Category Archives: inspirations
Calisa Rhose presents~ March2018 UnCover Monthly~ and a little hottie! #MFRWauthors #Coverlove
Osiyo~
Welcome to Pen of the Dreamer, where I welcome guest authors with their beautiful covers on UnCover Monthly!

Dean (4 mos) with coat hook-night light I made him for Christmas 2017
I also enjoy sharing a little of my life once in a while to let you know more about me. This weekend I was so fortunate to meet my new little nephew, Dean Lewis! He’s just over 4 months old and lives several hundred miles from us, so this was my first meeting with the little hottie (to-be) and he absolutely stole my heart. I can’t express how exciting it was to spend two days with little monkey butte! He seems to always have a ready smile, no matter who or what it’s for. My husband and I made this cute coat hook/night light for him. His nursery is done in sailor/ocean theme and he seems to like this new piece! (I do take orders for these, contact me at fancifulallure@gmail.com.)
Lots of pics were taken, though not nearly enough! LOL Say hello to Dean!
So, I’ve changed the days I post this feature to the second Monday of each month, instead of the first Monday. Go HERE to get the application, read carefully, then hurry and submit your covers! Remember, the early bird gets the prime slots. 😀
For now, enjoy more awesome cover art by the incredible authors and artists who make them possible for you to gaze upon each month. It would be great if you leave a comment letting everyone know what you think about them and maybe even check out a few author links to meet those behind the books. Or just say hi. Don’t forget to tell your friends to stop by so they can appreciate some greatness, or get in on the fun, too!
This feature is only to highlight the authors and artists, instead of the actual book (though if you see one you want to buy I’m sure the authors won’t mind 😆 ). Enjoy this months’ covers to ogle and explore. If there is one provided, you can follow the artist links by clicking on the name, if there’s an artist link provided, to learn more about the amazing creators of these beautiful covers.
- Normally I wouldn’t post with so few covers to share but, due to promises to these authors, I am sharing just two lovely covers this month. Please enjoy! Send your covers to the link below to see your books here!
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Title: Crimson Heart
Crimson Series, bk 2
Author: Georgiana Fields
Weblink: www.facebook.com/AuthorGeorgianaFields
Genre: Paranormal Romantic Suspense
Length: Novel 327pgs
Heat Level: 4- hot- sex
Publisher: Gilded Dragonfly Books
Cover artist: Gina Dyer
Release date: March 28, 2016
Reporter Caitlin MacPhee lives in two worlds. Celebrating her 200th birthday, she has finally found her true mate. Following her mother’s advice to throw sexy human detective Raven O’Brien to the floor and have her way with him is not her idea of romance.
Caitlin has never revealed to Raven her true nature or the depth of her desire for him or his blood. Conflict over her continued involvement in a series of bizarre murders leads to passionate declarations.
Raven is intrigued, not afraid when he learns of the Dhampir, but finding out about Caitlin doesn’t prevent him from worrying about her when the actions of a vindictive reporter places Caitlin in the crosshairs of a serial killer.
Will Raven and Caitlin be able to survive a kill as well as their differences to build a life together?
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Knights of Honor, Bk 5
Author: Alexa Aston
Weblink: www.alexaaston.com
Genre: Historical Romance
Length: Novel
Heat Level: 4
Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing
Cover artist: Dar Albert
Release date: August 21, 2017
1375 A.D. – When Sir Christopher “Kit” Emory’s beloved mother falls ill, he decides to seek the help of someone he met briefly at the royal court years ago—Lady Alys de Montfort, a renowned healer despite her young age. While traveling to her home at Kinwick Castle, Kit is accosted by a band of highwayman, who beat and rob him, leaving him to die. Fortunately, an escort party comes across him and Lady Alys insists they take the stranger home so she can use her skill in the healing arts to save his life.
The man awakens and has no memory of his identity, but Alys believes he might be Kit Emory, a young man she’d met once when she was a young girl. Kit comforted her when the queen died and Alys never forgot his kindness to her. Alys does what she can to jog Kit’s memory, even as she struggles with her growing attraction to him, knowing Kit was betrothed and must now be wed. Kit also finds his desire deepening for Alys, but he doesn’t know his own name, much less if he has a wife or family. Until he recalls who he is, he refuses to commit his heart to Alys.
Once Kit regains his memory and realizes he is free to pursue Alys, their road to love is anything but smooth.
Join Kit and Alys as they overcome events that continue to tear them apart and threaten the love they have for one another.
*Each book in the Knights of Honor series is a standalone story that can be enjoyed out of order.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Thank you to the authors who submit their covers
and make this a special place to share!
To see YOUR cover here visit the
UnCover Monthly
page for detailed instructions.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Please note: There’s a heat level rating for covers, a 1-4 scale, for my readers’ benefit. You should never see a *5* rating on the Ranch–aka my blog– since that’s not what I write, and I try to maintain my genre brand.
Some author links may be shortened due to the site format, but the hyperlinks still direct readers to the page link provided. If any link does not work when clicked, please let me know so I can fix it asap. A note in comments or by email is good.
If there’s anything else you’d like to know about covers being revealed here, please don’t hesitate to contact me. You can leave it in a comment or email through my contact page https://calisarhose.com/say-hey/.
For other guest spots, visit the Ranch Guideline page https://calisarhose.com/ranch-guest-guidelines/ and email me the appropriate information, then we can set your date.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Calisa Rhose presents~ February2018 UnCover Monthly~ and a new posting date #submityourcovers #MFRWauthors #Coverlove
Osiyo~
Welcome one and all!
I still need lots and lots of covers to share for 2018, so I’m leaving this invitation up until I send out an email begging for your covers! 😆
Apologies, I don’t post erotic/a, or anything above a heat level 4 in content or cover. You will find everything you need to show the world your covers at this link: https://calisarhose.com/uncover-monthly/
Please, consider submitting your covers, and I’d appreciate if you would share this link to January’s UCM showcase with your loops and groups.
The next post will go live at 12:01 a.m. (CMT) Monday, February 12. We’d love to see new faces in the comments and in the showcase as we move together into a brand new year.
Thank you!!!
Back to business! Welcome to Pen of the Dreamer, where I welcome guest authors with their beautiful covers on UnCover Monthly! I’ve changed the days I post this feature to the second Monday of each month, instead of the first Monday.
Go HERE to get the application, read carefully, then hurry and submit your covers! Remember, the early bird gets the prime slots. 😀
For now, enjoy more awesome cover art by the incredible authors and artists who make them possible for you to gaze upon each month.
It would be great if you leave a comment letting everyone know what you think about them and maybe even check out a few author links to meet those behind the books. Or just say hi. Don’t forget to tell your friends to stop by so they can appreciate some greatness, or get in on the fun, too!
This feature is only to highlight the authors and artists, instead of the actual book (though if you see one you want to buy I’m sure the authors won’t mind 😆 ). Enjoy this months’ covers to ogle and explore. If there is one provided, you can follow the artist links by clicking on the name, if there’s an artist link provided, to learn more about the amazing creators of these beautiful covers.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Title: A Relative Matter
Author: Karen Cogan
Weblink: www.kecogan.wordpress.com/
Genre: Historical Romance
Length: Novel
Heat Level: 1
Publisher: Karen Cogan
Cover Artist: N/A
Release date: May 23, 2015
In this sweet Regency romance, life in India is idyllic for Anne Tyler and her younger brother, Jeremy until the deaths of their parents shatter their world. They are sent to England to live with a grandfather that neither remembers. However, as the years pass, the kindly man proves a balm for their wounded hearts. His death, when it comes, is a cruel blow.
Though his will leaves the estate to Jeremy, the boy is not yet of age. His grandfather’s nephew, a man with a mysterious past, is named guardian of the property
and soon arrives to take up his duty. Unfortunately, the man has a son who is both evil and cunning. Since he stands to inherit the estate should Jeremy die, he will stop at nothing to get his hands on the property.
Murder and threats of murder soon haunt their every move. Standing between them and disaster is the handsome Lord Westerfield, a man who promises to defend Anne and Jeremy, even at risk to his own life.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Title: Druid Warrior Prince,
Celtic Stewards Chronicles, Bk #3
Author: Juli D. Revezzo
Weblink: www.julidrevezzo.com
Genre: Medieval Romance
Length: Novel
Heat Level: 2
Publisher: Raven Queen Publications
Cover artist: Raven Queen Publications
Release date: October 16, 2017
Gwenevieve Macken’s well-ordered world falls into chaos as encroaching interlopers scheme to possess both her and her land. Although she’s been trained to spot the signs of inhuman evil in men, the amassing armies take on guises she never expected.
When a foreign guardian presents himself as her only option for salvation, Gwenevieve must make a choice between her desires, and fulfilling the mythic fate to which she was born. A forced marriage to a Tuatha dé Danann warrior isn’t part of her plan.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Bk 1, Medieval Ladies
Author: Mary Gillgannon
Weblink: www.marygillgannon.com
Genre: historical romance
Length: Novel
Heat Level: 4
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Cover artist: Debbie Taylor
Release date: January 10, 2018
One rapturous hour sparks unforgettable passion between Lady Nicola and Fawkes de Cressy. But when Fawkes returns from Crusade, he finds Nicola enmeshed in a dark web of castle intrigue. Surrounded by enemies, the battle-hardened knight and the aloof, wary woman must rebuild the bond between them. Or a sinister plot will destroy them both.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
A Faery Dream 3
Author: Heather Kinnane
Weblink: www.heatherkinnane.com
Genre: Romance
Length: Novella
Heat Level: 1
Publisher: Feathery Wings Publishing
Cover artist: Olivia Pro Design
Release date: March 15, 2018
Nerida’s whole life has been focused on preparing for one thing – to be Consort to the King of Faery. She’s kept herself distant, awaiting the day when the King would be found and she would take her place beside him.
But there is no King. Instead, Nyssa is now Queen, with Kellen, Nerida’s brother, as her Consort.
Nerida has never felt so lost in her life.
When Imradon appears, he brings out feelings Nerida thought she’d never experience. But fighting against a lifetime of conditioning is hard, and then there’s the big question: does she want a partner, or is she just looking for something—anything—to fill this terrible emptiness?
*A Faery Dream 3: Nerida’s Story, can be read as stand-alone or part of the series.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Landmarks Series, The Erie Canal
Author: Laura Strickland
Weblink: www.laurastricklandbooks.com
Genre: Historical Romance.
Length: Novel
Heat Level: 4
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Cover artist: R. J. Morris
Release date: October 6, 2017
Accused of ruining Mae Ballard and faced with a shotgun wedding, Jefferson Lind knows exactly who’s to blame. He’s been taking the fall for Jedediah’s sins as long as he can remember. Mae’s a shrieking shrew, and he hasn’t seen Jed, his identical twin, since they worked digging the Erie Canal together. If he’d been ordered to marry Mae’s sweet younger sister Rosie, instead, he sure wouldn’t complain.
Rosie’s the only member of her family who believes Jeff, and she’d go to any lengths to free him from her sister’s clutches. But when Jedediah turns up with violent thugs on his tail, things quickly grow more dangerous. Gamblers from Buffalo seize both sisters as hostages, prompting a daring impersonation. Can Jeff and Jed shed their troubled past and win the hearts of the women they love?
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Bk 2, The Brothers Series
Author: Lynn Kellan
Weblink: www.LynnKellan.com
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Length: Novel, 173 pages
Heat Level: 4- hot- sex
Publisher: Lynn Kellan
Cover artist: Ida- Amygdala
Release date: December 13, 2017
Ivan Antonov is a bona fide genius, with more patents than any graduate student on campus. Everyone thinks he’s just a brain with no heart, and maybe they’re right. Whenever he opens up, anger spews out. He’s tired of being used for his intellect, tired of fixing everyone else’s problems, and tired of the women’s groups that spew man-hate all over campus. Before he graduates, he’s going to dismantle The Women’s Grid and anything else like it.
His quest inadvertently targets Tia Garcia, the gorgeous psychology intern who lives next door to Ivan. She’s all about helping women become self-sufficient, and she’s agreed to participate in her colleague’s ground-breaking experiment. The experiment pairs her up with Ivan, the brawny neighbor who is difficult to read. He’s sexy as heck, but he insists that her women-only seminars need to include men. If she can’t preserve her program’s integrity, she might lose the post-doctoral job she wants.
There’s a reason why Ivan is determined to defund programs like hers, but he can’t tell her why. If he does, he’ll have to admit that one night, he wasn’t so smart after all. So he buries the truth and works like hell to redeem himself. While he’s at it, he’ll stop the ruthless group of people who want to tear him down, but what could be more heartless than targeting the only woman who wants to read him right?
And what could be more stupid than falling in love with a woman who’s smart enough to figure out his darkest secret?
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
I want to thank all the authors who submit their covers
and make this a special place to share!
To see YOUR cover here visit the
UnCover Monthly
page for detailed instructions.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Please note: There’s a heat level rating for covers, a 1-4 scale, for my readers’ benefit. You should never see a *5* rating on the Ranch–aka my blog– since that’s not what I write, and I try to maintain my genre brand.
Some author links may be shortened due to the site format, but the hyperlinks still direct readers to the page link provided. If any link does not work when clicked, please let me know so I can fix it asap. A note in comments or by email is good.
If there’s anything else you’d like to know about covers being revealed here, please don’t hesitate to contact me. You can leave it in a comment or email through my contact page https://calisarhose.com/say-hey/.
Calisa Rhose presents~ January 2018~ UnCover Monthly #ineedyourcovers #MFRWauthors #Coverlove
Osiyo~
Welcome one and all!
My apologies for running late, the New Year hit me with busy life and I haven’t had a chance to get on the pc until now (now that school’s back in session and I have a few quiet moments to think, lol).
I still need lots and lots of covers to share for 2018, so I’m leaving this invitation up for a couple of months, or until I have to send out another email begging for your covers! 😆
Apologies, I don’t post erotica, or anything above a heat level 4 in content or cover. You will find everything you need to show the world your covers at this link: https://calisarhose.com/uncover-monthly/
Please, consider submitting your covers, and I’d appreciate if you would share this link to January’s UCM showcase with your loops and groups.
The next post will go live at midnight (CMT) Monday, February 12. We’d love to see new faces in the comments and in the showcase as we move together into a brand new year.
Thank you!!!
Back to business! Welcome to Pen of the Dreamer, where I welcome guest authors with their beautiful covers on UnCover Monthly! I’ve changed the days I post this feature to the second Monday of each month, instead of the first Monday.
Go HERE to get the application, read carefully, then hurry and submit your covers! Remember, the early bird gets the prime slots. 😀
For now, enjoy more awesome cover art by the incredible authors and artists who make them possible for you to gaze upon each month.
It would be great if you leave a comment letting everyone know what you think about them and maybe even check out a few author links to meet those behind the books. Or just say hi. Don’t forget to tell your friends to stop by so they can appreciate some greatness, or get in on the fun, too!
This feature is only to highlight the authors and artists, instead of the actual book (though if you see one you want to buy I’m sure the authors won’t mind 😆 ). Enjoy this months’ covers to ogle and explore. If there is one provided, you can follow the artist links by clicking on the name, if there’s an artist link provided, to learn more about the amazing creators of these beautiful covers.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Bk 3, Knights of Honor
Author: Alexa Aston
Weblink: www.alexaaston.
Genre: Medieval Historical Romance
Heat Level: 3 flames – steamy
Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing, Inc.
Cover artist: Dar Albert
Release date: March 28, 2017
1365 A.D. – After the Earl of Sandbourne banishes his supposedly unfaithful wife to a convent, his young son Michael swears never to set foot on the family’s estate until after his father’s death. Michael will then claim his title as the new earl and restore his beloved mother to a place of honor.
Fifteen years pass, and the now-knighted Sir Michael Devereux serves Lord Geoffrey de Montfort at Kinwick Castle. He accompanies the nobleman and his family to a wedding, where Michael unknowingly falls in love with the bride before he even knows her identity.
Lady Elysande Le Cler is angry that her usually indulgent father went against her wishes and betrothed her to a stranger prior to his death. Now as her wedding day approaches, dread fills her—until she meets a dashing stranger who helps her deliver a foal. Elysande loses her heart to this knight, frustrated that they can never be together.
Join Michael and Elysande as they find fate has other plans in store for them.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Title: Crimson Dream
Crimson Series, book 1
Author: Georgiana Fields
Weblink: www.facebook.com/
AuthorGeorgianaFields
Genre:. Paranormal Romance and Suspense
Length: Novel 270 pgs
Heat Level: 4
Publisher: Gilded Dragonfly Books
Cover artist: Gina Dyer
Release date: Aug 26, 2015
A mysterious stranger offers Rose Kelley the opportunity to restore his English home and fulfill a career dream. With nothing to lose, Rose accepts Vaughn Madoc’s offer and accompanies him to England. While touring his house, Rose is catapulted back to 1900 Victorian England.
Vaughn Madoc is Dhampir, the race that originated the legends of vampires, shape shifters, and demons. Working with Scotland Yard to track down a killer plaguing London in the wake of Jack the Ripper, his life has all the complications he can handle. But he’d gladly accept one more when a strangely dress woman appears in his library and who happens to be his true mate, the one he has waited centuries to meet.
Can Vaughn protect Rose from a vicious killer and can a 21-century woman in Victorian England without changing the future?
*Shape shifters, a serial killer, Vampires and time travel all contribute to make this an unforgettable love story.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Author: Shannyn Schroeder
Weblink: http://www.shannynschroeder.com/
Genre: contemporary romance
Length: novel (304 pages)
Heat Level: 4
Publisher: Shannyn Schroeder
Cover artist: Kim Killion
Release date: 10/12/17
Malcolm “Mac” Sterling has one goal: take over the family matchmaking business. His final obstacle? Host his family’s new dating show and prove he can help each contestant find true love. One catch. Mac’s meddling mother has approved a co-host, a so-called expert who seems impervious to his charms. Now he could lose everything, because if his co-host proves she’s the better matchmaker, he can say goodbye to his legacy.
Natalie “Gem” Hale never intended for her alter ego as an online dating expert to get her the opportunity of a lifetime—or for that opportunity to come with a co-host who’s as infuriating as he is tempting. But she didn’t get this far by backing down from a challenge. All she has to do is keep her secret identity a secret.
Except as sparks fly and the competition heats up, Mac realizes his co-host is hiding something. He’s just got to figure out what.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Author: Vicki Batman, Merry Holly,
Gerri Brousseau, Cara Marsi,
Bobbi Lerman, Jane Gale
Weblink: www.faceboo
Genre: contemporary
Length: short story anthology
Heat Level: various, 3
Publisher: Indie
Cover artist: n/a
Release date: November 1, 2016
It’s a season of holiday wishes and promises made. Six fun-filled stories to fill your holidays with promises, love, and kisses by award-winning and bestselling authors.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Title: The Dead Man’s Treasure
Author: Kris Bock
Weblink: www.amazon.com/author/krisbock
Genre: romantic adventure
Length: Novel
Heat Level: 1
Publisher: Pig River Press
Cover artist: Alan Erickson
Release date: January, 2015
Rebecca Westin is shocked to learn the grandfather she never knew has left her a bona fide buried treasure – but only if she can decipher a complex series of clues leading to it. The hunt would be challenging enough without interference from her half-siblings, who are determined to find the treasure first and keep it for themselves. Good thing Rebecca has recruited some help.
Sam is determined to show Rebecca that a desert adventure can be sexy and fun. But there’s a treacherous wildcard in the mix, a man willing to do anything to get that treasure – and revenge.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Title: The Perfect Partner (Love in New Orleans Series #4)
Author: Ursula LeCoeur
Weblink: www.ursulalecoeur.com
Genre: Historical Romance
Length: Novel
Heat Level: 3- steamy- passionate kissing and light sex
Publisher: Ursula LeCoeur
Cover artist: Diane Millsap
Release date: September 1, 2017
Can a rake and a prude turn loathing into love?
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
I want to thank all the authors who submit their covers
and make this a special place to share!
To see YOUR cover here visit the
UnCover Monthly
page for detailed instructions.
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Please note: There’s a heat level rating for covers, a 1-4 scale, for my readers’ benefit. You should never see a *5* rating on the Ranch–aka my blog– since that’s not what I write.
Some author links may be shortened due to the site format, but the hyperlinks still direct readers to the page link you provide. If any link does not work when clicked, please let me know so I can fix it asap. A note in comments or by email is good.
If there’s anything else you’d like to know about covers being revealed here, please don’t hesitate to let me know. You can leave it either in a comment or by my contact page https://calisarhose.com/say-hey/.
Calisa Rhose welcomes Science Fiction author Kayelle Allen #MFRWauthor #interview #scifiauthor
Osiyo~
Welcome one and all! Grab a beverage of choice, something sweet and sinful. No-no, not the men. What’s the matter with you? You know the hands-on rules… The guest gets first pick! 😉 Take a comfy seat for the first Tuesday Round-Up interview of 2018 in the Round Pen.
I couldn’t imagine a better guest to kick off the New Year and I’m thrilled to welcome a multi-talented guest today, and my friend. Kayelle Allen is sharing her book, Bringer of Chaos: Forged in Fire with us!
Please show Kayelle some real Ranch love!
Before I get to the nosy part of this interview, tell us a bit about you.
I’ve been published since 2004. In 2006, as a response to questions from friends for marketing help, I founded Marketing for Romance Writers, a peer-mentoring group open to the entire literary community. MFRW is now a large online author peer-mentoring group, and provides no-cost training in book marketing skills as well as free promotional services for its members. In 2009, I opened the Romance Lives Forever blog for authors. The site now has a reach of over three million. I teach workshops online, and I’m an invited speaker at numerous online conferences. I’ve been a featured speaker at Outlantacon since its founding and hold an honorary lifetime membership there. I was a board member for Gaylaxicon, and have been a panelist at DragonCon and a featured guest at NerdaCon. My books have won multiple awards, including the EPIC eBook Award for Science Fiction Romance, and one was a finalist in Fantasy. My motto is “romance lives forever” and my books include unstoppable heroes, uncompromising love, and unforgettable passion. I’m married to my personal hero and we live in the metro Atlanta area, near our three grown children and five grandchildren. My husband and I are both US Navy Veterans. We met while on active duty in Memphis, TN.
I still don’t know how you do all that you do! You are a true inspiration, Kayelle.
Okay, let’s begin. My writing area at the moment is my lovely (if more than a lot cluttered at times) office/craft room in the solitude of the second floor of our house, where I rely on my laptop to take me to new places. Sometimes I take the laptop for a walk downstairs when the solitary life of a writer gets to me. What does your writing space look like?
I have a basement office that permits me to step away from everything. I use a desktop computer but sometimes go out for coffee and take a tablet with me. My room’s pretty cozy. I hole up there for long periods when I’m writing.
For a lot of writers it’s a life-altering event coming up with titles and character names. For others it comes as naturally as breathing. Which is it for you?
I rarely struggle with character names. They pop into my head with complete backstories. I can’t explain that. It just happens. For example, I needed a name for a character who was a staff member for my empress. I couldn’t keep writing “her assistant.” So I looked around the room and happened to spy a notepad that had the brand name “Elite.” I thought he’d be elite indeed, so I named him Alitus. The moment I had the name I knew a backstory and description. He actually ended up getting his own book.
I only know of one other author who can do that. Amazing.
What advice would you offer aspiring and new writers?
Two things. 1. Don’t quit. Anyone can start writing. It’s those who keep going who finish the book. 2. Study the craft and learn the skills needed. Don’t expect an editor to polish your work. You polish it. Let the editor buff to a shine.
Great words of wisdom!
The constant shift of the industry makes me often scratch my head and ask ‘what next?’ So, what do you think it takes to be a successful author at the moment?
Relationships with readers. You have to get out and meet people, not only in person but online. If you’re not willing to use social media, you are crippling yourself. Likewise, go to other authors’ readings at bookshops. Network. Support other authors. That’s how you get your name out there.
Who would you like to meet in the publishing industry- dead or alive- and why?
JD Robb. I’m such a fan of her work.
You and me both! Or rather, Nora Roberts in my case. 🙂
It’s time for 3 in 1! I’ll ask the questions and you answer them in one word. 😆
Favorite animal? Panther (ooh! An answer as unique as you.)
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter? Yes
Favorite food? Chocolate
Well done! An all-seasons gal. 🙂
Okay, Flash four. Ready?
What are you working on now?
I’ve started on book 3 of the Bringer of Chaos series, Watch Your Six. Readers know Six is a character in the stories. The only human on the planet at this point. Everyone else is immortal. But I’m also making notes on at least three other books at the same time. I focus on writing only one, however. Notes is all I make on other projects.
I should probably take notes from you!
When the immortal Pietas is marooned on a barren world with no food and few survival tools, he knows it could be worse. He could be alone. But that’s the problem. He’s not.
Half a million of his people sleep in cryostasis, trapped inside their pods and it’s up to Pietas to save them. He can’t release one at a time. It’s all or nothing. He’s facing over five hundred thousand hungry, thirsty, homeless, immortals all looking to him for answers.
It’s not all bad. The beautiful telepathic warrior he’s loved for lifetimes is at his side. He’s bonded with a sentient panther. He hates humans but the one dumped on this planet with him has become a trusted friend.
But before Pietas can build shelter, figure out how to grow food, or set up a government, he must take back command from a ruthless enemy he’s fought for centuries. His brutal, merciless father.
Immortals may heal, but a wound of the heart lasts forever…
***
Amazon and in print. Free on Kindle Unlimited
http://amzn.to/2ABIcCI
Review this book on #NetGalley https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/book/127569
Where can we find you and your books?
Website https://kayelleallen.com
Romance Lives Forever Reader Group https://kayelleallen.com/bro/
Twitter http://twitter.com/kayelleallen
Facebook http://facebook.com/kayelleallen.author
Pinterest http://pinterest.com/kayelleallen/
Instafreebie https://www.instafreebie.com/discover/author/5186/kayelle_allen
Amazon Author page http://amazon.com/author/kayelleallen
Where will you be next?
For any who want to meet me, I’ll be appearing in person at OutlantaCon mid-May. www.outlantacon.org I hope to have some local events in the Atlanta area as well. Join my reader group and you’ll be first to know where I’m going.
How fun! Wish I could be there!
GIVEAWAY
Here is a free adult coloring book to download and print, based on my characters. It contains original art. I hope you enjoy it! http://bit.ly/color-pietas
Thank you, Kayelle!
I’d like to ask a question of your readers if I may. When you visit an author’s website, what two things do you look for? (Example, book covers, bio) I’m updating my website and I’d love to have some feedback on that. Thank you! https://kayelleallen.com
Thank you so much for playing along Kayelle! It’s always a joy catching up with you. Wishing you much luck with your books and writing. I hope you’ll come visit again soon.
Dodadagohvi~
Writing that first draft~NANO Day 11~ #nanowrimo2017 #firstdraft #mfrwauthor #amwriting
Osiyo~
Writing is like building. The more you add, the more people want experience the thrill for the first time. Readers are a big part of the writing process. There’s nothing worse than having a reader fall into the murky depths of a book they can’t relate to in even a small way. You want a strong “bridge” off the bat to help your readers get to the end and then, want to revisit that bridge again, and again. 😀
Writing your first draft is the model of your intended project. Once you have an acceptable model, you begin the framing and creating–rough draft edits 1-1000– until you have that finished masterpiece that others will see. Edits build a better, stronger ms, but you can’t edit what you haven’t written.
Wait to do improvements until it’s first finished. No builder remodels his bridge before it gets finished, and others have a chance to give it a test run.
Here’s a little extra for you. I subscribe to Writer’s Digest blog for their informative articles and tips on writing. Here’s one with tips on first drafts (what you’re writing during NaNo), by Kathy Leonard Czepiel.
Just a reminder. Keep holding that inner editor at bay. Wait until you reach day 30, or 50K, before you turn that editing minion loose. Personally, I like to take a short breather from a completed first draft.
What about you? Do you have to take a week to congratulate or reward yourself for surviving NaNo? Two weeks, maybe you need more, to allow your brain to relax before jumping back in. I usually end up taking notes for my next project, which is usually already steeping on a back burner before I get half way on the current wip.
Here’s a thought, go check out Silver’s website and books while you let that wip set up. Multi-genre talent there, folks. Fantasy (embrace your inner fae!), paranormal (love you some alpha wolf shifters?) and contemporary romance (Sigh-cowboys). She’s a self-published author, small epress author and HQN~Big 5. Seriously, check her out!
After you’ve finished your NANO word count for the day, of course. 😉
Dodadagohvi~
Are you a freakin’ psychic?~NANO Day 12~ #nanowrimo2017 #plotorpantz #mfrwauthor #amwriting
Osiyo~
Day 12! Almost to the half way point.
How do you avoid the dreaded “sagging middle?”
Do you know what your story is about? Are you one of “those?” You have a 75 page synopsis to guide you. A pre-story that you will follow to an astounding T, or damn near, if not exact. You know when your characters will pee, though you won’t show that to readers (or will you? O^o). Do you know when they will take their next breath. Do you know what that breath will sound like before you even write that scene?
You…are a true plotter.
I congratulate you! Foresight like that is a real gift! I mean, freakin’ psychic!
I, on the other hand, am like this cat. I eat plot bunnies for dessert! Thank you very much. What a dreadful thought. I take that back. 🙂
However, I do not begin with a synopsis, and if I do, it might be a whole page, or not, of random thoughts. Will my heroine go pee? Well, who knows? I sure don’t! 😆 Will they breathe? Um, they’d die if they didn’t, so… Yeah? I assume at least one will take a breath. When? What will it sound like?
HellifIknow!
I am a pantser.
We-e-e-ell, maybe not 100%. I’m told I’m not a true pantser anymore. Nope. I’m not a true plotter, either.
I used to be a solid pantser. Really. But, I spent most of October trying to figure my story line out before NaNo began. I took notes. I MADE A PLOT BOOKLET! Yes, I did that. I even used a page or two in it.
Okay, I admit, I wrote in it mostly because it’s such a stinkin’ cute thing, and also because I wasted a day making it, so I had to at least write something in it.
Guess what? I haven’t looked at it since! Nope. I just looked and it wasn’t where I thought I’d seen it last.
I semi-plot-pantz, or since I’m a pantser first, do I semi-pantz-plot. Either way, I’m a hybrid.
I am a plotser.
You might be completely out in left field, maybe you’re an outliner. Another method many use, and I do not. I tried it; didn’t work for me.
What I want to know is, will that bunny still have me with his tea since I’m part plotter?? LOL
Just remember, whatever method you use, as long as it works for you to get words written, that’s all that matters.
Don’t let anyone tell you how (they think) you HAVE to write to be successful. Whatever it is that keeps you writing one word after another, one page or chapter after the last—you just keep doing what YOU do and you are already a success! You are a writer.
Happy Nanoing!
Thanks to Silver James for this fun meme that kinda reminds me of my Trouble Kitty.. 😉
Dodadagohvi~
NANOWRIMO Day 9- Are you playing it safe or jumping in head first? #nanowrimo2017 #jumpin #mfrwauthor #amwriting
Osiyo
I’m a couple of days behind. Okay, a week. But that’s because I’ve been trying to get as many words written as I can each day. I’m going to make these next few short and sweet, hopefully even a little inspirational for all of you! If you’ve been reading these meme posts all along, I am so very sorry to have left you hanging on day 8!
So, here we go!
Really, what’s there left to say that inspirational Silver James doesn’t say with this “throw caution to the wind” meme?
As my mama used to quote from Doris Day, que sera, sera. Whatever will be, will be.
Short and sweet to do a few catch-up memes, because life is busy for us all and I fell too far behind. 😆
Happy NoNoWriMo!!!!
Dodadagohvi~
Push through the ruts ~ NaNo Day 8~ #nanowrimo2017 #mfrwauthor #keepwriting
Osiyo~
So technically this post should be the one on nutrition, but I didn’t know this one was coming. lol I can only thank Silver James for this. LOL (Good thing I love ya!)
I will reiterate that eating is important. I’m one of those who, when I get into a writing groove, the words fly, adding up and before I realize I’ve reached or passed my daily goal…and lunch or dinner with it. Those are days I love, but suffer for the most. 😆
So, we move into week two with a better handle on my characters and their story. Words are coming easier now that I’ve passed 500 for at least five times over the past two years. Yes, this is a new story, because I haven’t been able to find the right beginning, so ten pages into it I would lose the thread, the motivation, the whatever-it-is-I-need-to-keep-the-story-moving forward. Some of this is because I’m more panster than plotter. Part is that I’m writing the story wrong, and my characters don’t cooperate, won’t “talk” to me, until I finally get it right.
Eventually I work my way through the rut and all will be okay again. 🙂 Most of the time this is by writing. I won’t say daily, because I can’t always write. But when I can, I do. Sometimes that nets me five words and six deletions, but it’s writing, all part of the process.
Day 8- 1382
Onward!
Dodadagohvi~