From here to there...A Writer's Journey

It's almost that time.

2011-11-20T04:54:00.000-08:00

Hey folk,
I have been hard at work lately and with Death Knows My Name off being edited, I am do for some major editing sometime next week when I get it back with what I am sure will look like the pages are bleeding. I have found the perfect editor for me who is as passionate as the story I am telling as I am. Which is awesome!
So, any day now I will be ready to start the agent search. *pulls hair out and screams* It is so scary. You hear so many whispered horror stories. It is very intimidating, but I think I am ready. I have been extremely bless thus far with surrounding myself with amazing people. I found awesome critique partners, and now with my proof reader/personal editor...I am confident that I will find an agent who will do a spectacular job.
I am not delusional, I know, it won't be abracadabra, I get the call. But eventually I am sure I will find the perfect one.
But the hard part will be NOT to sit back on my haunches and wait. I have to keep writing. I have a lot planned for my career. I have the rest of the books in the DKMN world and I also have my YA story that was picked amongst the Editor's Choice last year. In order to get all these first drafts done I am going to be doing a lot of Fast Drafts. A lot. December 1st I have one scheduled for the Remade. Then I have to wait because I am planning a big move. I know, I JUST moved to Missouri now I am going to Oklahoma? Yes. But I can probably squeeze in Devon's short story The Sun Catcher. (I LOVE the title and once you read DKMN you will see why.) So I won't do another fast draft until most likely write after Christmas for When Lily's Fall re-do. Immediately after (maybe 2 days break) I will Fast Draft working title: The Shattered (this title fits from my rough mind plot of hero but too many books have this title lately. Guess we like our men damaged aye ladies?) It's the final book in the Reborn world. Then I will go back and do some editing on all those fast drafts before I start picking through The Desecration Chronicles and making in one book with 3 parts (Born Through Desecration, Daughter of Desecration and Desecration's Queen).

Looks as if I am going to be one busy chick.
Keep reading,
Casse

Sage advice: Don't read reviews.

2011-10-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

The Hiatus is over.

2011-10-15T14:12:00.000-07:00

Hello!
Long time right? Well, I mentioned awhile back that I typed the end (figuratively) on Death Knows My Name and I have been really dragging my arse on edits and revisions. Blah blah blah, all that writery stuff that makes us sound busy and important that just boils down to us changing shit around. Okay, I am trying to remember the point of this post...
Ah well, who needs a point? NOT ME! I took a new position at work that I thought would give me time to finish and do all my writery stuff. Boy was I wrong. I have been running around like a chicken with her head cut off that doesn't wanna be plucked for dinner! *looks around concerned* Have I mentioned that I am deliriously sleep deprived? I am. SO if this post is a little pointless and rambly...that is why.

To make up for the crazy of this post I will post a snippet of something I just cut.
How I knew Eric wasn’t here, I don’t know. I did know it though. My skin wasn’t on fire the way it always was when he came around. Whenever he was in the same room with me it felt like a comfortable fire is glowing and shedding warmth on me. I was getting sappy I know but I couldn’t help how I felt. I would never admit this to Eric, Devon or anyone but I was willing to admit it to myself.

Completely awe{ful}some, right?
Thanks for sticking with me through this post. I am going to go grab me some much needed sleep.
Keep reading and keep writing.
Casse

THE END

2011-07-14T20:08:00.000-07:00

Typing THE END is such a great feeling. After, too many years, I finally got to type those two words on the first draft of Death Knows My Name. I found a way to give Mayne and Eric their HEA.

I am in the process of day four on BK 2 fast draft. Fourteen days of 5000 words or more to end up with 70k I actually need 80k so I try and write more on the two weekends.

Then after the fast draft I focus on editing and cutting out 5,654 words from DKMN and editing it before I send it off to both my CPs and get their opinions. When that is done I will decide if I send it out to Agents, Editors or Self pub it. Oh the decisions.

I am totally fine with self-pubbing it. I am just trying to figure out the long run of my career.

Keep writing and Keep reading,

Casse

Die For Me by Amy Plum

2011-06-25T20:26:00.000-07:00

I stumbled across this book browsing emusic and decided to download a few sample chapters from Amazon. I can say I am hooked right away. I instantly told my book buddy about the book before I even reached chapter 3.

I downloaded the full version and the audio for when I can't sit and read. I find myself wishing I had more time to just devour this book. I also find myself wish I wrote this book! It is amazing!

GET IT NOW! READ IT! You will thank me forever.

Synopsis
“In the City of Lights, two star-crossed lovers battle a fate that is destined to tear them apart again and again for eternity.”

“When Kate Mercier’s parents die in a tragic car accident, she leaves her life—and memories—behind to live with her grandparents in Paris. For Kate, the only way to survive her pain is escaping into the world of books and Parisian art. Until she meets Vincent.

Mysterious, charming, and devastatingly handsome, Vincent threatens to melt the ice around Kate’s guarded heart with just his smile. As she begins to fall in love with Vincent, Kate discovers that he’s a revenant—an undead being whose fate forces him to sacrifice himself over and over again to save the lives of others. Vincent and those like him are bound in a centuries-old war against a group of evil revenants who exist only to murder and betray. Kate soon realizes that if she follows her heart, she may never be safe again.

asAuthor Meltdown

2011-05-11T01:59:00.000-07:00

Imagined Reality: First Review in for Past Destinies - 4 STARS!!!!

2011-04-19T00:53:00.000-07:00

My awesomely talented CP, Constance Ruth Clark, received her very first review for her upcoming release, Past Destinies (May 2nd)! It say what I already know...Connie is awesome and wrote and awesome book. Check out her blog (the link is posted below). To buy the book click the picture.

Imagined Reality: First Review in for Past Destinies - 4 STARS!!!!

Keep Reading and Keep Writing,
Casse NaRome

And away we goooooooo!

2011-04-19T00:48:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be able to say that I have TWO, yes TWO free reads available at Smashwords.com that you can download. I know that the PDF format is okay but I am not sure about the others so let me know.

The first super short story is called Lord of Requited Love. It is the tale of Dain and Tara's very first lifetime. It is heartbreakingly tragic and I love it. I am such a huge fan of Dain.

The second super short story is called The Life That Ends. This story takes place from Tara/Bonnie's POV in the lifetime just before The Reborn takes place. I will confess, my feelings for Tara/Bonnie are interesting; I don't like her. I think Dain can do so much better. I have someone in mind and you guys will meet her in The Reborn and the mystery woman will have her own story in The Remade. You will see why, although they are so perfect for one another, they just will never get together. But before all that you HAVE to read these two super shorts and the best part they are absolutely FREE!!!!!!

Now, what are you waiting for? Head over to Smashwords and download my "New Adult " (something like YA but with a bit more naughty bits) super short prequels:

The Lord of Requited Love: A Reborn Story
The Life That Ends: A Reborn Story

Keep Reading and Keep writing,
Casse NaRome

Another Reborn short story...

2011-04-05T02:56:00.000-07:00

This novel is spawning more Shorts even though its not done yet. Sheesh. I write out the back story so I can have it while I am writing the complete story and they take on a life of their own. I think they are important because the two prequel stories I wrote are the very first life Dain and Tara lived and then the ill-fated 99th lifetime. (If you followed Reborn on Textnovel.com The Life That Ends is the chapter formally known as TWO. In the editing process it got cut out.) SO here it is. You saw the "fake" cover I did for Lord of Requited Love...here is The Life That Ends' "fake" cover.

Like I said, The Life That Ends isn't "Brand spanking new" but Lord of Requited Love is and its in the process of being edited and a new more YA cover being worked on. It's hard because now tha Dain is blonde I have to find new pictures. But Tara will stay the same. Here is the would be covers if Dain stayed brunette!

My Favorite one!

Keep writing and keep reading,

Casse NaRome

NOTE: These pictures do not belong to me. They are stock photos that must be paid for in order to be used.

A little randomness from Casse to you!

2011-03-25T04:19:00.000-07:00

I have been busy procrastinating.

2011-03-23T04:11:00.000-07:00

Are yall ready to meet Mayne and Eric? Well, ready or not here they are.

As you can see instead of writing I have been spending HOURS clicking through stock photos instead of working on my prose. But I am happy with the couple I found. I am not the best at photoshop so it looks a bit janky but I did it myself...Yay. Now, here is a excerpt from my still unpolished WIP: Death Knows My Name. I decided to give yall a bit of the steamy because these two are all about the hot! Enjoy!

Good we were finally alone. I thought.

Eric nodded in agreement. “My thoughts exactly.”

“I know.” I said as I grinned up at him. The look in his eyes took my breath away.

“Mayne, I want you so badly right now.” He whispered in my ear. His voice was low and seductive.

I looked around to see if anyone was around us. “How badly?” I asked as I licked my dry lips. I was so aroused even still from earlier I didn’t care if we were in a packed bar or that my friends were mere feet away playing pool. All I cared about was getting relief from the heady, lust filled pressure that was building inside me.

Eric pulled me onto his lap and I felt his hardness against me and a shiver of anticipation ran down my spine until it settled lower inside of me. His warm hand caressed up my thigh and under my skirt. I found myself parting my legs for him and I held my breath as I felt his thumb stroke my core through the cloth of my panties. After a few exquisite touches from him my panties were now wet from my arousal and he slipped a finger beneath the soaking fabric and curved around them in a hook pulling them aside. Now there was nothing between him and his long strong pleasure giving fingers. Finally I would feel his touch after being interrupted earlier and if I didn’t feel him soon I would combust and I knew it.

Keep Reading and Writing,
Casse NaRome

Non-Writing Related: The day I lost immortality. Valentine's Day tribute to Andy.

2011-02-14T00:18:00.000-08:00

When I was, 13 years old I felt untouchable like nothing bad could possibly touch me. I was carefree and full of life. That was before my 14 birthday, 14 years ago today. 2 boys Andrew Michael Westbay and Scott Hawrysiak were shot and killed a few houses away from their own houses. That birthday changed my life. Andy was a friend of mine okay I had a huge crush on him.

I first met Andy when my teacher pulled him into class when she heard him and a former classmate, Jason, goofing around in the hall. I was in love instantly. Then it turns out we were in the same gym class with coach Dixon. Luck was on my side, Coach decided to have a sitting arrangement by last name. Hello Westbay and Williams were next to each other and I sat literally beside him. Cue Casse turning on the charm...

For the short time I knew Andy he was a large part of my life. I remember all of the times we shared with each other because it is all I have left. I remember the last time I saw him and if only I knew, it was the last it wouldn't be so bitter sweet. On the other hand, maybe that would have been worse.

We were at a school Valentine's Day dance. Our school had them during the school day and it was actually the day before because we were going to have a long weekend. I had gotten in trouble and had to sit on the bench the last 10 mins of the dance so Andy and I never did get to dance. He did stop by often within that 10 mins to chat, he told me happy birthday and gave me that smile he had that made the sun shine, because we wouldn't be at school on Valentine's day so he wouldn't see me. It breaks my heart that we never got our Happily-ever-after; we got a Nicholas Sparks ending. Maybe God is a fan.

With Andy and my crush on him I felt untouchable. At that age, you never think about or should have to think about death. My classmates and I had that innocence and our immortality stolen when we were made victims. Scott and Andy were stolen from their families, friends and peers so please say a prayer for their families because I know they will be at Evergreen cemetery right now and Andy's Uncle Michael will have Andy's Mcdonalds nuggets for him.

Happy Valentine's day to you all, as well as The Hawrysiak and Westbay family.

Keep reading and writing,

Casse NaRome

Dastardly Dain

2011-02-08T00:43:00.000-08:00

Here is the first 8 sentences of my Reborn short story. It's a prequel and it is the lifetime that started it all. This isn't exactly the cover I am going with but it is lovely right?

Lord of Requited Love- Casse NaRome
“She is exasperating!” I fumed in my chambers to Christopher.
“Why do you even let her get to you my Lord?” He questioned me as he always did when he considered me unreasonable.
I shot him a glare.
“Sorry I mean, Dain.” The young gentleman amended knowing I hated titles among us. We were more friends than anything else.

That's all you get!

Keep reading and keep writing,

Casse

Let's take it back to before.

2011-01-26T09:03:00.000-08:00

I have been working on a lot of short stories mainly prequel of the WIPS I am working on. It really helps with back story, especially when writing series and have to know every characters' motives. It is also completely fun.

I finished one SS a few weeks ago for Reborn series. Its the first draft but I think it is good. Now I am working on a prequel to a nanowrimo wip I worked on 2 years ago WHEN LILY'S FALL which is the book after DEATH KNOWS MY NAME. It's being called Accidental Jump-Off. *giggles* Thanks Twitter friend for the title ;-) I will let yall know when it's available to read.

Keep reading and I'll keep writing,
Casse NaRome

The First Cut is the Deepest,

2011-01-12T03:13:00.000-08:00

...as is the love of your first finished book. I love my first MS, it still gives me chills when I read the story. Sadly, as it is now it is crap. I need a lot of revising but once I am done I am going to put it up on Smashwords. Why because I love the story but no publisher/editor/agent will ever touch it. I still want readers to have the chance to see the world I built that ALL my angel stories take place in. Also, Dhylaka the heroine in Born Through Desecration plays a major role in Mayne's story.

Until I get BTD all fixed up and pretty for you, here is a rough peek at why I love Dhylaka and Dartainian and that other evil character in the story. Oh I also should warn BTD is not a romance, though a lot of it goes on in it. It also involves what I call a love polygon so convoluted it is insane. Keep in mind I started BTD when I was 18 or 19 which was *ahem* 10 years ago.

***
A frightening thought crossed my mind and fled; the same thought crossed Father’s mind and lingered, I could see it in his eyes. Maybe Lucifer and I were, in fact, as he feared alike. I set out for the forest that night after father returned home, and I would enter Shol in the afternoon after a morning camp-out outside. As I walked through the dense trees, I saw a pitch-black dark out in the edge of the woods. I knew that had to be Shol. My heartbeat quickened as fear crept into my body. It was a fear I had never felt before. It was a fear in my soul, or was it for my soul?
When I enter Shol, I had to be completely aware. I would not survive with my guard down. I settled down and set up camp about half a mile away. I knew I couldn’t take Lucifer by surprise so I had to be smart about my approach. Unable to rest I watched the sun climb higher in the sky and I knew it was time.
As I approached the treed entrance into the deep dark, something moved and caught my eye. I turned quickly and saw an angel. Catching it’s eye it spoke to me.
“Woman, what are you doing here?”
I walked over to him boldly knowing if I showed any of the fear I felt I’d be eaten alive.
“Take me to Lucifer.”
The angel looked me over. His eyes accustomed to the dark after years of shadow dwelling were dark and brooding. “Do we know you?”
I smiled. “No, but I’m looking for someone that he can help me find.”
“Come with me.” He placed a hand on my back and I allowed the contact. I did not move away from it or fight it knowing that he’d think I was weak if I did. The touch was forceful yet gentle which surprised me. He led me deeper into the darkness, and as dark as it was it seemed to get darker and darker the further we walked in.
“Wait here I’ll talk to Lucifer.” He spoke abruptly stopping me. He disappeared into an even darker room and I couldn’t see past the dense black. I could barely even see inches away from my face. I felt powerless and blind. I felt extremely vulnerable and my mind toyed with the idea that this was a hugely stupid mistake, to enter Shol. I fought back my panic not allowing myself to show any fear. A few minutes later, the angel emerged from the back.
“Come.” He ordered with a single word. I did not allow myself to hesitate, that would have shown weakness and I could not afford any of that now, not in front of creatures such as these. I followed the fallen angel into the room he had emerged from. Again, the angel stopped in front of me.
“Here she is, Lucifer. She says she—”
I stepped forward. “Excuse me but I can speak for myself.”
The angel growled a laugh as did someone I still could not see. The one the angel referred to as Lucifer.
“Well, Dartainian, looks like she put you in your place.”
More laughter from the two before the first angel spoke.
“Well, Woman speak for yourself then.”
I could hear the smile in his voice. I sighed, men.
“Lucifer, I’m Dhylaka. I was told you could help me find someone.”
The figure rose and approached me. The figure was massive almost Archangel Michael’s size. As he stepped closer, I saw golden hair so shiny it shone like the sun in the afternoon sky. So bright, it looked out of place here. His eyes were hazel. I could see him as if someone turned on a lamp. His skin was deeply tanned, which seemed even more out of place considering the gloom he kept his palace enshrined with.
“So Dhylaka, who told you I could help find this missing person— who is your?”
I finished his inquiry. “My husband or rather soon to be deceased husband.”
Lucifer continued, his voice hinted at amusement. “Shame for the poor guy. Well, yes who told you I could find this, this man whom you seek to kill.”
I looked around. “Latacrum, he told me.”
Lucifer looked to the angel he called Dartainian.
“Find Latacrum and bring him here, now!”
I stepped in. “No need.”
They looked at me questioning, I could see them asking themselves who is this woman who dared to cancel an order from Lucifer, who could erase an order from Lucifer?
I tossed Lucifer the small box. I heard a soft sound as he caught it without fumble.
“That is for you.”
Lucifer opened the top of the box. “She’s right, no need to find Latacrum.” His voice held a smile of pleasure. “Well, Dhylaka you have been a naughty girl, little one. I kind of like it.”
He looked at me with a sickening awe. “And this is for me?”
“Yes, I wanted his blood from the first second I met him. I always wanted you to see I am not one who is weak at heart.”
Dartainian smiled and teased. The two were friends, I assumed. Dartainian held no fear of Lucifer, and spoke freely as a friend might. Or as close as friendship could be in a place like this and between creatures such as them.
“Lucifer can we keep her, I like her?” He turned to face me. “You really killed Latacrum?”
I nodded. “Yes, I kind of feel bad but, he gave me cause for my hate of him to overcome my morality.” A lie. I did not feel bad. However, a part of me knew that I should and a part of me could not bear to admit that I did not feel bad to these Angels. I did not want to lose my humanity in the face of them.
Lucifer pushed a chair towards me with his foot. “Sit Dhylaka; please. Dartainian excuse us if you would.”
Dartainian turned to go, before he did, he gave me a heart-stopping smile. He was gorgeous in a dark, deadly way.
After Dartainian left Lucifer kneeled in front of me and asked, “So you are looking for Dacarum and his child, your son?”
I looked at him. “How’d –?”
Lucifer placed a hand on my knee. It sent a tingle up my body and I fought to catch my breath. I fought his touch mentally but that fight never reached the exterior of my body.
“Look Dhylaka, I am going to tell you something. It will probably hurt you but I have to tell you anyway, not because I am compelled by my honesty but because I need your help. But that will come later.”
I looked at him. “What do you want to tell me?”
Lucifer stood up, found a chair and sat. I could tell that all his movements and actions were measured, no matter how natural they seemed to come off as; they were perfectly choreographed.
“It’s about Dacarum. Understand this Dhylaka; I have had my eye out for you. Rather I have been waiting for you since my fall, since the world was created. I had scouts everywhere watching for you. You are probably confused right now but please let me explain before you ask questions. You or rather whom I have come to believe you are, is written about in what is called ‘The Book of Angels’ and I need you to fulfill the prophecy about me. Oh, they will try to stop us but now that you are here with me, they cannot. For you being here I must thank Latacrum, whom you saved me the trouble of killing and robbed me of the pleasure of killing as well, but dear one, they underestimated you. I must also thank my scout, Dacarum.”
I stood up. “What? Dacarum works for you?”
Lucifer came in front of me. “Calm down Dhylaka, sit. I will explain, I will.” His face was warm and his eyes felt as if they were holding me. I wanted to leave and I knew I should; I had to leave, I needed to leave; I would drown if he didn’t let me up. My head swam with dizziness and my lungs refused to inhale. I looked at Lucifer with wide eyes, I had to breathe or else I would drown in him.
***

Keep reading and I will keep writing,
Casse NaRome

When I Grow Up I Want to be...

2011-01-06T00:33:00.000-08:00

I totally want to be Victoria Dahl/Jeri Smith-Ready/Michelle Sagara. So I want to be a creepy ass hybrid obviously. LMAO.

All jokes a side, I want to be an awesome writer who entertains my readers while absorbing them into a world I create.

No Whiney Biotches Allowed in Romance Writing!

2011-01-05T02:19:00.000-08:00

I have been toying with a few ideas lately. The more pressing one being…quitting. Only I don’t call it that. I also don’t call it giving up either. No, I rationalize it and say I will take a break that may have no end to it. Nice, Casse, very nice. Stop while you are not ahead. Lol. I mean I could. It would be easy…well, easier than the rejections. Easier than the negative critiques from those who don’t get my work, my humor or what I am trying to do. Yes, it would be easier but then what? I am writer damn it and if I don’t write then what the hell am I? Therefore, I give myself a pep talk that sounds something like this: “Suck it up and stop being such a whiney ass all the time sheesh!” Yeah, I know I totally coddle myself.

Okay, so extended break is out I decided absolutely NO, N-O contest and no sharing my work until I am 100% satisfied unless it’s to my very awesome CPs whom I don’t mind showing my unkempt, unrefined crap too because they are awesome enough to help me clean it up.

Those are my writing resolutions. Glad I could talk myself out of being a quitter.

Keep reading and I will keep writing,
Casse NaRome

Pre New Years resolutions,

2010-12-12T01:08:00.000-08:00

I only have one resolution this year. I know it's a bit early but I am trying to be more organized this year...Okay not organized but a bit more prepared. So I have thought about my new year wants early.

I am going to be published. Not this year exactly but one of my novels will be published. That's it. In order to acheive this goal I will finish at least 2 manuscripts. Death Knows My Name is about 2 years old and it still needs the ending written. I know how it ends I just need to write it so I will. The Reborn needs a brainstorm plotting, and to be written so I will do that too in the new year.

Okay, 2011...I'm coming for you! I am also going to email my CPs...its been too long and I MISS THEM and their writing!

Casse

Ow! There goes my foot.

2010-11-19T03:25:00.000-08:00

I will speak the TRUTH in all my ways; I will Talk the Talk and walk the walk. I will be a lamp on a hill. We speak the truth in love-with a view to saving souls. We speak the truth to uplift and comfort the fainthearted. We speak the truth to restore those who have wandered from God and into sin. We speak the truth to instruct and exhort. We speak the truth to encourage and admonish. We speak the truth to correct and persuade. Always, always, we speak the truth to glorify God.

I get a lot of advice from writers and the leading one is “Watch what you say about certain topic.” Understandable but if I am going to be true to myself…I can’t do that. A couple of reasons why, the first being I am stubborn but really it’s that I find the fact that it’s being asked of us very offensive.

I just don’t see anybody saying this to a guy writer to the extent that it is said to us women. I know yall can hear the rawr coming but seriously. What gives? Because I write books I can’t speak my mind? Because I want to sell said books I can’t have an opinion on politics, war and homosexuality? I am calling bullshit. I have a mind and just because a person reads my books (Okay I am claiming it for the future, just give me this?) does not mean they have the right to keep me silent. And if they don’t agree and for that reason the refuse to by my novel (a book that is made up) and has nothing to do with how, where, and when I stand? SO BE IT! It may hurt me in the long run but it would hurt my soul more in the end to be silenced for any reason. I can just see myself standing before God and Him asking, “What do you have to say about your life?” What do I want to say, “I saw something going in a way I felt was wrong and didn’t say anything. Wait- no chill God because I did reach number 156 on such and such best book list.” No I don’t think that would be a good feeling. I want to be able to say, “I spoke for those too afraid to speak; I lifted my voice for those who had no voice and God, I rocked it. I only sold 2 copies of my book but God, I spoke!” Yeah I like that better, thanks Mom for buying those 2 copies. I know it was her even in a hypothetical.

But what about the agents? I can hear some of you gasp. Yeah, the agents, they Google my name and there pops up my rant on gay marriage. *shrugs* I think they deserve the same right to express their love as everybody else. Big deal. If an agent wants to sign me, we need to fit. Us fitting also means they need to know me. I am a person with opinions, it’s not the 50’s women have minds and a mouth and it’s okay for me to use mine. Really it is, if they disagree. *cringe* I am sorry I can’t sign with you. I am sure I will be cussing myself out if no other break happens but do I really want to start my dream knowing it’s all on my crumpled beliefs?

I speak out against things I feel wrong, how else will the wheels of change get greased? I can see all of you shaking your head thinking, “Another aspiring writer self destructing.” Gawd I hope not…maybe? Crap maybe I am shooting myself in the foot but in the end all I can do is be me and hell, it’s my foot.

Keep Writing, Keep Reading, and Keep Speaking,
Casse

It's November and YAY I'm a slacker.

2010-11-17T00:06:00.000-08:00

Hey friends,
It’s November you all know what that means…it’s NaNoWriMo time and the first major holiday of the “Winter Holidays” is rapidly approaching so it is time for me to feel like a slacker. I am so far behind on everything I possibly can be behind on.

My NaNo count is embarrassing, my thanksgiving menu plan is unfinished and overwhelming, Christmas shopping not even begun or thought of and work is well it is work so it sucks especially with the more hours and getting off at midnight which cuts into my (knowing that I should be but am not) writing time. Oh and my book blog is last review is dated as September. That can’t be right, can it? To top it off I am insanely behind on my CP stuff.

So yes it’s November and it’s kicking my ass.

The overwhelmed,

Casse

Claws way up from deadlines

2010-09-03T06:10:00.000-07:00

The one thing that aspiring writers have to get use to is living deadline to deadline and not getting buried by them. I have not learned that yet. I have revisions on one MS and writing another story which is completely different. My brain is screaming "Am I YA or Adult right now." I know that because of this switching I am going to have to edit a lot of no no words from my Young Adult wip. lol

Also what's killing my meeting deadline is TWITTER! It will be my death. But it also keeps me sane. I do also feel complete inadequate when it comes to balancing writing and family and living. I may after first part of revisions on Death Know My Name is done and contest entries are ready, take a few days off.

That's all for now.
Keep reading, writing and sharing.
Casse NaRome

The Reborn- Editor's Choice

2010-07-20T03:36:00.000-07:00

I am happy to be able to say that the YA I am working was picked as an Editor's Choice on TextNovel. I am excited and completely shocked by this. It came as a surprise. This my first YA so I am pretty excited. I had a feeling while writing the chapters that I had something good and it is my for fun novel. I am so glad people are enjoying reading it as much as I enjoy writing it. Dain and Tara pretty much tell me how they want things to go and if they misbehave I go all evil author on them. It's a fun journey.

I need votes. So please go check out The Reborn. Read it and if you like it vote. I also love comments on the story.

For ninety-nine life times Dain has loved Tara and for only some of those ninety-nine has she love him in return.

Something has changed...Now Tara remembers...She is the only one...

With all the forces they are up against, Tara has to find away to make him remember so they can be with one another this one last time...
Because this is the only time that matters...

...This is the last time they will be Reborn.

The Reborn available on TextNovel

New Project TextNovel

2010-07-05T01:31:00.000-07:00

I started a new short WIP and I am very excited. It's a YA paranormal romance that I am for now calling The Reborn. I wish I could show yall the picture that inspired it but right now I can't. I will ask if I can link it and then share with yall.

What I can share is the synopsis:

For ninety-nine life times Dain DuMarcos the Marquis has loved Tara Croix and for only some of those ninety-nine has she love him in return.

With all the forces they are up against, Dain has to find away to make her remember so they can be with one another this one last time...

Because this is the only time that matters...

...This is the last time they will be Reborn.

This is a total departure for me because for one it is YA and two most importantly, there isn't a bit of angels in it. Just something I thought of because forevers always runs out. Also it is a short story so it has to be fast paced. I am hoping this will be like practice so I can get pacing down better when comes down to my Death Knows My Name edits.

I am going to update the chapters one a night hopefully every night until its done, so you can go to TextNovel.com/TheReborn to read the new additions. Chapter One-See you next lifetime. is up already.

Thanks,
Casse

Bad writer, Bad!

2010-06-12T18:08:00.000-07:00

I have been horrible! My word count for May was low and worst my June count is standing at pretty much ZIP...Zelch! I have been on vacation and etc which is no no NO excuse I know but I hate doing endings. I am at the end of a WIP and I have to end it and I am stuck. How do I end a great love affair not between my wip and I but between Mayne and Eric.

I promise to be better I promise. He is a snippet of a rough draft of a synopsis:
Mayne Le Claire has spent her adult life closed off emotionally from the world around her. She has learned very early on that those who get close to her end up dead. She knows she is cursed but what she doesn’t know is why.

Eric Ectain Edeck is death, literally. It is his duty to call soul after soul and deliver them to their afterlife rather it be Heaven or Shol. He makes no apologize for what he has to do and does it without fail. That is, until he lays eyes on Mayne Le Claire whose name appears on his list time after time.

The one time Eric cannot bare to call a name was when Mayne was seventeen and her first love, Dante, appeared on his list.

How I work.

2010-05-29T00:09:00.000-07:00

This past NaNoWriMo I worked on and finished a rough rough ROUGH draft of When Lily's Fall. I decided to scrap it all together because I hated it sooo much. I was walking home one night from work and realized why I hated it so badly. The heroine was way too weak and then Lily came to me. I love when that happens. Her entire story popped into my mind. I also decided to make her broken but not weak. She is damaged by men. But her Hero, Valience is also very very damaged as well. I am actually excited to try and skeleton sketch this story out. I don't plot but I skeleton sketch my stories just to get to know all my characters. I have to find all my notes from the original to see if the core story can be saved. I will probably do that after I move so maybe in August. Here is the start of the original. Hope you enjoy it.

Before the Fall

"So you are clear on what it is you must do?"

Valience nodded. "Yes."

"Any questions?" The other man asked. It earned him a sneer.

"Would you have me do this job if I needed questions answered first." And Valience was correct, all knew his reputation. He killed quickly, was competent, and had no time for the why's. Just tell him the who and they were dead. Then, you pay. (This is in red because if I were editing this story it would be deleted.)

Chapter One

Rain fell like angels

The rain fell hard around my car. The wipers worked overtime trying to clear the away the rain. I leaned forward squinting trying to see past the rain. I pulled my car away from the center lane where slick puddles were building up. I had a few miles to go before the exit that would take me away from populated civilization onto my rural gravel road that's lengths were probably flood.

I forced myself to sit back and relax or I give myself a headache. I scolded myself for being so tense. The lights shining off the pavement was doing a good job of that on its own.

I saw my exit coming up so I made my way over to the correct lane and got off the highway. My road was getting flooded so I was going to have to check on the barn when I got home. To make the hey didn’t get soaked. I couldn’t afford to replace it if it got molded. I sighed. Some times I wondered why I even bother trying to keep up with the maintenance of this old decrepit farm. But then I remember my father’s prideful face as he worked the farm by himself, or even when I was out there helping him. He always fought for this farm and at least I could do was no less than what he did. He had left me his pride and joy, all he had when he passed away last year. This farm.

"Lily," he would start. "You can always tell a man's worth by what he leaves his legacy. You are that legacy and this is what I leave you." He would finish the lecture with arms spread wide as he turned in a slow flourishing circle like a king admiring his land. Took me years to say he was a hard working and that was his worth and what he wanted his legacy to be.

And I do admit, on the days when missing him nearly crushed me, being outside, working the farm, I could feel him there right with me. Sometimes I’d even hear him laugh just to turn to see his beaming smile at me and be alone. I missed him so much. Some days more than others. So that is why I must try and keep this farm. It is all I have left of my parents.

They had fell in love on this farm. Raised me on this farm. And I had lost them both. My Mother years ago. When I was a child. I lost her to herself. I pulled up to the house and stopped the car. I prepared myself to be bombarded by the rain.

I stepped out right into a puddle. Greeeat. I slammed the car door and the sound echoed for miles, or so it seemed. I had no neighbors. None at all. I kicked the water form my soaked shoe and hurriedly made my way to my porch. I dropped all my things and then made my way around the house to the back and towards the barn. My hair was slicked to my fast by the time I made it there. I made sure all the animals were safe and dry before I went to the task of sandbagging the barn entrance so the water wouldn’t ruin the hey stacks.

By the time I made it back into the house, I was soaking, shivering and hungry. I showered and dressed in warm dry clothes and set to the task of finding something to eat. I was all to aware, that this big house was awfully lonely tonight.

++ ++ ++

I saw a barn up a head. Finally a shelter from this driving rain. I had traveled through nothing but wooded areas for what seemed like hours. But really it might have been only two. As I drew neared to the shelter I saw a woman lugging sandbags and butting them just inside the barn door and a row or two on the outside. I realized that she had no idea what the hell she was doing. But I did not disturb her. I didn’t want to ruin her pride. When she finally returned to the main house I bunkered up in the barn. The smell of animal didn’t bother me. And the animals didn’t seem too bothered with my smell. So we cohabited in the small, damp but warm barn and I slept. It wasn't a peaceful sleep, but one full of nightmares. Only I was the monster. Since I had awoken in a forest, so it seemed with rain splattering on my face, I could not remember anything but my name. Valience. It seemed to be burned in me so deep that it would never be forgotten. Maybe these nightmares were not dreams at all but memories? My God, I hope not. My God. That seemed familiar. My God, once maybe but I had a feeling that not anymore. Can God be disowned? Of course not. I am being silly. It was me. I was the one disowned?

++ ++ ++

I woke up to the sun. As rainy as it was last night the sun still made its way out this morning. My boots sunk into the mud as I made my way out to the barn to muck the stalls and feed and water all the animals. When I walked up to the barn, I saw that the sandbags stacked up differently than I had originally had them. I pushed them out the way and opened the door.

“Hey, babies. How was your night?” I said to the animals. My words stuck in my throat. There was a man sprawled out on the hey. I froze. Could I back out of here before he noticed? What if he was a psycho killer? I turned to run and the toe of my foot caught on the edge of one of the sandbags. I fell to the ground in a graceless heap.

"Umph!" I tried to scramble to my feet but it was too late. I heard rustling behind me. I turned over and was staring right into the coldest eyes I had ever seen.

Chapter two
Tete-a-tete por dueax

The man looked at me like I was prey. I fought to find my footing. I wanted to face this beast on my feet.

"Do you need my assistance in standing?" The voice was deep but held no feeling. It seemed detached. The aloof man did not wait for my answer because he put his hands underneath my shoulders and pulled me to my feet. He let me go so swiftly I stumbled forward into his chest.

"Sorry. Thank you." I hesitated briefly. "Why are you in my barn?"

"It rained last night." Was his simple reply.

I stared at him. "Yes, I am aware that it rained. I have soggy shoes as proof. Why are you in here."

"Where else would I go? Nothing else is around here." He spoke truly. There was nothing for miles on either side.

"Are you dangerous?" I asked plainly. His dark eyes looked dangerous. Downright deadly.

"I can be but I have no plans or reason to hurt you." He spoke as if that was a perfectly rational thing to say. His blunt honesty was disconcerting.

"Well, come on to the main house. You can shower up while I make breakfast. You can put on some of my dad's clothes. They shouldn't be too bad a fit." I started walking to the house.

"He won't mind?"

I looked back briefly. "What do the dead care."

"So he is dead than?" He spoke as if he were asking after the weather.

"Yes." He took up a pace beside me. I noticed he didn't apologize like everyone else feels the need to do after you hear of once death. I looked out the corner of my eye at him. He hadn't seemed to look over at me in notice.

"Yes?" He asked.

"I am going into the city later, did you need a ride anywhere?"

"No, I wouldn't even know where to go." He didn't offer anymore.

"Homeless than? You don't look homeless."

"I wouldn't know. I don't remember anything before yesterday morning." I stopped and he stopped after a few additional steps.

I took the two steps to him and placed my hands on his head, in examination.

"Are you hurt? Head injury?" He stopped my prodding by taking my hands in his. They were strong hands. He smiled for the first time, albeit a very small one.

"I don't think I am hurt." He looked into my eyes.

"No headache then?" He took one of his hands from me and only then did I realize I was still holding them. He rubbed his brow.

"Yes, When I wake. Then it fades throughout the day."

I began to walk again and tugged on the remaining hand I held.

"Come on. Lets see what can be done."

I got him set up for his shower. I set pain pills and water by the clean clothes and towels I sat out for him. Then I left him so I could prepare breakfast.

++ ++ ++

The towels smelled like the woman, crisp, clean and soapy. The scent of her filled my nostrils from the second I helped her up. The initial fear she felt to the softness she felt when she became concerned.

Her body intrigued me. She had curves beneath her clothes. Her hips and butt, round. Firm would be my guess.

The images of my dreams flashed before my eyes. The things I did in these dreams made me concerned for this generous woman. The things.

I stood on a grassy knoll. Blood, dirt and sweat striking down my face. To my left a breath takingly gorgeous woman stood. She looked feral. We had just shared in a massacre of 185,000 people. Blood soaked her hair.

There was a knock on the door.

"Did you drown in there?"

I opened the door just as I pulled on my shirt. Her eyes went to my t-shirt covered chest. It was a little tight across but apparently she liked what she saw. I successfully fought the urge to smile.

"I'm done." I informed her. She shook her head and visibly forced herself to look me in the eyes. I saw a delicious heat behind them.

"Breakfast is ready. Hope you have an appetite. I don't remember how much guys eat so I made a lot." She prattled.

I shrugged. "You don't spend time with a lot of guys?"

She mirrored my shrug back to me. "I do, we just don't spend the time eating." She paused, then added. "Not food anyway." I noticed a spark in her eyes before she turned to walk away.

I watched her lead the way, pausing to take in the view before following her.

I enjoyed the heat this woman made me feel. I couldn't remember having this feeling and couldn't help wondering if I had; if so who had I felt it with before. How was it even possible to forget this inquichable heat?

++ ++ ++

I felt his eyes on me as I lead the way to the dining room. I felt sort of uncomfortable but I also liked it and welcomed the attention.

“Take a seat."

I can let my hair down.

2010-05-16T01:48:00.000-07:00

Christie Craig's rejections author of Divorced, Desperate and Delicious

I had a good time today. I went to Yellow Rose RWA Luncheon and had a great time. It was good to get out of my introvert's cave and just talk to people. Better yet talk to fellow writers which is probably why I had as fun as I did.

Rachel Caine author of MorganVille Vampires

I learned a lot and gave my very first pitch to an editor in the Romance genre. Wow, I wasn't planning on it so I had no time to be nervous and it didn't go as bad as I expected but I blew it. (In my mind at least.) Deb from SourceBooks didn't laugh and gave suggestions so it wasn't like I visibly blew it but as I was talking in my head, the critical bitch that I am to myself was saying "Yeah Casse, way to screw it up dumbie!" But it wasn't as bad as I make it seem...it actually went very well. I am a major perfectionist.

But above all I am glad that I met some amazing women, picked up some amazing books that you will see reviewed at some point over at CatholicKittie's Litter Box...Scoop Daily! I learned a lot and heard 2 amazing speakers and met 2 awesome editors. It was all around a new experience and fun.

Christie Craig and her rejections she let her cat "piss on"- Hilarious!

But I am glad to be home and able to just be Cassandra now. Casse is fun but I just like to be at home sometimes and be my anti-social, slightly neurotic, very introverted, OCDish, quirky self without having to try and "look" and "act" normal.

Well time to decompress I have to step into my real world tomorrow at work, where I am not Casse the Romance writer I am just Cassandra the girl behind the customer service counter. lol

Casse NaRome-Me

Oh yea, at a completely different event my C.P Connie did NOT blow her pitch and got a request for a full! This MS is amazing so I am not surprised and I won't be surprise when she gets signed either. Yall are going to love it when you read it! Go Connie!

Keep writing, reading and sharing,
Casse

Do you accept me: Where it all began...for me at least.

2010-04-29T01:24:00.000-07:00

I was in 8th grade or it was probably the summer before 8th grade and my dad bought me the sequel to one of my favorite movies, The Prophecy with Christopher Walken, Eric Stoltz, and Viggo Mortensen. Can you say yum? I had already had an attraction to angels, I believe, from the amount that I liked that movie so of course I had to watch 2.

Enter angel Danyeal (hottie Russell Wong), He has come to Earth and a woman "hits" him with her car she takes him in to care for him and of course they end up doing the due. During the sex having Danyeal asks the hottest words ever muttered on full screen, "Do you accept me?" Oh my Gawd! My little 13 year old heart went pitter pat. The woman, of course says yes and BAM, it is done...his angel seed is planted and days later she is like in advance pregnancy. What happens next is interesting but it is not important for this post. Because up until that moment, I wasn't aware of the fact that Angels can and have been with human women and now was aware. The thought was so hott to me.

I love bad boys so a fallen angel?...Yes I find that appealing, very (in fantasy life ok? So any angels reading this if you were to approach me in real life I would turn you down...regretfully). I don't like the Demon fallen angel mind you I don't find them sexy. They scare me, but the ones that love God but only have fallen for love? Oh yea I find that damn Hott! Every girl wants that! A guy to choice her over everything else? Yes! Most women won't admit it but I will. Yes, deep down I want a guy to pick me over any and everything and one. I do. I am not ashamed to say it, PICK ME DAMN IT! So a Nephilims or Nephalims (as I spell it in my books because there are many celestial beings who took human wives the A for the angels that bore/spawned them) they are the ultimate bad boy that make the ultimate choice for love. Yes, I wants that.

"Fallen Angel" by Dalia Kochnev

He was sitting there, staring into nothing, looking like it, and if it wasn't for the wings, one would never come close. And none of the people walking by would see them.

He hadn't been banished.

He walked away.

That is why I write novels about fallen angels. That is why I read novels about fallen angels. That is why I love fallen angels and love what I do...

Keep writing, reading and sharing,

Casse NaRome!

If my current WIP were a movie...

2010-04-27T23:48:00.000-07:00

I was going to blog about the hotness of Fallen Angels but I cannot find the picture I want anywhere so I will try and get it scanned for my next post. Lucky for us thought there are plenty pictures of the actor and actress from my favorite show Being Human on BBC/BBC America.

If I were to make my WIP into a movie I would beg that they cast Aiden Turner and Lenora Crichlow!
Here are the Heroine and Hero of Death Knows My Name...Of course Aiden would have to get a little more "Solid/lean muscles" & paint on a face tattoo but he is so hott! Enjoy.

Also more important here are some links I find helpful: Query Shark and LarsenPomada.com

Keep writing, reading and sharing,
Casse NaRome!

Mythos of an Author

2010-04-25T00:53:00.000-07:00

You hear a lot of horror stories about writers who don't want to help one another out and in my experience this far, I find that completely untrue. I have only come across wonderful women who are always willing to help and offer advice. The authors I have come across are down to earth and want to lead you in the right direction. So if anyone tells you published authors want to keep the aspiring writers out because they are afraid of competition, I am telling you that is for the most part false, authors love books so of course they want new voices out there because they want to read your books too. I am sure there are a few less than helpful ones but thank God I have not come across them.

Also people often mistake an author's unwillingness to read an aspiring writers manuscript as being snooty, but that is not the case. They are covering themselves. I understand that completely. So if you ask an author tells you no, don't get rude on them because they are not trying to be unhelpful but they really have to protect themselves. If you want a published author reading your MS I would suggest getting a mentor.

This leads me to Critique Partners and groups. This is an important relationship I have found out. I love all aspiring writers so I am always willing to read other aspiring writers WIP or finished MS to tell them my opinions and feedback. It is just who I am. I love books and want to help get good ones out into the world so if I can help by reading a fellow writer's work than by all means, I will do it! But being a CP is a responsibility. It is a give and take. I take my CPing duties seriously. I have heard horror stories of hateful CPs just tearing their partner down; I can only assume it is out of jealousy or trying to make sure no one will make it before them. I find that ridiculous! When one of my CPs do well I am celebrating just as hard as them. I am over the moon happy for them and I walk around with a grin on my face like it's my MS. Why? Because I love love love books, writing and writers so I want success of all these things.

I try and make sure my partnership is not one sided but if I see that my partner is closer than I am I will focus on helping them and I let them take the spotlight and not email them every day like did you read mine did you read mine did you read mine yet? Because when it comes down to it, they have to work too and my time will come soon too so it’s a give and take- ying and yang.

RWA.org has a great handout where it talks about all the partnerships a writer may possibly have. Here is the link. Hope it helps. And if you write romance, I recommend joining Romance Writers of America

Keep writing, reading and sharing,
Casse

Just finish the first draft THEN edit.

2010-04-24T08:36:00.000-07:00

That is what I have been screaming at myself because my internal editor/perfectionist is killing my word count. I keep trying to explain that I can revise until my heart is content but first finish the story!

I need need need to finish this MS. You wouldn't think it would be all that hard since it is already outlined the last 4 chapters. It seems so good too but I am nervous. Bad critique has shaken me a bit. It is actually the first taste of negative feedback on this particular project. I can feel my gator skin growing nice and think. Because although I know you have to have thick skin in this business you also have to be able to pick apart the feedback and decide what you need and what you need to throw away to keep the story true to what you are trying to tell, it is hard to hear some things.

I am thinking about submitting a short story to cellstories and smashwords. Two different stories. The cellstories is a short story on a girl’s first time and is very sweet. And the smashwords is I am not sure exactly but it will be paranormally and fantasy like. I will let yall know and I am going to try and outline and not fly into the mist. Wish me luck.

Casse

This is my co-author

2010-04-18T02:07:00.000-07:00

Thanks for reading!

Casse NaRome & Zoey!

Just a quick update

2010-04-17T01:55:00.000-07:00

I have been doing a lot of old school writing lately, you know pen and paper. I hate this because that means I have to type it up later. That is not my favorite thing to do and my assistant... erm I mean sister refuses to do it for me, not like my hand writing is even readable either. But oh well I still have some pages to type up too, so my word count on the sidebar of blog is lower (much) than it should be.

The reason I am rocking it old school is because I try and squeeze some writing in at work because usually during the week I may have to watch the Monster, because she likes to say "surprise" I am not sleeping tonight and the devoted aunnie that I am stop my writing time and cater to my Zoey Monster. So on those days my daily word count depends on that old school writing I did at my day job. I get less interruptions at my day job (which is customer service at a grocery store) than I do at home in the wee hours of the morning. What can I say, my house hold is a bunch of early workers, which is weird since we all love to sleep.

I have a writing window of midnight (I get home from work usually around 10 so midnight everyone else has laid down for the night so I can sit and write.) Until 3:50 a.m when the first alarm goes off. And if Zoey wants to play and not sleep before 3:50 the window is smaller. But it's the aspiring writer's life I wouldn't change it. I don't complain because at least there is no deadlines! Imagine if I had a deadline like published authors do? I would go crazy, so its easy now because it's my own time. I will get it done.

I have been doing more editing lately than writing. I had to get chapter 6-10 into one of my CPs hands and then go over the edits and suggestions for Chapter 1-5 that CP sent me so I can send it to CP two to comb through. She has English degrees out the wah-zoo sooo I am pretty sure she is going to shake her head and think boy Casse is an idiot. I have no idea the proper comma us and I am in love with ellipsis. You know what most people call dot dot dot (...) Yes it has a proper name! I figured I should know it since I use it so much lol.

Well I have to go, the alarm should go off in oh 2 minutes, so my writing work day is now...done.

Keep writing and keep sharing,

Casse!

Romancing my romance: Putting the Romance in my Paranormal

2010-04-13T23:13:00.000-07:00

I just realized that I need to romance up my freaking romance. This is harder that one my think. Why, you ask? Because I don't live in a romance novel so I have to pull this stuff out of somewhere and not make it so sweet that it gags me. Hard stuff, because my ideas of romance is a guy buying my cat a cat toy and me food! That does not cross over well into a romance novel. lol Now, throw in paranormal and you have a different ballgame! How do these people find time to save the world, have mind-blowing sexxor and ROMANCE each other.

My hero needs to step the hell up! He is letting his heroine spend too much time with her friends when he should be taking her when and where ever she can be had! Because I think her best friend is waiting in the wings hoping to be her one day guy (if we aren't married by 35 guy.)

This is what I am dealing with so I am hitting up my CPs for suggestions, well not just them but everyone. How the hell can I bring the sexxy back and put the romance back in my Paranormal love affair?!

Heeeelp!

Keep writing, sharing and reading,
Casse NaRome

No news is good news except, when it's bad news.

2010-04-10T14:24:00.000-07:00

Okay, I found out that I did not make the finals of the writing contest. But that is fine. I actually found out Thursday night when I peeked at the Yellow Rose RWA chapter prez' blog and she said all finalist had been notified and since I wasn't notified by process of deduction, it wasn't me :-D See I am a great detective.

At first I was supper bummed and didn't want to write but when I get prime inspiration dropped in my lap via one of my best friends, it's hard not to snatch it up and seize the day. I am sure either my CP or my hard ass wench of a beta reader (love you cousin) will hate it and demand that it not make the final cut. It cheered me up to write and I snickered the entire time while writing it. So here it is witthout further adou.

*******

It was dark as Becca drove me to the airport. She tapped the wheel with her long slender

fingers to the music. She suddenly sat up straight in her seat and turned her head to look at the

restaurant that we had just passed.

“Eyes on the road Becca, I am serious. I knew I should have taken a cab.” I scolded as I

shook my head.

“Was that Eric Bana we just passed? I think it was.”

I shrugged. “In Washington, I highly doubt it.”

“No, I am for real. I think it was Bana!”

I rolled my eyes. “Oh sure. Who cares Becca. You are married and not like he would

choose you over me and I, am off the market.” I flipped my hair hotly. Taken by another Eric.

I added silently and fought to hide my grin behind my hand and failing miserably.

She glared at me. But I only pointed to the road trying to draw her attention back to it.

Sheesh. How the hell did she get her license when she never freaking paid attention to what was

in front of her.

“What Becca, it’s not like you have a good track record? Remember when you claimed to see

Hugh Jackman?” I threw out there innocently.

“I did! At the stop light on the corner in Blue Ridge you know the light that stays red forever.

We both looked over at one another at the same time. It was a moment, Mayne.”

I stared at the side of her face to show my disbelief. “Uh-huh. In Seattle because all the

hunky Hollywood stars hang out here.”

She eased on the brake at a four way stop and turned to me pointing angrily. “Hugh and I

shared a moment. It was real and it was deep!”

I laughed. “No, Becca you and a random nobody shared a long red light stare down. Sounds creepy to me

but I guess it was the hottest 5 seconds of your life. I am sure to that poor upper-class Joe Shmoe, it was

something too. Red light love. Hey maybe Jackman will make that a Broadway play?”

“You are one mean little woman when you want to be. You will see. One day Hugh is going

to be talking about the one who got away and guess what. He will tell the red light story.” She

huffed at me pouting. I turned my head so I can grin out the window. She was crazy and I

missed her all this time. I was glad now I could spend more time with her. Now that I knew

that I wouldn’t bring anymore pain.

My heart suddenly clenched. When she died, she wouldn’t be my memory to keep but

Anya’s. I sighed and shook my head. I had to find away to stop this. I was one thing but

Anya that was another. I didn’t want her to be as confused as I was growing up.

Becca stopped and I looked at her confused. I guess I had been lost in my thoughts because

we had made it to the airport.

She raised her eyebrow. “We are here. What? Did you want curb side service?”

“No, it’s just, that was fast.”

“Want me to drive around the block?” She asked teasingly.

“No. You could have least pulled up to the unloading zone.”

“It’s packed and I don’t want to wait. Luke is with the girls and he wants to put them to bed

early so we can-.”

I hopped out the car. “Ewl. Too much Rebecca. I don’t care.” I yanked my bags from the

car and closed the door. I took a step away from the car and as she prepared to pull away I went

back and opened the door and bent down to peek inside. “I love you sis.”

Her eyes widened and the she smiled softly. “I love you too. Call me when you get home.”

I nodded agreeing that I would. I knew that deep down that this time, I really would call her. I

smiled and turned from the car and dragged my bags towards the airport entrance as she pulled

away.

Nerve racking

2010-04-09T00:12:00.000-07:00

I hate putting myself up for abuse and that is exactly what I did. This past January, I joined Yellow Rose which is a chapter of RWA and then entered the "Winter Rose" contest. WHY! I was so calm and peaceful with only a few panic moments when I thought "someone could be reading my words right now.
Well, tomorrow is the day I find out if they loved it or hated it and I am on pins and needles. I am crazy nervous. I know I should get use to it but I need a drink. I have been snapping at people all day. I am seriously surprised my day job didn't fire me. I did not provide very good customer service today.
*Sigh* I have changed a lot of my WIP I entered since January so I am nervous about that. I wish I was better prepared for the contest because I would possibly be a little less nervous.
I will post how it goes later, if you hear sobbing from my corner of Texas, yep it's me.

Casse NaRome

Major Name Changes...

2010-03-22T00:51:00.000-07:00

Alright. After much debate and reluctance, My hero & heroine's name have been altered and/or changed. My CP who lives in Maine...told me it really pulls her from the story to read a State as a heroine and recommended a change of spellimg. I took that easy enough because of the light nature of how Maine got her name.
When I was doing Death Know's my Name's outline I had no names for any character except Ectain's. And the outline had 3 girls in it (only 2 of them survived to make it into the second outline.) So I was always saying "Main girl, does this." Main girl says this or goes there." Eventually I was just like the heck with it her name is Maine!
Well, that is still her name since it is tied into the story but now it is "Mayne". And oh noooo Connie didn't stop there. She continued to gut punch me with this next bomb...She hated hated hated Ectain's name. Everything about it. For her there was no saving it. Though I couldn't give her exactly what she wanted, because Ectain Edeck comes from a background and he has a mind of his own. HE would not let me change it. I did decide, he will offer Mayne to call him Eric because it is "easier".
I agreed to this because although I am one of the few who like odd named heroes; I know a lot of readers loathe them. So now I can please both.
It might get a little confusing, we will see because most of my angel's would refuse to butcher Ectain's name by calling him Eric! Since Ectain Edeck is Angelican for his previous duties and is an honor to have. *Le Sigh*

That is all for now...oh except I finally broke 50k words! I celebrated with a huge rice krispy treat. Super Yum!

Keep reading, writing and sharing,
Casse!

Butt in chair, hands on keys...

2010-03-17T23:05:00.000-07:00

This will be a quick post because I am avoiding my WIP and soon will make myself write. I sent back one of my CPs edits last night. And the other one I sent back 2 chapters and I will send back at least 2 more tonight or tomorrow night depending on how far I get on my work.
I also blogged a review on my book blog. I hate doing negative reviews and this one wasn't really bad just not the best but *shrugs*
I am in the home stretch with this stage of mt WIP. I have about 25k more words to get out then I will put it a side while I outline my next project. It was a nanowrimo story I wrote, deleted and now I want to do it right. It is currently called When Lily's Fall it will be Valience's story. He is kind of the villian in my current WIP. I am excited. After the outline is done I have to re-read aloud Death Knows My Name and do some revising and then send it off to my CPs and Betas...oh I also need to get some Betas and at least one more CP. Let them pick it apart while I fast draft When Lily's Fall. Hopefully when I get the edits back I will have a very rough draft of it done and let it backburn for a while until I finish Death, get it shiney for submission. Which I hope to send off in May. Way before my trips this summer.

Well that's it for now. I have to check my twitter.
Keep reading, writing and sharing,
Casse!

Finished the final outline...hopefully

2010-03-16T17:23:00.000-07:00

I am finally finished with the outline of the last few chapters of my WIP. I am so excited. I also haven't wrote a word since. I am currently reading over one of my CP's first 16 pages. I also have to read over another CP's chapters 7-14.
I don't mind reading manuscripts from my peers; I actually enjoy it. Writing can be very lonely. So without CPs and networking devices like Twitter you might find yourself difting away from writing just to fine companions. But with CPs and Twitter you can reach out and touch fellow writers farther along in the journey. Even published, because being published isn't the end of this journey. It is just a new turn. And Twitter allows me to chat with people already there so I won't be too surprised when I get there.
CPs allow me to get some feedback from readers who also write. I JUST found CPs and I am always looking for others who fit me and who I fit. Its a give and take relationship. It has to be honest and organic.
Well, I just wanted to blog really quickly before I get back to CP duty.

Keep reading and writing,
Casse!

My first time around...

2010-03-14T21:28:00.001-07:00

Welcome to my writer’s blog.

I think I should introduce myself. My name is Casse. (It’s said like Cassie, you know short for Cassandra.) I write under the name of Casse NaRome for my fiction titles at least. I haven’t really decided how that is going to work out yet. (Because I do write editorials and articles as well as poetry.)

This is a blog to share my journey and my attempt to score an agent, then a publishing deal. I will share each step I take from now on that I take. Why you ask? Because I just like to share and have people to laugh with at my silly mistakes I have made and no doubt will make.

I have been writing since I can remember; my parents would buy my sister and me journals for Christmas since we could write and we’d spend the day filling them up with stories. Sometimes weeks at a time, we had some awesome collaborations and intertwined stories! But really I started poetry first when one of my 8th grade teachers showed interest in a poem of mine that I did for a huge poetry assignment and decided to enter it into a contest for me; it was picked to be published. I still own that book 13 years later. (Oh I think I just dated myself.) I then decided I was interested in psychology because I wanted to understand the reason people behave the way that they do. It came in handy because when I was 18 I was sitting on the bus an early morning headed to work and the writing bug seriously bit me. I started Born Through Desecration a Fantasy manuscript and finished it a whopping 3 years later.

The idea originally came to me in 1995 at the age of 12 when my dad let me watch The Prophecy. I was like, I kind of like these bad ass angels. Then in 1998 I was 15 and once again, my dad, bought The Prophecy 2 and it was about Nephilims and I was in love. It took 3 more years for the idea to finally materialize and develop into the first draft that I finished.

When I was done I did what many young and in-experience wanna-be writers do. I printed billions of copies and sent them to not agents but more embarrassingly, publishers. I still cringe at the thought. It is a common mistake and I still get very embarassed at my jumping the gun, but I laugh and rejoice because now I have learned so much from the authors who have taken the time to help other authors even us aspiring ones.

I have since back-burned BTD but I have not totally given up on this manuscript but I am currently working on a new Paranormal Romance WIP called Death Knows My Name. I am hoping to shine this baby up before I start pimping it out and NOT to pubs this time but carefully researched agents. See I have learned a lot from the first time around.

Keep reading, writing and sharing,

Casse NaRome

First Post!

2010-03-10T23:14:00.000-08:00

I decided after much debate to dazzle yall with my humor and wit for my first post but being that it is 1 AM and have yet to add to my daily word count yet I will cheat. LOLdogz for your viewing pleasure.

see more dog and puppy pictures

Okay, now for me to try and remove this writer's block with Dr. Wicked's help.

Love,
Casse!

[Edit:] Okay obviously this picture is from lolcatz not dogs...did I mention I am completely an idiot. In my defense, it was 1AM? Okay buh-bye.