PrickleForrestChronicles By Chrissy Hartmann

Tag: Books

  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles – Special Edition – Cecelia Conway – Three Months in Spring

    PRICKLE FORREST CHRONICLES

    SPECIAL Edition

    Author Interview with Cecelia Conway

    Welcome to the Prickle Forrest Chronicles, Cecelia Conway!

    It’s wonderful you could take the time to share with the Pricklers a bit about you and your writing.

    First, where are you from? How long have you been writing? What book is this for you? First? Second? Or too many it’s hard to remember?

    I’m from Southern Wisconsin and have just started on my publishing journey about eight months ago. I’ve always been interested in writing and majored in English/Creative writing in college but then put it aside to pursue other ventures until now. Three Months in Spring is going to be my third full length novel and is part of my Door County Dreams series.

    What type of romance do you write? What romances do you love to read? Do you have a favorite romance author that inspires you?

    Right now I’m focused primarily on contemporary romance although I do have plans for a paranormal series that will debut in late 2024.

    As far as what I read, I’ll pick up almost anything. If you name a trope or subgenre I’ve probably got it on my shelves or in my Kindle.

    When I was younger I got a lot of my inspiration from authors like Lori Foster and Debbie Macomber. To me, seeing them in the grocery store aisle seemed like the pinnacle of success. Right now, I’m loving all the creativity coming from Indie Authors that I’ve been introduced to through BookTok and BookStagram. Self publishing has opened up so many options for storytellers to stay true to their creative vision.

    In brief, tell us about your book, Three Months In Spring.

    I knew after finishing my first two books in this series exactly who was getting their happily ever after in book three.

    Andrea Owens is a reclusive chef with a dark history that she’s trying to keep buried. Unfortunately her charming boss, Steven Freider, isn’t letting her do that.

    Their turbulent relationship is put to the test when her past comes back to haunt her. Will he get serious and commit to what they could have? And will she take the risk and put her trust in him?

    When you received your first copy of your newly published book, Three Months In Spring how did you feel? Did you flood social media with a book selfie? Celebrate with Champagne? Chocolate? Or pass out?

    As a baby author, seeing that box of books with my name on the cover come in the mail is always nerve wracking and exhilarating. With this one, I was so excited to see them and share Steve and Andrea’s story that I posted about it right away.

    When you’re stuck with a scene, how do you resolve the trouble? Take a shower? Call your writing pals? Reenact the scene with your significant other?

    Honestly? I mostly stare at my screen, scroll through TikTok for an hour, and then realize I’ve put myself behind schedule 😛 It seems the adrenaline rush from procrastination usually resolves whatever issue I was having and my brain will conjure up a solution.

    Besides your computer, what can be found on your writing desk? Pictures of a hunky guy? Gorgeous woman? Coffee? Popcorn? Craft books? Empty wine glass? Chocolate? The latest issue of Vogue? The Writer’s Magazine? Or maybe a fluffy fur ball? In other words, what helps you write?

    My desk is super small so there’s not too much on it. The biggest things are a daily journal, planner, and my reading log for the year. My one concession to decoration is an eiffel tower letter opener. You might have It was super popular on BookTok because it looks just like the dagger on the cover of From Blood and Ash 😂

    What type of character populates the majority of your pages? What’s your favorite trope to read and write? After you’ve written your novel, ever get stunned by the fact that you wrote it?

    I think, foundationally, all of my characters are dealing with some kind of trauma and ultimately overcoming it. When I started seriously writing again, it was a way for me to work through some of my own demons and I put a little of that into each of my stories.

    When I get to the end of a manuscript I’m definitely a little shell shocked that I’ve managed to string together 80,000 words.

    If you write the hotter romances, when’s the best time for you to write those scenes? Does the writing come natural or do you make yourself blush? Have your parents stopped answering your calls? Buy you a gold-plated keyboard? Or have they signed you up for sex counseling classes?

    I think the best time to write them changes a little with every character’s story. In my first two books, the main female character was a sexual assault survivor so they didn’t get to that point in their relationship until well into the second book.

    But with Three Months In Spring, the characters have a history…that comes up in the prologue.

    Funny story. My dad actually reads my books. At first I was completely horrified but we’ve come to an understanding that we never mention those parts of the story and we never ever tell mom about it.

    So, say you want to do a box set with two other romance authors, who would you choose? What romance trope would you write?

    I did a charity anthology last fall with a group of indie authors and that was the start of my West Wing inspired series of novellas (the first one comes out this June). I’m also in a small town anthology with Fluffy Fox Publishing this coming fall and that will be the prologue to a new series of equestrian themed books that will be coming in 2025.

    If you had the opportunity to promote one of your books from your backlist, which would you choose? Why?

    Well, it just so happens that my second book, Four Weeks in September, is going to be free on Amazon from March 5th-7th. This past weekend Book 1 was on sale so now it’s Book 2’s turn in the spotlight.

    If someone were to make a movie based on your book, which actors would play the leading roles?

    According to my pinterest board suggestions, for Three Months In Spring I’m looking for a blend of Rachel McAdams and Scarlett Johanson for Andrea’s part and for Steve I’ve always pictured him as a bit of Luke Evans mixed with Charlie Hunman.

    Finally, we know you’re a romantic, right? So what is the most romantic thing you’ve ever had your MCs do to win the love of their life?

    It seems like the best answer is always groveling, especially for Steven in this book 😛

    Where can we find your books…

    Four Weeks in September:https://buy.bookfunnel.com/w7d5oqrymq

    Three Months in Spring:https://buy.bookfunnel.com/24v4pemd1x

    Where do you socialize……

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/ceceliaconwayauthor

    Instagram: www.instagram.com/ceceliaconwayauthor

    Pintrist: https://www.pinterest.com/ceceliaconwayauthor/

    Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/@ceceliaconwayauthor

    Other:

    ● Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/ceceliaconway

    ● Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/cecelia-conway

    Big –big thanks to Cecelia Conway for taking the time to travel into the Prickle Forrest and share a bit about your writing and your latest book, Three Months in Spring And much thanks to our readers who make it all possible.

    “Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!”

    Please don’t hesitate to comment, but better yet, check out Cecelia Conway’s newest release at Three Months in Spring:https://buy.bookfunnel.com/24v4pemd1x

    Enjoy!

    Chrissy Hartmann

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    Prickle Forrest LLC

    https://www.prickleforrestchronicles.wordpress.com

    prickleforrestllc@sssnet.com

    Prickle Forrest LLC 2021-2023© All Rights Reserved

  • Prickle Forrest Chronicles Knocks it out!

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles

    Special Edition – Book Review

    By Chrissy Hartmann

    Title: Things We Never Got Over

    Series: Knockemout Series – Book 1

    Author: Lucy Score

    Pages 599

    Well, in two days or less I knocked out this 599+ page contemporary romance by the highly successful Indie Author, Lucy Score. If, you haven’t heard of her, well, read below. And please don’t hesitate to leave your own comments about the book. I’d love to hear your opinion. And suggestions on other books are welcome too!

    sunshine and Grumpy? No, more like Grumpy and Grumpy, which I’m not opposed to at all. Well, for the most part. Just at least make the guy like “the Viking” a little more grumpier, which Lucy Score did.

    Only “the Viking’s” grumpy endearing character propelled me to read on. and the other? At first, a “likeable” bitchy tude, but then turned into a wilting daisy for the most part.

    Didn’t quite follow the sunshine trope if that’s what the author intended. The grumpiness worked though, especially one with a great heart.

    I will have to admit somewhere after Lucian had been introduced I started to daydream about him… and I’ll admit, lost interest in the MMC, Knox whenever he entered the scene. Oops! Disappointed will need to wait until book three comes out to read his story with Sloane.

    Had a little trouble believing Knox having the what I like to call “authority,” “command,” or whatever you want to call it that he had over what seemed like the town folk with only being a tatted up barber and lottery winner. Hmm? In almost 600 pages would like to have seen more about that side of him come out than some of the other stuff. But, hey, maybe, I just missed it. I’ll reread it, maybe? I. Doubt it, but maybe.

    Naomi, I liked… at first. Liked her attitude when she tried to get her coffee. I really thought, hey, now here’s someone different. I’m going to like her. After all, I might act this same way when I’m in need of some coffee. But nope, she just seemed to get worse. And no, you can’t blame the lack of caffeine on her character. How anyone might think at the start she’s the sunshine I’ll never understand.

    The supporting cast are the ones to keep an eye on. Well, except if you’re the dog. I only suggest next time, the author NOT name the dog similar to one of the supporting characters. Got too confusing to keep track of who was who. But the Way and Way’s relationship warmed my heart. Well done!

    and speaking of the supporting cast, Nash, I’ll read, but only because it gets me one step closer to Lucian. Good Lord, I hope Lucian’s not a disappointment.

    Stef, the parents, the bar crew and coffee shop drinkers definitely added flavor to the story and can relate to some of those characters in a small town, which Knockemout had no lack of and which made the whole small town setting believable.

    And let’s not forget the “bad twin” Tina. glad to see she’s not so horrible Now, she, would be an interesting character to develop into her own book with a “bad girl” and “nerd” trope once of course she gets out of prison and reunites with her family, but at her age, might have to tone down the sex and develop the storyline in order to compensate for her age. What, she might be 50+ once she gets out of jail? Right? Would have loved to see these characters a little younger, not by much, but a few years might have helped with the whole “sunshine and grumpy” approach and a story for Tina. But if anyone could write a fun romance for Tina and some unsuspecting Knockemout” guy, then I have every confidence that Lucy can write one without too much trouble with the logistics. She’s got the talent to do it.

    All in all, it was a fun read, but to be honest, not the trope I would have gone for. The Sunshine Grumpy thing just didn’t work here. I’d say a strike out, but, with Knox’s appeal, I think he got a walk. But, hey, Nash is on deck and Lucian’s in the whole. So will I keep going with the series? You bet your bottom dollar. Authors tend to get better with their series and I have every confidence in Lucy on hitting a grand slam by the time she’s done. And if a book can make me laugh more than once, I’ll be happy to give the other’s their time on the field. And let’s not forget the Lucian factor. I mean, who wouldn’t want to read a romance about a mysterious bad guy and a librarian? Hmm?

    Now to crack the whip! After all, my novella, a contemporary western romance, Cherishing Whiskey’s Salvation comes out February 14th on KDP and KU.

    For more info on Lucy’s books you can find her on Amazon and probably tons of other places Plus you can go to https://lucyschore.com.

    For me, check out my website, https://chrissyhartmann.com

    And even sign up for my newsletter, which you do automatically get my special blog updates. Just click on the link below to sign up.

    https://chrissyhartmann.us20.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=d0f01c8348dea41f224ec4ca7&id=cc4adb5682

    Thanks Pricklers!

    Chrissy Hartmann

    www.chrissyhartmann.com

    chrissyhartmann

    Don’t miss out on Chrissy’s debut novel now available on digital and paperback…

    RESCUING WHISKEY’S SALVATION

    What could possibly bring a cosmetic heiress and a land developing cowboy together, yet at the same time… destroy them? A “dead” uncle? A closed shelter? Maybe an unruly Troupe of clowns? Or all three?

    Only one way to find out…

    Amazon

    https://www.amazon.com/dp/1737928817?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860

    Prickle Forrest LLC 2023©

    All Rights Reserved

  • SPECIAL EDITION – Prickle Forrest Chronicles by Chrissy Hartmann – Indie Romance Author Interview – Jennifer Skinnell – November 29, 2022

    PRICKLE FORREST CHRONICLES

    SPECIAL Edition

    Indie Romance and Mystery Author, Jennifer Skinnell

    Welcome to the Prickle Forrest Chronicles, Jennifer Skinnell!

    It’s wonderful you could take the time to share with the Pricklers a bit about you and your writing.

    First, where are you from? How long have you been writing? What book is this for you? First? Second? Or too many it’s hard to remember?

    I’m originally from Ohio, but spent 34+ years in Northern Virginia before selling everything and traveling full-time with my husband in our RV. I began my writing career in 2016 and to date I have six books published—my 5-book Hope Springs Romance Series and the first book in my Palm Shores RV Resort Mystery Series.

    What type of romance do you write? What romances do you love to read?

    I write sweet romantic comedies about love and life in a small town. I like to find other independent authors like myself. Kind of like “shopping small”.

    Do you have a favorite romance author that inspires you?

    As far as inspiration goes, Debbie Macomber is one of my favorites. I know she’s not an independent author, but after reading one of her novels, I feel inspired to keep writing.

    In brief, tell us about your book, One Sweet Development.

    Book cover for Jennifer Sskinnell’s novel One Sweet Development

    One Sweet Development is the first of 5 books in my Hope Springs Romance Series. It is the one that started it all, as they say.

    Hope Springs, Virginia, is home to the Advice Quilting Bee and is full of strong, independent women. In One Sweet Development, Chandler Bradford, the town baker and historian, is trying to save the town from real estate developer, Peter Frederick. Rosie Macintire, the town matriarch, is Peter’s grandmother. Along with the Little Old Lady Network and a few spirits, Rosie shows Peter there is more to life than money and that Chandler is all he needs to make him happy.

    When you received your first copy of your newly published book, One Sweet Development how did you feel? Did you flood social media with a book selfie? Celebrate with Champagne? Chocolate? Or pass out?

    I remember standing in my kitchen when the Amazon package arrived. I was literally shaking as I opened the box and I cried. Of course, once I pulled it together, I spread the word on Facebook that my book was up and ready to buy.

    When you’re stuck with a scene, how do you resolve the trouble? Take a shower? Call your writing pals? Reenact the scene with your significant other?

    Sometimes I’ll go for a bike ride with my husband and the answer will come to me. I’ve been known to pull off to the side of the trail and type my thoughts in my notes app so I don’t forget everything!

    Besides your computer, what can be found on your writing desk? Pictures of a hunky guy? Gorgeous woman? Coffee? Popcorn? Craft books? Empty wine glass? Chocolate? The latest issue of Vogue? The Writer’s Magazine? Or maybe a fluffy fur ball? In other words, what helps you write?

    Since I live in an RV, my desk is our kitchen table. Usually just a cup of coffee, my iPad and my computer. Sometimes I pull out a steno pad and head to the picnic table if the weather is nice and we have a great view.

    What type of character populates the majority of your pages?

    I love writing about strong, independent women. They have great careers or run their own business, so having a man isn’t a necessity. For the man, he must be kind, loving, and respectful to the woman he’s interested in.

    What’s your favorite trope to read and write?

    Definitely a small-town romance with a twist. I like throwing a few spirits in my books to help move the relationship along.

    After you’ve written your novel, ever get stunned by the fact that you wrote it?

    Not necessarily the entire novel, but definitely parts of it. My aunt was a big inspiration for me in beginning my writing career, and unfortunately, she did not live to read any of my books. She died tragically two weeks after I told her I was beginning my first novel. I do feel, however, that she is with me at times. I’ll go back and read something I’d written the day before and not even remember writing that chapter or scene!

    If you write the hotter romances, when’s the best time for you to write those scenes? Does the writing come natural or do you make yourself blush? Have your parents stopped answering your calls? Buy you a gold-plated keyboard? Or have they signed you up for sex counseling classes?

    Since my novels are of the clean and wholesome variety, this isn’t something I have to deal with.

    So, say you want to do a box set with two other romance authors, who would you choose? What romance trope would you write?

    That is a great question. I don’t have names, but being and independent author (without a publishing company backing me), I’d have to say I’d pick two other authors who don’t have one either. It would be in the sweet small-town romance genre, though.

    If you had the opportunity to promote one of your books from your backlist, which would you choose? Why?

    Jennifer Skinnell’s book cover for her debut mystery series

    Aside from writing my Hope Springs Romance Series, I have also published Death by Golf Cart, the first in my Palm Shores RV Resort Mystery Series. It’s a definite departure from writing a romance series, but it is a cozy mystery with a romantic thread.

    If someone were to make a movie based on your book, which actors would play the leading roles?

    I’ve always pictured my books in my head as movies from that certain greeting card channel. There are so many good actors on that channel, that it would depend on who fit the character description in each book.

    Do you have any blog tours, signings, or other upcoming events that you would like to promote?

    Since I live and travel full-time, those things are not an option for me. All my promoting is strictly through social media.

    Finally, we know you’re a romantic, right? So what is the most romantic thing you’ve ever had your MCs do to win the love of their life?

    As much as I’d like to answer this, in my novels this is always part of the plot. You’ll just have to read my books to find out!

    Where can we find your book…

    My books are available on Amazon in eBook, Kindle Unlimited, and Paperback. Visit my Amazon Author Page for all the details.

    Where do you socialize……

    Facebook: Jennifer Skinnell, Author

    Instagram: Jennifer Skinnell, Author

    Pinterest: @jenniferskinnel

    Website: Jennifer Skinnell, Author

    Amazon Author Page: Jennifer Skinnell

    Big –big thanks to Jennifer Skinnell for taking the time to travel into the Prickle Forrest and share a bit about your writing and One Sweet Development. And much thanks to our readers who make it all possible.

    “Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!”

    Please don’t hesitate to comment, but better yet, check out Jennifer Skinnell’s newest release at jenniferskinnell.com

    Enjoy!

    Chrissy Hartmann

    Chrissy Hartmann Logo

    Prickle Forrest LLC

    2022© All Rights Reserved

  • PRICKLE FORREST CHRONICLES

    PRICKLE FORREST CHRONICLES SEPTEMBER 2020 NEWSLETTER

    Prickle Forrest Chronicles 

    By Chrissy Hartmann

    September 2020

    It’s fall. The leaves are changing. Wood smoke is in the air. Cider is pressed. And pumpkins are on the rise.

    Mother Nature is following her plans as usual. The nights are getting colder. Too cold for some. And the daylight is fading faster. Sweaters and light weight jackets are worn while our t-shirts and shorts are stowed away for another summer with the hopes we won’t over indulge these next few months and can where them next June.

    Pumpkin spice seems to have found the taste buds of everyone. As the flavor brings excitement to the fall with a soothing aroma and a warmth to the belly as we drink it in lattes, cappuccinos, and coffees. Plus not to forget muffins, doughnuts, cookies, and pies. Oh Boy, Yum!

    So pull out your sweaters, slide into some jeans, and lace up your boots. Fall is here. And while you’re at it… sit by a roaring fire and read a book. Better yet, write one!

    Happy autumn!

    THE TOP FIVE

    1.  Fall weather… Love the hoodies and cowboy boots. Woohoo!
    2. Pro football season is back… now we just need the Big 10 to play.
    3. Fair food… French fries and better yet pumpkin spice.   funnel cakes. Oh boy!
    4. CiderBoys apple pineapple hard cider. Delicious!
    5. Vinyl records. Newest one to collection…Alabama Shakes. Love it!

    WIP IT… WIP IT GOOD…

    Not too much progress with the book this month. Did start to learn more on how screenwriters formulate their manuscripts. This info should be very helpful for Book 2 of Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation series. Unfortunately, got side tracked by roof repair, which led into cleaning out the spare bedroom, which in turn caused the distraction of getting all the clutter out of the house. It’s not all out yet, but back to writing again. Did come up with a great idea for those who like to pitch their books. Looking into creating an app for this. Wrote out all the ideas for it. Ever have one of those days when nothing gets done because focusing on one thing is a complete distraction. No? Yeah, me neither. Hahaha!

    QUERYING…

    Wanted to send out a query letter or two, even found a few agencies and a few publishers but realized they were requesting books different from RESCUING WHISKEY’S SALVATION is written in. What a bummer! But still looking for others to submit too.

    THE CRAFT

    This month’s writing tip…

    Use the MICE quotient to help write conflict into your story. The MICE quotient stands for

    M… milieu

    I… Inquiry

    C… Character

    E… Events

    Check out the explanation on the June 20, 2020 podcast Writing Excuses (Season 15)

    https://writingexcuses.com/2020/06/21/15-25-using-the-mice-quotient-for-conflict/

    THE HOLIDAYS:

    Not many this month. Maybe a few National days like #NationalHugAHoundogDay or something like that. Pretty tame month, but then again it is fair season around these parts and school is back in session even though it may only be for two or three days a week. Labor Day came and went with much ado about nothing. Did drink some wine with friends a couple of nights this month, but not to celebrate a holiday. Hoping next month will be better though.

    MY BOOKSHELF:

    1. The Screen Writer’s Bible: A Complete Guide to Writing, Formatting, and Selling Your Script by David Trottier
    2. Revelations From The Dead: Chronicles of the Night Waster by Max Willi Fischer
    3. Making Description Work Hard For You; Crafting Unforgettable Fiction Book 1 by Beth Yarnall

    SEASONAL FAVORITES:

    SEASON: Fall

    SPORTS TEAM: Indians, Buckeyes, Browns… Oh my!

    COLOR: Dark Brown

    CAUSE: The Seeing Eye

    SONG: Truly Madly Deeply by Savage Garden

    FOOD: Sweetbread…Yummy!

    HOT DRINK: French Vanilla cappuccino

    FLOWER: Daisies and roses…better yet…both!

    DID YOU KNOW…

    Dexcom G6 is a fabulous continuous glucose monitor. No more finger pricks. This is almost like having the pancreas working on its own again. Provides a lot of freedom. One quick look at the iPhone app to see the blood sugars and you’re good to go. And if you want to dress your CGM up why not try an overlay patch from Expression Med?

    Lots of great designs. Puppy paws, flowers, flags, shamrocks, etc. Check them out with the link below and get $5 off your firsts order. Hopefully you’ll love them too.

    PRICKLERS OF THE MONTH…

    • Mail in ballots. Get out and vote people!
    • Anonymous writers. Makes the children’s lyric of “Liar, liar, pants on fire” come to mind.
    • Mask, shutdowns, social distancing… and let’s not forget the reason for it… COVID-19.
    • Mosquitoes. Help! Send dragonflies and mint!
    • Socialists and communists. American Patriots and Capitalism is the only way to go!

    THEY SAID…

    “You can fix anything, but a blank page.”

    –              Nora Roberts

    HOMETOWN UPDATE:

    • Walmart is open until 10 pm now. But not much else. Most businesses are closing around 7 pm maybe 8 pm, but bars can serve until 10 pm and then lights out at 11 pm. It’s a blast from the past when nothing was open on Sundays and offices and shops closed up at 5 pm.
    • Woosterfest has already been cancelled.
    • Wooster High School football is only playing conference teams, which leaves us with six for the year. Only one played at home though…and we are kicking butt! Go Woo!
    • The renovations to Wooster’s square downtown are complete. More space to sit outside some of the businesses, like at Tulipan’s Hungarian Bakery and Coffee Shop, etc. The Farmer’s Market is still open, but only for a few more Saturdays.

    INQUISITIVE MINDS…

    The Muses want to know… Do you prefer reading books where the antagonist looks to rule the universe or ones who just want to rule the office? And why?

    Please comment below…

    GOOSING OFF…

    Goosie & Gander

    Busy month, believe it or not. First it started out with dressing up for the Kentucky Derby. Yes, that’s right. Kentucky Derby. No it’s not May, its September but due to the whole virus thing it got pushed back. So they dressed up for the roses. Gander took it a little too far, but he’s adorable as usual.

    Plenty of apple picking this month too.

    Even a romp with their pups.

    And even though college football might not start until October they felt the need to get into the spirit of it all. And of course they are going to watch the Browns and they are continuing to cheer on the Indians too.

    And don’t forget about National Teddy Bear Day. Gander had a blast showing off his Teddy Bear. Maybe someday they’ll get a Winnie the pooh outfit.

    But for now, they are happy with the results of the local fair. Ribbons won for Gander cow, Goosie Pumpkin …

    All while enjoying French Fries and lemonade with placement with some square dancing to top off the week.

    Boy Howdy!

    FIND ME…

    Twitter: Chrissy Hartmann @USAWriter355

    Facebook:

    https://www.facebook.com/USAWriter355

     

     

    WEBSITES:

    Expression Med $5 off Coupon for patches

    http://expressionmed.refr.cc/christinabenchoff

    Dexcom G6 CGM (Continuous glucose monitor)

    https://dexcom.com/g6

    Goose Outfits by Terri Fredericks

    https://www.facebook.com/gooseoutfitsbyterri

    The Seeing Eye

    http://www.theseeingeye.org/

    Instacart Refer a friend $10 off coupon

    https://inst.cr/t/cTlEVXBRMWN1

    Walmart Refer A Friend $10 off Coupon

    https://i5.walmartimages.com/dfw/4ff9c6c9-6e21/k2-_154d214f-c74f-4ee2-a20d-843fe28a8b61.v1.png

  • Prickle Forrest ChroniclesJuly 2020 Newsletter

    PRICKLE FORREST CHRONICLES

    July 2020 (Posted 07/29/2020

    By Chrissy Hartmann

     

    No Fourth of July celebration. No community celebration of Independence Day. The city not festive at all. The town sits stagnate in the presence of this pandemic. But is it truly a pandemic? Or is it the figment of fear?

    The hot humid days of summer have arrived. Unfortunately, with this pandemic it makes it difficult to cool down. No fun filled days going to the local pool unless of course you call ahead for a reservation for a quick dip. Needless to say, the air conditioner is getting a workout and will be happy to see the fall come sooner rather than later.

    The flowers look beautiful and the grass is quite green, but unless it doesn’t rain soon the possibility of gazing out onto a brown patchy yard is inevitable.

    Hope runs abundant for the autumn that this turmoil will exit our beautiful lands and the days of peace return. God bless America!

     

     

     

    THE TOP FIVE

    1. Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation finished and sent to publisher.
    2. Hand-dipped ice cream.
    3. Baseball is back! Go Tribe!
    4. Lemonade.
    5. That Blind Tech Show.

     

     

    WIP IT… WIP IT GOOD…

    Working on book 2 to the Rescuing Whiskey’s Salvation series. As of right now, only going to write it as a 2-book series. Reworked the outline so it better fits the romance beats that Gwen Hayes teaches. Much stronger storyline and character arcs. About six chapters written with a few edits. Loving it!

     

     

    QUERYING…

    Made the changes EP suggested and sent it back to them as of July 13th. Hoping to hear back from them within 60 days with some positive news and maybe an offer. Had lots of help from the Wayne Novelist Guild, RedPen, two literary agents, and a number of others are on the page of acknowledgments of the book.

    Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

     

     

    THE CRAFT

    This month’s writing tip…

    If you are writing a romance, please read Romancing the Beat, Story Structure for Romance Novels. How to write kissing book 1 by Gwen Hayes. It’s a short book — very short, but does a fantastic job of explaining how romance beats are different from other genres. It’s a tremendous help for creating your outline.

     

     

    THE HOLIDAYS:

    Fourth of July or Independence Day arrived and unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 status our stupid state government officials made it very hard to celebrate the holiday. Surreal! And with all the riots, the thought of what country this actually is crossed the brain waves a number of times. Going to a cookout at the end of the month down in the hollar. Should be fun with lots of good food. Hopefully, no one will put the 4-wheeler into the pond this time. Oops! But it will be fabulous to hang out with everyone.

     

     

    MY BOOKSHELF:

    1. Romancing the Beat, Story Structure for Romance Novels. How to write kissing book 1 by Gwen Hayes
    2. Five Secrets of Story Structure; How to write a novel that stands out by K.M. Weiland
    3. The Bachelor; Duke Dynasty #2 by Sabrina Jeffries
    4. The Bromance Book Club #1 by Lyssa K. Adams

     

     

    SEASONAL FAVORITES:

    SEASON: Summer

    SPORTS TEAM: Cleveland Indians. Go Tribe!

    COLOR: Dark Brown

    CAUSE: The Seeing Eye

    SONG: Truly Madly Deeply by Savage Garden

    FOOD: Crisps Sweet Peas… Yummy!

    HOT DRINK: Iced French vanilla cappuccino.

    FLOWER: Daisies and roses…better yet…both!

     

     

    DID YOU KNOW…

    Dexcom G6 is a fabulous continuous glucose monitor. No more finger pricks. This is almost like having the pancreas working on its own again. Provides much freedom. One quick look at their app to monitor the blood sugars and one is good to go. And if you want to dress your CGM up why not try an overlay patch from Expression Med? Lots of great designs. Puppy paws, black cats, flowers, flags, shamrocks, etc. Check them out with the link below and get $5 off your firsts order. Hopefully you’ll love them as much as I do.

    http://expressionmed.refr.cc/christinabenchoff

     

     

    PRICKLERS OF THE MONTH..

    • Cancellation of 4th of July fireworks.
    • Rioters!
    • Rain storms that cause wind damage to the roof and inexperienced insurance adjusters.
    • The phrase “the new normal.”
    • Fascists, Socialists, Communists, Liberals.
    • COVID-19 mask bullies.

     

     

    THEY SAID…

    “The most valuable of all talents is that of never using two words when one will do. ”

    – Thomas Jefferson

     

     

    HOMETOWN UPDATE:

    • Unfortunately, due to this rotten Rona Walmart, Kohl’s, CVS, etc. are now requiring masks to enter their stores.
    • The Wayne Novelist Guild is using Facebook meet to hold their bimonthly meetings until the Wayne County Public Library can open back up to the public.
    • Wooster downtown Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA), which establishes boundaries for patrons to walk around with open containers of alcoholic beverages during specified times or events is now allowed.

     

     

    INQUISITIVE MINDS…

    The Muses want to know…

    Should everyone wear a mask or should just those vulnerable be the ones to wear them?

     

    Please comment below.

     

     

    GOOSING OFF…

    Goosie & Gander

    The geese are trying to do their best to lighten the mood, and celebrate each day with merriment with bright colors, patriotic themes, and traditions of summer. They started the month out rocking the patriotic colors of red, white, and blue. Then they wanted to remind everyone not to forget about their pink friends, the flamingos and another , a delicious, favorite, the plump strawberry season. And let’s not forget the blooms of the summer. Last but not least, they are thrilled to head to the pool with the sunny days. Enjoy!

     

     

     

    FIND ME…

    Twitter: Chrissy Hartmann @USAWriter355

     

    Facebook:

    www.facebook.com/usawriter355

     

     

    http://www.facebook.com/AuthorChrissyHartmann

     

    WEBSITES:

    Expression Med $5 off Coupon for patches

    Dexcom G6 CGM (Continuous glucose monitor)

    https://dexcom.com/g6

     

    Goose Outfits by Terri Fredericks

    https://www.facebook.com/gooseoutfitsbyterri

    Prickle Forrest Creations goose shoes

    Order via E-mail pfcreations@gmail.com

     

    The Seeing Eye

    http://www.theseeingeye.org/

     

     

    Instacart Refer a friend $10 off coupon

    https://inst.cr/t/cTlEVXBRMWN1

     

    Walmart Refer A Friend $10 off Coupon

  • Prickle Forrest Chronickles October 2019

    PRICKLE FORREST CHRONICLES

    October 2019

    By Chrissy Hartmann

     

    It’s fall. No better time of the year. The foliage of the trees is changing to beautiful colors of red, orange, gold, and browns. Beautiful! Spices of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg are all around to tickle the nose. And make the belly grumble. Don’t forget the Halloween candy — Snickers! KitKats! Reeses! Crunch bars!

    And remember the trick-or-treaters…Wondering what will be the top costume for this Halloween? Pumpkins will be out until the end of November. The chilly air gives reason to throw on jeans, hoody, and some kick-ass boots.

    Plus let’s not forget about the added bonus…Football is back. Go Buckeyes!

    So what’s not a better reason than these to love the month of October?

     

     

    THE TOP five

    1. Jack-O-Lanterns.
    2. Pumpkin Cream Cheese Cookies.
    3. Halloween Trick-or-Treating.
    4. Pumpkin Spice Latte.
    5. Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.

     

     

    WIP (Work In Progress):

    Working on book 1 rewrite of the Sugar Creek Trilogy

    TAGS…Because Everything Has A Price 2019©

     

    Outline is finished and the first 3 chapters are finished. Learned the techniques of Deep Point of View and trying to apply them. It’s a slow process right now, but once it becomes familiar, progress should quicken…If The Muses don’t stir up trouble.

    And yes, completed book 2 last year. Hope to start Book 3 in January. Signed up for NANOWRIMO…Hope to have rewrite finished by December 1st. Fingers crossed. No toe crossing yet…Only as a last resort.

     

    Although everything will change if nominated to participate in PitchWars. Keeping toes crossed now, announcement on November 3rd.

     

     

    QUERYING UPDATE:

    Queried quite a few literary agents and publishers August and September. Should be hearing back from them soon. Actually have heard back from one publisher who asked for more time so they could discuss RESCUING WHISKEY’S SALVATION 2019©

    Not sure just exactly what that means. Maybe good news? Hoping to hear back from them soon.

    But just in case…Already have another group of literary agents and publishers ready to query.

     

     

    THE CRAFT

    Learned how to use deep point of view. What a game changer for the writing!

    Check out the book Method Acting for Writers

    By Lisa Hall-Wilson

    The Muses give her 5 Oreos.

    Lisa also hosts a free workshop on Facebook a few times a year. She has a much more extensive workshop that lasts about 8+ weeks. Unfortunately unable to sign up for it this time, but maybe next time it rolls around.

    After this brief workshop, definitely notice a difference in the writing. Love it!

     

     

    THE HOLIDAYS:

    Halloween is the big one for this month. Will probably pull out the old standby costume of “Where’s Waldo” but will dress as his girlfriend…Wenda. She’s the one who always takes the pictures but somehow loses the camera. Still wondering what happened to Wenda’s twin sister Wilma and Waldo’s first girlfriend. Hmm? Kind of spooky. Huh?

     

    The neighborhood Trick-or-Treat is not on Halloween. Bummer.

     

    Hoping to also celebrate National bandana day on Frankenstein Friday, which happens to be October 25th and let’s not forget to celebrate National Pumpkin Day on Saturday October 26th. Not sure what to carve the pumpkin into yet. But really only doing it to get the pumpkin seeds. Cover them in sunflower oil and a pinch of salt then bake them at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes Sweeten them up with some cinnamon sugar before you bake them if plain ones don’t float your boat. Fantastic snack!

     

     

    MY BOOKSHELF:

    1. Method Acting For Writers by Lisa Hall-Wilson
    2. Snap Shot: An Atmospheric Thriller by Marilyn Todd
    3. Wrapped Up In You by Jill Shalvis

     

     

    ALL-TIME FAVORITES:

    SEASON: Autumn

    SPORTS TEAM: OSU Buckeyes

    COLOR: Dark Brown

    CAUSE: The Seeing Eye www.theseeingeye.org

    SONG: Truly Madly Deeply by Savage Garden

    FOOD: Sweet potato or apple chips

    HOT DRINK: Pumpkin Spice Latte (with or without Rum)

    FLOWER: Daisies

     

    DID YOU KNOW…

    Adaptations of Washington Irving’s short story “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” (1820) often show the Headless Horseman with a pumpkin or jack-o’-lantern in place of his severed head. (In the original story,

    On the morning after Crane’s supposed encounter with the Horseman, the discovery of Ichabod Crane’s abandoned hat lies near a shattered  pumpkin.

     

     

    PRICKLERS..

    1. Trick-or-treat not held on Halloween.

    Seriously? Thank goodness this is not worldwide.

    1. Keurig died.

    Three years of faithful coffee brewing. RIP my friend.

    1. Stores decorating for Christmas already.

    Uh? Hello? It’s October.

    1. Running out of pumpkin spice cream.

    Noo! Only 1 month to go then they’ll yank it from the shelves.

    1. Browns losing.

    Come on Brownies!

     

     

    THEY SAID…

    This month’s quote is by — Unknown —

    There is magic in the night when pumpkins glow by moonlight.

     

    HOMETOWN UPDATE:

    * Smithville-Western and Friendsville Roundabout

    Whoohoo! Woohoo! Almost done.

    * Edgewood neighborhood trick-or-treat

    Candy Up! Sunday October 27th from 4 to 6 pm.

    * Leaf Pickup

    Grab your rakes! Starts October 28th.

    DTZs Halloween Rock Out

    Get your dancing shoes on! Band playing Saturday October 26th at the Wooster Country Club $10 cover charge.

     

     

    CHECK THIS OUT:

    They are real! Real pumpkin carols! Thanks Peanuts!

    https://retroist.com/peanuts-pumpkin-carols/

     

     

    GOOSING AROUND…

    Goosie and Gander are enjoying the colorful autumn weather. Leaves are changing and so do their clothes on a daily basis. Pictures to come soon…but you can check them out on Twitter @USAWriter355

     

     

     

    FIND ME ON…

    Twitter: Chrissy Hartmann @USAWriter355 (Chrissy Hartmann)

     

    Prickle Forrest Creations, LLC 2019 ©