Little Lion Man

I can't believe this is the last Monday of 2012! Where did the time go? There have been so many blessings to count in the year of 2012, I can't wait to see what 2013 brings my way.

For this weeks Playlist Monday, I have chosen one of my favorite new bands...Mumford and Sons! I love their entire album:) I am always listening to it. If you haven't bought it, you should!

One of my favorite songs from the album Babel is Little Lion Man. I hope you enjoy it, on this Playlist Monday!

The Next Big Thing Blog Hop

The beautiful and amazingly talented, LC Chase was kind enough to tag me in The Next Big Thing Blog Hop. This blog hop was created so authors could discuss their latest release or their current WIP (Work in Progress). LC got our engines running with her current WIP, American Muscle I'm gonna slow it down and tell you about my latest release, Substitute Heart. 

First, I want to share. This was the angel I received after finally submitted my story. When someone from my writing group submits a story, the stunning Xara X. Xanakas always gives our stories an angel to watch over them in the submission process. Isn't he breathtaking! 



1. What is the working title of your book?

Substitute Heart. I have to show you a picture of the AMAZING cover! I cried when I first saw it. Aisha, from Less Than Three Press designed it. (See Right-->)

2. Where did the idea come from for the book?
The title actually came first along with the first chapter. It was the first time I ever just sat down without thinking about what happens next, and wrote what I saw playing in my head.

3. What is the genre of the book?
Gay contemporary romance. 

4. Which actors would you choose to play your characters in a movie
rendition?
I think Travis would be played by Matthew Mitcham and Oliver would be played by Vin Diesel. 

5. What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?
A solider returns from the dead to help husband move on. 

6. Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency/publisher?
Less Than Three Press published Substitute Heart on Dec. 12.

7. How long did it take you to write the first draft of your manuscript?
I wrote the first chapter and set it aside until almost a full year later. I picked it back up, only taking a week or so to complete. 

8. What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?
I haven't come across any in my genre per say, but I would say Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol. 

9. Who or what inspired you to write this book?
I love military stories. I always cry watching one YouTube video of a soldier returning home after another. This is picture (Left) also spoke to me. A lot of my work as a brotherhood theme, I admire their work and sacrifice. They are men and woman of honor. 

10. What else about your book might pique the reader’s interest?
When one of my best childhood friends passed away, I always wanted that one last chance to say goodbye. We all weren't blessed with that peace of mind of knowing our loved one is safe and okay. Travis gets to not only say goodbye, but know without a doubt that his former husband is always with him. 

To keep this blog hopping, here’s a list of awesome authors I think you should check out:
Zach Sweets and Casey K. Cox

Sandy Hook

We all know what happened this past Friday. We will all remember the images of those children and families dealing with a tragedy that should never have happened.

Usually, I hope a song for Playlist Monday, but couldn't bring myself to play something about my writing when I can't stop thinking about these young children. I have two children the same age is those who lost their lives. Sandy Hook Elementary has the same safety procedures as my children's school. My heart breaks for these families. I would be lost without my children. My husband and I didn't tell them of the event in Sandy Hook. My youngest cries watching the commercials displaying pets without homes. I couldn't imagine telling her of such evil . Instead, we turned off the tv, played Uno and just spent time together. 

This Monday morning, I just want to remember those beautiful faces and brave teachers. I hope you all   have a blessed Monday. Hug the ones you love!

SSS: Bell Jar Memories

For this week's Six Sentence Sunday, I have gone back to the first story I ever started (Yes, it is still a WIP!)

Bell Jar Memories is a contemporary piece that follows Aidan Matthews home after a frantic call from his sister. Aidan hasn't been back to Kentucky since leaving after a horrible event sends him fleeing. 

In this scene, the Matthew siblings are talking with their father's doctor about the car accident damage. 

Dr. Webber was heading for the door when Maddie stopped her. "Does that mean my Gramps is going to be okay? Did you fix him?"

"I hope so honey."

"Good, then can you help my Uncle Henry?"

Oh God, kid no. Please don't say it, please don't say it. I chanted to myself.

"He has a stick up his ass and Uncle Aidan said you could help." The audible gasp from every adult beside me was palpable.  

Six Sentence Sunday: Substitute Heart

On Wednesday, my story, Substitute Heart will hit the shelves. I can't tell you how excited I am. This is the first story I ever submitted to a publisher. The people at Less Than Three Press were nice enough to accept it, making my dreams of becoming a published author come true:)

 I wrote the first chapter December of last year. After that first chapter, nothing I wrote seemed to 'fit' the characters. Setting it aside, it wasn't until September that I picked it back up. I loved this piece from the time I started until the very last word was written. I admit, I cried a few times telling Travis and Lane's story. I can only hope everyone who purchases it, feels that connection as I did. 

Without any more chit chat from me, here are your six sentences...maybe a little more;)

The men stopped and moved away from the casket, allowing me more time.  Each step I took closer to Lane felt empty. At first, I could only stare at the beautiful cherry wood. When I was finally able, I placed my shaking hands on the lid. I opened my mouth to speak but no words came out. I tried again. My voice was just as shaky as my hands as I finally stammered out, "Let's think of the future. Forget the past. You're not my first love. But you're my last." Tears burned my eyes and my heart shattered. 

Purchase Here