Teagan Geneviene has a new book, well… a serial of monthly novelettes that will tell one epic story. And the first “journey” is now available on Amazon. I read it in one sitting and reviewed it below. But first, I had a few questions for Teagan. We didn’t spoil the read, I promise.
Dead of Winter Interview
Dead of Winter has been in the works for over a decade. Why did you wait so long to release it, and why are you publishing this story in monthly novelettes?
I had been researching and then writing Dead of Winter for a couple of years. Then Game of Thrones premiered on HBO and used a tag-line that I had woven throughout my novel — Winter is coming! (I talk about that nightmare in a blog post.) That coincidence caused me to shelve my huge novel. However, the characters and world stayed with me. Over the next decade, I considered dividing it into a trilogy, or making it into a blog serial. I even fantasized about it becoming an anime series. Still, I couldn’t escape the fact that George R. R. Martin had used the phrase that was core to my story.
After his television show ended, I decided I had let that hold me back long enough. If my phrase wasn’t new, then I would present the novel in a new way — by publishing a monthly series of novelettes, or journeys (the characters journey through their complex world). The original manuscript is longer than 800 pages, so I think it will run for at least a year.
The first novelette introduces the reader to Emlyn, her restrictive culture, her teacher, and her world. What aspects of the world were the most interesting for you to craft?
Emlyn’s world in Dead of Winter is not a historic fantasy. Although it looks and sounds similar to pre-industrial Great Britain and Europe. I also researched all the names of the many characters and places so they would be reminiscent of those places. I’m a research geek, so I loved creating that part. More than 200 places and characters are mentioned in the overall story.
Many of your books are fun and whimsical in nature. This one feels more serious and dangerous. Was that a deliberate decision?
There are two parts to that answer — yes and no. The difference in style was an evolution, rather than a decision. Before I started publishing and blogging, I wrote “high fantasy” stories. I wrote this novel back then. During the years since, my style has progressed to the lighter things you’re used to seeing from me. When I started writing blog serials, those brought out a strong sense of whimsy. The whimsy was always there, but in the past, it was expressed in a more serious way.
Also, I started writing Dead of Winter in the winter of 2009 – 2010. I had recently relocated to a place where both the climate and the culture were much colder than I had ever experienced. A historically harsh winter, and a personal injury set the tone of Dead of Winter.
Emlyn has paranormal abilities that set her apart. Tell us a little about the magic in this world.
The “dead” are a fundamental part of Dead of Winter, but the story is more about Emlyn and her world than it is about ghosts. How to say it? It’s more of a story with ghosts than an actual ghost story — if that makes any sense.
As a reader who studies the work of successful mainstream authors, I learned the value of making gradual increases in magic and/or violence. Emlyn’s ability to communicate with spirits is the main “magic” of this story, but the tale grows into other forms of magic as well. There are also supernatural creatures and there is some “earth magic.”
Do you have a favorite character and why?
This story was in my head for years. Many of the characters became real to me. One favorite is Tajín, a companion for Zasha. I definitely had a crush on Tajín. You won’t meet him until Journey 2. I love his personality. His home, Bandihar, is inspired by ancient civilizations in Mexico. I enjoyed shaping his culture and letting it help develop his personality, even his weapon.
Review of Dead of Winter, Journey One
This story will unfold in monthly installments (Journeys), and in this first novelette, the author introduces the reader to the fantasy world, to the main protagonist, Emlyn, and to a few secondary characters who impact her life. I read this Journey in about an hour.
Emlyn lives with her father and sister in a rural village where the culture is patriarchal and restrictive, with women bearing the brunt of the harsh control. This doesn’t bode well for Emlyn who has the ability to see ghosts. Osabide, Emlyn’s elderly teacher and a wise woman reminds her not to share knowledge of her gifts with anyone, because her strange skill could cost her everything, including her life.
The story is told from Emlyn’s point of view, and the reader gets glimpses of her encounters with ghosts as well as a mysterious white wolf. The novelette raises questions, and there are teasers galore, including an underlying sense of danger. An excellent start to an epic tale, recommended to readers who enjoy fantasies and want to try a different sort of reading experience. I’m looking forward to the next Journey.
Teagan’s Links
Dead of Winter Global Link
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Teagan-Riordain-Geneviene/e/B00HHDXHVM
Twitter: https://twitter.com/teagangeneviene
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeagansBooks
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/teagangeneviene/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoM-z7_iH5t2_7aNpy3vG-Q
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teagangeneviene/
Myths of the Mirror 
Excellent review, Diana, and also loved the interview. I was aware of some details of the creation process of this novel, but I’ve found out some new things. I look forward to the next journey!
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I came up with a bunch of questions and Teagan graciously answered every one except she wouldn’t reveal anything about the while wolf. LOL Now I need to read onward to get my question answered. Smart woman, that Teagan. Thanks for the visit and Happy Reading. 🙂
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Bwahahaha….. (evil chuckle) you will find some wolf hints next time. Thanks again, Diana.
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Ha ha. I’m looking forward to it!
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Thanks so much for visiting here, Olga — and for the marvelous review at your blog. Hugs on the wing!
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[…] D. Wallace Peach at Myths of the Mirror January 6th review […]
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[…] D. Wallace Peach at Myths of the Mirror January 6th review […]
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My goodness! There is so much I want to read, when time becomes available. 🙂. Loved the interview and this enticement!
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Thanks for stopping by, Ka. I know what you mean about there being more books than there is time to read them! I hope you have a lovely day. Stay safe and Happy Reading. 🙂
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Thank you kindly for visiting, Ka. I’m sorry to be late with a reply. Have a wonderful new week. Hugs!
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Wishing you a wonderful week, too! It takes me a little bit to reply sometimes, too. It’s my pleasure to have visited.
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[…] D. Wallace Peach at Myths of the Mirror January 6th review […]
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[…] D. Wallace Peach at Myths of the Mirror January 6th review […]
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So glad you enjoyed the review, Teagan. My pleasure.
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Great interview with one pf my favorite authors!! Love Teagans’s work!! I have Journey 1 dowloaded and look forward to reading it!! And to Teagan….love the cover!!
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Thanks for stopping by to cheer Teagan on. You’ll finish Journey 1 and then start tapping your fingers while waiting for the 2nd. She throws all these hooks out there that made me want to keep reading. Have fun, Kirt, and be well.
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Thank you very much! I now have some other reading to do with your work!!
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Thank you, Kirt. I would be stoked if you gave it a try. 😀
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Kirt, that’s music to my ears. Also, with your artistic eye, I really appreciate your feedback on the cover. Hugs on the wing!
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What a great discussion! It’s always so hard for a writer when someone more famous puts something similar out first, but everyone knows that great minds think alike!
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True, Suzanne. Fortunately for Teagan, it’s the tag line, and not the characters or plot! Her story is original and imaginative. And I can’t wait to see how it progresses. Thanks for the visit and Happy Writing!
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Thanks Suzanne. Hopefully, even if ten years later, this is the right time and the right presentation for this story. Thanks for visiting. Hugs on the wing!
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😊
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Fab interview, Diana!
Funny how something like a phrase can be so important to a flow of creativity. “Winter is coming”…. well, great minds think alike.
Of course I would never have known, as I am probably one of the very few who never watched Game of Thrones. It never caught my fancy.
One thing for sure, this blog book launch is a fun journey!
Take care!
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Hi Resa — thank you so much! It seems you are far from alone. If I had any idea that so many people had not watched Game of Thrones, I would have published long ago. I’m glad you could visit here. Hugs on the wing!
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{{{HUGS}}}
It’s like to you, it became Game of Thorns.
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It’s actually interesting how many people haven’t watched GoT. And Teagan’s book/serial is totally unique, of course. Thanks for the visit, Resa, and for cheering Teagan on. Have a beautiful weekend and be well. 🙂
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Teagan rocks! 😀
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That’s too bad about “Winter is coming” but as they say: great minds think alike. 😉 Lovely interview and all the best to Teagan!
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Hi Sarah. That’s a favorite phrase of mine too. 🙂
I’m thrilled with Diana’s review. Thanks so much. Happy New Year and hugs on the wing.
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Happy New year to you too and happy writing!!
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That’s a wonderful way to look at it, Sarah. The positive slant is always welcome. Thanks so much for stopping by to cheer Teagan on. Have a lovely weekend, my friend. ❤
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You too! ❤
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Nice to see Teagan’s newest release on you wonderful site,Diana. I wish you all the best Teagan!
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Hi Mark. Thanks! I hope you’re having a fabulous Friday. I’m looking forward to visiting with you on the 12th. Hugs on the wing!
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My pleasure, Mark. I enjoy hosting authors whose work I enjoy. It’s easy to be enthusiastic! Thanks so much for visiting and for your kind comment. Have a wonderful weekend and Happy Writing!
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An exciting interview. Lovely to learn more about Teagan.
A beautiful review, Diana.
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It’s a delight to see you here, Patricia. Thanks so much. Hugs on the wing!
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Thanks for stopping by to cheer Teagan on, Pat. I enjoy her work and this project is entertaining as well as interesting from a publishing standpoint. I’m glad you enjoyed the review. Have a wonderful weekend and be well. 🙂
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I’m so excited to start this series – even more after reading Teagan’s interview. Awesome review, Diana – thanks for featuring Teagan!
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Thanks for the visit, Teri. It’s a quick read and does a great job of setting the stage and casting out some hooks. I definitely wanted to keep reading when I finished it! I hope you enjoy it. 😀
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You are so kind Teri — thanks very much. I’m having a terrific time visiting with Diana. I’m glad you could join us. Hugs on the wing!
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I love short stories, novellas, and novelettes, but what a rich history serial literature has! I’ve got two stories I planned to serialize but haven’t been able to write much lately. Congratulations, Teagan, on your first journey! (Great cover.) 🙂 Thanks for sharing, Diana. Hope you’re both well.
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That’s so interesting that this is something you’ve considered too, Sarah. I remember learning that Twain wrote serials. Perhaps its making a comeback. I hope you find some time to finish your projects and if you give Teagan’s first journey a try, I hope you enjoy it. 😀
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I have. I love the concept of serial writing. It’s fun (to read and to write). I will definitely be checking out Teagan’s first journey!
Yes, I think Twain and also Dickens, Melville, and many others. A lot of well-known “novels” are actually serials that have been collected into a, well, collection. Voila! Novel. 🙂 I believe Sherlock Holmes was a serial, too.
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Hmmm. Something to consider!
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You’d make a brilliant serial writer, Diana. (Geez, reading that quickly, you almost fill it in with “killer”.) But you would. Truly. The writer, not the killer. Or a killer writer. Or you’d kill at writing. Never mind, I’m off the deep end here.
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He he he. You’re killing me. 😀
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Nice one. 😉
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Thanks for your encouragement, Sarah. Hugs on the wing!
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Sounds fascinating, Teagan! A great concept (Novelettes). Great review too! Sharing…
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Thanks for stopping by, Bette. The novelette serial is a fascinating idea, isn’t it? I’m so curious to see how it goes. The first “journey” is a great start. Have a great day and Happy Reading. 😀
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Thank you kindly, Bette. I’m happy you could visit. Hugs on the wing!
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I enjoyed the informative interview questions and answers, Diana and Teagan. Looking forward to finishing the story. Nice review, Diana! Happy reading (and writing).
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Thanks for the visit, Mary. I’m glad you enjoyed the interview. I liked finding out some the background of the book and how it came about. The first journey was a fun read. Have a lovely day, my friend. Be well. 😀
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You too, Diana.
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It’s so kind of you to visit in the middle of your own new release, Mary. Heartfelt thanks for your encouragement. Hugs on the wing!
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What a clever way to publish. It harks back to long ago when authors published in magazines, monthly. It sounds wonderful. Good luck with this, Teagan.
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I recall learning that Mark Twain published in serials. Great point, Jacqui. Thanks for stopping by to help Teagan celebrate her new project. Happy Reading!
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Thanks, Jacqui. Since I’ve been writing blog serials for so many years, I thought I’d try this “variation on a theme.” Happy New Year!
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Fantastic book review, Diana and I loved the cover of the book and the name too. Congrats dear Teagan. A wonderful discussion too. Thanks a lot for this lovely share.
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I appreciate the visit, Kamal. So sweet of you to stop by an support Teagan and her new project. The book is a great start to the serial with lots of teasers. Have a great day, my friend, and Happy Reading. 🙂
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You are always welcome my friend and loved your review of her book. Take care and stay safe, Diana.
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Hello, Kamal. It’s lovely to see you. Thanks very much for your feedback about the cover. It may be my favorite of all my covers.
I’ve narrated the prologue, which you can see with atmospheric images:
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=teagan+geneviene+youtube&docid=607989205813625265&mid=05141C1398973DC2154B05141C1398973DC2154B&view=detail&FORM=VIRE
Happy New Year and hugs on the wing.
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You are always welcome dear Teagan and yes thank you will definitely go and have a look at the atmospheric images. Happy New Year and hugs to you too.
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Just put Dead of Winter into my Kindle. Can’t wait to read it. Escapism is a necessity these days, and Teagan’s stories place us into a different place/time in wonderful ways. I love her writing! Thanks, Diana.
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So lovely to see your name pop up, Pam. I think you’ll enjoy the start to this serial. It’s a short read and will leave you wanting more. 🙂 Yes, we need the escapism and a way to enjoy our Dead of Winter! Stay well and full of hope, my friend. Happy Reading!
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Hi Pam! I’m so glad you could visit. I’m honored that you’ve gotten the first “Journey.” It’s a different sort of escape from the full-on whimsy I’ve written in recent years. However, I fell in love with this world and hope you’ll like being transported there. Happy New Year and hugs on the wing!
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I remember reading Teagan’s blog post about Games of Thrones’ stealing her book’s thunder. I love her idea of releasing the book as a series of novelettes instead.
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Releasing it as a serial is a really interesting idea, isn’t it? I’m so curious to see how that works out. If anyone can pull it off, Teagan can. 😀 Thanks for the visit, my friend. Happy Writing!
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My pleasure, Diana!
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Hi, Liz. Yes, I try to make light of it, but it was a heartbreaking moment… once the echoes of my shocked scream dissipated, LOL. I appreciate your feedback about the series form. Happy New Year and hugs on the wing!
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I can only imagine how heartbreaking that moment must have been. Happy New Year to you as well, Teagan!
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Brilliant review, D. I’m really keen to start Teagan’s series (you know how much I love my fantasy) 🙂
I SO feel for you about the Game of Thrones thing. That’s happened to me before, and it’s crippling when someone else ‘gets there first’. Good on you for forging ahead anyway!
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Thanks for stopping by to give Teagan a thumbs up, Jess. I think you’ll enjoy this first journey of the serial. The GoT gut-punch was too bad, but this story is completely original and stands on its own. Happy Reading!
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Well, she got my interest piqued when she mentioned ‘high fantasy’. Sucker for HF.
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Yeah. It doesn’t have the whimsical feel of her other works. This definitely has the more epic feel, at least in the first journey. 🙂
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Thank you kindly, Jess. Yeah, it took me almost a decade to suck the air back into my lungs after that sucker punch, but I’m pressing forward now. Plus I’m riding the waves of joy from Diana’s review. Have a wonderful rest of the week. Hugs on the wing!
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Good on you, Teagan! You’ve got me won over!
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It’s too bad Game of Thrones stole your tagline Teagan! I hate it when that happens! Good luck with the series – sounds intriguing.
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LOL. It’s that darned “Creative One-Mind,” Jan. As my friend said, “Well you’re getting the right ideas. Now we just have to manifest a way for you to get them out there first.” Yeah… still working on that part. 😀
I appreciate your support. Hugs on the wing!
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Teagan’s story is completely original and so much fun. 🙂 I hope that if you give it a try you enjoy the read. Thanks for stopping by!
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I will add my Hurrahs! and my delight in hearing about this very intruiging body of work! And I join in with the others here who have never seen Game of Thrones. Diana’s review holds much more appeal for me than any of the GOT promos ever did. As the icing on the cake, I am a big fan of the short story form. So your serial format is a gift! Looking forward to stepping into your world!
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I’m delighted to meet you here, Tara! Thanks for adding your non GoT voice, it’s really encouraging.
There will be cliffhangers, although I’ll try not to leave anyone dangling *too* badly. The monthly serial/series will run for approximately a year, with volumes from 30 to 60 pages. People are reading this one so quickly, that I will aim for the higher end of that range on the future “Journeys.” Heartfelt thanks for commenting. Hugs on the wing!
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Thanks so much for the lovely comment, Tara, and for stopping by to cheer Teagan on. The short “journeys” sound perfect for your reading preferences, and Teagan tells a great tale. I hope that if you give the first installment a try, you enjoy it. ❤ Happy Reading!
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Congratulations Teagan – your new book sounds fabulous and what a great review. Toni x
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Hi Toni! Thank you — I’m absolutely thrilled. Hugs on the wing!
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Thank you for your support for Teagan and her new book, Toni. It’s a pleasure to host her launch, and to read her work, of course. I appreciate your visit. Happy Reading. 😀
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Super interview, Diana. So nice to see Teagan here. Excellent review too. Thanks for hosting Teagan today.
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Thanks for stopping by to cheer Teagan on, John. I’m a fan of her writing and I’m intrigued by this serial and how that’s going to work. It certainly started off strong. Have a wonderful afternoon. 😀
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Thank you, Diana. You as well. 😁
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Thanks so much for visiting, John. I’m still glowing from Diana’s review. Hugs on the wing!
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Yes it was a good one. Hugs
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Great book review and a most excellent follow-up discussion!
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Thanks for reading and commenting, Rebecca. I enjoy Teagan’s creativity and it’s fun to read something a bit different from her. I’m glad she decided to share it and can’t wait to see how her experiment works. Have a lovely, safe, creative day. 🙂
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Hi Rebecca. I’m glad I could introduce you to Diana and her blog. I admire her skill in writing high fantasy so much that I actually hesitated to show this to her.
But that same admiration made me know that I was safe.
Stay safe and well. Hugs on the wing!
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Oh goodness. I think your writing is great! You’re going to have to get used to that. 🙂
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LOL, thank you, but I really did. I remind myself that even in the same genre, my voice is different. And it’s good to have someone to look up to. 🙂
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You know, I love it that we all have our unique voices, processes, inspirations, thoughts about writing, and audiences, etc. To me, it’s what makes writers and their books so interesting, and I love the “inside look” that I get through our blog relationships. When I read, I can’t help but notice (with awe) the imagination and craft behind the work. Bask in your unique talent, my friend.
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The idea of “safety” comes from a profound friendship. A heartening thought. Thank you for the introduction!!! Hugs coming back on the wing.
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What a wonderful post! I have picked up the novelette and this book is definitely on my radar, Teagan! I love the concept of it and the paranormal aspects! Thank you for hosting, Diana!
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Thanks for stopping by to cheer Teagan on, Jan. The book is a quick read and Teagan does a great job of setting the stage. Stay safe and Happy Reading!
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Oh, that’s right — you have a fondness for ghostly tales, Jan. This is more of a fantasy that includes ghosts than a real ghost story. If that makes any sense. I hope that you enjoy it. Heartfelt thanks for visiting. Hugs on the wing!
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Hi Teagan, good to see you here. I took a two-week holiday break and have a slow start to come back. Your research on preindustrial Britain and Europe is fascinating and mentioned a couple hundred places and names in your first novella. Emlyn must be thrilled to find herself in your first book. Congratulations on your book launch and I just downloaded my copy.
Thank you for hosting, Diana!
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Thanks so much for taking a break from your break, Miriam, and for downloading the first journey. Teagan’s research and worldbuilding is definitely impressive. I hope you enjoy the read. Now get back to relaxing. Stay well and Happy Reading. 😀
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You’re so good in making me laugh, Diana. It sounds like, “Go back to sleep!” I’m trying to wake up my lazy brain, started my walking yesterday, and learned a little on how to use Photoshop. The illustration of my children’s book should be done any days and I’m learning how to publish it so I could tell the formatting guy what I need from him. I pretty much know the Amazon guideline but I want to know the B&N guideline to do the hardcover. So today is studying day! 🙂
The vaccines went off on a bumpy start. Hopefully the states put the act together to administer it. 🙂
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Good for you for teaching yourself the ropes, Miriam. Children’s books are a whole different animal! And yes, hopefully the vaccination procedures will start running more smoothly. I’m counting on the new administration to get take charge quickly. 🙂
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Miriam, it’s good to have you back in the blogosphere. Your break was well deserved and sounded lovely. Thanks so much for supporting this launch. I’m thrilled that you got the book.
LOL, I misspoke when I said 200. When I went back to check, the overall manuscript has more than 300 names of characters and places. Ha! Not to worry, I added a list of those to the back of the book, and it will grow with each “Journey.”
I appreciate you visiting both posts. Hugs on the wing!
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Your research was impressive, Teagan. Add a list to the neck of the book would be interesting. I remember reading Walter Isaacson’s book on Steve Jobs. He interviewed so many people before putting the book together, without giving the backgrounds of the people in the context which could be distracted the the flow of the biography, he listed them in the back of the book. The list in itself was an interesting read.
Have a wonderful day!
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Character lists are not unheard of in high fantasy epics. Considering the monthly format I’m using I think it’s important. Since I’ll be adding to it with each “journey” (rather than publishing a master list), it won’t give any spoilers.
Be good to you, my friend. Hugs.
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Lovely review, Diana, and equally wonderful post. I really enjoyed the interview. I finished the novella a few days ago, and now I eagerly await the next journey. Congratulations, Teagan! I’m so happy for you. 💗
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I thought Teagan did a great job of setting the stage while dropping in a bunch of hooks. 🙂 It’s a pleasure to host her today, Gwen. Thanks so much for stopping by and for your kind comment. Happy Reading. ❤
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Thank you, Gwen. I’m delighted to see you here — and thrilled that you enjoyed the first journey! I’m looking forward to visiting with you too. Heartfelt thanks for your support. Hugs on the wing!
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I just picked up the Kindle. 🙂 I like the idea of a new, short journey each month. Hopefully I’ll find time between my writing sessions for reading! Again, wishing you success on this new release. And congrats on this new phase in your rather long journey to get this story to us!
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Thanks, Sheri. The first journey is a quick read so you can enjoy yourself when you’re taking a break from writing. 🙂 I hope you’re still enjoying the glow from your own release. Happy Writing and Reading!
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Sheri, you’re a gem! Thanks so much. I know what you mean. My steampunk serial is nagging me too. Hugs on the wing!
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Good interview. I will be adding this series to my reading list.
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Thanks so much for the visit and supportive comment! Teagan will be thrilled and I hope you enjoy the read. It’s a quick one full of hooks. Have a wonderful day and Happy Reading! Be well.
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Thanks so much, LK. The serial/series will go for approximately a year. It’s a world to be explored — one “journey” at a time. Hugs on the wing!
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A story that took ten years to see the limelight must have evolved well. I am intrigued by it. Thank you for sharing this Diana. Wishing you great Teagan.
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Thanks for stopping by, Balroop. I’m delighted to have Teagan here with her new book! The first Journey was a fun start to an epic story with plenty of hooks. If you give it a try, I hope you enjoy it. Have a lovely day, my friend.
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The many characters were persistent in their subtle nagging, Balroop. 🙂 Thanks for visiting. Hugs on the wing!
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Such a wonderful interview Diana. Thank you for sharing.
xoxo
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I’m glad you enjoyed it, Gabriela. Thanks so much for stopping by to cheer Teagan on. Have a lovely, safe, peaceful day, my friend. 😀
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My pleasure Diana. You too ❤️
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Thank you for taking time to visit, Gabriela. Hugs on the wing!
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My pleasure. 🤗🌹
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Nice interview Diana and thanks for the insights and background Teagan. Best wishes on your launch!
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Thanks for stopping by to cheer Teagan on, Brad. I’m happy to host her launch and definitely enjoy her stories. Have a lovely day, my friend, and stay safe these dark days. ❤
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My pleasure Diana and Teagan!
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Thank you for sharing this wonderful review, Diana. I have this lined up to read this weekend.
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It’s a quick read, Robbie, and full of great worldbuilding and teasers. I’m so curious to see how the story unfolds and how publishing it as a serial works out. Thanks for stopping by and I hope you enjoy the first journey! Happy Reading.
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You are a marvel, Robbie. That’s music to my ears. I hope you have been recharging during your break. Sometimes we need a vacation after the vacation. 😀 Yours has certainly been full. Thank you for taking time to visit. Hugs on the wing!
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My pleasure, Teagan. Our holiday was a guided tour of the Anglo-Zulu battlefields so it was very busy. I didn’t get much of anything else done but it was worth it. Such a great visit, I have so much to share.
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I’m looking forward to more posts and photos! 🙂
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Thank you, Teagan.
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A great interview of Teagan, Diane! Teagan, I wouldn’t worry about the coincidental tag line from Game of Thrones (I have not seen GoT myself, and probably won’t, too many other things to catch up on). Winter is a season that is always coming, somewhere, and is quite a reasonable and not a unique idea for anyone to work into a movie, novel or other piece of writing. Your story is what is unique, and it is very good. That is the important thing.
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Thanks for the lovely comment, Lavinia. I agree. It’s not uncommon for books to have the exact same titles, and no one thinks much of it. It’s the quality of what’s inside that matters, and Teagan has that down. Have a lovely day, stay well, and happy reading!
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You are so kind. Thank you again, Diana for hosting me.
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You’re welcome. Look how many fans you have!
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Lavinia, you are such an unfailing source of encouragement and support. Thanks for adding your voice to the numbers who didn’t watch Game of Thrones. 😀 I hope your new year is going splendidly. Hugs on the wing!
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All is OK here. Many hugs back! 🙂
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Such a great interview and insights! Congrats to both of you! Great interview and Great writer!👏👏 Love to see that timing is everything. Now here’s to a great launch and book sales!! ❤️🤗
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Thanks for taking the time to read and comment, Cindy. All in good time, huh? Have a wonderful day and be well. 🙂
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Yes in deed!!! All in good time right!!! I so agree and it is my mantra for the year so helpful 🙏🙏❤️
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You are so kind, Cindy — thank you. I appreciate you commenting. Hugs on the wing!
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Wow. This sounds awesome. What an intriguing concept. I’m glad the author finally gets to share this story with the world.
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Thanks for taking the time to visit and comment. Teagan is creative on so many levels. It is wonderful that she finally gets to share the story, and we get to read it. Have a wonderful day and stay safe. Happy Reading!
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Thanks so much for commenting, Amethyst. I’m partial to gemstone names, and it’s lovely to meet you through Diana. Ha! It took me long enough, but “Winter” is finally here. Hugs on the wing!
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Hi. Nice to meet you too. Love that name too but it’s not my real name sadly. Maybe I’ll add it in someday. I’m Adanna. I can’t wait to get the opportunity to read your work. Sounds right up my alley. Lol. Winter is finally here indeed.
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Yes… Diana’s title, “Lords of Chaos” came at an apt moment, sadly.
I’ve been called a “collector of names.” Names are part of the core of our identities and influence the things we manifest in life. There’s certainly nothing wrong with adding to, altering, or completely changing one’s name. Amethyst as a gemstone is said to bring peace of mind and alleviate stress and headaches. Although, Adanna is a lovely name too! 🙂
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Lol. Thank you. I just think that name is a part of me. You’re absolutely right, there is nothing wrong with altering my name. Peace of mind and alleviating stress is definitely part of my mission in life. Plus, purple is my favourite colour. 💜
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Terrific review, Diana! I loved reading the interview. Great questions and answers, ladies! I’m embarrassed to say, Annika isn’t the only person who hasn’t watched Game of Thrones. I love that you wrote the story after having it whirling around in your head for so many years, Teagan. Those are often the most fun to tell!
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No embarrassment, Jill. And it wouldn’t matter anyway since Teagan’s story is completely different. I’m glad you enjoyed the interview and review. Thanks so much for visiting, my friend, and have a lovely day. ❤
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I enjoyed answering Diana’s questions, Jill — I’m delighted you enjoyed the result. Yay! Another person who didn’t watch Game of Thrones — there are many more than I ever expected! 😀 Anyhow that series finally ended, and my novel had sat on the shelf long enough. These monthly installments were how I thought it best to share it. LOL, short of some big anime producer turning it into an anime TV series. One still dreams. Hugs on the wing!
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Good morning, Diana! Thanks so very much for hosting me. Your questions were fun to answer, and brought out the right things about the story. I’m honored that you added this lovely review. It helps so much that you took the extra time to post this review! Thanks for beginning my new year on a high note. Hugs on the wing!
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My pleasure, Teagan. I love your writing and enjoy helping with your launch. And you’re a great guest too. 🙂 The blog is yours. Have fun. And hugs back at you!
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That means a lot to me. 🙂
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❤
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[…] I’m also visiting with the amazing Diana Wallace Peach at her blog, Myths of the Mirror. Diana is interviewing me, and we’re having a […]
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Diana, I’m loving your interview & review style of posts … a winning formula! 😀 Brilliant questions and review! Teagan I’m fascinated to learn about the decade long development of ‘Dead of Winter’. As for the phrase ‘winter is coming’ I must be one of the few people who has never seen The Game of Thrones so it would be new to me! What a unique way to present your book and I can see you starting a new trend within publishing! Best of luck!
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Thanks for stopping by Annika. I like this format too… a lot! I wish I had the time to do it with every review. Teagan has an interesting story behind this story! Lol. And I’m so glad she took the leap. It will be interesting to learn how it works. Have a lovely day, my friend, and Happy Reading. ❤
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Hello, Annika. I’m so excited that Diana took time to do this kind of post for me. Happily, you are one of several people who have told me that they never watched Game of Thrones. It helps me a lot to know that. I worked on developing and writing Dead of Winter for a few years. After that it sat on the shelf for the rest of a decade. Thanks for taking time to visit. Hugs on the wing!
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This sounds wonderful. I can totally understand being into research ❤️. Wishing Teagan much success!
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Thanks for the visit, Tessa. I’m so curious to see how the serial idea works. Perhaps Teagan is onto something new here. She’s off to a great start. Happy Reading, my friend. 😀
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Hello, Tessa. Ha! Yes, I freely admit to being a research geek. (As someone said, “Geeks get it done!”) Thanks for reading and commenting. Hugs on the wing!
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Thanks for the review, Diana. I have the Kindle version, but a hard copy is supposed to be delivered today, so I’m waiting until I can hold it and read it after I turn all the electronics off. I have been looking forward to this first journey, and each support post makes that anticipation grow,
I hope your year is off to a great start!
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I’m glad you’re getting all these teasers, Dan. You’ll enjoy the read, and then you’ll have to wait for the next! Such torture. Lol. I also enjoy Teagan’s work and wish her the best of luck with her new venture. Happy New Year and Happy Reading!
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Hi, Dan. Happy hump day. You are so kind about getting both versions. With people who love a paper copy in mind, I decided to make sure the “journeys” are long enough to meet the page requirement for paperbacks. This one is really slim… But I researched newsstand magazine prices, and the minimum I can charge for it, is in line with a magazine price. So that made me feel better about it. Thanks for bringing this up, so I could mention it. I appreciate you taking time to comment. Hugs on the wing!
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I am looking forward to having the whole set in my bookshelf. That will make a very cool picture.
Don’t get me started on pricing. Given what people spend on a cup of coffee, I get pretty grumpy when people complain about the cost of a book. A book that you can hold and have forever. Like I said, don’t get me started 😏
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I agree! Books are the best value around!
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Ha. That’s a great point about the coffee, Dan. Okay. I feel better. 🙂
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A great interview and review of Teagan’s newest book. I am impressed with her diverse writing. Well done, Teagan.
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Thanks for the visit and comment, Darlene. I’m impressed too, also with her courage to try a different publishing tack. Have a wonderful day, my friend. Be safe and Happy Reading. 😀
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Hi Darlene, it’s great to see you. You’re so kind — thank you. LOL, there are so many different kinds of stories in my head. I appreciate you commenting. Happy New Year!
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I love your sensitive review of Dead of Winter, Journey 1. Your questions are wonderful too. Teagan, thank you for the great answers and for fleshing out Taijin a bit more. Can’t wait to read meet him in Journey 2.
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Thanks so much for stopping by and continuing to support Teagan with her new venture. She does a great job of presenting her book without dropping spoilers. I’m waiting for the next journey too 🙂 Have a lovely day and Happy Reading.
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Good morning, Pat! Thanks for hosting me at your place, and for visiting here. That means a lot to me. What I love is that everyone is asking me different interview questions — without any prompting from me.
Thanks for mentioning Journey 2. It goes to a neighboring village called Penllyn. Emlyn’s danger begins to escalate. So does the danger to the “society” of women who have come to the area. Have a wonderful Wednesday. Hugs on the wing!
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Hugs back at you. You’re a master of the tease without revealing too much info. 🤔🤔🤓
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Sounds really good, but how disappointing about “Winter is coming.” On the other hand, great minds think alike?
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I can understand Teagan’s mortification, Laurie, but I’m glad she sucked it up and published. Lol. This is a great start of the serial, full of hooks. Thanks for stopping by and enjoy your winter! ❤
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Hi Laurie. I can’t describe the sensation in my head, heart, and stomach when I heard that first HBO promo for Game of Thrones. The fact that my story is completely different didn’t change a thing. A friend of mine called that kind of coincidence “the Creative One-Mind.” Thanks for taking a moment to comment. Happy New Year!
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As a writer, I feel your pain. Yes, “the Creative One-Mind.” But to be blunt, I’m sure it was a real kick in the pants. Looking forward to reading your work.
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It’s wonderful when characters and a story have been with an author for so long and they finally get their story told. Emlyn’s encounters with ghosts–and the white wolf–sound intriguing.
Great interview, ladies (and review). Wishing Teagan all the best!
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Thanks for stopping by, Mae, and welcome back! I hope you had a great break. Teagan’s first installment had a bunch of good hooks and I’m curious to see how a serial works out on Amazon. She’s courageous. Happy Reading!
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Thanks, Diana. LOL, I don’t see it as any sort of courage. Maybe because I’m used to writing blog serials… Anyhow, I figured I had nothing to lose. I appreciate your feedback about the hooks. 🙂 Hugs on the wing!
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That’s true. You’re used to serials! To me, it would feel very daring. 🙂 Thanks for checking in this morning. Have fun. ❤
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It’s lovely to see you, Mae. My 2021 is certainly off to a great start. I hope yours is too — and that you’re refreshed and recharged from your break. LOL, yes, it was high time that I did something more with this high fantasy than just daydream about it becoming an anime series.
😀 Hugs on the wing!
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