Monthly Archives: September 2012

Vampire Dating: When To Call It Quits

Posted on September 27, 2012 by Tricia Drammeh

Lately, vampires have been on my mind. Maybe it’s because the final Twilight movie is coming out soon. Or, maybe it’s because Halloween is right around the corner. Anyway, I got to thinking that’s it’s been a while since I’ve contributed any posts to my Vampire Dating Series.

Today’s topic: How to know when to call it quits.

Sometimes a human/vampire relationship doesn’t work out the way you’d hoped. Maybe he’s too possessive. Or, his dietary habits are getting in the way of your other relationships. Maybe he’s refusing to grant you the gift of immortality. There are several warning signs that your relationship is doomed to fail. Let’s discuss a few of them…

  1. He’s too possessive—It’s normal for your new boyfriend to want to spend all his time with you. When a relationship is fresh and new, it’s natural that the newly formed couple can’t get enough of each other. But, if he’s angry, jealous, or violent when you’re around other guys, that’s not okay. If he tries to micromanage your time, this is a warning sign. Don’t let him push you around. If he can’t trust you, the relationship won’t last. This goes for any relationship, whether it’s with a human, a vampire, or that cute shape-shifter who sits behind you in algebra.
  2. He ate one of your friends or family members—There are some things you can’t get past in a relationship. If he’s eaten one of your loved ones, it’s going to be very hard for you to forgive him. I’m not really sure you should forgive something like that. Murder is a deal-breaker. Just saying.
  3. You’re attracted to other vampires or paranormal individuals—Sometimes love doesn’t last. If you’re finding yourself fantasizing about your boyfriend’s adorable blood-sucking best friend, or if you’re attracted to that werewolf hottie down the street, you need to take a step back. If you have feelings for someone else, it could be a sign that are having doubts about your boyfriend. Don’t jump into a major commitment until you’re sure.
  4. He’s selfish—He taunts you with the gift of Immortality, but refuses to give it to you. He says he doesn’t want to ‘curse’ you with eternal life, but you feel like he’s holding the gift over your head. If you doubt his honesty, you might want to step back from the relationship. Maybe you need to question your own motivations. Is he the only one being selfish? Are you using him for his Immortality? A relationship not based on love is a relationship doomed for failure.
  5. You have nothing to talk about—Yeah, good looks go a long way and you can fill in those moments of silence with non-verbal activity, but for how long? Trust me. Eventually, you’ll have to talk to him, and if you’ve run out of things to say this early in the relationship, what the heck are going to talk about for eternity?
Breaking up is hard to do, ladies, especially when it comes to severing ties with an immortal who could snap your neck like a twig. In order to help you through the difficult (and often dangerous) process of saying farewell to your vampire, be sure to stop by my blog next week for the next installment in the Vampire Dating Series where we will tackle this sticky issue.
If you missed our previous discussions in the Vampire Dating Series, please visit the following links:
Categories: author, dating, dating advice, Favorites, paranormal, paranormal romance, tricia drammeh, twilight, undead, Vampire Dating, vampires, writer, writing, young adult fiction | Tags: , , , , , | Leave a comment

We Have A Winner

Posted on September 19, 2012 by Tricia Drammeh

Congratulations to our new President, Cheyenne Wilson from the Timeless Series Novels. Thanks to her campaign manager, Lisa Wiedmeier, and the minion of Timeless fans, Cheyenne won the election by a landslide.

I’m hoping to hear from Cheyenne later today to tell us about her plans for our great nation; however, due to her growing responsibilities, it might be difficult to catch her.

As the winning campaign manager, Lisa Wiedmeier will receive a signed copy of The Claiming Words and some TCW swag. Congratulations, Lisa!

Categories: author, the claiming words, tricia drammeh, writer, writing | 3 Comments

The Polls Are Open

Posted on September 18, 2012 by Tricia Drammeh

As many of you know, I called on my readers to nominate their favorite book character to serve as our next President of the United States. Nine candidates emerged and the time has come to cast your vote.

Below is a summary of candidates to choose from. The official poll appears in the column to the right. Don’t delay! The poll is open until September 18, 2012 at 11:59PM eastern daylight time. The winner will be announced at noon on September 19th. 
  1. Lisbeth Salandar (Girl with the Dragon Tattoo) / Campaign Manager, Diana Borus: “I nominate Lisbeth Salander (from “The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo” series) for President of the United States of America. Ms. Salander has a strong sense of morals and is a strong proponet of women’s rights. She will not back down for what she belives in and is willing to confront any man for women’s rights. She would also be a proponet for the right to bear arms and would be willing to make golf the national passtime. Vote for Lisbeth Salander and she will defend both women’s and men’s rights.”
  2. Lewis Franklin (Lynchcliffe Cuckoo Series) / Campaign Manager, Melanie Dent:  ”I nominate Lewis Franklin from the Lynchcliffe Cuckoo series because he supports the underdog and gives a voice to people who don’t have one. Also he is very good looking so would look nice on the campaign posters and TV shots. He stands up for marriage and damily values sadly lacking in today’s society and he hates violence.”
  3. Vegin Martoka (The Lokana Chronicles) / Campaign Manager, Kay Kauffman:  ”I nominate Vegin Martoka from The Lokana Chronicles. Vegin believes all men – and women – were created equal and will make sure that all are treated equally before the law. He despises corruption and has ousted corrupt officials from every level of government. A family man, Vegin strives to lead by example. Honor, decency, and integrity are very important to him. He is a team player, willing to compromise when needed, and believes that the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few. Vote for Vegin! He will lead Lokana – erm, America, sorry – back to glory! :D “
  4. Shuki Bolkiah (Not a Man) / Campaign Manager, M.A. McRae: ”I nominate Shuki Bolkiah as president. His qualifications: an excellent education, experience in advising kings and presidents, and he has helped bring a war to an end. This incident demonstrates his common sense – when a member of the opposite negotiating team asks whether he is really a eunuch, he replies: “A pity our respective Defence Ministers are not eunuchs. They might think with their brains instead of their balls.” This is an illustration of Shuki’s most important atribute – he doesn’t have an excess of Testosterone getting in the way of his thinking.” 
  5. Mr. Darcy (Pride & Prejudice) / Campaign Manager, Amy Metz: “ I nominate Mr. Darcy. Every woman in America would love him, and every man would want to be him. He wouldn’t put up with any nonsense, he would know how to dance and entertain at state dinners, and he would make eloquent speeches. And besides, Elizabeth would make a killer first lady. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and support Mr. Darcy for president.”
  6. Darth Vader (Star Wars) / Campaign Manager, Ryan Holmes: “Darth Vader gets my nomination. That cape-wearing dark lord knows what’s needed to keep the unruly masses in line. Strong leadership requires a strong thumb and an occasional death choke. Gone will be the days of a Senate incapable of cooperation or deliberation. Vote for Darth Vader. Together we can rule the world!”
  7. Cheyenne Wilson (The Timeless Series Novels) / Campaign Manager, Lisa Wiedmeier and the Timeless gang:  I nominate Cheyenne Wilson. from the Timeless Series. She knows what its like to struggle through life and if things get out of control she’ll pull a can of whop ass on you! We lovingly call it “pulling a Cheyenne”. And, from Kindelle: “She’s a kick Ass chick with 3 hot body guards and u mess with her you’ll be sorry go Cheyenne!!!!” From Natalie: “She has already endured more in her short life than most have in their entire lifetime AND she comes with her own personal Secret Service agents!!” From Dfransen: “She is timeless, strong, spirited, level headed, beautiful and an all around great candidate.” And, from Juanita: “She knows how to hold her temper, can go days on a minimum of sleep and food (shich means she’ll amke an awesome mom someday), has, as one person has already pointed out, 3 kickass body guards. On top of this, she’s not afraid to stick up to men, and when you REALLY piss her off, she will destroy you. Watch out world :) “
  8. Dakota (Emily Dahill, CID Series) / Campaign Manager, Lindsay Downs:  ”I nominate Dakota, the collie hero in my Emily Dahill, CID Series. He’s a keen listener, sometimes. Has a tendency to go explore on his own. Is brave and loyal to those he works with. And best of all he’ll lick the dinner plates clean at a State Dinner thus insuring the guests don’t linger to long.”
  9. Treebeard (Lord of the Rings) / Campaign Manager, AFE Smith: “I nominate Treebeard from The Lord of the Rings. He doesn’t rush into decisions. He’s definitely pro the environment. And because he isn’t human, he’d be above all the usual questions of sex, race, religion etc. OK, there is a small danger of assassination by arson, but give him a bodyguard of firemen armed with hoses and I think we’ll be fine :-) “
Don’t forget to vote!!!
Categories: author, blogger, tricia drammeh, writer, writing, young adult fiction | 5 Comments

Harry Potter for President?

Posted on September 11, 2012 by Tricia Drammeh

With the presidential election coming up, political debates can get heated, quickly spiraling out of control. I have very strong opinions about politics. I also want to keep my friends, Democrats and Republicans alike. Therefore, I will try not to spew my political views all over the internet. (If I slip up and get mouthy, please remember I respect your views as well. Can we still be friends?)

So, in an effort to bring a little fun to the political process, I’ve decided to do something really stupid. (What else is new, right?)

I’m inviting readers to nominate a presidential candidate. Yes, that’s what I said. Nominees will be accepted until Monday September 17th at noon eastern daylight time. The polls will open on September18th at midnight and will remain open for a full 24 hours. The winner will be announced September 19th at noon (EDT).

Here are the rules:

  1. You cannot nominate a real person. 
  2. You may nominate your favorite character from a novel. The candidate does not have to be human. 
  3. The character can be from a book you wrote (published or unpublished). 
  4. Post your nominee in the comments section on this blog. You must include a ONE paragraph campaign speech telling us why your candidate would make a great president. You may include ONE link to your personal website or blog. 
  5. You may tell blatant lies (this is politics, after all) 
  6. One nominee per person 
  7. You may bully all your friends and family into voting for your candidate. 
  8. The winning candidate receives nothing, however the person who nominated the winning candidate will receive an autographed copy of my book and some bling. Oh, and you can tell all your friends that you were the campaign manager for the newly elected President. 
  9. You must have fun. 

So, that’s it. Start working on your campaign speeches and get those submissions rolling in. Don’t forget to check back throughout the week to read up on the growing list of candidates. (We might do some fun stuff too. You just never know.)

Categories: author, blogger, crackpot ideas, elections, fiction, tricia drammeh, voting, writer, writing | 21 Comments

A Little Help?

Posted on September 11, 2012 by Tricia Drammeh

As an author and a blogger, my personal life often bleeds into my writing. Out of respect for my family’s privacy, I try to keep some things to myself. I try not to reveal any embarrassing personal stories that involve my kids, and as a mother of teenagers, I’ve come to realize that almost anything embarrasses them.

Most of the fun, entertaining stories I’ve compiled have come from my children or from the people I used to work with. If I can’t use friends and loved ones as fodder for my blog, what the heck am I supposed to blog about?

I could make stuff up, but I try to save my wild imaginings for my novels. I could spill all the dirt on my family and friends, but change the names to protect the innocent and the guilty. Or, I could write deep, thought-provoking articles. Okay, you can stop laughing now.

The truth is, I often struggle to find suitable blog topics. Honestly, I could use a little help. So, what do you like to read? What topics interest you? What would you like to see more of?

Categories: author, blog, blogger, blogging, paranormal romance, tricia drammeh, writer, writers, writing, young adult fiction | 7 Comments

Rewrites, Revisions, and Falling Out of Love

Posted on September 3, 2012 by Tricia Drammeh

If I don’t respond to emails, answer phone calls, or if I fail to like your status on Facebook, try not to panic. I haven’t dropped off the face of the earth or taken a vow of cyber-silence. I’m just in the middle of a rewrite.

For those of you who write, you know what I’m talking about. Rewrites are intense, stressful, and totally necessary. I believe rewriting is one of the most important steps in the writing process. For those of you who’ve been there, you understand why I rip out a handful of hair each time I begin rewriting a new chapter. You understand why I’m slowly losing my mind.

But, for all of those authors out there who are shaking their heads and saying, “My book was perfect after one draft and a quick proofread,” please read on. We need to talk. Or, rather, you need to take my Falling Out of Love Challenge. In order to take this challenge, you need to wait at least six months to a year after you finish the initial draft.

“Why do I have to wait that long”, do you ask? Here’s why: You can’t edit your book if you still love it. Yep, that’s what I said. I’ll even rephrase it for you: If you love your book, you can’t edit it, at least not properly.

You see, I once thought my book was perfect. I finished the first draft, polished it up a bit, posted it on authonomy.com, and waited for the compliments to roll in. Sure, some people liked it, but they had lots of criticisms and suggestions to make. Too much of this…not enough of that…consider changing this and that. It wasn’t long before I began to see my book in a new light. And, before I knew it, I fell out of love.

Falling out of love is a good thing. Love is blind, love is forgiving, love makes us do things we ordinarily wouldn’t do – like publish a poorly edited book on Amazon. If you have uttered the following phrases, you need to take my Falling Out of Love Challenge:

  1. It’s fine. I ran spell check and fixed all the errors.
  2. I just finished my book yesterday, and I already published it on Amazon.
  3. I just finished my book yesterday, and now I’m working on my query letter.
  4. Every book has a few punctuation mistakes.
  5. It’s the story that matters.

Guilty of uttering any of these phrases? That’s okay. I still love you. Love is about embracing imperfections. It’s okay to love your book even if it’s imperfect. You have to love it in order to sell it, market it, or even finish it. But, a good writer knows the difference between loving their book and ignoring mistakes. True love is not blind.

Ready to take the Falling Out of Love Challenge? Let’s go…

  1. Write book
  2. Fall totally, head-over-heels in love with book.
  3. Set book aside for six months
  4. Re-read book, noticing all the imperfections you didn’t pick up on before

Still love your book as much as you did before? Probably not, but don’t be discouraged. Revise, rewrite, and rebuild your relationship with your book. Before you know it, you’ll fall in love all over again.

Categories: author, blogger, love, paranormal romance, rewriting, tricia drammeh, writer, Writerly Posts, writing, young adult fiction | Tags: , , , , , | 4 Comments

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