Soar Into Ecstasy then Virtual Passion! Reece Herring

Remember how I said I'd be doing a ‘Sky’s SHOUT OUT’ at this blog now? My own little boisterous way of screeching, “Check this out!!!” Well, here it is again.

This time I’d like to share a truly wonderful author with you. Reece Herring is all about fantasy romance and she doesn’t mess around. Her work makes your mind look twice. Yep, she’s that good.

Reece and I were co-authors in The Song of Muses Series four years ago and like me, she again published her contribution, Soar Into Ecstasy, recently. Reece is a gem. I adore her. She is, without doubt, the best of the best.

While Soar Into Ecstasy totally rocked, be sure to check out Virtual Cat-astrophe. It’ll always be one of my favorites!

SOAR INTO ECSTASY

Beautiful and headstrong priestess, Rheasan, is honor bound to fulfill the virgin sacrifice her temple offers to their Goddess. That sacrifice and her honor are placed in serious jeopardy when Elisaph, a glorious winged man, falls into her life. Despite conflicting obligations to enemy Goddesses, their mutual attraction is undeniable.

Yet their fiery passion seems destined to remain unquenched as Rheasan and Elisaph struggle with their growing love for one another and their obligation to their individual Goddesses. The jealous Goddess, Euphrosyn decides to test Elisaph's loyalty by putting Rheasan in harms way. Elisaph must then decide what is paramount; his newfound love of Rheasan or his love for his Goddess. His life and her future hang in the balance.

EXCERPT:

“Where am I, Rheasan?” Elisaph asked in a low careful voice, his posture rigid.

“My room,” she replied just as carefully, not quite meeting his eyes.

“I meant, where are your rooms located?”

“Oh, well just past the dining hall and several corridors from the servant’s entrance,” she replied, biting the corner of her lip.

“Do not test me, woman! What place is this you have brought me to?”

“The Woodland Temple,” she answered, her voice wavering.

“Of which God or Goddess?” He demanded.

“Teavana.” She murmured.

In a flash of wings and molten limbs, she was pinned forcefully against the wall, preventing any escape from his fury. Her fear and excitement was instantly fueled by his sudden violence.

“You brought me inside the temple of the Goddess Teavana?” He shoved her against the wall.

“Me, the anointed of Euphrsyn, inside the temple of another Goddess? Have you any idea what you’ve done?”

“I saved your life, which you seem not to appreciate.” She flared, a surge of anger burning up all fear. “You are hurting me. Release me. Now.” She tried to push him away, and was alarmed to see that, even in his weakened state, she moved him not at all.

“You do not command me, woman. No one commands me now, for I no longer have any honor. So as you have taken my honor, perhaps I shall take yours.”

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VIRTUAL CAT-ASTROPHE

When Carrie finds the man of her dreams on an internet playground, she puts aside her fears,and connects with Lorne on a level beyond the physical. Fate deals a wild card though. With her clumsy cat acting as catalysts and a well timed bolt of lightening,Carrie is sucked into cyberspace, forced to come face to face with Lorne. Would destiny be kind or had it thrown her into a virtual catastrophe?

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Ready to Enter the Debris Field? April 21st!

Ancient Comet Thatcher has sped by and we’re hurdling into her dust!

For my regulars, it’s that time again… Astronomer’s Corner. For those of you joining me for the first time, Astronomer’s Corner is the ‘little extra’ tossed into my quarterly newsletters. As an amateur astronomer, I can’t help but chat randomly about the latest and most fantastical things happening all around our beautiful planet.

This go around I had to share what should be an awesome display in the night sky on April 21st and 22nd. No telescope necessary! So for all you romantic stargazers out there, grab your love and find a cozy spot in the great outdoors for this.

According to Spaceweather.com (one of my all-time favorite sites) “Earth is approaching the debris field of ancient Comet Thatcher, source of the annual Lyrid meteor shower. Forecasters expect the shower to peak on April 21-22; a nearly-new moon on those dates will provide perfect dark-sky conditions for meteor watching. Usually the shower is mild (10-20 meteors per hour) but unmapped filaments of dust in the comet's tail sometimes trigger outbursts 10 times stronger.”

This steadfast comet has been providing Earth with an April space shower for nearly 2,600 years. Yep, all those BC folks were able to enjoy this as much as you can tomorrow night. How cool is that??? Yeah, yeah, label me a space geek. But seriously, you might even see a fireball. Who doesn’t like a good fireball? *winks*

And…as it turns out, Saturn is ripe in the skies. She’ll be twice as bright and visible. So amazing. Sky says, "Bring it!"

Guess where I’ll be for this? Virginia Beach. I can’t wait. So excited!

This video on the upcoming event is two minutes long and really good. Gives you the basic FYI's. Provided, of course, by the fabulous talent over at NASA.

Saying Goodbye to an Author and FRIEND. I'll Miss You, Sharon Donovan.

This post is dedicated to the memory of my dear friend and fellow writer, Sharon Donovan. Always a kind voice, Sharon touched all whom she met. I think we’d only officially emailed twice before she sent ‘hugs and love’ or some such touching sentiment after her emails. She was that sort of woman. Warm and loving and totally amazing.

I didn’t have to search long to find the prayer I wanted to post on her behalf. It is utterly perfect. I will miss you so very much, Sharon. May you now soar over the distant Irish hills…

An Irish Funeral Prayer

Death is nothing at all.

It does not count.

I have only slipped away into the next room.

Everything remains as it was.

The old life that we lived so fondly together is untouched, unchanged.

Whatever we were to each other, that we are still.

Call me by the old familiar name.

Speak of me in the easy way which you always used.

Put no sorrow in your tone.

Laugh as we always laughed at the little jokes that we enjoyed together.

Play, smile, think of me, pray for me.

Let my name be ever the household word that it always was.

Let it be spoken without effort

Life means all that it ever meant. It is the same as it ever was.

There is unbroken continuity.

Why should I be out of mind because I am out of sight?

I am but waiting for you, for an interval, somewhere very near,

just around the corner.

All is well. Nothing is hurt; nothing is lost.

One brief moment and all will be as it was before.

How we shall laugh at the trouble of parting, when we meet again.

- Source: derived from a sermon written by Henry Scott Holland and delivered in St. Paul's (London) on 15 May 1910, at which time the body of King Edward VII was lying in state at Westminster. Although not originally derived from Irish writings, versions of this sermon have been used at many Irish and Catholic funerals over the years.

Too Soon For Intimacy? Be Honest.

I had to post about this because it’s been weighing on my mind lately. When is it too soon for the characters in a book to have sex in a non-erotic story?

We’re not talking the number of sex scenes or their intensity but the right ‘window of opportunity.’ Whether it’s behind closed doors or out in the open, I’d like to pin-point the moment when the magic’s right.

I’ve always enjoyed the build-up myself. Like real life, if one jumps into the sack too soon with their partner, it often takes away that delicious shiver of anticipation. And, oftentimes, the relationship fizzles out fast.

But it’s also important to stay true to the characters. In my current work in progress the hero and heroine are dare-devils and eager for the next big rush. Late twenty-somethings. That said, they get intimate a bit faster than most. It almost felt wrong to wait too long with them. I’m still not sure if it was a good thing or not but the thought of removing their first time together seems… off kilter.

So what’s the word? WHEN is too soon in a book? In my case, with this tale, it happened by chapter five. I think on average, things get smokin’ hot by chapter ten. In many cases, chapter thirteen.

This post is all about YOUR opinion. I'd love feedback from readers and writers alike.

When is it time for SEX in a book? Be honest.

Characters Have Astro Signs! So Do We. April Horoscopes.

I can’t believe it's already the first week in April. Is it me or is 2012 flying by? It seems it was January 1'st a few minutes ago. But as the saying goes, “The older you get the faster time goes by.” I always thought my parents were nuts when they said that. Turns out they were on to something.

As seems to be the case lately, I pondered what I wanted to blog about next. My recent work in progress, The Tudor Revival, is eating up a lot of my time, as it should. That said, I’ve been feeling a little detached from my ‘chats’ here at A Writer’s Mind. I suppose, in one way, that’s a good thing. I’m working on something I can eventually chat about even more. *grins*

So I had a few cool topic ideas but it was within my mindless cell phone net musings that I discovered what would be a nice break going into the weekend… astrology and horoscopes! Why not? While I’m not a regular horoscope follower, I do have an avid interest in our ‘signs’ and how it affects mankind in general. Truth told, I’m more of a numerology gal but that's better left for another post.

The reason astrological signs, ‘slapped me in the face’ today is because they're something that not only apply to us but the characters in the book we’re writing or reading! I suppose in most stories it’s a moot point but as it turns out, in the novel I’m writing, it’s important. Why? Well, I’m dealing with spooky stuff like possession. Yep, you read correctly. Possession.

In my novel (without giving away too much of the storyline) the heroine is coping with such a thing. That being the dilemma, I’ve not only had to research possession in more detail than is probably healthy, but I’ve had to find alternatives to blending two characters (the possessed and it whom possesses). As you can imagine, it gets a little tricky. But I adore a challenge.

My favorite thread between these two personalities? You guessed it, their astrological signs! In this case, I’m using the traits from two different signs (Taurus and Gemini) to, in a weird way, combine and differentiate between the characters. I mean seriously, why go with something as simple as mere scientific personality traits? *winks*

Naturally, I’m sticking to the Golden Rule writers are supposed to follow… write about what I know. I’m a Taurus and am attracted to Gemini men like a bee to honey. In fact, I married one. In my defense, I was born under a Gemini moon, so I was seasoned for it from the get go! Trust me, though Gemini’s excite me to no end, one must learn the art of truly understanding their 'two faces'. Once you get the hang of it, Gemini’s totally rock. Who ultimately gets along best with a Taurus? You guessed it. Libra's. Guess that’s why Dad and I were such good friends.

All three signs are used in my latest book, unpredictably predictable traits intact!

So what are your thoughts on character’s in books and their astro signs? Have you ever thought about it? Will you next time you write or read a book where birth dates are provided? And of course, what’s your sign? And what sign is your best match? It's always a blast to talk signs. Share whatever you like!

Because we’re going into a holiday weekend, I thought it might be fun to leave everyone with something light to read. An astrological forecast for the month of April. All pics and horoscopes provided by the super-fabulous peeps at HOROSCOPE.COM!

ARIES… This will be a fast-paced month with plenty of surprises in store. The Sun, Mercury, and Uranus will all move through your sign, ensuring that you'll be busy and involved in many things. You'll be confident and self-assured, but you could be prone to impatience and too much risk taking. A Full Moon in Libra on April 6 could bring a crisis involving your business or romantic partner. Much tact and the willingness to compromise will be required from you to make up for one or more situations when you were overbearing or hurtful. There might be frustration regarding your career.

TAURUS… The Sun, Venus, and Jupiter will all transit in your sign this month to bring positive energy and the ability to attract the people and resources you need. Some of your dreams will be realized now if you're proactive and keep the faith. Personal relations will go smoothly while Venus is in your sign until April 3. The Sun will impart strength and confidence after April 19 when it moves to Taurus. A New Moon at the cusp of your sign on April 21 will herald a time when you feel renewed and can make a fresh start. Mars in Virgo will help you get organized and focused.

GEMINI… Venus moves to your sign on April 3 to help you get along well with others. You'll be inclined to listen more and be helpful during the month. Avoid the tendency to gossip - be diplomatic in conversations. The Full Moon in Libra on April 6 will bring out your flirtatious and superficial side. This could backfire if you're not careful of others' feelings. Mercury will be retrograde until April 4 and in Pisces until April 16. During this time you could have trouble focusing. Try to keep a record of conversations and instructions so there are no misunderstandings.

CANCER… Three planets in Aries this month will get you motivated to make changes in your career. However, be proactive if you want to see results. Nothing will come to you easily - you'll have to put in some effort. The Full Moon in Libra on April 6 will stir up trouble on the home front or with your family. Don't be surprised if there's a misunderstanding or failure to communicate. Be on your best behavior and willing to compromise even if someone else is in the wrong. A New Moon in Taurus on April 21 will help you improve your relationships with friends and associates.

LEO… You'll feel motivated and enthusiastic with the Sun, Mercury, and Uranus moving through Aries this month. The transits in this fellow Fire Sign will bring a lot of change and variety and several unexpected events. Jupiter and Venus will travel through Taurus. You might overindulge in food and drink or spend too much, especially while Venus is in Taurus until April 3. Jupiter in Taurus brings opportunities, but you must be patient, which isn't your strong suit. A New Moon in Taurus on April 21 will bring out this quality, however, and you'll also learn how to slow down and appreciate beauty and nature.

VIRGO… Jupiter and Venus in Taurus will help you enjoy the finer things in life and open up opportunities to travel and meet new people. Mercury will be retrograde in Pisces during the first few days of the month. Until April 3, be clear when giving instructions and follow up later to avoid hassles. Mars will be in your sign all month, and retrograde until April 13. You should refrain from taking action on important matters during the retrograde period so you can be clear about the best way to proceed. After Mars turns direct, you'll be busy and have a lot on your plate.

LIBRA… Venus will be in Gemini from April 3. This planet will enhance all communication, and you'll have a relaxing and enjoyable time if you travel. Make new plans or take care of details after Mercury turns direct on April 4 or there will be a lot of confusion. The Sun, Mercury, and Uranus will move through the sign of Aries this month. You might become frustrated by rapidly changing scenarios and people who try to rush you. You could experience a lot of tension and anxiety when dealing with others. Try to remain calm and detached even if someone pushes your buttons.

SCORPIO… A friend will help you get organized and stay on top of things this month if you ask. You might also get involved in a group or organization that needs practical help. Venus and Jupiter will be in Taurus, bringing the opportunity to be helpful and generous to your partner or the public. Venus will only be there until April 3, but you'll be able to relax with others and enjoy the finer things in life. A New Moon in Taurus on April 21 will help bring out your patience and determination over the coming weeks. Your intuition will be strong all month.

SAGITTARIUS… There might be some rapid developments in your love life with a few planets in Aries this month. You'll feel vital and energized, but you could make rash decisions if you're attracted to someone. Venus moves to Gemini on April 3, and after that you'll find that all of your relationships require more diplomacy and cooperation. It will be difficult to achieve harmony without some effort. Be careful when communicating to family members early in the month. If you aren't clear, there could be misunderstandings and confusion. Pay attention to details all month in order to avoid mistakes.

CAPRICORN… On a positive note, Venus and Jupiter will be transiting in the sign of Taurus this month. There will be an aura of romance and new opportunities whether you're single or in a committed relationship. The Sun, Mercury, and Uranus will all move through Aries, causing you to feel uneasy and defensive. Life at home or with family members could be tense and full of conflict. Sudden changes will disturb your equilibrium. A Full Moon in Libra on April 6 could cause stress or a crisis regarding your career. Help from others that you had counted on might prove disappointing.

AQUARIUS… You'll be active in your community or within your extended family this month. You'll take the lead in organizing events or gatherings. Three planets moving in Aries will motivate you to get things started. Venus will be in Taurus until April 3, helping to smooth over any disagreements with family members. However, for the rest of the month, issues could be magnified and cause stress. A New Moon in Taurus on April 21 will allow you to develop more patience and loyalty, and this will help resolve problems. It would be good for you to get out in nature and surround yourself with beauty or listen to soothing music.

PISCES… Your ruler Neptune has been in your sign for a few months, bringing out your spiritual nature, artistic sensibilities, and intuition. Mercury will be in Pisces until April 16 so you can expect to have some powerful insights and vivid dreams. Follow your hunches and they will pay off. Mars will be in Virgo and retrograde this month. This transit could put a strain on a committed relationship because your partner might be critical and demanding. Much will be expected of you and you may not be able to live up to the high standards. A New Moon in Taurus on April 21 will help keep you grounded.