To stop doing book reviews on this blog. I wanted to go back to making this one about me and my writing, not about other peoples. Instead, I started a new one over at this location and it's going to all about books, books, books! Come check it out!
I am really trying to get back into writing. So hopefully more very, very soon!
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
The Freshman Affair, a teaser!
Hello all! It's Tuesday Teaser Time! (See. I am trying to blog more. I wasn't lying) This is a scene from The Freshman Affair, which I haven't worked on in awhile but it's been sneaking into my mind again lately. Remember, contemporary YA (yes I'm still calling it YA even if my MCs are freshman in college) isn't my strong suit but I'm trying. Let me know what you think!
Grace had finally pulled herself away from her homework at about one-thirty a.m. and had sunk into bed without even changing out of her clothes. When her alarm rang out loudly on her bedside table, she almost chucked the thing across the room. But then she realized it would just be one more thing she’d have to take care of before class, so she satisfied the urge by slamming down on the top with a bit more force then necessary. It wasn’t much, but it would do.
“Urgh… What time is it?” Her roommate, Casey, slurred from her side of the room.
Grace let out a big yawn before she responded, “It’s about nine. Sorry babe, I didn’t know you were here or else I would have just used my phone as an alarm.”
Casey sat up in bed and stretched, “Don’t worry about it. If you hadn’t woke me up, I probably would have missed my class. I didn’t pour myself into bed until about four.”
She laughed, “So who was he this time?”
At first, Casey looked defensive but then she let out a burst of bright, bubbly laughter, “His name was Chad. He’s on the football team,” she cracked her neck loudly, “He was definitely worth being sore and tired for.”
Sometimes, Grace didn’t know why her and Casey were still friends. Casey was still very stuck in the partying and hooking up phase that Grace had outgrown after she got out of the psych ward. She didn’t mind going to a party and drinking every one and then but for Casey is was basically a nightly ritual. Grace didn’t know how she did it.
But then Grace remembered how Casey stuck by her, even when most of her friends were calling her a freak. Casey defended her and told people off who said anything bad about her. Casey might have been a little loose in her morals, but she had always been a fierce and loyal friend. She was worth keeping in Grace’s life.
So instead of making some judgmental comment that a lot of people would, Grace just laughed and said, “I bet he’s saying the same about you right now.”
Casey tsked, “Please. After the things I did to that boy, he’s not going to be able to walk, much less form complete sentences.”
Grace laughed loudly and shook her head. “Hey, I’m going to call Tristan quick, see if he maybe wants to grab breakfast before class.” Casey nodded and started gathering up her bathroom bag so she could go take a shower.
But Grace didn’t get a chance to dial before a text message caught her eye. Gracie. If I could, I would punch your step dad in the face. Love, Reece.
Grace had finally pulled herself away from her homework at about one-thirty a.m. and had sunk into bed without even changing out of her clothes. When her alarm rang out loudly on her bedside table, she almost chucked the thing across the room. But then she realized it would just be one more thing she’d have to take care of before class, so she satisfied the urge by slamming down on the top with a bit more force then necessary. It wasn’t much, but it would do.
“Urgh… What time is it?” Her roommate, Casey, slurred from her side of the room.
Grace let out a big yawn before she responded, “It’s about nine. Sorry babe, I didn’t know you were here or else I would have just used my phone as an alarm.”
Casey sat up in bed and stretched, “Don’t worry about it. If you hadn’t woke me up, I probably would have missed my class. I didn’t pour myself into bed until about four.”
She laughed, “So who was he this time?”
At first, Casey looked defensive but then she let out a burst of bright, bubbly laughter, “His name was Chad. He’s on the football team,” she cracked her neck loudly, “He was definitely worth being sore and tired for.”
Sometimes, Grace didn’t know why her and Casey were still friends. Casey was still very stuck in the partying and hooking up phase that Grace had outgrown after she got out of the psych ward. She didn’t mind going to a party and drinking every one and then but for Casey is was basically a nightly ritual. Grace didn’t know how she did it.
But then Grace remembered how Casey stuck by her, even when most of her friends were calling her a freak. Casey defended her and told people off who said anything bad about her. Casey might have been a little loose in her morals, but she had always been a fierce and loyal friend. She was worth keeping in Grace’s life.
So instead of making some judgmental comment that a lot of people would, Grace just laughed and said, “I bet he’s saying the same about you right now.”
Casey tsked, “Please. After the things I did to that boy, he’s not going to be able to walk, much less form complete sentences.”
Grace laughed loudly and shook her head. “Hey, I’m going to call Tristan quick, see if he maybe wants to grab breakfast before class.” Casey nodded and started gathering up her bathroom bag so she could go take a shower.
But Grace didn’t get a chance to dial before a text message caught her eye. Gracie. If I could, I would punch your step dad in the face. Love, Reece.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
VDGP Teaser
Since I usually post an intense scene from VDGP, I figured I'd show you that I do, sometimes, let my characters be happy. Here is a lighter scene between Gwen and Jay.
“I’m sure you’ll get used to it eventually. You are stuck with me for the rest of your life, you know.” I leaned back against him and breathed in his scent deeply. He smelled masculine and musky, like he been holed up reading old books for days. It was a smell I had come to know as home in the last two years.
Jay wrapped his muscular arms around me and met my eyes in the mirror, “My dear Gwendolyn,” I rolled my eyes at my full name but didn’t say anything. Even though I wasn’t fond of it, it never sounded better than when it came from his mouth, “tell me about the dream.” I sighed heavily and considered not telling him. I didn’t really want to drag it back to the surface but I knew deep down it would make me feel better if I talked about it. And who better to confine in then my friendly vampire boyfriend.
Just as I opened my mouth to tell him there was a scratch at the door and I heard our puppy Howie whining just outside the door. We usually let him sleep in the room with us but last night we wanted some alone time and it was surprising how fast getting your feet licked by a dog could ruin the mood. I smiled and Jay dropped his arms so I could open the door.
Howie, our three month old Rottweiler, came bounding in. He tried two times to jump onto our bed but keep sliding off of our silk sheets before Jay picked him up and sat him on the bed. Howie jumped on his chest and started licking his face. Jay fell back onto the bed, laughing. I watched the from the door and smiled. I may have lost my parents when I was eight, but that didn’t mean I didn’t have a family.
Howie stopped licking Jay long enough to turn and look at him. He barked firmly at me once as if to say, “Get over here silly!” before turning his attention back to Jay. I laughed wholeheartedly and went to join them on the bed. As soon as I sat down Howie jumped onto my lap and served me with my daily serving of morning kisses. Howie was usually playful and loving but whenever we left him to sleep in his dog bed in the living room, he acted as if he hadn’t seen us in days. I giggled as he assured himself that we were really there and hadn’t left him. When he was satisfied, he flopped himself into my lap and panted. He was growing so fast that in another couple months he wouldn’t be able to fit in my lap anymore. I scratched him behind his ears and turned to Jay smiling.
“I’m sure you’ll get used to it eventually. You are stuck with me for the rest of your life, you know.” I leaned back against him and breathed in his scent deeply. He smelled masculine and musky, like he been holed up reading old books for days. It was a smell I had come to know as home in the last two years.
Jay wrapped his muscular arms around me and met my eyes in the mirror, “My dear Gwendolyn,” I rolled my eyes at my full name but didn’t say anything. Even though I wasn’t fond of it, it never sounded better than when it came from his mouth, “tell me about the dream.” I sighed heavily and considered not telling him. I didn’t really want to drag it back to the surface but I knew deep down it would make me feel better if I talked about it. And who better to confine in then my friendly vampire boyfriend.
Just as I opened my mouth to tell him there was a scratch at the door and I heard our puppy Howie whining just outside the door. We usually let him sleep in the room with us but last night we wanted some alone time and it was surprising how fast getting your feet licked by a dog could ruin the mood. I smiled and Jay dropped his arms so I could open the door.
Howie, our three month old Rottweiler, came bounding in. He tried two times to jump onto our bed but keep sliding off of our silk sheets before Jay picked him up and sat him on the bed. Howie jumped on his chest and started licking his face. Jay fell back onto the bed, laughing. I watched the from the door and smiled. I may have lost my parents when I was eight, but that didn’t mean I didn’t have a family.
Howie stopped licking Jay long enough to turn and look at him. He barked firmly at me once as if to say, “Get over here silly!” before turning his attention back to Jay. I laughed wholeheartedly and went to join them on the bed. As soon as I sat down Howie jumped onto my lap and served me with my daily serving of morning kisses. Howie was usually playful and loving but whenever we left him to sleep in his dog bed in the living room, he acted as if he hadn’t seen us in days. I giggled as he assured himself that we were really there and hadn’t left him. When he was satisfied, he flopped himself into my lap and panted. He was growing so fast that in another couple months he wouldn’t be able to fit in my lap anymore. I scratched him behind his ears and turned to Jay smiling.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Teaser... Er... Thursday?
Since I missed out last week, and am posting this two days late, I figured I'd post two teaser today to make up for it a bit. And there's a reward at the end. Just for you guys. This first one is from The Freshman Affair.
She reached for the door handle, but stopped herself, suddenly nervous. She looked down at herself and straightened her gray skirt that fell just above her knees. At that moment, she was very glad she had decided to dress up a little this morning. She had paired the skirt with her favorite long sleeved blue v-neck that showed just a taste of cleavage and had a gray bird that trailed up her side. Quickly, she ran her fingers through her wavy brown hair, took a deep breath, and pushed through the door.
Reece had been pacing in front of the doors nervously, wondering what was taking her so long. Right when he had convinced himself that he should go back, just in case something happened to her, Grace came through the door.
She walked up to him and opened her mouth to say something, then closed it again. He tried to think of something, anything to say, but his mind was completely blank. Not a damn thing came to mind. All he could was stare at her.
In some ways, she looked completely different. The last time he saw her, she was about three inches shorter, her hair reached the middle of her back, and she was still a girl, small in more ways then one. Now she had grown up, in more ways then one. He couldn’t help it when his eyes grazed over her chest and he couldn’t stop the blood from rushing to the lower parts of his anatomy. When he managed to regain himself, he continued his inspection of her. Another thing that surprised him was that she had cut her hair so it barely rested on her shoulders. Before she moved away, her long hair was her favorite feature. She had adamantly claimed that she would never cut it above her shoulder blades. It took him a minute to decided whether or not he liked it but he noticed it framed her face perfectly, causing her fair skin and delicate features to be even more striking. As she had grown taller, the bit of baby fat she carried with her up until middle school had disappeared completely. Super model skinny, no. Healthy looking, yes. Even with all these differences, just underneath it he could still the girl he’d grown up with. His first real crush.
She’s beautiful. Reece had always thought so, even when they were just toddlers running around on the playground, but it was different now. She looked put together and mature. She looked young and hopeful. She was simply beautiful. And Reece was surprised when his throat tightened and his mouth ran dry. Grace was affecting him more than any girl had in years.
Finally, it was Grace who broke the silence first, “Reece Brooks. What a pleasant surprise.” Her voice was soft and even, as if she was completely calm.
Reece took a few breaths before answering, trying to bring that same level of calm indifference to his voice. “Grace Reynolds,” he barely got her name out before she flung her arms around his waist. Reece tensed up, surprised, but after a moment, relaxed and returned her embrace. Grace was about seven inches shorter than him so her head was pressed against his chest and he could rest his chin easily on her head.
He heard her mumble something against his chest so he pulled back, “What was that?”
Her eyes were full of emotion and Reece thought he saw tears welling up in her eyes but they never spilled out, “I’m so glad you’re here.”
And here is the second one, this one from VDGP:
It wasn’t hard to find the crime scene. First off, it was less then two blocks away from the street Jay and I had been patrolling the night before. That worried me more than I’d like to admit. Dante’s face crept into my thoughts but I pushed him away. If I thought about it, there was a very good chance I’d have a breakdown. Yet another thing I’d never admit out loud.
Secondly, there could be no mistaking the bright flashing lights of the cop cars, ambulances, even fire trucks. A van with the words City Morgue painted on the side went by us just as we found a place to park.
“Damn. There goes the bodies. I was hoping to avoid a trip to the morgue if I could.”
Riley nods, oddly silence. I touched his arm and he met my eye. “What’s wrong?” I asked, genuine concern filling my voice.
He shivered once, “There’s a reason I never go on any of these things. I’m not good with violence and dead bodies and cops.”
“You could have stayed home. I wouldn’t have held it against you.”
He scoffed, “Bullshit, I coulda stayed home. You knew the second you mentioned Dante’s name I’d go with you. I couldn’t leave you to face any of this alone, and you knew that,” he sighed heavily before visibly shaking himself, “I’m not mad. But don’t pretend I could be anywhere but here right now.”
I hung my head, ashamed. Riley was the only one I told the whole story to, even the parts about Jay. And I know I shouldn’t have. He was right. I did know he’d come along if Dante was involved. The truth was, I wasn’t the only one to lose part of my family the night my parents died. Riley’s parents and mine had been so close that Riley called them Aunt and Uncle, just as I did with his. If Dante could be a part of this in anyway, Riley would be by my side the whole way. And it wasn’t fair to him.
“I’m sorry. You’re not wrong. I did know you’d never say no. I just.. I couldn’t do this alone you know?” My voice wavered and I hated myself for it.
Riley put his arm around me and pulled me into a half hug. His lips pressed a kiss into my hair. “I know.” He held me like that for a moment longer, then let me go. Part of me wanted to wrap his arm back around me and hide in his arms, but I would never allow myself to do that. Not even in private, definitely not at a crime scene.
And now for your reward:
A soaking wet Jake Gyllenhaal:
And for my guy readers,
(Click to see full picture. Too lazy to screw with the size)
Cause she is so damn hot.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
TFA Teaser!
Here is another Teaser from TFA, since I got such good responses to it last week. This is right away in the beginning, the first time Grace and Reece see each again.
While he read down the names of students, Grace quickly jotted down a few notes about the class. All freshman had to sign up for a freshman seminar and Grace had chosen the one that immediately jumped off the paper. She knew this class would give her all the college, and life, skills she would ever need. “Zombies: Advice for College.” Even thinking the name of the class brought a trace of a smile to her lips.
“Brooks, Reece.” Grace’s head snapped up with recognition. Did he really just say…
“Here,” a deep, familiar voice called from the back of the room. Grace practically knocked her desk over when she swirled around to look. The two people next to her eyed her cautiously but she forgot all about them, about everyone, when she located the face that went with the voice.
There he was, Reece. Her Reece. If she hadn’t been staring right at his ridiculously handsome face she never would have believed it. It had been about six years since she had seen her childhood sweetheart, but she knew it was him. His had grown up, but she could still see the boy she used to know. A small smile grazed her lips. Reece was here.
They still do roll call in college? Reece thought idly to himself. I thought they grew out of that. He sighed aloud and responded automatically when his name was called. Guess not. He stopped paying attention again so the teacher read through his large list. When he had read the name of this class, Reece thought it would be a popular choice so it would be easy to fade into the background, grade wise that is. In everything else, Reece had always and would always love attention. He thrived on it. He had been the star point guard on his high school basketball team as long as he could remember. Liking attention sort of came with the territory.
His hand moved without thought across the sheet of paper in front of him, doodling nonsense. His thoughts drifted to his plans with the team tonight, but two words yanked him back to reality abruptly.
“Reynolds, Grace.”
A smooth, silky voice rang out from a few rows in front of him, “Here.” Reece gazed frantically around the room, searching for that voice. He knew he heard right, but he wouldn’t believe it until he saw her. Grace Reynolds wasn’t that uncommon of a name. Just because there was a girl with the same name, and voice, didn’t mean it was really….
Then he found her, and realized she found him too. When Reece met those blue-gray eyes, he knew there was no mistake. It was Grace Robin Reynolds, better known to him as Gracie Lou.
They looked at each other for a solid minute, then Grace smiled slightly, almost shyly, before waving and turning back around. Reece’s eyebrows crinkled. Was that it? Was that all he got? Just a smile and a wave? He shook his head. It didn’t make sense. Here he was, practically jumping out of his skin, and she just turns around, perfectly unaffected by the fact that they had just seen each other for the first time in six years?
Reece crossed his arms and sank down into his seat, completely unable to even fain interest in the lecture about zombies. Memories from the past bombarded his thoughts and long forgotten feelings came flooding back. His breath escaped him in a sigh. Gracie.
And yes, the Zombie class is a real thing. One of my best friends took it her first year in college and I fell in love with the idea. Hope you liked it!
While he read down the names of students, Grace quickly jotted down a few notes about the class. All freshman had to sign up for a freshman seminar and Grace had chosen the one that immediately jumped off the paper. She knew this class would give her all the college, and life, skills she would ever need. “Zombies: Advice for College.” Even thinking the name of the class brought a trace of a smile to her lips.
“Brooks, Reece.” Grace’s head snapped up with recognition. Did he really just say…
“Here,” a deep, familiar voice called from the back of the room. Grace practically knocked her desk over when she swirled around to look. The two people next to her eyed her cautiously but she forgot all about them, about everyone, when she located the face that went with the voice.
There he was, Reece. Her Reece. If she hadn’t been staring right at his ridiculously handsome face she never would have believed it. It had been about six years since she had seen her childhood sweetheart, but she knew it was him. His had grown up, but she could still see the boy she used to know. A small smile grazed her lips. Reece was here.
They still do roll call in college? Reece thought idly to himself. I thought they grew out of that. He sighed aloud and responded automatically when his name was called. Guess not. He stopped paying attention again so the teacher read through his large list. When he had read the name of this class, Reece thought it would be a popular choice so it would be easy to fade into the background, grade wise that is. In everything else, Reece had always and would always love attention. He thrived on it. He had been the star point guard on his high school basketball team as long as he could remember. Liking attention sort of came with the territory.
His hand moved without thought across the sheet of paper in front of him, doodling nonsense. His thoughts drifted to his plans with the team tonight, but two words yanked him back to reality abruptly.
“Reynolds, Grace.”
A smooth, silky voice rang out from a few rows in front of him, “Here.” Reece gazed frantically around the room, searching for that voice. He knew he heard right, but he wouldn’t believe it until he saw her. Grace Reynolds wasn’t that uncommon of a name. Just because there was a girl with the same name, and voice, didn’t mean it was really….
Then he found her, and realized she found him too. When Reece met those blue-gray eyes, he knew there was no mistake. It was Grace Robin Reynolds, better known to him as Gracie Lou.
They looked at each other for a solid minute, then Grace smiled slightly, almost shyly, before waving and turning back around. Reece’s eyebrows crinkled. Was that it? Was that all he got? Just a smile and a wave? He shook his head. It didn’t make sense. Here he was, practically jumping out of his skin, and she just turns around, perfectly unaffected by the fact that they had just seen each other for the first time in six years?
Reece crossed his arms and sank down into his seat, completely unable to even fain interest in the lecture about zombies. Memories from the past bombarded his thoughts and long forgotten feelings came flooding back. His breath escaped him in a sigh. Gracie.
And yes, the Zombie class is a real thing. One of my best friends took it her first year in college and I fell in love with the idea. Hope you liked it!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Tuesday Teaser! Finally.
I was going to post a new scene I wrote for VDGP, but after Hands Down by Dashboard Confessional came on in the car, I needed to work on The Freshman Affair. The song is perfect for Grace and Reece's story. Perrrrfect. I came home and wrote the following scene (and a bit more) in all of fifteen minutes. The words just flew out. I love when a song can inspire you like that. It's a great feeling.
Alright, enough talk. Here is said scene.
Grace and Reece were doing more talking than studying, no matter how hard Grace tried to force him to concentrate. Their Psychology books lay all but forgotten in front of them.
“Reece, shut up already. You’re already falling behind in school and I’m trying to help you,” She stabbed his book dramatically. “Let’s get to work already!”
“Pssht. I don’t need school. I plan on getting by on my looks, thank you.”
She tossed her pencil at him and frowns. Reece quickly pocketed it. “There. Now we can’t study. You seem to have lost your pencil.” His grin was cocky and triumphant.
Before he could react, Grace threw the book from her lap and launched herself at him. She tried to pin him to the ground and wrestle the pencil back from him, but he easily rolled her over, pinning her instead.
“Bad move, Reynolds,” Reece declared, then started to tickle her. Grace shrieked, struggled, and laughed loudly all at the same time. She was insanely ticklish, and Reece hadn’t forgotten.
Happy laughter bubbled out of Grace’s mouth as she tried to speak, “Puh… Please,” she giggled harder, “I surrender!” She practically shouted at him. “You win, stop! Stop!”
Reece nodded happily and stopped his assault on her. Grace met his eyes, tears in hers from laughing so much. Reece’s smile faded and a look of intensity replaced it. He was still on top of her, impossible warm and close. For a moment, she forgot herself and Tristan. She let herself be the girl in seventh grade who had been so in love with him. She let herself get lost in those beautiful hazel eyes that brought back such wonderful memories from her childhood.
Then he started to bring his lips to hers.
Grace scrambled out from under him. Standing up, she kept backing away until her back hit the wall. Reece sank back on his heels and wouldn’t meet her eye.
“Reece,” she began, “I can’t. Tristan,” Reece’s hand shot up in the air to stop her.
“I’ve got to go.” He packed up his things and left without saying another word.
Alright, enough talk. Here is said scene.
Grace and Reece were doing more talking than studying, no matter how hard Grace tried to force him to concentrate. Their Psychology books lay all but forgotten in front of them.
“Reece, shut up already. You’re already falling behind in school and I’m trying to help you,” She stabbed his book dramatically. “Let’s get to work already!”
“Pssht. I don’t need school. I plan on getting by on my looks, thank you.”
She tossed her pencil at him and frowns. Reece quickly pocketed it. “There. Now we can’t study. You seem to have lost your pencil.” His grin was cocky and triumphant.
Before he could react, Grace threw the book from her lap and launched herself at him. She tried to pin him to the ground and wrestle the pencil back from him, but he easily rolled her over, pinning her instead.
“Bad move, Reynolds,” Reece declared, then started to tickle her. Grace shrieked, struggled, and laughed loudly all at the same time. She was insanely ticklish, and Reece hadn’t forgotten.
Happy laughter bubbled out of Grace’s mouth as she tried to speak, “Puh… Please,” she giggled harder, “I surrender!” She practically shouted at him. “You win, stop! Stop!”
Reece nodded happily and stopped his assault on her. Grace met his eyes, tears in hers from laughing so much. Reece’s smile faded and a look of intensity replaced it. He was still on top of her, impossible warm and close. For a moment, she forgot herself and Tristan. She let herself be the girl in seventh grade who had been so in love with him. She let herself get lost in those beautiful hazel eyes that brought back such wonderful memories from her childhood.
Then he started to bring his lips to hers.
Grace scrambled out from under him. Standing up, she kept backing away until her back hit the wall. Reece sank back on his heels and wouldn’t meet her eye.
“Reece,” she began, “I can’t. Tristan,” Reece’s hand shot up in the air to stop her.
“I’ve got to go.” He packed up his things and left without saying another word.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Lessons in writing
I used to think I had to start my story from the beginning and write straight through to the end. So when I would get stuck, I just gave up. If one scene wouldn't come to me, the whole novel would end up getting trunked.
Thank God I grew out of that.
I used to think I could only wing it. Planning and outlining were not for me. And yet, I couldn't finish a draft. I would get to about the 20k mark, and lose the story completely because I didn't have a plan about where it was going. (I knew how it would start and how I wanted it to end. The middle was a mystery to me)
But I now know that doesn't work for me either.
I came to a realization today that I wanted to share with you all:
I am growing as a writer.
I'm slowly but surely learning what works for me and what doesn't. My writing is getting better the more I do it. I am even getting more disciplined when it comes to a writing schedule. I am actually working at achieving my dream.
I know that I have a long way to go. I know that no one ever stops growing as a writer (hopefully anyways). But I'm on the right track. And it feels good.
Thank God I grew out of that.
I used to think I could only wing it. Planning and outlining were not for me. And yet, I couldn't finish a draft. I would get to about the 20k mark, and lose the story completely because I didn't have a plan about where it was going. (I knew how it would start and how I wanted it to end. The middle was a mystery to me)
But I now know that doesn't work for me either.
I came to a realization today that I wanted to share with you all:
I am growing as a writer.
I'm slowly but surely learning what works for me and what doesn't. My writing is getting better the more I do it. I am even getting more disciplined when it comes to a writing schedule. I am actually working at achieving my dream.
I know that I have a long way to go. I know that no one ever stops growing as a writer (hopefully anyways). But I'm on the right track. And it feels good.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Putting faces to names
This is something that we're fond of over at the YA forum on Absolute Write, finding celebrities that look like our characters! It's fun and inspirational. Looking at someone and thinking, "That's so [insert character's name here]!" can, and has for me, refresh your desire to get their stories on paper.
You've heard me whine about them and read some of the hell I've put them through, and now ladies and gentlemen, I give you the characters from VDGP!!!
First off, Gwen. One of the main weapons Gwen has is that her appearance is incredibly deceiving. She looks soft, harmless, and even helpless. Hell, she looks downright innocence. Although, as many of her foes have learned, she's anything but.
Natalie Dormer is perfect for Gwen. She's the last person you'd expect to chop off your head, right? Well, she can. And has.
Next up is Jaiden, nickname Jay. Jay has a more mature look to him and could be described as ruggedly handsome. He knows what he wants and he goes after it. A man of little words with a shady past. He turns heads and knows it. Only one man came to mind for Jay,
Gerard Butler. He fits perfectly in my brain for Jay. I think he would play the strong, silent type beautifully. Now, Gwen and Jay might not look like they fit together, but they are both what the other person needs and that's all that matters to them.
Chris is rebellious, hot-headed, and a major pain in Gwen's ass. Once again, I found a man who just fit.
If VDGP was ever made into a movie, I would insist on Jensen Ackles. He is absolutely perfect.
And finally, Riley is Gwen's only family. He was the only thing that kept her sane when she lost her parents. He's loving, outgoing, and extremely open. Riley is probably my favorite character I've ever written. I've always had a thing for the best friend character and Riley does it better than anyone.
A young Heath Ledger, happy and carefree, is a perfect fit. When he was young, Heath looked like nothing bad had ever happened to him, and Riley is the same way.
So there they are. My characters. Aside from Jensen Ackles/Chris, they all have little things I would change (eye color, hair length, etc.) but other than that, they are what I see when I'm writing. From the teasers I've posted, do they make sense to you or are you sitting there like, "What is she on?"
Anyone else do this? If so, you should do a blog post and leave me a link! I'd love to see what your characters look like to you.
(Look! Two posts in two days!!! I really am trying harder!)
You've heard me whine about them and read some of the hell I've put them through, and now ladies and gentlemen, I give you the characters from VDGP!!!
First off, Gwen. One of the main weapons Gwen has is that her appearance is incredibly deceiving. She looks soft, harmless, and even helpless. Hell, she looks downright innocence. Although, as many of her foes have learned, she's anything but.
Natalie Dormer is perfect for Gwen. She's the last person you'd expect to chop off your head, right? Well, she can. And has.Next up is Jaiden, nickname Jay. Jay has a more mature look to him and could be described as ruggedly handsome. He knows what he wants and he goes after it. A man of little words with a shady past. He turns heads and knows it. Only one man came to mind for Jay,
Gerard Butler. He fits perfectly in my brain for Jay. I think he would play the strong, silent type beautifully. Now, Gwen and Jay might not look like they fit together, but they are both what the other person needs and that's all that matters to them.Chris is rebellious, hot-headed, and a major pain in Gwen's ass. Once again, I found a man who just fit.
If VDGP was ever made into a movie, I would insist on Jensen Ackles. He is absolutely perfect.And finally, Riley is Gwen's only family. He was the only thing that kept her sane when she lost her parents. He's loving, outgoing, and extremely open. Riley is probably my favorite character I've ever written. I've always had a thing for the best friend character and Riley does it better than anyone.
A young Heath Ledger, happy and carefree, is a perfect fit. When he was young, Heath looked like nothing bad had ever happened to him, and Riley is the same way.So there they are. My characters. Aside from Jensen Ackles/Chris, they all have little things I would change (eye color, hair length, etc.) but other than that, they are what I see when I'm writing. From the teasers I've posted, do they make sense to you or are you sitting there like, "What is she on?"
Anyone else do this? If so, you should do a blog post and leave me a link! I'd love to see what your characters look like to you.
(Look! Two posts in two days!!! I really am trying harder!)
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Character CPR
VDGP (Which may have a new title soon) has been dying a slow, painful death. I've almost lost Gwen's voice completely. Hence the blog silence lately. No new writing means no new teasers.
Thankfully, I've thought of a way to hopefully revive this story. I'm going through and writing some Character worksheets (which is probably something I should have done in the first place). So far, I've only done Gwen's but this her voice is already starting to fill my head again. It's a great feeling.
Since I'm still new at 'seriously' writing (meaning trying to make money from it some day), I am still trying to find a way that works for me. I've read blog after blog about other people's methods, and have found one thing in common: ACTUALLY WRITING. Which is surprisingly harder than it sounds. I hope you will all stick with me through this insanely difficult journey that is writing.
So my faithful readers (even though I'm a less then faithful blogger), I am back in the game. Reviving my characters, my voice, and my motivation. Wish me luck. Because Jake Gyllenhaal says so.
And you can't say no to that face.
Thankfully, I've thought of a way to hopefully revive this story. I'm going through and writing some Character worksheets (which is probably something I should have done in the first place). So far, I've only done Gwen's but this her voice is already starting to fill my head again. It's a great feeling.
Since I'm still new at 'seriously' writing (meaning trying to make money from it some day), I am still trying to find a way that works for me. I've read blog after blog about other people's methods, and have found one thing in common: ACTUALLY WRITING. Which is surprisingly harder than it sounds. I hope you will all stick with me through this insanely difficult journey that is writing.
So my faithful readers (even though I'm a less then faithful blogger), I am back in the game. Reviving my characters, my voice, and my motivation. Wish me luck. Because Jake Gyllenhaal says so.
And you can't say no to that face.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Teaser
Sorry about the absentness that's been me lately. I've started working double shifts at my job so my online time has been cut in half. I'll try not to let it happen again.
With this teaser, I'm going to reveal what Gwen, Jay, and Chris do for a living (if you haven't figured it out yet). Welcome to the first fight scene.
A flicker of doubt enter my mind. Something was off here. For the most part, vampires were solitary creatures and very rarely banded together. Something bigger then a casual meal was going on here and I was sure we weren’t going to like it.
As if six against three wasn’t bad enough, two more beings exit the woods. These guys definitely weren’t vampires. For one, their skin was red. For another, they had no shot at passing for human. They had tiny spikes traveling down their arms and their faces were warped, void of anything remotely human. I flipped through my knowledge of demons breeds, like turning the pages in a book. My mind quickly found them.
“Chris,” I spoke quickly yet quietly, “Those are Belthrax demons. Guns won’t kill them, only decapitation will,” As I was speaking, I drew my short sword from it’s sheath, wishing it was my gun.
Without thought or discussion, Jay, Chris, and I formed a circle, each facing a different set of vampires. Jay and I made sure that the two demons were on our sides. For the first time tonight, I not only feared for Chris’ safety, but for mine and Jay’s as well. Usually I was so sure of myself and of Jay but this was far for a usual night.
The vampires and demons were slowly inching closer to us. Just a bit closer. We needed them close so we were still near each other, but not so close that we had no room to maneuver and we were effectively trapped. There. I lunged towards the closest vampire.
With this teaser, I'm going to reveal what Gwen, Jay, and Chris do for a living (if you haven't figured it out yet). Welcome to the first fight scene.
A flicker of doubt enter my mind. Something was off here. For the most part, vampires were solitary creatures and very rarely banded together. Something bigger then a casual meal was going on here and I was sure we weren’t going to like it.
As if six against three wasn’t bad enough, two more beings exit the woods. These guys definitely weren’t vampires. For one, their skin was red. For another, they had no shot at passing for human. They had tiny spikes traveling down their arms and their faces were warped, void of anything remotely human. I flipped through my knowledge of demons breeds, like turning the pages in a book. My mind quickly found them.
“Chris,” I spoke quickly yet quietly, “Those are Belthrax demons. Guns won’t kill them, only decapitation will,” As I was speaking, I drew my short sword from it’s sheath, wishing it was my gun.
Without thought or discussion, Jay, Chris, and I formed a circle, each facing a different set of vampires. Jay and I made sure that the two demons were on our sides. For the first time tonight, I not only feared for Chris’ safety, but for mine and Jay’s as well. Usually I was so sure of myself and of Jay but this was far for a usual night.
The vampires and demons were slowly inching closer to us. Just a bit closer. We needed them close so we were still near each other, but not so close that we had no room to maneuver and we were effectively trapped. There. I lunged towards the closest vampire.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
A Welcome and a Teaser.
First of all, I'd like to say hello to some of the new followers I've picked up. Hello new followers! I can't tell you how awesome I think you caring about what I post is. I've been trying to post more often but real life has a tendency to get in the way. But here's what you can usually expect from me:
Jay motioned me towards him, his tongue slowly licking his bottom lip. Before I made my way over to him, I took my sweet time undressing, letting my hands linger over buttons and drawing his eyes where I wanted them. I ran my fingers in the waistline of my pants before unbuttoning them; my hands skimmed the edges of my breasts before I slipped out of my shirt.
Jay’s gaze went from hungry to concerned when he saw the bruises that decorated my torso. I tried not to pout as he left the bed and stood solemnly in front of me. There was little arousal in his touch as he methodically prodded my wounds. A frown emerged when he took in my bandaged shoulder. He raised his eyebrows in a question. I rolled my eyes then nodded. Peeling away the gauze, he examined my shoulder.
He sighed heavily, rubbing the bridge of his nose. “I’m surprised you are out of the infirmary. From what I can tell, you’re lucky to have use of your arm. That guy really tore into you.”
I started to shift uncomfortably, but stopped myself. Jay didn’t like it when I left against doctor’s order, but so what? It was my life and I was going to do what I was going to do. I met his eyes, daring him to lecture me, “Dr. Galloway didn’t want me to leave, but I wasn’t going to hang around there. I feel fine.”
Suddenly, Jay poked a particularly nasty looking bruise roughly. I gasped and bent over. “Oh yes. You are in top condition.”
I snarled at him and lashed out, but he easily stepped out of reach. He held his hand up in surrender. “I should not have done that. I was just making a point. I apologize.” I gritted my teeth to tell him to fuck off, but his words were genuine and it would have just been childish.
Straightening, I said coolly, “Fine. Just don’t do it again.” We stood there for a moment, both of us unsure what to do.
Jay slowly trailed his eyes down my body once more, but this time his fingers went with it. A gasp escaped me with the sudden change in atmosphere. It was like our little exchanged had never happened. The air was once again thick with passion and heat. Jay’s slow stroke sent small shots electricity down my body and settled between my legs. My breath increased as Jay's fingers did too.
- A post at least once a week.
- Usually a teaser from my current work in progress
- Complaints about said WIP
- Adult content every now and then.
- Annnddd...
Pictures of beautiful men (and yes. I do know this is the real reason y'all keep coming back.)
Anyways, on to the teaser! This is after a hunt and Gwen just got out of the infirmary. Some adult content in this one but nothing too explicit. Enjoy.
Anyways, on to the teaser! This is after a hunt and Gwen just got out of the infirmary. Some adult content in this one but nothing too explicit. Enjoy.
Jay motioned me towards him, his tongue slowly licking his bottom lip. Before I made my way over to him, I took my sweet time undressing, letting my hands linger over buttons and drawing his eyes where I wanted them. I ran my fingers in the waistline of my pants before unbuttoning them; my hands skimmed the edges of my breasts before I slipped out of my shirt.
Jay’s gaze went from hungry to concerned when he saw the bruises that decorated my torso. I tried not to pout as he left the bed and stood solemnly in front of me. There was little arousal in his touch as he methodically prodded my wounds. A frown emerged when he took in my bandaged shoulder. He raised his eyebrows in a question. I rolled my eyes then nodded. Peeling away the gauze, he examined my shoulder.
He sighed heavily, rubbing the bridge of his nose. “I’m surprised you are out of the infirmary. From what I can tell, you’re lucky to have use of your arm. That guy really tore into you.”
I started to shift uncomfortably, but stopped myself. Jay didn’t like it when I left against doctor’s order, but so what? It was my life and I was going to do what I was going to do. I met his eyes, daring him to lecture me, “Dr. Galloway didn’t want me to leave, but I wasn’t going to hang around there. I feel fine.”
Suddenly, Jay poked a particularly nasty looking bruise roughly. I gasped and bent over. “Oh yes. You are in top condition.”
I snarled at him and lashed out, but he easily stepped out of reach. He held his hand up in surrender. “I should not have done that. I was just making a point. I apologize.” I gritted my teeth to tell him to fuck off, but his words were genuine and it would have just been childish.
Straightening, I said coolly, “Fine. Just don’t do it again.” We stood there for a moment, both of us unsure what to do.
Jay slowly trailed his eyes down my body once more, but this time his fingers went with it. A gasp escaped me with the sudden change in atmosphere. It was like our little exchanged had never happened. The air was once again thick with passion and heat. Jay’s slow stroke sent small shots electricity down my body and settled between my legs. My breath increased as Jay's fingers did too.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
I'm back to teasing!
Told you I'd be back this week. This teaser is the continuation from the last teaser I posted. The main villain, Dante, is tormenting Gwen and Chris. Here we go.
I couldn’t tear my gaze away from Dante so I don’t know how Chris reacted. It must have been with fear because a small smile appeared on Dante’s lips before his attention turned back to me. Another small noise attempted to escape from my lips, but I squashed it. I tried to tell myself that I was braver than this, stronger, but Dante’s presence stripped me of it all. He made me eight years old again, weak and helpless. The thought should have made me anger, it should have made me fight back, but it didn’t.
“The city is really quite beautiful. I have always liked it here. It holds such wonderful memories for me,” he licked his lips slowly, deliberately, as if he was remembering a particularly tasty treat. His fingers stroked my cheek lovingly and I couldn’t help shaking, “But I never imagined you stay here. I thought I had ruined this place for you. Apparently, I gave myself too much credit. But thankfully, I have the chance to make up for it.” He released my face and started to circle around me.
“But there is someone here I was even more surprised and pleased to see. Someone I’ve been missing these past few years.” He sighed longingly. “No matter. My dorato raggazzo* and I will be reacquainted soon enough.” Dante was at my back and leaned forward and whispered in my ear, “I believe you know him as Jaiden.”
I gasped audibly as my knees gave out on me. My stomach heaved and I retched on the pavement. When my stomach emptied, I wiped my mouth and met Dante’s eye. He had a bemused smile on his face and his eyes were filled with pleasure.
Finally, some spark of me flare to life and I forced myself to my feet. After a few deep breaths, I snarled through clenched teeth, “I am going to kill you.”
Dante laughed joyfully. It made me shutter and flinch. When I opened my eyes, his was gone.
*Means Golden boy in Italian. At least according to the website I looked it up on.
So. Whatcha think?
I couldn’t tear my gaze away from Dante so I don’t know how Chris reacted. It must have been with fear because a small smile appeared on Dante’s lips before his attention turned back to me. Another small noise attempted to escape from my lips, but I squashed it. I tried to tell myself that I was braver than this, stronger, but Dante’s presence stripped me of it all. He made me eight years old again, weak and helpless. The thought should have made me anger, it should have made me fight back, but it didn’t.
“The city is really quite beautiful. I have always liked it here. It holds such wonderful memories for me,” he licked his lips slowly, deliberately, as if he was remembering a particularly tasty treat. His fingers stroked my cheek lovingly and I couldn’t help shaking, “But I never imagined you stay here. I thought I had ruined this place for you. Apparently, I gave myself too much credit. But thankfully, I have the chance to make up for it.” He released my face and started to circle around me.
“But there is someone here I was even more surprised and pleased to see. Someone I’ve been missing these past few years.” He sighed longingly. “No matter. My dorato raggazzo* and I will be reacquainted soon enough.” Dante was at my back and leaned forward and whispered in my ear, “I believe you know him as Jaiden.”
I gasped audibly as my knees gave out on me. My stomach heaved and I retched on the pavement. When my stomach emptied, I wiped my mouth and met Dante’s eye. He had a bemused smile on his face and his eyes were filled with pleasure.
Finally, some spark of me flare to life and I forced myself to my feet. After a few deep breaths, I snarled through clenched teeth, “I am going to kill you.”
Dante laughed joyfully. It made me shutter and flinch. When I opened my eyes, his was gone.
*Means Golden boy in Italian. At least according to the website I looked it up on.
So. Whatcha think?
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
It may be Tuesday, but...
I have no teaser. Why, you may ask? Because I have been writing very little lately.
I work too much. I'm tired all the time. I... I... Shit. I have no excuses. I just haven't been doing it.
Shame on me, I know.
But I'm going to start writing more. I swearz it. VDGP is going really well whenever I do sit down and force myself to work.
Expect an awesome (I hope anyways) teaser next week.
"Wait, was I mad at Amanda for something? JRM distracted me.... Oh well." *continuesdrooling staring at JRM*
And so Angie will forgive me,
If James Marsden doesn't do the trick, nothing will.
I work too much. I'm tired all the time. I... I... Shit. I have no excuses. I just haven't been doing it.
Shame on me, I know.
But I'm going to start writing more. I swearz it. VDGP is going really well whenever I do sit down and force myself to work.
Expect an awesome (I hope anyways) teaser next week.
"Wait, was I mad at Amanda for something? JRM distracted me.... Oh well." *continues
And so Angie will forgive me,
If James Marsden doesn't do the trick, nothing will.
Friday, January 1, 2010
Books Read in 2010
1. Between Brothers by Lauren Gallagher
2. Graceling by Kristen Cashore
3. Ironside by Holly Black
4. Stray by Rachel Vincent
5. Bridge to Terabithia by Katerine Paterson
6. The Summoning By Kelley Armstrong
7. Halfway to The Grave by Jeaniene Frost
8. Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz
9. The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan
10. Deadly Little Secret by Laurie Faria Stolarz
February
11. Masquerade: A Blue Bloods Novel by Melissa de la Cruz
12. Bitten by Kelley Armstrong
13. Fade by Lisa McMann
14. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
15. The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger
16. Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith
17. Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr
18. Flirt by Laurell K. Hamilton
19. Marked by P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast
12. Bitten by Kelley Armstrong
13. Fade by Lisa McMann
14. Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
15. The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger
16. Pride and Prejudice and Zombies by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith
17. Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr
18. Flirt by Laurell K. Hamilton
19. Marked by P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast
March
20. Stolen by Kelley Armstrong
21. Thirst No. 1 by Christopher Pike
22. Vampire Prince by Darren Shan reread
23. Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler
24. Immoral by Brian Freeman
25. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
26. Through the Looking Glass by Lewis Carroll
27. Pendragon: The Never War by D.J. MacHale reread
28. Project 17 by Laurie Faria Stolarz
30. Magic Bites by Illona Andrews
31. Only In Your Dreams by Cecily von Ziegesar
32. Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
33. Rebel Angels by Libba Bray
34. Would I Lie To You by Cecily von Ziegesar
21. Thirst No. 1 by Christopher Pike
22. Vampire Prince by Darren Shan reread
23. Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler
24. Immoral by Brian Freeman
25. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
26. Through the Looking Glass by Lewis Carroll
27. Pendragon: The Never War by D.J. MacHale reread
28. Project 17 by Laurie Faria Stolarz
April
29. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan30. Magic Bites by Illona Andrews
31. Only In Your Dreams by Cecily von Ziegesar
32. Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
33. Rebel Angels by Libba Bray
34. Would I Lie To You by Cecily von Ziegesar
May
35. Slawter by Darren Shan
36. Pendragon: The Reality Bug by D.J. MacHale
37. Once Bitten by Kalayna Price
38. A Witch in Time by Madelyn Alt
39. Ink Exchange by Melissa Marr
40. The Awakening by L.J. Smith
36. Pendragon: The Reality Bug by D.J. MacHale
37. Once Bitten by Kalayna Price
38. A Witch in Time by Madelyn Alt
39. Ink Exchange by Melissa Marr
40. The Awakening by L.J. Smith
June
41. The Angel Experiment by James Patterson
42. Bullet by Laurell K. Hamilton
43. Naked Dragon by Annette Blair
44. Don't You Dare Read This, Mrs. Dunphrey by Margaret Peterson Haddix reread
45. Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane
46. Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
47. Undead and Uneasy by MaryJanice Davidson
42. Bullet by Laurell K. Hamilton
43. Naked Dragon by Annette Blair
44. Don't You Dare Read This, Mrs. Dunphrey by Margaret Peterson Haddix reread
45. Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane
46. Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
47. Undead and Uneasy by MaryJanice Davidson
July
48. Dime Store Magic by Kelley Armstrong
49. Long Time Coming by Scarelett Parrish
50. The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong
49. Long Time Coming by Scarelett Parrish
50. The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong
Thursday, December 31, 2009
End of the year post
I wasn't going to do one of these, but I've been lazy and absent lately so I figured I might as well.
2009 was a mixed year for me. Writing wise and personally.
Even though I'm not quite where I want to be when it comes to writing, I did start working at it more this past year.
I don't like looking back in the past, so instead here are some personal and professional goals for the coming year.
1. Get my own apartment. I'm nineteen years old and still living with my father. Now, that might not seem too bad for some of you, but after living on my own for a year it's really hard living with a parent again.
2. Finish up high school. By this summer, I'm going to be a goddamn high school graduate if it kills me.
3. Finish all three drafts I started in 2009. For VDGP, that shouldn't be too hard. That story still speaks to me the most. College For Witches, on the other hand, needs to be totally ripped apart and redone. TFA is going to need a lot of work as well.
4. Start at least one completely new story.
5. FINISH NANO! Nano has defeated me two years in a row and I won't stand of it again.
6. Read 100 books, which is only 20 more than I read this year. Shouldn't be too hard.
7. I have some fitness and weight goals for next year too but I won't go into detail there.
8. Post on here at least once a week.
I'm sure I have more goals as the year goes on. But even if I just reach a few of these, I'll be damn proud of myself. I hope everyone keeps checking in withe me and hounds me every now and then about these goals. Something about people I've never met before yelling at me motivates me strongly.
Anyone else have some goals for the new year?
Oh yeah. One more goal:
10. Spend more time looking at hot men, like Jensen Ackles. It just makes my day seem so much brighter.
2009 was a mixed year for me. Writing wise and personally.
Even though I'm not quite where I want to be when it comes to writing, I did start working at it more this past year.
I don't like looking back in the past, so instead here are some personal and professional goals for the coming year.
1. Get my own apartment. I'm nineteen years old and still living with my father. Now, that might not seem too bad for some of you, but after living on my own for a year it's really hard living with a parent again.
2. Finish up high school. By this summer, I'm going to be a goddamn high school graduate if it kills me.
3. Finish all three drafts I started in 2009. For VDGP, that shouldn't be too hard. That story still speaks to me the most. College For Witches, on the other hand, needs to be totally ripped apart and redone. TFA is going to need a lot of work as well.
4. Start at least one completely new story.
5. FINISH NANO! Nano has defeated me two years in a row and I won't stand of it again.
6. Read 100 books, which is only 20 more than I read this year. Shouldn't be too hard.
7. I have some fitness and weight goals for next year too but I won't go into detail there.
8. Post on here at least once a week.
I'm sure I have more goals as the year goes on. But even if I just reach a few of these, I'll be damn proud of myself. I hope everyone keeps checking in withe me and hounds me every now and then about these goals. Something about people I've never met before yelling at me motivates me strongly.
Anyone else have some goals for the new year?
Oh yeah. One more goal:
10. Spend more time looking at hot men, like Jensen Ackles. It just makes my day seem so much brighter.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Another Tuesday, Another Teaser.
This scene is when the main villain comes into play. Enjoy.
My mouth opened to say something, maybe to give Chris a warning but I can’t seem to form the words. The complete and utter fear was back and nothing on my body seemed to worked.
“Well, aren't you going to welcome me back? After all, I left you some presents as a welcoming. Shouldn’t you repay me?” Dante’s voice was smooth and haunting. I started to shake and clutched Chris’ arms to me.
“Who the fuck are you?” Chris growled angrily. I gave him a hard squeeze in warning. The last thing we needed was for him to piss Dante off. He shot a questioning look down at me, his eyes full of anger. But when he saw my face, the emotion faded away rapidly. He could tell that I was terrified and it threw him off. He had never seen me like this and he didn’t know what to think or do. I tried to shake my head at him but couldn't manage it. I wanted to scream for him to run, to get away but couldn't.
Dante moved and my head snapped back to look at him. He grinned maliciously and answered with a bow, “I am Dante. You must be…Christopher. It is so good to finally meet you face to face.” My blood turned to ice when he said Chris’ name. How did he know? Had he been watching me?
Thankfully, Chris didn't respond. I think he finally realized who was standing in front of us and the fear had set in. His body went rigid and he grabbed my hand behind my back, gripping hard.
“Hmm. I can see I’ll be the one carrying on the conversation,” he slinked toward me and I cringed away. There was a flash of movement and his hand was on my chin, forcing me to meet his eyes. I whimpered and tried to pull away but he held me still. Chris shifted behind me, “Move and I’ll snap her neck,” The movement stopped. “Back away child. I wish to speak to my pet without you interfering.”
Chris hesitated, trying to decide what to do. Just listen to him. Run, Chris. Run. I thought fervently at him. After a moment, Chris dropped my hand and backed away, causing me to stumble. I had been leaning on him more than I realized; he had been practically holding me up.
“She’s not your pet,” Chris spat at Dante and I flinched. Dante’s eyes lifted off my face and stared at Chris. The coldness was gone from his eyes, they were positively on fire.
“I look forward to teaching you respect, Christopher. Unfortunately, the tough guys are usually the ones who break the easiest. Still, I will enjoy it no matter how short the affair will be.”
I think I fixed all the tense issues I was having. While I was writing this, I was reading a book written in pretense tense so it came sneaking into my own writing. Let me know if you see something I missed!
My mouth opened to say something, maybe to give Chris a warning but I can’t seem to form the words. The complete and utter fear was back and nothing on my body seemed to worked.
“Well, aren't you going to welcome me back? After all, I left you some presents as a welcoming. Shouldn’t you repay me?” Dante’s voice was smooth and haunting. I started to shake and clutched Chris’ arms to me.
“Who the fuck are you?” Chris growled angrily. I gave him a hard squeeze in warning. The last thing we needed was for him to piss Dante off. He shot a questioning look down at me, his eyes full of anger. But when he saw my face, the emotion faded away rapidly. He could tell that I was terrified and it threw him off. He had never seen me like this and he didn’t know what to think or do. I tried to shake my head at him but couldn't manage it. I wanted to scream for him to run, to get away but couldn't.
Dante moved and my head snapped back to look at him. He grinned maliciously and answered with a bow, “I am Dante. You must be…Christopher. It is so good to finally meet you face to face.” My blood turned to ice when he said Chris’ name. How did he know? Had he been watching me?
Thankfully, Chris didn't respond. I think he finally realized who was standing in front of us and the fear had set in. His body went rigid and he grabbed my hand behind my back, gripping hard.
“Hmm. I can see I’ll be the one carrying on the conversation,” he slinked toward me and I cringed away. There was a flash of movement and his hand was on my chin, forcing me to meet his eyes. I whimpered and tried to pull away but he held me still. Chris shifted behind me, “Move and I’ll snap her neck,” The movement stopped. “Back away child. I wish to speak to my pet without you interfering.”
Chris hesitated, trying to decide what to do. Just listen to him. Run, Chris. Run. I thought fervently at him. After a moment, Chris dropped my hand and backed away, causing me to stumble. I had been leaning on him more than I realized; he had been practically holding me up.
“She’s not your pet,” Chris spat at Dante and I flinched. Dante’s eyes lifted off my face and stared at Chris. The coldness was gone from his eyes, they were positively on fire.
“I look forward to teaching you respect, Christopher. Unfortunately, the tough guys are usually the ones who break the easiest. Still, I will enjoy it no matter how short the affair will be.”
I think I fixed all the tense issues I was having. While I was writing this, I was reading a book written in pretense tense so it came sneaking into my own writing. Let me know if you see something I missed!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Another 2010 Challenge!
That's right. This one is all about my favorite subject. Vampires! The details are below (Copied from Reading with Tequila) I'm going to go nuts and go for the Vampire lover. The three full series I'm going to read are:
1. Woman of the Otherworld by Kelley Armstrong (three down, six to go)
2. Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz (two down, two to go)
3. Wicked Lovely by Melissa Mar (two down, two to go)
Wish me luck!
Vampire Series Challenge
Hosted by MizB
1. Woman of the Otherworld by Kelley Armstrong (three down, six to go)
2. Blue Bloods by Melissa de la Cruz (two down, two to go)
3. Wicked Lovely by Melissa Mar (two down, two to go)
Wish me luck!
Vampire Series Challenge
Hosted by MizB
Level One: Vampire Newbie ~ read Book 1 of three (3) different vampire series (for a list of series’ featuring vampires, see my All In Order blog, or check out Kathrin’s list here –but note that some of the ones she mentions may not be series books). So, for example, you could read: “Twilight” by Stephenie Meyer (book 1 in the “Twilight” series), “Evermore” by Alyson Noel (book 1 of the “Immortals” series), and “City of Bones” by Cassandra Clare (book 1 of the “Mortal Instruments” series). NO re-reads allowed for this level, as you’re supposed to be introducing yourself to new vampire series.
Level Two: Vampire Addict ~ Choose either to: reread 2 vampire series books you’ve already read; OR read 2 more books from a vampire series that you’ve already started reading. For example: if you’ve already read books 1 & 2 of the “Twilight” series, now go and read books 3 & 4. OR, if you’ve already read the whole “House of Night” series by P.C. Cast, go back and read 2 of the books from that series.
Level Three: Vampire Enthusiast ~ Read 6 books from any series featuring vampires as key/main characters. This can be a mix of different series, or you can read all 6 books from one series, or whatever.
Level Four: Vampire Lover ~ If you’re really feeling crazy about vampires, this is the level for you! Read 3 full series featuring vampires as key/main characters. Example: The whole “House of Night” series, the whole “Twilight” series, the whole “Vampire Academy” series, or whatever. Totally up to you. And, I don’t care if you’re re-reading them. So long as you read the whole series.
Other rules:
- rereads are allowed, EXCEPT for Level One (Vampire Newbie).
- ebooks & audiobooks are allowed
- the challenge will run from January 1st through December 31st, 2010.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Road Trip Wednesday.
This is a weekly thing done over at YA Highway. They ask questions, people answer. This is the first time I've ever participated but I've been reading others for awhile now. I saw the questions and thought, 'What the hell?' and here we are.
Question One: What are the three best books you've read all year?
1.) Easily Atonement by Ian McEwan. It blew me away. It was the first book I read all year and I can still remember it perfectly. And I want to reread it more than you know.
2.) The Mortal Instruments trilogy by Cassandra Clark. These books made me sad, angry, heated, passionate, happy, and every other emotion under the sun. I cared about these characters and wanted them to succeed, to be happy. I loved them all.
3.) Skin Trade by Laurell K. Hamilton. Now, in all honesty, this may not have been in the top three best books I've read this year. But it was in the top three favorite. The Anita Blake series had dissolved into nothing but sex for the last few books. Don't get me wrong, I love a good sex scene as much as the next girl. But the series lost the danger, the action, and the thrill that kept me coming back. In this one, Laurell found her magic again. And I fell in love with this series all over again.
Question Two: If I could meet any author, alive or dead, who would I meet?
Laurell K. Hamilton. Her series was the first one that ever really hooked me. There had been books I liked in the past, but hers was the first I couldn't not read. I've read every book of hers except two, one that just came out and one that was her first one ever published. I'm buying Divine Misdemeanors ASAP and I'm starting Nightseer soon. I think I would die of giddyness if I ever meet her in real life.
Question Three: What books am I looking forward to in 2010?
There are a few people I've interacted with over at AW that I'm excited to read their new books. The new Anita Blake comes out in 2010 (I like Laurell K. Hamilton in case you didn't catch on yet). But mostly I just look for books as they come out. Looking at books that haven't been published yet just make me yell, "WANT NAO. CANNOT WAIT." (That's what she said.)
Well there you have it. It's been fun. I didn't think I'd have that much to say. Go figure.
Question One: What are the three best books you've read all year?
1.) Easily Atonement by Ian McEwan. It blew me away. It was the first book I read all year and I can still remember it perfectly. And I want to reread it more than you know.
2.) The Mortal Instruments trilogy by Cassandra Clark. These books made me sad, angry, heated, passionate, happy, and every other emotion under the sun. I cared about these characters and wanted them to succeed, to be happy. I loved them all.
3.) Skin Trade by Laurell K. Hamilton. Now, in all honesty, this may not have been in the top three best books I've read this year. But it was in the top three favorite. The Anita Blake series had dissolved into nothing but sex for the last few books. Don't get me wrong, I love a good sex scene as much as the next girl. But the series lost the danger, the action, and the thrill that kept me coming back. In this one, Laurell found her magic again. And I fell in love with this series all over again.
Question Two: If I could meet any author, alive or dead, who would I meet?
Laurell K. Hamilton. Her series was the first one that ever really hooked me. There had been books I liked in the past, but hers was the first I couldn't not read. I've read every book of hers except two, one that just came out and one that was her first one ever published. I'm buying Divine Misdemeanors ASAP and I'm starting Nightseer soon. I think I would die of giddyness if I ever meet her in real life.
Question Three: What books am I looking forward to in 2010?
There are a few people I've interacted with over at AW that I'm excited to read their new books. The new Anita Blake comes out in 2010 (I like Laurell K. Hamilton in case you didn't catch on yet). But mostly I just look for books as they come out. Looking at books that haven't been published yet just make me yell, "WANT NAO. CANNOT WAIT." (That's what she said.)
Well there you have it. It's been fun. I didn't think I'd have that much to say. Go figure.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Tuesday Teaser.
I'm really tired so I'm not going to explain the scene. I think you'll be able to understand it on your own. *Insert usual disclaimer about how rough the selection is.* Enjoy.
He stared at me for several moments before he broke, “I’m sure you have some questions for me.”
I lifted my eyebrows, “What makes you think that? It’s not like an evil vampire bitch just told me that you were involved with another evil vampire that killed my parents. Oh wait…”
He sighed and stared at his hands. “I know how you must be feeling.”
Something inside me snapped at this. Anger rose inside me, leaving a trail as hot as fire, and settled in my throat. I tried to swallow it but it burst from my lips and I shouted, “Really? You know what it’s like to relive your parents murder? You know what it’s like to not know if you can trust the person you love above anyone else? Really?” I was suddenly standing over him and I didn’t remember moving. My breath was ragged and I had to clench my teeth shut to stop myself from screaming.
Jay sat there completely peaceful. I had the sudden urge to strike him. My fist clenched in yearning but I forced it open. His total passiveness pissed me off more than him screaming back would have.
“Well?!” I demanded, placing my hand on my hips and tapping my foot.
“I wish I had a better answer for you then I do,” his perfect mask slipped for a moment and I saw the hurt in his eyes. I must have reacted because he turned from me to stare out the window. “I haven’t been lying to you. It’s always been the truth between us. Most of my life is a complete mystery to me. I get,” he made a gesture, “flashes. Flashes that don’t make any sense.” He looked at me again and the pleading in his eyes made my anger vanish. I sank down next to him. He immediately wrapped his arms around me pulled as close as possible. He buried his head in my hair as he clung to me. “I’d tell you in an instant if I knew anything about Dante. You know that. You know me.”
I stroked his hair and considered this. He was right. I did know him and, whether it was stupid or not, I believed him. I nodded, “You’re right. I believe you. But,” he pulled back at this, “maybe there’s some way to get your memories back.” He raised one eyebrow. “Zaynab might be able to break down the barriers that keep you from remembering.”
He pulled away from me completely as he thought. He was quiet for a few minutes before he spoke. “I’ll have to think about. Having someone dig in my brain like that… Well, let’s just say it worries me some.”
“I understand. It would frighten me too.”
“I didn’t say anything about being scared.”
I laughed softly. “You never admit to being scared but I know Jay-speak fairly well by now,” I nudged his side and he lifted his arm so I could cuddle against him. “It’s okay to say you’re scared, you know. At least to me.”
He scoffed, “You’re one to talk. Who do you think taught me the tough guy act?”
“I can totally admit to being scared,” he scoffed again.
“Gwen, I can count on one hand the number of times you’ve said that you were scared and still have fingers left over.”
I shifted uncomfortably. That couldn’t be true, could it? Had I become someone who couldn’t say how they felt even to the person they loved? “You’re exaggerating. I can and do tell you when I’m scared.”
He moved so I sat up. I felt his hands wrap around my forearms and he forced me to look him square in the face. “Alright. Tell me how you feel about Dante. About what we saw in the morgue today.”
My face hardened, “You know how I felt. You saw my reaction when the sheet was lifted.” For some reason, I couldn’t meet his eye so I focused on his nose.
He shook me softly till I brought my gaze up, “I want you to look at me and say it.” I stared angrily at him and he shook me a bit harder, “Say it.”
As I pulled myself from his grasp, my voice came out louder than I meant it to, “Alright. I’m terrified. I’m afraid that Dante will force me to relive my family’s murder over and over again until my mind breaks. I’m scared that he’ll finally finish what he started. I’m completely and utterly terrified. Happy?” I crossed my arms and glared at him.
His smile fell, “Not at all. I can’t imagine how hard this must be on you. And the last thing I want to see is you in pain.”
My lower lip started to quiver and I could feel the tears start to form behind my eyes. I bit down hard on my lip and dug my fingernails into my arm to try and contain them. Jay’s eyes filled with sadness as he pulled me into him. As soon as I was in his arms, the dam broke and the tears started flowing freely. The sobs weren’t far behind. Jay brought me completely into his lap and stroked my hair.
“It’s alright, love. It’s going to be okay,” his voice was soft as he repeated those words to me.
He stared at me for several moments before he broke, “I’m sure you have some questions for me.”
I lifted my eyebrows, “What makes you think that? It’s not like an evil vampire bitch just told me that you were involved with another evil vampire that killed my parents. Oh wait…”
He sighed and stared at his hands. “I know how you must be feeling.”
Something inside me snapped at this. Anger rose inside me, leaving a trail as hot as fire, and settled in my throat. I tried to swallow it but it burst from my lips and I shouted, “Really? You know what it’s like to relive your parents murder? You know what it’s like to not know if you can trust the person you love above anyone else? Really?” I was suddenly standing over him and I didn’t remember moving. My breath was ragged and I had to clench my teeth shut to stop myself from screaming.
Jay sat there completely peaceful. I had the sudden urge to strike him. My fist clenched in yearning but I forced it open. His total passiveness pissed me off more than him screaming back would have.
“Well?!” I demanded, placing my hand on my hips and tapping my foot.
“I wish I had a better answer for you then I do,” his perfect mask slipped for a moment and I saw the hurt in his eyes. I must have reacted because he turned from me to stare out the window. “I haven’t been lying to you. It’s always been the truth between us. Most of my life is a complete mystery to me. I get,” he made a gesture, “flashes. Flashes that don’t make any sense.” He looked at me again and the pleading in his eyes made my anger vanish. I sank down next to him. He immediately wrapped his arms around me pulled as close as possible. He buried his head in my hair as he clung to me. “I’d tell you in an instant if I knew anything about Dante. You know that. You know me.”
I stroked his hair and considered this. He was right. I did know him and, whether it was stupid or not, I believed him. I nodded, “You’re right. I believe you. But,” he pulled back at this, “maybe there’s some way to get your memories back.” He raised one eyebrow. “Zaynab might be able to break down the barriers that keep you from remembering.”
He pulled away from me completely as he thought. He was quiet for a few minutes before he spoke. “I’ll have to think about. Having someone dig in my brain like that… Well, let’s just say it worries me some.”
“I understand. It would frighten me too.”
“I didn’t say anything about being scared.”
I laughed softly. “You never admit to being scared but I know Jay-speak fairly well by now,” I nudged his side and he lifted his arm so I could cuddle against him. “It’s okay to say you’re scared, you know. At least to me.”
He scoffed, “You’re one to talk. Who do you think taught me the tough guy act?”
“I can totally admit to being scared,” he scoffed again.
“Gwen, I can count on one hand the number of times you’ve said that you were scared and still have fingers left over.”
I shifted uncomfortably. That couldn’t be true, could it? Had I become someone who couldn’t say how they felt even to the person they loved? “You’re exaggerating. I can and do tell you when I’m scared.”
He moved so I sat up. I felt his hands wrap around my forearms and he forced me to look him square in the face. “Alright. Tell me how you feel about Dante. About what we saw in the morgue today.”
My face hardened, “You know how I felt. You saw my reaction when the sheet was lifted.” For some reason, I couldn’t meet his eye so I focused on his nose.
He shook me softly till I brought my gaze up, “I want you to look at me and say it.” I stared angrily at him and he shook me a bit harder, “Say it.”
As I pulled myself from his grasp, my voice came out louder than I meant it to, “Alright. I’m terrified. I’m afraid that Dante will force me to relive my family’s murder over and over again until my mind breaks. I’m scared that he’ll finally finish what he started. I’m completely and utterly terrified. Happy?” I crossed my arms and glared at him.
His smile fell, “Not at all. I can’t imagine how hard this must be on you. And the last thing I want to see is you in pain.”
My lower lip started to quiver and I could feel the tears start to form behind my eyes. I bit down hard on my lip and dug my fingernails into my arm to try and contain them. Jay’s eyes filled with sadness as he pulled me into him. As soon as I was in his arms, the dam broke and the tears started flowing freely. The sobs weren’t far behind. Jay brought me completely into his lap and stroked my hair.
“It’s alright, love. It’s going to be okay,” his voice was soft as he repeated those words to me.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Free books!
Need I say more?
The good folk over at YA Highway are giving away books to their devoted followers. Like me. Go over and check them out!
The good folk over at YA Highway are giving away books to their devoted followers. Like me. Go over and check them out!
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