Poisoned Apples and the End of Nanowrimo

I finished Nano!!!

You'll be pleased to know that there will be no more angsty posts about it from me.

I finished yesterday, stuff was piling up for me. I decided to get it out of the way. I didn't feel the big rush of relief that I thought I would. Mostly because Fool's Bet is 55,000 words in and only at what I thought chapter five would be. I reached 50,000 words, but I do not have a complete or coherent story. It's stuff I can use, so I guess that's nice. It got me writing again, and I proved to myself that I can do it. It's an accomplishment and that's what I'm going to try to focus on.

Though most of it was me eating, crying, and listening to same four songs on repeat. It was messy, not gonna lie.

 I also kinda did my own Inktober thing. I started drawing Count Olaf as a bit of a joke, I ended up keeping up with it till the 19th. I would've done more, but I started working on a Falling Snow painting for my giveaway which sadly still isn't done, but it's getting there.

Something surprising came out of my little sketches, the verified ASOUE Instagram account shared my art. A Series of Unfortunate Events is one of my favorite shows on Netflix right now, so I might have freaked out a bit. Thanks to them, I got a lot of traffic on my Instagram account. I reached 500 followers which was pretty cool too!

Suffice it to say I had an amazing week. I got my first review for Falling Snow!!! Thanks to the amazing Christine you can find her review here. It's the kind of review you dream of getting, and I got really emotional over it. Still am actually!

Tracey also shared about it on her story! I'm so thankful for her support, we've been beta reading each other's stories since 'The Five Enchanted Roses' contest. She's awesome!

Our Five Poisoned Apples launch party is coming up! You can find it here

You'll get a chance to win a paperback copy! You can ask us questions about our stories and help celebrate our release. All of the authors are hosting are own giveaways and I have to say the prizes are awesome.  I'm still working on mine, but I'll show you what I have.

The spray could only go to a fellow Canadian, because of shipping. So depending on who wins, is which prize I will send.

The other part of my giveaway is a painting. It's still a work in progress at this point, but it should be done for the first.

Lastly, Five Poisoned Apples is available for preorder!!!!

The other authors and I have been getting excited for this! They are an amazing and talented bunch. I've gotten to know each of them over this process, and they are some of the nicest people. I'm so proud of all of them! I have read each of their stories and think you guys will love each of their takes on this tale.

RAVEN'S HEIR—Jenelle Hovde

Taking her in could risk the lives of his rebel band—but how can Damien leave the young woman at the huntsman’s mercy?

Jenelle's blog

Her story is so descriptive, beautiful, and captivating!

THE FAIREST ONE—Cortney Manning

Her people look for the prophesied Fairest One—but can Livna find courage to step out of the shadows and save her nation?

Cortney's blog

This was such a unique take on the story, I loved the settings and magic!


RED AS BLOOD—Maddie Morrow

He’s been hired to assassinate the princess, no questions asked—but how can Zaig take the life of one so young, so innocent?

Maddie's blog


Maddie's is my favorite of the collection. It's deliciously Gothic, and Zaig has my heart!


SNOWBIRD AND THE RED SLIPPERS—Rachael Wallen

She longs to be worthy of the scholarship that changed her life—but can Jeong Hayan survive the bitter rivalry of a prestigious New York dance school?

Rachael's blog

She tells a beautiful and haunting story, I was entranced!



That is all. Sorry for such a long post, I had a lot to share.

The Language of the Worlds Link-up-October

You guys enjoyed this one last time, so I thought I would do it again. We have the lovely Liv to thank for it. Make sure to check out her blog.

I am supposed to be prepping for Nano, but since that mostly involves me lying on the floor and eating. I thought I would write a post. I am going to use Cynfael again because I will be writing his story for Nano.

1. What does your character fear the most?

Wow, so this one was harder than I anticipated. Because it's not what do they fear but what do they fear the most, and I think being helpless again, is one of Cynfael's greatest fears. Because for a long time he couldn't help anyone not even himself. 

2. How would they handle it if they were to face their fear?

Not well, he might even become completely unhinged.

3. Do they want to get married? Why or why not?

Suffice it to say he did once...

4. What is their love language (i.e. words of affirmation, physical touch, gifts, quality time, acts of service)?

Physical touch. * Trying not to roll my eyes* 

5. On a scale from 1 (messy) to 5 (organized), how do they rate?

Probably a four.

6. How do they feel about debates/disagreements?

He enjoys them.

7. What do they bring to a battle (figurative or literal)?

He can fight fairly well, but prefers to charm and manipulate people. If that fails he can always poison them.

8. What's their favorite thing to eat for breakfast?

Mimosas with a bit of everything that could be considered breakfast food.

9. How do they treat themself after a long day?

I don't want to know and you probably don't either.

10. What do you most want readers to glean from this story?

Still trying to figure that out. Stay away from Fae maybe...

A Very Late Language of World's Link Up

I meant to do this on time. I really did, but my life got really slow. Then all a sudden I got hit with a million things and was left holding on to what was left of my sanity.

I'm doing it now, even though this linkup is already on the next part oops!

Before I start that I have good news I finished the last of my revisions!!! Hopefully Anne and Co like everything I added and changed. It's been quite a ride with this story it started at 20,000 words, after revisions it was 25,000 words, and now it's sitting at 26,000 and something words. I'm happy with where it is now! There were moments... lots of tear filled moments.

I also finished Driver's Ed and booked my test, so fingers crossed for that.

I finished Chayse's picture too! It's not quite what I envisioned but, it matches the grungy circus aesthetic. Now I can start on Snow's.

Onto the link up.

 The amazing Liv created this linkup, be sure to go check out her blog.

1. Introduce your character and his/her story!

His name is Cynfael, and he is an absolute menace. I'm writing his story now, which is the only reason I chose him for this.

He is the bastard son of the Northen Fae's King. His position in his father's court is a precarious one, and he has no delusions about what little power he holds. His sister is being groomed to take over for his Father. Which has caused some friction between them. His family has no love for each other past what they can use the other for. He has managed to keep himself useful so far.

2. What does he/she (your character) look for in a friend? Consciously or subconsciously?

He isn't in the habit of making friends. If he was to make one, it would be part of some scheme or plot. He would look for someone gullible and trusting.

3. If he/she could study any foreign language, what would it be?

He can speak a range of different languages, and has a recent problem of swearing at me in Latin. 

4. Which person from the Bible would he/she be besties with? Why?

Being honest here, Rahab. They have a lot in common.

 5. If he/she were to visit you for a week, what would you do together?

Imagining this is terrifying. I feel like he would want to go to some parties, but the fancy ones mind you with champagne, the good kind. He would probably try to get me to smoke and succeed. I would probably try to get him drunk and have a heart to heart.

 I'd then take him for coffee and he would complain. 

He wouldn't last a day with me to be honest, he'd find some high society friends and ditch me. 

6. What is his/her ideal future?

He used to have an idea about that, about her. Of course he learned quickly that anything can be taken from you, so he really only thinks of revenge and elevating his social status.

7. If he/she were to spend a weekend alone, what sort of pastimes would he/she pursue?

Being a cad, and that's all I will say.

8. If you could send your character a care package, what would be in it?

A Bible, nicotine gum, an apology letter, and a poisoned apple

9. Is there a song that describes your character's journey?

So many, he has his own playlist at this point. The one I really like for him, has one bad word in it regrettably, and I can't find a clean version. Most of the rest I've already posted on here. Here's one I recently found. It really explains his life and family.

10. What is your character's place in the story (hero, antihero, villain, sidekick, etc.)?

Cynfael's kinda hard to pin down, he started as a villain, that became an antihero and everyone seems to think of him differently. 

I hope this was amusing for someone.

The Update No One Asked For

I'm in a weird head space right now. Trying to sort through my thoughts, or at least make them comprehensive has been really hard. All is well on the blogging front so far. The switch seems to have worked!

I guess I should update you guys on everything else. I actually did take a break these last couple months. Well on some things.

I finished my first batch of edits!

That was such an incredible feeling, they were more difficult than I thought they would be. I was not prepared for the emotional and mental effort that was required.

So after that was done, I celebrated by reading Caraval!  It was so goood and magical! I'm in love with Legend who hasn't really had an appearance yet. I'm weird... I think I'll write a review for it in the near future. It was nice to loose myself in someone else's story for awhile, and it was nice to have something to look forward to. I think I'm going to do that with every task I have to do now.

I also ordered myself some more books. Like I don't already have 300 on my shelf.

I've started The Screaming Staircase, I already need the rest of the books this series is fabulous.

I also read The Sherwood Ring and reread Cruel Beauty, reviews to come.

On to other life-related things

Rachel Kovaciny who I owe my Five Poisoned Apples win to. Is one of the nicest and most encouraging people I've met in a while. She helped me with my edits, gave me the push I needed to finish and even sent me these lovely postcards to give me inspiration from my story. You're awesome Rachel and I really appreciate all your help.

 
I've been doing lots of art. I did my first art commission, but I hated it so your not getting a picture.
I started painting my characters. There all going to be collages. I'm doing Chayse, Cynfael, Snow, and the Queen. It's a way to keep me invested in the story that doesn't involve writing.

First time using oil paints so go easy, and it's not even close to done.

I want to start doing character commissions for people, but I don't know if anyone is even interested in that. *shrug*

I've been watching so many shows, The Mentalist, Psych, Last Man Standing.... I could go on. I might do a post on The Mentalist when I finish it, I have emotions to share...

I've been listening to so much moody, indie music. Hello Billie Eilish, Matt Maeson, Kodaline.
Also NF is killing it, and Twenty One Pilots came back!

I started Driver's Ed, I know I'm 23. Driving has always given me huge anxiety, I am hoping to finally get my license for my 24th birthday.

I've been adulting a lot lately guys, be proud.

I've been planning book related things, like querying and sequels. I outlined Fool's Bet, which is something I never do. (My writing is horrible I know)

That's on hold for now, because I've started my second round of revisions on Falling Snow. I'm liking the new bits Anne wanted me to add. It's going to be even better.  Anne  has been so understanding through this whole process, I'm very protective of my baby. She calms all my fears and answers all my frantic emails. I appreciate her so much! I wouldn't want to work with anyone else.

So for anyone who has read it, there has been a lot of changes and additions. It might surprise you.

I'm a frantic ball of energy right now. With looming deadlines, and a to do list that is way too long.

Art is Pain

I'm going to preface this post, by telling you guys I plan on taking a break. I need one, I have spread myself too thin and I want to simplify my life for a bit. I'm almost through with my edits on 'Falling Snow.' I can't wait until I can say I'm done them. I'm very close.

I think I'm going to try and enjoy my summer and not push myself to do a million things. Maybe I'll read some books, make some art. I'll probably still be around, just won't be posting.

I've been watching a lot of inspiring movies lately. Trying to stay inspired to work on my story mostly.

One that really inspired me was 'I Can Only Imagine'

It's such a sad and inspiring story and really shows how God can make beauty out of our pain. It really touched me. It's about dreams and I suggest anyone who has had one to watch it. It's also a true story so that just makes it a 100% better.

One of the things it really got me thinking about was how pain plays such a big role in art. The things that touch and resonate with people are usually emotionally based and come from our vulnerabilities, fears, and insecurities. At some point in this movie, the main character is told he needs to put more emotion into his music and be more authentic, if he wants to stand apart. The song that gets him noticed comes after he goes through something incredibly painful. The song itself is beautiful and touches so many people.

This got me wondering how many successful books, movies, music, and art all had similar origins. We don't always get to hear the story behind these things and I'm inclined to think that a lot of people drew on their pain when they crafted their pieces.

I made this assumption based on personal experience. The only bit of success I've gained with writing so far. Was with a story I wrote while struggling with a lot of personal issues and demons. I was in pain a lot of pain. And I poured that into a short story that I didn't think had a chance at reaching the second round. I used it to tell a story, one that ended up getting noticed. One that will hopefully resonate with people. I guess my point is, you can craft your darkness and pain into a tool. You can use your pain. God uses your pain.

 Maybe not everyone will get that from it. (I'm actually hoping most won't). I hate being vulnerable and I hate people seeing behind my mask. At the same time, I want to help people dealing with the same things. I want them to know they aren't alone.

The main point I'm trying to make is.

Use it, use your pain.

Beautiful People: Favourites Edtion

This is it guys! The last 'Beautiful People' for awhile. This linkup means a lot to me, it really helped me build my platform and I met tons of amazing bloggers through it. Cait and Sky are both big inspirations to me. Also if you didn't know, Cait, has a book coming out! SHE GOT PUBLISHED AND I AM SO FREAKING PROUD OF HER!

*ahem*

Onto the questions.

1. Favourite genre to write in?

I don't even have to think about it, Fantasy! Everything is possible and dragons are encouraged.

2. What book (a real actual published book!) do you think your character would benefit from reading? 

*Glaring* The Bible.

3. Favourite piece of dialogue you’ve written?

Like almost none of it, but I remember not hating this bit.

I sighed. “Your point, if you please.”

A wicked smile formed. “I should think you have caught on by now, old chap.”

At my perturbed expression, he rolled his eyes and pulled out another cig.

He stuck it between his teeth, and nodded at me.

I reluctantly lit it.

His eyes brightened, his lips twisting as he took a long drag. “I suggest a promotion. The bloody queen has had her day.”

4. What did your character want to be when they grew up, and what did they actually become?

Cynfael was a pleasant enough kid, who probably would be happy as a royal advisor or scholar. After he was subjected to the cruelty of powerful people, he started to want power. That became his goal. As the illegitimate heir, he will settle for nothing less than the throne.

5. Favourite character name(s)?

Cynfael- means Prince

Chayse- means Hunter

6. What makes your character feel loved, and who was the last person to make them feel that way?

Alcohol and honestly just someone listening to them. 

 Snow was.

7. Favourite character you’ve ever written?

William Blackwood, he is my beast. Like the 'Beauty & the Beast' beast.

8. If your character were permanently leaving town, what would they easily throw out? What would they refuse to part with? (Why?)

Cynfael is incredibly high maintenance. He would need at least five silk suits, along with shoes, toiletries, and a good chunk of cash. He would easily leave his bloodthirsty family.

9. Favourite tropes to write!

Platonic friendships, group of misfits, and sassy, sarcastic dudes.

  

10. Which story has your heart and won't let go?

Still freaking out over this cover!

 Falling Snow, which is why I am now writing a sequel and have plans for a prequel and maybe another one after that. I'm really attached to it, I think it's because I put a lot of my own problems in it. So happy, that you guys will be able to read it.

11. Favourite relationship between characters you’ve written?

The bromance between Chayse and Cynfael, the unrequited love Cynfael has for Snow because it's heartbreaking, Miss Hudson and Sherlock's odd relationship, the 'friendship to love' relationship between Chayse and Snow.

12. Toni Morrison once said, “If there's a book that you want to read, but it hasn't been written yet, then you must write it.” What are the books that you want to see more of, and what “holes” do you think need filling in the literary world?

More fae centered stories and fairy tales that aren't smutty! Books about friends that actually stay friends. More clean reads!

13. Favourite pinterest board / aesthetic for a book?

  Falling Snow

Fool's Bet

 14. Favourite time periods & settings to work with?

1900s and 1920's. I also love Victorian gothic, creepy small towns.


15.When people are done reading your book, what feeling do you want them to come away with?

I would love to capture the feeling of pure joy that I get when I read a Diana Wynne Jones novel.
I don't think I will ever be able to do that. Hope, I want to give them hope.