Author: Debbie

I'm a retired librarian and the award-winning author of the Cobble Cove, Buttercup Bend, and SOUP THE SUPERNATURAL KITTEN cozy mystery series and other novels, short stories, poems, articles, and a novella. My books include CLOUDY RAINBOW, REASON TO DIE, SEA SCOPE, MEMORY MAKERS, TIME'S RELATIVE, MEOWS AND PURRS, MEMORIES AND MEOWS, A MIXED BAG OF CAT TAILS, and A MYSTERY BOX OF CAT TAILS. My Cobble Cove cozy mystery series published by Solstice Publishing consist of 6 books: A STONE'S THROW, BETWEEN A ROCK AND A HARD PLACE, WRITTEN IN STONE, LOVE ON THE ROCKS, NO GRAVESTONE UNTURNED, and ROCK A BYE BYE BABY. My standalone short story collection featuring the Cobble Cove characters is SNEAKY'S SUPERNATURAL MYSTERY AND OTHER COBBLE COVE STORIES. My Buttercup Bend series published by Next Chapter Publishing includes THE CASE OF THE CAT CRAZY LADY, THE CASE OF THE PARROT LOVING PROFESSOR, THE CASE OF THE LLAMA RAISING LIBRARIAN, THE CASE OF THE WHALE WATCHING WEDDING PLANNER, THE CASE OF THE REPTILE RESCUING RESCEPTIONIST, and the forthcoming CASE OF THE BULLFIGHTING BUILDER. I've also written a paranormal romance, CLOUDY RAINBOW, and short stories of various genres published as eBooks and in anthologies published by the Red Penguin Collection. My poetry appears in the Nassau County Voices in Verse and the Bard's Annual. My latest book is SUITCASE STORIES, a collection of mostly mystery short stories. My forthcoming standalone gothic mystery is LOOKING FOR LUCY. I'm a member of Sisters-in-Crime, International Thriller Writers, and the Cat Writers' Association. I live in South Carolina with my husband, daughter, and 3 cats.

Authors, Books, Cozies, Cozy Chat, Cozy Mysteries, Cozy Mystery, Cozy Series

Cozy Chat with Harper Lin

Posted on March 23, 2016 by Debbie

Today’s Cozy Chat is with Harper Lin who I spoke with about her Cape Bay Cafe mysteries.
Hi, Harper. Thanks for joining me for a Cozy Chat. Have a seat and help yourself to some tea while we talk.

Can you tell us a little bit about the Cape Bay Cafe Mystery series? What gave you the idea for it?

I don’t live near the beach, but always thought it would be fun to. I also love cafes. Whenever I travel, the cafe scene in a city or town is very important to me, so this series is really fantasy fulfillment for me, to live in a friendly small town, running a cozy cafe where all the locals congregate—except for all the murders, of course!

Sounds like fun and a great theme for a cozy mystery series.

Do you have any advice to other authors about writing cozies or writing in general?

It’s easier to write a mystery when you plot it out first. Write down who the killer is, what their motive is, and a few other suspects and their possible motives. Sometimes I can’t plot out everything beforehand because the characters need to develop and discover as they go, but I do put down the bare bones of the story first.

I like that advice. I’m more of a pantster than a plotter, but I definitely agree it’s important to have some basic plot points and a character outline for a mystery. In my mystery, A STONE’S THROW, as well as its sequel which I hope will be published soon, I had an idea who I wanted to be the bad guy (or gal as the case may be), but I did change things toward the end.

What are you currently working on?

There is a fourth book in the series called “Latte, Ladyfingers, and Lies.” I also have two other books coming out in my other series, “The Wonder Cats Mysteries“, and “The Patisserie Mysteries“.

Wow! You write a variety of mysteries. I’m partial to the cat one. I must add it to my TBR cozy pile.

Do you write any genres other than cozies?

No, but I really want to write a young adult series. Perhaps a YA mystery series!

YA books are very popular right now. It would probably do well.

Can you tell me how you got started in writing?

I always read a lot, and I started writing for fun. Then I went down the self-publishing venture after lots of help from other writers and by hiring professional editors.

As a new author, I’ve found other writers tremendously helpful. They are so eager to share their experience, and the networking and support is very motivational.

What are your hobbies besides writing?

I love yoga. Sometimes I bake, but I don’t have as much time for that as I used to since I am busy writing all the time. Of course, reading is a big one!

I used to enjoy yoga. Now I’ve just been walking and doing Leslie Sansone videos when I can’t walk outside. The stretching is very important.

I also know what you mean about writing taking up so much time, and most authors are avid readers, as well.

Is there anything else you’d like readers of this blog to know about you and/or your books?

I hope my books are entertaining. Readers tell me that the stories help them relax after stressful days at work, so I’m glad I’m able to entertain them.

Books can be very relaxing, especially cozies. Even though they feature murder and other crimes, some of the characters almost become friends.

Thanks so much for joining me today and best wishes to you on all your series. I’m including some of your contact information for readers who want to connect with you.

www.harperlin.com

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Author Spotlight, Authors, Books, New Releases

Look Who is in the Author Spotlight – Krysten Lindsay Hager!

Posted on March 22, 2016 by Debbie

Welcome to the Limitless Library Lounge where I interview fellow authors from Limitless Publishing. Today, I am chatting with Krysten Lindsay Hager from
Dayton, Ohio.

Thanks for joining me in the library lounge, Krysten. Please have a seat and make yourself comfortable.

How long have you been publishing with Limitless? What titles have you published with them? Have you self-published any titles or published with another publisher? Please give details.

I have been with Limitless since 2015. My YA books with Limitless are: Next Door to a Star (Star Series: Book One) and Competing with the Star (Star Series: Book Two.) It deals with a teen handling a move to a beautiful beach town and trying to fit in with the new teens there—including one famous former TV star. It’s funny and very real with the emotions and drama they go through.

I also have a middle grade/younger YA humor series called, the Landry’s True Colors Series. It’s with the publisher Clean Reads. That series is about friendship, dealing with frenemies, growing up, modeling, self-esteem, and self-image.

Very nice. Can you tell us a little bit about your books — what genre you write, if you write a series, any upcoming releases or your current work-in-progress. If you have an upcoming release, please specify the release date.

In all my work I use humor and my books deal with the issues teens and young women face today like self-esteem issues, friendships, frenemies, self-image, relationships, celebrities, and fame.

The Star Series includes the YA book, Next Door to a Star, and the second book in the series, Competing with the Star, which just released this week. This series follows a teen named Hadley Daniels who has just moved to a beach resort town in Michigan and found herself living next door to (and befriending) a former teen TV star. We follow Hadley’s journey as she learns to be true to herself, find real friends, and deal with her first love. When writing the second book, I started to think about how I would have felt as a teen if my boyfriend had a crush on a famous star who was now showing an interest in him!

In the Landry’s True Colors Series, it’s about an eighth grader named Landry Albright who enters a modeling competition and finds herself “unfriended” after she makes it to the next round and her bffs do not. Landry’s journey deals with handling the self-image and self-esteem issues many of us face as young teens, how to handle frenemies and bullies, first love, and the anxiety of school, friendships, and modeling. There are three books out in that series right now: True Colors, Best Friends…Forever?, and Landry in Like.

Both of your series sounds great. I think you know I have a pre-teen daughter, and those topics are definitely ones she is interested in or will be soon 🙂

How would you describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

I hope to finish the third Star Series book and fourth Landry book and also finish my adult novel and two other YA projects.

Boy, sounds like you are very busy. Good luck with all of that.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract? Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

I began writing to reach out to those readers who thought they were the “only ones” who felt the way Landry and Hadley do in their insecurities and anxieties. I want readers to know they are not alone in those feelings.

I think that’s very important for teens (and anyone) to know, and writing books with those themes are a great way of reaching them.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

Focus on writing the book you want to read and not writing for the market. The work will reflect your passion and be better for it. And you can never learn enough about this business.

Both of those points are so true. That’s what’s so fascinating about being an author. You learn so much about yourself through your writing and about others when you interact with readers and fellow authors.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

I think all writers have the challenge of letting a publisher see what they can do. Most of the conferences I went to recommended building up your name by publishing articles and short stories to get writing credits and to get your name out there.

That’s a great way to break into the field. I started with pet articles in cat magazines and veterinary journals. I don’t write that type of book, but I do always try to include pets in my fiction.

Have you taken any writing or publishing classes? If so, please provide information about them and if you feel they helped you further your professional skills.

Yes, I am a big supporter of writing classes, publishing seminars, conferences, and workshops. I have taken so many of them and started attending them right after graduating from high school. They are so valuable. I learned so much about writing and the publishing industry from the many classes, conferences, and workshops I have attended over the years. There really isn’t a shortcut to publishing, so you need to gain knowledge just like you would in any other career field.

Definitely.

What hobbies and interests do you have besides writing?

I love reading, exploring new towns and places, watching movies, and Detroit Lions football.

A nice variety of interests.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

When I signed my first contract, I saw an author post, “I love being a writer, I hate being an author, it’s hard and scary.” I read that on Facebook and wondered, “What am I in for?” I love coming up with story ideas and creating characters, but the business side can get overwhelming and will take over your entire day and then you realize you had no time to write.

I am finding that myself right now. Writing is the easy part of being an author compared to marketing, promoting, blogging, keeping up with social media, speaking, autographing, etc. It’s all fun and exciting, but it’s very time consuming especially since most authors have full-time jobs.

Can you please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. so readers can connect with you.

Website: http://www.krystenlindsay.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krystenlindsay

Twitter: https://twitter.com/KrystenLindsay

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KrystenLindsayHagerAuthor

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/krystenlindsay/

Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/8298036.Krysten_Lindsay_Hager

Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Krysten-Lindsay-Hager/e/B00L2JC9P2/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1

Excellent. Well, it’s been wonderful chatting with you, Krysten, and best of luck with all your forthcoming books and series.

Cats, Monday Blog

10 Fascinating Reasons to be crazy About Cats

Posted on March 21, 2016 by Debbie

According to the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association), there are over 30 million households with cats in the United States. Although this figure is lower than the number of dog households, more cats are owned per household than dogs. Here are the statistics: https://www.avma.org/KB/Resources/Statistics/Pages/Market-research-statistics-US-pet-ownership.aspx

Why are pet cats so popular, but even more important, why are people so crazy about them? Below are 10 fascinating reasons, but there probably are a ton more.

1. They provide comfort when you’re sad or sick. Your cat can’t catch your cold or flu, so he or she doesn’t mind getting up close with you while you are ill. I’ve always considered my cats furry nurses. Their purrs are quite soothing, and if you’re depressed, there’s nothing like some funny cat antics to brighten you up.

2. They’re good for your health and state of mind. Read this article that shows why cats are beneficial to your heart health and can aid in alleviating other medical and mental maladies. http://pazoo.com/health/11-reasons-cats-make-happier-healthier.

3. They saved the world. Some believe that if it hadn’t been for cats, the Bubonic Plague would’ve wiped out the world. Read this interesting article by Lisa J. Lehr on that topic: http://ezinearticles.com/?Cats,-People,-and-the-Black-Plague—Those-Who-Kept-Cats-Survived&id=161249

4. Many cats have become Internet stars or celebrities. I’m sure you’ve seen the number of cat photos that proliferate on social media. I was stunned at some posts with cat pics receiving 10,000 + likes. Cats such as Grumpy Cat, Little Bub, and others have risen to fame with their own websites, merchandise, and nationwide tours.

5. They’re written about extensively. Besides all the non-fiction articles and books about cat breeds, medical issues, and other feline topics, there are multitudes of cat mystery books, cat series, cat science fiction, and other cat fiction. There is even a Cat Writer’s Association founded by Certified Animal Behavior Consultant and bestselling author, Amy Shojai. (I’ve been a member of this wonderful organization for many years).

6. They’re funny and smart. People who really know cats appreciate feline humor and their cunning yet cute manipulative ways. It’s also true that cats can be trained if you know the tricks to persuading them to participate. Check out Gregory Popovich’s popular Las Vegas Show, Comedy Pet Theater http://comedypet.com/ and Acrocats.

7. They’re masters of relaxation and stretching exercises. Take a look at this video featuring yoga wth cats.

8. Their beauty inspires artists and photographers alike. Da Vinci said of them, “The smallest feline is a masterpiece.”

9. Cats make great substitutes children, but some people consider them better than babies. Consider this comical comparison from “Little Meows.” http://littlemeows.com/comic-is-hilarious/

10. Cats are now being found in cafes throughout the world. Read this article written by Kelly-Jane Cotter about this new feline fad and add one to your trip’s next itinerary. http://www.app.com/story/entertainment/2016/03/16/cat-cafes-coffee-and-kitties-purrfectly-relaxing/80925764/.

Besides cafes, cats have always been popular in libraries. Here’s a map showing library cats around the world. http://www.ironfrog.com/catsmap.html.

There’s a whole island devoted to them in Japan. http://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/japan-cat-island/.

Amsterdam even has a boat that serves as a tourist attraction and cat sanctuary: http://thebestcatpage.com/2016/03/18/amsterdams-floating-sanctuary-cats-called-simply-cat-boat/.

For some reasons, women are stereotyped as cat crazy even though men can be wild about them, too. If you’re a cat crazy lady, you’ll enjoy Allia Zobels’ books: “Women Who Love Cats Too Much” and its recent sequel, “Women Who Still Love Cats Too Much.” If you’re a man, you should like Michael Showalter’s book, “Guys Can be Cat Ladies Too.”

For the furry finale to this blog post. Here are some additional photos of my own feline obsessions, Stripey and Oliver. Feel free to comment with photos of the cats you’re crazy about and why.

Uncategorized

Have You Subscribed to the Newsletter for My Fans?

Posted on March 18, 2016 by Debbie

I recently mailed the second Ruff Drafts newsletter to subscribers. It is separate from my Ruff Drafts website/blog. It features information about my author appearances, new releases, sneak peeks and other exclusive content. The second issue contained a short story that took place after A Stone’s Throw and before the to-be-published sequel. It also featured information about the monthly contests and special end-of-year contest that all subscribers will be eligible to enter for gift cards and giveaways. The winner of the autographed book or $10 Amazon gift card will be announced in the April issue, so there is still time to enter and possibly win this prize.

If you have read or are interested in reading A Stone’s Throw and its sequel or my other upcoming books, I would love to include you on my fan mailing list. All you need to do is fill out the pop-up form at https://debbiedelouise.wordpress.com or sign up on my Facebook author page: https://www.facebook.com/debbie.delouise.author/app/100265896690345/. You will then need to confirm your subscription by clicking on the link in the email you receive. If you have any problems, you just need to send me an email at debbielibrarianwriter@gmail.com and I will subscribe you myself.

My April newsletter will feature the winner of the book or gift card (winner’s choice) and information about the new April contest. I will also be sharing information about my upcoming talk and book signing at Barnes and Noble in Carle Place on April 12th and a few other surprises.

Thanks for taking the time to read this blog post, and I hope to see you on my fan newsletter list soon.

Author Spotlight, Authors, Books, New Releases

Author Spotlight Gloria Herrmann

Posted on March 17, 2016 by Debbie

Welcome to the Limitless Library Lounge where I interview fellow authors from Limitless Publishing. Today, I am chatting with Gloria Herrmann from
Colville, WA.

Thanks for joining me, Gloria. Please have a seat and make yourself comfortable.

How long have you been publishing with Limitless? What titles have you published with them? Have you self-published any titles or published with another publisher? Please give details.

I was signed in late July of 2015, with my first book being released in October. I will currently have three titles available, but a fourth is being edited.

That’s great. Can you tell us a little bit about your books — what genre you write, if you write a series, any upcoming releases or your current work-in-progress. If you have an upcoming release, please specify the release date.

I write sweet contemporary romances, but I am currently working on something quite different, a supernatural romance. I just completed the fourth book in the Cloverleaf Series, I do have plans for future books. My next release is April 5th for book 3, Patrick’s Promise.

They all sound great including the supernatural romance. My first self-published book was a paranormal romance. It was quite different from my Cobble Cove books, as well. It’s great to be able to branch out and offer some variety within a genre.

How would you describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

My hopes are that I will be able to reach a lot of readers and that they enjoy what I write. I am not looking for fame or fortune, though I wouldn’t mind either. My main ambition is to be taken seriously as an author and to make readers happy.

Those are very worthy goals for all authors. I wish you luck achieving them. I think you already have a great start toward them.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract? Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

I want to attract readers of sweet romance for this line, mainly women who are fans of authors like, Debbie Macomber, Nora Roberts, etc. However, my next story will be a little more available to a wider range of readers, those who love romance, paranormal, supernatural, and native tales.

I’m a big fan of Nora Roberts. I like both her standalones and JD Robb mysteries. She and Debbie Macomber are very popular at my library. Your supernatural book should also have a large audience.

What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

When it comes to publishing, be prepared to hold your breath, for like almost three months, and don’t be discouraged when you don’t hear back right away, just keep trying, keep honing your craft, because it should be more about loving to write, not just getting published.

My advice for surviving in the literary community is simple, respect other authors or those that are practicing the same art you are. They are the most important support system, especially in the online world.

My last bit of advice, if you are a writer, you will write, because that is what a writer does. You don’t need someone to validate your love for it. Just do it. Just write.

Very good advice and all of it so true.

What hobbies and interests do you have besides writing?

I love reading, watching movies, and spending time with my family.

Nice ways to unwind.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

I love creating, the whole plotting and constructing part, that’s the best. Interacting with readers and other authors is also incredible and I enjoy it a great deal. My least favorite thing about being an author would have to be author ranking, it just drives me crazy. I hate the worry that goes into wondering if I’m doing well or not. So that is also my challenge, not letting it take the wind out of my sails, or keeping me from writing.

I think it’s only natural to be concerned with ranking, but what’s more important is the fan base you are building. You seem to be a people person, so that will really help.

Can you please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. so readers can connect with you.

Website:

www.gloriaherrmann.com

Facebook Author Page:

facebook.com/authorgloriaherrmann

Facebook Blog Page:

facebook.com/kissntaleblog

Facebook Nite Owl Page:

facebook.com/niteowlservices

Twitter: @GloriaIsWriting

@kissntaleblog @niteowloffice

Instagram: @authorgloriaherrmann

@kissntaleblog @niteowloffice

Goodreads:

www.goodreads.com/authorgloriaherrmann

Amazon Author Page:

amazon.com/author/gloriaherrmann

The Cloverleaf Amazon Buy Links:

Loving Liam: http://amzn.to/1j5VL44

Maggie’s Marriage: http://amzn.to/1mgHeDC

Wow, you are very active on social media which is great, Gloria. Thanks for also sharing your buying links. It’s been a pleasure to have you in the Limitless Lounge today, and congrats on your cover reveal of Patrick’s Promise and that supernatural novel you are working on that sounds so cool.

Authors, Books

Cover Reveal for “Patrick’s Promise” by Gloria Herrmann

Posted on March 17, 2016 by Debbie

Promises are meant to be kept—but Patrick O’Brien is too numb with grief…

Patrick hasn’t been able to move past the loss of his wife, who died while delivering his twin boys—Finn and Connor. While life continues around him, he is left in a state of emotional suspension, unable to honor his final vow to his wife and move on after she is gone.

Faking it only goes so far…

Always known as the moody older brother, Patrick maintains his distance from his overbearing but loving family. He’s barely coping, but still finds a way to be the best father he can to his sons.

Amber Miller returns home and finds more than the small town she left behind…

With her son in tow, Amber reluctantly returns to Birch Valley when her parents ask for help. Their well-known diner, Herrick’s, is a staple in the community. But more than that, her father is ill, and they need the extra set of hands to keep the place going.

Lonely hearts attract…

When Patrick and Amber cross paths, their instant attraction catches both off guard. Working through their own kinds of grief, the two must figure out what they want for their future—even if it’s not each other.

Losing someone you love is devastating, but learning to love again comes with its own challenges.

Is he strong enough to risk his heart? Or will running from love be the ultimate betrayal of Patrick’s Promise?

Tagline (author suggested): The biggest challenge he’s ever had was making a promise he can’t keep…

Keywords: Contemporary romance, small town romance, sweet romance, single father, widower, fresh start,

Author Spotlight, Authors, Books

Do you know today’s spotlight author Kellie Riek?

Posted on March 15, 2016 by Debbie

Welcome to the Limitless Library Lounge where I interview fellow authors from Limitless Publishing. Today, I am chatting with Kellie Riek from Sydney, NSW, Australia

Thanks for joining me, Kellie. Please have a seat and make yourself comfortable.

How long have you been publishing with Limitless? What titles have you published with them? Have you self-published any titles or published with another publisher? Please give details.

I’m new to Limitless. My first book with them is Rogue Agent which is being released today, March 15th.

How exciting. Can you tell us a little bit about the book — what genre you write, if you write a series, any upcoming releases or your current work-in-progress.

I write a range of genres from fantasy, crime, thriller and historical fiction. I’m not a big series writer, so I tend to stick to standalone books. If a book goes well, then I may consider writing a sequel.

Rogue Agent is a thriller/sci fi. It will be out by Limitless Publishing today, March 15th. Inspired by great thriller/crime novels, I hope it will be a success. I loved writing it and creating my characters whom I hope readers will love. Its a cross from a thriller/adventure/romance.

The book sounds incredible. I absolutely love the cover, and I’m eager to read it. I also thought I preferred writing standalones but after I wrote “A Stone’s Throw,” I felt like it needed a sequel which I just submitted to Limitless and am already planning the third. So you never know. I still intend to write other standalones, but I’m enjoying my Cobble Cove books for now.

Describe your goals as a writer. What do you hope to achieve in the next few years? What are you planning to do to reach these goals?

My goal as a writer is simple. I wish for success. Whether that is getting an agent and getting a big 6 contract or my books selling very well on Amazon. I don’t want be to “famous” but well known. My aim for my next WIP is to get an agent.

I wish you luck with that.

What type of reader are you hoping to attract? Who do you believe would be most interested in reading your books?

My books market to the large audience but they are niche. I write historical fiction mostly and it doesn’t have a huge market like YA or romance so I have to be selective on how I market my book. I just want my readers to enjoy my stories. I try and put a little bit of everything into a book to make it interesting.

Very nice. What advice would you give other authors or those still trying to get published?

Don’t stop writing. Each time you write a book you get better at it. Don’t stop!

I hear that time and again from every author, and I agree completely.

What particular challenges and struggles did you face before first becoming published?

Rejection is a normal part of any author’s career. It hurts but its necessary to improve your craft. But doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger. Just don’t take it personal.

Yes, that applies to both submissions and reviews. You’re right that it’s absolutely a part of an author’s career.

Have you taken any writing or publishing classes? If so, please provide information about them and if you feel they helped you further your professional skills.

I am all self taught 🙂 I have certificates in professional writing, but not creative writing.

I see. What hobbies and interests do you have besides writing?

I love to draw, game and go for walks. I try to keep my mind active. It’s very important for an author.

Absolutely. I’ve found that walking is so relaxing and gets the gears going for writing because it clears your mind. Drawing is a wonderfully creative and relaxing hobby, as well.

What do you like most and least about being an author? What is your toughest challenge?

What I love most is hearing from readers. Its the best kind of feedback. You write and publish so others can read your work. What I dislike most is not having enough time in the day to write!

I love hearing from readers, also. It really makes your day. Time is always the issue with writing, but you have to schedule it and try to do it daily even if it’s for a short period.

Can you please list your social media links, website, blog, etc. so readers can connect with you.

Facebook: https://facebook.com/kelliewallacebooks

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kelliewallace85

Website: kelliewallacebooks.com

Instagram: kellie_wallace_books

Thanks so much for joining me in the Limitless Lounge, Kellie, and for a great interview. Good luck with your new release today and your future writing.

Monday Blog

Why I Hate Weekends and Why You Should Too

Posted on March 14, 2016 by Debbie

It seems that everyone waits for the end of the week which is traditionally considered Friday, although more people are working weekends nowadays. I work two Saturdays a month myself. Still, the popular term TGIF, Thank God Its Friday, proliferates. I would like to propose a new saying, TGIM, Thank God It’s Monday. Why? Because I hate weekends, and after you read my reasons for feeling this way, you may hate them, too.

Weekends are for Catching Up. Even though I sometimes work Saturdays, when I’m off on Saturday and Sunday, I end up doing all the household work I put off during the work week. The weekend is usually when people clean, mow their lawns in the spring and summer, garden, wash laundry, repair and maintain appliances and other household items, etc. The work required to do these tasks can be more tiring than work one does for an employer during the week.
Weekends are for paying bills. I usually sort my week’s snail mail on Sunday when it isn’t delivered. I glance through it when it arrives but then save it in a letter holder by the door. On Sundays, I go through it, throw out the junk mail, and pay the bills that are due. Bill paying is never fun and not something that one looks forward to doing in their free time.
Weekends are when your family gets in your way. I know this sounds awful, but for a writer like myself who needs concentration to work, it is difficult to deal with interruptions even from loved ones. Weekends are usually the time your son or daughter asks for money, tells you they failed a test or class, needs help with a project, wants to know where a particular outfit or other item is that seems to have disappeared into thin air but that he or she has to have immediately, etc.
Weekends are for Having Fun Even When You Don’t. I’m not a party person and, even though I enjoy going out, there are times I’d rather stay home and rest. Also, when you have children who schedule playdates, birthday parties, and other activities on the weekend, you either have to transport them to and from places or accompany them. Many holidays and get togethers are also celebrated over a weekend, and the planning, decorating, organizing, and clean up can be overwhelming.
Weekends are for staying up and sleeping late. I’m a morning person, so it’s not easy for me to stay up late, but like most people, I do it when I’m not required to be up for work the next day. The problem is that when I get a late start, it’s very difficult to keep to any of my regular routines such as writing, exercise, etc. Doctors agree it’s healthier to keep the same sleep habits every night of the week. Also, if you go to sleep two hours later but then get up two hours later, you are not catching up on any rest because you are still getting the same amount of sleep.
Weekends are for shopping. Whether it’s grocery, clothes, or another type of shopping that sends you into a mall or other store, it’s usually when the place is the most crowded. And, if you haven’t noticed, a lot of shopping is now done online these days, so even if the stores aren’t crowded, there are less checkout clerks being hired. That means you still end up waiting on line. Sales are also usually posted on weekends that draw in additional people who spend more at them, anyway.
Weekends are for attending Religious Services. I really don’t want to offend anyone by this topic and please don’t get the impression that I’m against religion. I go to church, but I know many people don’t attend services regularly. Part of the reason may be because they don’t look forward to spending an hour in a usually stuffy place of worship where germs are rampant because of the many people that attend who are sick or bring their sick children. It’s wonderful to hear the word of God and join a faithful community, but it’s not so fun having to get dressed in business clothes on a non-work day, donate to the collection plate, hurt your knees by kneeling up and down, and drive in and out of the parking lot which can be quite hazardous. In my opinion, it takes a lot of devotion to do this on a weekly basis.
Weekends are for Replying to Emails. I receive so much email that I’m embarrassed to say that I need to star or flag the important messages until I can reply to them at the end of the week. I’m pretty sure I’m not alone in handling email this way.
Weekends are for Visiting or Calling Friends and Relatives. Although it’s easier to text people on your phone or IM them on Facebook, it’s still nice to see or call people in person occasionally, and the weekend is usually the most convenient time to reach people or be reached yourself. These visits/calls can be pleasant enough except when you hear bad news, realize you missed an important date or birthday, or just get overwhelmed with trivial conversation such as the weather.
Weekends are Harder When the Weather is Nice. Everyone looks forward to a warm, sunny Saturday or Sunday, but then you feel awful about spending it inside catching up on chores or other indoor activities. You are guilted into spending hours at the park or beach, and you feel good about it until you get home to the messy house, pile of bills and other work that you will have to save for another rainy weekend.

If the above reasons don’t convince you that life is simpler and more enjoyable during the work week, maybe you’re retired or have a really awful job. For me, I look forward to rising each week day at 5 a.m., sitting down at my computer and writing for an hour in the quiet morning, then heading off to work after my daughter leaves for school. Sure I have stress at work. Everyone does, but I still find it easier to deal with it in the regular routine than the unplanned, over-crammed 48-hour “weak” end.

Authors, Books, Feature Friday

Feature Friday March 10 – The Braille Club by J.A. Kerr

Posted on March 11, 2016March 11, 2016 by Debbie

THE BRAILLE CLUB by J.A. Kerr

Publisher – LIMITLESS PUBLISHING

Genre – Contemporary Romance

✦ SYNOPSIS ✦

Welcome to the Braille Club, where blindfolds are mandatory and members play sensual games of pleasurable endurance. Three couples take part in this exclusive, secret club for very different reasons…with very different results.

Benedict Harrison was a master of detachment…

Benedict’s first experience with the Braille Club changed his life forever when a mysterious woman reawakened his emotions and his passion. He encounters the darkly erotic Siena Waters again, and they begin a tumultuous affair and a business partnership, but what will happen if the true nature of their relationship is discovered?

Gabriella Ballantyne’s marriage is in trouble…

Her husband Max has grown cold, and Gabriella seeks out the Braille Club and its decadent delights in an effort to reawaken their hearts and strengthen their marriage. But when she presents him with his own membership card, she sees only revulsion in his eyes. Gabriella must use everything she’s learned from the club in a last-ditch effort to reconnect with Max and resurrect their love.

Abbey Marshall needs an escape from her cheating husband…

Abbey begins sensory lessons at the Braille Club, hoping it will help her regain control of Steve and prevent his straying. When the unthinkable happens, she is consumed with the need to learn the identity of Steve’s latest mistress. Left reeling and with her sanity in jeopardy, a chance visit from her husband’s former teammate might be her last chance to find the answers she needs.

At the Braille Club, the elite membership walks in the dark in order to find the light…they need to be blind before they can see. They’re ready—are you?

Purchase your copy – http://amzn.to/1eU2RpB

✦ MEET THE AUTHOR: J.A. Kerr ✦

JA (Julie Ann) Kerr was born in the spring of 1967 at Paisley’s Ross Hospital in Scotland and grew up in Glasgow. She was an office administrator and latterly a recruitment consultant before marrying and relocating to The Netherlands with her husband. After two years, she moved to Cheshire where her first child was born and returned to work part-time. Her final relocation took her back to her home town of Glasgow where she welcomed the arrival of her second child. She raised her family whilst harbouring dreams of becoming a writer. In September 2013, she started her first book and she is currently working on a sequel.

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/JAKerrBRAILLE

WEBSITE: http://thebrailleclub.com/

TWITTER: https://twitter.com/thebrailleclub