March Madness

Mi dispiace. I've been a lousy blogger. Totally neglecting the blog, but you realize that so I won't even begin to make excuses (excuses really are rubbinsh, aren't they?) but will promise to attempt to be more consistent...beginning right now.

Hi, friends. How are you all doing?

Me? Have been mulling over lots of life issues, making some decisions and evaluating the possibilities open to me. Also, having a bit of adventure in intriguing location. Cleaning out closets, as well, which is making me feel really accomplished.

The big news for this first day of March? By the way, the month is definitely roaring in like a lion here in upstate New York but that's another story. My big news?

Beginning a new book this morning. That's right, putting my behind back in the chair, my fingers on the keyboard and going back to work. It will be good for me, and hopefully the book I've got filling my head will be as satisfying on paper as it is in my imagination.

So...off to write. After I clear the driveway, that is.

What about you? What's on your to-do list for this third month of the year? And while I'm asking, how are you doing with those New Year's resolutions?

A domani!

Confession Time

Got your attention, didn't I? You're looking for something juicy. Salacious. Nefarious, perhaps.

So disappointing when your expectations aren't met, isn't it? Sorry!

My confession?

First, I'll admit I'm percolating ideas for a new book. The second book in a series, so the characters remain but the situation changes. I have been considering, then discarding, plots for the past week or so. I think I've finally got it pretty much nailed down, so now the research starts.

And that's where the confession comes in. So often, readers comment on the details of stories, the bits and pieces that add dimension and interest. It's funny because people assume I just know all the stuff I write about. I don't. Really, I had no idea what the little lacy thing Regency women wore to cover their upper chests was called until I googled it. In case you're wondering, it's called a fichu. But I didn't know it before...well, before I learned about period dress. Now, I know.

But research, that's the key. I love learning, so this is a fun part of this writer's journey.

The new book? Some parts take place in a very old, very famous landmark so the research will be fun. I can't wait to learn the ins and outs, about construction snafus and past events which went well--or not.

So, a good part of my day will be spent researching. What about you? Any plans for this gorgeous Thursday?

Perhaps Some Tylenol?

Oh, how can a clear head ache?

Evidently I forgot the lovely beery headache that follows a night of "ordering one's thoughts."

Yes, that's what I'm calling the little party we had here last night. I'm sticking to it, too.

Hope you have a lovely Sunday. It is brutally cold here so me, my head and the manuscript are going to curl up by the fire and not move. Really, not moving. Football's on this afternoon and tonight and I plan to be a sofa slug.

What about you? Any plans for the day?

And, would you please pass the Tylenol?

One Life

Hi friends,

Yes, I know. It's late. Much too late for posting, right? Well...maybe yes, maybe no. This morning I didn't have much to say. Now, however, a word or two comes to mind. Figured I'd get those words out while they're fresh.

Hope you've had a great Saturday. Me? I had a nice day. Happy. Productive. Fun.

I spent this evening with a friend. One of those irreplaceable friends who is more family than friend. You know the kind I mean, don't you?

I've had a bunch of stuff swirling around in my head these past few weeks. Changes in my life that I'm not altogether sure of. Work issues that need to be attended to. Decisions to be made. Regular things, but I guess I needed to talk it all out with someone who can be trusted.

Over some beer. And chips.

Isn't it amazing how much clarity comes with beer and chips?

Let's just say I've made a few decisions concerning how I proceed with this one life I've got. It feels super to have things unswirled--and ordered--in my head.

Again, beer is just such an incredible un-swirler, don't you think? Beer, chips and a good friend. Doesn't get much better than that.

Wishing you a great Saturday night. I hope you are happy, healthy and content. Me? I've got a good friend waiting to laugh some more, so I'm going to scram. I think there's still more beer and chips...

Have a great weekend!

Man Needed...

...for inspiration for next novel. Understandable, no? How can I possibly put fingers to keyboard without some whiff of man candy to spur me on?

Impossible, I say!

Last night I watched (for the umpteenth time!) Under the Tuscan Sun. Yes, it really is one of my favorite movies. Not just for the story, either, which was one of my favorite books long before it became one of my favorite movies. No, in the film there's a little added bonus...

That's right, the man needed to inspire the character in my next book to come alive. And, just because it's oh, so cold outside and this guy sizzles I figured I'd share him with you.

Raoul Bova, a Roman hunk of inspiration if I ever saw one. Get a load of those eyes, ladies. Don't you just wonder what this guy is thinking?

Enjoy your Thursday! Me? I'll be writing...

Kissing

Got your attention with that title, didn't I?

I've been tweaking the latest manuscript. You know how it goes...adjusting a line here, eliminating a scene there. Jumping on repetition, dealing with continuity issues. The normal drill. So far, all is going well.

Just reached the point in the book where they share their first--you guessed it--kiss. Tension's been building, anticipation growing, relationship developing nicely. And finally, the breakthrough kiss.

Writing about kissing isn't nearly as easy as actual kissing. Think about it...when you're involved in the act itself, you don't need to describe it, do you? No, of course not! All you've got to do is pucker up and go for it. The rest comes naturally.

Or in some instances, it doesn't. But that, my friends, is a topic for another post.

When my couple's lips finally meet, it's got to be exactly right. It has to be a perfect instant, one that readers will identify with, feel in their hearts and hunger for in their own lives. The moment has to be everything that anyone would want, the realization of every reader's ultimate kiss. It's got to be...magic.

No small feat, especially when you consider the science of the kiss. What I mean is, the meeting of lips, tongue and heart all have to align. Too fast and peckish, and she'll feel like she's being kissed by her great-granny. Gross, no? And if he's one of those face-eating guys--you know the kind who seem to think your cheeks, chin, nose and eyebrows all have to fit between his lips in a single gulp--well, we all know how off-putting that can be!

The mechanics of the kiss are as important as a multitude of other manuscript issues. As a result, I've been going over this first kiss as if it were the last kiss. So far I'm satisfied with their exchange, which leads nicely onto more interesting...ah, areas.

What do you think? Am I over-analyzing this kiss? Or does kissing matter to you as much as it does to me--on the page, that is. That's what we are talking about isn't it?

Isn't it?

Hope you have a great Monday. And I hope you get at least one kiss today!

Far Away

Don't worry, I haven't gone off on another jaunt. Not yet, anyhow. No, I'm here, right smack-dab in the middle of Snowville, just where I'm supposed to be. My body is here, that is. The head? Heart? A whole different matter entirely.

The head and heart are, I regret to tell you, far, far away.

The past few hours have had me at this desk, researching for my next novel. I've been lost in underground caves, swimming in murky waters and running through a dense jungle. It's been fun. Exciting. Invigorating.

And let me tell you, none of it was here in the snowbelt.

Nope, I've been lost in another landscape entirely. It's held my attention, captivated my soul and made my heart beat just a little bit faster than it has in a long time. Isn't research grand?

Now, if I could just figure out how to do that research up close and personal, I'm sure I'd enjoy myself still more. Yeah, that's the thing...escaping in the name of research. Why not, right?

What about you? If you could run far, far away, where would you go? And why?

Endings

Ho finito.

That's right, while I was in Cancun I finished my latest novel. I am so psyched about this book for a number of reasons, but honestly right now I am just soooo glad it's done! I came home with a complete file.

Yesterday I had a chance to skim the last chapters, the ones I finished writing on the beach, and am happy to report that despite several taste-testing evenings involving tequila, rum and a fair amount of vodka, the chapters make sense. It's a paranormal thriller, something I've never attempted before, so just seeing the ending isn't an alcoholic mess defies normal experience or scientific explanation and thrills the pants off me.

One of the things I like most about this book is where it was completed. Really, think about it. I went to Cancun with a partial, and returned with a full manuscript. That just shows me that I can write anywhere...so why not spend more time writing in the sunny, warm spots than in this frigid, snowy, eyeball-freezing place? It's the question I'm asking myself as I contemplate the future of this book.

Endings. I love 'em when they mean I've just laid out four hundred pages of a hopefully decent story. And what's more, the endings always lead to new beginnings. Already the idea for the next book is brewing. I caught a whiff of it while exploring Mexico, and every day the plot becomes a bit more solid.

So...endings...and beginnings. All good, don't you think?

MHB

Mental health break.

More commonly known as R&R. That's right, I needed a little rest and relaxation.
A change of scenery. A few days away.

So that's what I did. I packed a small bag and checked into a hotel. Just me, myself and I. Oh, and the book. Authors never really are alone, are we? There's always the wip and its cast of characters to accompany us.

How was my MHB? Oh, it was amazing! I didn't go anywhere extraordinary. Didn't go sightseeing. Didn't take a helicopter ride.

No, I spent my time much more meaningfully. And oh, so relaxing.

Visiting with dear friends, who completely took it in stride when I jumped at the chance to crash their dinner. Thank you, Gary and Kelley! I love you both!

Strolling without a destination in mind and poking around in shops. Getting a haircut. Going to Mass. Watching football. All low-key. All good.

And the book. I've got to tell you, writing in a hotel room without phones, Fed Ex men, doorbells and the rest of it was heavenly. I just wrote without considering anything but the story, and of course the writing was effortless.

Yesterday, back in the land of real life with its interruptions and annoyances, I regretted leaving sanctuary of that hotel room so quickly. Writing with doorbells, phones, Fed Ex men, laundry buzzers and zealous neighbors can be frustrating. I managed, but honestly I considered packing my bag and running off again!

So that's what I've been up to. What about you? What's new in your world this snowy Thursday morning? Hmm?

Zombie Fare

Totally on the run this morning. I have a date with a zombie! Yes, the book is keeping me occupied and I'm actually having fun writing this story.

Big question of the week? What to feed the hunky zombie. I won't divulge, but let's just say all the "suggestions" cracked me up. This book is absolutely keeping my mind occupied. Mission accomplished.

What about you? What's on your to-do list for this chilly Friday?

Wishing you a peaceful, zombie-free day.

One Way Out

Recently I chatted with a dear friend who is deep into the NaNo experience. She's going to make the word count this year. Congrats, you-know-who! I'm so proud of you.

But we weren't talking about NaNo or word counts. The topic of conversation was one that anyone who's written a book knows intimately...

That's right. We were talking about the dreaded dragging middle. She's stuck in the middle, hating the experience and looking for some way out.

Me? I'm no help. I call it as I see it. No gilding the writing lily from me, sorry.

My advice...keep the butt in the chair. Deal with the draggy bits. Make them exciting, even if you hate them. Annoying characters? Give them a face lift, a keyboard makeover. Pull 'em back into line. Remember, you're the boss of this expedition. You drive the bus--tell those suckers sitting behind you to shape up...or else!

The only way to get to the Valhalla of writing words, "The End", is by going straight through the middle. There's just one way out if you expect that fabulous idea, cast of oh-so intriguing characters and fat file to actually become a decent book. Keep your butt in the chair. Keep writing. No shortcuts.

And, you don't have to like every moment of the process. I think some people think that writing a book is a lark. It's not. It's hard work.

But, if you keep at it, those two beautiful words are the last you'll write before pressing the save button. You know the words. Me, too. Currently I'm dragging a boatload of zombies through a jungle, working my way toward The End.

After reading this post, you'll probably never approach me for writing advice, will you?

Oh, boy. So, what's going on with you?

Wishing you a peaceful day!

Swimming with Zombies

The truth of it is that we never really know what sort of curve ball life's going to throw our way, do we? We can prepare, plan and prognosticate until you-know-where freezes over but it's pretty much a waste of energy. Plans are shattered. Preparations disposable. Prognostications fly like leaves in a stiff breeze.

I know it's early but I'm making a resolution. You know, the kind that comes with the beginning of a new year. But...earlier.

No planning for me. Not now. Not for a while.

Instead, I'm taking it as it comes. Just going with the flow, dealing with whatever life sends my way. Actually, that's exactly what I've been doing for the past couple of years. The only thing is that at this point I'm hoping (not planning, mind you!) for some fun, happy stuff to find me. Yeah, it's time.

Thanksgiving? Tough. But I'm past it now, feeling good and exploring new options. Options, you ask? That's right. Options.

Like, you know, zombies. Really, I'm writing something that keeps me smiling. And I've been plotting the story while I've been floating in the hot tub.

So, swimming with the zombies here.

What about you? What's going on in your backyard?

Brr!

Oh my, chilly doesn't begin to describe this upstate New York morning! It's downright cold here! But we had the most gorgeous weekend, with blue skies and almost balmy breezes, so there's no complaining coming from this chair.

The answer to a brisk morning? Around here, it's a nice cup of cappuccino, so I'm off to brew a cup. Or two.

Then, I'm going to park my behind in my chair and get to work. Oh yes, I'm working on a new book. I'd begun something sweet, sexy and fun...and by chapter 3 I wanted more. Much more. So I closed that file, and intend to return to sweet and sexy at a later date. Now, though, I'm lost in something entirely new to me. Really. So new that it's a challenge, which is precisely what I need right now. I need something to stretch my creative mind, something that isn't a walk in the park to write.

Oh, boy, I've given myself the perfect diversion for what may be a rocky stretch. These are the first holidays I'll spend without my sweet husband, so I know I might have a tough time but I'm trying to keep my chin up, stay busy and look toward the future. I'm not forgetting to allow myself time to cherish the beautiful moments from my past. He was so good, and we were blissfully happy, so there are lots and lots of wonderful memories...

So, writing today. A challenging story. Filled with intrigue, sexual tension and way-out-of-the-box characters. One big question? Will they get a happily-ever-after? Honestly, I don't know yet. What I do know is this: Whatever happens, she's strong enough to survive it, and that's all that matters at this point. The rest will take care of itself. I think. I hope. We'll see.

First, though, cappuccino.

What about you? What's on your to-do list this chilly Monday morning?

In The Mail

I received the loveliest note yesterday from someone who recently read The Christmas Bargain. It was such a pleasant surprise to find such kind words in my mailbox! I can't tell you how much one little note lifted my spirits. It always feels so good to hear someone's read and enjoyed something I've written.

And this book has a particularly close spot in my heart. I wrote it during a very special time. It released when we truly needed something good to happen to us. It's just one book that really means a great deal to me, so knowing it's brought pleasure to someone else makes me smile.

So, that's my good news for the day. What about you? What's going on with you today?

Wishing you a peaceful day!


Iris Newgate’s grandfather left behind many things when he died, not the least of which is a condition in his will that states unless Iris finds someone to marry by Christmas day, she will be forced to take as her husband the most dastardly rake in London.

Lord James Whitman is well aware of what others say about him. He has heard his name whispered behind closed doors and learned of his character being maligned without cause. But after his unearned reputation causes Iris to decline his marriage proposal, he is determined to show her the truth and win her love!

Without her grandfather’s guidance, Iris must decide whether to trust the London gossips or the tune of her own heart. Could she possibly love a man who is as horrid as some say he is? Or should she trust her instincts and what the duke tells her to be true?

All Iris knows for sure is that Christmas day grows closer with each passing minute!

Romantic Lizards?

I've written myself into a corner. I hate when that happens! What's holding me captive?

A lizard.

Or two, to be precise.

Yes, I know. Lizards aren't generally considered romantic elements but hey, this pair is already in the story so they've got to stay. I don't have the heart to write them out. Remember, it's romance, not murder mystery.

So, the little buggers will remain. I just have to figure out a way for them to release me. Being held hostage by a duo of lizards doesn't make my day.

What's new with you? Anything interesting?

And, do you know how to get rid of two pesky lizards? Any ideas on that one?

No? Me, either. Until we meet again, have a peaceful journey!

Take the Cheesecake. Leave the Lizards.

Cheesecake.

Lizards.

Aloe vera.

Nothing in common? Surely you jest!

Yes, I'm writing. It's a fun romance filled with silly moments. Lots of heart. Some twists. Turns. Sunburns.

All good.

If you'll excuse me, I've got characters waiting. I hope you have a wonderful, peaceful day--one without lizards, sunburn or aloe vera. But, some cheesecake wouldn't hurt, would it?

No, No NaNo

November is National Novel Writing Month. I participated in this month-long book writing challenge more than once. Last year, of course, I didn't even know it was November. I skipped the challenge.

I'm skipping it this year, too. I just can't bring myself to jump into the fun. Not now. Maybe next year, but this year my heart's just not in it. I'm writing, but at my own pace and in my own time.

So I'll hope the other participants have fun, achieve their goals and find themselves happy and satisfied by month's end. There are forums available to peruse and excerpts to read, so if you have a minute--or two or three!--why not go check out the action?

Do you have any plans for this month? Whatever you've got up your sleeve, I hope it's enjoyable and brings you peace.

Between Land

Between books. A weird place to be, really. Missing the characters in my mind and heart who I've come to know and love. Really, it's kind of lonely around the place now.

So, I'm thinking about the next book. Just thinking at this point. It'll be different from the last book but there'll be a love story.

Only this time, no duck. That's right, I'm leaving the duck out of the next book. I mean, there can't be a duck in every book, right?

I don't think I'll begin writing until I get the pre-winter farm chores squared away. Then, with long stretches of cooler weather and all my chores done, I'll be able to concentrate on writing. I won't feel guilty for falling into a different world when this one screams for attention. But until then, I'm in the strange between-books place.

What about you? What's going on with you?

Wishing you a peaceful day!

Checking In

Ah...so, it's Thursday already, isn't it? How did that happen?

First, thanks for all the kind emails. I didn't mean to worry anyone. Honestly, the days just got away from me. I'm fine. Just busy.

I've got a ton of farm stuff to square away before the cold weather hits in earnest. My to-do list is longer than my arm! I've been painting the deck, pulling out the veggie gardens and mowing. And mowing. And mowing!

And, the canning. Oy, the canning... Tomatoes and apples just won't quit. I'll be grateful come winter but now I'm just sick and tired of canning. Don't get me wrong--I'm grateful for the produce but I wish it would can itself.

Polishing the book up, tweaking it and making it ready to go out into the world. I really hope there's a way to read the pages from heaven. I really do.

So, that's it from here. Just muddling along, not really paying attention to the days but focusing instead on what's right in front of me. It is working but I'm sorry if I've worried anyone. I'm still here!

Wishing you a peaceful day.

Help Wanted

Ho finito.

I'm finished.

Yes, it's true. I'm finished. The book is done and I'm tickled. Woo hoo!

What a journey this book has been. I wondered whether I'd be able to do it without my sweet man sitting within sight while I put fingers to keyboard. I won't lie; it wasn't easy. But I did it. And, I'm so glad. I have no doubt I had him here every step of the way. He's just, as my old friend Ray recently said, taken a seat with a better view. I love that thought.

Thanks for all your kindness and support. You can't imagine how many times your faith in me has kept me moving forward. You're all amazing!

So, now I'll catch up on life. There's a stack of unopened mail. A pile of packages the FedEx and UPS guys have left. I've hauled them inside but they are in a heap near the back door. The house? Oh, Lordy, the dust bunnies are huge. They could start a sorority and take over the place! Definitely time to get cracking on catching up. And, everyone who's left messages on the answering machine? You're on my to-do list, so hang on, okay?

First, I need to ask for help. Not easy for me to do, but I need a hand. Or maybe two. More specifically, I need eyes. I'd like a set of eyes to give the first few chapters a read through, just to maybe catch anything I've missed. If you think you might be willing to do this, I'd sincerely appreciate the help. Just email me and I'll contact you with the details. Thank you!

Now, off to tackle the mail. And the dust bunnies. And, maybe, to make some cookies for a very special person.

What about you? What's on your to-do list?

Wishing you a peaceful Tuesday!