Several authors have come together to bring you awesome, inspiring and informational blog post at Author's Studio. Check in often to read articles on the craft of writing, the sport of travel and our latestest publications, interviews, and elements of romance, along with so many more intriguing topics!
Merry Christmas! I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season. Whichever holiday you celebrate, remember the spirit of joy and giving this time of year brings. Keep it in your heart, but share it with everyone!
Last year, I wrote a sweet little contemporary Christmas romance and posted it on my site as a gift for all my friends. The title is The Christmas Angel, and it was a big hit.
So I decided to do it again. This year, I wrote a very short historical western Christmas story for those who love cowboys. It's entitled, The Sheriff's Mistletoe Law.
Speaking of cowboys... I can't help but be excited. My historical western, The Wagonmaster, took 1st Place in the 2009 Laurel Wreath Awards! (Click the link to see the other winners.)
You can find both Christmas short stories plus reviews and an excerpt of The Wagonmaster at my web site.
Again, Happy Holidays to everyone! I hope you enjoy the free Christmas reads!
Did everyone get a load of that terrifying new cover up there for her new release? Oh, my! I'm immediately frightened and intrigued at the same time! I cannot wait to read this book!
I've interviewed Sharon for today's blog but first a few opening comments and a CONTEST announcement from Sharon!
AS (Author's Studio): Sharon, thanks for joining us here at the Author's Studio tell us a little about yourself and your new book...
SHARON: Hello! I’d like to thank Kerri Nelson and The Author’s Studio for having me guest blog today. My name is Sharon Donovan and I write stories of inspiration and suspense. I’d like to talk today about my psychological thriller coming soon from Whimsical Publications, LLC.
When the whispers in the night, the whispers of her lover, are the whispers of a killer, will Margot escape before she becomes the next victim?
Deep in the foothills of Red Rock Canyon, a serial killer stalks. He leaves his signature—a skull mask on the corpse. But when the homicide cop realizes the crimes are the reenactment of a case never solved ten years ago--all fingers point to Michael DeVeccio. And when Margot realizes she is married to the killer, her life becomes a living nightmare.
I hope you enjoy the teaser and sneak preview into Mask of the Betrayer. And to further entice you, I am having a contest ending on December 31, 2009. The winner will receive an autographed copy of Mask of the Betrayer upon its release. Here is the question. Please put Mask contest in the subject line and send to:
Question: What would you do if you received a drop dead gorgeous diamond ring surrounded by exotic Brazilian emeralds only to learn you are the third woman to wear the ring? And to boot, both women have been victims of the Red Rock Slasher?
AS: Wonderful contest and this book sounds right up my alley. As a suspense author and a big fan of the psychological thriller genre, you've really nailed it with this one! Before we start in your personal interview, let's share an excerpt from the book.
PROLOGUE
Red Rock Canyon, Nevada
Deep in the underbrush of the Red Rock Mountains, the hunter crept through the rugged terrain toward the mansion nestled in the foothills. A moon hung low in the dark, desert sky. His eyesight as keen as the surrounding night predators, he slipped through the thicket, focused on his mission. The fragrant creosote bushes filled his senses as he eased through the woods, his booted feet crunching on pinecones on the dry carpet of the forest. A slight breeze stirred through the ponderosa pines, sounding like the wise old whispers of the Paiute Indians buried thousands of feet below in the windblown sand.
He fingered the weapon in his hooded jacket, a shuriken, a Ninja star, a throwing death star laced with poison. Oh, yes, he was coming. His heart jackhammered in his chest, adrenaline pumping. He licked his lips in eager anticipation. From deep in the woods, a coyote howled, barely distinct over the wild beat of his heart.
He spotted the mansion in the distance, a torch-lit courtyard, copper lanterns casting willowy shadows on stained-glass windows. A bell tower loomed in eerie silence. Smooth marble lions guarded the entrance gate.
Adrenaline surged through him, filling him with a sense of power as potent as a deadly cobra. His fingers tightened on his death star, itching to wield it into the betrayer’s throat. He emerged from the thicket, crouching low in the shadows of the undulating pines.
Sweat trickled down his spine despite the cold night air of the Mohave. Blending into the shadows of the mansion, he shimmied along the red bricks of the estate, camouflaging himself in the waivery branches. The throaty cry of a raven screeched, eerie and foreboding.
Keeping low to the ground, the sounds of the night predators at his back, he crept up the stone steps leading to the mansion, sheathed his hands in latex gloves, and inserted a key in the heavy, mahogany door. He stood in the foyer of the two-story mansion, contemplating his moves. He glanced at his watch. Quarter till midnight. And when the clock strikes twelve, the death star will hit the mark. Bulls eye.
Water gushed from the gaping mouth of a lion head fountain, giving the foyer the look of a Greco sanctuary. A grand sweeping staircase led to upper wings. From upstairs, the sultry vocals of Patsy Cline drifted down, the bittersweet lyrics laced with heart-wrenching pain. A lamp in the parlor cast an amber glow on leather sofas scattered with tiger skin pillows. A large screen television and wet bar took up an entire wall.
Creeping along the marble floors, the hunter liberated a bottle of finely-aged whiskey from the bar and tilted it to his lips, wishing he had time for a premium cigar from the walk-in humidor. He raised the jug. “Here’s lookin’ at you, Carlos DeVeccio.” He checked his watch. Just about show time.
Cocktails over, he strutted down the hallway, the lyrics of his favorite song playing in his head. A hunting we will go, a hunting we will go. Heigh ho the dairy-o, a hunting we will go. We’ll catch a fox and put him in a box. Heigh ho the dairy-o, a hunting we will go.
Reaching the great room, his majesty’s private domain, he stalked across the threshold and entered the hall, giving a mock salute with his middle finger. The roiling presence of Carlos DeVeccio reached out from every corner, traces of his power and prestige palpable. Anger glinted in the hunter’s eyes.
Twelve leather chairs surrounded the large ebony table where the big man presided every Saturday during meetings. A pair of Sabre swords gleamed in the muted light of the moon. Directly above the king’s throne, presenting a daunting aura, a fleshless face mask rested, the one the old man wore when ruling the world with his big shot fist. The hunter grinned as he removed that mask and fastened it around his face.
Shimmying up the staircase, focused on his mission, he merged into the shadows of the dark wood paneling, concentrating on every sight, scent, and sound, just as the old man had taught him when he was his number one assassin. From the bathroom, the shower was running, pellets of water hitting the glass door as steady as a cold, hard rain. He was singing, his low voice echoing through the corridor.
Entering the master bath, the hunter crouched down behind the doorjamb, fingering his Ninja weapon. The water stopped with a jarring screech. The hunter’s heart danced a wild rhythm in his chest, his fingers poised and ready to wield the throwing star at a second’s notice. Hurry up, he silently urged. Come on, come on out.
Carlos DeVeccio stepped out of the shower, reached for a towel just as the bell in the bell tower gonged out twelve piercing chimes. They reverberated in the hunter’s ears, but he kept focused, his blood pumping. His fingers tightened and released, tightened and released.
Just then, Carlos DeVeccio, still singing, made an about face. Using an underarm pitch, the hunter wield the death star, the blade slicing through his jack-be-nimble fingers in a smooth, controlled slice. It whizzed through the air with a hissing zing, hitting the mark, is throat.
Stunned, Carlos DeVeccio dropped his towel, his face twisting in pain as the poison seeped into his jugular vein and into his system. Lying on the cold, tile floor, belly up and dying, blood pumping out of his naked body, his eyes grew wide with shock when the hunter took off his mask and grinned at him.
AS: Heebie Jeebies! Who knew my lovely friend Sharon could give me chills like this? Okay, well I'm assuming that your "latest news" is all about this book. So, please tell us how this came about?
SHARON: When I began my writing career, an instructor made a statement I found very discouraging, not to mention utterly outrageous!She said the first book written is seldom the first book sold. No way, I thought. Surely the suspense novel I’m spinning, Mask of the Betrayer, will be plucked up by the first publishing house that reads it. When I sent my manuscript to the first publisher, I was sure the phone would ring, offering me a contract. Well the call never came. Instead, I got a rejection letter, then another and another. Pretty soon, I was up to twenty. So I’d get them another way, I schemed, still not discouraged. I’ll go to them, hook an agent at a conference. So I had my ten minute pitch with a New York City agent who informed me I was no Nora Roberts. To boot, he handed me my business card on the way out. Now I was discouraged.
Sitting alone downstairs at a coffee shop, feeling more than a little sorry for myself, a woman sat down and we began chatting. It turned out she was a writer from The Wild Rose Press and told me to send my synopsis to them. I did and that was how I got my foot into the door of my first publishing house. But the hallmark of The Wild Rose Press is romance, and while Mask of the Betrayer has elements of romance in it, it is a suspense thriller rather than romantic suspense. So once more, my story was rejected. In the meantime, I enrolled in every creative writing class and workshop I could find. I joined critique groups and attended writing conferences. Then I submitted three short stories to The Wild Rose Press and they were all contracted and published in three consecutive months. I then set up a blog and website and joined countless Yahoo groups, sucking in any and all I could about research and writing suspense. Then I published my first non-fiction, a memoir dealing with my struggles with diabetic retinopathy. And before long, I felt ready to begin anew. I wrote a romantic suspense novel and it was contracted with The Wild Rose Press. And then after polishing Mask of the Betrayer for the umpteenth time, I once more submitted it and forgot about it. I am pleased to announce, after seven long years, I have finally sold Mask of the Betrayer to Whimsical Publications, LLC!
AS: Your story is so inspiring. I know you've personally touched my life in so many ways and I know that you've done the same for many others. I'll get all emotional if I get started down that path today, so please tell us how you came up with the title for this book?
SHARON: Just like the long and winding road to its publication, the title had its share of alterations as well. Mask of the Betrayer was originally entitled Raptured. This manuscript and title became my rough draft. While I kept the two main characters, Margot and Michael, nothing else is remotely similar to its present form. Next it became Masquerade of Faces. The main male character, Michael DeVeccio, is a disturbed man with many faces. While he is devastatingly handsome, charismatic and smooth as silk, he is also a cold blooded killer. Then when I decided to add a murder at a costume party, Masquerade became the working title. And now, in its present form, Michael DeVeccio is a serial killer stalking the foothills of Red Rock Canyon. He leaves his calling card on those who have betrayed him, a macabre skull mask on the corpse. And the title was born: Mask of the Betrayer.
AS: Congrats on this new book! I know it will do well for you and I can't wait to get my hands on a copy! Are you working on any new projects right now?
SHARON: I am presently working on the sequel to Mask of the Betrayer. Without giving away the ending of book one, I can’t say too much about it other than the drama and suspense continues! I am torn between Vengeance and Vendetta for the working title. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
The Wild Rose Press has introduced a new call for submission for their new line: Jewels of the Night. One submission will be chosen at random to launch the series. The selected contract will be given a premium publishing spot during Crimson month (November) as well as a featured review and interview with Once Upon a Romance. The story must be filled with romance, danger and intrigue. But mostly, it needs to be centered around a blue diamond. The deadline for submissions is March 31, 2010.
I am one of the hostesses at The Author Roast and Toast. Every Friday, we roast one author by promoting the featured book with a celebration party and selected theme. It’s lots of fun and the them of the party has a wide range from the elegant to the rural setting of the Wild, Wild West to Mardi Gras parties and winter wonderland carnivals in a romantic setting. The three of us each use a prop, my cyber butler, Oliver, who is also a huge hit on my personal blog, along with two sweet but mischievous mascots, Cuddles and Junior. Cuddles is a magical unicorn and Junior is a telepathic dog. If you care to be roasted, please come read Oliver’s rules to set up your celebratory day! http://authorroastandtoast.blogspot.com
AS: I love Oliver! Give him a big old smooch for me, won't you? Before we wrap up, do you have any words of wisdom for other aspiring authors out there?
SHARON: Never give up on a dream. Nothing is impossible through blood, sweat and tears. And a few myths and legends go a long way to entice the creative muse. Call it mind over matter, luck of the draw or the powers that be. But I believe in the happily-ever-after. Unfortunately, these magically alluring myths are not granted without earning them. The words will not flow simply by rubbing a colored gemstone or wishing upon a star. The backbone of good writing is learning. Never stop seeking advice through critique partners and critique groups, workshops and conferences. Read every book out there in the genre in which you choose to write. Knowledge is power. But the best advice I can give is this:Keep writing. I’ll leave you with my own personal motto: I’m a better writer than I was yesterday but not as good as I will be tomorrow.
AS: Those are words to live by, my friend. Thank you so much for joining us today. I'm going to include the links where you can find Sharon down below. I'll tell you, from personal experience, that Sharon NEVER disappoints! So, get out there and pick up a copy of her books! Great Christmas gifts for just about everyone on your list!
SHARON'S LINKS & SCHEDULE FOR JANUARY:
You can sign up for my newsletter so not to miss book releases, contests and announcements on my website. You can also read book excerpts, view my trailers and read my reviews.
In January, I will be hosting the Coffee Writes with Hollie at Coffee Time Romance and More. This is a fun place to add your spin on the story I will start. The theme for January will be suspense. Every day, someone can add to the story, taking it to wherever your imagination leads you! Please join me! (Note from Kerri: I hope I can be there, this sounds like a BLAST!)
Sheryl: Hello again, readers! Today we have the privilege of speaking with Miss Angelique Beauvisage. Miss Beauvisage stars in Maggie Dove’s new release Angel of Windword. Hello Miss Beauvisage, thank you for joining us today.
Angelique Beauvisage: Hello, Ms. Connelly. Thank you for having me.
Sheryl: Please tell our readers a little about yourself, Angelique. I can call you Angelique, can’t I?
Angelique Beauvisage: Oh certainly. No need to stand on formality on my account. Well, I was born in the Loire Valley in France. My mother, Lorraine Beauvisage died giving birth to me. My late father, Julian, married a horrid woman, Victoria Montclair, and left me with a last will and testament that keeps me under her control.
Sheryl: Almost sounds as though you are living the life if an early 1900’s Cinderella. Angelique Beauvisage: (giggle) Almost… the exception being I have two kind stepbrothers, Jean-Claude and Pierre. They don’t have gainful employment and spend hours in the library, discussing their mother. They love me very much, but are too weak to stand up to the domineering Victoria.
Sheryl: Ah- mama’s boys, eh?
Angelique Beauvisage: Yes, indeed, they ARE mama’s boys.
Sheryl: OOOOO- Do tell… This sounds juicy. You aren’t the kind of young woman who plays games with a gentleman’s heart are you?
Angelique Beauvisage: (giggle) Yes, but at the moment, I’m a bit ashamed of the game I have concocted to get my way. I’m the heroine and I have a wonderful role in this book as a sneaky two-faced beauty. I have been required to become a liar. You see, Nicholas Kent, a very handsome viscount, is also being forced to marry me because of a family venture. And I have agreed to marry him, knowing that Henri and I will elope before the arranged marriage.
Sheryl: Angelique, being so young and inexperienced, do you think that you’ll be able to handle the murderous, dark secrets, and perilous situations lurking in Windword Hall?
Angelique Beauvisage: I don’t know… you’ll have to go to http://www.eternalpress.ca/ and buy the book to find out.
Sheryl: Darn! And here I was hoping for the Cliff’s Notes version! Oh well folks, there you have it. Murder, intrigue, and romance… could you ask for more on a cold winter’s night beside a crackling fire?
I’ve always hated the idea of the synopsis, and I know I'm not alone. To most authors it is the equivalent of a four-letter word. However, I have to admit that while investing quite a lot of time recently studying up on it that I’ve learned to like it. Shh! Don’t tell. Part of the reason is because when you take the time to write the synopsis it gives you the opportunity to really evaluate your novel or story and make sure it has value and that it is indeed ready for submission.
So let’s get to it. Let me share with you the research I’ve put together on writing the synopsis.*
A synopsis is a summary of your book in it’s entirety. It’s an overview of plot, characters, and conflict. Its style is a preview of coming attractions—characters, dramatic moments, and plot.
I. Content—the Seven parts to a synopsis:
1. Theme
The theme pulls the entire book together. Sometimes you don’t even know what the theme is until you’re ready to write the synopsis. But identifying that theme really is a selling factor for your novel.
2. Setting the Period
When you start off the synopsis set the scene and let the reader know the place and time period if that is revelant.
3. Plot summary
This is the heart of the synopsis. It includes the beginning, middle and end. Don’t forget the END! Introduce the problem, the conflict and the resolution. Provide the inciting incident (beginning), effort to reach the goal (middle), and climax—success or failure (the end). The plot must spring from your characters not events.
4. Character Sketches
Show that your story is character driven (Although it would be near impossible to write a romance that wasn’t character driven—wouldn’t it?)Take a paragraph to describe your character—his past, his motivations, what drives him and makes him unique, his flaws. Include major players in the story—protagonists and antagonists. Omit subplot characters. Name only 4-5 characters—tops. The rest give role names within the summary. Things like friend, mother-in-law, policeman, clerk, etc. In a long novel with many characters it may be necessary to include a character list with basic roles to be referred to through the plot synopsis.
5. Dialogue
Use dialogue sparingly in the synopsis. It slows down pace and takes up space. In a synopsis, every word must be efficient. However, well chosen bits of dialogue lend flavor to the bland voice of summary.
6. Emotional Turning Points
Every novelist knows that it’s the small scenes that move the plot forward. You can’t include all those scenes in the synopsis. The big scenes, on the other hand, those emotional turning points, should be included. The climax is the final turning point along with a statement regarding how your protagonist ultimately changes by books end.
7. Subplots
You won’t be able to include every subplot in the synopsis. But if there is an important subplot (especially if it connects to the main plot) make sure to include it.
Notes: Open with a problem and what’s at stake—set the stage. Introduce your protagonist with a hint at inner problems and conflict before going into the plot summary.
Have fun! No really, try to have fun with it. Make yours stand out from the crowd and a sense of humor just might do the trick.
*Most of the information I’ve put together on writing the synopsis comes from The Sell Your Novel Tool Kit by Elizabeth Lyon. It’s a great resource and I recommended it highly.
When I first started writing my story—Snow Kissed—I knew I needed some insight about SNOW from my friends who actually lived in the snow. I, myself, am a California girl recently transplanted in North Carolina. I’d visited snow, gone skiing, spent weekends in the mountains all while living in CA. Now in NC, we have the occasional snow fall which usually melts that same hour or within a day or two. But living with snow day in and day out all winter long, I knew nothing about. So I tapped into the knowledge of my good friend and critique partner who is a Wisconsin native. Here is just a part of what she told me are the ‘Ins and Outs’ of Snow.
Good Things
Snow is beautiful. Especially new fallen snow that has yet to be disturbed.
Winter sports and activities are great – skiing, sledding, ice skating, snow mobiling, snow shoeing and ice fishing to name a few.
It’s nice to look out at the snow from your cozy, warm house as you are curled up under an afghan with a good book.
Winter clothes are so cozy and cuddly (not to mention more forgiving of figure flaws than most summer clothes.)
Hot chocolate with whipped cream when you come in from the cold.
No road construction!
Snow days! Hurray for no school.
Bad Things
Dirty snow and slush are gross.
Shoveling the driveway and digging out cars after a snowstorm.
We miss gardening, picnicking and swimming outside.
It’s not nice when it’s twenty degrees below zero (before factoring in the wind chill) and your car battery is dead from the cold.
It’s a pain to have to put on so many extra clothes – coat, hat, mittens, scarf and boots – just to walk to the end of the driveway and get the mail. If you have kids, add snow pants as well to their outdoor ensemble.
Cold floors! Especially if you don’t have carpeting in your bedroom.
Bad driving conditions. Icy roads can send cars spinning into the ditch and drifts of snow can trap cars in them.
Do you have anything to add about snow? Love it—Hate it?
Here is an excerpt from my story, Snow Kissed, with my snow-loving heroine and the hero who hates it.
As soon as Muriel left, Logan’s mood seemed to shift from irritated to agreeable. His body language became much more relaxed with his hardened chin softening and a real smile moving onto his face. “So, what are you up to this afternoon?”
Before Holly’s expression could waver into a frown, she forced a smile. “I…I’m off for a snow walk.” Possibly my last in Meriden.
“That is what’s so stupid about this…this whole Winter Wonderland Carnival. There’s no snow!” He raised both his hands in aggravation.
“There might not be any right now, but there will be.”
“How do you know? There’s no snow expected. Cold, but no snow.”
“There’ll be snow tonight.” She stepped close to him, laying her hand in the crook of his arm. The contact brought a swirl of pleasure moving around inside her stomach—more so than normal. It must be from all the excitement of her news—nothing more than that.
“Just breathe,” she whispered to him, as she slowly took in a deep whiff. “You smell that?”
He shook his head. “What? Burgers from down the street?”
“No.” She laughed; he could be so dense sometimes. “It’s the first snowfall.” She inhaled another intoxicating aroma of winter air. “It’s coming.”
“And what’s so good about snow? It’s just annoying and inconvenient.” He pulled his arm away and folded them across his lean frame.
“Snow is beautiful…magical.” Her voice came out breathy with the idea of snow making her feel all tingly.
“It’s cold, wet stuff that falls from the sky.”
“Then there are the wonderful clothes: hats, scarves, gloves…”
“…galoshes, wool socks,” he countered.
She continued, not to be undone by his cynicism. “Fresh baked cookies, hot apple cider, hot cocoa, hot toddies…what is a hot toddy?”
He nearly laughed at her, a cute smile building in the corner of his mouth as he shook his head. “A hot alcoholic drink. You want to come in for some coffee? I just made a pot.”
She shook her head and took in a deep breath before releasing it. “No, remember I’m off to take my snow walk through Meriden.” She tilted her head up at him. “I’ll be at the carnival tonight, working the booth for the church. Of course, you wouldn’t dare show your face there, now would you?”
Pausing, she made a concerted effort to memorize his face, including his subtly uneven eyebrows. This was probably one of the last times they’d be together. A breath hitched in her throat at the thought of never seeing Logan again. They’d shared so many memories over the years: spring picnics at the lake, midnight movies, and disastrous cooking adventures. Life wouldn’t be the same without him.
She should tell him she was leaving town for good. This was the perfect moment. Maybe he would respond by telling her she should stay—stay because he loved her too much to let her go. In my dreams.
“Goodbye, Logan,” was all she could bring herself to say. Lord, help me. It was easier than being disappointed.
Halloween. This word conjures up many different images for me. As a child of the supernatural, I feel at home around all the frightening aspects of Halloween. I love skulls, vampires, werewolves—all the creatures that usually scare other people. I have fond memories carving pumpkins with my family, trick-or-treating and when I got older, dressing up in costumes and going to adult Halloween parties. Halloween is my favorite holiday. I love dressing up as something different, not as a sexy cat or naughty nurse, but as a vampire, wood elf or biker chick. It is fun to pretend to be someone else for one night of the year. When I was single, there was something cool and sexy about meeting a guy on Halloween. As someone else, I felt like I could break free from my inhibitions.
Halloween inspires me to write. The combination of the fall chill, shorter days and autumn scents like wood smoke make me reflective, drawing on that dark half of the year when the ancient Celts felt the barriers fall between the earthly realm and the otherworld of the dead. There is a somber feeling to Halloween, one that turns my thoughts inward and draws ideas out of me. I like to write paranormal/fantasy stories so the darker, solemn half of the year works best for me to set the mood for my stories.
Halloween makes me think of the ancient Celtic Samhain. I sense how the ancient Celts felt this time of year when the golden wheat was reaped, leaving barren fields, or when they had to cull the herds of cattle for winter to ensure the food supply. Surrounded by death, it is easy to understand why they thought the barriers stood open between the realms of the living and the dead. I sense the changes in the seasons that they felt. I hear the whisper of falling leaves, that sense of a hush falling over the earth as winter closes in with its threatening grasp. It is like the earth sleeps until spring when it awakens and blooms again. It must have been frightening to think that winter might never end and I can see why the ancient Celts thought of death as the earth turned barren and cold.
Halloween brings with it the cold, solemn moon that marks the beginning of the dark half of the year, the days grow shorter, the weather hostile. It is a time for me to gather with family and friends. It is a time for reflection and a time for warm fires flickering with the light of hope for the return of spring to begin the cycle over again.
Yesterday, I introduced you to Linore Rose Burkard and her Inspirational Regency Romances. Today, I've posted my personal review of the first book in the series, Before the Season Ends.
Publisher Description:
In her debut novel of what she calls “spirited romance for the Jane Austen soul,” author Linore Rose Burkard tells the intriguing story of Miss Ariana Forsythe, a young woman caught between her love for a man who doesn’t share her faith and her resolution to marry only a fellow believer in Christ.
Trouble at home sends the young woman to her aunt’s townhome in the fashionable Mayfair district of London. There she finds worse troubles than those that prompted her flight from home. Ariana is soon neck–deep in high society and at odds with Mr. Phillip Mornay, London’s current darling rogue. Then a scandal changes Ariana forever. Her heart, her faith, and her future are all at stake in an unexpected adventure that gains even the Prince Regent’s attention.
Will Ariana’s faith survive this test? And what about her heart? For it’s Ariana’s heart that most threatens to betray the truths she has always believed in. When she finds herself backed against a wall, betrothed to the wrong young man, how can it ever turn out right?
Jane Austen readers and fans of Regency romances everywhere will love Before the Season Ends.
Review:
Jane Austen fans beware. You will not be able to put this book down. Before the Season Ends is one of those books with a permanent place on my bookshelf that I intend to read over again.
Ms. Burkard is a talented author. Her writing style is that which pulls you in and doesn't let go until you've reached the end. And even then you wish there to be more. Thank goodness there’s a sequel. Indeed, I was quite astounded at the aptitude of the author not that I discounted Ms. Burkard before reading, but that she is just so very good at writing Regency. You might even believe you're reading a period novel. Her writing stays in tune with the time period to the extent as to even match the spelling of certain words like--connexion-- for connection. The same way Jane Austen spelled it.
The writing does resemble that of Jane Austen if not in style than in technicalities. Just like Jane the POV (point of view) does switch from head to head in certain places within a scene while primarily staying with the heroine. There is even a hint of the narrator just like Jane at times. For those certain comments could not come from the heroine but an all-knowing narrator.
The author’s description of Regency England and especially London is so detailed that you would have thought she slipped back in time to take down notes. There are also such stunning descriptions of places and homes and the things within the home. Being a historian myself, I appreciated this side of her book as well. Very well researched. As one who loves classic literature of the Regency and Victorian era, I thought her book fit right in with the likes of Jane Austen, Elizabeth Gaskell and Charles Dickens.
The heroine, Ariana Forsythe, starts out seeming quite young and naive at the onset of the book. As we aren't allowed into her POV much in the 1st 3 chapters, I wasn’t quite sure of want kind of character she would turn out to be. She is a young woman of great moral fiber who loves God and in following His commandments receives the desires of her heart. Ariana is such an endearing character. I enjoyed her very much. What an example she is to all young women even today in their Christian walks. The reasons that the unattainable Mr. Mornay falls in love with her are the very same reasons you will find her delightful.
Mr. Philip Mornay is called the Paragon. Every lady wishes to attract him and every man tends to emulate him. From fashion, wealth, and society he is at the peak of the swell. He's very proud and at times seems angry. He can be brusque and rude and everyone allows it because he is the Paragon. Then he meets Arianna and his heart and behavior begin to change. For every action there is a reaction and Ariana soon learns the reasons for the behaviors in the man she has come to love.
My one qualm with the book is that I wish there had been more time spent in the POV of the hero, Mornay. Of course, the same could be said of Jane Austen which of course has resulted in all those modern written spin off novels.
Before the Season Ends was simply enchanting from the first page to the last. It is very romantic and yes even passionate at times. Such a sweet romance and one that got my heart to pounding to see these characters get together. The Christian message is quite transparent from the very first chapter. No watered down Christianity here. It was wonderful to see the plan God had in the lives of these two people. I look forward to reading the sequel.
Linore, what drew you to writing Regency Romance novels? Georgette Heyer and Jane Austen books gave me a love for the period, and there weren't any Christian regencies to be found. I wanted to change that.
Where did you find your inspiration for Ariana and Phillip? I think they're both amalgamations of people I've read about and/or known. All of my characters are very real for me, so I suppose I've had to pull them from the world in some way or other.
What do you think we could learn today from how society operated in the Regency period? England in the 1800s is a world away from the 21st century. Times have changed, but people haven't. Men and women of the time were concerned with their appearances, their finances, their futures, finding the right spouse, and so on, just as we are, today. How they went about pursuing these ends is where all the difference lies, however, and this is precisely where the interest and adventure opens up for writers; We get to bring to life the means and methods of everyday life and timeless concerns from the regency. It is fun and enlightening as a glimpse into the past, but readers can also identify with the basic human need to be genuinely loved for oneself, no matter the setting or time period, and to be certain of one's convictions concerning life, eternity, and faith. Having said that, it is good to remind modern readers that valuing one's purity can be mainstream, as it was then; or that the struggle to find a true love and a sense that one's life has value, has always been a human issue.
What do you hope readers will take away from your books? I hope my readers will feel as though they've been transported to the Regency for a good, satisfying visit; While they're visiting, they'll be reminded that God is involved in their life, and that happy endings are possible for everyone.
Any Regency romance is going to be compared to Jane Austen's novels ~ how are your books similar / different? I don't think most regencies are written with this comparison in mind at all. However, other people say my book is "Austen-like." That is a huge compliment, and one I would love to live up to.
Do you have more Regency novels planned? Right now I'm working on my third book in the series,The Country House Courtship. I have a few more regencies in mind also, which I hope to have published after TCHC.
Can you give us a sneak peek into The Country House Courtship? Country House is the third book in the Regency Series, and gives one of the minor characters from the first books her own "day in the spotlight," her own romance. It begins about five years later (about 1818) and sees Mr. O'Brien (a curate, now) to a happy marriage of his own.
Do you ever bang your head against the wall from the dreaded writer's block? If so, how do you overcome it? I do something else. If I can't write a scene for a book, I can always update my website or blog, or do an article for someone, or answer interview questions. I can't really force a scene when it isn't coming; A real block means I need to think about the story more; that something isn't fleshed out enough in my mind to write it out in a compelling way. So getting busy doing something else is the best thing I can do for the book and for me (rather than beat myself up). It allows me to think about what is missing in the scene or in the character until I can get back to writing it more confidently.
Novelists sometimes dig themselves into a hole over implausible plots, flat characters, or a host of other problems. What's the most difficult part of writing for you (or was when you first started on your novel journey)? I think for me the biggest challenge was to believe that I could write a novel in small increments. As a mom of five, four of whom are still home year-round (one is in college), having frequent interruptions is a fact of life. Writing takes a concentration so deep so that when I first started doing scenes, I would find myself getting woozy after standing up. I was shocked at the level of exertion it took to use my brain that hard, I guess! It happens less now--I guess I've grown accustomed to it. And I've learned to appreciate those small blocks of time. Ten minutes in a waiting room can yield a part of a scene I couldn't get done at home. Every little bit counts. I don't despise small beginnings. There are times when I'm in a deep level of involvement with a story or a character, and then getting interrupted can break the mood; but I'm getting better all the time at picking up where I left off, no matter how deeply I've got to dive to get back into the character or situation. For people like me with busy households, this is a must-have ability. I believe it can be the difference between making that deadline or not.
How did (or do) you climb out (overcome it)? If I do get stuck at some point in the plot, I let it simmer in my mind. I also exercise--for some reason, when I am physically active, my brain gets going in a way that doesn't always happen when I'm sitting with my laptop before me. Swimming and doing the treadmill (walking) almost always result in wonderful new ideas I just can 't wait to get on paper. Sometimes, I've even had to stop walking and run to the pc just to get the idea down so I don't forget. By the way, I always pray for the right idea, too. There is no better writer than God.
The second "nifty" way to solve a plot (or other) problem in a book is to let it sit awhile without reading it. When you come back to it after a long enough interval (as long as you can give it) solutions just present themselves. I find the same thing happens to me with crossword puzzles--if I'm stuck, I put it down and when I come back to it--even an hour later--the word is there. So the key is, give yourself permission to take a break.
Some authors report writing 5-10 thousand words a day. Do scenes flow freely from your veins, or do you have to tweeze each word out? In general, I write more than I need and later have to cut back. I don't use a word count, but I may set a goal of one chapter a day or two chapters for a busy week. Other times, I don't think in terms of chapters at all, just events. I may break an event down into four scenes, say, and so my goal for that day will be to get the whole event on paper. In other words, finish the four scenes. Life changes so rapidly with the children, that for me, a hard and fast writing goal just wouldn't work. And, I focus on results, not time spent. Instead of, "Now I'll write for three hours," I say, "Now I'll have this or that happen to a character, or, 'I'll show a different side to this person." When I have accomplished that goal, no matter how long it took, I feel satisfied, and only then.
The first two books in Linore's Regency Series are out now with a third coming soon!
BIO-LINORE ROSE BURKARD Linore Rose Burkard creates Inspirational Romance for the Jane Austen Soul. Her characters take you back in time to experience life and love during the era of Regency England (circa 1800 - 1830). Fans of classic romances, such as Pride & Prejudice, Emma, and Sense & Sensibility, will enjoy meeting Ariana Forsythe, a feisty heroine who finds her heart and beliefs tested by high-society London.
Ms. Burkard's novels include Before the Seasons Ends and The House in Grosvenor Square. Her stories blend Christian faith and romance with well-researched details from the Regency period. Her books and monthly newsletter captivate readers with little-known facts, exciting stories, and historical insights. Experience a romantic age, where timeless lessons still apply to modern life. And, enjoy romance that reminds us happy endings are possible for everyone.
Publisher's Weekly affirms, "Ms. Burkard's command of period detail is impressive, evident in material details, but also in dialogue. Her novels even help non-Regencyphiles learn the difference between ladies' pelisses and spencers...On the whole, it's a tasty confection."
Ms. Burkard began writing when she couldn't find a Regency romance with an inspirational twist. "There were Christian books that approached the genre," she says, "But, they fell short of being a genuine Regency. I knew that many women like me want stories that are historically authentic and offer glimpses of God's involvement in our lives. So, I finally gave up looking and decided to write one myself."
Ms. Burkard was raised in New York, where she graduated magna cum laude from the City University of New York with a Bachelor of Arts in English literature. She lives with her husband and five children in a town full of antique stores and gift shops in southwestern Ohio. Her hobbies include working on four new Regency novels, family movie nights, swimming, and gardening.
Okay, so in my last post I stopped right after the party on Friday night. If you missed the post, check it out here.
Saturday morning arrived too soon since I stayed up late, but I wasn't about to miss a minute of this great conference so I was up early to shower and grab some breakfast. The first workshop I attended Saturday was "Writing the Winning Synopsis Using Narrative Structure" presented by my fellow Wild Rose Press author Jenni Holbrook. Excellent workshop. Using Jenni's narrative structure worksheet, my next attempt at a synopsis may not be quite so stressful.
Next up, we chose to attend "The Balancing Act of the First Chapter" presented by Christie Craig and Faye Hughes. Here's a lovely snapshot of the pair to the right.
Let me take just a moment to note that each hour, we had a difficult time choosing which workshop to attend. There were so many wonderful choices, but I couldn't be in two places at once. I am very glad we chose this particular workshop. Christie is hilarious! And both authors had great tips to impart.
Our last workshop before lunch was "Bring Back That Loving Feeling." This workshop, presented by Sandra Chastain, Ann Howard White, Seressia Glass, and Dorie Graham, focused on what do when you're having trouble finding the will to write. Since my conference buddy and I have both suffered from this over the last year, we felt this might be good for both of us and it was. The presenters all told us about when and why they stopped writing (some of these stories were heartwrenching, btw) and how they overcame it and returned to their writing. After listening to their stories, I counted my blessings and realized that I really have no excuse.
The keynote speaker at the luncheon was Sherrilyn Kenyon. (That's me with Sherri on the left.) I'd never heard Sherri's account of how she went from unknown writer to the well-known NYT bestselling author she is today. Trust me, if you ever have a chance to hear it, take a tissue with you. Sherri is a great writer, and I've always admired her for her prolific ability to write so many quality books. But after hearing what she went through to get where she is today, I admire her all the more. There aren't many people--writers or otherwise-- who have the perseverence and talent to go through the lows she's had and still be able to climb their way to the top again.
After Sherri's wonderful speech, we were once again attending great workshops. As I mentioned in my first post, I attended Molly O'Keefe's workshop on "Getting Conflict on Every Page." This was great for me simply because it helped me figure out why some of my writing seems to sparkle, and other times I look at something and just want to throw it out. I know the importance of conflict in a manuscript, and I always try to keep it front and center. But what I learned in Molly's class was what I'd been doing right when I get those pages that I'm so proud of. Some will say, "I'm so jealous. You do it without even knowing it." Yeah, well, just think how good I could be if I did it on purpose! And to do it consistently so that all my writing is that good! Thanks, Molly!
Our next choice for workshop was presented by Jade Lee. Conferences around the country should send special invites to this lady. She is so much fun to be around, and just so good for a writer's soul. She is talented and passionate about writing and I just hope some of her boundless enthusiasm rubbed off on me. The workshop was "Setting as Character" and she gave us examples how the setting can reflect your character. One of my "Ah Hah!" moments came during this workshop. After attending Tami Cowden's workshop on archetypes and then looking at how my setting can reflect my character, I put the two together to figure out what was missing in the hero from one of my WIPs. I also scored an autographed copy 0f Jade's DRAGONBORN. WooHoo!
After this workshop we attended the autographing and booksigning. Wow, there were lots of people there! I even met a writer who lives not too far from me. And pardon me while I stray from the subject for just a moment-- This past Saturday Kelle Z. Riley, myself, and five other romance writers got together at the Panera Bread. It was totally awesome! And it wouldn't have happened without the conference. Laurie White, another local author who attended M&M, arranged the whole thing. This conference was not only good for my writer's soul, but it also spawned a much needed local group for me. Another WooHoo!
The booksigning was followed by the big event-- the Maggies award ceremony with more food. The GRW members really outdid themselves on the food this year. They provided enough meals and/or appetizers to save conference attendees quite a bit of money on eating out. I'd like to say thanks for that. My pocketbook appreciates it! Anyway, I so wanted to enter my book, THE WAGONMASTER, in the Maggie contest, but it didn't come out in print before the deadline. Oh, well... There was some pretty stiff competition in the historical division anyway. Elizabeth Hoyt took the historical Maggie for TO TASTE TEMPTATION. For a list of all the winners, both published and unpublished, check here.
Attendees were encouraged to dress in "Dark, bad, or fun" attire/costumes for the event. At our table we had a faerie (me), a cat (Mary Alice), Maid Marion, and a couple of women wearing what I would say were "dark fun" ensembles.
The tear-filled ceremony was followed by a big party with dancing. It was a grand time for all.
On Sunday, there was a workshop at 9:00 presented by Dianna Love and Mary Buckham. It was entitled "Break Into Fiction- Power Up Your Proposal." These ladies have a book for writers under the same title, BREAK INTO FICTION. No, I haven't read it yet, but I hear it's great and it's on my wishlist. With Dianna and Mary, I'm sure it was wonderful, but I couldn't tell you. I was too lazy to get my butt out of bed after staying up late. My roommate and I slept in and ended our M&M weekend with a great brunch at IHOP.
Oh, wait! I almost forgot! I took a picture just to prove that there are a few men who attend these conferences. :) Walt Mussell is on the right. Carrie is in the middle and Carrie's husband, Shane, is on the left. Together, the couple make the writing duo of Carrie Shane.
I had the best time at this conference, and I would definitely recommend it. The Georgia Romance Writers have that legendary southern hospitality down to an art. They really know how to do it right.
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Merry Christmas! I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season. Whichever holiday you celebrate, remember the spirit of joy and giving this time of year brings. Keep it in your heart, but share it with everyone!
