Cia

Happy Birthday, Bee!!

LOL! I'm glad you liked him, Carlos. Not many did. Teddy is pretty sweet and a bit naive, though. I'm so glad you enjoyed the story. Thanks for the reviews.

“Psst, Will. Did you hear that?” I groaned. Teddy kept waking me up, insisting he heard something. He’d maybe slept an hour before it started. “Teddy, go to sleep. It’s nothing. The wind, maybe, but we are far too close to the city for any big creatures that can eat you.” “We’re going where creatures can eat us?” Teddy squeaked and grabbed my arm over him, digging his nails into my flesh. “I hate the dark!” “Ouch! Teddy, would you please calm yourself? You’re acting like a nelly!” “Will….”

It's a Halloween week feature for those who like to get into the season! I hope these anthology stories got you in the mood this month. Did you read the stories and poem? Did you have a favorite? Change your mind on some of the featured spookies? To kick off today's discussion, I asked the authors to answer a few questions about their stories and Halloween! Ghosts: The Harpsichordist by Carl Holiday Why did you use ghosts as a character in your story/poem? Why did I use a ghost (actually 3 ghosts) in my story (The Harpsichordist)? I think I was thinking of an old house on a bluff above the ocean. Old houses seem to be a place where you can definitely find ghosts. Having three in the same house, well, why not. Two little kids and the title character provided the protagonists with a medium where their recovery from a personal tragedy could have a happy ending. Do you have a favorite Halloween memory? Favorite Halloween Memory: this occurred back when kids could roam freely throughout the neighbor with out any danger of some think like this: there was a weirdo driving around trying to run over kids; it came to a happy ending, though; seems this kid was out in his cowboy suit and for some reason he put his hat on top of a fire plug; from a distance or with drug/alcohol influence, it looked like a kid with a cowboy hat that wasn't running away. Recipe for Disaster: Ones and Zeroes by Mann Ramblings Do you have a favorite Halloween memory? I wouldn't call it a favorite, but it is my most memorable. In third grade, I wanted to be a vampire for Halloween. I had the fangs, the cape and the makeup, but at the last minute I let my mother know I needed to have my hair slicked back, because that's how they looked, you know? We didn't have any hair products that could do the job and she wasn't about to run to the store at the eleventh hour so she made do with Vaseline. I kid you not... Vaseline. Did you know it took three weeks to wash that crap out of my hair? We used shampoo, laundry detergent and a few other things I've forgotten about. We probably should have just shaved my head, but I liked my hair too much for that. I'm surprised it didn't all fall out after all the abuse we heaped on it that year. Do you have a favorite Halloween legend? I have to admit I'm pretty partial to Sleepy Hollow and the Headless Horseman. I saw the Disney version every season as a kid and it was exciting, creepy and utterly fascinating even back in those days. I even loved the Tim Burton film starring Johnny Depp and bought the DVD when that came out. I like to watch it at least once during October. Pandora's Box: Rise of the Serpent by Celetheiel Do you have a favorite Halloween memory? I was 7 and looking at my moms home-made costume that i was going to wear... I was a little Indian boy... I was really wowed that my mom made that costume, herself for me.... Afterwards we had enough candy that it lasted us half-a-year. Mom and dad would put it all in a big old glass jar and it would sit there...and if say it wasn't wrapped all melt together in a big...pile of sugar... Do you have a favorite Halloween legend? Not really, the only real Halloween legend i remember is The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, doesn't help that it plays every year at Halloween. Why did you use a vampire as a character in your story/poem. The simple answer would be... because it fit... It fit with the Theme... It's actually based in the same universe with my big Vampire Story, A Crimson Frost, and I felt like it was a good tale to tell. What's your favorite treat for Halloween? Candy Corn, I believe I like the most. The Back-up Plan: Magic in the Air by Andy78 Do you have a favorite Halloween legend? Aside from the traditional Bloody Mary, The Thirteen Floor is one of my favourites. The Thirteenth Floor (which I think originates from Pennsylvania) is about people who enter a haunted house on Halloween and try to reach the thirteenth floor. Each floor tried to scare them from going up to the next floor. The only people who survived were those who fled before reaching the thirteenth floor. What's your favorite treat for Halloween? Anything with sugar and nothing with granola I'm very partial to toffee apples (candy apples) this time of year, but they're not really Halloween specific. Okay, so what did you think of this month's choices? Enjoy them? Don't like creepy crawlies so you were hiding behind your hand as you read? Want to share your fav Halloween memory?

In honor of this month's creepy critters theme, we featured Renee Stevens' story, Joined by Blood, with our October Signature Background. Who doesn't like vampires, right? If you like your vampires bad... this story has them! If you like your vampires good... this story has them! But figuring out which is which...? Maybe not so easy! If you haven't read it yet, you really should, but first, read this interview with Renee where you can learn some more about Interview: Renee Stevens on Joined By Blood Do you eat your fruits and vegetables? Some, not all. Some fruits and vegetables I really like, some I absolutely detest and you couldn’t pay me enough to eat them. What are you wearing (and no fibbing!)? Jeans and a t-shirt… and my camo slippers. Are you a person who makes their bed in the morning, or do you not see much point? Lately I try to at least throw the blankets so they somewhat cover the bed; otherwise I end up with dog hair all over the sheets. What brought you to the site? Mainly, I was looking for a new place to start posting my work. I found GA, became a member right away, and started posting in the old eFiction. I just never left and am now coming up on my 5 year GA Anniversary. Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing? Sometimes it’s just finding the motivation to write, especially lately. It seems like there’s just one thing after another happening that makes me lose my focus. What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment? The toughest criticism is hard, but I think it would have to be the one when I was simple told that a story I wrote was “boring beyond belief” and had absolutely no plot. The thing was, the story in question was simply a look inside the lives of two characters. There wasn’t supposed to be a major set-up with them. Luckily, no one else agreed with the person who said it. The best compliment… I’ve gotten a lot of compliments on my writing. With that being said, I think it’s a toss-up between two things. One of which is those readers that continue to follow me and read my work. I’ve heard from a few readers that they’ll read anything I write and honestly, I don’t think you can get a much better compliment than that. The other compliment is similar, in those readers who will wait for chapters, no matter how long it may take me to get them out. I’ve had stories get stalled because of life happening(a couple have been stalled for years), and yet, when I manage to finally get a chapter out of them, I get a review (or comment) from someone saying that they are so happy I’m working on the story again. Do you have any writing rituals? If I’m determined to write, then I turn music on. Other than that, only if I’m stuck. If I’m stuck, then I turn music on and grab a pen and paper. Here’s the thing though, it can’t be just any pen and paper. If I am truly stuck, it has to be a new pen and a new notebook. I actually have a stack of single subject notebooks and a stash of never used pens that when I get really stuck on a story, I grab a new set and start working through my thoughts. Once in a while, even that’s not enough to get me through the block, but most the time it works. How did you come up with the title for Joined by Blood? I always have a really hard time coming up with titles for stories. Generally, I run title options past Cia, and sometimes we go through numerous title options before settling on one that we both like. If I remember right, I thought of “Joined by Blood” because of the simple reasoning of, all of the bonds in the story are blood bonds and require the ingestion of each other’s blood. I ran the thought by Cia (probably Lugh, Nephylim, and Frostina as well) and it was agreed to be the perfect title. Why vampires? I’ve always been fascinated with vampires. When I wrote “Joined by Blood” I had already written a couple of shorter vampire stories, but I wanted to try my hand at something longer. I also always wondered as to what made a vampire good or bad, writing “Joined by Blood” gave me the chance to explore that. At what point did you realize that Dante, Damian, and Vik were destined to be a triumvirate? Was that the initial idea that came to you, or did it evolve as you wrote the story? Honestly, that was NOT in the original plans at all. The original plan for the story was simply a Vik/Damian pairing, but the further I got into the story, the more I realized that Dante was playing a more important role than originally planned. He had a bond with both Vik and Damian that just begged to be explored. I wouldn’t say there was a “moment” that I just “knew” they were destined to be a triumvirate though, I think it was just a gradual realization. Little things started to come together until there was no other conclusion I could come to. What was your favorite part of the story? That is a tough question. There were so many parts to this story that just beg to become my favorite, but I think one part manages to edge the others out, just a little. In Chapter 6, both the reader and Damian learn of the true relationship between Jarrod and Vik. It’s a bit of an eye opener for everyone, but especially for Damian and it’s a bit of a turning point in the story. Have you considered writing a sequel to Joined by Blood? When I first completed “Joined by Blood”, I considered the story complete. Since then, I’ve done some thinking and considering and there just might be a sequel after all. It’s not really even in the planning stages right now because I have so many other stories in the works, but I do have a few thoughts and plans for if/when I get some of my other projects done. However, there is no timeline for when I might start work on it or when it might come out.

“We’re going to sleep in there? It looks quite small.” “It’s small apurpose. Our packs can only hold so much without weighing us down. Besides, it will keep us warm when the air chills at night.” I unlaced the top of my bag and pulled out a small brazier nestled into a fireproof box. “Care for some tea?” We’d had nothing but cold water in our flasks since that morning. “Will. I need to use the necessary.” “Now see, that’s a problem.” I snorted. I waved my hand at the trees around us. “Just pi

You'll find different kinds of artists here on GA. Some draw, some do photography, some graphic work, but by and far the largest number of 'artists' on this site are authors. Not how most people think of it, I know, but it's definitely a craft and one that you have to work at to create something beautiful. A word can paint a picture, too.

I married the first guy I 'officially' dated at 16, so I don't have experience with this either. I recently had the guy I'd 'unofficially' dated before that find me on Facebook and that was weird enough. I guess, as many folks have said in this topic, it all depends on how and why you broke up.

Welcome to the site, Mattster! I hope you continue to enjoy the stories authors work hard to post on the site.

Thank you for sharing this with us, Rush.

Thanks, Miles! This story was all about the non-angst. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

It’s blank.” Teddy frowned down at the metal square inside the box. “What good is that?” I smirked. “You think? Touch it, but just on the corner.” Teddy reached inside and slid his pinkie along the edge of the metal sheet nestled inside the box. “It’s oily.” He sniffed his finger. “And it stinks.” “Here, hold this for me.” I handed Teddy the lantern. The light dimmed, but I didn’t want it bright for this anyway. “Watch.” I reached inside the pocket where I’d hid the box and pulled out a very

It's a rerun! Due to the sudden alert of stories being rated incorrectly and Google being a PiTA, (read more here) we preempted a lot of the blog last week. So, to be fair, Renee gets her feature day back again! Something a little different this week for the review for Renee Steven's featured story, cause I like being different, lol. Most of the time a reader would be the one to do the review, but this time, I'm going to do it. I had the great pleasure to be a beta reader/editor for this story, so I got an inside view to Renee's creation. Of course, I had great fun while it was being posted teasing everyone I knew what happened ahead of time. Joined by Blood by Renee Stevens Reviewer: Cia Length: 82,036 Status: Complete Joined by Blood is a vampire novel... and who doesn't like vampires! Well, I certainly do, so I was super excited when Renee told me she was writing this story. There are so many different elements--a prophecy, a turning or two, evil and magic, love and loss... and so much more! And there are so many dichotomies in the story--like how vampires are so powerful and ancient, yet hide from humans. In the woods and caves of all places! When so many authors are willing to bring vampires into the modern times, Renee seemed to set hers back. The setting helped give the story its gritty, desperate vibe--and damn, were they desperate. Vik--the prince of his people--has a vampire who wants him dead. That same vampire who stole Damian's sister's innocence and turned her evil. But after seeing that, how is Damian supposed to trust Vik and his men, including the head of his guards and Vik's best friend, Dante? They're guys, so of course communication isn't their strong suit. There is a lot of posturing and a lot of misunderstandings, but fate's taken a big ole interest in the course of their lives, so they have to figure it out. Renee writes a lot like I do--she gets an idea and starts writing it. Then the story changes. There were so many times we sat on the computer and bandied about ideas. If Damian's sister did this... wouldn't it mean that? Does this line in the prophecy really mean what we think it does? It was almost like going along in the story with the characters! I love that about working with Renee. I remember once telling her she might have one scene changing so Dante could do something... and it was so funny, because it was actually 'normal' for her to tell me, "Dante just wouldn't do that!" and for me to smack my forehead and go, "Well, duh, of course he wouldn't!". Why? Cause Renee's characters certainly live in her head. She had firm ideas on who each of the guys were, what their stories and histories were like, and how badly she was going to torture them before they got their happily ever after... if they got it. Sometimes, with her, you're just not sure! I think that's why her story was so popular--with such vivid and alive characters, who couldn't be drawn into Joined by Blood?! Others had definite feelings about the characters too! For instance: Daithi said: And we all know how much of a walking trouble magnet Damian is lol. CW Price said: Damian also seems to have a bit of an anger problem as well. He seems to like to fly off the handle, like a little drama queen Rosenkrantz said: Dante is my favorite character in this. He's the only one who seems to retain any common sense when it comes to the technicalities. cogito_ergo_sum1666 said: love damian for being so hot to have two sexy vampires wrapped around his fingers, love VIK *swoons* for being a possessive boyfriend and when he's being a jerk? he is still sexy and never annoying!!! Oh and Dante? can i keep him? lol i mean this is like a fantasy lol. So there, see? i told you i love all of them Conner said: I don't know if you intended it, but I find Damian to be so obstinate and stubborn to the point where it makes him thick-headed. Frostina said: BOOOO! @ becca! That Bitch! she's... she's... she's.. PURE evil! Comicfan said: Vic needs to decide how he is going to handle Damian. Sometimes he is so sweet and tender and the next he is the caveman carrying his clubbed mate back to the room so he can ravish him. lol. So what about you? Did you have any feelings about the story or the characters? Were there any scenes where you just wanted to butt in and let them have it? Share your thoughts below! Also, make sure you head over the Signature Background feature blog to download your copies of the background. (There are hot guys on it... who doesn't want to stare at hot guys?!!)

Crushes are hard because being with that person causes such a rush of adrenaline, that when you're away from them it can be a chemical crash. You know, crushing on someone doesn't just happen to gay men with straight men. A lot of people face it--regardless of sexuality--so you're not alone. It's not always logical, either. Just... try not to let your hormones get the best of you. Stay friends, enjoy his company, and stay open to possibilities. Not all best friends to lovers stories are possible, but it's not impossible, either.

So many people equate gay fiction with gay romance. And to be truthful, it's very much part of the eBook world because romance does sell. But there are a lot of people out there who write stories without a lick of romance, much less sex, and still have their work sell--with gay characters. Your stories are what you make them. Don't write it if you don't feel comfortable, but don't let not 'knowing' something necessarily stop you. I'm a woman. Kinda a given that I don't have first hand experience of 2 men having sex and living as couple. Of course, not everything in my life is unrelated, but hell, I met my husband at 16, so I don't even have adult dating experience! But I do have readers and editors who know more than me, and I've taken their advice and ideas with my writing. I can observe the world around me. I read. So I write what I like. What I like is sci-fi, too. I know I've never met an alien, or piloted a star ship, lived through an apocalypse or crashed on a strange new world. Yet I'm able to write it because I just gave it a go and honed my world building skills. So, just write! Give a chance. You may not write everything perfect at first, but then, no one does.

Thank you. I might... sometime, though he hasn't really stuck out in my mind with a story. But you never know! Thanks for the review, Llina!

Happy Birthday, hun!!

Happy Birthday!

Thanks, ninecila! I like to make my characters act as regular people, even if they're the 'hero' of the story, and some regular people are annoying. I hope you'll continue to enjoy the story!

Gamma isn't actually higher when you consider we're talking about the brain. I will have to figure out a way to indicate the actual science of their rankings into the story without telling instead of showing it. Hmm... I'm glad you're already liking it Faxity.

He is a cocky little shit, isn't he? Then again, being raised as a 'second class' citizen in a rigid social rung society yet acknowledged as the smartest person due to his brain wave capabilities, and therefore unique, would probably give anyone a chip on their shoulder... just saying. Thanks for reading and reviewing, Valkyrie!

Will’s an aberration—the only beta to be born in 100 years. The city used to be powered by a machine invented by the last known beta, Schvesla. The monarchy has employed countless craftsmen for a century, but no one can make it run. The city relies on steam power, but now Will has reached his full potential there's a chance he might be the one to return the city to the golden era. He's smarter than any other person alive, but will that be enough?

“The lantern changed.” “Noted. Your point being?” I continued deeper into the cavern, my lantern held high above my head to ensure I did not fall prey to any holes. The last thing I needed was a turned ankle. My boots were already hampering me enough. Pride does go before a fall—one of my mother’s favorite sayings. Heels were not conducive to my explorations. “A flame turning blue usually means a ghost is about.” I scoffed at Theodore. “You are being superstitious. Ghosts? Have you been chat

When the parents can't, or choose not to, be there for their kids, it often falls upon educators. Go you for doing the best you can to get in on the ground floor when you might make a difference before they face some really hard choices as they grow older. It sounds like you have a LOT on your plate, though, so try to slow down when you can. Burning out is easy to do when you work that much.

In honor of the season, I thought this month we'd do something a little different! Anthologies are a great chance to sample authors' writing. It's also fun to see how they twist the themes into original pieces. For this October CSR, I thought I'd feature some of the creatures we often imagine lurking about the shadows. Vampires! Pandora's Box: Rise of the Serpent by Celetheiel Description: A group of friends find more than riches when they set out to explore an abandoned house. ~ 3,050 words Witchery! The Back-up Plan: Magic in the Air by Andy78 Description: Angus asks his supposed boyfriend Jason to the school formal. Not being ready to publically come out, Jason turns him down. Angus, in need of someone to go with, decides to magic himself up a date. ~ 5,039 words Were-Creatures! Cracks in Time Poetry: Midnight by Mark92 Description: A poem about a werewolf. ~ 186 words Mutants! Recipe for Disaster: Ones and Zeroes by Mann Ramblings Description: In the future, all para-humans are 2nd class citizens under constant control and supervision. Poll's sponsor is a securities specialist, specifically the man responsible for designing all tech the maintains the balance of human superiority. Poll accepts his world, he's well treated, until the disappearance of his twin brother Costa shatters his world view and forces him to decide where he stands. ~ 9,668 words Ghosts! Ghosts: The Harpsichordist by Carl Holiday Description: Michael’s partner of nine years cheated on him a couple months ago and, although he forgave Jerry, Michael is desperate to love Jerry again, even though there is a big hole in his heart. ~ 4109 words Okay, so you have your spookies! Check out these stories, and don't forget to come back and share what flavor of freaky had you hiding under the covers the most on the CSR Discussion day! It'll take place the last Monday of the month, October 27th!