Writer's Block... Be Gone!

Many author's know this well... Writer's Block. Other times it's first time writers just looking for a place to start.

Plot bunnies are well and good... and often time annoying... but they only start the thought, they don't finish it.

Many times you begin a story and you are so excited and then it drops. You start doing something else and can't get back in to it.

So, how do you get the block to crumble and get inspiration to carry you through? No idea. Seriously, everyone is different. What works for one person might not work for another. I can however give you some ideas. Don't stop if the first one doesn't take. There is always a way...


LISTEN TO MUSIC:
Yeah a common one. But music will work on your emotions. If you're writing a happy, fluffy story then put on some dance music, blare that Lady Gaga or Madonna or whatever and get up. Shake the cobwebs off and just let your body and mind feel!!!

GO ON A NATURE WALK:
Your planet might have seen better times but there is a lot of beauty out there. Sometimes it's in your backyard. If you are city bound then walk anyway. Inspiration is everywhere. From the breeze through the trees to the lights of the night. Go look!

READ A BOOK:
That's right. Authors inspire us every day. Grab a book, sit down and see what another persons word can pull out of your mind.

GO TO THE MOVIES: 
Rainy days make us glum and glum is a breeding ground for Writer's Block. Get out there. Grab some popcorn, an overpriced drink, chocolate that is big and costly and sit in a theater and watch a flick! Seriously GO OUT! SIT, WATCH! I have found ideas there so many times.

FEED THE DUCKS:
Duck ponds are unlikely places to find inspiration but alas, they work. Sitting on a bench feeding the ducks, staring at the glittering water as the sun reflects off of it. Your mind will wander and lord only knows where it will take you.

CALL A FRIEND:
"Hey, I'm totally stuck, help!" Talking it out has proven to be one of the best ways to rid yourself of the block. I have helped many and many have helped me.

PEOPLE WATCHING:
Go to the mall, a park anywhere. Watch people. Characters are born through the every day mundane things people do. A boy with a kite making friends with a quiet girl. Who knows where that will take you. A man walking through the mall talking to himself... That has creative birth written all over it.

OPEN A PHOTO ALBUM:
Your past can awaken many things. Sometimes you need to revisit your youth and see what you can conjure up. Young you loves hockey, why? Young you wanted to be a veterinarian. Remember that time when?  Go and rediscover yourself.

GET CLEAN:
Take a shower, a bath, anything. You will do common tasks like shampooing your hair. It requires no brain cells to do this, therefore freeing yourself to think and the white noise the water provides will help you focus.

LOOK AT ART:
Art is everywhere. From Galleries to Alleys. What do you see when you look at that painting? Does that graffiti talk to you? Give the vibrancy a voice.

There are 10 ideas I really hope you find helpful. They've worked for me and hopefully they can work for you.

Author Saturday Spotlight: Jamie Samms *Interview and Giveaway*

What makes an author stand out in a crowd of many is their unique talent to hook you in with their words and pull you close with their story. Jaime Samms has that ability.

One of my favorite things about this author is her versatility. Authors have styles. You sort of know what you're going to get in that department when you open their book. Jaime has not set style. It's like a rediscovery every time and I love that.

Her book The Foster Family was featured in a post I had back in March. It is one of the top 3 BEST menages I've ever read. You can read that post here > Top 3 Best Menages

Blurb:
Growing up in foster care has left Kerry Grey with little self-esteem or hope for his future. A college dropout, Kerry scrapes by on a part-time job at a garden nursery. His friendship with his boss and working with the plants are the only high points in Kerry’s life. He’s been dating the man who bullied him at school, but when his boyfriend abandons him at a party, Kerry wanders down the beach to drown his sorrows in a bottle of scotch.

Malcolm Holmes and Charlie Stone have been together for fifteen years. Despite Charlie's willingness to accept Malcolm's unspoken domination in bed,something is missing from their relationship. Early one morning, they rescue a passed out Kerry from being washed away by the tide and Charlie immediately senses a kindred spirit in the lost younger man. When Kerry’s roommate kicks him out, Malcolm and Charlie invite him into their home. As Charlie and Kerry bond over Charlie’s garden, Malcolm sees Kerry may be just who they have been looking for to complete their lives. All they have to do is show Kerry, and each other, that Kerry's submissive tendencies will fit their dynamic.

But someone is sabotaging Kerry at every turn. As he struggles to discover the culprit, he fears for the safety of his new friends. If Malcolm and Charlie cannot help, their lifelong search for their perfect third may not end with the happily ever after they imagined.

To show how Jamie Samms versatile style I hold her Off Stage Series beside this one.

Book 1:

Damian Learner and his grunge band, Firefly, are on a meteoric rise to success. If they get the right break, fame awaits. Seeking more professional management, Damian independently strikes a bargain with the best agent in the business, Stanley Krane. Unable to afford the penalty for breaking old contracts, Damian agrees when Stan’s best friend, country and Western megastar Vance Ashcroft, offers to buy him out of his old contract.

Overwhelmed by a crippling loan, secretive guilt, Stanley’s expectations, and a volatile relationship with Lenny, Firefly’s lead guitarist, Damian disintegrates. Bad habits of too much sex, booze, and drugs create a rift in the band. Finally Vance, with his understanding of Dominant/submissive behavior, sees that submissives Damian and Lenny are falling into chaos, clinging to each other to try to avoid the inevitable crash.

When the pressure to perform becomes too much and the unthinkable happens, Damian and Lenny have to decide: accept that they need something they can’t get from each other, or burn out and take Firefly with them. Vance is ready to claim Lenny, but even Stan’s hesitant agreement to give Damian the direction he needs might not be enough for Damian—or the band—if he loses Lenny.

Book 2:

Lenny Stevens was the lead guitarist of the up-and-coming grunge band Firefly until he crossed the line with the band’s lead singer. Now he’s faced with the impossible task of rebuilding his life without the music that had kept him together. Struggling with his fear and rage, he creates the same damaging patterns in his relationship with his lover, Vance Ashcroft.

Vance knows that Lenny is the submissive meant for him. He is convinced he can save Lenny from his demons and puts faith in his ability. But when Len’s temper leads to him physically hurting Vance and destroying property, both men realize Len’s issues are too big for them to work through alone.

Seeking the help of the people who know Len best, Vance invites his former bandmates to the ranch for Len’s belated birthday party. Together, they try to create a safe haven for Len to come apart and, hopefully, rearrange himself into a man who can live with his past and create a future worth having.
 There are just so many books that Jamie has written and I have loved. I would sit here all day and go on and on about them if I could. You can go to her website and take a look around (I suggest you do if you want to enter the giveaway) Go here > Jamie Samms Books   There is also good old fashioned Goodreads to see her books and read the blurbs Jamie Samms on Goodreads

****INTERVIEW****

  The Foster Family is one of my Top 3 favorite ménage’s ever written. (I posted on my blog about this a few months back) I'm a bit of a ménage snob. It's my favorite thing to read yet more often than not it falls flat, lacks the right psychology and feel. How did you master it so well? How does it come together?

Hmmm. Master it? I don’t know that I have, really. All I did while writing was put myself in each character’s shoes for that space of time I was writing their scene to imagine how they might feel under those sets of circumstances. I admit, it was a lot easier to do with Kerry than with Charlie or Malcolm. The older guys are a lot more dominant than I tend to be, so getting into their heads was harder. As for coming together, basically, as the characters reveal themselves and their stories to me, the whole thing more or less organically creates a whole (With a little—or a lot—of help from a plot shoehorn) *grin*

 If you could eliminate one thing from your daily schedule, what would it be and why?

I don’t think I can truthfully answer this without sounding like a terrible mom and domestic partner. I love my job, I love writing, and I love creating, so if I could fill my days doing those three things, I’d be a happy, happy girl. When I really think about it, it’s probably a good thing I have a husband and kids who look out for the more mundane things in life like food and housework…it seems I eliminated those from my schedule years ago.

 Your Off Stage series blew my mind. In the first book it was a multiple POV tale. Those are not easy to do without confusing the reader. In book 2 you have just the 2 POV's. There are 4 MC's, all with issues. How do you outline a series like this? 

You’re going to notice a trend, here. I don’t. The stories evolve and intertwine organically, growing out of one another like vines. I might meet a character in one story who later turns around and tells me his story for the next installment (Which, incidentally, the next book stars Jacob and his forever guy, in case anyone wanted to know)

 You have written many characters that your readers fall hard for. But for you, is there a character that will always be "The One" for you. The one you will always call the best you ever wrote?

That changes every time I write a new book. But if you look over them all, I think you see a trend in my main characters, lost souls who need connection and who need to find their own strength. I definitely write a “type”.

 I'm always amazed with the detail you put into your books, whether it be horses, flowers whatever... 
How much research do you do?

I have a horse contact (S.J. Frost: http://www.sjfrost.com/) She’s my resource for that. For other things, I search out people who know more than I do. You might notice I write quite a few artists and other creative types. I understand that mindset, and I know about art enough to go on instinct, so that’s a plus. Ironically, when I first started out, a lot of my beta readers always called for more detail, more sense of place in my stories, so I guess I’ve worked on that skillset quite a bit over the years.

 How do you think you’ve evolved creatively?

Oh boy. That can be answered on so many levels. I have a Fine Arts degree with a major in fibre arts, so I sort of live and breathe creative. As an author? I think I’ve honed my voice and learned to draw on the images in my head more to convey the scene on the page in words. I tend to float through life on a creative loud, and despite the degree, so much of what I create is all self-taught and figured out on the fly, including, or most especially, I guess, my writing. I definitely have come a long way in terms of craft there.

 Is there a specific topic you would never write about?

I would never say never. Only at this point in time, I am disinclined to write het romance, or much in the way of horror.

 Can you tell us about your upcoming project (s)?

Right now, I’m working on a piece about an actor who has lost his way after the unexpected death of his best friend. Ten years after the accident that killed his friend, he is floundering on the edges of self-destruction with his manager and life-long friend Margaret trying to find that one project that will keep him from tumbling off into oblivion. While training for the horse back stunts for his latest film, he meets a man who lets him feel things he’s been denying for a long time. It’s been so many years since had hope he almost doesn’t recognize it at all.

I already mentioned the next Rainbow Alley book, as well. It follows Jacob after his aborted attempt to win the affections of Cliff Thatcher. Jacob meets a younger man, Aaron, in the skate park one day, and the two form a rickety alliance that collides with a part of Aaron’s life he doesn’t ever acknowledge, and together, they find themselves facing down a new threat to the security of life in the Alley.

 What would be your dream writing location?

My husband once promised me a small writing shack in the back yard. I’m still hoping that project sees the light of day. It would be a comfortable commute, and yet have some privacy from the constant in-and-out of kids and cats. I hope! If it had the traits of any of these spaces on my Pinterest board, I’d be happy: Jamie Samms on Pinterest

 How can your readers follow you through social media?

There is that Pinterest location I mentioned above. If you check my other boards, there are all kinds of visuals for books I’ve written and ones I plan to write. And there are all these links, as well:

Website

Facebook

Livejournal

Deviantart

TWITTER

AMAZON (where you can also BUY all her awesome books)

(I spend most of my efforts on Facebook, if you really want to find me J )

 
Now this giveaway is special Jaime Samms is doing a READER'S CHOICE GIVEAWAY! By going to her website and goodreads (Links above) check out her books. When the giveaway ends in 5 days I will contact you and ask you what book you want and the format. Jaime will then email it to you. I ask that you respond within 48 hours of my congratulatory email. Thank you.

***GIVEAWAY TIME***


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Yes. Women Can Write M/M

Even though this topic has been beaten to death, it resurrects itself when the narrow minded speak. I have never entered a heated debate over this issue and likely never will. I have seen it talked about in all sorts of social media... Can women write M/M? I counter that with... Why do you think they can't?

I have read my weight and then some in books in all genres. I honestly never cared the gender of the author, just that the story was great.

I've read books written by men that have depicted women in horrible lights. Does that mean men shouldn't write about women? No. I've read women write men in a way that makes them sound like monsters. Does that mean women shouldn't write men? No.

Talent is talent, plain and simple. A book pulls you away from your reality and into a different world. Whoever the person who brought you there doesn't matter. I care about whats between the ears not between the legs.

In the M/M world the debate is that women shouldn't write about men with men. Now, not EVERYONE agrees with this and those that do are in the minority.

The LGBTQ community wants equality. Well, how do you expect that to happen when there are people saying "Being a women in the M/M genre is wrong." Hypocritical much? Yeah it is!

QUALITY! That is what matters. Some of my favorite authors in the M/M genre happen to be women... Amy Lane, Mary Calmes, Anne Tenino, Rhys Ford, Kate Aaron just to name a few. Amazing the way they pull emotion from my heart and soul. Then you have Male authors in the genre Kade Boehme, Edmond Manning, John Inman, They do it too! Do I care if any of them are men or women? NOPE!

Since I hope to be publishing my first M/M book soon under a pen name I really hope that my gender won't matter but that the quality of my work is what does.

Let's put this puppy to rest, shall we people?

Author Saturday Spotlight: Traci Hayden *Interview and Giveaway*

Traci Hayden may be new to being a published author but she isn't new to writing. I have read her work from before she got paid for it. She has awed me then and she awes me still.

Her book The Perfect Spirit is passionate, intriguing and full of love. If you're in for a little mystery wrapped up in a romance this is a wonderful book for you!!!

Blurb:
Twenty-eight year old writer, Vanessa Fortney, has traveled the world, living life to the fullest. When she comes home due to the unexpected death of her only blood relatives, she only has one regret; never finding a love that triumphs all others.

In a beautiful valley in the Rocky Mountains, Nessa finds herself wondering about a mysterious stranger who saved her after a nearly disastrous car accident. The mystery that surrounds Daniel is quickly replaced by the increasing attraction Nessa feels for him.

Will she find that love that transcends all love or will an unforeseen tragedy keep them apart?

Being a new author is hard. I can't begin to tell you how many times I hear about people being discouraged when they hear, "Oh, they're new." Everyone started somewhere. If you fear Traci is either a one time writer or isn't dedicated, well you'll be sorely mistaken. She has another book releasing soon and a cover reveal for it on June 25th (Which will post on this blog also)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Traci Hayden is a mother of four beautiful girls and one adorable granddaughter.

She has always had a passion for reading, but recently the obsession for writing has taken over.

As a Nova Scotian native now living in British Columbia, Traci has travelled across Canada, fuelling her imagination from coast to coast.

Along with two dogs and one cat, Traci's home is shared with her partner of 16 years. He is her rock and constant support.

Traci loves all genres of writing, but currently is exploring the world of romance.
You can buy this book on Amazon by clicking the link below... That is of course if you don't win it in the giveaway!!

Amazon

I asked Traci to answer a few questions and she humbly agreed!!! I was very excited :D

***INTERVIEW***

  What's your favorite love story? (movie or book)  

 

Ghost with Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore.....I cry every time he's taken to heaven or into the light....their love transcends all love that have come before it....even in death his determination to protect her keeps him from crossing over.....does that remind you of a little novella I wrote? Ghost was my inspiration for the story.

  What are your favorite hobbies?

 

 Camping, fishing, hiking, swimming.....I love the outdoors, but without a laptop, I don't have much time any more to enjoy those relaxing luxuries so my greatest hobby has been and always will be reading and writing

If someone made a movie of your life would it be a drama, a comedy, a romantic-comedy, action film, or science fiction?  

 

Drama....many reasons that I can't or chose not to go into since it's not really for the weak to endure

  What is your favorite thing about writing?

 

 Getting lost in a world that isn't mine....allowing my characters to experience things that are mere fantasy or fiction to me

  What would you do if you were the last person on this earth?

 

  Oh, that's so easy.....I would raid the Reese factory and eat every peanut butter cup I could find....if I could still walk after that, I would find Kellan Lutz's home and sleep off the chocolate and peanut butter hangover in his bed

  Where does your best inspiration happen?

 

 My friends and family and the adventures and personalities I find within every one of them

 If you could eliminate one thing from your daily schedule, what would it be and why?

 

 Sleep....so I could spend that time more writing and creating new stories

  Tell us about your latest project? 

 

 I have two.....Black & White (due to be published on July 2nd) is the story of Beth Huntley, a confirmed bachelorette, who meets recently widowed father, William Lorde. They become friends with a clear understanding that neither is interested in anything more. That friendship shifts as the chemistry between them blurs the line they've made. Will they find a love that helps them heal from the past, enjoy their present and create a beautiful future?

The other project is a WIP. All I can say about it now in the early stages is "How do others see you compared to how you see yourself?" Sky has always seen herself as an ugly duckling, but when John enters her life and worships the ground she walks on, will she realize she's always been a beautiful swan? 

  If you could date any celebrity, who would it be and what?

 

 

 Anyone who knows me would expect me to say Kellan Lutz, but they would be wrong. I would love to date Norman Hansen. Who's that, you ask? Well, he is the younger brother of Sig and Edger Hansen off the Northwestern. If you're still lost check out the TV show, Deadliest Catch. My love for the outdoors, boats and fishing would make my dream come true to be dating a professional crabber and live on the boat with him.

 Do you write with an outline or do you wing it?

 

 Both....I wing it at first and after the first chapter and I have a feel for my central characters and the secondary ones, I start an outline of who they are and where life is taking them.

 What cartoon character best represents your personal philosophy?

 

  As fun as it sounds, Sailor Moon. I have been a fan for almost 20 years. Serena/Usagi is a crybaby turned princess who loves and protects her friends even if it puts her own life in peril. Who wouldn't love someone like her?

 If your house were burning down, what would you take and why?

 

 My cat, not that the boyfriend would be happy to hear that, but I'm sure they're both smart enough to get out of the house. So, I think my real answer would be my copy of The Pledge on VHS. My daughter starred in the movie as a very young child.

 What is the wallpaper on your computer?

 

 The cover for my novella, The Perfect Spirit....hehe

  

 How can readers follow you in social media (links?) 

 

 Many ways....

Facebook 

Twitter

Goodreads

Blog

Amazon

15. Where do you see yourself in 5 years? Where I am now, loving my boyfriend and my children, writing my books, enjoying my online and RL friends and working at a job that challenges me every day.

 

 

Traci has been awesome enough to offer a reader a free ebook of The Perfect Spirit!!! YAY!

Giveaway works like this... It runs for 5 days after the contest ends I will email the winner and ask them what format they would like. The winner has 48 hours to respond. I then pass the information off to the author and the author emails you the book. I do not have the book in my possession. If you do not receive the book or there is an issue please contact me. I will make sure you get your book!

 

Without any further ado here is your chance to win The Perfect Spirit by Traci Hayden

 

***Giveaway***

 

   

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