A Character by Any Other Name by Laura Hunsaker

 Good Morning Readers! I have a book signing coming up next month, and wanted to share the whens and wheres. If you're in the Las Vegas area, I'll be at the Paseo Verde Library on May 17th. 

With that being said, I wanted to talk about character names. I was having a discussion on Facebook about how do authors name their characters. I mentioned that with my Time Travel romances, it's easier to choose names because I can pull up old censuses. When everyone is named William or Edward, it makes it easy. Finding a less commonly used name requires going into the census of which ever year you're using, and even then, you can still find some more unique names. In fact, did you know Tiffany (Tifanie) was first used in the 1200s? In fact there's a name for that example: The Tiffany Problem. It's where modern names sound out of place in Historical settings, but they are actually accurate. 

One thing I didn't see mentioned was are there any names authors stay away from? 

I do tend to steer clear of any trendy names. I love the fun names we are seeing in kids, but I don't love a thirty year old hero or heroine being named something that's trendy with the 5 year olds right now. I'm not saying that there aren't thirty year olds named Bryxxtonn, but I don't think it's super common among the men I know. 

I lean towards names like Kyle, Scott, Jason, Ryan...but not everyone is the same. What are some names you don't like seeing in books? And what are some names you've gotten from books that you love! Someone named their daughter after one of my characters and it was the most flattering thing I've ever heard! Have you ever done that? Let me know in the comments.

At my signing next month, I'll be selling paperbacks of the New York Empires series.

Hockey, Romance, werewolves...this series has it all!

Amazon

Memories

I forgot to post on my day this month--the 20th. I even told Joan Reeves that I forgot and would make it up, and then I forgot again. While this is disappointing, it's not at all unusual. Like my waistline, my hair color, and my wish (sarcasm) to cook every day of my life, my memory is just shot. 

But my memories themselves aren't. While I may repeat them too often, that is a small price to pay for having them. They are what made me who I am, and I'm glad for that. I'm also lucky that I have more good memories than bad ones. The gnarly things are still there and will jump out and cause pain from time to time, but mostly they stay locked away. The scar tissue over the wounds remains intact and something serves to remind me that Yes, I Can. 

Even if your hearing is compromised, you can still hear things from your past. We live over two miles from the school, but if we're outside on Friday nights in the fall, we can still hear the sound of the marching band on the football field. Every time I hear it, I can go back to the bleachers as both a student and a player's mom, bellowing the school song and the national anthem with all my might.

I remember Mom shouting NancyJoeTomDan! before she got to my name, the one she was trying to stop midflight in the first place. I reached a point where I didn't answer unless she called me by my right name. I doubt that that went particularly well, but I don't remember that. 😇

I remember the day Hilary Sares called me from Kensington and bought my first book, Always Annie, and so many days and moments from the year that followed. Although I take nothing away from indie-publishing, self-publishing, or any other kind of non-trad publishing, I will say there is nothing quite like getting The Call from an editor. 

In direct disagreement with what I said above about gnarly things, I do remember the days when losses were life-changing. I believe the Kennedys' and MLK's assassinations changed the person I was. So did my grandfather's death when I was 13. My parents' loss of a three-year-old child long before I was born imprinted sadness in a place I couldn't reach and still can't. What would Christine have been like? Would she have liked me? Would my parents have been happier if she'd lived? 

I remember finishing a book--in 83 days!--and knowing it was different. For years, I called it the book of my heart knowing it was more than that because, honestly, they all are that. It was a book that got me two agents, that I honestly thought would sell the first time it hit a publisher's desk. 

It took ten years. 

But One More Summer is still special to me in ways I can't even put into words. It has created more memories than any other book I've written. It gave me a writing bar that I too often don't reach, but ... oh, I remember. The writing at three in the morning before I left for work at four. Waking in the night realizing that no, Grace wouldn't say that. The array of rejections that led to its eventual publication. 

There is an old Elvis Presley song written by Mac Davis and Billy Strange with lyrics that refer to memories being pressed between the pages of your mind. I think that's where mine are, and I love that the word pages is part of that reference. The pages of my books and of hundreds of others have created memories I cherish. More than having just read about them, I remember Jo March in the attic, Anne Shirley in the orchard at Green Gables, Betsy on Putney Farm in Vermont with the kittens in the hayloft, Trixie Belden's mysteries with the Bob Whites of the Glen. 

Sometimes, it doesn't matter what I forget. I am so very blessed by what I remember. 

There are many memories included in the A New Season series. I loved writing about Syd, Riley, and Dinah and the men they come to love. They're older, formed by the lives they've lived, and eager for the ones ahead. I hope you like them, too. 

My Word Is My Bond by Joan Reeves

It's ten o'clock on a Tuesday night, and I just remembered I needed to write this post for my blog day tomorrow, the 16th.

I groaned and collapsed on the bed. Torn between going to bed—which I really, really wanted to do—and fulfilling my obligation, I next began bargaining with myself.

Here's how it went.

I can get up early in the morning and write it. I need a good night's sleep. I'm too tired. I'm all written out. I don't know what to write. My brain is empty of words.

The counter argument went this way.

No, you're no longer a morning person. You won't get up early. It takes you a while to get going what with the eye drops, vibration plate, IR and NIR treatment, eating something so you can take ibuprofen for your wrist joint.

Finally, I told the slacker me to just get up and do it. Thus, I find myself at the computer, pecking away, and I'm happy to be doing it. Getting over that initial inertia hump is difficult but always worthwhile. 

OBLIGATION TRUMPS ALL

I find the one sure way I'll do something, even if it's something I don't want to do, is to commit to it. I made a commitment to blog here on the 16th, and, come Hell or high water, I'll always do it. 

I'm that way about everything. If I say I'll do it, I will. I've missed blogging 2 or 3 times in the past, and I've always felt terrible about it.

I finally decided to use that "reluctance to break my word" to my own writing. 

I promised myself I would write 2K-3K words every day, Monday through Friday. That's about the length of a chapter for me. I did this because I haven't published a new book since 2022. Shock! Right? Time just kind of slipped away in the presence of loss and grief.

(Note. I did write 3 books, but I just didn't publish them. Yet. Even getting them ready to publish seemed like a monumental task.)

I made that writing promise. I put it on a graphic and use it as the image on my monitor display, I told it to my husband, and my daughter, and now I'm telling it to you.

Of course, it took me the first 3 months of this year to actually make that promise to myself. I spent those 3 months getting my ducks in a row.

I'm happy to report that I am actually keeping that promise to myself. My new book is Old Enough To Be Bold and is set for pre-order now. It will publish on or before May 30.

PROMISE KEEPER

The surest way to unhappiness in any part of life is to be a breaker of promises. In the past, people proudly proclaimed, "My word is my bond." It meant something. It meant that they could be trusted to do as they said. There's tremendous power and integrity in that.

In today's world, it's increasingly rare to find people who can be that person. If you want to succeed and have the respect and friendship of others, be that kind of person.

MY SALE BOOK THIS WEEK

99¢ SALE, Heat Lightning, "A real page turner." —NetGalley.

Amnesia. Desire. Passion. Tessa knows those three to be true, but she doesn't know David, the man who says he's her husband—her protector. Amnesia has stolen her memories. 

David is a stranger, but when he touches her, desire flashes between them like heat lightning on a summer night. He wants her, but he doesn't say he loves her. Has Fate offered her a second chance at life and love?

Secrets. Lies. Danger. Why does David seem to hate her even as he pulls her into his arms? What is he hiding? How can she trust him when her gut says, Trust no one? 

She can't help falling in love with David, but her feeling of foreboding grows, as if something awful is about to happen. Will Tessa's lost memories be the death of her?

Wishing you a great second half of April. I'll see you in May!

JOAN ONLINE

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Why Fantasy Books Are Flying Off the Shelves (and What That May Say About Us) ~Sherri Easley

 

My daughter has not read either of my books. She is into Fantasy genres and Dragons- so I have decided to write a fantasy novel, so she will read at least one of my writings. She said something though that got me to thinking and researching. 

“As messed up as the world is right now, people just need an escape.” ~ Lauren–my daughter

In 2024, fantasy fiction sales skyrocketed—adult fantasy alone grew by a staggering 85% in the first half of the year, with titles like Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros leading the charge. From romantasy to epic quests, fantasy stories are not just trending—they’re thriving.

According to reports from Circana BookScan and Publishers Weekly, fantasy is officially on fire. Adult fiction sales grew by 9.5 million units, with fantasy, thrillers, and romance topping the charts. Meanwhile, “romantasy”—the love child of fantasy and romance—has exploded in popularity thanks in part to BookTok and reader communities craving high emotion and high-stakes adventure.

Why is this happening? Well, the last few years have been... a lot.

War, climate disasters, political chaos, inflation, pandemics—we’ve had a front-row seat to a world that often feels like it’s cracking at the edges. And in response, readers aren’t just reaching for comfort food fiction. They’re reaching for escape—and empowerment.

Fantasy offers both.

In these stories, the stakes are often higher than our own reality: a kingdom on the brink, a war between realms, a magical bloodline in hiding. But there’s something cathartic in watching fictional characters face overwhelming odds, stand their ground, and win.

Even if they’re wielding a sword instead of a ballot

There’s also the irresistible pull of romantasy—where fierce heroines fall in love while saving their worlds. These books aren’t just about quests. They’re about intimacy, connection, and hope in the midst of battle.

In a time when we’re more digitally connected but emotionally exhausted, romantasy gives us something to feel—deeply.

What Fantasy Gives Us Right Now:

• Escape: A breath away from headlines and heartache.
• Empowerment: Ordinary girls discovering extraordinary strength.
• Justice: Villains get vanquished. Light wins.

To prepare for my writing quest, I listened to the Blood and Ash series from Jennifer L Armentrout. They were very long books and didn’t disappoint.

Has a fantasy book saved your sanity this year?

Drop your recommendations in the comments—I need more dragons in my life! 

This is Dylan- the soon to be 9 year old Grand daughter's cover for her book- Even she is in on the fantasy wagon! ;) 

 

 

YOU'RE THE GREATEST!

By Caroline Clemmons

Confession time—I can’t help comparing myself to other authors. Not the ones who quit, that would be too simple. No, I compare myself to the super-successful indie writers who make six and seven figure in royalties each year. Idiot. I started out in the writing business wanting to be the next Nora Roberts. Ha ha. To say I haven’t made it is an understatement.

This past Sunday, our minister said that comparing ourselves to others is a form of vanity. Ouch! It isn’t the fame or financial success I envy (although that would be wonderful), it’s the ability to sell books. We pour our hearts into the books we write. If they don’t sell well, the rejection stings. More than stings, it’s a knife to the heart of our creativity.

Recently, I released a new book which I was certain would be a success. It’s heroine is feisty and hero is strong and successful, and there's an HEA ending. But, it isn’t selling very well. I’ve done all the usual things to promote it, yet it still isn’t selling. How does this make me feel? I can’t help feeling like I’ve failed somehow. It’s personal.

The thing I (we) have to remember is that each of us is a unique being with special gifts. Not just one gift, but many. Perhaps one stands out most and/or brings us the most fulfillment, but we have many talents. And, we aren’t competing with others—we are in competition with ourselves to keep improving, to feel fulfilled, to accomplish our personal best.

I don’t like boxing, but I remember Mohamed Ali’s mantra, “I am the greatest!” If I’ve done my best and written the best book I can, then that is success, the greatest I can be. How can I do better than my best?

I challenge you to say the same to yourself: I am the greatest I can be!

By the way, my last release is Sidney and the Mail Order Bride, Book 6, Texas Hill Country Mail Order Brides, a sweet western historical romance. Sidney Garton wrote a matchmaker and requested a bride who could cook, keep house, and help him in his mercantile store. Antoinette Fournier has been trained to be the wife of a wealthy man and knows only how to manage servants. She proves she’s made of tougher stuff than she or Sidney imagined when Sidney has a serious accident and she must take charge of the store. She’s able to confront a would-be robber, but the criminal has sworn revenge.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DNTP95FD 

Thanks for stopping by. Enjoy our April showers.

  

Spring Fever, Hay Fever...Werewolf Fever? by Laura Hunsaker

 I have an urgent matter that must be brought to our attention! 

Spring has sprung and if you're like me, that means you're suffering from hay fever. I'm also suffering from spring fever after coming off spring break where I live. With all of that in mind, I have to know your thoughts:

 If you're allergic to dogs, would you be allergic to werewolves?

I saw an Instagram reel (linked here) and it was a woman asking an allergist if people can be allergic to werewolves in their human form. He's such a good sport and takes it seriously and professionally stating that yes, you'd probably be allergic to his human form. He goes into the whys and I loved his response. 

When we read fiction, especially Paranormal Romance, we suspend belief. So obviously our heroine isn't going to be allergic to our hero...but I kind of want to write a book where the heroine sneezes every time she's around him and can't figure out why because werewolves don't exist, of course. But how fun would that plot be? And when they finally realize that he's a werewolf, and she's allergic to dogs, so apparently she's also allergic to wolves, and therefore werewolves, they buy him special shampoo and she takes her Zyrtec and they can live happily ever after!

Obviously I'm being a bit dramatic, but I do think it could work. I co-write a hockey romance series with Heather Lire. Together we are Kenzie MacLir. We write a slightly paranormal hockey series, and our latest hero is a werewolf. Maybe his love interest needs to have a wolf allergy? ;)

So tell me your thoughts! Do you think you'd be allergic to werewolves if they existed? Or should be suspend belief and pretend that wouldn't happen? 

Amazon |  Barnes & Noble  |  Kobo  |  Google Play Books  |  Smashwords | Apple 

The New York Empires hockey team is ready for you!

Each book has 3 novellas inside, and they all take place on the same team and during the same main event.

In the latest book, ROUGHING IT, my story is called AGAINST THE BOARDS, and well look at that. Werewolves. ;)

Against the Boards by Kenzie MacLir

Kyle Sandberg is living his best life. He’s one of the top hockey players in the world. Has two amazing best friends and all the sarcastic hockey t-shirts he could wear. After his own family turns their backs on him, he’s happy playing for the Empires and hanging out with his own found family. What he doesn’t want is his pain in the ass twin brother back in his life or a mate.

When paramedic Faith Church left Puerto Rico for New York, she had zero intentions of getting involved in the local pack. Having had her fill of pack politics, she was ready to go lone wolf. But being left alone was too much to ask when her cousin was the Alpha’s mate.

What neither was counting on was Fate, having her own plans for them. A chance encounter at a traffic accident changes everything. Kyle and his wolf are willing to go with Fate’s plans. But Faith, having finally broken away from her pack’s expectations wants nothing to do with Fate, or Kyle. Too bad her wolf disagrees…

Having A Good Time by Liz Flaherty

I'm late. My date to post was yesterday, and I'm sorry. But I'm not.

I need to write. I keep getting behind on blog posts I've agreed to and LIKE writing, and it worries me when I wake up at three in the morning with thoughts of Damn! I forgot! I'm sorry, because I like being timely and even early sometimes. But I'm ... yeah, I'm not sorry.

Although I write something every day, I'm behind on my work-in-progress, book three of the Harper Loch colors series, and I need to establish a manuscript routine, including sprints, research in non-writing hours, and maintaining word count. I will regret writing myself into a panicky corner. But not yet. Maybe tomorrow ... no, not then, either. 

Yesterday, when I had an appointment for a medical procedure and another for having my nails done, I hung out with our son who's been visiting this week. We went to breakfast, ran some errands, then came home for a while before going out to dinner with our daughter, son-in-law, and grandson. Then I read aloud at an open mic, one of those things I never thought I'd do, but kind of enjoy. I never got to ... well, several things. 

Sometimes, to adulterate what I've always thought was a particularly stupid line by Erich Segal, Having a good time means never having to say you're sorry. Like the original quote, the altered one is only good sometimes with some people, but it's almost always good with retired people who don't have anyone depending on them. 

When I am making my lists of what I hate about growing old and what I love about growing old, having a good time is right at the top of the second one. Sometimes, if you let it and if your knee's not aching too much and there hasn't been sadness in your week, you can forget the first list altogether. And just have a good time.

I don't have anything new right now, but something old and loved is on sale. I loved writing Harlequin Heartwarmings, and I especially loved The Happiness Pact. Both the book and the box set are on sale right now. If you like sweet romance, it's a good time to check these out. 

Or the box set https://a.co/d/7jkSafT

Irish Eyes Are Smiling by Joan Reeves

Top of the morning to you. Even though St. Patrick's Day isn't until tomorrow, I'm wallowing in all things Irish today.

On the menu this fine morning ia a hearty Full Irish Breakfast.

Okay, well, not exactly a Full Irish which consists of bacon, sausages, eggs, black and white pudding, fried potatoes, tomatoes, mushrooms, toast, and sometimes baked beans accompanied by a strong cup of fresh-brewed tea.

My Americanized version consists of bacon, an egg, a slice of multigrain toast, and fresh-brewed coffee. *sigh* I fear my Irish ancestors would be offended if they knew.

Perhaps I can make up for the breakfast insult with a typical Irish dinner? Let's see, I have a roast in the freezer but no potatoes. No lamb so no Irish stew. No colcannon because, as previously stated, no potatoes, and also no cabbage.

All is not lost in my attempt to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. I know the words to When Irish Eyes Are Smiling. My grandfather used to sing it when I was a little girl. I can even post the lyrics here because they entered the public domain in 2007.

The song, written by Ernest R. Ball, George Graff, and Chauncey Olcott, was published in 1912. A recording of the song was made popular by Bing Crosby in 1939.

EVERYBODY SING

When Irish eyes are smiling, Sure, 'tis like a morn' in Spring

In the lilt of Irish laughter, You can hear the angels sing. 

When Irish hearts are happy, All the world seems bright and gay

And when Irish eyes are smiling, Sure, they steal your heart away

When Irish hearts are happy, All the world seems bright and gay, And when Irish eyes are smiling, Sure, they steal your heart away.

I have an Irish gift for you to celebrate St. Patrick's Day tomorrow. From now until March 18th at 11:59PM PDT, you can claim a free copy of LIAM'S WILD IRISH ROSE from Amazon.

Warning: this story is super spicy—mucho caliente!—so leave it on the cyber shelf if super sexy romance is not your thing.

The story opens at Juan O'Hara's Mexican-Irish Pub, a place I loved so much that I wish it were real!

Is a “no-strings-attached” arrangement enough to satisfy Maura O'Reilly? The idea of being tied down to one man terrifies her, yet she can't seem to stay away from Liam Harper. Despite her attempts to resist, she finds herself constantly drawn to him.

Of all the women in the world, why, Liam wonders, did he have to fall for the one who wants nothing more than a physical relationship with him? Most men would consider that a dream come true, but Liam doesn’t. He wants more than just sex with Maura. He wants her heart.

If you enjoy this spicy Irish romance, please leave a short review. I will deeply appreciate your time and effort in doing so.

Remember to wear green tomorrow. Happy St. Patrick's Day

JOAN ONLINE

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When Your Favorite Author Writes Too Slow

by Stephanie Suesan Smith In for Bea Tifton

Don't you hate it when an author you love puts out a new book and you read it all in one day?  I love the J.D. Robb books, and this happens to me every February and November.  Bonded in Death, the 60th book in this series, came out in February.  Even though I tried to read it slowly, the book was gone overnight (literally; I  stayed up reading it way past my bedtime).  Even though I consider the In Death books romances, they are a little gory for a lot of romance fans.  Of course, J.D. Robb is really a pseudonym for Nora Roberts.

Ms. Roberts writes fast but is now wealthy enough that she puts out four books a year.  Two In Death books, one standalone book, and one book in her current series.  She published Inheritance in November, 2023.  

The next book didn't come out for a whole year.  It came out in November, 2024.

The final book comes out in November, 2025.  I have learned from experience to reread the first two books in the trilogy before reading the last one.  Okay, so maybe a week's worth of reading this time.  I guess I should be grateful that Ms. Roberts delivers a new book every quarter between the two names she publishes under, but I wish she put out more books a year.  She used to when she was younger and hungrier, but now she has the luxury of working less.

In between Ms. Roberts' books, I mostly read nonfiction books.  I will read anything but horror (I have enough nightmares, thank you very much).  Occasionally, I will stumble on a nice series that has multiple books out, and I binge-read them.

How do you handle the space between the publication of books by your favorite author?  How do you find new authors to read?

 

 

HELLO, MARCH - SPARE THE STORMS

 By Caroline Clemmons

 

 March came in like a lamb, so I suppose it will go out like a lion. Here in North Central Texas that means the possibility of major storms. Not just rain, hail, or tornados but also sand or dust.

I remember walking home from school in a sand storm with sand stinging my legs. Worse were the dust storms. Dust snuck in every window. Our home had wooden frames that admitted more sand and dust than modern metal frames. I remember my mother hanging wet sheets at the windows of my room during a sand or dust storm when I was home from school very sick. My mom was amazing (for many reasons)!

Once Hero and I were visiting my mother-in-law, who lived in a new and quite lovely assisted living facility in Lubbock, Texas. (This was  after my mother had already moved from Lubbock to an apartment near us.) A black dust storm blew in from somewhere far away from West Texas. The dust in that area is reddish brown, and we had no idea where the black dust originated. This was by far the worst dust storm we had ever encountered. The street lights came on even though it was mid-day. Visibility resembled a heavy London fog. The local newspaper dubbed it "Black Sunday."

Lung problems are my Kryptonite. Even in my mother-in-law’s apartment, the dust created the sensation of too little air. I became so ill that we either had to leave or take me to the ER. We left, my Hero driving faster than usual until we descended the Caprock and left the storm behind.

For writers, every event is food for a book. In The Most Unsuitable Courtship, a similar storm occurred. The hero and heroine had rescued three orphaned children, one of whom had an asthma attack in the middle of nowhere with killers chasing them. Of course, the hero and heroine were able to cope and help the child. I like the story, by the way. If you haven’t read that third book in the Kincaid series, a western historical romance, here’s the e-book link:

https://www.amazon.com/Most-Unsuitable-Courtship-Kincaids-Book-ebook/dp/B00G5YXI6I/

It’s also available in audiobook and paperback and is enrolled in KU.

 

Have you been in a bad sand or dust storm?

Picture of dust storm written of above,

called Black Sunday in a story

by the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Thanks for stopping by. Happy March.

Scent of a Memory by Laura Hunsaker

 It's no secret I work in a school, and right now, it's science fair time! One of the students made a project had to do with scent and how it can help hold memories. They were trying to see if you smelled the same scent every time you studied, would it help you remember the facts when you took the test? 

This felt like the perfect topic to talk about! Scent plays a role in so many books. How often do we read about what our hero or heroine smells like? Literally every romance novel talks about how the heroine smells of lavender, or peaches and cream, or strawberries. The hero smells of sunshine and leather, or of pine and man...and I love all of the descriptions!

Scent is tied to so many things, that of course we'd mirror that in literature. And I'm guilty of it too! Most recently I've used vanilla, coffee, caramel, or maybe I'm just hungry when I write ;) 

But the idea that scent is tied to memory is so true! My dad lived in Germany for years and he said that one time when he came home, his whole house smelled different. He couldn't put his finger on it, but the scent really made him homesick. A bit later when he opened the mail, he'd found a letter from his mom and she'd included orange blossoms from their trees. He didn't expect to smell California in his German home, so it hadn't occurred to him that it might be orange blossoms!

I've had instances where I smelled a certain perfume that reminded me of my grandmother, or a food that reminded me of the county fair, but nothing as cool as the one my dad had. But how about you? Do you have any instances where a scent unexpectedly triggered a memory?

And here, for your reading pleasure, my heroine who smells of vanilla, and my hero who smells of sandalwood:

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Lessons Learned by Liz Flaherty

I spent most of the past several days reading back over my one and only historical romance, Home to Singing Trees, which first came out in 2010 and again in 2015. I don't know why there are two publication dates listed, since it was the same publisher, but that's not why I'm talking about it. It's a fictional story that is set in a real place, with real names, and with some real events. Singing Trees farm is still in my family, although it's never had that name except in my mind.

My writing has changed some since those days. Better in some ways and worse in others. I wasn't a POV purist then and, frankly, I'm still not. I still typed with two spaces after a period. But I think the story still stands, and I hope for its re-release.

Now, for the reason I started this. I started reading romance in the 1960s, when I was in junior high and started reading teen romances. Then I used to sneak around and read my mom's True Story magazines, which I thought really were true. Then I read the Avalon romances Mom got at the library, and my love for the genre took root. 

I thought I would try to make a list of lessons learned books and authors that turned corners (sometimes to go down alleys) as a writer. I'd love to know what and who your influences were, too.

The only author name I remember from the Avalon books is Peggy O'More, who wrote a lot of books under several pseudonyms. I don't actually remember her books, but I do remember that she was funny. That was when I found out I liked funny, smart romance.

Lesson # 1: Humor.

In 7th grade, I read Gone With the Wind. I've read it several times since, but the thing that sticks out even now is that Scarlett O'Hara wasn't actually beautiful despite her 17-inch waist. She wasn't always admirable, either, but her lack of classic beauty is what stuck 

Lesson #2: Relatability in looks. 

I read a book when I was in my early 20s that to this day I don't remember either the title of or who wrote it, but I am everlastingly grateful for how she ended one chapter. Paraphrased, the cliffhanger was: She cried. And cried. And cried. 

Lesson #3: Use syntax to illustrate emotion. I suppose it's another way of saying show, don't tell. But 50 years later, I still remember that I cried with her.

I read a gazillion Harlequin Romances--didn't we all? I learned from a lot of them, and I loved the British voices, but then I read Janet Dailey and Nora Roberts. And read every release they had before the ink was dry on the pages. Later on, I quickly tired of Regency romance, but then I read Carla Kelly and Mary Balogh. I still do, all these many books later.

Lesson #4: It's all about voice.

I read the Harry Potter books, but it could have been any series that grabbed hold and didn't let go. I didn't get it, you know, what the big deal was. Why my daughter-in-law and granddaughter lined up at midnight to get the latest release.

Lesson #5: It's all about story.

Nan Reinhardt is a very close friend. We have work days together. We travel together. We read each other's stuff. She has several series with Tule Publishing that that are set in a fictional town in Southern Indiana called River's Edge. I love River's Edge.

Lesson #6: The setting is a character.

I read every word by certain authors, Kristan Higgins being one of them. I could write a book on the things I love about her books, but then there'd be a chapter somewhere in the middle about things she wrote that I didn't like and plot points that didn't work for me. There are a couple of her releases I've only read once, not going back to find the warm places I like to read over again. But even if I'd hated them, which I most definitely did not, I would still start reading her next one the day it comes out, because that's how much I love her writing.

Lesson #7: The writer needs to love her story, but once it's out in the world, it's up to the readers what they make of it. What they love and what they don't. 

There are people who write scathing, damaging reviews on books they sometimes haven't even read. I have no answer as to why they do this. Nor do I have any intent of making excuses for them. I'm going to share two of my worst reviews here just for the sake of the lesson. 

"This was such a boring read. I seriously had a hard time getting into it. Was it me or was Syd always talking to herself? And I also wished the author made it easier to keep the characters straight. Too many names at once were just too confusing. And why did the chapters have to be so long? Oh, that made the read that much more daunting. Don’t authors know that it’s easier to read shorter chapters rather than longer ones? No, they have to go with 12 REALLY LONG and ENDLESS chapters!"

"I didn't really enjoy this book. It seemed rather childish. I don't get the five star rating others gave it but if you like really dumb stories - go for it!"

Lesson #8: Nothing. Nothing at all. Just keep writing. 

What about you? What lessons have you learned?

Post Valentine Giveaway by Joan Reeves

I'm being held hostage by that ogre named Allergies. It started when I visited my brother in Louisiana at the farm.

All of the trees, weeds, shrubs, and vines that I'm not used to were dripping pollen out of season. Ah choo!

Even though I haven't felt that well, I've been working intensively on new book covers, new file format for my existing ebooks, and working on a new release.

When I say working, I literally mean 12 hours a day for the last week. I crashed last night, decided to battle the ogre, took 2 Zyrtec (as recommended by my doctor), and went to bed.

Even though I woke at 4:30 this morning, I felt better. (Allergy meds have that weird effect on me—knock me out then make me awake at a weird hour.) Now after 2 cups of coffee and a cup of tea, I have enough energy to visit with you.

CRAZY WEATHER

I don't know about where you are, but we're having some weird weather here on the Gulf Coast of Texas. Yesterday, it was 76. Today it's 40 and dropping, but the sun is shining brightly. I understand we're supposed to have a low of 22 around mid-week.

I think everyone in the state is fearing another winter like we had in 2021. I'm so thankful we now have a generator. I just hope our water utility has a bunch of them.

BELATED VALENTINE GIFT

For Valentine's Day, I offered BLAME IT ON CHOCOLATE, a Valentine romance, free to my newsletter subscribers. 

Now, I'm inviting you to grab a free copy too—free on Amazon Kindle until 11:59pm PST tonight, Sunday, Feb. 16, 2025.

"A fresh, witty, delicious story. Just like an irresistible bar of chocolate, you'll finish it all at once." —Reader Review

HAPPY READING

I hope you'll enjoy this story. Times are tough, and many readers simply can't afford the luxury of books. That's why, this year, I'm offering one of my books for 99¢ each month. 

This month the book is Scents and Sensuality, a Love, Laughter, and Shenanigans Fake Boyfriend Romance that culminates on Valentine's Day.

If you'd like to know when a book is on sale or is free, sign up for I LOVE READING, my free newsletter.

Until next week, stay warm, stay away from pollen, read books, and enjoy life.

JOAN ONLINE

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Romance Gems Where Authors & Readers Meet

Will You Be My Valentine? By Bea Tifton

 

Ah, Valentine’s Day. The air is scented with roses and chocolate is on the tip of many tongues.

I am not dating anyone right now, so the day is not filled with romance for me. Nor, however, is it filled with angst. It’s just another day, more or less. I’m more excited about “Chocolate is 50% Off Day.”

Many women have begun celebrating “Galentine’s Day,” a day to celebrate with women friends. I like that idea. It’s fun and cheerful. I’ve never lamented the years I don’t have that special guy with whom to exchange soulful looks over candlelight. Really, it just doesn’t bother me; I’m too independent. But some women are really bummed out. And some women just want to celebrate friendship, which is wonderful.  I’m all for anything Girl Power.

When I was a teacher, Valentine’s Day meant tons of flowers, stuffed animals, and chocolate. I especially remember that brand of chocolate that had cute little decorated boxes shaped like hearts, but it contained so much filler that the chocolate tasted like wax. And I never quite knew what to do with the stuffed animals afterwards. I usually saved them for the rest of the year, and then quietly donated them to a charity thrift shop. The flowers were fun even though they didn’t last long. But I cherished every gift. They were, well, heartfelt. One year some workmen were repairing the school’s roof. As I trooped by with an armful of gifts and flowers, I heard one man say, “All the teachers are walking by with so much stuff!” He sounded quite impressed

I remember one year I had just started the “Will we or won’t we” phase of a relationship with a guy I really liked. I wasn’t sure what to do. I stood at the card section of the store just completely overthinking what to do. I finally settled on a comedic card saying, “I wasn’t sure what to get you this year. This is either a Valentine or it’s not, depending on what you did.” I sent it, but he didn’t send anything back. We never did start dating. Sigh.

This year, I’ll exchange Valentine’s with my parents and my close friends. My parents and I will probably even go out to lunch. Then that night while we stream movies, we’ll stuff our faces with candy. I know I have friends and family who love me all year. That’s good enough for me. But chocolate is always welcome.

How do you celebrate Valentine's Day? Leave a comment below. 

Photo Credits: Pexels.com
Jill Wellington "Heart Baked Cookies"
Andrea Piacquadio "Women Holding Wine Glasses" 
RDNE Stock Project "A Valentine's Gift on Wooden Table"
Alex Green "Woman in Red Long Sleeve Shirt"

THE MONTH OF LOVE #99¢ SALE!

 By Caroline Clemmons

Welcome February, treated as the month of love. Actually, it’s only one of  eleven others that offer the same opportunity for love. At least, I hope love in your life is not restricted to February. <G>

Probably, we are each hoping for something special on Valentine’s Day. Do you prefer flowers, jewelry, candy, dining out, or all of those? Even a verbal wish and a hug can make my day. That’s not to say I’d turn down any of the aforementioned Valentine’s gifts.

Hero never forgets to do something special. Now that his Parkinson’s prevents him from driving, he calls on our youngest daughter to act as his personal shopper. Luckily for me, she does great work.

Ah, well, on to reminiscing. Do you remember the first Valentine candy you received from a guy? I do, as well as how surprised—make tha shocked—l was to find it in my school locker. I was in the seventh graden, and far from a femme fatale. His cubby was only a few down from mine. Of course, he was watching when I opened my door. I have no idea what I said, but it must have been acceptable because he stuck around for several years. I had thought the boy was my pal Margie’s boyfriend. So did Margie. Need I say she stopped being my buddy that day?

While I was a housewife, I was always a room mother. When our oldest daughter was in kindergarten, for her class Valentine’s party I made for myself a white double-knit pantsuit trimmed in red. Shudder. Good grief, seeing that photo now is embarrassing! At the time, I thought it was just right for Valentine’s Day. Times and tastes definitely change, don't they?

Our daughters are polar opposites. The oldest never met a stranger and loves talking to people. The youngest is extremely shy, but learned to hide it later. They do look like sisters and I sometimes made them matching dresses (for some reason that now escapes me). I knew our youngest daughter didn’t like her second grade teacher, who had been her sister’s teacher two years earlier. At the class party, the teacher gushed on and on about how much alike the girls were and how she enjoyed them. Maybe she knew I played bridge with the principal.

Memories of good times are fun to recapture. I hope you have good memories and are making new ones to savor later.

By the way, if you’re looking for tales of romance, adventure, and happily ever after, the first book of my Texas Hill Country Mail Order Brides series is what you need. Plus, it's on sale for only 99¢ on Amazon. GENTRY AND THE MAIL ORDER BRIDE can be found at this URL:’

https://www.amazon.com/Gentry-Texas-Country-Order-Brides-ebook/dp/B0B6YN6QHK

 Here's the blurb:

Sometimes the perfect match is the one you didn’t expect.

Nothing much riles Gentry McRae. He works hard on the ranch he co-owns with his best friend, and is content with his life. He’s proud of all they’ve accomplished in the ten years since the war. That is, until his partner dies and leaves a fourth of the ranch to his mail-order bride—and wills the bride to Gentry.

“Now just a doggone minute, I don’t plan to marry for years!”

But, a single woman can’t reside on a ranch where four men live without ruining her reputation. What’s a good man to do, except marry the woman when she arrives?

Heidi Roth has been spurned for being too plainspoken and too tall. In addition, her sister constantly makes fun of her for those reasons. That’s why—with many doubts—she’s willing to travel for months from Bavaria to Texas to marry a man who once lived in her town. When she arrives, she learns her prospective groom is dead, but left her a fourth of his share of a ranch. She has serious doubts, but agrees to wed Gentry to protect her reputation. From the next day, one event after the other happens. Is this the life she wants?

 

Happy Valentine’s Day.