IWSG AND Did You Know

 

The first Wednesday of every month is officially IWSG day. IWSG was formed by Ninja Captain Alex Cavanaugh. Members post about their doubts and fears, discuss struggles and triumphs, and offer words of encouragement to others who are struggling.

 

Twitter handle: @TheIWSG  

Hashtag: #IWSG 

Let’s rock the neurotic writing world!

Our Twitter handle is @TheIWSG and hashtag is #IWSG.

The awesome co-hosts for the September 3 posting of the IWSG are Kim Lajevardi, Natalie Aguirre, Nancy Gideon, and Diedre Knight!
Every month, we announce a question that members can answer in their IWSG post. These questions may prompt you to share advice, insight, a personal experience or story. Include your answer to the question in your IWSG post or let it inspire your post if you are struggling with something to say. 

Remember, the question is optional

 

September 3 question - What are your thoughts on using AI, such as GPChat, Raptor, and others with your writing? Would you use it for research, story bible, or creating outlines\beats?

I use AI extensively for my research.  I've found Co-Pilot to be very helpful AND I use GPChat when I'm blogging an informational post. But as far as my book writing goes, that's all me.

August/September Reviews in no particular order.

* Disclaimer. If I run into an occasional typo, I ignore them and don't factor them into my review.

 

BUNGLE by Paul Stanton

So cute.

This is such a cute story about a Smileymoo that has a very unlucky day.

The story line is fun and well written. The illustrations are great and compliment the story. All in all, a lovely little read.

Bungle is a book for youngsters that will make adults smile.

Available at Amazon 

 

 

 

 

WHEN SECRETS BLOOM by Patricia Furtenberg

Set in Transylvania in the 1400s, this story is a lovely blend of history and mysticism. The research that went into writing this book shines throughout this fictional tale of a woman who fought by the side of Vlad Dracula while caring for the wounded.  

Kate Webber, now no longer fights at Vlad sides, but practices healing in Kronstadt, where the jealous and mean-spirited turn against her. Moise, a Jew apprenticing at a print shop, has encountered problems of his own, and now Kate and Moise both find themselves in danger.

Using a delicate, almost poetic, writing style, the author delivers a solid story. A must read for those who love medieval historical fiction and a strong female protagonist. 

Available at Amazon

 

 

BAD LANDS by Preston & Child

Nora Kelly Book 5

Once again, FBI agent Corrie Swanson and anthropologist Nora Kelly come together to solve the bizarre and painful death of an unknown woman that has all the earmarks of suicide.

And then another body shows up.

Discovering what really happened will put them both in danger.

As always, the authors deliver a can’t-put-the-book-down read.

My only complaint, the torture and torture scenes are way too realistic. At least for this reader.

Available at Amazon 

 

JAMES BUCHANAN: America’s 15^th President (Encyclopedia of Presidents Second Series) by Allison Lassieur

The author did a good job of putting forth the salient points of Buchanan's life without pontificating. The work also speaks to the civil unrest in the country at that time. Buchanan would have stood a better chance of success if the nation hadn't been on the brink of secession and ultimately war.

My takeaway, while in office, he concentrated too much on the legal aspect, instead of the humane.

I recommend this read for those interested in history, young people and adults alike.

Available at Amazon 

 

INFECTED by Terry Tyler

SFV-1 is a virus with zombie-like effects. The story revolves around the rapid takeover of the virus as we follow the lives of three separate characters and the effect the deadly disease has on their lives. Cat, who is on a remote island when the outbreak begins. Norah, too absorbed in her work to realize what’s going on around her. And Lion, a marketing consultant who is enjoying a much-needed vacay that takes a turn into horror.

This isn’t my normal read, but the author did an amazing job on this story, holding my interest throughout. Her writing skills checks all the boxes.  Excellent world-building and character development. Descriptions that are graphic without being over the top. And tension that continues to mount as the story progresses, leaving the reader to wonder if the world will survive. To be continued in Book 2. 

Highly recommended for dystopian fiction readers or those who just enjoy a well-told tale.

Available at Amazon 

 

AND

 

Did you know, Argentinian author Jorge Luis Borges, made a living writing advertisements for yogurt .

150 Interesting Facts About Our Favorite Authors [Infographic]