Forthright .'s Blog, page 198

Fandom Inspired. Let’s highlight some of those juicy tidbits of gossip that are part of the Amaranthine Saga’s formative days. While I was building this new storytelling universe, I incorporated several nods to fandom. Like the “miko” connection and references to kitsune lore with regards to the fox clans. Believe it or not, the people who stand between the human and inhuman races—the reavers—incorporate a subtle nod to fandom. Which begs the question …

Why did you call them reavers?

If you...

More than just your average chauffeur, Michael Ward is a doting husband, a proud father, a closet scholar, a patient teacher, and a little more amazing than he lets on. A reaver with the designation of ward, Michael’s family has been serving the Hajime household for generations.

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Michael Ward by FoxOfTwilight

Michael was born in England, but he was shipped to Stately House very young, to be raised by his grandfather (and by Argent). A polyglot and his former teacher’s pet, he lives a rather...

Time for another Photo Challenge entry. Are you plotting your shapshots? Don’t put it off any longer! And don’t forget that you can also enter by posting pictures of your e-book. Here’s the photo sent in by goldenmirth.

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*I held this picture back until yesterday’s cover reveal. You can see the enclosure with the peek at the cover for Kimiko and the Accidental Proposal. ::twinkle::

Keep them coming! The challenge has been extended until 5/22, so you have plenty of time to enter. More details h...

I’m fond of giving so-called minor characters their due. They can be so neglected in fandom. Or they can shine. In Tsumiko and the Enslaved Fox, we meet Tsumiko’s younger brother Akira Hajime (mostly through his texts). The fourteen-year-old is full of stories about a “boy who is a bird.” That would be his best friend, Suuzu Farroost.

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Selfie by FoxOfTwilight

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Moments later, Akira passed along a snapshot of a boy wearing a high-collared school uniform. He had brown skin, a hooked nose, u...

Disclaimer: I do hereby disclaim all rights and responsibilities for the characters in this audacious adventure… especially for the trusted one. A nod of recognition is bent towards Rumiko Takahashi for her creative prowess.

Chapter 21: Tempted

“They’re after the Jewel.” Kagome had a sickening sense of history repeating itself. “I should have wished it away.”

Sesshoumaru’s gaze drifted to the rosy sphere she wore on a chain.

Another demon bird dove, only to be knocked aside by a spinning top....

Cover Reveal. I’ve been leaking hints and teasers. For instance, the summary for Book 2 appears at the back of the print editions for Tsumiko and the Enslaved Fox. And those who bought signed copies from me got a peek at the cover art. But let’s make this all OFFICIAL. Book 2 of the Amaranthine Saga is indeed titled … Kimiko and the Accidental Proposal.

She wasn’t aware of her gift’s significance, yet he expects to be courted.

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Kimiko enrolls at the In-between’s prestigious new high school,...

Guesses & Hopes. By now, you know the Amaranthine Saga borrows elements from my fanfics (set-up and setting). I did this to make the series FUN for those of you who have read (and reread) my fandom tales. For the record, the entire series is planned, outlined, and the next few books are even in the pre-write stage (thanks, NaNoWriMo).  I know where I’m going, but I’d love to hear your guesses and hopes.

Which of my fanfics do you think should find their way into the Amaranthine story universe...

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Ask Forthy. You have questions, and I know how to dodge them. But there’s a decent chance I’ll answer them. Or you could address yourselves to the cast. (They might cooperate.) You can ask as many questions as you like. My only request is that you don’t pack two dozen questions into one comment. One or two related questions per comment will keep the threads from tangling.

[[ HERE THERE BE SPOILERS ]]

**Forthy doesn’t believe in author-spoilers, so you’re safe from me, but some of you are pre...

This weekend (May 4-5-6), I’m hosting and posting to celebrate the first book in the Amaranthine Saga—Tsumiko and the Enslaved Fox.

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Where? Right here on the blog. What’s Happening? Author Q&A, more character art, an official unveiling of Bk2, dignified squee-ing, and rampant speculation. How do I participate? In comments. Refresh often. Where do I post my questions? On the designated Q&A post. When? Give me five minutes. ::twinkle::

Disclaimer: I do hereby disclaim all rights and responsibilities for the characters in this audacious adventure… especially for the one who made it in time. A nod of recognition is bent towards Rumiko Takahashi for her creative prowess.

Chapter 20: Still

Made it! Kagome huffed in relief. Carrion crows were capable of burrowing into the heart and reanimating their victim’s corpse. So gross. She pushed up on her arms, finding herself nose-to-nose with Sesshoumaru. “Sorry! Did I hurt you?”

He ma...