Reading Update and Blog Appearance

My friend, Jeanne, interviewed me over at Eight LadiesWriting. She also had some WONDERFUL things to say about Biting the Curse. Go check it out at: https://eightladieswriting.com/2020/01/14/jeanne-interview-with-stacy-mckitrick-2/

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #2

Dates read: January 6-11
Title: Where Winter Finds You
Year of publication: 2019
Author: J.R. Ward
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Series:  Black Dagger Brotherhood #17.5
# of Pages: 445
Paper or plastic: Mass market paperback
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Book:. When Trez lost his beloved to a tragic death, his soul was crushed and his destiny relegated to suffering. But then he meets a mysterious female, and he is convinced his true love has been reincarnated. Is he right? Or has grief created a disastrous delusion?
    Therese has come to Caldwell to escape a rift with her bloodline. The revelation that she was adopted and not born into her family shakes the foundations of her identity, and she is determined to make it on her own. Her attraction to Trez is not what she’s looking for except the sexy Shadow proves to be irresistible.
    Has fate provided a grieving widower with a second chance … or is Trez too blinded by the past to see the present clearly? In this sensual, arresting story of redemption and self-discovery, two lost souls find themselves at a crossroads, where the heart may be the only compass that can be trusted …
My thoughts: Only J.R. Ward would call a 400+ book a novella. I would have said it’s a whole novel, and it’s a really good novel, too. I like how she corrected the huge mistake many readers claim she made in Trez’s first story (#13, The Shadows). I mean, you just don’t kill off the heroine! But she’s redeemed herself in this book. At least, for me. And I’m so happy for Trez!

I’m almost finished with the edits to Finding the Perfect Mate. Then it goes back to my editor to make sure I didn’t screw anything else up! After she gets another read and I fix it again (if there’s anything to fix), then it’s on to my copy editor (i.e. daughter). I may actually get this book ready before release day. Which is April 1^st, in case you forgot. It’s on preorder now at a reduced price of $2.99 (after April 1 it goes up to $4.99). You can order it here:

Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081TM9KC1

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/finding-the-perfect-mate-stacy-mckitrick/1135043124?ean=2940163189878

Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/finding-the-perfect-mate

Apple: https://books.apple.com/us/book/finding-the-perfect-mate/id1488836101

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/992009

So … Have you set any reading goals this year? I set the bar low this year: 50. I read 57 books in both 2019 and 2018, so I figure it’s doable.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Reading Update and Blogging in General

Well, I’m back home and my reading has slowed again. So has my posting, apparently. Ha!

I’m debating on whether or not to keep blogging as it is. Or at least rethink what I want my blog to do. Could it be blogging is just plain dying? I went through the list of blogs I follow (over there on the sidebar) and was surprised at how many were gone. And how many haven’t been active in FOUR YEARS! I guess everyone is over on Facebook or Twitter or even Instagram. I’m learning how to use Instagram now, but do I want to give up my blog? That is an answer I need to make, probably sometime this year. Kind of silly to be blogging if no one is reading.

Here’s what I read since my last update:

Book #1

Dates read: December 22 – January 3
Title: The Haunting of a Duke
Year of publication: 2016
Author: Chasity Bowlin
Genre: Historical romance
Series:  The Dark Regency Series, Book One
# of Pages: 220
Paper or plastic: Nook
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from Goodreads:. Facing danger from both sides of the grave, will two souls merge to find a love that conquers all?
    Communing with spirits has been both gift and curse to Emme Walters. Now it's made her a killer's target. Emme knows why the Dowager Duchess of Briarleigh invited her to a house party—to investigate whether the duke, Rhys Brammel, murdered his wife years ago. But Emme never imagined she would fall in love with the brooding duke.
    Branded by society as a possible killer, Rhys is suspicious of Emme and her alleged "gift." Then a late night encounter creates awareness of her other, more attractive, aspects. When Emme's life is threatened, Rhys becomes her protector.
    Emme and Rhys find passion and peril as they join forces to solve the mysteries at Briarleigh. She made him believe in spirits, but can she make him believe in love?
My thoughts: I started reading this book a year or two ago and stopped because the head-hopping was getting to me. Because, frankly, there is waaaaay too much of it going on in this novel for my tastes. But, I really wanted to read about the story, so I put that distaste in a corner and just read it for the story. And I enjoyed the story. Enjoyed the little twist at the end that I didn’t see coming. Still hated the head-hopping, which it made it hard for ME to really get into the character’s head. But if that kind of stuff doesn’t bother you, and you like to read stories with ghosts, then you’ll probably enjoy this way more than I did. FYI: my Nook version had some formatting mistakes (Chapters 13 and 16 were the same and there were two identical Epilogues), but I’ve been told these have been corrected when formatted for Kindle Unlimited (which is the only way you can get this book now).

So … Why do you blog? Why do you read blogs? I read blogs because I felt connected to someone (writing can be very isolating) or because I was learning how to be a better writer. Most of the writing blogs have gone away, though (at least the ones I followed). And even those blogs I read for fun are dwindling. Because, let’s face it: blogging is HARD. It’s hard to come up with something to blog about. Well … at least it is for me.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

Wednesday Reads and I’m Taking a Break…Sort of

Not much happens in my life. Well…not much INTERESTING. And it’s getting harder and harder to blog about all that uninteresting stuff. So, I figure why not take a break. I won’t not blog because if I’ve read a book, I’m still posting that. And I’ll still be around the blogosphere, reading and commenting when the mood strikes. So I won’t be gone, just not posting. At least for December. And except on Wednesday.

See? Only a sort-of break. J

Here’s what I finished reading this week:

Book #52

Dates read: December 2-6
Title: Restore Me
Year of publication: 2018
Author: Tahereh Mafi
Genre: YA Distopian
Series:  Shatter Me #4
# of Pages: 435
Paper or plastic: Hard back
How obtained: Purchased
Blurb from book: It’ been sixteen days since Juliette Ferrars killed the supreme commander of North America and took over as ruler of The Reestablishment on the continent.
    Sixteen days since she assassinated Warner’s father.
    Juliette thought she’d won. She took over Sector 45 and now has Warner by her side. But she’s still the girl with the ability to kill with a single touch—and with so much power in her young hands, the world is watching her every move, waiting to see what happens next.
    Juliette and Warner have risked everything. But when tragedy strikes, they must confront the darkness that exists both around and inside them. Will they be able to control the power Juliette wields, or will it control them?
My thoughts: Do not read this book if you like your books to have an actual ending. This one did not (it’s way worse than a stupid cliffhanger). I like the series. Started it when the first one came out in 2011 and don’t remember any of them ending as badly as this one does (okay, I just re-read my review of book 2 and it did have a cliff hanger). I find it funny that book 3 was supposed to be the conclusion to the series. Now there’s a book 5 and 6 planned. I think I’ll wait until book 6 is out (or the last one, if that isn’t it) before I read anymore. That’s if I even bother. Oh, and don’t let that page count fool you. There are soooooo many blank pages between Juliette’s and Warner’s POV (yes, it’s in first person and they each have a POV), and the flip back and forth happens a lot.

It’s funny that Wednesday used to be the hardest day for me to blog. Then I came up with Wednesday Reads. Now it’s the easiest! I’ll just have to come up with something fun to blog about on the other days, but right now my brain isn’t functioning so well. I’ll blame it on the holidays. They always make a good excuse.

But at least I’m NOT using the holidays as an excuse for not exercising. I’m still at it every morning (except on the weekends when we have other plans) and I hope to continue this habit into 2019. I’m tired of feeling old and slow. And when the day comes for that heart surgery, I’d like to be in a better shape than I am now.

So… Reading anything good? After that last book I made sure to pick a romance to read next. Those always make me happy and right now I want happy.

Happy Reading!

Stacy

I'm On a Roll!

Every month this year (which would be only three times), I’ve set a writing goal to add 5000 words to my WIP. January I added 1527. February was worse at 683. But this month? So far I’ve written 2524 words in the past 5 days! And I passed the 10K mark on my WIP, too!

I am on a roll!!

I am determined to keep up the madness work and obliterate that goal.

The other day I was interviewed over on the Eight Ladies Writing blog. You can read it HERE. Don’t worry. It’s short. I apparently don’t believe in rambling in my answers. Is that a good or bad thing? I haven’t decided.

Hubby returned home safe and sound at 3:02am yesterday. His flight was only delayed twice! Don’t you just hate flying? We do.

Penguins won last night, but lost in overtime the night before. What an ugly game that was, too. I’m happy the games were on NBCSN, but hate those back-to-back games. And they have the most (or 2nd most) back-to-back games this season. Doesn’t seem right.

So… Got any big plans this weekend? I’ll be attending my local RWA chapter meeting on Saturday and then on Sunday we celebrate my daughter’s birthday at the Cheesecake Factory. No, it’s not her birthday yet (it’s actually April 10), but we have eight coupons for free slices of cheesecake (oh, look, and there will be 8 of us!) and they expire on the 31st. Can’t let them go to waste (just waist). J

Happy Friday!

Stacy

This Time I'm Getting Help

When I released my first book, I knew better than to spend a lot on advertising or promotion. It was one book and the ROI would have stunk. Same with the second. But I continued to do the same for the third, fourth, and fifth. Well, now number six is coming and it’s time I changed.

It’s time I get some help.

Because surely, I need it. Plus, I now have a back list. Not a big back list, but it’s something.

So I hired Barclay Publicity to help me however they can in the month I have until release day. Danielle Barclay wasn’t sure how much she could do on short notice. Well, so far she’s doing way more than I could have done on my own.

She’s already got me on three blogs: Fresh Fiction, Just Paranormal Romance, and USA Today Happy Ever After. That’s right… USA Today!

Won’t know how much of an impact it’ll have on sales since all of these happen at the end of the month, but I’m feeling pretty confident. Certainly better than anything I’ve done on my own.

I’m excited to see what else they have in store for me.

So… Are you watching the Olympics? I love them!

Happy Friday!

Stacy

Pictures from Albany Trip!!

Wow! I did it. I actually downloaded my pictures in a timely manner. Maybe there's hope for me yet.

Our first day in Albany was actually spent in Bennington, VT. We were told there was a great place to eat (there was) and while there we did a little site-seeing.

One thing that was basically hard to miss, was the Bennington Battle Monument. We got there too late to climb to the top, but it sure is impressive on the outside. If we had known they closed at 5, we probably would have eaten after seeing it (instead of before).

Bennington is home to three covered bridges. They basically all look the same, though. But they're labeled, so you can see there are three of them.

As I said Wednesday, it rained on Monday, so we didn't do much (but go out to eat). Tuesday Hubby got finished early, so we drove up the interstate to Cohoes to check out the falls. You'd think the park would be impressive with this sign. You'd think wrong. Haha!

This is the view from the Overland Park. Of course, I zoomed in a bit because I didn't know there was another (better) park.

This is the Overland Park. Yeah, not much there.

We then went to the Falls View Park. A much better park (although I failed to take pictures of that park--dumb me!

We were able to walk down closer to river level, so the view of the falls was much improved. The walkways were pretty nice, too.

Of course, once we walked down, we had to walk back up! Hubby counted 85 steps. Ah, we walked up more steps at Mammoth Caves. Still was a trek for me, though. **puff puff**

Couldn't resist taking a picture of the wild daisies (at least they looked liked daisies).

Anyway, that concludes my pictures. Hope you enjoyed them.

On Wednesday, I posted the link to a short story I started on the Alpha Heroes blog. If you missed that, you can find it HERE. The second installment has also been posted. If you're interested in how another author continued it, you can read it HERE. Took me by surprise, that's for sure.

I'm on my way to Raleigh, NC today. Daughter will play Footy on Saturday. Not exactly sure what teams are showing up. Guess I'll find out when we get there. Oh, and we decided to just take my car on this trip. Hubby wants to wait until he's put a few local miles on the RAV4 until we take it on a longer trip. We'll definitely be taking the RAV4 to Ft. Lauderdale when we drive down for our cruise, though. That's several months away.

So... Do you like babying new cars or is that just my husband? I think nowadays cars don't need babying, but hey, what do I know? Nothing when it comes to cars, apparently.

Happy Friday!

Stacy

Procrastinating at its Finest

I was going to download the few pictures I have on my iPhone and camera so I could post them here. I might have done just that on Thursday if I hadn’t gotten busy doing chapter work. I’ll be glad when I’m no longer treasurer, just saying…

See? Procrastinating at its finest. If I hadn’t procrastinated all week, I might just have those photos to share today. And something to blog about.

I really need to work on being less of a procrastinator. How do you do that, though?

I do have a bit of news to share. I met M Jane Colette at RT (during the Charlaine Harris/Karin Slaughter panel), and she actually mentioned me in her blog. I find it pretty spectacular that she even remembered me. It’s not like I was talkative, because I wasn’t. Anyway, if you’d like to see a bit of what RT is all about, she’s got quite a bit of information and pictures. Tons of pictures (even one with ME in it!). You can find it all here: https://mjanecolette.com/2017/05/27/diary-of-an-rt-virgin-day-4-fan-girl-gone-mad/

If I didn’t think it was so much work, I’d like to be like her. Bet she doesn’t procrastinate.

I was able to watch the last two minutes of Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals on Wednesday. I had gotten score updates while I was at the Dragons game, which had, unfortunately, started an hour late. Seems someone opened the breaker to the field and they didn’t have any power. If the game had started on time, I would have stayed for the whole thing, but by 10:30, they were only in the 7th inning and I didn’t want to stay any longer. They did win, though, 9-8, so there’s that.

But the Penguins win gave me much more joy. I look forward to another win on Saturday, but know it will be a hard-fought battle to do so. There’s a reason these two teams are in the finals, right? Still wouldn’t mind a sweep, but know it’s pretty impossible. Oh well…

So… What is it you do that you wish you didn’t, but know you will never change? Procrastination is it for me. I really don’t think there’s any hope for me. And I guess in the scheme of things, it could be worse. Right?

Happy Friday!

Stacy

Yes!! No RADIATION!!!

We got the BEST NEWS EVER! Doctor said everything came back clean. Hubby won’t need radiation. Looks like he’s cancer-free! He’ll go back in 3 months for another PET scan to be sure, but WOW! We did NOT expect that news. So happy!!!!

Now maybe life can get back to normal. A new normal, but normal. Whew.

Big Red update: I’m pleased to say that he’s been working great since I got him back last week. So far. It’s sad that I can’t be optimistic. Maybe when a couple months have gone by without an issue, I’ll feel more confident.

Maybe.

I noticed that I posted 13 times each month this year (this one being the 13th for April). I’ve never posted the same AMOUNT for the first four months before. February usually messes things up. Then again, this is a leap year, so apparently that extra day helped. Anyway, I just thought that little stat was interesting. I know, it is for me, not necessarily for you. J

I’m still watching the Penguins/Capitals game as I write this, as it is going into overtime and I just want to go to bed. Ugh. I have a feeling this round will be stressful.

Have a great weekend.

Stacy

Wednesday Reads and Undeliverable Comments

I’ve noticed recently that almost every blog I comment on, my comments are undeliverable (at least I’m getting a Mailer Daemon for them). Guess it’s that aol account I have. Thing is, that account is tied to my blog, so I’m not about to change it. Does anyone else have this problem? Did you find a solution (short of changing e-mail accounts)? If so, please share.

Here’s what I read this week:

Oct 7: “Brighter Than the Sun” by Darynda Jones, #8.5 in the Charley Davidson series, an urban fantasy at 106 pages. Blurb from Goodreads: All his life, Reyes Alexander Farrow has suffered the torments of the damned. Only one thing has given him hope: the woman who radiates a light that no mortals can see; a light that only the departed can see... Told from his point of view, BRIGHTER THAN THE SUN chronicles the first time Reyes ever encountered Charley, and how their relationship has been the one thing that can either save him or doom him. Even though it doesn’t have the humor the rest of the series has (since those are told from Charley’s point of view and she’s a hoot), I love reading Reyes’ point of view. This one is a darker story, but still, it’s Reyes! I do love him so (even though he is the son of Satan) and I zipped right through this prequel novella. I just hope it eventually comes out in print so I can add it to my collection. I love this series!

Yes, my reading has slowed a little. Probably because I’m so close to the end of my novella. Yay! I’m hoping to get that thing finished this week. I have, like, maybe two more scenes to write. And then I have to hope I didn’t write garbage. Because sometimes I wonder…

TV watching update: Quit watching “The Grinder” and getting really close to quitting “Quantico,” too (that show is a confusing mess, but hubby wants to give it one more try). However, I finally watched the first three episodes of “Rosewood” and I’m enjoying that one.

So… Is it getting cooler where you live? Does that make you happy or sad? Last year it made me sad. This year it’s not bothering me too much. Yet. Then again, it hasn’t gotten really cold. Yet. J

Happy Reading!

Stacy

I’m a Guest Poster at Romance Lives Forever

I’m still trying to get the word out about Blind Temptation (oh heck, who am I kidding? I’ll never stop. Right?). Today I’m being featured on Romance Lives Forever Blog. You can find my post HERE (which is why I posted this an hour later than usual; the post should be live by now). I’m also featured on their ezine: http://paper.li/kayelleallen/1349530261.

If you want to help me out, please comment on the blog and maybe share it on Facebook or Twitter (if you have an account). The hashtag for Twitter (or both) is #RLFblog (I’m not a tweeter, so I’m not sure what that will accomplish). The post that gets the most visits/comments gets recognition later (maybe even free advertising on the site). And since I’m looking for recognition, I could use all the help I can get.

Don’t know if you noticed, but I made some subtle changes to my blog. And if you’re reading this on a mobile device, you might not notice (or care). Anyway, waaaaay down at the bottom there are lots of book covers. These are the last 48 books I’ve read. Then on the sidebar I added my Goodreads Challenge (we’ll see if this one works, the last one wouldn’t). It’s not much, but I like sharing what I read, so I thought it was appropriate. We’re all about the books, right?

So… I’ve had two good writing days so far. Sure, I had to go back and fix what I thought I’d fixed (grrr), but I still fixed it and added almost 600 words this week. Not a lot, but better than nothing, right? Plus, I’m getting the stupid book FIXED! Now, if I can get the next scene fixed (which is a pretty major scene I thorough goofed on), I’ll be heading into the weekend on a major high. What kind of stuff gets your blood pumping?

Have a great weekend!

Stacy

My 700th Posting???

Yep. This is my 700th posting.

Gosh.

I noticed it when I posted #699 on Friday (since that’s the only time I really see what posting number I’m on). It took me nearly 5 years to get 700, too. In 16 days, I’ll have blogged for 5 years!

Who knew on Thanksgiving night of 2009 that I’d still be at this blog? And that I’d post 700 times? I certainly didn’t.

Heck, I can’t believe how far I’ve come since that first posting. I’d only been writing for 7 months, with one book under my belt (a book that became Bite Me, I’m Yours). I mean, I became published during that time! Now there’s a dream I thought I’d have to wait a lot longer than 5 years to come true.

I’ve only given this blog one facelift since I started it and I doubt I’ll bother trying to make any changes. At least, not until I get a new laptop (yep, I’m on the same laptop when I started this venture). Google doesn’t like my internet browser and I can’t update that because I’m still using Vista (and I really don’t like Google Chrome—which I do use whenever I have to add a page or a blog comes up missing stuff). I know the day will come when I have to buy a new laptop. I’m hoping it lasts until something better than Windows 8 comes along, though. And when I say hoping, I mean HOPING!!

I really do NOT want Windows 8. If I had it, I’m sure I’d be doing a whole lot more ranting on this blog!

Thanks for sticking around, whether you comment or not. Although I do try to get you to comment. Don’t really care for those bloggers who only post stuff and don’t seem to want any interaction. I like the interaction. It certainly makes blogging more fun.

In other news… Our high school football team won their game Saturday (and it didn’t rain—yay!). One down, four more to go. I know, wishful thinking. Still, they played EXCELLENT. If they continue to focus like that, I can see them go all the way.

So… Who’s prepared for our next polar vortex? Yeah, not me! At least we get a little warm-up beforehand. I better make sure to enjoy it while it’s here, huh?

Have a great day!

Stacy

 

Misc Pictures and a Decision About Blogging

I’ve been blogging fairly consistently on Mon, Wed, & Fri for awhile now. I like blogging, when I have something to blog about. When I don’t have something to blog about? Well, it’s frustrating. I wish my life were more interesting. Or I could REMEMBER interesting stuff that happened. But I don’t always write those things down, so they tend to get forgotten. Yeah, getting old is the pits.

So, I will definitely blog on Wednesdays, since I usually have a book or two to write about. As for Monday and Friday… I may or may not blog. I’m not going to force it any more. Forcing it is not fun and I want to have fun. I want this place to be fun.

I thought about maybe having a guest author post, something more than just a “here’s my book and blurb.” I have an author friend that has other authors answer the same silly questions each Sunday (she calls it Sundae with Nuts). Maybe something like that would work. Providing I could FIND people (authors) willing to do this, would you all even stick around for that? You can let me know in the comments.

I am NOT going away, though. I don’t have much of a social media presence and can’t afford to abandon what little I do have. Besides, I DO like to blog—when I have something worthwhile (or funny) to share. Heck, this blog gives me REASONS to take pictures now (so does Facebook), and I like sharing pictures.

And I do have some pictures to share today. Just some miscellaneous stuff.

The other morning was super foggy, but the full moon was shining (super moon, too). Would you believe it was clear about 10 minutes later? Glad I got these pics before then.

Then I saw something that looked like a leaf that had lodged on my screen only to discover it was a moth. Cool, huh? Well, cool that it was OUTSIDE. Glad it wasn't IN.

And the husband and I finally laid the new area rug in the family room. Yeah, he loves it. We’re tempted to get an OSU rug for the family room, not that we use that room all that much.

So… How was your weekend? Enjoy the football games? Steelers lost on Thursday, but the Rams WON yesterday. Yay!

Stacy

Wednesday Reads

I got great news from my publisher, Lyrical Press. They’ve decided to offer their books in print as well as digital, and they’ll be starting this with their November releases. So it looks like “My Sunny Vampire” will also be available in print. Ain’t that the BEST news ever? I sure think so!

Writing is moving along, so reading has been slow. Priorities! Here’s what I read during the last week:

Sep 26: “Deeply Odd” by Dean Koontz. This is the sixth book in the Odd Thomas series. Not sure if I should call this a horror or paranormal thriller. Is there a difference? Blurb on book: How do you make sure a crime that hasn’t happened yet, never does? That’s the critical question facing Odd Thomas, the young man with a unique ability to commune with restless spirits and help them find justice and peace. But this time, it’s the living who desperately need Odd on their side. Three helpless innocents will be brutally executed unless Odd can intervene in time. Who the potential victims are and where they can be found remain a mystery. The only thing Odd knows for sure is who the killer will be: the homicidal stranger who tried to shoot him dead in a small-town parking lot. With the ghost of Alfred Hitchcock riding shotgun and a network of unlikely allies providing help along the way, Odd embarks on an interstate game of cat and mouse with his sinister quarry. He will soon learn that his adversary possesses abilities that may surpass his own and operates in service to infinitely more formidable foes, with murder a mere prelude to much deeper designs. Traveling across a landscape haunted by portents of impending catastrophe, Odd will do what he must and go where his path leads him, drawing every closer to the dark heart of his long journey--and, perhaps, to the bright light beyond.  I’ve enjoyed this series until this book. Lots of rambling; it was a struggle to get to the end. Thing is, the story was interesting, and I loved the new character that was introduced, but it just took forever for events to happen. I gave this 3 stars on Goodreads.

 

All this month Lyrical Press is hosting “Celebrate Paranormal Month,” because, apparently, that’s what October is now. Paranormal authors from Lyrical Press will talk about their books and what made them decide to write them. My day comes up on October 7. If you’re looking for new authors in the paranormal genre, check it out. Here’s the link to the October 1 entry: http://lyricalpress.com/2013/10/01/celebrate-paranormal-month-meet-kt-grant/

So, are you looking for new authors to read or are you overwhelmed with the books you have? Sometimes I feel overwhelmed, then I go on a trip and read like crazy! In fact, I’m stocking up on my Nook because I will be going on a trip this month. I’ll probably take some paper books, too, because I still don’t trust electronics. Doubt I ever do!

Happy reading!

Stacy

 

Wednesday Reads -- My 500th Post!

This is my 500th post. Can you believe that? It only took 3 years and 8 months to do it. First, I’m surprised I stuck with it that long. Second, I’m surprised I remembered to say something. I don’t usually see the post number until AFTER I’ve posted. But no special celebration from me, though. Just another Wednesday post. Here’s what I finished reading this week:

Jul 18: “Gabriel’s Ghost” By Linnea Sinclair. This is a sci-fi romance. Blurb on back: Captain Chasidah Bergren, onetime pride of the interstellar Sixth Fleet, is framed for a crime and exiled to a prison planet from which no one escapes--until a seductive ghost from her past shows up to rescue her. Gabriel Sullivan, alpha mercenary and scoundrel, is supposed to be dead. Now he offers her a ticket to freedom--for a price. Someone in the Empire is breeding uncontrollable killing machines, and Gabriel needs Chaz’s help before hundreds of innocents die. Their own lives are on the line--but the long-held attraction that heats up between them may be the riskiest part of all… Not a fan of sci-fi (I hate names I can’t pronounce) or first person, but I’ve taken classes and workshops from the author and thought it only fair I buy and read one of her books and this one seemed interesting. Well, it was more than interesting. I thoroughly enjoyed it (even with my little break in there - this is the book that was missing the 50 pages). I’ll definitely check out more of her work. I gave this book 4 stars on Goodreads.

Jul 19: “Tempted” by Rebecca Zanetti. This is a novella, book 2.5 in the Dark Protector series, a paranormal romance. Blurb from Goodreads: On the run from a mental institution and her vindictive half-brother, it’s safe to say that Sarah Pringle’s happy life as a schoolteacher is on hold. Too bad that as far as self-defense goes, “run and hide” is the best she’s got. And with the monsters that started her escape hot on her heels, that’s not going to cut it for long… That is, unless Sarah has a bigger, badder, hotter monster on her side. Max Petrovsky is right at the top of the list of alpha male ass-kickers. And he knows exactly what Sarah’s up against. Good thing, because the minute he sees her something primal kicks in, turning everyday attraction into red-hot desire. As long as they’re cooperating, why not mix some pleasure with business? Of course, Max should probably tell Sarah he’s a vampire himself… I really don’t enjoy novellas (they’re just too damn short), but I like to know all that goes on in a series. I like Max and Sarah. Just wish there was more. I gave this 4 stars on Goodreads.

Jul 21: “Becoming Quinn” by Brett Battles. This is a novella in the Jonathan Quinn series, a thriller. Blurb from Goodreads: Most careers begin with an interview and a handshake. Others require a little … something more. Meet Jake Oliver. The day will come when he's one of the best cleaners in the business, a man skilled at making bodies disappear. At the moment, however, he's a twenty-two year old rookie cop, unaware his life is about to change. In a burning barn a body is found; and the fire isn't the cause of death. The detectives working the case have a pretty good idea about what went down. But Officer Oliver thinks it’s something else entirely, and pursues a truth others would prefer remain hidden, others who will go to extreme lengths to keep him quiet. Every identity has an origin. This is Quinn’s. Most novellas I read I find too short. This one was longer than most, but just about right for this story. I had a hard time putting it down, too, even though I KNEW how the character turned out. Because of that, I gave it 5 stars on Goodreads.

I’ve had a minor set-back in my latest submission. I have to figure out how to cut 10,000 words before my ms will even be read. Heavy sigh. Somehow I’ll find those words and cut them. I just hope I don’t ruin the story to do it!

I think I know how directors feel when they have to cut scenes to make the movie the correct length. They feel CRAPPY!!!

Happy Reading!

Stacy

 

Social Media Overload

Gosh, is it Friday already?

Haven’t had a chance to try my new walking shoes yet. Why? Rain. Cold. You pick and you’ll be correct. Looks like the weather will be drying out and warming up this weekend, so I’m hoping to get more walking in next week.

I signed up for a free class with RWA regarding Social Media. Yikes! Too many people signed up for that. Frankly, I didn’t really learn anything new with what I’m doing already. I doubt I’ll ever tweet - not unless I owned a smart phone first anyway. And regarding an author page on Facebook, I think I’ll worry about that if I ever get close to 5000 friends. I’d be surprised if that ever happened, though. But don’t let that stop you from friending me (pick me! pick me!). My badge is located on the side panel, below all those blogs I follow!

The thing that gets me is that all these writers are setting up author pages and asking everyone to LIKE them. Why? I mean, if I had a page, I would want people who will read or have read my books to like my page. But to have likes just to have likes? It doesn’t make sense. Don’t you think it’s better to have 5 people like your page who have read your work and are willing to buy your next book than 100 likes of people who only liked you because you liked them back?

FYI: If I like your page, it’s because I like your work. I thought that’s how Facebook was supposed to work. Am I wrong?

Then there’s my blogging. In case you never noticed, I don’t do blog hops. Maybe they generate followers, but they’re time suckers. Not only do I have to come up with one or more postings, I’m kind of required to visit everyone else, too. Sometimes I feel like I spend TOO much time blogging as it is, but hey, it’s about the only time I’m actually interacting with other people. Besides, it’s fun now. Why turn it into work?

 

I'm hoping to see "Oblivion" this weekend. Anyone else interested in that? Don't know when we'll see it, though. We have tickets to a Dragons Game Saturday night. At least this Saturday night won't be as cold as last Saturday night, but I'll probably still need to bundle up.

On Monday I hope you’ll stop by. I’m helping James Garcia Jr. in revealing the cover to his new novel, and it’s pretty cool!

Have a great weekend!

 

Stacy

 

What I Read Since Last Week

Hey! My good blogging buddy, The Happy Whisk, is giving away some books to celebrate her 444th post! So hop on over to her post HERE. I'm sure she'll appreciate it. Plus, you might walk away with a new book!

And in case you were wondering (because I was) - this is my 439th post. I'm catching up to her!

Reading's picking up a little, now that I don't have a deadline hanging over me. Still, I only got one book finished since last week (I'll blame it on the taxes – which, by the way are DONE!) and here it is:

Mar 3: "Stalked" by Allison Brennan. Book 5 of the Lucy Kincaid series. Blurb: A new trainee at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Lucy Kincaid has already seen more than her share of murder and mayhem. Still reeling from the sex-crime case that sealed her reputation, she's found a true friend and mentor in Agent Tony Presidio. No matter what goes down at the Bureau, Tony's got her back – until he's called to New York to help investigate the murder of a reporter with ties to Lucy. But the report may not be the first victim of a patient killer with a penchant for revenge, and she's definitely not the last. Connections between closed cases, a missing person, and Tony himself lead Lucy to fear for those she cares for most. When the FBI is rocked by the death of one of their own, Lucy seeks the help of her boyfriend, private investigator Sean Rogan, to help put together the puzzle – and puts her career in jeopardy. But the harder she pushes for answers, the clearer the truth becomes: There's a killer inside Quantico. Watching her every move. Waiting to kill again… Another goodie. Now I have to wait for the next book to be released before I can read it. Oh well, gives me a chance to read other stuff now. Just like the others in this series, I gave this book 5 stars on Goodreads.

No news on the concert I attended last night because I'm writing this early (and haven't left yet). Why? Because #1 – I will not have finished the book I'm reading by tomorrow and #2 – I will most likely crawl into bed as soon as I get home from the concert. I expect my trip to be treacherous since I'll be driving back in the snow. We'll see if we get 4-6" of the stuff. I'm hoping we DON'T! I don't want to drive in any of it. Why does the weather always have to act up on the days I actually venture OUT of the house? Doesn't seem fair!

So glad I got the four-wheel drive!

Keep warm!

 

I'm Guest Blogging - Come Visit!

I'm over at Romancing the Genres today and talking about Dragon*Con.

While I do have my romance panel this morning at the Dayton Metro Library (see side bar), I will check in with my guest post later this afternoon, so please stop by and say hi!

Busy day!!

My Postal Dollars at Work

I'm not into all the ins and outs when it comes to the operations of the USPS in Dayton, Ohio, but I did know that if I mailed a letter from my house to downtown Dayton, they'd get it the next day. Two, at the latest. Not so anymore.

Apparently the Dayton processing plant has closed down. Mail now gets shipped to Cincinnati for initial mail sorting, which makes sure the mail is all upright with the stamp in the upper right hand corner for cancelling. Then it is shipped back to Dayton for the automation machines, which sorts the mail for the appropriate post office.

This added a day to the delivery (at least).

But wait. That's not all.

On June 23rd, the automation process is being transferred to Columbus. So instead of Cincinnati sending the mail back to Dayton, they'll now send it to Columbus. Once the mail has been sorted, then it will be shipped to Dayton for delivery.

This means, when I mail a letter from my house to downtown Dayton, I shouldn't expect it to get there in less than four days. Four days to travel nine miles.

I can only assume the volume of mail has reduced so much to cause this "consolidation." Seems like when I have to pay more for postage (of which I believe has increased by a penny today), I should at least get the same or better service, not worse. But hey, maybe that's just me!

Okay, end of rant.

On Saturday I had a wonderful time with the Central Ohio Fiction Writers group as they put on a workshop featuring Donald Maass. That guy is funny! And I learned so much. I'm so glad I was able to attend and I've been able to put some of his processes to work. I love workshops that make me crave writing and this one did just that.

I found out my guest post with the Romancing the Genres Blog will occur on Saturday, February 16th. That is also the day I am to be on a romance writers panel at the Wilmington Stroop branch of the Dayton Metro Library in Kettering, Ohio. And it's my dad's birthday. Popular day, huh? Let's hope I don't go into media overload!

Hope your Monday starts the week off with a blast! I'll be spending some of my time at Time Warner Cable, swapping out our failing DVR and checking into getting a whole house system. Should be fun. Not!

 

 

 

Which Do You Prefer?

The set up:

 

You read a blog of a subject you are interested in. You write a comment. Do you expect a reply?

a) yes

b) no

I do. If you do, too, HOW do you want the reply?

a) another comment on the post

b) a reply to the e-mail that was sent to the blogger
c) doesn't matter

I always try to reply to comments on the post. I guess I always thought that a string of comments could occur, in which case anyone could respond. Also, if a question was asked, I assume other readers would want to know the answer, not just the person who asked.

But I notice other bloggers will reply via e-mail. They can do that with me, because my e-mail address shows on their notification. Not all commenters have their e-mail visible, though.

Is it rude of me to make a visitor come back to my blog to read my comment? I never thought it was, because that's what I do. I like to check back to see what other people have said.

So, what say you, readers?

 

 

 

Blogging, Remembering, and Movies

I've been struggling with what to blog about. I know the title of my blog has "rantings" in it, and I do rant on occasion. Do you think I rant too much? Not enough? Or just the right amount? Is there a right amount? Ha ha!

I've been trying that Mon-Wed-Fri blogging routine, and not always succeeding. For some reason Wednesday is the hardest day. I probably should come up with a theme for Wednesdays, something to focus on.

How about favorite lists? Would that be interesting? It'd be interesting to me to see what I can remember, and maybe it would be a good exercise for my brain!

Last week I saw "Toy Story" with my son (he comes over on Mondays for pizza and a movie). Even though I've seen that movie numerous times, it had been over ten years since the last viewing so I was surprised at how much I remembered. This week we saw "Toy Story 2". I saw it once. In the theatre. There was so much in there I had forgotten, it was like watching it for the first time all over again. Yeah, it wasn't as good as the first, but it was still good. In fact, better than I remembered (See, my memory is sporadic). Next week is "Toy Story 3". We haven't seen that movie yet (please don't spoil it for me), so I don't have to worry about what I forgot.

As for movies, today "The Avengers" comes out. My husband and I will see it on Sunday, and invited the kiddies to come along. I look forward to seeing it. I love going to the theatre!

Anyway, back to the blogging issue. Any suggestions of what you'd like to see me blog about? Do you care? I mean, exactly why do you visit me? This curious mind wants to know (and if I get it in writing, then maybe I won't forget…).

Happy Friday!