Kit Wylde's Romantic Notions

2010-10-17T15:03:00.000-07:00

I've had the urge to write again. I'm not sure whether I'll act on it or not. The other day while listening to some Pat Benatar, an idea for a story with a Valkyrie protagonist came to mind. Basing anything on myth requires research. While I love to research, my time is, shall we say, limited. (g) It would be a romance, of course. I'm not sure if I'd write a sex scene in it or not. That would be dictated by the characters, of course. Um, yeah, okay, if I do write it, the Valkyrie is insisting on a sex scene and some battle scenes. Bloodthirsty, horny wench! LOL This piece of art is by Boris Vallejo. He's one of my favorite fantasy modern artists.

You can purchase a copy here.

It will be set in modern times, so an urban fantasy, and Freya may, um, will make an appearance or two or three. And if I ever write it or finish it, I'm not sure if I will write it under Kit or my real name. We'll see. LOL

2010-10-12T11:44:00.001-07:00

Man, it's been a long time since I've blogged here. Bad! Bad! Things have changed. I have a new book up and I've outed myself. Kit Wylde is the pseudonym of Marci Baun. Yup, I'm really Marci, which is part of the reason keeping this blog up was difficult. I don't do well with subterfuge. After a bit, I had a hard time coming up with new stuff to talk about. I am so much happier now that I am out of the closet. LOL

So, there are more exciting things happening now too. I recently released a new book with Wild Child Publishing titled Hieroglyphs. A paranormal suspense with light, very light, romance, it's a quick read.

One reason I haven't been here for a while is because I lost my password. It's weird how I didn't think to use the "forgot password" option sooner. Most likely, I just didn't want to spend the time to do it. Thankfully, I remembered the answer to my secret question as I kept it to a simple one I couldn't get wrong. Well, I could, but if I did that would have spelled a lot of trouble, mental trouble. LOL So, now that I have a new password, I should be back more often. (Should being the operative word here.)

And now I feel guilty because I have a ton of work to do. Blogging is too much like fun and not enough like work. (Another reason I don't blog often.) Hopefully, I will get better at this and blog even when I don't have a new release. (It's not really new as it was released in August, but, hey, considering my last one was a few years ago, that is new. LOL)

I'll be guest blogging over at BSB Hot Romance on October 25th. I'll be posting a fun piece of flash fiction I wrote many years ago. :) It's very Halloween appropriate and tame.

All right, I've played hooky long enough. :)

2008-06-14T09:36:00.000-07:00

Marci just sent out a bulletin about letting us know that there is a Father's Day special on at Freya's Bower. Just enter father in the coupon code box and get 30% off on any ebook orders over $7.50. So, say you buy Last Chance (grin) and then you buy the first two chapters of The Whispering House, that takes you up to $8.25. You'll get 30% off of the order with the total being $5.78. What a bargain! (grin)

So, hop on over to Freya's Bower and pick up your books today. (grin) The sale only lasts until June 16th.

2008-03-20T21:31:00.000-07:00

An amazing interview.

The other day, Marci Baun, editor-in-chief of Freya's Bower, sent out a newsletter with a link to a fantastic podcast. If you haven't had the opportunity to listen to it, you must. She interviews Faith Bicknell-Brown, Freya's Bower's managing editor. It's incredible. And what's even better is that Marci sings in the music -- I think it's called a sting. I love the sting. So, now you can find them in two places:

Freya's Bower

iTunes

Listen to it. You'll learn a lot.

2008-03-16T11:44:00.000-07:00

Celebrity foreword...

While I probably won't donate a story for the D&D v.3 charity anthology, I am so excited for everyone who is. Next year's volume goes to a shelter in New Orleans that was destroyed in Katrina and hasn't been rebuilt. (Yes, what is it? Three years later?!!) In any case, we just heard from Marci, editor-in-chief of Freya's Bower, that she has secured a celebrity to write the foreword. However, she hasn't told us who yet. Isn't she a tease?! As soon as I know, I'll let you know.

I can't tell you how excited I am about this. It will bring greater visibility to this cause, more money, and help a lot of people.

Kit

2008-02-19T10:20:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

It's been a while I know, but I wanted to post something about a chat that a few of my friends and fellow writers are having this weekend. Please go and see them!

Follow this link to chat with them.

Kit

2007-12-03T09:16:00.000-08:00

Marci Baun, the editor in chief of Freya's Bower and Wild Child Publishing, and Rachel, the reviewer, sent me another good review. :) This time, it was for Last Chance, my first ever romance story. I was delightfully surprised at the review. Last Chance, released back in March 2006, has been reviewed a few times, most good, a few bad. (The bad helped to toughen up my skin, although not too much. :)) I remember my first bad review. I sat down and cried. Yeah. I did. I wondered whether I should even be writing or not. Well, for a few days anyway. (grin) After I'd wallowed in self-pity and had a few pep talks/kick in the pants from some good friends, I picked myself back up and started to write again. And here I am. Writing still. Hopefully, my writing has improved since that first story. :)

Well, this newest review is good. Yeah, it is. :) Made me happy. :) It' s not hard to make me happy, especially if you want to praise my writing. LOL Yes, yes, I do have a bit of an ego. I am an artiste, you know.

So, here is the review:

"Kit Wylde has weaved such a funny story of two people destined to be together... Ms. Wylde's style is easy to read and pulls you in on the first page. Last Chance is a perfect little book for a lazy afternoon..."

4 Angels from Rachel C., Fallen Angel Reviews

Read entire review.

Thank you, Rachel, for a wonderful review and making my day. :)

Kit

2007-11-29T11:26:00.000-08:00

The Whispering House: Book 2 was released last month. So far, there have been two very positive reviews for it, which made me smile. However, Book 3 has since come out, and again I have two more reviews. Guess what? One was really good; the other one blew my socks off. It's not online yet, but you can bet I'll be shouting about it as soon as it's available for all to see. Oh, and the reviewer likes Book 3 so much they are going to include it in their weekly newsletter and in a column on another site.

Now, peeps, I do write for me first and foremost, so these types of reviews should be just icing on the cake. Yeah, I know. I shouldn't be so excited about it, but you know, I've had my share of good and bad reviews and I have to say that I much prefer the good reviews. LOL If that makes me egotistical, then so be it. Well, actually, I think it just makes me human.

The reviewers have called this series frightening. It's meant to be. :) My goal has been to scare my editor, who is none other than M.E. Ellis the awesome psychological thriller/chick lit author and amazing editor/person. If I can make her nervous, that's a good thing. There is a romance element in it and a small sex scene so far. We have two hunky men interested in one woman. She will end up with one of them, but I won't say who, or that will spoil it for you. (grin) However, I do want to share the reviews. :)

Bear with me if I babble in my excitement. LOL

Reviews for The Whispering House: Book 2:

"Kit Wylde again demonstrates the special talent apparent in The Whispering House Book 1... Kit Wylde leaves the enthralled reader on the seat’s edge waiting impatiently for the next installment..."

5 Swords from Frost, Reviews by Frost
Read entire review.

"I’m excited to read the next instalment of The Whispering House. Hurry up and write, Ms. Wylde!"

5 Flutes from White Russian, Cocktail Reviews
Read entire review.

Reviews for The Whispering House: Book 3:

"Oooooh! I’ll bite my nails until the next instalment arrives! I must find out what is going on!" 5 Flutes from White Russian, Cocktail Reviews
Read entire review.

The second review, by Frost, for The Whispering House: Book 3 is marvelous and so flattering that it made my eyes tear up. I am not an emotional person, but this one really made my day. :) It's supposed to be online Friday some time. I'll be waiting impatiently for it so that I can share it with you too. :)

Okay. Time to scoot.

Kit

2007-10-23T07:36:00.000-07:00

I stopped by a friend's blog today and read a very powerful story about the brutality of domestic violence. Lucky to have never experienced it myself, over time, you begin to recognize signs of abusive homes when you teach for long enough. Please go read M.E. Ellis's blog and then go pick up a copy of Dreams & Desires, Vol. 1. I am an author in this compilation of stories. All the stories were donated by the authors as was the editing and the cover art so that all the net proceeds can go to benefit a battered woman's shelter.

Freya's Bower is having a special on D&D until the end of October. All prices are drastically reduced. Perfect Christmas gifts, birthday gifts, gift to self or any other type of gift, this is the time to pick one up. :)

Most of us have either experienced domestic violence in some form or know someone who has. To stop this horrific disease, we must be proactive. We must educate, report and help support those who are trying to escape a potentially deadly situation. Help us end the violence.

Update 10-17-10: I am participating in BRB's Spooktacular Halloween Contest. You've found the right page. :)

2007-10-19T19:30:00.000-07:00

I am reposting this because Marci said it so well.

This month is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, along with Breast Cancer Awareness Month and many others. However, domestic violence, while a virulent disease, receives very little attention and is pushed under the rug.

Some years ago when I first moved to Los Angeles, I dated a man briefly whom I'd met salsa dancing. He was intelligent, attractive, and an amazing dancer. He was also abusive. On our first date, we met at a dance club where he and some of his salsa friends liked to go. We were having a great time until he said something that made me pause: "I would never allow one of my friends to dance with you. They might steal you away." A little voice in my head whispered: "Wait a minute, weren't these people his friends? And when did I become his property?" But I ignored that voice and gave him the benefit of the doubt.

By the second date, he had insulted me several times, but in an insidious manner that had me questioning myself. (The insults seemed to have a kernel of truth, but only enough to make the insults seem plausible and start the questions.) When I realized what was happening and that my self-esteem was spiraling, that little voice grew louder, more insistent. I listened--because whenever I don't, I usually end up in trouble. That's when the answer hit me: this man was an abuser. I felt in my bones. If someone is attracted to you and supposedly likes you, they don't insult you and they certainly don't treat you like property. If someone likes you, they praise you, they respect you, and they support your dreams.

In any case, we were supposed to see each other again the next day, but I decided that he was not good for me. The following phone call confirmed my suspicions. He belittled me in an attempt to get me to see him again. I refused. I am so thankful that I did and consider myself lucky to have escaped with very little damage.

I encourage every person who has ever heard that little voice warning them to get out...do it. That voice will never lie to you. It is protecting you. It is never wrong and it is never too late to listen. And you deserve better. You deserve to be emotionally supported, to be loved, to be praised, to be respected.

Most of us don't realize what constitutes abuse. Here is a list of behaviors that can be found in the foreword of Dreams & Desires: A Collection of Romance and Erotic Tales, published by Freya's Bower. Please copy this list and share it with your friends, family, and anyone else you think might find this of value.

Jeckel and Hyde behavior: Your partner is wonderful and caring for a while and then will do an about face and be angry about things that they thought were fine at an earlier time. They switch back and forth between behaviors for no apparent reason.
Life Would be so Good If: You frequently think that your relationship would be perfect if not for his or her emotional storms. The storms seem to be coming more and more frequently. Between times, life is wonderful, but when a storm is coming, you can often tell by that Walking on Eggs Feeling.
That Walking On Eggs Feeling: You feel at times that any action on your part will cause your partner to erupt into anger. You try to do everything you can think of to avoid it, but the longer the feeling goes on, the more likely the blowup will happen, no matter what you do.
I Can't Stand You, But You Better Not Leave: Your partner keeps telling you that you aren't worth having a relationship with, but will not consider breaking off the relationship and acts more outrageously when he or she finds out you are attempting to leave the relationship.
So Much, So Fast: Your partner just met you and doesn't know much about you, but he or she has to have you, so you must commit now.
It's You That's the Problem: Your partner never seems to consider his or her own part in your domestic disputes. You get blamed for all problems because of the most ridiculous things.
This Happened to Me and It's All Your Fault: You are blamed for your partner's problems even when it was his or her responsibility to not make mistakes. This could be things like him or her not getting to work on time and getting in trouble, not getting a job, not paying the bills in a timely manner, etc.
It's Their Fault: Your partner is never the cause of his own problems; if it's not your fault, it was somebody else's.
Overreacting: Your partner overreacts to little irritations. Small offenses like leaving the cap off the toothpaste cause him or her to have huge anger scenes or act out in an outrageous manner.
I Will Get You for That: Your partner doesn't try to negotiate a better relationship, but retaliates by doing something to you that he or she knows will hurt you emotionally.
All the Fights are about What I Do Wrong: You never seem to be able to talk about his or her wrong actions; the discussion always seems to be about what you did wrong, and there always seems to be something new that you did wrong.
You are Worthless: Your partner keeps telling you that all your problems are because you can't manage to do anything right.
Unrealistic Expectations: Your partner is dependent on you for all his/her needs and expects you to be the perfect mate, lover and friend. You are expected to meet all of his/her needs.
Blames Others for His/Her Feelings: You are told, "You make me mad," "you're hurting me by not doing what I ask," or "I can't help being angry".
Intense Jealousy: Your partner tells you that expressing jealousy is a sign of love. Jealousy is a sign of insecurity, not love. You are questioned about who you talk to and you may frequently receive calls or unexpected visits during the day.
Isolation: He or she has attempted to cut off your family, friends, and independent financial resources. Your friends and family are put down, and you are put down for socializing with them. You or they are accused of ridiculous motives.

In honor of this month, we have discounted all formats of Dreams & Desires. Please help us help others now.

Marci Baun
Editor-in-Chief
Freya's Bower

2007-08-11T16:12:00.000-07:00

The Whispering House: Book 1

After her mother's death, Eleanor Radcliffe leaves her job in San Jose and sells her parents' house. She retreats to a small house outside of Fresno. But her house hides a secret, and when things start to happen that can't be explained, who will help her? Her mysterious neighbor Michael Stevens? The handsome sheriff Rodney Tyler who answers her panicked calls? Or is she doomed?

Read an excerpt.

Gone and away for too long. I am back and promise to be better. There has been a lot going on here, but that's no excuse to be silent. Right now, I am chatting at the Yahoo group Novelspotters with a slew of other Freya's Bower authors. We will be there all weekend. It's easy to join and participate. You could even win a copy of my newest release The Whispering House, available at Freya's Bower. The Whispering House is a chapter book. There's some erotica, but it's a paranormal with hints of horror. Creepy, creepy, creepy.

School begins after Labor Day, but I go back into work, meetings and classroom prep, in a few weeks. Boy has the summer flown by! I enjoy teaching most of the time. Hopefully this year, my class will be as good as last year's. You just never know. A lot depends on the dynamics between the students. I can handle it, but life is easier when personalities complement rather than clash.

I also already have a review of The Whispering House at Cocktail Reviews. This is what they say:

"Very well written, The Whispering House packs many images into the first book."

A Whole Bottle of Champagne from Cranberry Kiss
Reviewer for Cocktail Reviews
Read the entire review.

BTW, Emily Ryan-Davis wants to know what your latest Muse-ic flirtation is.

Okay. I'm going back to the chat.

See you there!

Kit

2007-04-01T12:04:00.000-07:00

When do people learn to give up?

While grading papers yesterday, I came across one from a very bright, little girl. She'd barely answered any questions. This doesn't surprise me as most of the homework she turns in is like this. I've talked to her parents, but it doesn't seem to do any good. She's only in first grade. It's rather early to start giving up, don't you think?

Now, you know we weren't wired for this. If we were, we'd never learn to walk or talk or eat or any of these survival skills. So, when do people start giving up when things grow a little challenging? And what triggers it? And how do we combat it?

And, no, she doesn't have a learning disability. She's been tested. She just refuses to do anything that requires a bit of effort.

On a lighter note, have you checked out Google's April Fool's jokes?

Kit

2007-03-31T11:07:00.000-07:00

A good review! Yahoo!

Just a quick excerpt from the review:

"Last Chance is one of those stories that stick in the mind... Words put together in such a way that they sing from the page... Susan’s emotions and needs are well crafted..."

4 Champagne Flutes from Bloody Mary, Cocktail Reviews
Read the review.

Read an excerpt or buy my book. :)

It's nice to see someone enjoyed it as much as I did. :)

Kit

2007-03-31T07:36:00.000-07:00

The Worst Blogger

I have got to be the worst blogger. I always promise I will come here and blog at least once a week, but life just seems to get in the way. It's not necessarily that I have much of a life, but I talk so much during the day, when I sit down to write out my thoughts, my head is empty... except for story ideas and where my current WIP is going. My head is full of ideas. Original ideas? Um, probably not. You'd have to be Eve to have an original thought, and even then, it's possible Lilith might have had it first. LOL

Which brings me to a show I watched last night. We tape certain shows as we are frequently too busy to watch them when they are on. My favorite shows, Ugly Betty and Men in Trees, is so rarely on as new episodes that I am stuck watching things like The Apprentice, which we don't care that much about any more, but will watch when we are in the need of some veg time AND there is literally nothing else on. This particular one has languished since Sunday. We finally watched it last night. (See, if it had been Ugly Betty or Men in Trees, you can bet I'd have been all over it within a day or two.)

Anyway, there is supposedly this couple who have fallen for each other. The guy who had been the winning project manager was told by Trump that he had to send one of their team members over to the other team. The guy chose the female member of the couple. Her male counterpart didn't say a word. He didn't fight for her or say why she should stay. He did nothing. Needless to say, she wasn't too happy with him. (BTW, the remaining guys on the team are a bunch of cutthroat scumbags. If Trump hires one of them, I'd be worried. They'll do anything to win. Maybe that's what Trump wants, but, personally, I wouldn't be able to trust someone like that.) Her male counterpart (HMC) didn't get how he had betrayed her. Neither did the other guys. All of the women did, of course. Well, maybe some of the other guys did get it as they were a bit quiet about the whole subject, at least what we saw, anyway.

I told my honey that it just goes to show how differently women think. Then Trump came on and blew that theory out of the water. LOL He told the woman she should dump HMC like a hot potato for betraying her or make HMC work really hard to win her back. My thought on this: Nope. HMC had his chance. There are many other good men out in the world. Why waste your time on one that's already proven he will betray you? Not very forgiving, but it's rare indeed that a leopard changes its spots, and if HMC doesn't understand why his love is mad...

See, I can take anything that is of little or no importance and turn it into something that matters to no one but me. Well, I suppose this does matter the woman on The Apprentice, but why should I care. And I don't... At least not that much. I use this kind of stuff to keep my mind off of my own family drama. And we have drama.

The mother: quintessential drama queen who weaned herself on the perfect guilt trip by five years of age. (May not be true as I wasn't there, but she's been doing it so long that I imagine she did start very young.) It doesn't help that she enjoys her alcohol... and goes to church every Sunday and preaches about everyone else's failings and immorality. She believes in being "truthful", or her brand of truth, and that truth usually includes everyone else being wrong and responsible for her present and past mistakes. (I suppose we all do this to some degree, but she's perfected it through the years.)

The father: Divorced mother a number of years ago. I understand completely. And, yes, I imagine there is a small part of me that does love my mother and wishes she loved me, but after years of abuse, it's understandable that I try to stay as far away from her as I possibly can. In any case, he's since remarried, although no kids. He didn't want any more (there are five of us), nor did his wife. Besides which, he has to pay alimony and had to pay child support. (Everyone is grown now.) He is happy and lives far enough away that he doesn't run in the same circles as my mother.

The oldest son: a pillar of the community. He goes to church, but managed to escape the judgmental nature of our mother. He takes after our father as he seems to do it more to please his wife who is nothing like our mother. With three children to put through college, both of them work and have a great relationship. Of my siblings, he's the only "normal" one.

The oldest daughter: the drama princess. She is more like our mother. While she doesn't drink (she attends AA), she is responsible for nothing as well. Her husband is no beauty either. Their children... I feel sorry for them. The girl is in high school. Bright, pretty, and rebellious. My sister, of course, has no idea how to handle her. I try to be a steadying force for the girl and she does listen to me. A few more years and she'll be in college. She can't wait. Their son is a froshman. He is more interested in video games that in life. Personally, I think it's to escape the constant drama surrounding him. His sister pushes her parents' buttons, on purpose. She'll come home ten minutes late just to needle her mother. While that may not seem bad to any of you, my sister is all about being prompt and on time. Ten minutes might as well be two hours. When my sister and mother join forces, it's a Shakespearean tragedy. No, it's never anything bright and happy. Being happy makes them miserable.

Me: I try to stay out of everything. I don't care for drama. I suppose, in that way, I am like my father. If I could divorce my mother and sister, I would. Yes, I love them. They are family. That does not mean I have to like them all of the time. They do have their moments, but for the most part, no.

The second to youngest sister: Ran away at the age of 17. She made contact with us when she turned 18 (three months later) to let us know she was okay and going to college, but just couldn't take our mother any more. My oldest sister never forgave her, neither did Mom. While I couldn't applaud her methods, I commended her for gumption AND staying on track. She got her law degree and is doing very well now... on the other side of the country. Like me, she didn't have any children either. With our childhood, I can't blame her. She doesn't attend Christmas or any family functions that might include the mother and oldest sister, but she will come out with significant other (she refuses to marry) and visit both my brother, baby sister and I on occasion. (Something my mother harps about. My mother thinks I shouldn't have anything to do with her. Obviously, I listen to my mother. LOL)

The baby or affectionately known as "the brat": She's not really a brat, but is the golden child. In my mother's eyes, she can do no wrong. "The Brat" learned early how to work our mother. She can do whatever she wants and still be perfect. (shrug) It works for her. She's a good actress, although that's not her job even if it should be. LOL She's married and has one kid. The girl is well adjusted and aspires to be... you guessed it: an actress. The oldest sister is immensely jealous of her, as OS lives to please Mother and "The Brat" lives to irk our oldest sister. (Not hard to do, really. Breathing will upset her at times.)

In any case, the drama is at a reasonable level right now. (In other words, I have once again tuned it out with lots of yoga and meditation, which horrifies both my mother and oldest sister.) I have stayed away from them for the past couple of months, so am happy. We have Spring Break approaching. I am looking forward to that. My hubby is well, so all is good.

Hopefully, this signals a fruitful time for my writing. LOL

Kit

2007-02-23T22:52:00.000-08:00

On the lighter side

I am addicted to Men In Tree and Ugly Betty. Oh, and I should probably fess up to enjoying American Idol as well. Yes, it's my dirty, little secret. However, I am peeved, you know. Yes, peeved. Last night, I waited with great anticipation to see my latest fix of MIT and UB. I knew AI was on, but as much as I may enjoy it, MIT and UB are by far my favorites. And I can easily go without seeing AI on Thursday. I am more interested in watching the contestants perform than who is kicked off. It's a waste of time to watch an entire two hour show when I'm not really going to say anything new. I can find out via the internet.

So, I was really disappointed Thursday night to discover my two favorite shows weren't on. Is it because of the Oscars? Is it because they don't want to compete with AI? Is it just to frustrate the hell out of me? I mean, how can they expect to have their audience stay loyal if they don't give us weekly fixes for our addiction? (And I am addicted. Completely. However, I won't continue to be addicted if I don't get a fix soon. LOL)

Instead, I watched Grey's Anatomy. It's not my favorite show, because, for the most part, it's too angst-ridden for me, but it sucked me in on Thursday. LOL And then, of course, something happened right before I saw the ending, and I thought Meredith died. I was not happy about that, even if I am not a big fan. It seems stupid to kill off the main character, IMHO. Perhaps I will watch it next Thursday to see how she is doing.

So, do any of you have favorite shows? Are you ever frustrated when the producers don't come out with new segments (not the word I am looking for, but I can't think of it at the moment) every week during the season? Do you want to strangle them for teasing you then saying, "Neener, neener, neener"?

Kit

2007-02-15T19:39:00.000-08:00

An Apology.

I haven't been around much at all. Okay, none. I am sorry. There was some family drama that is still going on. Not between DH and I, but my immediate family. While this is not uncommon, it's just a bit more intense than usual beginning with Thanksgiving and all through Christmas. I have to say, it's made writing and doing anything else beyond work and spending time with DH difficult. I can't focus on much of anything.

There are times I wish I wasn't a member of such a large family. Siblings can be a blessing... and a curse. I have three sisters and two brothers. Yes, a large family. I am in the middle some where there. Because of the way my mother is, there is a great deal of jealousy. (sigh) I try to stay out of it most of the time, but it has been impossible lately. And it's sooo draining. I have no energy every time I talk on the phone to one of my siblings. "Did you hear what Mom did now? or what S did? or..."

It's not that I don't care. I do, but I just don't want to be in that loop any more. I spent many years dealing with my own jealousies and finally letting them go. I've come to accept how my mother is and her actions and realize they have nothing to do with me, but it's hard to stay objective sometimes, especially when it's the favorite sibling that is suffering.

Okay. I am done with the pity post. I promise to be back more often.

Kit

2006-11-22T22:53:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

No time to chat, but I wanted to wish everyone a good one. Here's to eating until we can't move without the guilt. (Okay, there will be the guilt, but damn, it's Thanksgiving and an American tradition to stuff ourselves. LOL So enjoy!)

Kit

2006-11-10T14:34:00.000-08:00

Puzzled

After staying silent for quite some time, I finally can't anymore. A few months ago, a review from Enchanted Ramblings reviewed Last Chance and gave it 4.5 magic wands. One would think this would excite me. Well, it would... if I could understand why they gave it such a high rating. You see, there was very little good said in the review. The reviewer, who obviously knows nothing about New Age beliefs, also said: "I found the mixture of contemporary New Age mixed with the more paranormal possibilities a bit jarring, as they didn’t seem to go together too well, but I really enjoyed the inclusion of the ghosts." Okay, so they liked the ghosts. The ghosts are fun, but I don't understand how someone can review something if they know nothing about the material. It's just me. What can I say? (shrug) So, I had to get this off of my chest. It's been bugging me to no end, I tell you. And pissed me off not a little.

You see, my mother is a Bible thumper. Okay, she doesn't thump the Bible; she beats the Bible... hard. I never understood Christianity as explained by her. I couldn't wrap my head around the righteous, jealous god she preached about. Luckily, I have an aunt whose beliefs are firmly in the New Age camp. She introduced me to many things and let me know that I wasn't crazy or evil just because I saw things and experienced things that my mother said the Bible claimed to be of Satan. My aunt reads Tarot, believes in past lives, exorcises ghosts, and meditates every day. I could also name a number of New Age gurus who have had numerous experiences with what is termed "paranormal". Christianity believes in demons and angels; why can't New Age include paranormal too?

Sometimes, if something doesn't fit in the box, people don't like it. My confusion stems from the person liking the book, but not giving me any reason to believe he/she liked it.

In case you didn't find the link for the review, it's here: http://www.enchantedramblings.net/reviews/review0444.html Please weigh in and tell me what you think. :)

Okay. I feel better. :)

Kit

2006-10-31T21:19:00.000-08:00

Free Read!

First, let me wish everyone a Happy Halloween. Our neighborhood was overrun with kids this evening. They were cute... for the most part. Some of them asked for more candy after I'd already given them some. (raised eyebrow) Uh, no. LOL We even had one kid ring our doorbell after we'd turned out the porch lights. Well, I guess you have to try.

So, what's this all about a free read? I wrote this back in 2001. When I heard that Coffee Time Romance does free reads, I thought, "Why not?" This is a sweet story. It's a short story, 6400 words or so, but fun. A sexy vampire and love... what more could one ask for? Okay. Sex. No sex, but it's still a fun story.

Cali,

I can't access your blog. For whatever reason, every time I've tried, regardless of my browser, the progress bar spins and spins then the entire browser window shuts down. I just wanted you to know that I am not ignoring you, just unable to access your material.

I hope everyone enjoyed their Halloween. It only comes once a year. :) I love Halloween. Hopefully, this will inspire my muse to write again. She's been hiding.

Okay. Someone wants some attention. Mmmm... that feels good. (grin) I think I'll go and play with my honey.

Kit

2006-10-06T08:59:00.002-07:00

Absentee and apology.

I apologize to everyone for being so absent lately. Sometimes things happen in life that take away time from others. This has been happening with me.

My 'fiance' and I have been going through a tough time lately. Our decision not to marry hit both of us harder than we thought. We've been together now for 10 years. As neither of us have the itch for children, marriage wasn't a big push for us. I didn't realize just how much postponing our marriage affected me. And because I was trying to stuff all those emotions, I exploded like a volcano a few weeks back. That's when it came out that he wasn't happy with the postponement or the possibility of no wedding. He wanted to marry me as much as I wanted to marry him.

All this translated into no blogging. I am the disappear-into-a-cave-with-no-talking-to-anyone type of person when something really bothers me. I have to work through it before I can share. And sometimes, I won't share because I am a pretty private person. Oh, I have a few good friends I might tell, but other than that, it's not something I will do until it's all over. And you, my loyal readers, are lucky because very few people know about this at all. I can count them on one hand, not including my fiance, of course.

So, all is good with the world. The wedding is back on. We are happy. The wedding is scaled back. We'll have it in our backyard in a few weeks.

As for pics, we'll see. My fiance is not too keen on having his pic shared with the world. LOL

Something exciting that has happened that I've been dying to share but couldn't until now is that Freya's Bower is going to be releasing a charity anthology (you can read about it here) to benefit a battered woman's shelter. I was invited to have one of my stories included in it. Wow! There are some really talented authors participating. That I was invited flattered me immensely. The anthology comes out February 1, 2007. My tale is titled Secret Valentines. Woot!

Okay. Time to get off here. I do have work to do. :)

I'll stop by some time to day and visit some of my favorite people. :)

Kit

2006-10-06T08:59:00.001-07:00

2006-10-06T08:59:00.000-07:00

2006-09-04T15:52:00.000-07:00

Home again.

Yes, I've been home for nearly a month, but returned to a mess and had to clean it up. My classroom was painted over the summer, which is fine, but I wasn't informed this would happen, and as a result, all of my books and teaching materials were stuffed in unmarked boxes, which took me hours to shift through and return to their spots in the bookshelves, etc.

As for my WIP, not a word was typed. Honestly, I spent most of my time wandering the island and just enjoying the quiet time with my fiance. And our wedding has been postponed, but that's another story. It's good, though. No worries. We've been together for ten years now. When I turned 38, I thought that we needed to really commit to each other, which we already are. While in Hawaii, I realized that we were committed to each other and that a piece of paper wouldn't change my feelings for him or his feelings for me. We don't plan on having kids, so marriage is unnecessary. Our wills are set to each other as are our insurance policies. In the eyes of California law, we are married through common law. Or we will be in less than a year, as we've been living together for almost seven. And, to be honest, I was not enjoying the preparations for it. Way too stressful! LOL I do not want to be a bridezilla. (grin)

I can't say that a part of me isn't disappointed. I mean, what woman from my era doesn't have a fantasy of walking down an aisle in a beautiful gown? But the rest of me is relieved. Maybe we'll elope. I'll wear a scarlet short number with stilletto heels (ack!) and look like a hot mama!

I will post photos later.

So, I'm back, everyone! Yes, I can hear the applause. LOL

Kit

2006-07-05T04:22:00.000-07:00

On vacation...

Yeah, it's 4:18 am here. We leave for the airport in a few minutes to catch a 6:45 am flight to Los Angeles and then off to Hawaii. I'm sorry. I didn't get a chance to put an excerpt out, but I will try. I have a laptop that will go with me on our vacation. I'll see if I can manage something from that. I'll be back on the 5th of August, late. I probably won't check this much, although I might come in and occasionally post, but that might be a week or two.

The next time you see me, I'll probably be in Hawaii mindset. :)

Enjoy your summer!

Kit

2006-07-01T12:38:00.000-07:00

Because I am completely insane...

I submitted my ebook, Last Chance, to Literary Sass. I am assuming that I will be shredded. Why? Well, my reviews have been lukewarm, except for two, both who quite loved my book. (Cali and Janalee at Love Romances) My readers seem to enjoy it, but I never know what the darn reviewers want. I mean, seriously, they say nice things, then give me three stars. (shrug) It's like someone saying, "I love you", then slapping you in the face. LOL Of course, if you like that kind of thing, then kudos for you, but most of us don't. LOL

What can you do? Reviewers are reviewers. Like everyone else, they have their own opinions. Why we put ourselves through all of this is a mystery to me? I mean, as an artiste (big shit-eating grin), aren't we supposed to be sensitive and tragic? Not this writer, baby.

I popped in to do this and then I am off to Hawaii on July 5th. Why the 5th and not before the 4th? Have you checked to see how much the cost of everything goes up in HI over the 4th of July. Sure, I'd love to see the fireworks over the Pacific Ocean, but I'll watch it over Millerton Lake instead. (grin) If I can save $500, I'll do it.

Also, I am starting a contest for those of you who have read my ebook. And if I feel up to it, I'll put in an excerpt here too for those of you who haven't invested the $4.75 to read this scintillating piece of literature. (grin) You can purchase it here.

Okay. What do you get? Let me show you a photo:

What are they? They are silver-stamped earrings with blue topaz worth about $60. To enter, just put "Last Chance Earring Contest" in the subject line, the answer to this question: What is the name of the female ghost in Last Chance?, and a quick "hello" to me. :) The contest ends on August 9th, three days after I return. Although I will check my email between now and then, I won't have the earrings with me to mail until I return home. :) Oh, and email me at kwylde @ hotmail . com -- without the spaces. :)

Happy reading!

Kit

2006-06-21T20:16:00.000-07:00

I have been least seen lately, I know. It is nothing about being busy or even writing. (sigh... not writing) It has been the decompression stage of school being on the home stretch to summer vacation. Even though I teach second graders, I am so ready for the end of school when the time comes. And trust me when I say that second graders have changed a great deal since I started teaching fifteen years ago. Fortunately, they are still sweet, but you do encounter that mouthy child who is bound to give you fits. (sigh) I had one that never should have made it to second grade. (sigh) It's hard to focus on 24 other children when you have one that needs extra attention. Oh, I'm used to it, but it doesn't make it any easier. This child is intelligent, but teachers can't do everything. Some of it does start in the home.

Okay, enough of my school stuff. I don't come to my blog to bitch. LOL I'm good at doing that, but I don't need to do it here.

In a few more weeks, I am going on vacation. Vacation... oh, sweet vacation! LOL I do plan on taking my laptop so that I can work on my novel, but honestly, how much will I accomplish in Hawaii? I see hours of snorkeling, sitting under a palm tree sipping Long Island Ice Teas or maybe a more Hawaiian drink, although _love_ Long Island Ice Teas, and just relaxing in the tropical breeze on some deserted beach. Yeah, peace, quiet and a chance to regroup.

Sounds lovely! Which I was leaving tomorrow. LOL

Kit

2006-06-19T18:17:00.000-07:00

An excerpt from my WIP.

It's rough people, so be kind. LOL

The Whispering House -- tentative title

The enticing aroma of fresh coffee filled the small kitchen. Eleanor breathed deeply and poured herself a cup before crossing to the table in the breakfast nook that served as her dining room. Contentment stole over her, pushing back the ever-present sadness that lingered like a smothering blanket from her mother’s death. Idly, she doodled on the newspaper in front of her, only half interested in the Sudoku puzzle she’d started as the coffee had finished percolating. Setting down her pencil, she gave up trying to figure out how to fix it so the last square worked with the rest. Instead, she looked up into the mist outside her window.

A movement in the fog caught her attention. Standing, she moved closer to the window, her mug cradled in her hands. Was that a figure standing on a path just across the creek? What path? She’d taken numerous walks over the past week and never seen a path there before nor another person since her arrival. Unease slithered down her spine, but she shook it off. She’d been enjoying her solitude, not surveying the countryside.

For several minutes, she stared at the figure, trying to discern whether it was male or female. It was so still; perhaps it didn’t really exist or was just a bush she hadn’t noticed until now. If only she hadn’t left her glasses on the nightstand, she might be able to see a little better. She squinted, but it didn’t help.

A patch of fog drifted between her and the figure. When it had passed on, the figure was gone, but the path remained. Something didn’t seem right. Her hand closed over the doorknob next to her, the desire to find out what was out there nearly overwhelming her.

She glanced at the clock over the sink. It was only three o’clock, but, after only a week, she knew the fog could roll in early and quickly. She shook her head, deciding to wait until the morning. The night before, the fog had hugged her small house so tightly that it reflected back the light from her porch light, blinding her, reminiscent of the white outs from her childhood vacations up in Lake Tahoe during snowstorms.

With one last look out the window, she banished any more thoughts of the figure and returned to the table, sitting down and sighing with pleasure. How lovely to relax! Months of dealing with lawyers, tying up the loose ends, selling her family home… Her mind stalled on the last thought. Her aunt’s voice filled her head, “Eleanor, you really shouldn’t be making such a big decision after only eight months. Everyone knows it’s best to wait a year before…”

“I know, Aunt Sherry, but you heard the lawyers. How do you propose I pay the estate taxes? I do well as a financial advisor, but not that well. There really isn’t any choice. With this sale, I can invest what’s left over and retire.”

“Are you sure you want to retire and move to…” Distaste flitted across her aunt’s face. “Fresno?”

“Yes. It’s affordable, quiet and nothing like San Jose.” She stopped short of adding “beautiful”. Her Aunt Sherry would never admit to anything about Fresno being beautiful.

Tears welled up in Eleanor’s eyes as she returned to the present. Next to losing both of her parents within two years of each other, having to sell her family home was one of the hardest things she’d done in her life. The hardest was cleaning out the house, giving away what she couldn’t take with her, storing the rest, and reliving all the memories of her parents before she was ready. She hadn’t had any time to grieve.

“You are not alone. You are never alone.” A man’s voice whispered.

She spun around, her heart skittering. Who said that? Her gaze scanned the interior of her kitchen. Nothing. Standing, she walked into the living room. It was empty too. She moved into the bedroom and shivered as cold air swirled around her. Strange. There’d never been a draft before. Something wavered in her peripheral vision. Her head jerked toward the movement; her breath caught in her throat. The window was wide open, and the curtains fluttered in the encroaching fog.

----

That's it. (grin) You'll have to wait until later to see if I post more, but I feel like being a tease right now and I'll be on vacation in a week or so for a month so... LOLOL

Kit

2006-06-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

Review online.

So, where have I been? Hiding. I'm kidding. That will be soon as I go on vacation for a month or so with my love.

However, in the meantime, I wanted to share this review with you:

"With the ever-expanding ePublishing realm and the explosion of new authors, Ms. Wylde voice is sure to grab the reader’s attentions. It is engaging and novel... This tale was easy to become comfortable in, as Ms. Wylde writing is visually descriptive... this reader will be waiting to see what she pens next, hopefully something very soon... This is a fresh paranormal with seedlings of erotic threads, and LAST CHANCE is a book you really should pick up today! This reviewer recommends it."

Janalee Ruschhaupt
Reviewer for Love Romances
Read the entire review

Riding high. Loving it!

Kit

2006-05-27T00:50:00.000-07:00

Shameless plug.

I know. I know. I've been least seen. Not on purpose. I've just been busy. However, I am not so busy that I can't go in and support my pal Zinnia tomorrow at the FB Author Chat (Yahoo group). You'll have to sign up, but hey, if you like quality erotica, you'll want to be there. :)

News on my end. Nothing new. I wrote about 3000 words on my WIP last weekend and have done nothing since. Yeah, my muse likes to tease me. She's a big tease too. She knows how to get me all excited only to runaway laughing her wicked muse laugh. Maybe I'll get lucky this weekend. We shall see.

And one last plug for my novella, Last Chance. Do you like paranormal? Do you like romance? Do you like sex? Do you prefer books that make you walk away with a smile? Then this is the book for you. I'm not kidding, am I, Cali? Cali thought it was awesome. On June 10th, there will be a review at Love Romances. I can't say any more than that, other than the reviewer there loved it as well. When I can, I will include snippets of the review. :)

Okay, bed time, kiddies. It's late here.

Kit

2006-05-19T21:51:00.000-07:00

Killer pesto

Tonight, I made what I term as "killer" pesto. Why? Well, after I tell you what's in it, you will understand completely. A few years ago, Marci either posted this on Wild Child Publishing as a recipe or I asked her for it after she talked about it in one of her articles. I don't remember which, but honestly, I never liked pesto until I made this pesto. The pesto offered to the public at most restaurants are bland and overly rich. Often, it seems like they have killed the basil and garlic by drowning it in olive oil. Now, this pesto is manna from the gods. However, I warn you, should you make it, be sure to share it with your significant other because your breath is going to be so gnarly, he/she won't want to be near you unless his/hers matches yours. Oh, and one more warning, it will more than likely clean you out. LOLOLOL

Recipe:

8 oz of fresh basil washed
7 cloves of garlic (more is even better. No, there is no such thing as too much garlic. Tonight, I used 9-10. Yummy!)
1/4-1/2 cup of fresh grated pecorino romano cheese (parmesan works, but I agree with Marci about the bite in the pecorino cheese)
olive oil
2-3 walnuts

In a food processor, combine basil garlic and walnuts. Scoop out the finely chopped ingredients, add the cheese and just enough olive oil to make it just a little more than moist. Too much turns it into soup.

Serve over pasta.

Oh, did I forget to mention that you will taste it the next day? LOL But I love it. Yummy! Yummy! Yummy!

Okay. If you have a moment, come on over to Romance Divas and visit FB's Chat. You will have to sign up and have access to the steamy forum, which is acquired by contacting on of the administrators. We will be there all weekend. :)

Kit

2006-05-14T10:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day!

While I am not a mother, working with children a good portion of the day really gives me an appreciation for all that you do. (Father's too, but today we are celebrating mothers.)

I am going to lunch then a movie with my mother today. I've heard "RV" is quite funny, and that's what Mom wants to see, so off we will go. My fiance can languish by himself for a few hours. LOL Oh, I'm sure he'll survive. (G)

What's going on with my writing? (sigh) Well, my ever fickle muse made an appearance and as quickly disappeared... the wench. I'll pin her down... when I can find her. She's good at hiding.

Okay. I have a few things to do before I go visit Mom.

Have a good one!

Kit

2006-05-07T14:13:00.000-07:00

Last Chance the "free" ebook Freya's Bower's monthly contest this month.

So, if you haven't read it and want to, enter. You could win! Or better yet, don't wait to find out if you've won, buy it now! LOL Help support this newbie writer and this wonderful site. :)

Update

I believe I have discovered why I am having such a difficult time with my current WIP. (Thank you, Cali!) Cali made the comment that she writes what she is passionate about and the words just flow out of her. Well, I like the current story I am working on, but -- yes, there is a "but" -- it has dark overtones to it. Okay. They aren't just dark. These are downright sinister and frightening. And for me to write, and write quickly, I must immerse myself in the story, become the heroine if you will. That way, I see, feel, smell, hear, etc., whatever she is feeling. And I don't like to be scared. This story will scare you. (Well, maybe not you, Michelle. LOL) That's not really a problem... except when I do this, my stories bleed into my dreams. When a story like this does that, I wake up with my heart pounding, my imagination seeing nasty specters standing over my bed or certain something is waiting to grab me from under my bed. Yes, I am a 30-something woman who has night terrors. They hadn't happened for a while. Then I started on this story, and I've had one or two again. These night terrors make Silence of the Lambs look tame. Did I see it? Are you freakin' crazy? No, but trust me when I say these are beyond nightmarish.

So, I've started a WIP that my mind is saying it wants to finish, but I am afraid.

Any suggestions?

Kit

2006-05-07T09:16:00.000-07:00

Scrap and go.

Well, it looks like I am going to scrap what I have. I keep writing myself into a corner. I'll come back to it another time, but I do have another idea screaming to escape. Hopefully, this idea will flow from my fingertips unlike what I've been doing. It's not any fun when writing 200 words takes an hour. It's miserable, really.

(sigh)

So, I'll start on the new idea and maybe I'll be inspired to work on this one later. (sigh)

Any advice?

Kit

2006-05-04T16:16:00.000-07:00

My muse is back and I'm gonna be in trouble. Hey, lolly-lol, my muse is back!

What can I say. Right after I posted that last blog, she woke up and said, "Hey, you abusing me in public, bitch? Just for that, I'll show you."

And she did. Except when I finished writing part of one scene, the bitch didn't like it. No, she didn't. She's making me rewrite it. It was her idea in the first place, and then she changes her mind? As a woman, I can understand the need to do that, but don't make me slave over something only to say, "Nope. I don't like that. Tough titty, girlfriend! You must rewrite it... but not tonight. It's time for a little bit of R&R."

"When will you be back?" I asked.

"Only when you are suitably chastised," she replied.

Yeah, so I've got a mouth on me today, but I think you understand the reason. If you had to deal with her you would too. LOL

Kit

2006-05-01T19:26:00.000-07:00

The search for the missing muse.

The other night, as I lay in bed, ideas of how I would revise my WIP raced through my mind, but it was late and I knew that the next day was a long work day, so instead of writing, I went to sleep. (sigh) What a mistake! Now my muse has gone on vacation, and while the ideas still rumble around in my head, I have no desire to write. Ergo, the quiet blog and my absense from here as well. It's nothing personal. It's just one of those periods.

Perhaps, I am not a true writer. Maybe if I had writing in my blood, I wouldn't experience these dry moments where even the imagination seems to have jumped ship for Kuala Lumpur and refuses to come home until she gets laid. I can relate. LOL No, no, my sex life is fine, but maybe my imagination needs a good massage, including some edible massage oil, a hunky, ripped masseuse (male, of course), and then a bout of sex so hot it could peel the corneas off her eyes. LOL

Or maybe I just need a day of pampering.

(sigh)

Nah. The muse is the one needing to get some, not me. Not that I'm adverse to a little nookie. Nookie is always good.

So, do you ever have these dry spells? Does your muse do a disappearing act? Or is she/he always riding your ass? (Maybe that's why it looks so good, huh, Zinnia? G)

Kit

2006-04-25T18:42:00.000-07:00

A revision on the WIP.

After going over my WIP, I realized that it needed a rewrite. I am going to add a new chapter at the beginning and have rethought the plot some. This will give more depth to my characters, create more believability to the story, and possibly push the word count into the novella range. If it doesn't, I'm not really worried about it because a long short story is fine too.

You know, I never really write anything here about my personal life. I suppose this is because this blog is about my writing, the dilemmas and trials of the writing life, and an escape from my otherwise mundane world. My life is no more exciting than any one else's. Probably less so than most. Although, we do take a month vacation once a year when school is out of session. We need that break. This year, we are still contemplating on where we want to go. What with gas prices eating into our vacation funds, this year may not be as exotic. (sigh)

So, let's see if I can write a new blurb for the WIP. :)

Kit

2006-04-22T22:19:00.000-07:00

For Michelle. (grin) Because she demanded it. LOLOL

The WIP is going well. I have added a couple thousand words to it and have somewhat mapped out where the rest of it is going. I am aiming for 12K words. Not much to some of you people who are verbose, but for little old me, this is some feat. LOL

I was noticing the other day while responding to Kristen Painter's blog post regarding character names that I had several that started with either "s" or "m". I wonder if that means I am into S&M and I don't know it. (grin) Could it be Freudian? If it was, wouldn't there be a penis mixed in there too? (grin) Yeah, I know I'm awful.

I am thinking I will try submitting it to Freya's Bower again. They were so wonderful with LC that I have become the loyal author. LOL Or maybe I just know a good thing when I've got it.

Anyway, here's a little blurb about the new WIP, tentatively named "The Whispering House":

Looking for a quiet place to grieve the death of her mother, Eleanor Brown buys a house on the outskirts of Fresno and gets more than she bargains for. Four weeks in, the whispers begin. She doesn't believe in ghosts, but someone, or thing, keeps calling her name and she hears giggles. Then a mysterious cowboy named Michael appears, a man she can't seem to resist nor forget. Strange things are happening at her house. And the more involved she becomes with Michael, the more things seem to happen. Is he the cause? Or is he her soul mate?

Not the best blurb, but I'm afraid to give too much away. I want to leave some surprises. :)

Can someone tell me how to write a good, no, an incredible blurb? I've done some searching, but most just tell you what they think is good not how to do it. Why? Because, they don't know how to do it.

Kit

2006-04-18T06:26:00.000-07:00

Awake and soon to be at work.

Sigh! LOL

It's always coldest at sunrise, it seems.

Yes, random thoughts this morning. Maybe it's because there is actually sunshine instead of rain. I will have to adjust. LOL Today is forecasted to be 73. Woo-hoo! No rain in sight, baby! That is good. Tomorrow is 80. I will take these temps. However, my kids will probably be squirrely, wanting outside instead of in. I don't blame them. I want to be outside instead of in. LOL

No progress whatsoever over the break on my WIP. (sigh) I had such good intentions, but the days flew by and before I knew it, I was back working again. I wish I could say that I was productive, but I can't. I did nothing but squander my off time. I suppose that was exactly what I needed to do, right? Still, I should have finished that novella -- for a novella it would be as I doubt I am capable of finishing a full-length novel. My attention span, you know. LOL The stories are good, but I am ready to work on a new project about a quarter of the way through a novel. I have one sitting at about 25K words right now. Friends keep prodding me to finish it, but I can't seem to get motivated to do it.

Does anyone else ever have this dilemma?

Kit

2006-04-15T23:26:00.000-07:00

Alive

Yes, I am here. LOL We've had some thunderstorms in my area, which didn't make me want to sit at the computer, so I've been away for a few days. This means, I've done very little writing, but I've enjoyed time with my fiance. We don't do this very often. We are usually running ninety miles a minute. So, it's been nice.

Today was gorgeous... finally. We needed the break from the rain. Our reservoirs are full, and if the weather turns warm, the snowmelt could overwhelm us. (160% of our average snowpack this year.) Cross your fingers that I don't float away. LOL

My novella Last Chance is available at Freya's Bower for purchase.

Sorry if I'm a bit quiet tonight. Just enjoying these moments of downtime.

Kit

2006-04-08T10:38:00.000-07:00

How do you write?

I find that I write best late at night. The house doesn't have to be quiet as long as it's after 9 pm. LOL Yeah, I'm a night owl. However, the downside to writing this late is that sometimes what I am writing seeps into my dreams. So, for instance, right now, my WIP is a paranormal with some unsettling elements in it. (I'm stuck because I am trying to decide which way to go with it.) The result is that when on I work on it, some nights I have nightmares about ghosts. The dreams don't necessarily have anything to do with the story, though. The only common demoninators between my WIP and my dreams are that both have ghosts in them. LOL

Does anyone else find this to be true? Do portions of your stories invade your dreams?

First day of spring break and my plans are to relax. I haven't had much time for that since the beginning of the semester. Although I enjoy being a teacher, it is a very demanding profession. The second graders wear me out by the end of the day. LOL They have so much energy. But their enthusiasm is a joy to see. I know I couldn't teach older students, especially 5th grade and older. Too mouthy and rambunctious for me. LOL Some of my co-workers love the older kids. They love the challenge and really enjoy them and wonder how I can teach such young children. LOL Well, I guess that's why we teach the grades we do.

Do you ever speak to your parents about their lives before they were married or had children? My mother's story is fascinating. Perhaps one day, it will find its way into one of my romances. It certainly could be one.

All right. It's a beautiful day here and the garden beckons.

Kit

2006-04-05T22:38:00.000-07:00

Excellent Author Chat at eBook Love

Hey everyone!

I just wanted to let all of you know that my author chat at eBook Love, the Yahoo group, went really well. The ladies are really nice and friendly. They loved my book excerpts and were fun to chat with. If any of you can, you should definitely decide to join there and set up a chat. Should you do that, here are some things you might want to know:

Consider a Saturday date, even if you have to wait. If not Saturday, then later in the evening after dinner time (EST). Yes, I know this sounds silly, but I started after I came home from work... way too early.
Choose your excerpts before you start the chat. And if you have a second book not published or that you aren't promoting at that time but is contracted, choose a couple from that book too. They will ask about your other books, so be prepared.
Keep water and food on hand and be sure there is some for the family too.
Give away at least one copy of your e-book that day. If you give away more than one, I would suggest you hold one for an overnight contest so those unable to attend will read your excerpts and enter too. You don't have to give away just books either. You can give away other things, like spa accessories, etc., that people will like too.
If you can, give another copy of your book to the eBook Love group moderators to include in their author giveaway a few weeks later. What does this do for you? You can come back and input a promo either about that book the week they give away your book or promote a new one coming out. It's an easy reminder.
Know what questions you are going to ask for the contests, make sure these questions can be easily found within the excerpts, but don't tell them which excerpt they'll find the answer. They'll be forced to read all of the excerpts that way. Also, be explicit about the directions of how to enter. Example: I had them email the answer to me with the subject line: "First Contest -- eBook Love". The answer had to be in the body of the email. Whoever emailed me first won.
Enjoy yourself! These are nice people who love romance.

I want to thank Nell Dixon for her advice. It was truly helpful.

If anyone else has more advice on this, please feel free to add. I know this sounds simple, but I know a lot of you have ebooks coming out and thought you might be interested in this.

2006-04-03T22:29:00.000-07:00

Author Chat April 5th, 2006 2-6 pm PST

Yup, it's true. I am doing an author chat. Wow! I feel like a celebrity. LOL It's on Yahoo groups eBookLove. You must be a member to join the chat. It's pretty easy to sign up. I am holding a contest and giving out a copy of my erotic romance ebook "Last Chance".

So, come by and check it out. I would love to see a few friendly faces. :)

Kit

2006-03-31T17:49:00.000-08:00

Question:

Do mean ever get mad because they don't have multiple orgasms? I'm just curious.

grin

Kit

2006-03-29T23:20:00.000-08:00

It's online!

That's right. My novella, Last Chance, is now available for my adoring public to purchase. (grin) It's hard to believe that it's really happening. I still have to pinch myself every so often to make sure I'm awake and not living in a lovely dream. Yeah, that's very cliche, but it's soooo true!

I had started a 'new' story. Well, not new as I had began it some months back and then abandoned it for whatever reason, but now I must settle down and get started again. Still, I'm published. Woo-hoo!

No. Nothing else exciting in my life right now. Well, yes, there are other things going on, but nothing this big.

(sigh)

Kit

P.S. Did I already say to go buy it? LOL

2006-03-27T21:21:00.000-08:00

Last Chance, my e-book published by Freya's Bower, is being formatted. I don't know when it will be available to the public, but it's going to be soon. Woot! I am so excited. I can't believe it's really happening. Will some body pinch me?

Kit

2006-03-25T21:58:00.000-08:00

Done editing!

I can't believe it. Jana, my editor at Freya's Bower just told me that I am done. Done? It's amazing! I want to jump for joy. I feel like cavorting around the house in my slinkiest lingerie and tormenting my honey. I'm sure he won't protest too much. That's after I eat some Hagen Daaz Rocky Road ice cream. LOL Hey, I might as well celebrate as my WIP is stalling a little bit. (sigh)

This morning, I made some bacon. My honey (he's not my husband although we've lived together for about 10 years now) and I have an agreement. If I cook, he cleans and vice versa. Except it doesn't always seem to work that way. It seems like if I cook something that uses our large pan, he "puts it in the sink to soak". Well, you all know what that means, right? It means that I will be the one to clean it because he will let it soak for however long it takes for me to clean it.

Now, does that sound like our agreement? I didn't think so.

So, as soon as I know when my book Last Chance is available, I will let every one know. Gah! I am so excited. :)

Kit

2006-03-23T22:14:00.000-08:00

Progress on my sex scenes. A friend made a suggestion on how to spice up the first one to bring it more in tune with the second one. So, I did that and wished my hubby wasn't so tired and already in bed. (sigh)

I am excited about this whole process. Even though Last Chance is only a novella, editing and polishing it for publication is something new for me. I've always been something of a closet writer. Oh, I've been published in the past, but I've never really pursued it that much. It's been quite a while since any of my writings have seen the light of day beyond my computer screen. Then when I read about Freya's Bower being open for submissions and their connection to Wild Child Publishing, I knew I had to rewrite LC as an erotic novel and take my chances. I was lucky to have them accept my ms even though I am still learning the intricacies of writing sex scenes.

If you think it's easy to write one, try it. Honestly, they can be tricky. The hardest part is making the action flow without using cliches or getting bogged down with euphemisms or explicit language. I am still learning, but I think my sex scenes are improving. They at least make me hot. LOLOLOL

Okay. It grows late here, and I have one more day of teaching before the weekend. By the end of the week, those little ones wear me out. Their energy and insatiable appetite for learning is inspiring, but tiring.

So, I'm off to sleep... soon.

Kit

2006-03-22T08:28:00.000-08:00

Got my edit back for my novella. I was pleasantly surprised. I mean, Jana had a lot of really good suggestions, but nothing major. So, I was happy to see I wouldn't have to do a huge rewrite. Of course, I have revised and revised this story. One more revision wouldn't kill me. It might have driven me nuts, but it certainly wouldn't kill me. However, I do need to work on the sex scenes. I am waiting for a response from my wonderful editor to see what she thinks.

I am working on a new novella. (I say novella because I don't know if I will ever write a full-length novel. It's the attention span. :D) It's a paranormal romance. It's been challenging so far.

Oh, have to go. I'll be back later.

Kit

2006-03-20T17:37:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone!

I have no idea what I am doing, but I hope you will come in and join me as I delve into my inner psyche. Ha! Not likely! Delving is not something I am apt to do. I'd rather be writing or reading romance/erotica novels.

So, who is Kit Wylde. A wild and crazy kind of gal... well, in my alter ego, that is. In real life, I am just a grade school teacher who lives the normal life like everyone else. Kind of boring, huh? That's why I like to escape into the world of my imagination. LOL No, I enjoy creating, and someday, when I am a famous romance author, I will write children's books too and read them in the schools. Why? Because I can. LOL Isn't that what famous people do now? :D

I am extremely excited about my new novella to be published at Freya's Bower called Last Chance. It's not out yet, but due out by some time this year. (No date yet, but I am hoping in the next couple of months.) The cover is gorgeous! I am amazed that I am being published, am amazed at how nice these people are, and can't wait for the publishing to happen.

The cover:

It's a take of the Ryder Waite Tarot Card deck of the "Lovers". Yes, that does have something to do with my book plot. I love it.

My erotica is more romance than erotic as I am fairly new to writing steamy scenes. I am much more comfortable writing the romance than the sex scenes. I suppose that will change, but for now, I write them while my honey is near by and with a blush on my face.

Okay. I've got to run.

Kit