Though a little late with this I am very happy to spotlight one of my favourite authors who somehow never fails to deliver stories with warmth, drama, action and some very unusual far from human characters. She is prolific yet nothing ever feels repeated. Rather there is a constant feel of continuity and connection to characters and events.
Having just finished the Cambio Springs books which are absolutely delightful, I couldn’t help but reflect on the reason I enjoy this author. In fact, I have read all of Elizabeth’s books and have yet to tire of her incredible imagination and use of language. Somehow the focus on emotions keeps everything fresh, particularly the feeling of connection to the characters. Is this what makes a good story? I think it must be.
Her work is in a series format but there are never any cliff hangers. Each book stands alone but the clever way characters are woven in and out captures our attention. Consequently, you will read the series. You have to know more and as you follow the adventures of the characters created by Hunter, you find yourself genuinely believing you are part of this world, this family. Is this what makes a good story? To feel a part of, you must be connecting so I think yes.
If you enjoy the paranormal (vampires, shapeshifters and the mystical) but with a touch of reality in both the action and emotions of the characters, if you like love stories that are beautifully written and with characters you can’t help connecting with, then start reading. Warning: Can become addictive. M/s Hunter knows how to write a good story.
Check out some of her books. I have not missed a single one to date because each one has left me feeling so chilled, so relaxed and part of something not quite in this world. Choose from Elemental Legacy Series, The Elemental Covenant, Cambio Springs, or the Moonstone Cove Series.
Barb’s News
My books
A little happiness would be a new release in 2024 but a lot of happiness would be a better year in 2024 for everyone. I am going to do my best if some things permit (me, mostly) on both levels. Unexpected Celebrations, Book 3 in the Unexpected Love Series is up and running (most likely away from me).
The world around me
This week I attended a light display at the Umbrella Studio in Townsville. The artist is part of the writing community I belong to, but Lynn Scott-Cumming certainly has a bevy of other talents. The light show managed to tell a very good story in some incredible colours but unfortunately for me my phone played up when trying to load them onto my blog site. I still managed to salvage the photo with her lovey prose.
Sunday found me reading through some of the blogs I follow. The image and words inspire me into reflecting over the last month. Please click on Spanishwoods and discover why I am so obsessed with what makes a good story. The image and her words led me to this, my embarrassing but hopeful manipulation of words:
‘An ending is the turning of a page in the book of life. What is written on that last page depends on what we do. If you want an outcome, work for it but don’t forget to support others along their way. We can’t exist in isolation.
Wanting the same back is selfish but not wrong, hoping for it is natural, getting it, having it reciprocated is a lottery win.
Barbara Strickland
Books I’ve read and Films I watched.
N.B. I am not a reviewer. This is not my purpose in this part of blogging. I cannot stress this enough. Professional reviewers are very different. I just write about personal and emotional reactions because for me that connection is what makes a good story. For me, relating in even the smallest fashion endears a book or a film.
Films
The Beekeeper: Recently on my semi-regular film outing, I took a diverse path to moviedom. I hesitated because of what I had heard – heavy duty violence is not my norm when I go to the cinema. However, I knew that in this case the bad guys got punished big time for the hurt and devastation they caused. This overrode my so called normal. It was a great film, full of so much action but the audience never forgot the why. Look out for the last line in the film about choice. It makes you stop and seriously consider things you don’t want to think about. Would see again.
Rain Man: A lesson in tolerance and love and acceptance and also an insight into what makes good acting. Yes, it’s an old film but the changing emotions so apparent on the face of Tom Cruise as he grows to love his brother (portrayed by Dustan Hoffman) is incredible. Believable. I have taught special needs, and I can honestly say when you learn to accept and look beyond, selfishly I admit, we also benefit. It makes us a better person and pushes our boundaries of understanding. Oldie it might be but it’s also a goodie.
Books
Happiness for Beginners – Katherine Center
I love, love this author, and have discussed Hello Stranger previously. There is something Katherine Center does that makes an impact. The genre might be Romantic Comedy, but the feelings evoked are so much more than romance. We rethink our view of the world thanks to the humour and words so beautifully chosen.
The One Hundred Years of Lennie and Margaret – Marianne Cronin
Can’t think of anything to say except sometimes we need to be reminded how fragile we humans are. Beautifully written, so much heart but with a touch of humour this was a token of love to the young and the elderly.
Enough for now. Alla prossima,
Barb
If you are feeling kindly disposed, please feel free to check out my books
Links below.
Questions for me? Want to share your views and ideas? I’d love to hear from you. Liking and commenting will keep me working harder. Reviews of any books I have featured, including my own would be much appreciated. It helps writers become better writers. Consider leaving one at your place of purchase (click on the appropriate book links below for my books). That same link will take you to Goodreads if that is your preference. Thank you either way.
Follow and connect with me:
Amazon Author Page (US) Goodreads Amazon Author Page (Australia)
Looking forward to Book 3!!
Thank you for stopping by. I am working on it.
I’m glad The Beekeeper appealed to you – there was a lot of heart (and action!) in the movie, but I do love to see bad guys meet justice.
I’m glad The Beekeeper appealed to you – there was a lot of heart (and action!) in the movie, but I do love to see bad guys meet justice.
Pingback: Chilling in February 2024 Spotlight on Vampires, Lindsay J Pryor, The Blackthorn Series and real life - Barbara Strickland - Author & Blogger
Pingback: Chilling in March 2024 spotlights romcom reading, and self-reflection - Barbara Strickland - Author & Blogger