Autumn How I Love Thee! Let Me Count The Ways.

 Autumn is the best season. Why? For numerous reasons. So what are those reasons? 

1. The season is made for books. It’s the perfect weather to curl up in a chair and lose yourself in a book.
2. Sweater Weather. Sweaters are cozy and can feel like a hug. 
3. The cool, crisp weather. The very air brushes against your cheek and has your body at the perfect temperature so you’re not sweating or forced to wear a bulky coat. 
4. The changing leaves are nature’s painting—vibrant in a way that reminds me of a lovely fire. 
5. Hot chocolate. Some might say this is the season of pumpkin spice and it is everywhere. But I hate pumpkin and most definitely pumpkin spice. Yuck! But if you are a lover of the P.S. then you are overjoyed. 
6.  Halloween. I’m not a big fan of dressing up in costumes but I love watching the horror movies and the bags of candy that I buy to hand out but end up eating so I must replenish the supply. 

What about Autumn do you like? Did I list your favorite aspect of the season or do you have something to add? 

Revising by Janice Seagraves

 I've been revising the next book in the Chronicles of Arcon series.

Yesterday, I went through and changed all the "shrugs". Not as many as I was afraid it was.

Then I looked up all the "looked" and it was a lot. I changed them to glanced, gaze, stare, and only kept like ten "look" that was in sentences like, "look, I'm only going to..."

Lastly, I looked for felt and feel. Sadly, I used more than I thought I did. And I know better!

Next, I'm working on "and"...and it's a lot, too.  :( 

Keep an eye out for the next book in the Chronicles of Arcon series. Coming soon.

It's the Season!

 

Autumn, oh, Autumn how I love you. Out of the four seasons, fall is the best season. You may disagree but I can say that you are wrong. Sorry. So, why have I fallen for fall? For numerous reasons and those reasons are:  

1. The season is made for books. It’s the perfect weather to curl up in a chair and lose yourself in a book.
2. Sweater Weather. Sweaters are cozy and can feel like a hug.
3. The cool, crisp weather. The very air brushes against your cheek and has your body at the perfect temperature so you’re not sweating or forced to wear a bulky coat. 
4. The changing leaves are nature’s painting—vibrant in a way that reminds me of a lovely fire. 
5. Hot chocolate. Some might say this is the season of pumpkin spice and it is everywhere. But I hate pumpkin and most definitely pumpkin spice. Yuck! But if you are a lover of the P.S. then you are overjoyed. 
6. Halloween. I’m not a big fan of dressing up in costumes but I love watching the horror movies and the bags of candy that I buy to hand out but end up eating so I must replenish the supply. 

What about Autumn do you like? Did I list your favorite aspect of the season or do you have something to add? 

Cover Reveal by Janice Seagraves

 

My next book in the Chronicles of Arcon series. 

Coming soon.

Alien Rescuers

By Janice Seagraves

Tagline: Someone needs rescuing—but who’s rescuing who?

The night before he’s to be sold in a slave auction, the Arcon, Saber Daystar, is rescued by the human, Mouse, an independent scrappy thief.

Zinnia Field, a.k.a. Mouse, needs the hunky Arcon’s remarkable night-sight to help her steal information on where her mentor is being held prisoner.

As they race to the rescue, will the sparks that fly between them get in the way of the rescue attempt?

Marking Your Spot

There always comes a time when you have to put your book down so how do you mark your spot? There are different ways of doing so that reflect the different type of readers in the world and each with their own personality.

Type 1: Traditionalist:

 These readers use the classic tool— a bookmark. Nothing in the book accessory category can ever beat a bookmark and tucking it between the pages before closing the book and seeing the colorful, fringed string hanging. If this is choice, you have more than a dozen of different bookmarks and each one reflect some aspect of your personality or the book’s tone. If you are like me, you purchase a new bookmark every time you get a new book.

Type 2: Modern:

This type of reader is the one who uses those plastic arrows, these bookmarks are the newfangled cousin to the paperclip, which also falls under this reader type. You probably have a those things scattered about. Me personally, I don’t like them. They slip off the page so they’re useless. 

Type 3: Wild Card:

This reader type will use anything handy to mark their place. Pieces of paper, a sticky note, a picture, anything. Maybe, you tell yourself you’ll purchase a bookmark and most likely you have but it’s lost or stuck in a DNF book that you shoved onto your bookshelf. But you don’t have time or the want to search it out and when you’re at the bookstore, you never pick up a new one for various reasons. 

Type 4: The Animal

The animal is the one with the dog-eared pages. The upper right-hand corners of every dozen or so pages are creased. Book lovers are irritated by you but you don’t care. You do things your way.

   

Which one are you? 

Inez--a short story by Janice Seagraves

First off, let me say the Central Valley is in a heatwave the week I wrote this, and maybe it’s my overcooked braining trying to come up with something. Also, I think my Muse is either high or drunk because she woke me with a dream at 3:00 am on repeat and I couldn't sleep so I ended up writing this little gem at 4:00 am. I have no idea what to do with this story, so I'm posting it here. 

Enjoy.

The tale is about Inez, shrouded in an enigma, encased in a mystery, or perhaps it's a poem.

It is told in the present tense.

The narrative begins with a girl visiting a gallery. As she peruses the art, she halts to admire two similar pots, styled in a Southwestern style, facing each other.

"Oh, look at those pots," she exclaims.

The gallery manager approaches. "Do you appreciate the art?"

"Yes, who is the creator?" she inquires.

"The artist is Inez," he replies. "He's in the back."

"Could you introduce me to him?"

"Certainly, I will fetch him." The manager departs and soon returns with a tall, slender man with long, loose black hair. "Meet Inez."

Inez hands the girl a piece of paper. "Please read this."

"Is it a poem?" As she reads the note, it reveals:

Inez

Inez

Inez

Art pots lead to a revelation, the revelation leads to Inez.

Inez is the revelation, yet the secret of the revelation is also Inez.

"I'm perplexed," the girl admits.

"Peruse it once more," he suggests.

After another read, she confesses, "I'm still baffled, and now I've developed a headache."

"Read on."

With each read, her headache intensifies, and she feels overwhelmed.

"Continue, you're nearing the truth."

Upon another read, she gasps. "The answer is clear. You are Inez!"

He nods affirmatively. "Inez is invariably the answer."

The Allure of Romance Novels

In the realm of literature, few genres evoke as much emotion, intrigue, and delight as romance novels. With their captivating narratives, vivid characters, and swoon-worthy plots, romance novels have secured a special place in the hearts of readers worldwide. Let's delve into the enchanting world of romance literature and uncover what makes these novels so irresistible.

The Power of Love Stories

At the heart of every romance novel lies the timeless theme of love. Whether it's the thrill of a new romance, the angst of unrequited love, or the joy of finding true soulmates, love stories resonate with readers on a deeply emotional level. In a world often filled with chaos and uncertainty, romance novels offer a comforting escape into a world where love conquers all.

 Diverse Characters, Diverse Stories

One of the most appealing aspects of romance novels is the vast array of characters and storylines they encompass. From historical romances set in bygone eras to contemporary tales of modern love, and from steamy paranormal encounters to tender LGBTQ+ relationships, there's a romance novel for every taste and preference. This diversity not only reflects the richness of human experience but also celebrates the universal quest for love and connection.

Empowering Themes and Messages

Contrary to stereotypes, romance novels are far more than just tales of damsels in distress and dashing heroes. Many romance novels feature strong, independent protagonists who navigate challenges, pursue their passions, and find love on their own terms. These stories often carry empowering messages of self-discovery, resilience, and the importance of following one's heart, making them both entertaining and empowering reads.

Escapism and Entertainment

In a world where stress and responsibilities can weigh heavily on our shoulders, romance novels offer a welcome escape into worlds filled with passion, adventure, and happily-ever-afters. Whether curled up on a rainy day or lounging on a sun-kissed beach, diving into a romance novel provides a much-needed respite from the demands of daily life. And with their addictive plots and page-turning suspense, it's no wonder readers find themselves devouring one romance novel after another.

The Enduring Appeal of Happily-Ever-Afters

Perhaps the most beloved aspect of romance novels is the promise of a happily-ever-after. In a genre where love triumphs over adversity, readers can't help but be swept away by the hope and optimism that permeate these stories. Whether it's a grand wedding, a passionate declaration of love, or a tender reunion, the culmination of a romance novel leaves readers with a warm and fuzzy feeling that lingers long after the final page is turned.

Conclusion

Romance novels hold a special place in the literary landscape, offering readers an irresistible blend of passion, adventure, and heartwarming romance. With their diverse characters, empowering themes, and enchanting storylines, these novels continue to captivate audiences of all ages and backgrounds. So whether you're a die-hard romantic or simply in need of a dose of feel-good escapism, pick up a romance novel and prepare to be swept off your feet into a world where love reigns supreme.

New Book Trailer I made on Canva by Janice Seagraves

 I made a new--yes again--book trailer on Canva.

They have videos you can use for your book trailers. Such fun to use.

Yes, you have to pay for the Canva membership to get these videos. 

Alien Fury, Chronicles of Arcon Trailer #aliens #spacefight #sciencefiction #romance #youtubebooks

Going Down

Lately I’ve been in a reading slump. I have a towering TBR pile that I have been letting out their Siren song to come and read. And I fell for their spell and I picked up a book but after a page or two, no matter how good, I can’t seem to want to keep turning the pages. 

And I’m not the only person this happens to. We have all been in a reading slump for whatever the reason at some point in our reading lives. If you’re anything like me, you’ve tried to force yourself to read. But that takes out all the joy of this great hobby that brings us all so much joy. So when a reading slump pulls me down, I don’t try to fight it. 

A time will come when you will pick up a book and find yourself flipping those pages or swiping your e-reader with such swiftness that you cause a mini windstorm. And that is where I am now. My slump is ending and I’m reading a Harlequin Historical Romance entitled Lady Amelia’s Scandalous Secret by Eve Shepherd. 

This book has been in my TBR since last year but it banished my slump. And now, I feel life’s stresses melting away as I read the story about Amelia and Leo. My only problem now it seems is I don’t want to do anything else but read. 

How do you overcome a reading slump? Do you leave it be? Reread your favorites? Search out a new genre or author? Share your tips. 

Dragon Mirror Book Trailer #urbanfantasy #romance #dragon #booktrailer

I remade the book trailer.

Please watch the video and leave a comment. 

Authors To Check Out

 

Since this is a blog dedicated to the romance genre as well as the month of Valentine's Day, I had to share some romance novels that I enjoy. And with February being Black History month, I decided to share some Black authors who I really enjoy. 

1. Beverly Jenkins: An O.G. of romance novels. You can’t go wrong with Rebel or any other book that has her name on it.
   
2. Alyssa Coles: An author of contemporary and historical romance. You will enjoy yourself with her books.
   
3. K.M. Jackson: A contemporary author of How to Marry Keanu Reeves in 90 Days ( who doesn’t want to know how to do that. Just Kidding) and who also wrote under Kwana Jackson.
   
4. Vanessa Riley: A historical romance author she has a mystery series as well which I have yet to read. But I just love Island Queen.
   
5. Farrah Rochon: Contemporary author her Boyfriend Project series is a good time had between pages.
   
6. Tracey Livesay: Contemporary author of American Royalty. I snatched up this book just from the cover and I wasn’t let down. 
   
7. Jasmine Guillory: A romantic comedy contemporary author I loved The Wedding Date so I’ve added more books. She is a go-to author for me.
   
8. Bolu Babalola: A Reese’s Book Club pick so you know she can write a great book.
   
9. Talia Hibbert: All I have to say is if her name is on the cover, slap down you money and enjoy. 

         

New book trailer for Alien Fury by Janice Seagraves

 I made a new book trailer for my book Alien Fury.

Alien Fury: Chronicles of Arcon: Seagraves, Janice: 9798864319413: Amazon.com: Books

The Arcon, Thorn Grindstone, finds himself alone and injured, thawing in a disabled cryogenics tank. Making an impulsive deal for a fighter, he launches into a battle with a pirate ship before beginning his search for his people.

After Thorn crash-lands in the widow Roxie Carson’s corn field. Roxie nurses the injured Arcon. As tension worsens between Roxie and her brother-in-law, Thorn turns out to be an unexpected ally.

Roxie is grateful to the handsome alien, but what will happen when the Arcon government finally shows up and takes Thorn away? What will her brother-in-law do then?

I found Home - Canva to be really good for making book trailers.

Alien Fury Book Trailer 2 (youtube.com)

Please do me a huge favor and like and subscribe to my channel. 

Thank you.

Keeping It Straight

If you share one bad habit with me, it may be that you always forget some chores or tasks that need to be done. I always remember that elusive thing at some odd hour when I can do nothing to accomplish it. That's why I have a to-do list. 

Besides, helping me see everything I need to accomplish from the mundane to the trés important. In some ways, it is also a timeline of my life. And timelines are important especially when you're an author. You have deadlines, marketing plans, and social media posts among the other dozen things needing to be done. 

Timelines are also important in a novel. Recently, I started developmental edits for my historical Scottish romance and had to get the dates precise since some events in the manuscript center around historical events. Organizing those dates and that of my hero and heroine's budding romance has to happen at a set time since it's a slow-burn romance. 

Some authors use Post-its but since I live in a cramped Big Apple apartment, such a luxury isn't possible so I pull out a pile of loose-leaf paper and jot the main events of the story with enough space in between to add other events. I spent almost two days concocting the timeline. 

Now as I sit down to do my edits, my writing seems more organized, my mind less frenzied and confused (which benefits readers) and I'm not stressed. 

So, now, with that thick pile of paper, I know my story will flow logically and every event will fit into the time slot necessary. 

Do you plan out your day or week? Or do you possess the skill to get things done without it?