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Cia

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  1. Cia
    Happy April and welcome to this month's Classic Author Feature! These blogs are all about bringing some of the older stories from our inactive authors that were once some of our most popular promoted authors that newer readers might have missed. Last month's story took you a bit forward, and this month's story takes you back. Revisit those early teen years and the crush you might have missed out on in @underthehoodster's First Encounters.

     
    Length:  51,634
    Description: Perry (A fairly rich kid who always seems to be in some sort of trouble) and Jesse (A poor kid who is a blackbelt and has a bad past reguarding his previous schools and his father) find love for each other after Jesse moves to Perry's school from another city.
    A Reader Said: I enjoyed this fully. It was a true and amazing record of a new loving relationship between two teenagers. This was so well written and a pleasure to read. Now on to the ‘Discoveries ‘.  ~ Cinnamon
    If you want to spread the word about Underthehoodster'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!

  2. Cia

    April CSR Feature: The Assassin by Lilansui

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    No April Fools, we're really featuring The Assassin by Lilansui this month for the CSR story! Darkish, lightish, twisted, different, definitely what you don't expect... what more could you ask for? Read the description and check out the review from one of the readers who thought he'd just give it a quick glance... then make sure you're ready come back and share your thoughts on the Discussion Day on Monday, April 29th! 
     
    The Assassin
    by @lilansui
     
    Length: 71,240
    Description:  Kian spills his strawberry milkshake on Daven at a Mall Food Court. Daven is caught between irritation and fear when Kian follows him to the men's bathroom. In mere minutes, Dr. Daven Noland meets Kian Raja, an Assassin with a warped sense of humor, and a valid contract with Daven's name.
     
    A Reader Said:  On a whim, I decided to read this story last night. It was 10 p.m. and I figured I would read the first couple of chapters before I went to bed...The time read 5 a.m. by the time I read the final word of The Assassin.
     
    I lost a night's worth of sleep, so, the question is, was it worth it? Oh, who am I kidding, of course it was worth it! This story kept me on the edge of my seat, my heart racing at every moment of danger, and me swooning at each and every romantic moment.
     
    This is one of those stories that I know I'll reread and never get tired of it. ~ @Drew Espinosa
     
     
    Don't forget to come back and comment on the Discussion Day on Monday, April 29th! 
  3. Cia
    Have you taken a second look at @MericCotton's completed story if you read Second Chances once before? Or was this your first time reading it? Either way, this month's CSR selection was something a little different than the usual teen or twenties or even thirties fair. Sometimes life passes before we know it (How is it almost April already?) and things happen.... Make sure you share your thoughts about the story in the comments, but first, as always, my interview with the author first! 
     
    Are you a person who makes their bed in the morning, or do you not see much point?
    ** I make the bed when it absolutely must be made – usually after the sheets have pooled on the floor…
    If you had 30 minutes of free time, what would you do?
    ** Walk the dog … take a short horse-back ride … or maybe just play piano – though all of those are better for at least an hour J
    What brought you to the site?
    ** I was searching for somewhere to share my writing that often touches on gay/straight issues.  Mostly somewhere with other writers sharing the same.  Somewhere to grow my skill by interchange with other like-minded people. 
    What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
    ** As mentioned couple questions ago – spend time with the puppy.  Actually full grown, just loves to act like a puppy – reminds me to think young.  Can spend hours at the piano.  Right now recovering from shoulder surgery – so puppy gets most of my attention.
    What’s the first thing you do when you start to write a story?
    ** Hardest part for me seems to be that opening hook.  How to say enough without saying too much.  I’m sure I’ll anger my past English professors – but I almost never do an outline other than mentally.
    Is there anything you find particularly challenging when it comes to writing?
    ** Opening and closing.  Whether the book or chapters.  If there’s a break inside a chapter, that’s always been a challenge.
    Did something specific inspire you to write Second Chances?
    ** I lost my partner to cancer a few years ago.   I was actually thinking of a long “chapter story” kind of thing – not sure what got me to go with a married man in a straight relationship – but it seems to have worked.
    Did the characters or the plot come to you first?
    ** Story idea came first along with the main character.  Not really the full plot.  Certainly didn’t know where it would end when I started.  That came like half way into it.
    What do you think makes Second Changes stand out compared to similar contemporary stories?
    ** Awkward question … I read a lot of historical fiction or SciFi.  The thing that comes to mind might be the story deals with both straight and gay relationships for one character.
    Can you sum up this story in one sentence?
    ** A recent widower learns to follow his heart while keeping his mind and soul open to what life presents to him.
  4. Cia
    How's your schedule? Spring break looming for you? Or are you just looking to crash from all the harsh winter or summer weather and need a good reason to take a break? Well, once again we have another Classic Author feature to tickle your interest and catch your eye in case you missed this early author from GA's beginning days! 
     
    Kombat Kids is set in a place very familiar to me... the Pacific Northwest. Not far from the Columbia River, this is a region with a lot of rich plant-life, varied animals of all shapes and sizes, and so many outdoor activities you don't ever have to go inside if you don't want to! The perfect setting for this story. Add in the stellar snippet of the review from Myr on Monday's feature, which you can read here if you didn't see it, and I am happy to also get to share an excerpt of this story with you to showcase just what you're missing out on if you haven't read it yet. You can also download a copy of the graphic to add to your signature if you want to share how much you enjoyed the story! 
     
     
    To read more, click here. 
  5. Cia
    This time of year, I'm always hoping for some spring to warm things here in the north, and I'm sure the south is getting ready for some relief from their heat. Either way, the extreme swings and highs and lows are starting to level out... usually. Washington is a great place to enjoy this time of year, and if you read GhostRyder's Kombat Kids, you'll get a great glimpse at the wonderful settings his story has to share as he takes readers on a journey along with his characters as they learn to overcome problems facing them. 
     

     
    Length: 278,295
    Description: The Kombat Kids belong to Unit One. Unit One was Started by James and Matt Bateman to give the local boys an option to the mostly homophobic Church run youth groups and the scouting programs. The Unit is located near the Columbia river in the South East Corner of Washington State and is made up of mostly gay boys and men. Members learn to cope with their own fears and problems during the first year and a half of the Units existence.
     
    A reader said: Kombat Kids is an emotional rollercoaster of a story.  Tons of funny one liners.  A lot of deep dark emotional pits to fall in.  You'll laugh.  You'll cry.  You'll cringe.  You'll swear.  You'll grumble about some grammar issues.  But chances are good if you start reading it, you'll keep reading it.  ~ Myr
     
     
    If you want to spread the word about GhostRyder15'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

    March CSR Feature: Second Chances by Meric Cotton

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Holy moly, it's already March! How's the weather where you are? We all know we'd rather be reading, no matter if it's warm or hot or cool or cold, so how about we enjoy this month's CSR featured story instead of worrying about all that outdoor junk. LOL This month there's something about the sadder side of love that called to me, and I couldn't help but think of @MericCotton's story, Second Chances. Give it a read! 
     
    Second Chances
    by Meric Cotton
     
    Length: 23,552
     
    Description: Can life start again after losing the person you expected to be your partner for life?
     
    A Reader Said: Loved this story!!  I did not expect this ending at all!  I’m not sure what I thought would happen, but I’m glad he’s taking a chance to find happiness for a second time!  Thank you! ~mfa607
     
    Don't forget to come back with your thoughts during the CSR Discussion Day on Monday, March 25th! 
  7. Cia

    February CSR Discussion Day: Down a Darkened Path by Ronyx

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    This month's story announcement for the CSR Book Club was Down a Darkened path by Ronyx. An experienced hand at writing, this GA Classic Author knows how to write a story that sucks in readers and keeps them reading as you can tell through many of Ronyx's works. This story was no different, based on the thoughts a lot of readers' thoughts. I know I enjoyed this story despite the sometimes troubling events and sad scenes, the redemptions and ending held true to my hopes for the characters.  But what did you think? Make sure you share your thoughts at the end of the interview! 
     
    Who do you like best, Jerry or Tom? 
    Jerry. I’m extremely allergic to cats. LOL. Besides, Jerry was the smart one.
     
    If you had 30 minutes of free time, what would you do?
    I would take, Shadow, my twelve-year-old flat-coat retriever for a walk. Because of his advancing age, I know he won’t be with us too much longer, and I love to spend time with him.
     
    What's your favorite room in your house? Do you plot or write there?
    My den (or as some would say- my man cave.) Everything I need is here. I have a large screen television, a computer desk and a comfortable leather sofa. It is where I do all my writing.
     
    Do you have a favorite quote about writing or reading?
    My favorite quote deals with education (which involves writing and reading.) At the end of my story, Reggie’s Journal, after Reggie struggles for months to complete a weekly journal, the teacher rewards him for doing an excellent job. He also writes the comment: The purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows. Very insightful comment about growing up and seeing the world through a different perspective.
     
    If you could give advice to yourself when you first started writing, what would it be?
    I wish I would have started writing sooner. I had thought about writing in my teens, but I lacked self-confidence. When I was about sixteen, I wrote the first few chapters of a story, and it still remains hidden in the bottom of a drawer. It wasn’t until many years later that I threw caution to the wind and attempted to do what had always been a dream. I’m forever grateful that I did. It was the beginning of an amazing journey. I’ve made so many wonderful friends over the past twelve years through the Mustard Jar, Codey’s World and Gay Authors.
     
    How much research did you need to do for Down a Darkened Path?
    I didn’t need much research. I had never considered writing a story with a blind main character. One night I received an email from a college student who told me he was blind. He asked me if I would write a story about a blind person. At first, I told him I didn’t think I could because I had never known anyone who was blind. However, a few months earlier, my nephew was involved in a serious car accident. He was a passenger when the driver lost control and plowed into a bridge abutment. He almost died. He was in the hospital in critical condition for days, and after a month he was moved into a nursing home for rehabilitation. As a result of the accident, he lost his left eye. Several months after he returned home, he was attacked outside his apartment by two men who tried to rob him. He also was engaged to be married, and his fiancée decided she couldn’t handle the situation and left him. For those who have read Down a Darkened Path, you can see the similarities of incidences in the story and my nephew’s life. I was able to take a tragic personal event and incorporate it into the story. My nephew is happy today, and he has adjusted well to the loss of his sight. In the story, I wanted Troy to accept what happened to him and live a happy and fulfilling life with Jayden.
     
    You wrote a scene where the characters tried to learn some empathy for your main character by experiencing sensory loss in a public place. Was that something you did for your writing process?
    Not directly. When I was in college, I took many psychology classes. In one of the classes we did a trust exercise where we were blindfolded and led around the campus for an hour by another student. We were required to do several sensory experiments. I used that learning experience and applied it to the story.
     
    This story has several very emotional scenes. How did you handle writing those?
    As I discussed earlier, this story was written from a personal experience. Probably the most difficult was writing the hospital scene directly after the accident. Tony (my husband- it was his nephew) rushed to the hospital when we received a late-night phone call. At first, he was not expected to live. The engine of the car was pushed into the passenger’s side, and his lower body was crushed. He also hit the windshield which resulted in the loss of his eye. He was in intensive care for a week, and he managed to show improvement after several weeks. The sorrow that night was very intense and emotional. We also visited him in the nursing home when he was recovering, and he talked about some of the depression he was experiencing. It was difficult because he was only twenty-two at the time, and he had such a bright future ahead of him. Today, he still suffers from bouts of depression.
     
    Do you have a favorite scene in the Down a Darkened Path?
    I love the ending! I think it is one of my best. I admit tears flowed down my face when I wrote about Troy singing, “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” What better inspiration than to end a story: “When you walk through a storm, hold your head up high. And don’t be afraid of the dark.”
     
    What is one thing you would like to share with us about your current or upcoming stories?
    I took a hiatus from writing for three years. In 2015, I lost my twin sister. She was in intensive care in three hospitals for ulcerative colitis. I visited her for three months as her health continued to deteriorate. She passed away two days before our birthday. Fortunately, I had just finished my last story, Other Sinful Things. After her death, I lost my passion for writing, and I stopped. I never intended to write again. I had also written twenty-two full-length stories, numerous short stories and a two-act play (which has never been published.) I was literally burned out. During the past three years, my readers have been wonderful. They have waited patiently for me to write again. Occasionally, someone will email me with words of encouragement. Two years ago, an administrator wrote and asked me if I would consider posting my stories here. Interaction with the wonderful GA members has also helped motivate me. Last year, I attempted a new story, Dancing on a Star. It has been difficult trying to write again. Several times I even considered deleting the story. It’s been a struggle, but I am beginning to approach the end. I’m not posting regularly because I don’t know when I might experience a slump. However, I have always promised my readers that I will complete any story I start. Dancing with a Star will be completed. I hope that it contains the quality of writing my readers have come to expect. If not, I hope they understand.
  8. Cia
    This week's feature is a much older story but one I hope more interest in will prompt Myr into writing more. Who wants to join me in getting some more psi-corps? The banner feature was on Monday if you want to download and put the banner in your signature to share the story as one of your favorites! 
     
    Myr's story is a short one, but I still chose a longer excerpt. There's a good glimpse into Jerry's character here, but it doesn't really give anything away about the story's events to come. Myr does share some tantalizing tidbits about just what might happen in the future. 
     
    If you want to read more, click here. 
  9. Cia
    February is a short month, and I've picked a short story to go along with it. This is actually one of my favorites of Myr's stories, so I hope getting a bunch of new eyes on it will help get him to write more. Jerry is an interesting character, and there's a lot more to be told of his story! 
     

     
    Length: 7,832
     
    Description: Jeremiah Declan Samuels has been in the Terran Confederation Spaceforce since his unusual birth. Those years of training are about to pay off as he leaves Earth to go to Europa to learn Jumping.
     
    If you want to spread the word about Myr'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!
     

  10. Cia

    February CSR Feature: Down a Darkened Path by Ronyx

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Hard to believe it, but it's already February! This month we have 3 weeks to read the CSR selection, and it's a longer one. Good thing @Ronyx helped me pick his feature for this read, and it's one that was popular with readers so you might have already read it! If not, with the number of comments and likes, it's sure to be a read that will pull you in. In following with last month's feature of a different sort, don't go into this expecting the same old storyline! As always, the Discussion Day will take place on the last Monday of the month, February 25th. 
     
    Down a Darkened Path
    by Ronyx
     
    Length: 76,436
     
    Description:  Troy Neal has it all- good looks, smart and talented. A classmate, Jayden Henderson, finds himself struggling to survive a dangerous life when he is sent to live with his aunt and cousins after the sudden death of his mother. Late one night, when Troy's car runs out of gas on a dark, deserted street, fate brings them together. Can they survive a disturbing journey down a darkened path filled with insurmountable obstacles?
    Warning: Before you begin reading, you should be aware that this story centers around a brutal and violent event involving the main character. Several scenes in this story may be upsetting and disturbing to some readers.  
     
    A Reader Said: I highly recommend this well written story. There are parts of this story that are unpleasant, but they were handled carefully. The characters are believable, and I quickly came to care about them. The dialogue and the feelings of the characters seemed realistic. Now that all the chapters are available, this will be one of those hard to put down kind of stories. Thanks to Ronyx for sharing this story.  ~ JeffreyL
     
    Don't forget to come back and share your thoughts on the Discussion Day on Monday, February 25th! 
  11. Cia
    How's your 2019 shaping up? I can't believe the first month has already passed, and here we are at the first CSR Discussion day! Who checked out this month's fanfiction story by @Laura S. Fox that was featured? I heard the word... "hot". What do you think? Make sure you share your thoughts in the comments below along with any questions you might have, but first, mine always come first! Here's the interview I sent Laura with all the in-depth, probing questions I'm known for!
     
    Have you ever gone out in public, realized your shirt is on backwards, and just don’t care?

    I wish I had that level of ‘I don’t give a damn’. Unfortunately, I’m quite self-conscious once I realize that something is wrong with my clothes. It’s best that I don’t realize if that happens.

    What’s something personal about you people might be surprised to know?

    Maybe that I’m – almost – 5.2? I hope my writing gives people the impression that I’m taller, lol. Also, that I actually had IT as my specialization in high school. Don’t ask, my family thought I could be a mathematician. I got decent grades in math, and it felt like victory whenever I solved some tough equation. But I loathed all those times when I couldn’t.

    Did you like to write in school?

    I didn’t write anything close to something that could be called a story until 25-26, except for compositions that were school assignments. Although I’ve always loved stories and books, and I got good grades in literature classes, it just didn’t cross my mind I could write. I was imagining stuff in my head, sometimes very long and winded, but I wasn’t putting anything on paper. Long story short, my husband made me do it.

    Do you have any favorite quotes from a famous author?

    When I was younger, I loved those quotes that expressed some kind of cosmic truth. But then I grew up a little and realized cosmic truths don’t really matter that much. So I happen to find quotes that are more specific or focus on details that refer only to an individual or a specific situation or an era to be much more interesting. Samples at hand:

    “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” (Jane Austen, Pride and Prejudice)

    “What he loved in horses was what he loved in men, the blood and the heat of the blood that ran them. All his reverence and all his fondness and all the leanings of his life were for the ardenthearted and they would always be so and never be otherwise.” (Cormac McCarthy - All the Pretty Horses)

    What’s the best part of being an author?

    For me, it’s the freedom of imagining anything you want. You can create something that didn’t exist before, and that feels liberating. To some people, writers – and other creators – may look a bit like lunatics in that sense of ‘what are you doing all cooped up inside all day long? You’re not living your life’ kind of thing. But I believe it to be a sort of escapism that’s hardly equaled by anything else.

    What do you think makes up a good book?

    It must be the capability to make you suspend all your beliefs and delve in without one look back. If an author manages to help you escape reality while you’re reading their work, the topic doesn’t even matter that much. What’s the key to that specific ability, I’m still trying to find out.

    How did you get interested in manhua?

    If I were to talk about 19 Days in particular, it happened because it kept popping on my Tumblr feed. But, in general, manhua, manga, and manhwa – which are just Chinese, Japanese and Korean terms for comics – came into my life via Boys’ Love stories, and yaoi. First, I watched some yaoi anime, simply by accident, then I progressed to reading comics, and I also got into slash at the same time, and it all sort of rolled down from there, just because of the love for the love of boys. I just found the stories coming from Asian creators to be funny, interesting, even intense and dramatic, compared to anything else I had ever read before.

    Fanfiction isn’t posted often on GA. What’s the biggest difference to writing fanfiction versus original fiction for you?

    I think it must be the fact that it is somewhat easier to write fanfiction. You have all the characters, their motivations, even settings, already made. You’re practically playing in someone else’s sandbox. When you write original fiction, however, you need to be careful not to slip, and make your own characters sound OOC. Keeping things consistent is a real challenge for original fiction.

    Do you have a favorite scene in Nude Pics Please?

    If you had to sum up the story in one sentence, what would it be?

    It all started with a naughty pic.
  12. Cia
    Welcome to 2019 and the first of our Classic Author features! This month I've another oldie but goodie, Topher_Lydon's epic, The Falcon Banner. This science fiction series had quite a following, and if you haven't read it yet, you're really missing out. 
     

     
    Length: 182,459
     
    Description: A lone man picks up a battle standard cast down three hundred years before. beginning a journey that will lead him to find the lost fleet, and a forgotten ship at the edge of nowhere. Darien Taine must accept his role, guiding his crew on the long road to free their people from Amsus tyranny. Uncovering along the way the sins that led to humanity's downfall, and reforging alliances long thought forgotten. Three hundred years of slavery, of persecution and of tyranny are at an end.
     
    If you want to spread the word about Topher_Lydon'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!

  13. Cia
    This month's featured CSR story was Geron Kee's The House of Storms. Did you catch the feature at the beginning of the month featuring it? There were a lot of positive thoughts urging readers to check it out! If you did, make sure you share your thoughts below in the comments, but first, as always I pumped this month's author with all sorts of questions during an interview, so check that out! 
     
    Are you a person who makes their bed in the morning, or do you not see much point?

    I make my bed.  Or rather, we do.


     
    If you were an animal, what would you be?

    A porcupine. Even a tiger will not mess with a porcupine. And porcupines know it!


     
    What's your favorite room in your house? Do you plot or write there?

    My home office-library. I write here, and I read here.


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

    That's a tough one. I have a folder of unfinished stories, that were interrupted by one thing or another, and to which I just never got back to. If the contents of the folder could be taken as a single project, I'd like to finish those tales.


     
    Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

    Deadlines. I use a lot of my free time to write, and there never seems to be enough of it. I tend to no longer write entries in anything that has a specific date for which the work is required. If you are referring to the mechanical aspects of writing, I feel fairly comfortable with that. Mostly, I just wing it!


     
    Were the Hardy Boys a childhood favorite of yours?

    I found them very quickly after coming to The States at age 9. My dad had a large library in storage at his parent's house, which was reclaimed when we moved here. I think my dad has never parted with a single book in his life. He had most of the Hardy Boys series, and they were the editions published in the forties, before they were abridged in 1959. The Abridged editions are patently inferior to the originals, and I was able to get a really good dose of the best of that series.


     
    Your characters use fun time period slang, like “the gas”.  Was it easy to sprinkle in time-period specific phrases or did you find modern slang creeping in?

    If there was any accidental modern slang in the story, no one pointed it out to me. I generally research anything that I am unsure about before adding it to one of my stories. That said, we all have some 'fake' facts in our heads - things we think are true, but aren't. Those sorts of things can get into a tale under the guise of a fact I feel certain of, and then just prove to be wrong later. But, again, no one said anything, so I hope I got it right.


     
    Do you have a favorite scene in The House of Storms?

    Actually...I kind of smile at the scene where the power is out at the hotel, and then comes back on, and Frank and his boyfriend, who are holding each other in their room, and Joe and his boyfriend, who are doing the very same thing in their room next door, turn and spy each other through the open connecting door between rooms. Neither brother knew the other was gay until that point. Great pair of detectives, huh?


     
    Was there any red herring or detail readers didn’t pick up in the mystery you wish they would have?

    I don't think there was any discussion on the clues, so I actually don't know if people missed things or not. There were a few red herrings, but I kept them to a minimum. Hardy Boys stories tended to telegraph a little bit of what was coming, and I did the same, so I am not certain how much of a surprise the ending was to readers. As a boy, my general reaction to having the bad guy revealed at the end of a Hardy Boys story was, "I knew it!", rather than, "Didn't see that coming!" I think most readers simply had their suspicions confirmed at the end of my version, too.


     
    Can you sum up The House of Storms in one sentence?

    If it was as fun for readers to read as it was for me to write, than I consider it a successful tale.
  14. Cia
    Did you catch Monday's feature of this month's Classic story, Someday Out of the Blue by LittleBuddhaTW? We shared the ad and a graphic you can add to your signature, plus a glowing review from a fan. If that didn't convince you to read the story, how about this excerpt below? 
     
    I picked this excerpt because I wanted to point out all the drama this poor guy is going through. And, while most teenagers think they have a lot to shoulder under or face burdens that feel super dramatic and heavy, Connor really does. But, like so many other teens, he thinks he has life under control. He can handle it. He knows what's best... or does he? 
     
    Want to read more? Click here. 
  15. Cia
    Well the year is nearly over, but we have one last feature for 2018 for readers to enjoy from our Classic Authors. This story features some of readers' favorite themes here on GA: coming of age, first love, and jocks/geeks themes. 
     

     
    Length: 223,509
     
    Description: Connor Matthews, a shy boy who comes from an abusive family is accidentally hit in the head by a lacrosse ball one day, which leads him to meet Ryan, an attractive redhead, and his younger brother, Toby. Connor gradually learns to come out of his shell, but not without some traumatic experiences along the way.
     
    A Reader Said: Without a doubt one of the best stories I've ever read. ~BadBart
     
    If you want to spread the word about LittleBuddhaTW'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!

  16. Cia

    CSR Discussion Day: Sumeru by Dolores Esteban

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Did you have a chance to read Dolores Esteban's science fiction story, Sumeru featured in this month's CSR? What do you think? Is the truth out there? More than we know or is it all just a bunch of bad t-shirt, retro hat conspiracy theory claptrap? Hmmm... how about you check out the story and find out? Or share your thoughts below if you already did! But first, enjoy this interview with Dolores Esteban!
     
    Chocolate or Vanilla?
    Vanilla.
     
    If you had 30 minutes of free time, what would you do?
    I would probably read an online article. Thirty minutes is not a long time.
     
    What’s one location you’d love to go to research for a story?
    I'd travel back in time to Ancient Egypt or Ancient Sumer.
     
    We share a love of science fiction, it seems. What do you like best about writing the genre?
    I love to create new worlds, visit places in space and explore unknown things.
     
    Do you have a favorite science fiction story that you’ve read (online or published)?
    The Songs of Distance Earth by Arthur C. Clarke. I loved the novel.
     
    In Sumeru, the crew is supposed to travel to a planet in the constellation in Scorpius. Is there a special reason you picked that constellation?
    No special reason. I picked the constellation probably because it contains deep sky objects.
     
    How about the meaning behind the name of the spacecraft, “Shiva”?
    Shiva is a Hindu deity. I read articles on Hindu mythology. The texts inspired me to write Sumeru. The Vedas, texts originating in ancient India, contain concepts that are similar to concepts from modern science. That's the background of the story. Scientists learn from the texts that extraterrestrials visited Earth in the past. They send a ship to the aliens' system of origin to investigate. The spacecraft is called Shiva because of the Hindu texts that revealed the ancient truth.
     
    Did you like trying the infographic style of Sumeru as a plot device or do you find a more classic story format flows better for you as a writer?
    I started the story three times in three years. The first two attempts were plotted as classical stories and they failed miserably. I changed the approach and tried the infographic style. It worked out for the story Sumeru.
     
    Do you have a favorite part of this story?
    I actually like the whole story. After several failed attempts, I was happy when I had finally managed to finish the story.
     
    In a reply to a review on the last chapter, you said you like to ask questions. Are you pondering any deep thoughts lately that have prompted any new story ideas?
    I read about coherent quantum states and quantum decoherence. A very interesting topic. I've just started a science fiction piece. Quantum states are an element of the story. The writing so far is a mess. I jump between scenes. Definitely no coherence in writing. LOL. The editing process will be a pain.
  17. Cia
    Monday I brought you the Classic Author Feature for this month, Shadowgod's A Shot of Bourbon. Did you catch it? You can download a copy of the banner if you want to add it to your signature. If you missed the feature, never fear, we have more to pique your interest today with an excerpt from the story that will whet your appetite for more! 
     
    I picked this excerpt because I wanted to show just where the inspiration for the image from the banner came from, plus it's a great scene to showcase the interactions and back and forths between Bourbon and one of the other characters...
     
     
     
     
    Want to read more? Click here. 
  18. Cia
    How can November be half over? Seriously? 2018 is just a few weeks from ending, and I have no idea where all the time went. Well, we read a lot of great stories this year, and here's another one for you to enjoy! A popular story in its day, A Shot of Bourbon is a teen coming of age story full of full-throttle fun, hormones, and more than a little excitement that comes with all of that. 
     

     
    Length: 35,309
    Description: The classic tale about a boy and his dirtbike. You know the one; boy meets bike, boy falls in love, bike hurts boy... yadda... yadda... yadda...
     
     
    If you want to spread the word about shadowgod'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!

  19. Cia

    November CSR Feature: Sumeru by Dolores Esteban

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Happy November! I know many authors are focused on Nanowrimo, but there's also time for reading this month, right? There's always time for reading! Still, I picked a story on the lower end of the word count this month, but one that is right up my favorite alley--science fiction. Dolores Esteban writes excellent stories in all different styles and genres, and Sumeru is a real thinker. Have you checked it before? Now's the perfect time! 
    Sumeru
    by Dolores Esteban
     
    Length: 35,981
     
    Description: Operation Shiva is the biggest spaceflight mystery of all time. The spacecraft took off from Cape Canaveral on August 8, 2068. According to official statements, the craft reached its target in the constellation of Scorpius, but hence was never heard of again. What happened with the ship and the crew? The truth is out there.
     
    A reader said:  OMG............The End??????  (now much wailing and gnashing of teeth) Thank you for a story that had a unexpected twist..........The truth is out there........... ~Jeff1
     
    Don't forget this month's Discussion Day will be Monday, November 26th. 
  20. Cia

    CSR Discussion Day: Atlantis Shift by Carlos Hazday

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    On the first Monday of the month, I announced the CSR Feature was Carlos Hazday's series, Atlantis Shift. It features two stories, Tidal Power and Detskoye Porno, but check out my interview with Carlos to see his thoughts on writing in general, those two stories, or if there might be more to come! He always gets to ask authors questions and share the answers, so enjoy this chance I had to turn the tables on him!
     
    When it comes to reading, do you have a preference for paper or eBook/online books or stories?

    I’ve read on both but have realized I prefer printed over digital. Ten years ago, when I sold a large house and moved to an apartment, I gave away several hundred books. A few favorites I replaced with electronic versions and enjoyed reading on my tablet. Over time, I’ve recaptured the love for the physical presence of a book and the delight of turning pages and folding a corner to mark my place. It’s also a great sleep aid. Reading on a screen can interfere with dozing but falling off with my glasses on and the weight of a book on my chest is a thrill again. 
    What do you like to do when you’re not writing or collecting questions & answers for Ask an Author?

    Riding my motorcycle! I own a 2010 Harley-Davidson Road King. For anyone not familiar with scooters, that’s a BIG touring bike meant for more than speeding down the highway or bumming around the city. Over the past ten years, I’ve ridden in 41 of the 50 states and a small corner of Canada. In all kinds of weather. The feeling of freedom is infectious. If on a busy road, I’ll blast the sound system; if on a quiet one, I’ll let the engine roar and the whistling wind blowing through my hair be my soundtrack. And no, I rarely wear a helmet. It’s the rebel in me.
    What’s one location you haven’t been to that you’d love to go to research for a story?

    Brazil! Although I’m almost fluent in Portuguese, the South American giant is a place I’ve never visited. I can imagine a story straddling the beaches of Rio and the Amazon jungle. Exotic locales alone could be a great inspiration. The danger would be that when you throw in sultry weather and half-naked hot men, I may just forget about writing.
    What do you think the most valuable advice or piece of education you’ve learned about writing is?

    Patience. Something sorely missing from my personality, but what I advise new writers to develop. Too many good story ideas are wasted in the rush to publish. It takes months for a chapter of mine to see the light and, even then, I often find errors. Only a fool thinks they can offer a quality product by themselves.

    I’ve been lucky to have a few talented individuals work with me. Particularly @Mann Ramblings. I’ve benefitted from his experience working with professional editors when publishing his books. I also know at times he’s consulted @Renee Stevensand @Cia when in doubt, so my gratitude to all three. Things he corrected at the beginning are no longer an issue. I’ve paid attention to what he fixes, internalized, and hopefully improved my writing.
    What’s the first thing you do when you start to write a story? (Plotter, pantser, get in a particular place to write, have your coffee/tea/drink ready to go…?)

    Look up hot men on the internet to model my characters after… Nah, not really. That comes later in the process. I’m a chronic planner. The spark may be a location, a character, or an event. I generally will jot down whatever it is, and then flesh it out into an outline/timeline. Once I have a beginning and an end, I sit at my desk and start working. Since most of my writing’s done in the early morning, a mug of coffee is always by my side.
    Did you do any particular research for the fantastical aspects before you wrote Tidal Power and Detskoye Porno?

    Not at all. I researched locations for both stories, power generation for the first one, and kiddie porn for the second. Dolphin anatomy was also in there. As far as the fantastical aspects, I relied a bit on previous readings. Anne Rice’s vampires, Rob Colton’s werewolves, and Cia’s were-creatures all floated around in my head. But I wanted something different, so I used those as a starting point to create my own myths.
    What do you think the best parts of these stories are? (scenes, characters, particular aspects of the writing, etc…)

    The concept. The emergence of shifter dolphins as a result of Atlantis sinking into the ocean. It‘s something different and opens up a world of opportunities for water-related stories. Being born in Cuba and raised in Puerto Rico and Miami, the ocean’s always played a huge part in my life. 
    The Atlantis Shift series were written and posted a few years ago, and writing is an evolution. What changes do you think would improve the stories from your viewpoint as an author now?

    Where to start? Tidal Power was an experiment in dialogue-driven storytelling. No narration and no speech tags. Somebody slap me if I try that again. The second story’s a bit better but not much. Both would benefit from additional descriptions of locations, characteristics, and action. Written when I was getting my feet wet in the authorship business, I thought I knew what I was doing. Fool! 
    Do you have any ideas, plots, plans, or thoughts you want to share with readers about the Atlantis shift series to come?

    Yes, I do. My idea was to follow the dolphins through different adventures where they would team up with other fantastical creatures. So far, werewolves, vampires, and dragons have been featured. I have blurbs involving witches, Santeria gods, and elves amongst possible characters. Each story would deal with a real-world situation where the dolphins team-up or face-off with the other beings. A new series installment is on my list of 2019 projects.
    Please share any other inside tidbits about your current works, your stories those who enjoyed these stories might like, or special sneak peeks of works to come for readers here!

    I’ve concentrated on the CJ series in the recent past. Currently, book ten is in the works. The story about a wealthy, Hispanic, gay teen with political aspirations will conclude with his graduation from college. It’ll begin posting in January. The list of future projects includes a children’s story or two, further adventures for the Key West biker in American Steel, fleshing out flash pieces of Colt and Tony in Chelsea, and potential CJ spinoffs.

    The pantheon of character in that series is rich, and I’d like to explore a few of them in more detail. Either flashbacks or future events. I do have quite a bit written on one dealing with Chipper, the musician in the group. And there’s always the possibility of further CJ stories following his work in the State Department and his rise to prominence in the US. But I need a break first.  
  21. Cia

    Writing Prompts #712 & #713

    By Cia,


    Prompts
    Woohoo! We made it. Well, I sort of did. Sorry these are a few hours late. But for those of you who are just about Halloween-ed out, this week's prompts should prove a welcome break. Now, I'm sure you could find a way to spookify them if you want, but you can also go in another direction (outer space, my fav!) with the following ideas brought to you by our prompt guru, Comicfan! 
     
    Prompt 712 – Creative
    Tag – First Line
    “What can I tell him?”
     
    Prompt 713 – Creative
    Tag – Meteorite
    The station has been exploring deep space for years. The docking ships have created a sort of trade that has allowed the occupants to thrive. Now there is a massive meteorite hurdling directly at the station, faster than the steering rockets could possibly move it. As the head of security it is your job to save the station. What do you do?
     
    Did you write a flash piece last week? Post a link in the comments!
  22. Cia

    Featured Story: Never Too Late

    By Cia,


    Featured Stories
    Please enjoy this review brought to you by the lead of our review team, Timothy M! 
     
    Never Too Late
    northie
    Reviewer: Timothy M.
    Status: Complete
    Word Count: 42,149
     
    November is approaching, a dreary, cold, dark month in the northern hemisphere. The Danish poet Henrik Nordbrandt once wrote: The year has sixteen months: November, December, January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, November, November, November. Read the poem out loud and you’ll get the feeling of how long and boring November is. (Of course, this doesn't apply to the GA story November Falls).
     
    Now imagine it’s November and you’re an old, poor and lonely man living in a cold, damp cottage in England. Then you’ll have the setting of northie’s story Never Too Late. It’s a rather unusual tale on a site where most protagonists are teens or adults below age 30, handsome and/or charming, fit and friendly, or at least with some redeeming traits. Maybe the only thing Eric has in common with the normal main characters is being gay. And deeply closeted but opening the door. 
     
    The person Eric opens the door to, is Andy, a young charity volunteer who does fulfill the usual character criteria. At first they don’t get along at all, but with nudging from Adam, his clever boyfriend, Andy manages to salvage the initial disaster and gradually win the trust of Eric. He discovers how to help the taciturn, proud oldster who in turn gradually opens up to potential friendships and a glimpse into the unobtainable world of gay romance and relationships. But at least Eric now has a connection to the gay community which Andy wants to broaden by introducing him to computers and the internet. Not an easy task at all.
     
    Never Too Late culminates at Christmas and the New Year, two events which can be especially depressing for people without family and friends. So why do I recommend a story which sounds as sad as November? It’s because northie once again has managed to capture my heart with something real; with characters who make mistakes, but strive to improve; with gentle but piercing observations on how society ignores the needs of the poor, the old, and the lonely. Most of all, how the kindness of a few people, who reach out to Eric during the story, makes all the difference in the world to him.
    northie’s tale has attracted a small, but devoted group of fans, some of whom shared their personal experiences and perspectives on the topics mentioned above, both via interesting chapter comments and in the discussion forum. Their opinions are perhaps better advertising that anything I could say:
     
    @Carlos Hazday : Love your way of writing these stories, sensitive and emotional characters, bordering on pathetic without actually reaching that level.

    @drsawzall : well done and vitally important that we see stories in this subject. Life isn't simply led as some of the stories would have you believe. We all struggle with and hide what we don't want others to see.

    @dughlas : My heart still aches for Eric. There is much missing from his life. Andy and Adam are bringing new experiences to his life.

    @ColumbusGuy : This story is just amazingly warm, especially once Andy got over his 'save the world' complex and saw Eric as a real person.  Do you know how rare that is for elderly or handicapped people?
     
    We look forward to the next book (already into chapter 12 according to northie and due to start posting early in 2019), where we hope to see Eric’s life brighten in various ways. Take your time to savor Book One, which may not be full of action and drama, but has plenty of the compassion and understanding to which we as humans should aspire. And if nothing else the story may make you appreciate what you have in your life in terms of comforts, health, friends, and best of all love. As @droughtquake said: I feel so lucky compared with Eric!
     
    Category: Fiction   Genres: Drama, Romance  Tags: young adult, senior, gay, europe, coming out, friendship  Rating: Mature
  23. Cia

    Writing Prompts #710 & #711

    By Cia,


    Prompts
    Happy Friday! This week we had 2 features for a rather romantical story, but these prompts can go in completely different directions. Just what would you do if you were considered "stock"? *shudders* And fast forward past Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas to plant that living tree you chose to use in an ecologically-conscious move... Is Mother Nature rewarding you? I hope to see some great prompt responses! 
     
    Prompt 710 – Creative
    Tag – Baby News
    In the order only those deemed mentally and physically fit are allowed to breed. Those who are picked are taken from their normal lives and go into the new exclusive living spaces. You’ve been chosen as male stock. Those not chosen as stock may continue living their lives normally, only they are sterilized and may apply for a child if they so desire one. Gay or straight doesn’t matter. What does that mean to you?
     
    Prompt 711 – Creative
    Tag – Sudden Wealth
    You were digging a hole to plant the balled pine tree you used for a Christmas tree. You discover a gold nugget the size of your head three feet down. The money from it makes you incredibly rich and that wasn’t the end of the vein. What do you do now?
     
    Did you write a flash piece last week that you want to share? Post a link in the comments!
  24. Cia
    Did you catch Monday's blog featuring the ads for The Zot's short story, You Meet Your Soulmate in the Strangest Places? This short story is a romance of a different sort, full of unexpected moments, sweet surprises, a bit of angst (what good romance doesn't have at least a little?) and some hot, hot kissing. Check it out!
     
    I picked this excerpt because it creates a moment of romance, some humor, some of that drama I mention, and you're left with a wait... what? right at the very end. LOL. It's hard to do all that within just a few paragraphs and in one moment of time in a story, but The Zot managed! 
     
    To read more, click here. 
  25. Cia
    One of the earliest authors on GA, @TheZot has stories featuring a mix of genres and styles, and one of my favorites among them is this quirky story. Not quite what you'd expect and definitely with a twist at the end, I think you'll enjoy this short story as much as I did! Make sure you come back on Wednesday to find out what excerpt I picked to showcase The Zot's writing as well! 
     

    Length: 7,416
     
    Description: Drew never expected to meet his true love on the train, but that's okay, he did anyway. Now if he can just figure out who the guy was and find him again...
     
     
    If you want to spread the word about The Zot'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!

     
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