I'm home after a fantastic weekend at Authors After Dark Romance Unlimited Convention 2010. This is the ulimate romance readers convention. I had the most awesome time meeting people. Fun panels, chocolate everywhere, free stuff (including lots of books), great food, rocking parties, a huge book sale and autograph session, great raffle prizes. Everything was just so much fun at a very reasonable price. Next year it will be in Philadelphia. If you love romance books and hanging out with other devotees of romance including the authors, please, come. Jacquelyn Frank is the mostest hostess ever. So when December comes around Google "Authors After Dark" and sign up fast before it's filled.
Thursday, Sept. 23, I will be guest blogging at Fang-tastic Books. Join me for the mischief. I feel Halloween in the air and can't help myself. See you at
http://fang-tasticbooks.blogspot.com/
Monday, September 20, 2010
Sunday, July 11, 2010
New Book Trailer for THE STORMY LOVE LIFE OF LAURA CORDELAIS
Please, celebrate with me. It's a new book trailer. I'm passing out cyber cigars to some, cyber ice cream to others.
The ebook is available at http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thestormylovelifeoflauracordelais-374695-139.html
The Kindle edition is available at http://www.amazon.com/Stormy-Love-Laura-Cordelais-ebook/dp/B00318D5VY
and also at fine ebooks stores everywhere.
The ebook is available at http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thestormylovelifeoflauracordelais-374695-139.html
The Kindle edition is available at http://www.amazon.com/Stormy-Love-Laura-Cordelais-ebook/dp/B00318D5VY
and also at fine ebooks stores everywhere.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
The Author's Blog at Fiction Fest
Hi Everyone,
I had a great time at CTRWA's Fiction Fest. I did on workshop on "The Author's Blog", and I wanted to bring up another matter that I didn't bring up.
Back up your work and the materials on your blog. The world changes and things happen. There are good prices out there on portable hard drives and then again there is Sky Drive. Make sure your materials are backed up.
That's me with Erotic Romance Author Collette Thomas and here's her blog newsletter about the event: http://www.newsletterofcollettethomas.blogspot.com/
An excellent way of using a blog. I encourage you to check it out.
This year Fiction Fest sold out. Next year when registration opens, I encourage you to jump on it right away. Our focus is giving writers practical information that they can use. In addition to the workshops, we had speakers, an agent/editor panels, pitch session with agents and editors, sessions with Leslie Wainger, the book doctor, and a booksigning. With lunch and the cocktail party at the end, it was a full day. By the way Leslie is the author of Writing a Romance Novel for Dummies. I highly recommend it. http://www.lesliewainger-bookdoctor.com/
Until next time, happy blogging and writing and living.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Blog Lesson 3 - Tags and Categories, Labels
For our lesson today in blogging, we're going to look at tags and categories in Wordpress and labels in Blogger. What are they?
Tags and labels are the same as keywords. They make your blog searchable. That means when someone is in Google, they type in keywords for what they are trying to find. Simply saying if your keyword and their keyword match up, they may find you. I say may because your blog may not show up until they've gone several pages in. We'll save Google ranking for another time.
Categories in Wordpress is part of the internal indexing system of your blog. It allows you to find every entry written under the category or topic.
What does all of this mean? To make it easier for your viewers, in Wordpress, go to the right hand side of your dashboard and fill in the tags and then scroll down and enter your categories. Once categories are established, you have to check on them. In Blogger, fill in your labels in the box called Labels for this post.
That's it for this lesson.
Tags and labels are the same as keywords. They make your blog searchable. That means when someone is in Google, they type in keywords for what they are trying to find. Simply saying if your keyword and their keyword match up, they may find you. I say may because your blog may not show up until they've gone several pages in. We'll save Google ranking for another time.
Categories in Wordpress is part of the internal indexing system of your blog. It allows you to find every entry written under the category or topic.
What does all of this mean? To make it easier for your viewers, in Wordpress, go to the right hand side of your dashboard and fill in the tags and then scroll down and enter your categories. Once categories are established, you have to check on them. In Blogger, fill in your labels in the box called Labels for this post.
That's it for this lesson.
Monday, February 08, 2010
Lesson 2 - Linking in Blogs
I received this question: How do we code to open in a new window using wordpress?
Let's just start with links. You are in the Dashboard in Wordpress. Go down the left hand side to Post, and click Add New. You put in your title. Wordpress has an automatic system where it will index your title. That entry is actually saved by the title.
Next type in the box your blog entry. When you reach a place where you want to place a link, highlight, click the chain symbol (in Blogger it is a chain symbol on an Earth. A window will open up asking for a web address.
Example Nights of Passion I would type in http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com and press enter or submit.
When you are done with your blog entry, press Publish on the right hand side.
When you view your blog as you would a visitor, when you roll your mouse over the link, a preview window will come up in Wordpress saying it is generating a preview. When you click on your link, it will take you to that other web site. You can arrow back to the blog.
As for opening it in a new window, I have never seen that setting for Wordpress. It is a common setting for web site design. Blogs are different. If there are any more questions about links, just ask.
So enjoy playing with your blog. More next week.
Let's just start with links. You are in the Dashboard in Wordpress. Go down the left hand side to Post, and click Add New. You put in your title. Wordpress has an automatic system where it will index your title. That entry is actually saved by the title.
Next type in the box your blog entry. When you reach a place where you want to place a link, highlight, click the chain symbol (in Blogger it is a chain symbol on an Earth. A window will open up asking for a web address.
Example Nights of Passion I would type in http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com and press enter or submit.
When you are done with your blog entry, press Publish on the right hand side.
When you view your blog as you would a visitor, when you roll your mouse over the link, a preview window will come up in Wordpress saying it is generating a preview. When you click on your link, it will take you to that other web site. You can arrow back to the blog.
As for opening it in a new window, I have never seen that setting for Wordpress. It is a common setting for web site design. Blogs are different. If there are any more questions about links, just ask.
So enjoy playing with your blog. More next week.
Friday, February 05, 2010
Blogging, Lesson 1--Getting Your Feet Wet
Someone, I won't say her name, has requested that I give some lessons on blogging and I said, "Okay."
Lesson 1
Reason: Why do you want a blog? You're an author, an artist? You want a journal? They're lots of reasons but have that reason in mind to give some focus to your blog.
Next: Pick a name. That's right, come up with a name for the new puppy that you'll be playing with a lot. Google that name to see if it's original. You may want to change it if you find the name you've chosen is also taken by a lot of people. Anyway spend some time on a name.
Next: Location. Location is everything and if it's a good location that's free, it's even better. My personal favorites are Blogger (aka Blogspot), which is where The Writing House is hosted, and Wordpress, which is where Nights of Passion is hosted. Why do I love these two? Blogger is the easiest way to blog. Building a blog here is a very simple, step-by-step method. There are lots of pretty themes and layouts to choose from. The Writing House is my first blog. I learned a lot about blogging using it. What about Wordpress? They are also excellent. They have a lot of very fancy items you can add to your blog. I found, however, especially when I was working with pages and pages in blogs are NOT like pages on a website. They can get glitchy and do bizarre things sometimes. To have great pages on Wordpress, decide what you're going to put on them that will stay that way forever with very little changing. Then you won't have glitchy things happening. Remember the blog page is the one you will always change. The blog entry page is meant for constant changes. It's the first thing people see.
Both are lovely. People have made exceptional blogs using both.
Most important rule of blogging--Only write what you wouldn't mind your boss, your mother, your old boyfriend, every single person in the world seeing. Never say anything you would regret later.
Now choose either Wordpress or Blogger and follow their directions. Blogging is play, but take some time to learn their rules and enjoy the process.
If you want to blog, it's time to jump in. I'll be back next week.
To visit Nights of Passion to check out it's features and ask me questions, visit: http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com Yes, I will check back and answer questions.
Ta for now.
--Susan
Lesson 1
Reason: Why do you want a blog? You're an author, an artist? You want a journal? They're lots of reasons but have that reason in mind to give some focus to your blog.
Next: Pick a name. That's right, come up with a name for the new puppy that you'll be playing with a lot. Google that name to see if it's original. You may want to change it if you find the name you've chosen is also taken by a lot of people. Anyway spend some time on a name.
Next: Location. Location is everything and if it's a good location that's free, it's even better. My personal favorites are Blogger (aka Blogspot), which is where The Writing House is hosted, and Wordpress, which is where Nights of Passion is hosted. Why do I love these two? Blogger is the easiest way to blog. Building a blog here is a very simple, step-by-step method. There are lots of pretty themes and layouts to choose from. The Writing House is my first blog. I learned a lot about blogging using it. What about Wordpress? They are also excellent. They have a lot of very fancy items you can add to your blog. I found, however, especially when I was working with pages and pages in blogs are NOT like pages on a website. They can get glitchy and do bizarre things sometimes. To have great pages on Wordpress, decide what you're going to put on them that will stay that way forever with very little changing. Then you won't have glitchy things happening. Remember the blog page is the one you will always change. The blog entry page is meant for constant changes. It's the first thing people see.
Both are lovely. People have made exceptional blogs using both.
Most important rule of blogging--Only write what you wouldn't mind your boss, your mother, your old boyfriend, every single person in the world seeing. Never say anything you would regret later.
Now choose either Wordpress or Blogger and follow their directions. Blogging is play, but take some time to learn their rules and enjoy the process.
If you want to blog, it's time to jump in. I'll be back next week.
To visit Nights of Passion to check out it's features and ask me questions, visit: http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com Yes, I will check back and answer questions.
Ta for now.
--Susan
Friday, December 18, 2009
Snow is coming! Happy Holidays!
I'm surrounded by sick people in the family. It's supposed to snow big time starting tomorrow afternoon and I'm exhausted and haven't gotten any holiday things done. I have one present--for my husband. Yes, I know we're not doing well.
On the up side, I've been guest blogging a lot regarding A Vampire for Christmas and even The Stormy Love Life of Laura Cordelais (which is being sold in several places now in addition to All Romance Ebooks and is even becoming available for Kindle sometimes tomorrow). That's exciting.
The upside of snowing is that while it's blowing, I can peacefully retreat into my own private writing world. Right now, my mind is on taking care of the family. So I'm making a list of what I need before the snow hits. When that's done, I'll decorate.
May your world be filled with good health, good food, and dear people and pets you want to keep close. Happy Holidays!
On the up side, I've been guest blogging a lot regarding A Vampire for Christmas and even The Stormy Love Life of Laura Cordelais (which is being sold in several places now in addition to All Romance Ebooks and is even becoming available for Kindle sometimes tomorrow). That's exciting.
The upside of snowing is that while it's blowing, I can peacefully retreat into my own private writing world. Right now, my mind is on taking care of the family. So I'm making a list of what I need before the snow hits. When that's done, I'll decorate.
May your world be filled with good health, good food, and dear people and pets you want to keep close. Happy Holidays!
Friday, December 11, 2009
A VAMPIRE FOR CHRISTMAS and More
On the SFWA Blog: How I Fell in Love with Paranormal RomanceI was honored to be invited to talk about paranormal romance on the SFWA blog. Here's the link to the article.
http://www.sfwa.org/2009/12/how-i-fell-i
I'm a long-time member of SFWA (Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America) and I've been a romance writer for almost two years and a member of RWA for not quite one year. I hope I did justice to describing paranormal romance. It's a lot to live up to--such an exciting genre.
Drop over and take a look.
Ta.
Sue
Friday, December 04, 2009
A Vampire for Christmas
A VAMPIRE FOR CHRISTMAS is out from Tease Publishing. It is three flames and available from All Romance Ebookshttp://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-avampireforchristmas-387184-139.html
Trevor Stenwood, a vampire and Arnhem Knight, is handsome, sophisticated, and tongue-tied every time he sees her. Sworn to protect the supernaturals of the city, he's fallen for a woman marked for death by demons. How can he save her when she's afraid of him?
At Christmas time in
I'm so excited that it's out. Note the blood dripping new logo for the VIM Vampires in Manhattan. WHEN LOVE SURVIVES and THE STORMY LOVE LIFE OF LAURA CORDELAIS are prequels. I'm still so excited. I'm giving a holiday party on Nights of Passion blog on Dec. 19th and 20th -- If you like, please, come. http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com
Saturday, November 28, 2009
A Sneak Peek of THE STORMY LOVE LIFE OF LAURA CORDELAIS
Hi Everyone,
Here is an excerpt from my debut contemporary vampire romance novel, THE STORMY LOVE LIFE OF LAURA CORDELAIS. In this novel Vampire David Hilliard meets his life mate, a tormented and very different supernatural. But once he has Laura can he keep her?
Excerpt Rating - PG
Laura struggled through the dark and burst through a great light. She gasped for breath and it filled her. Warmth spread through her every part, then a surge of energy she didn’t understand. Her heart beat. Differently. Odd. Different from any feeling she’d ever had. Her eyelashes fluttered and then in the dim light of a strange windowless room, she saw a man’s face.
His dark, curly hair framed his chiseled features. What struck her most were his dark, fathomless eyes. I can get lost in those eyes and never want to leave.
He smiled.
She flushed. I hope he can’t hear what I’m thinking.
I can.
She sat up, smiling with embarrassment. “You pulled me out of the river?”
“Yes.”
“Thank you.” Laura trembled. “I don’t understand. I was dying.”
“You were very badly injured in the fall. I was going to take you to the hospital, but you said, ‘No hospital.’ That you’d keep trying to kill yourself.” His jaw tightened. “I couldn’t bear the idea of your death. Please, forgive me, but I couldn’t let you die.” He gazed deeply into her eyes.
Laura moved her tongue inside her mouth and came across the fangs.
“Oh, my God!” She tried to sit up, but he pushed her gently down.
“Don’t get up just yet. You’re still healing.”
“You made me a vampire?” Every tale she’d heard as a child in New Orleans rushed back to her. Vampires were monsters. “Now I’m a monster!” Anger flushed through her. How dare he make her this! He had no right. She seethed.
“No. You are not a monster. Neither am I. I gave you a life. It’s your choice how you live it.”
Then another emotion unexpectedly filled her, when she gazed up into his eyes. I couldn’t bear the idea of your death. His tender words echoed in her entire being and soothed her broken heart, as if he’d kissed her lips without touching her. She looked at him with wonder, reached up and caressed the young beard on his chin. He smiled and she could see his fangs now.
Strangely, she wasn’t frightened.
“We must do the last part.” He bit into his arm just inside the elbow and put it against her mouth.
“No.” She pushed his arm away.
“You need it to stop the hunger from possessing you. Just close your eyes and drink.”
The blood oozed into her mouth, as he pressed his arm against her lips. At first, she choked and sputtered but then finally accepted it. Laura tried not to think about what it really was.
The warmth reminded her of ginger tea with a citrus tang.
“Since I am your sire, my blood will give you a balanced mind. You will not need to feed again until tonight.”
After a few more minutes, she pushed him away. The wound on his arm healed before her eyes. Wide-eyed, she smiled. “I feel so strong and well. I don’t ache or hurt anywhere.” Then his reference to being her sire struck her. “So you own me now!” Her anger flared again along with her strength. She slapped him.
“What was that for?” He held his hand to his cheek.
“Oh, I don’t know. You made me a vampire and now you own me. Take your pick.”
David gazed upward. “This isn’t going well.”
“Who are you talking to?”
“God.”
Laura scoffed. “A vampire talks to God? Does God answer you?”
David frowned at her and sighed. ”God apparently has one hell of a sense of humor.”
“What does that mean?”
“Never mind. Let’s get back to the subject at hand. No, I do not own you. I have no claim on you whatsoever. You are free to decide where you want to be and with whom. I’ll help you get started, that’s all.” With every word, he seemed more uncomfortable. “We do have a blood tie though, so if you ever need my help, just think of me and I’ll come. I’ll find you.”
Her anger dissipated. Laura enjoyed seeing him vulnerable. And he didn’t hit her back. She smiled. “I don’t know your name.”
“I’m David Hilliard.”
This time she gently touched his face. “I’m Laura Cordelais.”
He held her hand to his cheek and closed his eyes.
Laura gasped as she realized her surroundings. “Do you live here?”
“No.” He chuckled. “I just needed to get you out of the sun. I have an apartment.”
“Well, that’s a relief. I thought I’d have to live in a cemetery.”
Here is an excerpt from my debut contemporary vampire romance novel, THE STORMY LOVE LIFE OF LAURA CORDELAIS. In this novel Vampire David Hilliard meets his life mate, a tormented and very different supernatural. But once he has Laura can he keep her?
Excerpt Rating - PG
Laura struggled through the dark and burst through a great light. She gasped for breath and it filled her. Warmth spread through her every part, then a surge of energy she didn’t understand. Her heart beat. Differently. Odd. Different from any feeling she’d ever had. Her eyelashes fluttered and then in the dim light of a strange windowless room, she saw a man’s face.
His dark, curly hair framed his chiseled features. What struck her most were his dark, fathomless eyes. I can get lost in those eyes and never want to leave.
He smiled.
She flushed. I hope he can’t hear what I’m thinking.
I can.
She sat up, smiling with embarrassment. “You pulled me out of the river?”
“Yes.”
“Thank you.” Laura trembled. “I don’t understand. I was dying.”
“You were very badly injured in the fall. I was going to take you to the hospital, but you said, ‘No hospital.’ That you’d keep trying to kill yourself.” His jaw tightened. “I couldn’t bear the idea of your death. Please, forgive me, but I couldn’t let you die.” He gazed deeply into her eyes.
Laura moved her tongue inside her mouth and came across the fangs.
“Oh, my God!” She tried to sit up, but he pushed her gently down.
“Don’t get up just yet. You’re still healing.”
“You made me a vampire?” Every tale she’d heard as a child in New Orleans rushed back to her. Vampires were monsters. “Now I’m a monster!” Anger flushed through her. How dare he make her this! He had no right. She seethed.
“No. You are not a monster. Neither am I. I gave you a life. It’s your choice how you live it.”
Then another emotion unexpectedly filled her, when she gazed up into his eyes. I couldn’t bear the idea of your death. His tender words echoed in her entire being and soothed her broken heart, as if he’d kissed her lips without touching her. She looked at him with wonder, reached up and caressed the young beard on his chin. He smiled and she could see his fangs now.
Strangely, she wasn’t frightened.
“We must do the last part.” He bit into his arm just inside the elbow and put it against her mouth.
“No.” She pushed his arm away.
“You need it to stop the hunger from possessing you. Just close your eyes and drink.”
The blood oozed into her mouth, as he pressed his arm against her lips. At first, she choked and sputtered but then finally accepted it. Laura tried not to think about what it really was.
The warmth reminded her of ginger tea with a citrus tang.
“Since I am your sire, my blood will give you a balanced mind. You will not need to feed again until tonight.”
After a few more minutes, she pushed him away. The wound on his arm healed before her eyes. Wide-eyed, she smiled. “I feel so strong and well. I don’t ache or hurt anywhere.” Then his reference to being her sire struck her. “So you own me now!” Her anger flared again along with her strength. She slapped him.
“What was that for?” He held his hand to his cheek.
“Oh, I don’t know. You made me a vampire and now you own me. Take your pick.”
David gazed upward. “This isn’t going well.”
“Who are you talking to?”
“God.”
Laura scoffed. “A vampire talks to God? Does God answer you?”
David frowned at her and sighed. ”God apparently has one hell of a sense of humor.”
“What does that mean?”
“Never mind. Let’s get back to the subject at hand. No, I do not own you. I have no claim on you whatsoever. You are free to decide where you want to be and with whom. I’ll help you get started, that’s all.” With every word, he seemed more uncomfortable. “We do have a blood tie though, so if you ever need my help, just think of me and I’ll come. I’ll find you.”
Her anger dissipated. Laura enjoyed seeing him vulnerable. And he didn’t hit her back. She smiled. “I don’t know your name.”
“I’m David Hilliard.”
This time she gently touched his face. “I’m Laura Cordelais.”
He held her hand to his cheek and closed his eyes.
Laura gasped as she realized her surroundings. “Do you live here?”
“No.” He chuckled. “I just needed to get you out of the sun. I have an apartment.”
“Well, that’s a relief. I thought I’d have to live in a cemetery.”
They both laughed.
Laura looked around at the grim tomb. A spider crawled up the stone wall nearest her, and she trembled. “I’m afraid of small, closed spaces. And bugs.”
He enclosed her in his arms. “Don’t be afraid. As soon as it’s dark, we’ll leave.”
Her mouth was so close to his, she could almost taste him. Then he pressed his firm lips against hers.
Hmm. He tastes of honey. I love honey.
Their fangs knocked together. Laura giggled nervously.
“Shall we try that again?” he suggested.
She nodded.
David gently took her chin and tilted her head slightly. Then his lips possessed hers again.
Laura tingled from head to toe and wondered if a vampire was capable of love. She hoped David was.
When their lips parted, Laura frowned.
“I’m still angry with you.”
“Really? You don’t sound that angry.”
“I’m furious with you. I mean you made me a vampire.”
“Are you furious?” He carefully pushed a hair off her face and kissed her forehead.
“Now that’s not fair. Are you using your hypnotic powers on me?”
“No. I want everything between us to be real.” He kissed her left temple and moved down her jaw line. His mouth caressed her lips. His tongue rubbed her fangs.
“Whoa.” Rubbing her fangs stirred a passion so hot, it was hard to ignore. Still. He had just made her a vampire. All his distractions were making her forget that. She should be angry with him, but his kiss stirred up a frenzy of desire.
#
The excerpt is based on David’s earlier request to God to take pity on his loneliness. Of course, keeping her is a whole different issue. The two are torn apart by supernatural forces that refuse to see a vampire together with a Telkhine, and it’s here that Laura truly discovers the enormity of her powers. Will she be able to stay with David?
THE STORMY LOVE LIFE OF LAURA CORDELAIS is available at All Romance Ebooks at
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thestormylovelifeoflauracordelais-374695-139.html
The novella that started it all is there too. WHEN LOVE SURVIVES (about two supernatural rescue workers at the World Trade Center)
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-whenlovesurvives-362921-143.html
For more information, visit Susan at http://www.susanhannifordcrowley.com/
Or http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com/
--Thanks.
Laura looked around at the grim tomb. A spider crawled up the stone wall nearest her, and she trembled. “I’m afraid of small, closed spaces. And bugs.”
He enclosed her in his arms. “Don’t be afraid. As soon as it’s dark, we’ll leave.”
Her mouth was so close to his, she could almost taste him. Then he pressed his firm lips against hers.
Hmm. He tastes of honey. I love honey.
Their fangs knocked together. Laura giggled nervously.
“Shall we try that again?” he suggested.
She nodded.
David gently took her chin and tilted her head slightly. Then his lips possessed hers again.
Laura tingled from head to toe and wondered if a vampire was capable of love. She hoped David was.
When their lips parted, Laura frowned.
“I’m still angry with you.”
“Really? You don’t sound that angry.”
“I’m furious with you. I mean you made me a vampire.”
“Are you furious?” He carefully pushed a hair off her face and kissed her forehead.
“Now that’s not fair. Are you using your hypnotic powers on me?”
“No. I want everything between us to be real.” He kissed her left temple and moved down her jaw line. His mouth caressed her lips. His tongue rubbed her fangs.
“Whoa.” Rubbing her fangs stirred a passion so hot, it was hard to ignore. Still. He had just made her a vampire. All his distractions were making her forget that. She should be angry with him, but his kiss stirred up a frenzy of desire.
#
The excerpt is based on David’s earlier request to God to take pity on his loneliness. Of course, keeping her is a whole different issue. The two are torn apart by supernatural forces that refuse to see a vampire together with a Telkhine, and it’s here that Laura truly discovers the enormity of her powers. Will she be able to stay with David?
THE STORMY LOVE LIFE OF LAURA CORDELAIS is available at All Romance Ebooks at
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thestormylovelifeoflauracordelais-374695-139.html
The novella that started it all is there too. WHEN LOVE SURVIVES (about two supernatural rescue workers at the World Trade Center)
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-whenlovesurvives-362921-143.html
For more information, visit Susan at http://www.susanhannifordcrowley.com/
Or http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com/
--Thanks.
Susan Hanniford Crowley
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Understanding Publishing
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I don't know that it's possible to understand publishing until you've been in it a long time. Being published means plunging headfirst into a business you only know the outside parts of.Years ago, a friend told me that I was afraid of being published. He was right. I liked my very quiet life. Several months ago, another friend told me that when I published my life would change. She was right. I now have to concern myself with self-promotion which is a whole book in itself. I am knee-deep in edits from my editor. Though it is cool to say I have an editor and a cover artist. It's very exciting to be published.
It hits you when you see the cover. Not when you sign the contract. Not when the rewrites come. But when you see the cover. By the way, the book is a paranormal romance novella of 15,00o words and is available at http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-whenlovesurvives-362921-143.html
Now I've got more edits and two deadlines looming. My second novella A VAMPIRE FOR CHRISTMAS is in production. Also what is even more exciting is that my full length novel THE STORMY LOVE LIFE OF LAURA CORDELAIS is being published and is also in production.
Then I'll get excited again, when after they come out in print, they'll come out in print next year.
So what am I doing for Thanksgiving. Being incredibly grateful ... and continuing to write the next full length novel in the series.
But yes, I'm still excited and I hope to after many years to learn about the publishing business.
It hits you when you see the cover. Not when you sign the contract. Not when the rewrites come. But when you see the cover. By the way, the book is a paranormal romance novella of 15,00o words and is available at http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-whenlovesurvives-362921-143.html
Now I've got more edits and two deadlines looming. My second novella A VAMPIRE FOR CHRISTMAS is in production. Also what is even more exciting is that my full length novel THE STORMY LOVE LIFE OF LAURA CORDELAIS is being published and is also in production.
Then I'll get excited again, when after they come out in print, they'll come out in print next year.
So what am I doing for Thanksgiving. Being incredibly grateful ... and continuing to write the next full length novel in the series.
But yes, I'm still excited and I hope to after many years to learn about the publishing business.
And don't forget to visit me tomorrow (Oct. 30) at Hannah Howell's blog http://hhowell.blogspot.com I'll be talking about Halloween and the book. I love Halloween. I find it so inspiring. I can't imagine why. LOL
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Home from Albacon and Published
This week has been a worldwind. Albacon was lots of fun. You'll want to see the Albacon post at http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com as I posted photos. There were workshops, panels, the booksigning, and parties. The readings were great and the art wonderful.
While at Albacon, I stole away an hour here and there to finish another novella that I promised my editor. There's something soothing about writing at a conference. I find it gives a special quality to the story to be partially created in the midst of living with science fiction and fantasy folk. I had to finish it by Oct. 15th, which was also the release date for WHEN LOVE SURVIVES.
As soon as I came home I had an interview at Paranormal Romantics. Today WHEN LOVE SURVIVES was released at All Romance Ebooks http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-whenlovesurvives-362921-143.html It's a contemporary paranormal romance novella, 15,000 words and it can be purchased for 99 cents. Courtship and sex, adventure and courage all wrapped up in one story.
a.c. Mason interviewed me for Nights of Passion. Yes, that's my other blog. It's rather funny being interviewed by someone who knows you. I kidded Mason a lot. She's fun that way. You'll just have to see the interview to know what I'm talking about. Plaid.
While my editor edits my full-length novel, I'm writing another one. Being a writer is being in perpetual motion, always writing, researching, living, and writing. It's important to always include living. I don't think I could be a writer if I had to be a recluse.
It's snowing today. Yes, a great day for writing. But not enough snow for snow angels and snow men. Not yet.
While at Albacon, I stole away an hour here and there to finish another novella that I promised my editor. There's something soothing about writing at a conference. I find it gives a special quality to the story to be partially created in the midst of living with science fiction and fantasy folk. I had to finish it by Oct. 15th, which was also the release date for WHEN LOVE SURVIVES.
As soon as I came home I had an interview at Paranormal Romantics. Today WHEN LOVE SURVIVES was released at All Romance Ebooks http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-whenlovesurvives-362921-143.html It's a contemporary paranormal romance novella, 15,000 words and it can be purchased for 99 cents. Courtship and sex, adventure and courage all wrapped up in one story.
a.c. Mason interviewed me for Nights of Passion. Yes, that's my other blog. It's rather funny being interviewed by someone who knows you. I kidded Mason a lot. She's fun that way. You'll just have to see the interview to know what I'm talking about. Plaid.
While my editor edits my full-length novel, I'm writing another one. Being a writer is being in perpetual motion, always writing, researching, living, and writing. It's important to always include living. I don't think I could be a writer if I had to be a recluse.
It's snowing today. Yes, a great day for writing. But not enough snow for snow angels and snow men. Not yet.
Friday, October 02, 2009
Making Romance History in Albany Oct. 9th
We’re going to be making Romance history when we bring romance to Albacon on Friday, October 9, 2009 at the Sovereign Best Western in Albany, NY.
From 9-3 will be writers workshops and romance panels. For registration, visit http://www.albacon.org/
Open to the Public: From 3-5 will be an exciting group book signing. Join us and be part of history. Tell all your friends and bring them too. Bring books from home and books will also be on sale.
Romance authors signing: Jackie Kessler, Jessica Andersen, Stella Price, Cat Johnson, Toni Andrews, Virginia Reede, C. Margery Kempe, Roberta C.M. DeCaprio
Fantasy authors signing: Melissa Mead, K.A. Laity
And a special treat for vampire literature lovers: Author of The Vampires of New England Series, Inanna Arthen
Join us and be part of making romance history. Tell all your friends and bring them too. You have my permission to spread the word to as many blogs and writers as you can. Copy this post and send it forth. Thanks.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
So Much is Happening
Hi Everyone,
The fall is happening. The nights are getting colder and a few trees are changing color. It's also the season in my life when everything is happening at once. I have a job as a webmaster--lots of projects and meetings.
I'm now officially a romance author under contract. WHEN LOVE SURVIVES is currently in the editing stage. I'm writing another small book. It has a deadline. I'm also printing out my full length novel to send to my editor. At the same time, I'm trying to help my youngest pull together her wedding. There's just a few things left to do. Don't let me forget the runner for the aisle or the decoration for the archway.
Oh, and I'm on staff and program at Albacon, the science fiction and fantasy convention of Albany, NY, on Oct. 8-11. Thursday night there's an agent/publisher panel event. Friday there's the writer's conference with writing workshops and romance panels. From 3-5 that day in the Sovereign Best Western, the booksigning will be open to the public. If you have any of the books of Jackie Kessler, Virginia Reede, Toni Andrews, K.A. Laity, C. Marge Kempe, Cat Johnson, Audra and Stella Price, Robert C.M. DeCaprio, Melissa Mead, then Jessica Andersen, then come, meet the authors and have them signed. Books will also be on sale there as well. Vampire expert Inanna Arthen will be there with her latest book. I'm definitely getting one. By the way Audra won't be there, but Stella will.
If you're part of the convention, you can eat at the Ice Cream Social. They'll be a concert and a Vampire Ball. I'm still trying to decide what to wear.
Saturday is filled with panels on Science Fiction, the banquet, the art demonstration. I'm sure I'm forgetting things and they continue into Sunday.
I have a lot that I've posted on http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com/ If you want a glimpse into my personal life, check out today's post. Coming up this week are a.c. Mason, guest Sandra Sookoo cooking up romance, BB Roberts, and Mayan doomsday author Jessica Andersen. Nights of Passion is always so much fun.
If you are so inclined to write, I've just posted the weekly writing exercise. This week I require you to get more exercise than usual. Try it out at http://www.susanhannifordcrowley.com/
It's always nice to hear from people. Wherever you drop by, be sure to post and say Hi. If you're in Albany most definitely. Thanks. See you.
The fall is happening. The nights are getting colder and a few trees are changing color. It's also the season in my life when everything is happening at once. I have a job as a webmaster--lots of projects and meetings.
I'm now officially a romance author under contract. WHEN LOVE SURVIVES is currently in the editing stage. I'm writing another small book. It has a deadline. I'm also printing out my full length novel to send to my editor. At the same time, I'm trying to help my youngest pull together her wedding. There's just a few things left to do. Don't let me forget the runner for the aisle or the decoration for the archway.
Oh, and I'm on staff and program at Albacon, the science fiction and fantasy convention of Albany, NY, on Oct. 8-11. Thursday night there's an agent/publisher panel event. Friday there's the writer's conference with writing workshops and romance panels. From 3-5 that day in the Sovereign Best Western, the booksigning will be open to the public. If you have any of the books of Jackie Kessler, Virginia Reede, Toni Andrews, K.A. Laity, C. Marge Kempe, Cat Johnson, Audra and Stella Price, Robert C.M. DeCaprio, Melissa Mead, then Jessica Andersen, then come, meet the authors and have them signed. Books will also be on sale there as well. Vampire expert Inanna Arthen will be there with her latest book. I'm definitely getting one. By the way Audra won't be there, but Stella will.
If you're part of the convention, you can eat at the Ice Cream Social. They'll be a concert and a Vampire Ball. I'm still trying to decide what to wear.
Saturday is filled with panels on Science Fiction, the banquet, the art demonstration. I'm sure I'm forgetting things and they continue into Sunday.
I have a lot that I've posted on http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com/ If you want a glimpse into my personal life, check out today's post. Coming up this week are a.c. Mason, guest Sandra Sookoo cooking up romance, BB Roberts, and Mayan doomsday author Jessica Andersen. Nights of Passion is always so much fun.
If you are so inclined to write, I've just posted the weekly writing exercise. This week I require you to get more exercise than usual. Try it out at http://www.susanhannifordcrowley.com/
It's always nice to hear from people. Wherever you drop by, be sure to post and say Hi. If you're in Albany most definitely. Thanks. See you.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
What's Happening?
BIG ANNOUCEMENT ON AUGUST 20th on http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com/ Don't miss it!
Monday, August 17, 2009
What's Happening at Nights of Passion, Albacon, and more
A ton is happening at the Nights of Passion blog. Right now Mason is doing her thing. Then Tuesday an interview with romance mystery author Sandra K. Marshall. Then Wednesday an interview with Aasiyah Qamar/Nolwynn Ardennes specialized in exotic settings. Then Thursday, Mason is back and Friday is BB Roberts. Saturday and Sunday is a Book Launch Parthy with a Contest with erotic romance author Ari Thatcher. Next Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday is a Pre-Order then a Book Launch Party and Contest with Leanna Rennee Hieber. All in all a very exciting week and then some.
What does this mean for me? Well, I'll learn a lot from some writers I've just met and others I've known for a while. Now I won't kid you on this other part, but blogging--the physical act of putting everything up and downloading and sometimes resizing photos is a lot of work. I do all that on top of my own writing, editing, my website, and then day job as a webmaster. I'm also on staff for Albacon which is Albany, NY's science fiction and fantasy conference on Oct.9-11. Albacon is making history with its romantic Friday, panels with romance writers and workshops on writing. The entire weekend is a blast. If you think you're going to be near Albany during those dates, register now at http://www.albacon.org/
Going back to everything--ah, yes, I'm the crazy person who is still traveling at light speed. Actually I have moments when I think I'm moving rather slowly. Hmm, I wonder what that means. Believe it or not I'm still part of a family. They sort of work around me at time, and other times drag me out of the house into life. I also have friends that do the same. It's easier living an overstuffed life when people love you. I really appreciate them.
I don't have a counter on this blog only subscriptions, but when I'm at conventions, people walk up to me and comment on The Writing House. Thank you so very much for dropping by and if you want to join in on this huge education in both romance and in writing in general, drop by http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com
It's always great to hear from you.
What does this mean for me? Well, I'll learn a lot from some writers I've just met and others I've known for a while. Now I won't kid you on this other part, but blogging--the physical act of putting everything up and downloading and sometimes resizing photos is a lot of work. I do all that on top of my own writing, editing, my website, and then day job as a webmaster. I'm also on staff for Albacon which is Albany, NY's science fiction and fantasy conference on Oct.9-11. Albacon is making history with its romantic Friday, panels with romance writers and workshops on writing. The entire weekend is a blast. If you think you're going to be near Albany during those dates, register now at http://www.albacon.org/
Going back to everything--ah, yes, I'm the crazy person who is still traveling at light speed. Actually I have moments when I think I'm moving rather slowly. Hmm, I wonder what that means. Believe it or not I'm still part of a family. They sort of work around me at time, and other times drag me out of the house into life. I also have friends that do the same. It's easier living an overstuffed life when people love you. I really appreciate them.
I don't have a counter on this blog only subscriptions, but when I'm at conventions, people walk up to me and comment on The Writing House. Thank you so very much for dropping by and if you want to join in on this huge education in both romance and in writing in general, drop by http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com
It's always great to hear from you.
Thursday, August 06, 2009
Don't Feel Like Talking--Much
I should be getting ready to leave for kickboxing. Ever notice how many shoulds there are in life. This has been a tough week. Tons of work at my day job. Large to do list at home. My characters of my in progress book are now screaming at me.
Sooner of later if you really get to talk to writers, they will tell you that their characters talk to them. My vampires will bare their fangs if they think I'm ignoring their book. I have another book about dragons--they blow fire. I find that writing demands uninterrupted time. I try to write for snatches when I get free time, but sometimes I just do a day in bed with the laptop. I know that does not sound romantic, but when you're writing adventure and romance or adventure in romance, that's the only way to do it--get cozy with your laptop. I let the air conditioner blow on the poor mechanical beast.
So now I'm off into the night. Yes, that's right, like a vampire or werewolf. I'll kickbox for 45 minutes, come home and write until I collapse. But I'll be incredibly happy typing across that keyboard as fast as I can every wonderful bleeding word. When I dream, I'll still be writing. That's what it's like inside an author's head.
Sooner of later if you really get to talk to writers, they will tell you that their characters talk to them. My vampires will bare their fangs if they think I'm ignoring their book. I have another book about dragons--they blow fire. I find that writing demands uninterrupted time. I try to write for snatches when I get free time, but sometimes I just do a day in bed with the laptop. I know that does not sound romantic, but when you're writing adventure and romance or adventure in romance, that's the only way to do it--get cozy with your laptop. I let the air conditioner blow on the poor mechanical beast.
So now I'm off into the night. Yes, that's right, like a vampire or werewolf. I'll kickbox for 45 minutes, come home and write until I collapse. But I'll be incredibly happy typing across that keyboard as fast as I can every wonderful bleeding word. When I dream, I'll still be writing. That's what it's like inside an author's head.
Saturday, August 01, 2009
Talking about Vampires Continue
I'm continuing to talk about vampire books and movies at http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com There's so much coming up. I have a lovely interview in process with author Rebecca Royce on Monday and Tuesday. It's all about her book Her Wolf, which is about shifter-wolves. Very exciting. You are invited to drop by Nights of Passion anytime.
Watching "Coraline" about alternate realities. Hmm. I know there's a lot wrong with my reality, but I sort of like it. Perhaps it's because I'm writing about vampires and other creatures that go bump in the night and other realities. :-)
Watching "Coraline" about alternate realities. Hmm. I know there's a lot wrong with my reality, but I sort of like it. Perhaps it's because I'm writing about vampires and other creatures that go bump in the night and other realities. :-)
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Happening at Nights of Passion
For two blogs in a row at Nights of Passion, I expounded on my personal preferences. Today I talked about my love of vampire movies, books, and tv shows. I think the most interesting thing I've heard in years is the rumour of putting "Dark Shadows" on the big screen. Ah, Jonathan Frid. I raced home every day from school, just to glue myself to the tv for his every performance as the tortured vampire that longed for romance. Now it appears Johnny Depp may be playing that unique vampire. I can't wait to see him try. Every "Dark Shadows" fan will be hoping it will live up to their expectations. I will be one of them. To explore the discussion about "True Blood" and some upcoming writers' conference dear to my heart, drop by http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com Thanks. It's always lovely when you drop by.
--Susan
--Susan
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Virtual Vacation to Egypt
I've given it some thought and when planning a vacation of the mind, why have limits. So first stop is Egypt. I love Egypt. When my parents went to Egypt they went on a private tour of a pyramid. I believe it started something like this. 
First they entered between pillars and then went down a dark hall sloping always downward. You get a sense of the silence and magesty. There's also the feeling of ancient eyes watching, observing. What are you doing there? Why are you there? 
Here is our first treasure. Ah, going down the aisle with Cleopatra eating figs. A gentle breeze blows off the Nile. The servants are fanning you. (Hey, when I go on vacation, it's a vacation from stress and all limits. No lost baggage. In your imagination, go royal.) Speaking of royal, I think I've found her.
Is that really a sarcophagus with a guardian on top? I wonder who is inside. I wonder if they are dreaming of this world and thinking , "How strange we are." I will poke around the artifacts and see what else I come across.
We've found her. I think that's Queen Nefertiti. I'm going to sit here for a while and just admire her. After all, I've come a long way just to get here. There's no hurry to get back. It's dark, cool, silent and I can almost hear her whisper to me.
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