Ultimate Manuscript Avoidance Mode

I've been tagged

2006-12-14T22:40:00.000-05:00

After two months (I'm so bad) I'm here because I was 'tagged'. Thanks, Syd.

Four jobs I’ve had:

1. Ice Cream Parlor
2. Call Center Rep for a Horse Tack Co.,
3. Correspondence Representative, Mutual Fund Company
4. Novelist counts, right?

Four Places I’ve lived:

1. Cherokee Valley, AZ
2. Dover-Foxcroft, Maine
3. Rutland, VT
4. Hampstead, NH

Four favorite foods

1. Turkey and Fixin'
2. Lasagna
3. Pie... any kind, really
4. Eggs Fo Yong

Four movies I could watch over and over:

1. White Christmas
2. The Princess Bride
3. Pretty Woman
4. Serenity

Four TV shows I enjoy:

1. Stargate SG-1
2. Doctor Who
3. Stargate Atlantis
4. House

Four places I’ve traveled:

1. Orlando, Florida
2. Long Beach, California
3. Quebec, Canada
4. Nassau, Bahamas

Four places I’d like to visit:

1. Ireland
2. Scotland
3. London
4. Western Caribbean

Four websites I go to (almost) daily:

1. Homestead.com
2. Triskelion Publishing.net
3. Ebay
4. Bank

Four people I’m tagging to do this too:

1. John Pelkey
2. Chrystal Kincaid
3. Angela Verdenius
4. Michele Lang

My resolve to keep up on this Blog...

2006-10-29T20:12:00.000-05:00

Boy, my resolve to post consistently here didn't last very long, did it? I'm trying. I really and truly am. I've just been so amazingly busy it's not funny.

But... I would lik to share something I've been working on. This is a sort of 'commercial' for The Phoenix Rebellion series. I hope you enjoy.

Best Romantic Movies???

2006-10-08T15:22:00.000-04:00

I've seen some chatting lately about the best romantic movies, and I realize that on many levels I have a different opinion on 'good romance'. Movies liked Gone With The Wind and The Sound of Music were discussed.

Personally, I couldn't stand GWTW and TSOM did nothing for me. :-)

Yeah, I loved a few 'chick flicks'... but usually because they did a darn good job of hitting me deep and hard. I'm not a romantic comedy girl... more romantic drama.

So, what are some of my favorites?

Jerry Maguire... Yeah, chick flick all the way if you get past the Football.

As 'out there' as Tom Cruise is considered being, he is an emotional actor. I love that. When he cried at the thought of losing his wife due to his own stupidity... that was good.

And lord, what woman doesn't want to hear "You complete me." *sigh*

Another one I always enjoy watching is Angel Eyes with Jennifer Lopez and James Caviezel. I love this movie because it's a plot I could have easily written myself. LOL! Wounded-Soul hero who lost his world and his heart when he lost his wife and son. Heroine who is afraid to open herself to love because of the pain in her past. In each other they find healing and live again. And James Caviezel is HOT!

One Fine Day with George Clooney and Michelle Pfeifer... love it! The entire movie takes place in the course of a single day as two single parents try to get through one day... they start out not caring for each other all that much, but by the end of the day they're dancing in the rain and sleeping together... literally, sitting beside each other asleep on teh couch while their kids watch The Wizard of Oz in the other room. :-)

Bed of Roses and Untamed Hearts, both staring Christian Slater. Bed of Roses is much like Angel Eyes, which is probably why I like it. CS plays a man who lost his wife to death, so he has a hole in his soul. The heroine had a troubled past and isn't willing to open up to him... running scared when he asks her to marry him. In the end, of course, they both find healing in each other. Untamed Hearts was a heartbreaker... I cried so hard at the end of that movie. I usually don't like movies that end the way this one did... but, I still loved it.

An American President... Michael Douglas and Annette Benning. What is there not to love? He's a widower... oh, and he's the President of the United States. :-) When his Chief of Staff offers to 'pass a note during study'.... I love it. This movie was, by the way, the original inspiration for the television series, West Wing.

I'm focusing on the more modern movies, but of course there are the classics: Breakfast at Tiffany's, Casablance, A Love Story, An Affair to Remember...

okay... that's enough time wasting for today... :-)

Gail

Winner of Contest and New Contest

2006-10-01T12:19:00.000-04:00

For the months of August and September, I ran a contest to win a beautiful, top quality, never been used, fresh-as-a-Daisy Phoenix COFFEE MUG!

Woohoooo!

And today I've drawn the winner.

The winner is Sheila Emanis of Houston, Texas!

*and the crowd goes wild!*

For the month of October, I will be posting trivia questions - and from the correct answers, the winner will receive a free download of Lightning Strikes Twice - My November release as Katelyn Hughes.

Enjoy!

Gail

New book Cover and catching up

2006-09-19T19:44:00.000-04:00

Sorry I've been silent for a bit... things have been a bit crazy around here the last couple of weeks. I went away for a few days, and then we had a sudden death in the family.

But, after the morose feel of my last posting, I want to be more upbeat in this one! :-)

I've received the cover art for my November releasee under the name Katelyn Hughes - titled Lightning Strikes Twice. This is my premier release as Katelyn Hughes, and I hope it goes well.

I will be giving away an ARC of the book shortly, so if you're not already signed up - join my Yahoo group to get the details.

On the writing front, still working on the Garrison: Freedom book... haven't made much progress.

That's all for now!

Gail

Nostalgia and Peanut Brittle

2006-09-03T14:22:00.000-04:00

When a woman grows up and moves out of the house to create her own family - her own life - if she's lucky, she can look back and say "My mom was my best friend".

I feel doubly lucky. I didn't wait until I left home to realize this fact. I always knew my mom was my number one best friend, greatest supporter, and number one teacher. If I am half the mother to my children that my mother was to me, then I think I can be proud.

I lost my mother eleven years ago. I was twenty-two years old, barely a mother myself, and absolutely not ready to be 'motherless'. There was so much I still wanted to learn from her. How to make her homemade stuffing at Thanksgiving. How to fold those damn fitted sheets. How to talk to my daughter when she was old enough to ask the tough questions. How to stick it out when things get tough.

So, why am I writing about her today?

My daughter is doing a fund raiser for school. Selling candy and gift wrap. I was sitting here, flipping through the catalog, and saw a box of peanut brittle. One word rushed to my mind.

Mom.

Mom loved peanut brittle... and ginger snaps... and pickled pig's feet (but we won't go there). And just seeing a box of that particular candy brought her to mind and tightened my throat with a massive wave of missing her.

Most people think of the loved ones they lost around special dates... their birthday, the holidays, the day they died... but I think of Mom in the little things. The small moments that you don't realize mean so much until there are no more of them.

My father, after eleven years of being alone, recently found a woman who put the sparkle back in his eyes and the life back into his smile. And I couldn't be happier. I liked her from the moment I first talked to her, and my kids ADORE her. But, it wasn't her pleasant personality or the way she looked at my dad that made me like her.

When I went to visit, my mother's pictures were on the shelf.

Why is this important? I say my father was alone for eleven years, but the truth of it is he did become involved with a woman for a short period of time that wrecked him. She was more words than I want to express and I don't want to waste my time even talking about her. The worst thing she did was try and erase my mother from my father's life. My parents were married for twenty-seven years... you can't erase that. But she tried.

And therein lies the difference. My mother is back on the wall. She's back in the picture frames. And she's not a topic to be danced around.

My father told me that one day he had been outside - doing whatever - while Maureen was cleaning the kitchen. He told me he walked onto the porch and heard her talking. When he asked her who she was talking to, she told him "I was talking to Maxine. I was thanking her for making this house a home for you, and for loving you the way she did".

Beyond the photos... beyond all else... that was the moment I knew I would pray this woman never leave my father's life.

It's strange how this entry went from my mother to another woman. :-)

I believe that the greatest kind of love that lets you love another even when you are gone. Your love was such a gift, so pure, that you left the ones you love with enough peace to seek it again. My mom did that.

So, today, I'm thinking of my mom. I'm alittle melancholy, but I'm proud... proud to have been her daughter.

Gail

Kisses that shouldn't happen...

2006-09-01T20:15:00.000-04:00

*Can't get a photo to load, dang it... if it'll load later, I will*

Here's another one of those kisses that turned me inside out and made me think "holy crap!"

This one is from the also cancelled show JAG. Aaaahhh.... all the good ones are gone.

I wasn't a devout watcher of JAG, but I watched it enough to cheer on the two main characters, Harmon Rabb aka 'Harm' and Sarah MacKenzie aka 'Mac'.

From the beginning these two danced around each other. I couldn't tell you the first time they gave in to the attraction and kisses... or the second... or the third... but they never let it go any further. Another case of that silly "No Fraternization" Rule in the military.

So, of all the kisses, why do I like this one the most?

This kiss happens at Mac's engagement party to an Australian officer named Bromby (I think that was his name...). While everyone is inside celebrating Mac's impending marriage, she and Harm are on the porch, reminiscing about all the cases and disasters and things they've gone through together. Like a gentleman, he offers his jacket when she gets cold.

And then it's time to go inside, to face her fiance and his girlfriend. But somehow, somewhere between the porch and the door, they kiss. At first it's just a friendly brush of the lips... but it quickly spirals into a kiss swelling with need and remorse for what wouldn't be.

They both fight it... you can see it in their bodies as they resist the urge to hold each other. One would begin to pull back and the other would follow, not letting the kiss end. It's a tug of war - back and forth - knowing they shouldn't be doing this - knowing it should stop, but unable to.

It's ... wow...

JAG also gave me one of the sexiest, yet simplest, line of dialogue I've ever heard on a prime time television show.

It's a few episodes later, and although I can't remember all the details, I know Mac is torn between following her fiance or Harm. Harm has been injured and is at home, stuck in his bed. Trying to find her 'ground', she calls him. He picks up the phone, and at first she says nothing.

Silence stretches...

And then, in this amazingly sexy and deep voice, he says "Mac, come to me."

*Gail melting in her chair*

Holy cow...

So, that's another inspiring kiss... so many kisses, so little time.

Kisses of the Soul

2006-08-31T19:56:00.000-04:00

There have been some pretty memorable kisses in history... in television... movies... a soldier kissing an unknown nurse in Times Square... all great moments.

So, what makes a great kiss? What is the kiss that turns your insides out and does that funny thing in the middle of your chest? I'm not talking strictly the 'arousal' kiss... the kiss meant to entice and hold your attention for the erotic value. I'm talking the kiss that is MORE... the kiss that has more effect than words.

As you can see, I've added a picture here of one of those 'power' kisses. Over the next few days, I'm going to post about some of my favorite kisses from screen and tele... and anywhere else I might find a good one.

Tonight's kiss is from the greatly missed and truly awesome Sci Fi series Farscape.

Here's a quick rundown of the show for those who don't know it. John Crichton is a Earth astronaut who, during a test flight of his new space module, is slingshot through the universe, ending up in a place full of aliens and men out to kill him. Enter Aeryn Sun... she's what's called a Peacekeeper. A military people who look human (but we won't get into that right now). She leaves her structured life to join John and his merry cohorts. The sparks fly hard and fast between John and Aeryn. And this is not their first kiss.

But it is one of my favorites. Why?

It's a kiss of desperation.

Another short lesson... due to a neural chip in John's head (implanted by one of the baddies) he is haunted by hallucinations. In this scene, they are in great peril, running for their lives and John is fighting an equally daunting battle with the images in his mind. In a desperate attempt to find sanity... to ground himself... to hold on to what is true and real... he takes hold of the one thing he can believe in. The one solid truth.

Aeryn.

That one moment... that kiss... gives him enough strength to go on. Enough stability and sanity to find safety and escape.

And that is why I love it so much. It's not a simple kiss. It's not a kiss of desire or seduction. Or to express love. It's a kiss to find love. To hold on to it. With everything they have.

I love it.

*sigh*

Anyone want to toss out some other truly great kisses?

Gail

New Cover and Some Reviews...

2006-08-27T19:44:00.000-04:00

What an exciting day!

Today, I received the new 'print release' cover for The Phoenix Rebellion Book I: Rising Up. No print release date yet... but this is definitely a move in the right direction. (Blogger isn't letting me load any pictures at the moment... still workign on it)

I also received three GREAT reviews for three different books in the series...

The Phoenix Rebellion, Book II: Outcasts is the second book in the series. The characters are well-developed and the reader can practically feel the intensity that surrounds them as they seek to find peace in their lives again. I liked the way Michael suddenly transformed from a young boy to a man, as situations began to develop around him and his family... Ms. Delaney has once again created a fabulous book that takes a thrilling ride into a world that only wishes their freedom. This terrific science fiction tale is remarkably written and incredibly detailed. Be prepared to be captivated by another excellent winner by Ms. Delaney.

Rating: 5 Angels
Fallen Angel Reviews

The Phoenix Rebellion: Gaining Ground is a story that practically jumps from the pages. I can’t recall reading such a great futuristic romance of this nature in a good while. Reading about the struggle of the men and women trying to survive in this story was incredible. The characters are like everyday people with doubts and flaws that the reader cannot but help to identify with the individuals... Ms. Delaney pens stories that captivate and takes the reader to a whole new world of adventure. I absolutely love her flare of writing. She fashions in-depth characters that remain with the reader, and this story is no exception. Grab some Kleenex and get ready for an exhilarating read one won’t soon forget, this book rates a deserving five angels and a Recommended Read.

Rating: 5 Angels and Recommended Read
Fallen Angel Reviews

The Phoenix Rebellion Book IV: End Game is the final installment of the series. I have to admit I wanted to flip immediately to the last page and see the outcome, but I said no, absolutely not. The intense wait was hard but worth every single page. I fell in love with all of the characters, and as I waited on the edge of my seat, I could visualize myself exploring everything, right along with them. The peril and the chaos were like a huge adrenaline rush that just kept going...With her flair of writing this series, she makes the tales believable in every shape and form. I almost hated to say good-bye to the series; then again, they left such a wonderful impression, that they will stay long with me. Every one of these books are grand and astonishing in itself. Loaded in non-stop action and intrigue around every corner, this story satisfies. Ms. Delaney makes all the characters and the story feel as if the reader is part of the family, and when united, it gives a peaceful feeling of going home.

Rating: 5 Angels
Fallen Angel Reviews

A sneak peek at The Garrison: Freedom

2006-08-25T19:51:00.000-04:00

Here is Chapter One (unedited and unrevised - may change at publication) of The Garrison: Freedom due for release in May 2007.

And the inspiration photo for Raylor Strike as provided in the Garrison Continuity Bible.

Chapter One

Perseus Novum
Andromeda Galaxy, 3033 C.E

Raylor Strike punched a series of maintenance codes into the last cryo-pod tucked away in the far chambers of his ship. He stepped back, shifting his gaze to the frozen, stern face of the pod's inhabitant. Vacant, open eyes stared back. Just one of the two-dozen rebel Minoux guards held in similar pods all over the ship.

"We're good to go." He turned away from the frosted lid, shaking off the creepy feeling the soldier's open stare gave him. "I'll take off within the hour. That is, once we've come to terms." He tilted one corner of his lips into a confident grin.

General Cassius Batick clenched his hands behind his back and tipped his chin in an attempt to look down on Raylor. What he didn't know was that Raylor didn't give a damn how many medals were pinned to his shirt or how deep he could frown – all Raylor Strike cared about was how deep the Minoux Rebellion Force's pockets were.

With a self-righteous sniff, Batick extended a flat, handheld data interface. Holding Batick's stare, Raylor took the pad. Waiting two beats longer than he knew was necessary to prove his point – that Batick wasn't the one in control of the situation – he lowered his chin and looked at the number on the screen.

That sure as hell was a lot of zeroes.

He pressed his lips together and slowly nodded his head. Handing the pad back, he crossed his arms and set his feet apart. "That's acceptable."

"I should think so," Batick mumbled, putting his hand behind his back again, the compad in it. "The funds will be transferred to your account upon safe delivery of Her Highness."

"Half now—" He shot his hand up as soon as Batick opened his mouth. "Half now, half later."

"One third now." Batick barely expended enough energy to make his lips move, his mouth turned down in a deep frown. "The remainder upon her safe arrival."

Raylor put on the show of contemplating the deal, then nodded once. "Fine. But, let me remind you again that the extraction is on my terms. I bring her out when I say the time is right."

"Of course, Mr. Strike. You were not hired without extensive research into your past…" He practically snarled, his head tipping back again. If he tipped it any more, he'd drown in a good rainstorm. "… endeavors. We are well aware of your skills, your expertise, and we leave the decision to you. However, make no mistake… we anticipate an expeditious end to her imprisonment."

Raylor moved past Batick, pulling his gloves from his belt to slap them against his leather-clad leg. “There’s expeditious and then there’s rushed. I try pulling her out too soon and it all backfires. Leave it to me, Batick. I know what I’m doing.”

Batick followed him through the narrow passageways of the massive ship. Raylor raised his arm, laying his palm against the cool metal as he walked. This ship had gotten him out of some damn tight spots. It was built for speed. He’d never tell Batick, but he had serious concerns about hiding the craft for an extended period of time. They reached the forward chamber and Raylor slapped his hand against the door release. With a pop and a hiss from the hydraulic system, the side door split and opened, half of the thick bulkhead rising up while the lower half dropped to the floor. Raylor gripped the door edge and jumped free of the ramp before it touched down.

Batick waited until the ramp extended, and walked slowly to the tarmac, his hands tucked behind him. Raylor stepped backward, scrutinizing the crew of techs currently painting his ship pure white, camouflage against the arctic climate on Zurin Five. He crossed his arms and squinted at the gleaming exterior; hoping like all hell that the blasted paint would come off later. He preferred the space-weathered hull of his reliable ship.

“We will await your return.”

“Sure thing, Old Man.”

He continued to watch the techs as Batick’s firm footsteps moved away. A respectable amount of time passed before a different set of footfalls came up behind him. Raylor didn’t turn, didn’t change his stance.

“Captain Strike…”

“Tag, you're it.”

What is Sexy?

2006-08-24T19:42:00.000-04:00

I've seen several discussions as of late about just what makes a hero sexy. Is it always the amazing Adonis good looks? Is it the bulging biceps and flawless hair? Is it the bigger than life hero?

For me, not so much.

I like my men to be heroes... but not always in the typical sense. Sometimes, they're unwilling heroes. They don't set out to be that way, but when faced with the choice, they choose the righteous path. They're what my dad called 'good men'. Not perfect... but good.

I try to write my heroes the same way. Sometimes, they start out as absolute jerks (aka Benjamin Roth in Precious Things), sometimes, they're wounded souls (Donovan Greer in Watch Over Me), and sometimes, they're cads (Raylor Strike in my upcoming release The Garrison: Freedom). I've had true-blue dyed in the wool heroes (Jace Quinn of The Phoenix Rebellion Book III: Gaining Ground), and men who - despite themselves - are heroes (Nick Tanner of The Phoenix Rebellion Book I: Rising Up).

So, no matter how they start out... or where their stories take them... there are a few characteristics I like my heroes to possess.

1. Intelligence - No, they don't have to be geniuses or Academics... but they can think on their feet, they don't get tricked by the obvious, and they can solve a problem with their brain as much as their brawn.

2. A sense of humor - Sometimes, they're the joker. Sometimes, they're the dry comedien that you really have to pay attention to in order to catch the joke. Sometimes, it slips right by you while the person beside you laughs their head off. They can be serious, or they can be care free, but they can laugh once in awhile.

3. Presence - They don't walk into a room unnoticed. It's not because they're so gorgeous, or they're so loud. They just fill up the space around them.

4. Loyalty - Sounds like a good quality for a dog, I know. Loyalty is the best word I could think of and yet it doesn't quite cover what I mean. When they love you, they love you with everything in them. They don't do it half way. They either do or they don't. They fight for what they believe in. Fiercely. In the 'Deadly' series by Jaycee Clark, all of her Kinncaid Men make a promise to the women they love "This I protect". I always loved that. Three words sums up exactly what I mean.

And what don't I like in heroes?

1. The consumate Alpha Male - They irritate me more than anything else. They usually come across and pig-headed, strong willed and deaf. Not literally deaf- okay, Benjamin was deaf - but I mean, they don't listen. They want what they want when they want it and everyone else be damned. They're never wrong, even when they're proven so. And their idea is always the ONLY way. Bleck!

2. The perfect male specimen - He's tall, built like a tank, with golden skin, a bare chest, piercing eyes and a perfectly chisled jaw.... and I'm bored already. I actually prefer a lankier hero... yeah, probably tall... I like tall... but he's not muscle bound. And he's probably not perfect. Or the 'typical' gorgeous. I find both Christopher Eccleston and David Tennant very attractive men... and there are a lot of women who wouldn't agree.

Right now, I'm working on a sci fi romance titled The Garrison: Freedom. It's the fifth in a continuity series with Triskelion Publishing. Sorry... not much more info than that right now as I haven't posted anything to my site yet. But that hero, Raylor Strike, starts out as being almost un-likeable. He's a thief, a mercenary and a liar. Not very likeable, right? But when he finds out his actions directly led to abuse on the heroine, Zarah Minoux, it tears him up. And that is when his true self is revealed... and everything I like in a hero comes forward.

Stay tuned for more information on The Garrison: Freedom and Raylor Strike.

Gail

Some New Reviews!

2006-08-11T22:22:00.000-04:00

Three reviews in two days! Wooohooo

Just when this reviewer thought that the Phoenix Rebellion could not get any better, Ms. Delaney comes out with the latest installment GAINING GROUND. This book has to be the best futuristic romance that this reader has ever read as it could happen. Ms. Delaney has made this possible future all too real which adds greatly to the terror of the tale.

Rating: 5 Hearts
Reviewer: Shaiha
LoveRomanceandMore

Each new book in the Phoenix Rebellion adds new layers to the wonderful world created by Ms. Delaney. While a reader might get the gist of the story by reading a book in the middle of the series, I suggest starting at the beginning in order to get the full impact.

GAINING GROUND has all the characters that I have grown to love, and the villains that I love to hate. I was enthralled from the beginning and biting my nails by the end of the story. I can't wait to read the last book, END GAME!

Reviewer: Marlene Breakfield
ParaNormalRomance

As the final installment for this series, I absolutely loved The Phoenix Rebellion Book IV: End Game. It was full of action packed scenes, total chaos but highly intriguing all the way to the end. I loved all the others in this series but this story would have to be my favorite. Gail Delaney knows how to pen a tale that tugs at the heartstrings while providing a thoroughly riveting roller coaster ride through danger and turmoil. All of the characters hold a special place in my heart but Michael is my favorite, reading about him learning to exist, as a normal human being was a pleasure filled experience. The growth of these characters and how they learned to cope with everything was amazing; I kept thinking I would love to meet them all. Ms. Delaney captures the reader's imagination and gives them a glimpse at a world where humanity stands united against a alien race intent on wiping them from the face of the planet. This is a very well done book and one worth adding to your collection today.

Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewer: Sheryl
ECataRomance

Science Fiction and Withdrawals

2006-08-09T19:02:00.000-04:00

For the last year, I have been sucked into intense writing mode. I've pushed myself long and hard to finish the Phoenix Rebellion series, having to sit down just about every day to write.

Now, I have nothing pressing... and I feel a bit adrift.

It's not that I don't have things to do. I'm also an editor for Triskelion Publishing, so I've been doing some books here and there. My next writing project is the fifth book in the Garrison series, so I've had the pleasurable job of reading the first four books to acclimate myself with the series.

But, I haven't written.

At first, it was relaxing. No stress. No pressure. *sigh*

Now, I'm beginnging to itch. I'm like a junkie going through withdrawal.

Over the weekend, I was miserably sick. Sicker than I've been in a really, really long time. So, I camped out on the couch and dug out my four seasons of Farscape on DVD. It's been awhile since I watched these episodes, and the last time I watched them beginning to end was two years ago while I recovered from surgery. It didn't take me long to remember just how much I loved this show. It's everything I love rolled into one.

Sci fi... romance... HOT romance... Did I mention the hot romance?...

But, also, watching it really stuck a hot poker in me to work on the next Phoenix series, which I've decided to name Phoenix Genesis. I'll probably add some information soon to my website about it. I surprised myself watching it, seeing how many things - elements - of Farscape had snuck into Phoenix. Wormhole flight... other aliens being ancestors/descendents of humans... genetic alterations... oh, and alien love. LOL

I think that all Sci Fi is an amalgamation of bits and pieces of all other sci fi. Just when you think you've come up with something original, you realize someone else thought of it first. It's all in how you put it together, I guess. Your own interpretation.

Yes, my post tonight is a ramble... meandering through the caverns and tunnels of my mind. It's my outlet for the evening.

So, on that note... I'm going to do some reading and tie myself to my chair so I don't go watch Farscape when there are other things to be done. :-)

My Muse says MORE PHOENIX

2006-08-02T19:01:00.000-04:00

The fourth book of Phoenix is available for purchase now, and as I struggled through the final chapters, I honestly thought I was ready to walk away from it for awhile.

I always intended (or, I should say somewhere in the middle of Book Two, I decided) to write more books in the 'Phoenix' universe. But, I thought that after finishing the first series, I could focus on other things for awhile.

Alas, Alabaster has other plans. She has already begun churning a dozen different thoughts through my head about what the next series will be. Different enemies, different scenarios, different 'main' characters.

I have four projects to finish before I can work on Phoenix again... FOUR... and yet, she won't leave it alone.

I already 'see' several scenes in my head... some involving Michael Tanner - who will be a key person again in the second series - some around Connor Montgomery - some Victor. I'm writing down notes but I refuse to compose anything.

I guess all I can do is write fast on the other things, right?

Gail

The Phoenix Rebellion Book IV: End Game AVAILABLE TODAY

2006-08-01T19:39:00.000-04:00

The final installment in The Phoenix Rebellion series (not the last in the Phoenix Universe, just this series) is available for purchase in electronic format TODAY.

Click here to buy

Blurb:

Nick Tanner set out months ago to find the Umani, and now, he's on his way home, but nothing is the same. Not by a long shot.

Michael has struggled to find his place in his new world. He still questions his past, his present and his future. He has found a kind of love like no other - a father's love.

But Jacqueline wants more from him. She wants to understand the haunting shadows behind his eyes... wants to understand the scars that mark his body. As the battle comes to a crescendo, can he give himself this one gift?

Excerpt:

Jackie felt the touch on her cheek just as the heavy tendrils of forced sleep let her conscious mind go. The touch was gentle, familiar and she hummed softly as she forced her eyes open. Michael sat on the edge of her bed, his brown eyes studying her. She took half a second to glance around and acknowledged that she wasn’t in the same room they had brought her to first. This was more like a bedroom, the bed she laid in wider and softer than an exam table.

“Hey, handsome,” she mumbled past chalky, dry lips. She ran her tongue over them, but the inside of her mouth was like cotton and it did no good.

Michael retrieved a cup from the table beside the bed, turning the straw to face her as he held it to her lips. Jackie sighed in pleasure as the cold water washed away the sticky paste in her mouth and cooled her parched throat. The rush of cold spread out from her chest into her limbs. When she pulled back, Michael set the cup on the table, his gaze only shifting away from her long enough to put it down.

Her eyelids were heavy and her thoughts not quite clear. Rolling her eyes, Jackie pulled her arm free of the blankets and ran her hand over her forehead. “I don’t know what the hell was in that cocktail you shot me up with, but damn. I don’t feel a thing.”

He smiled, just the slightest touch of a curve to his lips, but enough to pop twin dimples on each side of his mouth. His thumb skimmed over the fresh bandage on her arm, and she felt the warmth of his hands through the fabric. His fingers curled around her upper arm, supporting it gently. “That’s good.”

Jackie attempted a laugh, but she couldn’t seem to gather enough energy to get that far. It came out more like a muffled chuckle. A slight twinge shot up her back and she winced, sucking in a breath. Michael laid his hand on her stomach, and even through the thickness of the blanket covering her, she felt the weight of his touch.

“Describe the pain.” Deep furrows dug into his brow, his eyes shifting over her.

“Nothing compared to what it was,” she said, releasing her breath.

“Tell me. It will help me.”

His voice was so strained, so heavy, she couldn’t argue. Jackie shifted experimentally, trying to get more comfortable without re-awakening the monster in her back. The pang didn’t take her breath away, she braced herself for it soon enough. “Tight,” she answered, wishing the synapses in her brain would fire with more zing. “The pain is duller, but still there.”

“What was it before?”

She snatched her breath, barely managing to swallow the groan when he slid his hand beneath the blankets… and beneath her shirt over her side. He slipped his hand between her back and the mattress, leaning slightly over her. His expression was schooled as he obviously focused on what he felt and not the reaction it had on her.

“Burning,” she managed to say without her voice skipping, a fact that amazed her with the fuzzy mush in her head. “Searing.” He pulled back the blanket, both his large hands now spanning her sides as he carefully worked his fingers into her muscles. “Really, really bad. Michael, you’re killing me here…”

His hands stilled and he looked up. “Does it hurt?”

Jackie drew in a long breath. “Hurt? No. Nope. Not at all.”
His thumb skimmed over her stomach and she closed her eyes. Weren’t those drugs supposed to numb her sensations? Kill feeling? Her skin was alive, tingling and begging for more. Maybe it was because she hadn’t seen him in months… maybe it was because a man hadn’t touched her oh, so very long… maybe… God, maybe it was because he had the most amazing hands!

Down time...

2006-07-27T20:58:00.000-04:00

This is the first time in about a year that I've had some 'down time'. I don't have any deadlines in the immediate future, nothing that absolutely must get done...

And I feel a bit lost.

I know what I have to do, it's just a matter of getting myself to do it. Focus.

I always thought I would hate writing on deadline, and now I'm thinking that perhaps it's a good idea for me. Keeps me grounded... kicks me in the arse when I need it.

So, I'm futzing about... checking useless websites... watching Doctor Who.

Oh, and keeping up nicely on my blog. :-)

I just recieved the artwork for The Phoenix Rebellion Book IV: End Game. Do I love it? No... but I don't hate it either, and I guess that's something.

I don't handle 'bad' reviews well..

2006-07-26T22:34:00.000-04:00

So, I received a review today on The Phoenix Rebellion Book III: Gaining Ground, and I have to admit... it riled me up.

I'm not going to say who did the review, or post a link to it, because I'm not here to bash the reviewer or anything... but, I am seriously grinding my teeth over it.

I felt like the review was written with little effort. It was choppy, thrown together and tossed out there. Not a whole lot of effort was made to do the review in any manner that said "I took time to read this."

And I suppose, if I take it at a different angle, I can see the positive in her review even if presented in a less than stellar light.

First bit... Although this is the third book in the series, and can very well stand on its own.

This is where some of her other issues stem from... this book can NOT be read all by itself with the idea that it's all going to make sense. It's a series... an involved, intricate, inter-laced series... and meant to be read in order. Otherwise, yeah, some stuff isn't going to be clear.

Second bit...The number of characters and the different story lines were intriguing and it did hold my interest, but this is a story not to be read lightly, and requires a bit of concentration to follow.

The number of characters and different story lines are the whole point of the series. "Not to be read lightly"... this I take as a compliment, whether it's intended as one or not. I didn't set out to write something that wouldn't register on the radar. And as long as it isn't said "It's confusing as hell", it doesn't really bother me that some concentration is required. Is that really a bad thing?

Last comment...As for the situation and conflict, there were many, and overlapped with the feeling of a space soap opera.

Again.. I say... that's kind of the point.

So, I guess I'm glad I accomplished all the things I set out to do... I'm just sorry that the reviewer didn't see them the way I did. I supppose, that happens, right? You can't please everyone. So, I'm just swallowing my pride and venting a little bit.

Gail

Upcoming Releases

2006-07-24T20:56:00.000-04:00

So, this is what my release schedule looks like (right now) over the next year or so.

The Phoenix Rebellion Book IV: End Game
November 2006
Gail R. Delaney

Nick Tanner set out months ago to find the Umani, and now, he's on his way home, but nothing is the same. Not by a long shot.

Michael has struggled to find his place in his new world. He still questions his past and his place. He has found a kind of love like no other - a father's love.

But Jacqueline wants more from him. She wants to understand the haunting shadows behind his eyes... wants to understand the scars that mark his body. As the battle comes to a crescendo, can he give himself this one gift?

Precious Things - The Re-Release
December 2006
Katelyn Hughes

From a young age Benjamin Prescott Roth shut himself off from everyone, determined to be his own man. His deafness, and his father’s rejection, drove him in everything he accomplished. For the first time in his life, he is letting someone else in. Jewell Kincaid is feisty, strong willed and beautiful – his perfect match.

Then his world is torn apart when his sister, the only other person he has ever loved, is killed and it nearly destroys him. Through it all, Jewell remains by his side. To give strength when his is gone. To heal his heart.

The Garrison:Freedom
May 2007
Gail R. Delaney

Fifth and final book in the 'Garrison' series availabe through Triskelion Publishing. More details to follow.

Good Morning, Beautiful - Re-Release of Tender Hearts
June 2007
Katelyn Hughes

For two sultry Hawaiian nights Erin and BIlly found a connection in each other. She never intended to see him again, wanting to live with the sweet memory of the way he loved her. But Erin must go to him, and tell him of their baby.

He’s been down this road before, and it nearly killed him. He should be angry with Erin for leaving, for disrupting his life, but despite himself, he is drawn to her as intensely as that night in Maui. Even as the walls between them crumble, and they find more than just the attraction that brought them together, their entire world is blown apart.

Touch - A Novella
September 2007

"I want to see you again."

The simple statement, said on the heels of his deep laughter, stole Lani Pryce's breath and stopped her heart cold.

But she couldn't let him see more. If he spent time with her, he would see the truth and it was just better this way… better to hold on to one perfect evening.

She can't imagine that Drew could want to be with her. She doesn't see her beauty, her spark, her life… but Drew does.

Two novels, Double Jeopardy and Gray Clouds, will be scheduled when they are complete.

:-)

Gail

No One Have A Heart Attack

2006-07-23T19:15:00.000-04:00

Yeah, I'm back. I am really really bad at keeping up with this, but I'm going to put in an honest effort to keep up. I've been swamped in deadlines for the last few months... that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it.

The last book in the Phoenix series has been submitted, and will be released next month. I face this final release with both pride and remorse. I hate to let go of these characters, I love them so much. But, I've always said I intended to keep going with the Phoenix concept, so I won't have to let go completely... just take a break.

I made the decision a few months ago to split my identity between two names... one for science fiction/futuristic which will remain Gail R. Delaney... and one for my contemporary works - both suspense and otherwise - under the name Katelyn Hughes. My first official release as Katelyn will be this November with a manuscript titled "Lightning Strikes Twice".

In light of this decision, I have also revamped my websites to better represent each site. My original site, for Gail R. Delaney, will focus on the science fiction. The new site can be found at http://www.katelynhughes.com

I'm not going to dump a whole bunch of information on you in one post... and will attempt to get back up on speed over the next few weeks.

Talk to you soon! (Promise)

Gail

The Sound of Love

2006-04-10T17:42:00.000-04:00

When was the last time you spoke to someone and 'heard' love in their voice?

For me, it was today and it was my dad.

My mom passed away almost eleven years ago, and in that time, my dad has had one relationship. It started shortly after my mother died, and she was a woman he was introduced to because she was a widow and the thought was she could commisurate with him.

It ended a few years ago.

My dad called me a couple weeks ago, and as soon as I got on the phone I knew he had something to say. Finally, after all the 'how are you's he said "I'm calling to tell you I have a girlfriend".

He then spent the next few minutes telling me about her. I had heard of her before... they had flirted a few times in the past. She was, in fact, the woman who made my wedding cake. She's 16 years younger than my dad... but... I don't blink at that since my dad was 18 years younger than my mother. :-)

Today, I called him... and the happiness I heard in his voice brought tears to my eyes. He told me "She brought me back to life" and "I think this is it, honey. I think I'm in love".

I'm so happy for him! I have yet to meet her because my dad lives a few hours away. But as soon as I finish this book and my weekends are freer, we're all going to visit him. He's so anxious for us to meet her and insists we'll all love her.

It made my day to hear that kind of joy in his voice. He'd talk about her and then laugh... that deep down "I'm so happy I can't think straight" kind of laugh. He's talking about holidays and everything. It's wonderful!

I just wanted to share what made me smile today.

Gail

I'm so incredibly behind it's not funny

2006-03-17T13:49:00.000-05:00

I'm behind on posting here...

I'm behind on posting at Warped, Wicked, Wanton and Wild.

I'm WAY behind on writing book three of the Phoenix series! (As in.. it's due in less than 3 weeks and I have 4 chapters written! Shhhh... don't tell my editor!)

I'm behind on getting organized for my trip to RT.

The worst of it is, every time I feel like I'm getting a grip... I get slammed with a new wave of exhaustion. Maybe it's stress, I don't know... but I spend half my night tossing and turning and half my day yawning. It's just plain not fun.

So, I'm alive... I'm here.. .and I'm tryind desperately to catch up.

Gail

Nay Sayers...

2006-02-13T20:54:00.000-05:00

A few months back, I posted a bit of a rant here about the way Triskelion got boned by Romance Writer's of America.

And if there is anyone who pays attention... I was visited by the highly-opinionated-yet-nameless poster known as "Anonymous".

Anonymous had a few things to say... Here, in fact, is a direct quote:

In addition, if Triskelion can sell a lot of copies, then it should have another title it can throw at RWA and say "Here's another title that should meet your criteria." But alas, it can't do that, not w/o the big name authors' names plastered all over the cover.

But alas, my dear anonymouse friend, you are (not so sadly) mistaken.

Triskelion has met RWA's Golden Requirements of the Gods with numerous titles... beyond the Bewitched, Bothered and Bevamypred anthology.

And without the help of the 'big names' referred to... I might add.

Will they eventually re-apply? Possibly... If they don't, won't bother me in the least bit. I still think RWA is an elitist clique and I have no desire to affiliate myself directly with them.

Yes, I'm in a mood tonight and I feel like strongly expressing my opinion.

Want to agree? Wonderful! Want to disagree? That's fine, too... you'll just have to name yourself first.

Gail

Some updates and stuff

2006-02-06T21:39:00.000-05:00

Well, I've been trying to work on book 3 of the Phoenix series, but I seem to continuously get sidetracked. :-)

I've done some updates to my website and changed the design for several pages to better highlight Phoenix. The beginning of this section can be found here. Feel free to check it out and let me know what you think.

I've also gotten two new covers. The first is for The Phoenix Rebellion Book II: Outcasts - being released in March from Triskelion Publishing.

Also, the cover for Watch Over Me, a contemporary suspese also being released by Triskelion Publishing in April.

What do you think?

Reader Reviews for The Phoenix Rebellion: Rising Up

2006-01-22T19:57:00.000-05:00

Here are some 'reader' comments I've received in the first twelve days of the release of The Phoenix Rebellion Book I: Rising Up...

Phoenix Rebellion: Rising Up, is AWESOME!!!! I love this book, I love the whole series! Nick is such a an mmmmmm---mmmmmm kinda hero and CJ is his perfect balance. This isn't the average futuristic. It's frightning and thought provoking considering the scientific progress our world is constantly achieving. The romance is sensual and HOT, the plot 'edge of your seat' and I canNOT wait for the next book in the series to come out!

~ Jaycee

The Phoenix Rebellion – Rising Up was a great read. I could not believe that a 160+ page book went so fast and left me looking for more! It was a pure joy from the start to finish.
Ms. Delaney wrote a beautiful story of the will to survive when humankind is faced with adversity. She has woven a great foundation for a continuing saga to keep reader enthralled. For someone that was not sure if she could write a love affair in the Sci Fi genre she did a wonderful job.

Kudos to Ms. Delaney and here’s to hoping for many more.

~Barb Field
~Atlanta GA

I what to congratulation Gail Delaney for her amazing new book The Phoenix Rebellion its absolutely a must read for anyone looking for a great book. I read it all in one siting and I what more. This book has all of the elements of a great story.

~Kassandra

Just wanted to let u know that I read "Rising Up" and think it is fabulous! I actually got a little misty-eyed reading the XXXXXXXXX XX XXXXXX XXXXXXXXX (Plot secret). I can't wait to read more. Keep up the good work!

~Shannon

I'm happy that I'll get the chance to tell you that I thought RISING UP just may be the best book I've ever read. At the least it is the best book that I've read in a long, long time. I read a lot of books. I loved this one. When does the second book come out?

~Karen

Can I just say WOW. I can't wait for the next installment, I love it, thank you so much. Did I mention WOW.

You made my day, I just couldn't put it down (well, couldn't switch the computer off). I have read it twice now, can't wait for the next one.

Thank you again

~Katie

I simply had to get it. I'll probably get it in hard copy too when it comes out. Gail, it blew me away! I loved it! It has just the right balance of action and romance.

When is the next one coming out? I can't wait!!!

~Barbara in South Carolina

First and foremost, AAAAAARRRRRGGGGHHHH!!! Talk about a cliffhanger!! Now that that is out of the way......

I absolutely love this book!! Watching the love story for Nick and Caitlin unfold has been wonderful too. Their tenderness towards each other after all the hurt is just so real. The fight scene when she found out XX XXX XXXXXXX (Sorry... I can't reveal plot)... major goosebumps. Very moving.

All in all, this has been a wonderful reading experience and I can't WAIT to read the next part. Early March??

~Christy

Here we are again...

2006-01-18T21:49:00.000-05:00

Have I ever mentioned how much I loathe, hate, despise and dread the beginning of a book? I agonize, type, delete, retype, curse and sweat over the first 20K words or so and beat my head bloody on my keyboard wondering what the hell I was thinking when I decided this was my life's ambition.

And here I stand again... or sit, as the case may be... staring at a mostly blank page in Word with Prologue - Tuesday, July 16, 2052 at the top.

I have 'some' of this book basically written - had to for the partials. But as it turns out, what was the original 'beginning' of this book no longer works as a beginning. Because the original ending of book two ended up not being the ending I had thought it would be.

Thus is the life of a pantser.

So, it's not like I'm truly starting from scratch... but still... it sucks pretty darn bad.

And obviously, I'm not thrilled about it because I'm here... complaining about it... rather than doing it. :-)

Time to go back and whip this bad boy into shape.

Gail

The Phoenix Rebellion Book 1: Rising Up AVAILABLE NOW

2006-01-16T09:21:00.000-05:00

The Phoenix Rebellion Book I: Rising Up is available NOW for purchase!

Blurb:

The year is 2050, and we share our world with The Areth; to some our salvation, our brethren and our ancestors, to others; our oppressors and our enemy. They look like us, talk like us, but those of The Phoenix Rebellion believe they are not us. Phoenix is dedicated to revealing the truth and returning Earth to its rightful inhabitants. Humans.

Colonel Nick Tanner doesn’t care what the Areth do. He hasn’t cared in a long time. He lost his wife and son to the supposed superior medicine of the Areth. And whether he has proof of it or not, he figures the Areth are behind Caitlin Montgomery walking out of his life eight years ago. So, he lives on his lake and lets the rest of the World rot.

Until Caitlin shows up on his dock, intrudes on his seclusion and destroys his apathy. His son, the boy he was told died twenty-five years ago, is alive and needs him. Now… Nick cares. And if he ever finds the ones responsible for taking his son… they’ll pay. If he has to give his life to make things right, he will. Phoenix has a new soldier.

Reviews:

Futuristic science fiction at its best, The Phoenix Rebellion Book 1: Rising Up leaves the reader on the edge of their seating waiting impatiently for more. I loved this unexpectedly intriguing book because it captivated my imagination and then left me begging for more... Ms. Delaney has captured the essence of a romance that gives the reader everything they are looking for in a book, gripping suspense, villains, heroes and heroines and love that exists even years later. I loved this book from the first word to the last and I will be waiting for the release of the next book in this series, even if it is impatiently.

Sheryl - Ecataromance
Rating: 5 Stars!

Lovers of the science fiction romance genre rejoice! There is a new voice on the scene and RISING UP by Ms. Delaney has to be the best in this genre that this reviewer has ever had the pleasure of reading!...RISING UP will whet your appetite with dynamic characters and a premise that so plausible that it might cause the reader to stop and seriously consider the possibility of it actually occurring. This reader is hooked indeed and waiting rather impatiently for Book 2: OUTCASTS to also be released.

Shaiha - Suite Magazine (February edition)
Rating: 5 Hearts!

Excerpt:

Nick reclined backwards in his chair, scrubbing his face with his palms. His foot bumped the leg of the kitchen table and the personal access computer that sat open in front of him shook with the force. With a frustrated groan, he lowered his hands and crossed his arms over his stomach keeping his slouched position.

The small monitor glowed with the video Caitlin had brought him. Nick had programmed it to magnify and loop over the same thirty-second strip, focusing again and again on Michael’s face as he first spoke to the doctor then turned and looked into the camera.

Again and again.

Michael.

It was unsettling and almost bizarre. Looking at Michael was like looking at himself, the resemblance was so close. There was no denying they were kin. But his son… the thought choked him and made his eyes ache. Nick rested his head on the high back of the chair, the heels of his hands pressed against his eye sockets until spots of light flashed in the darkness.

He heard the door open, and her soft footsteps approaching across the living room accompanied by the clicking of Dog’s toenails, and sensed her presence in the doorway of the kitchen. But Nick didn’t move.

“I don’t have all the answers, but I’ll tell you what I can,” she finally said, her voice soft and rough.

“How do you know he’s my son?”

“The people that gave me this information were able to access his medical and personal records. He was born March 14th, 2026 in Richmond, Virginia.”

Nick’s throat closed in, and he swallowed painfully, lowering his hands to look at her. She stood with her shoulder leaned against the doorjamb, her arms crossed and her elbows grasped in her hands. The breeze outside had mused her short, blonde hair leaving it in soft curls around her cheeks and chin. He saw the glimpse of cobalt blue earrings through the curls, setting off the color of her eyes.

“The records list his paternal contributor to be Captain Nicholas Michael Tanner. “The PPT slides kept in Michael’s medical files were compared to your own in your military records. Your DNA match. You are his father. And his maternal contributor is an Areth scientist named Kathleen.” Her voice cracked as she spoke, and her words split through his head like a spike.

Nick shot out of the chair with such force it fell backwards, bouncing off the edge of the sink before it hit the floor. “Kathleen wasn’t… she died giving birth to our son,” he shouted. His stomach twisted, and he curled his fists, forcing himself to tamp down the rage. “My wife was not Areth,” he forced out through clenched teeth.

Caitlin’s eyes glistened bright with unshed tears, but she didn’t look away from him. He watched as she swallowed, pressing her lips together, before she spoke. “I’m sorry, Nick. She was. And as far as we know, she isn’t dead.”

His heart pounded in his ears and he couldn’t think. Nick pressed his wrists against his temples, trying to push back the chaos. He needed air, and headed for the door. Outside, he drew oxygen in through his nose and gripped one of the porch posts to keep himself upright. She followed, but kept a safe distance back to stand in the doorway.

“Where is he?”

“An Alliance facility outside of Santa Fe, New Mexico.”

“What kind of facility?”

“Genetics research.”

Pain shot down the side of his neck as he ground his teeth together. “How long has he been there?”

Caitlin stepped onto the porch beside him, her hand resting on the post below his own, but not touching him. She leaned into it, her cheek close to the wood. When she looked into his eyes, his gut clenched in a vicious amalgamation of hate and pleasure that just added to the burning fury.

“Twenty-two years.”

Nick’s knees could no longer hold up his weight, and it felt as if a bus had driven straight into his gut. He dropped into a crouch, letting his back brace against the porch railing. With his elbows on his bent knees, he pressed his thumbs to his forehead and closed his eyes. His chest hurt, and Nick wondered if this was what a heart attack felt like as spots of light danced in his vision and his temples throbbed.

He squeezed his eyes closed until they ached, and felt the hot tears he wished he could deny escape to run down his cheeks. Nick swallowed, struggling to push back the images that wouldn’t leave his mind. Kathleen… her body still and ashen… lying on the stainless steel table, her face turned away from him. The tiny body, blue and cold, that the doctors had kept hidden from him. He remembered falling to his knees and screaming at anyone who could hear to save them, bring them back.

“I don’t―” He tried to pull air into his chest, but it hurt so much he could barely gasp. “I don’t understand why. Why would they take my son? ”

Caitlin knelt beside him, tears running down her cheeks, and he couldn’t look into her face. Couldn’t take seeing the gentleness and compassion. Not now. Because he wanted it.

“My son…” he choked again.

“I don’t know,” she whispered, her voice cracking. “I don’t know, Nicky.”

She reached up and touched his hair, smoothing her hand back from his temple, and something tore apart inside him. It ripped through him with a vengeance, stealing the last weak grip he had on control. Nick grabbed hold of Caitlin and hauled her to him in a rough embrace–she wrapped her arms around his head and shoulders and cradled him against her breast.

Purchase in ebook format at Triskelion Publishing.

Book 2 is DONE

2006-01-02T16:54:00.000-05:00

Not just the minimum word count, but the whole kit and kaboodle!

Wooohooo!

Weighing in at just over 81K words, it's almost exactly the same length as the first book. I was afraid I'd have a much shorter book this time... thank goodness, I don't.

Now, I'm moving on to work on a short story for a Valentine's Day anthology being organized by some Triskelion authors. It will be a tie in story to the Phoenix series, focusing on Jace and Lilly Quinn... pre series. Back when they were Jace Quinn and Lilly Franklin. :-)

That should be quick.. and then it's on to book three: Gaining Ground. The full length story of Jace and Lilly Quinn. How can I write a romance novel about a couple who are already married?

Well, you'll just have to read the series to find out.

Gail

Minimums are done!

2005-12-27T07:31:00.000-05:00

As of last night, I officially hit the minimum word count of 70,000 words for The Phoenix Rebellion Book II: Outcasts!

Now, I just have to finish the rest by the end of the week! Wrap it all up with a pretty little bow, as it were.

Inspiration...

2005-12-19T18:33:00.000-05:00

Comes in many shapes and forms...

Course the shape and form of mine looks strickingly like Richard Dean Anderson. :-)

See example above....

This little clip came from a scene of Stargate SG-1 that helped inspire a good portion of Chapter 1 in The Phoenix Rebellion Book I: Rising Up.

*Sigh*

What a man, what a man, what a man, what a mighty good man....

PRECIOUS THINGS a finalist!

2005-12-18T11:39:00.000-05:00

I've received notice that PRECIOUS THINGS has been nomiated for an EPPIE in the Contemporary Romance Category!

I am absolutely THRILLED!

Now, it's a shame I couldn't mace it to EPICon to hear the winning announcements!

I must be insane

2005-12-17T18:25:00.000-05:00

Nine days until Christmas... and a Saturday no less... I decide THIS is the weekend I'll take the kids shopping!

OMG!

First... we had to go to the girl scout store so Kaitlyn could redeem her Cookie 'dough' and buy her cadet uniform.

It took me an hour and a half to FIND the store! If her dough didn't expire on the 22nd, and it was over $50 towards the cost of the uniform etc, I would have probably forgotten the whole thing and moved on. But I was stubborn and FOUND it! Finally!

Then... we head to the mall. We part FIVE lots from the nearest door! Then we hike it to the mall.

Now, the ONLY reason I risked the mall is because we go there EVERY year to get coffee mugs with the kids pictures on them for my father. He's gotten one every year since Kaitlyn was 3 months old. Course, now he gets TWO.

Anyway... we get to the mall.

They aren't DOING the mugs this year! The Kiosk is GONE!

So, we grab some pretzels for lunch and hike back out.

Did I mention... the Girl Scout store is in Bedford... 45 minutes from home... The Mall is in Salem... 25 minutes back in the other direction... then we go to Plaistow... 30 minutes on the OTHER side of our house...

Get to CVS to pick up a prescription. They have no record that I called it in. Twenty minutes THERE!

Then we go to a $1-2-3 store. Cheap presents from the kids, basically.

No major disasters there except they would only take cash. So, I had to borrow money from KAITLYN to have enough ready cash. I never carry cash.

Then the LAST store, Glory Hallelujah and Praise you, Jesus!

And miracle of miracles, we FINISH all the gift buying there.

I left my house at 9:40am... got home at 4:30!

I hate shopping. I despise it with a passion born from the deepest crevices of my soul. And after today, my hatred is purer and deeper than EVER!

Gail R Delaney

Another early Review for Phoenix: Rising UP

2005-12-13T23:26:00.000-05:00

I received an early review for The Phoenix Rebellion Book I: Rising Up from eCataRomance! No link yet as it's not posted to their site quite yet... but I'll share!

Futuristic science fiction at its best, The Phoenix Rebellion Book 1: Rising Up leaves the reader on the edge of their seating waiting impatiently for more. I loved this unexpectedly intriguing book because it captivated my imagination and then left me begging for more. The storyline was fantastic and the characters really came to life and then exceeded all my expectations. I loved the relationship between Nick and CJ, of their past intimacy that ended in heartache and then of how they found each other again and then were able to repair their relationship to become a family. I loved Nick for his ability to love the son he never knew he had, of how he was capable of showing his son the love that had been denied both of them. Ms. Delaney has captured the essence of a romance that gives the reader everything they are looking for in a book, gripping suspense, villains, heroes and heroines and love that exists even years later. I loved this book from the first word to the last and I will be waiting for the release of the next book in this series, even if it is impatiently.

Rating: 5 Stars !

Thank you very much eCataRomance!

Gail

Ruminations of Drunken Pilots... and Excerpt

2005-12-11T18:35:00.000-05:00

I thought I might change the air around here and post and excerpt from my January release, The Phoenix Rebellion Book I: Rising Up.

This excerpt is well into the book, and is a scene between Colonel Nick Tanner and Lieutenant Jace Quinn. Both men are alone on base, and missing the women in their lives, even if Nick won't admit it. :-) And what else are two pilots to do on base with nothing else to do? They drink and share war stories....

On to the excerpt....

“We were running standard lunar training flights–slingshot maneuvers for low burn re-entry–and I broke formation as we skimmed the northern polar cap. I was fifty miles away and hovering at a forty-five degree angle cherubs five down an ice crevice before my CAG knew I was gone.”

Nick arched his eyebrows and bobbed his head. “Holy crap! Five hundred feet? How long did you maintain that position?”

“’Til my go juice was approaching bingo and I figured if I didn’t back track I’d be stuck down there until the whole damn polar cap melted. I heard my playmates on the radio, and they thought I’d crashed and burned. I flew at the speed of heat to the nearest airfield, greased a palm or two to get capped off, and dry-footed it across Asia to Nepal. I contacted some people there I had met over the years, and waited. It took seven months before I met with General Castleton, and came back to North America.”

Nick took another long draw from his beer, draining the remains of his bottle. He sighed with the last swallow, and willingly took the next bottle Jace offered. In the two hours since retrieving the pilfered supply from the medical supply cooler outside the Quinn’s quarters, the two of them had managed to knock back three-quarters of the supply. It had been a mixed lot: import and export, canned and bottled. But Nick didn’t really care. It was all cold, and it was all beer. Close enough.

Right now, his head was feeling light and his limbs were feeling heavy. A not unpleasant sensation. He twisted off the cap of the new bottle, and took a drink. A little stronger than the last one, but smoother. Not bad.

“By then, Earth Force knew you weren’t dead.”

Jace shrugged. “Pretty much, yeah. I was declared AWOL and a deserter.”

“What made you do it?”

Jace finished his own beer and took the last amber bottle from the cardboard six-pack on the glass top table between them. “Ever get a feeling in your gut that just says things aren’t right?”
Nick nodded, his cheeks puffing out with a low belch. “Sure.”

“That’s all it was. I had no solid proof of anything. Not like most people who come here. I just knew things were too damn good to be true. Freedom and security doesn’t come that easy. It doesn’t just fall in your lap. My father was an Earth Force chaplain, and my mother’s father was a Marine before the Areth came. He fought in Desert Storm back the end of the century. I remember him telling me about what it was like, when we were the United States of America and not just another continent. Not that I think the world should go back to fighting with each other. But somewhere along the way we lost our pride. Our own strength. I don’t trust anyone who can take that away.”

Nick stared at him for several moments, then chuckled.

“What?” Jace asked.

“Do you ever shut up?”

Jace laughed. “My wife says I talk too much when I’m drunk.”

“She’s right.”

In response, Jace drained half the contents of his fresh beer. Nick looked down at his own, and decided to slow down just a little. It had been awhile since he had drank large quantities of alcohol, and probably was beyond the point of avoiding a hangover in the morning, but wanted to avoid getting sick if at all possible.

“How long have you been married?”

“Four years,” Jace answered, setting his own bottle down and crossing his arms over his chest, slouching down in his chair. “I met Lilly when I transferred to this base. She had been with Phoenix for two years already.” He smiled the goofy kind of grin Nick recognized as a drunken man in love. “It took me six months to convince her I wasn’t just a cocky glider pilot looking for a quick screw. Six months later, we were married.”

Nick raised his bottle in salute, forgetting his resolve from minutes before to back off on the booze. “Well, good luck, congratulations and all that.”

Jace grinned and raised his own bottle. As both men lowered the bottles again, Jace used his to point toward Nick. “How long have you and CJ been a thing?”

Nick slouched down on the leather-upholstered bench and set his foot on the edge of the low table, resting his bottle on his thigh. “Caitlin and I haven’t been a thing for a long time.”

“Yeah? How long?”

“Eight years.”

The younger man’s eyebrows jerked upward and his mouth dropped open. Nick figured he was probably doing the math. Yeah, she was young. So, he was a cradle robber. Nothing he hadn’t heard before. But she hadn’t acted like any twenty-two year old he’d ever met, and she sure as hell didn’t look like a kid!

“Shit. So, what the hell happened?”

“Can we change the subject?”

“Sore spot, huh?”

“Drop it,” Nick snapped.

“Still love her, huh?”

“Remember that thing your wife said about you talking too much? You’re doing it again,” he said against the mouth of his beer before taking another swig.

Irish Temper

2005-12-11T15:49:00.000-05:00

I could engage in a heated argument with "Anonymous" regarding their opinions.

But I often find arguing with a brick wall gives you nothing but a sore throat.

However, I have updated the settings of this blog.

If you have something to say, you'll have to sign your name. If you believe strongly enough in your opinion to voice it, feel strongly enough to put your name to it as well.

Lord knows, I knew not everyone would agree with me. I don't expect everyone to agree with me, and I don't demand everyone agree with me.

If I did, I'd have to change my name to Romance Writer's of America.

Please return to your regularly scheduled blogging...

Gail R. Delaney

RWA can bite my big, fat, ebook writing A**!

2005-12-06T19:11:00.000-05:00

When I decided to make writing a serious commitment, I started doing research. What could I do to make myself a better writer? Where could I go?

I heard about Romance Writers of America. Everything I read said this was the 'in' club to belong to. Every self-respecting romance author was a member.

So, I signed up. I paid my $90 bucks... and for it, I faithfully received Romance Writer's Review every month... and not much else. I noticed there was a definite slant towards authors who wrote category... but, I was willing to stick around because I felt like this MUST be a good thing, right?

Then, I signed my first publishing contract. For an Ebook. And started seeing a side of RWA I didn't like.

Ebook publication is the new kid on the block... but don't get me wrong... we are up and coming. Come on, how many sci fi movies show people reading books? If they did, they were 'antiques' to be collected. Books and literature were stored on computers. DUH! What the h*ll do you think an ebook is? You can read it on your computer... your ebookreader... your palm... your ipac... the list goes on. Carry 30 books in one device rather than one book in your briefcase.

But RWA has had their back up about ebooks since day one.

Several ebook publishers have attempted to become 'RWA recognized' over the years. And except for Ellora's Cave, every one of them has been turned down. I've heard every excuse...

Here's the excuse they gave New Concepts Publishing... "The size of your print books don't meet standard Trade Paperback measurements...."

A trade paperback is not defined by its size... it is define by the paper on which the book is printed.

Triskelion Publishing applied for RWA Recognitin this year. We met all their 'requirements'... INCLUDING selling 1500 copies of a given title within a calendar year. We well exceeded those sales within months... we didn't need the whole year.

And yet, we were turned down... Why?

First excuse... Bewitched, Bothered and Bevampyred is not a romance.

Funny... it's published by a house who only sells romance. The authors wrote it as a romance. Readers buy it as a romance. Reviewers reviewed it as a romance...

Second excuse... It's not an anthology. Hmmm, multiple authors (all romance, btw) writing various short stories combined together in a common theme and published together. Sure does sound like an anthology to me!

Third... this one really got me. It didn't qualify because the authors didn't get paid for it. First, this little requirement is not revealed anywhere and I'm sure will prove to be one of their "Quick, let me pull another excuse out of my ass" category. Second, the authors didn't get paid because they ALL gave all their royalties to CHARITY! ALL proceeds from the sales of this book benef the RED CROSS!

In 2004, when my membership came due, it took me no time at all to decide RWA didn't deserve my $90 a year anymore.

I'm like a non-entity to them... I can't enter the RITA because I'm not published with a recognized house... a house they refuse to recognize... and I can't enter the contests for un-published authors because I'm published... but yet, I'm not published because it's 'just' an ebook publisher.

?????????

Don't even get me started about their idea of good taste... we can't show a man touching a woman provocatively on a cover... but it's good taste to show a film of 9/11 and Tienanmen Square while playing "Don't Worry, Be Happy."

I'd love Triskelion to be recognized... just so I can say "BIG FAT HAIRY DEAL!"

Gail R. Delaney
Former RWA member and proud of it!

Performance Anxiety and Premature Rejectulation...

2005-11-25T12:45:00.000-05:00

Are all you men cringing yet? LOL

A few posts back, I was complaining that everything I had written for book 2 of The Phoenix Rebellion was crap... and I was politely told by my good friend John that I was suffering from what he called Premature Rejectulation... assuming I would be rejected before I even started.

He was probably right in some degree... I still stand by that first version being crap.

So, I started over...

Now, I think I'm suffering from Performance Anxiety.

I received an early review for Rising Up... here is the meat of the review...

"Lovers of the science fiction romance genre rejoice! There is a new voice on the scene and RISING UP by Ms. Delaney has to be the best in this genre that this reviewer has ever had the pleasure of reading!...More then once this reviewer found herself wiping away tears, cheering at a triumphant scene and cursing the characters when they were being bullheaded and obtuse. It is rather rare that the reader will find themselves welcomed so wholeheartedly into a book and kudos to Ms. Delaney for enabling this treat! ...RISING UP will whet your appetite with dynamic characters and a premise that so plausible that it might cause the reader to stop and seriously consider the possibility of it actually occurring. This reader is hooked indeed and waiting rather impatiently for Book 2: OUTCASTS to also be released."

She gave me a five out of five...

So, now that I'm on the right track with Book Two... and no matter how stoked I am about the reaction to Book One... I keep thinking "What if Book Two just isn't as good? What if it is some meager shadow of Book Two? What if people read Book Two and think this is crap and don't bother read the rest?"

See? Performance Anxiety...

I soooo know how men feel now...

Gail

Cover Art for The Phoenix Rebellion

2005-11-15T23:31:00.000-05:00

I have cover art for The Phoenix Rebellion Book I: Rising Up.

Well, actually - it's pretty much the cover art for the whole series. LOL. Just the title will change. I like it. It's simple... understated... let's the reader fill in the blanks. :-) I wanted NO people... and after acouple tries (and despite the fact that my husband swears he sees a woman in the shadows of the planet) I have what I want.

And I'm happy!

Gail

My two Muses

2005-11-14T10:57:00.000-05:00

I have two muses... other than Alabaster who is a pain in the Mitka and freely takes off at will and often leaves me stranded....

Meet My Muses.... wasn't it nice of them to pose together????

One is the ever hunky, ever gorgeous, ever scrumptious Richard Dean Anderson. He's the inspiration for Nick... and Michael, too... truth be known. He's a hunk of a man and who wouldn't be inspired by that?

the other muse is whom? You may ask?

That's Jen.

She's my "Kick me in the arse and get me on track" muse. She the one who says "What the h*ll are you doing here?" when I go astray with my book. She's the one who points out the gaping holes in my logic and gently pats me on the back to steer me in the right direction. She's the one who... when that doesn't work... implements tough love and as mentioned above... kicks me in the arse.

I'm back on track. Book two: Outcasts is on it's merry path to completion again. With a much better plot. I'm happy again. :-)

And I owe it all to Jen. :-)

What would I do without you, my friend?

Cry in my beer. :-)

Gail

Crapola Gorgonzola

2005-11-07T07:51:00.000-05:00

Whoever said "I can fix a badly written page, I can't fix a blank one" is full of crap.

Here's my take... If the page is blank, I have a fighting chance of writing something half decent, but if I've already written crap and I try to fix it... all I'm going to do is dump more crap on top of it.

Put a bouquet of roses on top of a pile of dung... you still have a pile of dung.

Can you tell I'm a wee bit frustrated?

I'm 21K words into a book and it's crap. Crap. Crap. Crap.

I've tried to fix it... (see above quote)... and yet... still crap.

I've agonized... hypothesized... theorizied... utilized...

In the end... I've come to the conclusion... the best way to fix crap is to bring in a bulldozer and haul it away. Maybe you can leave enough behind to provide some nice fertilizer for the garden you plan on planting... but overall... get it the hell outta there.

I have (god, I don't even want to think about it....) waaaayyy too little time to whip this thing into shape, and time spent slapping lipstick on a pig just isn't worth it.

So... I'm going to 'cut the crap'.... not just try to reshape it into something appealing... just chuck it out the window... and start fresh. Yep, fresh...

*pounding head on desk*

Mama....

I will make this work... it will work, DAMNIT!

Gail

My new toy!

2005-11-05T20:47:00.000-05:00

*clapping hands gleefully!*

I got a new toy!

This is a Dana.... and for a writer who wants to travel light... and easy... this is a Godsend.

This baby allows you to transfer word documents back and forth from your computer with a couple pushes of a button and a USB cable... or 'beam' them from a Palm pilot on an infrared beam.. my version allows wireless internet connections... it has an Ebook storage and reading program... calendars... memos... GAMES... alarms... The screen is full sized to fit a full page of text all the way across... they keyboard is a standard full-sized keyboard...

It weighs 2 pounds... slips easily into a tote bag or back pack....

And this is the part I like...

When fully charged... the built in battery will last 25 hours! Show me a laptop that'll do THAT!

And when the rechargeable battery gets low, it'll run on 3 AA batteries for WEEKS!

It's AWESOME!

Can you tell I like this baby?

I'm tellin' ya... if you're a writer... you need one of these.

Gail

Cover Art for Dance With Me

2005-10-30T22:04:00.000-05:00

Well, I have the cover art for Dance With Me, my July 2006 release with Wings.

It wasn't the original concept I had in mind... but in the end, I'm happy with it. It is simple and elegant and ... solid? Is that a good word for a cover? It's not frou frou or overly fancy.

It's just a simple backdrop of Katahdin Mountain, where much of the story takes place.

Yup, I like it... I like it alot. :-)

Gail D.

Release Dates for Phoenix

2005-10-23T15:49:00.000-04:00

I've received the official release months for the entire series The Phoenix Rebellion.

Book I: Rising Up will be released in January.

Book II: Outcasts will be released in March

Book III: Gaining Ground will be released in June

and Book IV: End Game will be released in August.

I'm very excited about this series (if you haven't been able to tell by my past posts!) and can't wait for it to be 'out there'.

Gail

Meet Jacqueline Anderson

2005-10-18T16:51:00.000-04:00

Name: Jacqueline Terese Anderson

Rank: None

Birthdate: 08 May 2022

Birthplace: Costa Rica, Continent of Central America

Race: Human

Description: 5-foot-7, 133 lbs. Brunette hair, dark brown eyes. medium olive skin. Athletic, conditioned body-type.

Family: She has a grandmother somewhere, but hasn't seen her since she was four years old. Mother died when Jacqueline was 6 years old, her father was murdered when she was eighteen. She considers General Robert Castleton a 'father figure' of sorts, but otherwise is pretty much self-sufficent and on her own.

Career History: Jacqueline found herself on her own at the age of eighteen when her father (reporter Paul Anderson) was murdered. Her father had known 'people' in Phoenix and she sought them out, joining the resistance group. She is trained in weapons combat, hand-to-hand, computer technologies and can breach almost any security system built. For the last eight years, she has worked as an undercover operative gathering intelligence and infiltrating Areth Alliance environments to further the Phoenix cause.

Personal History: Jacqueline and her father went 'on the run' when she was twelve. Paul Anderson had been a vocal journalist, speaking out against the Areth, since their initial arrival on Earth. Eventually, someone attempted to 'silence' him and failed... and he took his young daughter on a clandestine trip around the World, constantly running from his enemies. He had connections within Phoenix but preferred to keep his distance to prevent the organization from being discovered too soon. Finally, his enemies succeeded, leaving Jacqueline alone. She sought out General Robert Castleton and continued her father's fight against the Areth, but within the Phoenix network.

She's never connected too deeply with anyone... never been in one place long enough to try... and has preferred to keep her relationships short, never getting too involved. It keeps her alive... and keeps Phoenix alive at the same time.

(all bio information is 'pre-series' and no copyright infringement is intended with any photographs)

Meet Michael Tanner

2005-10-15T23:01:00.000-04:00

Name: Michael Sean Tanner

Title: None

Birthdate: 14 March 2026

Birthplace: Richmond, Virginia

Race: Half-human/Half-Areth

Description: 6-foot-1, 175 lbs, lt. brown hair, dark brown eyes. Strong, yet probably slightly under ideal weight for height due to lack of consistent nutrition.

Family: The only familial connection Michael is aware of is Kathleen... the Areth scientist who prefers to throw her maternity at him like a weapon and use it as justification for her mistreatment of him.

Career History: Not applicable.

Personal History: The only life Michael has ever known is the one within the prison walls of the Areth facility where he has 'lived' since he was a young child. His home is a small cell, his life dictated by the whims of the Areth scientists running the facility. The most sadistic of all the Areth is Kathleen, his self-proclaimed mother. She appears to find pleasure in his pain, and although she claims there is a purpose behing her 'experiments' and research, Michael only knows the results that often leave him near death. His only salvation, often the only thing that has kept him alive, has been his friendship with Victor, an Areth scientist who goes against his superiors orders to help Michael whenever he can.

Michael has often wondered about life outside the Facility... has dreamed of ways to escape. He has an IQ of 179 - extremely intelligent - and knew at a young age he was neither human nor Areth and has wondered many times who is responsible for his paternity, but holds no hope that finding out would make any difference.

(reminder... all profiles are 'pre-series' and no copyright infringement intended on any photographs)

Meet Beverly Surimoto

2005-10-12T18:59:00.000-04:00

Name: Beverly Surimoto

Title: None

Birthdate: 07 April 2021

Birthplace: Colorado Springs, CO

Description: 5 foot-7 inches, 138 lbs. fair skinned, red hair.

Race: Human

Special file notations: Deaf, low level empath

Family: Both parents deceased. No siblings or living relatives otherwise.

Career History: Beverly was born into Phoenix. Her mother and father were two of the founding leaders of the group over thirty years ago, even though they both had initially been deeply involved in the efforts to mingle the Areth with the human population the first few years after their arrival. Growing up surrounded by great military minds, she has become a respected and talented leader of the organization, and while she holds no title or rank, she is considered among the highest eschelons of the Phoenix Chain of Command.

Personal History: Although she lost her parents as a teenager, Beverly has never felt alone. She considers the men and women of Phoenix her family, and feels close to all of them, although she often feels the need to maintain a certain level of physical distance. Her parents blatantly refused the genetic filtering, which was widely established and recommended around the time of Beverly's conception, knowing full well the chances were strong she could inherit the recessive deaf gene in the Surimoto family. She has never viewed her deafness as a hindrance, only a part of who she is. Just as she does her empathic abilities. Although not exceptionally overpowering, Beverly is able to sense strong emotions in others through physical contact, and can usually 'read' individuals well... sensing deceit more readily than most.

She has found it difficult to maintain, or even establish, any kind of intimate relationship. The men she has grown close to in the past have eventually become too intimidated by her empathy. She has convinced herself that Phoenix, the work she does, and the friends she surrounds herself with is enough to fill her life.

In defense of My Victor Selection. :-)

2005-10-12T18:55:00.000-04:00

Now, I know that not ever reader will see my characters the way I do... they don't live in my head... and frankly, they don't want to. :-)

But I must defend myself against my dear friend John's thought that Victor should look like Anthony Hopkins! :-)

I offere this brief description from The Phoenix Rebellion Book I: Rising Up and ask you... does this say Anthony Hopkins to you?

His countenance was relaxed, his head turned slightly on the pillow so his face tilted toward her. Thick black lashes curled against his cheeks, and his short hair fell across his forehead haphazardly. Two days worth of unshaved beard darkened his jaw, accentuating the sharp lines of his features. The planes and ridges of his profile were subtle in comparison to men like Nick Tanner and Jason Quinn, his build more tendon than muscle. He reminded her of the track athletes from the Olympic Games held twenty years before. Tall and lithe, his size
belied his strength.

I think NOT! *snicker*

Anyway... onward and upward and on to the next biography....

GRD

Meet Victor

2005-10-10T18:20:00.000-04:00

Name: Victor

Title: His people do not hold surname, titles nor ranks of distinction. They simply know who their superiors are, and whom they hold authority over. In comparison to his human peers, he would be a Theoretical Geneticist.

Birthdate: Equivalent to Earth year 1844 (this body)

Birthplace: Unknown.

Description: 6 feet .5 inches, 180 lbs. black hair, dark eyes. Olive tone skin. Similar in appearance to humans of Central America or Latino heritage. Lithe in form, strong and lean.

Race: Areth

Family: Irrelevent

Career History: Prior to his work in the Alliance Genetics Facility in New Mexico 40 years before, Victor conducted various fields of research aboard the Areth cruiser which he has lived for the last several hundred years. His job is to isolate and eliminate the 'key' that plagues the cloning process by which the Areth reproduce themselves.

Personal History: Victor's memories are vague the further back he tries to remember. He knows he has always been a scientist, has always sought the one key to give the Areth their eternal strength and solve their reproductive cloning problems. But once he joined the research group in New Mexico, he felt more ill at ease with what his brethren did and asked of him. He befriended a small child - Michael - even though contact with the human subjects was strictly frowned upon. And now that Michael is grown, and Victor is forced to witness more and more each day the atrocities and torture doled out to Michael and the others, he hates who he is and what he does even more. He wishes he could stop it, but knows if his thoughts were ever known - if his hatred for his own people were discovered - he could face a fate worse than death. For now, he bides his time and fights his own inner demons.

Meet Dr. Lilly Franklin-Quinn

2005-10-07T13:33:00.000-04:00

Name: Lilly Marie Franklin-Quinn

Title: Doctor of Applied Medicine

Birthdate: 01 December 2018

Birthplace: Quebec, Canada

Description: 5-foot-7, 148 lbs. Short blode hair, mid-throat lenght, light blue eyes. feminine, curvy build.

Race: Human

Family: Husband, Lt. Jason Quinn. Married 4 years. Parents deceased. Grandmother living in Quebec. No siblings.

Career History: Lilly entered the medical field in her teens, when career pathing was instituted. She had a natural feel for it, and a love for the work. She moved to Florida to work in an Advanced Care and Convalescence Hospital in her early twenties, where she provided care for aging humans born prior to the Areth's arrival who now began to face the natural diseases and deterioration of age which were intended to be avoided through advanced Areth technology. She was approached by her mentor, Doctor Edgar Arbitrand, regarding Phoenix, and joined shortly after. To provide the Colorado base with medical care, she began splitting her time between her responsibilities in Florida and the infirmary in Colorado.

Personal History: Like many adults her age, Lilly was genetically filtered before her birth. Her parents believed this gave her a superior chance at adancement in an Areth-commingled society. She was able to advance quickly through school and entered medical training at a young age, leaving Canada to work in Florida after her parents' death. Surrounded by the infirmed and ill, she didn't understand why the Areth were unwilling to help them as much as they were willing to help the young, thus beginning her first grains of doubt. It didn't take much convincing from her mentor to bring her into Phoenix. After a couple years of splitting her time between the Colorado base and her Florida hospital, Lilly met hot-shot pilot Jace Quinn. She had known many pilots, and had no desire to get involved. But Jace was persistent, and eventually wore down her defenses. He made her fall in love with him, whether she wanted to or not, and they married in the chapel at the Colorado base. He lives there full time, doing what he can for Phoenix, while she continues to travel. She hates being apart from him, but until the Areth are gone, it is what they need to do.

(reminder... all in fun... no copyright infringement intended...)

Meet Lt. Jason 'Jace' Quinn

2005-10-05T13:08:00.000-04:00

Name: Jason 'Jace' Patrick Quinn

Rank: Lieutenant (AWOL from Earth Force)

Birthdate: 22 October 2017

Birthplace: Tallahassee, Florida

Description: 6 feet tall, 196 lbs. physically fit. Broad shouldered and strong. dark brown hair and green eyes.

Race: Human

Family: Wife, Dr. Lilly Franklin-Quinn. Married 4 years. Father and Mother, Rev. and Mrs. Nathaniel and Ellen, living in Florida. Three brothers: Elijah, Zachary and Jacob. Two sisters: Rachel and Rebecca. All living. Grandfather, Rev. Jedediah Quinn. Has only made sparse contact with his family in last several years due to his involvement with Phoenix, and his desire not to put them in danger for his actions in leaving the military.

Career History: Wanting to break away from the 'family business', although he carries a strong belief in Faith, Jace joined the military at 20 years old. His flying skills were quickly recognized, and he was trained as a wormhole glider pilot. His single career goal was to beat the manual wormhole flight records set by Colonel Nicholas Tanner, and came close once except for machinery failure. He was a great pilot, and a good soldier, but overall considered irreverent and cocky. When his doubts for the Areth outweighed his belief in Earth Force, he went AWOL. It took him months to connect with General Robert Castleton and join Phoenix, but he has been with the organization for five years.

Personal History: The middle child of six, Jace came from a long line of preachers - Men of God. And it was the strong beliefs his family engrained into him that first cast his doubts on the Areth and their story of our Genesis. His grandfather had been one of the first religious men to speak out against the Areth, and not the last, but he was one of the loudest. Jace knew at a young age that the 'family' business - following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather to lead a church - wasn't the path for him. After a few years of honing his flying skils, and doing his best to beat Nick Tanner's records, his doubt for the Areth grew to be too much. The more he heard the more he didn't believe. After going AWOL, and joining Phoenix, he met Lilly Franklin - a beautiful doctor who had been with Phoenix for several years already. It took him months to convince her he wasn't just a cocky flyboy looking for a quick toss in the sack... but once he won her heart, he won her hand.

Meet Dr. Caitlin 'CJ' Montgomery

2005-10-02T13:42:00.000-04:00

Name: Caitlin June (CJ) Montgomery

Title: Doctor, Theoretical Genetics

Birthdate: 25 August, 2021

Birthplace: Paris, France

Description: 5-foot-8, Blonde hair, blue eyes. 135 pounds. healthy build.

Race: Human

Family: Mother and Father living in Paris. One younger brother, Connor. Minimal familial contact - hasn't spoken to parents in several years, or brother since he was 18 and moved out of their parents' home. Lack of contact not due to strife or argument, but rather a lack of connection.

Career History: Left home at the age of seven when her 'gift' for science was honed in on. Earned her Doctorates by the age of 20, and began working in one of the top Areth/Human "Alliance" facilities. She has led the way in numerous research studies to isolate and filter a number of human-genetic diseases in the pursuit of wiping all genetic flaws out of the human genome. Two years ago, while accessing files for her research, she inadvertently discovered the reports for several secret studies completed by Areth scientists, apparently without the knowledge of their human counterparts. The information was so devastating, it drove CJ to seek out Phoenix... Now, she works as an undercover operative for Phoenix within an Alliance genetics facility.

Personal History: Having left her parents' home at a very young age, and grew up in boarding houses and dormitories, CJ never felt a close connection with anyone. She focused on her work, feeling priviledges to use her abilities to better the human race. She was one of the first 'genetically filtered' births after the Areth and Humans began working together, and the Areth saw her as a talent not to be wasted. At the age of twenty-one, CJ met Colonel Nick Tanner. Much older than she, Nick treated her as his equal, and quickly showed her there was more to life than her career. It wasn't long before they were lovers, and she fell hard and fast for him. When her Areth superiors learned of the relationship, they began encouraging her to end it, telling her that such a relationship would not be in her best interest. She was young, and having never been 'guided' by anyone but the Areth, she listened... ending their affair after only a few months. She immediately regretted her decision, but felt there was no way to change it. Now, armed with information she knows will change Nick's life... she finds him and faces him... even though she knows he won't want to see her.

(Just a reminder... this is just a bit of fun... copyright infringement of photographs not intended)

Meet Colonel Nicholas 'Nick' Tanner

2005-09-28T17:24:00.000-04:00

(I am going to post, ever few days, biographies on the main characters in The Phoenix Rebellion series. All information is presented as 'pre-series'. All photographs are intended as visual representations of what these characters look like in my head... and yes, some might look familiar. No copyright infringement is intended)

Name: Nicholas Michael Tanner aka 'Nick'

Rank: Colonel, Earth Force - Retired

Birthdate: 06 May 2004

Birthplace: Augusta, Maine

Description: 6-foot-3, Brown hair now mostly silver/gray, dark brown eyes. 210 pounds

Race: Human

Family: None living. Wife, Kathleen, deceased in 2026 during childbirth. Son, Michael, deceased at birth. No living blood relatives.

Military History: Nick Tanner joined Earth Force at 18, months after the Global Government was formed and all individual nations were done away with. He proved to be a skilled pilot and strong leader, moving up through the ranks. He retired permanently at the age of 40, having obtained the rank of Colonel. At the time of his retirement, his wormhole manual flight records were the best ever recorded, a point of prestige he maintains still.

Personal History: Nick chose to join the military to follow in the footsteps of his father and grandfather before him. All military men and pilots, he chose to commit himself to Earth Force even though it was no longer the military his forefathers knew. He met his wife, Kathleen, at nineteen, and married a year later. Within a year of their marriage they were expecting their first child. Nick was devastated at their deaths, and the first solid grains of doubt for the "All Powerful Areth" began to grow in him. He commited himself to his career for many years before meeting a young theoretical geneticist by the name of Caitlin Montgomery. Seventeen years separated their ages, but their relationship grew quickly. After seven months, Caitlin ended the affair with little explanation. A year later, Nick retired to a cabin in Maine built by his great-grandfather.

Review for TENDER HEARTS

2005-09-24T19:26:00.000-04:00

I know... I go weeks with NOTHING... and then three posts in one day. I'm weird like that.

But I received my first official review today for Tender Hearts, my November 2005 release with WingsePress... and I'm loving what she has to say!

"I'm a sap for a great story, I'll freely confess and this one is just perfect. The Culver family being so warm and caring is just the right thing for a young woman really having almost no one at all interested in her well- being. The wonderful way she is able to finally rekindle a sense of truly belonging somewhere and to someone, with this family. A tissue warning: the hospital scenes are just wonderfully written, so emotionally compelling, so make sure a few tissues are at hand. And last, but not least, the possibility that Billy's brothers might have stories in the making have my eyes glued to the authors website. A wonderful story for all romance readers."

Rating: 5 hearts!

Reviewer: Glenda K. Bauerle
http://www.theromancestudio.com/reviews/reviews/tenderheartsdelaney.htm

The funny thing is that I never really thought of doing a story for Joey or Scott... but now, Glenda has me thinking! LOL

Thanks, Glenda! And thank you Romance Studio!

Gail

I guess I should have mentioned....

2005-09-24T16:22:00.000-04:00

Triskelion Publishing picked up The Phoenix Rebellion - the entire series!

The first book is slated for a January 2006 release, and we are working out the details for the subsequent installments.

WOOHOOOOO!

I have to say, of all the books I've written... Phoenix is by far my favorite. I absolutely love it! And it's in a genre I never thought I'd work in... futuristic romance... but hey, it's coming very easy for me and who am I to complain?

Watch for more details! I'll try to keep up better, I promise.

Gail

The Areth: Long Lost Brethren or Wolf in Sheep's Clothing?

2005-09-24T16:07:00.000-04:00

(Please note: This is an excerpt from my upcoming release The Phoenix Rebellion Book I: Rising Up. It stands as a type of intruduction to the series... by no means should this be considered an ACTUAL article... I know y'all can figure that out, but I have to say it all the same.)

The Areth: Long, Lost Brethren or Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing?
Newsweek
February 4, 2008
By: Paul M. Anderson

Except for the most isolated and primitive parts of this planet, nearly everyone in the World knows of our visitors from the stars. Aliens who look like us, miraculously speak every major language on the planet, and claim to be the very generators of our existence. Some have accepted their promises of a better world without hesitance, arguing that to believe we were alone in the universe would be sanctimonious and egotistical. Others beg for prudence, often falling, as it would seem if the rulers of the World’s major countries are any indicator, on deaf ears.

But who are the Areth? What else do we really know about them? And if their claims are true, what does it mean for the human race and everything we have ever known to be true?

Whatever your religious affiliation may or may not be, it has always been a generally accepted truism that the people of Earth came from, well, Earth. Whether you believe we were placed here by Divine Intervention, or you believe we crawled from the primordial goo and sprouted legs, it all happened on this Big Blue Marble. Makes sense, right?

Not according to the newest inhabitants of our ever-shrinking planet.

Let me give you the long and the short of it, just in case you have been living in a cave for the last few months.

Last week, at a press conference held at the White House following a lengthy closed-door meeting with President Bush, Warrick made the following statement. Again, for those of you in the dark, Warrick is apparently the Areth’s version of the Prez – the Big Cheese – High Honcho – The Boss.

“…Ten thousand years ago, an exploration ship was lost in this part of the galaxy and its inhabitants assumed dead. We now know those scientists found their way to this planet, and survived despite the primitive elements. Ten centuries apart have changed us, made us separate – Human and Areth – but we are at the core the same. We are brethren.”

Long story short, they are our ancestors. Not Adam and Eve. Not hunchbacked cavemen with buck teeth and uni-brows. A bunch of highly advanced ‘aliens’ from the other side of the galaxy spawned us.

Freaky, huh?

So, what about Adam and Eve, and every other belief we have held on to for more generations than any of us can count? Do we just say “Okay, sure. Sounds good. You must be right; you are the superior race and all.”?

I don’t know about the rest of you, but I’ve watched way too many science fiction movies to swallow this cock and bull story. The second you fall for it is when their eyes glow, a ten foot tongue comes flying out of their mouth, or you find out you have some reptilian embryo clawing its way out of your gut.

Rev. Jedediah Quinn said yesterday during a highly publicized sermon from his church in Tallahassee, Florida “To throw aside our faith in God and the very teachings of the Word would be an abomination. These Areth are not our forefathers. We may have been created by the same God, but our God put us here, not them. Our history is our own, our past our own, and our future should be our own.”

Science has proven that, at least on a genetic level, we are indeed made up of the same DNA soup as the Areth. Our hearts are in the same place, they beat at pretty much the same rhythm. Their blood isn’t green. They don’t have large, bulbous heads and clawed hands. So, what sets us apart? How have we evolved differently over the last ten thousand years or so? Apparently, the Areth don’t like to ‘get it on’.

That’s right. No hanky panky.

If that’s the future, you can have it. I don’t want it. I like things just the way they are.

Apparently, the Areth recreate themselves through cloning. And remember how your college buddies told you if you didn’t use it, you’d lose it? He was right…

So, they show up and say they’re our long lost brethren. They want to move in and mingle amongst us lesser-developed Areth wannabees. Why? What do we have to offer them? And why should we let them stay? Other than the fact that they have some big honkin’ space guns, they claim they want to ‘share’ their knowledge. They want to teach us how to improve our world, make ourselves better, stronger… live longer.
Did I mention they live to be close to five hundred years old?

And look damn good doing it, too!

I’m not claiming I know what we should do. I’m not even sure I have a solid opinion yet. The scales tip back and forth… No sex? No way… Live longer? I could deal with that… as long as I can keep the sex.

Paul Anderson signing off… Live Long and Prosper… Nanu Nanu.

(Keep watch here for more details. Each time I post, I will help you get to know the cast of characters behind The Phoenix Rebellion and see what they look like - to me, anyway.)

Don't faint

2005-09-19T08:17:00.000-04:00

Yes, I'm posting....

Okay, so I've been a bit busy lately. LOL

But I can breathe for the next 15 minutes so I thought I'd post.. oh, wait... make that 10.

I finished Rising Up: Book One of The Phoenix Rebellion this weekend! Wooohoooo! Just short of 80K, it's my shortest book ever, but not by much. Although, I don't consider that a bad thing since it's the first in a series and if you string all the books together, it'd be HUGE. :-)

I sent it off to the editor last night... we'll see what happens. Now I wait.

And wait.

Have I ever mentioned how much I hate waiting?

I do, I really, really do.

Anyway, I'm again at a crossroads... Do I do the edits on Gray Clouds like I said I was going to? Or do I just dive in to Outcasts, book two? My heart is saying "Go for book two! Go for book two!" and frankly, so is Alabaster.

........................

Okay.... so, I actually paused in the writing of this entry to take my son to the bus and ran to Dunkin' Donuts. And in the car, I had a great idea for an opening scene to book two.

Alabaster is being very insistent.

I'll get back to you.

Gail

The weight has been lifted!

2005-07-24T13:07:00.000-04:00

Finally! After at least 3 weeks of struggling... I broke through the wall and finished chapter 11 of Phoenix: Rising Up!

This chapter was harder than giving birth, I swear!

I know why... it was much more plot/action oriented and I do much better whenI focusing on the characters. So, what would seem like action and adventure to the reader was like pulling teeth to write.

But I got through it... one more action based chapter (in this section) and I can get back to the good stuff! The rip your heart out and stop it into the ground emotion I'm so famous for!

Gail

Today was a cool day!

2005-07-23T13:57:00.000-04:00

I had a very cool day today!

First, I went to the library and set up some tentative nights for my "Meet the Author" night here in town, and the library here is ordering a couple copies of PRECIOUS THINGS.

Then, I was headed to the post office to mail off a prize book I gave as a contest gift, and I stopped at the bank on the way. I've talked several times with a woman there about my books - the fact that they're coming out etc - and she has been very excited about them for months.

When she saw me she immediately asked if they were now out, and I answered yes. In the course of the conversation, I said I had a copy in my car and she wanted to buy it so I could sign it.

Who am I to say no?

I went to the car, and when I came back a patron of the bank was waiting for me. She said she couldn't help but overhear our conversation. She said she works for a local library and they are always interested in hyping local authors. She asked for my card and phone # and said the library would be giving me a call to set up a night for me to come speak.

Again... who am I to say no?

Then I was at the post office preparing the book to mail, and the woman behind the counter put together the name on my check to the name on the book... you woulda thought I was a movie star the way she gushed!

*glowing*

This is so cool!

I also found out this week that I've been listed on a Recommended Read list on a particular website http://www.marygardner.net/reads.html I've been out three weeks!

This is waaaay cool!

I soooo can get used to this!

I've been informed I need to post!

2005-07-21T22:48:00.000-04:00

LOL!

I have been straight out since the first doing one thing or another. I think I've been at home about 7 days in the last 21. I spent a long weekend at my fathers... came home for 3 days... went back to my fathers for another weekend... came home for a few days... went to Boston for 3 days... came home for 1... left for camping for 2 days... came home yesterday... and THAT has been my July.

So, needless to say I haven't gotten much writing done!

On a positive note, I already have someone showing interest in my sci fi/futuristic series. I may have the first book out as early as the beginning of 2006. I don't want to give any details because nothing is firm until I actually finish the book (see first paragraph as to why this hasn't happened yet...)

I have two whole weeks before things get crazy again, so I hope to get some major writing done. My whip-cracker (aka Sydney Somers http://www.sydneysomers.com/home.html ) has 'informed me I am to have chapter 11 to her for critique by Monday, and chapters 12 & 13 by the end of next week. Ugh! But, with a schedule like that, I might actually get this baby DONE!

I'm running a new contest on my chat group... http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TakeAJourney/ through the end of August. Help me design a book cover, and the person with the best suggestion wins a download from my publisher, Wings (www.wings-press.com) on me.

That's it for now... I need a beverage and probably then go to bed. So much for chapter 11...

Gail

I'm PUBLISHED - and another Review

2005-07-07T09:36:00.000-04:00

I'm still in a bit of a daze... but I can officially say "I AM PUBLISHED!" Woohooo!

And I've received another favorable review for Precious Things....

Gail R. Delaney holds nothing back as she gives readers a tormented hero unknowingly waiting to be loved unconditionally... PRECIOUS THINGS is a tear jerker of a romance and is not to be missed by those wanting an excellent read!"

Rating: 4.5 Ribbons

Tracy Marsac
Romance Junkies
http://www.romancejunkies.com/artman/publish/article_3721.shtml

A couple new reviews for PRECIOUS THINGS

2005-06-27T22:25:00.000-04:00

From Coffee Time Romance
Overall rating: 5 cups (of 5 possible cups)

"All I can say is Nora Roberts look out. Gail Delaney has a way of writing that is intense and spellbinding as the words make the characters come alive. This was an excellent book that should be on the New York Times seller list. Ms. Delaney is an incredible writer. Which writes with style and grace that touches the heart, and leaves you wishing for more to read. The book is definitely a keeper."

Cherokee
Reviewer for Karen Find Out About New Books
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance
http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/PreciousThings.html

From The Romance Studio
Overall Rating: 5 Hearts

"This story mesmerized me from the beginning till the end. It was written in a way that sweeps you of your feet... The characters all had their own original personalities. It's a very unique love story where you won't feel like you've read it before and it's definitely a TOP debut!! Thumbs up for this excellent new writer!"

Eveline
Reviewer for The Romance Studio
http://theromancestudio.com/reviews/reviews/preciousthingsdelaney.htm

I'm pretty stoked!

Less than a week!

2005-06-26T09:32:00.000-04:00

And I will officially be PUBLISHED!

I'm freaking out!

I sent out about half a dozen press releases to radio stations and newspapers this weekend, I'm gearing up for book signings, I've given information to my local library... maybe I should mail to other libraries? Ugh... my head is spinning!

Have to go pass out now,.

I've been tagged

2005-06-06T18:51:00.000-04:00

So, I guess I'm supposed to answer questions and tag five people who have blogs. Unfortunately, I don't know five people with blogs... and the people I do know have already been tagged. :-) So, I'm just going to answer the questions...

Total number of books I own: Okay, this isn't specific... but if "I" means just MY books of which I am the only reader, sadly the number is actually very low right now. The reason being that I tend to pass my books along. But between paperbacks, hardcovers, and ebooks... I'd say I personally own about 40. BUT, if we consider the entire household... husband and two children (children who insist on new books every time a book order form comes home and never ever would consider giving a book away...) I'm going to give a lowball number of... say... 750?

Last book I bought: The Wedding by Nicholas Sparks. I had a 3 hours wait at the Orlando Airport, and then a 3 hour flight home. And I knew my laptop battery just would NOT last that long. So, I picked it up. I haven't finished it yet.

Last book I read: I'm taking this as read to completiong, which excludes the above mentioned book. :-) It was Healing Hearts by Monique Lamont (available at www.wings-press.com).

Five books that mean a lot to me: This is a rather interesting question...

1) The Bible. Specifically my mother's bible. After she passed away, my father gave it to me. Sometimes I like to sit and flip through it, and read the passages she highlighted, wondering why that verse was important enough to her that day to mark forever. She also kept cards, and notes, drawing, and pictures within the pages.

2) And Both Were Young by Madeline L'Engle. One of the first books I ever read that had any kind of a romantic undertone to it. It was very sweet, very subtle, but it spoke to me. And I was hooked on romance from then on.

3) My children's baby books. Does that count as one, or two?

4) The Belgariad by David Eddings. Technically, it's a series. But... I'll count it as one. Where And Both were Young was my introduction to romance, The Belgariad was my introduction to fantasy. I'm still a fan.

5) Forever After by Catherine Andersen. One of the most powerful, most enthralling, most amazing contemporary romances I have ever read in my life. I read it, and it will be one of those books that I will never, ever give away. It is amazing.

Okay... I guess that's it. And like I said, I don't have five people to tag... So, how about this. You read it... you want to do it... be my guest?

Gail

First 100 Pages!

2005-06-05T14:25:00.000-04:00

Yes! I finished the first 100 pages of my new manuscript today! Woohoo!

After a 14 month dry spell, during which all I could seem to manage to generate was fanfiction, it feels great to accomplish this. Believe me! I think I might just have this bad boy done by the end of the summer!

But I'm not putting that in stone or anything... don't want to count my chickens before they hatch. :-)

Wooohooo!

Did I say that already?

Gail

June Contest

2005-06-03T11:21:00.000-04:00

From June 3, 2005 until July 8, 2005 I will be running a trivia contest. The prize will be the very first autographed copy of PRECIOUS THINGS in paperback form that I will ever sign. For ANYONE!

This is the way it will work. Every Friday, I will post two trivia questions – the answers to which can be found on my website if you dig. No, I won’t make it easy, but I’m not going to make it impossible, either. Some questions come from excerpts. Some from upcoming works. Some from my bio. You just need to look.

For those that don’t have it… the address is www.gaildelaney.com

Each week that you answer the questions correctly, your name will go into the drawing for the autographed book. So, if you only answer the questions one week, you’re in the drawing once. But, if you answer correctly all five weeks, you have five chances to win!

I will also post the questions in the file area of Take a Journey so you can get ‘caught up’. There is no time limit to send me your answers other than midnight July 8th. Meaning, you can answer all 5 weeks worth on July 8th if you want… and you will be entered five times. Or, you can answer as you go. But all entries must be received by midnight on July 8th. Please do *not* send the answers to the general list… only send them directly to *me* at RmceWrtr@hotmail.com. We don’t want to give away any answers!

I will respond to each email to let you know I’ve received it.

I will announce the winner on Sunday, July 15th.

So, again… here is the schedule

June 3rd – first and second question

June 10th – third and fourth question

June 17th – fifth and sixth question

June 24th – seventh and eighth question

July 1st – ninth and tenth question

July 8th – midnight – deadline for all answers

July 10th – announcement of winner!

So click on the link for Take a Journey and sign up for the group so you can join in!

Gail

Review of PRECIOUS THINGS

2005-05-31T21:16:00.000-04:00

A 3-Star review was published in the Romantic Times Book Club magazine this month for Precious Things... the gist reads as follows...

"Delaney has created a spunky heroine in Jewell, and the use of ASL is interwoven seamlessly into the tale. Background stories nicely carry the theme of why we become the people we are ... Precious Things is an easy story to get caught up in."

Karen Sweeny-Justice
Romantic Times Book Club

Unidentified Flying Objects

2005-05-28T13:00:00.000-04:00

What is this strange glowing orb in the sky slowing cresting in an arc over the horizon? It blinds me, burns me, changes everything around me.

I stare up at it, searching for an explanation. What could it be?

It moves slowly, the intensity of its glow increasing and decreasing. It is a puzzle, and yet I find myself enjoying the confusion.

My eyes burn and my skin warms... I stare up... stepping into the light.

Recognition comes as memories come back to me.

Ah, yes....

The sun.

Finally feeling it!

2005-05-24T08:48:00.000-04:00

Well, it's taken five chapters... but I'm finally 'feeling' this book.

Thank GOD!

I've heard other authors say time and again that their favorite part of the writing process is starting a new project.... are they INSANE?

I HATE starting something new... working out plots... learning characters... developing the voice... getting the feel...

I like just about anything after the first 100 pages. By then I know my characters fairly well, I've got a solid feel on the plot and where I'm going... and I'm usually humming along. I stumble blindly for the first 20,000 words... but after that I'm usually good to go. Another 20 pages and I'll be there. My first majore milestone.

And I've done a scene in ALMOST every possible POV!

I worry a little bit about marketing this series, because it doesn't fall into the normal science fiction parameters. At least, not the science fiction I've read. Course, I intend for it to be epublished, which means the reins are looser. Even then, there is such a strong push for the more 'erotic' angle to books in the epub world, most of the time I don't feel like I fit in there, either. Do I write chaste books? NO! But do I write erotica? Hell, no!

At this point, I've decided I'm just going to write it... and worry about the rest later.

Gail

Learning all over again.

2005-05-16T08:18:00.000-04:00

I feel like a new writer, learning the ropes all over again. Only this time, I'm breaking the rules on purpose.

Well, not all of them.

Point of View is something that is driven home when a new writer is developing their craft. One POV per scene. Stay in POV. Third Person Deep is preferable most of the time. Use as few POV's as possible. Engage the reader this way.

In Phoenix, I'm breaking the 'use as few as possible' rule.

I think the reason it is taking me so long to move on this book is that each time I begin a scene, it takes me a while to figure out just whose head I belong in! Because this is a series, with multiple focus characters, I want to make sure the reader connects to each and every one of them.

Which really does result in a Cast of Characters. Although, I am sticking only to those POV's that will ultimately have their own focus story. Even then, that's eight characters I could be 'in' at any time. It's dizzying.

I have faith in the stories, in the series as a whole. And if I can manage to pull it off, I know it will be good.

It's having faith in myself I'm having issues with.

Gail

Double Helix

2005-05-10T09:00:00.000-04:00

With every book I write, there is always some level of research. There has to be. I don't know everything . . . I haven't been everywhere . . . far from it. But I usually try to stick with SOMETHING in the book I know. Something I don't have to try and create out of research and my own imagination.

In Precious Things, it was the location ... New England. And living with a hearing impaired person - my mother was very hard of hearing.

In Tender Hearts, it was the experience of giving birth to a severely premature baby.

Dance With Me, again, some location factors. And the logging industry from my father.

You see my point.

But in my new series... Phoenix... right now I'm feeling a bit over my head. It's a futuristic sci fi. Now, I've written in this genre before, but in fanfiction, and in a universe previously created by someone else. With technology and backstory created by someone else. This is all on my own. And I'm wondering if I'm insane.

I went to the library on Saturday, and I think the librarian gave me an odd look when I checked out several books on cloning and genetic manipulation. LOL.... No, I'm not creating a duplicate of myself in my attic... although, the thought has merit. It'd help me get a few things done around here. But as I skim these books, trying to glean the information I need... I'm thinking... What are you doing, Gail? You're no geneticist! You're no doctor! No scientist! You're a romance novelist, for chrissake!

I haven't even gotten to the theoretical astrophysics and wormhole technology sections of the series yet... ugh.

If I survive this series, I'm buying myself a VERY large drink with a very cute little umbrella in it... preferably on a long, white beach somewhere... and after the first sip, I'm ordering the next one. Bcz I'm going to need it.

Who told me this was a good idea? Oh, yes... Jamie... my good, dear, wonderful friend Jamie...

If this comes out right... she's getting a drink right along with me.

Gail

Crunch Time

2005-04-27T09:39:00.000-04:00

Well, that first publication date is quickly approaching . . . and every time I think of it I get butterflies.

I've set up a book signing for August, I've set up a chat and discussiong roup on Yahoo . . . I've updated my websites . . . getting ready to order fun things like business cards and bookmarks.

This is real . . . this is really, really real.

I'm going to go throw up now.

Gail

Conflicting halves of my life.

2005-04-13T12:43:00.000-04:00

When people ask me what I 'do'... I often get odd looks when they hear the answer.

First, I ask... do you mean 'what do I get a regular pay check for' or 'what do I do because I have to?' Then I explain.

To bring in that budgetable pay check, I work for a mutual fund company. I'm an adjustment specialist... so, if something went wrong somewhere (not in the market LOL... but if your broker forgot to invest your check, or something) I make sure it gets fixed. Alot of numbers, and logic, and that kind of stuff.

What do I do because I have to? I write.

It's a very right brain/left brain existence. And sometimes... the two sides/two worlds clash. Big time

Like today.

Right now, we are armpit deep in tax season with the 15th of April approaching fast. So things are busy and the overtime is plentiful. So, of course, right now is when Alabaster decides to rev up the creative juices and puts the writing side of my brain into overdrive. Today, I wrote up until the last possible minute before I had to go up to work. (That GOD I work at home!) And I'm finding that, even as I am supposed to be focusing on my Joe Smith's 2004 overcontribution to his Roth IRA... my mind is most definitely in scene two, chapter three...

Of course, three weeks ago when things were quiet... where was Alabaster? No where to be found.

Little witch.

It's just not fair and now I have a 'splitting' headache... pun completely intended.

Gail

Is this what it's like to send your kids to college?

2005-04-12T09:08:00.000-04:00

This weekend I received Precious Things back from my editor with all her editorial notes for me to fix. There was nothing earth shattering... they didn't ask me to change anything plot wise... and she even made a note on one scene, telling me how powerful it was and how much it moved her. Which made me feel really really good.

Mostly, I seem to have a penchant for ending sentences with prepostional phrases during my narrative... and I use past tense when it should be past perfect. Hey... I'm a writer... not an editor. LOL

Anyway, I finished the edits last night. I did end up changing the last four or five paragraphs because the first version was absolutely terrible... and in reading it... I can't even believe I wrote it. It was sappy, cliche, just... gag-worthy. So, I fixed that.

And when I was done... I sat at my desk for over half an hour, reading, re-reading, and reading again. I couldn't let go. Couldn't bring myself to send it back to her.

This was it. Once it went back t o her, I could never change it again. Well, I mean... I suppose that if it came right down to it and something absolutely had to be changed or I'd get my pants sued off or something... then they'd let me, I'm sure. But just basic edtis... for all intents and purposes, Precious Things is as it will be for the consumption of the general public.

And that scares the living daylights right out of me. What if I really screwed up somewhere? What if it sucks? What if... what if... what if...? I mean, deep down I know I didn't. I know it doesn't suck. But still...

I wonder if I'm like this over a manuscript, what will I be like when I send my kids off to college?

Gail

A good kick in the butt

2005-04-08T11:53:00.000-04:00

There's nothing better than a new contact to get me motivated again.

I received my fourth book contract today. I wil be signing Guardian, my romantic suspense novel, with my current publisher Wings ePress (www.wings-press.com) The release date is February 2007.

Now that I have 4 books under contract, and none other ready to submit... I guess that means I really should get crackin', huh?

Well, I've decided to go in a different direction. I'm going to try a sci fi/futuristic romance series. Five books in all. I started this series before, a few months ago... but never got anywhere with it. Partially, I believe, because I didn't take the time to really develop the plot and the basis. This time I have. And I think it might just work!

It's going to be quite the intricate tale... each book will have some main focus to it, but each book will really be a continuation of the ones before it, creating a continuous arc. This will go for the romance in it as well. There will be four different romances going on through five books... some will begin in one book, conclude in another. No book will have a story that will absolutely begin and end within its binding.

The main concept... The people of Earth could be wiped out if we don't get off our collective a$$es and do something about it. And we're fighting an enemy that appears as a friend... so it's not an easy thing to do. They are 'alien'... but they aren't giant bugs. They don't have green blood or antenae on their heads... they look like us. If they want to, they can act like us. But fundamentally, they aren't us. And deep down, they don't want us around... they need us, but when our usefullness is over... well... bye bye!

So... I've written the prologue to this epic saga... I'm alittle nervous about taking on such a daunting task. I've never done anything so... extensive. But, we'll see what happens, right?

Gail

I did so well for awhile there...

2005-03-21T10:26:00.000-05:00

I was really keeping up on posting...

But in all actuality, I haven't had anything interesting to say. :-)

I've been writing quite a bit this week. Not on my novel - as I should be - but on a fanfiction story that has been bouncing around in my head for a few weeks. It was supposed to be a decent length that turned into about 50 pages. :-) Just waiting for the beta reading now.

Then I'll get back to busines..

Snow is still here... melting slowly. Yesterday was the first day of spring. You'd never know it looking outside. I need to live somewhere with a more temperate climate.

Gail

I am so sick of this white sh*t

2005-03-12T14:45:00.000-05:00

Excuse my French.

I am so sick of snow. We are in the middle of something like our 6th or 7th storm in 2 weeks. Granted, I was gone for some of them... but we had a few before I left, too.

I look out my window and all I see are big, fat, fluffy, swirling snowflakes.

Snow snow snow snow snow.

I'm sick of it.

And it's killing any mood I had to do anything other than sit in front of the tv and flip channels. I have no kids home... no husband home... I am forcing myself to write... but man, this snow is killing me.

Spring a week away? On what planet? What Stargate address do I have to dial to get there? (Yes, I know only a limited number of people are going to get that... and to those of you who do... Comtrya!)

Can you tell it has put me in a bad mood?

ugh.

Gail

How far do I go?

2005-03-09T11:47:00.000-05:00

That is my question for the day.

I am doing my very last, final, never to be touched again except at an editors request revision of Gray Clouds... the very first manuscript I ever finished (that I count). The one I wrote at 16 doesn't count... it sucked too badly to count.

This one isn't far behind in my opinion... although I know some disagree.

So, I'm doing the edits. And in my heart, I know these two characters so well I'm finding it hard to let the chemistry develop naturally. I want to just let it be there. Let them touch, hold, kiss... I'm not talking jumping into bed... I'm talking the nice, sexy, physical stuff that leads up to it. But an important element of the story is the heroines reluctance to physical intimacy...

So, I'm in manuscript avoidance mode and that's what this blog is for, right? I'm at the end of chapter seven. And a part of me wants Wil to just lean in and give her a kiss... nothing passion driven with clothes flying and tongues battling. But a kiss nonetheless.

But another part of me knows they aren't ready for that yet. And I'm trying to decide just how far to go and how how to do it without boring the reader to tears.

Avoid... avoid... avoid... here I am... avoiding. :-)

If I avoid a few more minutes, I can just go to work. :-)

Never in my life have I wanted to finish a book so badly - simply to have it done and gone. Granted... I love Wil and Emily. I cut my teeth on their love affair. They were my first, so to speak. But I find it so much easier to write something right the first time than to do this... trying to go back and fix what wasn't done well to begin with. And it's a good story - I just lacked knowledge in what I was doing.

Okay, I've rambled on quite enough on this little bit of subject matter. Perhaps I will spend the next 6.3 minutes staring at the end of the chapter - and just as I absolutely have to sign off to go to work it will all come to me.

Isn't that always the way?

Gail

Back to the subject at hand.

2005-03-08T09:35:00.000-05:00

This may be my means of avoiding my manuscript, but the main purpose (or subject) should be writing. Right? Well, whatever... :-)

I do have some good news. I received the cover art for TENDER HEARTS, my November 2005 release. It came out very nice, I feel. And you can see it on my website... www.gaildelaney.com

Though, if you're at this blog you've probably already been to the site. he he he

I'm waiting to hear from my publisher on GUARDIAN - my first romantic suspense. We'll see how that fares. :-)

And now... I'm actually going to go write!

Gail

(is it too early to start counting down to my next vacation?)

All is well that ends well

2005-03-07T08:18:00.000-05:00

Despite Fate's best efforts... I went on vacation and had a great time. Florida wasn't sunny all week... wasn't all that warm... but it was warmer and sunnier than here and that was what I wanted. :-)

I did manage to write an entire chapter of my manuscript while on the road. So, the 40+ hours in the car (both ways) wasn't completely wasted. :-) I hope to continue the momentum today.

I became an aunt while I was gone. A cute little girl. :-)

Let's see... anything else?

Not that I can think of. I'm still unpacking.

Gail

Fate is conspiring against me...

2005-02-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

I think I should take this as a sign...

I always plan ahead for my vacations... book ahead, pay ahead when I can... that sort of thing. So, it's no surprise that for this vacation, I had the money set aside for the condo ahead of time and bought the park tickets etc. So, really... all I needed was spending cash.

And I swear... fate is out to get me.

First... we have our life insurance automatically deducted from our checking account. Well, this month of all months... they screw up and deduct twice what they're supposed to.

Then... a deposit that was supposed to go in is taking its own sweet time getting there and I'm not sure it'll be there by tomorrow.

The hotel my husband is staying at for his business trip put a $400+ "hold" on the debit card (we use it like a credit card) as a 'credit charge' against his room "In case" he charges... so, even if he doesn't this $400 is unavailable in my account until he checks out on Friday. It's like they're holding my money ransom against his minibar.

And it's not just money...

The leftover Christmas Ham I froze specifically to make ham salad sandwiches for the drive... freezer burned and useless.

The outlet converter for the cooler we use in the car... fell apart in my hands yesterday.

Every bizarre kind of thing that could have happened at work in the last two weeks... has.

Did I mention I can't sleep?

My stomach has been in knots for the last 48 hours. This vacation will be great, if it doesn't kill me first!

Gail

Vacation = T minus 1 day and counting.

I am so tired I can't think

2005-02-23T07:40:00.000-05:00

This is going to be a loooooong two weeks.

For all intents and purposes, my husband and I are going to be apart for the next two weeks. He left for a business trip in Denver yesterday and he will be gone until Friday. Friday, I leave for vacation (a vacation he is unable to go with us on) and I will be gone a week.

After thirteen years, I have grown very accustomed to having that 'other body' in the bed beside me. I stayed up until midnight last night watching Spiderman 2 (which is a topic saved for another post - GREAT MOVIE) just to avoid going to bed alone. Then when I did go to bed, I lay there until quarter of two trying to find a comfortable position and to relax enough to slip off to sleep. Then I tossed and turned all night until the alarm went off at 6:00.

And this is just night one.

Of course, by the end of the two weeks I'll be used to sleeping alone and won't be able to fall asleep with him IN the bed. It's a vicious cycle. But as of right now, I'm thinking I'll never be able to divorce him because the sleep deprivation would kill me.

This morning I'm supposed to focus on final organization packing for vacation... right now, I'd be happy if everyone that's going actually made it into the car. Work should prove to be very, very interesting this afternoon.

Gail

Vacation = T minus 2 days and counting.

I have no idea what to write today

2005-02-22T07:31:00.000-05:00

I've started on three different topics... and realized they were such boring topics I couldn't focus long enough to write about them. And if I couldn't focus that long, I couldn't expect you to read them.

So, today's posting is short and brief.

Gail

Vacation = T minus 3 days and counting

My God, I might write today!

2005-02-20T12:59:00.000-05:00

Things are calm at the moment... we'll see how long it lasts. My son's birthday party was yesterday... the presents are still all over my dining room table. The house is still a mess, but when isn't it?

Husband is packed for his business trip.

Kids and I are just about packed for vacation - that's right - he's not going with us.

I've done my obligatory 'reading' for my publisher. (I am a First Reader for new manuscripts to judge their publishability...)

I think I might actually have time to work on chapter seven today! Wooohooo!

Wonders never cease.

Gail

Vacation = T minues 5 days and counting

The stuff they leave out when you sign up for "Momhood"

2005-02-18T07:49:00.000-05:00

Don't you hate fine print on contracts? Well, you don't sign a contract when you become a mom, and you don't take classes (though I think that might be a good idea) and not everyone reads books. And even in the books that are out there, I think there are huge sections left out.

Like....

No one tells you how to prepare yourself when your twelve-year-old daughter needs help deciding between the three boys who asked her to the dance on Friday night.

Or, how some days she walks into a room and she's just so damn pretty you wonder where the hell she came from because she certainly can't be made up of half your DNA... and all you want to do is lock her in her room. Because you know someday she's going to get her heart broken, and you can't stand the thought.

And days like today. My son... my baby boy... my last... the one I nearly lost... is turning seven. And when I told him I was going to bring snack in to his class for his birthday, he asked me (very politely, mind you - because he is nothing if not polite) if I could just drop it off instead.

When I said I would, he answered with "Thanks, Mom. You're the best mom ever..."

*choke*

No one ever prepares you for this stuff.

My father offers no sympathy. Whenever I tell him about my daughter's newest admirer he always says with a chuckle "Wait until she goes to college..."

When I went to college, I met, fell in love, married, and had a daughter within a year. See his point?

Maybe some day, when my children are grown, I'll write a book about all the things no one else prepares you for. Course, I double I could prepare anyone either. At least not with how to deal with them... I haven't figured that out myself yet. But I can warn you about what's coming.

Gail

Vacation = T minus 7 days and counting

Is this week over yet?

2005-02-17T07:02:00.000-05:00

It's Thursday and I'm exhausted.

This is one of those weeks that we're trying to cram absolutely as much as possible as short a period without killing ourselves.

My daughter has been performing in Guys and Dolls for the last two nights at her middle school, so she hasn't been getting home and into bed until well after 10:00. Mornings have been rough, needless to say. Tonight is the 'Father/daughter' Valentine's Dance hosted by the Girl Scouts. Tomorrow night is the school hosted Valentine's Dance, and also my son's birthday so I have to take a special snack up to the school. Saturday is my son's birthday - so, a party. Sunday... gee... I don't think there are big plans on Sunday. Monday we're having our taxes done. Tuesday my husband flies to Denver for a week. Wednesday and Thursday I pack, pack pack for vacation... Friday we leave.

Ugh. Then ten days of rest and relaxation by means of walking walking walking from what will seem like dawn til dusk and riding every conceivable ride in all of DisneyWorld. ;-)

The two day drive is almost the most relaxing part. ;-)

Vacation = T minus 8 days and counting.

Gail

Am I supposed to be making a political statement?

2005-02-15T08:16:00.000-05:00

I discovered another way to avoid writing... scanning through the gazillion other blogs that are out there. But now I wonder. Am I supposed to be making some kind of political statement, or detailing every moment of my current love affair, or telling you how much the world stinks? This seems to be the general topic of many a blog out there. :-)

Initially, I figured this blog would be for updates... things like "I sold another book!" or "Sent out another query..." but since that only happens once in awhile... it would seem that most of the time you are just going to hear about how I'm avoiding writing. :-)

So, maybe I'll telling you what I'm writing?

Right now I am working on the ultimate, final and LAST edit of Gray Clouds - the very first manuscript I ever finished. And although many people tell me it's good just the way it is - I am just not happy with it. It was my first attempt at writing, and I know it can be better. My goal is to have the rewrites done in the next two or three months and have it to my publisher. Then, I will work on something new.

I would ultimately like to have Gray Clouds, and at least one addtional manuscript finished by the end of the year. It would be GREAT if I could finish the rough draft of two new manuscripts - but I don't want to get ahead of myself.

So, now I plug away on this one... and I wait to hear from the three publishers that have queries on Guardian... and I count down the days until vacation.

Vacation = T minus 10 days and counting

Gail

Who needs a blog to avoid getting anything done?

2005-02-14T18:53:00.000-05:00

Today, just plain life got in the way. I wanted to write... I really, really did. But it just wasn't meant to be. The day started with the travails of a teenage daughter, followed up quickly by a six year old who wasn't quite sure he wanted to be out of bed - and quite perturbed I didn't have french toast sticks for breakfast.

Then said daughter needed a ride to school... and so the day begins. Trips to the store, to the bank, yada yada yada. I had to wrap my son's birthday presents. By the time I had a moment to sit, it was indeed time to sit... in front of my work PC. No writing today.

But, the day is not over yet. Another hour or so, and the 'paid' workday is done. Daughter will be home from play practice... husband should stroll in at some point. Perhaps I will indeed get chapter seven at least started.

We shall see... now, if I can only coordinate time with a cooperative Muse.

Gail

Addendum.... All writing can be forgotten for the rest of the day. My husband bought me MacGyver Season One on DVD. When weighing my options... writing versus enjoying the sexy escapades of one Richard Dean Anderson... Ricky Dean is bound to win. I don't really care that the man is old enough to be my father... he is one FINE looking man. Yum, yum.

I've been sucked in

2005-02-13T14:00:00.000-05:00

Well... I kept saying I wasn't going to do it. I kept saying I didn't have time to do one of these things... and that no one would care anyway. And maybe no one will. But here I am. :-) I'm a blogger. And I can go into full on Manuscript Avoidance Mode in style... fully documented and everything.

Ultimate Manuscript Avoidance Mode

I've been tagged

My resolve to keep up on this Blog...

Best Romantic Movies???

Winner of Contest and New Contest

New book Cover and catching up

Nostalgia and Peanut Brittle

Kisses that shouldn't happen...

Kisses of the Soul

New Cover and Some Reviews...

A sneak peek at The Garrison: Freedom

What is Sexy?

Some New Reviews!

Science Fiction and Withdrawals

My Muse says MORE PHOENIX

The Phoenix Rebellion Book IV: End Game AVAILABLE TODAY

Recommended Read at Fallen Angel Review

Down time...

I don't handle 'bad' reviews well..

Upcoming Releases

No One Have A Heart Attack

The Sound of Love

I'm so incredibly behind it's not funny

Nay Sayers...

Some updates and stuff

Reader Reviews for The Phoenix Rebellion: Rising Up

Here we are again...

The Phoenix Rebellion Book 1: Rising Up AVAILABLE NOW

Book 2 is DONE

Minimums are done!

Inspiration...

PRECIOUS THINGS a finalist!

I must be insane

Another early Review for Phoenix: Rising UP

Ruminations of Drunken Pilots... and Excerpt

Irish Temper

RWA can bite my big, fat, ebook writing A**!

Performance Anxiety and Premature Rejectulation...

Cover Art for The Phoenix Rebellion

My two Muses

Crapola Gorgonzola

My new toy!

Cover Art for Dance With Me

Release Dates for Phoenix

Meet Jacqueline Anderson

Meet Michael Tanner

Meet Beverly Surimoto

In defense of My Victor Selection. :-)

Meet Victor

Meet Dr. Lilly Franklin-Quinn

Meet Lt. Jason 'Jace' Quinn

Meet Dr. Caitlin 'CJ' Montgomery

Meet Colonel Nicholas 'Nick' Tanner

Review for TENDER HEARTS

I guess I should have mentioned....

The Areth: Long Lost Brethren or Wolf in Sheep's Clothing?

Don't faint

The weight has been lifted!

Today was a cool day!

I've been informed I need to post!

I'm PUBLISHED - and another Review

A couple new reviews for PRECIOUS THINGS

Less than a week!

I've been tagged

First 100 Pages!

June Contest

Review of PRECIOUS THINGS

Unidentified Flying Objects

Finally feeling it!

Learning all over again.

Double Helix

Crunch Time

Conflicting halves of my life.

Is this what it's like to send your kids to college?

A good kick in the butt

I did so well for awhile there...

I am so sick of this white sh*t

How far do I go?

Back to the subject at hand.

All is well that ends well