Hoping this month gets me back on track with my blogging. I often consider giving it up, but the thing is, I like blogging. Obviously, a lot of what I write revolves around writing but then again a lot doesn’t. For example, this month is a spotlight on a fellow Indie author, a segment on Melbourne (love this city), my toe-dipping entry into selling my books in public and the segment on books and films I have enjoyed recently. And also, the idea of imperfections.
Random topics appeal and challenge and whilst I will have a writing base, those random topics keep me on my toes. I also get to look at imperfections in a good way – I see what I have done and I see what I am doing. Checking for improvements, whether impartiality exists or not, is an insight into growth. Without growth there is no point. If I haven’t an avenue to reflect then I can’t measure growth so I guess I keep blogging and keep broadening my topics, one of which has become an obsession. I have read so much rom com lately that I had to question why as I tend to be more genre varied, more impartial if you like. So why? Imperfections.
In this case, at least for me, the quirkiness or differences in the characters and the people around them allows that little bit of hope for the rest of us. Imperfections are real as we discover and not as bad as we sometimes imagine, especially in our selves. Good-looking does not equate with smart or good behaviour. Shoving differences in people’s faces does not garner acceptance. Happy endings aren’t given to us to appease us. They are there to draw us into believing that the people concerned will put in the effort needed to overcome the less than perfect moments that life will bring.
Imperfections are reality. Blogging allows me to explore things away from my normal writing without that pressure that comes from a novel, or a non-fiction book you may have authored. Best of all it also sets me up with a routine and I need that as I tend to be scattered in my thoughts and actions. My son thinks I tend on the eccentric side. I will take that and run.
Time to change the topic. July welcomes Alyson Walton, an epic fantasy writer but one who also dabbles in horror and sometimes poetry. Whispers tell me she is looking at doing an anthology of the latter hopefully by the end of this year. As a fellow Indie author, I have a soft spot for writers like Alyson (and myself of course). Writing is a lonely profession but with Indi authors it becomes a kind of double jeopardy because the responsibility starts and stops with you.
If you enjoy epics then read on to learn more about Alyson Walton, her hopes, and her dragons (yes, I said dragons as you will see below) from the author herself.
Meet Alyson Walton
Hi All,
I always get nervous when having to introduce myself, and rush to get it over in one breath. Barb assures me I’m with friends, so here goes. My name is Alyson Walton, and I published my first book, Black Blood and Stone, in November 2023. I am an Indie Author and I love it because whew, I did it! I did it the hard way. Let me take a moment to calm my racing heart…and gather my thoughts. In the meantime, about my book…
Black Blood and Stone: The Drachen Warriors Book 1, is an Epic Fantasy. In a world created by Dragon Gods, Ravyn’s life has been set on a path to marry and produce the next heir to carry on her father’s title. Fate however has other plans and Ravyn finds herself kidnapped and taken to a world of mysterious warriors. The Drachen, as they are known then proceed to tear apart her conception of the world and then rebuild not only a new world for Ravyn but rebuild Ravyn herself.
As Ravyn accepts her new role as a warrior and learns to deal with the new reality an ancient enemy stirs. A battle is brewing and it’s about more than protecting the people against savage beasts. This is a danger no-one is prepared for, and no one knows where it will end. Black Tears and Dust, The Drachen Warriors, Book 2, might just answer some of the questions arising…meanwhile meet a few inspiring friends.
Now, more about me… Hmm, I’m still trying to work me out. This is what I know so far: I like to collect dragons and gargoyles and will need to move into a bigger house if I don’t stop; I have more books than book shelves; my writing room is a mess, but I know exactly where everything is; I have trouble saying no, but am learning; I have ‘Grumpy Old Lady’ outbursts; having nails done is cheaper than seeing a therapist; do not, I repeat do not, stand between me and my chocolate; and my husband is a saint.
Me, in a nutshell.
Alyson
P.S. Check out my website and be aware, I have a lot more dragons up my sleeves.
blueinkonadragonstail.wordpress.com
Barb’s News
My own books
In my head my third novel is written. On paper I still haven’t got there but am closer than I have been. In the meantime, I did go on my first book selling adventure and thoroughly enjoyed it. Meeting and working with wonderful people (that includes you, Laura) and just generally enjoying the atmosphere is more than enough for a good time.
The world around me
I thought I would spare you the words and just show you what Melbourne has to offer and yes it does have imperfections. Seriously though, who cares? It has a vibe – always something to see especially in the arcades. And the food is great.
Books I’ve read and Films/Television series I watched
Television Series – The Big Bang
Nothing worthwhile has caught my interest this month but The Big Bang repeated the ending, and I can’t tell you the number of times I have watched it. The truth is I can’t help myself because the ending is so good. Sheldon learns a lesson. Will he slip back? Of course. However, that moment of realisation, his insight into his behaviour, is magical.
When I was teaching a class with mixed abilities I always worked out a lesson plan for success. To me that meant getting everyone to work together and yet still achieve individually. Together, respecting one another, meant help was always a desk away. But like Amy, I told them the truth about what is and isn’t acceptable, that it can hurt and prevent growth to disrespect.
In that last episode Amy sets the scene by admitting sometimes she is not happy with Sheldon’s actions and behaviours at all. She lets him know the harm it does, the disappointment it brings. And then he sees them all there, cheering for him, despite his actions. Suddenly Amy’s words are less a rebuke and more a revelation. You see why I watch repeats.
Books
Thoroughly enjoyed all the following books, maybe some more than others but mostly I was very happy to lose myself in the imperfection of people who manage to do a whole lot of loving anyway.
How to end a Love Story – Yulin Kuang
It was a wonderful read. The characters were so vulnerable with touches of people I know. This is an author I will be reading more from without any doubt.
Savour it – Tarah Dewitt
The characters were almost painfully appealing.
Daydreamer – Susie Tate
The characters actually were painfully appealing. Too cute and but not so nice at times, especially the main male character. I liked that enormously. No one changes overnight, not even for love but then again given a chance anything is possible.
Not in Love – Ali Hazelwood
Hard not to like the characters in this author’s books and that sense of real under the obvious book hero guise of the main characters is always present. I didn’t love this as much as Bride but I still loved it.
Word of warning. They all turn on the heat.
Happy reading everything and anything you fancy. See you next time or as the Italians say,
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)
The Emotions Anthology Box Set
Thank you, Barbara, for including me in your blog this month. Much appreciated 🙂
It was a pleasure. Now can I have a dragon?
Thanks for the shout out 😊
I’ve actually just started reading Alyson’s book and it’s sucked me right in.
My pleasure and yes it does suck you right in. There are so many books and so little time.😄
You are reading some fun romances and heat is just fine…lol
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