Friday, February 22, 2019

The Nerd in me is coming out. Yes, I Like SteamPunk!






Hello Dawnettes! Welcome to the world of SteamPunk!!


I needed to discuss a subject that I wanted to know more information about. Especially with all that is happening in the world this week. 

STEAMPUNK! This is a world I think I could live in. A combination of Sci-Fi with an old world feel to it, at the same time with a futuristic overtone. Steampunk reminds me of Medieval times. Periods dating around 1500's. The Medieval Period has always been a time that I found most fascinating. Whether it be a television show or a novel, I've always been intrigued and researched what was going on historically.  This year, I'm planning on attending the Faire. I've even attended several Renaissance Faires in the past.

I visited Portland in 2016 for about a month before moving to Washington for a year. In that time frame, I discovered SteamPunk and wanted to attend an event to get a feel for it. However, I left before I had the chance.😪


Now that I'm back in California and I have an opportunity to see parts of the state I haven't visited before, I think I'm going to see if there is an event near where I live.


I love graphic novels and I would like to delve into or at the very least, explore different genres. I love Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Paranormal, and Horror. I'm lovingly adding on SteamPunk; you have to change it up every now and again.

I would love to get feedback on this subject from people who know more about it. Once this blog is posted, I will reach out via social media and see what happens.

I needed to remind myself of the definition of Steampunk. Here is what I found:

steam·punk

Dictionary result for steampunk

/ˈstēmˌpəNGk/
noun
  1. a genre of science fiction that has a historical setting and typically features steam-powered machinery rather than advanced technology.

    "if you like steampunk, this is a great book for you"
    • a style of design and fashion that combines historical elements with anachronistic technological features inspired by science fiction.

      "the essence of steampunk is homage to vintage fashion with a modern, sassy twist"


Thank goodness for Pinterest and Tumblr. These platforms have so much to view
as far as seeing images and connecting with others that share the same interest. Now all I need is to pick up a pair of goggles, a top hat, and a corset!

Hope everyone has a great weekend. 

Be well,

D.


{*I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THESE IMAGE}





What I listened to while making this blog.
{I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THE SONG}

Toni Braxton




Saturday, February 9, 2019

Book 2 Release Update!!!!!

                               
                                
                  HAPPY RELEASE DAY! 
                                   OMG!!!! 

      The day I've been putting off for 

          two years is finally here!

       
                             

                                                 

Hello Fam & Dawnettes!

One of the main reasons I've put off releasing the book has been I just wasn't ready. Seriously.
I've had to re-adjust my thinking. Bumps and bruises along the way and definitely learned a few lessons. Plus I wanted to make this second release go off without a hitch. And that takes time, patience and humility.

Yes, Ladies & Gentlemen Book 2 is being released on March 1st and I couldn't be happier. Well, that's not true. If my books were being made into a web series or picked up by a cable network I would be ecstatic.
In any case, I'm thrilled beyond measure at the release of Book 2 in my five part series.

Let's start with the premise of the entire series. 

A virus is spreading around the world and killing Human Beings and destroying Vampires. The Vampyirs(pronounced Vampires) are experiencing what they call the Ultimate death. 
Each book is from the main character's viewpoint. Her character will showcase her journey from being Human to being turned into a Vampyir. Along the way you will share her experiences as she tries to navigate through the world as a Vampyir fighting for her kind's survival and how vital her role is during the Plague Years.

HERE SHE IS:

Cover done by Creative Designs Ankh
Alex Races Against the Dawn~ The Vampyir Plague is available for Pre-Order right now!

Once you have purchased the book, it's with great humility that I ask, if you have a moment to leave a review. 😉

And now, a lil synopsis about the current book...

You will be introduced to the world according to Alex (aka Alexis from Book 1). She is second in command in Midnight's coven and Midnight's confidant. The Vampyir Plague is running its course.  In this installment, more will be revealed about the plague itself in this installment and how our UN-dead ladies are dealing with it.

There will be twists and turns. Blood of course. Sex, women, a few men and even a bit of magic.
This book will take you to places around the world and into the dark side of history in the United states from the late 1800's to the mid 2000's.

I hope you will enjoy this latest publication. I put a lot of time and effort ( and promoting!!!!) into this novel.

And while you are in the mood of all things Vampy, Please visit my newly "revamped" website for upcoming events. I have a few surprises in store for ya!

Thank you so much Fam for your continued support😊


                    I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THESE IMAGES*

Character Inspired Images*


*Music I listened to while writing my novel and my character's theme song: As a reminder~ I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THIS SONG





If you would like any information regarding the design of my cover, click on the book cover image! You will be pleasantly surprised.

Monday, February 4, 2019

Happy Black History Month! Let's Celebrate

Hello Fam & Dawnettes,


Diversity is the new word that has woven it's way into our social consciousness. So much so, that it's changing the way we view and think of others that are outside of our culture and race. It's always been there. However, it has become more prevalent in recent times.

 So, I have said in the past when you visit my blog, you will not find anything of a "political" nature. I created this blog for several reasons. I've come to the belief that when someone has a platform, certain subjects should be addressed.

Well, fortunately I created a space where I can speak on this subject. Not only because it's long overdue, but it goes along with my personal motto and I know I'm not alone in my thinking. This will be a particularly long post, so sit tight and read on.👀

Cinematic films have come a long way. Films can transports us to another place and time. It can have an impact on those who want to go into acting, film directing or even be part of the process, for example; the crew. Movies can reach people in places where in many cases people wouldn't even know they existed. They can also educate or give you a different viewpoint from five people all at once. Such as documentaries or give you glimpse into someone personal life. Biopics. You get the jest.
I recently came across a post about a movie with a portrayal of a masculine centered lesbian. I thought, "Yeah, let's see what this is about." And let me say this before I begin. I like all genres. If it's interesting, from foreign to Sci-fi I will watch it.
There are only two reasons that I would pay money to go see a movie at this point. The cast has someone I truly enjoy their work or the subject matter. Back in the day, I loved going to the movies. I loved seeing the previews and the anticipation of what's to come in the next few months or upcoming year. The fragrance of popcorn looming in the air. The stickiness beneath your shoes as you walk on the floor to get your perfect seat.
Now, I'm just annoyed. I get anxiety thinking someone is going to bring their baby into the theatre or answer their cell phone during the movie. I digress. Let me get back on topic.

I understand not everyone's performance is entertainment. There are groups of people that will never see another group of people's work simple because of their race. That's reality.
However, there still should be a reflection of the current times and the landscape in general. I agree there are certain reason's movies become blockbusters or iconic films.
With that being said, I started to delve into my collection of favorite movies from the 1940's ( yes, I love older movies) to recent times.
I understand "we" have come a long way. There are certainly more POC representation in films than when featured cinema were originally created. Quite a few Black Actresses and Actors have paved the way for many to the ability to be able to do they can do now. We have also seen some changes in the way we are represented. The negative stereotypes have somewhat faded away, but not entirely gone.

In 2018, there were a total of 38 movies with People of Color and female in lead roles.
68% of all female characters were white in the top 100 films of 2017. 16% were Black, 7% were Asian, 7% were Latina, and 2% were of another race or ethnicity. Women and Hollywood(Center for the Study of Women in Television and Film)📉

 

There is an amazing documentary about this very subject done by Shudder network called "Horror Noire: A History of Black Horror." It is being showcased across the country, but if you can't make it to the showings you can check it out on Shudder on Feb 7th! Please take a moment and visit  Graveyard Shift Sister's website. 
"Graveyard Shift Sisters is an online resource dedicated to the scholarship surrounding the experiences, representations, achievements, and creative works of Black women and women of color in the horror and science fiction genres." from the about section located on website.*

I watched Viola Davis's Emmy speech in 2015 (and along with various reasons such as the documentary highlights) it forever changed the narrative of why I continue to write they way I do.
I thoroughly enjoy writing as a whole. I love creating my characters, their world, and introducing the chaos that comes with it. Going forward it has purpose for me. It's my choice. It's not only my purpose but my duty as a writer to create these characters with layers and complex personalities and definitely with a defiant and clear, rich cultural background.

Always,

Be well,

D.

                               

I DO NOT OWN THE RIGHTS TO THIS SONG
Song I listened to while I was writing this blog:Blue Girl by Q-Tip







The Road to Becoming A Screenwriter

Hello Fam! Yes, I know. It's been a minute. Don't beat me up too bad. Moving, job changes, and life have definitely gotten in...