Little Known Facts

 Little known things about Mermaid Voice, since it's been out for a week.

*It was put on hold to write Siren Song which is the movie they're filming in the book. I needed certain scenes written out and decided to write that book first.

*It features one of the craziest women I've ever written who happens to be the ex-girlfriend of Caspian. I normally don't write crazy exes but the story played out that way.

*It's the first book of my Fairy Tale Series.

*All of the heroines in the series will be connected to a southern state, Syrena was from Louisiana.

*I looked up the regulations for Alligator hunting to write that scene. It's very well regulated in case anyone wanted to know.

*I had the cover image for at least a year, probably the longest I've ever selected one.

*Grimsby is probably one of my favorite secondary characters.

*It was inspired by The Little Mermaid but with a twist.

*It's the 3rd book I've published this year. I wanted to see if I could publish three in one year and with 2020 being what it is, it worked out.

*Syrena and Caspian's names are connected to water.

*I published the ebook only to Amazon for the first 90 days. The paperback is available in most online stores.

*If you would like to see what inspired me, check out the Pinterest board for Mermaid Voice.

Mermaid Voice is Live

In celebration of Mermaid Voice being published, here is one of my favorite scenes with Syrena. You can download your copy today on Amazon. 

“Uh, are you lost?” Cindy asked with her hands on her hips. 

“No,” Nessa said before smiling. “I’m looking for Syrena.” 

“Why?” Syrena asked. 

What could this woman possibly say to her? They didn’t know each other. How did Nessa even know her name? 

“You do look like the mermaid Nerida,” Nessa said as she waved her hand. 

“Uh, okay,” Syrena said. 

What else could she say? 

“I hope you don’t have any lunch plans with Caspian today. In fact, yesterday is the last time you’ll eat with my boyfriend,” Nessa said before smiling. “I’m sure you understand me.” 

Syrena glanced at Cindy before looking back at Nessa. 

“He offered food, and mine was destroyed. I ate,” Syrena said as she stood. “I don’t know what you think happened, but we were at work. It was a thirty-minute lunch break.” 

“Then why did he follow you to the bar last night? Must’ve been a great thirty-minute break,” Nessa said. 

Syrena shook her head. 

“Look, go find your boyfriend so someone can be happy to see you,” Syrena said as she grabbed her tail. “And by the way, I’ll eat lunch with whomever I want. If you can’t trust your boyfriend to keep his hands to himself, then you need to talk to him. He’s the one in the relationship, not me.” 

“You do realize who I am,” Nessa said as she crossed her arms. 

“Yeah, an out-of-work actress riding her boyfriend’s fame,” Cindy said as she snapped her fingers. “Your mother’s fame is fading, so you attached yourself like a leach to Caspian. You know what happens to leaches?” 

“No. Why would I? I’m not an animal person,” Nessa said. 

“Leaches are burned off the skin,” Syrena said as she faced Nessa. 

The woman was gorgeous with her black hair and blue-green eyes. She got her mother’s good looks, but not Rae Banks’ charm and sweetness. 

“Don’t cross me,” Nessa said as she dropped her arms. 

“Oh, honey, you don’t know me. I was born and raised in the country. You don’t want to tangle with me, City Girl. I wasn’t pampered all my life. I’ve worked for everything I have,” Syrena said as she stepped closer to Nessa. 

“Threats don’t scare me,” Nessa said. 

“Bless your heart,” Syrena said as she brushed past Nessa and walked out of the trailer. 

Cover Reveal

Happy Wednesday! I have two updates. For the first one, here is the cover reveal of Mermaid Voice. I've had this picture picked out for this book for almost two years. I'm so happy with the cover and couldn't wait to show everyone. 

And for the second update, Mermaid Voice will be live on December 16! Once the preorder link is live, I'll post. This book will be in Kindle Direct for the first 90 days. After that, it'll be available on all platforms. The paperbacks are in review and should be available on release day. 

Halfway mahalf Beauty Found

I'm about halfway through book 12, Beauty Found. I decided to share a small snippet of a scene. The picture is from my Pinterest board for the book. 

"I was not built to break," Vincent said. 

"Maybe not, but there's beauty in the breaking. And freedom in the rising," Hazel said as she placed her hand on top of his. 

"No. I can't lost control, especially around you. My darkness would destroy you, Hazel," he said as he stood up. 

"I doubt that, but I'm not pushing you," she said as she stood up. "If or when you're ready to talk I'll be here." 

He nodded as she walked out of the room. Losing control wasn't an option. His mental hold was the only thing keeping him functioning. Hazel might be a strong woman, but even she couldn't handle the darkness. He could barely handle it. 

Blurb for Mermaid Voice

As I dive deeper into Beauty Found, I thought I'd share the blurb for Mermaid Voice which is currently with my beta readers. Be on the lookout for a release date. Don't forget to add Mermaid Voice to your TBR on Goodreads. 

When Hollywood royalty hears a siren’s voice, sands will shift with the rising tide. 

Caspian Wells is a household name with the box office draw that rivals even his famous mother. When the lead actor for his uncle’s projected blockbuster drops out, he reluctantly accepts the role of the pirate Destan. Colored by his past, he doesn’t expect a simple voice to rock the foundation of his future. 

Syrena Evans left her home at eighteen to chase her dreams in Hollywood. Now ten years later, she’s chosen as the lead actress’ stunt double for one of her favorite books. Not expecting Caspian to take over, she’s faced with a connection she can’t deny with a man she rather forget. 

As tension builds on set, an opportunity of a lifetime opens up to Syrena. Can she trade her stunt tail for actor's legs? Or will someone from Caspian’s life silence her voice? 

Hazel Lee Green

While this may have been true, Hazel Lee Green isn't just the daughter of the town drunk. She's the head librarian bent on using her past to help out the battle-damaged Vincent. 

New Book Hero

My new hero has lots of darkness to overcome, diving into Vincent's heartache and mental space. 

Book 12

My writing notes notebook, ready for Book 12 notes and character descriptions. This book is inspired by Beauty and the Beast. And the title is Beauty Found. 

The End

Yep Book 11, Mermaid Voice, is done! Time to switch to editing mode. 

Research

Research for Chapter 15! This is what happens when an idea strikes me while driving. 

Future Books

So I'm going to be busy typing away. On my drive, I plotted a future book for my fairy tale series! Driving always clears my mind and helps me plot so much easier. Now to finish Mermaid Voice so I can write those other 3 books I've plotted. Here's a bit of the inspiration behind this new book. 

Slay the Demon

Have you read Slay the Demon? Buy your copy today! 

"Maggie, that was a TV show. It's not real," he said. "Remember, we talked about what was real and what wasn't." 

"It was real, daddy," she said. "It was called real TV." 

"It's reality TV," he corrected. 

"It has real in the word," she said tilting her head to the side. 

Yep, Maggie has some sass, but she is seven. 

Writer

To create something from nothing is art. Writers are ultimately artists. Paint the world with words. 

Final Chapters

Entering the final chapters of Mermaid Voice! I can't wait to share Caspian and Syrena with everyone. 

Last Day of September

To celebrate the last day of September, here is a small scene from Mermaid Voice. 

"Tell Momma Maureen I want Nanner Puddin," Grim said as he closed the lid and sat down. 

"You've lived in California for thirty-two years. It's not called Nanner Puddin." 

"My grandma just rolled over in her grave," Grim said as he brought his hand up to his chest. "She'll haunt this place for the rest of your days." 

Caspian laughed. 

"Your mother doesn't even call it Nanner Puddin." 

"That's because it's my dad's mother," Grim said as he dropped his hand. "She didn't approve of my mother." 

"I know I'll regret asking, but why didn't she approve of your mother? Ellen's one of the kindest women I know," Caspian said. 

"For starters, my momma married my grandma's baby." 

"And that's enough for disapproval?" 

He hadn't heard this story. But then again, Grim's Kentucky family wasn't the classiest people. 

"For Granny Hawthrone, yes," Grim said. 

Talk like a Pirate Day

It's Talk like a Pirate Day! Here is one of my favorite scenes between Destan and his pirate crew in Siren Song. 

“I want to know how ye sorry hide is alive,” Boosa said as he leaned forward with his elbows on the table. “Not that I’m not happy.” 

“Boosa, ye never happy,” James said as he shook his head. 

“See me smile,” Boosa said as he showed his four teeth. “Tis happy for me.” 

“That’s enough to scare the devil himself straight,” Greaves said as the men laughed. 

“How did ye survive?” Teague asked as he leaned over the table. “I thought ye a goner for sure.” 

“I don’t know,” Destan said as he finished his drink. “The ship capsized after you all got off. I remember hitting the water, but then nothing. I came to on the beach.” 

“We saw the ship tip, but didn’t see ye,” Stede said. “We searched the shore for a while for ye.” 

“How’d the ship not drag ye down?” Kidd asked. “We ‘bout lost it.” 

“The tide pushed us ashore,” Teague said as he leaned back in his chair. “Lady Luck was on our side.” 

“I guess mine too,” Destan said as he set his glass down. 

He wanted another drink, but he didn’t want the wench laying on him. He was too tired to want to warm her bed. 

“I say a mermaid save ye sorry hide,” Boosa said as he slammed his hand on the table. 

“Ye said mermaids were a myth,” Bellamy said as he glared at Boosa. 

“I’ve changed me mind,” Boosa said as he waved his hand in the air. “I say a mermaid saved ye.” 

“A mermaid?” Destan asked as he shook his head. “Mermaids lead men to their deaths. They don’t save them.” 

“Most of the time, yes,” Teague said as he nodded. “Boosa could be on to something.” 

“Yeah, Cap, ye shouldn’t have survived,” Fen said. “The pull of the ship was too much.” 

“But we’re happy ye did,” Morgan said as he slammed his empty glass on the table. “There’s one problem.” 

“What?” Destan asked as the wench rushed over to their table. 

She refilled all the empty glasses. When she got to his, she made sure to lean a little further down to show her ample assets. She was trying too hard. He couldn’t be the only man in the tavern she wanted. Unless she targeted Captains. Some of the wenches in other ports went after Captains more than the other men. Some ports, he didn’t acknowledge he was the Captain. 

“We need a ship,” Bartholomew said before gulping his drink. He wiped his mouth with the back of his sleeve. 

“Yeah, we’s not land lovers. We’s need the open seas,” Greaves said as he rubbed his beard. 

Destan took a drink as he listened to his men. They were right. He needed a ship. 

“Where will we get this ship?” Destan asked. “I don’t think I can raise the Revenge from the bottom of the ocean.” 

“Wouldn’t matter if ye could,” Teague said between drinks. “She sank. She be cursed now.” 

“Naw, she can’t be cursed from sinking,” Boosa said as he finishing his drink. He wiped his mouth with the back of his dirty sleeve. 

“Do ye want to sail on a ship that sank?” Caesar asked. “I agree, it’s cursed.” 

“It ran aground on sand, not a good way to go,” Bellamy said as he nodded. “Can’t image the talk if others knew we sailed on a cursed ship.” 

“What?” Stede asked as he leaned his elbows on the table. 

“Think of the talk about sailing a ship that sank due to sand,” Bellamy said as he shook his head. “We’s be the laughing stock of the sailing world.” 

Destan groaned. “It doesn’t matter, we can’t raise her. Unless another storm wants to bring her back up for us.” 

“Nor should ye,” Kidd said as he leaned forward to rest his hands on the table. “Let Davy Jones have another ship for his chest.” 

“Ships don’t go to the chest. That be only for men’s souls,” Teague said as he shook his head. “I swear, boy, ye’ll be dead from not knowing.” 

“I ain’t jumping off a ship for a woman’s voice,” Kidd said as he shoved away from the table. “I’m done. I’ll see ye gents in the morning. Where’s the wench? I’ll be warming her bed tonight.” 

Destan watched as his youngest man went in search of some wench for his bed. Although, it would be her bed since his was under the water. 

“That boy’ll die before he gets his own ship,” Teague said as he finished his drink. 

Happy Tuesday

Small scene from Mermaid Voice. Happy Tuesday! 

"Don't cross me," Nessa said as she dropped her arms. 

"Oh honey, you don't know me. I was born and raised in the country. You don't want to tangle with me, City Girl. I wasn't pampered all my life. I've worked for everything I have," Syrena said as she stepped closer to Nessa. 

"Threats don't scare me," Nessa said. 

"Bless your heart," Syrena said as she brushed past Nessa and walked out of the trailer. 

Mermaid Voice

Inspired

When you're inspired and have to write the scene 

Inspiration

Sometimes writing inspiration comes from the classics.

Up next

I always get asked what I'm working on next. Well, I'm planning a series of standalones loosely based on beloved fairy tales. Mermaid Voice is the first one of this series. Here are a few pictures from my pinterest boards for my upcoming books. 

Left Hander Day!

Happy Left-handers Day! Here is a small scene with Shelby, the left-handed pitcher from Diamond Dirt.

She curved her fingers around the seams and circled her arm. She flipped her wrist to force the ball to dive down into the zone. As she released the ball, she saw Winston walking onto the field out of the corner of her eye. 

It was easy to see him as she finished her motion due to how she turned her body. She breathed deep as he crossed the first base chalk line. 

"It always looks as if you're hurting your arm," he said as he walked towards her. 

"It's a natural motion," she said as she reached for another ball. "Your sister knows." 

He smiled as he stopped beside the bucket. I don't really talk softball with Mia. It'll lead to a long conversation where I'll be lost most of the time. She likes to talk stats and players. Since I don't keep up with the sport, it's easier to talk about something else." 

"You're poor sister. Does anyone talk softball with her?" she asked as she fingers the red seams. Running her fingers over the seams always calmed her. 

:Our parents talk to her about softball. You're left-handed." 

"You just now noticed?" she asked as she spun the ball in her left hand. 

"I never noticed when you take notes."

On Set

Happy Monday and here's a small scene from Mermaid Voice. 

"You trying to tell me people back in the swampland don't sleep around?" 

Syrena laughed as she shook her head. "They sleep around or at least try to. Sometimes there's a shotgun waiting for one of them when they get back home. And I don't live in the swampland." 

"Girl, you're close enough to the swamp. How many gators did you see?" Cindy asked as she propped her hand on her hip. 

"Cin, they ain't walking gators down the street," Nick said as he winked at Syrena. "They fry them on the gril." 

"You don't fry on a grill," Syrena said as she looked at him. "Frying is frying and grilling is grilling." 

"What's the difference?" Nick asked as he leaned over the back of the chair in front of Syrena. 

"To fry something, it needs to be dunked in oil," Syrena said. 

"He don't cook or know what you're talking about," Cindy said as she waved her hand in the air. 

"Why would I cook when I can order whatever I want from my phone," Nick said as he crossed his arms. "I don't have to worry about dishes either." 

"Can't believe you're still single," Syrena said before laughing. 

Little Known Facts

Since Siren Song has been out a few weeks, time for little known facts. 

*This is one of my shortest books. It was planned that way. 

*I wrote this in a month and a half, while under stay at home orders in Hawaii. 

*This book wasn't on my mind until I began to prep for Mermaid Voice. I needed certain scenes and when I wrote those, I needed to write the rest of the book. 

*I had fun writing this book. It gave me a chance to write about pirates and mermaids. 

*I did have another picture chosen for the cover, but I wasn't happy with it. 

*The black sand beach was inspired by my time in Hawaii. 

*All of the pirate names except for Destan are based on real pirates. I found Destan on a list of boy names associated with water. 

*All the mermaid names are associated with water. 

*Captain Maynard is based on Robert Maynard who was tasked with hunting down and killing the pirate Blackbeard. He wasn't a captain in real life until much later. 

*I did mention a few real places such as Port Royal and Ocracoke. 

*Destan's mutiny on the slave ship is based on a real event. On July 2, 1839, slaves aboard the Cuban schooner, Amistad. The enslaved were tried in the US and were represented by former President John Quincy Adams. They won and most were allowed to go back to Africa. 

If you hadn't, grab your copy today. Siren Song is available on all platforms. If you've read it, don't forget to leave a review. 

Proof Approved

Got the proof in for Siren Song and it looks amazing! I approved it on Amazon. The paperback should be ready to order in 72 hours or less. 

Also, the Prologue for my next book is located at the end of Siren Song along with its name. My next book is called Mermaid Voice and will be the first book in my fairytale series. Each book will be a standalone and inspired by different fairytales. First up is my take on The Little Mermaid. You definitely want to read Siren Song because it will be featured in Mermaid Voice. In the coming weeks, I'll post more on my upcoming series and the inspirations. 

Release Day!

Happy First Day of Summer! What better way to celebrate the longest day of the year than with a new book about pirates and mermaids! Get your copy today! 

Cover Reveal

Cover Reveal for Siren Song. Preorder links are active on Amazon and Smashwords. Just waiting on Google Books. The book goes live on June 20th. 

Blurb

Nailed the blurb for Siren Song and here it is. Don't forget to mark your calendars for June 20th. 

After watching the death of another mermaid, Nerida knows contact with humans is forbidden. She finds solace walking the shorelines and discovering trinkets from shipwrecks. One night she chooses to save a human instead of letting him drown. What she didn’t expect was an unexplainable connection to the pirate and his lost treasure.  

From an early age, Destan dreamed of sailing the open waters. While in service to the crown, an act of mutiny forces him to become a pirate. With a bounty on his head, he captains his vessel ahead of the hangman’s noose. In the dark waters of the Caribbean, a storm brings him face to face with a mysterious woman. Who is this ghost of a woman walking the beach and singing with sorrow? Did she have anything to do with saving him? 

Destan is determined to discover the answers to his questions while Nerida seeks knowledge about humans. As their worlds collide, outside forces threaten not only their connection but their very lives. Will being a pirate and mermaid destroy their futures? Or is their connection something more powerful? 

Siren Song

Siren Song is edited and formatted! Working on the blurb now. 

Siren Song to the Editor

Siren Song is off to the editor! In celebration here is a small scene from it. 

“They think you’re a ghost.” 

“Maybe I am,” she said as she tucked her hair behind her ear. 

When the wind caught another piece, he grabbed it and twirled it around his finger. “I can’t touch a ghost. I haven’t seen hair this red in forever.” 

“My mother had the same color,” she said. “At least that’s what I’m told.” 

“You don’t know?” he asked. 

Sadness entered her green eyes at his question. The color reminded him of the leaves on the trees. They were bright and reflected her thoughts or at least the thoughts she wanted him to see. 

“I never met my mother. She died when I was born,” she said as she looked away from him. 

“I’m sorry,” he whispered. “I never knew my parents. My mother left me on the steps of a church. She attached a note telling me she was sorry, but she couldn’t be a mother. At least she named me.” 

“Destan, right?” she asked. 

“You remembered,” he said as he smiled. 

“It wasn’t hard,” she said as she smiled. “Destan means ‘by the still waters’. Your mother must’ve loved the sea.” 

“Or it’s the only name she could think of,” he said. 

“It has meaning,” she said. 

“You know, I haven’t asked your name,” he said as he twirled her hair between his fingers. 

“I thought I was the Red Maiden,” she said. 

He laughed. “Okay Red Maiden, what was your name before you started haunting the shores?” 

“Maybe it’s a secret,” she said. “If I tell you, I might disappear.” 

“Fair maiden, I wouldn’t let you disappear,” he said as he moved closer to her. 

She stared at him for several moments. 

“My name’s not important,” she said as she shook her head. 

“Everyone’s name is important,” he said as he released her hair. 

Throwback to Lily

Taking a trip back to Book 4 Lily. I loved Lily and Eric's journey. Here is a small scene between them. 

“So are the stars perfect?” he asked once it was completely dark. The millions of stars were sprinkled throughout the midnight blue sky. 

“Yes,” she whispered. “You know my mom used to tell me the stars were our only comfort in the darkest of nights. They know our deepest secrets and darkest fears.” 

“What about the moon?” he asked, turning his head to look at her. 

“She said the moon was too finicky,” she replied. “The moon always changed, but the stars stayed the same.” 

“Why do they know the deepest secrets and darkest fears?” 

“Because only under the cover of night are the secrets and fears revealed,” she answered. 

“What about hope?” 

“Well, hope shines brightest in the dark, or at least it’s what all the poems and books say,” she remarked. 

Opening passage of Siren Song

I'm reading through Siren Song before sending it off to the editor. Here is the opening passage from the book. 

From the dawn of time, the seas have been an unforgiving mistress. Tossing ships from wave to wave and reminding men and women they are mere mortals in her grasp. She can be peaceful or attempt to capsize every ship who dare cross her. As demanding and disheartening as she can be, she still calls to the adventurers. The men and women who brave the unknown for a glimpse of something more than their home. As more and more people settled closer to the water’s edge, the adventurers climbed aboard wooden ships and sailed to the weird shores of far-off lands. Some in service of a crown, while others in service for their self. 

For those adventurers the sea wasn’t the only danger. Once their vessel neared the shore, a new threat called to them. Beautiful voices made to entrap. Their songs entranced the men into plunging to their deaths for a chance to be with the beauty. Only the beauties were the sirens of the shorelines. 

Few men lived to tell the tale and warn others of these sirens. Those few men also gave name to these beauties. A name that would haunt the ships sailing close to their shores and echoed from stern to bow. 

Their name, mermaids. 

Little Known Facts

My favorite thing to post after I publish a book is the little known things that happened in the background. Since Diamond Dirt has been out a week, it's time to share those moments. 

*This was the longest I've even taken to write a book. I started it before writing Life in the Moments in 2017! I finally got back into in December and threw my outline away. Once I the road map I thought would work was gone, the story flowed. 

*This is one of the few books where the 'jock' is the girl and the tutor is the guy. Shelby is not a dumb jock though because her major is chemistry with her best subjects as Organic and Inorganic Chemistry. 

*This is the first book that I cut several scenes before sending it to the editor. They were fine, but pulled the story down. 

*I took a lot of inspiration from my time in college and all the years I played softball. One of the girls is even an agriculture major with animal science classes. 

*Shelby is the first character I've ever told was left-handed. I normally let the reader imagine it. 

*Shelby is a combination of some of my favorite pitchers. 

*I never got to pick a walk-out song when I played, so this was my time to go wild. If I was playing now, it would be the one I chose for Shelby, Made for This by Carrollton. 

*I didn't say what university they attend on purpose. It didn't matter for the story. One of the school colors is red, but not crimson. It is set in the southeast. 

*For those who don't know, there is a College World Series for Softball. It has become one of the most watched sports in recent years. They've added more and more games to the schedules for live viewing. I remember when you could only watch the World Series, but now you can watch regular games almost any day of the week. 

*The World Series is played at ASA Hall of Fame Stadium in Oklahoma City. 

*There is a selection show where the top 64 teams are displayed for regionals. The top 16 teams host regionals. The top 8 (if they win their regional) host Super Regionals. The 8 teams left head to OKC to play the World Series. 

*I do have my next book finished. I'm reading over it before sending it to the editor. The prologue is available at the end of Diamond Dirt. 

Diamond Dirt is live!

https://www.amazon.com/Diamond-Dirt-Laura-Lee-McKellips-ebook/dp/B0859T4HCF/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=laura+lee+mckellips&qid=1586236958&sr=8-2

Diamond Dirt

In just two days, Diamond Dirt will be live! Here is a small scene between Winston and his sister Mia. Don't forget to order your copy on your preferred reading platform. 

“Are you trying to date some girl?” she asked as she grabbed an apple from the basket on the counter. “I didn’t know you were dating anyone.” 

“I’m not,” he said. “She needs help in British History.” 

“What’s wrong with her schedule?” she asked as she leaned over his shoulder. 

“She plays softball every weekend and has practice every day throughout the week. In fact, some days she has practice twice a day. If she’s that bad of a player maybe she needs to drop it,” he said. 

“It could be different types of practice,” she said leaning away from him. 

“I guess.” 

“What’s her name? I’ll tell you what position she plays.” 

“How do you know the players on the college team? I don’t even know them and I go there,” he said as he set his phone down. 

“Duh, I follow the team,” she said. “Now what’s her name?” 

“Shelby, I didn’t ask her last name,” he said. 

“You’re tutoring Shelby Cannon, as in Shelby the best pitcher since Monica Abbott, Jennie Finch, and Cat Osterman?”

“I guess,” he said with a shrug. It could be her last name. He never asked and she didn’t say. 

“I have to meet her,” she said as she leaned over the counter. 

Happy International Mermaid Day!

It's International Mermaid Day! And to celebrate, here is part of the opening scene from Siren Song. 

“No, I didn’t lead him here!” Anahita shouted as she struggled against Darya and Kai and the rope binding her hands. 

Nerida held back her cry as she watched the two tie Anahita up to the shipwrecked hull next to the struggling human man. They were secluded from the moonlight in their secret cove. The waves gently swept the black sand in and out. The ocean was calm on this sad, dark night. 

“You claim to love him,” Loire said as she tightened the ropes on Anahita’s wrists. “He’s human. You know the rules.” 

“But I do love him,” Anahita said as she leaned forward against the ropes. “He won’t tell him anyone about us. He loves me.”  

“He doesn’t love you,” Darya said as she crossed her arms. “We watched him tell another human about the secret waters of the mermaids.” 

“He wouldn’t do that!” Anahita shouted as tears streamed down her cheeks. 

“You’re crying for him?” Kai asked as she shook her head. “Our tears are precious.” 

“Ask him,” Bayou said as she swam over to Anahita. “Ask him if he spilled our secret. It’s not just you involved. It’s all of us. Ask him if he’s worthy of your tears.” 

Nerida watched as Anahita looked at the human man tied up next to her. She saw the tears still streaming down Anahita’s cheeks. They glowed in the moonlight against her skin. A mermaid’s tears could heal anything as long as that mermaid loved you. 

“Please tell them you didn’t say anything,” Anahita begged. “Tell them they’re wrong.” 

Nerida watched the human shake his head as he looked at Anahita. Her heart broke for Anahita. The human wasn’t worthy of Anahita’s love. 

“Anahita, I’m a collector. I owe a large debt and you and your sisters are worth gold. Enough to pay off my debt,” he said. “I knew you were not what you seemed, so I seduced you for information. You’ve been very forthcoming. I thought I would have to wait much longer for your secret. You almost made it too easy for me. I could’ve had all your secrets the first night we met. You were desperate.” 

“No,” Anahita cried as she shook her head. “I love you!” 

“I know, which worked in my favor,” he said as he tugged on the ropes and looked at the others. “I demand you release me. My men will be here at dawn to collect all of you. I’ll finally be free of my debt and can marry the woman who’s been waiting for me. She’s been patient these two weeks while I gathered all the information I needed.” 

“You love someone else?” Anahita asked. 

“Of course, I do. Why would I love a fish? You’re a creature who needs to be destroyed or at least in a tank to be on display,” his said. 

Done

Siren Song is done! And ahead of schedule. Switching to editing mode now. 

Siren Song scene

Once she was back in the water, she swam around to see if Destan was where she left him. After she surfaced, she pushed her hair back and saw him sitting in the sand. She hated lying to him, but she couldn't tell him her family would be more than worried. They would be angry she was talking to a human. Angry enough to use sea foam on both of them even if she hadn't told him anything. 

One last look at him, she dove beneath the water and cried. Why couldn't she be human? 

Book 10 Scene

Entering the last chapters, I thought I'd share a scene from the book following Siren Song. This book is back to my regular romance genre and will actually be filming Siren Song. It's the reason I decided to write Siren Song because I had several scenes written for Book 10.

*This is unedited*

“Caspian, you need this role if you want to break out of the chick flick rut, you’re in,” Russell said.
Caspian groaned as he looked at his uncle. “It’s an action movie with romance,” Caspian said as he crossed his ankles. “I didn’t even read the book.”
“I brought you a copy. You can finish it before the weekend then read the script,” Russell said. “I need a leading man and Tom backed out.”
“Who’s opposite of me?”
“Does it matter?”
“Of course, it does,” Caspian said as he uncrossed his ankles and leaned forward. “If I have to act with them, we need to have chemistry.”
“Son, you’re thinking like a romance lead. This is action/adventure. The woman is the accessory,” Russell said.
“Says the one who cast last year’s swimsuit model for his horror movie,” Caspian said.
“She looked great in a tank top and could lay in fake blood,” Russell said as he rubbed his hands. “I did want the cover model this year, but she couldn’t sing.”
“This movie has singing? I’m out. You know I can’t sing and I refuse to dance,” Caspian said as he stood up. “Since when do you produce musicals?”
“It’s not a musical. The lead female has to sing. If it wasn’t in the book, I wouldn’t care, but those crazy book lovers will protest.”
“What does it matter? Seleniczk cut two of Scarlett’s children out of the script and it’s still a classic,” Caspian said.
“He didn’t cut out Mammy or Melanie though. The girl being a singer is like a character on its own,” Russell said.
Caspian paced the length of his uncle’s living room.
“Let me read the book then decide,” Caspian said.
“I need to know today. The casting director has her pick.”
“You get final say,” Caspian said. “Explain that I need time.”
“You don’t have time. I’ve started filming B-roll footage with the mermaids. Principal filming starts Monday,” Russell said as he stood up.
“Why did you wait so long?”
“I told you Tom backed out. The guy we had as a backup is filming a new show for the L network.”
Caspian closed his eyes as he shoved his hands into his pockets.
“I know I’m going to regret this, but alright. I’ll be in the movie. What’s my character’s name?”
“Destan Waters,” Russell said as he picked up the book. “I suggest you read this. I’ll send your agent the script. Be on set Monday for your fittings. Your scenes start on Tuesday.”
Caspian nodded as he grabbed the book.
“Uncle, don’t make me regret this.”
“It’s a paycheck, who could regret those?”
Caspian sighed before out of the house. He had plans to cancel. Nessa wouldn’t appreciate the change, but he didn’t care. She canceled plans all the time for various reasons. One of the perks of not being in a relationship.

Proof

Got the proof in! Less than a month #diamonddirt #april7th

Happy Anniversary to The Woman Behind the Letters

Happy Anniversary to The Woman Behind the Letters! Here is the scene I dreaded writing when I decided to write Kathryn's side of the story. In Cursed Soldier, Kathryn was a part of Benjamin's past but you only saw her through the letters she wrote. In The Woman Behind the Letters, Kathryn was front and center. This was her book, but I knew one scene had to be in there. It's in this scene that everyone wants to hate Benjamin. It's because of this scene that I tell people to read Cursed Soldier first. I didn't want to write it, but it was necessary for Kathryn's journey. Here is the scene.

She watched him take a deep breath before looking directly at her. There was no joy in his eyes. Was he not happy to see her?
"I'm sorry because I can't marry you," he whispered releasing her hands.
Her arms fell to her sides, as she tried to process what he said.
"What?" she asked in shock. "I don't understand why you can't marry me," she muttered, trying to wrap her mind around his statement.
The war was over, so they could get married. This was their plan before he left four years ago.
"Kathryn, I love you, but the war has changed me," he stated coolly. It was not the loving tone she loved so much. In fact, he never spoke to her in such a cold voice. "I'm not the man who left here that April morning. I don't know that man any longer."
"What? Yes you are. You haven't changed," she protested.
This wasn't right. She waited for him to come home and complete her life, not tell her he changed.
"I've changed, more than you will ever know," he whispered brokenly.
"I don't understand," she cried. "I've waited over four years for you to come home," she voiced angrily.
"I know Kathryn," he whispered, closing his eyes. "I can't stay marry you. I will not burden you with marriage to me. It's not fair to you."
"No, this is not fair to me!" she shouted, as she held back her tears. "I love you. I want to marry you and start our life together."
"Kathryn, this is hard, and I don't want to hurt you anymore than I am. If I were to marry you, your entire life would change. I can't ask you to give up your life for me."
"Benjamin, I know you've seen more than I want to know, but it's not a reason to call off our engagement," she stated, trying to reason with him.
He backed up and sighed. "I can't explain, but I will never get married," he stated with finality.
Kathryn stood there for a moment, as her heart broke into a million pieces. "Are you sure? We don't have to get married anytime soon. We do have to plan the wedding," she muttered still trying to make this work.
"I am sure," he stated. "I wish I could share what's changed in me, but I can't. Please believe me, and let me go."
"I prayed for you to come home from the war," she whispered. "I prayed for you to come back to me."
The tears threatened to spill, as she bit her lip to control her emotions. She refused to cry in front of him.
"I am sorry."
"This has something to do with the Battle of Gettysburg," she muttered, as she really looked at him.
He was a changed man. The sparkle in his eyes was gone, causing them to be a dull, dark color. It was as if he was cloaked in shadows and hidden away from her, even though the sun was shining on him. It was Benjamin, but then again it wasn't.
"Kathryn," he moaned. "I can't stay here and marry you. Please live your life without me."
"I'm not sure I can," she cried, as she felt him slip away from her. "You've broken me," she whispered, as her lip trembled.

Halfway done with Siren Song

I'm halfway done with Siren Song! Here is a small scene to celebrate.

“Can we help you?” the old man asked.

“Yes. I’m Captain Maynard and I’m here to handle your pirate problem,” Captain Maynard said as he stomped onto the dock. “I hear you have pirates hiding in port.”

“No sir,” the old man said. “I ain’t seen no pirates.”

“I’m sure you haven’t,” Captain Maynard said as he rubbed his beard. “I bet you think they’re good men and help you and the village out.”

“I said, I ain’t seen no pirate,” the old man said as he shook his head.

“Well, some pirates attacked one of the Spanish ships near this island. They sunk the ship after taking all the gold,” Captain Maynard said as he looked around the dock. “Did you have a ship leave? I thought I saw one more this morning.”

“Naw, ain’t no ship left,” the old man said as he crossed his arms. “Most men be drunk in the tavern.”

“That’ll be my next place to check for pirates,” Captain Maynard said as he touched the hilt of his sword. “You wouldn’t be lying to me, would you?”

“No sire,” the old man said as he shook his head. “Ye want me to watch ye ship?”

“No, I’ll leave some of my men here to watch the ship. It’s property of the Crown,” Captain Maynard said as he turned back to his ship. “Forward.”

A dozen men in uniform marched down the gangplank off the ship.

“Time to round up some pirates,” Captain Maynard said with a smile.

Platform updates

I have taken Courtney, Lily, Savannah, Slay the Demon, and Falling for Cody off all ebook platforms except for Amazon. I'll be enrolling them in KD Select. If you haven't picked them up on another platform, you still have time before they're removed. Cursed Soldier, The Woman Behind the Letters, and Life in the Moments are still available on all platforms. Diamond Dirt will be released on all platforms on April 7th. All pre-order links are active.

Kink

That feeling when you want to throw another kink into your characters' lives 🤔 They'll survive... maybe.

Names

Siren Song has a host of characters that consist of pirates and mermaids. My main couple is Destan (pirate) and Nerida (mermaid). Here is the list of the other characters to round out my book.

Pirates: Teague, James, Boosa, Turner, Red, Stede, Kidd, Bartolomew, Fen, Morgan, Greaves, Bellamy, Ceasar

Mermaids: Loire, Cordelia, Anahita, Bayou, Misty, Darya, Mira, Kai

All the names have special meaning. The pirate names are based on real pirates, except for Destan. The mermaid names all have something to do with water. I enjoyed the research on pirates and names relating to water. Can't wait to share Destan and Nerida's story.

#amwriting #sirensong #destanandnerida

Walk the Plank

Happy Dr. Seuss Day! Here is a small scene from Siren Song.

“I’ll keelhaul you for this!” Captain Seaton yelled as he stood up from his bed. His shirt hanging up with his pants untied.
Destan smiled as he held his cutlass to the Captain’s neck. Holding the weapon to his former Captain’s neck was his prize. It had been his motivation while subduing the other officers.
“Not before you walk the plank,” Destan said. “We’re taking over this ship.”
“Mutiny! On my ship?” Captain Seaton asked. “You were my best deckhand. I posted the money for you to escape the orphanage and have a life at sea. You’ve been on the ship for three years now.”
“You really shouldn’t have taken my threats lightly. I told you sailing men to servitude wasn’t my desire,” Destan said. “It’s my ship now.”
“Destan, you’ll hang for this. Mutiny’s never taken lightly,” Captain Seaton spat out. “I’ll make sure of it.”
“You’ll be in the locker before anyone hears of this,” Destan said as he stepped to the side and waved his cutlass for the Captain to exit. “Now, if you wouldn’t mind, step outside.”
“And if I don’t?” Captain Seaton asked as he crossed his arms.
“Then I’ll run you through here and drag your body overboard,” Destan said with a shrug. “It makes no difference to me. The men will get a show either way.”
“Why?”
“I’m tired of moving slaves to the Americas,” Destan said as he kept the blade on Seaton’s neck. “Especially when we throw half of their dead bodies overboard. My desire was to sail the sea, not ship slaves from one continent to another.”
“They’re only slaves,” Captain Seaton said as he shook his head. “They mean nothing.”
“Maybe to you,” Destan said. “Now, let’s go Captain. My men need a show and you’re to provide it to them.”
“You do this and you’ll never work for the Crown again.”
“Good, because I don’t want to work for the Crown,” Destan said as he escorted the Captain out to the deck.
“So, you’re to be a pirate then? You’ll be chased around the Caribbean and hanged,” Captain Seaton said as they stepped onto the deck.
“Let them chase. They’ll never find me,” Destan said. “Now, walk the plank.”
“Plank, plank, plank,” the men cheered as all the officer were pushed towards the plank.
Destan smiled as the officers were pushed overboard until only Captain Seaton remained on the plank.
“Don’t just stand there, Cap. Davy Jones be ready for you,” James called out.
“Bunch of pirates!” Captain Seaton yelled.
Destan nodded as he stomped the end of the plank to send Seaton into the murky depths below. Turning to face the men, he held up his cutlass and shook it in the air.
“Free the men below!”

#sirensong #pirates #walktheplank

Anniversary

To slay a demon, you have to face it. Slay the Demon is 3! Here is a snippet of one of my favorite scenes.

“He’s a father to an adorable little girl named Maggie. However, it doesn’t really define him either. I guess it’s more of his strength. He allowed me to take Maggie back to the school. She’s the little girl I’m helping to get past her school shooting. And just the emotions of stepping back into a school building with her almost brought me to my knees.”
She choked back her tears before continuing.
“But with Matt there, I felt his strength radiating through the walls, even though he stood on the outside as I led his little girl back into the place where her demons reside. I didn’t know what I would face walking in there with her, but I knew she could handle it. Because I did. Even though she’s only seven, I see myself in her, more than ever.”

#slaythedemonis3 #kimandmatt #graveyardtalks

Preorder Link

Preorder link for Diamond Dirt

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0859T4HCF/ref=mp_s_a_1_11…

Leap Day!

It's Leap Day! Here is a small scene from Siren Song, my new story.

*Unedited*
"Where ye disappearing?" Teague asked.
"Just meeting someone," Destan said.
"Ye met a woman," Teague said. "Ain't no man disappear as much as ye have to be alone. Is she a beauty?"
Destan sighed as he looked at his first mate. Teague noticed too much sometimes.
"Yes, I met a woman, but she's different."
"Ain't no woman different," Teague said. "Except for the she-demons mermaids."
Destan laughed as he leaned against the railing.
"No, she's different. She's the one the village calls the Red Maiden," Destan said.
"You're seeing a ghost? Boy, I didn't take you for stupid. You don't mess with ghosts. They can attach to ye soul and haunt you," Teague said as he shook his head.
"She's not a ghost," Destan said. "You can't touch a ghost."
"You've touched her? Oh lord, son, you need to see a priest," Teague said. "Before we set sail."
"Teague, she's not a ghost. I don't need to see a priest. I didn't take you for superstitious."
"I'm not except for ghosts. I'm from the bayou, we take our spirits seriously," Teague said. "Ghosts like to cling to humans."
"She doesn't cling to me. In fact, she doesn't touch me and pulls away from my touch," Destan said. "It's weird."
"Son, leave her alone," Teague said. "You don't want no woman tying you to shore. You're a man of the sea."

#sirensong #destan #pirates #leapday2020

Cover Reveal

I got back my cover and Diamond Dirt is up for pre-order. Here's a small scene to celebrate. Mark April 7th, Diamond Dirt will be live!

“Were you pitching wrong?” he asked as he pulled out a chair and sat down.
“I don’t pitch wrong,” she said with a smile. “She wanted me to work on my drop ball after I worked on my screw ball. It’s nothing. She doesn’t know I’ll pitch again before study hour and work on my rise ball.”
“Still don’t think it’s healthy for your arm.”
“Next time we’re on the field, I’ll show you. It doesn’t hurt as long as you do it right,” she said.
“Uh huh,” he said as he leaned over and read her notes. “Looks good.”
“I hope so. I did more research on Queen Victoria’s bedchamber crisis. I planned to write my paper on the drive down, but it’s not going to happen now.”
“Why? Are you not going to the games this weekend?” he asked.
“Oh, I’m going, but I have to drive myself. No one is available,” she said. “I’m losing valuable studying time.”
“You’re driving yourself? Alone?”
“Yeah,” she said. “Although, Coach Swan said I could have someone ride with me. They could even drive.”
“Have you found anyone?” he asked.
“I heard about it at practice,” she said. “At least I did take out my frustration on pitching.”
He could her the worry in her voice. She was pressed for time and losing the riding time would set her back. “Listen, I have an idea.”
“I can’t teleport there. I’ve already looked into it.”
He laughed. “No, I could drive you.”
“What?” she asked as her head snapped up. “You want to give up your entire Friday to drive me down there? No, I can’t ask you to.”
“You’re not asking. I offered,” he said. “You need the time to write your paper. I can help.”
“Are you sure? It’s a six-hour drive,” she said.
“I’m sure, but I have a favor to ask. It’s a two-part favor, really,” he said.
“I’m probably not going to like this, but I would love not to drive this weekend,” she said. “So, what’s the favor? I’m not dating your roommate.”
“I wouldn’t ask you to date him,” he said as he shook his head. “I don’t put him on any woman.”
She smiled. “Okay, so what’s the favor?”
“Come to my sister’s ball game on Thursday and if it’s okay can she ride with us,” he said.
He watched her expression; but wasn’t sure if she was comfortable with coming to Mia’s ball game. Since he was terrible to his sister, this would go a long way to getting back in her good graces. He hated disappointing Mia.
“Okay,” she said.
“Really?”
“Yeah, I love watching younger kids play. She came to see me, so I need to return the favor,” she said. “I’m sure it’s okay for her to ride with us. I’ll check, but as long as I get time to write, she’s welcome to ride. I’ll even get you two seats at the game. Where does she like to sit?”
“I don’t know, but any seats are fine,” he said as he leaned back in his chair.
“You’re not a sports fan,” she said with a smile. “Don’t worry; I’ll get her the ones I would want as a fan.”
“Really, she’ll be happy with any seats,” he said.
“But I won’t be,” she said as she shook her head. “Let me handle this.”

#diamonddirt #coverreveal #april7th #preorder