I keep my yearly reading challenge between 20 to 30 books. That gives me time to enjoy quite a few stories, while also writing my own books. Here’s some of what I’ve read!
I usually work on several stories at a time. Regardless of which story has most of my attention, they all have a few things in common.
A Set of Twins:
A Character with a Sweet Tooth:
When I’m not writing, I love watching dramas. One of my favorites this year is The Rebel Princess, a Chinese costume drama, starring Zhang Zi Yi and Zhou Yi Wei. I’d first seen Zhang Zi Yi in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. Zhou Yi Wei was a new actor to me. Together they portrayed Awu and Xiao Qi, two individuals with strong convictions.
There were so many wonderful elements:
This was a spectacular drama. The competition was fierce. I could tell because by episode 65, so many characters featured in the intro had died. ??
Fortunately, the show wasn’t difficult to locate because all the episodes were officially on YouTube. While it consisted of 68 episodes, it was well-worth the time. Don’t worry. This drama had a happy ending.
While I’m writing, I listen to a little bit of everything. Check out my Soundcloud playlists!
Music for Chilling 1 – Electric Rock, Dream Pop
Music for Chilling 2 – Electric Rock, Ambient
Music for Chilling 3 – Trance, Progressive Trance
Music for Chilling 4 – Trip Hop, Ambient, Down Tempo
As of today, I’ve watched all available episodes of Attack on Titan (Shingeki no Kyojin), an action/dark fantasy/post-apocalyptic anime. While the series has many interesting characters, the best discussions have taken place about Eren Yeager and Gabi Braun. The below video, by WordyBlerd, is an excellent analysis of Eren and Gabi. I understand why these two operate as they do but, in complicated circumstances like the ones in the series, the reasons for their actions matter.
My perspective is that, with all the horrors they’ve had to endure, Eren is more confident. Gabi, however, is brash and loud, which can look like confidence. Most societies cater to people who are extroverted and confuse being loud with being confident/informed/right.
In terms of strong character similarities, I believe Reiner Braun and Eren are the most alike and in more than superficial ways. Both Reiner and Eren are driven, but that doesn’t make them ignore the circumstances. They’re able to pivot and accept new truths. By the way, it’s interesting that Reiner’s name encompasses Eren. Maybe that’s an accident, but it still fascinates me.
At any rate, there are still more episodes in this fourth and final season. I’ve been watching the anime, but I’m planning on diving back into the manga. A show with this much conflict and depth must have more layers to explore in the books. When it’s all said and done, who knows how I’ll feel?
I cannot believe it’s 2021! I’m so excited about what I have planned:
Winter has arrived, tempting me to wrap myself in a thick blanket and continue writing. Here are my plans for this season.
Balance: This series is still a priority, but I’m shifting my focus to my other stories for a while.
The Architect’s Guardian: I’m almost ready for the next step with Awakening, book one of this series. That means sending it to an editor.
The Agitator’s Code: The first book in this series, Vaironian Tides, is available! Purchase an ebook or paperback at these retailers. I’m revising my manuscript for the second book, which is titled Ledani Moons.
I’m so excited about 2020! Here’s some of what I have in mind:
It’s Dragon Age Day! When I’m not writing, one of the ways I relax is by playing video games. BioWare’s Dragon Age Series has become a favorite of mine. It has such rich lore that pulls you into the complicated realm of Thedas.
Since the first game was released in 2009, the series has grown in popularity. December 4th became the day for fans to celebrate these incredible role-playing games.
I’ve enjoyed the three releases, with “Dragon Age: Inquisition” being the most engaging for me. Why? It has my favorite romance options! Cullen Stanton Rutherford and Solas drew my attention the most. By the way, Solas stomped all over my Inquisitor’s heart. LOLSOB!
I look forward to the next game in the series. In the meantime, here’s one of my characters, Zahra Lavellan. She’s handling business, by kicking this clown out the window!
I hope 2019 gets off to a great start and just keeps getting better. I’m excited about what’s ahead for me, like finishing the first draft of The Architect’s Guardian.
There will be much more info too, including some fantastic publishing news later this year!
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