Last Writers' Night Out for 2010

Someone would think that on the final Writers' Night Out of the year, Nate (D. Nathan Hilliard) and I would at least have a bit of a spring in out steps--nope. Not even a little hop. Both of us were the epitome of bone tired drifters coming into Denny's, looking for the world lost, weary old people. 

But we've vowed to shape up in the New Year and find our production levels soaring to the top. That's high on our lists. As well as find our diets and stick to them (that's even higher on the list). 

This year is yawning behind us and we found our weakness and strength in our writing, promoting, and discovered that 90% of it all is just plain common sense. Can't put a price on that one folks! :>) 

As I close this blog for the night, it will be my last one, until 2011. It's been an incredible year, this 2010. Now, it's time to look forward, learn from my errors, tighten the reins, and march onward with more determination than ever before. 

Happy New Year! I'm going to embrace 2011 with my arms open wide!

Let the music play--
Cherri 

Bring It On--with a smile

2011 is nipping our noses. This coming year is a blank slate waiting to be filled and I'm already chomping at the bit in anticipation. 

2010 is now a wonderful-filled memory. So many changes occurred...all for the better! I've met new friends who are both readers and writers, and have learned so much from both. My family has grown, the fur-kids are all healthy, happy, and howling with joy, and most importantly--I too, have grown mentally and emotionally.

I want to thank my readers who invested a bit of their time and money taking a chance on me. I'm forever grateful. Thank you! 

Halo and Holly did better than I could have imagined. The Scent of Money picked up in December, and even Impact For Murder finally made a few sales. 

Staying fired up to write is something all writers face. For myself speaking, the flame in my belly burns constantly. And in early Spring, my current novel should be complete, edited, and ready to read on Kindle! Of course, it's a mystery--and the protagonist has a dog. A German shepherd, matter of fact, who loves everybody...even the murderer. The clues will all be there, the humor plenty, and the storyline will be downright fun! 


Christmas was a delight as always, and my family is incredible. I am truly blessed! 

Looking forward to our New Year as she approaches (singing and skipping),
Cherri

Christmas Flowers

Today, I received my first Christmas gift of this season--from a treasured friend, Diana Driver. Gorgeous flowers! The aroma is delightful, and as for the beauty, I can't capture in a picture. 

I'm sure it would've helped to not have set them up in front of the knitting maching and drafting tables, but hay, the sunlight was favorable. 

The vase is a red stained glass with little snowmen so cute you can't help but want to touch it. This bouquet brightened more than my smiles today!

Thank you, Diana, and Merry Christmas to you and Denny!
Cherri

Four Days Till Christmas!

As we approach Christmas Day, I want to say that in whatever way you celebrate this time of year--I wish you a Merry Christmas. 

It's an exceptionally busy time in our home with all the shopping, wrapping, and hiding of gifts. See, we can't place our gifts under the tree till the morning of Christmas. We have four dogs--who'd see those pretty wrapped packages as toys to tear into. Soooo, come the morning of the 25th, Steve and I put all the presents under the tree and let our fur-kids help in the unwrapping. It's my favorite part of the day! (of course, Santa will bring something special for each of them) 


To all of you, may this season be all about giving. Whether it's with your time, or donations, or even a shared recipe or idea--keep your hearts open. 


Merry Christmas and have a joyous holiday season!
Cherri

Announcing Vicki Tyley's "BRITTLE SHADOWS"

It gives me great pleasure to announce Vicki Tyley's BRITTLE SHADOWS. 

With much anticipation, Vicki Tyley's novel, Brittle Shadows is now available on Kindle, and Barnes and Noble Nook. 


Brittle Shadows left me in awe at the depth of good writing and a mystery so tight, it caught me off-guard! As I was one of the few fortunate asked to read the pre-release copy, I can't tell you, as a writer, how Ms. Tyley brought out more twists to the plot that leaves you thinking about the novel long after you've finished the final page. Highly recommended, definitely 5 stars!


Vicki has two other novels out, THIN BLOOD, which was chosen as Amazon's "Best of 2010," and SLEIGHT MALICE.

Ms. Tyley lives in Australia in one of the most beautiful areas on earth, surrounded by some of nature's most fascinating creatures. You can find her website: HERE 

And be sure to check out her web blog: HERE. For a peek into her surroundings in Australia, you can see her photo blog: HERE. 


Note: As I am a writer, I'm also an avid reader--thank you, Vicki, for entertaining me till the wee hours of the morning, because I couldn't put your book down!


Congratulations on Vicki Tyley's release of BRITTLE SHADOWS!!

Also, Vicki is going to do "FREE GIFTING" to THREE lucky commenters on this blog through Kindle! So commence to comment away!


Good reading, and good writing to all--
Cherri
xxxx

A New Chapter Opens in Our Lives

The Houston Police Department is minus one. It's official, my husband is now honorably retired as of today's date. 

Until now, I promised my husband (per his request) I wouldn't blog about where he worked, or give any details. I kept that promise. Now, I'm free to blab. 

My husband...a proud man, an honorable man. He served our country and our city well. For twenty-eight years he left our home to protect and serve with a skip in his step. He cared for the people in his beat, he cared for the Department, and he cared for the victims. His belief in what's RIGHT overrules all else. 

Many years ago shortly after we met, I remember the day he told me he wanted to be a cop. I learned to pray really hard from that day on. And not one day has ever been missed. I thank God for hearing my prayers and seeing us through a lifetime with his life still in tact. And for keeping him all in one piece. 

So now? Well, my sweet husband is in the process of turning his "office" at home into a MAN CAVE! Oh good grief--he's gone overboard, gutting out the old and putting in new speakers, big screen TV, stereo, main-streaming, wireless, wired, and new cabinets, wall decor, new chair, and any other type of comfort for home entertainment. 

He also loves tools...wood working tools, plain tools, saws, sanders, planers, rippers, power tools (he especially loves power tools), and drills of every assortment. He's converting our garage into his "work shop." (shoot me now!) Although, I must say, it's looking pretty organized, so I'm not complaining too much. 

The other night we went for a stroll--we held hands and I thought how comforting it was to hold his hand and, to know that now I don't ever have to let go. 

Yes, we're starting a new chapter in our lives and I'm very grateful for having this opportunity in doing so.

I raise my glass high to you, my love--

Cherri 

Amazon Studios is open

Yesterday's news broke wide open about Amazon Studios! They're in partnership with Warner Brothers! So for all you screen writers out there--go check them out. 

Health issues in week 3 of NaNoWriMo caused me to drop out, for good reason, but I did manage to end the month with 32,300 words. I think at this point in my life, I'm going to pass the torch on to the younger, less encumbered. 

Christmas is around the corner and I hope all who wished for a Kindle, gets one! I know Steve and I enjoy ours immensely. I've had mine for almost a year and can't believe how steady my TBR (to be read) stack has grown. And believe me, I read constantly. It's also been through the Kindle that I've come across some really wonderful authors that wouldn't have gotten the exposure they so richly deserve otherwise. 

The weather is finally cooling for Winter, here in the Houston area. Of course, nothing like up North, but for me, I love cold weather so our bundle-up 35 degree nights and 50 degrees days are what I've anxiously waited for and now I'M TICKLED PINK!  What do I want for Christmas? A warm flannel nightgown!!! 

Our little pecan tree dropped its leaves, and the pecans...and what didn't drop, the squirrels devoured. The wee orange tree is bursting with fruit this year. They should be ready for picking sometime in January. They are the sweetest oranges we've ever eaten! 

Hope your weekend is filled with pleasant surprises and enticing treats--

Happy Trails,
Cherri

Halo and Holly, reviewed by: Diana L. Driver

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Halo and Holly

 Now that Thanksgiving is over, I'm filled with thoughts of Christmas which includes Christmas stories. Halo and Holly is a short story by mystery writer Cherri Galbiati. It is one of the best and sweetest Christmas stories ever written. Available on Kindle and Kindle for pc it's a real treat and guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit.


The story is centered around two Great Pyrenees, who are as sweet as can be - when they're asleep and playfully wrecking havoc when awake. Halo and Holly is a wonderful story, written from the heart by a writer who knows how to lift any one's spirits. Halo and Holly is destined to be become a Christmas classic that can be enjoyed by the whole family.


Give yourself a treat this Christmas. Curl up with a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy this humorous short story. Halo and Holly is guaranteed to put anyone in the Holiday spirit!!


Halo and Holly by Cherri Galbiati is available on Kindle and Kindle for PC - just click on the above link for easy download.  

I wish to thank Diana L. Driver for this wonderful review! She's the author of NINTH LORD OF THE NIGHT  and THE MAYA, PEOPLE OF THE MAIZE.

Reflections of Thanks

As we approach this Thanksgiving, I want to give Thanks. Many thanks. If my path hadn't led me to writing, I have no idea what the outcome would have been. For that I'm thankful. I'm thankful for a wonderful husband, great fur-kids, and incredible friends far, near, and wide. 

Life has been generous in supplying my needs. I never take advantage of that knowledge -- not even for a second. 

Paraphrasing Kahlil Gibran; The deeper the well is carved in your soul, the more joy is its capacity for holding. 

I have been very Blessed and am very Thankful--
Happy Thanksgiving,
Cherri

Sunday Fun Stuff

Met a Percheron warhorse today. Up close and personal. What a handsome 8 year old full of pep! If you'd like to see what he looks like, just Google "Sampson, the warhorse," and then click on his facebook page. Steve and I went to the Texas Renaissance Festival and spent the day perusing the shops, sight-seeing, stroking Sampson, and just had plain fun. We both needed it. 

Tonight, Nate (D. Nathan Hilliard) and I spent a grand evening doing our Writers' Night Out. Except we spent most of time discussing everything but writing. We needed the break. 

What I didn't do today was any NaNo writing--but I am at 21,900. Shewww! I'm also in the middle of the two-week slump. The outings today were exactly what I needed to recharge the old batteries. 

It's late, this post is short, and tomorrow will bring another great day. Hope you have a wonderful week ahead.

Slipping into my gown,
Cherri

Hot weather and NaNoWriMo

The heat and humidity has returned to the Houston area. :(  I love cold weather and am on my wishing box for it to return. With the constant change in temperatures, it brings on allergies, flu, and ear aches (in my case, an ear infection). 

But NaNo is still going and today I've reached 12,210. Excited doesn't begin to cover it. Shoot, writing freely and without restraints brings back the "fire in my belly" feeling! Throwing all the rules aside, the do's and don't's in writing, is down right refreshing. Am I writing enunciated prose? Uh, no. But, I'm getting all those jumbled thoughts, the scenes (which aren't in order yet) out there. In December, after all this is over, I'll have enough of this novel written down so I can pick and place the scenes in the order I want them. But just getting them down has been quite enlightening. 

The Blue jays have gathered for a short period around our place, along with the Cardinals. The squirrels seem to have multiplied this past week and all these creatures makes me thrilled to be alive! 

Now that Christmas is approaching and for those who would like to read a sweet Christmas short story on your Kindle, may I suggest my Halo and Holly! For dog lovers everywhere, this story will delight, enhance, and bring a few smiles! I've said it before, and I'll say it again...I LOVED writing this little story! 

Happy NaNo to my fellow Naners--

Cherri

Finally, the protagonists meet!

I figured it would happen one day, but not yet--oh my, it did! In three of my novels, the protagonists have finally intertwined and met up. Are they happy campers? Not hardly. Becky met Callie. Matt met Dan. Penny and Jonathan have now arrived on the scene, or I should say NaNo crazy-writing-itis. 

So what happens now? At this point, I don't know, but I can say lots of conflict has entered the book. 


Don't you just love it when the pot gets stirred up to the point of boiling? This NaNo year has turned out better than I'd thought! I'm now at 7,081 words!! 


Heads up, keep writing--
Cherri

Short update on NaNoWriMo

Made it through yesterday with my head nodding over the keyboard by 10pm. But, at least I started with a good word count of 3214 for the day. YAY! 

This will be a month of not knowing what's going on out in the world. Suffice it to say, maybe that's a good thing?! Just have to remember to turn the clocks back an hour this coming weekend. (what's with "playing" with the time change in the first place? Does IT really matter??? Uh, no!) 

A cold front swept over last night bringing with it one heck of spectacular light show. Now that the cooler weather has actually arrived and we're no longer in the 90's, I can quit complaining (for now at least! lol). 

Happy Nano everyone--
Cherri

NaNoWriMo Lift off

This Sunday night at midnight-01, will begin another NaNoWriMo marathon for the month of November! Yeah, I know, last year went miserably--BUT there's always hope on the horizon. This year, I'm prepared! Coffee, cool dogs, cool weather, and hot cocoa; my tools for a happy NaNo (I have such simple needs-LOL)


With the slate cleared, the office thoroughly dusted, and my CD's lined up, I have no excuses for making it all the way through this year. In 2008, I won--I can do it again! Now the only thing left to do is tie my internal editor up in pink duct tape. ^oo^ 


For anyone who isn't familiar with NaNoWri (National Novel Writing Month), it's all about literacy. Getting kids and adults both involved in writing a 50,000 word novel in a single month. There are all kinds of forums to be joined, for the social adept, or not. For the Houston area here, there are quite a few writing kick-off parties and gatherings...something to consider for those who wish to not go it alone. It's great fun and no matter what, we're ALL winners! 


Yay me, for being a participant for FOUR years straight!
Cherri

Discombobulated Muse!

Nate (D. Nathan Hilliard) and I had a really good session for our Writers' Night Out. Much was discussed currently about our works in progress. Funny how we found out that we both literally write by the seat of our britches, stringing one scene together after another. Sort of like watching a movie streaming in your mind (with all the characters talking right-out-loud and all-lol).  

Nate told me about a scene he's working on about his "dog people" and what their emblem is--can you feel my hands tightening around your throat, Nate?????? It got to me! 

My muse has been whispering about story lines for future books constantly lately and is doing a pretty good job of distracting my train of thought on the novel I'm currently in the middle of. (the first half has already been edited--just needs another set of eyes to find the logic bombs) She keeps shooting these fantastic ideas at me for future work and, I've gotta tell you, they're pretty dang good. Now, if only I could hush her till I've finished this one! Sweet little thing is quite discombobulated--just like me! 

This flu crud has sucked just about all the energy from my body for this day, so I'm going to say good night and wish everyone --

Happy Writing,
Cherri

Baby Owl

Last night a baby owl captured my heart. He looked to be about 3-4 inches tall and his tiny wings weren't quite feathered yet. 

When I write, I do a lot of pacing...all night long. At 1:30 this morning I glanced out the window in the game room, which faces what I call, "the woods". We had a full moon last night and the entire yard was bathed in its marvelous silver sheen. Lo and behold this little creature blinked at me, perched on one of the slats of our fence, facing the window. He was only about 20 feet away. I opened the window, not believing my eyes. Where did he come from? Had his mom put him in time-out for misbehaving in the nest? And for pete's sake, where was its nest? I know nothing of owls, their habitats, or the different breeds (if they even come in breeds?). But he was a cutie! 

Without a second thought, I ran and woke my husband--he just had to see this precious wee owl. We both stared in awe and ooo'd and ahhhh'd till Steve finally went back to bed, leaving me cooing at the little fella from the window inside our house. Then worry filled my heart and I didn't quite know what to do with him. A predator could eat him for an appetizer or worse, just maim him.  Wasn't sure if I touched him would his mom reject him? 


Then out of nowhere, and I do mean nowhere, I heard the soft flap of wings--his mother returned and scooped him up with her talons so smooth, I couldn't believe what I had just witnessed. She carried him away into the woods and all I saw was their silhouette shrouded in a silver sheen. I love nature. Yeah, I cried. 


Guess Junior's "time-out" was over and I'm betting he doesn't misbehave for quite some time to come. (of course I know it was more like a teaching excursion)


I feel privileged to have been witness to one of nature's delights. Small things tickle me to no end, and today I'm skipping on air!


Cherri

The Kleenex Box is My Friend

After spending this week in bed with the flu, I've adventured out to get on the computer for a few minutes. Wow, lots has been going on around me while I've sneezed, coughed, puked, and ran a heck of a fever. 

Still foggy and coughing but feeling a bit more human. What all this means is that my two-week writing treat turned into only one. BUT, I'm most grateful for that one week. Missed out on Writers' Night Out with D. Nathan Hilliard due to this mess, and hopefully by next weekend I won't be contagious to everyone I come in contact with. We'll see. 

NaNoWriMo is just on the horizon--and even though I failed miserably last year, I'm planning on trying again. Getting that WINNER'S award in 2008 was the best! That was the year I ground my butt to the chair and wrote IMPACT FOR MURDER. Which is available in print and ebook on Amazon. That was also the year Hurricane Ike blew through, which prompted the ideas for IMPACT FOR MURDER! Gotta tell ya--if ever there's going to be a favorite book of mine, it'll probably be that one...life really slammed into our house in September 2008 when a big honking tree landed on our roof with its big honking limb pushing through the French Doors and spreading itself out for 21 feet in the game room. Shewwww! Yeppers, memories were made that night! 

So if you'd like to know what it's like to live through a hurricane, buy my book! Of course, murder, mystery, and dogs carry the theme as well.

Back to bed I go (with fists full of tissues)--

Tomorrow the writing will commence. No matter what!

Cherri

A few hours of sanity

This evening, D. Nathan Hilliard (Nate) and I stole a few hours at Denny's. For me, this was a godsend. I've been couped up too long in this house and getting out, being around people re-newed the ol' muse, giving her just the right amount of umph she needed. 

We brought our laptops and set up at our usual table. The waitresses, Lauren and Sarah were there to take special care of us. They're the best. Then we got down to business...real business. The side of writing writers dislike with a passion. The "business side" that drains inspiration right out and deposits it on the floor. BUT! We're both doing fairly well. Especially Nate--he's climbing the ranks and making good on his word that all of this is for FUN! And from his totals, he's having quite the good time! Way to go, Nate!!!! 


We brought to the table our thoughts on ebook pricing, the way print is disappearing without a trace, and how we're able to keep up with other authors we've met along the way in various avenues and are remaining friends. (NOT on fb--I personally feel FB is a social cesspool. {{{shivers}}} ) 


Tomorrow will be an exceptionally busy day for me, so I'm putting on my gown and headed to bed. I'll have my Kindle with me for the day tomorrow, then Tuesday it'll back to the grind. Looking forward to this coming week as rain is in the forecast. Please, let it bring in some more cool weather! 

Sending a big wave from Houston,
Cherri

Striving For Balance

Since my husband's been away in L.A., I set some goals. Split between writing like crazy and catching up on the always climbing TBR stack. Well, I've succeeded in both, making sure that the writing has priority. But the outcome on the reading front has been pretty impressive also! 

Just finished Vicki Tyley's "Sleight Malice" and must say it captivated my attention from the first sentence to the end. WAY TO GO VICKI!! Good story, really good! The ending surprised me -- which didn't follow the standard rules of formula, but did, if you think really hard about it. I loved the twists, the characters (Desley's quirks and good hearted reasoning will endear this woman to your very core)--so strong, and the elements of plot. 

D. Nathan Hilliard has done it again and recently (very recent) uploaded "Shades: Wind and Dark Waters" which I wanted to put the pic up, but for some strange reason won't let me copy it. The cover is dynamite though! I'll talk to Nate later today and find out why it won't let me grab the cover and once we figure it out, I'll post it on my blog.


In the meantime, I'm rolling in Becky McAllen's world. She's exciting, filled with life, and is going to make some really tough decisions -- especially when she finds a young woman hanging upside-down from a tree, bled out, just like fresh-shot deer. 

May your day be bright and cheery,
Cherri

 

The Changes In A Writing Career

If anyone had ever told me back in 2006, that by 2010, the publishing industry would be turned on its axis, I wouldn't have believed them. 

As a writer, I held onto my beliefs that going through a traditional publisher was the only way to go. No exceptions. Then in January 2010, I began to notice a trickle of changes outside my small world, cracking those inhibited beliefs wide open. I stood back and listened...and watched. Time swirled around me as I paid close attention, and read everything I could regarding the swift tides crashing in the publishing world, changing right along with it. And no one persuaded me, I'm quite capable of forming my own opinions, which I did.

My goals now are different than when I started out in 2006. Matter of fact, I'm embracing the knowledge that there isn't any restraints over me anymore. What I'm alluding to is that now I can write anything I want, and have it up on Kindle as soon as I feel it's ready for publication. And I get to have the final say.

It isn't a matter of disrespecting any publisher, small or large, for that choice is up to the individual author...it all has to do with the fact that I've changed. I changed in a good way and for the first time in my life, I understand what it feels like to walk without unwarranted guilt. No one will make me feel guilty for the choices I make in my writing career ever again. 

Growing older and added wisdom might have something to do with going Indie. But, for sure, I know my writing will be stronger. 

For the heart of a writer can't not write!

Cherri

Two-week writing treat

Actually, my husband's in L.A. for two weeks, which will allow me to buckle down without too many interruptions to do nothing but write. (except for the fur-kids, but they're angels. lol) 

To kick-off this fortnight, I've ground 3lbs of Houstonian Blend coffee beans, pulled out my favorite CD's, picked up a case of printer paper, and have dipped my muse's wings in creative juice. Now, we'll just have to wait and see where these characters take me. They have been evolving in my head (or more like screaming) for about a month--it's time to let them loose! 

I think most of my readers are going to fall in love with Penny. She walks through this life with a definite style all her own. And wait till you meet her German shepherd. This gorgeous GSD is gonna steal your heart (and the murderer's also). 

Recently, an acquaintance approached me with some questions. Here's the answers: 
1) Have you always wanted to be a writer.
     Ans: No, and yes. Obstacles kept throwing themselves in front of my life, detouring my goals--until I reached forty. Then I didn't give a rat's right ear and decided it was time to fulfill the void my heart ached for. I now have. :) 

2) Do you write anything other than mysteries? 
     Ans: No,...and yes. Recently I wrote the sweetest short story I've ever written, Halo and Holly. It isn't a mystery. It's a sweet canine Christmas short story about two Great Pyrenees. Also, I have a different kind of romance short story I'll be publishing on Kindle soon. But other than those two, all the rest of my novels and short works are mysteries. The Scent of Money, and Impact For Murder--both are novels and are on Kindle. 

3)Do you always write with dogs in your stories. 
     Ans: Yes. Always.

Thank you Shawna for your questions! 

With a huge mug of hot coffee and my writing partners curled up near my feet, it's time for me to begin...my two-week writing treat!


Cherri

Star Gazing

Tonight at Denny's, Nate (D. Nathan Hilliard) and I explored the writing world for all we had. From word count to blurbs, to setting and plot, we shared, debated, and laughed our way through another cool writers' night out! 

For the first time, I experienced a new "high" today. My little short story, HALO AND HOLLY made it in the top 100 sold on Amazon! The ranking numbers started climbing immediately, but for that one hour today, I hit #65 in the top Kindle books sold--what a feeling!!!! 

I've noticed a tiny influx of my other titles as well; nothing compared to HALO AND HOLLY, but it's a start. Small things tickle me to pieces, so this was a biggie for me. 

A close friend of mind, Debi Terral is having her birthday today--HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DEB! And this Thursday is my brother's birthday--HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BROTHER! Boy, time surely is flying by. Wished I could grab some of it and seal it in a container for later in my life. 


My eyes are getting heavy which means my brain is about to shut down. So I bid y'all a good night. 


Cooler air has hit Houston and it feels incredible outside right now!!! Bring on Winter,
Cherri

New horizons

It looks like IMPACT FOR MURDER is now available also in print on Amazon! I'm really excited about this. Having the book in both epub and printpub is a good thing! (although the cover image isn't available just yet in print, but will be soon, and if you want to see what it looks like, look at under Kindle Books!!) That handsome doggie on the front is my own Yadar!!!! He's so handsome, I want to kiss his fuzzy lips :)

For anyone who is itching to read something "Christmas," may I suggest the sweetest story I've ever written, HALO AND HOLLY. It's a sweet canine (Great Pyrenees) Christmas short story and sells for only .99 on Kindle. 

With my priorities straightened out, my writing is flowing much smoother. And yes, it has been a long time since THE SCENT OF MONEY was released--and that's what I'm working on right now...the next installment into the American Searcher Service series. (nameless title, but won't be for long) 

It feels good to be back in the saddle, on top of the hill, light switch turned on, and all those other goofy cliches--I'm just tickled to be back in full writing mode again! 

Embrace your ereader, buy my books, and curl up for a dang good read! 

Go green,
Cherri

Decisions, decisions

All writers go through the decision process to the point where we want to scream. Okay, speaking for myself, I'm at the point where frustration is becoming the norm. The decision I'm speaking of? Promoting vs. writing. 

One day I'm all geared up to go hung-ho out the door and promote to sell like crazy and the next, I'm edgy over why I no longer have time to write. Then there's the "not knowing" when exactly the book will be released, so no preparations have been done to get in any early promotion for the said book. Once the book is out, I feel I should drop everything I'm doing and promote the heck out of it. Only to find several months later that my writing and work in progress has suffered...severely. 

These days I feel like I've been thrown in a centrifuge, spinning out of control. This isn't good for my psyche. Can a writer write, and promote? Well obviously quite a few of them are. Good for them. I'm not everybody and I function on an entirely different level. Nor am I a salesperson. 

However, laughter comes easy for me, time rushes by, winter's on its way, and I'm sure I'll work this dilemma out. And I'm also pretty dang sure that I'll put writing up there at the top of my prioritized list! 

Wished there were a simpler routine for the struggling writer trying to make herself a name in an ocean of other writers. And the truth be told? There isn't one. 

However, the link to Amazon has finally come LIVE--so here it is for IMPACT FOR MURDER! 

May we ALL come out winners,
Cherri

IMPACT FOR MURDER--is here!

Impact For Murder is HERE on Kindle!!!!! The direct link isn't working on my blog yet, but you can certainly buy it on the Kindle from Amazon! 

This is one of the books that made me giggle till I almost peed my pants writing it. 

I want you to experience the same thing!!!! (reading it, that is!)

Cherri

A Cool Writers' Night Out

Shared this evening at Denny's with Lauren and Matt at our table and we laughed till 2am. D. Nathan Hilliard (Nate) and I held an off-writing night as we explored the world of gamers, makers, movers, and shakers in all arenas. 

It felt rejuvenating to spread our wings and listen to two young folks speak intelligently on every subject under the sun. Lauren and Matt are good kids (although they're in their early 20's!). Also, good to see Sarah and Lois and the rest of the gang at Denny's. 

Can't tell everyone how much I'm wishing for SNOW this Winter--as I'm pretty tired of the hot, humid weather. But, they are forecasting a mild cold front our way in about two weeks. I'm getting pretty worked up about it, too! (folks, I love cold weather!) 

Think snow,
Cherri 

Friendship, Food, and Fantasy

Last night, Nate (D. Nathan Hilliard) and I spent a Saturday's night at Denny's. I celebrated my new cover release for Impact For Murder, and kept within the sugar boundaries of my diet. (as in-No Sugar! Low carbs) 

We had a blast, but poor Nate's laptop is ill and he didn't have it with him. Gotta tell you, he looked pretty forlorn without his "Preciousssss." I brought mine and we perused the web, drank plenty caffeine, and discussed our future writing plots. 

Had a pleasant surprise while at the restaurant--ran into two old friends, Mark Hardy and Mark Terry. They own Woof Pet Bakery. It was so good to see them again. They have the best dog treats in the world. (To self--must run by and get some peanut butter cookies for the fur-kids) 

On a different note, our little pecan tree in the backyard has several pecans this year. First year to bear fruit. Steve and I are excited. The orange tree is weighted down with big beautiful oranges and I can't wait till they ripen. It sure takes a long time for those rascals to turn orange, though. 

My brain is filled with images of scenes for the novel I'm working on, and it's the most amazing feeling for my fingers to try and keep up. I love that. 

Short and sweet for today, but have to get back to writing.

Happy Trails,
Cherri

Impact For Murder--is almost here!

Impact For Murder is almost here! 
Here's a quick peek at the cover. This is what it's about!

A debt called in, gave a murderer an opportune time to commit his deed under the cloak of deafening winds as Hurricane Matilda passed over Hollow, Texas. No one would hear a thing. Or so the killer thought.

Callie and her husband, Chief Daniel Murphy, unsuspectingly have their home turned into Shelter Central to quite a menagerie of characters before, during, and after the storm. While the hurricane passes through, Callie’s guests believe a heinous murder has taken place in the Bentley’s home, who are her backyard neighbors.

Mrs. Bentley disappears, and when a woman’s body turns up—not that of Tilley Bentley, heads spin. Callie sets out, along with her houseguests, to prove Clive Bentley did indeed kill his wife. But without a body, it’s hard to prove.

As Callie pushes herself into the investigation, with the help of her Cadaver Dog, Yadar, she walks straight into the path of a killer’s warped mind.  

As soon as it comes LIVE on Amazon, Kindle, and Fictionwise, I'll post the links. 

Life is good!

Cherri