Book & Trailer Showcase, partnering with Coffee Beans And Love Scenes and Full Moon Bites Presents ~

Christmas Wishes Blog Hop

Stop by to join in the holiday extravaganza!  Here's how:  (Click over to BTS for Linky List Sign-Up!)




Welcome! We are so happy to announce that 3 great touring companies have joined together to bring you this wonderful hop! BTS, CBLS, and Full Moon Bites proudly present the Christmas Wishes Giveaway Hop!!
We are hoping to be able to giveaway 2 E-Readers, A Nook Glow and A Kindle Touch 3G, but we need your help. Donations for the grand prize will be accepted until Dec 2. Please contact viajeradelmar@aol.com for your information on how to donate money!
Since we have had such a lovely run this year working with all of the lovely authors, we have decided to also give away one touring package each! So three lucky authors will walk away with their very own book tour to kick off the New Year!
Now let’s go over a few things:
Please, copy the button and paste it on your blog!! (Either on the sidebar or make a post about it) The more people we get involved, the more fun for everyone involved!! Anyone can sign up. If you are new to the hop idea but would love to participate, just comment here or email me @ viajeradelmar@aol.com. I will be happy to walk you through the process or explain things in greater detail. Please include whether your giveaway is US only or Int on the linky form.

The Rules:

1. Posts must be up at midnight on the 7th. We will be checking!! Any post not up by the allotted time will be deleted from the event. So if you are in a different time zone, post the night before. It is ok to be early but not ok to be late.
2. Posts must include the hop button which I will be sending out to you a week before it is supposed to go live.
3. Posts must include the linky list, the links to the next three bloggers, or a link back to either BTS, CBLS, or Full Moon Bites. We want everyone to be able to hop to all the sites.
4. Your giveaway can be anything but it must include either something book related(print books, e-books, gift-cards, swag, reading lights) or Christmas themed. Designers are more than welcome to join in as well and offer services, different buttons or blog design items, as well as packages.
5. Have fun
Everyone is responsible for their own individual giveaway. Participants need to announce their winners within 48 hours of the hops end.
Please include whether your giveaway is US only or Int on the linky form.

Come join in the Christmas fun!!

 ~ Nadja

The Eye Of The Storm

Things are eerily quiet, even as I busily tap away on my keyboard, writing guest posts, plotting new concepts.  I am engrossed in the final pages of a beta read on "The Call Of The Gods", and while not my usual genre, it is an uncommonly good story. Add in brainstorming with a fellow writer - on a topic wholly foreign to my experience - and that sums up this writer's week.  (I suppose that's the draw -  a new adventure!)

So...how can I claim that eerie quiet I mention?

My novel is off in beta land.  It's a season of waiting.  The winds are picking up a bit, as my cover designer and I are now emailing back and forth, nailing down final, finer details on my new cover, but the full gale blast of this storm we call publishing has yet to hit land!  I'm more than ready.  (Did I ever mention that I am terrible at waiting? Ha!) 

But I needed this calm before the whirl-wind picks me up and carries me away.  I've plenty to accomplish, things I've neglected while in the final push of writing, typing, and blurb writing.  When items on my 'to-do' list pile up, I feel the weight of them surely as if I carried an elephant on my back.  Completing these offers a sense of 'right-ness' with the world.  It cleans off my desk and de-clutters my mind.  For this, I am thankful.  My attention can be focused solely on edits in the upcoming week or two - with nothing looming over my shoulder whispering, 'Look over here!  I need your attention!'  Ahhh.  :}

Progress On The Writing And Goals Front...

*  Another read-through on A Practical Arrangement will begin tomorrow morning. 

*  Cover design to be revealed within the week.  The fun begins...

*  Beta accomplished by the end of the day - and sent off.  I've only twenty pages remaining, and I NEED to know...you know?

*  Work on my Erotic Anthology project blossomed.  I spoke with a woman who told me an interesting story...

*  Guest post written and sent. 

*  Sales continue to climb.  Claiming The Prize is garnering sudden interest!  (I posted on this the other day!)

*  Research continues.  I am 89% complete on one of my titles, and 50% complete on the other. 

*  I've written one post for Researching For Romance.  It is waiting in the wings. 

*  I cooked!  Hot weather dampens my enthusiasm for cooking.  The last two days have hinted that autumn is not far off.  The cooler temperatures lured me into my kitchen, much to the happiness of my family.  Chicken noodle soup, Stroganoff, and brownies are a few of the boys' favorite treats I whipped up.  Hubby enjoyed Beef Biryani - and while not an Indian dish, he didn't complain.

*  Only fair success with exercise since Wednesday.  Friday I pulled a mega-workout.  I felt terrific...until Saturday.  Ha!  Why, oh why didn't I drink the protein after that workout???  Stupid girl...  :}

*  Social goals have been met.

*  I am supposed to go blueberry picking with a friend.  The weather has been most uncooperative.  This week maybe?

Don't forget to stop by and see how fellow ROW80 writers have made out this week. 
Happy Reading And Writing!

 ~ Nadja

 

             

A Trend Setter?

Indulge Me My Delusion A Brief Moment...Please?  Lol. 

A year ago, almost to the day, I published my first novel, Claiming The Prize.  The story centers around an up-and-coming MMA fighter looking to break into the premier mixed-martial-arts organization.  Here's the blurb:

Claiming The Prize, Nadja Notariani

Walking a solitary, disciplined path in his pursuit to become the light heavyweight champion of the American-Mixed-Martial-Arts-Organization, Drago Zadrovec leaves the security of his homeland to train in the United States. But once within the exclusive MMA organization, Drago finds himself increasingly drawn to his mentor's daughter, Grace Antolini. Quiet and gentle, yet thoroughly immersed in the world in which he exists, Grace captures his heart as firmly as his quest for the title, igniting a long buried passion inside the fighter. Subjecting his body to the brutality of the cage and opening his heart to the woman he desires to share his life with, Drago comes to understand that his journey is comprised of more than want of victory in the ultimate goal of Claiming The Prize......

Claiming The Prize was inspired by many years of sitting in gymnasiums, watching my son train in wrestling, jujitsu, Muay-Thai kickboxing, and boxing, which in turn led to my enthusiasm and appreciation of the sport.  However great my enthusiasm, MMA is not a sport many women actively follow - at least comments from my Hot Jocks In July Giveaway led me to believe.

While reading at Juliana Haygert's site this evening, I discovered a newly published title featuring an MMA fighter!  I'm over the moon, as readers are grabbing up this title - and delving into the world of MMA - with a healthy side-helping of romance - hot romance from what I read!  I hope the new-found love affair with cage fighting heroes, coupled with the potent romance combination, will encourage readers to seek similar titles - namely, Claiming The Prize!


Here's the book Juliana featured - check it out.  I've added it to my TBR pile.  Delicious MMA fighters - decadent romance?  I'm all in!

Seducing Cinderella, Gina Maxwell

 ~ Nadja

  

Storytelling: Writing With Passion

The universe is made of stories, not atoms.
-Muriel Rukeyser

Ruth Ann Nordin, writing at SPAL, posted Be A Storyteller First, sparking my interest and speaking to my inner muse.

If you've read my small blurb to the right, you'll see that I consider myself a storyteller.  Oh, I bandy about the word author, toss in the term writer, but strip it all down to the basics and I find myself enamored by the word storyteller.

As far back as history goes, storytelling gathered family and friend round the fire, ignited the imaginations of children, explained the mysteries of life.  The men and women who honed their craft, weaving stories of deceit and danger, folly and vanity, love and loss, captivated their audiences, taught lessons.  Some stories were handed down, generation after generation, and remain with us to this day, thousands of years later. 

I've loved tales since I was quite young.  "Tell me a story," I'd plead, expectantly waiting for my grandfather to comply, which he often did.  Oh, he read me fairy tales, Bible stories of long ago ancestors, but he also told stories of his life.  I drank these in with unquenchable thirst.  My grandmothers did this as well.  Their life stories enthralled me.  Tales of the depression, of young girls frolicking about the farm, of meagre meals, of dropping out of school to enter the hell fires of a steel mill - these fascinated me.  Still do.  My grandparents are sadly, long passed from this world, but I gather my stories even today, befriending my elderly neighbors, sharing experiences with girlfriends who have grown up in different areas, experienced foreign cultures.  It satisfies and feeds the soul.

Storytelling is a gift, one I hope to hone and practice for many years.  In writing stories, I hope to lure readers to experience escape, to indulge romantic notions, to go where they might else not.

Why do you tell stories? 

On The Writing Front...ROW80 Check-In

*  A Practical Arrangement is in the hands of beta readers.  Blow. Me. Down.  Now I must wait.  Oh!  The Waiting!

*  I have signed up with Book And Trailer Showcase!  I hope to feature some great books.

*  A Practical Arrangement has its own page.  Now I await my new cover.  Oh!  More Waiting!  Lol.

*  I will begin my beta read tomorrow.  What??  Reading for fun??  You-Betcha.

*  Visit five blogs per day Monday through Friday.  So far, so good. 

*  Reading for research. 

Continuing with My Life As An Indian, J.W. Schultz.  Still fascinating. 









Also reading Ride The Wind, Lucia St. Clair Robson.  This is an epic historical novel.  It is Robson's telling of the story of Cynthia Ann Parker, who was stolen by Comanche Indians after witnessing the brutal slaying of her family.  Cynthia Ann Parker, who some of you may know became the mother of one of the last war chiefs of the Plains, lived an extraordinary life.  This is her story. 




*  Write new post for Researching For Romance.  I have not accomplished this yet.  Now that my novel is in the hands of beta readers, I hope to focus on some post writing that begs my attention. 

*  Don't forget to check in with Spellbound Scribes!  The monthly topic is Villains.  Claudia LeFeve's post, When Bad Guys Turn Good is up.  With five Scribes in the mix, each week is sure to offer a new perspective.

*  I have two cookbooks sitting on my side table.  I hope to select and cook something delish in the next day or so.  My husband, who has been suffering with takeout over the last few weeks as I wrote the final touches, typed myself stupid, and traipsed all over the place, is begging for some spicy Indian food.  After such patience, I must placate - he deserves a treat. 

*  Also on the list is my Erotic Anthology outline and submission.  Perhaps next week I will be able to settle down and focus on that project. 

*  As always, Shiny-New-Idea-Syndrome has struck.  While I cannot complain, as I am never left wondering what I might write next, I do have to handle my business before I allow myself to indulge in the wonderful story I've begun conjuring.  Arrgh.  I can barely contain myself.  *all-smiles-here*

*  I exercised yesterday, my first in about three or four days.  I took a ridiculous tumble, slipping in my kitchen and crashing onto my rumpus, entertaining all present.  Phew. *Note to self*  I. Do. Not. Bend. That. Way.  Advil was my dear, dear friend.   

Have a wonderful and productive week...

 ~ Nadja

  

Another Step Forward

Sunday Morning Smiles For Fellow ROW80 Writers

Another week has sifted through our fingers, the days slipping by with uncanny speed!  But I've a light heart and satisfied grin plastered upon my face.  The Typing Saga has ended.  Today I begin my read through before sending off my latest historical novel to beta readers.  Edits loom ahead, but apart from a few scenes I may add, critique issues that are brought to my attention, and basic grammar/punctuation proofing, A Practical Arrangement is finished.  I foresee no major changes to be made, and that has me smiling like a ninny!

Evangeline Grey spilled onto the page with ease, her staunch manner and easily ruffled sensibilities leaving great opportunity for my hero, Thomas Masterson, to antagonize her at every opportunity.  I loved the chemistry between these very different personalities.  As the story progressed, not only did they soften toward one another, they came to view their relationships with others with new understanding.  This is a story of the human condition in all its splendor and vexation.  It is a love affair borne not out of heated passions and initial attraction, but from an unlikely alliance brought about by necessity - and a bit of conspiring.

 

A Practical Arrangement © Nadja Notariani 2012

۩ A Practical Arrangement, Nadja Notariani ۩

Miss Evangeline Grey, intelligent and sensible, has no desire to marry, her reluctance born from the dire warnings of her overly emotional mother. Her father has other ideas, however, and decrees that unless she weds by the spring, he will choose a husband for her.

Prim and proper Evangeline accepts her father's issue with little more than mild alarm. Knowing herself plain of face and sharp of tongue, she believes herself capable of warding off any perspective suitor. Her plan goes awry when the scandalous seducer, Mr. Thomas Masterson, visits her family's home, for Thomas has learned that he must procure a wife to receive his full inheritance.

When he discovers Evangeline's predicament matches his own, Thomas determines to orchestrate a practical arrangement. A war of wit and word results, and Thomas finds himself ever more beguiled by the soft heart he discovers under Miss Grey's stern, inhibited exterior. Patiently, he endeavors to gain her respect and awaken her passions. As tenuous trust blooms between the rake and the reluctant, unfortunate events – and Thomas' past reputation – threaten to destroy the peace and happiness he has found within the bonds of his Practical Arrangement.

On The Writing Front...Upcoming Goals List

*  Read at least once, maybe twice before sending A Practical Arrangement to beta readers.  This is to be completed by next Sunday at the absolute latest.  I would like to have this accomplished by Wednesday.

*  Beta read a novella I've taken on for a fellow writer and have critique sent by next Wednesday.

*  Reveal cover for A Practical Arrangement on or about 20 August.

*  Create top tab on my page for cover and blurb.

*  Continue to visit five blogs Monday through Friday to check in with writer-ly friends.

*  Once the above goals are accomplished (apart from cover reveal) begin edits in earnest.  Obviously, I will need beta and critique feedback to complete, but in the meantime, I'll make hay while the sun shines. 

*  Complete outline and character profiles for Erotic Anthology project.

*  Begin writing a piece of 10K - 15K for submission.

*  Link up with BTS.

*  Submit a guest post I've been invited to write.

*  Write a few Researching For Romance posts as I've new material to share! 

*  Continue Native American research, which is more like fun that work!  Compile notes for future novel.  Gah!  I'm so excited about this.  Shiny New Idea has struck me like a lightening bolt.

 ~ Nadja

        

Waving...Then Dashing Off

Didn't want to miss a ROW80 check-in, so I'm waving frantically to everyone!

It's been a busy week with family visiting.  Swimming, picnicking, and a trip to the Big Apple has consumed my days.  It was so exciting to be able to take my niece to NYC for her first visit.  She ooh-ed and aww-ed as the city skyline came into view - and nearly plotzed when we rounded the corner of Fifth Avenue and she spied the windows of the American Girl store! 

My nine-year old loved Central Park, climbing on the rocks and feeding the ducks (he's a nature boy!) - and he fed birds in front of the Public Library building.  But his favorite adventure was the Liberty Island tour - well, the boat ride!  Ha. 


Anyone who claims that city folk are indifferent hasn't had our experience in the city!  We had dashed in crazy manner to Battery Park to catch the last ferry, but as we arrived, the guards informed us that the last ferry trip had just sold out.  Two guards watched on as my son struggled to contain his disappointment, and they allowed us to go down to the railings to gaze out at the Statue Of Liberty across the water.  A few minutes later, the younger guard approached and informed us that we were going to be their guests, courtesy of his father, who was the other guard!  They ushered us on board - and made the day of one nine-year-old boy.  It really touched my heart.  I don't know their names, but I'd like to pray blessings upon those two men!

In other news...writing related, that is...

*  Browsing my Amazon books to see if anything of interest was happening, I discovered a smile worthy new review of Claiming The Prize!  Read Review By SunFlowers.  It boosted my morning considerably.  :} 

*  Less than 40 pages remain in my typing saga.  It will be completed once company departs for home tomorrow.  I will be finished by Sunday, making my two week goal just in the nick of time!  :}

*  I've roughed out an idea for my Erotic Anthology submission, and will begin more detailed planning once A Practical Arrangement is in the hands of beta readers.  I still have to name my characters and complete profiles, but this will not be as detailed as usual since the submissions will not top 15K.  I'm looking forward to this project a great deal.

*  Research is extremely interesting about now...  I've begun reading My Life As An Indian by J.W. Schultz.  Absolutely enjoyable account of one young man's life and adventures with the Blackfeet Indians! 

I sure hope the sun is shining on all my ROW80 friends this week.  Happy and Productive Writing!

 ~ Nadja

Swift Keystrokes, Steady Progress

Happy Wednesday! 

Not only is it a ROW80 check in, August's IWSG posts are up!  Now I'm not sure Wednesday in and of itself holds special meaning aside from being 'hump-day', but add in two great groups of writers posting on their weekly and monthly ventures and Wednesday seems almost a bit sparkly - and much more interesting.  


Insecure Writers Support Group...  hosted by Alex Cavanaugh

July has been a busy month for this gal.  Two stints at the ocean, one to the lake, camping, a luau, nightly coffee and workouts with 'bestie', DS#1 and his new job, dog-sitting for DD#1, and three trips to visit DD#2 in Maryland stole the seventh month right from under my nose!  I can conjure no serious regret, as it was glorious.  'GLORIOUS,' I shout with little tempered abandon. 

Which brings me 'round to my point...really, there is a point, I promise.  :}  With all my travelings, with my boys eager to boogie-board 'just-one-more-time-Eema-please', with push-ups and yoga poses, with visits from family, picnics with friends, and all the trappings of summer, I despaired of getting any 'work' done.

Work.  Another four-letter word...  At least when it comes to laundry, dog-hair, and sand stuck to the bottom of the tub.  But I realized something amazing and wonderful over this past month.  Despite all the busy chaos life chose to heap upon me in spades, I didn't falter on my writing goals.  The reason being is simple, causing me to wonder why I hadn't understood myself better in the first place.  I don't really consider my writing work.  I like to do it.  I enjoy it. 

Many of you may shake heads and sigh with knowing smiles at my epiphany.  I won't mind if you do.  Better than I have traveled this path, learned this lesson.  We make time for the things that are dear to us.  Writing is one of those things, for me. 

Thankful.  If I'd never faced down insecurity, never mustered the chutzpah to write that first sentence, paragraph, chapter, novel - I'd not be here today writing this post.  I'm so very thankful I did.  And I'm glad you all did too. 

A Round Of Words...

*  Sixty pages remain in the Typing Saga of A Practical Arrangement.  My fingers refuse to obey at this point in the process, mixing up letters and such.  I believe my spell check may revolt or even go on strike.  Perhaps that little program feature will form a union and demand extra pay or something.  Ha!

*  I exercised this morning after a week long 'epic-fail'.  I feel much better. 

*  Social goals have been met.

*  Cooking will begin in earnest as my brother and his family will arrive Saturday for a five day visit.  My menu is planned loosely.  DD#2 will arrive home on Friday as well for the weekend.  It will be a very busy - very full - house!

*  I will begin a beta read for a fellow author once my company departs.  I had the pleasure of reading the first few chapters a while ago - and cannot wait to delve into this story. 

*  Cover reveal for A Practical Arrangement will occur on or around 20 August!  I'm on pins and needles while I wait.    

Hope you all have a wonderful week.

 ~ Nadja