Artifacts made to inspire

Many years ago I was visiting the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto. In the geology exhibit, a special gem and jewellery exhibit was on display and it was there I was inspired to create one of my characters for my upcoming book Hearthstone. A crown (seen below) with a large tanzanite gemstone set in a white gold crown accented with small round diamonds and emeralds made to look like a snake wraps around the wearers head.

The shape and design of the crown evokes something mythical... even evil. In Hearthstone, this crown is more than just a crown... it posses the wearer giving them power.

I do wonder where the crown is now, would like to see it again in person once more.

breakfast for champs... or writers

I've always been envious of those food blogs with their glamorous photos of food... here is my attempt at capturing a healthy breakfast I made for myself the other day - poached eggs, toasted rye bread, greek yogurt with blackberries and a yummy cup of coffee. Maybe not so glamorous but a good effort. 

it's been a year already....

It dawned on me the other day that Bound's one-year anniversary was in September. I cannot believe I forgot - too pre-occupied with other nonsense. Nevertheless, it's still not too late to raise a drink to an author's first book. I would like to thank everyone who has been part of this wonderful journey. The reviews, the cover designer, the blog posts, and most importantly everyone who purchased the novel - thank you for your wonderful support. I look forward to the next instalment - I promise to work diligently to complete Hearthstone.

For all other authors celebrating their first published novel, I salute you. And if you are struggling to get your first book out, don't give up, the reward for completing your first work is beyond sublime.

To purchase Bound, click here.

Days of the Dead

It is a dark and somber time as people light candles on the tombs of loved ones. Prayers to save the souls of many lost between heaven and hell echo on the wind . Darkness is here once more, relentless and unmerciful. The gusts of wind blow away leaves clearing the canvass for winter's touch.

Image: Holger Motzkau 2010