The Reason We're Really Here

It has been a long time since I made a post about the actual books themselves and, let's face it, that's why we're really here. I haven't been doing much promotion for a few reasons: A) I was not happy with my publisher. B) I didn't believe anyone wanted to read my stories. C) My depression made me believe I'd never write another story. Here's the good news: I have the rights back for Keeper and Enemies will follow in June. I know people want to read my stories. I've opened the fourth and fifth books up and remembered why I love this series...the characters are incredible! I've read some of the dialogue I wrote so long ago and laughed out loud.

So...I thought I'd tell you a little bit about books that you may not have known.

Did I ever tell you that Adam and Luna weren't even on my radar? I mean, c'mon, Adam had maybe 3 lines in Keeper. The second book was actually supposed to be Fire and Ice. It was going to be about Lance and Pearl. Then, Adam pushed his way through to the forefront and let his demands be known. Then, the rest of the cast followed his example. Fire and Ice is...well...on ice at the moment while I work on those damn Black boys and Gideon...sigh...Gideon.

Mr. Fischer was a character who appeared from out of nowhere. As a writer, I know that every character has a purpose, but my original thought was "What on earth could Mr. Fischer be here for?" After all, he was ornery and just an unpleasant person...unless you were Luna. He actually reminds me of an old family friend (who has passed away). He acted like he was ornery when it actuality, he had a heart of pure gold and was one of the sweetest people you could ever meet. Mr. Fischer taught me a lot.

Samson...oh, sweet Samson! Do you know I put the book aside for three days after I wrote his scene? Three days and I wasn't sure I wanted to write again. Samson is the one character I love as much as the main characters. He's the bear shifter version of my dad. And my father passed away before Enemies was released. I had the contract which he knew about and was proud of, but the book hadn't been released yet. He never knew about the third book. I had been able to keep him alive with my dear Samson.

There is actually a thought in the back of my mind to make a cookbook based on Lorelai's recipes. It's just a dream at this point because I'm not sure it's a feasible idea at the moment. A) I'm not sure if people would be interested. B) I'm not sure people actually do a lot of cooking anymore. C) I'd have to do a lot of cooking and making things look pretty for pictures. LOL

Here's a funny little fact: Adam was loosely based on someone who used to walk through the theater where I used to write. How funny is it that the real-life version (looks, personality, attitude, everything) of Adam entered my life over a year and a half ago? 5 years AFTER the books were released? I will admit that my heart skipped a few beats when he walked in the door. I mean, after all this time, Adam is still the main character who has my heart. Gideon makes me sigh and I love the Black boys, but Adam is...damn near perfect!

As you can see, if you have crossed my path at some point, you will end up in my stories. If you know me personally, I wonder if  you've found yourself in the stories yet. If you have, let me know! It would be funny if you could figure it all out.

Some more book news for you: The covers for Keeper and Enemies are finished! Keeper is going to go back to the original title that I had: The Sheriff and the Hellraiser. Enemies will remain Natural Born Enemies. The first round of edits for the former Keeper are almost finished. I don't foresee any drastic changes being made. I love the story, but there are just some horrible errors that were overlooked when they were originally published. The website will be ready when the first book is re-released.

Happy Winter Solstice

Last night, I spent the evening with friends...not just any old friends, but the special type of friends who are more family than mere acquaintances. We had terrific food, filthy and fun conversation, laughs until our bellies hurt, a few tears shed, but we had the most amazing time.

I was reflecting on one conversation in particular. This beautiful friend lost her father at the end of May this year. This is her first holiday season without him. I understand her grief in so many ways. I told her recently how I pick up the phone to dial my dad's number whenever something amazing happens to me, then I lay the phone down because I know he's never going to answer the phone. She's been checking her phone for messages from her dad and realizing he will never call her again. Two women met due to, well...similar interests, yet bonded in so many ways...losing our fathers is merely one of so many.

The conversation we had on the way to the solstice bonfire came back and made me realize that these people, though I haven't known them long, are my family. I don't have to hide who I am, what I believe, or any other thing you can imagine. They accept me for simply being me. They don't judge (okay, maybe a little, but that's okay) me for my faith, my beliefs, my relationship status, or anything else. I think we hug more than most families, too. And I mean those nice long hugs that tell you that these people miss you when you're not around and care about you. That is so nice! I'm such a touchy-feely person. I love to touch and be touched.

My family may not be made up of a mother, father, and siblings. My family is one of friends who are very like-minded. We are accepting of each other's weird little quirks and love each other in spite (or because) of them.

Last night was the only "real" holiday I will spend with family. That is perfectly fine by me since I've had way too many family holidays where I feel like the odd man out. I'm usually the butt of the jokes with my biological family. With my 'self-made' family, everyone gets equal teasing and ribbing, but when we walk away, it's always with a hug and a promise to see each other again soon.

I want to take this moment to tell you this: Family is who stands with you, for you, and beside you. It doesn't have to be people who share the same DNA or bloodline. Your family is those who accept you at your best and love you at your worst. They are the ones who allow you to be zany, off the wall, serious, mournful, loving, and most of all, yourself.

I want to wish you and yours a very Happy Winter Solstice, a Blessed Yule, a Merry Christmas, and most of all, an incredibly wonderful New Year!!!

Ramblings from a Writer's Jumbled Mind

Wow! Two blog posts rather close together...I'm sort of impressed with myself :) Okay, so this is more or less me just shooting out random thoughts, but let me tell you, this head of mine is filled with all sorts of random bits and pieces.

Brady and Silver are sitting in my lil sis/editor's hands at the moment. I'm hoping to self-publish BEFORE Christmas. Then, I have Books 4 and 5 well under way plus a few surprises.

Last night, I got to sit down and discuss books with an incredibly brilliant man. He blows my mind every time I get to spend time with him. He's reading Frankenstein at the moment and we were discussing how his idea of what Frankenstein was skewed (according to the movies). He told me how awe-struck he was by the differences he's finding. He had me laughing until tears fell from my eyes with some of the things that came out of his mouth. Gods, I haven't laughed like that since...well, he visited the last time. Should I mention that this highly intelligent guy is my inspiration for Beckett Black (otter shifter)? Oh yeah, let me tell you...you all are in for a rare and beautiful treat with this one :) Thank you, T, for the laughter and conversation! You need to visit more often :) You are the most amazingly brilliant and twisted human I know (yes, that's a compliment)!

You will notice some things popping up on this blog that may or may not surprise you. I've told you how this year has been about change for me. I'm exploring myself and discovering that I really do love who I am. In that same context, you will start to find some BDSM things creeping onto my page. More often than not, these people are friends of mine who do magnificent work and I want to promote them to the world. You will also find some kinky type writings creeping up on this page. If that isn't your thing, I understand. I'm going to post them under their own tab so if you want to avoid those types of writings, well, you can.

I want to say something to all of you...if your partner tells you that you are beautiful or sexy, DON'T look at him as if he's lost his mind. DON'T tell him he needs to have his eyes examined. DON'T tell him he has no idea what he's talking about. DON'T belittle his opinion of you!!! Look that incredible person in the eyes and say "Thank you!" and mean it!!!! Like I said I'm learning as I go. I have a man in my life who is my best friend. He's been telling me I'm beautiful for a looooooonnnnnggg time. I've done all of the DON'Ts I listed above. Lucky for me, he still keeps saying it. I think he believed that if he kept telling me I was beautiful, I would eventually believe it. And here's a surprise: it worked. If you tell someone something enough, they start to believe it. This has been a hard lesson for me. He even scoffed at me the other day when I said something about my fat ass. Seriously, dude? Oh yeah...thank you :) He also tells that I'm sweet...wow...someone is trying to get on Santa's nice list this year. Oh wait...thank you!

Thank you for letting me ramble on about life! I'm headed toward finals this week and I have over a month off between semesters. Plenty of writing time and loads of fun to be had. Who knows what will be created in that time? Could be fun to find out!

Love and blessings to you and yours!

What I'm Thankful For...

"A day late and a dollar short" as my grandma would say. Yes, that is me. I've been so neglectful lately and it shows in everything. From my writing to my friendships to my homework, I've been neglecting way too much.
I promised everyone that this was going to be a year of change, but I never dreamed how many changes would come my way. What a difference a year can make!
Yesterday, I spent my first holiday...alone. I cooked a small dinner for my Diesel and me. I spent the day in my pajamas, working on homework, playing on the internet, and watching movies. My baby sister called and we talked. Okay, I cried a lot, she coughed a lot (she's sick), and she listened to me bitch. Then, I realized that I never wrote out what I'm most grateful for.

So today I will share what I am most grateful for (in the order of which they came to me):

My baby sister who listens to me. She makes me laugh, cry, think, and roll my eyes. Her humor is twisted and dark. Her brain is weirdly wired like mine and her weirdness can catch mine toe to toe. She lets me vent when things aren't working and doesn't laugh (too hard) when I realize the situation isn't nearly as bad as I thought.

My roommate, my best friend, my partner who gets me. He gets all of me...most of the time. He came into my life when I felt more alone than I had ever been. He walked through that classroom door and flipped my world upside down. He gave me hope. He cared when I felt no one else did. He helped when I didn't think I had a friend in the world. He organized and strategized. He gave light to my darkness and showed me the weird freak that lives inside of him. His weirdness dances with mine and  my demons quiet at the sound of his name.

My furkid who has been there through all the insanity of the last year. His paw was always there for me to hold when I needed that physical contact with someone or something. He's made me laugh more than anyone else could. He accepted the changes in our life like a trooper and fell in love with the people who have come into our lives. He doesn't begrudge me the times when I leave him alone for a few hours to go out and explore my darkness. He's been my constant through it all.

My friends who helped me through the worst summer ever. I don't know what I would have done without you. You gave Diesel and I a place to live while asking for very little in return. You listened as I cried and bitched about the move we were going to make. You kept me from making the worst decision of my life. You helped us move into our new home and helped out with the little things we needed...like a shower curtain and a bed. You came to visit and told me I always had a home to come home to. You are my friends who became my family and I love you more than you will ever realize.

The friends who have often sent a text message or FB'd me just to check in and let me know they are there if I need a shoulder.

My fans, new and old, who stand by patiently (or not so patiently in some cases) while I get my shit together. You've been faithful and loyal. For that alone, I am truly grateful. Book 3 is almost finished, I promise.

To live in the country I live in where I can get an education and become anything I wish to be

To have had the childhood I did

To have been raised by the most incredible man in the world...my daddy.

To have known the love of a mother, even though she wasn't MY mother

To have had the courage to make the changes I made

For my talent as a writer

For my family who still stands beside me

For the new friends who have come into my life, accepted me and showed me that I'm not alone in my darkness. You've helped me grow and you've shown me that I'm not nearly as weird as I thought I was. I've learned so much from all of you in the short time we've been acquainted. More often than not, you keep the light burning bright inside of my cold, dark heart.

There are many things that I'm sure I'm forgetting, but these are a few things (and people) I am most grateful for. Without the people in my life, I would be more lost than I ever thought.

One more thing, I'm grateful for...snow. I have discovered just how much I love the stuff. It is beckoning to me now and I need to get out and shovel. It's actually more invigorating than I ever imagined. One of these days, I'll post some pics for you.

For now, be good to each other, love one another, and hug those you love most!

My Fascination with Dragons

I'm not sure when it began, but I have a certain fascination with dragons. As a little girl, Sleeping Beauty was my favorite fairytale. In it, Maleficent turned into a dragon. When Prince Philip slayed her (in the Disney version) her blood ran purple. Maybe that was where it began.

I was never encouraged to believe in dragons, gargoyles, fairies, or gnomes. They weren't "realistic" enough. So, it took me growing up to believe in the world of fantasy. Odd, right?

I remember buying my first dragon statue. It came with the name Jamie. I didn't like that name so I changed it. My baby dragon is named Draco. He's a cutie who sits on a shelf beside my bed. I trust him to keep me safe.

I have a series of holiday ornaments that are dragons. I tend to hang them on my holiday tree simply because they fit in with the color scheme.

Then, there are my stories. The Golden boys seem to hold everyone's attention. When I get messages saying, "When does ____ Golden get his story?" I smile. You must also remember Lance and Cameron Smythe, my beautiful blue water dragons.

I never intended to be an urban fantasy/paranormal author. I think it has to do with the "realistic" side of my brain. I didn't think my imagination would expand enough to see what makes the world of fantasy real. And yes, my world is real... at least to me. I get to play in the land of shifters daily. I've been working so hard on putting a couple of contemporary romances in the world that I feel like I'm dying inside. I think I may have to delve back into the UF/PNR waters to keep from falling apart.  

I am so grateful to each of you who has picked up my books and given them a read. My fascination with dragons fueled the series, but my belief in the impossible keeps me writing. Your belief in me feeds my soul as I write.

If you've read either of my books, please be sure to leave a review on Barnes and Noble, Amazon, or Goodreads. You can even drop me a line at gemmakmurray@gmail.com and I'll post your review on my website. I want to hear what I'm doing right. I also am willing to hear what I'm doing wrong.

If you haven't read my books, step into my world and give them a whirl. You never know who you will meet on the streets of Cedar River.

I'm Going Through Changes...

Now, re-read that title. I'm NOT going through THE "change." I'm not quite there yet:)

I live with an Ozzy Osbourne fanatic. The Black Sabbath song "Changes" has been running through my mind on a constant circuit.

Last week was one helluva a week, let me tell you. I began making some pretty big decisions about my professional life and where I want to be. I had let things slide for too long and it seems as if I made some HUGE decisions in a very short period of time.

Have you ever had someone tell you that you couldn't do something? Or wouldn't be able to accomplish something? What was your reaction? Mine was to explode and cry, then I picked up my sword and said, "Yeah, well, let me show you!" NEVER tell me what I can or cannot do because I will prove you wrong. I don't like to be pigeonholed and to quote one of my favorite movies, "Nobody puts Baby in a corner." 

I don't appreciate it when someone belittles me or my talent. I may sound a bit arrogant, but it has taken me a long time to believe in myself and won't let anyone take that away from me. I can hear my dad's voice in my ear saying, "That's my girl" so I know I'm making the right choice as I move in the direction I am heading. 

My husband would love to slay this particular dragon for me, but he's respecting me enough to let me fight the battle I am waging. He's got my back and I wouldn't have it any other way.

There are only a few friends I have confided in and I feel blessed to know they have my back as well. With my little army at my back, I'm battling forward with this journey. I may have to hack through the thorns and brambles as I try to find my own path, but like I said, I have people who are willing to help me. I am truly blessed.

Be patient with me and give me some time to adjust. I read somewhere that if something isn't working for you, then make a change. So for now, I'm going through changes and I can only hope that they propel me forward.

On a side note: Be sure to check out my website for the contest I have going on. http://gemmakmurray.com

Happily Ever After

The other day I was asked about the relationships in my stories. "Why are they complicated?" the reader asked. It made me pause for a moment and think about the relationships I write.

See, my characters live in my head. With a series like Cedar River, you can imagine the noise going on there. Some days I must look like the psychic medium, John Edwards. (The other day, I was explaining a new series to my husband and had one of those, "Hold on" moments while the character told me exactly what I needed to say.) My characters tell me their story and I simply write it down as they tell it to me. I make it as simple or as complicated as they want it to be. (I'm not crazy, I'm a writer :D)

When I wrote Ana's character, I hated her. She was the biggest bitch I had ever met (myself not included). She was so hard on Bowie and I felt she was being unfair to him, but you know what? It all worked out. *shrugs*

Then, along came Adam and Luna. I wanted their story to be simple since they had overcome so much to be where they were, but it wasn't going to happen that way. Instead, they had to work at it and make decisions. They even hurt one another, but, again, it all worked out.

Now, I'm working with two very difficult characters, Brady and Silver. I've stopped and started with them more than any other characters. They are complicated and at different ends of the spectrum. He's quiet, confident, and steadfast. She is brassy, bold, and very insecure. I had to laugh when Brady told me who he had chosen to be his lady. I had an ongoing conversation with him for three days. "Seriously? She's a hot mess, you know that, right?" He'd smile that sexy smile of his and say, "Yep." Now, I am at 71,000 words and I'm still not done. (For a quiet guy, he certainly had a lot to say. LOL)

But it hit me the other day, why do I love this set of characters so much? Because they remind me of my husband and myself. The reflection I see when I look at them simply brings me joy.

So, dear reader, let me answer your question for you:
My characters have complicated relationships because love is messy and complicated. Love is never cut and dried. It's an organic, evolving thing which needs to be nurtured, pruned, and fertilized. My characters want the REAL love. Happily ever after happens in fairy tales. I've been married for almost 20 years and as much as I love my Knight in Tarnished Armor, he's not perfect and neither am I. Our love isn't perfect either. We hurt one another whether we realize it or not, but we don't walk away. We fight and fuss, but we make-up because we're crazy that way.

As Valentine's Day rapidly approaches, this is my Valentine's Day wish for you:

May you find your hot mess and see them for what they really are...someone worth believing in and fighting for. May you find the one who will walk through fire for and with you. May your love be a messy, complicated puddle of passion. XOXO 

An Author's "Second Self"

Me at 4 years of age

I was in my Creative Writing class the other day and my professor was discussing how authors take on a persona when they write, someone they want the world to see. Being the dreamer that I am, my mind wandered and I began to wonder, "Which persona is my author second self?"

I was raised in a family where I was the only girl. I had girl cousins on my dad's side of the family, but I didn't see them too often. I had a cousin on my mom's side who was 6 years older than me, but I mean, she was 6 years older than me. I idolized her, but again, I didn't see her often. I was left to be what everyone thought I should be. What was that you ask? Well, it was many things:

1. I was to act like a girl (ladylike, polite, soft-spoken)

2. I was to dress like a girl (dresses, skirts, fancy shoes, curled hair, make-up)

3. I was raised to be a mom and wife (I wasn't encouraged to dream outside the box)

4. Men only wanted to date girls with long fingernails, long hair, and skinny bodies

There are many more, but you get the idea, right?

For most of my life, I tried to live up to what people expected me to be. Last year, when I published my first book, I dreaded opening up to people. What if they didn't like me? What if I wasn't what they expected?

Then, Tuesday as I sat in class, occurred to me. All of you get to see the REAL me. You get to know the brassy, bitchy, bold side of me. You don't care that I spend the majority of my days behind a computer screen with my hair pulled up and pencils stuck in my hair. You don't care that I wear yoga  pants and holey sweatshirts around my house while I work. You don't care that I'm not a size 2 or that I don't wear make-up unless I go to school. You all get to know me as I truly am. It's the world outside these four walls and people who have known me for all these years who get the "persona".

How sad is it that I've spent 40 years of my life pretending to be someone I'm not? Lucky for me, my husband gets it. He's like all of you...he knows the real me.

Lucky for me, I found all of you :D 
How about you? Do you have a persona that you keep locked away and pull out only when a certain person is around?

My Yooper Wonderland

Old Man Winter has finally decided to pay us a visit. We've had about 4 inches of snow on the  ground for a few days, but today...well, Mother Nature decided enough was enough. I don't know, maybe I bitched too much about the cold. Either way, I have a Yooper Wonderland outside. I'm not complaining by any means because I truly love the snow. After that nasty blast of cold we had, I'll take the snow any day of the week. Here's a little video I took about twenty minutes ago. We're supposed to have another 5-8 inches on top of what we already have. 

The dogs love the snow for the most part. Our German Shepherd believes it's her personal job to create (what we call) Weiner Angels. (She's our little Weiner Schnitzel.) Diesel thinks he needs to take Mama for a walk through every inch of snow we have. Jazzy is too old to appreciate the snow and Klondike is indifferent to most everything (she's more like a cat than a dog.)

What I love best is seeing the other critters' footprints in the yard. We've had deer, grey fox, red fox, loads of bunnies, and a few we haven't identified yet. I'm an animal nut! I can (and have) while away a morning watching two little porcupines play at the edge of the woods. They are simply precious to watch. I even caught the grey fox in our firepit one early morning. He was sniffing through our charcoal briquets looking for goodies. I felt bad for him and started leaving him little pieces of hot dog from time to time. 

Well, it's about time to bundle up and take a walk in the Yooper Wonderland that waits for me. (Dogs potty time.) So, I'm off. 

Whatever your weather is like, stay safe! I want to be able to visit with you later on :)

P.S. If money is tight at your house, but you still want to read Natural Born Enemies, I'm giving away two copies at Coffee Time Romance's Contests by the Cup in their forums: http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/board/showthread.php?t=27935

I also was a part of Coffee Time Romance's Coffee Thoughts blog this week. Because I'm a bit of a ditz, I decided to make it up to readers by offering a copy to one person who leaves a comment on any of my posts.

It's Heeeeeeeere!!

Late last night, I got an e-mail. I danced a little. I cried a little. I smiled...A LOT!! 

You see, the e-mail was from my wonderful editor. She was letting me know that Natural Born Enemies is now available. She was able to get it up on Leap of Faith's site and Amazon before she left on vacation.

You are able to get any format at Leap of Faith so even if you have a Nook, you can still get a copy.

She will get it up on Barnes and Noble plus Coffee Time Romance when she gets back from her holiday.

But I wanted to let you know that you are able to get Natural Born Enemies for your holiday reading.

I'm sending out my newsletter today complete with recipe for homemade Trenary toast (a Yooper must-have). Be sure to sign up for my newsletter on my website.

At Last...

I'm taking some time away from school work, housework, and the family to share with you. If you haven't seen the front page of the website or Facebook, then you haven't seen what I received in my inbox late last night.

Yes, this is the brand-new cover for the second book in the Cedar River Series! I have to say I shed a few tears. I love Keeper of the Golden Dragon's Heart's cover, but this one has blown me away. Adam was captured perfectly and Luna is exquisite.

This also means that the countdown to release date is on. We're working on a pre-holiday release. With only 3 days of classes left, I am excited since I get to spend my time off writing and promoting.

Life is quiet here for now. Besides the wind down of school, I have got to get my booty in gear with Yule stuff. I haven't baked one cookie, made one pan of fudge, or put together one batch of 3-corn crunch. While the holiday shopping is finished, the wrapping is still undone. The tree isn't up, but should be this weekend. Plus, I still have to put out the December newsletter! (I'm waiting for a release date.)

How are things in your world? Are you keeping busy with holiday stuff? 

I'm thinking of all of you and carry  you in my heart! I'm so blessed by the readers and friends I have made on this journey! You will never truly know how much I appreciate each and every one of you!

Blessings to your home from mine.

Getting Wicked with Wickd Jfay from Studio 3B-Wick'd Potions and Jewelry

Overnight, Mother Nature decided to cover us with a blanket of snow. Not exactly what I was expecting to have when my friend from Texas stopped by for a visit. Good thing I have the coffee brewing and a fire lit. Maybe you can keep her mind off the cold UP morning by getting her chatting.

My darling readers, when I started this journey I was very leery about letting you into my world. I mean, c’mon, how many of you do I personally know? Then, I realized that I have more friends in cyberspace than I do in “real” life. As I writer I spend a lot of time online. Whether I’m on FB promoting my books (or playing games), searching for pictures that excite my muse, chatting with friends, or (hangs head) shopping for wonderful things, you can find me at my computer.

It was after chatting with a friend about our favorite perfume being discontinued that I was directed toward today’s guest, Wickd JFay of Wickd Potions and Jewelry by Studio 3B. I visited her site and spent many hours deciding on whether or not I should take a chance on her and her talent. I took a deep breath, chose the scent I wanted most, and ordered. I waited rather impatiently for my scent to arrive. When it did, I fell in love, waited four months, then placed a larger order for 5 more scents. All of which I love dearly

.

I love her scents so much I’m including one in each of the upcoming Cedar River series books. I’m starting with Bitten by Chocolate in Natural Born Enemies and Haunting Presence is the scent for Book 3. Jfay and I will be collaborating to create signature scent for the new series. (And I cannot begin to tell you how excited I am about this!)

Without further ado, I would like to introduce you to the lady who makes me smell wickedly sexy…Wickd Jfay.

Hello my dear! How are you today?

Hello Gemma! Such a pleasure to get a chance to chat with you! I'm doing great - Excited to get to be here with you and your readers!

I spent a lot of time chatting with you, but can you tell my readers a little bit about you?

Well, on a personal note, I have been married to my dear hubby for 29 years, and have an amazing 21 year old son. We are a very close family. I'm so lucky to have such wonderful men in my life. I have worn many hats in my life, from Beauty Consultant, to Executive Secretary, but in recent years I have traveled a more artistic path.

How did you fall into the wonderful world of scents?

This came about during my 9 years of being an artistic candle maker. I worked with many people, especially authors, to design not only original, artistic designs for them, but also unique scent blends that would become their signature scent. They would take their candles with them to book signings and conventions and their fans began falling in love with the scents and were requesting them in wearable fragrances. After many requests I began to transition some of the aromas into wearable perfumes. I ended up falling in love with doing perfumery, and have decided to create perfumes full time now. I really enjoy decorating the potion bottles that they come in as well as the potion necklaces -- which is a very fun and fashionable way to take your perfume with you on the go!                                    

Do you have a favorite scent? Or is that like asking an author about a favorite character?

Hahaha! Yeah, kind of like that! I have so many that I enjoy wearing -- and I of course love them all. But I have to say that the Sinfully Delicious Cupcake is my favorite, in that I really enjoy wearing it in the evenings. After the day is done and it's time to relax -- it just makes me feel happy. If that makes any sense to you and your readers ; )
But for me, different scents evoke different emotions and feelings. Some of my aromas are sassy and spicy, some are fun and flirty, there are dark and dramatic ones as well, so there's just about something for everybody and for every mood you're in ; )

Will you tell us about one of those scents that sounded good until you created it and it just didn't work?

What?? A Jfay scent that didn't work??? Hahaha!! Well, a few months ago I would have said that's never happened -- I'm not arrogant much? Haha!! But I do actually do many "sniff" tests before I even begin blending to see what I think will go together to create exactly what I have in mind -- BUT...... You did catch me -- I had one -- one and only one batch that I did have to abandon....... The aroma actually was beautiful, but there was something about it that was just hard on the nose. So, it was back to the drawing board, so to speak ; ) I have a very sensitive nose myself, so the aromas I design have to pass a very critical testing period in which I test the fragrance before releasing it to the world.

Who comes up with the scent names? I love them because each name is different and fun.

That's a very good question! Naming the fragrances is just as important to me as the blend. And a very fun part of the process. The names evolve in many different ways. The name may reflect the scent itself, or a complete theme involving what the scent is about. I usually have brainstorming sessions with either my clients or my family -- my guys are very creative as well ; )

Where on earth do you find such gorgeous models for your website? It just doesn't seem right that a woman as gorgeous and talented as you has so many gorgeous friends. (grin)

OH -- Well, thank you dah'ling!! You're too kind! But actually, many of the models are family ; ) I'm blessed with a bevvy of beauties for nieces who have graciously modeled for me. We have such fun with a lot of these shoots. Getting their costumes and makeup ready, the sets, etc. My son has modeled for me a few times, and is also the cover model for my brother, Ted Anthony Roberts' soon to be released Pirate Novel (got that plug in there ; ). And one of my favorite models, Courtney Cupcake, is actually a client who became a friend and then model. People that I work with sometimes model their goodies (that doesn't sound right ; ), and sometimes clients have their own models, so that's a very fun part of everything as well.
 

 

What does a day in your life look like?

Hmmmm..... Well, it depends on what's on the menu for the day ; ) Again, with this business I wear many different hats -- from creating the perfumes, to designing and decorating the bottles, doing photo shoots, both of the product and model shoots, working on my website (which I am in the process of updating -- that's taking forever ; ), networking, doing the boring stuffs like accounting (when I can make myself ; ), then I enjoy spending time in the evenings with my guys, hanging out cooking dinner together, and most likely dancing in the kitchen while doing so ; )

I ordered one of the last candles you sold. Will you ever step back into candles?

Well, I'm glad you got one of my last candles! A lot of people were not very happy about my decision to leave candle making behind..... And I've been asked that question quite a bit, but for now, I would have to say the answer is no. I've thought about it and perhaps even doing it seasonally for the holidays, but I really think that is a part of my past at this point. I'm really enjoying moving forward with the perfumery and all the new things that have come my way during this part of my journey.

Can you tell my readers how you decided to add jewelry to your list of offerings?

When I first began looking into making the perfumes, I knew I wanted to do my bottling differently than what you find every day and everywhere. So I immediately decided on Potion Bottles (Which, I call my perfumes Wick'd Potions) and came across the idea for making Potion Bottle Necklaces -- I knew that was exactly what I wanted to do. So from the get-go, perfume jewelry was an instant item available. I then began to make necklaces that were not perfume necklaces since I was already making the perfume jewelry, and found some really cute charms that I wanted to wear myself ; ) Then people began requesting earrings to match either their necklaces or perfume necklaces, so that's a new project that I've begun. I do not have many earrings up on my website yet, but you can always contact me and any charm you see on the Studio 3B website I can make into earrings or a necklace for you. I call myself the Burger King of Perfumery/Jewelry. You can order anything you find on my site in any design you want. So, let's say you want the So Wicked perfume, but like the bottle design for the Strawberry Strip Tease perfume, no problem and no extra cost -- I make everything to order, so you know when you order it, it is made just for you ; )

What are you working on now? Anything new and delightful in the laboratory?

Yes! There's always something new happening around the Wick'd Studio! But actually, right now I'm getting in gear for the holidays and will be unleashing a new product line called VIXEN xxx. It's a super sexy and intoxicating perfume blend with Rich Merlot, Sumptuous Fruits, such as Pomegranate and Cherry, and super Sexy Spices ; ) That should get Santa's sparks going! But it's being bottled with really cute Red Lip Charms -- reminiscent of the Rocky Horror Picture Show lips, so they're really cute ; ) Which, as with all the Wick'd Potion Perfumes, VIXEN xxx will be available in decorated Potion Bottles, Potion Necklaces and now also in Spray Bottles (another new product ; ). I'm also making earrings to match -- so a really great gift idea -- speaking of which, I am putting together some cute stocking gift sets for gift giving!

So, if any of you are looking for something different, and like a walk on the wild side, stop by and visit me and my little perfumery online at http://www.studio3bonline.com. I'm also on Etsy: http://www.etsy.com/shop/studio3b. And of course I'm usually around Facebook when I get a break here and there ; ) You can find me there as Wickd Jfay and also as Wickd Studio3B.

I will let you get back to work so you can keep the world smelling wicked. Thank you for stopping by and spending the day with us! You are one of my favorite people and I really want to share you with the world.

Well, thank you so very much Gemma! And you are definitely one of my favorite people! You have become a dear friend of mine and I so appreciate all your support. I'm really looking forward to collaborating with you soon on something killer for your new series!

xoxo

*All photos belong to the wicked lady herself. I've used them with her permission. Please respect the fact these belong with Wicked Jfay*

We're Having a Heat Wave...A Tropical Heat Wave

Sorry, I'm feeling a little off kilter due to this heat. The only song that comes to mind is the one from Grumpy Old Men. I know, I know...they're singing it about the winter in Minnesota, but still...

Down in southern Michigan, the grass is so crunchy you wouldn't dare walk across it in bare feet. Their heat wave has been must longer and more intense than ours here in the UP, but I'm still going to complain a little.

Yesterday, we had to go to the store. Ran out of milk, eggs, bread,and water. Our thermometer inside the truck read 104 at it's hottest. The weather man said it was only 98. It's only a matter of a few degrees so I won't quibble, but seriously? Who pissed Mother Nature off? She's angry at somebody and I'd like to know who it is. Maybe she's peeved at all of us because of what we're doing to this lovely planet. I'm really not sure. Our dewpoints have fallen so we can actually breathe for now. The canine kids are panting horribly and hogging the fans:)

Today, I had a visitor. A garter snake decided the cool cement of my enclosed porch's floor seemed like a good spot to lay. The trick is trying to get him back outside where he belongs...before he tries to get into the house:) I have enough issues with toads getting in the house. Diesel is NOT a fan of toads...especially when they are at his water dish.

No toads for now...must rest

Life is good at our house. Quiet and peaceful during the week, but come Friday...look out. Campers, trailers, trucks, ATVS, you name it, it arrives in the UP. I can actually hear the song from National Lampoon's Vacation in my head.

I spent the weekend learning how to market myself and my books. Part of this summer cyber camp was connecting with other authors. I have some EXCELLENT interviews coming up throughout the rest of the year.

Here's the schedule so far:

July 27-  Patricia Tostado

August 3- Dawn Rasberry- (I'm reviewing her novella so be sure to look for that as well.)

August 15- Aithne Jaretta (Paranormal)

August 30- Saranna DeWylde

October 8- Danita Minnis

October 29- Judi Phillips (Paranormal)- Judi will also be holding a giveaway.

Stay tuned for more details. And stay cool, my dears! I never dreamed I'd be wishing for this in July:

A couple of days of this would feel good right now:)

Please don't leave your children (furry or human) in a hot car! Blessings to you and yours!

Hiding Away

The weather hasn't been all that wonderful here lately. I did wake up to this awe-inspiring sunrise the other morning.

I stepped out the front door with the first of the canine kids and the most brilliant red light flowed over me. I had to run back  inside to grab my camera. Of course, the saying does say, "Red in the morning, sailor's warning. Red at night, sailor's delight." That should have given me my first clue of what was coming.

Last night, my darling husband had to run our 13 year old German Shepherd out and I hear, "What the hell?" from the entry way. I figured he could handle the problem and went to take a shower. I was briefly interrupted from my heated bliss by the husband bringing the dog into the bathroom...covered in snow!

An hour later, we took them all out before bed and a couple of them didn't want to step off the porch. They love the snow so this was odd. All we can think is they were loving the non-snow weather we were having and didn't know quite what to make of the white stuff being back. Mother Nature's weird sense of humor is a little disturbing.

I've decided to stick my head out of my writing cave for a little bit just to see what's happening out here in the world. I  placed an order for coffee mugs with my book cover on them, but I hadn't received them yet. Ticked me off royally. After getting the run around, I cancelled the order and found a different website to order from. These new coffee mugs will be better and prettier. Plus, I got networking cards.

Pretty sexy, right? I was going to put my book cover on them, but because I'm finishing up the 2nd book, I didn't feel as if it would be fair to favor one over the other.

Oh, if you haven't "liked" me on Facebook yet, you should! I added a photo the other day. It's a photo of what Adam looks like (at least in my mind). As for Lance, Brady, and Callum, you'll just have to wait and see what I come up with:) *laughs evilly*

Okay, I'm going to retire back to the writing/homework cave. I can see the finish line in Adam and Luna's book, but I've got a research paper that I have to get done, too. I should be able to print off Adam and Luna's story this weekend, read over it for mistakes (not that I make any *grin*), and off to my lovely editor next week. Fingers crossed that she likes it!

Have a fantastic weekend filled with joy and blessings!

Happy Easter

It's sunny and 60 degrees here in the gorgeous Upper Peninsula. The trees are budding out and I'm noticing little green sprouts popping up through the leaves in the woods. Spring is beginning to show her presence. We've already been hearing the little yips and howls of coyote pups. There in the woods somewhere. As long as they don't bother me and my canine kids, they're welcome to stay.

There have been some deer tracks in our yard and "my" little gray fox has showed his face every one in awhile. These aren't the ones who live in my woods, but if you've never seen a gray fox, they are quite cute and mischievous.

With my ham and baked beans in the oven, I thought I'd take a moment to wish you all a happy Easter! We're spending Easter as we do any other holiday. In the comfy, quiet of our home with just each other and the canine kids. I did consider buying bunny ears for my Mastiff so he could wish you a "Hoppy Easter!" but decided that the humiliation may be a little much for his fragile ego:)

So instead, I'm going to share a portion of the book I'm working on. I'm new to the whole idea of Six Sentence Sunday, but I'll share a bit of Adam's story for you. Remember this is unedited. Natural Born Enemies is the working title. Here you go:

Adam’s black hair was always in his eyes, but when those piercing green eyes turned my way, I felt my insides melt. A mere glance from the Pierce Pride bad boy sent my heart racing. I would watch him in the halls at school and on the football field. His speed made him the best receiver on the Cedar River Miners. I’d watch him on the side lines palling around with “Bodacious” Bowie Golden. Those two together were enough to make a girl’s panties drop with a simple smile.

What do you think? Are you ready for the next book in the Cedar River series? *grins* Drop me a line and let me know what you think at gemmakmurray@gmail.com. You can always "like" my page on Facebook and leave me a message there. I'm eager to hear from all of you!

Happy Easter from my home to yours,