Sunday, March 10, 2024

Crafting the Future: Why Writers Should Embrace AI by Keri Kruspe

 

As a writer, I love exploring and learning new things. And lately, I’ve been caught up in the AI craze, exploring what it can do for me in my writing career. But there are some of those in our community who cry foul, claiming AI will soon take over the creative process of fiction writing. Why, they say, pay a human when all it takes is a prompt in an AI software to get you the same thing?

Au contrair, mon frere. In my humble opinion, AI programs (like ChatGPT, Sudowrite, and Claude) are mere tools that help a writer, not replace them. Much like a typewriter back in the day. It won’t hinder the creative process, but instead enhance the experience. With that in mind, let’s take a quick look at what I mean.

What AI Can't Mimic



One of the most important things to remember is we’re humans… writing to entertain/inform other humans. Who, but us, has that kind of insight? Only we can tap into the unlimited variety of human emotions and the baggage we carry with us in all the complexities of being human. AI lacks this innate understanding of our behavior. That gives up the upper hand at creating characters with authentic feelings and flaws, as well as the importance of emotionally growing. Throughout our lives, we’ve wallowed in a plethora of emotions like joy, sorrow, love, coupled with an abundance of longing for something else, something different that only a human can experience.

            Another exciting example of we can do and AI can’t is our innate urge to play with language. This is our palette… what we color the world with. As a writer of SciFi romance, I love coming up with alien and diverse ways to say something. Just recently, I had to ponder what an ancient person (who traveled in time to our present) would say in an exclamation. I’m going to keep it clean here… but some modern man won’t say “Great Caesars Ghost!” (for one thing, Ceaser hadn’t been born yet). So, I had my guy shout “By Tiamat’s titties!”. And I also took a pretty common cuss word that starts with a “f” and ends in a “k” and turned it around for an alien. They say fruk instead. I love coming up with unfamiliar words and phrases for my alien characters to use.

            Another thing I do is draw inspiration from the people I’ve met and work with over the years. In fact, one of my first books is loosely based on real life. Because I felt wronged/betrayed by someone back then, I had the good guy shoot the jerk right between the eyes. Boy, I gotta tell you; that was immensely satisfying. Ah, revenge. Remember, don’t do a writer wrong, they’ll take it out on you in a novel.

Leveraging Technology Wisely

As I mentioned in the beginning, AI is a tool. While it can be used for such mundane tasks as grammar check and research, I love to use it as a writing buddy who is there whenever I need them. Especially since I wake up at the crack of almost-dawn (4:30am to get in two hours of writing before I have to leave for work). I use AI not only as a critique partner, but someone who never gets impatient with me when I ask questions I get stuck on. Sometimes more than once.

            For instance, this morning I was writing a scene in my newest novel and wondered what a tree would look like on a planet where a civilization of panther-like beings of an advanced technology lived. The AI gave me more than one scenario to choose from. So, what I did was combine what I liked best about everything it suggested and came up with something new and different.

To take it up a step, I asked it what one of those creatures would dress like on that type of planet. It came up with several wardrobe suggestions. But the funnest part (yeah, I like the word funnest) was asking it to create a picture depicting this alien.

            And here’s what it came up with:


            Cool, eh? As I planned this blog, I asked the AI to create a picture for the header (see above). When the AI was done, this is what it told me:

            “Here’s an image for your blog post. This visual aims to encapsulate the essence of human creativity and the enduring value of authentic writing in the digital age. It symbolizes the balance between traditional writing methods and modern AI technology, inviting writers to explore and assert their unique voices.”

            Can’t argue with that!

Other Benefits

Here’s an outline of some of the other benefits how an AI companion can help a writer be more productive:

  • Research Assistant: AI can analyze vast amounts of data while providing insights
  • Customization: With some programs, you can customize your AI to adapt to your particular writing style.
  • Enhanced Productivity: It can automate repetitive tasks like grammar checks, proofreading, and formatting. 

·        

Last Thoughts

Will AI replace authors?

As of now, I doubt AI will replace authors any time soon. Most techies and web gurus claim artificial intelligence cannot totally replace a human writer’s insight or their creativity. There is a huge market for creative writers to put themselves out there, to share their experiences with the world.

What we should concentrate on as AI advances is we, as writers, better learn how to use this wondrous innovation. Discover how to strike a balance between automation and human creativity. Use that available technology to save time so you can set your creative juices free. Let it help you weave the magic only you can create to take your writing craft to a higher level.

While AI evolves and algorithms sharpen, remember this: you are irreplaceable. The world doesn’t need another robotic rendition; it craves your authenticity. Embrace your quirks, your scars, and your hard-earned laugh lines.


AI may be the brush, but you are the artist.



Thursday, February 29, 2024

His Kinky Exhibitionist by @Meganslayer #mm #gay #gayromance #billionaire #mmromance



His Kinky Exhibitionist By Megan Slayer

Book 3 in the Sugar Daddy Seeking... series

Contemporary, M/M, Erotic Romance

BDSM

Novella

Pride Publishing

 

Can the billionaire open his heart to the hunky artist?

Skye Glass loves giving his money to charities and the arts. He’s not looking to give away his heart, but when he visits one of the art shows he’s sponsoring, he meets Aeren. He never would’ve guessed the sexy naked man posing for the show could be the man he needs in his life.

Then he visits Boys Club….

Aeren Reed loves modeling, especially nude, because he can indulge his fetish—exhibitionism. When he meets Skye, he has no idea the man is worth billions. All he knows is that Skye is a sweet man and a great conversationalist. When he’s paired with Skye at Boys Club, he’s given the opportunity to indulge in his love of nudity and art.

Having a sugar daddy wasn’t on his to-do list, but Aeren’s hooked. It’s up to Skye to decide if he’s keeping his naughty exhibitionist.

 

Reader advisory: This book contains references to sex work, inadequate parenting, and attempted coercion. 

 

https://www.firstforromance.com/book/his-kinky-exhibitionist

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/his-kinky-exhibitionist-megan-slayer/1143404094?ean=9781839432903

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C3MTG2X9?tag=

https://books.apple.com/us/book/his-kinky-exhibitionist/id6448471553

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/his-kinky-exhibitionist-1

 

EXCERPT:

©Megan Slayer, 2023, All Rights Reserved

 

“If you promise…” He fought the urge to roll his eyes. He had no doubt he’d find someone handsome like Aeren, but whatever he’d meet at the club was there to entertain and take his money—something he didn’t want. He needed a connection, not just mindless sex.

“I do.” He closed Skye’s hand around the card. “Just give it a try. Visit and if you’re that put off, then don’t go back.”

“I’ll visit then.” And he’d probably not go back. “Thanks. I’ll be here a little later for the show. It’s oddball, but it’s intriguing.”

Contemplations in Skin?” Alan frowned. “You do realize Jelly and Quentin have a thing, right? That’s why it’s being shown tonight and one night only. It’s so Quentin can convince Jelly to sleep with him.”

“That’s messed up.” And sad. He thought he knew Quentin better than that. “Why would he book a show that’s so out there just to get a date? That’s not how the gallery works.” It wasn’t how he wanted his money spent, either.

“Don’t rag him too hard. He’s lonely and even I thought he and Jelly had a connection,” Alan said. “Just let it be.”

“Send him to the club.” He’d give the card to Quentin right now.

“Quentin isn’t the right clientele.”

“He’s not obscenely wealthy?” God, he hated the way that sounded, even if it was true.

“No, he’s not good at keeping his mouth shut. It’s an exclusive club and meant for discerning men. If you’re going to blab about the club or what goes on, then they won’t ask you back. You’re the kind of guy they want—sweet, quiet and discerning,” Alan said. “Just give it a shot.”

“Fine.” He shook his head. “I’ll try it this weekend, but I’m coming to the show tonight. I paid for the damn thing and I might as well get my money’s worth by viewing it in its full glory.”

“And gawk at Aeren.” Alan chuckled. “Go. He’ll still be here.”

“I will.” He should thank Alan for the referral, but he wasn’t sure what to think about it. A club to pick up men. An escort service? He had no idea. Did he want to go? Did he not want to? He’d never know if he wouldn’t like the place if he didn’t visit…

Why not give the club a chance? He might find the man of his dreams.

Anything’s possible.

 

 


Tuesday, February 27, 2024

A Reflection of Evil (The Last Book in The Naughty List Series) by L. A. Kelley

A Reflection of Evil

Book 4 in the The Naughty List Series

Now on Amazon


Engaged to be married, Rosalie and David are happily preparing for their wedding. Nothing distracts them from the excitement of organizing a gala reception, complete with ritual and raiment. Then the curious behavior of The Book sends them on a hunt for information about a recently deceased archeologist and a seemingly worthless urn. How are they related to a murder and an eerie pile of sand, and where does the appearance of a mysterious Mr. Mott fit into this?

As Rosalie and David’s big day approaches old enemies unite and plot revenge, and danger materializes in another form—an ancient evil lurking in reflections. Here and then gone, watching and waiting, ready to emerge and wreak havoc on the world of humans and Integrals when the time is right. Only Rosalie, David, their friends, and unexpected allies stand in the way. Can chaos can be averted before the wedding guests arrive?

AMAZON LINK

Sunday, February 25, 2024

Deep In The Heart of Texas . . . Saddle up! by Nancy Gideon


Help! I’m ping ponging and I can’t pick a side! It’s riding in the Wild West with the Bass family then slinking into the darkness with the vampires of my “Touch of Midnight” series. Then, there in the sultry shadows, are the shapeshifters in New Orleans waiting to take a bite out of my available time. What’s a writer to do? Especially when she loves them all equally. Buuuut there are only so many hours in the day to devote to the keyboard, so I’ve got to take a breath and take a side. This week and next, it’s back in the saddle with the Basses in Texas. I’ve always had a soft spot for Westerns, since watching everything from Rory Calhoun and John Wayne with my dad to the modern-day heroes (or anti-heroes) of Longmire, Deadwood and Yellowstone. It must be the hats – or the tight denims, but I love them there cowboys whether watching them, reading about them, or writing their stories. Probably why I had serious breakup problems ending my Prescotts of the Dakotas and Basses from Texas series. And why, after getting the rights back to those books, I’m currently spending quality time with Randall Bass in a new adventure, HER TEXAS HERO. Here’s a sneak peek at HER TEXAS HERO . . .

 The Excerpt 

A sudden shift of his stallion’s gait came close to unseating him, making Rand grab like a greenling for the saddle horn.

Horses were funny creatures. Those who didn’t know better considered them dumb beasts of burden, but being raised by a woman who thought the four-legged deities were a step up from most human folk, he trusted his mount’s instincts just as he valued his cousin’s. The animal’s uneasiness telegraphed through the forward swivel of ears and sudden choppy gait even before they crested a low rise to come upon a curious site.

What was a peddler’s wagon doing out in the middle of all this nothing? And what had prompted the most glorious female he’d ever seen to come racing toward them as if the devil, himself, was in pursuit?

Ignoring the inner twitch of caution advising him to go slow, Randall kicked up his mount, rushing toward the chance to ride to the rescue of a damsel in obvious distress.

“Rand!” Carson shouted behind him. “Pull up. This ain’t none of our business! You don’t know what you’re riding into.”

Sure, he did. He was getting the chance to play hero for the first time after nineteen years surrounded by the stuff of legends!

I’m only 100 pages in but am totally into the story and characters. I’ve got the rights back to the first five books but have to have them rescanned from the paperbacks since I no longer have the original manuscripts. Then, the best part . . . new covers. Sigh!

Yee Haw! I’m spending the weekend someplace warm!! How about you?

♚♚♚♚♚
Nancy Gideon on the Web



Thursday, February 22, 2024

Title: Lunar New Year 2024: Celebrating the Year of the Dragon by Tena Stetler


Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year or Spring Festival, is a cultural and traditional holiday celebrated in many Asian countries and around the world beginning February 10th. Each year is represented by one of twelve animals from the Chinese zodiac, with 2024 being the Year of the Dragon. Associated with power, wisdom, and good fortune, the Year of the Dragon is eagerly awaited as an auspicious time for new beginnings and prosperity. Let's explore the significance of the Year of the Dragon and delve into the customs and festivities associated with Lunar New Year in 2024.

In the Chinese zodiac, the Dragon holds a special place, considered to be the most powerful and majestic creature. People born in the Year of the Dragon are said to possess charismatic personalities, intelligence, and determination. As the fifth animal in the twelve-year cycle, the Dragon represents growth, transformation, and the ability to overcome challenges. Consequently, the Year of the Dragon is often regarded as an excellent time for personal and professional progress.

Preparations for the Lunar New Year begin weeks before the actual celebration. Homes are meticulously cleaned to sweep away bad luck and make way for good fortune. Families embark on shopping sprees to purchase festive decorations, such as red lanterns, couplets, and paper cut-outs, which symbolize blessings, prosperity, and happiness. Furthermore, people engage in the tradition of shopping for new clothes, often in red,  (red is my favorite color) as it is believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

Lunar New Year is a time for family reunions, reflection, and paying respects to ancestors. On New Year's Eve, families gather for a lavish reunion dinner consisting of traditional dishes and delicacies, symbolizing abundance and prosperity. This important meal often includes dishes like whole fish, dumplings, rice cakes, and noodles, each carrying their own meaning. Following the feast, families engage in activities such as setting off fireworks and firecrackers to ward off evil spirits and welcome good luck.

One of the most anticipated customs during Lunar New Year is the exchange of red envelopes, known as "hongbao." Elders give red envelopes containing money to children and unmarried individuals, fostering good luck and blessings for the upcoming year. Additionally, vibrant dragon and lion dances, performed by professional troupes, fill the streets during Lunar New Year parades and public celebrations. These mesmerizing dances are believed to dispel evil spirits and bring good fortune, happiness, and prosperity to onlookers.  I believe I need to find one of these displays. How about you?

Towards the end of the Lunar New Year celebrations, the Lantern Festival takes place, where families visit lantern displays and marvel at the intricate craftsmanship and vibrant colors surrounding these captivating creations. I've seen these on TV but never in person. Gotta change that.

As Lunar New Year approaches, the anticipation and excitement for the Year of the Dragon continues to grow. With its powerful symbolism and association with good fortune, this exciting year promises a fresh start, personal growth, and prosperity for many. As communities around the world come together to celebrate this ancient tradition, the Year of the Dragon provides an opportunity to reflect on the rich heritage and cultural significance reflected in Lunar New Year festivities.


What better time to bring up my Dragon Shifter in Meringue Snowflake Magic? It's good luck to read books about Dragons. My new custom for Valentine's Day! Better late than never, right?  Let the good luck rub off on you. Download a copy today! 
https://www.amazon.com/Meringue-Snowflake-Magic-Tena-Stetler-ebook/dp/B0BD2Q9C28

Will Wynter’s presence in Raven’s Hollow put the town’s holiday festival and cookie contest at risk?

After being in the wrong place at the wrong time Wynter Dahl finds herself with a new name and new home.  Whisked into the Witness Protection program she finds herself in the Podunk town of Raven’s Hollow, Colorado.  She has more than one secret to keep and is not sure who she can trust, though the deputy sheriff is hard to resist. 

Braydon “Blaze” Nightwing, owns Dragon Fire Pizza and takes his job as deputy sheriff seriously. He means to protect his town and its residents, including the mysterious newcomer. He rescues her after a tumble and finds himself in over his head.  He senses she’s more than she seems but so is he.

When her cover is blown and her life is in danger it will take the whole town to save her and their annual holiday festival and cookie contest. 

Thanks for stopping by. Hope to see you next month, when I have a fantastic article for you and a book recommendation.  Happy Lunar New Year! 

Saturday, February 10, 2024

Unveiling a Deep Dive into the Release of "Lok's Love" by Keri Kruspe

 

“Lok’s Love” has been… well… a labor of love. While a novella of just under 32,000 words, I put a lot of heart and soul into each scene. For those of you who’ve read my first series, An Alien Exchange, I ended the trilogy with Lok taking care of his narcissistic brother who held him as an isolated prisoner for over fifty years out of spite and jealousy. But I purposefully left out what ultimately happened to them.

In this article I’ll not only highlight the two main characters, Lok and Althea, whose passionate journey defines the heart of “Lok’s Love”, but I’ll give you a peek into the richly crafted supporting cast as well.

So, let’s get started!

MAIN CHARACTERS

LOK

Lok, whose full name is T’terlok “Lok” Shon U’unk, is from the planet Zerin. He was born with an almost identical twin brother, Shon T’Terlok U’unk. Lok looks like a typical Zerin with dual-colored eyes with a deep jade inner circle and a lighter apple green outer ringing around an iridescent pupil. He has a full head of black hair liberally sprinkled with yellow strands that shows signs of middle age.

of his own existence. Adrift and uncertain about the very purpose that once anchored his life. While his twin brother, Shon, was born bald with eyes a solid black color. When he started going through puberty, their parents erased all records of their “deformed” child and exiled Shon to a remote galactic labor camp.

Lok never saw him again until a fateful day thirty years later.

By then, Lok had become the golden star of the political scene in the Federation Consortium. After years of struggling, he was about to be appointed as Chancellor by the Galactic Senate and Judicial ruling body. It would make him the most influential government entity in the galaxy, having ultimate control over every decision made by the member planets.

            But on the eve of Lok being promoted, Shon showed up and captured him with a paralyzing drug and took over his life. Shon resumed Lok’s place, covering his differences enough that no one noticed the switch.

            To make Lok suffer, Shon held him in isolated captivity for over fifty years. Lok’s only relief came when Shon, by his own greed, caused him to become a dying vegetable. Even though Shon tormented him, Lok felt it was his duty to take care of Shon until he took his last breath.

            In the beginning of the novel, we find Lok burying his brother’s ashes on a remote planetoid he’d claimed as home called Hiigar. Now truly alone for the first time, he discovered he was lost in the vastness

ALTHEA

Althea MacGregor was more than eager to attend the Alien Exchange program, anxious to find her true love in space. Being a divorcee in her early forties, she finds that continuing her life as a convenience store manager only enhances her feelings of being unworthy for life and love. When given the chance to join the Exchange program, she realized that waiting around for her meaningless life to change wasn’t for her. Craving a deeper existence, she leaves everything behind and does something totally radical for once. To find love in space.

            Too bad things don’t go as planned.

            Instead of attending the Exchange, she finds herself snatched before the ceremonies began and is taken and held prisoner on a gangster planet called FiPan. FiPan had once been the stronghold of a notorious criminal by the name of Dread Pirate Maynwaring, but had since fallen into collapse once the pirate was vanquished (see “Ki’s Redemption”).

            Althea ends up crash landing on Hiigar, where she gains employment as a part-time waitress and part-time singer at the Galaxy’s Pub run by two strange looking aliens, Hayami and Fylgir.




(I must apologize – Hayami has for arms and Fylgir one eye. Just couldn’t make Midjourney cooperate with me!)

            That’s where Althea meets and falls in love with Lok when they become hostages in a violent take-over at the Galaxy’s Pub by a species called the Ozevroc.



SUPPORTING CAST

"Shysuta" - Hayami's Sister

A Sismall male "Tukkuttok"

He works for Sysuta

A Draconian female "Vovin"

Who also works for Shysuta


The small village of Kijiji where the Galaxy's Pub is


IN CLOSING


One of the things I love about this poignant tale is the backdrop of love and resilience in a fantastical universe. I did my best to fill it with rich characters, strange-otherworldly landscapes, and pulse-racing action. I wanted this story to be a science fiction romance that delves into the heart of darkness and redemption, only to end with a satisfying conclusion. 

            “Lok’s Love” debuts on Valentines Day, but can be preordered now for only 0.99¢. I hope this short article has intrigued you enough to give Lok and Althea’s love story a try. 




Wednesday, February 7, 2024

Shifter ~ One Who, or That Which, Shifts or Changes

 


SHIFTER
One who, or that which, shifts or changes

Post by author Jessica E. Subject

When I was young, there were very few examples of shifters in mainstream media, the most common being werewolves and vampires. Some were aliens, too, but all were rarely portrayed as the love interest. Most of the time they were the antagonist, reigning terror on small towns and big cities alike.

Over time, paranormal creatures and aliens became the sidekick, the co-worker or friend, and eventually the love interest. With that progression, the range of common shifters increased until any living thing could turn out to be a shifter. Even inanimate object if alien shifters who can transform into anything are included.

My first shifter romance included an alien shifter in the short story, ALIEN LOVER. Now I have multiple animal/human shifters in my series, SHIFTER TOWERS. This series includes tigers, bunnies, bears, mink, jaguars, dragonflies, pika, and leopard cats, with my upcoming release starring a fox shifter. 

Tell me, what's your favorite type of shifter to read about? What type of shifter have you not seen but would love to read about?


FOX TRAPPED by Jessica E. Subject
releases February 18, 2024

Fresh out of a messy breakup, omega fox shifter, Foxx, needs a job. His ex/former business partner has spread many lies about him around town and to his former clients, so he heads to Saramto in desperation. He doesn’t expect his smartphone to send him into the wrong building of Shifter Towers for his interview at a coding school, to get stuck in an elevator with a hulky bear shifter, or for his heat to start in the middle of it all.

In between clients, personal trainer, and alpha bear shifter, Slade, heads up to his lawyer’s office to sign the paperwork for the house he just bought. He’s hoping this next life stage will get his parents to ease up on their constant pleading for him to settle down. He has no need for a mate. So, he doesn’t expect to come face-to-face with the fox shifter who his bear claims is his fated mate, or to be trapped in an elevator with the young man during the beginning of his heat.

Fox Trapped is the seventh book in Jessica E. Subject’s sweet with knotty heat Shifter Towers series. Fox Trapped is a MM MPreg Shifter Romance that features a fox shifter trying to start over after the end of his marriage to a despicable non-shifter, a bear shifter not looking to settle down no matter how many times his parents encourage him to, multiple tech snaffus, and fate stepping in to bring these two together. If you like fated mates, elevator coitus, instant pregnancy, and the sweetest alpha ever, Fox Trapped is the book for you. While each book in the Shifter Towers series is set in the same world, they can each be read as standalones.

AMAZON US (Kindle Unlimited) | Universal Buy Link

You can find the entire Shifter Towers series on my website.



FOX TRAPPED is also part of the Multi-Author MM MPreg Shifter Romance series, LOVE SYNC MATES. You can find the entire Love Sync Mates series on Amazon, and all are included in Kindle Unlimited.

Saturday, January 27, 2024

Weird Stuff Sent into Space by L. A. Kelley


Weird Stuff Sent into Space

January is traditionally a month for out with the old and in with the new. Clean the closets, toss that old Tupperware container in the back of the refrigerator that appears to have a science experiment growing inside. You’re not alone. Even government agencies have to deal with an overload of junk, some harder to get rid of than that Tupperware container. One agency with a big problem is NASA.

Space is vast and at the same time crowded with garbage. Humans have been sending items into orbit for half a century and some of it stays there. Currently there are nearly 7,700 satellites within a few hundred miles of the Earth. That number could grow to several hundred thousand by 2027. A lot of trash is already on the Moon right, including nearly 100 bags of human waste. Junk in orbit includes spent spacecraft, rocket boosters, and stuff lost by astronauts including a glove, a wrench, and a toothbrush.

But that’s not the weirdest stuff shot into space.

Light saber

The force was with them. In 2007, the lightsaber prop belonging to Luke Skywalker was taken on a mission to the International Space Station. Star Wars fans gave it a solemn escort to an airport in California, and from there, it went to the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The lightsaber spent two weeks in orbit, and was later returned to Industrial Light and Magic.

Moon tree seeds

What’s that growing in my backyard? During the Apollo 14 NASA mission to the moon in 1971, astronauts packed hundreds of tree seeds in their personal kits. Upon returning to Earth, the seeds were germinated by the Forest Service and planted throughout the U.S. in 1976 to celebrate the country’s bicentennial. Unfortunately, the location of the trees was lost and, except for a few, no one knows for sure where they were planted.

Man hole cover

Duck. Between May 28 and Oct. 7, 1957, the U.S. military carried out Operation Plumbbob, a series of nuclear tests in the Nevada desert. Two of the nuclear detonations, were carried out underground, to test if nuclear fallout could be contained. The first was on July 26, 1957. An atomic bomb detonated at the bottom of a 500-foot-deep hole, covered by a 4-inch-thick iron cover, launching it into space. Scientist expected that the cover would land back on Earth, but it didn’t.

 Andy Warhol’s penis

I'll bet that got your attention. The artist Andy Warhol doodled a sketch of a penis that may or may not have ended up on the moon. It was one of six on a tiny ceramic tile dubbed the Moon Museum. Sculptor Forrest Myers petitioned NASA to place the tile on the Moon. His request was denied, but he supposedly contacted scientists from Bell Laboratories, who secretly attached the tile to the Apollo 12 lunar lander. Since the lander sits on the Moon, this story can’t be confirmed, but the first astronauts who return may be getting an unexpected eyeful.

Sperm

Speaking of penises…One NASA mission included a sample of bull sperm. The result was the tiny cells moved faster than usual. Phosphorylation, the process of regulating cellular cycles and growth stopped in sea urchin sperm. Rat’s testes shrank along with their sperm count. Cockroaches, on the other hand, were unaffected by spaceflight or exposure to radiation.

Klingon Night at the Opera

Revenge is a dish best served along a side of aria. In 2010 the producers of “u” (the opera's title) sent a message by radio telescope to the Klingon home star, Arcturus, to invite them to attend the opening night performance in the Netherlands. In the Klingon tongue, “u” means universe and it was the first opera performed entirely in Klingon. The 90-minute production tells the story of Kahless the Unforgettable. After betrayal by his brother and witnessing his father’s murder, Kahless fights to regain his honor by traveling into the underworld. He wages epic battles, reunites with his true love, Lukar, and eventually faces his bitter enemy, the tyrant Molor.

P. S. The Klingons did not RSVP.

An Ad for Doritos

Would aliens like junk food? The makers of Doritos thought so. In 2008, for six hours the EISCAT European space station on the Norwegian island of Svalbard sent an advertisement for Doritos with a radar array, normally used to study the Earth’s upper atmosphere. The ad went to Ursa Major which contains a possible habitable zone. EISCAT received an undisclosed donation for the use of their facilities. There’s no report on whether aliens preferred Nacho Cheese, Cool Ranch, or Flaming Hot.


L. A. Kelley writes scify & fantasy with humor, romance, and a touch of sass. She prefers to keep her feet on the ground.




 

Thursday, January 25, 2024

The RRRRRRRRs Have It! My Revved up 2024 To Do List . . .by Nancy Gideon

(Brought to you by the letter “R” . . . ) 


Time to Rrrrrrrring in the New Year with Rrrrrrrresolutions. In 2024, the RRRRRRRRs have it on my “To Do” list (Not to be confused with Argh! This isn’t going to be a “Talk Like a Pirate” post!). Here’s my plan to rrrrrrrrev up my writing career . . .
  1. Reverted Romances! Recently, I’ve had a nice chunk of my Nancy Gideon and Dana Ransom backlist contractually returned to me. Some of these go back to the late ‘80s/early ‘90s! I can’t wait to get back into them to bring them up to date.
  2. Reissue Backlist Titles! That goodly stack of contemporary, historical, and paranormal titles back in my possession need to be refreshed, reformatted, and re-covered before going back out to new (and previous!) readers.
  3. Revitalize Social Media Platforms! I admit, though I LOVE to promote, I’m not saavy in all the latest venues for reaching readers (Thank goodness for my Virtual Asst!). Time to do homework . . .
  4. Rebuilding my reader list! Do newsletters and Facebook alone do the trick? What are some great places I’m missing?
  5. Jacks Ryan and Reacher! Just throwing these names out there as GREAT inspirations for heroes. Brains and brawn in varying yummy portions.
  6. Reviews! Need to collect some new ones. Any takers?
  7. Relax! Though I did take a fabulous trip to New Orleans with my assistant in Oct/Nov that was more work than play. This girl needs a spa day!
  8. Re-imagine! Since I’ve been working on novels since the ‘70s and ‘80s, some of those efforts are still languishing in notebooks and plastic bins. Time to thumb through them for hidden gems. I’ve already been surprised more than once by oldies but goodies still written in pencil!
That’s my list, so hold me to it!!
♚♚♚♚♚
Nancy Gideon on the Web



Wednesday, January 10, 2024

The Rising Trend of Cross-Genre Romance: Mixing SciFi with Paranormal Elements by Keri Kruspe

 


In the ever-evolving world of romance novels, a fascinating trend has been on the rise – the fusion of genres. Authors are breaking boundaries and pushing the limits of imagination by blending two seemingly unrelated genres like science fiction and paranormal romance.

In this article, I’ll delve into the intriguing world of cross-genre romance novels, by exploring the growing popularity of combining science fiction and paranormal elements in romance. I’ll also give you examples that showcase the creative brilliance of this trend.

Exploring the Appeal

I’ve gotta admit, once I discovered authors mixing two of my favorite subgenres of romance was why I decided to write in the subgenre myself. Having grown up with a never-ending barrage of horror and science fiction, I gleefully discovered romances in my early twenties. At that time, paranormal (not to mention science fiction) romance was a long way off. Growing up with Kathleen Woodiwiss and Jude Deveraux, I happily spent my reading time with those historical/contemporary love stories.

            Then came along the works of Christine Feehan and Sherrilyn Kenyon. The allure of their kind of romance is undeniable to me. Here was a unique opportunity to explore uncharted territory, as a reader as well as a writer. I think it gave other authors a chance to craft stories that challenge conventions and breathe new life into tired tropes. As a reader, I was drawn to the excitement of combining two romance with a paranormal flare that created an escapist experience that I find both thrilling and emotionally satisfying.

            Nowadays, the synergy of science fiction, with its futuristic technology and cosmic adventures, merges seamlessly with the paranormal mysticism, magic, and supernatural beings. The end result is a tapestry woven with threads of wonder, suspense, and as well as the satisfying “Happy Ever After” love. It takes the age-old theme of love and places it in settings where anything is possible. Love transcends time, space, and even reality itself, making stories that are as boundless as the imagination.

The Blending of SciFi and Paranormal



To understand the appeal of cross-genre romance, let’s look at what the key characteristics of both genres. Science fiction offers futuristic settings, advanced technology, and space exploration, where love stories can unfold against the backdrop of interstellar adventures. While Paranormal romance, on the other hand, introduces us to vampires, werewolves, witches, and other supernatural entities. These stories delve into the mystical, the magical, and the extraordinary, with love often blooming in the most unexpected places.

            Once put together, ah… that’s when the magic happens. The advanced technology of science fiction provides logical explanations for paranormal occurrences and creates a harmonious blend that captivates readers. The fusion of these genres allows a richer and more complex narrative, where love transcends not only time and space but also the boundaries of reality.

            A couple examples of these novels that masterfully mixes these genres include works like “Blood Urge – Paranormal SciFi Alien Romance” by Pearl Tate. This series combines futuristic space travel with a love story involving fated mates with an alien race.


 

Another example is “Sevan: Paranormal Shifter Fated Mate Galactic SciFi” by Mandy M Roth, where a paranormal alien lion-shifter falls for a human woman.


Evolution of the Genre


The journey of cross-genre romance has been a remarkable one, tracing its origins from experimental stories to a well-established sub-genre in the modern literary landscape. The ever-changing reader preferences have definitely played a significant role in the genre's evolution. Those of us who are vicarious readers seek new and exciting narratives, cross-genre romance has risen to the occasion by offering fresh and captivating stories catering to a diverse audience.

Some notable authors that you might not have thought contributed to the development of this sub-genre includes pioneers like Mary Shelley, who blended science fiction and romance in "Frankenstein," and Anne Rice, whose "The Vampire Chronicles" brought paranormal romance to the forefront.


Rising Stars

I don’t mean to brag (okay, maybe I do), but my latest series, Ancient Alien Descendants is steeped in the paranormal. Each of the five books has a paranormal theme:

The Empath

The Shapeshifter

The Psychic

The Vampire

The Mage


I just love that SciFi romances have an unlimited pool of heroes and heroines that aren’t just alien. They can be aliens and… werewolf/vampire/ghost/wizard/god/merman/orcs/angels or any other type of fantasy creature that’s been dreamed up for thousands of years. The sky (or outer space) is the limit!

What or Who Do You Recommend?

I’m sure I’m not the only one always looking for an exciting new read in these genres. As a matter of fact, I recently went into ChatGPT and asked it whose books were more like mine. I was humbled and gratified it gave me five wonderful authors – three of whom are my absolute favorites and the last two I’ve never heard of (but I immediately went and bought the first books in their series. I can’t wait to read them!):

S.E. Smith (The Alliance)

Nalini Singh (Particularly her Psy-Changeling Series)

Gena Showalter (Alien Huntress Series)

Linnea Sinclair (RITA award winner)

Jessie Mihalik (Consortium Rebellion Series)

In Closing

I really loved venturing deeper into this subgenre of romance. Right now I’m creating a new series, but I haven’t had a chance to play with the idea of what kind of paranormal creatures my alien hunks can duplicate. (Hmm, how would a ghost work… or talking to the dead? Or wait, what about angels/demons….?).

I get shivers just thinking about it. What about you? Do you love to read a combination of SciFi and Paranormal romance? It’s those of us passionate about these types of novels that fuel the genre’s creativity and makes it so extraordinary.


 

But, I’m sure I’m not the only one who loves to share their recommendations. Be sure to leave them in the comment section below!