A Lasting Harmony and Story Motivations

It’s an amazing feeling releasing a new book. Most readers could not comprehend the amount of work that bleeds into a novel from the beginning conception of the story to the final moment when you press the publishing button and release your work into the world. As I release A Lasting Harmony, I want to share a few of the reasons why I chose to write about the heroine Jade Carter ( Bestselling country music star) and her knight in shining armor, Jason Knight.

Inspiration

p1020953
Shelley singing with the band ’29 Cents a Gallon’ at a Community BBQ

Every author shares a note of their life story when they write a book, and in a way, Jade Carter is the singer inside my soul that has always wanted to connect with the world on a more personal level. In my past, I’ve played Clarinet in a concert band, sung in a church choir, and even been a vocalist in a garage band. But, as a young girl, I stood at the screen door of my life and sang out to the world

I go out walkin, after midnight, out in the moonlight just like we used to do.
I’m always walkin, after midnight, searching for you….

I must have been all of four or five years old. My life was not idyllic. I was an abused child, living in a trailer court with a mother and father who did not love each other, and I wanted for love. So as my skies turned gloomy, I literally stood at the screen door, singing to the world. I wonder what my trailer park neighbors thought?

Patsy Cline

?w=300″ alt=”patsy-cline-after-midnight” width=”300″ height=”300″ />I didn’t have a relationship with my father when he passed away in April 2016, but I can thank him for one gift, the introduction of Patsy Cline into my life. He enjoyed a love for country music and one of his records had the song Walkin after Midnight included in the album. As I grew up, I never really formulated the same enjoyment for country music, but I really ‘loved’ this Patsy Cline artist, so this is why her music became a part of my life, and Jade’s singing act in the town of Harmony. It  seemed appropriate that Mrs. Arbuckle, or Mrs. A as known to the residents of The Thurston Hotel, would also love Patsy’s music, songs that have a delicious sorrow woven into the lyrics. Sweet Dreams especially, marries Jade to her past, which ignites her inner conflict in A Lasting Harmony, as harmony is something Jade desperately wants as she fights to win over her past as well as her personal struggle with drug and alcohol addiction.

Why can’t she forget her past and start her life anew… Why can’t any of us?

Addiction

A Lasting Harmony attempts to portray the struggle of addiction as it relates to Jade Carter’s life. In writing this story, I was mindful of the artists that have lost their battle with drug and alcohol abuse. My novel is a contemporary romance, so I have attempted to write my story without going into any great discussion about addiction and its subsequent cost to society. However, it saddens me that our world continues to lose great talent.

The songs that artists were singing, the songs that they could still be singing, will never be written, nor heard, again… How sad is that?

Happily-Ever-After

The good news is that there’s a ‘knight’ who live in the town of Harmony, and he will provide the happily-ever-after, and ALasting Harmony, that Jade is searching for. A Lasting Harmony is available now!

A Lasting Harmony

I am delighted to announce that my next novel, A Lasting Harmony, will be published on October 27, 2016. A Thurston Hotel Novel, this title is book five in a series of twelve books written in collaboration with eleven Alberta authors.

I really enjoyed writing this book and I hope you’ll enjoy reading it. I’m giving you a taste of what’s to come just over a month from now.

A Lasting Harmony: Backblurb

Fired from her music contract due to drug and alcohol addiction, Jade Carter relocates to Harmony to heal her wounds and rethink her ailing career. But when she checks in at the Thurston Hotel, hoping for a second chance, not everything is as it appears. Taking pity on the singer’s dire situation, General Manager Ben Thurston hires her, but not in the way she expects. Jade is soon attracted to bartender Jason Knight, but will her turbulent history and tenuous actions challenge a future with him?

Jason left the corporate world behind to settle in the Rocky Mountains for a healthier lifestyle. When Jade Carter walks into his lounge and into his life, a love at first sight type of chemistry ignites between them. But when they’re photographed together in a compromising embrace, local media attention forces them into a show of commitment.

Is it just pretend? Or could it be more? Can Jason prove himself to be a knight in shining armor who provides the lasting harmony Jade needs?

Le Bouquet De La Reine

To my delight, The Queen’s Bouquet arrived today. I removed the stopper and breathed in the rich perfume, and imagined a time when Marie-Antoinette might have enjoyed the same scent. With exotic notes of savoir-faire and Parisienne history, I find myself wanting to hold this bottle close to my heart!

Le bouquet de la Reine is a collaboration between Guerlain and the Chateau de Versailles. In purchasing the perfume, I have supported the restoration of the royal apartments of the Trianon palace, which was much loved by Marie-Antoinette. Created by french perfumer Thierry Wasser, the perfume is inspired by one of queen Marie-Antoinette’s favourite flowers, jasmine, and the gardens of Versailles.

Having visited the Chateau de Versailles and being that I am a lover of history, it is such a pleasure to have purchased this limited edition perfume. Marie-Antoinette would surely have loved it!

Marie Antoinette

 

Commitment and a Need to Write

Tulips are blooming in Vancouver and the air is fresh and clean. I glimpse red and yellow petals on the street below from my high-rise hotel window. I yearn to go to the flowers, bend down to the ground in the middle of a busy intersection and breathe their scent. But I don’t permit myself to leave the room. Commitment and a need to write; a need to finish my novel. Instead, I’ll write in view of spring with the aim of achieving today’s goals.

Where do you write? Do you have daily goals? Do you achieve your word count each day?

Normally, I write in my office at home, each and every day with the exception of Sundays. I’ve found over the years that repetition has earned solid results. Dr. Patrick Finn, a University of Calgary professor said at writing workshop:

“You are what you repetitively do.”

He’s right. A regular routine has earned this author a reasonable word count each day. I’ve watched words grow into something amazing as book two of my Odin Saga (1st draft) nears completion. (55,000 words and growing.)

I work to achieve between 500 and 1000 daily words. Recently, I tried something new, a writing date with friends. Writing can be a very internal, lonely place, so it’s fabulous when you’re working through plot issues. It’s also a great way to get to know your writing colleagues!

But wherever you choose to create, be it in a coffee shop or at home, be sure you sit yourself down in a chair and write. For words cannot grow into stories, without your regular writing commitment.

The River Inn of Harbor Town

Located in Memphis, Tennessee, The River Inn of Harbor Town lists itself as a ladies traveller preferred hotel. I think the boutique-styled accommodations would appeal to every gender and age, but especially to those that want a relaxed getaway, a romantic escape, or even a peaceful retreat. Overlooking the Mississippi river, it was a pleasure to stay here.

 

DSCN1254
The front parlor of the River Inn

 

The River Inn offers several amenities for its $257.00 (more or less) per night room charge. At check-in, we were offered a glass of wine. A really nice touch! We sipped our white and red infusions in the front parlour while the pianist (Laura) entertained us with various songs. We were dazzled with our very own private concert.

 

DSCN1249
Paulette’s Restaurant

 

I prefer fine dining as I appreciate both a culinary experience and a quiet atmosphere. Paulette’s restaurant is located inside The River Inn, which is convenient to guests that don’t want to venture out. The cuisine was tastefully prepared and I thoroughly enjoyed my medium-rare steak. However, guests also have the option of the Terrace and Tug’s, a casual grill. The Terrace is located on the upper level of the inn and offers an amazing view of the Mississippi.

DSCN0931

Port and Lindt chocolate was waiting in our room when we returned after dinner. Another complimentary and guilty pleasure.

DSCN0932

The inn has reading spaces where you can borrow a book. In the morning, guests will find freshly brewed coffee on the empty shelf.

 

DSCN1251
Paulette’s Restaurant – Menu

Breakfast is complimentary if you’re staying at the inn. I really enjoyed the Eggs Benedict.

 

DSCN0944.JPGFinally, you must walk along the banks of the Mississippi river. It’s dog friendly and perhaps like me, you’ll find treasures of yesterday along her shores.

I’ve got a secret!

I’ve always been the type of person who enjoys sharing secrets, or at the very least, gossip. So it’s really tough not being able to say a word about my next publishing project.

I’ve entered into a contractual agreement to write a more contemporary novel, a sweet romance, which will be released in the fall.

In the meantime, I continue to write ‘A Rain of Terror’, book two in the Odin series. The first draft is not yet complete, but I hope to publish this novel by the summer solstice. This is very doable given my current writing pace.

I’m really excited about potentially releasing two books this year and can’t wait to tell my readers more.

Valentine’s Day, Love

My love, if you ruled my sun and stars, how then would I live? Would I put more conscious thought into my decisions? Would my actions represent a kinder self and a more thoughtful provocation to pursue rightful paths? LOVE. If I live my life through your example, will I be different, inside?

I’d be remiss if I didn’t write about Valentine’s Day. A special occasion that celebrates human romanticism through the lens of cinnamon hearts, milk chocolate and rose petals, delighting the romantic and to some extent, my own desires. But the image to draw upon on February 14th is an ingredient far richer and mature. LOVE.

Love encompasses many ideals, but do people live their lives through the eyes of LOVE? Love is far more than a number inscribed on the calendar.

There’s a reason why poets write of love, musicians sing of love and authors craft stories about romance. Even the theologians scripted biblical songs of Solomon. Can you imagine a world where more of humanity embraced the written message found in the word love? When surrounding oneself with the possibilities, humanity might learn to contemplate:

Who would love consider; when would love act and how would love change everyday life circumstances?

I’m not a bible historian, nor a religious scholar, but I lead you to scripture and 1st Corinthians, which shares what love professes to be.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres….

It seems to me that LOVE is an important ingredient in our lives. A motivational being or inner compass that when utilized inspires heartfelt actions. A rudder steering our mortal ship; an engine powering our soul. Love, a gift ruling our sun and stars can only make us a better and wiser human people.  Something to ponder and truly celebrate on this Valentine’s Day.

Adventures on The Queen Mary

Some say The Queen Mary is haunted and if you believe in ghosts, perhaps you’ll sense their spirits as you walk along her corridors. Moored in Long Beach, California; I was intrigued by her historical past. A past that may still illuminate the passageways of today’s ship. Guests will find many reasons to visit, such as partaking in various tour options, enjoying a lunch date with a friend, having a cocktail in the 1st class observation lounge, or a special dinner with your spouse at Sir Winston’s! The ship shares a rich history and I enjoyed learning her secrets during a recent visit.

?w=750″ alt=”1st Class Shopping Area” width=”750″ height=”563″ /> 1st Class Shopping Area

Tours

Several tour options are available for guests that journey onboard the Queen Mary. I enjoyed two: Ghosts and Legends, and the Glory Days tours.

Ghosts and Legends

If you like to live your life on the edge and enjoy a mild Halloween scare, choose the ghosts and legends tour. Our guide, Dustin, led my husband and myself on a private tour from the top of the ship, down through the 1st class pool room and deeper still to the bowels of the boiler room. I’m sure it’s part of the show/act, but I found Dustin; slightly odd, almost scary. Warning: he dashes ahead, waits around a corner, catches you unaware, and then…. Boo! I SCREAMED. I know, my husband thought it was funny, too. I’m still shaking my head.

The tour continues with special effects, which I won’t spoil for you. Don’t be afraid to take the tour as the entertainment is all in good fun. But if you have a heart condition, perhaps don’t risk this show. Tour time: approximately 30 minutes.

?w=750″ alt=”The boiler room, where John Peddar was crushed to death at door #13.” width=”750″ height=”563″ /> The boiler room, where crewman John Peddar was crushed to death at door #13.

Glory Days 

If you fancy a stroll along the upper deck while learning the history of the Queen Mary, you will enjoy the glory days tour. I enjoyed discovering how the ship received her name, her place in history as both a luxury liner, a ship used during war times and that she still holds a speed record while crossing the Atlantic ocean. Tour time, approximately 30 minutes.

?w=750″ alt=”Strolling along the ship at sunset.” width=”750″ height=”563″ /> Strolling along the upper deck at sunset.

Sir Winston’s Dining

A night is not complete without a fine dining experience in the restaurant named for Sir Winston Churchill. My husband and I enjoyed a pleasurable evening at Sir Winston’s; our table next to the window and overlooking the ocean. A glass of Riesling, a seafood salad and an ample Ahi Tuna entree. The dining experience at Sir Winston’s was the best part of our day/evening. We left the restaurant feeling relaxed and content. I would travel to the Queen Mary, again, simply to eat here. The food fantastic; the service amazing.

Permanently docked at Long Beach, The Queen Mary operates as a hotel as well, so guests could consider staying the night. I don’t know if I’d be so brave. Some say the ship is haunted….

If you want to learn more about the Queen Mary, take more than memories home with you when you leave the ship and purchase the book: ‘Adventures on the Queen Mary’ … tales of a teenage crew member! Written by Dave Wooders with James Radford. Available at the gift shop, the book satisfies the sharing of historical accounts, stories, and has a great selection of historical pictures. Because I’m an author, I like to purchase such books. You never know when a writer might be inspired to chart a new story on an ocean liner.

 

IF NOT NOW, WHEN?

I’m borrowing this quote from Oprah Winfrey: If not now, when?

It’s that time of year again when most people contemplate New Year resolutions. I’ve written five goals down on paper and as far as I’m concerned, my resolutions are solid. Not some shadowed reflection of a dream.

A resolution for some might consist of a simple thought. A seed held in the hand, but not planted; a dream considered in the mind, but not put into concise action.

What if I lost some weight, I’d be healthier and look better. What if I changed my job because I’m not reaching my potential with this business. What if I change the person I glimpse in the mirror now? What will I become, then?

The fact is, most of us are afraid of change as change represents a fork in the road, a new direction of travel, a new footpath to walk, a river to wade across, perhaps a mountain to be climbed. The implications of this transformation just might be too overwhelming for some to take the first steps. And who are we kidding, change is scary; change involves work, real solid work!

But if not now, when?

That’s the kicker, isn’t it. IF NOT NOW, WHEN?

I think it’s important to evaluate why we consider altering our life goals in the first place. We should ask ourselves what the rewards might be should we assume some risk. The rewards could be awesome! And you know what, I can do it, you can do it, we can do it! If a plan is put into action, if goals are considered, reflected upon and written down, if we only try; resolutions can truly be achieved!

For me, my goals/resolutions have led to real rewards. I changed my life when I changed my job. I met success when I published my first book: “The Scarlett Mark.” In the coming year, I’ll publish my second novel in the Odin Saga, tentatively titled: “A Rain of Terror.” Later in 2016, I will revisit an older manuscript, “Rohland’s Cross,” and consider whether to publish this book in 2016, too. None of this could have happened if words had not been written down into sentences, then crafted to paragraphs, chapters, soon forming an entire book.

None of my goals could have been realised if words had not been shaped into sentences, then crafted into paragraphs. Chapters soon emerged to form an entire book. It was a great deal of work. It required relearning my craft. I took classes at my local University and I loved going back to school! Success!!!

However, the question is answered: if not now, when? I hope your response to a life question equals the growth or rewards sought! Cheers to the New Year of 2016 and the success it can bring.

 

 

 

People are People

The world seems bent on destruction. Passenger planes and fighter jets falling from the sky. Parisien concert goers, running for their lives. Refugees, terrorists, and leaders who attempt to bring calm. And through all the mess and madness that humans attempt to bear, I remember the words of a cabbie, which I’d like to share:

People are People

I often think back to a Chicago trip, but it’s not the cross-braced wonder of the John Hancock building, the magnificent mile, or oven the fantastic shopping that I recall, but the wise words of a cab driver. The United States was still in the grip of a difficult recession during this ride, where I shared a polite conversation with a cab driver. Cause, that’s just something I like to do! It’s part of the travel journey to talk to people, to glean context into another person’s journey. As on this day, conversations are sometimes enlightening.

The drive into downtown Chicago takes about twenty minutes. In that time, I learn that the cab driver is a former banker turned cabbie. He relates the six figure salary he has lost with the downturn in the economy. He drives this cab to support his family and soon we’re talking about his life.

He shares that he still has family living in Pakistan and that he emigrated to America to give that family a better life. We talk about tragic events, such as 911. He’s clearly saddened by the thought of anyone causing harm to human life. I distinctly remember him saying: people are people. My goodness, I wish I knew his name. Because what he says next, I could never forget.

People are people. Regardless of where they live, they want the same things: A good life, a job that will earn money, food on the table, happiness, rich laughter, peace, hope for the future, faith, love, so many things, I could whisper them forever. What happens when people have no hope of finding these things?

I fear that those who don’t have hope, the unemployed, the hungry, homeless, sad, abused, hurt, crying, lost, and unloved people; have somehow slipped between the cracks of society, and don’t know, or even remember this simple little fact. That people are people.

How can there ever be peace, if people forget, about people. In the words of John Lennon, “You may say I’m a dreamer, But I’m not the only one, I hope someday you’ll join us, And the world will live as one!”