After sending an update on my writing this week to a loop, a friend seemed surprised that I write
Living the good life
when traveling. This is a no-brainer for me. I wrote half of Ancient Awakening while visiting the Battle of Olustee, in Florida. My husband loves to travel and has been known to take to the road at the drop of a hat. if I wanted to be with him, I had to learn to adjust.
I am a writer. It isn’t a hobby. I have no choice about putting those whirling ideas and thoughts onto paper. I can turn into a beast, chewing on my own leg, if deprived.
To save my sanity, I learned to arrange my surroundings to allow me to indulge.
For days when the road is long and winding, I have an alphasmart to write on. I can blockout the country music or talk-show hosts as I dive into my plot. This is also a handy tool for when I want to sit outside and take in the sun or the beach.
Reason to head South
Inside the fifth-wheel, I have a corner with a tiny table, a comfortable chair and my lap-top. I can’t say its easy to adjust, but I have a burning need to finish my latest manuscript. It won’t wait until a good time or a better place.
So I ask my husband if he needs anything at the store or if the dog need to take a walk. He can find something to keep him occupied for a few hours and I can write.
It comes down to that old question: do you write even when you’re not in the mood?
In my case, that’s a resounding YES!!!
Barbara Edwards Amazing Author Event
Thanks for joining me to find the answer to today’s question for a chance to win amazing books. I’m adding a ebook copy of Ancient Blood to the basket.
Starting Jan. 12, thirteen AMAZING AUTHORS hosted a blog tour. Visit each author’s blog and read through their post carefully. At the end of the tour there will be a test – but instead earning an A or, gasp, an F, you can earn PRIZES: amazing stories by these AMAZING AUTHORS, as well as some other cool giveaways. Read to the end for a complete list.
Writing a paranormal series was an unexpected turn for me. I wrote Another Love, a historical romance set in New York in 1892 and Annie’s Heart set in 1872 Kansas. Both books reflected my love of history. I thought I’d found my home, but along came Rachel’s Rescue, a contemporary romantic suspense. www.barbaraedwards.net and I wondered where I really wanted to be.
Old cemetery
Ancient Awakening started with a nightmare. I’ve told this story many times and have no problem repeating it. In my nightmare I revisited the cemetery next to my childhood home and the village of Rhodes End came into being. All my paranormal characters live in Rhodes End, a place in New England. It incorporates many of the features of a true village. Two churches bracket the town green like towering bookends. Small shops cater to tourists. The townspeople have normal lives unaffected by the paranormal creatures inhabiting Rhodes End alongside them.
In Ancient Awakening, Police Officer ‘Mel’ Petersen investigates a death only she believes is murder. By disobeying direct orders from the Rhodes End Chief, she risks her career to follow clues that twist in circles to her backyard and lead the killer to her.
Her neighbor Stephen Zoriak is a prime suspect. Steve worked for a major pharmaceutical company where he discovered a weapon so dangerous he destroys the research. He is exposed to the dangerous organism. He suspects he is the killer and agrees to help her find the truth.
In the course of their investigation Mel and Steve find the real killer and a love that defies death.
Excerpt:
Legend gave him many names, but the wide halls of his mountain retreat no longer echoed with countless worshipers. He could have ruled the world had his ambition not died with the passage of time. The endless whispers were from the cold winds and the few praying priests. He didn’t care that he couldn’t remember his real name or birthplace.
Paranormal Romance
For an eon he’d regretted the loss of softer emotions. Love had been the first feeling to die, along with the woman who had insisted he would never harm her. He couldn’t recall her features just the merry tinkle of her laughter and the bright smile she had greeted him with every morning. He licked his lips. She’d tasted sweet.
Fierce need flared in his gut and he sniffed the air. Outside his chamber a single acolyte in long brown robes waited to escort him. His mouth curved with a mirthless smile. The silent servants had ignited the flickering wall torches. Shadows jumped and shivered in the drafty halls like nervous virgins
Ancient Blood, Book Two in the finding Rhodes End series is available.
Lily Alban escapes a murderous stalker, but his vicious attack leaves her with the ability to see auras. She finds safety in the tiny hamlet of Rhodes End where a stranger stands out like a red light. Try as she might to deny her growing desire for Cole, she seeks his help but soon discovers the man she loves is not a man at all.
Werewolf Cole Benedict resists his attraction to Lily. A botanist researching the healing herbs to find a cure for Lycanthropy, he’s determined to protect Lily from her stalker as well as himself even in human form, but instinct takes over when he changes to his inner beast.
Together they must use their extraordinary gifts to catch Lily’s stalker before he attacks again, but revealing their secrets to one another could destroy their growing love or save them both.
“What makes you so important? Or is this another secret?”
Cole’s eyes darkened. “Lily. I’m pushing the line with you. Give me some slack.”
“I want answers, Cole.” She grabbed his arm as he turned and pulled him to a halt.
He gently, carefully drew her fierce grip into his grasp. His golden eyes heated as he lifted her hand to his lips. “I already told you, Lily. You’d have to mate with me to learn all my secrets.”
Urgent need raced from his lips to her center. His scorching gaze melted her from the inside out. All her being longed to step into his arms, to become one in a way she’d never known. She trembled as she recognized the danger
A continuing part of writing is doing research. An editor asked about the information I used in Ancient Awakening and I had to assure her that I had researched the facts I used. Building a novel takes more than one fact. I took information from many areas and used my imagination to recombine the ideas into my plots.
Immortality is alive and well in fiction. In my paranormal Ancient Awakening, I used the obsession with immortality to add layers to my villain’s character. The individual’s desire to live forever is recorded throughout history.
Several decades ago, the world was amazed by the discovery in China of an immense grave site. Thousands of terra-cotta figures stood in ordered array.
Archeologists discovered that Emperor Ching Shi Hwang-Di spent his life hoping to avoid death. He commissioned doctors to concoct potions and sent ships out to sea in search of islands where immortals supposedly lived.
Fearful that his efforts might ultimately fail, he conscripted more than a half-million men to build a magnificent underground tomb. He had the tomb surrounded by over seven thousand life-size terracotta soldiers in military formation.
Upon the emperor’s death, he ordered his living servants buried with him.
I was fascinated by his creation.
The idea of being immortal is common in fiction. In the ‘Lord of the Rings,’ Sauron is immortal.
Many fictitious characters are said to be immortal if they cannot die of old age, even though they can be killed through other means, such as injury. Achilles was such a character. He had only one place where he could be hurt and was ultimately killed.
Another example of this obsession is in the first know writings of man. Gilgamesh, the hero of ancient Mesopotamian mythology, searches for the magical plant or herb of immortality. He provides one example of how stories use plants as symbols of life and of the healing power of nature. I used this idea in Ancient Blood. My hero searches for the way to use Wolf’s Bane to cure his curse.
Ancient Blood
Ancient Blood by Barbara Edwards
Lily Alban escapes a murderous stalker, but his vicious attack leaves her with the ability to see auras. She finds safety in the tiny hamlet of Rhodes End where a stranger stands out like a red light. Try as she might to deny her growing desire for Cole, she seeks his help but soon discovers the man she loves is not a man at all.
Werewolf Cole Benedict resists his attraction to Lily. A botanist researching the healing herbs to find a cure for Lycanthropy, he’s determined to protect Lily from her stalker as well as himself even in human form, but instinct takes over when he changes to his inner beast.
Together they must use their extraordinary gifts to catch Lily’s stalker before he attacks again, but revealing their secrets to one another could destroy their growing love or save them both.
“What makes you so important? Or is this another secret?”
Cole’s eyes darkened. “Lily. I’m pushing the line with you. Give me some slack.”
“I want answers, Cole.” She grabbed his arm as he turned and pulled him to a halt.
He gently, carefully drew her fierce grip into his grasp. His golden eyes heated as he lifted her hand to his lips. “I already told you, Lily. You’d have to mate with me to learn all my secrets.”
Urgent need raced from his lips to her center. His scorching gaze melted her from the inside out. All her being longed to step into his arms, to become one in a way she’d never known. She trembled as she recognized the danger.
The varied trips on my recent cruise offered a day trip to the Wildlife Preserve on Barbadoes. Now I love animals and love zoos, animal farms, traveling circuses with elephants, in a word exotic animals, so I was caught. The weather was beautiful when we
Wild animals are wild warning
set out for the day.
The bus was air-conditioned, something that can’t be taken for granted on the islands. I admit I took a lot of photos that no one else will ever look at, but the scenery is wonderful. the ocean is that translucent green, blue turquoise that makes you want to dive in. The beaches we passed were crowded with people splashing, sunning, tanning, drinking, kissing- oh my- yes the sun warmed more than their skin.
We went into the hills to find the Reserve. The fields were planted with sugar cane, bananas, and lots of green stuff I didn’t recognize.
Barbados beach
When the bus arrived I was inpresssed at the nice surroundings. The exterior was is part of an old sugar factory and shows its age with weathers stone.
The monkeys are hard to see in the thick foliage, but the tortoises and deer were all over the place. The paths are laid brick and wonder through the preserve in no ordered manner. I passed peacocks. I saw more deer. There is a crocodile in a pond. So where are the green monkeys?
The attendant said go that way. So that way I went. To my surprise, a monkey sat eating a lump of something I didn’t recognize.
Green Monkey in BarbadosGreen Monkeys and turtles
They didn’t have green fur. In the sunlight there is a faint green cast to the lower back and tail. It didn’t show well in my old camera, but I tried to capture it.
They were cute. and on a scale of one to ten, they rated an eight in my book. Even the turtles/tortoises were interesting. They moved like turtles everywhere.
And they were all over the paths, the patios and under bushes.
I sat on the patio and drank fruit punch while waiting for the others to wander back to the bus. Took more pictures and relaxed. It’s the whole point to going on vacation.
The countdown is on! In just two days’ time, a group of 13 fabulous authors are hosting a blog tour.
But not only can you discover the works of these wonderful ladies, you can also win a great read! Sounds good, doesn’t it?
Every one of the authors on the tour are offering a free download – but you have to pay attention to win.
On the last day of the tour, Ginger Simpson is going to post up the questions. Don’t worry – she’ll attach a link to each author’s post so you can quickly double check. Don’t miss out on a chance to win a read of your choice by simply answering a question. Not rocket science, eh? :p
Did I tell you my husband and I went on a cruise? Probably not since guilt filled my heart about leaving all my family and friends in the cold. After that first snowstorm hit, we decided going on a cruise would be great.
Oct 25, 2011 snowstorm
Packing for a cruise is the hardest part. How many formal nights? I need a gown? The one from the last wedding I went to is too old and out of fashion. What? I need more then one? And what exactly is semi-formal?
Men have it so easy. Wear a suit with a tie. Or wear a formal suit with a cummerbund and bow-tie, sheesh.
I need heels, stockings, nice jewelry and new body to hang all those fancy clothes on. How
Maitre de makes Cherries Jubilee
many suitcases do I need for all these clothes? I stuffed everything into three cases, but had a little overlap into the husband’s garment bag. And where did the duffle bag come from? Oh, the stuff we need to carry on. And my computer case.
Weird how it all grew and grew. (And I didn’t wear it all) Did I mention the casual elegant nights? That’s where if you do wear casual you feel like a slob. And the rule is very strict. No jeans. There went half my wardrobe.
In port
So we went onboard. To relax. To enjoy the sun. To eat all those wonderful dishes I would never cook at home. I’m home and writing now, but I’ll share more photos.
Visit me on the internet and Friend me, Follow me or Like me. Buy links and excerpts are on my website.
I realized exactly how disorganized I am after reading all the New Year’s resolutions and suggestions all my friends are posting.
Do I really need to organize my kitchen cabinets? I can find stuff most of the time. Well, maybe not the spices I needed for the Christmas cookies until I empited the top shelves. And I did find the cocoa for the chocolate cake after only ten minutes hunt. That’s not too bad since I do the cookies only once a year.
My close friend and I on vacation
My closet is another matter. I do wear clothes daily. Last year, or maybe it was the year before, I bought those pant hangers for my slacks, and double hangers for the top and bottom outfits. they do work. I can find them without too much searching since they are a little different than wire hangers. See? I am organized a little.
And I sorted my bureau drawers when we purchased new bureaus. (Not saying when) Little items like jewelry boxes go in that skinny top drawer. Undies and socks in the next since I wear them every day. Can you see how my mind works? Next come pjs and nighties. Next are sweaters and sweatshirts. The bottom drawer is empty since I hang up everything else.
Don’t go in my office. My office is off-limits to all. This is where all my efforts are concentrated. I have a file. Colored folders inside. I have bookshelves. All my research books and my ‘keepers’ go there. My computer sits on a clean desk. What I am working on is at my fingertips. Eat your heart out.
My traveling office
Then there is the area I use in our trailer. The snug corner I have roped off for my PC, printer and chair. Wipe your feet and sit over there, not in my seat. I can balance a coffee mug next to me, put the raido on low and work. Another eat your heart out.
Friend me, Like me, Follow me or read more excerpts.
Lily Alban escapes a murderous stalker, but his vicious attack leaves her with the ability to see auras. She finds safety in the tiny hamlet of Rhodes End where a stranger stands out like a red light. Try as she might to deny her growing desire for Cole, she seeks his help but soon discovers the man she loves is not a man at all.
Werewolf Cole Benedict resists his attraction to Lily. A botanist researching the healing herbs to find a cure for Lycanthropy, he’s determined to protect Lily from her stalker as well as himself even in human form, but instinct takes over when he changes to his inner beast.
Together they must use their extraordinary gifts to catch Lily’s stalker before he attacks again, but revealing their secrets to one another could destroy their growing love or save them both.
Excerpt:
“Lily?” His strong hands gently cupped her shoulders.
“Don’t, please don’t.”
She pulled away, fully intending to flee. Her resistance shattered, and she turned into his embrace. It was too late to escape. Pressing against his strength, she wound her arms around his neck and pulled him closer. His erection prodded her stomach, and she moaned. A heavy groan filled his throat as he lifted her from her feet. He kicked the bag aside as he sat her on the counter.
“I can’t wait,” he growled. His flaring aura spiraled with colors she couldn’t name. She caught her breath. One hand burrowed through her hair, keeping her still as he stepped between her thighs. “You’re all I could think about all day.”
Clasping her bottom, he slid her to the edge of the counter. With his lips claiming her mouth, he unbuttoned her slacks, than lifted her slightly to push them down and off.
The cold surface only made her more aware of his scorching heat. His rough denim pants scraped her inner thighs in contrast with the silky hair under her palms. Her pulse leaped, and she gasped. His male scent mixed with hints of the wild forest filled her nostrils. When his fingertip explored the heated moisture gathering at her juncture, she tightened her thighs around his hips.
So I’ve already broken my first resolution. I wanted to blog every day this year. I knew it was a false hope. I knew I was setting myself up for failure. I knew and I put it on the list anyway. Sigh.
Annie's Heart
So I’m ignoring the other old resolutions. We already know where the weight thing is going. So I didn’t put it on this year’s list.
Exercise? Did someone mean that as a joke? Do they mean pushing away from the table? Hah.
What other things didn’t I list?
How about finishing two books this year? Oops. Let’s scramble my brain and go for three. What the heck. I can take some public embarrassment.
Seriously. I looked in the mirror on New Year’s Day. Did I like what I saw? Not really. I’m a year older, but not quite as heavy as last year. A few more wrinkles on my face that I like to think are from smiling too much. So I made a few promises to myself. I’ll keep up the changes I made in my eating habits and lose weight a bite at a time.
I’ll write everyday. This is the easiest to keep because it means so much to me. The big change will be going back to the old routine. I’ll write in the morning which is my prime time. The email and promo will need to wait until the afternoon when my brain drops out of creative mode.
I’m going to be serious about this. Life is too short to blow the opportunities.
Did you know I wrote two historical romances?
Check out my newly updated website and read the excerpts. Maybe you’ll buy one or two.
Barbara Edwards Comments 