Write By Bethany

It's Tradition!

2012-01-27T01:54:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday All,

Has everyone had a good week? Mine seems to have flown by, but then again, I was pretty busy.

If you've seen the musical, Fiddler On The Roof, you might remember a song called Tradition. It talks about all the different traditions that hold the community together.

In my family we had traditions that brought us together. For Christmas we tied together all kinds traditions from around the world. There's a Scandinavian tradition called the Yule Goat. Much like Santa Claus, this goat brings gifts to good little boys and girls. We would talk about the Yule Goat bringing this or that. It was great fun. My Dad started making a German Christmas bread/coffee cake baked good called stollen (pronounced "schol-en"). Wikipedia called it a "fruit cake", but this isn't quite as dense. It has nuts, candied fruit, cinnamon, and raisins (well at least the way my Dad makes it).

For some of the weddings in my family, the night before, at the rehearsal dinner some of the siblings would get up and give the "Mawiage" speech from The Princess Bride.

The point is, traditions are fun, bring people together and inspire us.

So what sort of fun traditions do you have in your life?

Have A Fabulous Friday!

The Perfect Sound

2012-01-26T01:31:00.000-06:00

Happy Thursday All,

I missed posting Wednesday, but don't worry, I'm okay--just busy!

There's a new release! Author of Nocturne, Syrie James, has teamed up with her son, Ryan M. James, to put together a Paranormal YA novel entitled, Forbidden. And, it looks intriguing! It's available on Amazon and Amazon Kindle, as well as Barnes & Noble and Barnes & Noble Nook.

I'm currently reading a novel by an author I hadn't ever read before. The premises really interested me because it's pulled from Shakespeare. I'm not very far into it, but I'm already curious as to what this novel will bring. So we'll see what happens.

On and off I've mentioned music on here. Especially music that sets a tone/mood for one's writing--or inspires. For me, it can be anything from AH-HA's Take On Me to Spin Doctors' Two Princes. I like a lot of different songs, but those two came to mind because Two Princes always makes me want to dance, and Take On Me is one of my "happy place" songs.

There's a few collaboration songs I like...one such song is the collaboration done by John Waite and Alison Krauss, I Ain't Missing You. This was originally sung only by John Waite, but I think it came out lovely.

Speaking of music and collaborations, I've collaborated with one of my brothers before. He's a music composer and musician. When I was in high school he approached me and said, "Hey, Bethany, I think this piece needs lyrics. I can write music, but lyrics aren't really my thing, and I know you've written some, would you mind working on it?" I said, sure. Unfortunately my lyrics were definitely not on par with how beautiful the piece was, but I tried my best. We'd sometimes do our own version of Heart & Soul on the piano (he is far and away a better musician than me, but I never had the passion for playing instruments that he did). Then when I got married I had a set of lyrics that was a duet. I begged my brother to put the lyrics to music. He was going to play at my wedding, and I had a soprano from the church choir and my brother-in-law who's a tenor. Eventually he got the lyrics arranged and it was gorgeous.

Something music composers and novel writers have in common is the emotion they have for their work. I know my brother spends a lot of time working on his compositions so it sounds just how he wants it to turn out. When I sit down and work at a story I'm asking myself a series of questions, and going over each sentence to make sure it comes out just right--that it is what the character would say. I've sat and talked with my brother about this and I said, "It seems composers and authors have a lot in common in that respect." He said, "Oh definitely." He agreed that like novel writers, composers get attached to their work. They want others to enjoy it and fall in love with the piece as much as they did.

Novel writers are the same. They fall in love with their characters. They giggle over the jokes, agonize over the pivotal scenes, and contemplate whether or not the dialogue works. In music, they have to go over each phrase. Contemplating the key signature, tempo, what instruments would play it and what emotion it would invoke--what the purpose of the piece will be, not to mention a series of other concerns they have about what they're composing.

It's amazing what composers and writers have in common. I may not be able to play Liszt or dazzle with a piano concerto, but put me in with paper and ink and I'll be off on this idea or that idea. Either way...emotions, hopes, dreams, fears, joy, and sorrow all play a part regardless of whether it's Beethoven or if it's Shakespeare.

So, what music makes you happy?

Have A Top-Notch Thursday!

I'm Back, Did You Miss Me?

2012-01-23T23:47:00.000-06:00

Happy Tuesday All,

Sorry for the long silence. Last week husband had off and I don't post on the weekends and Monday I was getting used to the usual schedule after the weekend.

I'm doing all right. Friday I went out with 3 of my best gal-pals and we had a blast. A lot of laughter and fun. I didn't get home until almost 2 a.m. I never thought I'd stay out that late--we didn't do a lot...mostly hung out at Starbucks, then at one of the ladies' apartment. But it was still fun and we all agreed we had to do that again (although I'm hoping that I'd get home before 2 a.m. next time LOL). Trust me, me being out that late is very unusual.

I'm so behind on scheduling my blog! I still need to email some people and see what I can figure out for this year. But don't worry, I'll get it pulled together.

I finished an ARC for an official blog review that will be posted in March and the novel is also releasing in March. I'm very excited about it and I'm looking forward to posting it. But I'm not telling what it is! You'll just have to wait and see.

So what's one question you'd want to ask one of your favorite authors?

Have A Terrific Tuesday!

A Gold Release & 2012 Anticipation

2012-01-17T01:51:00.002-06:00

Happy Tuesday Everyone,

I've been absolutely remiss about this, but author, and pal of mine, Ciara Gold, has a new Romance released, On Timless Wings Of Gold, (title links to the All Romance Site--the publisher's website--where you can purchase this novel) and it looks so good. The cover is absolutely gorgeous. You can also pick it up on Champagne Books, or on Amazon. I didn't find it available through Barnes & Noble, so Nook users will either have to go through Ciara's website, or download Amazon For Computer. (There's also Nook for PC and Nook for Mac available, too). Never read Ciara's work, want to get to know her a little better? Check out the interview I did with her November 2010.

So what's everyone reading these days? I'm getting back to reading MaryJanice Davidson and Anthony Alongi's Jennifer Scales Novel: Evangelina This YA Paranormal (shape shifters--including dragons). It's book 6 in her and Anthony's Jennifer Scales series.

This year is bubbling with excitement. A bunch of interesting things happening/being released (here's some upcoming books listed by month:

February 2012: Looks like Anne Rice is going for werewolves. It will be interesting to see if her wolves become as popular as her vampires. Watch for The Wolf Gift February 14, 2012.

March 2012: Kerrelyn Sparks fans will be delighted to know that her Love At Stake series will have a brand-new edition come March 27, 2012, when Phineas' story, Wanted: Undead Or Alive, is released. (I'm particularly looking forward to this release!)

EDIT 11:50 a.m. Sorry about the confusion, CC Hunter's book isn't being released until APRIL 2012...this is what I get for writing my blog posts after 1 a.m.!

April 2012: I first heard about this author when I read her novel, As You Wish, dealing with a genie. Now YA author, Jackson Pearce, has a new novel coming out, entitled Purity and it looks intriguing. Release date: April 24, 2012.

**EDIT 11:51 a.m.: Also, highly anticipated by me, is C.C. Hunter's book 3 of her Shadowfalls series, Taken At Dusk. It looks good! (I accidentally had this under March, but it isn't being released until APRIL. So sorry for the confusion!)

May 2012: You've heard me talk about this YA author. I am chomping at the bit to read book 2 in this series. Who is it? It's Josephine Angelini! In May 2012, Dreamless will be available. She had a bit of it up on her blog--and it was such a tease!

For those of you wanting to know about Christie Craig's next Hotter In Texas book (the sequel to Don't Mess With Texas), it's due out September 2012 and it's entitled: Blame It On Texas.

Also, September 2012 will bring the release of book 3 of Sophie Jordan's Firelight series. Book 3 is entitled Hidden.

Anyway, be sure to check out Ciara God's On Timeless Wings Of Gold--like I said, gorgeous cover and it looks good!

What releases are you looking forward to this year?

Have A Treasure-Filled Tuesday!

Childhood Games

2012-01-16T02:34:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday Everyone,

Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day! Hope everyone has a good day.

When I was growing up we sometimes would get sidewalk chalk and take it out in the backyard. Among the hearts, flowers, names, and whatever else we'd draw, it wasn't uncommon for a Hopscotch Board to be drawn out in the driveway and used.

Hopscotch, Red Rover, Tag/Freeze Tag/TV Freeze Tag, Hide & Seek...these games have been passed on generation to generation.

There's something so free and easy about these games. Simple rules, fun, and kids get to just be kids.

So what was your favorite childhood game?

Have A Marvelous Monday!

See You Monday...

2012-01-13T00:58:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday Everyone,

You made it! It's Friday! Hope you all had a good week. Life keeps moving along on my end. It's been pretty chilly this week after all the rain we had on Monday.

I'm taking today off from posting, but I'll be back on Monday.

Enjoy your weekend. Hope you have some fun things planned!

See y'all on Monday!

Have A Fantastic Friday!

Running With Wolves

2012-01-12T00:54:00.003-06:00

Happy Thursday Everyone,

There's a YA Paranormal trilogy by Andrea Creamer out there full of werewolves...only this isn't your ordinary werewolf--in fact, I kind of hestitate to call them "werewolf" because they're not really like that, they're not a typical werewolf at all. The last one came out January 3, 2012, and it was very good.

Calla Lily--Calla for short--has known all her life that as a Guardian, she was to serve and protect the Keepers and obey their every command. In return, they supply everything a Guardian could need.

In Nightshade, the first in the trilogy, Lumine, Calla's Keeper decides the Nightshades (Calla's wolf pack) and the Banes (rival pack) must unit. Lumine and the Bane's Keeper have arranged for Calla and Bane up-and-coming alpha, Ren to be mates. Calla understands this is how things must be. After all, her kind aren't allowed to choose very many things for themselves. They owe the Keepers everything.

Except, when she meets Shay everything changes.

Then enter the Seekers...enemies of Guardians and Keepers.

Wolfsbane picks up right where Nightshade leaves off and takes you on a ride through how the Seekers operate...and all the lies...when Calla learns the truth, what will she do?

Where Wolfsbane ends, Bloodrose opens. A war is brewing. A line has been drawn firmly in the sand. Guardians are choosing sides. Betrayals have happened. And Calla is torn between her love for Shay and her love for Ren.

The ultimate war between good and evil erupts and Calla is right smack in the middle of everything.

When the dust clears...where will it leave Calla, Ren, and Shay?

Love, loyalty, betrayal, lies, truth, good and evil...Andrea Creamer's Nightshade trilogy is full of surprises. You never know what to expect. The trilogy was like no werewolf (which, given what they are, I'm not sure if "werewolf" is the right term or not) novel I've ever read. Very different. I really enjoyed the first two, and the last has a quite an ending.

Find it at Amazon and Amazon Kindle, as well as Barnes & Noble and Barnes & Noble Nook.

Have A Tantalizing Thursday!

It's A Lion!

2012-01-11T11:45:00.000-06:00

Happy Wednesday Everyone,

I had to flip this picture for
it to be vertical. Unfortunately
it's turned the wrong way.
the mantel is actually on
the other side of the tree.

Yay! I finally did it--I got the pictures taken of the lion ornament I got for Christmas. It's the one that represents my hero, Monroe. For those of you who missed the post about the ornament, you can read it here.

Also, if you'd like a chance to meet Monroe, up close and personal, please check out the guest post I did on author Tess St. John's blog.

Isn't he awesome? Very majestic.
I just love it!

Monroe is the hero of my novel. He's a man who can turn into a lion (hence the ornament).

Anyway, I hope you enjoy this glimpse at Monroe. I've been delighted to have the ornament. From where I would sit on the couch I can see it hanging on the tree (we have yet to take our tree down, but I'm sure that's going to happen this week or this weekend).

So what's your favorite animal?

Have A Wonderful Wednesday!

Bite That Beast!

2012-01-10T00:02:00.002-06:00

Happy Tuesday Everyone,

Monday was a wet day in Texas. Very wet. But I'm happy to report that my end of town did all right (from what I could tell). Unfortunately, there were people who had to evacuate their homes in another town, and there was flooding in different areas. Hopefully those people's cars and homes don't sustain a lot of damage. For those of you who pray, please offer up a prayer for them.

I did remember to take a picture of my lion (Monroe, hero of my novel) ornament I've mentioned, but because I've lost the hook up wire for my camera, I'll have to go take it in and get it put on a disc so I can upload the photos (yes, I took more than one LOL).

So, I've finished reading all the books I got for Christmas. The one I haven't reported on is Tera Lynn Childs, Sweet Venom (YA Paranormal).

It's the story of 3 girls who look exactly alike. At first they don't know about each other.

Gretchen grew up with adoptive parents who weren't ideal. She ran away and eventually was taken in by Ursala, who taught her how to fight monsters and send them back to where they came from. Ursala also taught her that Gretchen was descent of the gorgon, Medusa, who, was falsely portrayed in mythology.

Unexpectedly, Gretchen comes across her sister--make that twin sister--while she's out fighting monsters.

Grace had no idea she had a sister. Let alone she was a descendant of Medusa. She'd always known she was adopted, but her parents were loving and kind. So she had no reason to look beyond her small bubble for anymore family.

When Grace meets Gretchen and finds out the truth, she's not sure what to think. But even though she tries to walk away, she finds she just can't.

Then enters Greer. Having been raised in wealth and privilege, Greer doesn't have time on her social calendar for insane people who, even though they look like her, can't possibly be her sisters. And, she can't be a descendant of Medusa, right?

But with monsters popping up all over the place and the rules changing, these triplets find out they need each other and they need to uncover the truth as to what's happened and where Ursala has gone.

Will the girls be able to uncover the truth about their destinies, or will the bounty on their heads prove the end of them and Medusa's legacy?

You can indulge in Greek Mythology, mystery, action, suspense, and a little bit of romance on the side in this incredible beginning to a brand new series by Tera Lynn Childs.

Find Sweet Venom at: Amazon and Amazon Kindle, also find it on Barnes & Noble and on Barnes & Noble Nook.

Have A Thrilling Tuesday!

That Yummy Sweetness

2012-01-09T00:58:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday All,

Warning: The following post will cause chocolate lovers all over to drool uncontrollably on their keyboards. Please take the necessary precautions to protect your computers. Thank you.

Yes! Today I'm talking about chocolate. Rich,dark,milk,white, truffled, in cake, cookies, dripping-off-your-spoon-in-a-sundae, chocolate!

If you couldn't tell I'm something of a chocoholic. There. I said it. Chocoholic. No, don't be ashamed. There's redeeming features in chocolate.

Like dark chocolate is supposed to be good for you--okay, you're not supposed to gorge yourself on it like a thirsty person trapped in the dessert, but in reasonable (that is not huge amounts) it can have health benefits.

Chocolate contains magnesium, which women's bodies crave (this is one of the reasons some women really go for the chocolate). On the converse side, I suppose a woman could take magnesium supplements to curb her craving for a chocolate, but I leave that up to the woman and her doctor to decide.

Chocolate can be a mood booster and who doesn't like to be in a good mood?

I've tried all kinds of brands. I've had Hershey's, I've had Godiva, Dilettante, Lindt, Russell Stover, Dove...you name it, it's possible I've tried it.

I'm partial to milk chocolate myself, but every now and again I find a dark chocolate I like (Godiva and Dilettante have good dark chocolate).

I love a good chewy, rich brownie (the chewy ones are better than the cake-like ones in my opinion). Chocolate chip cookies, Chocolate Drop Cookies (which my paternal grandmother used to make and I have a sister who carries on the tradition--every now again someone else makes them, too).

The ooey, gooey goodness of a chocolate cake frosted over with chocolate icing is still some of my favorite cake. Growing up, I used to have chocolate cake with chocolate icing decorated with M&M's on my birthday.

Every now and again, when the weather is cold, I'll fix myself a cup of hot chocolate. I love it with whipped cream (although I rarely have it with whipped cream anymore because we usually don't have any whipped cream in the house). I used to like it with marshmallows, but I always forget to get them at the store LOL.

Now, that I've got you dreaming of that sweet taste of awesomeness, what's your favorite chocolate?

Craving more chocolate? Check out this Chocoholic Mystery series...where chocolate is the name of the game, and cracking the case the frosting on top. It's a series by JoAnna Carl--I've read a few of them and they're pretty good. You can find them at Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

Have A Mouth-Watering Monday!

So, How's Your First Week Of New Year?

2012-01-06T01:58:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday Everyone,

Well the first work week of 2012 is coming to a close. I hope everyone has had a good week so far! Mine has been fun. I'm feeling a lot better, too.

I'm working on figuring out the WIPs (Works In Progress) and catching up on my reading. I've got 2 books I'm reading at once and they're both good. I'll probably talk about them next week.

Generally I don't make New Year's Resolutions, however, a new year feels like a chance to improve oneself and reach out to those goals we keep setting. There's a sense of hope hanging in the air and I figure why not grab that hope, and hold on? I think I'll make it a part of what I resolve for the new year. To believe in achieving my goals.

What about you? What are your hopes for 2012?

Have A Fabulous Friday!

Flying With Dragons

2012-01-05T01:38:00.003-06:00

Happy Thursday All,

We're almost near the end of the books I got for Christmas...however I still have today's and then one more (although the last one will probably be in one of next week's posts).

I haven't seen a lot in YA, or Romance (I could be wrong, but it's not been my experience). But what I have read of dragons in YA and Romance, I've really liked.

After reading Sophie Jordan's Firelight and finding out there was a sequel, I knew I'd want to read it. I put Vanish on my wish list for Christmas and figured if I didn't get it I'd pick a copy up, myself. I was delighted to receive it from my sister (the one who gave me the really awesome lion ornament, which holds a particular significance for me, and I still need to take a picture of it!)

Believe me, Vanish did not disappoint! If you haven't read Firelight, I strongly recommend you do that before reading Vanish.

Jacinda finds herself back among her own kind (the draki--people who can turn themselves into dragons). Unfortunately, after she had "manifested" in front of humans (showed them her dragon side)--and not just any humans...but hunters, the pride isn't exactly the most friendly bunch to her.

Despite the pride's general feelings, Cassain, Jacinda's sister, and Jacinda's mother, stand by her.

Originally I was unsure about Cassain, but in the sequel I got the feeling he really did care for Jacinda. That it wasn't just because she was a fire breather (a rare quality) but because of who she is.

Yet, despite all his attention, Jacinda can't forget the human/hunter, Will. A young man she fell in love with, a young man definitely in love with her and who promised he'd find her again.

Can Jacinda prove herself to the pride and forget Will...or will her heart betray her?

You can pick up a copy of Firelight and/or Vanish from Amazon and/or Amazon Kindle as well as on Barnes & Noble and/or Barnes & Noble Nook.

I should've shared this information a long time ago (and most of all whenever I talked about an e-book) and I'm sorry I haven't. Let me remedy that immediately:

Don't have an E-Reader?

No problem!

You can download for free on to computer:

Click here for Barnes & Noble Nook on computer (includes information on Nook for other devices as well)

Click here for Amazon Kindle on computer (includes information on Kindle for other devices as well).

Have A Tantalizing Thursday!

Weave Through Time A Bit Of Celtic Magic

2012-01-04T01:50:00.000-06:00

Happy Wednesday Everybody,

I forgot to let you all know that Andrea Creamer's Bloodrose, book 3 in her Nightshade series came out yesterday. I've got it and am looking forward to reading it...if you haven't read this series, it's a YA Paranormal...wolves done differently...not your typical werewolf fare at all. Really good. If you haven't checked out Nightshade I recommend it.

Now, for anyone who didn't read the comments in the comments section of yesterday's post, I warned a commenter that I'd be posting about more books I've read. After all, I mentioned I got THREE books for Christmas and I'm now reading last one. Today I'm going to talk about one of the ones I received and tomorrow I'll talk about the other (I don't know when I'll talk about the last one, I still have to finish reading it).

The first book I chose to read out of my Christmas presents was Lesley Livingston's Once Every Never. I chose it because it was a gift from my offspring and being a mom I thought "Hey, even if they don't ask, I should go ahead and read that one first." Plus I loved Lesley Livingston's Wondrous Strange Trilogy (great YA fantasy books, very well written, absolutely recommend).

A wonderful thing about Lesley is she takes mythology, or in this case, history and mythology, and fills in the blanks with such talent you start to believe it's possible:

Clare, short for Clarinet (her parents are musicians), finds herself spending the summer with her aunt, an archaeologist, and her best friend.

Clare's prepared for being watched like a hawk (after all, when you end up having a wild party and your folks find out, you're bound to be watched more carefully than before). She's also coming to terms with the fact that despite being in London, the likelihood of her doing any shopping at the famous Harrod's or going anywhere else like that is nonexistent. So...being abroad may not be as exciting as Clare hoped.

However, a touch to a priceless artifact triggers blood curse magic, and Clare realizes her humdrum existence is about to become anything but ordinary!

Once Every Never deals with Britain's Celtic Queen, Boudicca. I didn't find much details on the site I looked at, but it was really something to contemplate just how much research Lesley must have had to do for this novel. Not only that, but to fill in where history books leave gaps.

When picking up this book, don't expect it to be like her Wondrous Strange Trilogy. That is doing Once Every Never a disservice. This novel stands on its own. It's not a branch off of Wondrous Strange and has nothing to do with that trilogy. Once Every Never is its own story.

It wouldn't surprise me if Once Every Never has a sequel, however, I can also see it as a stand-alone. I enjoyed it. It's action, history, magic, and romance all packed up into one YA Fantasy novel.

Find it on: Amazon (paperback) and Barnes & Noble (paperback). (Note: I didn't see it available on Kindle or Nook).

Have A Whimsical Wednesday!

So You Wanna Date A Vampire...

2012-01-03T00:46:00.000-06:00

Happy Tuesday All,

Recently I found out that Beth Fantaskey's Jessica's Guide To Dating On The Dark Side (YA Paranormal) was out on Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble Nook for free for a limited time. Having seen this book in stores and curious about it, I figured I'd go ahead and check it out.

Some people described the story as "tongue in cheek". I personally, just plain enjoyed it.

There was a scene that I excitedly told a friend was, "romantic without being romantic." That is, you could sense the romance there, even if the scene itself wasn't strictly romantic. That kind of writing is way cool.

When Lucius, a member of Romanian vampire royalty, first arrives in the rural American town he's not quite sure what to expect. At first he's appalled by the "peasant" way folks live. Gradually, though, he becomes intrigued.

Jessica, the heroine, finds herself caught between the world she knows, and a world she's being pulled into. How does she reconcile what she always thought she was, with what she's to become? How can she agree to marry Lucius and honor a pact that was made at the time of her birth, when her analytical mind can't even begin to process the idea that vampires are real?

Things get sticky when vengeful humans get involved. And even stickier the moment elders in the vampire community get tired of waiting for the pact to be honored.

For me, I was sad when it ended. I really got into it and wanted more. Fortunately, the sequel, Jessica Rules The Dark Side, is due out January 10, 2012, so there isn't long to wait.

Have A Tantalizing Tuesday!

Happy New Year: 2012!

2012-01-02T01:11:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year & Happy Monday Everyone!

Hope everyone has a safe, wonderful, and blessed new year!

2012 has started off pretty well for me so far. I'm feeling much better (thank you to everyone for the well wishes and support). I finished reading a couple of books that I plan on talking about on here this week.

As I'm entering the 3rd year of working on this blog, I'd like your feedback. Not counting giveaways (because I think we all look forward to those), what posts on here do you like the best? Please let me know in the comment section of this post.

Have A Marvelous Monday!

Kick-Your-Butt Allergies, Or, How To Imitate Sneezy

2011-12-29T02:07:00.000-06:00

Happy Thursday All,

Is it really Thursday already? Gosh, time flies when you're sick. Or slows down, depending on who you are. That's right. I've been sick. Allergies laid me up in bed with my computer and Christmas gifts in the form of DVDs of Seasons 5, 6, and 7 (final) of Sabrina The Teenage Witch. Good news--I got through all the episodes (I just have to watch the TV movie special feature on the last disc of the final season). The bad news? Didn't get a lot done in the way of writing, reading, or pretty much anything else.

For the most part I've finally quit imitating Sneezy the Dwarf (from Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs) and I found that turning off the heat during the day has kept some of the problems from flaring. Namely, my eye finally stopped tearing and my nose quit running and I started feeling a little better. I've got some medicine and a nasal spray and I'm doing better than I was, but I'll tell you what...I hate allergies. Fortunately I've got ways of getting steam if I need to open up my sinuses, and a Vaporizer that runs at night (complete with a little green light on top--how nifty is that? Oh jeez, you can tell I've been sick, I'm thinking lights on vaporizers are cool. I really do need to get back to writing and reading and getting out of the house!)

Good news, however, (and yes there is definitely some) is that being MIA (or rather, sick with kick-your-butt allergies) gave me a chance to contemplate ideas for blog posts. I have an idea for one week, probably starting some time in January. I've also been thinking about authors to ask for interviews, and eyeing my stack of books I got for Christmas. Apparently I started a YA theme with my wish list.

I received:

Once Every Never by Lesley Livingston (if you haven't checked out her Wondrous Strange series, get yourself over to it. It's YA Fantasy/action/romance that is so fantastically written, it's just plain gorgeous).

Sweet Venom by Tera Lynn Childs (I LOVE this woman's "Oh. my. gods." series dealing with Greek gods/goddesses and her mermaid series that starts with Forgive My Fins).

Vanish by Sophie Jordan (book 2 of her Firelight series--awesome book dealing with people who can turn into dragons--how dang cool is that?)

Plus I started reading a book (before Christmas) on my e-reader called Jessica's Guide To Dating On The Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey (I love that last name...sounds almost like "fantastic" --great last name for an author!) Anyway, it's pretty good so far, I haven't gotten real far into it, but vampire lovers, you might enjoy it--Romanian Vampires of royal blood.

We're so close to 100 official followers (those who are listed as followers in the right hand margin of this blog) I can almost "taste" it. When I hit 25 followers I did a big giveaway. Get me to 100 official followers listed and I'll look at doing another big giveaway in 2012. So tell your friends, fellow readers, blog followers, Tweeps, and anyone you know who reads/likes books (no, your dog/cat/fish/ferret/bird/lizard/monkey/lion/jackal/tiger/bear/hyena/ whatever pet unfortunately doesn't count...in my experience, they aren't exactly readers and they don't usually know how to post comments...of course, they probably could be trained...but still, I think we'll stick to the human species at this point for blog followers--makes it a little simpler).

What fun thing has been happening to you this week? (And am I alone in the allergy/cold department?)

Have A Terrific Thursday!

Christmas, Lions, Singing, OH MY!

2011-12-26T01:31:00.001-06:00

Happy Monday Everyone,

I hope you all had a great holiday. I certainly did. Right now I'm sitting in my living room, enjoying the tree and lights and one of my Christmas gifts on DVD.

In my family, me and my siblings and spouses get one name (either a sibling or a spouse of a sibling and the spouses get a name too) and we buy for that person.

One of my sisters got my name this year, and as part of the Christmas presents she got me a lion ornament to represent the hero of my novel, whose name is Monroe. I opened it up, laughed and delightedly exclaimed, "It's Monroe!" The lion ornament is now hanging near the top of my tree by a white ribbon (don't know where my hooks are). He's awesome--sparkly and very regal. I could just picture Monroe saying, "Your sister has most excellent taste." He also would say, "She has superior taste." Since he can turn into a lion, Monroe is of the opinion no other animal can hold a candle to lions.

Anyway, I'm very excited over it. I'll have to get a picture taken and put up on here, soon.

Christmas Mass (Catholic Church service) was lovely. The choir sounded beautiful, the decorations were simple but exquisite, and the priest gave a fun and great homily. All in all, my Christmas weekend was fabulous!

How was your Christmas?

**Don't forget to put your vote on the Poll at the top of the margin of this blog of how you found the Write By Bethany Blog--there's 36 days left!**

Have A Meritorious Monday!

Christmas Wishes To You & Yours

2011-12-22T23:52:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday All,

This weekend is Christmas! I hope all of you and your near and dear ones have a very Merry, safe, blessed, and wonderful Christmas!

I'll be spending Christmas with my family and some of my family-of-origin. Dad is going to be cooking away (he's a great cook) and we'll be attending Church and having gift exchange. I'm very much looking forward to it all. Relatives of mine I haven't seen in awhile are in town, so I'm looking forward to seeing them, and, of course, the friends I'll be seeing as well.

Everyone be safe and I'll see y'all next week :-)

What's your plans for Christmas?

Have A Festive Friday!

New Releases & Great Reads

2011-12-22T00:53:00.000-06:00

Happy Thursday Everyone,

We're finally on the mend, for which I'm saying thank you prayers. With Christmas right around the corner, it's a dear wish of mine for us to be well enough to enjoy the festivities, and it looks more of a possibility than earlier this week.

I don't know if I'll get to posting on Friday or not, but if I don't, I want to leave you with some new release news:

Christie Craig has released a brand new e-book called Murder, Mayhem & Mama. It'll be exclusively available on Barnes & Noble Nook, then sometime in February 2012 will be available on Amazon Kindle.

Nina Cordoba has taken her writing in a new direction with her brand new release, Mia Like Crazy. It's available on Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble Nook.

If you're looking for in-prints to read:

Syrie James' Nocturne is one of my favorite vampire novels. This poigant, emotional novel will keep you going long after you finish the last page.

Magic abounds in Shanna Swendson's Enchanted Inc. 4-book series. I adore these books and have read them more than once.

If you're looking for something sexy and vampire, check out Kerrelyn Sparks' Love At Stake series. First book is called How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire. Humor, romance, and awesome vampires.

If you're looking for something Christmassy, I laughed and utterly enjoyed Debbie Macomber's The Perfect Christmas.

If you're looking for a YA read...

Josephine Angelini's Starcrossed is absolutely superb. The furies and fates have kept scions (demigods) reliving the Helen of Troy, Trojan war over and over. Fantastic read. Love it, can't wait for the sequel (2012, Dreamless will be released).

Check out Lauren Oliver's thought-provoking dystopian, Delirium. What if love were considered a disease? What if it could be eradicated? Would you take the cure? The sequel, Pandemonium will be available in 2012.

Andrea Creamer kind of took me by surprise with her Nightshade novel and its sequel, Wolfsbane. Really fascinating story. I'm looking forward to Bloodrose available January 3, 2012. Shape shifters, lies, and a brewing war. Never a dull moment.

I probably will have a post up for Friday, but I don't know for sure. Either way, hope y'all have a Merry Christmas!

Have A Tinsel-Filled Thursday!

Anticipation...

2011-12-21T16:10:00.000-06:00

Happy Wednesday All,

Congratulations to Sarah for winning the signed copy of Christie Craig's Shut Up & Kiss Me.

Thank you to everyone who participated. Thank you especially to Christie for supplying the prize.

Also, I want to thank all those who sent us their prayers and well wishes for my family. We're doing much better. It appears to be seasonal health issues. But we're mending, which I'm really glad about.

Christmas is a mere days away, which is hard to believe! There's some anticipation mounting in my household.

How about you? Are you excited about Christmas?

Have A Wonderful Wednesday!

Kiss It Goodbye...

2011-12-19T23:33:00.005-06:00

Happy Tuesday Everyone,

Before I get to today's post, please answer the poll question located in the right hand margin of my blog (at the top). This is to get an idea of where my traffic is coming from and who knows...it might impact future posts and giveaways. But curiosity abounds, so please answer, thank you!

********GIVEAWAY PORTION OF THIS POST IS NOW CLOSED.***********

Today is the last day of my December Days Blog Giveaway...

This particular author is one of the sweetest and funniest authors I've ever met. She's been an inspiration to me, a guide, a support, and a friend. In my writer's group she's very well respected and well liked. In fact, it's hard not to like Christie Craig because she's got a lively spirit, and her books are just as lively. Case in point: Today (Tuesday, December 20, 2011) she is releasing her e-book, Murder Mayhem & Mama. This ebook is available 12/20/2011 on Barnes & Noble Nook and will be available on Amazon Kindle sometime in February 2012.

So while you're waiting for this Contemporary Romance romp to be available to you, Christie has graciously agreed to give away a signed in-print copy of her Contemporary Romance, Shut Up & Kiss Me:

A photo key to solving a murder mystery, and a spark...put it together, and who knows where it'll lead photojournalist Shala Winters and lawman Sky Gomez.

Humor, mystery, and romance...this book has it all. You don't want to miss out on the fun of a Christie Craig novel. Believe me. I absolutely love this book!

As always...there are rules to entering any giveaway, here's mine PLEASE READ THEM CAREFULLY:

***I will check with Christie to see if this is International or just USA Citizens and then I will edit this post accordingly. Please check back later in the day to find out.*** ***EDIT 12/20/2011 10:21 a.m. & 1:26 p.m.: As far as I know, giveaway for USA Citizens ONLY.***

***Giveaway closes at 10:30 p.m. Central Time on Tuesday, December 20, 2011. Any entries that come in AFTER 10:30 p.m. Central Time on Tuesday, December 20, 2011 will be deleted. (It's the week before Christmas and I'm dealing with family illness, so I can't make exceptions this time, I apologize!)

***There are two ways to enter***:

1. If you want to comment on the blog post: Please leave your first name and an email address. Any entries that do NOT leave an email address in the comment section of this post will be deleted. Because all comments are moderated by me, whenever your comment appears in the comment section of this blog that means I have received your entry and you are entered for the giveaway. Any questions can be directed to me at my email address: bethany.averie@yahoo.com

2. If you don't want your email address in the comment section of this blog, but you still want to enter the giveaway, you may send me an email at bethany.averie@yahoo.com Please put Christie Craig Giveaway in the subject line.

All entries MUST be received no later than 10:30 p.m. Central Time on Tuesday, December 20, 2011. Any entry received AFTER 10:30 p.m. Central Time on Tuesday, December 20, 2011 will NOT be entered.

********GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST AND SUPPORT OF CHRISTIE CRAIG*******

Have fun and don't forget to check the right hand margin of the blog to answer the Poll Question. I'm very curious as to where my blog traffic is coming from, so I'm conducting this poll for the next 40 or so days--thank you :-)

Have A Tantalizing Tuesday!

Christmas Is Coming...Are You Ready?

2011-12-19T00:59:00.002-06:00

Happy Monday All,

First of all, congratulations to Kimberly L (edited last initial, because originally I had it wrong). for winning the signed copy of Melissa Ohnoutka's Faithful Deceptions. Melissa will get that to you, soon.

Now...tomorrow is special for several reasons:

1. Release day of Christie Craig's e-book, Murder, Mayhem & Mama.

2. It's the last day of the December Days Blog Giveaway.

3. The giveaway author? Christie Craig! She'll be giving away a signed copy of one of her in-print novels. (I'll announce which one tomorrow when I put up the giveaway post).

We finally got our tree decorated and it looks very pretty. I need to get some more red bead garland for the bottom half, but the store didn't have anymore, so right now it's just the top half has red bed garland. The tree is decorated in white lights, ornaments, and tinsel. I have an artificial tree, so I don't have to worry about watering or anything like that.

Are you all ready for Christmas/Holidays?

Have A Merry Monday!

Revenge, Love, And Giveaway

2011-12-16T01:02:00.003-06:00

Happy Friday Everybody,

*****THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW OFFICIALLY CLOSED. THANK YOU TO ALL WHO PARTICIPATED. A very special thank you to Melissa Ohnoutka for supplying the prize***

We're drawing near the end of my December Days Blog Giveaway, but we're not at the end, YET.

Today's prize is from the very talented Melissa Ohnoutka. Melissa is giving away to ONE lucky winner a signed in-print copy of her Romantic Suspense, Faithful Deceptions:

Will Hailey survive her quest for revenge, or will she just be another victim?

*****THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW OFFICIALLY CLOSED!****

To enter this giveaway, please read the following rules carefully:

***I will ask Melissa if this is for USA Citizens only or if it's international. Once I know, I will edit this blog post with the information.*** *****EDITS 10:55 a.m. Central Time: I heard from Melissa. If someone outside of the USA wins the giveaway, they will get the E-book version of FAITHFUL DECEPTIONS. The in-print will only be shipped in the USA*****

ONE entry per person.

This giveaway will end at 10:30 p.m. Central Time TODAY (Friday, December 16th). No entries will be accepted after that.

There are TWO ways to enter:

1. You may comment on this post. IF you choose to comment, please leave your first name and a working email address. If you do NOT leave an email address with your comment, you will be disqualified. All comments are moderated by me--once you see your comment published in the comment section of this post, that means I have seen your comment and entered you. If your comment has NOT been published it probably means I have not seen your comment yet. If you have any other questions or concerns, please email me at bethany.averie@yahoo.com

2. If you don't want your email listed publicly, but still want to enter the giveaway, you may enter by sending me an email at bethany.averie@yahoo.com

****PER THE GIVEAWAY POST, at 10:30 PM CENTRAL TIME THIS GIVEAWAY WAS OFFICIALLY CLOSED****

Enjoy and have fun!

Have A Fantastic Friday!

Winner & Christmas Prep

2011-12-15T00:04:00.000-06:00

Happy Thursday All,

Congratulations to Carolyn W. (she emailed her entry to me, which is why you don't see her entry in the comment section of the giveaway post), winner of the Kerrelyn Sparks' ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS A VAMPIRE. Carolyn, please confirm receipt of my email I sent you so that you can claim your prize.

Thank you to everyone who participated and thank you to Kerrelyn for supplying the prize.

Friday is the next December Days Blog Giveaway (for those of you marking your calendars).

I hope everyone is doing well. I'm making this a short post due to the fact I have a ton of stuff going on (preparing for Christmas and other things happening).

So, is everyone ready for Christmas/Celebrations? All the decorations and wrapping all done?

Have A Tinsel-Filled Thursday!

Fangs and Mistletoe

2011-12-14T00:15:00.004-06:00

Happy Wednesday All,

Congratulations to Sarah K. who won the Tess St. John giveaway. Please confirm receipt of the email I sent you to claim your prize!

****KERRELYN SPARKS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. Thank you to all who particpated. A special thank you to Kerrelyn Sparks for providing the prize.****

Merrily the December Days Blog Giveaway keeps going!

***THIS GIVEAWAY IS OFFICIALLY CLOSED. It was closed on Wednesday, December 14, 2011 at 10:30 p.m. Central Time per the giveaway details. I am no longer accepting entries to this giveaway***

If you haven't had the fun of reading a Kerrelyn Sparks paranormal romance, then you're in for a treat. Kerrelyn is offering to one lucky winner a signed copy of her fun and fangtastic novel, All I Want For Christmas Is A Vampire:

Toni's friend is in the hospital going on about vampires. Toni will prove her right. But can she resist Ian's charm, in spite of his fangs?

As always, the book is full of Kerrelyn's wit, romance, and awesome vampires.

To enter, please read all the rules carefully:

THIS GIVEAWAY HAS BEEN OFFICIALLY CLOSED PER THIS POST'S DETAILS. THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST AND FOR SUPPORTING KERRELYN. PLEASE COME AGAIN.

*I will check with Kerrelyn to see if this giveaway is USA citizens only or all countries.* ****EDITS 10:56 a.m.: Kerrelyn has confirmed that USA and Other countries may enter--so yes, this IS an international giveaway day******

The giveaway will close at 10:30 p.m. Central Time.

******EDIT 12:16 p.m. -- ONE ENTRY PER PERSON. I thought I had posted that, but it looks like I forgot. I'm only entering everyone ONCE. ********

Choose one of two ways to enter:

First way: You can comment on this blog. If you choose to enter by leaving a comment please leave your first name and an email address. If you do not leave an email address you will be disqualified. ***Edit 12:17 p.m.: If you see your comment published in the comment section, that means I have received your entry and have entered you in the giveaway. If you have questions, email me at bethany.averie@yahoo.com

Second Way: If you'd rather not leave your email address, send me an email to bethany.averie@yahoo.com.

Have fun everybody!

***THIS GIVEAWAY WAS OFFICIALLY CLOSED, PER POST'S DETAILS on WEDNESDAY, DEC. 14th AT 10:30 p.m. CENTRAL TIME. THANK YOU FOR YOUR INTEREST AND SUPPORT OF KERRELYN SPARKS. PLEASE COME AGAIN***

Have A Winsome Wednesday!

Undercover & Falling In Love

2011-12-12T01:18:00.004-06:00

Happy Monday All,

***Giveaway is now CLOSED. Thank you to all those who participated. Look for more giveaways THIS week. Thank you especially to Tess St. John for donating the prize for today!***

Yep--it's the December Days Blog Giveaway icon!

Today my dear friend and illustrious Critique Partner, Tess St. John, is graciously providing the prize: her Romantic Suspense, Eyes Of Jade:

E-book cover

Can Jake Dane protect a beloved starlet before the threats on her life mean a permanent retirement?

*UPDATE as of 12:30 P.M. Central Time: As Tess pointed out in the comments what I posted is the E-Book cover. Unfortunately I'm not able to post the paperback version. Everytime I try to, it comes up really, really small and when I try to enlarge it the cover looks extremely blurry. The only difference between the two covers is that on the paperback version Jake is the only one on the front of the book and the starlet is on the back.

Yours truly (me) helped critique this novel (about the first few chapters) and let me tell you, now that I finally got to read the whole thing, it rocks! This is my favorite of Tess's novels, so far. Jake is awesome, and Eve (the heroine) is a sweetheart. It's a fun ride. Tender, romantic, and it kept me guessing (I was dead wrong about who was the "bad guy").

Here are the rules:

***UPDATE 10:27 AM Central Time: Tess said that the IN-PRINT will only be available to USA Citizens. HOWEVER, if you're outside the USA and you want to enter, Tess has agreed to send a digital copy (.pdf, kindle, nook, doc, or .rtf), but only USA Citizen will get the in-print (hard copy) of the novel.***

One entry per person. Giveaway will close at 10:30 p.m. Central Time. Choose one of two ways to enter:

1. If you choose to enter by commenting, please provide a first name and an email address. If you don't supply an email address you will be disqualified. (I need a way to contact the winner).

2. If you'd rather not post your email address on here, you may enter the giveaway by sending me an email at bethany.averie@yahoo.com please either put December Days Blog Giveaway in the Subject line or EYES OF JADE so that I know that it's an entry and not spam.

Best wishes to all entrants and have fun!

Have A Melodious Monday!

STARCROSSED Winner

2011-12-10T09:09:00.000-06:00

Happy Weekend Everybody,

The winner of yesterday's December Days Blog Giveaway is Angela!

Congratulations, Angela! Josephine will send you your signed copy of Starcrossed soon.

Everybody else, I'll be back on Monday!

Have A Great Weekend!

Magic And Mythology

2011-12-09T01:14:00.003-06:00

Happy Friday Everyone,

****GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO PARTICIPATED. A very special thank you to Josephine Angelini for supplying the prize!****

Yay! It's another giveaway day! This is a special treat, not just for you, but for me, too. This novel I have read twice and would read again and again, no problem. Today's giveaway novel is Josephine Angelini's Starcrossed:

Can Helen and Lucas break the pattern of bloodshed the Fates and the Furies have repeated throughout the centuries? Or will they suffer the same fate as the original Helen and Paris and other scions before them?

This is a story based off the Helen Of Troy/Trojan War mythology. I own this book and believe me, you don't want to miss out.

Here's how you can win this awesome novel (please read the following rules carefully):

One entry per person. I will close giveaway at 10:30 p.m. Central time. **Edit 12/09/2011 10:23 a.m. Central Time: Confirmed with Josephine, the contest is open Internationally, so USA and all countries welcome may enter, just follow the rules and get your entries in BEFORE 10:30 p.m. Central Time :-)

You may choose one of two ways to enter:

1. If you want to enter by leaving a comment on this post: please include a first name and email address. If you do not include an email address you will be disqualified (need a way to contact the winner).

2. If you don't want to leave an email address in the comment section, you may send me an email to bethany.averie@yahoo.com (Those of you have other email addresses of mine, please only send giveaway entries to bethany.averie@yahoo.com ).

Have fun!

Have A Fabulous Friday!

Winner And We're Not Done Yet...

2011-12-08T15:26:00.000-06:00

Happy Thursday All,

I'm posting this kinda late in the day, but I couldn't be on the computer very long earlier because I had another obligation in my personal life (a good one, I promise, nothing bad) so I decided to wait until I had talked to the winner of yesterday's drawing and was done with my other obligation to post.

The winner of yesterday's December Days Blog Giveaway was Sarah!

Congratulations, Sarah! Lauren Oliver will mail you your copy of DELIRIUM soon.

Tomorrow is yet another giveaway...you're gonna have to come back and see who the author is and what book it is.

Next week I have THREE, count 'em, THREE giveaway days. Three different authors, three different books.

So, keep coming back, because tomorrow is a giveaway day and next week is THREE (and I'm not saying which days!)

Have A Thrilling Thursday!

Love Is In The Air...And In The Giveaway Novel!

2011-12-07T00:36:00.001-06:00

Happy Wednesday Everybody,

****THIS GIVEAWAY IS CLOSED. PLEASE CHECK BACK FOR THE NEXT DECEMBER DAYS BLOG GIVEAWAY HAPPENING LATER THIS WEEK. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO PARTICIPATED!****

No, you're not seeing things! That is, in fact, the December Days Blog Giveaway day!

You're in for a treat. YA author, Lauren Oliver is going to give to one lucky winner a signed copy of her thought-provoking and fascinating dystopian novel, Delirium:

Lena is looking forward to being cured and safe from the deliria. Days before receiving the cure, she contracts it...she falls in love.

It's a fascinating read, everybody!

And here's how you can try to win a signed copy of this incredible novel (please read the instructions carefully):

One entry per person. I'll be closing the contest at 10:30 p.m. Central Time:

1. You can comment on this post. Please leave your first name and an email address. If you do not leave an email address you will be disqualified. (I need an email address so that I can contact the winner and give them information on how to claim their prize).

2. If you want to keep your email private, then email me at bethany.averie@yahoo.com (Some people have other email addresses of mine--please note that if you email me your entry, you must send it to bethany.averie@yahoo.com since I am not accepting contest entriest sent to any other email address--it's just easier to have entries at a central location).

I'll announce the winner in Thursday's post!

Have A Wondrous Wednesday!

Happy St. Nicholas Day!

2011-12-06T09:27:00.000-06:00

Happy St. Nicholas Day / Tuesday Everybody!

In my background, I have Flemish (Lowland Dutch) and German, and from what I understand, both backgrounds celebrate St. Nicholas Day.

St. Nicholas is who Santa Claus is based on. He was a real person. Unfortunately, not a lot is known about him, other than the fact that he would often provide for the poor and needy.

There's a story that there was a girl whose father was too poor to provide a dowry (which was extremely important back then, not as much now). So at night, St. Nicholas dropped off money so that the girl could get married.

He was a bishop and tried very hard to help all those in need.

I heard that the Dutch put out wooden shoes. They place hay in the shoes for St. Nicholas' horse.

Growing up, we'd put out a shoe downstairs the night before St. Nicholas Day. In the morning we'd have presents in and under our shoes, and sweet treats in our shoes. It was great fun, and not many people I know celebrated St. Nicholas Day, so it felt like something special.

My husband and I carry on the tradition to our offspring, who have enjoyed it. This morning there was joyful shouts as St. Nicholas gifts were fawned over.

Today, I think we're finally getting out our Christmas Tree, and I'm hoping husband will get out the lights for outside the house. We're a little behind this year, but I did put some garland over the mantelpiece. I also found some fun wall decorations and they're up. So now we just have to put up the rest.

I started wrapping presents, out of necessity. Husband and my father have a similar gift and I didn't want husband coming across it on accident, so I wrapped it up last night. I still have some shopping to do, and I expect when husband gets back from his doc appointment (he seems to have some kind of a cold) he'll want to take care of some of his own shopping.

What fun Christmas/December Traditions do you have in your family?

Have A Tinsel-Filled Tuesday!

Turkey Vultures, Shopping, & Giveaway Details

2011-12-05T10:41:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday Everybody,

I hope y'all had a great weekend! My weekend was packed! I had shopping to do, church, and we went to the library--but it was a good weekend.

This morning after coming home from an errand, I pulled up to find that there were Grackles (big black birds, but not crows) and a Turkey Vulture picking at the garbage along the curb that was waiting for the garbage truck. I had never seen a Turkey Vulture that close before (and I was glad I was in the car). Those things are huge and ugly. You want to feel sorry for them for being so ugly, but they're so huge that you start wondering if you'd win if they tried to attack you. Fortunately, said vulture flew away and landed on the opposite side of the street on some one's rooftop, so I was able to get to the door unmolested by an ugly (and possibly vicious) bird. Although, I doubt they attack humans, but you can't be too careful! LOL. (yes, I'm being funny--it's okay to laugh).

Okay...I have an announcement: This week there's TWO giveaways. Yes, you read that right TWO--on two different days.

Whenever you see THIS graphic at the TOP of a post, it means it's a December Days Blog Giveaway day:

I'll post the rules and everything each day. This is YA week--so there's 2 different days, with 2 different YA authors and books.

What's been a strange experience for you this Christmas/Holiday Season (please no vomit stories, I sometimes read comments when I'm eating)

Have A Merry Monday!

Congratulations...

2011-12-03T22:31:00.000-06:00

Happy Weekend Everyone,

I'm a little late posting this--my day was pretty full--but the winner from Friday's giveaway of Will Graham novel is...

Valerie!

Congratulations, Valerie! I've forwarded your information to Will, so you should be getting that from him soon.

Thank you to everyone who participated, and keep your eye out for the next giveaway day--there's several more to come!

Have a GREAT Weekend!

Kicking It Off

2011-12-02T01:04:00.004-06:00

Happy Friday All,

***CONTEST/GIVEAWAY portion of this post is now CLOSED***

December Days Blog Giveaway Icon
means this post is a December Days
Blog Giveaway post

You've heard the phrase, "Tis better to give than to receive", right? Well, that's what you're gonna get 6 or 7 days this month on Write By Bethany.

Each day--which are sprinkled throughout the weeks leading up to Christmas, but ending BEFORE Christmas--will feature a different author with a chance to win a copy of his or her novel.

Haven't finished your Christmas shopping? What's more awesome than a book that's signed by the author?

To kick it off, Will Graham has agreed to something very special. The winner will get his or her choice of one of his in-prints. Yep, you read that right. Whomever wins this giveaway will get to choose one novel of his in-prints to have personalized with whatever name the winner wants.

So here's the deal. These are the 3 novels Will has in print. He's provided a very short blurb for each of them, and given me permission to post the cover art so you can get a little feel for them.

Street Heat -- A former detective confronts the serial killer that got away... and the woman who broke his heart.

Sometimes There Really Are Monsters Under The Bed -- An investigator and his heiress partner confront genuine Evil on that most special day, Christmas Morning.

Spider's Dance --A computer security consultant uncovers evidence of a deadly conspiracy with origins in World War II.

Okay here is how the giveaway will be run:

There will be ONE winner. ONE entry per person. I will close the giveaway at 10:30 p.m. Central Time.

Two ways to enter:

1. Comment on this blog. The way the comments are set up, every comment is moderated. This has worked to cut down on problems people have had in the past with being able to comment on this blog. If your comment hasn't appeared after you've hit the "submit" button, it's only because I haven't come in and pushed the "publish" button. Don't worry, I do get email notifications about every single comment. I will come on the blog and publish your comment and respond to it so you know that I've seen it and you're entered. **IMPORTANT**: Include a first name and email address. Posts that do NOT do this will be disqualified.

2. You can email your entry to bethany.averie@yahoo.com **Please note**: I'm NOT accept entries emailed to any of my other email accounts. Please ONLY email your entries to the email address I've provided here. Thank you :-)

So, have fun and be sure to enter! You never know...the winner could be you :-)

Have A Fantastic Friday!

Hey! Guess What? It's December...

2011-12-01T00:31:00.001-06:00

Happy Thursday Everyone,

It's December! It's December! Guess what that means? It means that it's the month for my giveaway days.

Friday is the kick-off day! That means on Friday, I'll be hosting a giveaway of an author's in-print book that will be signed by the author for that day and mailed to the winner.

Other than that, been busy prepping for Christmas and taking care of some things on my end.

Hope all is well and don't forget to come back on Friday...it's the first of the December Days Write By Bethany Blog Giveaway

Also, BIG NEWS and Congratulations to my fellow writer and friend, Susan C. Muller. She just had her novel published through Soul Mate Publishing! I've had the pleasure of reading and critiquing part of this novel--a Romantic Suspense with paranormal elements and, I'd say a bit of mystery, too. The Secrets On Forest Bend is now available through the publisher.

Have A Thrilling Thursday!

Checking In...

2011-11-27T23:46:00.001-06:00

Happy Monday Everyone,

As we approach the end of November, I'm already enjoying Christmas specials on TV. This is my favorite time of year. I love Fall and Winter--I love sweaters, comfy blankets, and warm drinks.

Those of you who haven't heard, I'm doing a big giveaway in December! So far, I have at least 6 authors signed up. I've got thrillers, suspense, romance, and YA lined up. You don't want to miss this.

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. I was at my parents' house and had a nice time.

So what do you like about the winter season?

My Guilt Means You Get Gifts

2011-11-21T01:09:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday All,

Well, it's Thanksgiving Week, if you can believe it! Where did November go?

I know some of you all aren't on Twitter, but like I said, you can check out my Twitter feed in the margin of this blog. The Twitter feed will show you the posts (or "tweets") I put up on Twitter. So if you've been following the feed (by coming here and reading it). You know a little of what's going on.

I've been feeling guilty about not updating this blog. But, I truly do have good reasons. I've been working on some other stories and querying agents for SURREAL. Plus, I'm a wife and mother, so I have had things going on with that.

However, I DO plan to make it up to you, my readers/blog followers. In December I'm planning a humugus in-print book giveaway! There's more than one day, because there's more than one author particpating in providing the prize. I haven't set the dates, but I'm lining up the authors/books and nailing down details. There's at least 4 authors involved, and I've sent out emails to others to ask if they'll be a part of this.

In short...it's gonna be BIG.

Now I don't have the exact dates...except it will all happen BEFORE Christmas.

So...don't be strangers! Don't give up on me coming back on here to update because this gigantic giveaway is coming up.

If I don't talk to you all before Thanksgiving, I hope everyone has a happy, safe, and blessed Thanksgiving Day--even if you don't celebrate Thanksgiving, I hope that day is great for you anyway.

So, what food are you looking forward to most this Thanksgiving?

Have A Marvelous Monday!

I Return, Bearing News...

2011-11-15T23:51:00.001-06:00

Happy Wednesday Everyone,

Life has been a bit on busy side. I was doing some edits and now I've been working on another novel. Offspring is dealing with weather changes and respiratory annoyances, but I think offspring should be okay. (And yes, I have started my Christmas shopping).

Most often you'll find me on Twitter. I'm finding that there's a lot going on there. Whatever you think of Twitter (good, bad, indifferent) it's definitely often where you get information first. I find out about blog posts, give aways and releases that way. You'll find the posts I post on Twitter in the margin of this blog under the header: Twitter Feed.

Tuesday C.C. Hunter posed a question on her blog regarding her Shadow Falls series. If you've read them, are you Team Derek or Team Lucas. I answered on her blog (I am so Team Lucas I could start a cheer!) Anyway, go ahead and check it out--it's lots of fun.

I'm so far behind on things for this blog, I don't even know who I'm going to have on here for a December Author Interview. Not even sure if I will have an author interview for that month. I'm thinking of trying to have a give away--maybe 2 or 3 instead. You tell me what you prefer. There is a possible January Author Interview, but I have to talk to her and see if she's still interested.

Awesome news: Tera Lynn Childs is going to have a 3rd book in her mermaid series called Just For Fins. I loved the first two, Forgive My Fins and Fins Are Forever.

I'm seriously having trouble keeping myself from begging Josephine Angelini to send me an ARC of Dreamless. I'm nuts about Starcrossed and would love to read and review on this blog, Dreamless.

I'm currently reading Jane Austen Made Me Do It, which is an anthology of short stories written by authors who have been inspired by Jane Austen. I'm almost done with the second story. It's really fun. You've heard me talk about Syrie James, and she has a story in this anthology (I enjoyed it).

My pile of books to read is huge...I'm trying to catch up, honest, it's just with everything else I've got going on, I've gotten slow. I have a library book that isn't real long so I should have it done, soon.

I have become a big fan of ABC's Once Upon A Time. It airs on Sundays at 7 p.m. Central and 8 p.m. Eastern Time. Of course, you know I just love fairy tales, so it's no surprise that this show has me riveted.

What TV show (if any) are you into?

Have A Winsome Wednesday!

Spotlight On Author: Lauren Oliver

2011-11-11T00:33:00.001-06:00

Happy Friday Everyone,

I'm delighted to introduce November author interview to you, Lauren Oliver. I read her YA Dystopian novel, Delirium, and it was very thought provoking, imaginative, interesting, and kept me on the edge of my seat.

Me: In Delirium love is viewed as a disease. What made you decide to write a dystopian YA dealing with that possibility?

Lauren: The idea for Delirium came from an essay I read by Gabriel Garcia Marquez, in which he wrote that all great books were about love or death. The next day I was thinking about that quote--particularly about how and in what form a modern love story could be told--while I was on the treadmill at the gym. I was simultaneously watching a news story about a flu outbreak that had everyone freaking out about the possibility of a pandemic, and I was kind of marvelling that people so easily go into panics about reports of these diseases, and at some point the two trains of thought--love, and disease--just sort of combined in my head.

Me: What sort of "teasers" can you tell us about the sequel(s) for Delirium and how many books will be in the series?

Lauren: There are two sequels to Delirium—Pandemonium, which comes out March 2012, and Requiem, which comes out March 2013. I don’t want to give too much away, but I can say that Pandemonium takes place in two difference time frames, while Requiem gives voice to two narrators.

Me: What other genres do you write, or do you stick with YA Dystopian?

Lauren: I’ve written in a bunch of other genres. Before I Fall, my first book, was YA contemporary; my first book for middle-grade readers, Liesl & Po, just came out in early October. I have a second middle-grade book coming out next fall, and I also write adult stuff. So I’m definitely all over the map.

Me: What's your favorite Season of the year?

Lauren: Fall! I love the changing trees…and my birthday is in November.

Me: What advice do you have for aspiring authors/writers?

Lauren: Read and write as much as you can! Carve time to do both every day.

Me: What drew you to write YA Dystopian novel(s)?

Lauren: Oh, I didn’t intend to write YA, or dystopia. All of my books begin with character and theme; the genre and audience kind of emerge organically from the story. I just go where the ideas lead me!

Me: What's your favorite Holiday?

Lauren: Christmas or Passover! I’m half-Jewish and half-Catholic, so I get to enjoy both.

Me: What's your solution to writer's block?

Lauren: Writer’s block, I think, is what happens when you give in to the feeling of not wanting to write or not having anything to say; so the solution is simply to resist giving in to that feeling—to resist the resistance, in other words. If you can force yourself to write even a sentence—even a sentence that’s bad, ungrammatical, or nonsensical—you’ll find that more sentences emerge from it.

Me: Are you a "pantser" or a "plotter" type writer? (Do you outline or do you just go with whatever inspiration comes?)

Lauren: It’s kind of a combination of both, and it somewhat depends on the book. Usually, I write about 5,000-10,000 words to see whether the world and the characters take hold of me, whether it’s a book I feel I’ll be able to commit to for the next year. Then I sit down and try to generate a rough outline, a general sense of the large conflicts and tensions. As I continue writing, I keep working the outline as well, and revising both as necessary.

Me: What's on the horizon for you and your novels (what do you have coming up)?

Lauren: Right now I’m working on the last book in my Delirium trilogy, Requiem. After that…who knows!

Me: Anything else you'd like to add?

Lauren: Just thank you for having me!

Thank you, so much, Lauren Oliver, for agreeing to appear on my blog! I can't wait to read Pandemonium. Best wishes on your future releases :-)

Have A Fantastic Friday, Everyone!

We Interrupt This Blog Feed For Special Announcements...

2011-11-10T10:29:00.000-06:00

Happy Thursday Folks,

Two announcements:

1. Tomorrow, Nov. 11, I will be posting the author interview. Yep, you read that right...it's FINALLY going to be posted :-)

2. Also, tomorrow, author Josephine Angelini, the author of the amazing and awesome YA Paranormal novel, Starcrossed is having an ARC give away of her sequel, Dreamless. Dreamless isn't supposed to come out until 2012, in MAY if I'm not mistaken. This is quite an opportunity (yours truly is totally ecstatic about this...desperately wants ARC of Dreamless so she can read it and review it on her blog, but that shouldn't stop you from throwing your hat in the ring). (If I was feeling totally better I'd be jumping up and down...as it is, I'm doing that mentally).

By the way...how did I find out about Josephine's give away? I was on Twitter. You can either follow me on Twitter @WriteByBethany (Bethany Averie) or you can check out my Twitter Feed in the margin of this blog.

Other than that...just plugging away at the things I have going on.

Do you have any announcements? Fun things? Give aways? Let me know in the comment section :-)

Have A Thrilling Thursday!

Replaying The Story

2011-11-08T09:39:00.000-06:00

Happy Tuesday All,

Offspring and I are on the mend from this crazy virus that seems to be making rounds.

Yes, I still plan to post the November Author interview this week, I just can't say what day because that's a surprise.

I just finished RE-reading Josephine Angelini's YA Paranormal, Starcrossed. This was my second time through it (I got a copy of it as a birthday present and wanted to reread it). I am still very much looking forward to the sequel. All I can tell you is that if you like Greek Mythology and you're familiar with the Helen of Troy story (and the Trojan War) this might be something you'll enjoy (You won't know until you read it). I absolutely love this book.

There's a few books I love re-reading and I thought that I'd mention a few of them:

Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice. I have not read this as much as one of my sisters (who, I think, reads it almost every year). But I have read this novel 3 times. Great story, great characters, and definitely witty lines.

Gaston Leroux's English translation of Phantom Of The Opera. I think I've read this 2-3 times. It's a rather eerie story, and the Phantom isn't as sympathetic as he is in the musical, however, there is a line that gets me. He visits a Persian guy he knows and is crying and talking about how Christine kissed him and begs the Persian not to look. Despite his crimes, that moment with the Persian makes him human. I'm rather fond of this novel. However, be warned: When you start the story you're thrown right into a big chaos and it might take you a moment to get your bearings, but if you decide to stick with it, you're taken on a journey directly into the mind and past of the Phantom (and it's not quite what the movie and musical say it is...although, relatively close).

Maud Hart Lovelace's Betsy-Tacy books are some of my favorites. I've read the series I don't know how many times. It's based on the author's own life and it's fun, and innocent and just a joy to read.

C.S. Lewis' Narnia series and The Great Divorce. I've read Lewis' Narnia series over and over again because it's a grand adventure and the characters are wonderful. Many people have delved into it searching for all the meanings, but for me, it's just a lot of fun. The Great Divorce is a fascinating journey. I liked how he tied in faith and a story to come up with something very thought-provoking. I've read the book at least 3 times and the Narnia books, I'm not sure how many times. Probably at least twice.

Lynn Kurland's Stardust Of Yesterday introduced me to one of my all-time favorite Romance Novel knights, Kendrick de Piaget. I love this story--a Paranormal Romance (ghosts) and links into other novels she's written--time travels, ghosts, historical. What could be more fun?

There are so many others I've read more than once, that I wish I could mention them all--from Georgette Heyer's The Grand Sophy and her Friday's Child to Shanna Swendson's Enchanted, Inc. books there are a load of tales I could tell you about. I don't have room in this post to tell you about all of them, but I'll list a few more and you can look them up if they catch your eye:

ROMANCE: Georgette Heyer's The Grand Sophy (so funny) and Friday's Child (love Hero's innocence).

YA: Jackson Pearce's As You Wish (a jinn--aka a genie--for a hero, count me in!) Suzanne Selfors' Coffeehouse Angel (Malcolm rocks and Ratcatcher is about the funniest cat).

Fiction/Fantasy: Planning to re-read Syrie James' Nocturne (jam-packed with history and a fantastic vampire) / Shanna Swendson's Enchanted, Inc. series (Magic being real and set in NYC...come on, it's just great fun!)

I'm sure there's a bunch more out there, but like I said, don't have the space in this post to mention every single one. But, if you're looking for something to read, I hope I gave you some ideas.

What books have you read more than once and loved?

Have A Tremendously Terrific Tuesday!

Please Accept My Apology...

2011-11-07T17:01:00.000-06:00

Happy Monday Evening,

I'm sorry I've been MIA. There's been a lot going on in my world, so the blog got a bit away from me, but I promise I'll be making a come-back.

This week I'm going to be posting my November Author Interview! I'm excited about this one because the book that made me want to interview the author had me really thinking. It's a very imaginative premises and I can't wait to share it all with you through the interview.

Offspring got ill over the weekend so that put a wrench in what I thought I was going to do this morning...so I'm playing a little bit of catch up.

I hope all is well with you all and I'll do a better job at keeping this up :-)

Have A Merry Monday Evening!

Jam Packed & Cruising Along

2011-11-01T11:10:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday & November Everybody,

Wow! It's November ALREADY? What happened to October? I blinked and it was gone (does this mean I need to stop blinking, because that's really hard to do).

There is a lot going on lately--getting things out to those who requested them and playing around with other novel ideas (I still have to outline one that's been in my head for about a year, and I haven't been able to get it out on paper the way I'd like. The idea is good, the title is probably my best title idea yet and a lot of people like the story idea and title; it's just the execution that's lacking at the moment, but I intend to remedy that).

I'm also trying to catch up on my reading, so that's been another thing. I grab anywhere between 2-10 pages here and there.

I've learned I'm both a "pantser" and a "plotter"--I have to have a decent idea of what I'm doing and where I'm going, but enough room in that plan to let whatever inspiration hits me carry me.

Also, a relative of mine is doing a really cool thing called Movember. You can read all about it on their website. But I'm extremely proud of my relative for doing this.

A little birdie--okay it was Will Graham emailed me--said he's got a new novel out called PRODROMOS (prequel to Spider's Dance) you can find it on Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble Nook.

I hope everyone had a safe and Happy Halloween. The Write By Bethany household celebrated with relatives and it went off pretty well. We're now gearing up for Thanksgiving and Christmas (although I started my Christmas shopping next month--yes, I start early. I come from a BIG family and you got to plan ahead LOL).

Did anyone dress up for Halloween? I didn't dress up. I know, total party pooper--but I did help out with a Halloween Carnival, so I wasn't completely a stick in the mud.

Have A Tantalizing Tuesday!

Head Off To Pitch University

2011-10-28T11:12:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday All,

Yep, you read that right, it's Friday! It's also almost the end of October--where did the time go?

Today I want to talk about pitching. Writers know that they have to be prepared to talk about our work--whether to friends and family, or to professionals. It can be nerve-wrecking. Especially if you don't know where to begin.

Diane with Pitch University is the answer to writers' nerves and uncertainity about their pitching and query letters. In fact, I got her to help me with my pitch for the Lone Star Conference and I'm glad I did!

She has a lot of articles/materials and information to prep authors to talk about their work to the agents and editors who will decide whether or not to request pages from them. She also has opportunities to video-pitch to real agents and editors who are guests on the website.

A whole team of "minions" work with Diane and the site is just amazing.

If you're preparing to pitch and/or send a query letter, I urge you to go check out Pitch University and say hi to my pal, Diane, while you're there :-)

Have A Fantastic Friday!

Mood Music

2011-10-25T10:54:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday Everyone,

As I type this I'm listening to The Cure's Friday I'm In Love. Before that (to wake up), I listened to Ramones' Rock N' Roll Radio (which is really good when you want to rock out, toss your hair around, and get dizzy from doing that LOL).

I think I've talked about this before...but there's something interesting about music. It can affect your mood. Sometimes a song can make you really happy (AH-HA's Take On Me) or it can make you sad (the hymn, How Great Thou Art or The Old Rugged Cross both played at my Grandfather's Memorial Service), or it can remind you of falling in love (Toby Keith's Rock You Baby--first dance at my wedding reception).

One of the novels I've written I listened to a lot of Chris De Burgh's music because it was very romantic (you can see it in the margin of this blog). It put me in the right mindset to create the "prince charming" for my heroine (he's not actually Prince Charming, and he's not actually a prince either, but he is like Prince Charming in a lot of ways).

Some songs give me flashbacks (Fastball's The Way)--they take me back to a time and place where I can make out the outline of what was going on when I heard a particular song.

I don't know what it is about music, but it elicits emotions much like a story will.

What songs affect you? (Can be positive or negative).

Have A Tune-full Tuesday!

Books, Events, And Fairy Tales

2011-10-24T00:49:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday All,

How many of you all caught ABC's Once Upon A Time on Sunday evening? I did! I love fairy tale stuff and I can already tell this is going to be a show for me. It's great to see the fairy tale people sort of in the "real" world. Wondering how every body is going to be rescued but it's still fun to see each character come across and introduced. The back and forth between fairy tale land and the real world is pretty seamless and I didn't mind it. Show comes on Sundays on ABC at 8 p.m. Eastern and 7 p.m. Central times.

I finished reading Awake At Dawn (book 2 in Shadow Falls series) by C.C. Hunter. VERY good. I'm still a Lucas fan, folks! He's got my vote. Kylie's learning more and developing her many talents--and I can't wait to see where this is gonna lead. Taken At Dusk will be out April 2012--looking forward to it!

I also finished reading Don't Let It Show by Tess St. John. Tess is my critique partner (awesome person and writer, by the way). I really enjoyed it. Sam's a great hero. I'm looking forward to seeing Jake in Eyes Of Jade. I got to read/critique the first 3 chapters of that one and I want to see what happens to him and the heroine. It was cutting out to be a really good novel.

Wonder About More Events on here? Oh folks, I've got a really cool thing in the works. We haven't ever done this on Write By Bethany (okay, not quite THIS way, though) and I'm excited. An author friend of mine and I are plotting something really fun for this blog. You'll just have to come back and keep checking up for what and when!

Plus I got some other things going on...so don't be a stranger!

What are you reading these days?

Have A Magical Monday!

The Winner Of Copy Of AWAKE AT DAWN...

2011-10-21T23:11:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday-Saturday,

I know I'm tardy posting for a Friday post, but I with C.C. Hunter about the winner for AWAKE AT DAWN (Thursday's give away prize) plus I had some other things going on during the day.

But now that I finally have a winner I can announce it...

The winner of a signed copy of Pam (Pamsta) and her favorite paranormal creature is lion shape shifters.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

Kylie From SHADOWFALLS Celebrates My Birthday

2011-10-19T23:05:00.003-05:00

Happy Thursday Everyone,

****THE CONTEST IS NOW OFFICIALLY CLOSED*****

The last of my belated birthday celebration give away is today. Because of my health and other things going on, I'm going to have to close this give away earlier than I did the previous one. I'm doing okay, just need to close the contest out earlier so that I can get to bed earlier.

The awesome C.C. Hunter has agreed to give away a signed copy of her YA Paranormal novel, book 2 in the Shadowfalls series, Awake At Dawn.

I haven't finished reading Awake At Dawn, yet (I received it as a birthday gift from one of my relatives and C.C. graciously signed it) but I'm enjoying it so far. A friend of mine has finished reading it and told me it's very good.

If you wish to own a signed copy of this new release (and read it, of course) please read the following rules and instructions carefully:

1. One winner will be chosen after the contest is closed out. The Contest will close at 10:00 p.m. Central Time on Thursday, October 20, 2011. I will not accept entries after that point.

2. Choose ONE way of entering this give away (I only take ONE entry per person):

By Blog Comment: If you choose to enter by leaving a comment here: Please include your FIRST NAME and EMAIL ADDRESS---please also include your favorite type of paranormal creature (anything from witches to vampires to shapeshifters to nymphs to warlocks to centaurs and everything in between). If you leave a comment here keep in mind that ALL comments are moderated by me before they are published in the comment section. This isn't to dictate who can say what, on the contrary, I have yet to find a comment I can't post (unless it's a duplicate), however, given the blog problems I've had in the past with people having trouble posting comments, I changed up things and so far it's proven to have helped.

Entering By Email: If you decide to enter by email, please email me your entry at this email address ONLY. Please include your FIRST NAME and what paranormal creature is your favorite (whether that's a vampire, witch, warlock, nymph, shapeshifter, centaur or anything in between--I just want to know what your favorite is).

As I said, I will be closing the contest/give away out at 10:00 p.m. Central Time today, Thursday, October 20, 2011.

Enjoy the give away!

Have A Tantalizing Thursday!

The Lone Star Experience

2011-10-18T23:48:00.001-05:00

Happy Wednesday All,

Tuesday's give away was a HUGE success! We had a ton of entries--I think probably over 60?

The winner of Kerrelyn Sparks' signed copy of Sexiest Vampire Alive is Debra G. (she emailed in her entry to me) and Debra's favorite vampire is Roman Dragnesti (whose story can be found in the first Love At Stake novel, How To Marry A Millionaire Vampire).

Thank you to everyone who entered. I noticed that Angus, Ian, Roman, and Robby were extremely popular. I saw a lot of Gregori and Phineas fans as well. Maybe I'll run a poll one day and find out which one wins.

As you all know, on my birthday (Oct. 15th--this past Saturday) I attended the Northwest Houston RWA's Lone Star Conference. Alexandra Sokoloff was the keynote speaker and from what I heard (I wasn't in the conference room the whole time) she was really good. She seemed really nice--I met her briefly at the Meet & Greet party the night before.

A big round of applause, kudos, thanks, hugs, toasting and the crowd cheering wildly goes to Jenn (President of NWHRWA) and Stacey (1st V.P. of NWHRWA). These two spearheaded the Conference and were incredible hostesses.

I know they had a lot of help and those people were incredible, too. Everyone involved worked hard to make the conference the success it was and the deserve so much credit and a standing ovation!

The great and awesome Christie Craig gave a wonderful lunch talk on being a writer and working hard. I admire this woman so much. She's such an inspiration to me. If you haven't read her books, please do. Her Romance novels are pure comic genius in my opinion. And, if you get to meet her in person, consider yourself blessed. She's a sweetheart.

I also got to hang out with chapter-mate and published author, Tea Trelawny. She is another sweetheart who is fun to hang out with. I sat next to her through part of the Conference. She's so encouraging and kind. I count myself lucky to know her.

We had three really nice agents and one really nice editor come to the conference. One of the agents, Taylor Martindale (of Full Circle Literary Agency) and I got to talk some at the Meet & Greet Party the night before and she's so much fun! She made me feel very much at ease during my pitch. I also had a nice conversation with Pam Hopkins of Hopkins Literary Associates and a good conversation with Natalie M. Lakosil from the Bradford Literary Agency. I didn't pitch to editor Kelli Collins of Ellora's Cave, but I've heard very good things about her and she seemed very nice, too.

I don't have a picture of Alexandra Sokoloff (keynote speaker) Here's a photo I took of the conference room (it's bigger than it looks):

Lone Star Conference with Alexandra Sokoloff

Like I said, the quality isn't so great, but that's basically how it was set up. We were in one of the ballrooms at a hotel--it was a big room (this picture doesn't do it justice) and the whole staff and everyone was extremely nice to us.

Maybe next year some of you other writers who weren't able to come this year will join us. It's truly a wonderful experience!

Hope you enjoyed this little taste of the Lone Star.

Have A Whimsical Wednesday!

Gregori Celebrates My Birthday

2011-10-18T00:15:00.004-05:00

Happy Tuesday All,

****CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED****

In honor of my birthday (that was on Oct. 15th) I am doing TWO give aways! The FIRST one is TODAY!

Today's give away is a copy of Kerrelyn Sparks' Sexiest Vampire Alive. Kerrelyn, being the awesome person that she is, has agreed to give a signed copy of the novel to ONE lucky commenter on my blog.

Here's how it's going to work and please read all instructions CAREFULLY. ONE entry PER person:

If you choose to email in your entry:

Email to this email ONLY. Your email should state who your favorite vampire is. And no, it does NOT have to be one of Kerrelyn Sparks' characters, but that would be really cool if you DID mention one of hers.

If you choose to enter by commenting on my blog:

Leave your FIRST name, email address, and what vampire is your favorite. It can be ANY vampire--but like I said, it would be really cool if you mention a Kerrelyn Sparks' vampire.

You don't know Kerrelyn Sparks' vampire? Well just go here to her book list and have a look-see. Or mention a vampire you particularly like.

Contest will close at 11:00 p.m. Central Time today (October 18th).

Questions or comments, please email me at this email address.

Thank you, Gregori & Kerrelyn for helping me celebrate my birthday!

EDIT (11:55 a.m.): Please note that ALL comments go through moderation from me before they are published. I'm receiving some double posts. Posts don't appear on my comment section UNTIL they are approved. Sorry for the confusion!

Have A Thrilling Tuesday!

Rockin' Good Conference And Birthday Celebration

2011-10-17T01:09:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday Everybody!

While I'm trying to use up the rest of the pictures on the camera I got for the Lone Star Conference (my husband took the digital camera to the outing he took offspring on so I don't have the photos, yet). I'll tell you a bit about the Conference, then I've got a special announcement that has to do with a blog give away and my birthday.

First of all, the Lone Star Conference was a blast. All the agents were very nice, and while I didn't talk to the editor much, she seemed like she was very nice, too.

Alexandra Sokoloff gave some great advice, and she was very nice, too. She seemed like a really approachable person.

I must give a lot of credit to the president and first vice president. They worked extremely hard figuring out who to have out and how to set it up. They were great at recruiting people to help them and those people did a fantastic job--so I give them all a round of applause.

AND...

I have an announcement:

Have A Merry Monday!

Welcome Back To ShadowFalls!

2011-10-11T12:06:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday Everyone,

I'm jazzed on java AND also jazzed by the fact that I remembered today is C.C. Hunter's release of book 2 in the ShadowFalls series, Awake At Dawn.

It's time to return to ShadowFalls and see what Kylie's up to, now. In Born At Midnight she learned not everything is what it seems, and that she doesn't know herself as well as she thought she did, but not for the ordinary reasons!

Now, it's time for her to learn more about her powers, deal with more ghosts, and the agonizing question nearly every teenage girl goes through--which guy to go for!

You never know what C.C.'s gonna throw at you next and I cannot wait to get my hands on this book!

So hurry over to Barnes & Noble or Amazon (Or you can get them on Barnes & Noble Nook and/or Amazon Kindle) before all the copies are snatched up!

Have A Thrilling Tuesday!

NEW RELEASES ALERT!!!

2011-10-10T01:18:00.002-05:00

Happy Monday Everybody,

PLEASE NOTE: In the margin of this blog I've supplied a post regarding the problems some people have been with trying to comment on this blog. I'm going to be implementing a new thing for posting comments on here to see if that cuts down on some of the problems. The post in the margin has information on what to do if, for some reason, Blogger won't let you comment.

Whew! There are new releases popping out all over the place...

Not too long ago, Rick Riordan put out book 2 in his Heroes Of Olympus series, Son Of Neptune (which I gotta pick up, soon!)

Apparently Vanish by Sophie Jordan (book 2 in her dragon series) has come out (yet another one I need to get my hands on--I loved Firelight). (It came out in September).

Tess St. John's second Romantic Suspense, Eyes Of Jade is now available on Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble Nook for your reading pleasure! (Interesting trivia for y'all: I critiqued the first 3 chapters of this one...and I fell in love with it! I've been begging to read more for awhile now and it's FINALLY out!) Be sure to visit her site, and see the cover for her upcoming release, Angel Eyes. Very cool!

*EDIT 10/10/2011 at 11:12 a.m. (Central Time): I forgot to mention that Tess St. John is offering on Kindle and Nook for a LIMITED TIME ONLY her previously released Romantic Suspense, Don't Let It Show for 99 cents! So don't miss out on this sale...she said it's a limited time only and I don't know how long that means.

Tomorrow C.C. Hunter releases her second Shadow Falls book, Awake At Dawn.

Folks, these are books that will take you on an adventure...they're certainly not to be missed!

On a side note, I've purchased a paperback copy of Syrie James' Nocturne. I just loved that book so much. I even was asked by Syrie to write a blog review of the book, which I did a few days ago and you can read here.

What books are you reading right now?

Have A Monumental Monday!

Having Trouble Commenting On This Blog?

2011-10-08T13:32:00.000-05:00

Blog Service Announcement from Write By Bethany:

I need to address this issue, because now it's affecting people who didn't have problems with posting comments before.

Here's the deal: I don't know precisely why it's happening on THIS blog...however, there FINALLY is a Q&A forum where people with similar issues have posted and gotten some answers.

I'm doing my best to do what I can on my end to help you, but I don't know everything.

One suggestion was to go to this blog and read up on what they say about "cookies".

There's 2 other things you can do:

1. Post anonymously and leave your first name in the body of the comment.

2. Email me at this email address and I will post your comments for you.

I'm very sorry this happens/keeps happening. I'm going to continue to try and get to the bottom of the issue.

Thank you for your patience and for following my blog!

If anyone has ANY suggestions, please send me an email.

Thank you for your time :-)

Snowbound With A Vampire

2011-10-05T01:01:00.007-05:00

Happy Wednesday All,

What a treat, two official blog reviews in one week! Syrie James especially asked me to review her book, Nocturne, on my blog. It's a beautiful novel and I'm delighted to tell you about it:

Michael Tyler didn't ask to be a vampire. In fact, it was the very last thing he ever wanted in his life. Tired of the bodies stacking up around him, he's shut himself off from the world--inside a huge house on a mountain in Colorado. He finds a way to exist, and limits contact with humans to telephone calls and the Internet.

That is...until Nicole blows through his part of the world.

Nicole's running from a past so painful she didn't even go back to the job she loved. Now she merely exists--thinking it's enough. Colorado struck her fancy for the skiing and meeting up with her college friends for a wedding. But it's time to get back to her cat and her responsibilities.

In an attempt to outrun a blizzard, Nicole suffers a car accident and gets knocked unconscious. When she comes to she finds herself being tended by Michael in his home. He keeps the fact he's a vampire secret and sidesteps her by being short-tempered.

At first it seems being stuck with Michael while the blizzard blows over is going to be a trial. Until Nicole uncovers his secrets.

Can two people really fall in love in less than a week? And, if they do give in and let themselves fall in love...will it last?

I loved this book! I'm still under it's spell and you can fall under the spell of Nocturne by picking it up at Barnes & Noble or Amazon...also available on Barnes& Noble Nook and Amazon Kindle. Go ahead! Colorado is waiting...and so are Michael and Nicole!

Have A Wonderful Wednesday!

Romance, Mystery, & Author Support

2011-10-04T01:55:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday Everyone,

I'm so excited! An author, whose story I recently read, has asked me to do a blog review of the book on my blog. So I promised the author I'd put it up this week.

If you haven't heard, Tea Trelawny has put out a new Erotic Romance that's available. We're talking motorcycle riding vampires...which I haven't heard of, before, but it's an intriguing idea. Start Your Engines is available on Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble Nook and also available on Smashwords.

Today is release day for Laura Childs' new Scrapbooking Mystery, which I did an official blog review on yesterday. Skeleton Letters is now available for your reading pleasure!

**I mentioned this yesterday, and I've Tweeted about it and put it up on my Facebook. There's a write-in campaign for author Christie Craig. Please check out Suzan Harden's and Melissa Ohnoutka's blogs for further information.**

So, what's going on in your life?

Have A Terrific Tuesday!

How Mysterious!

2011-10-02T23:42:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday Everybody,

Wow, it's been a long time since I've had an official blog review to do on a novel, but when I'm asked specifically by an author (or I beg them--Okay I ask very politely and they generously agree) I generally get an ARC (Advanced Readers' Copy) of their novel so that I can read it and review it before it comes out. And TA-DA! That happened, so you, my darling readers, get to hear about it before this even hits the sale shelves...

The newest addition to Laura Childs' Scrapbooking Mystery series is just about to hit stores and you better be ready for one wild ride. (And when doesn't Carmela and Ava NOT take you on a wild ride? After all, they do live and work in New Orleans, dahling!)

In Skeleton Letters we find Carmela and Ava witnesses of their friend, Byrle's death.

While taking care of some volunteer business of Ava's at St. Tristan's Church, Carmela and Ava have the horrifying experience of witnessing a murder. Unfortunately, they didn't exactly see how everything went down, and nor did they get a good look at the murderer. After all, what can you see when a person is swathed in a brown cloak?

A quick call to Carmela's boyfriend (and definite hero material) Dectective Babock sets Carmela smack into the middle of a murder investigation.

Worse still, Baby, Carmela's friend and regular customer at Carmela's scrapbooking shop, Memory Mine, begs Carmela to "look into things". Which, is expressly against Babcock's edict that Carmela keep herself out of the investigation, period the end.

Does she listen? Of course not! How can she when Baby specifically asked her and Byrle was her friend? So, with the help of another friend, and fellow witness, the very exuberant Ava, Carmela launches her own investigations...

Only to be nearly pushed off the road by a car following her...

and come across another dead body...

and stalked by some psycho leaving her a message in blood!

Who could be behind these heinous acts and why can't Carmela and the police pinpoint a good suspect?

The only way, you, my readers can find out and solve the case with Carmela and Ava is to run off and pick up a copy of Skeleton Letters available tomorrow (October 4, 2011) at Amazon and Barnes & Noble also available on Amazon Kindle and available on Barnes & Noble Nook.

P.S. Please look on my Twitter feed on how to support author Christie Craig--I'll have details through Twitter and my Facebook page. THANKS :-)

Have A Merry Monday!

It's Friday!

2011-09-30T11:46:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday Everyone,

Congratulations to Babz, who won yesterday's contest. I'll be getting Christie Craig's Don't Mess With Texas to you soon.

The NWHRWA is gearing up for the Lone Star Conference and so am I. There's still a little time to sign up!

Twitter and I have an interesting relationship. Half the time I get on there I have no idea what to say. So apparently, I don't have the hang of it, yet...but I knew that. However, I do post on there, so if you have Twitter find me.

Oh yes, and next week...I'm posting an official blog review! I finally finished the book and so now all I have to do is write the review. I have it scheduled for Monday. So be sure to check back Monday for the review.

I don't have a lot planned for this weekend, which is just fine. What do you all have planned for the weekend?

Have A Fabulous Friday!

Today Is The Day...

2011-09-29T09:58:00.001-05:00

Happy Thursday All,

***THE CONTEST IS NOW OFFICIALLY CLOSED!***

Today's the day to win a signed book! Yes, you read that right--today is the day you can win a SIGNED copy of Christie Craig's Don't Mess With Texas.

Here's what you need to do to get your hands on this adult Contemporary Novel... (be sure to read the ALL information coming up, because I'm going to have a particular comment you have to make to be entered to win this prize):

1. BEFORE 11 p.m. Central Time today comment on this blog INCLUDING your name and email address. If, for some reason, Blogger is misbehaving and won't let you post, or you don't want to make your email address public, you can email me at this address and let me know you want to have a chance to win this prize.

In your comment (or email) please tell me what you think is great about Texas. It can be one thing or more than one thing. It can be anything (but let's keep the comments at PG rating, please).

The give away is limited to U.S. Residents ONLY. One entry per person.

I have ONE copy and ONLY one copy to give away. So there's only one winner.

All right...you know what to do, so off we go...

Have A Terrific Thursday!

Have You Caught The New Releases?

2011-09-27T12:17:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday Everybody,

Well, I have discovered the importance of coffee in my life--although I knew it already, I was reminded again this morning...especially when I was trying to type in passwords on email and Twitter before I finished my first cup of coffee. Not smart.

Today is a release day! The Humorous Vampire Queen, Kerrelyn Sparks, and the Cool As Can Be, Will Graham, both have new books out today!

Kerrelyn Sparks has her brand new adult Vampire Romance, Love At Stake novel featuring my favorite character, Gregori out. You can find Sexiest Vampire Alive in paperback at Amazon or at Barnes & Noble or on Amazon Kindle, or if you don't have a Kindle on Barnes & Noble Nook.

Will Graham has his new adult Romantic Thriller novel, Spider's Dance is now available through Amazon Kindle and Barnes & Noble Nook. I've heard a lot about this novel and it looks like it'll be quite a ride!

Currently, I'm way behind on my reading because I've been prepping for the NWHRWA Lone Star Conference, but I hope to catch up sometime after the conference.

Are there any releases I've missed? I know I don't always catch them all (and that's not on purpose, either).

Have A Thrilling Tuesday!

What's Your POV?

2011-09-26T11:19:00.001-05:00

Happy Monday Everyone,

This past weekend the illustrious Christie Craig gave a special workshop to the Northwest Houston Romance Writers of America, which, I'm proud to say I'm a member of this awesome group. The workshop was called "High Tea & POV" although, I don't know how many people actually consumed tea (I had water), but we sure listened in rapt attention as Christie talked about getting into your character's heads.

In fact...that's precisely what POV is. POV--point of view. Which character is telling the story? Is it your heroine? Then you see, feel, hear, smell, taste, experience intuition and thoughts of that character.

These are things that I've talked about with my C.P. but I'm not always consciously aware of them while I'm writing. When I'm writing I'm imaging how the character reacts based on what I know about the character. I'm reacting and visualizing. When I go back and edit I'm looking at the dialogue and thoughts and saying to myself, "Now would so-and-so really say it that way? Is that really their character?"

Christie made POV accessible. I had no trouble understanding what she had to say. I don't know if it's because my CP and I have talked about POV or if because I subconsciously knew some of what she had to say (or both). Either way, she made POV something you could grasp and understand. She made it make sense.

By the way...tomorrow Kerrelyn Sparks' Sexiest Vampire Alive comes out! I've been waiting and waiting for this novel. I love Gregori--he's my favorite character out of her Love At Stake series.

Another thing to note about this week: I am going to be doing another giveaway! I have a SIGNED copy of Christie Craig's Don't Mess With Texas. I don't know which day I'm giving it away, yet, so don't be a stranger.

So, what about you? Is POV something you grasp or something you're still trying to understand?

Have A Marvelous Monday!

The Weekend Commeth And I Plan To Attend A Tea Party With Christie Craig...

2011-09-23T11:37:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday Folks,

Well my household is doing much better in terms of health, so I am ready to do a happy dance. I'm feeling quite a bit better, myself, so I'm really happy about that!

I'm learning Twitter...slowly, but kinda getting the hang of it. But don't worry I'm not quitting the blog posts. Like I said, just super busy until after the Lone Star Conference--which by the way, if you're a writer, you're invited!

I am waiting with baited breath, excitement and impatience for September 27th! That's when Kerrelyn Sparks' newest Love At Stake book, Sexiest Vampire Alive is released. This is Gregori's story. He's my favorite vamp (the Vamps are the nickname for good vampires--Malcontents are the bad guys--fitting, huh?)

This weekend I'm hanging out with my NWHRWA buddies. Christie Craig is doing a workshop for us and I can't wait to hear what she has to say. If you ever get a chance to hear her do a talk/workshop--GO! She is funny, informative, encouraging, realistic, but also, incredibly helpful and fun.

Robin Badillo's* Flesh Wounds is out. So, you can order that for your Kindle and Nook from her publisher. It looks really good! *Please note that Robin Badillo's website is for people 18 years old and older Thanks!

So, what are you reading these days? I'm working on a novel for an official blog review in October.

Have A Fantastic Friday!

Can I Possible Smash Any More News Into ONE Blog Post...

2011-09-21T22:57:00.001-05:00

Happy Thursday All,

Wow! I know I've been very silent lately. We've been battling infections--we thought they were allergies but turned into infections. I've been on an antibiotic for about 2-3 days now and offspring is going on an antibiotic and husband is trying to keep sore throat from needing to go to the doctor. Life is far from boring.

NEW THING-- I am on Twitter now. Yep, I finally decided to just go ahead. I'm still trying to find my way...but you can find me on there @WriteBethanyBethany --profile has a pretty purple background (very fantasy looking, kinda romantic, so I thought it worked. Don't have a background of my own to load up at this point). The Twitter Feed can be found in the right hand margin of my blog.

I'm prepping for the Lone Star Conference--yes it's right around the corner--October 15, 2011--but there is still time to sign up to go! Beadmore Designs and authors Tess St. John (Adult Romantic Suspense, Historical and Mystery), Téa Trelawny (Adult Erotic Romance) and Christie Craig (Adult Contemporary Romance), are teaming up with me to donate a prize basket for the Conference. You won't know details unless you come. Plus there's keynote speaker Alexandra Sokoloff, 3 agents and an editor coming! This is going to be a really fun conference. It's my third year going and I've had fun at the other two.

What's going on with you?

Have A Terrific Thursday!

Spotlight On Author: Cheri Jetton

2011-09-16T00:31:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday All,

Some people have mentioned they're having trouble posting comments on here. I apologize. I don't know why that happens, but I know it happens on some other blogs. You can always email me your comments and I will post them for you if you find you can't post them here.

Now...drum roll please...today's an author interview day. I'd like you all to meet my friend and chaptermate, Cheri Jetton. Cheri has published "Sweet" Romances and a Romantic Suspense. She's also worked as an editor. I've read one of her Sweet Romances and her Romantic Suspense.

Me: Earlier this year you put out a Romantic Suspense entitled Crimson Snow. Can you tell us a little bit about what inspired the story?

Cheri: I think the setting spawned this one, Bethany. I was born and raised in California and have spent all but a couple of years of my adult life here in Houston. Very little snow in either place, but in 2001 I went to visit my brother on Sugar Island, MI and ended up spending the winter. It was awsome! By mid-winter the snow was hip deep. He and his wife keep bird feeders outside the breakfast room windows. A show unto itself. The pristine expanses of snow were marked only by little bird feet, rabbit tracks, and fox tracks. The trees sparkled under heavy pillows of snow that weighed down the branches.

It was all new to me and I savored every snowflake. Then, like a good writer I began to think, "what if...".

Me: Crimson Snow isn't the only novel you've published. Can you tell us about your other work and how it differs from Crimson Snow?

Cheri: My other three books are traditional (read, sweet) romances published by Avalon Books. Although "Texas Dawn" has a bit of suspense to it when someone starts harrasing the heroine, they wouldn't be considered mysteries, or even suspenses. "Blue Plate Special" and "Jessie and the Ranger" have no mystery at all, just men and women looking for love.

Me: You've done some editing as well as writing, what do you look for as an editor? What do you think makes a great novel?

Cheri: My editing job requires evaluating the manuscript for continuity, balance, and pesky writing errors. I take out redundant and repeated words, every "that" I possibly can, and trim overly verbose paragraphs. In short, I try to make the story more attention grabbing and readable.

Me: For Fun: What sort of movies do you enjoy?

Cheri: Romantic comedies, hands down!

Me: What advice do you have for aspiring authors?

Cheri: Study and pay attention! Nothing drives me battier when I'm working with a private client than to point out a problem, and find the author repeating that mistake again and again. If you can't learn from your mistakes, you aren't going to make it!

Keep it simple. Don't try so hard to impress with big words, long sentences, and unnatural dialog. Anytime you have the chance, attend workshops and take notes.

Me: What do you think is harder: Writing or editing? WHY?

Cheri: At this stage of my life, writing is probably harder, because I can't give it the time I'd like. I work full time with the public and unfortunately, I'm a person who needs a couple of days to decompress before my muse can come out of hiding. By then, it's time to go back to work!

Editing has its own frustrations, to be sure, but I don't usually need to call on my creativity to edit.

Me: For fun: What's your favorite color?

Cheri: Blue

Me: How do you feel about the options authors have in publishing nowadays as opposed to 10-20 years ago?

Cheri: I think they're awesome! It will be interesting to see where the self-published ebook trend takes the industry. I want to make a major point here, though. ONLY PUT UP YOUR BEST WORK!

Find an impartial critic to read your book. Listen to what they say. Maybe even show it to another one. These should be seasoned writers, with good publishing credits. If you go out there with weak, flawed writing, not only will you fail to win a following you'll weaken the market for everyone else who isn't Nora Roberts or Debbie Macomber.

The same is true if you go through an epublisher. Read some of the books they've published. Are they the same quality of stories you see in Harlequin, and the other print houses? If not, look elsewhere.

Me: What's some of the best experiences you've had as an author?

Cheri: LOL! I think the most special moment was when my youngest daughter called to tell me "Texas Dawn" kept her up all night. That is one of a writer's greatest accolades, and to have it come from your own child (who takes you for granted, right?) was just so special.

Me: Who are some authors you admire and WHY?

Cheri: I have the complete collection of Laveryle Spencer's books. I can't tell you why, I just love her writing. "Spring Fancy" had real emotional punch.

Me: Anything else you'd like to add?

Cheri: Um, if the man in your life needs a new suit, come see me?

Cheri Jetton's Crimson Snow is available on Kindle and Nook. You can find her other titles through Avalon Books / Amazon

Have A Fabulous Friday!

Get Your Hands On "Flesh Wounds"

2011-09-15T00:41:00.000-05:00

Happy Thursday Everyone,

Tomorrow I plan to post the author interview for this month, but today I'd like to report on a new release by an author buddy of mine, Robin Badillo*
*(site is for viewers 18 years old and up, as noted on website).

Robin is releasing her newest adult romance novel, Flesh Wounds:

After five years away, Julia Benson has finally come home. Facing the painful memories awaiting her in the small Texas town is nothing compared the mess she’ll make when she gets there. Dealing with the ripple affect leaving caused the ones she loved is just as hard as dealing with being abandoned by a father who wasn’t everything she’d believed him to be.

Dylan Banks was the boy from across the street who’d loved Julia since they were twelve. She was the only girl for him and the only one he couldn’t have. Unable to repair that broken part of the girl he loved so much from afar, he now had a second chance to fill the void the only way he could… love her until she got it through her thick skull that not every man was like her father.

Can love really repair all that has gone wrong in Julia’s life or are some wounds just too deep to heal?

You can pick up your own copy of Flesh Wounds from Extasy Books on your E-reader.

Have A Thrilling Thursday!

A Moment Of Reflection & The Week's Plans Teaser

2011-09-12T10:59:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday All,

Yesterday brought back memories of how surreal 9/11 felt when it happened. At the time I was working as a clerk for an insurance adjusting firm. An insurance adjuster came by my cubicle and was announcing to everyone "Terrorists hit the Pentagon! There's talk they're headed for Houston!" Immediately this weird sense of "What do we do now? Are we in danger?" came over me. I remember watching the TV wondering how this could happen. It didn't seem real and it didn't seem possible.

It was strange and sad. We suffered a real blow, and reeled from it. But we've been resilient. The people of NYC banned together and helped each other in ways you don't always see happen in a big city. Ordinary people stepped up to the plate and said, "I'm here and I'll help you." Yes, police officers and firefighters are definite heroes. They answer the call of duty every day and I'm extremely grateful to them. But the one thing 9/11 showed us and what every disaster we've faced as a Nation is that when we are threatened, we get together and we work together and things improve. Not just the ones who have the jobs of firefighters and police officers, but also ordinary every day folks.

I hope, as a Nation, the USA will always remember that when we work together we accomplish great things.

This week I have a couple of fun things planned:

1. Robin Badillo has an e-book coming out on September 15, 2011 called Flesh Wounds--a contemporary adult romance. This story looks intriguing and Robin has sent me some information that I will post later in the week.

2. I'm all set for an author interview. The author sent back the answers the interview questions. I'll be posting that this week as well.

What's your plans for this week?

Have A Marvelous Monday!

In Honor Of The Day...

2011-09-11T02:31:00.000-05:00

In honor of the fallen real life heroes/heroines of 10 years ago...

Please take a moment of silence to remember and/or pray.

Checking In Before The Weekend...

2011-09-09T00:29:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday All,

I know...it's weird not having me post all week (except Monday & Tuesday) but, I'm still super-busy. Edits, plus family obligations, and having allergy issues has made it very hard for me to figure out posts for the blog, so I've had to put it on hold most days.

However, I'm doing okay. Had to go to the doctor about my allergy issues, but it's all right. Got an antibiotic if I end up needing it, and they switched which over-the-counter decongestion I was taking. I've got a meeting on Saturday and they said I should be absolutely fine to go to it. (This is a meeting I look forward to).

Because of the doc appointment, I had to move my dental work to another time, but that's no big deal. It's a short appointment and I'm not really worried about it.

I do plan to post an author interview this month, but I haven't picked the day, yet. There's still some details to be ironed out there.

Question for the day: Has anyone read Nocturne by Syrie James? I saw this book in a store I was at the other day and saved the information for when I have a moment to read it. I haven't read this author's work before and I'm intrigued by this novel.

Have A Fabulous Friday & Enjoy your weekend!

The Wind Blew And I Danced

2011-09-05T23:47:00.000-05:00

Happy Tuesday All,

Hope everyone enjoyed the long weekend. The weekend wasn't really a long one for me and the husband (he worked Monday and so did I, although, my work was different from his. While he went to his place of work, I was working from home on my edits).

The weather is a bit cooler--not much--but definitely felt the change. Saturday night I went grocery shopping with my husband and offspring. When we came out it was windy and raining (not hard). I danced in the rain (hey if you had been through this drought we Texans have experienced, you would, too).

I love cooler weather and I didn't mind the wind. It felt GREAT. (In case you haven't noticed, Fall and Winter are my favorite Seasons...I just love the cooler weather, and the Holidays--especially Christmas).

Recently I found out that Bath & Body Works has its Fall scents out. I fell in love with "Orchard Leaves" (it's a spicy fall scent that makes me want to make a hot cup of tea and snuggle up with a blanket). I also got "Sweet Cinnamon Pumpkin" and "Cinnamon Raisin Cookie". "Cinnamon Raisin Cookie" and "Orchard Leaves" are new.

Now we just need some more rain (okay I don't want anything destructive, just something to help us) and the cooler weather and I'll be a happy camper.

What's your favorite season?

Have A Tantalizing Tuesday!

Labor Day...

2011-09-05T11:26:00.000-05:00

Happy Labor Day, Everybody!

From,

Write By Bethany