. A Sometimes in a new situation, I have too many ideas.
      B Sometimes in a new situation, I don't have any ideas.

15. A I have to have a lot of change and variety in my life.
      B I have to have an orderly and well-planned life.

16. A I know I'm right, because I have good reasons.
      B I know I'm right, even without good reasons.

17. A I spread my work evenly over the time I have.
      B I prefer to do my work at the last minute.

18. A I keep everything in a particular place.
      B Where I keep things depends on what I'm doing.

19. A I have to make my own plans.
      B I can follow anyone's plans.

20. A I am a very flexible and unpredictable person.
      B I am a consistent and stable person.

21. A With a new task, I want to find my own way of doing it.
      B With a new task, I want to be told the best way to it.

To Score: Give yourself one point for each time you answered "A" for questions: 1, 2, 3,7, 8, 9, 13, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21.

Give yourself one point for each time you answered "B" for questions: 4 ,5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 16, 17, 18. Add all points.

0-4 strong left brain
5-8 moderate left brain
9-13 middle brain
14-16 moderate right brain
17-21 strong right brain

Preferences of the Two Sides of the Brain

Description of the Left-Hemisphere Functions

—Constantly monitors our sequential, ongoing behavior
—Responsible for awareness of time, sequence, details, and order
—Responsible for auditory receptive and verbal expressive strengths
—Specializes in words, logic, analytical thinking, reading, and writing
—Responsible for boundaries and knowing right from wrong
—Knows and respects rules and deadlines

Description of the Right-Hemisphere Functions

—Alerts us to novelty; tells us when someone is lying or making a joke
—Specializes in understanding the whole picture
—Specializes in music, art, visual-spatial and/or visual-motor activities
—Helps us form mental images when we read and/or converse
—Responsible for intuitive and emotional responses.
—Helps us to form and maintain relationships

From The Alert Scale of Cognitive Style, by Dr. Loren D. Crane, Western Michigan University, 1989. Reprinted with permission.

Until next time x

Spring Is In The Air!

2010-03-01T11:09:00.002Z

It's the first of March and I'm convinced spring is in the air. All the snow is gone and my spirits are soaring just to see the sun and green grass. A close look at my pear tree shows a wonderful collection of leaf buds and I can't wait for spring to get into full swing.

The summer is even better, but I'll save my excitement for then and concentrate on enjoying the springtime. There's just something so exquisite about this time of year that makes me glad to be alive. This is probably why I usually do my first detox of the year at this time. Speaking of which, I woke this beautiful morn ready to do my week long spring detox.

I usually do a juice fast, but this time I thought I'd do the Detox in a Box I saw advertised in the Feb issue of Health & Fitness. I tell you, it's the foulest thing I've ever choked down. I can't imagine drinking anymore of the "shake", which is made up of Ispaghula Husk, Sycamore Charcoal, Green Clay and Bentonite/Montmorillonite.

I'm still shuddering every time I think of drinking it--I might need a slice of carrot cake to get rid of the memory! Needless to say, I won't be continuing with the clay "shakes" but I will drink the detox tea, which is quite nice. I might even go ahead and give the Vital Energy food supplement a go--who knows.

But one thing I know for sure, I'm sticking with Jason Vale (The Juice Master) and Carol Vorderman for my twice yearly detoxes from now on. Never again will I succumb to a pretty add--even if it is in my favourite colours!

Until next time
Monique~

Let's Pretend Has a Release Date!

2010-02-24T17:12:00.001Z

A Romantic Comedy On sale 31st March 2010 from The Wild Rose Press

Got My YGR January Video 1st Place Badge

2010-02-15T12:34:00.000Z

I thought you might like to see it!

Cupid's Arrow Strikes the Vivacious Vixens! Come Play With Us

2010-02-06T21:13:00.000Z

Bow in hand Cupid plucks an arrow from his quiver.....or is the quiver of a heroine at the approach of her one true love causing the imp to shiver and shake?

Welcome to Valentine's week with the Vivacious Vixens! In celebration of Eros we invite our fellow authors to post their most romantic scenes. Day by day we'll feature a different genre and tempt our readers with these tempting treats. Check out your genre and it's special day on our blog and post up to a 500 word excerpt of your most romantic scene:

Sunday, February 7 - Futuristic and Paranormal
Monday, February 8 - Contemporary
Tuesday, February 9 - Romantic suspense
Wednesday, February 10 - GLBT
Thursday, February 11 - Western
Friday, February 12 - Regency
Saturday, February 13 - General historical

Sunday, February 14 -- ponder those sensuous scenes and try em out for yourself!

More Than a Playboy Got Contracted!

2010-02-04T23:20:00.000Z

I'm ecstatic to share the news that More Than a Playboy got contracted by The Wild Rose Press! As soon as I get the cover, I'll blog it, so stay tuned.

Divorce Etiquette Won 1st Place

2010-01-30T08:14:00.000Z

Divorce Etiquette Book Video won January 2010 Best Trailer! Thanks to all who voted in the You Gotta Read Videos poll for the Best Trailer.

Thanks for making my Trailer a winner. And thanks also to You Gotta Read Videos for providing such a wonderful opportunity for us authors.

http://yougottareadvideos.blogspot.com/2010/01/congratulations-january-2010-first.html

Big hugs.

Let's Pretend Has a Cover!

2010-01-27T13:10:00.000Z

I've got my new book cover for Let's Pretend. As I promised to keep you lovely people updated, here it is.

Isn't it just so pretty?

Does the cover make you want to know more?

Okay, because you asked so nicely, here you are...

Blurb:

True love needs no pretence

When A&E trauma surgeon, Dr. Isobel Murphy, married sexy Irish firefighter, Lucas Delaney, she knew it was going to be forever. Unfortunately, she didn’t realise forever would only last five short years.

Keeping her failed marriage from her family seems like a piece of cake, until her grandmother calls a family gathering and Belle suspects she’s about to announce a critical illness. Making excuses for Luc’s absence, she flies home to Connecticut.

Then delicious Lucas arrives for the three-day get-together and Belle knows things are going to get dicey. Especially since he still has the power to make her heart miss a beat, and her stomach bottom out.

When Belle asks him to pretend they’re still deeply in love, Luc doesn’t have a problem. He sees an opportunity to reclaim the love of his life. And he goes all out to remind Belle how it used to be between them, before long work hours and clashing schedules invaded their marriage.

What he needs to know though, is, once the pretence is over, will Belle be applying for her decree absolute? Or will they be renewing wedding vows?

Do you want a little more?...Huh?

Okay...

Excerpt:

She gave him a sexy smirk and bit the corner of her bottom lip. “I’m not sure if that’s a promise or a threat.”

He couldn’t be sure either. Every male hormone in his body urged him to kiss her good and hard, until she was begging him to make love to her, while the part of his brain responsible for logical thought—the part that wasn’t completely devoid of blood—told him to back off. If Belle hadn’t consumed so much wine, she wouldn’t have allowed things to get this far. And she’d never forgive him if he took advantage of her vulnerability tonight.

“Belle, I doubt you’ll remember doing this tomorrow.”

Her eyelids brushed down to half-mast as her gaze zeroed in on his mouth. She licked her lips in a slow, tormenting glide. “You have the most beautiful lips; do you know that?”

Luc gulped, then chuckled to cover the groan her compliment tore from him. Turning down Belle’s unspoken invitation was going to be harder than the organ in his trousers begging to get out. “Honey, let’s get you tucked into bed. You’ll feel better once you sleep this off.”

With a lethargic smile, she cupped the back of his head just as he started to turn her toward her bed, bringing his mouth to hers. When she pulled away, her dark blue eyes twinkled with mischief. “I know exactly what I’m doing, Luc.”

His good intentions went up in smoke as every part of him came alive. Just for tonight, he’d believe Belle wanted him as much as he longed for her. Just for tonight, he’d pretend everything was all right between them. But when tomorrow came he planned to win the battle for his marriage. Because Luc knew after this weekend, he’d never be able to give her up.

Thanks for dropping by, it's always lovely to see you.

Until next time,
Happy reading.

What Goes Into a First Chapter

2010-01-23T14:03:00.000Z

You've just written The End.

You fold your arms across your chest with a self-satisfied smile. After months of hard graft, you've finally finished your WIP. You may let it sit for a couple of weeks, or you may only leave it a couple of days before reading through the MS with fresh eyes. Either way, you'll soon have that baby out in the marketplace as you aim to find it a home.

So, that's done. You now need to start the book that has shamelessly courted your imagination while you were trying to write the last book. You know the one I mean--the little rascal that woke you at three in the morning whining, "Write me! Write me! Tell my story!"

You've been taking notes on scene ideas, snappy dialogue, plot points; you've gotten to know your characters etc (known as prewriting). Now it's time to write, but...hang on a minute...what goes into the first chapter, again?

Never fear, I'm here to help with a quick break-down of the essentials!

The first thing you need to do is come up with a fantastic opening line. A powerful hook to draw the reader into your story. Something that will immediately spark her curiosity. Get your Hero and or heroine on scene ASAP!

Make sure your heroine is likable--no one likes a snark or a dishrag--that she has a solid goal, strong motivation to achieve her goal, and real internal conflict preventing her from achieving that goal. She must have layers to her personality--space to learn and grow. (Known as character arc or development)

Your hero must be strong--not nasty to the heroine--he must be a man your reader can fall in love with. He must have a solid goal of his own, strong motivation to achieve his goal, and internal conflict, which prevents him from attaining his goal. Like the heroine, your hero must have layers to his personality and space to grow.

And this all has to be believable!

You also need external conflict, but remember, if you are writing a romance, the internal conflict MUST drive your story. Internal conflict is what makes a book character-driven (External conflict creates a plot-driven book). For those of you who may not know, Romance Novels are character-driven.

You must let the reader see the attraction between the H/h. A sense of time and place, you don't want her wondering, "so where or when is this taking place?" for a whole chapter. Be careful of dumping too much information on the reader, let her get to know your characters gently with snippets of back-story. This will also keep her curious.

And don't forget to end the chapter with a great hook.

To recount:

Your Hero and heroine should meet pretty quickly after the opening of your story. In romance novels, usually the external conflict throws them together. By the end of the chapter, the reader should know who your H/h are (characterization), What (Goal) they want, Why (Motivation) they want it, and what’s Stopping (Conflict) them from getting it.

The reader should not be in any doubt of the attraction between your H/h and she should be dying to know what happens next. How are these two going to surmount their problems by the end of the book to live HEA?

Until next time, happy writing.

And, as always, God bless.

New Book Contract

2010-01-20T15:38:00.000Z

Have you ever noticed how good intentions go to pot before the ink even dries on the paper? I had serious intentions of regular blogging, but somehow one week blended into another and I never seemed to find the time to blog.

Anyway, I do apologise for the sporadic effort. Must try harder, right? lol.

I have two bits of news I'd like to share. One is I finally managed to send off my requested complete MS to HM&B--yay! Will let you know the outcome. And my second piece of news is I've just been offered a contract from The Wild Rose Press for Let's Pretend, one of my Novellas (still waiting to hear the outcome for More Than a Playboy). I will of course keep you posted on further news--the cover, release dates etc.

Yes I'm excited, but at the same time I'm having a bit of a confusing time. Do I target my next two romances at HM&B or do I write them for TWRP.

Decisions, decisions...

Divorce Etiquette and the Hessayon Award

2010-01-07T12:20:00.000Z

Divorce Etiquette has been entered for the Joan Hessayon NWS Award through the Romantic Novelists' Association. Pretty cool, I think. I haven't got many details yet, but will be sure to keep you posted!

The winner will be announced at the 2010 Summer Party on the 13th of May. I'm claiming favour, since this is my firstborn's 21st birthday. Might drag her along with me for moral support--not because I'm too cheap to throw her a 21st Birthday Bash!