A Comparative Analysis of Two Masterful #Crime #Fiction #Writers
Summer is quickly approaching and, with that, the start of yet another school year.
For writers who work full-time jobs, the summer and back-to-school periods can be both exciting and stressful. These two times of the year offer opportunities for new beginnings, but they also require careful planning and time management to balance work, writing, and personal life. In this article, we will explore some important tips and strategies that can help writers navigate these busy seasons.
Summer Strategies
1. Set Summer Writing Goals: With longer daylight hours and potentially more free time, summer can be a great time to set your writing goals and work towards completing them. Whether it's finishing a manuscript, starting a new project, or attending a writing workshop, setting specific goals can help you stay motivated and focused during the summer.
2. Create a Writing Schedule: With busy schedules and outdoor activities, it's important to set aside dedicated time for writing. Whether it's early in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening, ensure you have a consistent routine that prioritizes your writing goals.
3. Take Advantage of the Outdoors: Summer offers plenty of opportunities to take your writing outside. Parks, beaches, and quiet coffee shops can be great places to escape your usual work environment and find inspiration to write.
Back-to-School Strategies
1. Create a Routine: As the school season starts, it's important to create a routine that balances your work, writing, and personal life. Ensure that you prioritize writing time and make it a regular part of your schedule.
2. Connect with Writing Communities: Join a writing group or attend writing workshops in your area. This not only provides opportunities for feedback and improvement, but also a supportive community of writers who understand the challenges of juggling a full-time job and writing.
3. Utilize Technology: Back-to-school can mean a more hectic schedule, but technology can help keep your writing goals on track. Utilize tools like Google Calendar or writing apps to help organize your writing schedule.
Whether it's summer or back-to-school season, balancing a full-time job and writing can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By setting specific goals, creating a routine, and utilizing resources like writing groups and technology, writers can successfully navigate these busy seasons and continue to pursue their passion for writing.
A friend had mentioned that a few of us are rewatching Justified, I thought I would give a shout-out to my favorite television shows.
I know there will be more, so bookmark this post as I am sure I will be adding to it.
On my current to binge list:
1) Justified - currently on season 6 - waiting on the comeback 8 episode season this summer
2) Vampire Diaries
3) Criminal Minds (binging for the first time - kind of stalled out and went to Justified)
4) Chicago PD (currently on the current season - binged it all)
Regular binges that I will probably go back to after I watch the above (no order) :
1) Bones
2) Sons of Anarchy
3) Grey's Anatomy (always stall out prior to Derek's death - never watched the whole series)
4) Spartacus
5) True Blood
6) ER
7) Deadwood
8) Dr Quinn
9) Chicago Fire
10) Dexter (HATED the returned season)
New to me series I've not yet watched that I plan on binging/watching for the very first time (no order):
1) Gotham
2) Lucifer
3) Originals
4) Penny Dreadful
5) The Following
Series that come to mind that I've not felt compelled to rewatch:
1) Rome
2) Breaking Bad
3) Shameless
4) Firefly
5) Outlander
6) Leverage (older seasons - have not made it through the newest comeback season)
Waiting on new seasons/or currently watching the new season:
1) You
2) Hightown (currently watching the last season)
3) Witcher
4) Reacher (NOT with Tom Cruise)
5) Yellowstone (seems like there will be no more)
6) Outlander (Honestly I've not been able to get through the last season, I just can't get into it anymore)
7) Seal Team (this season will be the last)
8) Fire Country
9) Chicago Fire
What about you? Agree? Disagree? Find any new ones? Any that I should add that you enjoy?
Maybe in Another Life by Taylor Jenkins Reid is an ideal book club choice, as it offers plenty of material for discussion and reflection. The novel explores the idea of fate and how seemingly small choices can drastically alter our lives. From the perspective of a book club reader, this book offers plenty of avenues for discussion, including the significance of choices, the impact of family and friends on our lives, and the role of destiny in shaping our paths.
The characters in the novel are richly drawn, with both timelines offering a chance to explore their personalities and motivations. The romantic elements of the story are also a highlight, offering a heartwarming look at the power of love and the many paths that relationships can take.
Overall, Maybe in Another Life is sure to spark lively and engaging conversations in any book club setting, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy discussing the deeper themes and issues explored in literature.
Rating: 4/5
Title: Blackwood Manor
Blurb:
In
the heart of Willow Creek, Blackwood Manor stands as a silent sentinel, its
shadowy past veiled in mystery. When entrepreneur Oliver Blackwood arrives to
breathe new life into the abandoned asylum, the town is set ablaze with
curiosity and suspicion.
Enter
Claire Thompson, a forensic psychiatrist, and her husband Ryan, a dedicated
detective, whose marriage is tested as they unravel the dark secrets shrouding
Blackwood Manor. As they delve into the chilling enigmas of the past, they
unearth a sinister plot that threatens to consume them both.
Will
Claire and Ryan confront the malevolent forces lurking within the mansion's
walls, or will they become entangled in a web of deceit and danger?
"Blackwood Manor" is a tale of love, betrayal, and redemption, where
the whispers of the asylum beckon them into a world where the past refuses to
stay buried.
Book Synopsis:
In the heart of the picturesque town of Willow Creek lies the enigmatic Blackwood Manor, a once-abandoned asylum with a haunting history. When wealthy entrepreneur Oliver Blackwood arrives from afar to renovate the decrepit building into a luxurious mansion, the town is abuzz with speculation and whispers of the past.
Amidst this backdrop of mystery and intrigue, forensic psychiatrist Claire Thompson and detective Ryan Thompson find themselves entangled in a web of dark secrets and unexpected twists. As they delve into the chilling events surrounding Blackwood Manor, they uncover a tangled web of deception, betrayal, and long-buried grudges that threaten to unravel the town's peaceful facade.
As Claire and Ryan navigate the treacherous paths of the past and present, they must confront their own demons and strained relationship, all while solving the mysterious death that has cast a shadow over Blackwood Manor. Together, they must unravel the truth behind the eerie occurrences within the mansion's walls and confront the malevolent forces that lurk in the shadows.
"Blackwood Manor" is a gripping tale
of suspense, redemption, and rediscovery, where the line between reality and
illusion blurs, and the true essence of love and courage is put to the ultimate
test in the face of darkness. Join Claire and Ryan on a journey of
self-discovery and uncovering the secrets that lie hidden in the depths of the
past, where the whispers of the asylum echo through the corridors of fate.
What is the first book that made
you cry?
I’m not sure if this is the first
book, but it is definitely the most memorable, Little Women made me cry.
I read it in fourth grade, and you know, the whole Beth thing. Devastating to nine-year-old
me.
If you could tell your younger
writing self anything, what would it be?
Just get words on a page, they
don’t need to be perfect. You can’t edit a blank page.
What does literary success look
like to you?
Literary success looks like people,
who are not related to me, or friends with me, reading my books. I simply want
people reading, and hopefully, loving what I write.
What kind of research do you do,
and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?
For the London Detective Agency, I
did a lot of research about London, since I had never been, outside of a
layover in Heathrow on our way to Greece for our honeymoon. So I did a lot of
research about streets, and buildings, and what life is like there. For my
current WIP, I did a lot of research into FBI Criminal Profiling. For both
series’ I spent a few weeks prior to writing doing research before writing. But
research is pretty ongoing as I write, since I’m a plantser.
Are you a full-time writer or do
you have a day job? If so, what do you do?
I just went back to work full time
after staying home with my kids for the last ten years. I am currently the
building substitute teacher at the school my children attend.
Do you hide any secrets in your
books that only a few people will find?
I do. In Mistaken Identity I
have put in certain inside jokes or references that only some of my close
friends or family would get. It’s sort of my love letter to them as a thank you
for helping me during the process and for reading the book.
What was your hardest scene to
write?
There’s a scene in Mistaken
Identity where one of the characters is injured. It’s a very dramatic scene
and really pushes the love story forward. However, deciding where the character
should be injured that would look serious, but not take the character out for
the rest of the book, was very difficult.
Are your characters inspired by
real people?
Yes. Especially in Mistaken
Identity. It’s my first novel, and I used a lot of my real friends and
family to inspire several of the characters. And I think when those people read
the book, they will know which ones were based on them.
Content Advisory: This article contains reference to sexual content and adult themes including, foreplay, stimulation, and masturbation.
Let's face it, I'm a huge fan of anatomy. The human body really should be appreciated. We all have something we like, maybe it's a nice ass, or 8-pack abs, or biceps. But how often do we really think of a cock as something to drool over. Of course, our men sure think they've got something wonderful tucked away in their jeans. So, why not let them show it off?
Not all are open with the idea I'm about to suggest, and the way to get them to agree is not likely by explaining that we all know they all do it at some point in time -- it's no huge secret even though many of them still think it is. But allowing someone that is personally close to you can be a large push for trust. Be sure to not take your man's consent to try this lightly. If he's never done it before, this is a big step for him. Appreciate it.
A side thought to it: You can learn how he likes to be touched and when it's in your hand, put that knowledge to use. Pay attention, does he pull up over the tip? Or does he stay lower? Little notes can make a big difference. You may think you've got your man and his needs perfected, but there's always something new to learn.
This may be something that you'll need to take baby steps in. If you're shy or if he is, it may need to be a gradual thing. Remember, sex rarely has to be all or nothing and there's no harm in easing your way into things. If you're both comfortable, you'll both enjoy it.
Make sure that he's comfortable and that he has your undivided attention. Be prepared that he may watch you rather than what he's doing to himself. He'll get turned on by seeing you get turned on. Besides, if he is new at this, it'll help him focus on something else. Be sure to watch the entirety of whatever show he's willing to give you. And, before making eye contact, which can make the experience even more erotic, be sure he's OK with it. Remember, you have plenty of time to do all aspects of it. It's not a race.
Eventually, maybe you can convince him to come for you. Talk about a HOT and I mean H-O-T experience---muscles tense everywhere. He may be shocked at how much your desire for him increases just from watching him get off.
My initial idea is always to wait on joining in. Get comfortable watching him and let him get comfortable allowing you to watch. Then maybe expand. I still think it's absolutely great on its own. However, some options are: allowing him to wrap your hand around him and his hand over yours to guide you, oral sex from you while he works his hand up and down his shaft, play with his balls (carefully -- some men don't like it, some love it, some like it a certain way -- if you're unsure, this is a great time to ask him to show you).
What always comes up with this is watching each other masturbate. While not a bad idea, it does take the focus off the individual and, at times, it can be like you're each alone in the room and just in your own world of pleasure. The idea of this is to watch your partner, get a feel for what they feel and their trust in just allowing you to watch. So, on doing it together--I say no. Let your man have the spotlight on this one. You'll be glad that you did.
A final thought, even if your man says no, it doesn't mean you can revisit the idea and it's not that they're being closed-minded. Comfort and respect are always first. Now, see if you can try something new.
Content Advisory: This article contains reference to sexual content and adult themes.
Who says dressing up is just for Halloween?
Maybe you're like me and not super adventurous in the bedroom. Whips and chains and fire and so on maybe has you feeling like running for the door, even if they just are on the computer screen. Here's a little something a little more casual, but yet it will get your feet wet and perhaps start pushing the road to trying new things. You never know. Once something becomes comfortable, it may just open a road to wonderful experimentation with your partner.
The biggest thing, as so often mentioned on RLJ is trust with your partner. Trying new things and not being self-conscious is always going to be tough. But there's so much that can be missed out on without trying. You should also respect your partner {as they should you} to simply stop or skip something that you both aren't 100% comfortable with.
Sometimes I cheat. If I think I'm not quite brave enough, I have a few alcoholic drinks. Safely, of course, in the privacy of my own home. Don't do it to get drunk or even buzzed. It's just for show. It's an excuse to act a little differently than you normally would. As you get comfortable, you won't need anything to "hide behind."
On to more interesting things.
Do some extra Halloween shopping this year, not to mention, on the internet, you can pretty much get costumes all year long. Does your partner have a thing for a French maid costume? Maybe a nurse? What about Pocahontas? Would you love to see your partner's awesome body in a fireman outfit? As a construction worker? As a doctor? How about a little extra fun as a vampire? Master and slave? Your imagination is the only thing to keep this one from getting interesting.
Once you step into the costume, or your partner does, play the role. Are you the nurse? Act like one. Make him undress. Check him over. Then take control for what will likely be a great night of sex. Feeling vulnerable, in one way or anther, is a turn on for men and women most of the time.
If you've grown tired of dress up or aren't sure you're ready to try some role playing, there's always board games for adults. If you have a Spencers near by, they generally carry them. And, as with almost everything else, they're readily available on the internet.
Sex Position Dart (see blog image): Now, here's a fun one. You can even sharpen up your dart skills while having an enjoyable evening at home. Each position is drawn out on the dart board for you. Some will even take some practice and a little skill to pull off. Practice your dart throwing. There's nothing wrong with intentionally hitting your favorites.
Lovers Tower: This game is all about truth and dare. What? You thought that was just for kids? Just remember to never ask anything you don't really want to know. And if you do, be adult about the outcome. When you remove a block, you answer a question or complete a dare then place your block back on top without knocking it down. A really fun way to play Jenga.
Sexual Nirvana: In this fun game, you build a sexual nirvana fantasy that consists of 12 consecutively numbered cards. The deck includes 12 romance cards, 12 hot sex cards, 12 role play cards, 12 fetish cards and 4 wild card. There are literally hundred of outcomes available to you and your partner.
Position of the day playing cards: How about using these for a handy game of strip poker and following up by selecting a random card. Try out the position on the card you drew.
Let's Fool Around: A hot game of dice. One die contains the action. The other has that body part to do it to. Roll the dice and see what you get to do to your partner. Simple and fun.
Adult Pain Box: Transform your partner's body into your own work of art. In addition to getting to have a new canvas to work on, you get to stare at and touch your partner's body for as long as you feel you can be creative.
My recommendation? Stay in this weekend. Play a little dress up and play some new board games.
How about some television talk? I used to never watch television. Since my day job has gotten increasingly more irritating, I now find it as a way to unwind. But I am terribly picky about what I will watch. Have any suggestions on what I should watch? I'd love to hear them. Here are a few of the shows I've been watching (in no particular order):
Dexter: I was addicted to this show and so excited when the new season was coming. I mean, I had waited FOREVER!
Then slow start.
Then it seemed like it was going ok.
Then the ending :( May I just say I would have done a completely different ending and there would have been several more seasons. (How much trouble would I get in if I rewrote it?)
For Dexter fans, definitely have to watch -- it won't go the way you want, though.
You: One of my favorite creepy stalker, serial killers. No lie. I have been dying for the next season. I discovered it right before season 3 started. I watched season 1 and season 2 during a 3 day weekend.
All of it.
Every episode.
Yes, he's a bit creepy. But his twisted ways make for an interesting season. However, it seems 2 years are lapsing before a new season is available.
If you don't mind a bit of stalker creepy stuff - this show is for you.
Hightown: Drugs, drugs, and more drugs. Amaury Nolasco is in this and I enjoyed his character from Prison Break (yes, binge watch that regularly as well). There are a lot of human people -- faulted people -- no happily ever after with perfect people everywhere. I wasn't sure how I would feel about the over-sexualized content with all the drinking and drugs -- but I love it. Finally, a show that shows people being people and not striving to be perfect. They go with the flow, make mistakes, suffer losses, and are imperfectly perfect. (Rumor is this is the final season)
Dahmer: Definitely creepy. But also really good. I binge-watched this over a weekend. The first episode (talk of smells and the icky mattress, dirty apartment, etc) was a bit gross and I wondered if I wanted to continue. I also know that I have seen on social media - more than a few times - that many didn't make it more than watching only the first episode. My opinion? Give it a try. Once those first few are over, it is really good.
Yellowstone: This is kind of a guilty pleasure -- being a ranch girl myself. I would work that show for free just to be able to ride horses in those beautiful open spaces again. If I'm being honest, I was late coming over to the Yellowstone hype. Four seasons were over when I got on board. What got me? 1883! Even after I waited weeks before jumping into Season 1. Now I'm dying for season 5. Rumor is season 6 is a go also. Have you watched?
Chicago Fire: I watched this the first 2 or 3 season and got annoyed with all the perfect people, all the understanding of how things just don't always work and pure acceptance of it. There is little fall out, though they do play the "hard to get people to stay together" line all too much. Case in point: Casey and Dawson, Casey and Brett. Need the relaxation and brain escape due to work, I did start over from season 1 and caught up and am watching season 11 as it comes out. Team Severide? Team Stella? Team Casey? Team Herrmann?
Witcher: I was ate to this show as well and honestly - f it ends like the video game (thanks to my boys for that spoiler) or the books (thanks Google), I won't watch the whole how. Season 3 - which I've waited forever for - is due some time in 2023. I do like Henry Cavill in this show (with the long locks) which is surprising since I'm not normally a fan. CAN'T. STAND. CIRI. But anyway, still a good show.
Seal Team: I've watched this since day 1. My guilty pleasure? I seem to be a die hard David Boreanaz fan girl. I loved him in Angel, loved him in Buffy, loved him in Bones (even watched that one horrible movie he was in where he was with a billion and two different girls). When word got out that Bones was in its final season I panicked. Once I knew about Seal Team, I was on board and have been watching all the seasons...which currently the season is going! Check it out (note: you will cry some too). (Rumor is the upcoming season is the last. Wondering what Breanaz will do next.)
Criminal Minds: I was super (and I mean SUPER) late getting on board with this one. I am at season 3. I just started binge watching this in September. Can I admit something? Spencer Reid's character is so incredibly smart that it actually makes him attractive. How odd is that? I have honestly never experienced that. Not ever. I find I am deeply involved in the show )other than Elle and Emily - ugh! just can't get into their characters, they annoy me) and each episode and try to solve before they do. How is the new season? I have quite a few episodes to go before I get there. I did kind of jump off the wagon here. I know so many are leaving. I think I'm on season 8 or 9.
Fire Country: I am now two seasons in (well 3 episodes into the second season) and I still don't know exactly how I feel about this show. The main character, I just really have a hard time liking him. For the record, I had the same issue trying to like him in Seal Team.
Chicago PD: It took me forever to get on board with this one because I have a strong dislike for all the main female characters they have, other than Platt. In the end (if you sang that - Linkin Park - we can be friends), I started binge-watching and I'm now on Season 10, Episode 11. I wish Burgess would go away. I'll just take Adam and toughen him up a bit.
As always I'd love to hear your thoughts. Leave a comment! Did you feel differently about a show I love? Do you have a watch suggestion for me? Do you have a topic idea for me for an upcoming post here? Let me know --let's discuss.