Characters' Hobbies by J. S. Marlo

 

Wide of the Mark

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My characters are normal people, though I tend to give my heroines unusual jobs and my heroes... well, I like them in uniforms but not always. I also like to give them a hobby, something that I can weave throughout the story.

In my 'in-progress' novel, my hero goes fishing to relax. What he catches will turn his life upside down. I figured him out, and so far he behaves as predicted. My heroine is another story.

The story demands that she has a hobby that turned her spare bedroom/craft room into a disaster zone, making it impossible for someone to sleep there... unless my heroine is inclined to do a big tidying up, which she isn't because she has a last-minute wedding to plan. So, what can she be doing in there?

My first idea was a sewing project, except it can't be something directly related to the wedding, like the dress or decorations, since she wouldn't have had enough notice for such projects. She could be making stockings, except it's not Christmas, or a quilt, but that's the hobby I used in The Red Quilt.

It can't be painting, even though she lives in the picturesque Rocky Mountains, because my heroine in Voted Out is a painter with a art gallery.

It also can't be weaving, since it's part of Blown Away (Indomitable Spirit #2) set to be released in 2027. Besides, a floor loom wouldn't fit in her spare room, though she could have a table one.

It could be knitting, crocheting, or cross-stitching. She could be making blankets, tuques, scarves, or wall decorations. I haven't used any of them in a story so far. The problem is, I do all of them, and they don't turn a room into a disaster zone that takes forever to tidy up.

So, right now, I can think of two hobbies that could somehow fit with the story.

1- Jigsaw puzzle. She lives in the mountains, so doing puzzles could be her way to unwind during her lone evenings. She could be working on a 5000-piece puzzle. The puzzle could be on her craft table, barely 10% done, and the pieces could be separated (right side up) by colours or shapes in trays spread on the bed. It wouldn't be messy, but that takes lots of space, and space is a luxury she doesn't have in her quarters, so that could be her excuse.

2- Diamond painting. It's a cross between cross-stitch and paint by number. There's a sticky canvas with tiny dots with numbers/letters printed in them.

Each number/letter corresponds to the colour of a tiny gem. The gems are pressed on the canvas and they eventually make a great picture to hang on a wall. The gems are the size of a... I couldn't think of anything that size, so I took a pic of my finger on the gems. The gems are kept in different trays and some are very similar in colours. Good luck picking them up from the floor if you spill a tray, let alone more than one tray. And don't put your hand, or wrist, or elbow, or glass on the canvas, or those tiny gems won't stick anymore, and you might as well throw the entire thing in the garbage. (Yes, I did that once.) A diamond painting takes less space than a puzzle, but it doesn't like to be disturbed, so she wouldn't want anyone to stay in the room until the diamond painting is done.

These are the two options that I'm considering. If you have any other suggestions, feel free to let me know in the comments.

Enjoy the summer. It's hot and rainy in my northern corner of the world.

JS

PS: All the photos are projects that my oldest granddaughter and I made.

 

 

J. S. Marlo's Website

Astraphobia by Paul Grant

https://www.bookswelove.com/search?q=astraphobia

Lightning has stalked the McKenzie family for three generations, striking seemingly at

random, but always taking a first born. Who will be next to fall victim to The McKenzie

Curse?

Astraphobia (fear of lightning) is set in Saskatchewan because I love the place, and

because it’s one of the most lightning-prone places on the planet, with more than

600,000 strikes every year, most of them in the summer. The story was inspired by

events around Moose Jaw in 1890. Henry Battell, his daughter, and his daughter’s

friend were all killed when lightning came down the chimney, through the cast iron

stove, and across the kitchen to where they were sitting. Battell’s cousin, David Hawke,

was also struck by lightning and killed.

Despite the dire consequences for the McKenzies and the Batells, there is only a one in a

million chance of a person being struck by lightning in any given year, although men are

four times as likely as women to be struck by lightning. The average age of a person

struck by lightning is thirty-seven, and ninety per cent of them survive.

Astraphobia is a perfect novel for the cabin or the beach, part of BWL’s Paranormal

Canadiana Collection: https://www.bookswelove.com/search?q=paranormal

Anatomy of a Book Club Scam by Debra Loughead

(6) Facebook

Up until February of this year, I’d thought I could never possibly fall victim to a scam. Nobody was ever going to pull the proverbial wool over my eyes. I was way smarter than that, could never be sucked into believing the lies of a grifter. There were too many warnings out there. I didn’t even bother answering my phone when I didn’t recognize the number. And who even answers the front door anymore when someone comes knocking? 

And then there were the ‘book promoter’ emails that had been popping up in my inbox. One persistent jerk even got my phone number somehow and kept on calling until I blocked his number, and emailing until I blocked his address.

But nobody could ever have forewarned me about the rush that comes when someone from an American book club (Read Whatever You Want Book Club Austin) contacts you and sings the praises of your most recent novel. Tells you that ‘YOUR BOOK’ has ‘resonated with members of our community’. How their members ‘explore what moves them and bring those discoveries into conversation’ because it has ‘sparked curiosity, reflection, or a strong personal response’. And they’d ‘love to invite you to join us for a virtual author conversation’ in March. A small, informal, relaxed, meaningful exchange. Oh, and they take care of all the details. 

Well of course I responded! No travel, sitting in the comfort of my home office talking to people about books and writing. Sounds amazing. But, one thing I wasn’t certain of was to which of my books he’d been referring. Which ‘YOUR BOOK’ was it, (in hindsight, huge red flag!).

And when he immediately responded with these words: The book our members have been engaging with is Happenstance, my fragile and mercurial writer’s heart leapt for joy. All because one of their book club members shared it as a ‘recent, meaningful read that stayed with them in a quiet but persistent way…became a wider conversation in the group about chance, choice and the subtle turning points that shape our lives.’

These readers had completely nailed the themes of my novel! And then he went on to explain that Happenstance had ‘prompted people to talk not only about the book, but about their own experiences where something seemingly small or unexpected ended up having lasting significance’. By that point I was totally sucked in. I mean, how couldn’t I be? These readers loved my book. It resonated with them. They were talking about it. Buzz was spreading through word-of-mouth. I was officially sold on the proposal, which just goes to proves that for this writer, flattery will get you everywhere. And this was the turning point when I started engaging with my book club contact, with a mixture of trepidation and glee. 

And this is what my writer’s ever-hopeful heart told him in an email:

‘Hi again. I’m thrilled to hear that people are reading and enjoying Happenstance. Putting a book out into the world is a huge leap of faith for a writer. And just knowing that someone, anyone, is connecting with my words and thoughts is utterly uplifting!’ And onward I went, asking him to share whatever he could about this exciting concept. And so he did.

So it was with unbridled enthusiasm that I proceeded to continue communicating with this person. With his encouragement, I actually spent three hours putting together a series of book club thoughts and questions that would help guide the discussion during our session, which he said he would share with his members. We had even settled on a date. Until this happened…

I also want to share one important coordination detail transparently and early. For featured author conversations, we do attach a small coordination fee. 

Pow! The sharp pin that popped my balloon of euphoria. Oh, but apparently not a fee for my participation or time. No, of course not. It’s merely to support the tools, creative element and production work so that they can truly support and honour my book. And then a list of features included in the fee. Which I won’t even get into, because my antennae instantly flew up and I started asking questions, and went into a deep dive, googling the name he was using and the book club he was running, all of which became equally invigorating for a mystery lover. 

First I told him that I needed an explanation, since scamming was already on my radar. He reassured me this was completely above board. I told him that in my 30 or more years as a writer and presenter, people always paid me to present. They arrange everything and paid me. I told him that The Writers Union of Canada expects writers to be paid a set fee for presentations. And he always came back with what I supposed he considered reasonable explanations, mostly to keep on cajoling me while still trying to earn my trust. 

I googled book club scams. Found out the perpetrators used Gmail. He did. Then I googled his name and the caricature image he was using as a front. I found it on another person’s website in the same city, Austin. So I asked my scammer if he was the same guy. And he told me no, they were two different people. The next time I looked him up, his image had been removed from the signature at the end of his emails. I asked him to send me testimonials and proof from others who had participated. And what he sent me looked low quality and super sketchy. 

Finally I asked if I could participate without paying up front, in a roundabout way. 

‘So what you’re saying is that if I decide to opt out of contributing, then the event won’t even be happening? Because earlier you mentioned that the contribution is optional. Or maybe I misinterpreted your meaning.’

He completely avoided a direct answer, said paying would enhance the presentation.

‘It’s not about paying to participate, it’s about making the experience professional, memorable and impactful for everyone.’

Yeah, okay buddy. That was when I blocked him. 

I like to believe that I learned something from this. What I learned is that AI has an incredible vocabulary and is practically sentient, and you can easily be duped by it. How else was he able to capture the essence of my novel, which is what sucked me in initially. And I also like to believe that I was playing him right back for a while, asking him questions and putting him on the spot, and pointing out his deception. And now, well, I have a great book club guide, if anyone should ever decide to read my novel for their book club. 

This is a cautionary tale, since most seasoned writers are well aware these scams are happening constantly, yet many writers are unfortunately falling for them. This particular scammer had it down to a fine art and everything he told me is what any insecure writer is always thrilled to hear. Somebody liked my book!

So don’t be fooled like I almost was. Just press ‘delete’ and move on. 

Advice From A Nokota Horse by Julie Christen

   

Click here to buy Echoes!  Click here to buy Voices!

For all the Nokota warriors out there.

Past. Present. And future.

Know who loves you. 

    Know who does not. 

        Behave accordingly.

Read the room.

Roll with it.

Figure out how to get along.

Be an easy keeper. 

If you get hurt, 

        Walk it off.

Protect your family. 

    Keep them close.

        Fight for them if you have to.

Listen.

    Learn.

        Adjust.

            Try again.

Imperfection can be perfect.

When you look at someone,

    Look into their soul.

Believe actions before words.

Never let anyone get away with a lie.

Keep good memories forever.

    Let bad ones heal in time.

Forgive.

Always long for the prairie.

Work the wind-blown effect like a supermodel.

Help your friends fight the pests.

Never deny yourself a good butt scratching.

Watch the weather. 

    Nap in the sun.

      Enjoy a rain shower.  

        Aim your rear at the storm.

Slow down.

Appreciate quiet.

Think before you act.

Show compassion.

Remember that everyone has a story. 

    Including you.

For some Middle Grade Fantasy Action, click here to check out Sparkslingers!

Riel Brava returns -- to shelves and his roots by donalee Moulton

My first mystery book, Hung Out to Die, was published in 2023. It featured CEO and psychopath Riel Brava. Riel is about to make a return appearance next year. Writing the second book in the series has got me thinking about the first book. Below you’ll find some questions I’ve been asked about Riel – and my answers.

 

ORDER HERE 

The Riel Brava Mystery Series

 

What inspired the first book?

A bath. I’m a big believer in bubbles, candles, scrubs, essential oils, and music with birds chirping in the background. Friends call this bathroom time my shrine. One night immersed in a lavender cloud I realized it was time to begin writing my mystery. Get off the pot kind of thing. That led me to a litany of possible characters and crimes. Through the mist Riel emerged. Not fully formed but outlined enough that I wrote down my ideas before I even moisturized.

Describe the setting, lifestyle, ethnic and personality profile of your main character Riel Brava.

Riel, at least on the surface, is an unusual character for me. He’s male. Quintessentially male in many ways: confident, fit, good looking, charming, ambitious. He also has a distinctive personality trait; he’s a psychopath. The kind of psychopath that often succeeds in a corporate structure that calls for dispassion.

An American, Riel is currently living in Nova Scotia and working as CEO of the Canadian Cannabis Corporation. He aspires to return to the U.S. and run for president. First, he wants to hone his leadership skills and cement his business credentials.

Riel lives between worlds. His first name is Gabriel; his adoptive parents’ last name is Brava. Riel is neither French nor Latino. In that same way, Riel is a successful man in a competitive world, but it is a world he does not identify with on fundamental levels.

Define the point of view in the narrative and what or who influenced your decision to implement it.

This question reminds me that I made decisions I was not aware of making. POV was one. Perhaps it was the path of least resistance, perhaps it was that Riel emerged fairly well formed from the bathroom fog, but it never occurred to me that this book would be written in any other voice than his. That non-decision, of course, meant from a plot perspective that Riel had to be involved in the scattering and solving of clues. That was challenging at times.

Who are the core cast of returning characters in the series?

There are characters who play a central and secondary role next to Riel.

Tiffany Brava. Riel’s wife and loyal supporter. Somewhere in the recesses of her mind, Tiffany knows Riel is not quite like everyone else – and she knows why. For now, that door is closed. What’s openly obvious is her affection for her husband, her loyalty, and her acumen. Don’t count Tiffany out as the dumb blonde. Oh yes, she’s vegan.

Franklin Raynes. The Halifax Police Department’s lead detective on this case is Black, characteristically Nova Scotian, and a consummate charmer. He can read the room and respond accordingly. He takes a shine to Riel and also realizes how helpful the psychopath can be in solving this case. (Yes, Lin Raynes is privy to Riel’s deepest secret, but he doesn’t admit it to his new friend – just yet.) Oh yeah, Raynes also does this thing with his left eyebrow.

Senator John Williams. Tiffany’s dad | Riel’s father-in-law is the Democratic Senator for District 19. A seasoned and senior politician, Williams is a co-owner of the Canadian Cannabis Corporation, although it’s not an asset he talks about with constituents. He’s brusque, except where his daughter is concerned, and well connected, even in Canada.

Zahra Bashir. A practising Muslim and savvy TV reporter who’s always on the lookout for the inside scoop. Bashir makes many of the other characters very nervous despite her friendly demeanor.

David Clements. The recreational cannabis sector in Canada is heavily regulated. Clements is the federal contact for Riel. Their relationship is one of power and powerful expectations. Clements holds that power. Although a minor character, Clements plays an important role. He’s the first person to use a special word.

There are two returning characters who surprised me: Tiffany and Marcia, Riel’s executive assistant. They took on lives of their own despite my preconceived notions. Another character, the victim’s son, Bran, also became much more fully formed and essential than I had originally imagined. I’m debating whether to bring him back.

Give a glimpse of the research involved in developing the story.

There were key elements to the story that had to be authentic, at least in a fictional context. I have done a lot of reporting on the cannabis industry and have had the opportunity to tour a cannabis production plant before it opened. Likewise, for years as a freelance journalist I wrote on the health sector and health issues, including mental health and personality issues. As a communications specialist, many of my clients were from this sector.

How long did Hung Out to Die take to complete from concept to final manuscript readiness for submission to literary agents and publishers?

A year. There is part of me that thinks I dicked around too much that year. There is another part that thinks that time helped to better formulate characters and plot.