A life of love, laughter and romance

Moving!

2007-10-14T06:46:00.000+10:00

I have moved!!

You can now find me on http://www.jodiebecker.com/blog/

My daughters 2nd ballet lesson

2007-02-12T09:21:00.000+10:00

Yes, my little girl - who is 3 in March has started ballet. It is the cutest thing! I took her last week and she enjoyed it - so I invested in all the ballet gear for her to wear the next week. But stupid me, put the leotard on back to front and she ran around with a wedgy. Oh well, at least her skirt covered it.

Andrew came this week to check it out and couldn't resist filming her - so you can (if you want) check it out here: http://www.jodicibelle.com/ballet%20med.wmv It's a rather big file: 12MB to be exact so it's up to you. Otherwise here are some piccys of my girl.

Taking longer than I thought.

2007-01-27T10:20:00.000+10:00

Hmm, well, I'm almost finished with the 2nd synopsis/detailed plot thing for my FALLEN series and let me tell you - It's hard! I love synos, but usually I have story finished where as this one I feel like I've written utter crap. I keep looking at it thinking it sounds like a report and not at all capturing my voice. But, what can you do I suppose - but I have every intention of FINISHING the thing today. No ifs buts nothing.

Another thing. I'm upgrading my bed. Yep, for several months now I've been lying on a spring. Yes, you heard me, a spring sticking up through the mattress and poking me on my butt. What have I been doing, putting a pillow over it, but that's not going to save me forever. So, we went to Super Amart and looked at some mattresses. Loved the mid-range one $650. *o*

But I went looking around and convinced hubby it was time to get a King size bed. *wicked grin* I found a nice solid bed I liked and in total it would cost us $1400 including the fancy smanchsy mattress. Problem: It won't come in til mid-march. But I'm willing to compromise. We are going to buy a thin foam mattress to lay ontop of our dying mattress to last us a few months. I'm happy with that as long as I get the King. After all, when the little one (mia) has one of those nights - I end up not having enough sleep because she wants to sleep with us and I'm squeezed in. I love my space on the bed. :)

New website and a wonderful challenge

2007-01-21T18:57:00.000+10:00

Well, I'm sure some of you know, but if you don't: I have almost completed a new website for my Book Cents sister, Amanda Brice. You can check it out here: http://www.amandabrice.com . She's a YA & Romantic Comedy/Chick-lit author. This one was a bit different but I got it done and loved the final outcome. Very chick and modern don't you think? My first Illustrated website (and no I didn't draw them) Not that talented.

Besides that, I have an interesting project ahead of me. To write 3 synopsis/story outlines for the next books in my FALLEN series. I'm so pumped and excited about it. It's the first time I've attempted to write a 2-5pg synopsis on an incomplete book. I'm thinking of this as a detailed plot map. So in the end this will benefit me.

Pregnancy? Well, I have to say, I forgot about those damn leg cramps you can get because of it. I woke up in the middle of the night, screaming, because my calf muscle cramped. Andrew rolled over and tried to 'massage' the muscle, but I'm telling you now, that doesn't work. While my foot is busy pointing to the sky like a ballerina, it's unable to flatten it out like a normal foot and I had to grab my toes and pull them toward me in order to alleviate the pain. Ouchy. Needless to say, it eventually went, but I think some training is in order.

Pregnancy checkup

2007-01-17T10:16:00.000+10:00

I went to the doctors yesterday to my monthly check up and found that I gained about 2kgs in a month. Christmas!! Damn it! Here I was thinking I'd done good. Anyway, I was chatting to the doctor about how much extra weight should I look at putting on. The doctor believes I should aim to be approx 10kgs heavier than I was when I had my first weigh in. Sounds fair I suppose since I'm overweight to begin with and I have a strong feeling I'd gained a bit before my first antinatal check at 3mos. So that is my goal and I think it might be achievable. I'm in my second trimester (I'm actually 17wks on Friday). Further than I thought, since I wasn't really counting.

I have a distinct belly, that is for sure, and for a while now I could feel the baby move. Andrew had his first feel, although it was really light - I doubt he'll get a solid kick until about the 6th month. On the 29th Jan, I'm going for my 18wk scan. Yes, I'm going to find out the sex. I believe in getting my half-time prize! :p

Eye check

2007-01-15T08:39:00.000+10:00

I recently went to get my eyes checked. Yep, time to upgrade the lenses. I'd been having headaches, and don't know if it's hormonal or because of my eyes. So I get the test, and go out to pick out a new frame - since my current is like 9years old. Since the optomitrist was having a up to 50% sale I checked it out. I didn't like their sale frames and ended up going with a pair that was $275. I ended up having to pay $500 in total. Now, I remember why I don't go to the optomitrist much. Maybe I should go to laser one day.

Also, I joined a site called CalorieKing.com.au it's a site that helps you manage how much you're supposed to consume. It was a step in the right direction for me since I really want to manage my wieght for this pregnancy. My husband has joined as well and I think that is wonderful. We are both actively working to manage our wieght when before it was so hard when one would buy take out all the time. So now, it's a joint effort and I have the support of my husband who isn't getting worried about me watching how much I consume and the baby - since he agrees with me that my body will know best. I expect to gain wieght over the pregnancy but i want to ensure that after the baby my wieght is the same was when i started.

For Andrew, I noticed that he consumes so many hidden cals that he isn 't even aware of. CK will definately teach him the 'healthy' diet or relatively healthy diet I've been trying to put him on for years.

MIA... No more!!

2007-01-13T09:15:00.000+10:00

*Waves*

Yes, I've been gone... for a while. Almost 2 months to be exact. That is one long time to miss out on blogging. Anyways, what have I been doing in those 2 months? Besides the usual first trimester stuff, I've been christmas shopping, visiting relatives and such. Nothing too interesting.

Christmas was busy as always. Visiting relatives from up the coast all the way down the coat and spending from the 19-26th visiting them. Busy, busy, busy.

Mia got a whole bunch of Dora the explorer items. But Andrew and I have bought her a DTE (Dora the explorer) electric car that she can sit in. My sister got her a DTE push bike. Guess which one she liked better? The push bike. Andrew wasn't happy because we'd spent so much, but then, it will only be a matter of time before mia warms up to the concept of driving in her own little car.

On a note: 12th January is mine and Andrew's 9th anniversary. *wahoo* We actually got married on our 6th anniversary, but I like to count from the day we got together. What did we do? Went to sizzlers - a buffet resturant. Bought myself a seafood platter to go with the buffet and found when it arrived I couldn't eat it. What a bummer. But other than that, I had a nice night out and went home to relax.

Now my 10year is next, but I doubt I'll be able to afford to go to Las Vegas and get married by Elvis. Maybe I can do that on my 15th....

Crunching into gear

2006-11-22T15:21:00.000+10:00

Yep, I'm doing it. I'm forcing myself to get back onto the Laptop. For the last few weeks I've been battling with the dreaded all-day-sickness. No fun at all. But now, it eased to the point of being able to move without wanting to throwup. Yey! I know, sounds like I was in the wars, but I guess it what all us women have to go through eventually. If you haven't guessed or don't know. I'm pregnant. An unexpected surprise - so i'm adjusting. But in the meantime I gotta get some writing in before this bub arrives when I'll be so exhausted from lack of sleep and such.

On other news... The Ripple Effect: Dane came out last week. So thrilled. I also participated in a chat at Romance Junkies and that was pretty cool. On there we got onto a discussion. What heroine would I like to be? I thought about it and thought Buffy - but then she has man troubles. Angel the tormented vampire, Riley the blood-giving army guy and then Spike the bad boy that almost become unhinged.

So then the next thought. Which man did you like best in Buffy. Who would you like to have?

Angel Vs. Spike vs Riley

Hmm

New stories

2006-11-13T20:32:00.000+10:00

Well, I finally have news back from Cobblestone - both Dark Knight (under Becker) and It Happened One Christmas Eve (under Belle) has been accepted. I'm thrilled about it. I still have to get onto work on my manuscript/s. Right now, I don't know how long I have on the laptop, I can't look at it too long... Don't know why that is. I get a headache and feel sick, although I have been feeling sick for the last 2weeks.

5 little things

2006-11-12T15:19:00.000+10:00

Ok, it's been a long time coming, but I finally feel well enough to post.

I was tagged by Shelli, so here I go.

I have about 9 other siblings.... 4 of them a grew up with. All of them bar my twin sister are only half-related.
I love going to rodeos and listening to country music. It's a dark secret I kept until about two years ago.
I wasn't so much a bully at school, just the girl that you didnt mess with because I was messed up. LOL. Ive calmed since then. Put a No Violence rule on myself about 7 years ago. But don't know how I'd go in an all out brawl now though...
I don't have any friends that are girls (much - 'cept for online friends) all of them are men.
I don't like chocolate.

Well, there you have it. 5 little things that you might not have known about me.

Well I tag: Y, Aimee & Annalee Blysse.

Moving forward

2006-11-02T09:59:00.000+10:00

Ok, so I started a day late on Nano - yesterday was filled with working out things for the future and fixing some updates for clients. But today is it. I've read over what I have and noticed a hole. I'm excited that i discovered this because it brings in two power-houses into the story - one baddy and one goody. And I always love getting new characters in that are larger than life. So I've read over the scene I had stalled on months ago and have turned it in a new direction. And the heroines occupation has changed for the better!

Well, that has me all pumped. FINALLY!!!

ALSO, y'all might want to check out my CONTEST PAGE for a chance to win and awesome oil burner. I like it but alas, I can't keep it.

Happy Dance

2006-11-01T14:33:00.000+10:00

Nope it's not the Salsa. I have now got.... wait for it.... an agent! Wahoo! For the first time someone other than me and my friends are excited about my Fallen Into Darkness MS. Christine called me at about 11.30am my time and we discussed a few things regarding FID. And what was wonderful is that I think we clicked right away. Which is always good. She was extremely helpful and her enthusaism rubbed off on me. Just when I began to dispair that FID wouldn't find an agent, one finally said yes!

So, now I gotta get my hiney into gear and finish writing several books in the Fallen series.

Oh, and you know what? I thought that minute I'd land an agent I'd go out and celebrate... Hmm, well, I thought Andrew would set something up. Well, I had to tell him to do something - so this friday night we might go out to dinner.

Something different

2006-10-31T11:50:00.000+10:00

Ok, I've just finished ... almost a new website for a... wait for it... A Cake designer. Well, something different I suppose. I don't mind doing business sites, but I'm not into the whole comerce thing where you can order online. That I wouldn't want to stick my finger in.

Anyway you can check it out here: http://lovethatcake.bravehost.com

Also, Nano coming up on me... in another 12hrs to be precise and I'm still... blech - phazy. Great. I gotta get all pumped to start. I've been avoiding even though it's coming at me like a freight train. LOL

Oh, and I'm going to Salsa 4 days a week. Go figure. It's going to be interesting to see how I go with that. But it also sounds fun. I wonder if I can bribe andrew to come with me?? Just imagine, he'll be able to spin me around and dip me sexily! ahhh to dream.

On the hunt for Dora

2006-10-30T09:34:00.000+10:00

Yes, I'm searching for Dora the Explorer. My little one loves the show and we even have PJs for her. We bought her an activity Dora the Exlorer magizine with PC disc the other day and although the activities are a bit too advanced for her, since she has to figure out how to use the mouse, she enjoys it and it comes with a show. Excellent.

So I suggested to get a DVD on ebay since Andrew couldnt find one at a store near his work. He said no, and so we looked around stores near our house. No Dora. BUT, what we did get was Dora clothing...or more precisely Dore undies. She loves them!!

So today I'm going to look at some on Ebay and get a couple for the little girl.

2006-10-27T11:28:00.000+10:00

Deidre Knight Cranks up the Heat in Her Latest Installment in the Parallel Series: PARALLEL HEAT

“Intelligent characters, hot romance and breathtaking adventure with epic feel—exactly what I want to read!” - Susan Grant, New York Times bestselling author“A fantastic and riveting new voice in paranormal fiction.” -Karen Marie Moning, New York Times bestselling author of Spell of the Highlander“At times humorous, at others heart-wrenching, but always compelling, Deidre Knight offers readers a fresh, wonderfully creative glimpse at the complexity of human decisions. What a page-turner!” - Gena Showalter, Author of Playing with FireIn the unforgettable, alternate world of Parallel Heat, two enemies are bound by betrayal, vengeance—and forbidden passion.Warrior and royal guardian Marco McKinley has been assigned a vital mission on Earth, where a war between human fighters and otherworldly soldiers is rising in the far reaches of Wyoming. But he's also been warned about twists of fate yet to come-ones that will transform him into the enemy of his own people and appoint him the personal protector of beautiful soldier Thea Haven.Little do Marco and Thea know, but they have met before in an alternate universe, and they are bound by betrayal and vengeance. Now, on a world at the brink of destruction, forbidden passion ignites—but will the destiny Marco has glimpsed unfold a second time?Sign up for Deidre’s newsletter and be eligible to win a $50 Amazon gift certificate, signed copies of her books, and plenty of other goodies! Just click here. Check out the book that launched the series, PARALLEL ATTRACTION or order your copy of PARALLEL HEAT today! And coming in April, PARALLEL SEDUCTION.

It comes! It comes! she screams running around with her arms waving in the air

2006-10-26T10:43:00.000+10:00

Yes, I'm just about F.R.E.A.K.I.N.G out! I still have no idea what to write!! With Nano only a few days away I'm still contemplating. I need to plot! To make matters worse 2 more characters from 2 seperate books in the FALLEN series have come forward to put their bid in to get their story told. OMG! The voices! The voices!

So, shall I draw straws for them? Gah! I don't know, I think they'll cheat! ha! But to make matters worse I have YET another story that I want to write for valantines - another for my Jodici Belle name. Gah!

So, come Oct 31 I BETTER have settled on a story otherwise there'll be hell to pay. You hear me!

She's a raving lunatic!

2006-10-24T15:48:00.000+10:00

Ok, this morning I was in an odd mood. Since I'm supposed to be a bridesmaid for my sister I have to learn the...*gasp* salsa. She had teamed me up with a guy I don't know and who is a friend of her Fiance. Now let me point something out. My twin is marrying a guy 8 years her junior. Good for her and all, but I can only assume his friend is his age as well. He'll be younger than my little brother!

I asked her if she told him I was a fatty. She said he knew I was her twin and that I had big boods. Oh great! His going to think I'm this thin woman and am going to walk in with balconies for boobs! Now, next thought: OMG, I'm going to dance with a guy fresh outta high school and he, like most guys are going to be focused on wanting some hottie to dance with.

Now, I'll be the first to admit that I struggle with my post-baby wieght and am quite insecure about it. I would hate to spend a few hours with a guy that will make me feel like he'd rather hold onto a cacitus than me. Yes, yes, I know, I'm married and have a baby. But that isn't it. It all comes down to my insecurities. I'm waiting for that moment when I walk into the room and his face just says 'Oh, holy crap.'

Why can't I dance with my bro? I whine. Answer: Apparently the Salsa is not the type of dance you do with a sibling. ... oh.....

So, I'm most probably going to have to dance with this guy and he might not care and turn out to be the sweetest person. I hope he has a nice personality because if I have to dance with him, I hope I can make conversation so I don't have to worry about my other stuff.

So, I have a nap and reflect on this. Yes, I had a nap since mia is at Day care. Now the reflection. Bonus: * I get to loose wieght because I'll be dancing it off. * I get some time away from baby and Andrew although I don't know how andrew will handle mia alone.
Common sense: The guy might be nice about the whole thing. Plain old me: Who cares about that? This is your chance to have a little fun! Be you.

Yes, I'm a raving lunatic!

7 Days to go until Nano

2006-10-23T18:44:00.000+10:00

Yep, it's drawning near and I STILL haven't decided on a story. Oh I have plenty - all of which are vying for my attention -- but I've put precedence on several to narrow it down.

Ok here is what i have:

A) The next 2 novellas in my BOUND BY BLOOD futuristic series. If any of you have read by bloodlust then you'll get the gist.

B) The next book in my FALLEN series (which I have started). Although the first book hasn't been picked up yet. Problem: Nano states must be a fresh story.

C) A new book aimed for the Nocturne line. 75K rather than the 100k of option B so I'll be closer to finish in the end.

I guess I'll figure it out at the end. Last year I had plotted out a historical and in the last 30min changed my mind....

Will christmas come early?

2006-10-22T16:12:00.000+10:00

Ok, I've finished my short.
It took a couple of days longer than what I expected, but here is the blurb of y'all.

In the spirit of giving one elf will go all the way to fulfill a Christmas wish for a sexy accountant. A wish that will steal both their hearts.

Life just couldn’t get worse for Audrey. Her boyfriend left her for her skinny best friend. She lost her promotion to some idiot with connections and now she was about to be robbed. It seemed like nothing would go her way, until a man miraculously shows up and saves her. A guy that looked as though he stepped straight out of Lord of the Rings.

Ka’ael longed to explore the Earth plane where there was no magic, horses didn’t have wings or horns and people flew about in metal machines. His chance came when he landed a much-coveted position in Santa’s factory as a List Checker. But when his contract is almost over, Ka’ael escapes to America to find a woman who stirs his heart.

Well, that's it. I had to rename it twice since I found several titles that were being used this christmas. All I want for Chirstmas and One night before Christmas, Chirstmas wish... so many titles were already taken so I settled on One Magical Christmas. Probably taken somewhere but I just gave up. Which brings me to another topic. Titles for books. I used to try and find an original title and though that's great if you can find one, at the end of the day if your title is the same as some one elses it's really nothing to stress about. If the title matches the story stick with it.-says I who struggled for a title. LOL!

Decisions and slight moping

2006-10-22T00:27:00.000+10:00

Yep, about a day or so ago I spend the day moping. Some of y'all can relate. Let me put it this why. I felt like Johhny Chen (anyone remember him?) I felt like an Aussie Idol wannabe. I thought I'm a talentless schmow but yet I believe I can actually sing... well write and no one wants to tell me that I actually suck! LOL Well, I got over that in the end. My loving husband brought home medium photo frames with all my covers printed out all fancy like. I was so touched! He told me that I was sucessful and not to let certain things to get to me. And you know he was right. As an author we gotta have thick skins but once in a while I think all that just boils over and we show our girlly side and have a little sniffle and move on.

ON A TOP NOTE: We picked out a car. A Fort Mondeo 1996 model. We were happy with the condition but we'll have to get a road worthy and registered. But come Tueday - Andrew will hopefully be driving back in our new car!

Nano here I come

2006-10-20T12:33:00.000+10:00

Ok, I've decided to do it. I know hubby won't like it - becuase last year I did it he was neglected. LOL. But I haven't told him that I've settled on doing it. I had briefly mentioned it and he mentioned my bitching and the fact that the family was neglected.

Hmm, I guess we'll see how I got this year. I've settled on a book I wasnt to pitch to Nocturne line. So this'll be fun.

Getting a new car... well, sorta

2006-10-19T10:50:00.000+10:00

I brought this up to hubby the other day about getting another car. I'm so sick of being stuck at home and if I wanted to go somewhere I'd have to wait until he has a day off. Not that I mind, but I SOO desperate to get into shape and I want to go to the gym. The only way to do it, is to go during the day when the gym has daycare.

Amazingly enough, Andrew had been thinking about it too!

We decided on how much we can afford, which isn't much, but it's enough to get a decent one. So, we looked at a car last night, and although it was a nice looking one. It was a compact black SEAT and had mags and a killer exhaust. Yep, boys car all over. But I was suspicious when I found out it was owned by a mechanic. I'm telling you, they are as bad to buy off. They often know what IS wrong with the car and will only do enough to cover it - since they work on cars all day, they wouldn't want to spend heaps of time on their own -- or pay for a mechanic. We have another we are going to look at that is just down the road from us. Although, I am quite partial to a Chrystler Neon -- I don't really have too much to say as the car we get will be primarily the run around car - so andrew will be driving it to and from work.

So we have high hopes to get one within the week. Exciting!
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D is for....

2006-10-18T09:36:00.000+10:00

Ok, I've noticed a horrible habit. I like to name my heroes with names starting with "D". See, in my family I have 2 other siblings with J. Jodie(me), Jossilyn, James

I also know several other Filo families that name their kids with names starting with the same letter. Are my genetics deciding that I want men with D.

Eg:
His Unexpected Bride: Damien
The Ripple Effect: Dane : [well, Dane obviously :) ]
Dark Knight: Darius
His Dark Embrace: Dante
Blood Mood: Dagger
Bloodstone: Dikado (I will changed though)
All I Want for Christmas: Orginally Dri'ael -- changed to Ka'ael

half if not more of my MS have heroes with D in their name. Why? I have over 20 letters to choose from, but I settle for D. I must break this habit

What am I working on now?

2006-10-17T16:29:00.000+10:00

Well, I've decided to do something for my Jodici Belle pen name. I'm writing a short 10k for christmas...I hope. See, I have a bit of time before nano, so I've got to have this done before then.

The title: ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS. It's a humorous and sensual paranormal involving a christmas elf and a voluptous accountant, a christmas wish and you should get a quick but joyful ride. I have high hopes to finish it this week. I have it all plotted out so it should be fun.

Just to warn you, there isn't going to be violence, swearing or hot, hot sex.... well there are sex scenes in them but words like: happy juices, member, womanhood are generally about it. See sensual. :)

Release date

2006-10-16T15:01:00.000+10:00

So I got the release date for my Novella The Ripple Effect: Dane. 10 November. I'm totally thrilled. I have a competion that I'll post for soon, but I don't have a picture of it yet. My SIL has my camera. *sigh*

But I can tell you it's a pretty cool prize. I love it! It's a oil burner of cream and gold with 3 Bast cats holding up the glass bowl. It's worth $40 so it's worth it to enter. Won't cost you a thing. I'll post up details of the competition soon.

But have a look at this animated button to give you an idea what TRE:D is about.

I've also updated my books section so you can check out what I'm working on and see the premises for the next two books following BLOODLUST. Gotta love the Corthians.

Finished & where to go from here

2006-10-15T23:11:00.000+10:00

Well, Dark Knight is well and truly done. My god to think I started this puppy in early July and see how life just simple got in the way - then a veer off onto another project -- then the Writer's Block from hell. This book was perhaps the MOST DIFFICULT to finish. Not because it was hard, but because of exteranl circumstances that seemed to be thrown at me. Fate? I think not! I got it done didn't I? :)
Well, I just sent it off and so begins the waiting game. So, this is the new improved blurb since it's part of the query:

Planet Thorus once thrived with human life, but what greeted the Earth Military Alliance was desolation. But when night falls, all hell breaks loose.

DARK KNIGHT is a story where a hero comes from the most unlikely place. When the enemy of my enemy is my friend.

Knight is a dedicated Sergeant and a fearless battler. But her world is about to be shaken when on a recon mission her crew are slaughtered during an eclipse. In the space of a few minutes, the shadows came to life in the form of vicious aliens and brought with it a new kind of hell by inserting the enemy within their ranks.

Darius, a former colonist and sole survivor is determined to find a way to defeat the aliens that landed on Thorus and wiped out his community. Surviving on his own for many years, he finds the emergence of more humans a lure he can't resist. But with his unusual looks that are more alien than human, he faces the paranoia of the camp. Now he is a battle not only to keep himself alive but also to possess the lovely woman named his Dark Knight.
___________________________________________________

So with that done, the question is - should I do Nano this year? Dare I risk the major WB I got from the last time did it? Hmm, I don't know. I think I might goal set as though I'm on it, but not put that added pressure on myself. Dunno yet.

What did I do today? I went to the markets. We bought some fish for the pond. There are some cute fantails and stuff. I also wanted to buy some native flowering plants. Well I got ripped off. I paid $10 bucks for a 'Pony Tail' in which the guy assured me would flower with the one that I had described. He was rude and I wish I hadn't bought it. It doesn't flower at all. It's a freaking palm and an ugly one at that. The plan that I was after was the King Portea. *sigh* oh well, I got ages anyway to buy the natives I want. I have blacksoil and alot of things can't grow on it, but Aussie Natives can. So I'm hoping to fill my garden with low maintenance plants and flowers. I don't have a green finger you know. :P

Pantsing and what is around the corner.

2006-10-13T14:27:00.000+10:00

Ok, besides FINALLY overcoming my WB - I've gone back to work on Dark Knight that is super overdue I have missed my personal goal, but then I have plans to have it done in 7 days. Uhp, now I've done it, I've gone and committed myself. So, now that I've done that I'm going to tell you about the ride I've had with this novella. What had initially been started for the Halloween October for CP, I put it aside to work on another Novella to gain a pre-made cover. A novella written in 13days kinda left me outta the loop since I was in mid-project. Yep, I can't really multi-task projects. Wish I could, but I can't. NEway, after a frustrating moment of forcing the story I ended up going in the wrong direction and had to erase a whole bunch of scenes. I'm now very much on track and the characters are talking to me again. But what had started out with a 25k mark looks like it might be at a minimum 35k. I'm surprised by the length as I'd tried to aim for the Outlaw! Line for Cobblestone. But if I go over, I go over. I promise you, you might be surprised by this story. It's more action based, I suppose, it was hard to develop a romance when everyone is fighting for their lives, literally.
But I think I've pulled it off with a little history between the characters and throw in more conflict at the end to resolve. So, I'll let you know how I go, but here is a blurb for you - since I'm almost finished.

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Monsters no longer reside under your bed or in your closet. They come for you when night falls.

Knight is a dedicated Marine for the United Earth Alliance Military. When a colony looses contact Earth and her team along with hundreds of other men land on Thorus with the intent of finding out what was the reason for the colonists disappearance. Was it a plague? She is about to find out it's something worse.

Darius, a former colonist and sole survivor is determined to find a way to defeat the aliens that landed on Thorus and wiped out his community. Survivng on his own for many years, he finds the emergance of more humans a lure he can't resist. But with his unusual looks that are niether human or Samite and the paranoia of the camp, he is a battle not only to keep himself alive but also to possess the lovely woman named his Dark Knight.

The Enemy of my Enemy is my friend.
------------------------------------------------
So that's it, without giving too much. Just think of the hero in Underworld (the hybred)- that is sorta what he looks like. Yum.

Sorry I've been absent

2006-10-10T14:12:00.001+10:00

Ah, I'm back now. Nothing interesting to report until today. I just loaded up a page dedicated to my FALLEN series that I hope to sell. You can check it out here.

Also, I've added a sorta WIP section at the bottom of my books @ jodie Becker. Some of you might be interested that I've started Seren's story mentioned in BLOODLUST.

Also, I've created new websites. One for four author blog. And another for Charlotte Dillon

NEwho, just thought to pop round and say Hi!

I'm back!

2006-09-24T18:51:00.000+10:00

Ok, I'm feeling a lot better now. For a while there I was a bit doped up on pain killers. Not fun at all. But so far I haven't resorted to pain meds for three days. Yey! And to make it even better, I'm pushing through this writers block! Wahoo!

I went to a wedding over the weekend. It was a nice little backyard wedding. I felt sorry for the groom and groomsmen as it was the middle of the day - the sun beating down on them in a hot day (felt like a summer day-- forget Spring!) But the ceremony was done and we had a buffee with roast and salad and.... PAVLOVA!! I love pavlova! It's my fave cake. Forget Devil's cake or cheesecake - give me whipped eggwhites and sugar anyday.

It's the year for coming together I suppose. My sister is engaged. She is going to get married in... RED! I think it's wonderful for something different. White wedding dresses only became popular when an English monarch wore it for her wedding ages ago. I like to see that change come back to wearing any color you want. I HAD to get married in white, since it was the only dress that could fit me. Being 8mos preggers I kinda had a limited choice of wardrobe. But I'm not complaining... it was a nice dress, it was black and white so not so much white, but it concealed my tummy...to an extent.

NEway, just thought to give you guys a heads up and let you know, I'm alive!
*grins*

ER

2006-09-13T09:48:00.000+10:00

Well, I had a really eventful day yesterday. I woke up at 4am in pain. I usually get this 'phantom pain' so was used to it. But by 6.30am I couldn't take it and andrew called up the ambulence. Mia was supposed to go to daycare, but it was the first time she'd seen me in pain so she tried to pat me like a dog (so cute in hindsight).

Anyway, the ambulence guys got there, Matt looked me over and they gave me some breath in drug to help me manage and put me in the ambulence and off we went. I stopped breathing in the drug once I felt I could manage the pain but Matt said to keep on breathing. Well, I think I got high from it. Because I asked Matt what he has to study to do what he does and then promptly told him I'd write about him. Yeah, well....

ANYWAY, the I was asked 3 times what I did for a living, by 2 nurses and 1 doctor. Guess what I told them. Romance writer. And amazingly enoug it was the male doctor Muhamid that showed the most amount of interest asking where he could get my books and such.

They drew my blood, which andrew had to leave the room for (he can't stand watching that happening to me - he has been known to faint...well, almost) I think it's cute, but he hates it.

They doped me up on morphyne (which I hate since it makes me soo sick) and then made an appointment for me to have an ultrasound on the friday and was about to give me pain meds to go when I had yet another big attack. So the doctor organized me to have some more morphyn (noo!) and immediate ultrasound check (yes!) So I have the check up and wait back for the results. Liver imbalance. Since I had my gallbladder removed 4years ago, my body hasn't adjusted and hence the phantom pains. So they gave me some drugs to buy and I went home. I got bad motion sickness, and for someone who doesn't have anything in their stomach I could sure find something to spew up. I was a wreck when I got home and passed out.

Now it's morning, and I suspect I'll be feeling sick and achy for the next few days. Such is the way of it I suppose.

Scare of my life

2006-09-04T21:23:00.000+10:00

Saturday morning was a scare for me. I was sitting on my bed and my daughter was sitting on the floor, I was assuming playing with her toys. Next thing I know she lets out a cry and there I see in one hand, she has Deep Heat (a muscular rub ointment) and her mouth is white from the cream. I rush over to her and wipe out all the cream and try and make her vomit since I didn't know how much--if any-- she injested.

I rush to the phone and since my husband is working weekends I try to call him on his mobile and his work phone but there was no answer. I tried to find the poisons center number - but I was so frazelled I couldn't figure out how to spell it. I then called emergency and they sent an amublence over. By they time they'd gotten there - Mia was fine, but after a look over they said she was ok, but to keep an eye on her.

I felt like an awful mother. She's ok now, but boy - now I better look at getting all the stuff dangerous out of her reach... although I don't know how she got the deep heat... It might've been on the bedside table or something...

Writers block Hell!

2006-08-30T11:44:00.000+10:00

Well, after the record of writing a novella in 13days - I've been in writers block hell. For the last 2 weeks I've been struggling to decide on a project. None of them are really speaking to me and I know I have to get my butt in gear. So, I think I'm going to do free writing on each on and see which one takes off.

Gosh I hate WB. *sniffle*

I got my cover!

2006-08-25T22:04:00.000+10:00

I'm so thrilled. Not only did I get a recent submission accepted, but I have the new cover for my urban fantasy - The Ripple Effect: Dane. I'm so excited out it.

Meanwhile, I'm deciding on what new project to persue.

I'm back

2006-08-21T08:48:00.000+10:00

Well, I'm back from my visit and let me tell you - I'm exhausted! I had a rough night sleeping, because Mia slept with us. She wasn't comfortable in the unfamiliar environment, so she slept with her hand on me and her foot on Andrew or vice versa. Since no light was on - she woke up during the night disorientated and upset. *sigh*

When we got home I was never so glad to see my own bed. I had a wonderful night sleeping, although I wished I had more hours. Oh well.

Anyway, you guys might want to check out my guest spot on Novelty Girls

Busy weekend making calls

2006-08-18T22:32:00.000+10:00

Yep, I have plans this weekend to visit my husbands relatives. We overbooked you see. We gotta go see his dad - a 40min drive from us in the morning after Mia's swimming lesson (we bought a cute one-piece swimsuit with one of those attached skirts - so cute!)

Anyway, after his dad's we are driving all the way up the coast to see his grandparents - a 1.5hr drive. We're going to spend the night there and then go and visit andrew's aunty and sorrogate grandmother to my daughter.

So, I probably won't get much writing done, although I will be bringing up my laptop for the JIC.

I Finished!

2006-08-17T12:19:00.000+10:00

I have done it! I beat my deadline and finished a novella in 13 days... Hmm, unlucky for some, but it would seem that it's not so for me. I stayed up until 3am writing and editing and sent it off. Thankfully, I had already completed the query letter so I didn't have to worry about that.

THE RIPPLE EFFECT: DANE is an urban fantasy, action adventure that I plan to bring out into an ongoing series.

So, now the wait begins....

In the meantime - some of you might want to hear the blurb:

Reality is a matter of perception…or is it? When Jamilah inherits a beautiful Egyptian artifact, she didn’t expect it to propel her out of her reality and into another so displaced from her own.

The year is 2006 and Set had been awoken from his tomb over a century ago. He runs his kingdom with an iron fist and doesn’t need anyone screwing with it, least of all the ‘Holyman’ that has been like a thorn in his side. But when a shift in the air signals the arrival of something powerful, Set is determined to possess it.

Dane didn’t know what a woman was doing in the destroyed city of New York, but he couldn’t very well leave her to her own demise. But what starts as a rescue attempt, soon becomes something far more complicated. With the emergence of something deep within him that demand his attention and his budding love for a woman he knows he can’t have, so begins the battle between a man willing to fight for what is right and a God who will do anything to have what he wants.

* * * * * * * *

So there you have it. Now that I'm finished with this particular project - I have a few that are vying for my attention and will try and focus on 2 at a time. In the meantime, time to focus on the housework that has been neglected for nigh coming onto 2 weeks. Eeek!

FULL SWING - coming to Cobblestone

2006-08-15T09:22:00.000+10:00

FULL SWING by Crystal Jordan(Cobblestone Press, August 18, 2006)

The only place they still communicate is between the sheets...a professional woman golfer and an Army Ranger struggle to save their marriage after he's seriously injured in combat and has to retire. Outside the bedroom, everything is falling apart because he believes she deserves better than a broken man, but she dreams of a future when they stop fighting and start talking long enough to reclaim the happily ever after that once seemed so certain.

ABOUT CRYSTAL JORDAN
Crystal Jordan only began writing about a year ago after she finished graduate school and needed something to fill the hours that used to be eaten away by homework. What started as a hobby has quickly become a new career. She now writes paranormal, futuristic, contemporary, and erotic romance. Additionally, she is a member of RWA and its erotic romance chapter, Passionate Ink. She also belongs to the award winning author's resource website and forum RomanceDivas.com, where she serves as a moderator and Paranormal Co-Liaison.

http://www.crystaljordan.com

AVAILABLE AUGUST 18!

http://www.cobblestone-press.com/

my New cover

2006-08-13T19:27:00.000+10:00

Today I got my cover for the print release of His Unexpected Bride. I LOVE IT! I'm not sure who the artist is, but I liked how they caught the profile of my heroine.

Thank you NCP!

First Notice of Upcoming Chat

2006-08-11T06:53:00.000+10:00

www.cobblestone-press.com

Authors & Reader PartyFriday,

September 15, 2006

All authors will be on the Cobblestone Yahoo Group, discussing their current releases and their coming soon works.

There will be tons of EXCERPTS, even more FUN, and LOTS OF PRIZES. So mark your calender!This will be a day to remember.Join the Cobblestone Press yahoo group:

http://www.groups.yahoo.com/group/cobblestonediscussion/join

We're here to bring you the best of the best. Please note that chats scheduled are Eastern Standard Times

8-9AM MADISON CHASE

9-10AM SUSAN GREENE & ME!

10-11AM SHELLI STEVENS

11-12PM JADE JAMES

12-1PM LORIBELLE HUNT

1-2PM SARA DENNIS

2-3PM ANN CORY

3-4PM MIA ROMANO

4-5PM LYRIC JAMES

5-6PM KAREN ERICKSON

6-7PM CRYSTAL JORDAN

7-8PM L. SHANNON

8-9PM SHERI LIVINGSTON

9-10PM JENNAH SHARPE

10-11PM HEATHER A FOWLER

And we're ending the day with a BANG!

Opening Hooks

2006-08-09T12:49:00.000+10:00

Whenever I start a book, the first thing I think about is hooks. How can I get the reader to get on this ride the quickest way possible? Well, this is where the opening hook comes in. I'm going to share some of mine.

His Unexpected Bride:
The Marquis of Rutledge groaned as his mother dragged yet another young debutante in his direction. Why wasn’t God being merciful? Cold fingers of dread ran up his spine and with a surreptitious glance around the ballroom, he made his escape.

Fallen Into Darkness:
“Screw him.” Wonder Woman planted a hand over her hip, her leg cocked as she thumbed her lasso. The bonfires lining the oceanfront licked at the gold bands on her wrist, waist and forehead matched the burning in Tanya’s eyes.

Bloodlust:
Kira knew the roar of bloodlust. The amphitheatre beyond rose an octave as the iron gate before her opened. Standing in the dark, dank hall of the dome, she perused the line of weapons hanging on the wall.

A Dark Embrace: (wip)
She was going to die. Dante stood at the top of the old warehouse as the chase unfolded beneath him. Flicking back a flap of his trench coat and hooking it over his hip, he crouched. The chill of the winter wind picked up the hem of his jacket, waving it like a dark flag. Under his drifter hat his cheeks burned from the sting of the frigid air that brushed along his face.

My Enemy mine: (wip)
“She’s dangerous this one, but here she is,” the Ambassador said, indicating to a door lining the sterile hall of the prison ship.

A Devil's Passion: (wip)
It was nearing dawn and Simon could see the mists rolling over the gentle sloping hills like a wraith of death. Gusts of air wafted through the fog, rounding and whirling under the temperate wind. There was not a bird singing or an active squirrel in the bushes beyond. Everything was still save some horrid bird whose monotone squawk trumpeted like the Reapers horn.

Now after doing this, I've noticed I have a lot of WIPs. Ugh! I have to work on reducing that number....

Oh. My. God.

2006-08-08T16:37:00.000+10:00

Ok, I'm learning more about my hero (Dane) in my current MS and although all the stuff that I've found about him thus far has been awesome, I just finished a scene where he was so unlike himself. Although it is explained prior and after the scene why he might've acted this way, it's still shrouded in darkness. He is so complex and will either have you liking him or hating him. A real piece of work. Honestly, he is a little screwed up (but not in a bad way). Life has dealt him a heavy card and I'm going to find out how he ended up with a split personality. No, it's not a schizophrenia thing, it's something more...Magically inclined. So what is really up with him? Hmm, I guess you guys are going to have to read it to find out.... LOL

Also, the heroine handled the situation wonderfully, after she regained her wits of course. I didn't want her to be a real push over. Personally I would've preferred she kick him in the nads, but I guess she wanted him to see to reason rather than resort to violence. Awww, why not?!!

She LIVES!

2006-08-06T15:18:00.000+10:00

Yes, my heroine for my current MS lives. And by that I mean she has taken on a life of her own. Which pretty much happens with all my characters, but I can tell you now, this is the first time I've struggled with her issues. She is fully developed, flaws and all and I'm only 17 pages in. Which is wonderful. (No, I don't often do character maps.)

Now I know she is afraid of heights. Something which I could've done without. Oh well. I'm sure the hero will figure something out. For the last 3 novels I've written and the current one on the back burner, all my women have been strong and independent -- which I love. But my current heroine is something else entirely different. She is subtle in her strength where as all my others have been in your face type strong. That's all right though, because I believe that is going to be her character growth to come into herself. Plus I get to have a hero to show her the way while having fun doing it.

Ahh, the scenes fluttering through my head right now.....

My ideas

2006-08-04T17:59:00.000+10:00

Well, some of you might know that I'm working on a futuristic for well over a month now and know the basic gist of the story with Dark Knight. And some of you are eager to see what is going to happen next, but I'm afraid that is now going to have to wait. While I was looking at some pre-made covers, I was instantly inspired by one. ... Well a few, but this one really struck a cord with me. So, I approached CP with my basic plot and promised to have it in around a month. So what does that mean? It means I need to knuckle down and focus on just this story which I've called The Ripple Effect. See I can't write without a title so this might change eventually.

What is it about? Sorry, can't do that. I've learnt the best way to do this is to keep it to myself and keep y'all salivating. Let me just show you the picture that inspired me and you can... draw your own picture. *wink wink*

I LOVE DAN'S WORK!!!

Now I'm vertually overflowing with ideas, several of which will have to wait, but WILL eventually get their story told. I love prompts

OMG - Going into Print

2006-08-03T13:31:00.000+10:00

I got the most fabulous news yesterday. My first Novel HIS UNEXPECTED BRIDE, is going to hit the prints. I'm so thrilled and terrified at the same time. It's great news, and my husband has been totally thrilled for me. For sure, that means that those that aren't interested in purchasing my book due to it being in e-format (yes, Jossilyn I'm talking to you) *my sister you see* can soon purchase it from NCP booksellers. AND yes, they do have one in Brisbane. *jump up and down* SO I might go there and stare at my book on the shelf. Maybe even take a photo. *grin*

Well, I've been a bit buzzed about that. But I did have a productive day yesterday. Lucy Monroe & I worked together to give her blog a nice feel. You can check it out @ http://lucymonroeblog.blogspot.com . And can I just say that she is very friendly and gave me some great family advice. It was great having a chat with her. I'm a bit star-struck. *blink* *blink* *blink*

BTW: Don't forget your chance to win MORE jewelry, check out the details @ www.jodiebecker.com

And the Winner is...

2006-08-02T08:41:00.000+10:00

Contest for the sapphire pendant and the winner has been drawn randomly.

Congratulations to Cathy Morton.

For those of you that entered. Thank you very much for participating. You still have a chance to win jewellry, simply check out www.jodiebecker.com for details. Yes, I love giving this stuff away on my contests *grin*

New Contest

2006-07-29T13:57:00.000+10:00

Yep, I have yet another contest for y'all. And yes, it's more jewellery.

To celebrate the upcoming release Bloodlust you can post the word bloodlust or send me an email and you'll go in the running to win a garnet and diamond pendant.

Contest will run from the 1st of August to the 15th of Sept.

Busy days

2006-07-27T09:33:00.000+10:00

Well, for the past week I've been flat out with personal stuff. I haven't done any writing for a week! Ugh! Recently I got a new client and finished her page. You can check it out @ www.kelleyvitollo.com

Also, my current MS The Dark Knight - a futuristic, is ending up be longer than I thought. I think this might turn out to be either a catagory or a novel. I have to start work on a another novella I want to pitch for an anthology. I might find myself working on 2 ms's... hmm, am I up to the task. We'll see I suppose.

Writing or lack thereof and my new cover

2006-07-21T12:16:00.001+10:00

Well, as you know, I've been waging war with vermon. I've done loads yesterday - and still have heaps to go. I combed mia's hair three times yesterday - but I think I've finally got em all. But still have to comb every couple of days just in case. So this battle has taken up any writing time I might've had. Today, I'm surprised the little one wants anything to do with me. She got up at 4.20am *grr* and has been very demanding of my time. Why? I don't know. I would be running in the other direction if I was her. I just my comb her hair again.

Anyway, to make my day. I got my cover for BLOODLUST I am thrilled and blown away by the quality of cover.

It was done by the talented Dan Skinner. Thank you Dan! Check it out:

aup! There goes the washing machine. Time to do another load. *sigh*

Writing or lack thereof and my new cover

2006-07-21T12:16:00.000+10:00

Well, as you know, I've been waging war with vermon. I've done loads yesterday - and still have heaps to go. I combed mia's hair three times yesterday - but I think I've finally got em all. But still have to comb every couple of days just in case. So this battle has taken up any writing time I might've had. Today, I'm surprised the little one wants anything to do with me. She got up at 4.20am *grr* and has been very demanding of my time. Why? I don't know. I would be running in the other direction if I was her. I just my comb her hair again.

Anyway, to make my day. I got my cover for BLOODLUST I am thrilled and blown away by the quality of cover.

Check it out:

aup! There goes the washing machine. Time to do another load. *sigh*

My birthday dinner & news you as a mother hate to hear

2006-07-20T10:54:00.000+10:00

Well, it's my birthday on Sunday, but my twin will be in New Zealand for her birthday so we had a dinner to celebrate. We went to hogs breath cafe and I found me and jossilyn having difficulty choosing between the same things. We both wanted the fish of the day & Nachos. I suggested we share So joss said I should order the nachos. No way! I don't want something wholly delicious and fattening sitting before me! I'm trying to loose wieght. So we both ended up with fish. - And she didn't eat all of hers. For $22 I would be!

My brother came and that was great because I rarely get to see him. My husband and my sister's B.friend (whose personality on the most part is almost exactly like my husbands) ordered the same thing. FREAKY!

Also, on a side note. The daycare center told us Mia had lice. *fall over* I hate those buggers. Since we had plans for the night I couldn't get ontop of it right away. So when I stopped by a chemest, got the stuff I needed, put mia to bed and started on my own hair. I found I had some in my hair and was furious. I told andrew to wash his hair but he didn't want to. So I combed his hair, changed the sheets on our bed, and vacummed the lounge.

I thought mia might've only gotten them, but I remember I took a bath with her on monday (which explains how I got it) Andrew then annoyed me because he jumped into bed with the same clothes he had on and he didn't treat himself. So I have an extra load to do than nessacary thanks to a lazy spouse who doesn't understand the tenacity of those creatures.

And this morning I treated her and yuko! I combed her hair, and she hated every second of it, but I didn't care, the faster I got through it the sooner it would be over. I got most of them out, but will re-do her hair tonight. I've went through my hair, and am now thankfully free of those critters, but still have to stay on top of it.

So today, I've been doing loads of sheets, towels and clothes. Pillows are out in the sun. Ugh! I guess the won't be the last I'll see of those things.

I'm still alive!

2006-07-17T09:49:00.000+10:00

Yes, I did my first work out via DVD today. Although my little one was upset that I wouldn't pick her up. So inbetween some workouts I chased her around the house, which is just as strenious. Anyway I finished the 60 min work out with some revelations.

A) I'm not as unfit as I thought I would've been
B) I have no muscle strength whatsoever so I sucked and strained on those parts

So the muscle thing, I plan to do some extra work on. i used to pride myself so much on my strength and after 2 years without gym I suck! lol

So I have 4 workout DVDs, 2 I found that I couldn't do because it was the 4th & 5th volume of a 5 DVD set. Ends up I have to start from the bottom up. So hubby is getting the 1st one for me today. Some of you might be familiar with Jillian Michaels? Well, that is the 5 DVD set. I'm also looking at getting a HULA workout from somewhere since my little one LOVES to try and do the hula from Lilo & Stitch.

Jodie? .... .... Present!

2006-07-15T19:45:00.000+10:00

Yes, I know, I haven't blogged a bit recently. I'd made a personal promise to myself to blog every second day, but then got...distracted. I got my edits back for Bloodlust and was totally thrilled with it. Problem. My daughter didn't want me near the laptop. AGRRGHH!! *ripping hair at the roots* This is where I get to say "No, Mia, mummy is trying to work."

Does that work? Nope. So my edits, although I wanted to get to them immediately had to wait. By the time Hubby got home I was drawn tight and said "You are so lucky! When you have deadlines at least you don't have a crying baby in your ear wanting your attention. I mean some people think being a SAHM is a piece of cake but I can tell you now it isn't."

RANT RANT RANT. Yes, it was one of those days where I believe Andrew would've much prefered a set of earplugs.

But on an upnote we bought a christmas tree today. Yes, I know it's early, but does the word SALE explain it? We got a 7ft fibre optics tree for $99. While I was there, I also got some exercise DVDs. It's my effort to get into shape and it's hard to do it when sitting on a stationary bike when Mia wants to do it too. So I thought, doing those moves on DVD will encourage her motor skills and give me a chance to work out. Yes! I'm stoked and plan to start on Monday. I'll let you know if I survive *g*

Ok, time to get my head down and write. Catch ya!

REMEMBER:

The contest: If you want to win a sapphire heart pendant then answer the following question and email me: jodicib[at]gmail.com
The question is: Who are part of the 'Devil's Trio' and what attribute are they each most infamous for?

HINT: Check out the excerpt on:
http://www.newconceptspublishing.com/adevilsproposal.htm

Competition ends on the 31st of July. Don't forget to visit my website: http://www.jodicibelle.com for more information.

Sharing a single bed with my girl

2006-07-11T16:09:00.000+10:00

I don't know what it is about Mia but sometimes...well more often than not lately she's been getting up in the middle of the night and coming into the room and waking us up. Sometimes I take her into the room and try and put her to sleep - an effort that can both rob me and andrew of sleep. Or I take her to the lounge room for an hour while she relaxes watching a DVD. OR try and get her to sleep in bed with us...which has never worked so I don't see why I continue.

Well, last night she woke up at 12am. She came into the room and I put her up on the bed. When she didn't got to sleep I put her back to bed and lay next to her. She didn't want me to leave so I lay there waiting for her to sleep. Well, she talked and moved around for a bit and fell asleep. But everytime I tried to get out of bed, she cried. So I stayed and spent a restless night avoiding her flailing arms and legs. Gah! It's a bad habit to get into I know, but she cries for ages and keeps andrew awake (who is really a grouch when he misses out on sleep).

Well, I caught up with some sleep this morning since she is away on daycare *yey*. I lurv these moments...

Also remember The contest: If you want to win a sapphire heart pendant then answer the following question and email me: jodicib[at]gmail.com

The question is: Who are part of the 'Devil's Trio' and what attribute are they each most infamous for?

HINT: Check out the excerpt on:

http://www.newconceptspublishing.com/adevilsproposal.htm

Competition ends on the 31st of July. Don't forget to visit my website: http://www.jodicibelle.com for more information.

Something fun, something cute and something new

2006-07-10T15:21:00.000+10:00

Something Fun:
To provide a bit of variety I've decided to create a free read on http://www.jodiebecker.com check it out under Fun Stuff. This will be updated once a week.

Something Cute:
A new book out that I've read and ABSOLUTELY LOVED is Can You Keep a Secret? By fellow aussie author Rosse Middleton. Link

Can you keep a secret?

I don’t suppose you can.

I’m your secret Santa.

Resist my wicked plan!

It’s winter in Melbourne, Australia and investigative journalist Jesse Fox doesn’t want to participate in the Christmas in July gimmick his boss has instigated. He’s about to turn in hisI really don’t want to play this game note to the coordinator when he receives a mysterious package, which holds the most enticing dare he can imagine. Can he uncover the identity of his secret Santa before her titillating gifts drive him insane?

As an administrative assistant in the biggest television network in town, Penny Lane should have better things to do than run the secret Santa gift exchange and coordinate a weekend retreat in the snow. Yet the game allows her to indulge in her secret fantasy with hotshot Jesse, and as her inner vixen emerges, Penny needs to keep him from realising plain Jane is behind the salacious gifts. Penny must decide if the friendship they share is more important than the possibility of spending the weekend retreat in Jesse’s bed. Exactly what will Jesse do once he uncovers the woman behind the red lace garter and the fur-lined handcuffs?

Something new:
A new blog is out with several romance authors (also Divas) that is worth having a look at: Http://strictlysirens.blogspot.com

Bestseller list

2006-07-09T13:54:00.000+10:00

OMG! I just found out today that my first manuscript - His Unexpected Bride is It's #8 on the best sellers Fictionwise, #7 on the Romance bestsellers list, and #6 on the New Concepts Bestsellers list. Thanks Jen!

It's so awesom I'm speechless. And to add on that I'm now available (in ebook) at AMAZON. Wahoo!

Dare I hope this will make it in print?? I hope so. But then we'll see. It comes at the right time coinciding with the release of my lastest Historical A Devil's proposal

Also remember The contest: If you want to win a sapphire heart pendant then answer the following question and go to http://www.jodicibelle.com/contact.php to answer.

The question is: Who are part of the 'Devil's Trio' and what attribute are they each most infamous for?

Competition ends on the 31st of July. Don't forget to visit my website: http://www.jodicibelle.com for more information.

Another release and contest

2006-07-07T16:38:00.000+10:00

To celebrate the Release of my newest Historical 'A Devil's Proposal' I'm giving you a chance to win a sapphire heart necklace to honor the color of my hero, Ransom's, eyes.

So, how do you win? Well simply answer the following question and send it to jodicib @ gmail.com.

The question is: Who are part of the 'Devil's Trio' and what attribute are they each most infamous for?

Competition starts on the 7th of July and ends on the 31st of July. Don't forget to visit my website: http://www.jodicibelle.com for more information. (and check out the new header. Much more romantic don't you think?)

Bloggers new look and QUEENSLANDER!!!

2006-07-06T14:49:00.000+10:00

Well, after a bout of procrastination - I have finally updated my look. No template here. As you can see it looks alot like the BECKER site, but then, that one is my fave ;)

On the writing front I've got my troops under attack and wondering how to make this scene more frightening. I am feeling a bit of fear as Knightly but I gott put that smoothly on page. Hmm, maybe I should go and get an old Dean Koontz novel and try and remember what he did that worked for me.

See, writing in different sub-genres of romance really has new things to offer and stretches your skills. I would suggest anyone that writes to at least branch out into one other sub-genre of romance. It's a blast!

Now, if y'all are wondering about the QUEENSLANDER yell, well let me clear it up for you. Our sport of choice in QLD & NSW is Rugby League. It's like rugby union except without the gazzilion kicks and those scrummy type things were the ball goes down and everyone steps on the tackled guy. (As you can tell - I don't watch union) ANYways. Once a year we have the State of Origin which is the best players who originated from QLD take on the best players from NSW. It's a tri-match so it's game 1 - 3wk break - game 2 - 3wk break - game 3

To make it even every year they switch where it's played. QLD NSW QLD then the next year: NSW QLD NSW

So, for the last 3 years NSW have been kicking our asses but this year...this year. WE WON!!! Finally, despite a few dubious calls from the video ref QLD managed to bring the fire and came back to win. Now bear in mind, these games are often VERY tight and the crowd are into it. It's an awesome thing to experience, and the whole of QLD and NSW stop what they're doing 3 times a year to root behind thier team. Because it's not just a game. It's everything we are.

Also, here is a piccy of my daughter on the night. Please note what it says on her jumpsuit:

I sold

2006-07-04T08:25:00.000+10:00

Yep, I finished BLOODLUST and sent it off the Cobblestone. I'm so glad I was accepted and thrilled to be apart of their budding family. I know alot of talented writers are a part of their list and I'm now thrilled to be in the ranks. I look forward to a long and fruitful career there.

Furthermore, I have a new website. Since I'll be writing anything that isn't historical or sweet under Jodici Belle, I'll be using Jodie Becker - a pen name that I'm most comfortable with. You can check out my website here: http://www.jodiebecker.com

I'm now working on another futuristic and about to knuckle down and get some serious writing done. With me and my daughter sick, I haven't been able to be very creative, but I think I should be soon.

On another note, I ordered some CD-Rom books from Amazon.com about the US military because I need them for my current book. Since I live in QLD I find that alot of the stuff I want are not available here and I have to order from the US. It takes 2months to get here by standard so I ordered the next one up which means it'll get here 17-25July. *sigh* I was hoping it would get here sooner, but in the meantime I can use the interent *sigh lovingly* I love the internet. *g*

Winter, rain and a cold

2006-06-30T19:14:00.000+10:00

Well, for the last week or so it's been raining on and off, and for the most part my daughter has been inside. I really do look forward to tuesday and wednesday because Mia goes to daycare and I get some much needed writing in, housework and other general stuff in. So Monday night rolls around and Mia seemed a bit off. She had a temp and I woke up hubby and told him that if she had a temp in the morning she wasn't going to daycare.

Morning comes around and mia gives me a kiss good-bye so I assume she was better. I get a call in the afternoon saying she had a high temp so I got hubby to pick her up. Wednesday she was going up and down between being miserable and running about so I assumed she was getting better. Wrong. By mid-afternoon she was miserable, vomity and had a fever. So I'm trying to keep her fluids up but she isn't eating anything so I couldn't take it. By thurday I made an appointment and took her to the doctors.

Last night, she was up and down just crying and not wanting to be alone so I was in her room until 2 am patting her back and staying still so she didn't think I was going to leave her. I was in my own bed at 2am and up at 5.30am to look after mia. To top this week off, hubby has been doing over time for the last week and a bit (including weekends) so I've had no break.
And to top my week off: I'm sick. It was bound to happen I suppose. My head feels fuzzy, I'm mad that I didn't get any writing done this week due to this and the house is an utter shambles.

I am the biggest woss when it comes to flus. I hate them. Ahh well, I'm sure it'll all look better after a good nights sleep and a lot of Benidril.

I Finished!

2006-06-27T13:00:00.000+10:00

Yes, folks, the other night I finished my FIRST novella!! I'm so excited. It's also my first futuristic too. I love writing in these time periods as opposed to historicals now. Why? Cause I can write a heroine that spits, swears and carries on with the best of them. I can employ a plot that is exciting and fast paced and most of all, I can create a red hot alien hero that just makes me salivate. Well, if you haven't figured it. This is pretty much the gist of my finished novella (I love saying that word) Bloodlust.

If you're curious, here is a blurb:

At Qantic Station, love rarely develops between people. Especially if one day you have to kill them to survive.

Kira has worked hard to become a Grade One Gladiator. Celebrated by the crowds and offered a life of relative ease, Kira knows her popularity comes at a price. But on a night where the kill should’ve been easy, she comes up against a new gladiator with a will to survive.

Lukiamo didn’t know how he ended up in an arena with a warrior woman intent on taking his head off. But one thing was for certain; he wasn’t going to let her win. When blood is spilt and she inadvertently starts the bonding process between them, Lukiamo is determined to have her as well as his freedom.

But before their love can even begin to blossom, someone is seeking their deaths in order to gain a power that will tear an entire planet asunder.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Yep, that's it. Now today I'll be starting a new one that I hope will be a futuristic/horror. Something different (although I doubt it'd be that scary since I'm a woss) Yes, I don't watch horror movies. Hell, scary thrillers I don't watch either. I mean for you Buffy fans, The Gentlemen episode was pretty scary for me! Yes, I did say woss. I am one.

But you know what. At the end of this I want to thank to my favorite Futuristic Author whose writing inspired me to give it a go: Jennifer Colgan / Bernadett Gardner. She was the first futuristic author I read and I was blown away by the way she introduced a new world so smoothly and with class. If you haven't read any of her books you should. She's great.

Ok, so you might be wondering if I'll be using Jodici Belle. (Yes, Jodici Belle isn't my real name) But ya know, I decided to use my real first name. Jodie. I put out a vote at home and on the forum I visited and it was neck and neck. In the end it worked out even and so I chose the name: JODIE BECKER for my paranormal/futuristic action adventures (they are a bit more hard core than my historicals so I felt it required a different name -- not not erotica hardcore(I don't think I can do that to save my life). Just alot of rough talk and voilence). So what do you think?

Promo Time

2006-06-25T07:56:00.000+10:00

How a look @ Cassidy Kent for some wonderful reads:

SUNSET KEYPublisher: PHAZEFreesia Daniels, personnel specialist and consummate planner, wasn't prepared to get the boot from her company for possessing a heart. When she decides to return home from Boston to the sunny beaches of Key West to lick her wounds, she discovers her heartbroken past has finally caught up with her in the form of Zachary Gray, her childhood sweetheart. He lures her to his island getaway and lands them smack in the middle of a raging hurricane. Lightning doesn't often strike twice, but this storm might give them both a second chance at love.

SANTA'S HELPERPublisher: AMBER QUILL PRESSWhen Manhattanite CEO Noel Ford decides to adopt a letter addressed to Santa Claus, he never expects to end up escorting sexy single mother Maura Kelly around the city on Christmas Eve. Because of her son Kyle’s selfless wish for her to find love again after her husband’s death, Maura agrees to spend the day with the handsome stranger, against her better judgment.The spark between Noel and Maura is immediate, but the distance between Park Avenue and the New Jersey suburbs is immense. Are their two worlds too dissimilar to merge or will they be able to bridge the distance with love?

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

What's New @ Cobblestone?

Ariana Seven lives in a world without men. After a plague wipes out everyone with a Y chromosome, the women of Earth create the perfect utopian society. Secretly, Ari feels like a freak. Dating is a nightmare--and having sex? Forget about it!
Jackson Taylor has had the worst kind of day. He's screwed out of a promotion, his girlfriend dumps him, and just as he’s about to get flattened by a city bus he’s sucked into a time portal into the future. In this perfect world, they have only one use for men--as sperm donors. One look at Ari's silver-blond hair and velvety black eyes and he loses his heart.
* * * * * * * *

A lonely howl in the night draws Laney Parker out of her cabin. Determined to warn the rogue werewolf away from her pack’s territory, she heads into the wilderness unprotected. Little does she know, old wounds are about to be opened, and she will soon be forced to revisit her heartbreaking past.Two years have passed since Cole Holbrook was exiled from his pack. Now he’s back, determined to claim Laney as his mate, even if it means trespassing onto enemy territory to take her. Nothing will stop him. Not even his old rival--Laney’s pack leader brother, Seth.
* * * * * * *

Before Armand died by the hands of a vampire-hunting mob, he vowed Giselle Dubois he’d find a way to return to her on All Hallows' Eve. But after three centuries of waiting, her hopes have vanished, and feeling lonely, she is about to walk into the sunlight and end her life on All Hallows' Eve.
Until Armand wanders into Giselle's house. Except now he’s now thirty-five-year-old photographer Evan Harris. And he doesn’t remember her. She must awake his memories before dawn, using every single sensual means at her disposal. But would he be the same Armand she knew and loved?

To write or not to write

2006-06-23T11:09:00.000+10:00

Well for the last two days (and most of the morning), I've been unable to write. Now, don't get me wrong, but it's not a lack of creativity but an overly clingy little girl named Mia. *sigh* Toddlers as so demanding when they are sick...and when *aren't* they sick? It seems every time she comes back from daycare she's brought home some new virus that she gives to me and I back to her. It's hard to write when you have a crying baby nearby and one insistent on being held. So by the end of the day I'm exhausted, I have to clean up and then by the time I get onto the computer I'm drawing blanks. I'm mentally exhausted from trying to block out the crying and getting up in the middle of the night to tend her and at 4.30 because Andrew is in the shower and Mia wants attention.

Guess how I woke up this morning. Mia picked up a book (a relatively heavy one) and threw it at me. It hit my forehead. Ouch! What a way to start the day... Oh well, I can only hope that I can get some in today and this weekend. GRR.

On another note: Hubby says he'd love to be a stay at home dad. Now the way I see how he handles long doses of mia....uhh I have my doubts. I don't think he could handle, Mia, house work and taking care of me. LOL But you know, when I become a famous author (k, you can stop laughing) He can try it on.

syno or not

2006-06-16T09:30:00.000+10:00

I did another Micro 100. Why? Because dark was the main theme on everyones entry so I thought to put in a short sweeter piece. http://crabbycows.blogspot.com/2006/06/micro-100-entry-number-18.html

I got my US stamps yesterday (wahoo) So I can send out to more agents of my paranormal. So I'm finally moving forward with that one. Also, Ive noticed that some agents don't request synos. The dreaded synos. I personally think it's a good thing so that they can go in reading a book as a reader rather than knowing how it gets to the ending *then* reading it. I think it takes away from the story to read a syno. But then, it is industry and some are moving on to just a partial or just a full. I love it!

But if you're wondering about synos you might want to check out Romance Divas. They're having a synopsis competition (entries close 17th) but if you miss cut off still check it out - you can learn alot by judging!

What doesn't kill you...

2006-06-14T09:57:00.000+10:00

As some of you might know, Crabby Cows have a new contest called the Micro 100. Object of the game is to write a complete story in that 100. Well, I tried. Check it out here. I never thought I could manage such a task but wow I was amazed. Besides I've noticed alot of the pieces are dark. I guess you can write dark alot easier in 100 words. *s*

Also, my futuristic. Besides my girl being sick I'm making some progress on it and am amazed by the difference in style this genre creates. You have to write in a world that is totally unfamiliar to the reader and insure the information you are supplying runs smoothly and without taking away from the story. So, I am determined to conquer this book and learn the art for worldbuilding. Hey, what doesnt kill you only makes your stronger....

Recapturing my muse and speaking titles

2006-06-10T11:55:00.000+10:00

We'll after picking myself off the ground, I am working on a new piece in an attempt to get my rusty writing up to speed. I'm excited about this one because It's a futuristic so it's teaching me new things and allowing my imagination to run wild and free.

And also, because it's going to be a novella that I'm hoping once it gets accepted somewhere I'm going to write a sequel to it. So, as you can see on the side, it's called 'Bloodlust' and although it might not make sense now, once you read it I'm sure it'll clear up somethings. Also it got me to thinking about titles. The ever important title. Your marketing tool that will get people to buy besides the cover and the blurd - the frist thing a reader will see. Is it hard for you to come up with a title? Do titles draw you first or is it something else?

I myself, haven't had too much trouble with titles. I love the creativity of developing one, but it's finding one that is unique that is hard. So here is what I think of when choosing a title:

Steer away from anything with the world 'Love' in it. Love is such a common word used in romance for me it's now 'blech'.

Keep it short and to the point. 3 words max

If you had to describe the premise in your book in 1 or 2 words what would it be. Be creative. Leave out things like: Hot, futuristc, historical (anything that rounds out the genre you're writing in) What is the story like?

Now, do the same with the heroine and hero. In 1 or 2 words describe them.

Ask the characters. Yep I know it sounds wierd but you'll be amazed what they say.

Now put all this together and see what you have.

Now that you've come up with a few, google it.

That's pretty much my method.

Just one of those days

2006-06-08T11:03:00.000+10:00

Well, here I am having a *Blech* Day. It all started last nite. 12am rolls by and I'm in bed, unable to sleep, my brain just won't shut off. Just as I'm about to nod off, Mia starts crying. It's 12.20 and I go down to check on her. I change her nappy and she's off to crying again. Soon she gets out of bed and comes into the room. Wide awake. So then next few hours as spent trying to sooth Mia that might've been awake due to her ezcema playing up. I lay in bed with her in hopes she would go to sleep. Finally at 3am I leave her in bed and let her cry it out. Now I think, she's going to be up at5am so what's the point of going to bed. by 6am she is still asleep and I go to bed. 7.45 she comes into my room. Time to get up and make her breakfast. So I felt a bit refreshed, until I got my edits. The opening scene is cut and at first I wasn't sure if that was a goodn thing, but after a bit. I saw the logic of it...even though it pains me to see the scene go. Then I go out to the mail and lo and behold: A rejection....

Huh, I guess it's one of those days....

Dancing Evolution

2006-06-07T19:14:00.000+10:00

You may or may not have seen this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMH0bHeiRNg

Check it out. It's awesome

The big C and I'm addicted

2006-06-06T19:43:00.000+10:00

Yep, I'm addicted to crabby cows. With their snarky and helpful comments I can't help but visit and check out what they have to say and what I have to learn from both the C.Cows and other writers. Right now, they are doing a flash 500 creativity exercise/contest. You can check out my entry here . It was awesome to find out how many creative authors there are out there.

Check them out: http://crabbycows.blogspot.com

Diva releases From Cobblestone press

2006-06-05T07:38:00.000+10:00

Loribelle Hunt's Erotic Contempory: Nikki just wants to get out unscathed from the sex club she goes to track down an employee. Just her luck to find hot co-worker Mack Chastain lying in wait for her.
Giving into six months temptation, she agrees to a weekend fling, determined to taste the forbidden just once. What can it hurt after all?
Mack Chastain can’t believe his good fortune when his old friend calls to warn him Nikki was going to the club. Mack’s had enough of being kept at arms length and has big plans for Nikki. Starting with complete submission of her body and soul.

Vivienne King's Erotic Fantasy: Lumina, princess of the Ice Kingdom. Pyroth, prince of Fire. Reuniting after a ten-month separation, they cannot resist stealing away into the night for a rendezvous of burning sexual passion. What Lumina and Pyroth cannot know is that this night of passion must last them for the next two years.

For plans have been put under way, one that will not only steal Lumina away into the tempest gale, but that will also leave her with no memory of the man who’s touch makes her heart thrill with wicked desire.

Shelli Stevens Erotic Contempory: Melanie Kemble goes to Hawaii with two major goals. To get a tan, and to have a fling. Then things take a twist--or at least her ankle does--and she finds herself in the care of a sexy doctor. One who’s more than willing to show her his bedside manner. When she realizes her feelings for Brian go way beyond the boundaries of a fling, Melanie panics and flees. But Brian isn’t finished with her just yet, and just how far will he go to get his sexy little tourist back?

FORTUNE'S FOOL
Sara Dennis Contemporary: Three years ago, Valerie's husband was killed in the line of duty. Now she and her eleven-year-old son have a new home in California's Gold Country.

When he's accidentally shot with his father's gun, the race to the hospital puts them in the path of Dylan Graves, a Highway Patrolman with skeletons of his own that he doesn't want to face.

A widow and her son are exactly the people Dylan doesn't need in his life, or so he thinks. Sometimes, Fate has something else in mind. He's just hoping he doesn't end up Fortune's Fool.

Sarcasm, sass and full cream milk -- No bull!

2006-06-04T16:41:00.000+10:00

Crabbycows, a new and interesting blog with two editors heading it, have caught both my interest. These editors offer an insight to their world with sassy and sarcastic humor. Right now they have been critiquing opening scenes of up to 500 words with their blunt honesty. No Bull. I myself have chosen to go under the axe and experience the cold truth for myself. (Entry 13)

Since I'm only approx 8-9k in, and the stuff they pointed out shone light on the rest of what I have down. So I was thrilled since I can tighten my work even more than I could've without their insight. Thanks alot CCs!

Anyway, I found their input very helpful, and they noticed things that have passed mine and I've taken this all on board. So writers, if you are game have a looksee. Readers, have a looksee for a good laugh.

My potti mouth

2006-06-02T10:00:00.000+10:00

Ugh! i have just had the worst potti incident this morning. I sat Mia on the toilet while she drank a cup of juice and sang songs and played games. Then, to keep her on there, I got a portable dvd on to keep her distracted. Well all was going fine and I'm thinking. This is it! She is going to do it. Well, she starts to get upset, and I want to keep her on there, but I thought, maybe her bum is cold. Ok, 5 minutes won't hurt? So i let her up and as I go to get some panties I notice something.... Her legs are wet. I have a closer look. She had peed...off the toilet.

I get upset, and take her back to the toilet all the while she is crying. I called up my hubby and rant in a real big way. Lets just say alot of yelling and kicking things went on. I was so frustrated with it and couldn't believe she did it off the toilet. I start to calm down and go outside to see Mia legs apart and letting another stream go. I yell, "No, NO! Pee in the toilet!" So the crying starts again and I take her to the toilet and sit her down. That's when I notice it. There is pee on the step...which means mia had started peeing JUST as she was getting off. SO Close yet so damned far. I went into another room and swore again (mind you the whole time hubby is on the phone).

He then suggestd putting her in nappies and just taking her to potti that way there will be not accidents. But to me that's a step back. The reason I have her in panties is so that she'll feel uncomfortalbe if she wees and wants to go to the toilet.

So after a HUGE rant and rave, I've now come up with a new plan. I've never punished or gotten upset with mia when she has an 'accident' but now I'm thinking to show it to her and tell her it's not supposed to go there, and take her to the toilet and say 'this is where you pee pee' and sit her on it. Hopefully, she'll get it...

Potti training and musings

2006-06-01T11:46:00.000+10:00

As you might know, I've been potti training my daughter for like - FOREVER! lol - well, about 5 months, and now I've moved onto abandoning nappies all together during the day for the last month. Still I haven't caught her despit making her sit on the potti and every time she has and accident I sit her on the potti. But I took advice from another blog and have been whacking mia on the toilet every 15minutes. Well, no luck yet. Yet again she did it in her panties. I need more trousers! I'm running out! House training a dog is SOO much more easier. Show it to them, take them to where they are supposed to go. 2-3weeks of that and the dog has got it. But then again, it's shown with growls and such and I don't do that with mia. Accidents are accidents. *sigh* I. Must. Persevere

Writing front:
So, I didn't do ANY writing yesterday. I just didn't have the drive, but this morning I've awoken with drive to work on my paranormal again. *Wahoo* I am of course resisting the urge to work on another paranormal that has been bugging me. You see, the first scene has been running through my head for months, I see it very clearly and it won't leave me alone. But, I've decided only 2 projects at a time. I don't think I can handle more than that. In fact, I'm not sure if I can handle 2. I've always been 'stay focused on one thing at a time and get that done' but for this one, I thought, what the hey. So it'll be interesting to see how I go.

Also, with my Contemp, it's a high school reunion thing (yes, I'm sure this one has been done to death) anyway, I keep on writing, then deleting, then re-writing the opening scene/s. I usually don't have a problem with openings, but for some reason this one is stumping me. I'm not sure where to start this story since the characters share such a history.

When they starts talking

2006-05-30T12:23:00.000+10:00

I was having an interesting conversation with a friends wife. She asked me how my writing was going and I told her of the progress of all my stories and to which she said it was interesting how I spoke about my characters as if they were real. I said, they are real, to me. The only way to get them out of my head is to write their story and give them a HEA. Yes, I understand that I might sound a bit wierd but I think it's a good thing when your characters take a life of their own and have preferences and talks a certain way. When my characters start talking to me then it's fantastic.

While I'm waiting for my muse to kick in for my sequel to FID I've moved onto a contemporary for the HARMONY line for NCP. The hero, Derrick has just started talking to me and I now know what his favorite band is. Lifehouse. So out I go to buy more CDs. I find it interesting that when my characters develop they have a music preference that is often not what I usually listen to. It helps me get in their head and write how they want to be percieved. It's great.

So, when a character starts talking to you and taking a life of their own, you know the story is going to be great. I'm actually both excited and terrified of this projected. The main reason I'm excited - it because it's going to be a catagory/novella but what terrifies me is that I'm going to touch on a subject that is no doubt going to make me teary-eyed while my characters are being torn apart emotionally. I'm going have to touch that part that I keep closed within myself and bring it to the fore and cry right along with my characters... Why couldn't I choose writing a romantic comedy - I'd much rather laugh along with my characters... I guess I'm a glutton for punishment.

My first sting

2006-05-24T22:39:00.000+10:00

Well, I found - quite by accident - my first average review of my first MS His Unexpected Bride. And you know what...It wasn't that bad. Although I got 3.5 which makes it a little better than 'Good' by the reviewer, I wasn't upset or anything. I understood that it wasn't my best work and although she sung me some praises, I still accepted it for what the review was: Not terrible, but not great either.

Was I hurt? Nope. Did I care? Depends. I read it with an open mind and in fact expected an average review to come from somewhere. Plus, I'm thankful for the honest review, I can see on the review what failed to capture her and what did work and that is something that I've definately rectified in my other works.

Now, don't get me wrong. I don't think that book is bad. I just feel that I've grown so much as a writer since then and now can see it for what is was: A very good first time effort. I mean, I got a contract on it so I'm glad for that. I've had readers tell me how much they liked the book and it's a wonderful feeling.

At the end of the day all I'm saying is this: I love a review, no matter what as long as it showcases, what they liked and what they didn't like about the book. I don't like reviews that are just trashing everything without saying what kept them to the end, what redeeming quality the writer had. All in a balance. At the end of the day, a reviewer that is able to find the gems in a book that they didn't really like, is a gem themselves. Because they are really helping out the author in their own way.

New Press

2006-05-23T21:49:00.000+10:00

I love to read. And I love to read e-books. Mainly becuase for me - they are easier to get and not as expensive. (For me, I can polish off a 400page book in 2hrs so my love to litrature can be quite expensive) With so many e-pubs out there sometimes I can miss on some real diamonds, but I've also gotten a few duds. Now, don't get me wrong, I think reading is subjective, so what is one's trash is another's treasure.

So, what draws my eye first to an e-book? 2 things: The cover then the title. Second is the blurb and then the third is the excerpt. If all of these catch my interest I go right ahead and purchase. So far, I have my fave epubs but with a new epub opening soon and the covers that are quite snazzy I'm excited about what Cobblestone has to offer. So I've set some money aside, to check them out when they open their doors on June 2.

New work and a spanner

2006-05-20T15:37:00.000+10:00

Sorry for being absent for so long. I have some news. I have recently finished a new website for the talented Bebe Thomas. You can check out my latest creation at http://www.bebethomas.com I do hope you guys like it. If you're in the mood for sweet, sexy erotic romance check out her newest book coming out in June.

Also, I've been a bit slow on my current MS. Mainly because I've been taken up with other things like potti-training my baby girl. As yet, I haven't caught her doing it in the toilet. Always just after we get off she does her business *grr* But, I'm hoping to get there eventually.

On another note on my writing. I had planned that the heroine would take a liking to the suave hero on their first meeting. Not happening! Talk about throwing a spanner/wrench (for you americans) in the works. Of course, she does have a right - even if he is the owner of the nightclub she was visiting. But alas, it would mean a bit of rework on my plot to add a few more scene for a smooth transition. No biggie.

On another note. Shelli and I had a chat the other day. Now, novellas. Apparently the hot new thing, and I applaud anyone that can write those ones. I wish I could too *sniffle*. Now I had pitched an idea I had in my head to her and under her enthused response I thought about it. Maybe, just maybe - I'll be able to pull off a novella on this... or at most a category. I could...can't I. *excitements starts* Oh, and this will be a single title. my FIRST idea that didn't demand I write about the secondary characters.... Well, now I can't say that. My brain as stubborn as it is - has decided to expand it to a trilogy. Problem though, is the first one will be dark and emotional whereas the others will be a bit lighter. I can't have that! Well, needless to say. I'm going to take on a side project for fun when my writer's block kicks in.

Mothers day comparison

2006-05-15T18:40:00.000+10:00

Well, I thought of a subject. But first let me just say, Happy mothers day to all you mothers out there (and aunts!) My Mothers day was actually better than last year. I got to sleep in, have breakfast in bed and got...wait for it...slippers. LOL Now, last years mothers day. That was a big fat dissapointment. Why? Because my hubby and I had planned to go to a footy game (NRL) and watch the Brisbane Broncos take on the Cantabury Bulldogs. Well, we had a baby sitter (she was at the time a live-in guest) But then she got invited to the same game and promptly agreed to go. We couldn't find another baby-sitter and I had to make the decision to stay home while my hubby, his sister, and x-babysitter went to watch the game. They came back regaling on the best game of the year....for a month. Even now my hubby will mention it and I would say 'Shut up' I was supposed to see that game ON MOTHERS DAY. So that was my mothers day. As you can see, better this year. I got slippers, which at least I don't have to worry about someone taking them off me at the last minute!

A Job not all glitter

2006-05-13T10:39:00.000+10:00

I was reading Ciar Cullens blog and was struck by the woeful side of writing. When we start our journey, our dream is to one day make it into print. To get that contract and all will be find and dandy. But as time moves on and your first books is passed up on, then your second and so forth we continue striving for that NY deal. After that we may or may not create a fan base that will keep you there. Writing has got to be the hardest career to choose...and we did choose it.

{my comment on Ciars blog}It is hard I guess to remain tough under a bombardment of rejections. It's hard to remained focused on the prize when others are getting published or a book that is better for firewood than anything else 'made it'. A friend once told me - writing has got to be one of the hardest and lonliest careers. I agree, and ontop of that we get kicked when we're down. AND even if we make it into print we will still get readers that won't like your stuff, bad reviews and such. So why do we do it? Because we love creating stories. We love feeling what the characters do and our unswaying belief that love will conquer all. We are at heart true romantic and need a creative outlet for our passion. And just think, one day...one day soon, your unmovable passion will get you into print. {end comment}

To round it up, despite all this, I love my job. I don't think I could imagine my life without the creative outlet I have. I wouldn't be able to sleep and I'd be hard to live with and despite the rejections I still carry on. I want to share what I've created with the world and give someone a wonderful journey. But still, I hope to make it to print...one day.

I write like...

2006-05-08T10:46:00.000+10:00

Now, I've come across something that got me thinking... When submitting work, some agents want to know whose voice/work you resemble. Now, thinking on this (for my current manuscript) I couldn't come up with any authors...well I haven't come across anything that my work is similar to. Which then made me think harder, I then discovered, my work is a mixture of what I love, action and romance and the fantastic world of fantasy. So in essence my writing isn't like any specific author but an influence of several.

I love reading David Gemmel(Fantasy) and David Morrel(fiction), Matthew Rielly (fiction) and pretty much an eclectic group of romance writers. So whose voice do you consider is most similar to? Or do you (like me) have a voice unique but with vague influences of authors you admire?

Plotting and blanks

2006-05-05T07:49:00.000+10:00

Well, over the last few days I've been plotting. Now, I don't do a big ouline and such. My plot map is more of a brief description of each scene - which works for me. Now, I've got about 30 odd scenes listed and have a few more, but the problem I'm finding is Dante is sooo impatient. I can't do a scene with my heroine Rachel, without a voice saying 'boring' lets go do Dante..... Now is that me? Would you do this guy?

Yeh, thought so. So you can see my problem. Although I know he is hot for Rachel - you think he'd wait his turn and be patient. Nup, he wants her at his club now! It's only one scene over, but I really don't like skipping scenes unless I have a serious block. *sigh* But I guess it can't be too bad, he is after all - great eye candy. Ahh, the life of a Romance writer...

WINNERS!!

2006-05-01T07:34:00.000+10:00

Winners of my debut novel contest are:

Linda

Sarah Mcneal

Cali Castillo

Pam Pallini

Thanks gals for the support. Expect your necklace in the mail.

Dipped, battered and fried

2006-04-29T14:21:00.000+10:00

Yep, I'm fried. My brain is on overload. For the last week, I've been struggling with my historical. It's like pulling teeth. Although, to me the premise is great and the characters are wonderful, I'm finding myself lacking the enthusiasm right now to write them. Why? I can blame it on Dante. As you might recall I did say that he was a VERY insistant character. Well, now the decision is made - my hand has been forced - I will be writing my paranormal. *round of appluase* My historical will go on the backburner for a bit and will be re-visited in cases of writer's block or when I feel like it. *grins* but depending on how everything goes I might just see where the journey will take me.

Busy day and new client

2006-04-26T22:30:00.000+10:00

Today was a busy day for me. Thanfully I had my daughter and day care and hence no distraction. Did I get any writing done? Not much. But what I did get done was a website. You might want to check it out here: http://www.calicastillo.net

Now, goals are going to be set up for myself starting 2morrow and 2nite I get to do some more writing since the website I was doing is FINITO! Yep, I can believe I finished it in a day flat!! What a difference it makes without my lovely girl around to demand my time.

Getting back my groove

2006-04-23T13:48:00.000+10:00

First off, I'd like to mention that Lyric James - Author of Erotic multicultural romance - her website is now up and running. You can have a look at: http://www.lyricjamesbooks.net

Ok, after a week of hiatus, I now am going to get a back to writing. My head is just buzzing with scenes from both my historical and my paranormal although I am still conflicted with what to write. I would continue with my historical but I think I might have to write a scene of my para here and there just to keep Dante appeased.

Can I just say is Dante is probably the most insistent and determined character I've come up against. He is impatient and likes to titilate me with information every now and again. I was listening to the song 'Paint it black' by the Rolling stones and Dante thought to tell me that the Rolling Stones is a fave band of his. Now, I don't even own a Rolling Stone CD but it looks like I might be purchasing a few when I write his story. I know what his apartment looks like, his workplace and what he likes to wear. Now his music prefence... not to mention his um...*ahem* nocturnal activities.

Meanwhile, I have Simon's story to write from my historical and he is such a tortured soul. The herione has an injury that he was somehow involved in and as I move on in the story he is revealing to me, bits and pieces of what happened that fateful day. (BTW, my sister thinks I'm wierd since my characters have a life of their own...lol)

All I can say is: Men! *roll eyes*

viral infection...what fun

2006-04-20T13:34:00.000+10:00

Well, ends up I didn't OD on chocolate. I have a gastro viral infection. Since monday I've been battling nausea, headaches and a tummy ache that just kills. I haven't eaten or drunk much because when I do I'm sick. So been having a lot of early nights, sleeping as much as I can and the housework? Well, forget about it.

I finally had enough and went to the doctors. What drugs to I get? Nothing! *sniffle* anything to pass the nausea would be great. I did get a suggestion to get an over the counter drug (which imo doesn't count) that will stop my stomach from cramping up. If the pain doesn't go away but gets worse then I might have to go back and see if it's my appendix or overies. yay? God, I hope it is just an infection.

NEway, just thought to give you guys a heads up because I have been MIA in a bad way and need to somehow beat this bug so I can get on with everything...

On a bright note, I got another client and have loaded up her blog. You can check it out here: http://lyricjames.blogspot.com Thank you to whoever referred her to me. I'm hoping to load up her website shortly, but just to give you a little taste...

Easter and my chocolate overdose

2006-04-18T10:00:00.000+10:00

Ah, easter has come and gone and I can safely say that I CAN wait till next year. This was the first time in years that I actually got easter eggs. Now everyone may not know, I don't like milk chocolate. I prefer white. Why? Well, when I was younger...about 13 for easter I got heaps and heaps of eggs. I ate them in a space of a few hours and promptly got sick. From that day forth I couldn't stand the taste or smell of milk chocolate.

But this weekend I got 1 white chocolate bunny and a HUGE white choc bunny with colors and everything. Needless to say I ate those in the space of 3 days and Sunday being my worst. I started feeling a bit sick but didn't think much of it and went to bed. Needless to day I woke up at 4.30am sick to the stomach and about to hurl. So I had a very interesting morning. My tummy is sore, I don't want to put anything dairy near my mouth and have sworn off food that isn't plain. Breakfast? Plain crumpet and black coffee.

Well, they all say in moderation but man, I don't think I'll be having ANY chocolate for a long while. A good thing.

Dreams

2006-04-13T06:40:00.000+10:00

Shelli brought up a post about dreams and then it got me thinking. What are the dreams that you wake up to and say 'Thank GOD that was just a dream'? I've had a few of those in my life time but you know, if it's scary I don't want it! lol I can't watch scary movies so why did I dream about zombies chasing me and wanting to eat my brain? *sniffle* And why are they driving in a topless chev?

Now what about those dreams you just wish you didn't wake up from. Ok, you guys might think it's weird but Garth Brooks. He was my teenage rock star. Now coming from Aus, country music ain't that big so he was my secret. LOL making it extra tasty. So what, after years, am I doing fantasizing about him...and you know, he never took off his cowboy hat. *wink* Must be that... *drool*

Tell me about your dream that you did/didn't want to wake up from.

What is it? Inspy or not

2006-04-12T19:48:00.000+10:00

As you know, I've finished my paranormal that I'm hoping to eventually load up into series. The first in the series "Fallen into Darkness" Starts with the Archangel Gabriel. Now, some of you that have read the snippits in the contests held at the RD will remember that it H.O.T not erotica hot but steamy.

Now, I've had some very positive feedback from a cold read *thanks Cup* and she has brought something to my attention. The religious aspect of it. Yes, apparently it's pretty explicit as far as the religion goes. It now can go two ways, inspy or commercial. The only thing is...well...it has sex in it. And I mean 'getting hot in here' type stuff. Now, I'm sure that someone might be put off by the whole 'God' thing and on the otherside of the coin an inspy agent might be put off by the sex so what do I do? Submit to one that does both. If they think it's marketable I'll take what they have to offer.

I feel like...

2006-04-11T15:59:00.000+10:00

Well, as some of you might NOT know, I am a twin. An identical twin. No joke okay. The reason I'm mentioning this is because recently I've been feeling very insecure about the whole submission/query process - now that isn't me at all. I've never once felt insecure or worried but I do now. I called up my twin and asked her had she been feeling insecure. She said she had been. She had gone for a job interview and had been fretting whether or not if she got the job. Now that explains my sudden worry...doesn't it. Coincidence? Perhaps.

But you see, me and my sister have always felt each other's pain, which goes back to childhood. Even when she lived an 2 hours from me I still managed to get odd emotions and would have to ring to find out what's up. She even got morning sickness with me - not instead of me - damnit! lol

Of course she even go physical pain off me - though nowhere near as bad as me, she got some. When I was having pains in the middle of the night she'd call me and ask if I was in pain. So it's not just emotional but physical as well. Bet she had fun when I was in labor haha..eh..I can wait till she has a baby.

Ok, enough rambling. Time to get on with writing.

Research and more

2006-04-09T19:42:00.000+10:00

All right, after a bit of thought - I've FINALLY come up with a subject. Research. We all know we have to do it and in the end it can be quite fun but I have a new respect for contemporary writers. See, having written 2 historicals (both around the same era) I have a wealth of information. But you know what, the stuff is pretty much the same in them since they are at the same location. The titles, the address, types of clothes, food and day to day living. Now those things are researched and now sit in my mind so I can write on the most part without stopping.

But contemp (even para contemp) offers its own set of challenges. We all know the general day to day stuff but if I want to write about something in Los Angeles I have to do research to know what it looks like. Professions and even culture for every book has to be done. Everything starts pretty much anew and you have to get your structure right.

So really, I guess if I look at it, research is research and although easier to stick with it being set in New York all the time and having a main character that is a dentist (for example) we can't always do that in contemps. Things have to change, readers want something more -- so different locations and careers come into play. Not like the usual Lords and Ladies from my Historicals set in London eh?

DON'T FORGET YOU CAN WIN A FRESHWATER PEARL NECKLACE!! CHECK OUT THE DETAILS ON MY WEBSITE OR CLICK ON MY BLOG POST: win a pearl necklace

Without the Internet - Look at my eye twiching!

2006-04-06T15:57:00.000+10:00

Well, you heard it. I had 3 days without the internet and boy was that an experience. I wouldn't say I'd addicted to it - but I WOULD say that I RELY on it a lot. Everything came to a screeching halt while I waited for the switch from one provider to another. I couldn't chat with anyone, and considering that I'm a WAHM and the only real contact I get is with other women is online then you can tell I was running up my phone bill *wink Elbie*. I can't wait to see hubby fall over at the bill...well, actually I can...

Secondly, since I'd just finished an MS and readying it for submission I kinda need the interent to figure out who to send it to and such.

Thirdly, I needed it to do research for my paranormal I'm doing for NCPs Harmony line...So without it I was a bit stuck so I worked on my historical. At least I know enough about the regency not to need the internet...mostly.

Now, without the internet, and KNOWING I don't have it, I noticed I habitually check my email and my fave sites. And everytime I loaded up I would hope of all hopes that it'd work. Well, it didn't. I'm not techy at all so I had to wait for hubby to load it all up - but once it was one I checked out RD and there were 11 - read it guys - 11!!! unread PAGES. I was blown away to say the least.

Anyway, I'm back up again and excited about it. Now off to do some research

Editing round one done

2006-04-03T11:28:00.000+10:00

Wahoo. I've finished editing my dark paranormal and am now moving onto writing a query and synopsis. I'm hoping to get a good response from this but then we'll see.

Also, I've made bookmarks and will be sending them off to my publisher shortly...ok, back to writing

Win a pearl necklace

2006-04-01T15:17:00.000+10:00

Yep, I have my first competition!

Simply send in your receipt of purchase of His Unexpected Bride to jodicib@gmail.com and have a chance to win 1 of 4 genuine colourful pearl necklaces with 18K White Gold Plated. Each necklace is handmade with carefully drilled and selected genuine freshwater pearls.

Enjoy and good luck!

Cover for His Unexpected Bride

2006-03-30T13:33:00.000+10:00

Ok, got my cover today so I thought to share.

Here is the blurb:

‘Nothing in life can be achieved without a solid plan and a well-tied cravat’. It's a simple motto that served Rutledge well until the day his method is interrupted by an unforeseen catalyst: His not-so-fictitious betrothed.

Having no wish to marry, Marquis of Rutledge refuses to bow to his overbearing mother’s demands and to avoid being forced to the altar; he fabricates a betrothed with the most ridiculous last name he could come up with. Miss Hinglebottom was a perfectly absurd name. But the minute he utters her name he’s horrified to find he’d chained himself to an existing woman.

After experiencing the sinister mockery of the ton, Bethany Hinglebottom vows never to return to London. But when a handsome lord appears offering her a fairy tale romance, she braves the whirls of the social Season for the chance at love. Confused by his heated looks and lukewarm manner she is determined to make an impression, praying her accident-prone tendencies won’t make an appearance. But while the reality of their match lays hidden in the shadows, her love deepens for a man that seems to be the answer to her dreams.

Despite being faced with a faux betrothal where only he knows the truth, Rutledge cannot help but attempt to apply his wily plans in an effort to bypass his current predicament. Yet for some reason, since the arrival of Miss Hinglebottom nothing has gone his way and he finds himself becoming a pawn to his own game where he just might be falling in love with HIS UNEXPECTED BRIDE.

With the release date on the 31st Stay tuned for some exerpts!

Editing vs housework

2006-03-29T13:51:00.000+10:00

*ding* *ding*

Welcome ladies to the clash of the titans. In the red corner we have Editing 'The bones' Manuscript and in the blue with have Clean 'The d@mned' House.

Well, I'm sitting here battling with my editing woes. I've never been very good at editing and I know it's a thing that needs to be done. The sad thing is, is that I hate doing it. But it must be done. Problem is, right now I'd rather do housework and I know then I'd be avioding. I can't hide forever and must get my butt in gear and edit this baby so I can send it out.

(Childish whiney J)*sniffle**pulling covers over my head* 'Do I have ta?'
(Professional J) *Nodding sagely* 'Fraid so.
(Childish whiney J) *Throwing pillow* OOhh! I don't wanna.
(Professional J) *glowering* Don't make me give you a time out
(Childish whiney J)*stomping to the computer* Fine!
(Professional J) *starting at Blogging J* And what are you doing?
(Blogging J)*looks around* Uh, nuthin.
(Professional J) Get to work

Ah well, you heard her folks. Off I go. *sniffle*

All in a weeks work!

2006-03-27T21:44:00.000+10:00

Ok, I've done it. Shelli Stevens site is now LIVE! check it out at http://www.shellistevens.com

On another note, after having a few days break on my paranormal I'm about to go back and start editing. But while I edit I usually have another new project started. *Sigh* The only problem is, is that I don't know which one to choose! Both are the 2nd book on their respective series but they both are elluding me. One is my Historical --which the first book is contracted to come out through NCP in June and the other is my Paranormal.

So, should I try my hand at both and edit or just pick one. And if I had to pick one I would HAVE to go for the Historical since I'm *sorta* contracted....sorta. I mean it is a trilogy after all and my publisher has accepted the first book... hmmmm.

Oh well, at least it's been a very productive week just gone. An MS finished, a website done and now to continue on full steam ahead!

Mmm Yum... My hero

2006-03-24T11:04:00.000+10:00

I saw a post on NCPauthors about heroes. And I thought I should post the piccys I have of my Paranormal series. I don't usually have to use a pic as my visual reference since alot of the time my characters are very vivid to me. But since a lot of the time they ask for what they might look like in order to get the cover right I thought it would be good to find a picy now. So here are my lovely boys.

Gabriel (Book 1)

Dante (Book 2)

Michael (Book 3)

These are the boys I have so far, but boy the search for the perfect hero for my stories is ALWAYS fun

The End....Or is it

2006-03-22T14:48:00.000+10:00

Well, I've done it. FINALLY!! I finished my first Paranormal--the first book in a series--and boy did I have a blast. It took me an unusually long time getting this one done mainly because I think I got major writing block due to Nano. 1 month I got 50k and 4months to get the next 50k. See the difference?

Well all that aside, I have finished it: Fallen into Darkness:
In one night of passion Gabriel the Archangel has lost his wings and is left to walk the world as a mortal. A year later he has returned to the place of his downfall to run into Eva--the woman he Fell for.
Eva Langely hasn't seen Gabriel since that fateful night one Halloween and now he has returned...As her colleague. Working on a new case investigating the strange cult murders that are sweeping LA. They walk on a path to darkness that will tilt everything they know on its axis.

I loved this story. I enjoy writing action and in this one there is a fair bit of it. Add in some guns, swords and the supernatural and we have a wild ride! This was the first book that I've written and HATED to see the ending but I had to. Most books that I've written thus far have a very 'Ahhh' ending - satisfying. But this ending, though satisfying and ending in the PERFECT spot, left me going 'Noo, what happens next??' Sorry folks gonna have to wait for my second book in the series. Although you never know what will happen in the editing stage....

So now that is done - I have a bit of editing, query and syno and I go on my hunt for a home for this baby.

The reasons why I love my husband

2006-03-20T06:58:00.000+10:00

Well, yesterday I had my daughter all to myself while hubby went off to the markets to help a friend out. While he was there he saw a person sellng beeds and called me up and asked what I liked. I told him and when he came home more about half of them were just...yuck. But you know what. Its the thought that counts and he braved a store to try and get me what I liked.

So sweet.

On another note, I have about 25 pages left to write of FID (Fallen Into Darkness) I'm so excited, although some of these scenes are turning out to be a bit short - it's ok since I have 9 scenes to write out in that amount of pages. After all this is done I'll be going on to editing and trying to find my historical voice. Which won't be too hard since I'll be reading over A Devil's Proposal.

Exciting stuff.

Something to blog about

2006-03-18T17:09:00.001+10:00

Hmm, for the last few weeks I've had stuff to blog about but for the last few days I've had trouble picking a topic. My day?? Boring. The fact that my mother came over in an impromptu visit? Too deep. My husbands idiot brother? Too angry. LOL

So I've picked a subject for today. First I went to my craft class again and made a 3 tier necklace. I will post a piccy as soon as I can but in the meantime I'll chat about something that I'm sure you writers can relate to.

Characters.

Now I have a friend who says she never gets any peace because she has character vying for her attention all the time. Well, I used to say that I can keep mine under control. Well, now that's a lie. I have scenes replaying in my head incessantly. I am inspired and excited by them but at the moment I have 1 trilogy to write out and 1 series and now another series has popped in my head and the heroine I just love. Can I just say that I love kick-ass heroines? Well I do. I like a girl that can hold her own.

So here is my plan: 2nd book of my Regency historical needs to get started after I finish the book in my first series Fallen. I can here Dante (from book2 of the Fallen series) roar his anger. But I'm sorry, mate, but I gotta get A Devil's Passion done (renamed title) for NCP since they accepted A Devil's Proposal. *yey*

A life of love, laughter and romance

Moving!

My daughters 2nd ballet lesson

Taking longer than I thought.

New website and a wonderful challenge

Pregnancy checkup

Eye check

MIA... No more!!

Crunching into gear

New stories

5 little things

Moving forward

**Happy Dance**

Something different

On the hunt for Dora

It comes! It comes! *she screams running around with her arms waving in the air*

She's a raving lunatic!

7 Days to go until Nano

Will christmas come early?

Decisions and slight moping

Nano here I come

Getting a new car... well, sorta

D is for....

What am I working on now?

Release date

Finished & where to go from here

Pantsing and what is around the corner.

Sorry I've been absent

I'm back!

ER

Scare of my life

Writers block Hell!

I got my cover!

I'm back

Busy weekend making calls

I Finished!

FULL SWING - coming to Cobblestone

my New cover

First Notice of Upcoming Chat

Opening Hooks

Oh. My. God.

She LIVES!

My ideas

OMG - Going into Print

And the Winner is...

New Contest

Busy days

Writing or lack thereof and my new cover

Writing or lack thereof and my new cover

My birthday dinner & news you as a mother hate to hear

I'm still alive!

Jodie? .... .... Present!

Sharing a single bed with my girl

Something fun, something cute and something new

Bestseller list

Another release and contest

Bloggers new look and QUEENSLANDER!!!

I sold

Winter, rain and a cold

I Finished!

Promo Time

To write or not to write

syno or not

What doesn't kill you...

Recapturing my muse and speaking titles

Just one of those days

Dancing Evolution

The big C and I'm addicted

Diva releases From Cobblestone press

Sarcasm, sass and full cream milk -- No bull!

My potti mouth

Potti training and musings

When they starts talking

My first sting

New Press

New work and a spanner

Mothers day comparison

A Job not all glitter

I write like...

Plotting and blanks

Happy Dance

It comes! It comes! she screams running around with her arms waving in the air