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Cia

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Blog Entries posted by Cia

  1. Cia
    Did you catch Monday's blog featuring this month's Classic Author ad choice, Endings & Beginnings, selected by Valkyrie? If not, go check it out and get your copy of a small graphic that you can use for your personal signature if you want to share the love for Viv's story. We had a couple of reviews from fans on Monday's blog, but Valkyrie has her thoughts on Viv's story and also got to pick an excerpt to share. Read on to find out what she picked and why!
     
    Valkyrie said: Viv's writing is clear, descriptive, and left me salivating for more.  The story I picked, Endings and Beginnings, is the first in a five part series titled Underneath this Big Ol' Sky.  I chose this excerpt because it's a good introduction to the series, and drew me in immediately when I first read it.  Just a word of warning if you read all five stories... you will want more.  Viv left room for the story to continue, and can only hope that one day she does.  
     


     
    To read more, check out the rest of the story here. 
  2. Cia
    This month's feature was chosen by Valkyrie, and she picked Viv's Endings & Beginnings! This contemporary short story is one of our older stories, all the way from back in 2007, but she wanted to share this gem with newer readers on the site, so I hope you'll enjoy this month's feature!
     

     
    Length: 10,069 words
     
    Description: Endings & Beginnings is the first short story written as part of an anthology series. This one began the storyline with the theme "Fairy Tales" and continued with the next anthology 
     
    Some Readers Said: 
    Joann414 said ~ So glad they featured your story so I found this. Loving it. Can't wait to read more!
     
    Lisa said ~ Viv, I just found your stories a few months ago and I can't help devour each new one I come across.
    I love the way you write. (other text removed for spoilers) Anyway, I'm going to start the next installment of this hella awesome story.
     
    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 Valkyrie chose to share!

     
  3. Cia

    Weekly Wrap Up (July 9th - July 15th)

    By Cia,


    Weekly Wrap Up
    Another week, another weekly update for you to catch on the news you might have missed this week. And no, your eyes aren't deceiving you, Renee isn't doing the blog this week so hopefully I won't screw it up. By the way, did you notice it was her birthday this week? Make sure you don't miss the chance to wish her a belated birthday if you haven't already! Now, on to the highlights of the week. 
     
    And don't miss Myr's update with some info about the site on his personal blog:
     
    Premium Updates:
    Negative Splits by Cia *Premium*
     
    Classic Updates:
    Down a Darkened Path by Ronyx
     
    Signature Updates:
    A Man in a Room, and other poems by AC Benus; Book 6 of Verse
    Mine! by Cia
    Poetry by Renee by Renee Stevens
    The Castaway Hotel: Next Generation Book 2 by Bill W; Book 11 of The Castaway Hotel
    The Hollow Hills by Valkyrie
     
    Promising Updates:
    Cards on the Table by Headstall
    Choices by LitLover
    Cozy Contemplations by Headstall
    Drifts by Puppilull; Book 3 of Hot and cold
    timmy's poetry by Mikiesboy
  4. Cia

    July C S R Feature: Reece's Choice by Renee Stevens

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    This month's CSR announcement was slightly delayed so I could post it live so Renee wouldn't find out it was happening since she's the lead blogger... but Monday has arrived so I can let everyone know this month's featured story is Reece's Choice by Renee Stevens! Woo hoo! This is a nice contemporary novella, an easy read at just 25k, so make sure you've read it and are ready to discuss the story on Monday, July 31st!
     
    Reece's Choice
    by Renee Stevens
     
    Length: 25,483
    Description: When confronted with his family’s bigotry, Reece is faced with the first of many choices. He can continue to tolerate the caustic atmosphere or he can walk away and finally focus on making himself happy. His cousin’s friend Dave unintentionally becomes the catalyst that forces Reece to make a choice. He can only hope it's the right one.
     
    A Reader Said: Thanks Renee for a wonderful story. I'm happy it ended here. Maybe there can be future adventures the boys will get into, but it's certainly not necessary. The title actually says it all. Reece's choice. He made a good one! ~ skinnydragon
     
    Don't forget this month's Discussion Day will be Monday, July 31st!
  5. Cia

    June C S R Discussion Day: The Others by Stannie

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Did you have a chance to check out this month's CSR story, The Others by Stannie? I hope you did and you're ready to share your thoughts, but first you can enjoy all his answers to my probing questions, including what he plans on posting next!!
     
    Chocolate or Vanilla?
    I don’t really like sweet food, so I’m going for chocolate. Real bitter pure chocolate!
     
    If you had 30 minutes of free time, what would you do?
    Watching, just looking around. When the sun is shining I’d go sit on my balcony with a cup of coffee, just to watch the people outside. I watch the children play, the elderly going for a walk, or the adults rushing towards their work.
     
    What do you like best about being part of the GA community?
    Motivation, to me, has always been a problem. Whether it’s at school, when working or when doing things I really like doing, I regularly can’t seem to get motivated enough. When writing for GA and getting feedback on what I write or getting messages when I didn’t upload for a while, it gets me motivated to do what I like best: writing. So, I think that means I like the support I get.
     
    Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?
    Writing in English. I think I mastered English well enough to have normal conversation, et cetera, but when writing a story you want something beyond that. I noticed I lack the ability to get something literary on paper, especially when it isn’t anything physical, like describing emotions. I don’t know many sayings or proverbs to illustrate what I want to say.
     
    How did it feel to finish posting your first novel on GA?
    Well, that was a little confusing, I’d say, as I never planned on finishing the story with this. Originally the story was way longer (and it still is), but I just decided to make a sequel. That was something I had thought about for a long time, because I normally don’t like stories being split into sections. With this story, however, I felt like the next part was a whole new story, a new part of Adam’s life, so that’s why I chose for it.
     
    Your character, Adam, has a taste for older movies (Monty Python) most contemporary teens probably don’t watch. Did you invent that for his character or is it modeled after your own preferences?
    I’m just a “teen” myself, so if I didn’t know those movies, I couldn’t have made Adam like them, so it’s kind of modeled after my own preference. It’s also based on someone else I met who is around my age, but listens to old music and watches old movies a lot, so I guess he had something to do with it as well.
     
    Do you believe people are inherently selfish or was that just Adam’s take for his blog?
    Yes, I truly do. I’ve had many discussions about this with people and every time I don’t get it why they don’t feel the same way about it. I challenge them to show me a situation in which someone isn’t inherently selfish, only to counter it by explaining what the selfish part was. It always works, unconditionally, unless it has something to do with having children. I haven’t been able to explain why people do certain things for children even when it doesn’t make them necessarily happier or something, so I guess that’s the exception to the rule.
     
    Sam says she likes, “The happy you” in chapter 6. Do you think that mood lift from the release of writing the blog that made Adam seem happier, or the knowledge of his Anonymous Reader’s identity and his feelings about him?
    Ah, that’s funny, because I actually talked about this today with someone. I stated that happiness without an obvious reason to it, is the best kind of happiness. It makes you feel like it doesn’t matter what happens around you, you can always be happy. I think Adam had the same thing here, as he thought to himself right after Sam said she like the “happy Adam”. He asked, being surprised: “I’m acting different?”
     
    Maybe it’s because it just feels right, you know? When you realise everything is okay, your life is going at a bearable pace and you found your position in the world in correspondence to the people around you. It feels right, and you are happy it does so.
     
    If you could sum up the theme of The Others, what would it be?
    I find that very difficult. When I started the story I just wrote 1 chapter and uploaded it. By then I wanted Adam to be a person with this secret second life, and I meant the story to be an interaction between those lives. It didn’t really work out (that’s why there is so much time between the first and second upload), so I decided the theme to be a book with a main character who isn’t necessarily likeable. I noticed that many stories have protagonists we sympathise, we feel sorry for, or just like a lot. Very plain feelings, in general, though when we think about ourselves and when we try to feel something about ourselves, it’s never this simplistic. We are complex organisms, and I wanted that in this story, so I made up Adam: a person who you can’t understand all the time (he doesn’t even do that himself) and switches between being liked to being hated. Not much for a summary, is it?
     
    What do you plan on posting next on GA?
    Of course, that’s the sequel of the Others, which will be about the travels of Adam.
  6. Cia

    June Classic Author Excerpt: Goon by dkstories

    By Cia,


    Classic Feature
    Did you catch Monday's blog featuring this month's Classic Author ad choice, Goon by dkstories, selected by Timothy M? If not, go check it out and get your copy of a small graphic that you can use for your personal signature if you want to share the love for dk's story. Monday's blog shared several reviews from fans, but Timothy also got to pick an excerpt to share. Read on to find out what he picked and why!
     
    Timothy M said: Most of us have wished, at some point or another, that we could go back and change the past. Make another decision at a crucial moment in time, which perhaps would have changed the direction of our lives. Goon is a story built on this concept, and it's even better on a second or third read.
     
    Micah gets the chance to apply the knowledge and skills of his older self to an important period in his youth. I've chosen the moment where he first takes the alternate path and stops denying his feelings for the love of his life, even though he's unaware this is what's happening, and what the dangerous consequences will be.
     


     
    To read more, check out the rest of the story here.
  7. Cia

    June Classic Author Feature: Goon by dkstories

    By Cia,


    Classic Feature
    Another oldie but very popular in its day goodie, Goon by dkstories, was nominated for a Classic Author feature by Timothy M. Originally a Premium story, this has been made available to everyone on the site. Have you ever wondered what life might be like if you had a chance to go back and fix something? A single moment, a day, a lifetime? The idea is intriguing, isn't it? Check out dkstories' take on the idea with Goon!
     

    nominated by: Timothy M.
     
    Length: 94,608
    Description: Micah was a goon. He knew it and everyone else knew it. But he had connections and it put him in the wrong place at the wrong time.
     
    Miles Long said ~ This is another fun, creative tale full of political intrigue and fantasy. It's pace was a bit clumsier than other dkstories stories, but the character dynamics were so rich and the relationship between our hero and his lover were so solid, small things can be easily overlooked. If anyone on this site hasn't read this yet...stop, sit and read.
    Many thanks for sharing dkstories!
     
    Stephen said ~  THEY WON !
    How brilliant... It all seems so simple now.
    But it's not, or has been so easy, has it?
    The second time reality was better when played out.
    If only...
     
    Thanks for the wonderful story, you can do that every day.
    -But then I'd get spoiled.
     
    Rebelghost85 said ~ I really admire your ability to stop a story at a good ending point, leaving room for a sequel or for the reader's imagination to finish the storyline. It allows you to cut your stories into manageable chunks and we get to clamor for sequels.
     
    Ron said ~ I can understand why this was a premium content story. That was one heck of a ride what with one unexpected thing after another happening. Highly unbelievable, highly fantastic and highly entertaining. Bravo!
     
     
    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 Timothy M chose to share!

  8. Cia

    Writing Prompts #586 & #587

    By Cia,


    Prompts
    Sorry this is late. Totally spaced it being a Friday and that I needed to check and see if the prompts were posted. Whoops! These prompts were supplied by our prompt guru, Comicfan. Just a reminder, and for those who haven't worked with the prompts before: prompt responses under 1,000 words must be posted as part of a collection. Hopefully you'll find something in this weeks prompts to spark an idea and get you writing!
     

    Prompt 586 – Creative
    Tag – First Line
    Where are you planning to get the money for that vacation?
     
    Prompt 587 – Creative
    Tag – List of Words
    Use the following words in a story - a kilt, a coat rack, a video game, a flower, and a cat

     
    Jason Rimbaud - Prompt 584 Creative "List of Words"
    I gave myself five minutes to use the following words in this weeks prompt.
     
    Use these words; lunch box, wooden table, a white horse, menu, and a needle.
     
    I put my lunch box on the wooden picnic table and stared at the days lunch menu all the other kids were enjoying at Rex Harrison Middle School.  It wasn’t that we were poor, it was just normal in my family that I wear my older brothers clothes after he outgrew them.  That’s why I was adept with needle and thread. Everyone around me was laughing and joking with friends.  For once the entire class was ignoring me.  I pushed the menu away and opened my lunch box and removed my cheese sandwich.  As I absently bite into the stale bread, I opened my notebook and looked at the doodle that happened in last period.  I don’t care what the teacher thinks, it was a white horse, not a zebra.
  9. Cia

    June C S R Feature: The Others by Stannie

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    And just this fast, June is upon us and the year is half over. But the CSR event is still going strong, and I have a new story chosen for you guys to read this month. June's selection is by an author who's been on the site for a while but just completed posting his first novel. Let's all take a look at The Others by @Stannie and share some thoughts and comments on the site on the discussion day on the last Monday of the month, June 26th!
     
    The Others
    by Stannie
    Length: 74,750
     
    Description: While pretending to be cool when he is with his friends and trying to be intelligent when he is editing his popular weblog, Adam actually is going through a lot. He is able to ignore his own problems by running from reality. It works, until someone in the real world becomes interesting enough to stay for.
     
    A Reader said: Looking forward to the next book, great job Stannie! ~ Scary
     
    Don't forget to come back and comment on the story on the discussion day set for Monday, June 26th!
     
  10. Cia

    May C S R Discussion Day: Unison Island by Caz Pedroso

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Okay, you've had two months to read Caz Pedroso's Unison Island series. Did you like it? Maybe leave a few comments? Well here's your chance to share your thoughts and talk about your favorite parts of the stories. First, enjoy this interview I did with Caz!
     
    What’s the hardest thing for you, as an author, and what do you love best about writing?
    The hardest thing is finding time. Trying to balance my volunteer work, my family, my housework, and my writing. Then, of course, I would like to find some time for myself in there somewhere 😊
     
    What brought you to GA and made you decide to post stories here?
    You did, Cia. I read one of your stories on kindle (by recommendation after I finished another story) and then found the Wednesday Briefs group through your blog and decided to join in. That led me here. (Very cool, I actually didn't know that was the path!!)  
     
    Unison Island is set in an ‘exotic’ locale, but is there a real place would you love to visit to research for a story?
    Maybe Discworld by Terry Pratchett. It's the first one to come to mind. That world is so fantastic, I could spend years exploring it.
     
    If you have thirty minutes of spare time, and you’re not writing, what do you like to do?
    Housework!!!! Not really LOL, I read. I always have a lot of books/stories on my To Be Read list.
     
    Okay, I have to ask this one… just how could the witches make just their island rotate different from the rest of the planet to get a constant equinox?
    A good friend said to me once, when I was moaning about something I wanted to write not being possible, ‘Anything, is possible if you make it magic’. I try to keep things at least slightly realistic, but I do like to use the magic angle to create the world I want. Including controlling the weather, think of it like a dome or force-field being over the island and inside the dome is weather controlled.
     
    Out of the creatures you created (witches, vampires, weres, etc…) for Unison island, which is your favorite?
    I really don’t have a favorite. I created each race as I wanted them. Taking the bits of myth and legend I wanted and making up the rest. So, they’re all my favorites.
     
    How did you plan out the series? Did you figure out all the information you share in Welcome to Unison Island before you started, or did that evolve as you wrote and you shared it with readers later?
    Book one was written as I went. And book two was written, finished and published, before book was one finished. The rest of the stories were planned out a bit better. But, the information I needed readers to know couldn’t really be incorporated so late in the series. So, that led to me writing the introduction so things would make a bit more sense.
     
    With witches and other creatures, how did you decide which holidays and other ‘special days’ of the year based on their alternate history?
    I didn’t. I just write different pieces when I have time, and if that time coincides with a holiday – Christmas, Easter, etc. Then that gets added in as well.
     
    Do you have a favorite character in the series?
    I love Jamie from book one. He loves to play pranks, but still takes his job very seriously. He’s also loyal and fiercely protective of his friends and family.
     
    Would you ever go back to the series, maybe write flash pieces for secondary characters readers really liked?
    There may be a few things on my To Be Written list…but, I’m not saying 😉  I am also trying to re-edit when I have time, but something always seems to come up.
  11. Cia

    Writing Prompts #580 & #581

    By Cia,


    Prompts
    Let's keep the prompt love going with some new inspiration this week from prompt guru, Comicfan, and have fun with these two options! What could a pink umbrella and a classic car have in common? Or are you more inclined to roam the wilds of space in a desperate expedition? Read on, figure it out, and share your story with readers!
     
     
     
    Prompt 580 – Creative
    Tag – List of Words
    Use the following words in a story – swimsuit, pink umbrella, a gumball, a classic car, and a cell phone.
     
    Prompt 581 – Creative
    Tag – The Ship
    You have been chosen to take part in a very exclusive expedition into space. Years of ignoring the climate change and massive over population has brought the earth to the brink of collapse and the world is sending some of its best and brightest into space in hopes of finding a new home. The ship trained for the trip. The trip is expected to take a minimum of forty years. Who do you take as your mate and what is the training like?
     
     
    Let's see... today's prompt features responses to Prompt #579 "How can you be so sure?"
     


    Want to know how Eric answers that question? Read more here!
  12. Cia

    Why We Write Flash Fiction

    By Cia,


    Writing Tips
    How do you write flash fiction? Well, there’s really only one requirement: Keep it short! How short depends on the game, or prompt, or you… but the difference is you write the story planning to make it as concise as possible without sacrificing the image and scene you’re trying to convey. It’s a challenge to write something that pulls in readers without having a lot of time to do backstory or a long adventure.
     
    So why do people like writing flash fiction? For me, it’s a different kind of challenge from my usual novels. It reminds me to not repeat words or visuals, which I struggle with. I asked several other authors who are playing with the Pick Two noun game why they like writing flash fiction, and here’s what they had to say:
     
    Dolores Esteban says: I think it's an interesting feature to get your creative juices flowing.
     
    Aditus says: Flash fiction: no lengthy introduction, no elaborate plot line, no sophisticated ending. Just quick and dirty. What's not to like?
     
    Lyssa says: I`d like to write this, because it is fun, keeps my brain busy and I never did something like this in English and I really cherish a new challenge
     
    Puppilull says: When I go through patches where my brain isn’t cooperating and the flow just isn’t there, it feels good to write something, anything. Lately, I’ve also tried to challenge myself to write shorter pieces, so I have to work on being to the point. Flash fiction is the thing for that.
     
    Mikiesboy says: I like to write flash fiction because it's a challenge. You have to measure what you're saying, and select words carefully. Where i used to post, they often had ultra short fiction challenges -  a story in 20 words… those were fun!!  Anything like this, forces you to think and step out of your comfort zone! 
     
    Valkyrie says: I like to write flash fiction because I find it helps me get my mojo back when I'm stuck in a rut.  It's also fun to see where the story leads.  I never plan out flash pieces, but rather let the characters drive the action.  I will also sometimes use flash pieces to work on a particular skill.  Such as working on writing in third person, descriptions of characters or settings, or technical exercises such as writing in first person without using the pronoun "I".  I never know where flash pieces will take me, and sometimes they lead to longer works.
     
    BHopper2 says: Most of the flash fiction I've written has not be published. It's little stories I've written about my Role-playing Characters over the years. I do it for a couple of reasons.
    1. To fill in the gaps of what my Characters do "off-stage."
    2. For practice, in getting my writing skills better.
    3. I love it.
     So far on GA, I've only done two flash stories from prompts, this game, and a little intro to my main story. I hope to publish more soon.
     
    Want to check out some of these authors’ flash fiction? We have a Writing Prompts forum dedicated to the site prompts which are shared weekly. There’s always something new to enjoy in there! If you want to try your hand at writing some flash, give it a shot. There’s a ton of prompts to choose from, or keep an eye out for more games coming in the future like the past Grid & Dice Game and the current Pick Two noun game. Players in those games have their stories in site newsletter features
  13. Cia

    Weekly Wrap Up (May 14 - May 20)

    By Cia,


    Weekly Wrap Up
    Yes, it is the undercover Cia, yet again donning the mask of Renee to bring you this week's happenings on GA. I've actually done all this week's blogs while Renee enjoys a few well-earned days off. Did you miss something vital happening on the site? A favorite story update? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Another way to get the news is to sign up and have it delivered straight to your inbox with Gay Author's weekly newsletter which goes out every Sunday.
     
     
     
    Anthology Announcements:
     
    ***NOTE: All Deadlines are for submission to the Anthology Proof Team
    2017 Fall Anthology: The Fall Out / Secret Spaces - Due November 15th, 2017  
    Premium Updates:
    Negative Splits by Cia *Premium*
     
    Classic Updates:
    Reggie's Journal by Ronyx
     
    Signature Updates:
    April Musings by Valkyrie
    Mine! by Cia
    The Castaway Hotel: Next Generation Book 2 by Bill W; Book 11 of The Castaway Hotel
    The Secret Life Of Billy Chase 9 by Comicality; Book 9 of The Secret Life Of Billy Chase
     
    Promising Updates:
    Buy One, Get Two and Three... by Caz Pedroso
    Choices by LitLover
    Cozy Contemplations by Headstall
    Headstall's Reflections by Headstall
    Ripped by craftingmom
    Slocked Affections by AC Benus
    timmy's poetry by Mikiesboy
    Walls by Carlos Hazday; Book 6 of CJ
  14. Cia

    Writing Prompts #578 & #579

    By Cia,


    Prompts
    Writing Prompts from Cia... wait... no... Of course these are from our prompt guru, Comicfan! I'm just filling in for Renee, but I swear I thought it was Thursday so these are just a smidge late. Sorry about that. I hope you will have fun writing something for these prompts, though, and for first-timers, remember all responses under 1k must be posted as part of a 'collection' of short stories/flash fiction/poetry. More info on that in the FAQ through the Help tab you need it.
     
     
    Prompt 578 – Creative
    Tag – list of words
    Use the following words in a story – woods, a crow, a pair of glasses, a new ball, and a cookie.
     
    Prompt 579 - Creative
    Tag – First Line
    How can you be so sure?
     
     
    And this older prompt has garnered some newer responses, so I thought I'd feature them all
     
  15. Cia
    Did you check out the banner from Monday's blog for this month's Classic Author Feature? Drew Espinosa chose Tiff's story, The Price of Revelation. This teen story is full of angst and romance, with a few life lessons tossed in. I asked Drew why he picked this story and excerpt to share, and this is what he had to say:
     
    Drew said: With those opening words, I was immediately sucked in. For me, I had to know what happened. What caused the breakdown of Sean's dad? What did Sean do? I had set out to read the rest of the story to find out, and along the way, I fell in love with the story and its characters.
     


  16. Cia
    This month's feature, The Price of Revelation by Tiff, is an older story that not many current members might be aware of. Originally posted back when promoted authors had their own websites, this story was migrated in the first GA Stories upgrade. It hasn't garnered too many views since then, but maybe that can change with this feature chosen by Drew Espinosa. Check it out, and if you want to support this month's feature, download the banner at the bottom of the blog to place in your signature!
     

    The Price of Revelation
    by Tiff
    Featured by: Drew Espinosa
     
    Length: 74,437
    Description: Sean, finally eighteen, is determined to live his own life and make his own decisions. Storm tries to protect Sean at any cost, and learns that no matter his efforts, he can't always shield Sean from the pains of growing up. Sean finds out the hard way that love is sometimes blind, sometimes life-threatening, sometimes unexpected, but sometimes - if you are lucky enough and keep your eyes open - true.
     
    mr curiosus said: WoW I really loved this story hope there are more with this extended family, the whole group just invite you into there fold and you feel as though you know them all personally...
    sad that it's over now plz write more but happy to have read it...
     
    cogito_ergo_sum1666 said: Nice! I love it so! Thanks for the fun read! Please write more!
     
    joann414 said: Absolutely awesome read. Can't believe u do not have more reviews. The characters and conflicts were right on. I laughed cried, and applauded the characters. I loved Sean and West, but Storm was so great. Thank for a perfect read.
     
    Daithi said: Awesome story. Sean and West make such a cute couple.
     
    If you want to spread the word about Tiff's story, download the graphic below and add it to your signature!
    Make sure you come back on Wednesday to see the excerpt Drew chose to share!

  17. Cia

    C S R Double-Feature... Whoops!

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    So... who wants an extra month to read Caz Pedroso's Unison Island series? I hope you're all raising your hands because with everything going on, I completely spaced sending her the interview, and then I thought I had another week before I started to panic this morning because I realized that and then thought I had another week. But no... I just ended up being the flake. Sorry!! So, fortunately for me, Caz is very understanding and we picked a CSR Feature with a lot of content for you to enjoy, if you haven't already. So, this time, FOR REAL, the CSR Discussion day will take place on Monday, May 29th.
     
    Missed out on the announcement and forgot to read the stories this month too? Well maybe some of these reviews will whet your reading appetite!
     
    Welcome to Unison Island: Thank you for explaining Unison Island. I couldn't figure out the geography or location, so I had had decided that it was just some no name area of the U.S. One thing, just how large is this island in the Bermuda Triangle? Actually, that doesn't matter. I love these stories and characters. Are you going to finish Andrew and Jamie? ~ LadyDe
     
    Andrew and Jamie: I really liked this story and these characters, what a lovely ending of this tale Thank you so much for sharing  ~ Slytherin
     
    Adam and Ben: I don't know why I never commented on this story which is probably my favorite of all the Union Island tales. Ben may be shy, but he's feisty too and can keep Adam on his toes. I liked the way he stood up to Ian, and I'm pleased Adam finished the bastard off.  ~ Timothy M
     
    Buried Treasure: This was cool...thanks ! ~ Mikiesez1
     
    The Mouse That Roared: What a lovely parting treat! Even better, you left it wide open for a sequel... YEAH!   ~ hillj69
     
    Catch up on the series here!
  18. Cia

    April's Classic Author Feature:

    By Cia,


    Classic Feature
    This month we're featuring another one of our Classic Authors who was nominated by Caz Pedroso. It's my great pleasure to share some thoughts on Andrew Q. Gordon's high fantasy novel, Chosen of Honorus. Did you know this went from free to Premium to published? And the 4th book in the series with just published with Dreamspinner Press Publications! Talk about a GA author success story!

     
    Chosen of Honorus
    by Andrew Q. Gordon
    *Premium Story*
     
    Length: 115,380
     
    Description: The Dark God Neldin has renewed his war with his siblings. The Six have chosen Farrell, last grand master wizard in the Seven Kingdoms to lead the fight against Neldin and his black wizard, Meglar. Joined by others who oppose Neldin, Farrell must still over come his self doubt if he wants to survive.
    Chosen of Honorus is Book 1 of Champions of the Gods.  Farrell is the last grand master wizard in the Seven Kingdoms and the Chosen of Honorus, lord of the gods.  Haunted by his failure to prevent the deaths of his mother Zenora, Queen of Yar-del and the legendary wizard Heminaltose at hands of Meglar, Farrell struggles to lead the survivors in holding back the dark tide threatening to conquer the continent.  When Meglar attacks Northhelm, home to others who oppose Neldin,  Honorus sends Farrell on mission to rescue the embattled enclave.  Farrell's arrival at Northhelm signals the start of plans Honorus and his siblings set in motion during the last war between the gods - three thousand years before.  Plans that will determine the fate of the entire world.
     
    Wicked Witch said ~ Absolutely an insightful, impactful and wondrous piece of writing that any fan of high fantasy must read. Instantly one of my favourite pieces of literature ever. 
     
    Stephan said ~  Oh, it's over? I'll miss this story, so I hope Book 2 comes soon. This has been a wild adventure, and I've grown fond of Farrel and his friends.  The writing is excellent, you spoil us. Thanks.
     
    Chezakeeba said ~ Great story! Can't wait for the next one!
     

    Download the graphic above for your signature to share your love of Andy's story.
    And don't forget to come back on Wednesday to see what excerpt Caz Pedroso picked!
     
     
  19. Cia

    April Classic Author Excerpt - Chosen of Honorus

    By Cia,


    Classic Feature
    Did you miss out on the feature on Monday? You can still visit it here and download your copy of the signature banner featuring Andrew Q. Gordon's story, Chosen of Honorus. It represents this scene chosen by Caz Pedroso as her favorite in the story. Let's find out why Caz picked this particular scene:
     
    Caz Pedroso said ~ I picked it because I like this bit because it shows a lot about Farrell. It shows that no matter how scared, tired, or unprepared he feels he will stand up for himself, others and the things he believes in. And of course I like reading about Horgon getting a dressing down from what he calls soft human. He really should have kept his opinions to himself LOL.
     
    Excerpt:


     
    Want to read more? Enjoy The Chosen of Honorus with a premium membership.
  20. Cia

    April C S R Feature: Unison Island Series by Caz Pedroso

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    This month's feature, Unison Island, is a series of short stories and novellas by Caz Pedroso. It starts with an introduction in... Welcome to Unison Island. What else is there to read? Well, a lot! Check them out below. Read one, or two, or all five, but be ready with your thoughts on the stories and series and any questions for Caz on Monday, April 24th!
     
    Unison Island Series
    by Caz Pedroso
     
    Book 1: Welcome to Unison Island 1,108 words
    This is an introduction to Unison Island, including how it started and how it is governed. This was prompted by the reviews I have received on my other stories. Some facts have of course been left out if they impact on current or future stories - Sorry but you'll have to wait for all the answers.
    Headstall said: Interesting premise and providing the background really helps. It all sounds quite civilized but that remains to be seen...Cheers...Gary
    Book 2: Andrew & Jamie 41,743 words
    Description: Andrew is a shy vampire, who is nervous around crowds. Jamie is an outgoing witch who always has people around him. Can a relationship work between them, especially when someone else has his eye on Andrew???
    LadyDe said: Awwww!! Now that was the perfect ending.
    Book 3: Adam & Ben 19,235 words
    Adam is a vampire and is nearly two thousand years old. He has almost given up all hope of ever finding his mate.
    Ben is a witch who is working at the healing clinic. He is on the run from his ex and doesn't want anything to do with Vampires again.
    Can Adam get Ben to trust him? And will they get their happy ever after?
    Simonnomis said: Wonderful story! You create such interesting worlds, and write so well. Thanks :-)
    Book 4: Buried Treasure 20,426 words
    I have loved my best friend for a long time but he doesn't know I'm Gay. What do I do? Now he's living with me.
    Help!!
    Mikiesez1 said: This was cool...thanks !
    Book 5: The Mouse That Roared 53,994 words
    Vash is rescued, but what is the cost of that freedom?
    Jackson and Casey are willing to anything to ensure Vash stays free.
    Puppilull said: Thank you for writing and sharing your imagination with us!
     
    Don't forget the Discussion day will be on Monday, April 24th!
  21. Cia

    March C S R Discussion Day: Crave by LitLover

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Did you have a chance to read LitLover's scifi vampire novel, Crave? Maybe read it again if you were a fan when LitLover first posted the story? Hopefully you enjoy it and have lots of comments or questions ready to ask! But first, I have an interview with her to share... apparently she's never had to talk about herself that much! LOL
     
     
    What action would your name be if it was a verb?
    Hmm, well if my name were a verb it would be daydreaming.  I’m always being accused of daydreaming; while I’m writing, and while I’m reading.  Not that exciting, I know, but it fits. 
    Share one unique or quirky habit you have.
    I don’t know if it’s a habit or a quirk, but I won’t write about a character until I hear their “voice” in my head.  Even minor characters have a unique inflection and tone.  If their “voice” isn’t clear they’re scrapped from the story because I know I won’t be invested enough to give their character the attention it might deserve.
    What are you wearing (and no fibbing!)?
    I just got home from the office, so I’m wearing fairly professional attire: a dark blue blouse, black slacks, and chunky black heels.  If you caught me in a few hours it might be sleep pants with kittens on them and a tank top.   
    What is one story/book/eBook you’ve read and reread and think others should read immediately?
    I don’t really have one favourite book, although I am a diehard Jane Austen fan and reread her books often.  More contemporarily I always recommend anything by Headstall (here on GA).  I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve read Song and Dance and Cards on the Table.  I’m a sucker for a good HEA.
    What’s the best part of being an author?
    Being able to create worlds and characters purely from imagination.  People can be anything you dream up; any profession, race, or sex, and the worlds you create are only limited by what you picture in your mind’s eye.  It’s a great feeling to effectively sketch out what you see so the reader is right there with you.   
    What’s one location you’d love to go to research for a story (including space)?
    I would love to follow Jenson and Merrick into space.  It would be amazing if some of those places actually existed so I could visit them in person.  One of the locations I’ve had in my head lately was Landin’s home world of Anphilia.  It’s a water planet with areas I imagine look much like the Caribbean ocean.  It would be great to go scuba diving in the Caribbean just to get a feel for that world.  (Not because it’s -17 Celsius in March.)
    What prompted you to combine a science fiction story in space/alien planets and ‘vampires’?
    It was an idea that came out of the blue.  I was having a discussion about the vampire craze in books and movies with a friend and wondered “why are all vampires paranormal?  What if they were created by some natural event instead?”  That thought led to vampires being descendants of humans with altered DNA.  I wasn’t sure the concept would be well received, but when I ran the idea by Gary (Headstall) he encouraged me to take the leap and post the story.  
    Just how many twists did you write in Crave, and how much did you enjoy coming up with them?
    There were several twists in Crave, which led to the nickname “Cliffie Queen” one reader bestowed on me.  I have to admit, I loved writing Crave because, although I tried to keep the story from becoming too fantastical, it was freeing having all imaginable worlds and species at my fingertips.
    Politics is a complicated subject to write. Did you have to keep notes/use a cheat sheet to keep all the differing elements relating to that accurate as you wrote the story?
    As this was my first real story, I thought I could “wing it”, but quickly found out how easy it is to get lost in the details.  I was about halfway through the story when I realized I needed an outline for my own peace of mind.  By the last chapter I had a fairly detailed summary with character names, affiliations, and even a personal history of the major characters.  I will never write another story without an outline, and would recommend the process to all new writers until you figure out what works best for you.
    Can you share something of your current or upcoming work to entice readers?
    I’ve been toying with a few ideas lately.  The first is book two of Crave set a couple of years after the epilogue.  I’m also working on a short story for Landin and Tei that’s in the rough copy stage. 
    Another idea I have brewing is something I haven’t shared with anyone, including my esteemed editor (it’s that new).  The theme is darker than anything I’ve written before, and is inspired by events that have affected people I care about.  It won’t be “based on a true story,” but the subject matter is personal to me.  I don’t know if the finished product will see the light of day, but it feels like an important story to tell. 
  22. Cia
    This month's feature is a little different. With the upgrade, we didn't feature any reviews on Monday, but I've also changed up the format for the typical Signature Feature, since this month we're featuring a Classic Author. The fun part is that I had a site member nominate a classic author and story that they really wanted to share with others. Read on to find out why Valkyrie picked In the Fishbowl by Dom Luka, and how she decided on the excerpt to share!

     
     
    Valkyrie says:
    DomLuka is easily my favorite author on this site.  He has the ability to bring characters to life in a way that draws me into the story immediately, and his stories stick with me long after I've finished reading them.  It's very difficult to pick a favorite, but I think he did his best writing with In the Fishbowl, the sequel to the very-popular Long Way.  In the Fishbowl takes the reader on a roller coaster ride of emotions, but the ending is well worth it, in my opinion.  It's one of my favorite stories on this site, and the ending--especially the final line--has stuck with me ever since I read it years ago. 
     
    The following excerpt is when Travis meets Dennis for the first time.  I picked it because it shows Travis' incorrigible nature and is an important part of the story. 
     
    Excerpt:
    Beads of sweat felt frozen against Travis’s forehead, and he didn’t really know how they’d developed in the first place. It was damn cold behind the alley of a florist shop and the pet groomer’s, even colder since he’d removed his coat to manage more movement in his shoulders. There was some laughter around him, the scent of puke and heavy liquor in the cold air, and he couldn’t seem to stop staring at the chattering teeth of the redheaded jock in a letter jacket standing red-faced in front of him. At least, until the redhead pulled back his fist and Travis braced himself.
    He felt a small crack of pain as a tight fist hit his frozen left cheek, but it was hardly enough of a blow to cause his head to snap back, and the satisfied look on the redhead’s face was almost enough to make Travis laugh; in fact, he must have because the halfwit in front of him suddenly looked furious with him as he raised his fist for another blow. This one, however, never made it to Travis’s face as his hand shot out and he openhandedly shoved the younger boy square in the chest, not quite hard enough to hurt him, but hard enough to make him tumble backwards into the snow, causing the small crowd to bust into laughter.
     
    “What the fuck?” the boy demanded, but had the sense not to object when Travis reached down to pick the three twenty dollar bills from his pocket.
     
    “You only get three,” Travis reminded him as he counted the money and shoved it into his pocket. “Bring another forty and I’ll show you how to make it hurt.”
    He let the boy’s friends pick him up as he turned his attention to collecting a few more debts from others in the group, all the while watching a burly enough guy around his age with a blond crewcut, who was watching him just as evenly.
     
    “Something I can do for you, Phil?” Travis finally asked. He hoped so. Phil was always a good customer, sending high-school boys who wanted to be tough his way, and on occasion, introducing him to someone who was interested in getting hit back. There was a small profit to be made in back-street fights, and there was always more of it when Travis could bet on himself, which, he always did regardless of what he thought the outcome might be. Tonight, however, had been too slow for his liking, and if something didn’t happen soon he’d end up going home to sleep. He probably needed it, too, but first he’d exercise all his options.
     
    “That depends,” Phil replied. “You feel like taking a ride?”
     
    Travis frowned, not liking the idea already. He stuck to places he knew, and the prospect of tagging along with the king of the rich kids, who acted like he was still in high school, just didn’t pique his interest. But still, he shrugged. “I dunno. What did you have in mind?”
     
    Phil grinned. “An old friend of mine is stuck delivering pizzas tonight. Throught we could track him down and pay a visit.”
     
    “Will he fight?” Travis asked. He wouldn’t mind a few rounds, and if the guy was delivering pizzas this late at night he was likely the tubby older man he’d encountered before while ordering one from the only 24-hour delivery service in town.
     
    “He will if he has a reason to,” Phil insisted, and Travis was quick to shake his head.
     
    “I don’t start ‘em, Phil. I just play along.” Even Travis refused to stoop so low as to pick a fight with an unsuspecting individual.
     
    “Even if he gives you a run for your money?” Phil asked. It was enough to get Travis’s attention.
     
    “Really? So why not call him up?”
     
    Phil laughed. “Because he’d hang up on me. Come on, I’ll make it worth your while.”
     
    “How so?”
     
    “Three hundred, win or lose,” and to emphasize his point, Phil held up enough money to cover nearly half of Travis’s next month’s rent.
     
    “Win or lose?” Travis repeated, wondering if it wasn’t worth it to just go throw the fight he’d likely end up starting just to collect the cash.
     
    “Win or lose,” Phil repeated. “On the condition that you get at least one good hit in before you do anything stupid. Three hundred’s worth that.”
     
    “Not really a friend of yours then?” Travis remarked as he weighed temptation against his own set of rules.
     
    Phil grinned. “Are you coming or not?”
     
    And Travis took the money.
     
    ***
     
    It was uncomfortable enough being in a truck full of highschoolers that obviously worshiped the ground Phil Clayton walked on, and staking out a late-night pizzeria only added to the insult of the entire situation, which Travis was about ready to regret. They’d been waiting for thirty minutes, and he’d had enough to try passing Phil his money back. But, Phil shrugged it away and pointed out the fogging front window.
     
    “Keep it. There he is.”
     
    Travis took a look, and almost rid himself of the inevitable guilt when he found that he wasn’t about to ambush some poor defenseless kid that had managed to get on the wrong side of these guys. True, Travis still had about ten pounds on him, but they were similar in height, and the forceful walk of the shadowed figure making his way into the parking lot was overconfident enough to tell that he wasn’t the type to turn tail and run, meaning that even if he didn’t like what was about to happen, there wasn’t much of a chance that blue and red flashing lights would show up anytime soon.
     
    “Alright. Let me out,” Travis ordered. “But don’t expect anything spectacular. I’m making this quick.”
     
    “Sure thing,” Phil replied, and Travis left the warmth of the vehicle to make his observations from the street corner before he crossed into the parking lot. His target was steadily making his way towards an outdated sportscar that didn’t look like it had any business being out in the weather, and he made sure to take a path that would purposely cross his. The guy wasn’t carrying any pizzas, so Travis could only assume that his shift had ended, which was probably for the best, anyway. He couldn’t imagine anyone wanting to go back to work after this.
     
    Moving closer still, he saw a little more of the guy as he moved briefly beneath a streetlamp. He looked cold beneath his red jacket that was nothing more than a uniform, and there was a flicker of short, brown hair beneath the baseball cap that matched the jacket. His pace slowed when he realized that Travis was coming towards him, a sure sign that he was using caution, and finally, as Travis reached him with a sloppy grin on his face that was fit for a drunken imbecile, he took note of the name tag neatly hooked to the guy’s jacket, and then loudly hollered, when there was absolutely no need for it: “Dennis! Hey, never thought I’d run into you here!”
     
    Dennis stopped walking, and beneath the brim of his hat it was apparent that he was confused, and rightfully so. “Who the hell are you?”
     
    Travis blinked. Obviously this wasn’t the sort of guy that was into common niceties, but, he smiled, anyway. “Well, since you’re asking, I am currently... scum. And, in case you’re wondering why that is, here’s the thing... I’m about to hit you for three hundred bucks. But hey, I score some points for telling you first, right?” Because otherwise, it would have been just plain unsportsman-like to Travis’s way of thinking. Of course, that’s all the warning he allowed Dennis the pizza guy as he walked steadily forward and swung as accurately as he always did. So, it was really a surprise to Travis when it didn’t turn out to be accurately enough, or maybe fast enough. Actually, he had no idea how he managed to miss Dennis’s face completely, or how Dennis’s fist ended pressed so far into his gut that he actually doubled over.
     
    Instinctively, and still too shocked to comprehend, Travis grabbed the other guy’s shoulder, ready to either fend off more of an attack or to release one of his own, and then cursed when he found himself on the ground instead, flailing in the snow much like the redhead from earlier, except, now there was a lot more pain involved.
     
    “Fuckin’ hell!” he cursed, having a lack of better words. But, the sudden voices calling out to Dennis was enough to get his attention, and he came to his senses just in time to hear the engine of Phil’s truck roaring down the street. Asshole, Travis thought. He should have known something like this would happen, and there was no way he wasn’t getting even with Phil for ditching him, either. That is, if he wasn’t spending the next few nights in jail.
     
    But, he heard Dennis calling back that he was right, and when Travis looked back up, he was being regarded with a certain amount of annoyance as Dennis shook his head, seeming expectant.
     
    “Well?” Dennis finally demanded.
     
    “Well what?” Travis forced out in words that didn’t quite have enough air behind them.
     
    “Was it worth it?”
     
    “Totally.”
     
    Dennis snorted in disgust, looked down the street and glared as if he wished the truck would come back just to give him some more. Travis watched him with morbid curiosity, and when Dennis stepped over his feet to reach his car, Travis found his way up before Dennis even got the door open.
     
    “Hey,” Travis called, and when Dennis looked over his shoulder suspiciously, Travis grinned another open smile. “Can I get a ride?”
     
    Read More Here
     
    The banner ad will be flashing on the site all month to feature Dom's story, but if you'd like to share it via your personal signature too, just copy the signature graphic below.

  23. Cia

    March C S R Feature: Crave By Litlover

    By Cia,


    CSR- Can't Stop Reading
    Okay, so every once in a while I pick a story that falls in my preferred reading wheelhouse, and science fiction is a definite favorite. This month the CSR feature is going to be a story I haven't had a chance to finish, but I will! It's a bit longer than a lot of our CSR features, but you have a good amount of time to finish it since the Discussion day won't be until Monday, March 27th.
     


    Crave


    by LitLover


     
    Length: 75,896
     
    Description: Crave: Feel a powerful desire for (something).
     
    Some cravings you just can't fight.
     
    A Reader Said: BRAVO!! You wrote an excellent story. I love stories like this. It satisfied by sci fi side, the romantic in me and oh my ....vampires. Crave is on my re-read list. and a sequel would be much appreciated. ~ LadyDe
     

    Remember, this month's Discussion day will take place on Monday, March 27th!


  24. Cia
    February has come and gone, and just where did the time go? I have no idea, personally. It feels like Christmas ended just yesterday. Hopefully you avoided the cold (or heat) outside and took advantage of some downtime to read one, or more, of Myr's Harry Potter fanfiction short stories that were featured at the start of the month. Check out my interview with Myr, and make sure you share your thoughts in the comments.
     
    Describe your perfect writing space.
    My perfect writing space is someplace quiet that is otherwise isolated from distractions. My mancave would be a great example. I even have a proper Harry Potter inspirational poster
  25. Cia
    One of many readers' favorite stories, as well as Mark's, this month's feature is Odyssey, Book 6 in the Bridgemont series featuring the adventures of Sir George Granger as he tries to voyage to the West Indies. Have you read it yet?
     




     
    ​Length: 406,283
     
    Description: It is April, 1797, and England is still celebrating the victory at the Battle of St. Vincent. Sir George Granger is given orders to set off on a voyage to the East Indies, but there are several challenges that await him before he can even sail.
     

    Some great story reviews:
     
    Miles Long says: Spectacular story in an equally spectacular series. Tip of the hat to you Mark Arbour for your excellent work and thanks to you and your team for bringing it to life.
     
    Sandrewn says: Mark, this is by far my favourite story in GA. I hope you continue with Grangers' adventures when the Odyssey comes to an end, as all good thing must. Thank you for the all hours of enjoyment you have given to me and I'm sure the many more than just the 93 who admitted it did.
     
    Rolfe45 says: Amazing work, Mr. Arbour! I have thoroughly enjoyed the Bridgemont saga. I truly hope you intend to continue this saga. I'm not sure how I'd survive without the escape which reading the Bridgemont & CAP sagas provides.
     
    GWood says: Mark, many thanks to you for your writing and to your editors/beta readers for their efforts, too. We are truly blessed at having your writings on this site. Entertaining, suspenseful, exotic and erotic. Truly looking forward to your next installment (and your continuation of 9.11). Many thanks again.
     
     
     

    Remember to check back on Wednesday to see what excerpt Mark chose to share with readers!



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