snshyne's secrets

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Epilogue

2012-01-15T20:32:00.000-05:00

I've done it. I've finished it. The epi is posted. Now, please excuse me while I continue to bawl my eyes out.

Enjoy.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Chapter 50 - Epilogue: Just The Beginning

Good News!

2012-01-07T18:36:00.001-05:00

Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Epilogue is FINALLY done!I will post next week.Happy New Year!xosnshyne- Posted using BlogPress from Alice the iPhone

Book Review: The Black Stiletto by Raymond Benson

2011-11-29T01:12:00.001-05:00

The Black Stiletto by Raymond Benson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I have two criticisms of this book, so I'll start with those.

At times the prose felt a little flat. This is a story with three different points of view and two different era's of time. Yet, I often found myself unsure of which character I was reading because the prose read the same from one to the next. For Judy aka The Black Stiletto, I think there could have been more injection of her Texas twang and charm instead of the constant reference to it existing. And for a teenage girl, she's awfully emotionless at times. For Roberto Ranelli, a man who spent 50 years in jail, he acclimated awfully quickly to being released. Easily using a GPS, accepting to get a cell phone, knowing to ship a gun and not fly with one. Elderly people who aren't locked up don't assimilate that well into society. Martin Talbot's voice was the most constant and how I felt true to character, and it was his voice that came through all the others most often. That common man reasoning, thought processing, emotional level.

Secondly, the ending wraps up way to easily. All loose ends tied up and there doesn't seem to be any headway for a sequel - not that there should be. My point is just that, the menace is dead, Martin resolves all his emotional issues suddenly in witnessing his feeble minded, aged mother defend herself; and the daughter gets approval to pursue her dreams. Maybe a future plot point can be Martin's struggle to keep The Black Stiletto's identity a secret? I don't know and that's the problem. For a mystery plot, the ending is too neat.

Now, I liked the plot overall. The idea of Judy (Cooper) Talbot having this entire secret identity she kept hidden for decades and less than a handful of people know; most of whom are dead. That she's written it all down for posterity and now her son is reliving her glory days through her own words. It's both exciting and heartbreaking - exciting to learn about this entire side of a person who nurtured him into the man he is, but heartbreaking in that he can't talk about it to anyone. Least of all Judy (Cooper) Talbot who is stricken with Alzheimer's. Reading about her first love, her first kill. The dedication to her training and will to live. How she never forgot about the family she had to leave behind in Texas to save herself. Most of all, her loyalty. The message is about her being unique and finding her niche in the world, so in that sense, it's applicable to any reader.

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Setting Goals for 2012: Book Challenge

2011-11-23T12:45:00.001-05:00

In mid-spring, 2011 I set a goal for myself to read 25 books. I knew I was going to be starting law school in the fall and my reading would slow down considerably. With just a little over a month left in the year, it looks like I'll make my goal!

For 2012 The Book Vixen is doing a reading challenge where you challenge yourself to read more than you did the previous year. Being the slightly nutty person that I am, I've decided to set my goal at 30. It's this whole thing about hating odd numbers, except multiples of 5 and if I use a multiple of 5, I have to jump to the next one. So, you see, I can't set my goal at 27, because that's an odd number and it makes me shudder. I can't set my goal at 28, because although it is an even number, it is not a multiple of 5. So 30 it is! When I like at my TBR list on Goodreads.com, I don't think I'll every struggle finding something to read.

Book Review: Cataclysm by C.L. Parker (Supernova #2)

2011-11-21T10:46:00.001-05:00

Cataclysm by C.L. Parker
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Faced with an evil that just won’t quit, Dominic, Kerrigan and their group of friends are bombarded with new challenges and find themselves pitted to dodge fresh obstacles.

Unable to keep his younger brother, Colton, out of harms way, Dominic must find a way to keep him safe from harm. It’s a battle of wills, as Colton, who works on sound logic and reasoning, doesn’t latch onto the mystical aspects of Dominic’s life as easily. This leaves him exposed and vulnerable to the unknown. On top of that, Kerrigan and Dominic must learn to navigate the burgeoning passion in their lives for one another, while the evil that lurks and even benevolent forces threaten to use it against them.

Ladled with dark seduction, heroism and a dash of humor, Cataclysm marches Dominic and Kerrigan forward into the greatest battles they have yet to face. Will their journey as a couple tear them apart or bind them inexplicably? The truth about their past and the scope of their futures become revealed as intertwined and bound together by threads of both light and dark.

As puzzle pieces fall where they belong to “as normal as their abnormally exceptional lives allow them to be,” our band of misfit friends will forge unlikely alliances and make big sacrifices for the pursuit of love and the Light.

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Book Review: In the Heart of Grace by Dianne Greco

2011-10-23T23:43:00.004-04:00

In The Hands of Grace by Dianne Greco

Publisher: The Writer's Coffee Shop Publishing House

Rating: 3/5

Although told through the eyes of Susan, the focus is not on her, but the intersection of the elements of her life. How something as simple as a feral kitten coming into her life or a creepy sales clerk causing her to nearly purchase the entire bird feed aisle, everything counts.

Then, there’s Grace. As from In the Hands of Grace, one wonders if she’s truly clairvoyant, in touch with a higher spiritual being or just wise in her years. She continues her cute, all-knowing intervention into Susan’s life; helping to keep her on the right track with gentle nudges in the right direction.

Still settling in from the major changes and upheavals her life has recently gone through, Susan is pushing hard to put her life just where she wants it, where it needs to be. She begins to take control and go after things she wants, learning a new and slower paced way of life that is in no way less challenging than the one she lead previously; and in some ways more so.

I was left wondering what would come next for our heroine and her hodgepodge family. Will there be a wedding in the future? Does Susan successfully enter the world of the working? Is Grace’s altruistic and gracious behavior foreboding in any way? One thing is for sure, In the Heart of Grace is a soft, feel good story that made me stop to appreciate the simpler things in life.

Public Relations on Indie Fic Pimp

2011-10-19T10:41:00.000-04:00

Life is full of surprises, like having Public Relations reviewed by Indie Fic Pimp totally out of the blue! It's their Completed Fic of the Week and the review was done by fnoslvrvlvo4lif.

I want to say thank you to the team over there and fnoslvrvlvo4lif for the nice review. Reading it over, seeing a snippet of what I wrote - grammar mistakes and all - made me hungry to write it again.

Book Review: Striking Back by Mark Nykanen

2011-09-17T16:57:00.003-04:00

Striking Back by Mark Nykanen
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I loved the idea of men that had a history of battering and abusing women being punished by some vigilante, vendetta killer. All killed in accordance with the way in which they harmed their victims. How fence-walkingly exciting! Mark Nykanen does a nice job keeping us wondering exactly who the killer is. Although the police waste time suspecting Gwyn Sanders, we know it's not her. So who is it?

The questions keep popping up as the LAPD conduct their investigation, opening up an old, suspicious case involving the death of Gwyn's stepfather and Gwyn conducts her own, stumbling on accidental evidence along the way. Meanwhile, her love affair with the handsome Dr. Howard Harken ebbs and flows like the Pacific tides they like to surf on as they share a bed and each other's secrets. Is Harken the killer?

Could it be her mother or one of her group members? Maybe it's a fellow social worker? Or perhaps an abused ex of one of these maniacs striking back?

You don't really know until the end and that's where the story falls short, the who and the why are somewhat anticlimactic. There is a lot of build up to it and when it finally comes down to who it's not too surprising, which would be fine if the why was gasp worthy. That being said, I don't actually know why. It's kind of left to one's imagination that the vigilante vendetta killer is pretty bent and at the point of having nothing left to lose, which isn't very exciting. It's disappointing in that it doesn't match the pace of the rest of the book.

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Book Review: Craving Perfect by Liz Fichera

2011-09-17T16:35:00.002-04:00

Craving Perfect by Liz Fichera
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

Best line: "Watching you. Waiting for you to wake up...Missing you." ~Carlos.

When I finally reached the end of this book I decided that I liked the general idea of the plot, but I didn't like the execution so much. There were a lot of cheesy, cliche traps and incongruent plot holes. It felt like this was a "kitchen sink" novel where every possible twist was thrown in: lust of the pretty boy out of your league, except not really; envy of the gorgeous bitch; self-loathing of the beautiful inside protagonist; the subtly attractive overlooked boy; the sidekick kid sibling; alternate universe to save protagonist from themselves; grass is always greener until it turns brown; quick, fast love; wedding; life or death danger; etc, and yet most of the pieces don't connect.

Possibly the most frustrating for me was the Grace and Carlos love affair that seemed to go from barely knowing one another to full fledged confessions of forever and ever in about a week, possibly less. Really? I know it's fiction, but that just make Grace look pathetic and Carlos look entirely unrealistic. His meager confession close to the end that he had been dreaming of her for weeks does not make this any easier to swallow. We could have at least had a month pass by. Action words to show the passing of time are a beautiful thing!

Then there was this unfinished business between Grace and Kathryn. Eddie, Kathryn's boyfriend alludes to it and Kathryn mentions she and Grace will talk about it later, but we never see it. As a reader, I wanted to know what the big secrets were. What were the hidden skeletons that Kathryn kept holding onto? Even if they were nothing but tiny little morsels, I wanted to know. Were their parents really planning to sell the Desert Java/Desert Diner? Were the sisters truly borderline bankrupt?

I did like the idea of Grace pushing herself on the treadmill, which she would then suffer a fall and then dream in this alternate reality where her life was allegedly perfect as Callie Collins only to realize it wasn't perfect at all.

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Book Review: Induction (Children of Creation #2) by J.D. Watts

2011-09-14T19:52:00.000-04:00

Induction by J. D. Watts
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

First of all, I really give this 3.5 stars, but that's not technically an option.

Induction, the second book in the Children of Creation Series by J.D. Watts, carries us forward in the life of Daniella Rossi; after her bravery in the field against Lucifer’s Infiltrator’s and learning of her Guardian Nathaniel being part of her destiny.

On the whole, Induction seems to serve as a bridge novel in the series - bringing some elements together and taking the time to build a groundwork for the future of the series. Though less action packed than Convergence, the true reader will enjoy reading as Daniella learns more about her unique heritage and how to navigate the complications of first love.

As it turns out, being able to use a fireblade is not Daniella’s only skill and it will take seemingly endless training to get her new talents under wraps. More importantly, it will take Daniella’s belief in herself and trust in The Master’s plan to truly guide her to His will.

The title, Induction, is a clever play on words for everything that takes place within the novel. First love and actualizing her heritage, to Daniella’s big task of helping a small boy that calls out to her in her sleep. Pleading with her to help him, save him from the evil that threatens his very soul. An evil so rotten it will strip him of his childhood innocence if Daniella can’t do what is required of her to stop his induction.

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Venting Nostalgia & Envy

2011-08-24T20:31:00.001-04:00

The *gasp* TWO year anniversary of Fate & Forgotten Secrets is literally around the corner, as in tomorrow, and I still haven't posted the epilogue. I'm not writing this post to apologize, it is what it is. I'm not going to feed you the line of "RL got in the way", because I personally hate that fucking excuse with the fire of a thousand suns.

Although the epi is about half finished, I am disconnected from my characters. It happens. It's one of the reasons I envy real writers. This happens to them also, but I know (from reading the oh-so-popular writer's blogs) that many of them who make careers out of this hobby find ways to shut down and back in bed, so to speak, with the people in their head.

And lucky are those with their support network in tact. Bringing me to nostalgia while still circling envy like a vulture. I remember two years ago when I started F&FS and the months to follow, then 6 months after that, then about a year into it. I made some great friends, some writers and some readers, some who were readers but didn't even read my story. They became this net of people that buoyed me through my writing. They would offer advice, tips, share funny stories, gChat with me late at night when I couldn't sleep, do last minute-crash edits for me, we'd bounce ideas around, shoot the shit about nothing.

Now about 95% of those people are gone. Some people I know why, we've had a falling out that I know about and a relationship had to end. Others, beats me? They just stop talking. You can only reach out to a person so many times and get no response before you say, "fuck it." Or worse, get a flat response. If we were friends and you were an author, we probably stopped being friends when I didn't have time to read your story and leave you glowing reviews anymore. Don't promise to keep in touch if you can't fulfill that promise. Sure, you can't see the future. So just don't promise it. It's simple logic. Let me say, I'm not perfect. I know I've let people fall by the wayside and it's likely a result of me trying to be friends with too many people and not being able to take that kind of social pressure, so I go into my solitary hole of random. This place, this fandom is not what it was. In fact, I dare say, I will say, it's just a wad of fucked up. I don't even think I belong in it anymore. I miss the days of 2009 and early 2010.

Book Review: Brooklyn Burning by Steve Brezenoff

2011-07-24T17:46:00.000-04:00

Brooklyn, Burning by Steve Brezenoff
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

My true rating for this book is 3.5 stars. It falls short of 4 because I feel as though the story is written with a building momentum that is never fulfilled. I kept waiting for something, what I'm not sure, but whatever it was, it never came. Or maybe it was the transient nature of the gender neutral-no last name characters that didn't fully ground me. Now that I'm finished, I don't feel sated. However, it tasted good as I went through each chapter.

While the transient nature of the characters was a little off putting, anything more would not have worked for this story. It's about the nature of summer, that unpredictable time of transition where anything goes and usually does, and it's rarely the same from one to the next. School age kids live for summer, so telling the story from Kid's perspective is perfect. At that tender age of 15 to 16 he's trying to figure out who he is, and even though it would be easier if an adult would just tell him he'll be wondering that for the rest of his life, they let him think he's on his own. Except he's not.

I liked how Steve Brezenoff shows you both Kid's love of Felix and his for Scout, because it allows you to see the difference from his own mind as he remembers it. He was enamored with Felix, his talent, what he represented, this "thing" that Felix had. Superficial, transient, like Summer. With Scout, it meant more. Kid loved Scout and she loved him in return. A mutual love that grew out of the nestled haze of Summer, that will linger long after the sun sets. To me, it was more evident in the way they shared the music together than anything. They flowed so perfectly without effort, like a natural team. No shyness or hesitation. It could be no other way.

I'm willing to admit that my expectation of something more probably comes from years of reading over-dramatic fiction, because I have no other valid reason for giving this book less than 4 stars. I liked that there was no pretty epilogue tying it all up in a nice bow, I didn't need to see them as college sweethearts or doing a Eurotour. I appreciate that things were left chaste between them, it was sweet and respectful, because it's never been about that. And I'm glad Kid can walk away with a clear conscience about the fire at the warehouse.

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Book Review: Resurrection by Boone Brux

2011-07-04T01:09:00.002-04:00

Resurrection by Boone Brux
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I'm usually annoyed by a romance that flourishes so quickly, but in this instance I barely felt a tinge of that standard roar against cliche. I think it had a lot to do with two things. 1) Ravyn, having been raised by heartless Abbey mistresses never knew a kindness. Never mind the kindness of a man. Being exposes to that at an adult age of 23, natural feelings are bound to surface. Feelings a worldly 23 year old wouldn't be able to ignore, let alone one experiencing such sweet sensations for the first time ever. My one gripe here comes to her somewhat natural ease when it comes to intimacy. For a sheltered girl in a chaste age of the world, I think a little more trepidation and naivete should be in order. 2) Rhys is almost stuck in a similar situation. Virginal, no. More like a vow to loneliness, which is worse since it's self-imposed. He's drawn to Ravyn by his natural Bringer skill to protect and their deeper bond as a sort of last of their race anchors them deeply. Then add his physical attraction to her and proximity and his vow is threatened. He doesn't want to be alone and I understand that, Boone Brux does a good job explaining his battle of duty vs want. Hopefully he'll realize that putting the two is separate compartmentalized boxes is only hurting his cause.

Here's the best part, though. The book has a plot! It's not just lustful looks and torrid touches. There's this make believe land and forces of good and evil that fight amongst themselves as well as against each other; it really does make me wonder who is going to win in the end. The story itself has an old-world, pre-Knight scheme that lends itself to this kind of tale. Regal ships, flying demons, mutton, women only wearing gowns, and legends long lost because those who knew of them are long gone and Google hasn't been invented.

Overall, I liked this book. Like, I actually enjoyed it. I hope that as the series progresses it continues to build, explore and solve the mysterious puzzle pieces. Like the second wave of pure blood Bringers arriving at Inness, the immortal weapons forged to defeat the Demon Bane, and who was the lady with the dark braid who captured Ravyn's attention at Illuma Grand? Who on the Council is in league with the Bane? There's no way they're ALL good - I'm not convinced any of them are. Is Rhys going to remove his head from his ass or will someone have to do it forcefully? Why is Ravyn so special and what is she exactly? Sooo many questions, and I look forward to what Brux has in store. I think if she takes the Hansel and Gretel route, laying out breadcrumbs to be recovered on the way back, this will turn out to be a well done series in the end.

Also, I wish I could give 1/2 stars, because I would give 3 1/2.

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Evolution

2011-07-02T01:50:00.000-04:00

It's so funny. When I started all this, I never thought anyone would ever read anything I wrote. And even if no one is reading this blog post, I'm going to write it anyway. Because I usually do. That's how I roll.

It started with one story, Fate & Forgotten Secrets, then turned into a blog about all my fanfiction. At some point I started to randomly post opinion pieces, commentary on topics like anonymity and absurdity the original Eclipse trailer. Now, it's all that and more.

You can find my original fiction here and reviews on things I read, main books but possibly articles at some point as well. I'm not sure how this evolution took place. I think some credit has to go to my friend Julieblys, though. When I visited her in February we talked about how I wanted to make a blog where I could put things other than my fanfiction, but how I didn't feel committed to it because I loved my snshyne secret's blog so much. She said to me, "so don't make a new one. When you're ready, add it all to 'SS'. That is you!"

I'm not trying to make a name for myself in the literary world. Fairies know that every one and their god children are making review blogs and writing manuscripts these days. Even if I was trying to do something with it, it's virtually impossible without a pot of gold at the end of my rainbow. I just like this stuff. Writing is an outlet, even the really bad stuff I come up with, and reading is fun; it's saved me on more than one occassion. I like to share my thoughts on what I read but there isn't always someone around, so posting a "review" is the next best thing.

My personal life is shifting. I'm busting free of the hell of Corporate (read "control") America and heading back to school, so I have absolutely no clue what the structure of my life will be like. Regardless, I won't give this up. I can't, I refuse. One thing I've learned is it's important to keep ahold of every piece of happiness you can scrape up in the world.

Will I continue writing fanfic? I plan to.

Will I write anything original? Maybe. Probably, mostly drabbly, rambling things.

Will I review everything I read? Not bloody likely, but definitely things that leave an impression.

P.S. this picture cracked my shit up!

New Chapters of Behind Closed Doors

2011-07-02T01:30:00.000-04:00

yay! Thanks to agoodwitchff and LyricalKris I remembered I could upload my two BCD chapters written for Fandom Fights Mental Illness and Fandom Fights Tsunami.

Book Review: Lucky by Alice Sebold

2011-06-24T15:50:00.002-04:00

Lucky by Alice Sebold

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

****kinda spoilery, but not really****

I’m late to the park but I kind of prefer it that way. Reading this now instead of when it was published or when Alice Sebold became a household name after The Lovely Bones put me at a great vantage point - beyond the hype, after the dust settled. In reading Lucky, it’s almost easy to forget that you’re peeping into a typically private piece of a person’s life; more specifically, the life of a rape victim. Almost. Because the raw, vivid exposure and true-to-life pacing makes you feel like you’re walking right along side Alice Sebold from the night of her rape right through to Declaration of Self Independence many Fourths of July later.

Sebold does not waste a single second with pleasantries and setup she drops you into the main event without any warning where most authors probably would have given you ten chapters of pretense and development. From there, it’s almost like a sideways walk or a crab walk, perhaps, where you can see two angles at the same time. The angle of the rape itself and the angle of her dealing with it and working through her life – intertwined, but somehow separate. It’s hard to explain without sounding spooky, but as you feel like you’re literally walking the journey with her, it’s like Alice is experiencing her own voyeur experience – watching herself. Except, it’s not in the way you might think, the way of a narrator or third person story telling, but in the clarity of her words even though they are full of feeling. Sure, she did research to get back to the details of this time in her life, anyone would need to, but the book is not full of technical jargon and detachment so often found in autobiographical works. It’s more like a diary, if one could verbally record every second of a time in your life and then edit out things like stammering.

This book put me in “some type of way”, as my sister would say, for days after I read it. It was well worth it though. A truthful, smart, and realistic story about a fucked up thing that happened to a good girl, and in her own words.

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Book Review: Black Silk by Jan Gordon

2011-06-21T23:17:00.000-04:00

Black Silk by Jan Gordon
My rating: 1 of 5 stars

If Black Silk had been written by a different, more experienced author, I think it could have been much better. Unfortunately it fell victim to lack of plot development, excessive sex scenes, anticlimactic climax, and a hanging ending.

In less than a week Cole and Vic are going from strangers to mated for life, which may make sense for him seeing as how he is over a century old and might be ready to settle down. But Vic is 29 and has only had one lover in her life, and a terrible one at that. So here we are with the typical virginal, damsel and the mysterious man with his supernatural man prowess that sweeps her up. There really isn't much to him other than that. I wish there had been more exploration into his character, his family, his past, and what he is. Not just summary explanations given in a game of twenty questions. The author relied too heavily on Vic's recreational experience with Paranormal fiction to help explain away concerns a normal person would have in the face of a man who turns into a were-panther in front of her.

I wanted Vic and Cole to end up together, but I wanted there to be more story to it. I wanted the mystery of their history and the drug-user trolling after Vic to take the forefront and the romance to sneak up on you or at least play side by side. Instead, it was just like reading some genres of fanfiction. Cheesy romance lines and sex first, girl unable to help herself second, story in a distant third. In the end, I was left sorely disappointed.

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SNSHYNE TYMES: I'm a Slacker and What?

2011-06-06T22:15:00.000-04:00

It's been 39 days since I've updated Fate & Forgotten Secrets. So what the fuck have I been doing?

I wish I actually knew, but I'm not too sure. And I can't give a legit reason like my house went up in a tornado or the rapture seized me or I won the lottery and said, "fuck yeah, bitches!" to my job or that I even faced an exciting Zombiepocalypse. And I won't give you that lame old, "sorry, RL has gotten in the way" excuse because I fucking hate that excuse myself.

So basically, I'm a slacker, but I'm still here. And F&FS will wrap before the *gasp* two year anniversary.

Book Review: How to Kill a Rockstar

2011-05-17T23:13:00.002-04:00

How to Kill a Rock Star by Tiffanie DeBartolo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

People often say that when a book incites riotous anger the author should be proud for inspiring such emotions. I call bullshit! I say, when a book brings you around the world of emotions, an author should be proud. How to Kill a Rock Star took me around the world and back again.

I laughed - a lot - with this book. In fact, I'm not sure if Paul or Eliza made me laugh more or just the people around them. Paul is out of his damn mind! He's just like how you imagine a talented rock star to be, actual talent. Talent that seeps from his pores and not just musically. It never falters, even at his weakest point. The character development is so through and through I'm not convinced Tiffanie DeBartolo didn't write an auto-bio after taking some psych evals and watching herself on video for a while.

I got angry - wickedly so - with this book. I went so far as to call Eliza the c-word for some (all) of her behavior about 60% into the book. I could not believe her! Ordinarily, if a book is written in 3P, you can overlook serious judgement errors. But when you can clearly see that the characters knows they fucked up, it makes you pull on your hair and text your best mates about the harbinger of doom in matching skivvies. Alas, I have to admit I LOVED being that pissed at her. Well, not her as if she were an actual person, but the plot line in the story. There was a sublime feeling in the come down from that rage. Bringing me to my next point.

I bawled - like a fucking head case - with this book. Honest to God tears and sobs. I could not get a grip on the overwhelming sense of loss I felt when Eliza pushed Paul to his limit. I could not comprehend how I wasn't going to take my iPad and shove it into the fireplace to dry and send my offering of shock and pain up in ashes. I was so close to the end and I had to put it down and take a break. My dog was trying to lick my tears and I ended up watching a couple episodes of Criminal Minds to clear my head. Finally...

I grinned - like a cheshire cat - with this book. I.Do.Not.Know.How. But TDB made it so that I don't actually hate Eliza now. I just dislike her strongly. And at the end of it all, the journey is obvious, the pieces line up and the culmination is fucking heady. It's an "epilogue" without seeming choppy and finalized or left wide open. But the nature of the story leaves you feeling like anything could happen for them and anything will.

At the end of the year, I'll pick my top 5 books and this is already slotted somewhere in there. I loved it and I want my friends to read it so we can trade inside jokes and laugh-rage-bawl-grin together!

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Snshyne Tymes: Anonymity What's It To Ya?

2011-05-14T22:14:00.000-04:00

Anonymity What's It To Ya?

The subject and angle of this blog post came up when I was talking to a fellow writer friend who got a rather scathing anonymous comment on a story review or a blog or something, I can’t remember specifically now. Anyway, as we talked about it I thought, “why? what’s it to the poster to rage anonymously?”

No, really. I don’t get it. What kind of satisfaction do you get from telling someone they suck without putting your name on it it? Don’t you think it would feel better to take ownership of what you’ve said? Have some moxie to back up your words? Forcing the person you’re taking it out on to credit you when they bitch back or talk about it? And if you have a personal bone to pick, the person you’ve anonymously picked a bone with has no idea you even have an issue. Yes, we have often assumed the role of Edward, but we cannot actually read minds.

There are tons and tons of arguments and posts and rants about the subject of anonymous posting in the fandom. Author’s lose their shit when they get an anonymous flame for a story or when Andro (aka anonymous poster of anonymous sex) posts a comment on a blog post.

In the eighth grade my therapist used to make me hit a chair with a tennis racket. It was some lame attempt at getting me to work out some anger issues. One night after therapy, my mother asked me what I did during my sessions. I distinctly remember telling her, “she makes me beat up a chair to get rid of my anger, but I’m not mad at the chair.” For the record, I still carry that anger today. My point is, posting anonymously can’t be truly satisfying. It’s an empty release because it’s incomplete. The person you rant at, (rarely) love on, or flame has no idea it’s you.

The Internet affords people the ability to hide, to reinvent themselves, don totally new personalities. A lot of us have done that here and for various reasons - wscapism, just a place to exit a world where you have to do dishes or homework, to experiment in writing or stalk Twi-celebs. But there is a difference in having a screen name or a pen name and assuming that identity to write and communicate within a community and hiding anonymously within the community like a giant, ugly fraidy cat. I mean one of those with the manges and fleas and a terrible case of gas. At least I know if I post something as snshyne or if I post it as Nai, it’s me. It goes back to me and can be identified as whatever bullshit I happen to be spouting at the time. I have to take the good, the bad and the nothing that can come from something I post. But to do it anonymously would give me nothing but a fucking headache. It’s not brave, it’s not even cowardly. It’s stupid. You’re only fooling yourself.

And that’s my real point here, at some point you have to realize that no matter how hard or how many times you hit the goddamn chair with a fucking tennis racket, you’re still gonna be pissed off.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Ch 49: PicTease

2011-04-24T12:31:00.000-04:00

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Ch 49: Teasers Unplugged II

2011-04-24T12:29:00.000-04:00

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 49 Teasers Unplugged on TwiFic News

Can you guess why this song?

Book Review: Matched by Ally Condie

2011-04-24T00:48:00.001-04:00

Matched by Ally Condie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book was a little difficult for me. I'm actually a little tired of all the love triangles in fiction. Are there no other conflicts in life?

The points where I cried were not when Cassia had to say goodbye to Ky or when they first kissed, but when I read her breaking Xander's heart. And it wasn't that she was choosing someone else, but that she hid it all from him. It's a terrible way to treat someone you love. Romantic or otherwise. I know at it's core, this book is about the right to choose - something I wholeheartedly support. If Cassia chooses Ky, then I am happy for her to be able to make that choice. But I wish she also made the choice to consider Xander's feelings. If anything, she loved him as a friend. But she was so wrapped up in the danger and excitement of Ky, she forgot about the things she cared for before.

But what created this problem is the warped society they're living in. A society that Ally Condie does a fantastic job bringing to life. You can almost see their plainclothes that look like a brown, paper lunch sack. Envision the monotonous way they're forced to live with every moment scheduled and constantly being watched. The Society controlling who they can speak to and what activities they can partake of, using treats like ice cream as a means to get them to work. Almost like a prison.

And for that, I can see that this series has to be about more than just a love triangle. I beg it to be, because the underlying themes of choice and freedom are too important to be turned into something so overdone and predictable.

Lastly, while I think Cassia belongs with Xander. While I think they are perfectly matched and complimentary to one another. A great couple with a solid foundation to last forever. I definitely think Cassia deserves to feel that young, fiery love with Ky. The stolen kisses and secret glances. The high that is associated with your first teenage love. And I do believe what she feels for him is real. But what she has with Xander, she has barely tapped into.

View all my reviews

Book Review: Lies Inside by Lindsey Gray

2011-04-23T11:58:00.000-04:00

It's a rare and exciting treat to find a story that doesn't revolve around the traditional boy-girl conundrum. Unrequited love, misunderstandings caused by miscommunication and love triangles are nowhere to be found in Lies Inside.

Every child has to grow up, but Finn O'Malley never expected that he would be on the fast track to adulthood so soon after saying an innocent farewell to his best friend, Lucy Butler. A gifted musician, Finn's parents enrolled him in Two Roads Academy where he would be an entire country away from everything he knew. Loving and diligent parents, they didn't over-worry for his safety as they trusted in the reputation of the school and family friends close by.

Fast forward five years to find a broken, seventeen year old man. Where he should be battling friends on gaming systems, vying for girls attention and having jam sessions with his best friend, he's lifeless and cold. Nothing but a shell of the boy he once was and all too soon.

"His eyes were still the same brilliant shade of blue. Something was missing, though. No sparkle. They were hollowed and tired."

Everyone who loved and cared about Finn knew that something was wrong, but no one could get him to talk about it. Everyone was worried and counting on a miracle to bring him back to life and they found it in Lucy Butler. Once reunited, their dormant love was able to be set free to blossom and that gave Finn the courage he needed to come clean with his family and loved ones. To be ready to expose who hurt him and be able to lift some of the burden he had been carrying for half a decade.

"She has shown me what it feels like to touch and be touched with real love. She really has healed parts of me that I thought were broken forever."

It's a story to remind you that love isn't all there is in the world, but love is all that truly matters.

Book Review: Hidden Threat by Sherri Hayes

2011-04-23T11:55:00.002-04:00

If life was always warm pancakes, makeout sessions and shopping, it would be safe but very boring. It's hard to believe, but even I would get bored shopping unhindered all day. The intrigue comes from the drama, the unexpected, the hidden threats that lay in wait in the shadows to throw a wrench in your perfect plan.

As I read Hidden Threat, I could see that the unexpected wrenches came in many forms. For Matthew Andersen, his wrench took the form of the strong-willed redhead, Dr. Cali Stanton - who also happens to be the daughter of his boss. Alvin Stanton, CEO of Stanton Enterprises, had an unfortunate accident while waterskiing that rendered him incapable of managing the company for a few months, per doctor's orders. He recruited his daughter to come home from serving with Doctors Without Borders in Africa to help out. Cali, true to her family responsibility willingly stepped in to serve as Acting CEO. But if she thought the most exciting thing about her temporary job was going to be the view from her father's office, she was wrong. And Matthew Andersen never saw her coming.

"The red hair he remembered from the pictures was pulled up into some fancy hairdo with just a few stray curls caressing her face. Then there were her eyes. He could get lost in them. They were brown with a hint of copper and anything but ordinary. It had taken him more time to respond than it should’ve when she extended her hand to him."

As for Cali, her threat, though exciting to the reader, was far more dangerous because the path could not be traced. Clues continued to be collected, but they lay around like a puzzle with all of the middle pieces missing. Who was working against Stanton Enterprises to steal the shipments of medical supplies for the last two years? Who was responsible for her near death experience and tampering with security videos? Teams of people were on the case from internal security to local police and they still found that they were coming up empty handed. But it's Cali who helped by providing one of the final pieces to the puzzle after a sleepless night.

"It wasn’t until she saw the night sky start to lighten with the impending sunrise that she realized they weren’t providing the correct bait. If Matthew was right, and she had no doubt he was, the person they were looking for held some position of importance within the company. "

Hidden Threat takes you on a ride of romance and espionage where the only mystery isn't who's trying to sabotage the company.

Bridges Burned

2011-04-16T15:23:00.000-04:00

I was out last night, saying goodbye to my work soulmate, having a great time with my fellow Misfitville residents when I was alerted about an emotional blog post on Southern Fan Fiction Review. Remember SFFR, the blog I worked on for about half of my time in the fandom? Yeah, that one. Luckily, I had Alice and I could pop over to the blog immediately and read the post. Otherwise, I would have missed it because Sandy decided to delete it. As if deleting it would make it as if she didn't just shove both feet in her mouth. The thing about the internet is, once it's out there, you can't take it back.

So here is the now deleted post from Southern Fan Fiction Review:

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2011

FUCK!

Hey Faithful Followers.

I need to tell you something that you don't know about me. I have the worst case of FOOT IN MOUTH Disease you have ever known of.

See - When you read my blog and you find these wonderful stories that I tell you about - I have spent HOURS not only reading the stories, but writing the reviews. It takes me a WHILE to write a review. I don't use a "beta" to write a review. But I read it OVER AND OVER AND OVER to make sure that I make the author proud that she has received a review from me. I want you as the reader to feel excited to read the story and I want the author to feel like all the time, energy, effort, blood, sweat and tears they have put into their story was worth it, because someone appreciated it.

I guess that is where the "Good Sandy" ends and the "Evil Sandy" begins. Since I spend a lot of time on my reviews, I have made a bunch of friends in the fandom. And because I feel that these people are my FRIENDS I treat them just like I treat my family and my friends. Do I always walk on eggshells around my RL friends and family - HELL NO!! In fact, I can be a real BITCH when I want to - especially to my closest friends. Why do I do this?? Because I figure they are FUCKING FRIENDS. I should be able to be myself around them. To call them out when they are being ridiculous. To tell them when they let me down. To tell them when I am sick of their crap. You know WHY?? Because I expect them to tell me when they are sick of my crap - so I know I have made a mistake, or pissed them off, and I can say sorry and get over it. But GUESS FUCKING WHAT!!! The Fandom doesn't work this way.

In the Fandom, people expect you to be respectful. Oh, it's ok if we are talking about someone ELSE that we both can't stand - if I get a little rowdie. Or if whoever I am talking to says awful stuff about someone else. But if I have the Balls to say anything about anyone I have so many people jumping down my throat it feels like the fun slide to Hell.

If I say anything off color or sarcastic or even a little snarky I have so many bitches e-mailing me and calling me out it makes my head spin.

You know why I KNOW this?? Because it has happened to me MORE THAN ONCE!!! When I started SFFR - I started with Meadow - Y'all know I love her. She was snarky and talented and I fucking worshiped the ground she walked on. She Doesn't speak to me any more, because she was BITCHING one day on Face Book about someone sending her e-mails that didn't have anything to do with her and I asked her "How hard is it to hit the Delete key?" Well she hit the delete key - that's right, she deleted me right out of her life. That was the first one of many....shal I continue, yes I shal...

#2 Julyblys - She worked for SFFR for a while - and when I say WORKED I mean it, she BUSTED HER ASS for this blog, and I really appreciated it too. She wanted to change EVERYTHING, but it went to far and I got uncomfortable with all her changes, and instead of going to her and being honest - I started shooting down all her ideas. She was really talented and very organized and it DROVE ME UP A FUCKING WALL!! And because I was such a complete bitch to her, she left SFFR and she doesn't talk to me anymore. I have sent her e-mails and she doesn't respond.

#3 and #4 are really a package deal - Snshyne and Elusivekoolaid (Elusivetwilight). I have loved both of these women more than most of my family. Snshyne was my friend through thick and thin. I talked to her almost everyday if not several times a day. I sent her flowers for her birthday. I included her on everything. She worked for SFFR and I appreciated every second of it. Elusivekoolaid was my TwittaSista!! I loved her so MUCH - she called me "Doll" and it just made me ooz.... but one day, Snshyne decided she didn't want to work for SFFR anymore and it broke my heart. I mean it hurt me bad. I didn't tell her it hurt me, I tried to be understanding. But I wasn't understanding. I was mad. And the more I thought about it, the more upset I got. Until one day, I couldn't take it anymore and I deleted her from my life. It hurt - I cried - I still cry about that. I guess I prolly loved her most of all - and I deleted her. And if all that hurt wasn't enough, Elusivekoolaid decided I needed to be told what a bitch I was - and I WAS NOT RECEPTIVE TO THAT INFORMATION AT ALL - Now, we don't talk either.

The latest victim of my personality is 107yearoldvirgin. Oh yes, I got her too...I have prolly reviewed her more on here that any other author. I think she is one of the most talented people I have ever been able to meet truly. She has a beautiful wit and a beautiful personality and I love her very much. But when she decided to leave the fandom, I was crushed. Do I think she left the fandom to hurt me? Of course not silly. But she had these bracelets on her FB page and they were made from pop tops. When I looked at those bracelets, all I could personally think was how much fucking TIME it had to take to drink that many sodas and how much fucking ATTENTION it took to make those bracelets. Time and Attention she could have spent writing Stories to take my mind off my SUCKY LIFE - because let's face it ladies, if I HAD a decent life, I wouldn't be as OBSESSED with Fan Fiction as I am.

And I made a comment about how much beer she had to drink to make those bracelets - I thought the comment was REALLY FUCKING FUNNY. But apparently I am the only person who thought it was funny because one of her faithful friends and followers decided to call me out. I was so PISSED that this woman was contacting me on my personal FB account I went OFF on her. And now, 107yearoldvirgin and Me are not friends anymore.

So there you have it 3 years in the fandom and 6 friends later, here I am feeling like shit. At least now I have all of it out there and off my chest. Was I at fault - YES! Could I have done it differently - YES! Can I fix it - NO! Do I want my friends back - YES! I know it won't happen, because I won't quit being me and if I make a snarky comment to you and you quit being friends with me - please know that I am sorry and I didn't mean to make you mad. See - the Great thing about this fandom is the instant acceptance, the great friends, the feeling part of something. The worst thing about my life and this fandom...is that once you piss someone off, you can never get their friendship back. It's not like I can take them out to lunch and tell them I'm an ass. I have apologized to each of these girls...it just doens't matter.

So - I'm not going to review for a while. I am reading complete stories anyway. I have reviewed all the WIPs I am reading and I will jump in here every so often and review a complete story. You will still have your Tantalizing Tuesdays (if you want them) and I will still post the author interviews. Oh - but there is one week in November that 107yearoldvirgin promised that we won't have a TT. She doesn't want to write for a bitch like me.

I.Was.Livid. I left SFFR because I needed to concentrate on my life goals. I was putting so many hours into the blog, it was like a full time job. My writing was suffering and I wasn't making any progress on my law school apps. Just because I don't have 30 hours to put into managing a blog doesn't mean I'm dead. Doesn't mean the rest of my life stops.

Since Sandy unfollowed me on twitter and defriended me on both my facebook accounts, the only means I have to communicate with her is email. Where's the fun in that? So I ranted on twitter. I even unlocked my account so she could stalk me and read it, which is how she decided to unfollow me in the first place. She couldn't stand seeing me make plans with other TwiFriends.

Twitter Rants...

Dear @sgs115 you are fucking crazy. IDGAF if you deleted that absolutely batshit crazy post attempting to call out every person you *think* has wronged you in your own self important say. I've seen it. I told you I was leaving SFFR to pursue my own personal life goals. I committed to your "write for me" smut Tuesdays. I told you I would help you if I could. You never once told me you were angry. Never once told me you were hurt. Maybe you read too much fic, but I'm not Edward & I cant read minds. So how fucking dare you claim to have been open with me. You are a fucking liar! And then you unfollow me and defriend me because you can't handle me making plans with other people?! What business is it if yours? SFFD is what it is because of me. Because I put in the work. I maintained the schedule. I kept you on fucking track. I brought you up to 2010. I pimped like a fucking pro. And you reaped the benefits.

If you treat a single person in your "real life" the way you treat/treated me then you'd be one lonely fucking bitch because you treat people like theyre less than shit. Like they owe you. Like you're some supreme being & god fucking bless us for knowing your precious ass.

You burn all bridges by the way you treat people. Forcing people to choose sides, forcing people to keep give you everything & giving abso-fucking-lutely nothing in return. Unless people can benefit you, make you famous, connect you to a BNA or some other unimportant shit, you DGAF. (@sgs115)

You're an opportunist. Selfish. Self-serving. You don't care who you hurt. Clearly. And you're a coward. You made that post & then deleted if. If you stood by one word, you'd leave it up. But you didn't. Just like a chicken livered faker. It's no fucking wonder you can't keep friends when you treat them this way.

Fuck your southern charm. Goddamn your faux personality. It's all a show! Youre just as fake as whoever you think you called out in your deleted blog post as fake. Have a mirror? LOOK IN IT!!!!!! honesty behest honesty. Sadly, you didn't return the honesty I gave you. You decided to be cunty & subversive & it wasn't cute. Try again

Sure, I could email you. But why bother? You blog posted about me & then tried to delete it. So I owe you jackshit. Jack fucking shit. But you owe me a whole fucking lot. So pay up!

And I've unlocked my account so you can stalk me & turn this into a "poor Sandy" situation. Also, I'm fucking tired of being the bigger person

For the record, I will not be deleting this blog post.

agoodwitchff recs Public Relations on TwiBetween

2011-04-16T13:47:00.002-04:00

I was pleasantly surprised to see a fic rec on TwiBetween for Public Relations. Not only was I super stoked to get a review, but the rec came from @agoodwitchff whom I've come to adore. Not only is she running Fandom Fights Mental Illness - a fandom charity focused on the sickness that ails one silently from the inside - but she's incredibly witty. And finally, through this rec I discovered a new blog. TwiBetween has a mission to bring together people sandwiched in the middle of the fandom spectrum. People like me, not a kid and without spawn of my own, but want to share their love of Twilight, love of fic, or just all around zaniness.

Go see the rec by @agoodwitchff on TwiBetween!

Book Review: Convergence by J.D. Watts

2011-04-10T12:56:00.001-04:00

Convergence is a tale to pass the ages. This renovation of the classic story of good versus evil engages you from the very first page as you enter Dani's world through her journal. Dani is a heroine of destiny, an All-American girl determined to come to grips with the slow reveal of the truth that surrounds her that every reader will love.

"Devastated. Even though it’s been several days since I found out my life was a lie, I’m still devastated...Through it all, I find myself thirsting for more knowledge."

Dani finds herself in a curious position of discovering some whom she thought were friends are foes, and some sent to protect her only have the best intentions of both heart and mind. The tricky part is that despite the wealth of those in her life who have total confidence in her importance, she must recognize it for herself. Her journey to the truth, planted by a seedling of divine intention, is helped to flourish by the tender love of her Guardians Anariel and Nathaniel. Both of whom will reach their own destiny through Dani's realization of her own.

She is the key to the restoration of life as it was meant to be. "Miracles are the Master's Trade." And he bestows his gifts upon the least suspecting and most deserving.

Book Review: Blind Faith by Michael Schneider

2011-04-10T12:53:00.000-04:00

If Karsyn McKenna is guilty of anything, it’s longing for love, finding herself surrounded by men whose main concern is their own self-interest, and maybe, possibly not asking questions. But that is what blind faith is, having unconditional trust in those who are supposed to give of themselves unconditionally and without false pretense.

Blind Faith by Michael Schneider, propels the reader into a quick-paced journey of tangled webs of omission and deception shrouded by a cloud of innocent acceptance. Armed with nothing except the truth she has been presented, Karsyn is unwittingly coerced to dive head first into a cave so deep, that the only thing that can rescue her is the courage she must find deep within. Readers will take the journey with her from naive shop owner’s daughter to potential WITSEC candidate in just a couple short years.

Like every good story, a ride of emotions is waiting for the reader. Frustration is apparent as you will silently beg her to “live life with both eyes open” and see what is in front of her, as if you can send brain waves to carry your message. But that’s not all, don’t be alarmed if you find yourself torn between which ending would better suit Karsyn by the end; there are definitely points where you can see the pros and cons of each path, which only she can ultimately choose.

Despite what she has been through, Karsyn is able to rise out of the ashes, happy and victorious, ultimately finding her place right where she was meant to be. When all is said and done and the dust from the firearms settles, her blind faith is what leads her to the golden path of a life worth living.

Book Review: The Changeling's Champion by Miya Kressin

2011-04-10T12:48:00.000-04:00

Reading The Changeling’s Champion by Miya Kressin sucks you in like a fey’s fade out across The Ways. In a mysterious tale of love found, lost and hunted, in worlds that seem lifetimes apart, connected by echoed heartbeats, you’ll be hard pressed to put it down.

Following Ari’s journey through more than two human lifetimes as he searches for his intended mate, always finding her at just the outside reach of his fingertips, is both sorrowful and hopeful. His passion and determination jump off the page, nearly as much as his eloquent language and warrior spirit; the gaps in time between two worlds doing nothing to dissuade his efforts.

“I will find you again, my heart's twin.”

Seeing the world through both Holly and Ari’s eyes gives you a great insight into the differences between the worlds, but also the similarities. It’s impossible to ignore that Ari gets excited about a microwave when he crosses over. But even more intriguing, is Holly’s ties to her true nature shine through as she navigates through a human life, completely unaware.

“I could not seem to keep a roommate for more than a few weeks. Whether it was my decided morning-person status, I was up with the dawn and ready for bed by nine PM on most days; or frequent visits by my hovering then-boyfriend unnerving my roommates, I was doomed (or blessed) to have a dorm room to myself.”

The Changeling’s Champion has a healthy dose of love, adventure, mystery and eroticism to satisfy just about every kind of reader out there. It will keep you entertained while provoking thoughts to connect the pieces and leave you wanting more.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Ch 49: Teasers Unplugged

2011-04-07T21:39:00.000-04:00

TwiFic News has this awesome feature called Teasers Unplugged. In said awesome feature, writers can submit videos for a song that will titilate readers and evoke excitement for upcoming chapters from readers (and writers).

I submitted a video teaser for Teasers Unplugged this week. Check it out!

TwiFic News Teasers Unplugged.

Book Review: The Help by Kathryn Stockett

2011-04-07T11:31:00.000-04:00

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I like a book that develops and grows on me. I appreciate it more, I care about it more. The Help is definitely a book like that. At first, I thought to myself, "I have no idea how I'm going to get through this book." And that was simply based on 1960's black english vernacular in Mississippi. But about halfway through chapter two, I started to see where this book was going and the language was no longer an issue.

I didn't expect this book to be as funny as it was, but I laughed A LOT. The internal monologue and even some things said out loud by the maids are hysterical.

I also appreciated the care that was taken in developing these characters. Not a single one was flat and each one played equally important roles in the plot. In addition, the author did a fantastic job portraying how the way things were wasn't necessarily a hate thing, but that it's just the way it was and people didn't know any other way. There are kind and understanding characters in this book who have amicable and caring relationships with their maids. But the societal constraints are such that they still dont eat at the same table or share a bathroom. Then there are those who harbor hateful feelings, like Hilly. But I gather that Hilly was just a hateful person. Disatisfied in her own way and took to making everyone else just as miserable.

Skeeter was my favorite character of all. She had spirit and a good head on her shoulders. She was a revolutionary before her time. I cried a few tears over the last few pages of this book. It was such a sad & sweet ending. I wish Mae Mobley could keep Aibee and I wish Miss Skeeter all the best in NY.
View all my reviews

Snshyne Tymes

2011-04-06T21:29:00.001-04:00

Sometimes, I rant. Ok, I rant a lot. Sometimes (rarely) I get excited about something. And sometimes I just wanna announce something. These little notes are rarely planned and are also probably a grammatical mess. But I needed some place to put them, and instead of putting them under "random" or "extras" or the godawful "miscellaneous", I decided to chuck the SFFR nav tag and create Snshyne Tymes. And thanks to tkegl for creating my super pretty banner for it! She was a doll to whip it up for me and I found out she's pretty funny! I know tkegl from julieblys, BellasExeQtnER, and TwiFic Pics. Have I mentioned I <3 TwiFic Pics? They're super fun and you should go see.

Anyway, this is notice of future ranting.

"Diary" Has a Banner

2011-04-05T19:48:00.002-04:00

In March I went to visit my buddy julieblys, who is responsible for the majority of my bannerage and the header on this blog and a ton of other shit I beg her for in the middle of the night when I can't sleep. It is a widely known fact that I am Photoshop handicap - you don't want to see the crap I've tried to make. Anyway, I asked Jules to show me her Photoshop genius while I lay strewn across her bed. And the Diary banner was born! Awesome, right?!?!

Outfits for Fate & Forgotten Secrets Outtake 7: Be There

2011-04-01T16:54:00.000-04:00

Outtake 7: Be There

What Happens When You Can't Go Back?

2011-03-29T23:01:00.003-04:00

I remember when I uncovered the Twilight fandom. It was more like stumbled into, to be honest. I had just finished the series and needed more, as most of the people in this place did. I needed more passion and more plot development, more risks, and yes, more sex. Coincidentally, I was going through hell in my personal life and also needed an escape. And that’s how I wound up here.

In the beginning, I thought it was a welcoming community of friends with some varying interests like those more into the franchise and those more into fic, or fluff lovers and angst lovers. But essentially, the same umbrella covered everyone. I jumped in head first and for a while I was wrapped in nice pink, warm and fuzzies. It felt good to have something so strong in common with like-minded people. It felt nice to not be judged for my recreational interests or my flaws like rambling and unlady-like swearing. To take off the mask I wear every day to seem in control and unshaken was refreshing.

As cynical as I am, I can’t believe I was so naive, because it turned out to be less awesome than I originally thought. In the beginning, it was great. So awesome. I can’t even really explain it, but it was like breathing again after suffocating. I’m a sever asthmatic, I have experience with this. Eventually the back biting, hatred, self-serving, narcissisistic, opportunistic undertow got to me and I started to see things as they really are. Losing “friends” because I’m friends of or friendly with or not a total bitch to some one that someone else has an issue with. Being blatantly used and then discarded once people get what they need. The constant whispering of drama and the bloody game of telephone warping truths into ridiculous stories. And the goddamn cliques. Fuck! I thought I was done with that shit, but this is worse because I choose to be here. But it’s like a fraternity and you don’t dare leave because of the binding that hazing does to a group. The group think in our bunch is astounding!

The fandom will chew you up and spit you out if you let it. I’m sad to admit that I am one of those who did. It angers me when people say things like, “this isn’t real life,” or “people shouldn’t take the fandom seriously.” How can you look at us and not take it seriously? Life is relationships, this is life! It’s completely irresponsible to think that anything we have together doesn’t matter. Yes, your husband or your job may come first. But wouldn’t that be the case with your best friend from college or a co-worker? So why because there is a computer between people does it matter any less? It doesn’t. How many people can no longer make the distinction with a straight face? Fuck knows I struggle with explaining it all the time. Don’t you think it belittles people to see you say that the fandom doesn’t matter to you? That the relationships cultivated here are just for fun? To not be taken seriously, to be pushed aside and ignored, to watch you climb and climb and forget those who loved you when you were nothing by fandom standards? To only be remembered when you want to bitch at someone or complain about someone else? To be treated with less respect just because you can’t reach out and touch us? We’re not playthings, we’re people. In truth, I don’t blame any one person or even the fandom as a collective. I think it’s just the course of human nature and I’m certainly not blameless in any of this. The fandom filled a need at a time and it still fills part of that need, but I’m afraid it may have left more damage than repair what I needed.

I’m just thinking out loud. This isn’t some kind of fair well, call to flounce or bow out with a tirade. It all started as I was laying in my bed and I thought to myself, “what happens when you can’t go back?”

Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Chapter 48: TextTease

2011-03-27T23:06:00.000-04:00

I try to move, lift my arms to pull her to me, but they feel like lead. I try to sit up, but it hurts so fucking much and I feel my face turn into a grimace. Jasper’s holding me flat, making it harder for me to move at all. I’m not pleased.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Chapter 48: PicTease

2011-03-27T02:54:00.000-04:00

Outfits for Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 47: Rift in Routine

2011-03-06T01:21:00.001-05:00

acullen4life can fucking suck it

2011-03-05T22:00:00.002-05:00

I had a lovely present left for me by acullen4life. I've decided to blog about it because it's my story and my blog and I'll do what I want. In the interest of full disclosure, let me say that this review hurt me. I'm not going to lie and pretend it didn't make me cry or I'm too tough to be hurt by such hateful words. I'll even admit to contemplating pulling (which I won't be doing and it was an errant thought born of anger and hurt). I've had a day to stew over it and I've come 'round to the more rational side now, only by a touch though.

This is what she said:

you should be ashamed of yourself! this story is pure trash and should never have been written. and your readers are a pile of idiots! who would give such a piece of shit two thousand reviews? my cat has better grammar. And oh, how original, Bella is a stupid girl who needs Edward to save her from the shit she gets into. And Edward is unnecessarily aggressive and always horny. And what's that? He's Italian, you say? Such original thoughts you (don't) have. I can't even read anything else you write. ever. This story should be booed right out of the fandom.

I don't know this person. I've never had any kind of exchange with them at all. And while I recognize they have every right to express their opinion, that doesn't mean I have to like it. And this isn't one of those cases where things can be misunderstood because sarcasm doesn't translate well via Mac or PC. This is not one of those times where an emoticon or LOL can passive-aggressively make something seem like less than what it really is. This is full court meanness.

As she has written her review for chapter 47/48, I am going to assume that she's read all previous chapters. So, why even bother to keep going? Why are you wasting your own time? I didn't ask you to read my stuff. I didn't PM you or hound you, it's not on every blog and fansite and twitter feed so much so that you can't avoid it. So why? Since you hate it so much and since I am so awful, I can only figure you're a glutton for pain. If that's the case, then I think you should read all my other stuff that you already hate so much.

I know you're allowed to have an opinion and I know I'm anti-censorship. But what-the-fuck ever happened to just being a good person? I don't refute what she's saying, it's her opinion. Just wow. Use nicer words next time. JS.

Lastly, I really, really don't fucking appreciate you insulting the people who read my stuff. They didn't do anything to you. So leave them out of it.

Like I said, it did hurt. It does hurt. But acullen4life can fucking suck it!

<3
snshyne

Soundtrack to the End

2011-03-01T07:33:00.000-05:00

(image courtesy of julieblys)

As I write the final chapters of Fate & Forgotten Secrets, I find that there are some songs playing over and over. Sometimes it's just the sound of a song, the music that strikes a chord in my heart. Other times, the words are just so perfect for what my characters are feeling. And then there is the music and lyrics combo that sucks me in completely. I want to share with you the soundtrack to the end...

Coldplay - We Never Change
Sara Bareilles - Gravity
The Script - Exit Wounds
Hilary Saunders - Beautiful Attempt
Motion City Soundtrack - Lifeless Ordinaty [Need a Little Help] (Alternative Version)
The Script - Science & Faith
The Weepies - Gotta Have You
The Black Keys - Same Old Thing (RAWR!)
Julia Easterlin - Nothin' But a Hole
Cage the Elephant - rest for the wicked

Alexz Johnson - Liar Liar

Alaska in Winter - Rain on Every Weekend

Mariah Carey - I Am Free

The Fray - Look After You

Robert Pattinson - Let Me Sign

Adele - Hometown Glory

There might be a few more, but I can't remember.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Chapter 47: TextTease

2011-02-27T22:17:00.000-05:00

I reach the door to the diner and something out of the corner of my eye catches my attention. Driving by is a dark blue pickup truck, just like the one I’ve seen James drive. I turn away from the diner, hop in my car and follow the stupid blue truck. I don’t know why, I just do.

The truck doesn’t move exceptionally fast or slow - it’s just driving and I don’t think he knows I’m following him. I laugh and it sounds bitter in the confined space of my car and I try to get closer.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Chapter 47: PicTease

2011-02-26T01:59:00.000-05:00

Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Chapter 46: PicTease

2011-02-13T02:26:00.000-05:00

Pushing Through...

2011-02-08T00:03:00.001-05:00

Writer's block, the fucker! I asked for a pic on twitter to try and drabble out my writer's block. I got a few and will probably use them all over the next couple of days. Below is the first one, pic provided by Jersey aka SparklingTwilight.

F&FS update: Because I've been asked oh....10 times in the last two days... I got 1137 out after pushing out the drabble, bringing us to 2423. The chapter is a jumbled mess, IMO, and I have a bit more to go before I'm done. Also, I need to add one more word b/c ending on an odd number is bad ju-ju.

"Mona Lisa"

“What is she thinking?” He thought to himself as he watched her from afar. The girl next door who obviously loved to lay on the hilltop in her backyard and stare off into oblivion had caught his attention again.

They hadn’t officially met yet, but he felt like he already knew her from all the times he watched her enjoy peaceful sunlight and warm grass. She seemed like a friendly girl, a simple girl - as simple as girls could be. What he meant was, not overly complicated. After all, her favorite past time seemed to be laying on the grass. He wondered if she liked football or would be the type to pretend for a guy. If she’d be the kind of girl to order a salad because she really liked it, or because that was the expectation. If the light blonde streaks in her hair were natural or the result of a fight with a bleach bottle.

They didn’t live in the kind of neighborhood where people welcomed each other to town with a basket of home baked muffins, so all he knew about her was her name - Danielle Tyler - or at least that’s what his mom had told him, gossip queen that she was. He was sure they didn’t go to the same school, as he never saw her around. He wasn’t even sure they were the same age, but he figured they had to be close by the shape of her body - it wasn’t unlike other girls at his school; although it was a little fuller, which he liked.

Today he couldn’t tear his eyes off her. It was the way the wind caught small wisps of her hair and tossed them around her soft face, her eyes relaxed as if she was at total ease. What captured him the most was the slight smile on her lips, as if she knew something no one else did and he wanted to know her secret, know her thoughts.

As if she could sense his questioning, Danielle turned her head and her eyes locked with Mason’s, and suddenly her soft smile bloomed into a full and glorious smile. She had a secret alright, she knew he watched her and she watched him too.

Outfits for Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 44: The Connection

2011-01-26T22:00:00.001-05:00

Just then, Bella comes out of the kitchen looking good enough to eat. I can't take my eyes off her and I suddenly think that sex is as good a reason as any to not go to this fucking dinner. Looking at her, I temporarily forget my aggravation and any confusion I've been experiencing lately.

"You like it?" she asks as she stops in front of me, nervously biting her bottom lip.

"Enough to take you upstairs and remove it carefully," I reply, licking my lips just thinking about it.

"Alice made it," Bella states, ignoring my suggestion, but I can tell it got to her by the rosy tint on her skin.

extras

2011-01-25T10:30:00.002-05:00

Here is where you can find links to my involvement with other happenings in the fandom, extra tidbits from my stories, and any other random twi related news I felt the need to share/bitch about. Or whatever.

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

Random Ramblings:

Random Ramblings

Fic Photobuckets

A Rare Treat

Eclipse Ten Second Teaser Trailer

A Note From Me

Welcome 2011!

Pushing Through

acullen4life Can Fucking Suck It

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

Collection of recipes used in my fics:

Recipes from F&FS

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

Fan Fiction Guest Review's I've Done:

Beautiful Nightmare by Simone and Marie

Brown Study by littlesecret84

Catching Spiders by lambcullen

Devil's Angel by ObsessingOverEdward

Decoy by 107yearoldvirgin

Emancipation Proclamation by KhariZZmatiK

Emperors of Washington by gallantcorkscrews

The Gentleman from Washington State by Betty Smith

Incubus Anomaly by ElusiveTwilight

Mzungu Oasis by lisa89

Stranger than Fiction by MasenVixen

Sundrenched World by Coldplaywhore

Superman Complex by Cevuplay

This is not my Life by isakassees

We All Fall Down by Addicakes

We Don't Break, We Bend by lyricalkris

Wicked Angel by Devilish Pleasures

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

Contests I've hosted/helped host:

Lovin' in the Oven Contest

Cupcake Wars

The Cherry Exchange

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

Events I've participated in:

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

Award's I've recieved/been nominated for:

What Happens When You Read Too Much Fic...

2011-01-24T17:52:00.000-05:00

So...I'm somewhat O.C.D. and a tad Anal Retentive...

And...I have an obsessive need to control pretty much everything...

And....I read way too much fic...

So....this is what happens...

I created a spreadsheet of fic I am CURRENTLY reading.

Admittedly, this isn't entirely my creation, but I got the format from Mae on the ALSL Blog. I really enjoy this blog, it's fun.

snshyne's currently reading fanfic list

(yes, that pic represents my desk at home. Though, it is not my desk.)

Share

Drumroll Please.....

2011-01-24T17:51:00.001-05:00

Hello Bunnies!

I am super excited to reveal the creator of the banner for Little Miss Sunshine. It is non other than the sensational julieblys!

(banner by julieblys)

You've seen her work around here, as she's done many banners for me (as well as other art work). I also have no doubt you've seen some of her pretty bannerage elsewhere. Like the TwiFic Pics Circus Challenge where she came in second place by one vote; a few banners for review posts on Southern Fan Fiction Review - see Decoy by 107yearoldvirgin & Stolen Souls by Nayarit; and Through the Flames by SparklingTwilight chapter teaser images.

This reveal tickles me pink because I had no idea she even entered this contest and yet it was one of her pieces that inspired me to write LMS!!

Like I said, the girl is sensational and I'm not exxagerating! She has an open mind for interpretation and keen sense of design. She loves to tinker in photoshop, seriously LOVES!, and explore all the tools at her disposal to make sure the banner is oh, so perfect. If you hop over to her blog, you can see a showcase of her brilliant work and even request a banner/image of your own. I promise you, you want one!

julieblys blog

I should add that this banner won "Most Written For" and "1st Place Public Vote" for the TwiFic Pics Pick-a-Pic Challenge!!

No Fucking Way!!

2011-01-24T14:56:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

Thank you for reading and voting for Little Miss Sunshine!

*mwah*

(3rd Place Public Vote)

Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Chapter 45: TextTease

2011-01-23T22:23:00.000-05:00

additional teaser available on the Fictionators teaser Monday 1/24/2010

Work is work. I'm good at my job, but I don't enjoy it anymore. I can't muster the energy to see beyond the task, to look at the art and creativity. It hurts that it's been ruined for me and lately I've been wondering if I should just give it up. Last week, I gave Angela my client in the Bay Area of California and even though she's afraid to fly, she agreed. In the mess of things called my life, I totally forgot about the trip Edward and I planned because he went to school there and I had a client there. She is a new mother and not ready to travel and be away from her baby, so months ago I agreed to go to her. There is no way I can make that trip now. It was going to be business first and while I worked, he was going to catch up with old friends and professors and we'd see each other at night. Then we were going to take a mini vacation and he would show me the sights. I'd get to meet his friends and he'd take me up to wine country; he kept telling me all the places he wanted to make love to me. He didn't use those words exactly, but I know what he meant or I did at the time. Now the meaning is irrelevant.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 45 PicTease

2011-01-21T15:25:00.000-05:00

additional teaser available on Monday 1/24/2011 @ PicTease Blog.

exclusive twilighted teaser.

Fandoms Fight the Floods

2011-01-19T13:13:00.000-05:00

Australia is a place that people often forget about or overlook, an unobtainable location far, far away. But there is something to be said about people joining together during their time of need. Fandoms Fight the Floods is a charity effort across MULTIPLE fandoms, not just Twilight. This is a first for me and I'm kind of blown away by that.

The flooding in Australia has been a major concern for Aussies and people around the globe since December 2010. Ironically, they have been under a drought for years. They need our help and by donating at least $5 to the QLD Government Appeal (legitimately) and then sending proof of your donation into Fandoms Fight the Floods, you will receive an author compilation.

Yes, I am contributing under the TwiFic Fandom, but I have no idea what I'm going to write. I'm taking suggestions. The options are:

Little Miss Sunshine
Public Relations
Fate & Forgotten Secrets
Totally New Idea

You can give me your suggestions here ------> SUGGESTION FORM. I'll most likely pick one of them, so suggest away!

Also, F&FS is coming...

Fandom Against Domestic Violence

2011-01-12T23:42:00.000-05:00

I signed up for Fandom Against Domestic Violence so long ago, I can't even remember when it was. All I remember is seeing the RT on twitter and not thinking twice about signing up, I just did it. It's a cause that means so, so much to me. I already donate and volunteer, but I don't think it's ever enough! And I'm wrong. A lot of people may be wondering what they're $10 donation can do and I'll tell you.

Your $10 could be a couple cases of water at a battered woman's shelter

If 5 people donate $10, that can be the cost of a phone bill for a hotline center in a month.

If 10 people donate $10, that could go towards covering the cost of transportation for volunteers

If 20 people donate $10, a family can be removed from a hostile situation and placed into safety.

Do you see my point? Every little bit counts and every little bit adds up.

So I'm asking you, my friends, to donate $10 to Fandom Against Domestic Violence and let your little bit mean a lot to someone.

Oh! Before I get wicked emotional, and forget, I am contributing a Fate & Forgotten Secrets Outtake. Here is a teaser:

When Bella called and asked if I was free on Saturday, I didn't think twice about making plans with her. When she agreed to a shopping spree, I admit to being shocked and wondering if something was wrong, but I pushed it back and figured she just missed our girl time too.

I'm bouncing impatiently in the elevator as I ride up to Bella's floor and trying not to spill our coffees, Bella's fuel. I make my way down the hall and ring the bell, waiting for someone to answer.

It's been a few seconds and I'm tired of waiting so I ring the bell again.

Little Miss Sunshine, An Introduction

2011-01-07T21:13:00.000-05:00

(banner by: ?)

SUMMARY: Written for TwiFic Pics Pick A Pic Contest. "He wasn't sure if it was

the slowly setting sun in the background or if she was actually glowing, but
there was a bright quality about her." Edward has spent over a year in the
dark and Bella is his sunshine.

FFn
TWCS

THE IDEA: I know, I know. I said no more contests, no more challenges, no more non-F&FS. But I have this little problem where I can justify anything to myself. So setting limits is pretty pointless.

I was on twitter, as usual, and saw TwiFic Pics tweet about their Pick-A-Pic Challenge. Silly me got curious and clicked the link. I scrolled through the photos rather quickly with no intention to do anything but look. And then, #24 (shown) above, caught my eye. Immediately, I knew I was going to make Bella all-the-time-happy. How? I have no fucking clue. But Edward, he needed to be pulled from the shadows. What shadows? Go see...

Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Chapter 44: TextTease

2011-01-01T22:08:00.003-05:00

Additional teaser available on Teaser Monday @ The Fictionators on 1/3/2011

Bella stirs, rolls over, and then sighs. She must be waking up. I stay seated and wait to see if she is in fact going to wake up or if she’s about to talk in her sleep and then drift off again.

She sits up a little, showing me that she’s awake, but the look on her face lets me know she’s still lost in her mind. I go over to her and lean down, her eyes meet mine and I’m almost freaked out by how red they are from her crying - bloodshot and fucking swollen around the edges.

Welcome 2011

2011-01-01T13:07:00.002-05:00

The funny thing about the new year is that it never feels any different. It's just moving from one day to the next like we do the other 364 days in a non-leap year. It will still take me at least three months to get the year right when I write down the date and by the time 2011 is over, I'll just have gotten used to it.

But some things are different. I'm different. I've had some major changes go on in my life both personal and not-so-personal. Things that have happened to me and decisions I have made, all changes.

Anyway, I didn't start this post to go all My So Called Life meets Gossip Girl on you. Moving on.

I am back to a better pace and will hope to be updating more regularly again. I cannot commit to a secure timeline for updating, because I'll just sabotage myself - it's a tragic trait of mine. However, three months without updating F&FS is unacceptable to me. So I will do my best to avoid that.

I have left SFFR. I'm putting this out there before rumors fly and bullshit starts walking. I left by choice. I left for me. Reviewing was no longer enjoyable for me. It got to the point where I felt pressure to review people and pressure to say the right things instead of just giving a review honest to my opinion. When something you enjoy becomes a chore, it's time to stop. I also no longer have the time to devote to it like I used to and half-assing things just isn't my way. Sandy and I are fine and don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

I have a crazy idea stewing in my brain that I am hoping I can make work. When I get the kinks worked out, I will make it public and hope for the best.

In 2010, I am thankful for the friends I have made in the fandom. Those I have met in person, those that I tweet with, the ones I plan to meet, people I text all day and annoy to no end, my FB buddies, everyone! I am happy to have an outlet for my expression.

Wishing you all a Happy New Year!

~snshyne~

Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Chapter 44: PicTease

2010-12-29T16:35:00.002-05:00

Additional teasers on Twilighted now and PicTease Blog on Monday 1/3/2011

Christmas Traditions, An Introduction

2010-12-29T16:00:00.000-05:00

(banner by julieblys)

Summary: "In order to have a tradition, we have to start a tradition." Edward Cullen. Edward and Isabella relive magical nights of Christmases past. Written for SFFR's 25 days of Christmas Smut-Shots. M ExB AH OOC

FFn

TWCS

The Idea: Sandy asked for authors to write a one-shot for SFFR and the requirements were Christmas had to be in there somewhere, Edward and penetration. I had no idea how I was going to make a special Christmas o/s that wasn't going to bore me to tears and I pondered it for a few days. I'm a traditionalist and Christmas traditions are a big deal to me, so I started to build on that idea. I designed the traditions and then I went about determining how the story would flow. Voila, Christmas Traditions!

Konstantine, An Introduction

2010-11-27T23:10:00.002-05:00

(banner by HeatherDawn)

Summary:

FBG piece for kartastrophe. Prompt: Konstantine by Something Corporate. Edward met Bella sixteen years ago, on a Thursday. He adored her and she looked up to him until he was gone and she was left alone. But some connections can't be severed. ExB M AH

FFn

TWCS

The Idea:

I was purchased by kartastrophe in the Fandom Gives Back Eclipse Edition. She gave me three songs to choose from for this prompt. At the moment, I can't remember the other two, but the first choice was Konstantine by Something Corporate. It was her first choice and since this was her purchase, I was going to do my best to give her what she wanted.

I listened to the song on a particularly long and rainy Friday on repeat as I drove around. While listening, I felt overwhelmingly somber and yet hopeful by the time the song ended. Having nothing, then being gifted with more than you can imagine and still missing that small comfort. The song inspired me to write about life happening to you and finding everything you need in that life, but not having a damn clue.

So I give you Orphanward...

a note from me

2010-10-17T12:20:00.001-04:00

Hi!

I don't usually post update-type things here, but I missed my blog. So, I'm jut going to type some stuff to talk about what I'm up to and what's to come.

First, my blog is undergoing renovations in the next few weeks. I won't be locking it and I'll still be up to business as usual, but in case you find yourself a little confused at changes, that's why.

Me around The Fandom...

Cupcake Wars - It's no secret that I'm a cupcake fiend! So I'm super excited to be judging in the Cupcake Wars contest. Voting has already begun and I'm looking forward to seeing the results.

The Cherry Exchange - This is pretty exciting! Edward & Bella are both virgins, and it's the authors job to write about how they exchanged v-cards. October 20th, the exchange opens its doors to start receiving entries. Doors close, November 30th. So that's plenty of time to get something in. I'm a final round judge and I'm pretty anxious to read what people come up with.

Southern Fan Fiction Review - I'm still over there reviewing and stuff. Come by and say hi.

Onward to news about writing...

Fandom For Preemies - I'm contributing a one-shot for this cause. For a $5 minimum donation, you can receive a compilation from many contributing authors who have already signed up. Like: AndyMCope, breakfastatbella's, dontrun, elusivetwilight, KitsuShel, Nitareality and me! I've already turned my piece in, it's an outtake for F&FS, but I'm not saying what the subject is...

Donation instructions.

Fandom Gives Back - kartastrophe and DPattinson bought me in The Fandom Gives Back Auction over the summer.

kartastrophe has requested a plot bunny separate from anything I have already written. I will be completing it soon and sending it to her. It will be posted on my TWCS and FFn profiles eventually.

DPattinson is requesting an F&FS outtake or futureshot, which she hasn't chosen yet and may come after F&FS is done.

New Projects - I have two ideas already in the works, in my head mostly. One is based on the music of the band Paramore and the other is based on nothing but random thoughts that popped into my head. Neither of these will post until F&FS is done.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets - F&FS has about 6 chapters or so left, not including an epi(s). I've mapped them out, but sometimes my characters get away with things, which is why I can't give a definite number. There are a couple pending outtakes/futureshots/sideshots that may come out after I check that complete box.

When F&FS is complete, I'm taking a wee break. I'll still be around, just taking some time before I start posting new projects.

I think that is all.

xo
~snshyne~

Outfits for Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 43: Bad Turn

2010-09-28T20:56:00.003-04:00

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 43 TextTease

2010-09-27T20:00:00.006-04:00

“Has Edward told you about next week?”
I stare at her blankly for a moment, searching my brain to see if I should know something. “Uh...no?” I state as more of a question, because I’m drawing a blank. Maybe he did and I forgot or maybe he didn’t, because it’s been a stressful time lately and I can’t be sure.
“I’m not surprised. Although, I’m sure I wrote out invitations for both you and Alice and set them to post. Maybe they got lost in the mail. You can’t trust the postal service these days,” Esme goes off on a bit of a rabbit trail. “Carlisle’s Uncle Aro is coming to visit and we’ll be having a dinner party.”
“Uncle Aro?” I question, because this name is new to me.

Teaser from The Fictionators....

“What’s that?” I ask, gesturing towards the basket as we head towards the door, Edward supporting most of my weight, even though I am fully capable of walking myself. It’s just a stupid cast, not a ten ton weight.

“Lunch.”

“Where are we going?”

“You ask a lot of damn questions, don’t you trust me?” Edward helps me into the car and leans forward, his face just a few small inches away from mine.

“Implicitly, but surprises...”
“Have I ever surprised you with shit you didn’t like?”

“No, but...”

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 43 PicTease

2010-09-26T17:37:00.001-04:00

additional teaser found on PicTease Blog on monday...

Delight, Delectation, Divine

2010-09-16T13:43:00.000-04:00

Sometimes, I get a character in my head or a plot and they refuse to let me be until I get them out by giving them voice. Such was the case with this one-shot.

This Jasper characterization came to me while daydreaming out the window at work. I tried for weeks to quiet him down, but he just kept getting louder and louder. Finally, I gave in. I not only found a home for him on FFn, but he fits nicely into the Beyond the Pale Contest as well.

Oh, yeah. Beyond the Pale is open for voting now, too.

Jasper is tied to human emotions, but instead of it causing him turmoil, he takes pleasure in the sensations. But you'll have to read the o/s to see how that plays out...

SUMMARY: I know what you feel, before you do. Your emotions are my sustenance. I can bend you, I can break you and never have to touch you. AH/OOC. Dark themes warning. For the Beyond the Pale Contest.

So far as F&FS goes, I am writing it. If you don't know already, I've been moving and that takes a lot of time. But 43 is in progress and I have not abandoned Damagella and Secretward. I never will! You can quote me on that.

xo
snshyne

Outfits for Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 42: Life Interrupted

2010-08-23T19:16:00.000-04:00

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 42 TextTease

2010-08-22T17:51:00.004-04:00

check out The Fictionators on monday for more...

“Excuse me, officer? Can you tell us what happened here?” I hear Emmett ask. Again, I’m thankful for him because clearly, I can’t handle this shit. “You see, we think one of the people involved is actually my buddie’s...uh...fiance and we’re just trying to find out some information to help us out.”

I watch as the officer looks us over for a moment. I swear, there is a loud as fuck clock ticking somewhere. Ticking very fucking slowly, I might add.

“Name?”

“Pardon?” Emmett asks, confused.

“Name? Name of the person you’re asking about?”

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 42 PicTease

2010-08-20T00:00:00.000-04:00

check out PicTease blog on monday...

Lovin' In The Oven Contest Winners Announced!

2010-08-11T15:53:00.001-04:00

Pop the champagne and break out the cazoos! The Lovin' in the Oven One-Shot Contest winners have been announced.

Thank you to 107yearoldvirgin, FL95, julieblys, Annetteskitty, and danieller123 for doing this with me. I had fun and I'm sad it's over.

Hop over to the Lovin' in the Oven Contest blog to see the full list of winners.

See below for Secretward's choice...

The Cake Boss by KitsuShel

I consider myself to be a pretty decisive guy. For the most part, I see what I want, I know what I like and I go for it. I hate to admit it, but it was difficult as shit to pick a damn choice. Not to mention, fucking snshyne going on about the entries she liked. I had to remind her that I’m the fucking judge and I was choosing what I wanted. Don’t tell her, but some of her top choices were on my short list too.

What grabbed me the most about The Cake Boss, was that I could understand it. As a business owner myself, I know how it feels to have incompetent, stuttering idiots surrounding you. So this dude got me there, yelling at the Newton kid. But he’s not just some angry asshole shouting at people for the fuck of it. He’s passionate about his shit. I get that.

Oh! I cracked the fuck up that he kept hearing people call him a “blind fool,” but didn’t actually figure out what they meant by that shit.

I could understand the transformation of a relationship from nothing to the most important thing, but not have any fucking clue when that transformation took place. It just happens and you can’t do shit about it. I mean, it is a little strange that his Bella seemed to be totally out of the loop, but who am I to judge? It took me fucking months to get a goddamn clue.

My point is, this entry was realistic, but still created that fantasy people can dream about. Because they were friends before they started fucking, there was a heightened sense of intimacy between them that you could see feel as you read along. It was pretty fucking funny reading them talk about birth control and STD tests right before he’s about to bang her, though.

Also, this entry proves the point that I was trying to make to my new friend Daniel not too long ago. Usually, while you’re standing around thinking about doing things the right way, your girl is standing around waiting for you to do things your way.

The hot shit, though. The fucking tent pitcher, was when she sucked his cake coated fingers. Just so you know, I’m going to my Bella’s tonight and I’ve asked her to make me a cake.

Congratulations to The Boss!

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 41 TextTease

2010-08-08T16:21:00.002-04:00

check out Fictionators on monday for an additional teaser

Later on, Edward and I are sitting on the couch. I’ve been dallying around his apartment all day while he was at work. Then he came home and we had pizza and now here we are. I have my Mac on my lap, working on converting measurements for this new recipe I made up. Edward is looking over some applications for new security personnel while my feet rest in his lap.

A couple weeks ago, Seth informed the guys that he would need to take a step back at work so he could focus on school in the fall. It was a tough choice for him because he needs the money and taking less hours would mean less pay and more financial struggle for him. Edward, Emmett and Jasper would have none of that. Instead, they agreed to let him cut back on his hours and insisted on continuing to pay him his regular wages. It wouldn’t be a hardship for them. All three of them are well off and Eclipse does very well for itself. I am so impressed with their generosity. It absolutely warms my heart that I have such amazing people in my life.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 41 PicTease

2010-08-07T22:03:00.000-04:00

check out PicTease Blog on Monday for an additional teaser

Lovin' in the Oven Contest Voting is now LIVE!!

2010-07-24T08:31:00.002-04:00

(Banner by Moonlit Wishes)

Lovin' In The Oven Contest Voting is now LIVE!!

Please take the time to read all entries before voting.

To vote, go to the "My Forums" link near the top of the Lovin' In The Oven Contest Profile.

Entries

Voting

Remember...

Appetizer: 3K - 6K words

Main Course: 6,0001K - 10K words

Best Dessert: best lemon.

If you have questions, please email lovinintheovencontest@gmail.com, use the PMs on FFn or find one of the judges on twitter or facebook.

Go vote!

Outfits for Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Outtake 5: You Call Those Meatballs?

2010-07-20T21:09:00.001-04:00

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Outtake 5 TextTease

2010-07-20T10:42:00.001-04:00

Getting to Bella's house, we walk hand in hand to her front door. I'm not really sure where that development came from, but it's usually Bella who reaches out for my hand and I'm hard fucking pressed to deny her that shit. I stand behind her as she unlocks the door, and I can't resist leaning down to kiss the shell of her ear that's now visible after she tucked her hair behind it. Bella shivers noticeably, then turns her head and kisses me softly but lingers for a moment as she pushes the door open.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Outtake 5 PicTease

2010-07-19T08:04:00.003-04:00

Outfits for Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Chapter 40: Premature Promises

2010-07-12T21:58:00.002-04:00

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 40 TextTease

2010-07-11T18:38:00.000-04:00

check out The Fictionators on monday for an additional teaser

twilighted exclusive teaser

I shift my eyes and immediately find Bella. She must sense me watching her, because she looks up at me and gives me a small smile. I smile back and push the door open to head outside.

"Rose doesn't know, does she?" I shake my head. So far as I know, my sister doesn't know, because she hasn't kicked my ass. "I hope you've got a cup on. You might need it," Jasper jokes, slapping me on the back as we walk outside.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 40 PicTease

2010-07-11T12:45:00.000-04:00

Outfits for Fate & Forgotten Secrets, Chapter 39: Subtleties

2010-07-05T19:17:00.000-04:00

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 39 TextTease

2010-07-04T19:09:00.001-04:00

check out The Fictionators on Monday for an additional teaser.

I look up and see James staring at me. His eyes are cold and calculating. Not warm and compassionate like Jasper's at all. They seem almost opposite in persona. Jasper sits back in the booth, his arm draped around the top as he lazily sips coffee with his other hand. Despite all that he has been through recently, he's still the picture of calm; the only sign of stress being the slight darkness under his bright eyes.

James' posture is more tense. Like he's ready to pounce or run at any moment. He sits perched forward on the edge of his seat, his hands clasped together tightly on the top of the table. His hair is slicked back into a tight ponytail in contrast to Jasper's lazy curls. Worry lines crease his skin and his hands look aged. Far more than they probably should for his age.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 39 PicTease

2010-07-04T03:12:00.000-04:00

Outfits & Bella's Ring for Public Relations Epilogue

2010-06-28T15:22:00.002-04:00

iFirst, thank you all for your love of Public Relations. It means a lot to me and I hope you know that. Now, the final outfit for Public Relations...

Our eyes locked and I couldn't not smile. He was here and he looked so good. He was wearing one of my favorite ties; a favorite because I liked the way it kind of shimmered in the light. Suddenly, the day didn't seem so bad. Maybe I could take him back to my office or we could just go home. I was stuck in my own thoughts and still staring at Edward when he cleared his throat and spoke. ~ Bella Swan, Public Relations Epilogue

Cartier Ballerine Solitaire

Public Realtions Epilogue TextTease

2010-06-27T12:00:00.000-04:00

Check Out The Fictionators on Monday for more...

My hands dropped from my ear and rested on his. "Are you ready?" I asked, catching his eye in the mirror. His eyes cast down and away from me, breaking our eye contact. "Edward," I stated as I turned in his arms, "you'll be perfect. Don't let your nerves get the best of you." He nodded with a smile and bent down to capture my lips in his as I tilted my head up.

"Thank you," he whispered against my mouth. "I couldn't do this without you."

"You could, but you don't have to."

Public Relations Epilogue PicTease

2010-06-26T13:12:00.001-04:00

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Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 38 TextTease

2010-06-20T20:00:00.003-04:00

Check Out The Fictionators on Monday

Twilighted Thread Exclusive

I know that part of Jasper's problem is the unknown. When Peter was in the hospital, Jasper told Emmett and I that he suspected his brother was in the area. He didn't want Alice or Bella to know because he wasn't sure, so he took us outside to tell us.

Apparently, he got a shitton of matchbox cars in the mail for his birthday. When we were kids, Jasper loved matchbox cars. It was something that his brother had a collection of, but Jasper was never allowed to play with. In time, he got a few of his own and he would carry them with him everywhere. My parents had a tradition of getting us a monthly gift and being part of the family, Jasper was included with that and matchbox cars were often his gift.

At some point, it graduated to remote control cars, but he always kept his matchbox cars because he is a sentimental motherfucker. The significance of the box full that he received on his birthday wasn't lost on us. But that wasn't all.

Fate & Forgotten Secrets Chapter 38 PicTease

2010-06-18T20:31:00.000-04:00

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Rae Cullen of So You Think You Can Write Interviews Me About Public Relations

2010-06-18T09:00:00.001-04:00

Rae Cullen is one of my newest readers of Public Relations. I had not known her before she started reading PR, but I have come to know her since and she is adorable and sweet. No exaggeration. The days he read PR, I was so blown over and smiley from her reviews, I had to find her on twitter and tweet-kiss her.

When she asked me if I'd be interested in interviewing for SYTYCW about Public Relations, there was no way I would say no. I had a great time talking to her and answering the questions. It was my first interview and so I'm wicked excited and I wanted to share it with all of you.

Pieces of the Interview:

What do you do after you click the submit button for a chapter?
snshyne: sometimes I take a xanax and a shower. sometimes I go watch TV or read something. it varies, but I don’t have a ritual. Rae: a xanax? do you get nervous? lol snshyne: yeah. well the xanax is usually for F&FS and not as often anymore as it used to be

Do you believe in HEA? What is YOUR definition of HEA?
snshyne: I do believe in it. Some stories don't warrant it. I also think it's pretty subjective. I prefer a more realistic HEA. To me, wedding bells and babies is not always realistic and every story does not need to end that way. To that point, that is perfect for some stories. If it's an E/B story, an HEA, for me, is them being together. Even if it's not perfection. Even if someone else has to die or Bella can't have kids. Even if they're poor. They are together, I'm good.

FULL INTERVIEW

Outfits & Bella's Bracelet for Public Relations Ch 9: Status Report

2010-06-15T19:09:00.000-04:00

I pushed open the doors to see the shades were drawn and the lights were low. On occasion, I had given presentations in my office, so I had dimmer lights and thick shades so as not to hinder the view of the presentation screen.

I stood in the doorway for a second, letting my eyes adjust to the change in light and then I saw her. Bella.

Bella was sitting on my desk, legs crossed, feet encased in a seriously sexy pair of shoes. Since she was sitting, I couldn't be sure if she was wearing a skirt or nothing, but whatever it was, it had ridden up high enough to show me the tops of her very delectable thighs.

Without any thought, I moved forward and suddenly found myself standing in front of her. Looking down, I could see she had on a dress shirt that was now open to reveal a midnight blue bra with silver pin stripes. I loved pin stripes. The swell of her breasts were just sitting there, shaking slightly when she moved an arm out to grasp my hand and lace her fingers with mine. ~ Edward Cullen, Public Relations, Chapter 9: Status Report

outfit details

Bella's Tiffany Diamond Jazz Tennis Bracelet

It was a Tiffany Diamond Jazz Tennis Bracelet. Very simple, very elegant, but it made a statement on it's own and you couldn't miss it. Just like my Bella. Plus, diamonds lasted forever. ~ Edward Cullen, Public Relations, Chapter 9: Status Report

Public Relations Chapter 9 TextTease & PicTease

2010-06-13T23:38:00.001-04:00

Check out The Fictionators on Monday

"Hi, baby," she purred.

"I missed you, Bella."

"I missed you too. I've been missing you since you left my bed this morning."

She drew a lazy finger up my torso, to the back of my neck where her hands met in a clasp. "Are you hungry?" I nodded. "I brought food," she said. I shook my head.

"It's Indian curry. Your favorite." I shook my head again. "Then tell me what you're hungry for, Edward." She tried to sound irritated, but I could hear the smile in her voice even though I was looking down at where my legs stood in between hers.

"You," I said simply, lifting my eyes to look at her. I hoped that she could see the immense love and desire I had for her. At the sound of her breath hitching in her throat, I thought she did.

Check out PicTease Blog on Monday