tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20118270917506713052024-02-18T18:55:47.699-08:00Official Blog of Shannon A. HinerDesigned by Shanco.corporationsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.comBlogger65125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-60428849101736647922014-04-21T11:59:00.000-07:002014-04-21T11:59:00.016-07:00Shadows On The Wall Cover Reveal!Today is the day, my pretties! Cover reveal day! Prepare yourself, because it is so beautiful you may gasp...<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-NzqbQEk6FdCjPnldc7DDNEnT2v4oC2S7Ei85SrWacWfAHDkWRFVVOV40P-DYcoWOh9KJzBLpwk5_3mvqnY049mNZ3phR0r8aHV81WdzKQaMJZsW_S3WJ_i6iMWADGqVcEmlsMADhroin/s1600/9781497521230.main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-NzqbQEk6FdCjPnldc7DDNEnT2v4oC2S7Ei85SrWacWfAHDkWRFVVOV40P-DYcoWOh9KJzBLpwk5_3mvqnY049mNZ3phR0r8aHV81WdzKQaMJZsW_S3WJ_i6iMWADGqVcEmlsMADhroin/s1600/9781497521230.main.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a><br />
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Shadows On The Wall is available for<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Shadows-Wall-Immortal-World-Book/dp/1497521238/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1396729682&sr=1-1&keywords=shadows+on+the+wall+by+shannon+a+hiner" target="_blank"> pre-order from Amazon at this time, at 25% the list price!</a><br />
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Don't forget: May 27th is the release date!<br />
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If you are a reviewer, or would like to be one, I still have a few Advanced Reading Copies available in both eBook and Paperback!<br />
Send me an email at: shannonahiner@live.com<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid2BHQilFTqWqxkm1x8Dstl05-OgalVE0ahe87rY4ciXK7eQmeldA2cBLG8dtu4keaQiJA_0iJrGROYZOU8R4azcEpDybmaQV6RotgIZDFG6RJNAO0MWMwqyp_o-BwHYlHWpOLickqsAKj/s1600/frontfinal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid2BHQilFTqWqxkm1x8Dstl05-OgalVE0ahe87rY4ciXK7eQmeldA2cBLG8dtu4keaQiJA_0iJrGROYZOU8R4azcEpDybmaQV6RotgIZDFG6RJNAO0MWMwqyp_o-BwHYlHWpOLickqsAKj/s1600/frontfinal.jpg" height="320" width="207" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Only-The-Stars-Know-Immortal/dp/146110727X/ref=pd_rhf_dp_p_tnr_2" target="_blank">If you haven't read Book 1 yet,</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Only-The-Stars-Know-Immortal/dp/146110727X/ref=pd_rhf_dp_p_tnr_2" target="_blank">now would be a fantastic time!</a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-31887170229384985032014-04-02T13:07:00.001-07:002014-04-02T13:07:59.246-07:00As Promised: Save The DatesLast time I posted I promised I would be setting some official dates for you to look forward to. Let it never be said I don't keep my promises!<br />
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Cover Reveal: April 21st<br />
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eBook, Paperback Available: May 27th<br />
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I'm still planning to send out ARC's, so if you're interested shoot me an email at : shannonahiner@live.com<br />
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I'm also going to be doing a Giveaway on Goodreads, but I don't have a hard date for that one yet.<br />
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Bookmarks are on order to go out with ARC's and Giveaway copies!<br />
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Next on my To-Do List:<br />
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1. Finish designing eBook<br />
2. Make a book trailer for YouTube<br />
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It's a long process, but it's fun, and totally worth it! Thanks for reading, and help spread the word!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-19357233104492231082014-01-24T00:04:00.000-08:002014-01-24T00:17:16.440-08:00Coming Soon: Save the Dates!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOgqKQGDEkdE5Twc9iGPz5Rfh7WQFaHWdjAwSVL6c8QbB4TlYO8ZrNkU0SFuMrDfS7sIz2_BurQqT6TWNtQyuIxMmBYum86nPf-SsLR4ALbX7SezNZyXn-0ruuigAHoI7GjnqXln5mdPb/s1600/may2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOgqKQGDEkdE5Twc9iGPz5Rfh7WQFaHWdjAwSVL6c8QbB4TlYO8ZrNkU0SFuMrDfS7sIz2_BurQqT6TWNtQyuIxMmBYum86nPf-SsLR4ALbX7SezNZyXn-0ruuigAHoI7GjnqXln5mdPb/s1600/may2014.jpg" /></a></div>
Sooo, this is a post about a future post! One that I expect you all to keep your eyes wide open for!<br />
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Today I finished designing the cover, spine, and back for Shadows On The Wall. First of all, It's amazing. I think everyone is going to love it as much as I do. It may, in fact, be my favorite cover thus far from the series.<br />
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Finishing that up though got me thinking about doing a special Cover Reveal. It's a great way to get readers excited and spread the word, and it appeals to my "Surprise!!!" sensibilities.<br />
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I'm trying to time everything together to give the actual publication of Shadows On The Wall a proper countdown. Setting dates is quite difficult though, as I have not received the final edits back from Editor Pat. The hope I harbor at this point is to publish the book sometime in late spring (May?). As soon as editing is finished I will set a hard date, and be able to work backwards from there are other dates.<br />
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These are the joyous happenings I am planning:<br />
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1. Send ARC's to Booktubers, bloggers etc...<br />
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2. Cover Reveal<br />
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3. Giveaway 3 copies on Goodreads<br />
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4. Publish eBook<br />
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5. Publish Paperback (and maybe a hardcover too!)<br />
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Hopefully I will be able to send the ARC's out by the end of March!<br />
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In the meantime, please help me spread the word and get the excitement up there! And if you haven't read Only The Stars Know yet, do it! The eBook is only $0.99 and it's available on ALL eReaders, platforms etc! There is no good excuse!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-2962930038667961722014-01-20T12:53:00.000-08:002014-01-21T11:42:56.344-08:00Die For Me Again (Rewrite Begins!)Those of you who follow me on Facebook know that a few months ago I finally finished the rewrite of Shadows On The Wall. I delivered to the manuscript (about 54,000 words) to Editor Pat and she had been diligently working on the edits since then. Notice, I write 'diligently' but there's not been much 'gentle' about it. I often get into the trap of assuming you all can see exactly what is in my head, so I don't write it out. Of course, the majority of you readers are not, in fact, <i>mind readers</i>, so this is a problem. I suspect that once I receive the manuscript back I will be adding a solid 5000 words to it.<br />
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Whilst I wait, though, I have grown bored! In addition to tearing up Pinterest with Die For Me Again boards, I have begun the rewrite on said novel. It is going absolutely swimmingly! I forgot how much I love this book and it's characters. Well, that's not hard seeing as Angela Estrada doesn't particularly love me back. All the same, I adore her and writing her story gives me a lot of smiles.<br />
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Thus far, I have completed the newly added prologue, and the first two chapters. I have kept in mind Editor Pat's complaints with SOTW, so hopefully I shall stay out of the same traps I have fallen into on the last two books.<br />
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On a side note about SOTW, I have added it to Goodreads, sans a cover or blurb, but you may add it there To Be Read!<br />
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My Writing Board has morphed into the Post-Writing Board with a checklist for SOTW about a mile long...of which only 3 things have been checked off. However, I am hoping it will go rather faster once I actually have the book again.<br />
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As always, check me out on Facebook for slightly less irregular updates! Until then, aufwiedersehen!<br />
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From Cam to Ange : )</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZzFsMX-817a5P_Re-tCateVH37AMlfltvjcgCCcWghbkbIcaKQ8Pvw_HExIa6s4nG0ks1X-V-uEBEdxLUbal0yqkam82CRGr7cT5zFGXJnvhMzA_k-QDruBmlkeXarYPRSeku4Nue71I2/s1600/Pirates-Of-The-Caribbean-On-Stranger-Tides-Angelica-320x480-iphone-wallpapers.co.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZzFsMX-817a5P_Re-tCateVH37AMlfltvjcgCCcWghbkbIcaKQ8Pvw_HExIa6s4nG0ks1X-V-uEBEdxLUbal0yqkam82CRGr7cT5zFGXJnvhMzA_k-QDruBmlkeXarYPRSeku4Nue71I2/s1600/Pirates-Of-The-Caribbean-On-Stranger-Tides-Angelica-320x480-iphone-wallpapers.co.jpg" height="200" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angela Estrada</td></tr>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-41666985955933070772013-07-15T21:49:00.000-07:002013-07-15T21:55:43.990-07:00Muses Are TO(O?) Good For Something<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOWhnjEdirp0kV8WRIsNlB-K9gT9lt4eR_GGb9NLvxrZwrFvWnP3J8ryCHFMqTgup8rtzIUPH0BIY8lOd9voO4j4eGCdx2_qnNtTLf6T6tFaMhtOBDFczWKBSw5xV83wv0z3W_IYpaF3mN/s1600/screenshot43300.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOWhnjEdirp0kV8WRIsNlB-K9gT9lt4eR_GGb9NLvxrZwrFvWnP3J8ryCHFMqTgup8rtzIUPH0BIY8lOd9voO4j4eGCdx2_qnNtTLf6T6tFaMhtOBDFczWKBSw5xV83wv0z3W_IYpaF3mN/s400/screenshot43300.png" width="400" /></a></div>
Is it 'are too' or 'are to' ? I honestly don't know...what an odd conundrum.<br />
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6,000 words written over my long weekend! What an accomplishment! And I'm still going pretty strong at that.<br />
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I've gotten four chapters knocked out, and almost ready to light the cannon that blows the whole story out of the water!<br />
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(That means someone's going to die)<br />
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Hopefully, this productivity on my part will continue as I go back to work tomorrow. It's difficult to get into the zone for writing when I know I have to work the night away. I much prefer to write the night away.<br />
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Wish me luck, and keep checking Facebook and Twitter for updates as to my progress! I love to post snips from the story as I go!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-69159182502846445462013-07-12T12:49:00.000-07:002013-07-12T12:49:13.064-07:00An Appeal To CalliopeIt would seem that I have some unexpected time on my hands. A mini vacation of sorts, that will cost me more money than I can really afford, but will provide a much needed rest.<div>
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And what should I do with this time? Watch movies? Complete all the sudoku puzzles I can? Dance around the living room with Pangur Ban? Browse Facebook every five minutes?</div>
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I am a mastermind at murdering time. But what I really want to do is have a break through on Shadows On The Wall. The wall that Cameo has put up to block me is incredible. I'm going to need a truckload of C4 and a nuclear bomb to clear it.</div>
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I'm stuck right at the point just before the climax of the story. I've worked on Selkie Dance a bit lately, but my heart's not really in it. I need to finish SOTW. Help!</div>
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I hereby formally appeal to the muse Calliope. I need my inspiration back, and I need it soon. I must take advantage of this unexpected time!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-74287131333180655442013-07-11T13:40:00.001-07:002013-07-11T13:40:22.359-07:00Fate As I Know It<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUG7iaD1ptWeA0HpuEWNCodRQwGZbI0ixYxet7D0-AddJfkMQGr5GgQoDxMZgELiuLHiyaMB2juLQu5dq40wvJ-arDsD2bUjziAIaGCAecReVCQow3Zq_rTyr23VgRXs-t-FydjRYMQaBa/s1600/0427121950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUG7iaD1ptWeA0HpuEWNCodRQwGZbI0ixYxet7D0-AddJfkMQGr5GgQoDxMZgELiuLHiyaMB2juLQu5dq40wvJ-arDsD2bUjziAIaGCAecReVCQow3Zq_rTyr23VgRXs-t-FydjRYMQaBa/s320/0427121950.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lake Oroville Dam: April 2012 (c) Shanco.corporations</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I believe in fate. I believe that certain things are just meant to happen. I believe that we can't see where we are heading, and we're not supposed to, but that doesn't mean we aren't heading <i>somewhere</i>. As in, specific.<br /><br />
I believe in free will. I think fate believes in free will...the thing is, our personalities are such, that we will pick the same road, or make the same type of choices, every time.<br />
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Fate knows us. Fate is a living, breathing entity that learns and evolves with us.<br />
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Fate is the will of the great I Am, combined with the spirit of us.<br />
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Sometimes, things happen, and they seem horrific. Hell, they <i>are</i> horrific. But time, and distance, shows us that we wouldn't change those instances. Every thing that happens, leads us somewhere new. Sometimes the biggest 'mistakes' or most awful occurrences, lead us to best parts of our life.<br />
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"Everything happens for a reason" has become merely a trite saying that other people tell us when they have no explanation for the terrible.<br />
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But it's true! Gosh darn it! It is absolutely, irrevocably (I hate that word) true!<br />
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We may not be able to see the reason, see what road we're on or where it ends, but you may trust that everything that happens to you, happens for a very specific reason.<br />
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Fate exists. You can shape it, but you can't necessarily change it. All you can do is react, piece yourself back together, and get back on the road.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-1407843678189661932013-07-10T21:54:00.000-07:002013-07-10T21:54:50.084-07:00Listening to Bublé, Wainwright and Deejay: Need I Say More?Yeah, I got out of the habit of posting. Yeah, yeah, WAY out of the habit. Point taken, sorry.<div>
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No really, sorry :'(</div>
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And with that behind us, <i>wow</i> today was just awful. As if I needed a reminder of how different I am, and how unappreciated a good sense of humor is these days. Oy. I mean, really, <i>OY.</i></div>
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If there was a bus to Hermitsville going by my apartment right now, I would grab Pangur Ban and Sam and jump on without a seconds thought. It was that bad of a day.</div>
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So all day I've been reading Jennifer Armentrout's <i>Lux</i> series to try and distract myself. I've read all three books in the last day and a half (yes, now you really understand how depressing my life is right now). I like them a lot. I'm kind of sick of Katy's elitist book syndrome, which must be a direct manifestation of Armentrout (wow that's a long last name). But Daemon Black is pretty terrific. I hate the way his first name is spelled though. And she needs to get past 'daemon/daimon' in general. And the name alliteration is driving me NUTS. (I have to stop beginning sentences with 'and') I can't tell you how many times I've gotten Daemon and Dawson, or Adam and Andrew and Ash all mixed up because I'm reading <span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">ü</span>ber</span> fast. But a good story nonetheless. I really liked the cliffy at the end of Opal (book 3). That was fun.</div>
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Yeah, so, meow.</div>
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Meow is my new answer to everything. Except today. Today is more of a YOWL day. I hate it when Pangur Ban yowls, but I get it, it's necessary sometimes.</div>
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I feel like crying. A lot.</div>
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But hey, <i>The Host</i> movie came in the mail yesterday. I could watch that, get my Ian and Jared fill.</div>
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I just don't understand how people can stand sucking so much. Seriously, that's got to drag a person down.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-26715010252889725832012-11-09T12:45:00.001-08:002012-11-09T12:49:11.368-08:00Shadow On The Wall ESBS Scene Release!<br />
As promised, here is a scene from the upcoming,<br />
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Shadows On The Wall: The Immortal World Book 2</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><i> Chapter 2</i></u></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Wearing someone else’s skin was not nearly as uncomfortable as it used to be. The stray thought gave her pause, as she actually could not remember a time she had worn her own skin.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>It was a worry that she couldn’t truly understand. She didn’t remember what her own skin looked like. It had been too long since she had felt the weight of her own bones, seen through her own eyes. Why it should bother her so, she couldn’t say. Her master had never requested that she look like herself, he always had someone else for her to be.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>A seagull screamed directly overhead, bringing her wandering mind back to the humans’ port she currently strolled through. It was different kind of nightmare she experienced now. This was her only semblance of freedom, and it was marred by the job she must perform.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The ocean was calm, the waves gently lapped at the docks in a loving embrace that belied the vengeance they had wreaked the night before. Sailors were working hard to repair the damage from the storm before the ships could sail again.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Cameo slowed to a stop before one of the ships and stared at it’s magnificent hull. The Quick Redemption had docked in the early hours of the morning, as soon as the storm had ended. It wasn’t safe to have a ship so large remain docked during such a storm. From what Cameo had heard in the bar the night before, the sailors had been very upset to reboard. After six months away from their homeport the men had been looking forward to a few days with their families.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The news hadn’t just upset the sailors though, Cameo’s master had also been annoyed to have his plans thwarted. She rubbed a hand over her neck, hoping the marks no longer showed. Normally makeup would be enough to cover them up until they faded, but her master had been very put out. He was not quite as careful when he was angry.<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The Quick Redemption had returned swiftly though, and now she would be able to do her job, and then enjoy her relative freedom for a night or two.<br />
¨¨¨<br />
<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The Saltwater Tap Room was packed with all of the single sailors who weren’t ready to retire to their hotel rooms and bachelor pads. They drank and told their stories and danced with girls who hoped to meet their Knight In Shining Armor.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Not bloody likely, Cameo thought as she stared at the brazen sailors from a booth in the back corner. These sailors only wanted to meet a damsel they could distress for the night. She felt the familiar urge to sigh as she stared at the happy humans, enjoying a life of blissful ignorance.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>She was so lonely for her own kind it sometimes shocked her. She had never met another shifter, her master had assured her they had died out. That was why he had rescued her and kept her safe, she was the last of her kind.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The last shape shifter. A genetic dead end, at that. Without another shifter to there was no way to pass on the gene. She would always be this alone.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Her master would never understand that burden, his kind were many and he could be with them whenever he wanted. He reminded her often though, that his kind were a danger to her. Vampires couldn’t resist the lure of shifter blood. He kept her safe, but for a price.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Reminded of the task at hand once again, Cameo turned her attention back to the crowd and spotting the one she had come for. A name, a picture and a location was all she was given, but she was good at her job. She would find him.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>A young man stopped in from of her booth and looked down at her with an easy smile. “Well, what’s a pretty thing like you doing, sitting all alone? Waiting for someone?”<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Or he would find her…<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>She smiled slowly, “I was waiting for you.”<br />
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*sighs* Wasn't that delightful?<br />
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My main character in this book is so bad it makes me act meaner to the people around me. No, seriously. It's okay though, cause she doesn't stay that way ;)<br />
<br />
Let me know if you like it!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-36480019692529744062012-11-09T12:35:00.000-08:002012-11-09T12:37:26.713-08:00The Extra Special Birthday Surprise: ESBSIt's that time of year again! The ESBS is here, because it is what?<br />
<br />
November 9th! (Best day of the year in my extremely biased opinion)<br />
<br />
http://youtu.be/GKAHA4Yohi8<br />
<br />
So, first things first:<br />
<br />
1. Giveaway of Only The Stars Know by Ryan, from <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/RyanReadsBooks/featured" target="_blank">RyanReadsBooks</a> on YouTube. This will be a US Only Giveaway. I believe it will be opening tomorrow, and I'll post again to make sure you have all appropriate links and videos available. Giveaway Includes: Signed & Personalized copy of Only The Stars Know: The Immortal World Book 1, Signed Submerged In Darkness bookmark, and two extra signed business cards for Only The Stars Know.<br />
<br />
Next!<br />
<br />
2. Scene release from Shadows On The Wall: The Immortal World Book 2!!! That will be posted right here, in just a few moments!<br />
<br />
3. Book Orders can now be made directly through me, via email & Paypal. <a href="mailto:shannonahiner@live.com" target="_blank">EMAIL ME HERE</a> if you would like to take advantage of this! Be sure to include "Book Order" in the subject line, and your name, how many books, personalization wanted, and mailing address. In return I will send you my PayPal information. The books should end up costing about $8 plus shipping & handling! (Probably $11 total, for continental US)<br />
<br />
4. Pre-Release copies of Shadows On The Wall: The Immortal World Book 2 can now be requested by reviewers! Please <a href="mailto:shannonahiner@live.com" target="_blank">EMAIL ME HERE</a> if you are interested. Make sure you put "SOTW Pre-Release" in the subject line, include your name, review forum links and any personalization you might like for the book.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
There now, aren't you happy I'm alive?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-78903347220933406552012-10-06T13:37:00.000-07:002012-10-06T13:37:02.534-07:00Learning Lessons From Others' MistakesWow, had a crazy wake-up call/lesson learned this afternoon.<br />
<br />
Some poor, not all that bright blogger wrote a blog in May of this year about a news story and ended up using what he likely thought was a perfectly innocent, likely free photo off the internet.<br />
<br />
What he had no idea of at the time (though should have researched) was that the man who both took and starred in the photo is now a writer and very well known actor for a comedy website that many people frequent (myself included). He is a beloved face on the website for his humor, charm and immodesty about his own good looks.<br />
<br />
So when this paragon of comedy innocently did an image search on his own face (please, don't act like you've never done it) he was shocked to find this picture of himself just floating wilhe-nilhe about the internet. It was unlicensed and unaccredited everywhere it popped up portraying him as a dufus.<br />
<br />
So he went on this comedy website and wrote an article linking back to most, if not all, of the places that had used his picture without permission (including this unsuspecting blogger) and said that, while he was not going to throw a fit or demand people take it down, couldn't they use this more flattering image that he would also provide for free? And thus he posted a similar but unarguably more flattering picture.<br />
<br />
In this comedian's defense; it wasn't right for people to use his photo unlicensed and unaccredited and I too would be annoyed to find an unflattering photo of myself floating about the internet with hashtags of #dumbass and #assholes.<br />
<br />
In the bloggers defense: When you run a small blog with few readers and less money, it is much easier to find photos via a google image search, than through a professional website that you must pay for and then credit the photographer.<br />
<br />
Lessons to be learned: Don't take unflattering photos of yourself and post them on the internet. Don't use unaccredited photos unless you want it to possibly bite you hard in the butt someday.<br />
<br />
Now, this poor blogger's previously quiet site has been blown up with comments (unwittingly?) directed there by the comedian...and they are not nice comments.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-7133541700885141842012-10-02T01:05:00.000-07:002012-10-02T01:05:27.647-07:00Possibly Bad People, LJ accounts & Burnt Toast, And A LBD ReferenceI don't know why Pangur Ban keeps hissing at my roommate whenever she walks by. My mom thinks it's because my roommate has done something to my cat when I'm not around...but I just don't think she's that bad of a person. ( I rank people who are cruel to animals up there with rapists and serial killers) It's bugging me though, not knowing. I really need to learn how to speak cat, and just ask Pangur.<br />
<br />
In other random news; I logged onto my long forgotten LiveJournal account today, BlackAsMySoul (so named for my favorite scene in Chris Moore's book <em>You Suck!</em>). It was a curious thing. I looked back on my early attempts at blogging and saw some good, and some very immature posts. I suppose that I shall feel the same about my early posts on this blog in a few years...but I hope not.<br />
<br />
Anywho, it has unduly depressed me. Also, it brought to mind from the grave dead friendships that should remain buried. Even more depressing.<br />
<br />
And thus, I am depressed. Hmm. I need a pick-me-up. <br />
<br />
I need to do some writing, as well. To get my creative build-up out on paper (or keyboard). Yes, that is what I need. But it is 1 AM. So first, I should probably sleep. Yes. Sleep. A grand idea.<br />
<br />
BTDubbs, (As THELydiaBennet (The Lizzie Bennet Diaries) would say) I want to buy books. But Cameo and Damon won't let me...I have to write 1000 words on Shadows On The Wall first. I am depressed. Oh wait, I already said that. Nvm.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-70836635786887864052012-09-29T00:56:00.000-07:002012-09-29T00:56:50.264-07:00An Update In So Many WaysYou may have noticed that I have updated the look/feel of this blog with a slightly variation in the color scheme. I also added more tabs to the top of the page, which link to my other important profiles. I advise you to use them immediately, and often.<br />
<br />
In addition to these changes, I have added a word count widget for Shadows On The Wall, just to the right. I am basing my total goal on count that Only The Stars Know came in at (That was like 6800 or some such nonsense, I rounded up). As you can see, I have written 11,307 words as of this afternoon.<br />
<br />
I am currently under book arrest by Cameo, and I am not allowed to buy or read any books until we have reached 20,000 words. Yep, big trouble for me.<br />
<br />
As for the VideoBook, I have recorded chapters 2 & 3. Chapter 2 is scheduled to go live at 10am PST on Monday (the 1st).<br />
<br />
I am also hoping to do a special Vlog next week for Banned Books Week. I recently found out a book I very much enjoyed was the 3rd most banned book in 2011. I am shocked, naturally.<br />
<br />
The giveaway for Only The Stars Know is still going over on Lindsay Mead's blog, you can click the banner at the top of the page to be scooted on over there. I suggest you enter! Many many times! The book will be signed and personalized for you, by yours truly--so hop to!<br />
<br />
Wells, I'm all tuckered out for tonight. Happy reading all!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-17773487799017755302012-09-25T11:25:00.001-07:002012-09-25T11:25:40.652-07:00Only The Stars Know Giveaway, Hosted By Lindsay Mead!Lindsay Mead, The Book Vlogger, is hosting a Giveaway of OSK this week on her YouTube and Blog! <br />
<br />
This will be a signed copy of the book!<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/p2aVurDwjmM?fs=1" width="480"></iframe><br />
<br />
For more info: <a href="http://lindsaymead.blogspot.com/">http://lindsaymead.blogspot.com/</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-50867286153867787632012-09-25T00:47:00.001-07:002012-09-25T00:49:44.042-07:00Oh Good Gracious...How long has it been since I blogged????<br />
<br />
What the heck happened to me??<br />
<br />
DID I DIE?<br />
<br />
<br />
These are some questions you may have been asking, I know I have. Then you saw my OSK VidBook post and probably thought I had lost my mind...then you saw the OSK VidBook Prologue and thought I was a genius....<br />
<br />
Right?<br />
<br />
You had best agree with that. Meaning: You had best have seen the Prologue on YouTube. (If you didn't my heart shall wither and die)<br />
<br />
Just In Case:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://i.ytimg.com/vi/_PdD5wTLp7I/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_PdD5wTLp7I?version=3&f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_PdD5wTLp7I?version=3&f=user_uploads&c=google-webdrive-0&app=youtube_gdata" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
<br />
Well, I'm partial to a little blood and guts I suppose, but I think that was pretty darned good.<br />
<br />
Anywho, so yes, that is what is up with me. No, I didn't die (though I plan to at some point in my life).<br />
<br />
Essentially my entire life comes down to juggling necessity ('real' job) with my greatest passion (writing)...My greatest passion is overwhelmed by the necessity to destroy the necessity for a 'real' job. Which means marketing Only The Stars Know like a death bead patient with only another year to live.<br />
<br />
Other things going on in the life of me: poking Pangur Ban in the stomach whilst she sleeps, avoiding grocery shopping in the hopes that I'll magically grow (shrink?) thin, attempting to force small paychecks to cover big bills.<br />
<br />
Not all that exciting...or realistic for that matter.<br />
<br />
Things going on the in the writing world of me:<br />
<br />
Giveaway of Only The Stars Know by Lindsay Mead, The Book Vlogger! Starting sometime this afternoon on her lovely YouTube channel: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/TheBookVlogger?feature=CAQQwRs%3D" target="_blank">Lindsay Mead TBV</a><br />
<br />
Chapter 1 of the VideoBook went up Monday afternoon: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6GMbv692ps" target="_blank">OSK Chapter 1 VidBook</a><br />
<br />
And I am developing a plan to enter the (ABNA) <a href="http://search.yahoo.com/r/_ylt=A0oGdVefYGFQMBEAVyRXNyoA;_ylu=X3oDMTE0NnQydWs4BHNlYwNzcgRwb3MDMQRjb2xvA3NrMQR2dGlkA1FJMDI2XzE0MQ--/SIG=1353p55ao/EXP=1348587807/**http%3a//www.amazon.com/Breakthrough-Novel-Award-Books/b%3fie=UTF8%26node=332264011" target="_blank">Amazon Break Through Novel Award</a> for 2013. I have not yet decided which book to enter because I am a lazy bum who sits on her cushy arse rather than writes Shadows On The Wall.<br />
<br />
I also just upgraded to Google+ even though I have absolutely no idea what that means or what to do with it..<br />
<br />
<br />
You may not have noticed this, so I'll tell you: the world of my writing is much more busy/fascinating that my 'real' life.<br />
<br />
In the end you are likely still wondering why I have not blogged all of these wonderful things. I am sorry to leave you wondering.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
.... te-hee.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-34061439674019889602012-09-13T12:57:00.001-07:002012-09-25T00:51:13.790-07:00An Introduction & A Plan<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/zEmOacuOb_M?fs=1" width="459"></iframe><br />
<br />
Yes! We're branching out! Now I will be providing books on video! Lol! Also, I might vlog once in a while too, I'm finding it to my liking so far. Granted, writing a blog is much easier, but less personal.<br />
<br />
Please share this video <em>everywhere. </em>Pass it along! Help me out here peeps!<br />
<br />
(I'll have a lot more time to write if I don't have to go to a "real" job!)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-29494473155260048422012-06-19T12:45:00.000-07:002012-06-19T12:45:25.275-07:0039 ReasonsYestereve whilst at work I let vent to my annoyances by compiling a list. It amuses me to share that list with you now.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;">39 Reasons</span><br />
<strong>To Be A Hermit</strong><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCnckkCAOUSAEtW55gO95cxLTdfxzzjIzAd2S8s4NETQJND6vv4m6kbjcK7SolbypyFlaGjQesCmM1FuEJWXFRtGM3PqfzlZslur7Xk3g-HsB684hQQoePwzY0Lre_oDVm9wjUl4To3IgQ/s1600/0618121809_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCnckkCAOUSAEtW55gO95cxLTdfxzzjIzAd2S8s4NETQJND6vv4m6kbjcK7SolbypyFlaGjQesCmM1FuEJWXFRtGM3PqfzlZslur7Xk3g-HsB684hQQoePwzY0Lre_oDVm9wjUl4To3IgQ/s320/0618121809_01.jpg" width="320" /></a>1. People Suck.<br />
2. Rob is not coming back.<br />
3. Quiet.<br />
4. No interruptions when writing.<br />
5. Plenty of long walks.<br />
6. Go to sleep when I want.<br />
7. Wake up when I want.<br />
8. No roommate..<br />
9. Have as many cats as I want.<br />
10. Raise bunnies.<br />
11. No job necessary.<br />
12. Stop being reminded of exes.<br />
13. Read books as often and as long as I want.<br />
15. Get dressed when and how I please.<br />
16. Talk to myself without getting weird looks.<br />
17. No human interaction.<br />
18. Be as sarcastic as I want.<br />
19. Be whomever I want.<br />
20. Act as bichy as I want.<br />
21. Sing loudly.<br />
22. Dance crazy.<br />
23. Go barefoot.<br />
24. Never straighten my hair.<br />
25. No stupid people.<br />
26. Adopt-A-Panther<br />
27. Have a pack of dogs.<br />
28. No longer feign interest.<br />
29. Sleep in the woods, or on the beach.<br />
30. Pretend I am happier alone.<br />
31. Train Pangur to kill.<br />
32. Shooting practice once a day.<br />
33. Hire a Robin-like servant to do my bidding.<br />
34. People suck so bad it hurts behind my eyes..<br />
35. No more people ignorant of their own ignorance.<br />
36. No more meaningless conversations.<br />
37. No more hiding what I think.<br />
38. Start a witch rumor, and follow up on it.<br />
39. People REALLY SUCK.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Postscript: Yes, this was written on a napkin.<br />
<br />
Post-Postscript: Yes, the number 39 is a random number I came up with for no very good reason.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-73223814710835783202012-06-14T14:09:00.000-07:002012-06-14T14:09:31.182-07:00Waiting On The WorldAnd I keep waiting, waiting on the world.<br />
<br />
<br />
I seem to be having one of the rough days. The kind where it seems like everything is in slow motion, just waiting on that first spark that catches.<br />
<br />
Do you know, when you're reading a book and at some point a week goes by in steady time for the main character and the author just summarizes it in a few paragraphs?<br />
<br />
I feel as though this year and maybe even last year, could be summarized in a few paragraphs and just slipped into the middle of the book. It's the kind of thing a reader guiltily skims through, not really worried about the down time, but not appreciating that the main character had to go through all of that. Every minute of it, experience it all...and you just skimmed a couple paragraphs and it was over.<br />
<br />
I'm not trying to make you feel bad (well, maybe a little) but you have to admit, the analogy brings a certain poignancy to the boredom that is right now for me.<br />
<br />
<br />
On the upside, I might be getting some time off from work in the next couple months where I could possibly devote a large amount of time to writing.<br />
<br />
I have been feeling mentally constipated (I apologize for the crudity, but that is truly the best metaphor) lately and really need to get it all out on paper. I figure, time off and no money will prove a very good laxative.<br />
<br />
Now I really feel bad about that metaphor. Seriously, I am sorry. This sort of thing will only get worse until I find time to really write.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-36879698667005952842012-05-30T12:11:00.000-07:002012-05-30T12:11:04.157-07:00Why NOT To Piss Off A WriterFile this under the heading: Why Not To Piss Off A Writer<br />
<br />
Okay?<br />
<br />
Moving forward; yesterday's work night was a good night. Why? Well, certainly not because a certain coworker has been pushing me patience toward it's limit. Actually, it's because I was a smart little cookie (writer, rather) and brought my beloved Black n' Red with me. <br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaQ6dzK-tAco8H3bCgc42qaCZkFjJiSbwAPg1nDYJnW6kxqzHIBVWnbOOylRX60tGszPzI2W9ojWsbDzMUz4KjVC4tZntIAWl0KErb-vphOcEBWBxJMbMmmMoZAM6UiyR3Im5I490Ee1nN/s1600/black+and+red.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaQ6dzK-tAco8H3bCgc42qaCZkFjJiSbwAPg1nDYJnW6kxqzHIBVWnbOOylRX60tGszPzI2W9ojWsbDzMUz4KjVC4tZntIAWl0KErb-vphOcEBWBxJMbMmmMoZAM6UiyR3Im5I490Ee1nN/s200/black+and+red.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black n' Red(tm) Notebook,<br />
my good friend</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So, when aforementioned jerk started pushing me, I was able to simply take out my notebook and escape the inane stupidity that was trying to force itself upon me.<br />
<br />
I wrote most of a scene from the next book, Shadows On TheWall, in which Anthony finally pushes David to the point of violence. And you must understand, David is much like me in the respect that, while he talks a good game, he is generally laid back and non-violent.<br />
<br />
Anywho, so, Anthony got thrown through a window (about ten stories up in a hotel) and now Cameo is cowering in the corner. And I feel fine! It's nice to be able to express myself so eloquently.<br />
<br />
So, kids, remember this the next time you are pissing off a writer. We may not react much outwardly, but you <em>are</em> on our kill-off list.<br />
<br />
There are only two types of people who sit around thinking of ways to kill off people: <br />
<br />
Psychopaths, <br />
<br />
and writers.<br />
<br />
As Castle would say, I'm the one that pays better.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-1621754510469114912012-05-23T22:42:00.000-07:002012-05-23T22:42:45.979-07:00A Scattered AccountingWhoo, so it's been a little while since I blogged. Sorry 'bout that ya'll. I've been terribly scattered lately. I really do need an assistant to keep me organized. Between trying to make sure all the bills get paid on time, working six days a week, the apartment stays clean, Pangur Ban is fed-oh crap I forgot to refill her dish, dammit!<br />
Hold on a sec, I'll be right back.....<br />
Okay! So, as you might guess, blogging is not exactly at the top of the list. It's true, there have been several times in the last couple weeks where I have wanted to blog, but it's usually about silly things that probably only matter to eccentric, hermit-wannabe authors like me.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3E9fLWQWu6-kzzRzYqpC_Ypvh1E-OfuFpfBajb4ehJwNDCuBrgFQ6bRDFxVJVBNhjM9Pnbi4Q7IHGi_LM9zbEfuSggej3fMVplqdesf4VZhNguQOjRhSTQsjuq1RbMSrU70K7yJViLcMd/s1600/LOGIC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3E9fLWQWu6-kzzRzYqpC_Ypvh1E-OfuFpfBajb4ehJwNDCuBrgFQ6bRDFxVJVBNhjM9Pnbi4Q7IHGi_LM9zbEfuSggej3fMVplqdesf4VZhNguQOjRhSTQsjuq1RbMSrU70K7yJViLcMd/s200/LOGIC.jpg" title="The shirt I ordered from CafePress, based on the TV show Castle" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My CafePress shirt, <br />
from CASTLE(abc TV show)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I haven't been writing much if at all, and it's seriously frustrating me. Logically, I know that I'll be much more emotionally stable if I get a few chapters out of my system, but I'm rebelling for some stupid reason.<br />
I downloaded Flyleaf's 2009 album, <em>Memento Mori</em>, last week and I have been listening almost exclusively to it since. Literally, all of my side thoughts have been expressed in lyrics lately. It's wonderful in a frustratingly plagiaristic sort of way.<br />
<br />
Also, I'm close to launching into a full rant on the topic of cuss words. It is a topic that frustrates me considerably, as I can see both sides of the story and wish only that everyone else could. They are WORDS. Words have only the power we give them. So, like anything else, the spirit in which they are used must be taken into consideration before sentencing someone.<br />
<br />
Perhaps scattered was not a strong enough word to use to describe me lately. In fact, an example might best serve to demonstrate.<br />
<br />
Today I woke up, fed Pangur, showered, filled out my CA voting ballot, called my dad, got dressed, checked the mail, drove to drop off my ballot, paid my electricity bill, went to the bank, filled out a credit card application, called my mom, texted my brother, surfed Amazon, checked FB, dA and YouTube, read the first 2 chapters of The Golden Lily, by Richelle Mead, and then realized it was 1:30 pm and I hadn't had anything to eat.<br />
<br />Now, normally in a day I might accomplish 3 of those things. In a WHOLE day, not in a matter of hours. I mean truthfully, out of all those, only 3 things. I could have a day where all I do is feed Pangur, shower and surf Amazon. And that is typical.<br />
And now that I have to leave for work in half an hour I realize that I forgot to call the tire store about my car. Even though I made a list (a very scattered, crazy list of things to do, things to buy, and things to remember).<br />
I'm this cose *hold up fingers about an inch apart* to giving up. I need an assistant, a keeper....<br />
And for some reason, I am sounding more and more like Damon when I lose my temper, I keep saying things like "Bloody hell!" and "Blast it!" and "Oh for the love of..." I think I hang out with him too much. Actually, he's been avoiding me a bit lately, my hectic moods make him uncomfortable.<br />
<br />
I think if I could convince myself to go to sleep before 2 am I might be able to start waking up earlier and actually accomplish something.<br />
Off topic(not that there was a specific topic): I think I want the soundtrack to the new Underworld movie...I love Lacey Sturm's and Evanescence's contribution there.<br />
<br />
<em>I believe, what if I believe you? Forgive, relieve me, please come back to life. Come back to my life.</em>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-38293877768642964732012-05-01T00:49:00.000-07:002012-05-01T00:49:25.352-07:00But She Has A Great Personality!I was looking at someone I've know for about five months today. Not a friend, just an acquaintance that I'm not overly fond of. As I looked, I realized that the person was really very unattractive. This seems harsh, I know, but allow me to explain.<br />
<br />
I realized right after this exactly how harsh that really was, and immediately began to question my realization. Why was this person suddenly so unattractive, I asked myself? It came to me that this wasn't a sudden development. Rather, over the time I have known this person they have been slipping more and more in my perception. Perhaps interestingly, their outward appearance has not altered in that time, but I have grown to know them better and I realized that their insides were ugly.<br />
<br />
The person is not attractive in physical aspects, but if their personality was better then it would be something easily overlooked. It's a cliche I know, but the line "oh, but they have a great personality" is true. Some people are plain or even unattractive by society's standards, but they have shining warmth and good humor which makes them beautiful.<br />
<br />
In contrast to this person I was examining today, a few years ago I met a young man in a work situation (I no longer know him, so I feel I may be a little freer with details). When I met the young man, my first impression was not complimentary. Aside from his rather plain exterior, he seemed to have a sour disposition, and not much of a sense of humor. Being that it was a work situation, and not merely social, I was forced to endure this man whom I had immediately judged to be a donkey's rear end.<br />
<br />
Day by day, I realized I was wrong. He had a dry, sarcastic sense of humor, an incredible sense of duty, and ambition up the wazoo. <br />
<br />
As time as passed, I have realized how much we were actually alike. It has given me a nightmare of how people may in fact preceive me upon first meeting. <br />
<br />
As my observations of his inner self grew, the way I saw his exterior changed as well. The plain young man was replaced by someone I respected and liked. I became attached and considered him a friend, and then began to wish for more. I didn't know at the time how my perception of him had altered from what a casual observer might find, until I introduced him to my best friend at the time.<br />
<br />
She, of course, knew my feelings on the topic of him, and from my descriptions expected some godly representation of a man. Upon finding a rather plain, apparently serious young man, she was disappointed and did not hesitate much to tell me so.<br />
<br />
There is a person I know now for whom I have enormous liking (friendship wise, don't get any ideas) and as I had this entire thought process today I began to wonder if my perception of this person had changed as well. As I thought, I couldn't see that it had, because this person had presented to me a warm, humorous exterior from the start. I came to the conclusion rather swiftly that I could not judge whether or not this person was attractive, because I had a biased opinion. The personality of this person is such that I would answer in the affirmative almost no matter what.<br />
<br />
I could go over every relationship, of every degree, that I engage in with the humans around me, and find dozens more examples of this. <br />
<br />
I am writing this morning to tell you, quite simply, that your personality (at least for me) is at least 80% of the beauty (or lack thereof) that I will perceive within you. First impressions are not always lasting. If I am wrong about you, and you show me, then I will change my opinions and my impression of you.<br />
<br />
This has made me think of who I project to others, as well. I haven't been able to decide if I like who I think I'm projecting. Or, rather, if I like how people may be perceiving me. As I am sure I have said many times before, I really like myself. I do. But I know that not everyone is going to, and selfishly, I want them all to.<br />
<br />
Food for thought.<br />
<br />
On a side note: I am sunburned and uncomfortable. PALE AND PROUD! (my version of P & P)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-74297760334524884102012-04-26T23:41:00.000-07:002012-04-26T23:41:11.226-07:00Untitled Dam Scrap, TBC<span lang="EN">I knew there was a reason I was supposed to go to the dam today. I knew it. And there I was, walking along happily, when suddenly I could hear their voices on the wind....<br />
<br />
<br />
“Look,” she peered around the crowded store and then back at the vision of darkness before her. “We need to talk.”<br />
<br />
“Alright.” He eased his stance and waited.<br />
<br />
“Not here!”<br />
<br />
“Not here? Why ever not?”<br />
<br />
“Because! There are people! They might hear!”<br />
<br />
His eyes narrowed as he took in all the curious stares around them, the people that slowed to hear what was being said. “That is correct. Alright.” He appeared to think, and then said, “Have you been to the dam?”<br />
<br />
Had she been to the dam? What kind of silly question was that?<br />
<br />
“Of course. How can a person live in this town and not have been to the dam?”<br />
<br />
He ignored her question and nodded, “Good. Meet me there, then.”<br />
<br />
“What?”<br />
<br />
“10 pm. At the 11<sup>th</sup> lamppost.”<br />
<br />
“What?!”<br />
<br />
“We need to talk.” Repeating her own words.<br />
<br />
“But-”<br />
<br />
“I’ll be waiting.”<br />
<br />
To be continued...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF_NjNxmULrhlbjo_moTHu0GM9wwN4fO9fWl0fWZmjYfO8sazCqZqxSN7I-AWFK4YGBafDEwyOHIDZqtO9Px0eiyuqdzRl3_wPQMNM93YCxv5Of2keMqvMEvi_rYFV2I5ywfsGRrSYiEYY/s1600/0426121819a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF_NjNxmULrhlbjo_moTHu0GM9wwN4fO9fWl0fWZmjYfO8sazCqZqxSN7I-AWFK4YGBafDEwyOHIDZqtO9Px0eiyuqdzRl3_wPQMNM93YCxv5Of2keMqvMEvi_rYFV2I5ywfsGRrSYiEYY/s400/0426121819a.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oroville Dam, Oroville, CA 4/26/12 (c) shanco.corp</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I think I know who this exchange is between. But the characters don't want to tell me their identities, so I can't be sure yet. There is only one story I know of though, that takes place within 25 miles of here. The rest are all spread out over the Northwest, but there is one...one that takes place just up into the Western Slope.<br />
<br />
Kismet.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-86007875585603170852012-04-13T12:18:00.000-07:002012-04-13T12:18:57.858-07:00Fanmail, MIA Authors & Aspirations For the FutureI have been frustrated of late with authors who become successful and no longer sort through their inboxes and answer mail. This is going to seem unreasonable, I know, because people like JK Rowling, Stephenie Meyer & Suzanne Collins get SO MUCH mail that they would never write another word if they took the time to look at and respond to every piece of fan mail they received. I get that. Really, I do.<br />
<br />
I just keep thinking that there has got to be some way to make it work. Some way to still thank the people who have made your career possible, the readers. And then there are the aspiring writers who, without fail, will always write long, thoughtful, complimentary letters and ask for advice. Isn't it the duty of successful authors to encourage the next generation of writers along?<br />
<br />
When people hear that I have written books (people who previously thought they knew me based off of their own misconceptions) they look at me in a completely different way. They think that writing a book is some sort of mystical, far off thing that only strange old people can accomplish. But there are hundreds of thousands of girls and boys out there writing stories almost as soon as they can write anything. All of their dreams, aspirations, and even nightmares are caught up and flung upon the page for anyone willing to see.<br />
<br />
I want you all to know, that when I finally make it, when I am finally successful enough to quit my day job and write full time, I swear to you I will find a way to still read my mail. If I have to employ a secretary, nay <em>two</em> secretaries, I will.<br />
<br />
I will.<br />
<br />
Because readers matter to me. Readers are the people who make my days bright. When I see reviews, or when I listen to someone tell me about one of my books, my entire world just feels like it's lit on fire. It's glowing, and warm, I can feel this burning spreading through my chest and into my outer extremities and I am <em>happy</em>.<br />
<br />
Why should any author deny themselves that glorious feeling?<br />
<br />
And the few times when I have succumbed, and written to an author, I have received one reply. I don't know if she will ever read this, but this is a huge thank you to Tamora Pierce for responding personally to the email of a very young (16, I believe) Shannon A Hiner with encouraging words. I think about that response often and how grateful I am that she took the time. It wasn't just a couple of words even, but a full letter response.<br />
<br />
In thirty years, I want to be that kind of author. She has written dozens of books, is highly successful, and is still down-to-earth enough to respond to one struggling, very young, idealistic writer.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-77508982129587369502012-04-06T13:24:00.000-07:002012-04-06T13:30:13.130-07:00Out of Frustrating Sometimes Comes Some GoodMy scheduler at work has been annoying me rather significantly lately. You see, I am supposed to be a server/busser in our restaurant. Lately though, I have been scheduled to cashier. The problem should be clear to anyone in the restaurant business, but if you aren't I will explain:<br />
<br />
Servers make mullah tips.<br />
Bussers make so-so tips.<br />
Cashiers make next to no tips.<br />
<br />
The reason I left my former job for a job that pays a full dollar an hour less was that I would be making tips. In the first couple of months at my job I was making about $700/month in tips, and only $750 in actual paychecks.<br />
<br />
So, instead of only making $8/hr, I was in fact making about $18/hr...nearly unheard of in this county.<br />
<br />
Now, cashiering, I am making much, much less. Barely enough to survive on. Actually, I am <em>not</em> making enough to survive on. I have made my issues known, and have been assured that it will only be for about another week, but still I am very tight on cash.<br />
<br />
The good that has come out of this very frustrating bad is this: Cashiering is so damn boring and slow that I have been able to roughly outline the entire first half of <em>Shadows On The Wall</em> this week. HUZZAH!<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, I have come across a new problem: a plothole.(Like a pothole in the road, only it's in the storyline).<br />
<br />
A plothole right smack dab in the middle of the book. The rough draft that I wrote approx. 6 years ago has this huge hole, like a time vortex that one of the characters just slipped into and disappeared while the others carried on as if nothing had happened. I mean, they should feel really awful for letting that happen...terrible <strike>human </strike> beings.<br />
<br />
I think I have come up with a cure for the plothole, but getting the story back on track after that hole may in fact be difficult.<br />
<br />
Nonetheless, the fact that I have had so much idle time on my hands at work lately has brought this bugger of a problem to my attention far before it became a really difficult issue.<br />
<br />
I suppose I should be a bit on the thankful side that I have had the extra time, but my wallet and bank account are not feeling very magnanimous.<br />
<br />
This looking on the bright side post brought to you by: Shanco.corporations. <br />
(Lobbied against by: The wallet and bank account of Shannon A Hiner.)<br />
<br />
<br />
On a completely unrelated side note: Long time and very successful authors may not be effected so much by their reviews on book selling websites, but I certainly am. I feel that it is necessary to give a hugely thankful shout out to my first reviewer in the iTunes bookstore, a certain Beekersc. I appreciate so much that you took the time to not only read <em>Only The Stars Know</em> but to also leave a few lines telling others how much you enjoyed it. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/only-the-stars-know/id498356388?mt=11" target="_blank">Only The Stars Know in the iTunes Store</a><br />
Remember everyone: A book read, but not reviewed, kills a faerie. No joke.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2011827091750671305.post-31848360746436068252012-03-31T00:55:00.000-07:002012-03-31T00:55:07.354-07:00When Being Happy Becomes A ProblemSo, I'm pretty content at the moment. Yep. I mean, sure, there are a few things that I would love to change (having to work in customer service, oversleeping the alarm everyday, basically talking to myself and receiving odd looks for it), but on the whole I've been fairly happy in the last month.<br />
<br />
I've settled in at the new job, got rid of the troublesome roommate, and I've been very adventurous in the kitchen lately. I'm practically on cloud nine.<br />
<br />
Are you wondering why it almost sounds as though I am complaining?<br />
<br />
Well, see here's the problem: I'm rewriting <em>Shadows On The Wall</em>. What, you mean that one sentence doesn't answer all your questions? I suppose I will explain then.<br />
<br />
When I originally wrote <em>Shadows On the Wall</em> it was the spring of 2006. My sophomore year of high school, and also the year I passed the CA HS Proficiency Exam and left high school behind forever. It was the year I got my license, my first job, and we moved from Modesto to Oroville. BIG Year. (I also started writing <em>Die For Me Again</em>, but that was in the autumn.)<br />
<br />
In the Spring of 2006 I let myself fall in deep deep like with someone entirely unsuitable and unavailable to me. I already loved this boy as a friend, so it was doubly bad. Unwittingly, he ended up breaking my heart that spring, or rather, I let my heart break over him. He really didn't <em>do</em> anything to break it, so I shouldn't blame him. <br />
<br />
Well, those of you who don't know me all that well will not realize how catastrophic this was. I don't just get crushes on guys, when I decide I like them I go head over freaking high heels and totally lose my heart. No, really, I don't do <em>anything</em> halfway, especially not love. So while this wonderful boy thought we were just really good friends, I was in fact losing my mind over why he didn't like me in the same way.<br />
<br />
When I realized he never would, and that I couldn't simply be 'just friends' with him, my heart did a weepy little break in two and I haven't been the same since. I believe that was the first time my heart was truly broken. (There have honestly only been two times in twenty-two years).<br />
<br />
In the year following this heart break I completed two novels in the <em>Immortal World</em> series, one and a half standalone novels, and droves upon droves of weepy heartbroken prose.<br />
<br />
Have you caught on yet? When I am heartbroken I write like crazy. And apparently, I write rather well because two of the most popular <em>IW</em> books came out of utter heartbreak.<br />
<br />
I am now faced with two distinctly different problems, both resulting from the fact that I am in a happy state of mind currently:<br />
<br />
1. I can't seem to write easily when I am happy.<br />
2. <em>Shadows On The Wall</em> is a very emotionally stormy book, with deep lows--something that is quite hard to write from a good mood.<br />
<br />
The answer? I'm not sure. I suppose I could go out and find some completely unsuitable man to fall head over heels for, in the hopes that he will tear my heart asunder and leave me a wasted shell of a woman....but that seems like an awful lot of work, and plus, there really aren't any worthy males to be had at the moment.<br />
<br />
Nope, I just don't know. It's a problem, that is for certain.<br />
<br />
Suggestions are welcome (with the understanding that, depending upon my mood, I may rip them apart or take them out of context or do any number of annoying/shannon-like things with them).Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12104221163739046364noreply@blogger.com0