Blog page of Vijaya Schartz, author of Ashes for the Elephant God, Archangel Crusader, Archangel Checkmate, book reviewer, novelist, writer of visionary fiction and fantasy suspense

May 2, 2008 - Great news
Opening my email this morning, I discovered that my book Anaz-voohri (the 2007 paperback version) is a finalist in the prestigious Golden Quill Literary Contest. This contest is one of the few that has a special category for Science-Fiction Romance. Needless to say I am flying high today. This particular contest is judged mainly by readers. The announcement of the final results is in June. Crossing my fingers...

See the video of the introduction of the Faery Court, click HERE
See the video of the costume contest HERE
More pictures and videos to come soon.

This convention was a whirlwind as usual, and the week passed too fast, but we all took home wonderful memories of this tremendous event. Meeting several of my devoted fans was a treat. I felt privileged to be part of the Faery Ball (see the videos above and photo right). I am the far right bottom fae, in the glittery turquoise gown. The faes already decided that they would be back next year, so look for us at the next Romantic Times Convention, in ORLANDO (FL), the third week of April 2009.

April 7, 2008 - The Desert Dreams Conference
Just back from the Desert Dreams Conference in Chandler, Arizona, organized by the Desert Rose Romance Writers of America. I was speaking about selling your books to Hollywood at this national event and enjoyed the smooth running of this conference. The picture was taken at the book signing on Saturday evening, under the shady vines of the pergola at the San Marcos golf resort.

Authors and writers of popular fiction (be it mystery, thrillers, science fiction, or romance) found a wealth of information through workshops and panels, as well as many opportunities to rub shoulders and speak directly to New York agents and editors in a relaxed atmosphere. This is one of the greatest conferences for fiction writers. In two weeks, I will be in Pittsburgh for the Romantic Time Book Lovers Convention, where I am one of the sponsors of the Faery Ball event. More details on my page HERE.

March 11, 2008 - I have a winner
Guess what? Someone won my contest. Her name is Jean Morrison, from New Jersey. Big CONGRATULATIONS to this winner. She chose RELICS, book II of the Operation Pleiades series. Click on the cover for more information on her choice title. But if you entered the contest and did not win, do not despair. There is another one posted on my CONTEST page. Just click HERE to find out how you can win my book of your choice. Except that a few titles are not available anymore, like White Tiger, Lockdown, and This Magic Moment. Sorry guys. You may be able to find a few used copies on the internet or on e-bay for these three titles, that's all. More contests are going on as I participate in the Faery Ball for the Romantic Times Booklovers Convention in Pittsburgh, April 16 through April 20. There is a scavenger hunt and anyone can participate and win. Here is the site to start from: RT Faery Ball Scavenger Hunt. Good luck!

February 24, 2008
Yesterday's seminar went wonderfully well. Everyone went home with a gazillion ideas about author Branding, the beginning of a personal tagline, and a better defined idea of what the world of publishing is all about. For more information, visit my seminar page, where I have already announced my next seminar for writers, September 6, 2008, this time about TAMING THE BOOK PROMOTION MONSTER, something most authors dread.

February 10, 2008
Great turnout last weekend at the Chocolate Affaire. Even the weather cooperated (unfortunately it rained on the Superbowl the next day). I had my picture taken with the Romance Cover model CJ Hollenbach in the booth (a fabulous white tent with clear plastic windows). Check it out on the right.

This weekend, I'm getting ready for a seminar I'm giving on February 23 on "Author Branding," something every author has to worry about these days. More about the seminar HERE.

January 27, 2008
Chocolate Affaire and Superbowl next weekend
Each year, on the first weekend of February, the city of Glendale Arizona organizes a festival of chocolate and romance. They even have wine tasting and chocolate pizza. Each year, they invite romance authors to sign their novels, in a festive atmosphere, and give free workshops for aspiring writers. Although that weekend is usually that of the Superbowl, it never affected the Chocolate Affaire, until this year, when the Superbowl happens to be taking place in Glendale as well. So The Chocolate Affaire will only last two days instead of three, Friday and Saturday, as the city officials will have their hands full on Super Sunday. Of course, I will be signing my books there both days, and teaching a workshop for writers on Friday afternoon. For more information and schedule, visit the official page on the City of Glendale website HERE. And yes, it is my picture at a previous Chocolate Affaire book signing, in 2005, I believe, according to my hair style.

January 1, 2008 - To all a wonderful New Year
I find it difficult to get back into the writing groove after the Christmas celebrations. So many things need to get done. Although I just finished a novel, I have to clean up all the little messes I neglected while pushing to make my deadline. This is also my excuse not to start a new book before January. Time to brainstorm and consider my new path for the coming year. Goals? Certainly. But setting realistic goals is more about the things we can control. Wishing for miracles rarely works, that's why I rely on solid work, good stories, ethics, then wish for the best. But 2008 will be a fantastic year. I can feel it. HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone!

December 17, 2007 - We have a winner for the contest!
Congratulations to Teresa Ryan, who won ARCHANGEL CRUSADER in this Holiday Season contest. Archangel Crusader is the first book of the Archangel Sci-Fi Series and is available in print and in audiobook. Teresa has been entering my contest religiously for many months, and I am pleased to see that her persistence paid off in the end.

I also take this opportunity to wish you all a wonderful holiday season and the realization of your dearest dreams in 2008.

December 15, 2007 - A book signing for the grand opening of a new Bookmasters
Ten local authors signed today at the new Bookmasters Bookstore in Phoenix, at 3405 W. Thunderbird in the Fry's shopping center, Part of an all week event on KOOL FM radio. The holiday spirit reigned and all had a good time picking their favorite titles for themselves or for holiday presents. Autographed books make very special presents.

November 29, 2007 - Unexpected awards
I discovered today while surfing the internet that Anaz-voohri and Relics were both recognized by PREDITORS & EDITORS, on their list of Best Science Fiction Novels, through their Readers Poll for 2006. It's never too late to celebrate yet another award. Thank you so much to my faithful readers who voted for these books.

November 25, 2007 - Had a great signing yesterday.
Thank you to Lisa at East West Exchange Books, Gifts & Practices at 2051 W. Warner Road in Chandler. Lisa manages this metaphysical bookstore and invited me to speak about Reincarnation and my spiritual experiences in India. The captive and eager audience kept me speaking for hours. I was signing Ashes for the Elephant God, my reincarnation novel set in India. I highly recommend this bookstore for books about philosophy and spirituality. They also have a book club, Yoga and Tai-Chi classes, and private viewings of enlightening movies. More about the store and the book by clicking on the blue links.

November 22, 2007 - HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Hope your Thanksgiving holiday is happy and bright. Be safe and enjoy the bounties of the earth and the good company. May you always have something to be grateful for.

November 15, 2007 - The fate of Triskelion authors contracts is decided!
In the ongoing saga of the Triskelion Publishing Bankruptcy, all the author contracts were frozen by the court and offered as a lot on the auction block. At the auction I attended this morning, two publishers fought to buy those contracts: Loose Id and Siren. The winner was Siren Publishing, an electronic and print book company that publishes erotic romance. Siren only bought the contracts with the intention to release the rights back to the authors immediately, as per their recent press release. This is a great relief for the authors who have been fighting for the right to their intellectual property since July. Several of my titles were caught in this fiasco. One of these titles is SIEGE, the last book of the Operation Pleiades series, another is White Tiger, which was never released in print (only in e-book). My novella, Coyote Gorgeous was also frozen. I am now free to submit these stories for publication by other publishers.

I publicly thank Siren Publishing from the bottom of my heart. This is a very generous company. They never intended to keep the rights to these books, most of which, like my Sci-fi romance novels, do not conform to their guidelines. I wish this kind publisher all the exposure and good publicity this selfless gesture deserves. There still is nobility of heart in this industry, demonstrated by the small press, and It is greatly appreciated.

Thank you, Siren Publishing, for ending this awful situation for almost a hundred authors.

November 10, 2007 - A friendly panel of authors at the Gilbert Southeast Regional Library.
Saturday, many readers and aspiring writers came to attend this event wonderfully organized by the Gilbert Library and the Desert Rose Chapter of Romance writers. The authors on the panel answered questions about writing romance and the new cross-genre markets, how to get published, the elements of a good story, characters, the writing life, and scores of other topics. We had a lively audience and we autographed our books. Everyone went home happy, authors, writers and readers alike. The food was fabulous. I hope this becomes a regular event.

November 2, 2007 - A magic night of Awards
I was presiding at the 2007 Arizona Literary Awards at the Sheraton Crescent Hotel in Phoenix, announcing the winners and giving out prizes. What fun. I was the President of the association for seven years and am still the Editor in Chief for their Literary Magazine and their Authors Directory, as well as the webmistress. During this magic night, I also uncovered the 2007 issue of the Arizona Literary Magazine. Here on the left, Cherie Lee won a raffle basket. In purple the current President, Toby Fesler Heathcotte, and on the far right, the contest coordinator, Greta Manville. See all the pictures HERE and discover the winners of the 2007 Arizona Literary Contest HERE

October 16, and October 23 - Talking at the Mesa Senior Center - UFOs, Aliens, Angels, Demons, Myths or Reality?
I love speaking at this charming facility in Mesa. I always feel welcome there. Yesterday was my third talk in a series, and the topic promised and delivered a lively event. I have been researching these fields for many years, and incorporate that knowledge in my particular brand of fiction. Would you believe it, several people in the audience had actually seen UFOs. So, I guess I'm not the only one. But as I always say in my talks, almost everyone had experiences of an unusual nature, whether paranormal, foretelling the future, seeing auras, seeing ghosts, or any number of socially unacceptable phenomena. It's time to grow up and realize that these things are happening, and scientifically proven or not, they are part of our lives.

October 6, 2007-Black tie affaire - It's awards season
As the 20006 recipient of the Desert Rose Award, I had the honor of bestowing the 2007 Desert Rose award upon this year's recipient, Cathy McDavid, on September 25. I attended tonight the Arizona Book Awards, organized by the Arizona Book Publishers Association, at the Phoenix Country Club where they celebrate the Phoenix Open. I'm on the left, with Toby Heathcotte on the right. On November 2, I will also present the Arizona Literary Awards, organized by the Arizona Authors Association, announcing the winners of the 2007 Arizona Literary Contest. I will uncover the fall 2007 issue of the Arizona Literary Magazine (featuring the winning entries), for which I am the editor in chief.

October 2, 2007 - My interview is up at Nights and Weekends

You can read my interview with little known facts about myself on the book website at Nights and Weekends. The interviewer is Margaret Marr, and I had fun answering her interesting questions. Hope you have fun reading the interview. You can read it HERE

September 25, 2007 - A winner for my free book contest
The lucky winner of my summer "Pick Your Book" contest is Kathy Sholes, from Storrs, CT, and she picked Archangel Crusader. It's a paperback. CONGRATULATIONS KATHY! The autographed book is in the mail and on its way to you. Let me know how you like it.

But if you didn't win, do not despair. There are still books to be won, and the next drawing is on December 16, so don't be shy, and enter again to win my book of your choice.

September 12, 2007 - Happy new addition to the family. Jasmine.

No, it's not a baby, but almost. It's our new kitten. After the loss of my little companion of seventeen years in February, I met a very special kitten who became overnight the queen of the house. Her name is Jasmine, she is nine months old, and she had an unhappy start in life. After being mauled by a dog several months ago as a small kitten, she was rescued by a shelter and underwent extensive surgery. After a long recovery, she was put up for adoption. That's how I found her. She is the sweetest and most daring kitten, and after months in a cage, she enjoys the house and can't wait to go play in the backyard. Now I have my muse back. Cats are good for the soul and for the inspiration.

September 8, 2007 - Me in the AZ Republic again
The saga with my publisher's bankruptcy continues. I was in court Tuesday. Boring stuff. FYI, I added new links to my link page, about information on UFOs. Yes, a Sci-Fi author interested in UFOs? Big surprise... New links are HERE. Now back to writing. Oh, by the way, this is the story I'm writing now. Check it out HERE.

August 17, 2007: My publisher's bankruptcy in the Arizona Republic
The saga continues with Triskelion in the bankruptcy court. Recently Erin Zlomek, a journalist for the Surprise edition of the Arizona Republic, contacted me to give my opinion as she was writing an article on the whole mess. My name is mentioned and quotes from my comments. It is very likely the last book I wrote will be greatly delayed, but not to worry. I'm writing other books and you'll see them in stores soon.

I gave a seminar for writers yesterday in my home, with friend author and college instructor Jeanette F. Chaplin. Ten excited participants learned techniques to overcome Writers' Block and plot better stories. The food (catered by neighbor Clark) was excellent as usual. Here is what Nikki Kimbel had to say: "Thank you for offering the Writers' Block seminar. I enjoyed every bit of it and came away inspired and energized. I would recommend this class to both published and unpublished writers. I have only one recommendation, and that would be to record the brainstorming sessions, because so many ideas were flying around, it was hard to take it all in. Good stuff!"

Thank you, Nikki. And in case you were wondering, this took place in my office (yes I have a large home office) and the scenery behind the window is my back porch and my green backyard in Phoenix Arizona. My husband is from Oregon and is doing a great job of keeping the yard green.

July 31, 2007:

My short story SLEEPING BEAUTY comes live today on the ROMANTIC TIMES BOOK REVIEWS website. Although I write mainly Sci-Fi romance in novel length, I enjoy exploring other avenues with short stories (some have even shocked my readers as they are so different) and when I was asked to write a modern adaptation of a classic fairytale for Romantic Times, I jumped at the opportunity. This venture into classic romance was a lot of fun. No but-kicking, no aliens, no martial arts, no saving the planet, just an intriguing modern story based on a fairytale. I call it a story of greed, attempted murder, and life-saving love. It ends up with a kiss (spoiler alert), but do not expect the same old story. To enjoy the free read, just click HERE.

July 30, 2007:
I changed the look of my website today. Hope you like it. It's a little softer and I updated my portrait. I called the border color iced milk chocolate, smooth and cool at the same time. Any feedback is welcome. Just email me at vijayaschartz@cox.net.

uly 15, 2007:
Today was the drawing of my website contest, where any reader or would be reader can win my book of their choice. The winner today is Shane Davenport, who elected to receive White Tiger (only available in e-book PDF at this time). Congratulations, Shane. Hope you like the read. And for those of you who didn't win or neglected to participate, there is another contest starting today. It's easy, and you can still win my book of your choice, just enter HERE. But hurry, I only have a few copies left of my paperbacks from Triskelion, as the publisher closed their doors this month. So Anaz-voohri, Relics, and Lockdown will not be available in print for the winter contest, although I'll still have the e-book version (PDF) to give away. Good luck!

June 25, 2007
There is life after Triskelion. I was asked to write a short story for the Romantic Times Reviews Magazine website, to launch the Faery Ball, a regular event of the Romantic Times convention, taking place next year in April in Pittsburgh, PA. As is fitting the story is a modern adaptation of a classic fairytale, and I chose SLEEPING BEAUTY - But do not expect the same old fairytale... The story will be posted on August 31, 2007, and I'll let you know where to go to read it. In the meantime, I'm making a page for it on this site. More to come soon HERE

June 22, 2007
It's all over the internet. Triskelion Publishing, my current publisher is closing its doors. There was no warning, although it seemed the company was experiencing financial difficulties. As a result, all my e-books and my latest print books will soon become unavailable. So if you wanted to get ANAZ-VOOHRI, RELICS, LOCKDOWN, WHITE TIGER, or the anthology THIS MAGIC MOMENT, now is the time to get them. As of July 2, 2007, these books will be officially defunct. I have more titles coming in the near future for other publishers, and I'll let you know when I have definite release dates, but in the meantime, get the disappearing titles fast, before they become collectors' items.

May 27, 2007

Okay, it's official. I'm part of the Faery Court sponsoring and organizing the Faery Ball at the Romantic times Booklovers Extravaganza in Pittsburgh next year (April 15-20, 2008). This means that all year I'll be brainstorming, and promoting, this event, which should be absolutely fantastic. Each year, the Fairy Ball is the most anticipated evening at the Romantic Times Convention, with original themes, glitter, costume contests... As part of the promotion, I will be writing a short story on a fairytale theme for the Romantic Times Reviews website. The story should be posted at the end of August. In the meantime, you can check the stories from other Fays in the group HERE

May 14, 2007
Okay, I've been tagged by Kathryne Kennedy, a friend author. So now I have to tell you eight things about me that my readers do not know. Then I'll tag eight unsuspecting friends who'll have to do the same thing.

Now is time to name my eight victims. Sorry guys, you are officially tagged. I tried to find names that weren't tagged already. Here they are:

May 2, 2007 - Getting home in a daze

Hi, everyone. It's amazing how an event like the Book Lovers Convention in Houston can make you feel like a queen. Wonderful organization, great events, glitter and costumes. Every day was a treat and every night an adventure. I made contact with many people, readers old and new, and editors, even Triskelion staff from England that I had never met. Now I can put a name on those faces. My camera broke, so I don't have pictures, but I promise to post a few as soon as my friends get me theirs. Here is one from me in my Genie costume. This was taken at the entrance of the Fairy ball.

April 24, 2007 - Romantic Times Book Lovers Convention in Houston Texas

Tomorrow I'm leaving Phoenix for Houston, Texas, to attend the Romantic Times Book Lovers Convention. This is a different type of gathering, as this conventions includes fans and readers as well as authors and publishers, and the program is festooned with fun activities, balls, the famous Mr. Romance Contest, and other memorable events. I will be a featured author signing my books at the fair Saturday, and one of the stars of the Awards Luncheon on Friday, sponsored by my publisher, Triskelion. If you are close by and/or attending, don't hesitate to come and visit. I'll make myself available to readers and fellow authors and writers at all times.

April 23, 2007 - Las Vegas Writers Conference

I just came back from the Las Vegas Writers Conference, where I taught several workshops on writing, to authors, writers, and teenage students interested in writing. I sat on author panels, and I couldn't help remember when I was attending my first conference, many years ago. If you write, do not try to write in a vacuum. Get in touch with writers groups in your area. They are a priceless source of knowledge, support, and inspiration. Others who made it in this business are willing to share their knowledge. In Las Vegas, over the weekend, The Henderson Writer Group did a fantastic job of organizing this conference and everyone went home with valuable tips and renewed energy to keep writing.

April 1, 2007 - Not an April's fool news - I wrote "The END" on SIEGE
I am relieved! The manuscript of SIEGE, the last book in the Operation: Pleiades series is now resting with the editor. There is always a certain doubt about sending a new book to the publisher. Is it as good as what I wrote before? this one is dynamite. I can't wait to see it published. I'll let you know as soon as I have the release date. The e-book should be out in March 2008, and the print a few months later. Don't miss this explosive conclusion to the Operation: Pleiades series. - You can read the first chapter (unedited) on the book page HERE

March 14, 2007: A great review for This Magic Moment
Just off the press, a great review at Joyfully Reviewed, for This Magic Moment, the anthology that contains my novella Coyote Gorgeous. Check out the whole review HERE. Here is a taste: "Coyote Gorgeous is a romantic adventure from beginning to end. Brimming with twists, secret identities and danger on every page, this is a pager turner that will entertain any reader. I will be interested in checking out additional titles by this author."

Now back to writing. I'm on deadlines! You'll be looking for SIEGE in March next year.

March 2, 2007: Mourning the loss of my beloved kitty cat

Her name was Geisha, and she was the sweetest little creature I ever knew. She consoled me through many hardships in my single days. We traveled together from coast to coast and we got to know each other well during the seventeen years of our friendship. I was petting her and holding her paw in her final hour as she lay on the carpet, and she purred as her little soul flew away in the last minutes of her full, happy life. She now rests in the garden behind the house, in her favorite spot under a rose bush. She will be sorely missed.

February 19, 2007 - I'm on WEB TV!
This is the latest development in author interviews. Now you can watch me on your computer as I talk about my new release, Anaz-voohri. Click HERE then on "authors" at the left of their screen, and watch the seven minute TV interview. How cool is that? Watch the video trailer of Anaz-voohri with music and visual effects HERE - You may have to download a program but it's free. Ask for Anaz-voohri at your favorite bookstore, or order it online at Barnes&Noble, Amazon, Walmart.com, BooksAMillion, etc.

Wishing all of you a fantastic Valentines' Day, with all the flowers, the chocolate and the romantic candles and dinners you can stand. I hope you get that special kiss that makes all the difference in the world. The diamonds are just the icing on the cake. May they sparkle forever in your relationship.

Readers often ask me why I decided to mix romance and Science-Fiction. To which I answer, why not? I used to read Sci-Fi, and although I enjoyed the futuristic worlds created by the authors, I often missed the human element. The plot often eclipsed the characters. As a romance reader, I loved characters, their conflicts, their worries, their relationships to one another. I wanted the story to be about characters, but I didn't like the repetitive storylines of old-fashioned romances. When I started to write, I wrote Science-fiction with well developed characters. Publishers wanted to call it fantasy, because it wasn't traditional science-fiction. Then I thought of my other love: romance. Why not have a romance set in a futuristic setting? The plot would keep the readers on edge, but the conflict and attraction between the characters would be just as intense. At the time, no publisher would take a chance on that new kind of sci-fi romance. White Tiger was refused by many traditional houses. Although they loved it, to the romance market, it was science-fiction/fantasy, and to the Sci-fi market it was too much romance. I had invented a kind of Science-Fiction more attractive to women.

When I met the owners of Triskelion Publishing, and they explained that they were looking for talented authors to write a new kind of romance that would blend with other genres like science-fiction, I realized we were the perfect match. I started writing for them and RELICS, WHITE TIGER, LOCKDOWN, ANAZ-VOOHRI were published. This year, look for SIEGE, the last book in the Operation Pleiades series. Now the main publishing houses are opening new lines of romance mixing Sci-Fi, ghosts, vampires and other elements of other markets.

To watch the book video of Anaz-voohri, click on the link HERE, it's coming out this month in paperback for $6.99. You can order it from your favorite bookstore or online. Tell me how you like my brand of sci-fi romance.

February 5, 2007: The Glendale Chocolate Affaire this weekend was a smashing success - Although my latest release, Anaz-voohri didn't make it in time for the event, the book signing at the Glendale Chocolate Affaire went exceptionally well. Twenty five authors participated, mostly local, but some like Judi McCoy, Renee Bernard, Lois Caroll and Joy Nash flew from the east coast. Thank you to my faithful readers who came to chat and get my new titles as they do each year. I was interviewed on television by Ed Sharpe, for KKAT-TV, the Glendale TV station, and had a chance to talk about RELICS and LOCKDOWN. Look for these programs as they re-run them often. For two and a half days I lived on chocolate-covered strawberries and elephant ears from the Ceretta Candy Factory, and on Artichoke and chicken Crepes from Crepe Tyme. The weather cooperated, a boon for this event (of course, it's Arizona and we had temperatures in the mid seventies). It's over now, I can get back to writing (deadlines don't stop for book signings). Talk to you all very soon.

January 28, 2007: Official release of ANAZ-VOOHRI in paperback
Although the book may not be in your bookstore yet, do not fret. It's coming soon as the publisher is releasing the mass market paperback to the bookstores today. Many of you already ordered their copies, but if you haven't yet, click on the names to order it online from WALMART, AMAZON, BOOKSAMILLION.

January 22, 2006: Rave review for THIS MAGIC MOMENT
I just received this morning a review from Coffee Time Reviews for THIS MAGIC MOMENT, the holiday anthology from Triskelion, featuring among other novellas my COYOTE GORGEOUS. Liadan gave the book a four cups rating. This is what she had to say about my story:

"Exciting and action packed, this story will keep you reading page after page. The characters of Miguel and Kaitlin are superb. Bravo to Ms. Schartz on a story well written and one I will be reading again."

I just discovered that two of my books, Anaz-voohri (e-book) and RELICS (print) were nominated for a contest on Preditors and editors, a website where readers can vote for their favorite books and authors. If you can spare a few seconds, just go to the website below and cast your vote. Thanks for your support. Vote for the books HERE. And/or vote for me as your favorite author HERE. Thank you to each and everyone of you for your loyal support.

January 04, 2007 - New Mass Market Paperback
What better way to start the year than with a new book release? ANAZ-VOOHRI IS COMING OUT THIS MONTH in mass market paperback (yes, the inexpensive kind). Hurry and order it now from your favorite bookstore (Borders, B&N, Waldenbooks, or independent), or online from Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million, or Wal-Mart.com, by clicking on the names.

December 27, 2006 - my birthday
I do not usually advertise my birthday. I stopped counting the years after 29. But I am proud to be a level-headed Capricorn, wise, workaholic, conscientious, and have the ability to be fun-loving and eccentric when the situation calls for it. I never conform (what's normal anyway?) and have original ideas about most things (don't get me started about God or UFOs). But if you dig further you'll discover that despite my social skills I am by nature a hermit. This comes as a shock to most of my friends, but not to my husband, who knows how many hours I spend alone in my cave in front of my computer. So, don't worry, I'll keep writing the stories you love for a long, long time...

December 26, 2006
New fabulous reviews for the Operation Pleiades series and an interview for Vijaya

Go to Love Romances & More and check out the new reviews of RELICS (five hearts) and ANAZ-VOOHRI (four hearts), as well as a special interview HERE of Vijaya with all the authors in the OPERATION PLEIADES series, about writing the series together. Also check out the new page about the continuity series. If you like Sci-Fi and romance, action, intrigue and stories that keep you reading, these series are definitely for you. Sci-Fi SERIES

Here is what they say about Anaz-voohri: "...an enthralling story. Zack is a charming, headstrong, and determined character, the likes of which anyone would be pleased to call friend...
...a definite must read... " four hearts rating (Dec. 2006)

Here is what they say about RELICS: " ...will keep you captivated from beginning to end." 5-hearts rating

December 4, 2006 - New e-book release this week
I was signing my books at Borders in Tempe all weekend (thank god I live in Arizona and the sun shone on the authors outside the store for the Tempe Arts Festival). But while I was signing my latest paperbacks, the holiday anthology from Triskelion THIS MAGIC MOMENT came out in electronic format on their website. The book contains one of my novellas, titled COYOTE GORGEOUS, along with three other stories from three other Triskelion authors. The book is now available for download HERE. If you don't read e-books yet, you'll have to wait for the paperback, but it's not coming out until the fall of 2007 so you'll need much patience. This e-book already received a great review from Romantic Times Magazine and is the perfect holiday companion for heartwarming and action-packed holiday stories with a twist. Hope you all enjoy it. Want to know more about e-books? Click here.

November 24, 2006 - a new contest on this site
This the easiest contest on this site so far. Just visit the contest page after browsing through my books on this site, tell me which book of mine you would like to win, and you are entered. The drawing will take place on February 10, 2007. Good luck!

November 22, 2006 - A slew of new reviews

The first review of the multi-authors anthology from Triskelion, THIS MAGIC MOMENT, coming out December 1st, is in the December issue of Romantic Times. It's a three star, a great score for this tough magazine, and here is what they say: "This anthology gives a refreshing slant to the never-ending array of holiday stories that appear every season... In Schartz's nail-biting "Coyote Gorgeous," Kaitlin, a rookie border patrol guard who has given up on Christmas, finds herself at the mercy of a gorgeous coyote." I especially like the "nail-biting" part.

Romantic Times Magazine also gave three stars to LOCKDOWN: "Packed with tension and action from the first page to the last, Schartz's novel is an exciting adventure. She has a rich imagination and deftly executes it." They also call the book a "scorcher." I didn't realize it was that sexy hot, but apparently it is.

Read it on their website

Also just received a new review of RELICS today from Debbie at c2Kwips&Kritiques. This one is a 4.5 clovers: "...sure to appeal to all readers who cherish a good science fiction story coupled with an incredibly well-developed romance. Kin is the perfect Alpha-male with just the right level of edginess... vivid depictions of Captain Kavak and Jason Carrick increase their sinister appeal as two of the most evil villains ever portrayed... This reviewer... is quickly becoming a fan of Vijaya Schartz." Read it on their website.

November 21, 2006 - My contest has a winner!
Time flies when you are busy. Almost Thanksgiving, and my anthology, THIS MAGIC MOMENT, hasn't come out yet. Welcome to the world of publishing. The release date for the e-book is now early December, 2006. Patience, patience... The paperback will not be available until next year in the fall. The winner of the "Solve-the-riddle" contest on this site is LINDA BASS, who has obviously read several books in the Pleiades series. Not only did she have all the answers right, not only she won the drawing among all those who answered right, but she also happened to be the very first to respond. Congratulations, Linda! You are a true fan. The bad news is, since the released of the anthology was postponed, Linda must wait another two or three weeks for her prize. But it's coming... just in time for the holidays. And speaking of holidays, wishing you all a fantastic Thanksgiving.

November 8, 2006
I'm supposed to blog on the Triskelion authors blogspot today, but for some reason, I just can't get in. Ah the joys of electronics! Anywho, I hope you guys out there are fine. Since I live in Arizona, the day may already be winding down for you in the UK, but here in Phoenix it's a fabulous morning, sunny, and 70 degrees on the patio, with birdsongs streaming from the open windows and the cat sleeping at my feet. Not to make you northerners jealous or anything... I still have to finish my chapter to give to my critique group tomorrow. Right now I'm working on SIEGE, the last book in the Operation: Pleiades series (after Anaz-voohri and Relics). It's going to end in a big splash, and you don't want to miss that. I'm sure you'll have as much fun reading it as I'm having writing it. I'm taking my time on this one. I really want you to love it. And if you want to catch up on the series, RELICS is available in bookstores right now, Anaz-voohri is coming in mass-market paperback soon and is available for pre-order at Barnes and Noble, as for SIEGE, you'll have to wait until next year... You may also download these books from Triskelionpublishing.net if you read e-books.

In the meantime, get ready for a holiday anthology from Triskelion Publishing, coming very soon just in time for the holidays in e-book, and next year in the fall in paperback. Titled THIS MAGIC MOMENT, it features four novellas from four different authors. Mine is titled Coyote Gorgeous. Read more about this anthology here.

November 5, 2006
Friday night, I attended the Arizona Literary Awards last night, always a glitzy event, with the pthe booksellers, the librarians and the writing community. This year the whole event was filmed by an online television station (that's right, after web radio, web TV is coming to your computer sooner than you think). I'll let you know when and where you can view it. The winner in the published novel category was Sam Barone, with DAWN OF EMPIRE, a historical saga from 3500 BC. I was happy for Sam as he used to be in my critique group years ago, when that book was in its infancy. He even acknowledged me in the book, for which I am grateful. This award is well deserved.

Saturday, I presented a morning workshop at the Fall Writers Conference at the Scottsdale Civic Center Library all day. We had great attendance. Diana Gabaldon was the keynote speaker and I taught a workshop about writing to enthrall and participated in a panel in the afternoon. Oh, and great news: There is a book trailer in the air, about Anaz-voohri. You know, these presentations that look like a little movie, but are about a book? I'll keep you guys posted on the progress.

October 29, 2006:
Just received a new review today, from Fallen Angels Reviews by Teresa. Five-angels rating, another perfect score for ANAZ-VOOHRI. Here is the conclusion:

"Ms. Schartz has created a fast paced romance with just the right amount of action that will hold the reader’s desire to find out what will happen next. I couldn’t put the book down until I finished it. The romance between Zack and Tia was very realistic in that even though things didn’t work out the way they wanted, they never forgot or truly gave up on each other. To maintain their belief in spite of all the information to the contrary made this book very memorable. I felt the use of the old legends of Anasazi added another level of reality to this book. I liked how Ms. Schartz created both good and bad humans and aliens, just the way it is in real life. I look forward to reading other books in the Pleiades series." Read the whole review HERE.

I'm still chatting on the Yahoo loops until Tuesday. For more details on how to join the fun, click HERE.

October 27, 2006:
Just got a kick out of a new listing for all my books. On a Japanese Amazon.com website, no less. Check it out HERE. Also, I'm chatting and posting scary excerpts of my books (oh yes, I have a few scary ones!) on the Triskelion Yahoo groups. For more details on how to join the fun, click HERE. Hope to see you there sometime between now and Halloween!

October 23, 2006:
Halloween blogging and chats ahead! It's going to be scary, exciting, and loads of fun. I will be on the Triskelion Loops, on October 27-28-29-30, posting excerpts and chatting with readers. Also on Halloween day, Tuesday, October 31, I will be chatting at Love Romances Café. All these chats are free and include many prizes for participants. More details on my scheduled chats and other appearance HERE. Hope to meet you all soon on one of these loops.

October 15, 2006:
I just learned that Anaz-voohri, not only is coming out in print in January, but that you can already order it from Barnes & Noble HERE - Also, it's a mass market paperback, so it's much cheaper than the trade paperbacks and sells for only $6.99.

October 8, 2006:
I am a guest blogger today at the Triskelion authors blogspot, where I reveal a few things about my daredevil self. Check it out at triskelionauthors.blogspot.com I wish you all a fantastic day.

October 2, 2006:
It seems lately that people I had lost track of just rushed back into my life. After Dorian Wallace, the director interested in making Ashes for the Elephant God into a movie, I heard from Debbie Neckel, the retired owner of the Book Crazy Radio Station, for whom I hosted Authors Secrets radio for several years. And today, I was surprised to receive a phone call from Sharon Day, a dear friend I knew many years ago in Hawaii, who since married a British Lord and lives in England. I believe events happen in waves and I rather like this particular cycle bringing into my life the people I love and respect. I wish you all similar happy experiences.

September 20, 2006:
Had fun chatting on several Triskelion loops today, posting excerpts of my books, some of them never posted anywhere before. Got a chance to brag about my glowing reviews of Anaz-voohri, but now I have to cram to finish my chapter for my critique group meeting tomorrow. It's a love scene for SIEGE, the novel scheduled for next year (the last book in the Operation Pleiades series). If you want a peek, visit my page for SIEGE HERE

September 18, 2006:
The second review for Anaz-voohri just came yesterday, and it's a perfect score, five steaming cups from Coffee Time Romance. Kathy called the book: "an epic novel of enduring love despite Herculean obstacles and extraterrestrial intrigues. I was caught up from the first sentence... I adored this book." What more could I ask for? I am jumping up and down and my cats look at me funny. Of course, I never claimed to be sane. You can read the whole review HERE

September 4, 2006:
Finally, Anaz-voohri is here! The long wait is over. You may now purchase this download from Triskelion Publishing HERE. Click on the book cover to learn more about this riveting futuristic action romance. ck2skwips&Kritiques gave it a 4.5 clovers rating review. Read the full review HERE. Read an excerpt of the book HERE. And tomorrow is the last day to enter my contest to win the PDF version of this new novel, so hurry. On September 6, a new contest will start to win THIS MAGIC MOMENT, a holiday anthology from Triskelion, featuring a novella from Vijaya Schartz, titled Coyote Gorgeous. More about this gorgeous coyote and the anthology HERE.

September 1, 2006:
Had a chat on the Triskelion Fever loop this afternoon. It was all about hunks, with excerpts of sizzling love scenes. It was great fun as I have a whole harem of hunky heroes in my books. Thanks to all who participated or lurked in the shadows. We talked about Kin, the Chinese Super Ninja of RELICS, Captain Cole Riggeur, in charge of the Garrison of the galactic penitentiary of Zurin-five in LOCKDOWN, Dragomir, the dream lover of WHITE TIGER, as well as Michael Tanner, the hero of ARCHANGEL CRUSADER (also available in audiobook) and ARCHANGEL CHECKMATE, and his sexy archenemy, Krastinios. We also talked about Zack, the hero of ANAZ-VOOHRI, due for release next week, and Miguel, the sexy Coyote of COYOTE GORGEOUS, a novella in a holiday anthology, THIS MAGIC MOMENT, due in paperback and e-book in November of this year from Triskelion.

August 21, 2006:
I am celebrating the first review for Anaz-voohri, my novel from Triskelion soon to be available in download from Triskelion Publishing, starting in September. It's a 4.5 clovers rating! Debbie, the reviewer from ck2skwips&Kritiques loved it, and it made my day brighter. When a new novel comes out, it's always nerve-wracking to wait for the first review. Will it sink? Swim? or fly? This one is flying high already, and I feel much better.

Here is a taste: "ANAZ-VOOHRI is a fantastic futuristic science fiction adventure... part of the Operation Pleiades series but can definitely be read as a stand alone novel... the evil Captain Kavak certainly ranks as one of the worst villains ever encountered! ...the romantic element is intertwined in the storyline. Vijaya Schartz has written a book that is definitely out-of-this-world!"

August 20, 2006: I don't want my readers to feel guilty.
An uproar among Romance authors is rising about lack of sales due to readers using cheap ways to read their favorite authors, like libraries, used bookstores, discounted bargain books, and exchanging books with fellow readers. Author Susan Gable started a blog bomb on the topic, stating that only new book sales count in insuring a writer's future career, which is true.

But although authors only make pennies on each book sold and whether or not they publish another book depends on the sales of their current release, I think it's unfair to make the reader feel guilty about saving money. I say readers who can afford to buy the book should buy it in the store, and by doing so, they support their favorite author, making sure there will be another book for them to read.

Readers less fortunate can help support their favorite authors in many other ways. By requesting a book or an author to be added to their local libraries, by recommending a book or author to be carried by their local bookstores, by recommending the book and the author to their friends and family, they can increase exposure and sales for that author as well. I love my readers, no matter how they get my books and I respect them too much to make them feel guilty about falling upon hard times. So go ahead, my latest paperbacks are 30% off at Amazon.com and qualify for free shipping HERE. My older books are also available used. Read your heart out with my blessing.

August 18, 2006:
Just finished the edits for my fall books and feverishly working out the details of my participation in the Romantic Times Book Lovers Convention April 25-29 2007 in Houston TX. I'll be there, people, signing my books and parading with gorgeous cover models. Triskelion, my publisher, is sponsoring the Awards Luncheon on Friday. I'm going to be one of their star authors. How fabulous is that? Got to lose a few pounds, tone up those muscles, and find the perfect dress for the red carpet. My giant book covers will be hanging from the rafters. I've never been to RT (Romantic Times Convention) before, but I'm very excited. Now back to writing. I'm working on SIEGE, to come out in 2007. More on my future appearances and conferences HERE

August 9, 2006:
Just received the cover for the holiday anthology coming out this November from Triskelion Publishing in paperback and e-book. Isn't it gorgeous? This Magic Moment is a collection of four sizzling romantic novellas including one by Vijaya Schartz, titled COYOTE GORGEOUS, featuring the breathtaking adventures of Kaitlin, a feisty border patrol agent. Click on the cover for more info. The other stories include A Faery Divine Christmas, by Michelle Levigne, with a smart-aleck matchmaker fae named Maurice - Eight Crazy Nights by Michele Lang features a ghost on the front lawn and a telepathic hero at Hannukah - Christmas Spirits, by Christy Gissendaner, includes a spirit lover from the Ivory Coast as well as meddling relatives. A great read and a wonderful gift, coming out in November, just in time for the holiday season.

July 31, 2006:
It's my day on the Yahoo loop of Love Romances Cafe. The funny thing about loops, is that sometimes the messages take many hours to get posted. So, as I started posting this morning at 9 am my time in Arizona, 12 noon on the East Coast, it's now 1 pm for me and 4 pm in NY, and none of my messages has gone through yet. What's a writer to do? I keep sending excerpts, pictures, blurbs, and other tidbits, info about myself, interesting trivia, hoping that sooner of later these emails will actually show up on the loop. Had I known it took so long, I would have sent them last night. But hey, live and learn. The good thing about it, is that I won't have to worry about missing my favorite TV shows tonight (one of them is Kyle XY) because if this goes at the same speed, I'll have to cut down early in order not to exceed my deadline of 11 pm Eastern time. So if you are trying to get my emails on the loop, they are coming... many hours late...

July 25, 2006
Just sent some advance reading copies of Anaz-voohri to a few reviewers. It will take months before the first reviews trickle in, but I had a dream last night about this book making people so involved they cried. I hope it's a good thing (the book is a little more dramatic than my previous stories), but don't worry, it's popular fiction, and I promise it ends well, although you will have your doubts on the way. If you want to know more, join my loop day on Love Romances Cafe, on Monday, July 31, from noon EST to midnight (9 am to 9 pm on the west coast or in Arizona, as AZ doesn't observe light-saving time...no need). You may want to join this yahoo group a few days before the chat. Here is the link: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/LoveRomancesCafe

July 17, 2006
The cover of my upcoming futuristic romantic suspense, ANAZ-VOOHRI, is officially out. Check out the larger version HERE. Don't you love those kick-butt heroines? This one is Tia Vargas, a former West Point cadet, now leading special ops against an alien enemy with sinister intentions, the Anaz-voohri. She is a handful to deal with, for my UFOlogist hero, Zack Duncan. More HERE

July 16, 2006
Just returned from a weekend long book signing at Borders in the Phoenix area with other local authors. It went splendidly despite the blistering heat. It's always fun to meet the readers and see that they come back time and again to buy my new titles. I was signing RELICS and LOCKDOWN. A great ego-booster.

July 12, 2006
I just posted excerpts of White Tiger, Relics, Lockdown, Anaz-voohri, and Coyote Gorgeous on the Triskelion's books loop and Fever loop. If you'd like to join these loops or take a peek, do it by clicking on the blue words. FYI the fever loop is for 18 of age and over and features more sensual material. If you haven't entered my contest yet, try your hand at pinning the cat on my novels HERE to win the PDF version of my upcoming novel, ANAZ-VOOHRI. It's easier than it looks, and you can find clues on this site. Good luck!

July 1, 2006:
Glad to announce the winner of my contest to win the PDF version of White Tiger. I printed all the names, cut them down, folded them in a bowl, and went to the back yard where my husband Dan was cleaning some paint brushes (there is always a project going on in our house). With his not so innocent hand, he picked the lucky winner. Her name is Jodi Shadden, from Ridgecrest California. Congratulations, Jodi. Now for the many of you who entered but didn't win this time, there is a new contest on this site. You'll have to work a little harder to win, but the prize is worth it. You'll be the first to read the PDF version of my brand new novel coming this September, ANAZ-VOOHRI. Read more about it HERE.

June 30, 2006:
Settling down for a hot Fourth of July weekend in Arizona, I wish you all a fantastic time, with good company, good food, and good cheer. And let's not forget our soldiers out there. Thanks to them we are a free country. Many of my heroes and heroines are soldiers. Their courage is an example and an inspiration to us all. What would we do without heroes. We love them in books, and we love them in life. Hang in there and stay safe. We want you to come back and tell us your amazing stories. In the meantime, we'll pray for your safe return.

June 17, 2006:
Just finished the first chapter of my 2007 release, Operation: Pleiades - SIEGE, the last book in the Pleiades series, another futuristic romantic suspense. The editors want it hot, so it will be a little more risqué than my last books, with a sexy scene in the very first chapter, so be prepared. But, of course, I'm not sacrificing any action or adventure, just adding a little spice, since readers seem to like it hot. More about the story here. Still waiting on the cover for ANAZ-VOOHRI, scheduled for release in September 2006. From the first book to the last in the series, with one in the middle, I'll have opened and closed this series and followed some of the characters all along. It gives me a sense of completion. Have a fantastic weekend.

June 12, 2006:
Hard at work on a new project, the last book of the Pleiades series, visit the new page I just posted on that new novel for 2007, titled SIEGE here. I also wanted to tell you that COYOTE GORGEOUS, my Christmas novella, will come out in electronic book and in print in November 2006. I'll post the cover as soon as I have it and it shouldn't be long now. Hope you are having a wonderful summer. Here in Arizona, the temperature has already reached baking heat and we are expecting an early monsoon. Thank god for swamp coolers and air-conditioners. From my perfectly comfortable home office, I wish you all a fun-filled summer.

May 31, 2006:
Great News today! Triskelion will publish my Christmas story in their 2006 anthology to be released just in time for the holidays. The story, titled COYOTE GORGEOUS, is a contemporary romantic suspense involving a female Arizona Border Patrol Agent on watch on Christmas Eve, and, you've guessed it, a gorgeous coyote. Read more about it HERE. Also, Anaz-voohri, my prequel to the Pleiades Series will come out in electronic format first, in September of 2006, to be followed by print as well. More about it HERE. My other good news is that I will be writing the last book in the Pleiades series, titled SIEGE, it features the final battle to keep our planet in human hands and is slated for release in 2007. I'll tell you more as soon as I know more. On deadlines again... and not complaining.

May 22, 2006:
The controversy today in Hollywood seems to be about ad placement in TV shows storylines, such as cars and soda advertisement in Desperate Housewives and even Red Lobster ads disguised as entertainment in How I Met Your Mother. The networks reminded writers that since many viewers skipped the commercials they needed an edge to satisfy their advertisers. I see no harm in having a can of soda on the table between two characters in the frame if it fits the story. If the restaurant fits the characters, fine, a flashing of the restaurant's name can work, too. This kind of subliminal advertising has been going on in movies for a long time. But having advertisers re-write the script so the characters go on and on about how good the food is at a particular restaurant, repeating the name like in a commercial is an insult to the writers.

In the Christmas story I'm currently writing, about Border Patrol officers in Arizona, the heroine drives a Hummer and the bad guys a Jeep. What if the TV adaptation changed the cars to Mitsubishis because they wanted that brand to sponsor the show? It could happen and would make the story highly unbelievable. People in the know would laugh and think that the writer didn't research the topic. As always, logic and moderation should be the key. In this particular case, ask Hummer to sponsor the show, as it would be a perfect fit, and please, leave the writing to the authors.

May 5, 2006:
While waiting for the edits on my next release, ANAZ-VOOHRI, I sent a few requested submissions (for my medieval fantasy series) and updated the websites I maintain for writers organizations I belong to: Valley of the Sun Romance Writers and Arizona Authors Association. I also have to get ready for the seminar I will give with Jeanette F. Chaplin on Saturday May 13 on PLOTTING YOUR STORY, (click on blue links to learn more). It never ends. My husband started remodeling the front of the house, and my publisher wants more books. When will I have the time to update the living-room? But don't worry, I love my life as an author.

April 23, 2006:
Just back from Desert Dreams Writers Conference, in Scottsdale, Arizona. A fabulous three days of networking, meeting agents and editors, taking the pulse of the publishing market, hearing from the most successful authors of popular fiction the secrets of their personal success. We also had a very successful book signing, and I headed a dinner table on Saturday night about writing futuristic novels. I think all who attended returned to their computers inspired, more knowledgeable, and full of energy to craft their very best novel ever.

April 20, 2006
Finally, I sent Anaz-voohri to the editor. Now I can celebrate. I haven't been given a publication date yet, but the book will come out in electronic format first, probably in June, followed by the paperback, probably for the holidays. I'm very excited about this new story. It's a prequel to the Operation: Pleiades series, and sets the scenes for all the other books in the series. several of these novels are already available in electronic format and in print. RELICS, finalist in the Golden Quill literary contest, is my other contribution to this series. Other books are from various authors. Each book, however, is a story of its own and can be read separately. More about RELICS HERE - More about ANAZ-VOOHRI HERE

April 03, 2006
Still working on the last edits of Anaz-voohri to send it to the publisher. But I couldn't resist telling you about the latest review of LOCKDOWN, a 5-angel rating by Dena from Fallen Angel Reviews, that says: "...suspenseful, gripping saga of survival, betrayal, and hope...the resourcefulness and courage that occurs when a person refuses to admit defeat and die. I cheered and was anxious for Cole and Rhonda until the surprising finale." It's so great to see my work recognized by the reviewers. Hope you all enjoy the book. Check out the full review HERE

March 20, 2006
Just returned from speaking at the Ice Escape Writers and Publishers convention in Mesa. A great experience as everyone loved my workshops and I was invited to speak next spring in Las Vegas for another writers conference. Met interesting writers and editors. But it's time to get back to my writing. Deadlines are still looming. Will chat more when my new book, Anaz-Voohri, is in my editor's mailbox. Ciao.

March 10, 2006
Deadlines, deadlines, deadlines. It seems we are all rushing to finish something. When writing my current novel, however, although I am on deadlines, I can't afford to send to my publisher something any less that the absolute best I can produce. That's why I asked for an extension for my new book scheduled to come out in the spring, a prequel to the Operation Pleiades series titled ANAZ-VOOHRI. As I am writing the last chapters, new ideas emerge that will make the book so much better, and as an artist and a perfectionist, I can't possibly let the book go to press without incorporating these wonderful new ideas. A book matures with time as you write, and by the end, I've learned so much about my characters, that they come to life and speak to me. Don't be alarmed, it's a common thing for authors to speak to their characters and vice-versa. Take a peek HERE.

March 2, 2006
I spoke to about a hundred Coronado High School students in Scottsdale Arizona this morning. Such a wonderful bunch of young people. Towards the end of my workshop, some strange sound came on the PE system. I didn't pay attention to it and went on answering questions. When one of the teachers signaled for me to wrap it up from the back of the class, I did. Then the teacher came to me and said, "You had these teenagers truly interested and spellbound. I can't believe they didn't just pick up and leave when the bell rang. Do you have any idea how much of a compliment that is?" That was my ego boost for the day.

February 26, 2006:
Getting ready for a book signing Tuesday at a meeting of romance writers, and I'll be speaking in a school in Scottsdale Thursday for National Reading Day. Still working on Anaz-voohri to be released in the spring. Funny how deadlines make you sit and actually write your little butt off all day. And I am in the middle of releasing my first audiobook by Blue Planet Books. It's the integral version of Archangel Crusader on one CD (eight hours of listening). It's in MP3, so you can listen on your computer, Ipod or any MP3 player, even some DVD players (but not a CD player). Check it out HERE

February 11, 2006:
Just received word of a new review of The Garrison Lockdown. What a fantastic way to boost an author's ego. Marlene Breakfield at Paranormal Romance calls Lockdown "an exciting, action-packed futuristic romance...The action reminded me of an INDIANA JONES movie and the romance was equally intense." Check out the whole review HERE

February 5, 2006:
A good day at the Chocolate Affaire in Glendale, Arizona. I met many fans and romance and chocolate addicts. We (a whole bunch of fiction authors) autographed lots of books. I gave a workshop on writing the action scene, my specialty, to eager writers considering a writing career.

January 31, 2006:
Great interview on 3TV today for Good Day Arizona, with Scott Passmore and Tara Hitchcock, to announce my book signing at the Chocolate Affaire in Glendale this weekend. The book covers looked gorgeous on the screen. Hope to see some of you at the event Sunday. It should be fun. Romance and chocolates? Who could wish for anything more? Also look for my interview in the Arizona Republic tomorrow Wednesday. More on my upcoming appearances HERE

January 29, 2006:
Nothing like going on a trip to a conference, (I was in Tucson this weekend for Wrangling With Writing, signing my books), to return with the media knocking at your door. Channel 3 GOOD DAY ARIZONA will interview me with another author, Tina Gerow, Tuesday January 31 (from 11 am to 12 pm Arizona time) to talk about our book signing at the Chocolate Affaire coming up next weekend in Glendale Arizona. Nothing like a little TV and face recognition to get my readers excited about attending the event. I hope to see many of you there. I'm scheduled on Sunday afternoon, signing and teaching a workshop for writers on "Writing to Enthrall" my specialty, of course, about writing suspenseful action scenes. More on my appearances page HERE.

January 25, 2006
Got interviewed today by Beth Cochrane from the Arizona Republic, for an article about the Chocolate Affaire in Glendale on February 3-4-5, an event of chocolate and romance at 58th Avenue and Glendale Avenue. I will be teaching a workshop for aspiring authors on "writing to enthrall, the art of the action scene." on Sunday February 5 at 2 pm. I'll be autographing my books all afternoon, on stage at the bottom of the small arena by the Civic building on the west side of Murphy park, behind the Velma Teague Library.

This weekend I'll be in Tucson at the Wrangling with Writing Conference at the Holiday Inn - Palo Verde - 4550 S. Palo Verde Boulevard, Tucson, AZ 85715 in the foyer of the hotel, alongside NYT best selling authors. If you are anywhere near these events, please come and say hi.

January 12, 2006
A great day with two five-star reviews for The Garrison LOCKDOWN, one from Action Girl on the Amazon.com page, and the other from Realms of Love by Phoenix Forrester. While Action Girl thinks this book should be on the NYT best-seller list, Phoenix Forrester says: "...kept me on the edge of my desk chair, completely mesmerized by the non-stop action and suspense...I recommend "The Garrison" to anybody, and everybody." So there. I'll be singing and dancing all day.

January 10, 2006
It's about time I resume my blog after a short vacation (well, not really, just writing like crazy to catch up with my deadlines). During that time I saw a wonderful movie, "Brokeback Mountain," a haunting story of forbidden love, based on a short story by Annie Proulx, well written and fantastically acted by Keith Ledger and Jake Gyllenhaal. I have to confess I am a movie fan. Where else can you find a story in a capsule, study dialogue, and learn about what works and what doesn't in storytelling. I use movies as a writing tool. Also enjoyed a rerun of a TV movie (yes some of them are exceptionally good). It was titled "The Soul Collector" based on Kathleen Kane's novel Pocketful of Paradise, with Bruce Greenwood, Melissa Gilbert and Ossie Davis. I love it when novels and short stories make great movies!

December 30, 2006
Thank you for visiting my site in 2005 and for your continued support. I sincerely wish you the most rewarding year 2006, with warmth, love, light, and happiness, as well as success and all the good things you certainly deserve. Make your good resolutions stick, I'll try. In Japan women clean their houses on New Year's eve and make Mochi on New Year's day. Cleaning is not one of my high priorities. I give you this waving good luck New Year cat, also a Japanese tradition.

December 28, 2005
Just had another birthday yesterday. I hated it when I was a kid, to get Christmas and my birthday at the same time because the two dates were so close. But I'm a Capricorn, a practical workaholic according to astrology. Fortunately, I get my vivid imagination and my whimsy from a rising Sagittarius. Jupiter and Venus in Sagittarius also push me to travel all over the world. In other words, it could be worse, but for a writer, I received a good balance of practicality and fantasy. For those interested in astrology and tarot, my tarot card is the Hermit, which I am most of the time, slaving away at my computer in my cave, until I have to show up for a conference or a book signing, where I play the whimsical guest. Hope your holidays are warm and bright. Of course, in Arizona it's always the case. Temperatures in Phoenix today expected to be in the mid seventies.

December 16, 2005
There was supposed to be a chat today at Coffee Time Romance, but because of a mix-up in the time and place, they did it in the morning on a secondary chat line, and we all missed it, authors and readers alike. My sincere apologies to the fans expecting to chat with me today. Don't worry there will be other times. I'm getting very excited about the release of Archangel Crusader in audiobook in the spring. I've heard the first drafts and it sounds wonderful, with sound effects. It's the unabridged version so you don't miss anything. The book has been available for a few years, but it's my first audiobook. So, Yeah! Hope you guys like it, too. Find out what's the audiobook is about HERE and click HERE for the Trade Paperback.

December 13, 2005
What's the deal about the controversial Christmas tree? Have we forgotten the origins of holiday traditions? Here is a crash course in little known history:

Until the mid nineteenth century in western France, in a conservative Catholic family, decorating a tree for Christmas was considered a sin because of its pagan origins. A good Catholic would have a small nativity scene in the house. And the jolly good fellow was an obvious calamity from the devil, for only Baby Jesus could possibly perform the kind of miracle of bringing gifts to all the deserving children in one night. Even if it was only an orange. At least, that's what children were told.

The tradition of decorating trees and giving gifts on December 25 dates from times immemorial. At the time, it celebrated the winter solstice, as the days stopped diminishing and the hours of sunlight lengthened. An evergreen symbolized hope for the spring to come, and whatever gods ruled the temples also ruled the festivities.

So is it a coincidence that Jesus was born on December 25? Guess again. Any sheep herder in the holy land will tell you that for the shepherds to be out with the sheep in the mountains at night, it had to be spring. Also Jesus is a Pisces, as attested by the symbol of the fish still used by many churches. He is considered the messiah who brought forth the age of the Pisces, which rules the Zodiac from February 19 to March 20, the approximate and logical time of Jesus' birth.

These were well known facts at the beginning of Christianity. Pope Gregory the first, however, decided to celebrate the birth of Christ on December 25 to prevent the population from celebrating the most popular pagan holiday. So now they would rejoice in the name of Christ's birth instead. Many other pagan practices like the tree survived, carried on into the new faith. Even the ancient cult of the Goddess was brought into the Catholic fold through the adoration of the Virgin Mary, among other compromises. Hence the major disagreements that later led to the Protestant separatist movement to return to pure Christianity.

Decking trees with ribbons and other colorful decorations never faded from tradition since ancient times. Unable to prevent them, the church tried to ignore the old practices, but the rich kept exchanging gifts. So the church instituted the twelve days of Christmas as portrayed in the song for giving gifts, from December 25 to January 6, when the wise men, the Magi or the kings reached the stable and paid their respects to the newborn. That practice has come and gone. Who can afford twelve days of gift giving?

Soon, the new St. Nicholas favored by the church brought his gifts on St. Nicholas day, at the beginning of December. That, too, eventually failed. The jolly fellow of older traditions, renamed Papa Noel or Father Christmas, now replaced by Santa Claus in the English speaking world, still does the job of bringing presents to the good children on December 25. Even the mistletoe, the sacred plant of the Druids, remains a symbol of the holidays, and so does the tree.

Whether you call it Christmas tree, holiday tree, or any other name, there will always be a decorated tree on December 25, and gifts and rejoicing, and hope for a better future. Ideas, political regimes, even religions evolve, but traditions anchored at the very roots of the natural cycle of seasons remain. So why can't we enjoy this time of year together? Isn't that what the holidays are all about? Peace and hope and togetherness?

Happy holidays to all.