Monday 21 January 2013

The Very Inspiring Blogger Award


Hooray! Ciaran Dwynvil has nominated me for The Very Inspiring Blogger Award. Thank you! 

Ciaran writes gay and erotic paranormal romance, and I thoroughly enjoy reading his weekly snippets and excerpts every Wednesday on the Hump Day Hook blog hop. 

 The Rules:
  1. Display the award logo on your blog.
  2. Link back to the person who nominated you.
  3. State 7 things about yourself.
  4. Nominate 15 bloggers for this award and link to them.
  5. Notify those bloggers of the nomination and the award’s requirements.
7 Things About Me:

1.      My third novel, Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel) will be released very soon
2.      I am a natural redhead, and proud of it!
3.      I am married with one toddler, one Staffydoodle dog, and 2 turtles
4.      My hobbies include card making and crafting bead jewellery
5.      I sometimes hunt ghosts
6.      Occasionally I aspire to be like a Stepford wife (though very rarely!)
7.      One day I will own a small holiday cottage on the Cornish coast, from which to pen my masterpieces

15 Other Inspiring Blogs

So, let’s see where I like to stop and read… Check these bloggers too; you may well find something you enjoy...

 














Saturday 19 January 2013

Need a Crazy Writing Challenge?

I know many fellow writers who eagerly participate in the annual novelling challenge that is NaNoWriMo. In fact, I found myself feeling a little wistful the other day when I realised how far away our next challenge is. I seem to write so much more productively when I have a fixed target date and a schedule in mind. Now, I know I could quite easily set myself plenty of targets to get my work done. In fact, my current plan is to write a minimum of 1000 words per day, whether that be in the form of a novel manuscript or short stories. But it is a slow progress at the moment.

Just the other day I received a newsletter from a website called Authonomy. I admit I do not spend a lot of time over there, but I am subscribed to their email list. On the the newsletter I received, something caught my eye. A group of writers have set up a new challenge. They want to write a full novel (or more likely a novella) in just 30 hours during 26th and 27th January. They are calling it National Novel Writing Weekend (or NaNoWriWee), and it is open to the public with prizes available. For more details, here is the link.

I did seriously consider entering this challenge. My husband just happens to be off work for a week because it is our daughter's birthday and mine, and we had planned to do some family activities together. But I couldn't recall any specific plans for next weekend. When I queried it with my husband, he informed me that I had already agreed he could attend a football game next Saturday, since he no longer has a season ticket due to his work schedule, and he hasn't been to a game in several months. I couldn't really change my mind now.

That wouldn't normally be a problem, except that we have a toddler (who will be 2 tomorrow!). I almost gave up on the idea of joining NaNoWriWee but it is still there, whispering in the back of my mind. Perhaps I could arrange for the grandparents to step in and babysit... Hmm, that's not a bad idea...

Wednesday 16 January 2013

Hump Day Hook #HDH - Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel)

Today I give you an excerpt from my upcoming novel and the third in the Redcliffe series, Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). This book concludes a trilogy that began with Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel), and continued in Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel). Check out my fellow Hump Day Hook authors in our Facebook group, or on Kerrianne Coombes' blog.

This excerpt is the beginning of a conversation with our heroine Jessica Stone and her human best friend and business partner Elizabeth Gormond. I thought today we could take a break from werewolves and vampires, and see a little human perspective for a change... (don't worry, I have more vampire action lined up for next week!)



     Liz stared at me for a few moments. 
     “I know that Jack is a vampire, and that Danny, Simon and Sally are werewolves,” she said slowly, “I know what really happened to you, and I know that the two women who came to our shop were also werewolves.  Rob told me that much.  Can you tell me exactly what has been happening while I had a baby?”
      I smiled at her, and my heart lifted a little.  Liz was still able to offer sarcasm, even in such a small amount.  We would survive this test.  She returned my smile and some of the light returned to her eyes.  I realised that she was genuinely interested to hear my story, and she wanted to be a part of it.  Her responsibility now was to protect her daughter, her husband, and even her best friend if she could.  The least I could do was prepare her properly, although I didn’t know what I was expecting.



Don't forget that Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) is currently free to view on Wattpad as a limited special offer. Check it out now and tell me what you think!

Monday 14 January 2013

7 Lines from the 7th Page

I was recently tagged on Facebook by author Ciaran Dwynvil to play the 7 lines game.

Go to either page 7 or 77 of your manuscript. Count down 7 lines, then copy the next 7 lines to your status. After that, name 7 more authors to come out and play. I tag Alex Laybourne; Rebecka Vigus; Gracie C. McKeever; T Michael McCormack; Francesca Elizabeth MillerKelly DeWitt; and Clayton Bye

Here are my 7 lines, taken from my third and upcoming novel Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel):

    I blinked and shook my head, trying to rid myself of the horror of that dream.
    “You attacked Liz,” I whispered, “You and Danny.  I couldn’t stop it.”
    Jack sat back, unsure how to react.
    “I would never attack Elizabeth,” he said quietly, “She poses no threat to me or my brother.”
    I swallowed, realizing that my throat was dry from the screaming.  My body was shivering, still in panic mode from the memory of my imagination.  I coughed to clear my throat.
    “I know,” I said uncertainly, “Sorry.”






Wednesday 9 January 2013

Hump Day Hook #HDH - Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel)

Good morning and welcome to this week's Hump Day Hook. Today I am sharing an excerpt from my third Redcliffe novel Love Redeems. The book is due for release very soon, and I am excited to report that this installment proves to be the most action-packed and passionate offering yet! Here is the excerpt, but be warned, it is not for those of a delicate disposition...



“Jessica,” Danny gasped again, his voice struggling to sound human, “Jessica, please, let me go.  You do not want to do this.”
            I laughed, lowering my face to his.  He smelled of woodland, fresh foliage, running water, and something clean and fresh and alive.  I inhaled deeply, closing my eyes as I savoured the sensation.  While I did this I held tight to his arms, feeling the strain of hard muscle beneath my fingers, which triggered a tightening in my body.  Opening my eyes, I found Danny staring helplessly at me.  His struggle faded as he fell into the hypnotic emerald depths of my gaze.  His wolf eyes glowed at me, and he scented my skin as I moved in for a kiss.
            “You smell of tiger,” he growled softly, “I have never experienced this before.”
            “Enjoy it while you can,” I growled in response, and then I touched my lips to his, softly at first and then harder, passionate, forcing my power into and through his body. 
            I writhed on top of him, my nails gouging the skin of his arms, my power flowing straight into the alpha and calling out to his pack.  Behind me I heard Simon cry out.
            “No!” he shouted, “Jessica, stop this, now!”

What do you make of that? Exciting stuff! If you would like to see the offerings of my fellow group members, please see our Facebook Hump Day Hook group, or check out the blog by Kerrianne Coombes for a full list of participants. I will update you when I have a fixed release date for Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel), but in the meantime see my author website for books 1 and 2 in the series; Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) and Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel).

Tuesday 8 January 2013

2013 Writing Plans for Redcliffe and Beyond

I have begun 2013 on a bit of a mission. In 2012 I got a little distracted by other activities, but I still managed to publish my second novel and write a separate one for NaNoWriMo. I also wrote a couple of short stories, but they took a while. In retrospect, I did not put in the effort I would have liked with my writing, and so this year I intend to reconcile that issue.

A big challenge for an Indie author is that of self promotion and book marketing. I have learned a lot about the industry during my almost two years on the job, so to speak. There is still a lot more for me to learn, and I have several books and training manuals still to consult on the topic of SEO, marketing and treating the job like a small business. All in all, I rather like being an entrepreneur, or rather, a mumpreneur!

Anyway, one of my targets for 2013 is to submit more short stories for publication in anthologies. These are a good way to spread the word about writing talents, to share ideas for prospective new novels, and continue to build on the growing audience for a series we might be writing. In my case I have written two short stories that feature characters and locations from my Redcliffe novels. One is a vampire story, and the other one features the werewolves.

I was pleasantly surprised today to discover that I already have three short stories that are edited and presentable for submission. Now I need to find the right publishers. Shouldn't be too hard! I also have a novella seeking publication, I have a novel waiting to be edited, and I am writing another separate novel about a vampire hunter who discovers something interesting about her past lives (even I am not sure what that is just yet!)

When I have completed all of that, or rather, while I am still completing all of that, I have to write the fourth Redcliffe novel. This will be a little difficult since I changed the ending to Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel) - book 3, and so my original notes for book 4 are totally useless! Hey-ho, it's all part of the fun. Now if only my beloved Muse would wake up, step forward, and give me some inspiration it will all come together...

Sunday 6 January 2013

Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) - *FREE Special Offer*

I am pleased to announce the imminent release of my third Redcliffe novel, Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). This book promises to be the most explosive part of the adventure so far, with more revelations for bookshop owner Jessica Stone as she navigates the new world of supernatural creatures, vengeful vampires, and alpha werewolves.


To celebrate the new book, and as a thank you to my fellow readers and authors for your continued support, I have posted up my first novel, Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) free on Wattpad. Follow bookshop owner Jessica Stone as she unwittingly falls in love with a vampire police detective and his identical twin werewolf brother. Their lives are dangerous but Jessica cannot leave once she admits her feelings and discovers her own hidden truths.Check it out here


If you enjoy that one, you can sample the second novel, Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel), and I will be back very soon to share the release date for Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). Any reviews are welcome and appreciated, as is your interaction either here, over on Wattpad, or via Twitter or Facebook.

Have a lovely day!

Wednesday 2 January 2013

Hump Day Hook - Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel)

Good morning and Happy New Year everyone! Welcome to a glorious 2013, where our days will be filled with literary joy and there are many new and exciting books to be discovered, written and read. Today I am sharing an excerpt from my newest, and as yet unpublished Redcliffe novel, Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). This is the third book in my series, and concludes the trilogy which introduces us to bookshop owner Jessica Stone, her best friend Elizabeth Gormond, her lover Jack Mason and his identical twin brother Danny. This excerpt is from Chapter 1, and as you can see, the book gets straight to the action with no messing!


              I darted round the houses and shops that formed the end of the terrace in which I lived and worked, scraping my arm on the rough brick but not feeling any pain from the impact.  I had to save Liz.  Entering the street behind my house, I saw my red Ford Fiesta parked in its usual space outside my garden gate, and a huge black 4x4 BMW that belonged to either Jack or Danny Mason, I couldn’t tell which without looking carefully at the number plate.  Why were they at my house alone?  They should be at work or at their house.  The panic increased and I imagined any number of horrors as I flung through the battered old wrought iron garden gate, along the narrow flagged pathway, and through my open back door. 

            “Liz!” I shouted, my gaze darting round my kitchen searching for her. 

            “Jessica,” Liz shouted back, “Help!”
            I stopped short when a huge wolf blocked my path.  His brindle fur, highlighted with streaks of gold, gleamed healthily in the residual orange glow from the streetlights outside.  His amber eyes glowed with power and he growled ominously, his hackles raised, warning me to stay away.  I stared past him and my heart sank.  Liz was struggling in the arms of my lover, Detective Jack Mason.  His short dark hair fell in waves at either side of his face, and his beautiful deep blue eyes were now glowing silver.  He hissed at me, his fangs gleaming, and then he struck at Liz’s neck, biting her as she screamed. 

            “Jack, no!” I screamed, running forward as the wolf that was Danny Mason leaped at me in attack.


Did that grab your attention? Want to know more? Then check out my first 2 novels Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) and Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel), widely available in paperback and eBook format now. They will tell you where the whole story began, and you will soon be able to read Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel) as I plan to have it published in 2013.
 
To discover more fabulous new authors covering all kinds of romance, action and suspense genre, see our Facebook group for Hump Day Hook, or find the full list of participants here. Have a wonderful day!


Saturday 29 December 2012

Review: Bounty Hunter - Kate Lynd

Here is a review for the sci-fi novel Bounty Hunter by Kate Lynd:

Tough, gruff and passionate!

It has been a while since I read sci-fi, and so I was pleasantly surprised when I enjoyed this story. There is no messing in this narrative. We are thrown straight into the depths of adventure, meeting both the heroes and villains almost immediately. I liked the fast pace of this novel, and the story is well described. You really feel the passion with the characters, and I feel a personal connection to Logan Mitchell, in that I really wanted to offer him some comfort! That said, I think this book could have benefited from some fleshing out towards the end. It felt a bit rushed, as though the author was desperate to give us the conclusion and forgot that the reader might not be so familiar with the futuristic setting and character traits. All in all, I recommend this novel to anybody who enjoys a bit of rough and ready romance. It is very adult, and it is mostly a believable plot.  




Thursday 27 December 2012

Hump Day Hook for Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel)

It is time for another Hump Day Hook snippet from my second novel Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel). I trust you have all had a wonderful Christmas holiday and are preparing for an exciting New Year celebration. There will be more from Redcliffe in 2013, starting with the release of my third book, Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel). Stay tuned, and in the meantime, here is something to whet your appetite.


*WARNING* - VIOLENT IMAGERY - NOT FOR THE FAINT HEARTED!

Kimberley started to move and then suddenly her hand was at my throat.  She pushed me hard against the wall and I panicked, struggling to breathe.  Before she could speak Danny grabbed her, yanked her back, and threw her across the room so that she skidded and crashed into the wooden chairs.  I sank to the floor, hands to my throat, catching my breath, coughing and spluttering violently as my body reacted in fear.  Danny was crouched above Kimberley, growling and snarling but still in human form.  He punched her and the sound echoed through the room.  She cried out and I heard her whimper and beg him for forgiveness.  His voice was clear and terrifying.
“You ask my forgiveness?” he roared, slapping her face, “You should ask for Jessica’s!  She is my friend, and I welcome her here into our lair with a promise of protection.  You will protect her as our own, Kimberley, or you will be cast out.  What do you choose?”


Don't forget to check out our Facebook group for more exciting novel snippets and lots of fabulous authors. Happy reading! 



Saturday 22 December 2012

Supernatural Adventures in Cornwall - the Redcliffe Novels

Since we are fast approaching an especially busy week for eBook sales and people eagerly searching for new authors and series' to get their teeth into, I am taking this opportunity to promote the Redcliffe novels. Allow me to elaborate...




Set in Cornwall, England, the Redcliffe novels follow the adventures of bookshop owner Jessica Stone as she unwittingly falls in love with a vampire, becomes entangled with his identical twin brother's werewolf pack, and then discovers she is a witch. 


 Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) is about a young woman who runs a bookshop in Cornwall with her best friend. She falls in love with a local police detective and later discovers that he is a vampire, and that his identical twin brother is a werewolf. She is dragged into their complicated and dangerous lives, to her detriment, where secrets are told and lives are lost...


In the recently released sequel Love Kills (A RedcliffeNovel), Jessica Stone recovers from an horrific werewolf attack and comes to terms with revelations that her lover, Jack Mason, is a vampire, his brother, Danny, the werewolf pack leader, and her best friend, Simon, is a werewolf.  Add to that her discovery that she is a witch, and life is suddenly a whole lot harder than it used to be. Jessica has to fight for her own life and Jack’s when faced with his jealous vampire master who wants her old lover back. But things are never easy, and a vampire master is not so easy to defeat…

My books are available in both eBook and paperback formats, with a third novel due out in 2013. You can find links for all formats on my website, on Smashwords, Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Waterstones. I hope you enjoy reading them just as much as I enjoy creating the magic and mayhem! 

Wednesday 19 December 2012

Hump Day Hook - Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel)

Here is another sample from my second Redcliffe novel, Love Kills, for this week's Hump Day Hook:


           Here I was reluctant to speak.  It was one thing to accept the reality of werewolves and vampires when they were physically attacking me.  But to accept that the spirit of my dead mother, who just happened to be a witch, was actually holding conversations in my mind was something I struggled with.  Jack saw the confusion in my expression, and suddenly he was there in front of me.  I hadn’t seen him move, and my heart lurched into my throat.  He very gently put his arms around me, and gathered me against his body in a tight hug. 

            “She is real, Jessica,” he said quietly, “I feel her energy around you.  She has spoken in my dreams also, to warn me about protecting you.”
            I drew away from him in surprise, and looked up into his face.

            “You have spoken to her?” I asked incredulously, “When?”

            Jack stared at me with those brilliant blue eyes, and I almost lost myself in the depths of blue flame.  I struggled with the urge to throw myself into his arms again.  My lips twitched with the need to kiss him, and the force of my love was terrifying.  I stood straight and stiff, willing myself to be strong.  Jack spoke quietly, holding my gaze. 




If you like what you see, check out my author website for a free short werewolf story and links to my books for sale. See our Facebook group Hump Day Hook for more exciting novel excerpts and fantastic authors! You can also see a list of participants here.


Merry Christmas!  
   

Thursday 13 December 2012

Gifts Aren’t Only from Santa! – Indie eBook Event


Allow me to present a special Christmas event hosted by my fellow Indie author, Angela Orlowski-Peart and her friends: 


The Gifts Aren't Only From Santa crew are gearing up for two days of FREE and discounted for charity!

That's right. December 14th and December 15th, treat yourself to a buffet of ebook joy by visiting Amazon and downloading FREE ebooks or heavily discounted ebooks where 100% of the proceeds go towards charity. How cool is that to be a giver and a receiver all at one time?!?!

On top of that, there's a fun Facebook event scheduled for December 14th with cool games and prizes to win. Go here for details.

Want to get a heads up on the great novels coming up for FREE or discounted? Go here  to peruse the titles. Just make sure you don't drool on the keyboard. You'll need it for the December 14th Facebook fun.

"What if I don't have a kindle?" you ask. Well, that isn't a problem. Got a smartphone (android, blackberry, iPhone), computer (Mac or Windows-based), or a tablet (iPad or android tablet), then you can download a FREE kindle app and take advantage of these great titles being made available to you.

Don't forget to enter to win some great prizes in the rafflecopter as well. Yeah, we're just loving the giving spirit! Make sure to share this with everyone so no one misses out on the fun, prizes and free ebooks galore!

Wednesday 12 December 2012

Hump Day Hook - Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel)

Today I participate in the Hump Day Hook for the first time. Here is a paragraph from my second novel Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel) which is widely available now, and you can have your copy for Christmas if you wish! Here is the excerpt for your reading pleasure:


I stepped closer to Danny again, and my tiger advanced upon him.  Although I couldn’t physically see her, I felt that she was around me like a cloak.  Her warm, exotic energy wrapped around my body and attached itself to me, so that to Danny and Jack, she was clear to see.  Something instinctive told me that only the supernatural creatures would see my tiger.  Humans were not evolved enough to trust in their senses.  They would ignore the tingles down their spine, or that feeling of discomfort.  They would dismiss it as a cold chill, or a draught.  In truth it was energy, pure and brilliant.  And this energy needed an outlet.

Do I have your attention? Good! Now pop over to my website for your free short werewolf story set in Redcliffe, Cornwall, and order your copy of Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel) today.

If you would like to see more Hump Day Hook blog posts, check out the Facebook page, or see the blog of Kerrianne Coombes for a list of participants. Happy Hump Day!

Saturday 8 December 2012

Review: Forged by Greed – Angela Orlowski-Peart


Here is my review of Forged By Greed - Book 1 - by Angela Orlowski-Peart:

A love story of magical proportions!


 I really enjoyed this book, although I would say it picks up more towards the end. In the beginning I struggled to get involved with the characters, but that may be due to its Young Adult setting and glamorous location (at least for someone from the North of England!). My favourite characters were Jatred and Crystal. I am definitely a Winter kid at heart! Anyway, if you want a supernatural story that’s a little bit different, I recommend you try this one out. There are shape shifters, Goddesses, and ancient magic and folklore that really get the imagination racing! It was generally well written and you can feel the love from the author on every page.

Farewell Twilight - Hello Redcliffe!


It is over! It is finally over! The amazing saga that is Twilight has aired its final movie, and the world of vampire and werewolf lovers will be in mourning. Well, those of us who enjoyed the books and films! I have to admit; I did not read the novels. I tried to read the first one, but I found it boring and gave up. Perhaps I should give it another go.

I really did enjoy the films. I especially enjoyed Breaking Dawn Part 2, because I could feel and see the love that was poured into this project by its creators. It wasn’t simply about the money. That is an easy target for people who are jealous of Stephanie Meyer’s immense success. I admire her. She wrote a story from the heart, she managed to get it seen by the right people in the industry, and now her creation will live on forever.


After all, that is what we all strive for as authors, don’t we? I know I do. Which is why I am now introducing, for those who have not yet discovered them, my Redcliffe novels. I draw a parallel with the Twilight saga in that my books tell the story of a witch who falls in love with a vampire and a werewolf. The Redcliffe novels are strictly adult, however, and not for the faint hearted. The first in the series is Love Hurts (ARedcliffe Novel), the sequel is Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel) and the third book Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel) is estimated for release in 2013. 


Set in Cornwall, England, the Redcliffe novels follow the adventures of bookshop owner Jessica Stone as she unwittingly falls in love with a vampire, becomes entangled with his identical twin brother's werewolf pack, and then discovers she is a witch.

In the newly released sequel Love Kills (A RedcliffeNovel) Jessica Stone recovers from an horrific werewolf attack and comes to terms with revelations that her lover, Jack Mason, is a vampire, his brother, Danny, the werewolf pack leader, and her best friend, Simon, is a werewolf.  Add to that her discovery that she is a witch, and life is suddenly a whole lot harder than it used to be. Jessica has to fight for her own life and Jack’s when faced with his jealous vampire master who wants her old lover back. But things are never easy, and a vampire master is not so easy to defeat…


Friday 30 November 2012

I’m a #NaNoWriMo Winner 2012, Hooray!


I did it! I won NaNoWriMo 2012 and I feel epic (to quote a rather annoying British television commercial!) My final word count came in at a very healthy 50,055, which means that by the time I finish editing the manuscript, I will have a decent sized novel to pitch. Wonderful! I am also totally in love with the story, which is always a bonus.



The month has been a long one, and it isn’t even over. NaNoWriMo 2012 was definitely harder than NaNoWriMo 2011. Perhaps this was because in 2011 I was writing the sequel to my debut novel and it was all clearly mapped out in my mind. Perhaps it was the fact that I then had a child under the age of 1, who was easily satisfied with a nap and some sensory toys. Whatever, this year was a tough one.

But I did it, and in just 25 days! I know there are many hundreds (and probably thousands) of other NaNoWriMo winners around the world, some who finished ahead of me, and to those I say hearty congratulations. To my fellow Wrimos who are still slogging at the final hurdles, do not give up. You will do this, and we will meet at the finish line! 

Meet the Vampire Book Realm Authors at Coffee Time Romance


I have already posted about this a few weeks’ ago, but remember our date for Friday 30th November (oh, that would be today, now in fact!) I will be live in the Latte Lounge at Coffee Time Romance, along with my fellow authors from the Vampire Book Realm.

This is an all-day event, so drop by anytime and say hello! We are running cool competitions, discussing all aspects of our books, and I will even post excerpts from my newest vampire tale, The Vampire of Blackpool (fresh from the NaNoWriMo press!)

So remember, pop in to our forum any time today at Coffee Time Romance. If you love vampires, you will love the Vampire Book Realm… 

Friday 23 November 2012

#NaNoWriMo – It’s in the Bag!


Well, this year’s NaNoWriMo challenge has proved especially tough, and it is only my second attempt at the contest! It was easier to write last year partly because I was writing the sequel to my debut novel and the story was already planned, and partly because my daughter was under 1 and therefore easier to entertain.

This month, in NaNoWriMo 2012, my novel has literally been a surprise to me. My title is The Vampire of Blackpool. It probably won’t stick, but it was all I could come up with in time for the challenge. My story has literally developed every time I sit down to write. I have no prior understanding of my characters or the plot. All I knew in the beginning was that I had a female vampire living in solitude on the outskirts of Blackpool. She was a traditional vampire, feeding and killing humans with no sense of remorse. It was supposed to be a horror story.

It hasn’t quite turned out that way, but I am still happy with the developments. My vampire, Meredith Hanson, has been on a killing spree. A vampire hunter is also chasing her and they have so far battled to near-death and then engaged in conversation, albeit brief. She feels something for him, but she is confused. Meredith has also become intimately acquainted with a young nurse who just happens to be a witch, and this sub-plot has taken me by surprise during the last couple of days.

The icing on the cake for NaNoWriMo 2012 has been the arrival in my story of a familiar face from the Redcliffe novels. Detective Jack Mason has arrived on the scene! He has travelled up from Cornwall to Lancashire, and it seems that he and Meredith have a history. We might learn a little about it soon enough, but I am not sure. I will give Meredith free reign to tell her story. My muse has suddenly woken up and seems very eager to share. Wonderful!

So, as it stands, I am now at 38,493 words. I have to write another 11,507 words in just 8 days. The estimate is to write 1,439 words per day, according to my stats on the NaNoWriMo website. This means I will finish my novel on 29th November. Perfect! And, a little early but I’m feeling generous, Merry Christmas!

Mind, Body and Spirit Event – Alderley Edge, Cheshire


Join me on Sunday 2nd December 2012 from 10:00am – 5:00pm for a Mind, Body and Spirit Event at Festival Hall, Talbot Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7HR.
  
“Experience The Magic of The Angel and Fairy Grotto”

“You can experience the Magic of The Angel and Fairy Grotto where the Fairy Godmother will be with her Angels and Fairies from the Sanctuary.  If you would like to leave a message in the Post Box for Fairyland, then the Fairy Godmother will make sure it gets there.  The cost is just a Stamped Addressed Envelope.”


 At this event I will do Tarot and Oracle card readings offering spiritual guidance and a new perspective on the trials of everyday life. If you have a question that needs an answer, I will help you understand a little more. If you feel a little lost or unsure about your current situation, the cards may guide us towards a positive and fulfilling resolution. I draw upon my experience as a witch and a shaman in training when I do my readings, which means you may not always receive the answers you expect. I am always genuine, and I believe that we must all learn to take responsibility for our own lives, however that may be.

I will also sell signed copies of my adult paranormal romance series the Redcliffe Novels. Set in Cornwall, England, the Redcliffe novels follow the adventures of bookshop owner Jessica Stone as she unwittingly falls in love with a vampire, becomes entangled with his identical twin brother's werewolf pack, and then discovers she is a witch.

In the newly released sequel Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel) Jessica Stone recovers from an horrific werewolf attack and comes to terms with revelations that her lover, Jack Mason, is a vampire, his brother, Danny, the werewolf pack leader, and her best friend, Simon, is a werewolf.  Add to that her discovery that she is a witch, and life is suddenly a whole lot harder than it used to be. Jessica has to fight for her own life and Jack’s when faced with his jealous vampire master who wants her old lover back. But things are never easy, and a vampire master is not so easy to defeat…


As we approach the long-anticipated energy shift on 21st December (21/12/12), this event promises to be very exciting and exhilarating. It is time to stop wandering among the flock, and to step out into our own individual spaces of light. Join me, embrace your truth, and be happy…

Mind, Body and Spirit Event – Whitchurch, Shropshire


Join me on Saturday 1st December 2012 from 10:00am – 5:00pm for a Mind, Body and Spirit Event at the Whitchurch Civic Centre (Market Hall), High Street, Shropshire, SY13 1AX.

At this event I will do Tarot and Oracle card readings offering spiritual guidance and a new perspective on the trials of everyday life. If you have a question that needs an answer, I will help you understand a little more. If you feel a little lost or unsure about your current situation, the cards may guide us towards a positive and fulfilling resolution. I draw upon my experience as a witch and a shaman in training when I do my readings, which means you may not always receive the answers you expect. I am always genuine, and I believe that we must all learn to take responsibility for our own lives, however that may be.


I will also sell signed copies of my adult paranormal romance series the Redcliffe Novels. Set in Cornwall, England, the Redcliffe novels follow the adventures of bookshop owner Jessica Stone as she unwittingly falls in love with a vampire, becomes entangled with his identical twin brother's werewolf pack, and then discovers she is a witch.

In the newly released sequel Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel) Jessica Stone recovers from an horrific werewolf attack and comes to terms with revelations that her lover, Jack Mason, is a vampire, his brother, Danny, the werewolf pack leader, and her best friend, Simon, is a werewolf.  Add to that her discovery that she is a witch, and life is suddenly a whole lot harder than it used to be. Jessica has to fight for her own life and Jack’s when faced with his jealous vampire master who wants her old lover back. But things are never easy, and a vampire master is not so easy to defeat…

As we approach the long-anticipated energy shift on 21st December (21/12/12), this event promises to be very exciting and exhilarating. It is time to stop wandering among the flock, and to step out into our own individual spaces of light. Join me, embrace your truth, and be happy…

Tuesday 20 November 2012

#NaNoWriMo - Beginning to Panic


My weekend did not turn out to be quite so productive as I anticipated. My dreams of sitting in an ancient library, tapping away at my laptop, never transpired. I was kept away from NaNoWriMo, busy with the family; sightseeing, exploring, and enjoying fresh air and good food. I had a thoroughly relaxing break. But I only managed to write another 1000 words.

Returning home yesterday, the panic began to bite. The finish line looms for NaNoWriMo 2012. I had only written 26,430 words. It would be a disaster. Last night I was too exhausted to even look at the computer, and so I opted to go to bed early. This morning I was distracted with mother-daughter activities, which continued into the afternoon.

Tonight I finally sat down at my computer and began to write. I had to do it for NaNoWriMo. I will not be beaten! I wrote another 2000+ words and got my word count up to 28,828. Then I consulted the NaNoWriMo tools on my author dashboard on their website. It was not looking good. I needed to do at least another 2000 words to be in with a fighting chance.

Now I am up to 30,162. Phew! I am back in the game, although it is still very touch and go. My current estimated finishing date is Dec 4th. Not good enough. I will finish on Nov 30th if it kills me! By my calculations, I have to write roughly 2000 words per day to bring it back under control. I have to write 30,000 words in the next 10 days. Watch this space…

Wednesday 14 November 2012

NaNoWriMo - Half Way There

As I write this post I am feeling very happy. After a somewhat stilted and disjointed start to the month I managed to get my ass into gear and am now officially half way through my NaNoWriMo project. Hooray! Who knew I could magically find the time to write 25,011 words in just 14 days, complete with a demanding toddler in tow? Apparently I could, I did, and I am on track to succeed!

The novel is shaping up nicely, although my inner editor is already screaming that it is not good enough, we need to re-read what we have written, and we need to tear it to pieces and rebuild. Nope, not during November! This month is all about the writing. I am in my stride. I sit at the computer, stare at the screen, place my fingers on the keys and allow my Muse to take control. The demon editor can wait until after NaNoWriMo. I will not return to the manuscript until some time in December, once I have come down from the elation of succeeding at my second year of the challenge.


Oh yes, I will succeed! I am actually away this weekend for a short family holiday. Fortunately I can use it to my advantage. My very understanding husband and parents in-law have agreed that I may take my laptop and shut myself away in the library at the farm in which we are staying. I can indulge in some pure, uninterrupted writing time in a setting that promises to be both romantic, isolated and inspiring.

I will emerge from my writer's cave at some point during the weekend. I do intend to be sociable, to enjoy some long walks in the Yorkshire countryside with my family, and to enjoy a hearty meal or two. But always at the back of my mind will lurk the manuscript, the NaNoWriMo challenge, and my desperate need to succeed in the competition once again. It is a wonderful tool for motivation!

Saturday 10 November 2012

Coffee Time Romance presents the Vampire Book Realm!

Join me for a very exciting day on Friday 30th November, where you can chat to all your favourite vampire authors from the Vampire Book Realm. I will be there to talk about the Redcliffe novels, and I will share excerpts from Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) and Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel), including special exclusive short stories that didn’t make the final cut. If I am in a really good mood I might even share excerpts from my new novel, the third in the series, Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel)





If you love vampires, if you are still reeling from the excitement of the latest Twilight film release, then this is the place for you! Join us live in the Latte Lounge at Coffee Time Romance, and we can quench your thirst for all things fanged and dangerous…

See you there!

Tuesday 6 November 2012

NaNoWriMo and Crazy November

We are just into day 7 of NaNoWriMo and the month is already crazy busy! I was set back on the first day by a last-minute excursion to a local theme park. We had free tickets, they had a special Halloween theme, I couldn't say no! Anyway, I got back on track with my NaNoWriMo project by hitting the keys for two days of furious writing. My novel is still very vague, and this is the first time I have sat down with absolutely no idea of what I am writing. It is quite exhilarating really, when I transform a blank page into a work of prose.


Well, after that mad dash to get started, I was hit by a sickness bug which wiped me out for 2 days. I was so not impressed! Actually I really needed some rest, so I took the opportunity and tried not to let the little NaNoWriMo demon shout too loud. Today I got back on track, wrote another 4000 words, and am almost up to speed. According to the official website stats I will now finish my NaNoWriMo project on Dec 5th. That is not good enough. I must do better. I will do better tomorrow, after I have slept!


So, away from the crazy month of writing, there are several other things demanding my attention in November. I have already done a live author interview on a local internet radio station, 6 Towns Radio. I have scheduled a live interview with a community internet radio station, KTPF, later in November. This has yet to be confirmed but I am already looking forward to it. And all of a sudden I have several author interviews to prepare for various websites. I hadn't even consciously planned them, they just sort of happened. Don't you just love events like that? It's all excellent fodder for the pre-Christmas sales promotion.

Ho Ho Ho!

Friday 2 November 2012

NaNoWriMo 2012 - Here We Go!

It is finally here! NaNoWriMo, that magical month of writing abandon that has haunted and taunted me, always lingering somewhere in the back of my conscious mind, always whispering that it would be here soon and I had better get my affairs in order. Well, November is here, and I missed the first day. Oh dear!

It wasn't my fault, honest. My best friend procured free tickets to a local theme park, and the season closes this weekend. They had a special Halloween entertainment package, and I hadn't experienced it since I worked there several years ago. We had to participate. So, I allowed myself one more day off, and today I intend to get stuck in. I will write double the daily quota of words for NaNoWriMo. I will. I definitely will...

So, I have sat down in front of the computer with my daughter safely in bed where she will (hopefully) sleep for another hour. The dog is curled up on the sofa and won't demand his walk until later in the day. I am distraction-free. The moment has come. I stare at a blank page. The unwritten words taunt me. They whisper to me, but I can't hear them. Where do I begin? How do I start? I am about to write yet another masterpiece, but I cannot form even the first sentence. This is not looking good.

I will not give up. I will not be defeated. I succeeded in NaNoWriMo 2011, and I will damn sure do the same with NaNoWriMo 2012. At least I have a story. Now all I need to do is call on my Muse, tempt her out of hiding, and let my fingers do the talking... See you on the other side folks!

Tuesday 30 October 2012

Live Author Interview for Halloween

Exciting news! I have been invited to do a live radio interview on a special Halloween show at 6 Towns Radio. The station is  based in Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent and covers the Potteries area of the UK. This is my home city, a place where I grew up, fell in love, got my first jobs and lots of other life experiences.

Listen live at 11:00am GMT (6:00am EST) and you can hear about my paranormal romance Redcliffe novels, my experiences as a ghost hunter, and all sorts of weird and wonderful, spooky and supernatural tales and titbits...

http://www.6towns.co.uk/

Tuesday 23 October 2012

The Next Big Thing


Today I talk about my new book, Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel) as I partake in The Next Big Thing. Thank you to Suzie Tullett for the kind invitation.

  
    1. What is the working title of your book?

Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel) – Book 3

    2. Where did the idea for the book come from?

It came naturally after I wrote the first book, Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) and the sequel Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel).

     3. What genre does your work fall under?

It is paranormal romance, with a little dark fantasy and some horror elements.

     4. Which actors would you choose to play your characters?

Hmm, so far I am struggling to decide on the right ones. For my heroine Jessica Stone I need a British woman with a convincing Manchester accent, long auburn hair and green eyes. For the Mason brothers I need identical twins from Dublin with black hair and blue eyes… Any up and coming actors interested in the roles please?

     5. What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?

Emotion runs high in this fast-paced paranormal adventure, where secrets unfold and friends are not as they seem…

     6. Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency?

It will most likely be published in partnership with Mirador, who produced my first two novels in the series.

     7. How long did it take you to write the first draft of you manuscript?

About four or five months I think. Once I had written the first two, this one just couldn’t wait.

     8. What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?

It probably has elements of the Sookie Stackhouse novels by Charlaine Harris, but I aspire to write like Laurell K Hamilton and her Anita Blake, Vampire Hunter series, but with less horrific violence and a British perspective.

      9. Who or what inspired you to write this book?

I can’t really remember. My first novel, Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel), was cultivated in my mind for around ten years before I actually wrote it down. It first came about when I read the Nightworld series of novels by L. J. Smith and decided I wanted my own version of a vampire story with characters I could more easily relate to. Love Redeems (A Redcliffe Novel) is a natural progression from that, using experiences gained from my life during recent years.

     10. What else about your book might pique the readers’ interest?

It is set in Cornwall and describes the romantic rugged coastline and old smugglers’ caves. There is a best friend with a new baby, two women running a business, and some interesting moral issues explored.


So those are the answers for the next Catherine Green novel. Please see below for other authors taking part in The Next Big Thing.


http://www.emilyharvale.com/blog  Emily writes about love, fun, friendships, drama, sex and romance.
http://www.lizzielamb.co.uk/ Lizzie writes contemporary romance and her novel Tall, Dark and Kilted is due for an Autumn release.
http://www.celiayeary.blogspot.gr/ Celia Yeary is an author of romance and every story she writes, be it long or short, is based in her native home of Texas, the state she knows so well.
http://thefearlesspen.wordpress.com/ Fran and Caro, who juggle life as mums and that gnawing need to write.

Halloween Book Review - Whitby Vampyrrhic by Simon Clark

This book is a good old fashioned British horror story, and a brilliant Halloween read!



I cannot believe I didn’t know about this book before. I came across it by chance in my local library, and I really enjoyed it. The story is set during World War 2, and I love the contrast between the horrific vampire creatures that terrorize Whitby, and the armies who fight in the skies above. It is an interesting version of social commentary, and has echoes of classic vampire stories from the late 19th century. There is no romance in this book, and the creatures are gruesome, but I recommend it to everyone.

Wednesday 17 October 2012

Meet the Author and Mind, Body Spirit in Nantwich, Cheshire

October is progressing very nicely and I am preparing for the crazy month that will be National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) in November. In the meantime, I am getting back out there and making myself available to you, my readers and friends! Join me at the Civic Hall in Nantwich, Cheshire on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th October for a fabulous Mind, Body and Spirit event brought to you by Rosemary Douglas.


 I will be offering signed copies of my first two novels Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel) and Love Kills (A Redcliffe Novel). If you haven’t heard about them, get more details on my website, along with a free short story. They are perfect for Halloween, and a great stocking filler if you have started your Christmas shopping…

Aside from books I will be offering Tarot and Oracle card readings to help you with those tricky or confusing situations we all have to deal with in life. There will be musicians, therapists, healers, and lots of beautiful trinkets, tools and accessories for sale. You can purchase angel drawings and paintings, crystals, incense, fairy goodies and much more.