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Cia

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  1. Cia

    CSR Discussion Day: Forces by Invnarcel

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Did you read Forces by Invnarcel this month? A little dark, a little twisted, maybe a journey you weren't quite expecting... just right to get us in the mood for Fall! Enjoy my interview with Invnarcel below, then leave your comments on his story or writing! 
     
    Chocolate or Vanilla?
    Chocolate.
    If you had 30 minutes of free time, what would you do?
     Meditate and connect with myself. It’s relaxing and great.
    What brought you to GA?
     A love of reading and posting gay stories!
    Is there a literary character (in the whole universe of fiction) that you’ve read who you really identified with?  
    Not really. I feel like a very multi-faceted being. A lot of my own characters represent facets of me or facets I used to have.
    Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
     Not really. I can be bad at getting inspiration at times, but so can anyone. When I was more amateurish I used to have a problem with excessive adverbs.
    What’s the first thing you do when you start to write a story?
     Jot down a ‘plot skeleton’. The meat of the story then gets filled in as I write. Even if the story is very freeform I still write a ‘chapter skeleton’ for the first chapter even if it’s just three or so points.
    If you had to pick a favorite among the characters in Forces, who would it be and why?
    I would have to say Stanley Milton. Though the main character has his own interesting psychology and I relate to him way more, Stanley is a character I did the most research for. He is very peculiar and a lot of the story’s focus is on trying to figure out what kind of person he really is. I think he’s fascinating and I hope other people do too.
    What inspired you to write Forces?
     Before writing my gay-thriller-romance novellas I read two books because we know that reading other stories helps with our writing. Before starting Forces I read a psychology book and an old French novel about narcissists talking about their romantic exploits. The angle I took with Forces was different to my other novellas so I was looking forward to exploring that. 
    Your stories can have many dark elements that are well-written to leave readers guessing. Did you do research about psychopaths for Stanley’s character or did you wing it?
     I read a full clinical textbook in preparation for Stanley called ‘The Mask of Sanity’ by Dr Hervey Cleckley. In fact most characters are named after researchers cited in that book, including my main character Phillip Cleckley. Prior to Forces I’d also read other psychology books including memoirs. Research and capturing realism is very important to me.
    Do you want to share anything about your current work-in-progress or the next story you plan to share on GA?
      I don’t know much about it yet. I do know that my characters are older now, since writing about high school kids is something I wanted to branch away from being a 25-year-old myself. Phillip and Stanley were 22-years-old and so university/college students in their early twenties will most likely be the focus of my next novella. I will probably go back to exploring supernatural elements, it has always been a guessing game in my past four novellas whether or not the supernatural is involved. I’ve touched on incels in the past, and I’m curious to explore that dark and messy realm of human psychology. For now I haven’t decided on anything. 
    Don't forget to leave your comments on Forces below! 
  2. Cia
    Did you catch Monday's feature with the banner for Rec's story, Palouse? Check it out if you want to feature it in your signature. So I live in Washington, so I know how special this region of the state is, how scenic it can be... but just how few opportunities there can also be for anyone who is 'different'. Rec's story has all of that and more. I think you'll enjoy this excerpt as well. 
    Click here to read more
  3. Cia
    Sometimes you just want to sink into a story, and Rec is an author that lets you do that. His stories always drag you in and don't let you go from beginning to end. Palouse is no different. Have you read it?

    Length: 110,617
    Description: Palouse is a coming-to-maturity story of a half-Navajo boy who is a virtuoso at violin. The story traces his rise, fall, and reemergence in the context of a domineering mother. It is a story also of a developing love between the boy and a gay friend.
    A reader said: An amazingly beautiful story that continued to grip this softy with all manner tears shed as Micah's past touched so much of mine and others life experiences. Thanks for the Epilogues in bringing closure. Above all else for your sensitive and imaginative literary talent in bringing the enriching stories of Jake and Micah. ~ napaguy
     
    If you want to spread the word about Rec's story, download the graphic below and add it to your signature!
    Make sure you come back on Wednesday to see the excerpt I chose to share!

  4. Cia

    September CSR Feature: Forces by Invnarcel

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    It's a month of changes, and this story was written to make you wonder... are things what they seem? Are are the characters who they seem? I guess you'll have to read Invnarcel's story, Forces, to find out!
    Forces
    by @Invnarcel
     
    Length: 35,514
    Description: Phillip Cleckley is a young journalist investigating a murder at Lochdale college. He begins an unfortunate liaison with the prime suspect, the wealthiest family's son Stanley Milton. Both men are different, but together they find a similarity.
    A Reader said: Well it certainly kept me guessing.  Good story!!  Thanks invnarcel! ~KayDeeMac
     
    Don't forget to come back to comment on the discussion day on Monday, September 28th! 
  5. Cia
    August already! I'm keeping that contemporary theme going with another oldie but goodie with Vlista's Cameron. This is one of the... lighter tales, so to speak. Come back on Wednesday to check out an excerpt from the story. 

     
    Length: 97,187
    Description: Cameron thinks all he wants are one night stands, and plenty of alcohol. That is until someone comes along who causes him to re-think what he really wants in life.
    A Reader Said: A really nice sweet ending after a trouble filled but realistic story, I really enjoyed it, very well written. I will also second the comments above and vote for a sequel, it doesn't have to be dramatic just seeing the guys carry on with life and deal with regular things would be good. ~Torontotop
     
    If you want to spread the word about vlista20's story, download the graphic below and add it to your signature!
    Make sure you come back on Wednesday to see the excerpt I chose to share!

  6. Cia
    Well, did we make it through another month and another story for the CSR? How did you like I Do Like to be Beside the Seaside by Ivor Slipper? Don't forget to share your comments below, but first, I gave a detailed interview that you just can't miss Ivor's replies to! 
    Do you eat your fruits and vegetables?
    I'll eat most of the traditional vegetables, but I don't eat much fruit other than the summer strawberries, raspberries and apricots.
    What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
    I read a lot and in the right months of the year I like to spend time in my garden.
    What's your favorite room in your house? Do you plot or write there?
    My favorite room is the lounge where I can relax, read and watch sport on TV. Writing is done using my laptop which resides on the dining table.
    What’s the best part of being an author?
    Can I say two things? One is being able to express and share thoughts and ideas. The other is the friends I have made as a result of my writing.
    If you could give advice to yourself when you first started writing, what would it be?
    To somehow discover the skill to write better dialogue. Something I still consider a weakness.
    What do you think makes I Do Like to be Beside the Seaside stand out compared to other “similar” stories?
    Perhaps the fact that I was familiar with the location at about the time the story was set.
    Do you resonate better with one character over the other, Chris versus Billy? Why or why not?
    Great question. Chris started off as Billy's life raft, but both were dependant on George providing the lifeboat. Chris's character is more mine; Billy's what I would have liked mine to be!
    Did the characters or the plot of this story come first?
    The story was originally written in response to a Picture Challenge on the Iomfats site and was just what is now the first chapter. But having created the characters, I wanted to know more of how their lives unfolded which led to the other chapters being written later.
    So Chris was very much inspired by the picture and from that came the plot.
    Is there a scene that either really flowed or was super difficult to write?
    The first chapter flowed easily and indeed the whole story didn't present many problems. Maybe it was easy to write about that era.
    Would you like to share anything about your current or upcoming works with readers?
    I've struggled to write anything in recent months, but hopefully the muse may be returning. 
  7. Cia
    Well, we made it halfway through 2020. Kicking and screaming, fighting the world, or maybe just resigned to the reality that is facing us. Honestly, I really liked the title of this story, which is what initially caught my eye. "How true!" I thought. "But can it be that lighthearted of a tale?"  Then I wanted to know more. How about you? So while you're facing whatever your reality is, how about escaping into this story instead....
    I Do Like to be Beside the Seaside
    by @Ivor Slipper
     
    Length: 54,627
    Description: England in the mid 1960s.
    Chris Atkins suffering an unhappy home life, decides that as soon as he is 15 and entitled to leave school, he will also leave home.
    A Reader said: I can heartily recommend Ivor's story for its' character interaction and development and a storyline that deals with whatever good can come from being broken.  ~ Bard Simpson
     
    Don't forget to come back to comment on the discussion day on Monday, July 27th. 
  8. Cia
    Writing Tips From Fellow Writers
    Passive Voice: Avoid word choices using 'to be' and the conjugations 'is, am, were, was, are, has been, have been, will be, being' as much as possible to keep action immediate and reduce the passive voice when writing. It lacks precision and clarity. Use search to find those keywords that indicate passive voice and consider each to see if your sentence needs a re-write.
    Plot Arc: The 'hook' is what intrigues readers in your story. The climax is the point the book wouldn't exist without; the whole reason for your character and plot to exist. Hooks should be point A, climax point Z, of course. Between you have all the other letters of the alphabet. This is the journey your reader makes from the hook to the climax. Make sure that each point builds on the last and that they all further the story to that climax!
    Self-Marketing for Authors: Authors just write a story and sit back and wait for reader's acclaim. A book on the shelf, an online story on a site full of online stories will not stand out unless you make it. A good story will keep readers coming back for more, but to get them, you need to network. The best way to do that is to get involved in author discussions, use status updates, signatures, reviews, etc. A blog is also a great way to feature your writing!
    Speech Tags: Speech tags are to be avoided; they're like evil little speedbumps for readers. Use them occasionally but try to stick to said or asked. Instead, use actions or thoughts from characters to show the reader what is going on in the scene instead. Create the emotion or action through a visual cue, like slamming a door after shouted dialogue, or wiping away tears after a cry of loss.
    Don't Edit Alone: GET HELP! We can't stress this point enough. Get a beta reader and/or editor or two, or three even! Fresh eyes on your work catch things you invariably miss. If you want to have a great story, you have to do the work to make it the best it can be!
    Editing For Content: Ask yourself who, what, when, where, why, and how when reading for content. Does the story answer all the questions you think it should? Highlight all the lines/places in the story that best answer those questions so you know if the story follows the logical order. Sometimes something the author just knows doesn't quite make it into the story, making vital plot points confusing to readers.
    Editing Tip: Make editing, for yourself or others, a priority and always try to learn the rules as best you can. Try researching grammar rules at least thirty minutes a month.
    Editing Tip: Listen to music or chew gum. Something that will keep you from being bored, but won't really distract you. Let's face it, writing something new can be fun; checking for errors is not, but it is a necessary evil. If editing your own work, make a list of what to watch for when you write/edit next of common mistakes you keep making.
    Four Editing Tips: 1. Try printing out your story/chapter and editing by hand. 2. Read backwards, covering the extra text with a paper if necessary to not get caught up in the flow of the story. 3. Point to the words one at a time if you find you tend to skip words that are missing or extra words added, especially. 4. Try to get at least one night of sleep between writing and editing.
    Writing Names in Fantasy Fiction: In fantasy, if you want to have an Arabian tone to the story, you should use names similar to original names, but make sure you change some of the letters around. Keep that consistent and change names of people and locations the same way. If you give your new words meaning, eg: Bairela means 'star jewel' and ela means jewel, don't use that same syllable in a name that shouldn't evoke the jewel meaning as well.
    Writing Names in Contemporary Fiction: Names create perceptions in reader's minds. Harsh consonant sounds tend to give the perception of short-tempered harsh people, or places. Soft sounding names tend to imply more beautiful people or locations. If you've set your story on Earth, make sure the names chosen are correct for the region. For example, the Inuptian (an Iniut dialect) word for river is kuuk where the Hawaiian word for river is wai.
    1st Person Point of View: With this the author uses I, me, my, and mine as the pronouns. The helpful aspect of this is that we get to see the immediate thoughts and emotions of the character. What writers have to remember is that you can ONLY use the point of view of your character.
    2nd Person Point of View: With this the author uses you, or your as the pronouns. This isn't telling the story to the reader so much as almost making the reader the character in the story.
    3rd Person Point of View: In 3rd use he or she, her or him, hers or his as the pronouns. Includes: 3rd person omniscient—shows the thoughts of every character or 3rd person limited—shows the thoughts of one character. Some authors do third person limited, but vary the character POV they choose to showcase in sections. Not as common in published literature, it's more common in online fiction.
    Narrative Voice: Narrative voice is the person or point of view used when writing, eg: a character, you as the author, or a variety of characters. The story could change depending on what viewpoint character in the story is chosen. This includes: Third Person Subjective, Third Person Dramatic/Objective, Third Person Omniscient, Stream of Consciousness, or Universal Omniscient narrative styles.
    Sentence Tips: 1) Don’t start sentences with the same word repetitively. 2) Vary the length of sentences (and paragraphs) to break up the text in a natural ‘flow’ pattern to mimic speech. 2) Eliminate unnecessary words such as: that, just, really, pretty, very, some, a little, probably, a bit.
    Show, Don’t Tell: This means to let your characters live their story. Tell: Mike and Gary drove Mike’s car to the store for ice. Show: “Hey, let’s go grab some more ice at the store, Gary.” Mike unlocked his car.
    Beating Writer’s Block: 1) Write every day to form the habit. 2) End your writing when you still know what comes next in the scene so you have a starting place next time. 3) Try a prompt or quick writing challenge if you’re blocked on existing work.
    Write Badly: Seriously. A first draft is supposed to be the ‘rough draft’, and striving for perfection before you write ‘The End’ will only slow you down. Once you know the entire shape of the storyline, you can go through and refine it through the editing process—but first you must finish it!
  9. Cia

    June CSR Discussion Day: Caz Pedroso's Here Kitty, Kitty

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Did you read Caz Pedroso's story, Here Kitty, Kitty? What did you think of it? Make sure you share your thoughts below in the comments, but first! Enjoy this interview with questions Caz graciously answered for me so you get the skinny on her! 
    Are you a person who makes their bed in the morning, or do you not see much point?

    Not much point making my bed. When my daughter and husband are home, my bed is my office.

    If you were an animal, what would you be?

    A house cat, my food would be delivered to me, I’d get to curl up in the sun, and I could demand all the attention I wanted.

    If you had 30 minutes of free time, what would you do?

    Um…Read!!!

    What’s one location you’d love to go to research for a story?

    I’m torn between Egypt in the real world, or Discworld in the book world.

    If you had to only work on one project for the next year... what would it be?

    My medieval fantasy series that I am still trying to find time to devote to. I think the first book stands at roughly 20,000 words at the moment and has done for most of this current year so far.

    Was it harder to stay inspired writing 1k each week for this story versus longer chapters?

    Yes…In between chapters I would work on other projects and sometimes I wouldn’t want to put them down to write the weeks chapter on the current flash.

    Which do you prefer, vampires or shifters?

    Hmmm, depends are they single and straight? Joking aside I like both the same and try to include them both whenever I can in my writing.

    Was it hard to write a gender-neutral character like Angel?

    Yes. I had to do a fir bit of research and read others who have written similar characters. It is why they had only a small part this time, so I could ease into it slowly.

    Do you have a favorite part of Here, Kitty Kitty?

    As gruesome as it was, the part I liked was when Tristan stood up to his father and killed him. I like to think his father had a split moment to regret his actions and wish he’d runaway instead, before he died.

    Would you like to share anything about your current or upcoming work with readers?

    I’m afraid my readers are as much in the dark as me. I’m waiting to see what characters speak to me to see what unfinished story gets finished and posted next. 
  10. Cia
    June, June, oh miracle of months! It's June! Halfway through the year and the start of my summer break! I want to celebrate with one of my favorite genres, paranormal! So I picked a vampire story. Oooh! What could be better?! 

     
    Length: 39,181
    Description: Shade’s job is simple, catch the outlawed vampire, Garrett McQuinn. Can he still turn the sexy vamp over to the court, even when he starts to doubt that the man committed the crimes he's been charged with? Can Shade ever trust an outlaw with his life...or his heart?
    A Reader Said:  Just stumbled across your story yesterday, so I´ve been reading it for the last couple of days. I´m always a bit apprehensive about reading original fantasy type stories, because it´s my favorite genre and I hate to see it not done well. I´m really glad I did try the story out though!
    Just finished it now and it was smokin´! I especially liked the characters´ little back stories (Garret, Maggie..) and enjoyed it all round. All I can say is good luck to them all, with their committee... ~sunsbane
     
    If you want to spread the word about KC' story, download the graphic below and add it to your signature!
    Make sure you come back on Wednesday to see the excerpt I chose to share!

  11. Cia
    Woot! Wednesday! Excerpt day. I can't wait to share this exciting moment with you, because I think you want to read this story. You need to read this story. Did you catch Monday's blog featuring Chasing the Shadows by KC? Well if that didn't intrigue you, hopefully this will! 
     
    Want to read more? Click here. 
  12. Cia

    June CSR Feature: Here Kitty, Kitty by Caz Pedroso

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Welcome to June! It's a nice, long.......... month. Yay? Well, no matter what your circumstances, there's a great way to keep yourself occupied! Read Caz Pedroso's novel Here Kitty, Kitty. A paranormal tale that started off of one of my games (you're welcome, lol) she took is so far beyond that prompt and made an awesome tale for readers to enjoy. So... enjoy! 
    Here Kitty, Kitty
    by @Caz Pedroso
     
    Length: 56,464
    Description: This started as a story for the Grid Game and has gotten bigger.

    Simon is a newly turned vampire, he's made his home in a lovely cave on a mountain.

    Unfortunately, someone else has decided they like the cave too.

    My prompt was - A newly-made vampire (verb) deep forest on a mountain no one dares enter (conjunction/pairing word) the cat won't move.
    A Reader Said: This was the latest Wednesday Brief from Caz and it was fantastic it didn't let up in action and suspense from chapter one.  ~chris191070
     
    Don't forget to come back to comment on the discussion day on Monday, June 29th. 
  13. Cia
    Okay, so I usually do an intro, but seriously? Do you care about what I have to say? No.... really? I'm hurt! 😢 Bah! Fine, I'll just post this awesome interview where Rob gives some AMAZING news that has me rubbing my hands and will make all of you clamor with your comments about the story and his news below. What, you want to know what it is? Really? Should I share? Shhhhould I? 😛
    If you were an animal, what would you be?
    That’s a tough one, but I think the easy answer would be bear, because I can gorge myself on sweets and then go hibernate all winter 😋
    What’s one location you’d love to go to research for a story?
    There are so many places I’d love to go, but if I’m travelling for research purposes, I think at the top of my list would be a tour of castles in Bavaria, Germany. There’s something epic and romantic about them and I’ve been fascinated with them since playing the Gabriel Knight adventure games by Sierra back in the day. I think they’d play in well with a vampire story I have bubbling in the back of my head.
    What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
    To be honest, the current pandemic has derailed a lot of my activities. Before all this happened, I loved going to the movies with my husband, going out to dinner, and hanging out with my friends. These days, I’m spending my free time planning and outlining my next visual novel.
    If you had to only work on one project for the next year... what would it be?
    I’ve just started working on a new visual novel which explores some paranormal themes. I’m really excited about the story as well as the preliminary artwork. I hope people will be as excited as I am when I’m finally able to share some progress.
    High school. Hormones. Howling. Why werewolves as a paranormal theme?
    I wanted to explore a dominant/submissive theme (though not BDSM), and werewolves let you take that to the extreme. There’s something thrilling about losing control to a physical change, but the werewolf theme also allows you explore alpha/beta pairings, as well as biting and scent play.
    Do you like writing paranormal, science fiction, or contemporary stories the most?
    I think I like writing science fiction the most because I’m able to create worlds that are familiar but have new or unexpected twists, or I can just go crazy and create something totally new and different.
    Timber Pack Chronicles has a great flow between the chapters. Did you write this story completely before you posted it, or was it shared as a serial work?
    I’d say it was about 75% finished before I started posting the chapters. I staggered the chapter posts with about a week between if I remember right, and that gave me time to finish the ending and also incorporate some feedback I received.
    If you could pick one character to meet in person, Parker or Colton, which would you pick?
    I’d have to pick Colton for sure. I mean, who doesn’t want a big strong overly-confident man to take charge and show them who’s boss? 😋
    Colton and Jed both have stories in Timber Pack Chronicles series. Do you think you’ll go back and write more for the pack?
    I have outlined a couple of plots for future stories in the Timber Pack universe, but honestly, they’ll likely end up as short stories or novella-length stories as opposed to full-length novels. I hope to have something finished later this year, maybe for Halloween or Christmas!
    Can you share anything else about your current or future projects with your GA fans?
    Currently, I’m re-editing a previously published novella for re-publishing, and also re-working an erotic short I wrote. My first visual novel Human Cargo is wrapping up, with only a few final pieces of artwork in the queue.
    Planning and writing has also begun on my next visual novel, and I’ll be spending the next few months working on that. As I said, the preliminary artwork is fantastic, and I hope people will be as excited as I am when I’m finally able to share some progress.
  14. Cia
    Did you catch Monday's blog featuring this month's Classic Author? Viv wrote a story of Halloween treats and troubles for teens that just can't be beat. Have you read it? Monday's reader comment was someone who enjoyed this story as a teen, who found it as their first and one of their favorite stories on the site. What do you think?
     
    Want to read more? Click here.
  15. Cia
    May is a month of seasonal changes. Here in the northern hemisphere, the flowers and blooming and love is in the air.  Time for a romance? Or maybe I can tempt you away to a darker pursuits with this Halloween short story, All I Wanted by @viv from the 2006 Fall Anthology. I know someone was certainly tempting someone in the tale....

    Length: 9,732
    Description: Okay so I can admit it, I’m a freak. It’s official, and I say that only because it’s true. Sitting here, waiting for the doorbell to ring again, or to hear some low knock on our heavy wooden door from some costumed children, accompanied by some less than enthusiastic adults who are constantly reminding their kids to say thank you, I had managed to separate all the candy bars in the bowl I held in my lap, by flavor. I mean what kind of head case does that?
    A Reader Said: This was actually my first story I ever read when I joined GA, and still remains my favorite piece on the whole site. I was 17 when I first read it, and the realism of the teenage characters rung so true to real life it totally engrossed me. Every once in a while I come back to reread this story and it never gets old. I love this short.
     
    If you want to spread the word about viv's story, download the graphic below and add it to your signature!
    Make sure you come back on Wednesday to see the excerpt I chose to share!

  17. Cia
    Welcome to 2019! The Can't Stop Reading book club continues, and this winter month drags on without a holiday and with so many facing a post-festivities let down. So let's have some fun with fanfiction story by @Laura S. Fox titled Nude Pics Please! She shares some information and backstory on the original Chinese comics this is based on in her story note, so make sure you check out all the info! So enjoy the story and come back to catch my review with Laura and share your thoughts on this 23k novella on the last Monday of the month, January 28th. 
     
    Nude Pics Please!
    by Laura S. Fox
     
    Length: 23,019
    Description: To give a little bit of context for anyone who didn't read the manhua, the characters starring in my little fanfiction piece here are He Tian and Mo Guan Shan, two boys who are sort of in a cat and mouse game. This story starts after He Tian sends Mo Guan Shan a dick pic to tease the guy. The characters are aged up, so they are in their last year of high school and of legal age.
     
    A Reader Said: Great story! Really enjoyed reading this.  ~ Ricknc
     
    Don't forget to come back and share your thoughts on the Discussion Day on Monday, January 28th! 
  18. Cia

    May CSR Feature: Timber Pack Chronicles by Rob Colton

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Okay, so I admit it... this month's feature is all about a comfort read for me! I recently re-read Rob's Degan Chronicles stories, cause... awesome. Yes. I've loved Rob's work since I found him way back when on another site, and I cheered when he came to GA. His fans are legion, of course, so I know a lot of GA persons have read this story as well. If not... well, maybe many of us have some time on our hands while the whole world tries to stay healthy? What better way than reading? 
     
    Timber Pack Chronicles
    by @Rob Colton
     
    Length: 93,326
    Description: The object of Parker Montgomery's crush is big man on campus Colton Butler, who is much more than he appears to be. Colton has been watching Parker from a distance, patiently waiting for the day when he will finally be able to claim his destined mate. When Parker is threatened by a rogue wolf, Colton's instincts take over and he finds that his actions have consequences that threaten to tear his pack apart.
    A reader said: Captivating characters, compelling storyline, electric erotic action, this story hits the mark on all of the above. Great work all around, thank you. ~Miles Long
     
    Don't forget to come back to comment on the discussion day on Monday, May 25th. 
  19. Cia

    April CSR Discussion Day: Clockwise Series by Aditus

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Well, it's come already. Can't believe it! How has spring come had flown so fast? We're already approaching May, but not before we chat about this month's featured short series, Clockwise, by Aditus. Did you read the series? Do you have a favorite story out of the four? I wonder if it matches his favorite? Read on to find out!!
    Do you eat your fruits and vegetables?
    I’m vegetarian, so, yes I eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
    Chocolate or Vanilla?
    What’s vanilla without chocolate? Both!
    What's your favorite room in your house? Do you plot or write there?
    In winter it’s the living room/office. I sometimes space out and stare at the slowly moving reflections of the rock crystals hanging from the curtain rods, and plot. In summer I love to write in a room part house, part garden.
    What’s something personal about you people might be surprised to know?
    I own a book with the title Vegan Food Porn. That’s probably not really surprising, though. Maybe I learn and collect swear words in as many different languages I can find is a better answer to the question.
    What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
    Reading of course.  As we have many great exhibitions here, I also like visiting those, especially photo exhibitions.  Then there's gardening, traveling, and slow-walking the dog who is very old by now.
    What’s the best part of being an author?
    Having an excuse for having a permanent movie theater in my mind and being able to show the films to others.
    Clockwise has 4 stories. Which is your favorite?
    The third story. I looked at so many different houses. In a way, I planned my dream house while I wrote  9:05 PM.
    Did you start writing the first story intending to do 4 different stories in the series, or did they just evolve that way?
    I wanted to write four stories for four consecutive anthology themes. I needed a connective element and thought a clockface with its division into four quarters would make sense.
    The ending… *cries* Did you plan to wrench hearts on purpose from day 1?
    No! Each story just happened and was inspired by something different. 
    Would you like to share anything about your current or upcoming works with readers?
    I’m currently writing a story inspired by comicfan’s Bloody Valentine prompt.  My editor thought it has the potential to become something longer: a novella or even a novel.
    I’m also working on a murder mystery story ‘The Puppeteer.’ 
     
    Don't forget to share your thoughts about the stories below! 
     
  20. Cia
    Did you catch Monday's blog post featuring a fanfiction story? Yes, we do have fanfiction on GA, and the Harry Potter world is always a big favorite! Did you download the graphic, read the review by a reader? Or are you just popping in to see what excerpt I chose to tempt you into clicking? 
    Well I shall not keep you in suspense any longer! 
    Want to read more? Click here! 
  21. Cia
    Well, no foolin' April is half over! Serious! We are rolling right along into a new season, the year is a third over already, and there's no time like the present to take some time for yourself to enjoy a story. How about a fanfiction of Harry Potter? The wizarding world is always a fun vacation stop!
     

     
    Length: 133,106
    Description: Harry Potter's sixth year started with Draco attacking him in revenge for his father's capture at the Ministry of Magic
    A Reader said: Never been a fan of this universe even though I have watched the films. I actually skipped pass this series of books while lookingredients for books to real but decided to give it a shot anyway and I pretty surprised that I've enjoyed this. Read this whole book in 1 day. On to the second!  ~ VoiceGS
     
    If you want to spread the word about dkstories' story, download the graphic below and add it to your signature!
    Make sure you come back on Wednesday to see the excerpt I chose to share!

  22. Cia

    April CSR Feature: Clockwise Series by Aditus

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    April Fools is over so you know this month's feature is no joke... I'm happy to announce you get to read a 4 part series by Aditus, Clockwise! Sweet, sexy, just that bit of spring romance that's starting to float in the air...
    Clockwise Series
    by @aditus
    Length: 12,370 over 4 stories
    Description: We witness important events that happen to a certain time in Romeo's and Julian's life as we move on clockwise. * A/N: This series features Romeo, a side-character of  'Red Running Shoes'. Each story can be read on its own and you don't have to read the main story.
    A Reader said: You definitely pulled at my heartstrings with this one, Addy. Excellent antho! ~ Lisa
     
    Don't forget to come back ready to share your comments and questions about the series on Monday, April 27th! 
     
  23. Cia

    March CSR Discussion Day: Elixir by Comicality

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    March came in like a lion, and it's still roaring down on us. The world is in an uproar, and if you're not affected by the current happenings, well... you're one of a very rare, lucky few. But the joy of GA is that you can escape into many different worlds through the stories if you just need to get away. How about this one? Did you read Elixir by @Comicality this month? You can share your thoughts below, but first, enjoy this interview with him!
    If you were an animal, what would you be?
    I've always loved panthers! I don't know why, hehehe, but a giant, velvety, black cat, with bright eyes? I always thought that was so cool!
    What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
    I'm REALLY into movies! I always have been, ever since I was little! I never get enough of them. The stories that people can tell with cinema just fascinates me. I also love reading books, and video games too. But all for the same reason. The 'story' aspect of it all is what draws me in.
    What’s one location you’d love to go to research for a story?
    I think New Orleans would be my number one spot. There is so much history there, and classic places that were left just the way they were built. Plus, the whole paranormal vibe is something that I've always been interested in as well. So the ghosts and magic and dark lore surrounding that area is a big thing for me. I've never been to New Orleans, but I would LOVE to go someday in the future!
    If you had to only work on one project for the next year... what would it be?
    Hmmm, it's hard to pick just one. But, if I had to choose, I think it would be the "Pak Rats" series that I've been putting together. I'm really excited about it. It's sort of tied in to the "Gone From Daylight" vampire series, but it is a big story involving the vampire mafia, and it's based on the whole Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack era. Every character will have their own book (Frank, Sammy, Dean, Peter, and Joey) and then they'll all come together in the final book. So I look forward to making that whole thing a reality. It's so much fun writing those!
    Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
    I think the hardest part of writing stories is patience. Because I always see all of my work as a whole, and there are certain points that I want to hit and parts of the story that I want to dive right into...but I think it's important to build up to those parts of the story, and give them some meaning. Even though I want, so badly, to just jump in and write the 'exciting' parts. Hehehe! So I had to teach myself to have patience and build a dramatic and meaningful bubble around those milestone moments in a story so that they can have a bigger impact.
    Do you have a favorite among the stories you’ve written?
    My favorites actually change with my mood when I'm writing. And I'm a moody person, hehehe, so that never stays stable. I love writing happy stories when I'm happy, I love writing sad stories when I'm sad, and I love writing horny stories when I'm horny. I guess it all depends on who I am that day.
    Did something specific inspire you to write Elixir?
    Nothing that happened to me, specifically. I think it was just the idea of...what if your biggest wish actually came true, and you weren't ready for the consequences that came along with it? You know? Like, if you just fancied somebody because they were cute, but didn't really know who they were on the inside...what would an obsessive love affair involving them be like? It's that old story of someone getting everything that they think they want, and not expecting a downside to that situation. So, "Elixir" is basically just a 'be careful what you wish for' story.
    Do you consider Elixir a romance or a horror story?
    I think more horror/thriller than romance. To me, romance takes time to grow. It's not just a matter of 'want'. And this story is all about 'want', and barely about 'love'. You have a two people that just want each other, no matter what, and have decided to go to great extents to make that happen. But there really isn't a 'romance' going on there. It's just instant gratification. I really wanted that to come through in the storytelling.
    Just what would the warning say if there was one included in the book Terrance used? Did he just ignore it?
    I'd say that any book of magic would basically stress the idea of there being good and pure intentions by the user. It's all about balance. If you're casting a spell for selfish reasons, it will not end well for you. Period. Hehehe! The more you give, the more receive. The more you 'take' for yourself...the more will be taken from you in the end. So be careful.
    Can you sum up this story in one sentence?
    Hmmm..."Love will come from love of yourself, so don't force it."
    Don't forget to share your thoughts below!
  24. Cia

    February CSR Discussion Day: Self-Portraits by Richie Tennyson

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Did you catch this month's CSR featured story, Self-Portraits, by Richie Tennyson? Have you read the story? It's a quick read, for all that it is more than forty thousand words. Make sure you share your thoughts about the story or Richie's other stories. But first, as always, enjoy my interview with him! 
     
    Are you a person who makes their bed in the morning, or do you not see much point?
    I do the most half-hearted feeble bed-making. I don’t see much point but I know I should at least try to be an adult.
    Have you ever gone out in public, realized your shirt is on backwards, and just don’t care?
    No, but recently I was out in public when I realised I was wearing a Harry Potter pyjama top.
    What’s something personal about you people might be surprised to know?
    I organise elaborate competitive Christmas Day treasure hunts for my family. The prizes are always terrible, such as framed pictures of my passport photo.
    When did you first decide to start writing?
    As soon as I could hold a pen.
    Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
    Sometimes it’s hard to gauge how much to “tell” the reader, versus whether the reader can make their own assumptions about certain things.
    Self-Portraits has some really… vibrant characters. Did you plot them all out before you write or did they come along organically as you started the story?
    The characters are mostly based on vibrant people in my own life, so they came onto the page organically.
    When you wrote the story, did you have the whole story idea from start to finish planned or did the characters take the story in any unexpected directions?
    The general storyline was planned from start to finish, but the Harriet character was totally unplanned. She just walked onto the page out of nowhere and took the story in a lot of unexpected directions.
    Self-Portraits really seems to have 2 similar-themed stories with different generations running simultaneously, influenced in different ways by their ages and experiences, with both the teens and the adults. Was this intentional?
    I hadn’t thought of it that way. Yes, both Richard and his mother go from being in a ‘couple’ to being ‘alone’ – and this plays out so differently, influenced by their ages and experiences. But the theme of powerful friendship/family love was intentional in both stories.
    What is your favorite scene in the story?
    The self-portrait itself.
    Is there anything you’d like to share about your current work or an upcoming story?
    I’m finishing a story called Happily Ever After, Ltd, which is about what happens when Prince Charming disappears from the pages of the Cinderella story. The fairytale company has to urgently find a temporary human replacement, but they don’t realise that the guy is gay.
     
    Don't forget to share your thoughts about the story!
  25. Cia
    Did you catch Monday's blog featuring No Fairytale World by Tiff? Have you read the story yet? It is just waiting for you to have a few hours to a few days if you haven't!
    This story has so many interpersonal ups and downs, highs and lows, and drags a reader in. I wanted to get to know more about the characters; from the beginning I ached for the main character. He was going through so many trials, but he was doing his best. Of course, life just keeps throwing wrenches at him. This section actually inspired the banner, so I wanted to share it. 
    Want to read more? Click here
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