Merry Christmas.

Every time I take a step out the door, I'm reminded of an old movie called Dr Zhivago, set in Russian during world war 1 and the Russian revolution. The film was based on the book by Boris Pastermak, and  it involves KGB Lieutenant General  Yevgraf Andreyevich Zhivago (Alex Guinness) searching for the daughter of his half brother, Doctor Yuri Andreyevich Zhivago (Omar Shariff), and Larissa (Lara) Antipova (Julie Christie). Yevgraf believes a young woman, Tonya Komarova (Rita Tushingham) may be his neice and tells her the story of her father's life.

 It's a tragic love story in which Yuri and Lara do not get a happy ever after, in the end they are parted by war and politics, but just as Yuri catches a fleeting glance of Lara on the train platform years later, and rushes to be with her, he collapses with a fatal heart attack. Lara disappears with all the political upheaval and either dies or ends up working in a labor camp according to Yevgraf. While Yevgraf strongly believes that Tonya is Yuri's and Lara daughter, she is still not convinced. Yevgraf notices that Tonya carries with her a Balalaika. Finding Tonya learned to play the Balalaika by herself, he smiles, " Ah then, it's a gift," thereby implying she truly is their daughter after all. (Wikipedia.).

I can hear the haunting music right now...

I know that everyone is getting ready and is busy shopping, wrapping presents and getting organized with only a week to go, which is why I wanted to take this moment to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

Also, because it's the season I'm reflecting on the past year and what I've achieved. In 2013, I am proud to say that I finished Children of Annwn:The Promise and submitted to several agents/ publishers. Although, I didn't get the green light, I did receive amazing feedback from two publishers and it spurred me on to make the necessary changes !!!! Woot Woot!!!!

One of whom is actively pursuing my book, following a huge rewrite, which I am deeply immersed in at the present. I cannot begin to tell you how thrilled and excited I am as we close out the year and begin to start 2014. I am incredibly excited and blessed for this incredible opportunity and I'm hopeful that a couple of weeks of solid writing, and that will be it. I can then send it off to the publisher with all my fingers, toes and everything crossed. We'll see what 2014 has to offer.

So excited.

I also received some lovely comments from a beta reader friend of mine who really enjoyed my re-writes, which is pushing me even further to get a grip and gather the momentum to finish the task in hand.I'm travelling home to Wales on the 26th to spend some time with my mother and oldest son with my trusty laptop in hand, hope to post for the New Year, but until then wishing you all a very Merry Christmas...

Worldbuilding...

I am an impatient writer, and one that tends to let the story go where it wants to go. I do have a plan, a rough outline, but by and large, when I drafted Children of Annwn which was based on a dream, I let the story tell itself. Many details about the story have changed since I first put pen to paper, including the name. However, the story was always going to be centered around a journey of self-discovery.

Having teenagers, I particularly wanted to focus on this age range, because it's the time when there are so many experiences and issues that they face. Challenges if you like, such as, fitting-in and making friends, girlfriends/ boyfriends, school-work, sports, drugs, alcohol, sex, love, bullying, working, driving, smoking, pregnancy, suicides, deaths, moving towns, moving schools, divorce... Argh the list goes on.

Rather than tackle them all, I wanted to look at confidence and self-doubt. Mia the main character really is quite shy and awkward. She doesn't like herself very much at all, and hides a big secret that she shares with no-one. She can see the future, and it usually involves dead people. Believing herself a freak, she's not a people person. This makes having a relationship with anyone, extremely difficult. Mia's parents are divorced, and her life has been littered with betrayal and heartache. However, when her visions and dreams start colliding, her real world and imaginary one seem to blur into one. Especially, when the main  character in her dreams appears in school, and then she truly believes she's going insane.

Although, the story centers largely around Mia and her voyage of discovery, it also gives a voice to the male character Ryder. In this first book Mia is the main character, she is the one that discovers she's from the hidden and magical world of Annwn. A world, cloaked and hidden to human eyes by magic. A kingdom that one can only enter through secret portals, and only by using magic. Annwn lies hidden along the Welsh coast line. An enchanted land, that has existed since time began. The path of humans and non-humans have crossed many times, and always ended badly for both sides.

Mia entered the human world through a portal to fulfill an ancient custom. In her world, the Elders created a law that required a promised couple to undergo a challenge to test the power of their love for one another before they were married. This was because the Elders wanted to keep magic strong in their world, and they only believed this would happen if couples passed a challenge designed to test their powers and love. In the past Annwn lost many of its people after helping the humans, and this led to a dilution in magic when human were introduced to their world. It caused a huge shift in magical powers and unrest. Many wars followed. This challenge was a way to unite people, and ensure the magic in Annwn continued and grew. So the Elders believed.

However, entering the human world, all Mia's memories and powers are repressed as part of the challenge. She forgets about her life in Annwn, the fact she is a guardian, keeper of her people, and protector of the humans, that she is gifted with foresight and that she is madly in love with Ryder.Mia doesn't accept that she could be anything other than human, until Ryder show's her the depth of her power, and takes her to Annwn. Living as a human, Mia  is reserved, cool, and terrified of the world.

She doesn't know who she is anymore, or where she belongs. The Human world or Annwn? Her human parents betrayed her, and her parents in Annwn abandoned her. Mia also discovers that she is a descendant of an evil witch and when she uses dark magic, she believes inside she too is evil and undeserving of Ryder's love.

To add to the confusion a Darkshadow Greyson has been sent into the human world to convince Mia by any means to come back with him to Annwn. He tries seduction, but when that fails, he threatens all those she loves with death unless she agrees. Mia eventually discovers that Greyson isn't working alone, that behind him is the evil witch Rhiannon, her great grandmother. Greyson may have been sent into the human world to carry out a task for the evil witch, one that promises him power in his world in Annwn, but he starts to feel something for Mia.

He is a Darkshadow, named so because his people use dark magic and in the human world appear as shadows. Greyson is a Prince to his people, who are outsiders in Anwnn, used for their cold and calculating natures and powers of memory to observe the humans, but for centuries they have boiled with frustration and seek power. They believe with Rhiannon's help they will destroy the Elders and gain control with her to rule Annwn for themselves. Greyson is a warrior, fearless, cold, manipulative, and he'll use every trick in the book to get what he wants, which is revenge. His parents were outcast from the world of Annwn when their joining was discovered. They had failed the test and the Elders decided they should be sent into the human world as outcasts. Once there with their memories intact, they went insane, and were locked away in an psychiatric hospital. When Greyson grew up and learned of their story, he spent years searching to discover what had happened to them.

At the end of the book, there is a battle, and Mia pushes herself to the limit to save those she loves. She realizes that belief is power and when she believes, she can do anything.

I am working to fill in all the gaps in the world of Annwn, answering all the questions that one may ask, and will continue to work until its done. xxxx

Happy Thanksgiving everyone :)  A snippet...

                                                        

                                                The Prologue: Leaving Annwn

    Mist rolled off the grassy slopes on the hillside, and the purple and pink slashes in the sky stained the sandstone on the castle that abutted the cliff, a beautiful rose color. Mia stared at the majestic fortress as it stood guard over the sea, a foreboding sight should anyone dare to enter Annwn from the water, and she shivered. The milky white sun peeped from behind the curtains of clouds that rolled passed, and she turned towards the sea. Her heart beat slowly, and Mia took a deep breath in, capturing all that lay before her, soaking in the very essence and smells of her home Annwn, should it all be forgotten. It was dawn and the start of a new day.

    A new beginning.

    Annwn was a realm on earth, hidden from human eyes by magic. Its exact location a highly guarded secret, but legend suggests that it lies by the coast in Wales; a land that was steeped in mysteries and folklore. Mia smiled recalling the tales of Arthur, and then sighed because that was the time when everything changed in Annwn. She stared out across the endless glossy water, and her hair danced wildly as the wind picked up speed.

   “Are you ready?” Mia turned at the sound of his voice, and gazed at Ryder. She accepted his outstretched hand and smiled. He was her heart, and the reason they both stood on the shores of their home ready to cast everything they knew aside. Her toes curled into the silky grains of white sand like an anchor, but she must let go and set sail.

   “As ready as I’ll ever be.” A rough, calloused hand smoothed across her cheek and her eyes closed. In Annwn it was law that once a couple became promised to one another they must complete a challenge that would test the power of their love, and magic. This law was created when humans entered the world of Annwn, diluting the magic as the Elders said. Only strong matches were allowed, strong in love and magic to ensure that magic always continued, at least that what the Elders preached.

  What greater challenge than to enter the human world where promises were broken every day and to live a life as a mortal with no knowledge of their magic or life in Annwn. A coldness rose inside Mia and locked inside her throat rendering her speechless. Her visions predicting the end of mankind further underlined the reason for them to venture into the unknown because the two realms were linked by a history, by blood and what was predicted for the humans was eerily repeated in the visions of the future for their enchanted world of Annwn. The roar of the ocean blasted in her ears. The fierce wind whipped around them and Emrys appeared his face sober. The waves parted and staring out into the distance, a land heralded and lights could be seen.

   “It’s not too late to change your mind. We can look at another way to complete your challenge, but once you enter their world, there is no turning back. The spell will be cast from the moment we leave, and I cannot say how old you will be. The magic in this area is unpredictable. You may wake to find that you’re seven or thirteen years old. I will put in place whatever is needed, and lay a trail so that at the designated time having lived a life as a mortal, your memories will return. However, until such a time you will not remember any of this. Time in the human world was measured differently than in Annwn. Although several human years may pass, in Annwn it would be mere days, but would it change them forever?

Deadline!!!!!!

Okay, some brilliant news, I have been approached by the acquisitions editor from one of the publishing companies that I had submitted my manuscript to, and she is excited for me to complete the re-writes and send it back in...

When I received her email, my heart was in my mouth.

I have started re-writing, but have been busy with other commitments. However as of middle of this week I will be back into it full-time. Time is of the essence.

I started right back at the prologue to give a real sense of where Mia has come from and what is going on and why!! I also received some lovely feedback from one of my teen readers who gave me recommendations for enlarging certain characters, which I'll work on.

Anyway, felt I needed to give an up-date, because I haven't been able to get to the blog with everything going on, and after this I am going into seclusion to write. It's the only way I can finish this in the time table I've set myself. I want to be able to send it back to her whilst it's hot in her mind...so excited!!!

Okay, so please please, keep fingers and toes crossed for me.xxxx Now, I have to go and finish my masterpiece.
                                                                                                                         

Children of Annwn: A new beginning.

The last couple of weeks have taught me several things, nothing ventured, nothing gained. You only fail, if you give up. And the realization that I started writing because I loved the process of creating characters, and bringing a very visual story to me, to life, and that is the reason more than anything else to keep going. 

True, the last month and half have made me seriously question if I want to carry on. I cannot deny that not getting the acceptance I was craving for, hasn't affected me, it has. 

Although, I have to say that both publishers were very helpful in giving me in-depth critiques on what the story needed. Both publishers gave praise for my writing, descriptions and the characters. Both highlighted certain problematic areas.

1. The world building of Annwn...

2. Stating the goal, motivation and conflict right up front drawing the readers in sooner so that they know straight away what the problems are. Within the first 3 chapters!!! Need to re-write.

3. Clearing the dreams/ visions and the characters "thoughts" versus "speech." An element that both publishers picked up on...

Lot's to do. A mind boggling amount to do, but god willing I will  do it. 

However, lately, I'm really considering going the self-publishing route. I want your thoughts??? Your experiences, Good or Bad.

Mist was rolling off the grassy slopes on the hillside, and the purple and pink slashes in the sky stained the sandstone on the castle that abutted the cliff, a beautiful rose color. Mia stared at the majestic fortress as it stood guard over the sea, a foreboding site should anyone dare to enter Annwn from the water, and she shivered. The milky white sun peeped from behind the curtains of clouds that rolled passed, and she turned towards the sea. The sky was reflected like a mirror on the still water. Her heart beat slowly, and Mia took a deep breath in, capturing all that lay before her, soaking in the very essence and smells of her home Annwn, should it all be forgotten. It was dawn and the start of a new day.

    A new beginning.

    Annwn was a realm on earth, hidden from human eyes by magic. Its exact location was a highly guarded secret, but legend suggests that it lies by the coast in Wales; a land that was steeped in mysteries and folklore. Mia smiled recalling the tales of Arthur, and then sighed as she remembered the effect on the lives of her people. She stared out across the endless glossy water, and her hair danced wildly as the wind picked up speed.

   “Are you ready?” Mia turned at the sound of his voice and gazed at Ryder. She accepted his outstretched hand and smiled. He was her heart, and the reason they both stood on the shores of their home ready to cast everything they had known aside. Her toes curled into the silky grains of white sand like an anchor, but she knew she had to let go and set sail.

   “As ready as I’ll ever be.” A rough, calloused hand smoothed across her cheek and her eyes closed. To test the power of their love, they had agreed with the Wise elders to undergo a challenge as was the custom in their world. What greater challenge than to enter the human world where promises were broken every day and to live a life as a mortal with no knowledge of their magic or life in Annwn. A coldness rose inside Mia and locked inside her throat rendering her speechless. Her visions predicting the end of mankind further underlined the reason for them to venture into the unknown because the two realms were linked by a history, by blood and what was predicted for the humans was eerily repeated in the visions of the future for their enchanted world of Annwn. The roar of the ocean blasted in her ears. The fierce wind whipped around them and Emrys appeared, his face sober. The waves parted and staring out into the distance a land heralded and lights could be seen.

   “It’s not too late to change your mind. We can look at another way to complete your challenge, but once you enter their world, there is no turning back. The spell will be cast from the moment we leave, and I cannot say how old you will be. The magic in this area is unpredictable. You may wake to find that you’re seven or thirteen years old. I will put in place whatever is needed, and lay a trail so that at the designated time having lived a life as a mortal, your memories will return. However, until such a time you will not remember any of this.

   Mia glanced at Ryder and gripped his hand tighter, chewing on her lower lip. Her heart was churning and beating wildly. She gulped a lungful of the scents from the wild flowers nearby, and the saltiness of the ocean. A fragrance, she believed, she would recognize anywhere, because it conjured up the very essence of Ryder, and her home, Annwn. 

   “So we will be more human than guardian?”She let go of Ryder’s hand and grabbed his cotton shirt tugging him closer.

  “Mia, you’ll always be you, but your magic will be suppressed. You need to experience life as a normal human, and overcome the challenges in their world. To take your magic with you and to know who you are would compromise the challenge. If you believe strongly enough in the power of your love for Ryder, you will find each other, and you will overcome the obstacles in your way to true love.”

    A flapping of wings and a wail of ear-piercing squealing filled the skies. Mia clasped her hands over her nose and tears filled her eyes. It was Gerty and Jasper, Mia and Ryder’s pet serpents. The two pale green and leathery scaled creatures landed on the soft sand with a thump, their wings flapped and then settled, but their long, thick tails bashed against the ground. They furiously ducked and nodded their heads sky-wards squealing continuously.

  “They don’t want us to go,” Mia said as she approached the gentle looking creatures who instantly began to make purring sounds and both dropped their heads to nudge against her waiting hand. Mia stroked first one, then the other; her hand massaged their soft scaly head in a soothing circular motion and the creatures batted against her palm in approval.

  “They just want to play Mia. They have no understanding of what we are doing?”   Just at that moment, a buzzing and whirring sound filled the air. Mia couldn't see Ryder as hundreds of swarming colorful fairies the size of butterflies surrounded her. Their voices all merging together to say one thing.

   “Don’t go Mia. Don’t go.” 

I think that for as long as I feel excited to be working on this story then I will continue to re-write, but my next course of action is less clear. Wish me luck. 

Embracing opportunities.

I love this picture. The photograph makes the moon look gigantic, and had me once more thinking of the world of Annwn.

In truth, I haven't been writing of late which is sad, but I'm embracing an opportunity that has come my way and requires some reading and research. It may not be what I was wishing for, but it is inspiring me, simply in another direction. And I'm learning about things which I was completely in the dark about which is good because a writer needs to have knowledge of many subjects.

The reality is after four years I need to make a living and sadly, I'm not as a writer. Not yet anyway. I've been told that my YA story is intriguing and the characters likable, but the world of Annwn needs to be developed. I'm itching to do this, but I'm so torn because of my new commitment. My time to write is less, and therefore I need to manage my day more efficiently to fit everything in.

I'm going to try to spend 2 hours a day writing creatively for myself, and see how that goes.

How long do you spend writing every day? Indeed, do you write every day?

In the end, I owe it to Ryder and Mia to get their story out there whether it's with a publisher or I self-publish, I just want to spend some more time pulling those loose ends together...

A New Day Begins.

This is a beautiful photograph that  I borrowed from a friends FB page, and it really inspired me today. The reason is that for most of this week I have been writing and researching for a project that I may or may not be venturing into.

I cannot give any further details, other than to say that whilst it's exciting, interesting and all a bit mind-boggling, it's not creative writing, and I was getting a tad frustrated, as I do.

Enough said

Anyway, today I decided with a couple of hours spare before I volunteer in the FUN RUN at my youngest school, I would try some world building.

One point that was made by the publisher that I submitted to was to enlarge the world of Annwn. To answer all the questions that one may ask about this magical realm. Bearing that in mind I am going back to my notes and piecing this jigsaw of Annwn together.

Annwn is a magical realm and it is thought to have existed on earth since the planet was created. It was by accident that Annwn became aware of the humans and their world, after a powerful Guardian Locksonor created a portal allowing him entry. The world of Annwn is shrouded by magic, unseen by human eyes. It's exact location a mystery. 

Ever since the portals were created, the Guardians and the Watchers have visited the human world regularly out of curiosity, and the desire to help those in need. However, no realm, not even a magical one is without evil, and as the portal opened, a darkness began to creep inside Annwn. That Darkness also began to seep into the human world in many forms seeking power, riches and destruction. Every encounter between the two worlds since has been with fatal consequences. 

Mist was rolling off the grassy slopes on the hillside, and the purple and pink slashes in the sky stained the sandstone on the castle that abutted the cliff, a beautiful rose color. Mia stared at the majestic fortress as it stood guard over the sea, a foreboding site should anyone dare to enter Annwn from the water, and she shivered. The milky white sun peeped from behind the curtains of clouds that rolled passed, and she turned towards the sea. The sky was reflected like a mirror on the still water. Her heart beat slowly, and Mia took a deep breath in, capturing all that lay before her, soaking in the very essence and smells of her home Annwn, should it all be forgotten. It was dawn and the start of a new day.

    A new beginning.

    Annwn was a realm on earth, hidden from human eyes by magic. Its exact location was a highly guarded secret, but legend suggests that it lies by the coast in Wales; a land that was steeped in mysteries and folklore. Mia smiled recalling the tales of Arthur, and then sighed as she remembered the effect upon the lives of her people. She stared out across the endless glossy water, and her hair danced wildly as the wind picked up speed.

   “Are you ready?” Mia turned at the sound of his voice and gazed at Ryder. She accepted his outstretched hand and smiled. He was her heart, and the reason they both stood on the shores of their home ready to cast everything they had known aside. Her toes curled into the silky grains of white sand like an anchor, but she knew she had to let go and set sail.

   “As ready as I’ll ever be.” Ryder’s rough, calloused hand smoothed across her cheek and Mia closed her eyes. To test the power of their love as was the custom in Annwn, they had agreed with the Wise elders to enter the human world where promises were broken every day and live a mortal life with no knowledge of their magic or their past. Coldness rose inside Mia and locked inside her throat rendering her speechless. Her visions predicting the end of mankind further underlined the reason for them to venture into the unknown because the two realms were linked by a history, by blood, and what was happening to the humans may easily come to pass in Annwn. The roar of the ocean blasted in her ears, the fierce wind whipped around them and Emrys appeared his face sober. The waves parted, and Mia stared into the distance. A land heralded and a million golden lights twinkled.

 

Why rejection isn't so bad!

Today, I'm so happy it's Friday because it means I will get a lie in bed tomorrow until maybe eight o'clock, and I really love waking up naturally, rather than to the shrill sound of the buzzer.

Anyway, the reason for this second post this week is because at the end of last week, I received two simple rejections from agents. Their emails were short and succinct. They both basically stated that the market had changed and that based on the writing material I had supplied, they weren't interested enough in the book to ask for more. Ouch!!

Honestly, receiving a rejection, hurts, there's no way of trying to avoid that, and I knew that I would feel disappointed, BUT it is part of the process.

I also have to say that the waiting to hear back from the agents/publishers is worse than the rejection. Once you receive a yay or nay, at least you can go and do something!

Today, I've eaten my whole bar of Nestle's Aero chocolate, later I intend to get a Starbucks coffee, and then I will spend my birthday money from August. I decided when I started submitting that I needed a plan in place for the moment, I started to receive the news. And I think you need to have one. Obviously,  if the news had been better, I would be doing all of the above, but jumping around with a ridiculous grin on my face.

After a long debate with myself,  I decided that when I received a response, regardless of whether it was good or bad, I would spend the day in the same way, because I will savor each activity, look forward to them, and tomorrow will be another day with endless possibilities. I want to keep the dream alive because I love what I do.

         "If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen." Harry S. Truman.

The above quote is true. If you're a writer getting rejections is part of the course, not everyone will love your work, and if you cannot face them without falling apart, then maybe this isn't for you. In writing my blog, and I try to give some thought to what I write, and how it will affect others. I wasn't sure whether to post anything negative about writing, not wishing to put aspiring writers off, but this is my journey and facing and accepting rejection is something, I have to deal with. It's real and many, many esteemed authors have been rejected.

1. Sylvia Plath: There certainly isn’t enough genuine talent for us to take notice.
2. Rudyard Kipling: I’m sorry Mr. Kipling, but you just don’t know how to use the English language.
3. J. G. Ballard: The author of this book is beyond psychiatric help.
4. Emily Dickinson: [Your poems] are quite as remarkable for defects as for beauties and are generally devoid of true poetical qualities.
5. Ernest Hemingway (regarding The Torrents of Spring): It would be extremely rotten taste, to say nothing of being horribly cruel, should we want to publish it.

                     Legendary rejection letter phrases to some of the most famous of writers.

 You either learn from it and get better, carry on regardless or give up. Whilst, I will not pretend there are not dark days for the writer, because there are, I still believe in carrying on and not giving up!!!

And here's why?

Yesterday, I receive my first rejection from a publishing company. Now, I could be all bah, humbug about it, but this time the way it was worded, makes me want to keep trying. The lovely acquisition's editor from this particular publishing firm which shall remain nameless, gave an in-depth analysis of the manuscript. She said enjoyed the characters, their relationships, and the premise of the story.  Happy dance!!!!!  :)   She went on to give me five steps as to how to improve the story and concluded by saying that if I amended it as suggested, she would be more than happy to see it again, should I wish to submit it.    Woot Woot!!!!!   I see that sunshine at the end of the rainbow...

Reading the email, I actually felt some relief because although it's a rejection, I really felt hopeful that one day this story will be published.

Never give up. And most importantly, be true to yourself. Write from your heart, in your own voice, and about what you believe in.

Louise Brown 

Never give up on your dream... because you never know what the Lord can bless you with.

Kelly Rowland

I'm sending out a big wave to my 29 new followers via Feedspot, welcome. Would love to hear from you!!! Although, I'm not sure how to make you visible on my blog yet, I'll work on it.

Also, I need to say thank-you to everyone who reads the blog because the writers world can get lonely, and not everyone wants to hear about the latest goings on inside my stories, but here I am among friends and it's your support that keeps me going.      
 

Off for that coffee, bye for now. xxxx

Ready to give up!

I've read posts about giving up and have thought, never. I will never give up! Today, I'm ready to throw in the towel, and surrender. I feel all the doubters out there, that smirked when I said I'm going to get my story published, have been right all along, and that I should stop kidding myself now. 

Writing for four years has been all consuming, and there have been people who have become totally fed-up with listening to me go on about the story and my writing. I've tried to continue pushing myself to believe that no matter what, I will finish what I started and then pursue publication.

         However, I never imagined how depressing I would find this process of submitting and waiting!!!!
 
        I have been paralyzed waiting for news. I felt sick pressing the send button to query agents/publishers and since have been glued to the computer waiting for that elusive e-mail.

        I cannot live like this!
     
        I've sent my husband out for chocolate, and wine. I have tried focusing on another story, but I'm now obsessed with the fact I'm no good. That the story is no good, and I have no idea how to deal with this?
At the end of the day it makes me question if I really can write at all?

      Yesterday, I spent the day cleaning, food shopping, and catching up with paper-work. I just needed to get away from writing. Today, again, I'm going out to meet up with friends, and I doubt I will get any writing done.

      I feel lost, sad, tearful. I feel depressed, exhausted, and question whether any of this is worth it!


     Any advice on how to deal with playing the waiting game, and facing rejection, appreciated.

P.S
  I have to point out, that  I know this is part of the process of writing and seeking publication. I wasn't prepared for this waiting and nail biting stage. Today, I am re-invigorated and have a strategy or rather several. I was awake early and started exercising, which really helps those endorphin's. I'm re-working my biography, reading over my new story and plotting. Sharing this post has helped because I've had support from my writer friends and all have offered good advice. Just knowing that they are there has helped. I'm blessed. Thank you all. Not giving up----yet!!!! xxx

What is romance and is it important?

Romance matters, because everyone deserves to feel special. Romance is like foreplay. It gets you in the mood for love. And love is what makes the world go round.  Romance can mean different things to different people, but I believe it’s the little things that count. It isn't about showering your loved one with expensive gifts, hell no. It’s about showing them that you care, appreciate, and have time for them. When someone does something, just for you, your heart beats a little faster, your smile is a bit wider, and you feel warm all over. Go on admit it!

   Romance matters, because in our busy world filled with technology, where everything happens at hyper-speed, it’s easy to say we don’t have the time. It’s easy to feel we’re invisible and don’t exist. But, we need a reality check. We are human and we should not be living to work, but working to live. We need human connection and touch, without it, we are alone. Alone, to face all that life throws at us good and bad. I know when I’m celebrating, whether it’s because I’ve won on the lotto or finished a piece of work that I’m proud of, I want to share that with my partner, because without him, that victory would feel empty.Romance, isn’t simply a bunch of flowers or a box of chocolates, it’s about being there for each other.

    

 Romance is thinking about your significant other, when you are supposed to be thinking about something else.

Nicholas Sparks

   Throughout history and in times of war, poverty and injustice, it’s only when we come together, that we can survive and rebuild. When terrifying events take place, having the connection of our loved one, helps us to cope. In times of tragedy, it’s the strength we gain from our relationships that helps us to survive and keeps us moving forward.  There is no replacement for a pair of strong arms to hold you up when you feel like falling apart, or the intimate tingle from a simple kiss. Romance stories generate the highest number of books sold in America, and billions of people read romance stories every day, proving that people love romance. We need romance, because when everything looks grey outside, it adds sunshine to our lives and when writing romance, I love all the possibilities.   

If a man lets all of my dogs sleep in the bed with us, then that is the most romantic thing. You must love my dogs in order to love me. A man who is nice to my animals and doesn't shoo them away - well, that's the height of romance.

Salma Hayek

 

Writing, re-writing and dreams of the future.

 Picture is of Katia Winter, an actress currently starring in Sleepy hollow, and my muse for Ella.

Ella Masters a five hundred-year-old soul-shifter, is wanted by the FBI for murder, and hunted by the sadistic group called, The Order. Terrified, and running for her life, the last thing she needs is to get involved with another man, as most end up betraying her, but her body is craving for her soul-mate, if she doesn't find him, and soon, this time she will die for real!

Sneek peek from the first chapter of Capturing the Last Welsh Witch. An adult paranormal romance.

Ella blinked awake, and shivered as a blast of frigid air hit her, in the distance, was the sound of trickling water. Neither sensation was expected, nor normal, that much she knew. Icy-fear snaked its way into her mind as she jerked her chin off the mushy grass and peered at the world from the ground. She was lying semi-prone on the cold, damp earth with grass stuck to her lips. The day usually began in a warm bed, and Aidan was there. Instead frosty kisses from the early-morning breeze touched her, mostly naked body, and she shivered. She lifted a shaky hand to her head, and groaned as an image of a hysterical and angry Aidan, flashed through her head.
   “What the hell happened?”  She whispered to the wind as if it may answer.

Those are around the first 100 words-do they intrigue you ?

Crazy week, my beautiful cat was involved in a ferocious battle with a coyote or fisher cat and survived-just. My world came to a standstill, and nothing else mattered except making sure he was going to be alright. Kit-Kat is so affectionate, and I love him. He's recovering from a bowel resection, and I hope to have him home today, where he will be pampered. Kit-kat is the one on the right, and the other one is called Skittles. Yeah, I have a sweet tooth.

Anyway, when things go bad on a personal level, I have to do things!!! I'm not one to sit and dwell. Sure I cry, but then I get busy. This week, I have submitted to a few more agents, and I'm still researching others. I keep reading through my manuscript for Children of Annwn to check for any mistakes, and I'm back writing the adult paranormal. So I'm busy and feeling positive...

Some handy tips about the query process.

Well, I'm several weeks into the query process and still waiting. To be honest, I've only sent my query off to two publishers, because I really wanted to make sure that what I was sending out was the best I could deliver.

The whole process has felt quite surreal. When I pressed send for the first submission, I felt totally euphoric, then I felt sick to my stomach at the enormity of what I had just done. The next day, I sent another submission and still had the same nervous trepidation.

Since then, I've stopped submitting and have re-examined my query. I have found two incredible sites that have helped me tremendously.

www.agentquery.com/

Not only does this site give you details of agents and their submission requirements, but it has a whole host of resources to use when writing a query. I joined, and I'm researching agents at the present, but I've also been using the Agent Query Connect Forum, and I posted my query there for feedback. Well, the feedback and support has been incredible. The feedback has been honest, informative, and constructive. It's help me no end and I think my query is much stronger.

P.S There's also a forum to get your synopsis critiqued .

The second place, I have to rave about is,

www.linkedin.com

I have become a member and I love it. There are so many groups on this site and I have joined a few to connect with other writers and keep abreast with the whole writing and publishing industry. Did I tell you how much I love it!
Many times, I have started a post relating to log-lines, queries about POV, asking questions about what makes a book a fantasy, and have always, always received feedback. My latest post was titled, What's wrong with this query. The feedback and comments that I received were not only heartfelt, but full of amazing advice and support. I really felt, I wasn't alone in the dark and consuming world of query writing.


Bottom line, there's a wealth of information out there about how to craft your query letter, and you need to check it out, because writing the query is harder than writing the book!

But in connecting with other writers, and obviously checking out their work, you realize that there are so many talented and gifted writers out there, doing exactly the same as you.

At the end of the day, I strive to be the best I can and hopefully one day my work will be published.


That's why I write, because life never works except in retrospect. You can't control life, at least you can control your version.” 
― Chuck Palahniuk, Stranger Than Fiction

Writing that damn query letter!

Oh, my god, this last week and a half, has almost killed me off. After, submitting a query to a couple of publishers, I haven't been sat idle. Oh,no, I've been reviewing the MS, writing my synopsis, and perfecting my query letter.

I know what you're thinking, didn't you perfect your query letter before you submitted!!!!! Well, I was happy with what I had, until I started to reflect and seek other opinions and in a market where this is your shot at gaining the agent or publishers interest you have to offer and tantalize them with something different. To be honest the more opinions that I have asked for the more confusing it has become, but it made me totally re-examine what the story is about! Below is my latest query.

Visions of disaster by day, and flirtatious dreams by night, of Ryder, an amusing magical boy, has seventeen-year-old Mia Childs clinging to her sanity by her finger nails. 

But when a cute new student arrives at school who looks exactly like her dream boy, Mia’s fantasy world explodes. The trouble is, he’s obnoxious. And to make matters worse, news reports are beginning to mirror her prophecies about the extinction of the human race. 

That’s when everything goes to hell, and Mia discovers she isn’t even human.

Let me know what you think !!!

Keeping busy.

The kids are not back in school until next week, but I'm up at the crack of dawn getting some hours in, either, writing, researching or reading. I have always loved this time of day when no-one else is around. The peace and tranquility allows me total focus. It's bliss, especially with a strong cup of tea.

After feeling a moment of euphoria and a day's worth of gut wrenching nerves when I submitted. I now feel slightly off kilter. Reading posts on Linked In and connecting with other writers who state quite openly that "rejection is part of the course" and "most publishers will not even get back to you or explain why they don't like your book." It's hard not to feel off. Why am I putting myself through this? Why am I bothering? There are so many talented writers out there and I'm not sure I'm even any good.

The self-doubt demon is hovering.

For years I hadn't given much thought as to whether publishers would like my story or as to how I would cope with rejection. Now, I'm already setting myself up with the belief, that I will be rejected. I've already started devouring chocolate as if in some way that will buffer me against the desolation...

However, I tell myself, books are like art, and  people view of art differently. I'm not a fan of modern art, although some I enjoy. I rather tend to lean towards Renoir. I believe, therefore it's the same when finding a publisher. It's a question of finding the right publisher, the right agent that will love and appreciate your work. I've read that many writers become so disillusioned with publishers that they go the indie route. I guess only time will tell. It's taken me fours to finish this novel and I'm wondering how long the publication will take.

But, I have no time to sit and wallow in self-pity. I have work to do.

I'm writing the second book, entering competitions and reading. Always, reading.

I love all things romance, and if I'm not writing about it, then I love to read it. When I read romance stories, I love the chemistry that brings the will they won't they couple together. I love character driven stories where you feel as if you can relate to the hero and heroine. Conflict. There must be conflict, a battle of wills, a reason why they cannot be together and yet they want to be together more than life itself. Happy ever after. Everyone, wants to know that in the end no matter what the odds, the hero and heroine end up together.

I just went to see Immortal Instruments, City of Bones and I really enjoyed it. I love Cassandra Clare and although I read her books a while ago, I am heading right back to read them again. I loved her vivid descriptions. Action packed scenes, laced with romantic tension.  We all know that Clary and Jace end up together, but it's the chemistry, the tension, that keeps us watching, and reading to see how it happens.

"The night had gotten even hotter, and running home felt like swimming as fast as she could through boiling soup."  

Submitting.

Four years September, I started to write Children of Annwn. Now, I'm on the last legs of this particular journey. I'm about to submit my manuscript, to see if it has what it takes to be published traditionally. I am way beyond nervous. I'm terrified. I'm preparing myself for rejection, because it's a fact of life. I keep telling myself, no matter what,  to keep going. If I don't have belief in myself, no one will, and I do.

I believe in my story, and I hope other's will to. I'm a romantic, I always have been, and I refuse to give up.

Children of Annwn is a love story about overcoming the odds and not giving up. It's about fulfilling a promise, even when you doubt yourself and those around you. It's about growing up and taking responsibility for the choices you make. It's about believing that anything is possible.

In this small excerpt which is near the end, Mia is about to step onto the stage and perform for her last time in the human world. It's a pivotal moment. Everything is about to change.

   Above her churning stomach and the hammering of her heart, Mia could hear the screaming audience. Out front, Fusion was being introduced. The Kittens, ran off stage, huffing and puffing. As they passed by, they had big smiles plastered across their faces. Walking passed Mia, Simone blew Robert a kiss. Mia smirked at the girl and watched as she stumbled over something that wasn't there. Robert saw and knew Mia was messing around. He tugged her hand to pull her away. Then they were all walking up the short flight of stairs and onto the deserted stage. The curtains were drawn in front of them, but they could hear the crowd and Mia could feel the heat from the lights above. She swallowed and took her place by the microphone watching as everyone took theirs. Everyone was quiet. Mia turned her head back and forth, still no sign of Greyson. Evan sat waiting. His forehead was shiny from a layer of sweat. Danni stood next to Mia and winked at her. Mia smiled back. She moved her head to her left, Robert stood there. He grabbed her hand and squeezed it.

    Ready.

    Mia sucked in a deep breath and blinked. Everyone was tense but ready.                             

     This is it

     She couldn't answer him, just yet. Greyson was out front introducing the band. Mia could hear him explaining to the audience about Ayesha. Her heart was pounding frantically. There were shouts and yells. Then silence. The curtains drew back and a sea of waving arms, stood before them. Unknown faces covered in semi-darkness. Bright lights poured down on the group on stage and Mia blinked. Robert stooped forward into the microphone and introduced the first song, The Promise. He shot a gaze over at Mia. She willed her heart to slow and lifted her gaze to meet his.

   I’m ready.

What comes next!

This picture was taken of me, in the Garden of the Gods in Colorado Springs. I was there visiting with my husband just last week. An amazing place, stunning scenery, and such happy people. Wonderful trip.



The last couple of weeks have been amazing. Firstly, I finished my novel. Yay!!!! After, re-writing the story and editing several times, I finally felt with a huge sigh of relief, that the story was finished. I am happy with the way the story enfolds and the way in which the characters develop. I've left room to explore several options for the next book and I loved the ending. Like all good soap-opera's, I have written a cliffhanger that leaves you wanting to know what happens next. At least I hope so.

Since then, I've been reading through the story and bar tying my hands, trying not to edit, simply to read to check for the flow and pacing of the story. I've found this unbelievably hard as I keep stopping and making changes. So, I've sent the entire MS to a friend to proofread, whilst I continue to read. I've been requesting feedback from several teens, but I'm at the point where I want to focus on drafting and polishing my query letter.

It seems a standard three paragraph letter which includes your hook, a small synopsis, and finally a short biography is what's required. Sounds simple, right???

 Well, I've been reading some sample query letters and I can tell you it's incredibly hard because this is your chance to get the AGENT'S attention and it has to shine and stand out from the thousands they get every day. Daunting!

So, I'm drafting today and I'm going to post on QueryShark.

Dear Query Shark,

Mia Childs wanted to be a "normal" teenager but her visions suggested otherwise. Every time she closed her eyes, she stepped into the beautiful Otherworld of Annwn. An arrogant boy Ryder, bewitched her and a manipulative Darkshadow, Greyson stalked her.

When Mia was awakened by the touch of a strangers hand, she learned that she was a  Guardian of Annwn, betrothed to Ryder, sent into the mortal world to test the power of her love and to save mankind from extinction.

However, even Mia, a powerful Seer, couldn't foresee the deadly game of chess that Greyson would play using the humans and everyone she loved as pawns. Mia was forced to make impossible decisions.

To fight her nemesis or surrender her heart and soul in order to save the life of the one she loved.

To believe in the power of love or break her promise to Ryder as her visions suggested?

 And would Mia powers be enough to alter the fate of the humans?   

Children of Annwn: The Promise is a 112,000 - YA romantic fantasy. 

 Thanks for your time and consideration.

Let me know what you think, I haven't included my details or short bio because it's really the hook and synopsis that I want to master. I'd love to know if they suck you in and make you want to know more ???? 

Five tips for writing a blog post...

 

 

(The picture above is of Cardiff castle it was originally built by the Normans in the 11th century and since then has been remodelled throughout the centuries.)

I've read blogs professing that when it comes to writing a successful one, don't write about yourself all the time and then there are those that chant, but make it personal so that the reader feels as if they can relate to you!

I started writing a blog as a CHALLENGE to myself. A way to hold myself to account for my progress or lack of, in regards to my writing. I set myself the goal of completing my first ever YA fantasy novel back in ooh 2009....2009. So long ago now.

And, I'm still working on it.

The point is I guess, that I'm still writing and writing for me is a long process. I know I've said this before, but it takes time, determination and an unwavering belief in yourself that you can do it. You also have to absolutely love what you are doing.

There are a few lessons I have learned along the way about blogging and writing and I wanted to share them with you today.

1.Write:

 Write, when you have something to say. I can only write when I have an infernal need to get something out of my head and onto paper or the computer. It's like a tiresome itch that needs to be scratched and it only feels better when I've written it down. Don't, feel under pressure to write every day, unless you have something to say.

2. Content:

I believe it doesn't matter particularly what you write about as long as you show us some love. I don't care if you write about the flea ridden cat, the nosey neighbour, how to bake a Victoria sponge or a book review, write with passion. Make it interesting. Make it funny or sad. I want to be emotionally sucked in and then I'm yours.

3. Review.

This is an important one, it's easy to sit at the desk tapping away regardless, unaware of the affect our writing has. We push the tiny button that says publish and by the power of the Internet our work is out there for everyone to see. Everyone. That's a pretty large audience my friend. Needless to say, I could harp on about my experiences in this area, but I cannot stress enough that as with any piece of writing you have to review and edit. Be certain you are saying exactly what you want to say and that it makes sense. I'm sure most people are forgiving for the odd error, but depending on who your targeted audience is, you will lose respect and followers if you make errors continually.

4. Respond to comments

If an individual has spent the time reading your work and left you a comment, you are blessed. In a world of countless blogs, someone has deemed yours worthy of their precious time. Don't you just love it when you get that email. Well I do. The fact that someone out there has connected with me and has found something to say about my work is reward itself. Whether, what they have to say is good or bad, I'll take it with open arms. But, you must reply to say thank-you, it's only polite.

5. Toughen up.

Mostly, I receive positive feedback, but I've had a few comments that have made me wince. This is part and parcel of being a writer, you put your heart out there and bare your soul and not everyone will love your work. Deep breath, chocolate and for me a strong cuppa. At the end of the day you have to consider other opinions, you never know, you might learn a valuable lesson. It's hard, but I take from feedback what I can use to make me a better writer. I don't get out the steak knives and plot the person's demise that has given me a less than glowing critique. And, I try not to take myself seriously. I work hard, but my family keep me on track, they are what is important.

Some personal facts about me.

1. I was born in Cardiff City in Wales but I cannot speak Welsh.

2. I'm a shortie at only five-foot.

3. I used to make rings out of Swarovski beads and sell them at craft fairs.

4. My star sign is Leo and I am a very determined lady who hates to fail.

5." If music be the food of love play on." Shakespeare Twelfth Night. I love music and cannot be in world without it. One of my favourite bands is Muse.

6. I love to sing and dance.

7 I love to write about anything to do with romance and as such I read a lot of romance novels, however I love a good thriller just as much.

8. My weakness is chocolate.

9. I believe anything is possible.

10. One day I will visit Tuscany because it has been calling out to me for years.

 

 

 

 

 

 

                    Next week my progress with my WIP until then that's it folks.x