My Thoughts On AI In The Book World

Hi everyone! Welcome to the blog!

Today I want to talk to you about something that has been affecting the book world lately. AI (*gasps in horror). I know there are people out there who loved using it to create things. I'm not against other people using the dreaded thing, that's a you decision. Personally I find it to be annoying so I don't use it. 

I have seen so many posts lately about how if certain things are used by an author than the author must be using AI to write. Okay I'll admit that there are some out there who do use AI to write an entire book and publish it. That's their decision. I can't force them to change their ways. However it's not really the author writing if it's AI. Myself I could never use it to write. If I claim I wrote something you best believe I wrote it! 

AI uses other people's work to learn how to write. That's honestly cheating in my opinion. How can you feel good about yourself if you're telling the world you wrote something you didn't? I would feel ashamed and never write again. 

This whole thing about authors not being allowed to use em dashes or ellipsis is just ridiculous. People need to check out some of the classic books out there (like Emily Dickinson and John Knowles.)

Those are not something AI just randomly decided to add. They were around a very long time before AI. 

Then there's the whole if an author uses a certain sentence they must be using AI.  He padded across the floor and she let out the breath she didn't know she was holding. Pretty sure they weren't invented by AI. I've used them a time or two. 

Those readers who want to create a lynch mob to tear down authors simply because AI used something they did need to get a grip. They need to get off their pedestals and realize they're not always right about everything. 

Don't be the person who destroys someone livelihood, their career for no other reason than because it makes you feel good about yourself. Be kind and respectful to people. The moral of the story is don't be an idiot!

I will continue to use my em dashes and ellipsis like I always have. That's my choice and my right. If you don't like how an author writes don't read their books. I bet you'll eventually run out of reading material if you keep putting authors down for doing author things. Get the facts straight here people and remember this last thing...

AI DIDN'T TEACH HUMANS TO WRITE. IT LEARNED FROM WHAT HUMANS ALREADY SAID!!!

Book News from Cassandra's Writing World

 Hi everyone and welcome to the blog! I know I haven't posted in a couple of weeks, life got in the way. So today is time for an update on the bookish news.

First of all my story for the writing contest is almost finished. The deadline is the end of this month. Then it's time to finish my story to submit to Curse Of The Sword.

What other news do I have to share? Lots of good news about the books.

The Village Of Silent Screams was accepted for the Holiday Spirit Anthology. The anthology will be available December 20, 2025. I'll let you know when I have more info on it.

Also the Once Upon A Thyme cookbook is up for preorder. It will be available November 15, 2025.

Come meet some amazing indie authors and book world greats and what they like to cook. We have 24 amazing authors, book bloggers, PAs, and more that want to share their favorite recipes with you. From appetizers to adult beverages, you can find it here. Enjoy our recipes! The following indie authors, PAs, and bloggers are featured in this cookbook: Ashley Brion, W.A. Ashes, Visha Graves, Peri Rose, Christina Thomas, D Williams, Jaycee DeLorenzo, Jeanette T. Queen, Samantha Michaels, Shaina Lucas, Sheila A. Kell, Sheila Fowler, Skyee Graystone, T.A. Moorman, Beth A. Freely, K. D. Hooper, Angel Nyx, Cassandra Jones, K. Rose, Caitlin Loggins, Ann Edwards, Kathleen Osborne, and Vic Leigh.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FR6P3Q3N

And finally it's time to get your hands on the newest Ghostly Rites Anthology. Featuring my story Field Of Blood. 

https://books2read.com/u/4XJANg

Until next time... Happy reading!!!!

A Little Update

 Hey everyone and welcome to the blog! I know I missed last week, but I was under the weather. Feeling better now and catching up on everything. Just popping in to give you all an update on my writing life. 

I will be taking a break from writing The Blakes series. I am definitely going to finish it, but not at this time. Why you may ask, because I did it again. Not only do I need to finish my story for the Curse of The Sword Anthology, but I also am currently working another story that I plan to submit to a writing contest. It needs to be done first because the deadline is November 30, 2025. 

I am also working on a few other writing projects as well. Plus getting things ready for the Halloween Spookfest in my FB reader group on the 25th. I am doing a few other takeovers as well. 

This is just a quick post to update, but next week I plan to do a longer post. Until then, Happy Writing!

Anxiety Is Real! What I Do When The Anxiety Takes Over

 This week my writing world has been a little quiet so far. I dealt with a severe headache for two days that kept me offline. I also wasn't inspired to write much. The 22nd of this month made 15 years since we lost my grandmother. I was extremely close to both of my grandparents so it's still hard for me. I should probably mention that it's always a rough time for me between September and January. I'll be fine like I always am, but I always get down during the time. 

So I guess what this post is about is how I deal with being down and not wanting to write. I know as a writer I should write. Of course I will even when I don't feel up to. Sometimes I force myself to get the words in. Sometimes no writing happens since I need to take a step back and refocus on myself. We all need those little breaks once in a blue moon. 

What else can we do to help us not feel so depressed? I write poetry in memory of loved ones, or write in a journal. If I don't feel like writing I work on some crafts or read a good book. 

I know when there are deadlines I need to keep my focus and write. So those stories need to get written as soon as possible. However writing should be fun. It shouldn't feel as if you're being forced to do it. You will never get anything from that other than wanted to quit writing all together. I've been there and done that.

So don't be afraid to take those breaks when you need them. Step back and rejuvenate before tackling that project again. Don't feel that you must write so others won't get angry or upset with you. If they truly love your writing they'll wait for you!

What's This? News To Share!

 What's This? News to share? Why yes there is news to share about my writing world. Is it good news or bad news you may ask, well... Great news is the answer!! And a little bad too :( 

Let's start off with the bad news and get it out of the way. The Stranger In The Grave was not accepted for the Terror Reigns Anthology. Another rejection, hey it happens. No big deal. 

Now for some better news. I am part of an upcoming indie author cookbook called Once Upon A Thyme. We are aiming for a November release for this one. I will share more when I have the details.

And what's this great news you mentioned above? Field Of Blood was accepted for Ghostly Rites 2025! I am super excited for this one because it is always such an amazing time being in these anthologies. I'll post more when I know it. 

I know, I know, this is a short post. Sorry about that. I should also tell you that I am still working on my story for Cursed By The Sword and The Blakes series as well. Until next week...

Happy Writing!!!!

Random Thoughts From An Author (Beware the writer brain ;) )

Hiya guys and welcome to the blog! Today's post will be full of my randomness since I haven't had time to plan one lol. 

So, how about we talk about those first drafts? Have you ever gone back to read your older drafts and thought to yourself, "Who wrote this? Boy, were they a crazy one?" Okay, so maybe crazy isn't the right word here. How about idiot instead? Or have you reread them and thought, "Wow I have gotten so much better at this?" I'm sure we've had had that thought a time or two.

I have recently been going through some of my short stories that are no longer published. I plan to make them longer and polish them so I can republish them later on. I have realized that my writing has gotten better over the years. I have also realized that at one point I tended to stay to one genre. What was wrong with me? Hahaha!!! Honestly, I don't think I could stick to just one genre at this point. 

What about coming up with names for those pesky characters? Do you have a system that works for you when it comes to choosing them? I tended to struggle with naming characters. I kept notebooks full of lists to choose from. These days I came up with a better way to names at least some of my characters. I do giveaways on my Facebook author takeovers and a random person gets to have a character named after them. It's also a great way to find new plot ideas. I'll admit I like picking character names about as much as I like coming up with titles. Can someone jab this pencil in my eye right about now describes how I feel when doing those things. 

And lastly how does it feel to finish that book you've worked so hard on? It feels amazing, incredible, fantastic? All of the above and more. It's one of the greatest feelings in this world. To be proud of what you've accomplished and be able to share your happiness with others, there's no better feeling. 

Thank you for listening to my ramblings today. Until next time... Happy Writing!

A Taste of my Current WIP's, and an update too!!!

 I know I missed posting last week. I was fighting a bad headache. So this week I am making sure I get this posted on the right day lol. Starting off with a little update.

How has everyone's week been? Mine hasn't been that bad. I have taken on another project. The anthology will be about female slashers. My story is called Snapped. This is definitely going to be a fun one to write. 

I have also written more on Heart Of A Hero which will be part of The Blake's series. I managed to get 2,700 words in today. It is now sitting at 9,500 words. 

Other than writing and plotting I worked on making updated teasers and banners yesterday. I have also been reading of course. 

What can we talk about today? Oh wait, I know. Let's have some questions about my writing.

How do I stay organized? I have my ideas all written down in my writing notebooks. I also make paper copies of my story ideas as well as digital copies. See below for those examples:

What was the last scene you wrote and how did you like it? It was in Heart Of A Hero. The two MC's are talking about the person stalking the FMC. I think it turned out to be a good scene.

What is the plot of your current WIP? Snapped: A woman is abused by her husband and two friends over a period of ten years. She's finally had enough and takes a stand against them.

Heart Of A Hero: Bailee Ryan is being stalked by someone. It's up to Tyler Blake to figure out who and stop them. Little do they know it's someone Tyler knows all too well.

And that's it for this week. Have a wonderful week and Happy Writing!!!

What's I've Been Up To This Week

Welcome to the blog! Today I am going to let you in on some things I have been working on lately. Of course there has been writing and editing. You know the usual stuff LOL. There has also been plotting while the entire was acting up and writing blurbs and taglines for stories. And looking into different swag I can have made. 

I decided to make character cards for my stories as well. It sounded like a fun idea, and has been so far. Here's the only one done so far. The photo is my best friend who passed away and inspired the story.

I have also been designing bookmarks.

And also needed to update my banner for my FB author page. It was missing a book.

Now for swag ideas. I have been making jigsaw puzzles to use when I do author takeovers. I was thinking that I might see about having them made into physical jigsaw puzzles that I can use for giveaways. The ones I plan to look into having made first are bookmarks (of course, what reader doesn't love bookmarks?), stickers, buttons/pins, magnets, tote bags, keychains, clothing, and lens wipes. 

I have one more story to edit and send in for an anthology by the 31st of this month. Then one more to write that isn't due until December. I took a break from that one to work on another story. 

Anyhoo, that's how my week has been, plus a trip to the library too! Have a wonderful evening and Happy Writing!!!

How I Became A Writer

 Hello everyone and welcome to the blog! Today is a random post kind of day since I haven't had a chance to make a post. So, what can we talk about in Cassandra's Writing World? 

Well how about why I became a writer. I suppose the writer was always in me waiting to be unleashed. I knew I loved to read from an early age,  but hadn't really thought about writing anything myself. When I was thirteen I decided hey, why don't I try to write my own story and see how that turns out.

I had always loved English class and when I had to chose my electives for high school I chose creative writing and journalism. I loved both classes and had loads of fun working on my assignments. After taking those classes I knew for sure that I wanted to be a writer. 

I started out writing nothing but short stories. Then decided to try something a little longer. I had over two hundred stories started and saved in notebooks until I lost them in a fire. After that I wanted to give up for about five minutes, but then I said to myself what do you do when your life's work is gone in the blink of an eye. Pick yourself up and start again. That's exactly what I did. I was able to remember some of the ideas for the stories I had lost, although some characters needed new names. 

Now I always make sure that I make back up copies of what I write. That's the one piece of advice I would give to any writer. Have backups of your backups lol.

I also do something now that I really didn't do when I first started writing. I plot and plan my stories, or start to before the characters take over and tell me what I should be writing. When I started i just wrote. Didn't write down plots or names or anything at all. 

I have really come along way from that thirteen year old girl who couldn't decide if I wanted to be a writer or an archeologist. I'm still interested in both, but prefer writing to digging in the dirt. Haha!!!

Now I am currently working on my debut novel and hoping to get it published soon. I was published in the first anthology in 2015. Thirty+ anthologies later and you might say I have an obsession with them. The most recent was published the end of last month. 

Now I am a published author with readers who enjoy my stories. I have people who want to read my work who are not only readers and other writers, but wonderful friends.

And that's how my writing journey came about. Until next time... Happy Writing!!!!

Who Are My Writing Heroes? A list of my top 20 authors!

 Who are your writing heroes? How can you answer that question as a writer if you don't as a reader? I have writing heroes for different reasons. Some I love their writing style, some of love the genre they write in, and some are just some of my favorite people who have come into my life for whatever reason. So today I want to share a list of 20 of my most favorite authors out in the world today. If you know me you can probably guess who will be at the top of this list ;) 

1. Karen Young

2.Sheila Kell

3. Stephen king

4. James Patterson

5. Jane Blythe

6. Elizabella Baker

7. W.A. Ashes

8. Amber M. Kestner

9. Rachel Van Dyken

10. D.L. Gallie

11. Natalie- Nicole Bates

12. Amgelina Kerner

13. Tina Hogan Grant

14. R.L. Stine

15.Lisa Regan

16. Katie Mettner

17.Debra Webb

18. Delores Fossen

19. Elle James

20. Tara Taylor Quinn

That's my list of 20, but it's not all my favorites of course. If I were to list all of them you would never finish reading this post. So let's just call this list 1 of my favorite book world people. Until next time... Happy Reading!

Later Days!

Cassandra's Ramblings

 Hi everyone! How are you doing today. I started this thing on my Tome page called Cassandra's Ramblings so that what todays post will be called. This is a post where I am just winging it and not planning my weekly post. Sometimes we need a break from lists and planned out things. This will basically be a post of random things I want to talk about today. Yes it will involve writing and reading.

So, what should we talk about first? Writing? Reading? The weather? See how random I feel today. I'm not even sure what story I want to work on. I have a few that need to be read through and edited. I am also working on the one for the Curse of the Sword Anthology later this year. It still has no title as of right now. I have also been going through stories and getting the ones about possessed, creepy dolls together for that collection I'm working on. 

As for author stuff I am getting things ready for the Soul Chaser release party in my FB reader group on June 23rd and the Echoes of the Mind release party on the 30th. Plus I am doing a couple other takeovers as well. Add to that trying to update all my social media sites and website, making teasers, plotting stories, and the list goes on and on lol.

We have had some issues with the internet this week due to bad weather so I have been catching up on my reading as well. I have finished four books in the last five days. That's most of my ARC's for the month (only 2 left). I am about halfway through my latest library book and already 25% into my next ARC. My book trees are looking so pretty.

How are you keeping track of your books for the year? Any cool ideas I can do next year? I am also trying to find more creative ways to post book reviews. I thought of doing videos, but it's way too noisy here for that. I'll eventually think of something I suppose, probably when I'm not trying.

Well I guess I should go and get some writing done, or editing, or something productive. Hahahaha!!!

Until next time....

Later Days from Cassandra's Writing World!!

The Story Behind The Story: Echoes Of The Mind Anthology

 Hi everybody and welcome to the blog.

Today I wanted to ell you a little about my story in the Echoes Of The Mind Anthology. (Coming June 30,2025) The anthology is to help raise awareness for mental health, and my story was a little rough on my mental state. While the characters have different names and the story isn't the same, there are elements from a personal experience I went through with an ex friend. 

Things that happened between the two of us that happen between the characters. Things that are an actual part of the story that were said by this ex friend. There is a line from the story that my so called friend actually said to me. The very first line of the story and that was the hardest part to write. It brought back all those painful memories and thoughts. 

When this friendship ended suddenly I had no clue why. I couldn't remember doing anything wrong. The worst part was she refused to tell me what I had done, or why she wanted nothing more to do with me. For the longest time I blamed myself. I must have done something for her to stop talking to me. I was the one in the wrong, wasn't I?

It took me a while and a lecture or two from another friend to realize I wasn't. It wasn't me who had the issue with our friendship. It wasn't me who refused to talk things over. It wasn't me who didn't want to try to fix the friendship. No, that was all her. I also realize just how things had been throughout the friendship. I was only ever needed when she had a problem or she needed something. If I had a problem she would give me one or two sentences of advice and the next sentence would be her latest issue.

So, where is this post going? Since this anthology is about mental health I wanted to share my story with all of you. I am hoping that other people can find inspiration through reading this story. I want to tell everyone that the troubles you face with friends may not be your fault. Don't let it get you down. Be the best you and forget the people who don't want to share your journey.

Until next time... Sending everyone who needs it the biggest virtual hug ever!!!

Echoes Of The Mind Anthology

https://books2read.com/u/3LQKe0

Soul Chaser Preorder Now!!!

 The Soul Chaser Anthology is up for preorder now! This anthology includes 5 of my poems inspired by the betrayal of an ex friend. And it has such a pretty cover too! ;)  Coming June 23, 2025

Poetry; a unique and beautiful way to express feelings and ideas. Weaving words into perfect poetic prose, these authors remind you of your childhood, bring comfort from the hardships of life, fiercely spur emotions, and tell tales of old. All lovers of poetry will find a favorite here!

Featuring the following authors: Lee Clark Zumpe, Nick Armbrister, Anna Ross, Toastingfork, K.J. Watson, LindaAnn LoSchiavo, David J. Vowell, Roxana Negut, Vanessa Bane, Cassandra Jones, Andrea Tillmanns, Mathew Anderson, Fariel Shafee, Davion Moore, Afshan Q, Korede Badmus, Cara Hartley, Tanya Fillbrook, and J.E. Feldman.

http://books2read.com/DSPChaser

Writers Write, But Not Always. What I Do When Not Writing

 Hi everyone and welcome to this week's blog. Today I want to talk about something besides writing. Ooohhhh...but wait, isn't this a writing blog? Of course it is however everyone knows we can't write all the time. Writing 24/7, 365 days a year would really cause some serious burnout. Not only that it would be super boring. 

Obviously as writers we are also most likely reading a book here and there. We were readers first and old habits are hard to break, right? So my question to you today is what do you do in your spare time? What are your hobbies that bring you peace and relaxion? 

Reading is definitely one of my favorite hobbies. (You knew I was going to say that!) However most people have no idea what I do when I'm not writing. It's no wonder I love to do research for stories. I have been working on the family history for a while now. It's an interesting hobby for sure. Though it's not my only hobby. I also love to draw and do diamond painting. And did I mention reading?! ;) 

One of my favorite ways to spend my time when not writing is to make crafts. I especially love to make my creepy dolls. They started as a way to make some new Halloween decorations, but it became an obsession.  Here is one my most recent ones. 

What hobbies do you spend the most time doing? Why do they make you happy? Until next time...

Happy Creating!

1001 Dark Nights: Sparks And Surrender

 Check out this new arrival! 1001 Dark Nights: Sparks And Surrender. Featuring some pretty amazing authors!

𝓞𝓤𝓣 𝓝𝓞𝓦

When sparks fly, passion ignites. Sparks and Surrender is packed with fiery romances where enemies become lovers. From bitter rivals to the people they least expected, these characters discover that the line between hate and love is dangerously thin.

Includes:

Kayden/Simon by Laura Wright and Alexandra Ivy
Unchained by Elisabeth Naughton
Twist of Fate by Jill Shalvis
and
The Anti-Fan and The Idol by Rachel Van Dyken

Link (available in KU!): https://amzn.to/3PBiB4G

As a bonus, there is a Goodreads giveaway happening now until 5/19.

https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/412728-sparks-and-surrender-collection

#rvdelite #rvdinfluencers #bloodinnoout #EnemiesToLovers #bookbundles #1001DarkNights

Get it now and happy reading!!

Research Can Be Fun, Even If It's Time Consuming!

 Hi everyone and welcome to Cassandra's Writing World!

Today I want to talk about a project I am working on and researching. The book is about my hometown, Four States. A very small town in West Virginia. It has been quite an endeavor to work on this project.

(The original sign for the town)

 

I started off doing research on my own by simply using Google and hoping for the best. It helped a little, but then I thought of a better way to do research. A more interactive and fun way. I created a group on Facebook called Four States, WV History. It started as a way to keep in touch with people who grew up there. It quickly became a friendly community where everyone shared stories about the town. 

(Four States Mine circa 1980's)

I have been able to get a lot of information from the people in this group. Not too mention some great photos to use in the book. 

(Four States Tabernacle, I spent a lot of time in this little church)

I have also found information in books as well. There aren't many books that feature my tiny little town and that's the main reason I want to get this book out. It's a great way to not only tell people about our coal mining town back in a hollow, but to share stories and photos as well. 

(Four States Post office, and yes it is super small)

It has been a very fun project to work on, though it is time consuming. That's why it's a side project until I finish these other books. I have been getting my notes in order and saving the images to use. I plan to start writing the book very soon.

(Four States circa 1995. In the distance is the old company store)

This has been one of my favorite writing projects to ever work on. I hope you enjoyed a peek into my research. Until next time... Happy Writing!

Who Screams Louder: The Author or The Characters?

Hi everyone and welcome to the blog! The place where my scatterbrained thoughts are put on the page for you to read, and hopefully not think I'm a little nutsy kookoo. (But then again aren't we all a little?) Especially if you're a writer. I have a list of topics to write about saved in my email. However I don't want to go through them today. So, on that note we are just winging it for this post. 

I have been working on making sure I have all of my writing projects lined up in order, tied up in a neat little package with a pretty blue bow. (Said bow is blue because it's my favorite color.) Let's face it though we writers never really have those projects precisely as we would like them, now do we? There are those ideas that sneak up on us in the middle of the night. Those characters that slap you upside the head to say "Hey, you need to write my story so get busy." You tell those characters they have to wait they're turn only to hear them say "Fine, I'll just insert myself into your brain front and center so you can't focus on anything else. Or better yet I'll find a way to add myself to the story your working on, but you will listen to me!"

You silently think about what to do next. All the while thinking to yourself wow, this character is real pushy. Should they get their own story? When should it be written? Do I have a title, plot, anything at all to start with? Other than Mr. Pushy? The next thing you know you're plotting out a new story while trying to finish the current one. In all reality the winner of that showdown is the character that screams at you the loudest.

I am currently working on a story for an anthology, and at the same time plotting a new book. The anthology piece has to be finished by the deadline so it needs to come first, right? Right?! Yeah, that's what I thought. I am now working on one story on the laptop/phone and one on good old fashioned notebook paper. 

So I guess the answer is, and always will be, (Gasp!) the... Characters! Yep, it's the characters who rule the story, not the authors. We are merely their puppets to control. Whether we like it or not. We listen and obey their every demand. That's just how it is with being a writer. Let them take you where the story needs to go.

I guess that means I'll always be a complete mess when it comes to writing. Good thing we writers enjoy the chaos of our minds. 

Thank you for stopping by and until next time, Happy Writing!!!!

Helping Readers Interact With You and Helping Other Authors Too!

 Hi everyone and welcome to this week's blog!

Today I want to talk about all the things authors need to do to help their readers interact with them, and how we can help our fellow authors too! 

There's of course the website for readers to find all your work and maybe get to know things about you. There's also Facebook author pages and readers groups. They are great places to connect with readers. For instance in my reader group Cassandra's Place we have a weekly get to know the group question and also a writing/reading question. It's been interesting to get to know others.

There are also other social media platforms we can use such as Instagram, Threads, Pinterest, Tome and more. I'll share my links for all of them at the end of this post. 

What else can we do as authors to reach readers? Share about your work and yourself on social media. Make teasers for your books and share them with others. Share those reviews for your work. Make swag like bookmarks, pens, etc. 

Make sure you have an author brand and logo. Post about your newest WIP's and releases. Be friendly toward your readers and friends in the book community. Recommend not only your books, but those you have enjoyed. Don't be hateful just because another author seems to be doing better than you. It happens as sad as that may be. Happy reading and tell others about those books you love! And happy world book day as well!

https://linktr.ee/writergirl74

https://www.facebook.com/bleachfanforlife

https://www.facebook.com/cassandraswritingworld/

https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1C6LATrYyC/

https://www.instagram.com/bookbaby78/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17151843.Cassandra_Jones

https://www.bookbub.com/profile/3907682069

https://www.pinterest.com/animefan78/

https://tomebooks.com/user/writergirl74

https://hinata7874.wixsite.com/mywritingworld

https://cassandra-mywritingworld.blogspot.com/

https://writebetweenthewines.com/members/CassandraJones

The Boots Are Back!

 Today on the blog we have something special. A new book release written by a second grader. You heard that right, a second grader. How awesome is that? Nikolusha Kerner is back with The Adventures Of The Blue Boots 2. I haven't read this one yet, but the first was such a cute little story that any kid will love!

They're back!

2nd grader Nikolusha Kerner returns with another delightful tale in “The Adventures of the Blue Boots 2!”

Follow the trusty and lovable pair of Blue Boots as they step into another magical adventure through the whimsical world of Mr. Thumbs-up.

Full of charm, imagination, and heart, this story is proof that even the smallest authors can have the biggest adventures.

Written by a kid — perfect for kids.

Grab your copy today and support this incredible young storyteller!

https://a.co/d/4E39UsL

Check this out and happy reading!!!!

What's Keeping Me Busy This Week

 Welcome to this week's blog. How is everyone doing? I have been super busy catching up on things the last few days. Doing what you ask, well several things. LOL

First of all I have written nearly 4K on my latest WIP The Village Of Silent Screams. It's coming a long great. Once it's finished I will rereading the last few stories and editing. I also started another book called Letters To My Best Friend. It's letters I am writing to my bestie Tammy as a way to remember her and honor her memory. Because let's face it making her a character in a story wasn't enough. ;) 

I also updated my website and other social media pages. I have all of the links for my socials and books all in one place for easier access. I am plotting more on The Blake's series and even designed a couple of bookmarks and author logos. Made some new teasers for promo posts and am planning author takeovers as well. 

I have also written some poetry. Some for my book in memory of loved ones. (Still working on a title) And a couple others as well. It is National Poetry Month anyway, so it's time to write it.

I am hoping to have my current WIP finished by at least next week sometime. Still need 11K to hit the word count limit but it doesn't have to be that long. It's already 9k words. Now I am going to relax and read a bit. 

Later days and happy writing!

Musings From A Writer About Writerly Things

 Hi everyone and welcome to this weeks blog. A day late, but that's okay. I have been trying to decide what I wanted to write about this week (and fighting an earache). I am planning to make a list of ideas for blog posts to keep handy so I can plan them easier. Today I am going to give this one a try. I'm going to give you my opinions and advice on some things.

Characters Vs. Plot: What Inspires You First?

If I were to answer this honestly I would have to say it depends on the story I am working on. For instance sometimes I can think of character names a lot faster than I can the plot. Then at times the plot comes to me first. 

Favorite character ever written?

That would have to be Tammy Perdue from my novel The Hunt For Amanda. She is named after and loosely based on my best friend, so that makes her my favorite.

I do have other characters I've written that I love because of their never give up attitudes as well.

Have you ever created a character based on someone you know?

Haven't we all? 😉 Yes I have a couple characters. Tammy for example. Then there was one who was based on an ex friend of mine. 

Well that's all for this week. Happy writing and later days!

Getting To Know The Readers

 Hey everyone! Today on the blog I want to do something a little different. I want to get to you... the readers. I am going to ask some questions and you can answer in the comment section. I'll also give you my answers.

Question 1 How do organize your bookshelves?

I do it by genre or author

Question 2  How do you track the books you read?

I use Goodreads, Bookbub, Storygraph, and paper and pen.

Question 3 What are you favorite childhood books?

Mine are Poochie and the Four Seasons Fair, Danny and the Dinosaur, and The Boxcar Children series.

Question 4 What book would you most recommend to others?

Sugar Baby by Karen Young

Question 5: What is your favorite genre?

Romantic Suspense

Question 6  What genre do you refuse to read?

There aren't any I don't like.

Question 7  Who are your most recommended authors?

Karen Young, Delores Fossen, Sheila Kell, Debra Webb. Elle James. Elizabella Baker, Jane Blythe, Tina Hogan Grant, Natalie-Nicole Bates, just to name a few.

Question 8  What are your favorite book(s)?

Sugar Baby by Karen Young 

Question 9  What is your favorite book series?

The Lawmen of Silver Creek Ranch series by Delores Fossen.

Question 10  Where is your favorite place to read?

On my bed or at the library.

Until next time... Happy Reading!!!

Book Reviews of 2025 Part 2

 Here is the next round of book reviews for this year so far. You can probably see a pattern with a certain series that I have fallen in love with. ;) 

First up we have Secrets and Sunrises by DL Gallie

A wonderful story about second chances and finding your soul mate. I loved everything about Krista and Hunter's story!! Great characters and an amazing plot make this an excellent book!!! And let's not forget Harley, I just loved that little guy!!!

Second is Cold Case At Cardwell Ranch by BJ Daniels 

Ella and Waco's story is a nonstop thrill ride. Full of surprises this book won't disappoint. Family secrets, shocking twists, and amazing characters for an excellent story. A definite page-turner!! I loved every bit of it!!

Third we have Shadowed Lies by Jane Blythe

Book two in the Prey Security: Charlie Team is an emotional thrill ride from beginning to end. Wonderful characters, a terrific storyline, and lots of action make for an excellent book. A perfect edition to the series!!!

And then we have Finding You by DL Gallie

This book had me hooked from the first line! A definite page-turner! I loved the characters and the plot. A wonderful story!

Mine To Protect by Elizabella baker is up next.

What an amazing way to wrap up a series! Second chances, found family, surprise twists and plenty of action make for a perfect story. David and Kassandra were wonderful characters! I was hooked from the very first word of this book!!!

Next is one of my favorite manga, Inuyasha by Rumiko Takahasi 

I am a huge fan of this series! I love everything about Inuyasha. The characters, storyline, everything! One of my all time favorite manga and anime!!

And then we have a kids book because well, we have to read to the kiddos. Bluey Queens.

A cute little story!

For the next two books we are back to that certain series that I definitely recommend.

Tactical Lies by Jane Blythe

Another excellent installment to this amazing series! Connor and Becca's story is full of romance, suspense, and surprise twists. I loved every single second of this story!! Great characters and a terrific storyline made it a book I couldn't put down.

And last up we have Vengeful Lies by Jane Blythe

Cade Charleston is the oldest brother and takes his responsibility very seriously. With all the threats to his family his world is completely upended by the abduction of his daughter Essie and her nanny Gabriella. Cade does the only thing he can to get them back.

Gabriella has never been able to hide her true feelings towards her boss, his entire family has noticed it even if he hasn't. Once Cade realizes he might just lose the two most important people in his life he also realizes his true feelings for Gabby.

Filled with twists and surprises, danger and a happy ending this is the perfect addition to the Prey Security: Charlie Team series. I loved everything about this book and couldn't put it down. Can't wait to see what happens next!

Until next time... Happy Reading!!!!

Writing Update and other news

 Hey everyone! I know I normally don't post until Wednesdays, but this post is a day early. I wasn't sure I would make one at all since I caught the ickiness everyone else has had. Felling somewhat better so thought I would get this written.

I have some unfortunate news about the Hayrides and Bonfires Anthology that was due out later this year. It has been cancelled so the story won't be used in it. It will however still be used this year. The name has been changed from The Mystery of the Cornfield to Field Of Blood. It will also no longer be YA. It will still be horror and now be a part of the Ghostly Rites 2025 edition. What that means is it will be more gorier than originally planned. Not a lot, but some.  Here is the new graphic and cover for my story.

Also my story for the Terror Reigns Anthology is finished and only needs to be editing at a later date. I still have until July so plenty of time. I sent my story in for the Echoes Of The Mind Anthology and will be sure to update everyone with new information once it's available. Guess this means it's time to start plotting the next one though I may take a break from anthology stories for a bit since they aren't due until later this year and only have a couple left to write. Who knows with my mind lol.

Until next time Happy Writing!!!!