Reflecting on Romance in the North and a Little Family Drama

Hi folks! Phew, I am just about recovered after attending Romance in the North at the Hilton Hotel in Leeds last weekend. It was a lovely day with a chilled vibe, and I’m going to tell  you all about it in today’s blog post.

After having only three hours’ sleep due to an incident outside our house the night before, my daughter and I made it to the event later than planned but we got there, we got set up, and we got stuck in. Read on to find out what happened.

A Drunk Driver Destroyed my Husband’s Car

I went to bed early the night before the event because I knew it would be a long day. Having got home late from a busy shift at my day job, I barely had time to eat my dinner and fall into bed before I was woken by a loud bang as a drunk driver crashed into my husband’s parked car on the street outside our house. He had left his car on the road so that he could park it in front of mine on our drive when I got home from work as he was up early for work himself on the Saturday morning (are you following me?). He fell asleep on the sofa, and I decided we should just leave his car where it was because it wasn’t worth moving for such a short time. We have left it on the road before with no problems. We learned a hard lesson that night!

Police Cars, a Transporter Lorry, Scared Children

The incident happened at around 11:20pm. Our younger daughter’s bedroom is at the front of the house, and she heard the impact when I did. It terrified her. Our older daughter thought it was a firework. I had to leave her to comfort her sister while I supported their dad as he dealt with the incident. Being neurodiverse, I knew this was really going to cause him stress. So, I had to be there to speak to the police and handle the situation. He coped well, actually, and his insurance company was amazing. He now has a hire car and an insurance payout so that we can go shopping for a replacement car at the weekend. I recommend Hastings Direct car insurance!

We Finally Made it to Leeds

 

After filing an insurance claim online and grabbing a couple of hours’ sleep, I was up extra early to take my husband to work before driving approximately seventy miles to Leeds. I was the last author to arrive, but my table neighbours all pitched in to help set up and calm us down after the chaos, and we were ready to greet our visitors. The hotel was lovely, and room was chic but with an intimate energy that felt nice. It all felt calm and serene, which I definitely needed at that point!

 

It was great to meet new readers and introduce them to the Redcliffe novels series and my vampire hunter novels. I had compliments from some visitors that were pleased to see a Gothic author in their home city. Others were happy to find a paranormal author to satisfy their thirst for dark romance. I had a nice chat with the authors at the event, I did a little shopping, and I had time alone with my younger daughter who had accompanied me. Unfortunately, we were too tired to explore Leeds city centre at lunchtime, but we agreed that a return visit with the family is on our to-do list. There is some fascinating architecture in the buildings we could see from the hotel, and I want to explore their history and see if it inspires my muse.

 

One thing I love about attending these events is the chance to discover new books for my collection, and Romance in the North did not disappoint. I had a lovely chat with my table neighbour Kelly Lord and her husband, and I bought a short story anthology that she had collaborated on. I like the look of all of her books, but I couldn't buy them all right then, as much as I would have loved to! So, I compromised and chose one to start me off. I’m enjoying the book so far and I will review it when it is finished. We also received a cute little “Peenie” squishy toy that Kelly makes as a hobby. These little toys are popping up (pun intended) at all the big book signing events to accompany the saucy books in which they feature and now I want to build a collection of those as well!

 

I Met my Author Friend

 

The highlight of my day was finally being able to meet my author friend Louise Murchie in real life. We have been friends on social media for several years, bonding over our children of similar ages, our experiences in parenthood and running a small business, and of course our books. I was delighted to get my hands on signed copies of her Tango Down books. I have read them on Kindle, and they were brilliant, and now I have the signed paperbacks to display on my bookshelves at home. They will be accompanying me to Spain on our upcoming family holiday!

 

Discover the Next Romance in the North Event

To discover the next book signing event, visit the Romance in the North Facebook page.

 

My latest release, “Bite of the Wolf (A Redcliffe Novel)” - Book 6 in my #RedcliffeNovels series is available now for your reading pleasure! This paranormal and urban fantasy tale is a must-read for fans of supernatural romance, packed with danger, intrigue, and wolves you won't want to miss. You can grab your copy from Waterstones or your favourite online bookstore.

 

 

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

 

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting Catherine Green!

Reflecting on PARA-CON 2024

I just got back from attending PARA-CON 2024.  Let me tell you about the event, the wonderful paraunity community that I met, and the spooky merch that I brought home.

Reflecting on PARA-CON 2024

 

Phew, what a busy day that was! I am so glad it was local to me, although I am excited to travel around the UK with upcoming author events. This one was in Northwich, just a fifteen-minute drive from home and a town where I do most of my weekend shopping with the family. The venue was cosy and traditional, and I’m told that PARA-CON 2025 will be bigger and better so that’s exciting. I have already confirmed attendance for the next event so keep checking my blog for updates.

 

Anyway, back to the weekend. PARA-CON was organised by BiB Paranormal who offer a comprehensive paraunity community platform for ghost hunters, historians, paranormal investigators and anyone interested in the paranormal world to meet and share stories. They brought together a fantastic line-up of speakers for the main stage including Richard Felix (I totally did not go all fangirl when I saw him in the same room as me!), The Occult Family, Paranormal Penny Pinchers, Jack O’Lantern (where it was my daughter’s turn to be the fangirl), and many more.

 

Meeting The Occult Family
 

My girls and I had a lovely chat with The Occult Family and were invited to look inside their haunted museum at the venue. It was a tent set up inside the main hall where they displayed a selection of haunted artifacts from their personal collection. I was fascinated with a prom dress on a mannequin and my daughters loved the haunted dolls. The energy inside that tent was intense and I couldn’t look at one of the dolls, reportedly the most haunted doll in the UK, because she gave me a very strange energetic sensation in the pit of my stomach, and I knew that she didn’t like me. I can’t explain it, but I could feel it. So, I left the tent and retreated to the safety of my book table.

 

Meeting the Paraunity Community

 

I was very happy to meet my fellow paraunity community members and share stories. We had a lovely mix of ghost hunters, UFO chasers, movie merch traders, historians, mediums and many more diverse people to speak with. And we met the ghostbusters who were raising money for charity. We had to hide Gary the Ghost on my table so he wasn’t hit by the proton packs!

 

I discovered groups where I can take my children ghost hunting, so we shall be busy next year once I book us onto some events. I was interviewed on video and live stream throughout the day so I’m excited to see what comes of those. You can already see me and my fellow PARA-CON attendees on the usual social media channels.

 

I’m a Happy Spooky Lady

 

This event was a great way to start the Halloween season and get me out of my daytime routine of work and parenting. It will be great to see reviews of my books from the fans that I met at the event, I am happily playing with the ghost equipment that we bought from Polter Gear, and I got my PARA-CON T-shirt that I will wear with pride in Benidorm at the end of October.

My next event is Romance in the North on 12^th October. See you there!

 

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

 

Join Me at PARA-CON 2024: A Celebration of All Things Paranormal in Northwich!

 Hello, my fellow paranormal enthusiasts! 👻

 

I’m thrilled to share some exciting news with you—PARA-CON 2024 is just around the corner, and I’m honoured to be part of this incredible event! As many of you know, I’m Catherine Green, also known as SpookyMrsGreen, and I can’t wait to meet you all in Northwich for the UK’s largest free paranormal event. This is going to be an unforgettable gathering for everyone who loves the supernatural as much as we do!

 

What is PARA-CON 2024?

 

PARA-CON is more than just an event; it’s a celebration of our shared passion for the paranormal. Whether you're a seasoned ghost hunter, a fan of dark romance and Gothic novels, or simply curious about the unexplained, PARA-CON has something for you. The event brings together a diverse group of paranormal investigators, industry professionals, authors, and vendors, all under one roof to share knowledge, swap stories, and explore the mysteries that captivate our imaginations.

 

My Role at PARA-CON 2024

 

I’ll be there as SpookyMrsGreen, your friendly neighbourhood paranormal author and ghost hunter. 📚👻 At my booth, you’ll find signed copies of my Redcliffe Novels series—where sexy vampires and shifters come alive in the eerie corners of Cornwall—as well as stories from my Ghost Hunter Diaries, where I document my own paranormal investigations.

 

Whether you’re interested in chatting about dark romance, swapping ghost stories, or just exploring the darker side of British seaside resorts, I’m here for it all. Let’s connect and delve into the world of the unknown together!

 

Missed Out on Tickets? No Problem!

 

I know tickets for PARA-CON 2024 have already been allocated, and if you didn’t manage to get one, don’t worry. The paraunity community is thriving, and you can still be part of the excitement. Join the official PARA-CON Facebook group to stay connected, meet like-minded people, and get updates on future events. This is just the beginning—there are more thrilling events planned for the future, and I’ll keep you posted on all the latest developments.

 

Why You Shouldn’t Miss PARA-CON 2024

 

PARA-CON isn’t just about attending an event; it’s about being part of a community that shares your passion for the paranormal. It’s a place where you can explore your interests, discover new ideas, and connect with others who understand the allure of the unknown. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the world of paranormal, PARA-CON is the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the mysteries that intrigue us all.

 

Stay Connected

 

I’ll be sharing more updates as we get closer to the event, so be sure to follow my blog and social media channels. And if you haven’t already, join the PARA-CON Facebook group to immerse yourself in the paraunity community.

 

I can’t wait to see you at PARA-CON 2024—let’s make this an event to remember! 🖤

 

Until then, keep it spooky!

 

Catherine Green 

Paranormal Author and Ghost Hunter

aka SpookyMrsGreen

 

Visit my website for more about my books, ghost hunting adventures, and upcoming events: SpookyMrsGreen.com  

Join the PARA-CON Facebook group here!

Embracing Polyamory: Love, Relationships, and the Evolving Social Landscape

In the ever-changing landscape of relationships and societal norms, love takes on various forms that challenge traditional conventions.

The Redcliffe Novels series by Catherine Green introduces us to Jessica Stone, a character who embarks on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance, ultimately finding herself in a polyamorous relationship with vampire Jack Mason, werewolf Danny Mason, and vampire Marcus Scott. 

Jessica's story highlights the complexities and challenges of polyamory while also reflecting the shifting social views of 21st century Britain and the wider world.
 

1.     Breaking Free from Conventional Relationships

 

Jessica Stone's journey begins as a regular heterosexual woman in Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel), where she encounters Jack Mason and is drawn into the supernatural world. As the series progresses, she develops deep connections with both Jack and his twin brother, Danny, and later with Marcus Scott. This unconventional love triangle challenges the idea of monogamy and introduces the concept of polyamory.

 

2.     Embracing Polyamory: The Struggles

 

Jessica's acceptance of a polyamorous relationship is not an easy one. She faces internal conflicts, societal judgments, and emotional struggles. The process of understanding and accepting polyamory requires introspection, communication, and a re-evaluation of traditional beliefs about love and relationships. Jessica's story demonstrates the difficulties of navigating multiple romantic connections while maintaining open and honest communication with all parties involved.

 

3.     Evolving Social Views

 

Polyamory, once considered taboo or fringe, is gradually gaining recognition and acceptance in the 21st century. As society becomes more diverse and inclusive, alternative relationship structures are being acknowledged and respected. The Redcliffe Novels series provides a fictional lens through which readers can explore the changing attitudes towards love and relationships in contemporary Britain and the wider world.

 

4.     Challenges and Rewards of Polyamory

 

Polyamorous relationships require a high level of emotional maturity, open communication, and trust among all participants. Jessica's journey showcases the challenges of managing multiple relationships, jealousy, and societal judgment. However, it also highlights the rewards of polyamory, including the potential for deeper emotional connections, personal growth, and a sense of belonging in a chosen family.

 

5.     Polyamory and Personal Freedom

 

Jessica's story ultimately celebrates personal freedom and choice in matters of love and relationships. It emphasizes the importance of self-discovery, authenticity, and finding happiness outside societal expectations. By exploring polyamory, Jessica breaks free from the confines of traditional relationship structures, highlighting the value of individual agency and the power of love in all its diverse forms.

 

Evolving social views in Britain

 

The Redcliffe Novels series by Catherine Green, through the character of Jessica Stone, offers a thought-provoking exploration of polyamory and its challenges. Jessica's journey reflects the evolving social views on relationships in 21st century Britain and the wider world. As society becomes more accepting and diverse, alternative relationship structures such as polyamory gain visibility and recognition. While polyamory may not be for everyone, understanding and respecting its existence contributes to a more inclusive and compassionate society. Ultimately, Jessica's story encourages us to question societal norms, embrace personal freedom, and celebrate love in all its beautiful and complex manifestations.

Download your FREE copy of It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

 

“AI, Write a Story about a Demon”

I recently discovered the power of AI and introduced my daughter to it. She asked it to write a story about a demon. Read the story and tell me your thoughts.

AI Story about a Demon

There once was a powerful demon named Azazel, who had roamed the earth for centuries. He had been summoned by humans throughout history to do their bidding, and he had grown tired of the constant cycle of servitude. Azazel longed for something more, something that would make him truly feel alive.

One day, he heard whispers of a powerful artifact that had been hidden away for centuries. The artifact was said to grant the one who possessed it immense power, and Azazel knew that he had to have it.

He searched for years, using his demonic powers to track down the artifact's location. Finally, he found it hidden deep within a mountain range, guarded by powerful magic.

Azazel knew that he could not take the artifact by force, so he hatched a plan. He would disguise himself as a human and infiltrate the nearby village. There, he would gain the trust of the villagers and learn more about the artifact's location.

It took months of careful planning, but Azazel eventually gained the trust of the village's elders. They revealed the artifact's location to him, and Azazel set out to retrieve it.

When he arrived at the mountain's entrance, Azazel was confronted by the guardians of the artifact. They were fierce warriors, armed with enchanted weapons and powerful spells.

But Azazel was a demon, and he was not easily defeated. He fought his way through the guardians, using his powers to vanquish them one by one.

Finally, he reached the artifact, and he felt its power coursing through his veins. He knew that he had become something more than just a demon. With the artifact's power, he was unstoppable.

For years, Azazel ruled over the earth with an iron fist. He was feared by all, and his power was unmatched. But as the centuries passed, Azazel began to feel the weight of his actions. He had become a monster, a creature of pure evil.

In the end, Azazel realized that he could not continue down this path. He knew that he had to give up the artifact and atone for his sins. With great effort, he returned the artifact to its resting place and vanished from the earth.

Azazel's story lived on, a cautionary tale of the dangers of power and the corrupting influence of evil. And even though he was gone, his legend lived on, a testament to the enduring power of the demon who had once ruled over the world.

What the author thinks of it

I was impressed that AI could create a decent story, but then I wasn’t surprised. It makes for a light read and if I had written this type of story, there would be more violence and probably some sex. Hey, I like to write it spicy! The AI program will come in useful for writing blurbs and social media posts anyway, leaving me more time to write the good stories.

Download your FREE copy of It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

 

Beltane Blessings and Happy May Day! 🌺🔥🌿

Beltane is an ancient Celtic festival that has been celebrated for thousands of years. It marks the beginning of summer and the season of growth and fertility. The festival is traditionally held on May 1st and is a time for honouring the beauty and power of nature, and for connecting with the energies of growth, abundance, and renewal.

Beltane has been celebrated in many different ways throughout history, but some of the most common practices include lighting bonfires, dancing, and performing rituals to bless the crops and livestock. The bonfires were seen as a symbol of the sun's power and were believed to have protective and purifying properties.

During Beltane, people would also participate in rituals to promote fertility and prosperity. This was a time for celebrating new beginnings, as the earth began to awaken from its winter slumber and new life began to sprout from the soil.

Today, Beltane is still celebrated by many people around the world, particularly those who follow pagan or Wiccan traditions. While the festival may have changed over time, its core values remain the same: a celebration of the cycles of life, the beauty of nature, and the power of growth and renewal.

To celebrate Beltane, people may choose to plant new seeds, take a nature walk, or perform rituals that honour the energies of the season. Some may also choose to hold a bonfire or participate in group dances or ceremonies.

Beltane is a reminder that we are all connected to the natural world and that our own growth and renewal is tied to the cycles of the earth. It is a time to honour the past, celebrate the present, and embrace the future with open hearts and minds.

In a world that often feels disconnected from nature, Beltane is a reminder of the power and beauty of the earth and our own place within it. As we move forward into the season of growth and abundance, let us remember the lessons of Beltane and embrace the energies of creativity, renewal, and transformation.

Download your FREE copy of It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here. 

The Vampire of Blackpool Tells Her Story

Are you planning a holiday to Blackpool this year? You had better watch out for the resident vampire and her companions. Here’s an excerpt from Vampire of Blackpool:

 

Excerpt

Leaping into the air, I struggled to ascend at first. My balance was unsteady, and my body felt like a lead weight. Gritting my teeth, I forced my mind to focus, and I managed a swift if unstable flight to the hospital. Fortunately, it was only a short distance away, but by the time I alighted behind a brick store shed in the grounds of my destination, I almost collapsed. I was starving. I was weak. I managed to walk slowly across the road and towards the double doors that led into the waiting room for the casualty department. There were ambulances and vehicles coming and going, but the pavement was strangely empty of people. All the busy life was contained within the building.

Staggering through the automatic doors, I gasped as a wave of sheer exhaustion poured over me. I was descending into bloodlust. I very nearly attacked the first person I set eyes on, but at the last moment managed to control myself. I was surrounded by beating hearts and succulent bodies. I needed blood. As I leaned against the wall, my breath rasping, my eyes wild with hunger and pain, I became aware of voices approaching as two nurses hurried to my aid.

“Here,” one woman shouted, “Let us help you.”

What happens next? Read the book to find out! Click here to get your copy and meet the vampires that lurk in my part of the world.

Download your FREE copy of It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here.