Fran Friel's Yada Feast

Reinvention or Vamps Again and Again

2011-11-02T12:51:00.001-04:00

Reinvention

I spent a little time on Halloween over at the home of the Secrets of the Seven Scribes. They're a talented and hardworking bunch of writers, and I was honored to spend some time with them chatting about writing. The topic at hand is reinvention--not fearing an old theme, but finding a new personal spin for a common idea. I hope you'll stop over for a little visit and have a quick read. Hellcow and Alice the Vamp Cat are in the house, so how can you resist? :-)

Visit me at Seven Scribes: Happy Halloween, Scriblings!

Vamp, Vamp

Leopold-Bugs, Looney Tunes/WB

I just realized a tenuous and mundane connection between writing about vamps and the concept of reinvention. And when, I ask you, have I ever shied away from the mundane and the tenuous? Okay, so when I played musicals back in another lifetime, the set changes were accompanied by what they called a vamp--a little interlude of music played again and again until the stage and the cast were ready to go (note the loose reinvention blog connection between vamp and "again and again" that my continuously wandering mind made here--I know, I need help). The musical director would indicate to us that we should vamp, or repeat the interlude.

Now, if I were playing a show these days, I'd be sure to have a spare set of fangs ready to flash on cue when the director whispered, "Vamp." After all, it's called the orchestra pit and it's dark down there, so fangs only seem fitting. Right? Hmm...I'm detecting an orchestra pit story trying to form at the edge of my brain. Dang, it's been done--damned, Phantom of the Opera! But there is always reinvention, isn't there? Stranger things have happened.

My continuously wandering brain is at it again...and again.

Anyway, gang, I hope you had a Happy Halloween. And for the folks in the northeast who were slammed with a freak snowstorm, I hope your power is back on post-haste!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Professionalism in Publishing - Interview at MOD

2011-10-11T17:43:00.000-04:00

From http://beautybyella.blogspot.com

FFYF at Market of Die

The wonderful and talented, Jennifer Fusco, asked me for a little Yada on the subject of professionalism in the publishing industry. Pop on over to Market Or Die for a quick read. Let me know what you think!

Fran Friel on the Industry and Professionalism

Enjoy!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Pain Relief Summit (FREE) - Day Two Update [Yada Health]

2011-10-04T16:46:00.000-04:00

Head Exploding by Lilian Burgler

Pain Relief Summit Update
As I mentioned yesterday in the blog post, "He don't know me very well, do he?," EFT/Emotional Freedom Technique is a great process for pain relief, stress reduction, and so many other physical and emotional conditions. The first night of the Pain Relief Summit 2011 was quite good, especially for a FREE event. So I thought I'd just give you a quick update on this evening's topics. And remember you writers, artists and athletes, tapping can really help to improve your productivity and help you break through the blocks that stand in your way of ease and success, so it's well worth a look.

Click here for free registration and the current Summit recordings:

http://www.painreliefworldsummit.com

From the Summit email:

Tonight in the red room we have Mary Ayers on:

Anger and Physical Pain: The Hidden Connection

Margaret Lynch in the greenroom on:

The Unfairness of Pain

At 8pm EST (and for 24 hours afterwards) you’ll be able to listen in to these life changing presentations. Remember, the presentation starts whenever you show up, so don’t worry about getting there exactly at 8pm EST.

In Mary’s call, she’ll cover:

-The hidden connection between anger/rage and pain (and if you don't think you have any anger, then this is a MUST listen to!)

-The two different "camps" when it comes to pain in the body.

-Specific tapping to release anger on a variety of topics

And Margaret will cover:

-How to have your energetic "day in court" to right a wrong

-A quick test to determine if you truly and fully let go of your injuries

-Tapping to move from being a victim to being empowered

Migraine pain humor...or not.

Available FREE Until 8PM Tonight

The recording for last night's seminars are available for FREE until 8PM EST tonight (Oct. 4):

Gwenn Bonnell - Basic and Advanced EFT Tapping Techniques for Pain Relief

Stacey Vornbrock - Tapping Protocols for Injuries, Accidents, Falls, Surgery and more...

I listened to both talks and they were excellent. Gwenn Bonnell offered great advice on more advanced techniques to improve the efficacy of tapping, and the best circumstances in which to use them. Stacey Vronbrock (a sports performance specialist) offered a specific (and VERY thorough) protocol for pre and post-surgery tapping.

So there you have it. I hope you've found this helpful. Please do let me know what you think.

Enjoy!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

PS - I have no connection to the folks leading this summit (ie. not getting paid, etc.). I'm just sharing this info with you because it's been such a help to me and my family. Just sayin'... :-) More fundamental info on EFT can be found at: http://www.eftuniverse.com/

"He don't know me very well, do he?" [Yada Health]

2011-10-03T19:22:00.001-04:00


http://favoritmovies.blogspot.com

Tweetie and Me
Sylvester always underestimated Tweetie, didn't he? The little yellow guy seemed small and fragile, but he was so much more than he appeared to be. Well, there's more to me, as well. One of the many things you may not know about me is that for nearly two decades, I was in private practice as a holistic therapist. I'm a graduate and former faculty member of the internationally renown, Barbara Brennan School of Healing. Um, is that the first sound of readers stampeding for the door? I understand---you've loved me for my good looks and nasty horror writing, right? Not this airy-fairy crap.

Well, it's true. I am a card carrying, tree-hugging, granola eating, holistic therapy practicing, SF/H/F writing wackjob, grasshopper (see I Am Not An Ant), but I hope you'll stick around despite my mad ways. In fact, part of what has urged me to move into a broader range of blogging, is that I see so many people suffering these days, whether it's health, financial stress, or emotional upset. The world just seems to be in crazyville overdrive, and I'd like to help whether to entertain and distract you for a few minutes, or provide a helpful resource.

Risky Business
I know this goes against popular belief in the blogging world of narrowing ones focus/blogging topics, but I know stuff that might help my readers, and I feel like it would be selfish not to share. Simple as that. And I want you to share, too. If you know something awesome, put it in the comments section, or email me if you're shy.

So, as you can see, part of my catalyst for expanding the Yada Feast into more "yada, yada," is to share what I know and what I discover that can help your life and your happiness. As writers, readers, artists, IT people, or whatever your vocation, feeling better helps us do whatever we do, better.

Amazing
Well, I've fluffed on enough about me. What I wanted to share with you is a simple technique I learned about over a decade ago, but have only just begun to practice...and I would add, with amazing results. The process is a meridian tapping exercise (similar to acupuncture) called EFT, or Emotional Freedom Technique. It's excellent for reducing or eliminating physical pain and emotional disturbances, such as stress, depression, anger issues and anxiety. It's been used extensively and very effectively for Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD) for Veterans.

The following video is mind-blowing, showing results of EFT for Vets with severe PTSD:

The process is simple and once you know the basics, you can jump right in. There are thousands of sites and videos on the subject of EFT, but I'll provide a few of the essentials so you can know where to start. The founder of the current practice of EFT is Gary Craig, who has recently retired and passed the reigns to his daughter. Their site is jammed with excellent info:

EFT Home - EFT Universe - http://www.eftuniverse.com/

Excellent Videos - http://www.eftuniverse.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=5&Itemid=8

Intro to Tapping (2011 Tapping World Summit) - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O80txQ6MLFE

From http://bikerkid.glogster.com/tweety-pie/

TONIGHT!
One of reasons I posted this blog today is that tonight (October 3, 2011), a FREE teaching event begins--The Pain Relief World Summit 2011. I've seen the intro and it looks excellent and would probably be a great intro for those just discovering this process. So do have a look, even if you're a little bit curious.

The event covers four days and is available online FREE for the 24 hours following each day's seminar. Follow the link for more info and to register (FREE): http://painreliefworldsummit.com/

If you register before 8PM EST tonight, you'll get an email link with a more in depth introduction. Sorry, I didn't get this info to you sooner, but remember the seminar sessions will be free for 24 hours each day. If you want access to the recordings after that, you'll have to pay (a reasonable fee) for the CDs or the downloadable version.

Judith Frost
I've been working with a great therapist who uses EFT in her sessions. Because of my background with the therapeutic process and in the field of holistic medicine, I've seen and done a lot of personal work over the years. EFT has, by far, been the most effective and lasting process I've ever experienced. It's been a huge help with my depression--far more effective than anything else I've tried. And for you writers and creative folk out there, EFT is awesome for writer's block! I hope to teach a seminar on this subject sometime next year.

If EFT sounds interesting to you, and you happen to be looking for a therapist, give Judith Frost a call. She's a superb and gifted licensed therapist. Because of today's technologies, like Skype, she can work with you anywhere in the world.

So there you have it gang. It's just a tiny bit of info, but hopefully it has whetted your appetite for more. If you have any questions, just ask. If I can't answer them, I'll do my best to find a person or a place where you can get them.

Enjoy the journey!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

I Am Not An Ant [Yada Changes]

2011-10-02T12:01:00.000-04:00

1919 illustration of Aesop's Fables by Milo Winter

...Get to work!

Happy Sunday, kids! I hope you've had a great week. Autumn has FINALLY arrived here in New England, and like the new crispness in the air, change is afoot here at FFYF.

Since I am a woman of diverse interests, I've decided to blog them ALL here...hence the Yada part of the Yada Feast. I've contemplated separate blogs (health, art, movies, nature, and of course, writing), but heck, let's face it, that's too much work, and despite my rigorous upbringing and work ethic indoctrination by my intense (and wonderful) German-American family, I am not an ant (reference to The Ant and the Grasshopper story, an Aesop's Fable). I, my friends, am a grasshopper with ant-heavy training. I am also a Gemini, both factors which cause more than their share of internal conflict. "I need a break...No, get to work!" "I'm really tired...No, you're just a lazy sack of cheese. Get to work!" "Wow, what a beautiful day...Quit your lolly-gagging around. Now, get to work!" Um, you get the picture...and the sound of the fun voices in my head.

ANYWAY, in sharing all of my diverse madness, er, interests here at the Yada Feast, I run the risk of scaring some of you away, or even causing offense, but I really hope not. I love you all, and this crazy little corner of the Internet just wouldn't be the same without you. But a girl's gotta follow her heart, right? Besides politics (WAY too divisive these days), pretty much all other topics are on the table--basically whatever happens to tumble out of my head on a given day. Writing, books and the publishing world will still be my main focus, but there's much more rattling around in my cavernous brain (btw, that does not infer size, rather a rather hollow space)...and there are things you don't know about me. *grins*

The Caveat

One way I can help you to decide whether to spend your valuable time reading a particular post at the FFYF, is to add subject caveats, like [Yada Books], [Yada Art], [Yada Nature], [Yada Movies], [Yada Interviews], [Yada Tech], etc. You get the idea, right? What do you think? Let me know. I'd love to hear your thoughts, suggestions, concerns, compliments [Yada Wink].

So, I'll be starting off the next blog with a topic close to my heart, [Yada Health]! I do hope you'll stop by next time and discover a "secret" piece of information (well, little known, anyway) about my past, along with a topic that may be of tremendous value to you and those you love. It has been a huge help for my family and for me!

Well, that's it for now. I hope I've piqued your curiosity a bit. I'll look forward to your thoughts and ideas.

Have a great week!

Wickedly Yours,

Fran Friel

2011-09-28T14:25:00.000-04:00

Market Or Die

Market Or Die, that's the name of wunderkind, Jennifer Fusco's, small but mighty book. Great title and fabulous looking book, isn't it?

Marketing, or "branding," for writers, artists and independent publishers is becoming ever more vital with the lightening rise of the ebook market. Jennifer's timely offering and the follow-ups , How to Use the Power of Your Brand, and Integrated Marketing Plans for Writers (due for publication, January 2012) addresses the importance of selling yourself, as well as how to find your way through the mire of social media and marketing madness out in the big bad world.

As a Brand Manager for the international business giant, General Electric, Jennifer knows a thing or two about the complicated business of marketing. So, be sure to take a look. I suspect you'll find this book and its lovely sister volumes an important part of your plans for marketing world domination.

Enjoy!

About the Author [from her blog, Market or Die]:

Jennifer Fusco is the Creative and Brand Manager for the General Electric Company, North America and the author of the Amazon.com bestselling series, MARKET OR DIE, marketing books for writers.

A two time winner of the Advertising Excellence Award for 2010, Jennifer has launched successful national print and digital ad campaigns. Currently, she is a member of the (ANA) Association of National Advertisers and believes brand building is a key to professional success.

Click here to read more about Jennifer!

Wickedly Yours,

Fran Friel

Happiness and the Hurricane

2011-08-30T14:50:00.000-04:00

Happiness After Irene

Well, gang, it appears that we made it through Irene and the freak east coast quake that preceded it. We got pounded here on the Connecticut shoreline, but I'm pleased to say, our home sustained no damage and our power never failed (thank you, CT United Illuminating!). It was a long night and I'm still catching-up on sleep, but besides getting in a lot of Netflix viewing, I also spent time contemplating the value of simple pleasures in life that were threatened by the storm, such as the miracle of running water that comes to my house every day, and the lights that make it possible for me to read at 4AM when I'm not sleeping, not to mention the giant box in my kitchen that keeps food (and the occasional beer) cold and ready for easy consumption. Wow, it's actually a pretty miraculous life for so many of us. Hence, the subject of happiness is on my mind.

Relativity

Happiness often seems so darn relative, doesn't it? When we're in a job that doesn't thrill us, we complain and often simply hate everything about it. But have the threat of our job being lost, and suddenly that job seems pretty darn good. It pays the bills and allows that big cold box in the kitchen to get filled up regularly. Yup, our perspective certainly changes things. That's not to say that we should stay in sucky jobs, but it does illustrate how relative happiness can be.

I often think about how happy my dog is about simple things. She's thrilled when I open a can of dog food to mix with her kibble. Oh my god, you would think prime rib was being served. Or there's her perpetual joy in greeting me at the door. "I'm so glad you're home, Fran. You're the best, most wonderful thing in all the world...and so is my bone." You just can't beat a dog for happiness training. She's still trying to teach me her Dog Zen ways, but Irene helped give me some perspective.

So, I guess what I'm trying to say is, give happiness a little face time. Give it some attention. Perspective is everything. If something in your life sucks, change it, but in the meantime, give it another look from a different angle. Maybe you'll see something you didn't notice before. Just sayin'.

Smarter people than little ole me are doing good things on this subject (pretty funny, too!):

Happiness Before Success

Okay, now Happy Dance with me. Come on, you can do it. I won't tell!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran

Note: Thanks to The Hub at the Monroe Institute for the TED Talk link!

Book Review: Catching the Big Fish

2011-05-30T11:35:00.001-04:00

Hey, gang! I know it's been a while, but I haven't forgotten you, I promise. I've missed you and I've missed blogging, so I was writing a quick book review over at Goodreads and saw that I could share it here. I thought that would be a good way to say Howdy here at the Yada Feast and restart our conversation (again). I hope you've been well and I also hope you enjoy this quirky little book review.

See you soon!

Hugs from CT,
Fran

PS - If you're at Goodreads, let me know--drop me an invite. Let's be nerdy book buddies! ;-)

Catching the Big Fish: Meditation, Consciousness, and Creativity by David Lynch

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

David Lynch shares insights into the creative process, film making and how meditation, specifically Transcendental Meditation, has helped to shape his work and his life. Catching the Big Fish is a little book with tight chapters offered in a Lynch-esque stream of consciousness style. Like tiny tasty bites in a modern gourmet restaurant, he feeds his readers interesting thoughts and insights, leaving us satisfied (perhaps even dazzled) but not quite full. Highly recommended for Lynch fans for fascinating tidbits of info about his films, and also for anyone seeking a deeper path into the creative process and life. Not recommended for folks who consider meditation, etc. "airy-fairy"--the book will likely annoy you. :-) The proceeds of the book go to the DavidLynchFoundation.org for education.

View all my reviews

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Gary Braunbeck All Class

2010-12-14T02:15:00.002-05:00

CLASSY CLASSNESS

I just got word on this folks and I'll waste no time in sharing it with you, except to say that if I didn't already have a commitment, I'd be jumping on this opportunity myself. Gary Braunbeck is not only a brilliant author, he is a superb teacher, gifted and dedicated beyond belief (I've experienced this first hand). If you're a serious writer who wants to learn from a master storyteller/teacher, you will contact Michael Knost for the details immediately!

And it's only a hundred bucks!

Don't miss this:

New Online Writing Course with guest teacher Gary A. Braunbeck (week three).

We are accepting ten students for this course...only six slots remain...first come, first serve.

Class One: Choosing the Right Title for Your Story
Tuesday, December 21, 2010 – 9:00 p.m. (Eastern)

Class Two: Motivation
Tuesday, December 28, 2010 – 9:00 p.m. (Eastern)

Class Three: Character & Emotion (guest speaker: Gary Braunbeck)
**Students will turn in a short story (up to 5000 words) for critique.**
Tuesday, January 4, 2011 – 9:00 p.m. (Eastern)

Class Four: Story Critiques
Tuesday, January 11, 2011 – 9:00 p.m. (Eastern)

The cost of the course is $100.00.

To sign up, please send PayPal payment to:

mikecollinsemail@yahoo.com

Remember, when using PayPal, click:

Send money > Personal > Other

Thanks!
Michael Knost

Only SIX slots left, gang. Give yourself THE best holiday gift EVER!

Ho-Ho-Ho...

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

-- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

I'm Ba-ack!

2010-11-17T02:28:00.001-05:00

What the Hell Happened?
Have you forgotten me, gang? I wouldn't be surprised if you had. It's been more than a year since my last confession, er, blog, and that's a long cotton-pickin' time.

I've missed you--no kidding--but I needed the time away to do some deep healing. Following a long period of illness last year, my dad passed away. The stress of his death combined with a really sucky year took me down...way down (I think I saw Pennywise down there with me...and yes, I was floating...facedown mostly). I'll spare you the gory details of my emotional demise, but suffice to say, it wasn't pretty. It was the yearlong version of the Oprah ugly cry...super-sobber...tearville...brain-dead valley. You get the picture.

As these things tend to be, my recovery was an uphill journey. I can honestly say, I learned a lot along the way, and now I think I'm ready to enjoy the ride again (hopefully, downhill and by the seat of my comfy pants, squealing all the way!). I may hit a few bumps along the way, but I'll keep rollin'.

So Glad to See You!
I really am thrilled to be back in the blogging/writing saddle again, and I'm so glad to see YOU! I hope you'll stick with me. I'll do my best to entertain you and make your time with me not-sucky. Heck, I even have some work being published this year. Yee-Haw!

Well, gang, I know it's not much of a start, but I'm ba-ack. :-)

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

BlogTalkRadio - Fran Dances with The Funky Werepig

2009-05-17T07:01:00.003-04:00

Werepig Alert!
Hide your children and lock your pantry--the Funky Werepig is on the loose. Or at least he's on the radio. He'll be in his usual spot with his famous Choate Road crew, roasting and toasting his Sunday night interviewee, and tonight I'm the main course.

I'll be reading from my collection, Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales, as well as yammering on about writing, life and whatever Mr. Pig desires.

Please come and join us.

CLICK HERE for the LIVE Show Link or the Archive!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Times Best Seller Viehl Shares Financial Realities of Publishing

2009-04-22T12:19:00.012-04:00

Truth Be Told
Wow, it certainly is refreshing to hear the truth for once. A long held sacred cow of the publishing industry is the silence of publishers and authors about advances and royalty statements. The marvelous NY Times Best Selling author, Lynn Viehl (also, S. L. Viehl), lays it all on the line, including her royalty statement, to dispel some of the myths and exaggerations about the writing business.

CLICK HERE to read Lynn's excellent article!

What do you think? Is this similar to your experience or that of your colleagues? Any wisdom, hearsay, ranting to add to the subject?

Have a rest of the week!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

PS - Many thanks to Mari Adkins for the link!

Bram Stoker Award Finalists - MB Made the Cut!

2009-03-25T12:47:00.006-04:00

Made the Cut
I'm very pleased and honored to share the news with you--MAMA'S BOY AND OTHER DARK TALES made the final cut is now a nominee for the Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a Collection. The winners will be announced in June at the Stoker Awards Banquet in Los Angeles, but simply making the list of finalists is a humbling experience, especially with the extraordinary talent in the collection category (and on the entire list!). My sincere congratulations to all the nominees.

You can see the complete list below, as well as an interesting explanation of the Bram Stoker Award.

From the Horror Writer's Association Blog:

Each year, the Horror Writer’s Association presents the Bram Stoker Awards for Superior Achievement, named in honor of Bram Stoker, author of the seminal horror work, Dracula. The Stoker Awards were instituted immediately after the organization’s incorporation in 1987.

To ameliorate the competitive nature of awards, the Stokers are given “for superior achievement,” not for “best of the year,” and the rules are deliberately designed to make ties fairly probable. The first awards were presented in 1988 (for works published in 1987), and they have been presented every year since.
The award itself is an eight-inch replica of a fanciful haunted house, designed specifically for HWA by sculptor Steven Kirk. The door of the house opens to reveal a brass plaque engraved with the name of the winning work and its author.

The Stoker Awards, like the Oscars, are non-juried awards. Any work of Horror first published in the English language may be considered for a Stoker during the year of its publication. The HWA membership at large recommends worthy works for consideration. A preliminary ballot is compiled using a formula based on recommendations. Two rounds of voting by our Active members determine first the finalists, and then the winners. The winners are announced and the awards presented at a gala banquet held in conjunction with HWA’s annual conference, usually in June.

This year’s finalists for the Bram Stoker Awards are:

Superior Achievement in a Novel
COFFIN COUNTY by Gary Braunbeck (Leisure Books)
THE REACH by Nate Kenyon (Leisure Books)
DUMA KEY by Stephen King (Scribner)
JOHNNY GRUESOME by Gregory Lamberson (Bad Moon Books/Medallion Press)

Superior Achievement in a First Novel
MIDNIGHT ON MOURN STREET by Christopher Conlon (Earthling Publications)
THE GENTLING BOX by Lisa Mannetti (Dark Hart Press)
MONSTER BEHIND THE WHEEL by Michael McCarty and Mark McLaughlin (Delirium Books)
THE SUICIDE COLLECTORS by David Oppegaard (St. Martin’s Press)
FROZEN BLOOD by Joel A. Sutherland (Lachesis Publishing)

Superior Achievement in Long Fiction
THE SHALLOW END OF THE POOL by Adam-Troy Castro (Creeping Hemlock Press)
MIRANDA by John R. Little (Bad Moon Books)
REDEMPTION ROADSHOW by Weston Ochse (Burning Effigy Press)
THE CONFESSIONS OF ST. ZACH by Gene O’Neill (Bad Moon Books)

Superior Achievement in Short Fiction
PETRIFIED by Scott Edelman (Desolate Souls)
THE LOST by Sarah Langan (Cemetery Dance Publications)
THE DUDE WHO COLLECTED LOVECRAFT by Nick Mamatas, and Tim Pratt (Chizine)
EVIDENCE OF LOVE IN A CASE OF ABANDONMENT by M. Rickert (Magazine of Fantasy & Science Fiction)
TURTLE by Lee Thomas (Doorways)

Superior Achievement in an Anthology
LIKE A CHINESE TATTOO edited by Bill Breedlove (Dark Arts Books)
HORROR LIBRARY, VOL. 3 edited by R. J. Cavender (Cutting Block Press)
BENEATH THE SURFACE edited by Tim Deal (Shroud Publishing)
UNSPEAKABLE HORROR edited by Vince A. Liaguno and Chad Helder (Dark Scribe Press)

Superior Achievement in a Collection
THE NUMBER 121 TO PENNSYLVANIA by Kealan Patrick Burke (Cemetery Dance Publications)
MAMA’S BOY and Other Dark Tales by Fran Friel (Apex Publications)
JUST AFTER SUNSET by Stephen King (Scribner)
MR. GAUNT AND OTHER UNEASY ENCOUNTERS by John Langan (Prime Books)
GLEEFULLY MACABRE TALES by Jeff Strand (Delirium Books)

Superior Achievement in Nonfiction
CHEAP SCARES by Gregory Lamberson (McFarland)
ZOMBIE CSU by Jonathan Maberry (Citadel Press)
A HALLOWE’EN ANTHOLOGY by Lisa Morton (McFarland)
THE BOOK OF LISTS: HORROR by Amy Wallace, Del Howison, and Scott Bradley (HarperCollins)

Superior Achievement in a Poetry Collection
THE NIGHTMARE COLLECTION by Bruce Boston (Dark Regions Press)
THE PHANTOM WORLD by Gary William Crawford (Sam’s Dot Publishing)
VIRGIN OF THE APOCALYPSE by Corrine De Winter (Sam’s Dot Publishing)
ATTACK OF THE TWO-HEADED POETRY MONSTER by Mark McLaughlin and Michael McCarty (Skullvines Press)

Many, many thanks to my wonderful publisher, Apex, and to everyone who has offered their encouragement and support for the MB collection over these many long months. I'm more grateful than you can know. Now, please cross your fingers and toes just one more time!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

PS - If you're an Active HWA member and would like a copy of the collection for your voting consideration, please drop me an email at: franfriel@gmail.com. Don't be shy! My publisher is being very generous to offer copies to voting members.

Clive Barker and Ronald Kelly - Icons at the POH!

2009-03-19T13:01:00.009-04:00

A Couple of Marvelous Horrors at the POH
Don't miss the latest POD of HORROR with Mark Justice! Why? Because you'd be missing two magnificent horror icons, Clive Barker and Ronald Kelly. So, stop in to visit with the POD of Horror crew at Horror World for a great show.

From Horror World:
On Pod of Horror #52, we interview legendary author, film maker and artist Clive Barker. Also, 90s horror icon Ronald Kelly has returned in a big way, and we discover where he went and what the future holds for his fans. Nanci is here with the Call of Kalanta, Norm Rubenstein offers a bunch of new reviews and we give away tons of horror in The Tomb of Trivia. Get it at i-Tunes or download it below. Pod of Horror is hosted and produced by Mark Justice.

Click Here to Visit the POD of HOROR!

I hope you enjoy the POD people. They're some of my personal favorites.

In other self-aggrandizement news, MAMA'S BOY AND OTHER DARK TALES is now available for the Amazon Kindle! After much hemming and hawing, I got a Kindle last year, and now they can't pry it loose from my hands. If you have one of those little e-reading beauties, I'd be most grateful if you'd nab a copy of the MB collection. It's only $4.00! Heck, I'm buying one. *wink*

Click Here for a PEEK at MB on Kindle!

Have fun at the POD of Horror! Tell 'em Fran sent ya'!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Sebastian's Voodoo - Don't Miss this Marvelous Little Vid!

2009-03-14T14:56:00.009-04:00

Aniboom Grand Winner Video - Well Deserved!
My thanks to Cassandra Lee for forwarding this video to me. I loved the poignancy of this vid, the simplicity of the idea and the wonderful animation. Blew me away! I hope you love it, too!

This from aniboom.com (watch the vid first - SPOILER ALERT!) :

This year the Grand Winner was chosen by the combined ranking of both the Community and Jury, meaning Sebastians Voodoo was loved by all. A voodoo doll must find the courage to save his friends from being pinned to death. Created by Joaquin Baldwin http://www.aniboom.com/boomzones/zell777
Follow me:
facebook: http://www.tinyurl.com/aniboomfanpage
MySpace - http://www.myspace.com/aniboom
Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/aniboom
If you liked this animation, don't forget to subscribe, you know you want to.

Check out more winners at http://www.aniboom.com/awards2008/

I hope you enjoyed the vid, gang. Got any favorites of your own?

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Apex Friday the 13th SALE - good thru Sunday!

2009-03-12T19:02:00.006-04:00

Who Said Friday the 13th was Unlucky?
On the contrary, Apex is celebrating the 13th with a juicy little sale. So, if you've been holding out to get a copy of MAMA'S BOY AND OTHER DARK TALES or any of the great Apex titles from authors Michael A. Burstein, Alethea Kontis, Maurice Broaddus, Nate Kenyon, Sara M. Harvey, Thomas R. Riley, Lavie Tidhar, Brady Schwan, Matt Wallace, Steven Savile and Jennifer Pelland, than this is the sale for you!

Direct from the Apex Alien's mouth:

In celebration of the upcoming Friday, the 13th, we are having a
storewide sale! Get 13% off any item* in the Apex store from now until
Sunday night. Just use the checkout coupon code: FRIDAYTHE13TH.

We don’t do many storewide sales like these, so take advantage of the
savings while you can!

Remember, the code is FRIDAYTHE13TH on the checkout screen.

Our store url is http://www.apexbookcompany.com/cart.php

Apex is doing it's darnedest to keep good fiction coming your way and saving you money, too. Please help keep small independent presses like Apex alive, and buy a great book today!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Energy Vampires: Fact Versus Fiction

2009-03-08T14:48:00.005-04:00

Where Are Your Vamps?
As you may know, I'm a bit of a treehugger, so I'm always looking for a little angle to help out on the environmental front (as well, as the wallet!). I've heard a lot about energy wasting devices in the house that should be unplugged, but I haven't been sure about the details. I found the following article this morning and it helped to shed a little light on the situation. Maybe it will be helpful to you, too:

Energy Vampires: Fact Versus Fiction

Or

http://green.yahoo.com/blog/the_conscious_consumer/50/energy-vampires-fact-versus-fiction.html

If you have any additional links or info to share on the subject, please post here. Thanks!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

"I love Jesus, but I drink a little."

2009-02-04T20:33:00.006-05:00

Cracked Me Up Real Good
I haven't laughed this hard in quite sometime, so I had to share this with you. Kevin W. Miller posted this vid over at facebook, and I thank him for cracking me up real good.

Enjoy!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Black Quill Awards--MB Won!

2009-02-03T17:59:00.004-05:00

A Big Fat Thank You!
I just wanted to share some great news with you. Dark Scribe Magazine has announced the Black Quill Awards results and MAMA'S BOY AND OTHER DARK TALES has won the Reader's Choice Award for Best Dark Genre Fiction Collection. I am deeply honored that so many folks sent in their ballots and chose the MB collection. Wow! You all make writing a joy!

To see the list of all the winners, go to Dark Scribe at:

http://www.darkscribemagazine.com/2nd-annual-winners/

My most sincere thanks to all the folks who voted for my collection. You're simply amazing!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Mind Boggling Free Reading List at SF Reader

2009-01-26T13:14:00.003-05:00

SF Reader RAWKS!
I don't know if I've ever seen such a huge list of FREE fiction links compiled in one place, but SF Reader has done it! Science Fiction, Horror and Fantasy readers --You'll never be bored if you visit this link. Wow, what a labor of love.

To see the juicy list: CLICK HERE

Enjoy!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

PS - If your story is on the list, please point it out (don't be shy). Since it's such a humongo list, your story will help us find the best place to start! You'll find one of my oldies but goodies in the horror section.

Black Quill Deadline and Stokermania!

2009-01-24T11:11:00.013-05:00

Cast Your Vote (Pretty Please)
If you haven't had a chance, please stop on over at Dark Scribe Magazine and cast your vote(s) for the Black Quill Awards.

The deadline is tomorrow, January 25th!

I'm honored to have been nominated in the Best Dark Genre Fiction Collection category. If you want to cast your vote, it's easy. It requires a quick registration (if you're not already signed-up as a subscriber - it's FREE) at the Dark Scribe site, which is well worth the effort--it's a fantastic magazine.

For the list of nominees and the voting info (bottom of the page): Click Here

OR

Register Here - Click Here
For the Ballot Page and Login - Click Here

Category: Best Dark Genre Fiction Collection
My Book: Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales

Thank you SO much for your support!

Stokermania!
It's that time of year again when writers of horror loiter around the cauldron and decide the literary fate of their comrades. I'm very pleased that my collection, Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales, has made it to the second level of the voting process to the Preliminary Bram Stoker Award Ballot. Woohoo!

If you're an active HWA member, Apex is providing FREE hard copies of the collection for your consideration. Send me or Apex publisher, Jason Sizemore, an email, including your snail mail address and we'll whisk a copy right off to you! Fran at franfriel@gmail.com or Jason at jason@apexdigest.com. PDFs are also available, if you'd like a cyber-copy, as well.

For those of you who haven't seen the complete list:

2008 Preliminary Bram Stoker Award Ballot

Superior Achievement in a Novel
Coffin County by Gary Braunbeck (Leisure)
The Shadow Year by Jeffrey Ford (William Morrow)
Ghost Walk by Brian Keene (Leisure)
The Reach by Nate Kenyon (Leisure)
Duma Key by Stephen King (Scribner)
Johnny Gruesome by Gregory Lamberson (Bad Moon/Medallion)
Water Witch by Deborah Leblanc (Dorchester/Leisure)
Bad Moon Rising by Jonathan Maberry (Pinnacle)
Dead and Gone by Harry Shannon (Delirium Books)
The Price by Alexandra Sokoloff (St. Martins)
The Man on the Ceiling by Steve Rasnic Tem and Melanie Tem (Wizards of the Coast)

Superior Achievement in a First Novel
Bestial: Werewolf Apocalypse by William D. Carl (Permuted Press)
Apricot Brandy by Lynn César (Juno Books)
Midnight On Mourn Street by Christopher Conlon (Earthling Publications)
Veins by Lawrence C. Connolly (Fantasist Enterprises)
Eternal Vigilance by Gabrielle S. Faust (Immanion Press)
The Gentling Box by Lisa Mannetti (Dark Hart Press)
Monster Behind the Wheel by Michael McCarty and Mark McLaughlin (Delirium Books)
Frozen Blood by Joel A. Sutherland (Lachesis Publishing)
Crimson Orgy by Austin Williams (Borderlands Press)

Superior Achievement in Long Fiction
“The Lagerstatte” by Laird Barron (The Del Rey Book of Science Fiction and Fantasy)
The Shallow End of the Pool by Adam-Troy Castro (Creeping Hemlock)
Miranda by John R. Little (Bad Moon Books)
Redemption Roadshow by Weston Ochse (Burning Effigy)
The Confessions of St. Zach by Gene O'Neill (Bad Moon Books)
Orpheus and the Pearl by Kim Paffenroth (Magus Press)
"Behold the Child" by Harry Shannon (Brimstone Turnpike)
Just Like Hell by Nate Southard (Thunderstorm Books)
Population Zero by Wrath James White (Cargo Cult Press)
Orgy of Souls by Wrath James White, and Maurice Broaddus (Apex Book Company)

Superior Achievement in Short Fiction
"The Last Word" by Maria Alexander (Sins of the Sirens)
"Mama Strangelove's Remedies for Afterlife Disorders, or How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love Mother Death" by C. Dean Andersson (Brutarian)
"Consumed" by Michael Louis Calvillo (Horror Library Volume 3)
"Petrified" by Scott Edelman (Desolate Souls)
"Mechanix" by Christopher Fulbright (Bound for Evil)
The Lost by Sarah Langan (Cemetery Dance Publications)
"The Dude Who Collected Lovecraft" by Nick Mamatas, and Tim Pratt (Chizine)
"The Haven" by John Palisano (Horror Library Vol. 3)
"Turtle" by Lee Thomas (Doorways)
"The Blog at the End of the World" by Paul Tremblay (Chizine)
"Those Eyes" by Mark W. Worthen (Thinner Than Mist)

Superior Achievement in an Anthology
The Undead: Headshot Quartet edited by Christina Bivins and Lane Adamson (Permuted Press)
Like a Chinese Tattoo edited by Bill Breedlove (Dark Arts Books)
Horror Library, Vol. 3 edited by R. J. Cavender (Cutting Block Press)
Abominations edited by Tim Deal (Shroud Publishing)
Beneath the Surface edited by Tim Deal (Shroud Publishing)
Unspeakable Horrors edited by Vince A. Liaguno and Chad Helder (Dark Scribe Press)

Superior Achievement in a Collection
The Number 121 to Pennsylvania by Kealan Patrick Burke (Cemetery Dance Publications)
Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales by Fran Friel (Apex Publications)
Just After Sunset by Stephen King (Scribner)
Little Creatures by Michael McCarty (Sam's Dot Publishing)
Other Gods by Stephen Mark Rainey (Dark Regions Press)
The Autopsy and Other Tales by Michael Shea (Centipede)
Sheep and Wolves by Jeremy C. Shipp (Raw Dog Screaming Press)
Fourtold by Michael Stone (Baysgarth Publications)
Gleefully Macabre Tales by Jeff Strand (Delirium)
Ennui and Other States of Madness by David Niall Wilson (Dark Regions Press)

Superior Achievement in Nonfiction
Shadows Over New England by David Goudsward, and Scott T. Goudsward (BearManor Media)
Bram Stoker's Notes for Dracula by Robert Eighteen-Bisang and Elizabeth Miller (McFarland)
Spirits and Death in Niagara by Marcy Italiano (Schiffer Publishing)
The New Annotated Dracula by Leslie S. Klinger (W. W. Norton)
Beauty and Dynamite by Alethea Kontis (Apex Publications)
Cheap Scares by Gregory Lamberson (McFarland)
Zombie CSU by Jonathan Maberry (Citadel)
Modern Mythmakers by Michael McCarty (McFarland)
A Hallowe'en Anthology by Lisa Morton (McFarland)
The Book of Lists: Horror by Amy Wallace, Del Howison, and Scott Bradley (Harper)

Superior Achievement in a Poetry Collection
The Nightmare Collection by Bruce Boston (Dark Regions Press)
The Phantom World by Gary William Crawford (Sam's Dot)
Virgin of the Apocalypse by Corrine De Winter (Sam's Dot Publishing)
The Flayed Man and Other Poems by Phillip A. Ellis (Gothic Press)
Attack Of The Two-Headed Poetry Monster by Mark McLaughlin and Michael McCarty (Skullvines Press)
Ghosts of Past and Future by Darrell Schweitzer (Borgo)

Please join with me in congratulating these very hard working writers for this wonderful achievement and wish them all success in moving onto the Final Ballot. So many of my dear friends are on this list, including many in my own category. I wish them all the very best!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Reprise - Just Because I'm Forever Hopeful

2009-01-20T13:48:00.005-05:00

Happy Inauguration Day!
I watched the ceremony today and I cried happy tears. I am forever hopeful, so one more time - IT'S A NEW DAY!

No matter what your politics may be, say a little prayer for the world today. It's a new day, and may we use it well.

Still Snoopy dancin'!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Wingsuits Flyers--Not for the Faint of Heart!

2009-01-09T17:37:00.006-05:00

Wingsuits--WTF??
I think I'm a little late to the party, because I've honestly never seen anything quite this mad. Have you seen this before? I'm vertigo challenged so alas no wingsuit for me, but just watching this vid is exhilarating. I'm wow-ed and envious...and here I thought writing was a harrowing profession.

Seriously, watch this!

http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=1778399&server=vimeo.com&show_tit%3Ele=1&show_byline=1&show_portrait=0&amp

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Climbing into the New Year and Readable Treats

2009-01-04T12:52:00.007-05:00

Blue Moods and Warm Sun
I woke up this morning feeling pretty darn good--motivated, cheery and rested. While my husband slept (and the poor over-worked guy is still sleeping as I write this), I got up and walked the dog. The sun was shining and the water on Long Island Sound sparkled as we strolled along beach. Although it was cold out there, the sun was warm on my face (Ahhh...). The dog, perpetually chipper Sandy the yellow Lab, was happy as a peach and trotted along doing her doggie thing with abandon (I still say dogs are Bodhisattvas, here on earth to teach us how to be happy and forgiving).

After our walk, we clamored back into the house and I decided to bake banana walnut muffins. Mind you, I'm not an avid baker, so wanting to make muffins was another indication of being in a darn good mood (btw, the muffins turned out extra-great--wish you were here, I'd share with you). Then to my surprise, I had the urge to blog. I've been wanting to talk with you and wish you happy holidays and see how life is for you, but I've been a little blue. When I'm blue, writing is very hard for me.

I've been slowly climbing out of this malaise for a couple of months now (clawing inch by inch, to be dramatic about it), hence my less than stellar blogging schedule. There have been a few stresses, (my dad's health, looming layoffs, college tuition for my daughter and worrying about her VERY stressful senior year in architecture, etc), but mostly I suppose the mood thing is seasonal or whatever, but it always perplexes me when it happens. I actually feel kind of guilty when I'm feeling down, since I have SO much to be thankful for and happy about. The world isn't a kind place to a lot of people, but I'm one of the lucky ones on the planet. All my basics are covered--I live in a safe and peaceful place, I have plenty of food and clothing, I have people who love me, and my family and I are healthy. Like most folks in the western world, I have aspirations beyond the basics, but when you really get down to it, I'm one lucky woman.

So as I said, I'm feeling pretty darn good and as I embark on a new year with you, I'm also feeling deeply grateful for all I have. And though it may sound a bit pollyanna, one of the things I'm thankful for is you. As my friends and readers, you truly make my life a richer place. You give me a place to share my thoughts and feelings, my fiction and my madness. Who else would put up with all my yammering? So please accept my thanks and my wishes to you for a new year filled with love, peace, excellent health and abundance. You deserve it!

Now, if you're still reading after all the whining and schmaltz, here's some great reading to look forward to in the New Year.

Apex Magazine
Here's the latest from Apex Magazine - CLICK HERE. It's online and it's FREE! Apex continues to bring us some of the best fiction in the business. Be sure to check out their up coming book releases, as well. They've got some doozies on the way. I got an early copy of Sara Harvey's, CONVENT OF THE PURE, and it's wonderful. If you like fast paced dark fantasy, you'll likely love this novella.

Dark Discoveries
Dark Discoveries is shipping it's latest offering--DD#12. Always an excellent read, buy a copy or, better yet, a very affordable subscription and help do your part to keep small press magazines alive. These folks have been dropping like flies lately, and DD is one of few still producing a fantastic print magazine. CLICK HERE for a look at DD#12.

Clarkesworld Magazine
Another fantastic online magazine that maintains a standard of excellence hard to come by online or in print. For excellent fiction online, both print and audio, be sure to visit the acclaimed Clarkesworld Magazine online FREE! And if you enjoy the visual delight as much as I do, you'll love Clarkesworld--they have some of the best cover art in the business. CLICK HERE for Clarkesworld Magazine.

So there you have it, gang. A few literary delights from some hardworking folks, plus lots of gratitude and new year's wishes from moi'. Onward into 2009!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Note: Saint Bernard photo by corey and laura at flickr. Thank you!

And the Winners are...

2008-12-18T11:58:00.001-05:00

Announcing the Winners
The HL V3 and DRP 10 Holiday Debut Contest was a big hit. We had tons of folks signing up to the last minute on four blogs for their chance at the latest goodies from Cutting Block Press and Dark Recesses Press. In our hope to get the prizes to the winners before the holidays ended, it was a quick contest, but a hefty one.

So without further yammerage, here are our winners:

First Prize - JAN
One Copy of Horror Library Vol. 3
One Copy of Dark Recesses Press #10
$10 Gift Certificate to the Horror Mall

Second Prize - Bret Jordan
One Copy of Horror Library Vol. 3
One Copy Dark Recesses Press #10

Third Prize - Horror.101
One Copy of Horror Library Vol. 2

Fourth Prize - GrimGnome
One Copy of Horror Library Vol. 1

Congratulations to the winners! And thank you, everyone, for your enthusiastic participation. For more info on the Horror Library Vol. 1 - 3 and Dark Recesses Press 10: CLICK HERE!

Happy Holidays, my friends!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

PS - Winners will be contacted by email.

Black Quill Awards Nomination--Woohoo!

2008-12-11T16:53:00.007-05:00

Grateful for Your Vote!
The talented and dedicated folks at Dark Scribe Magazine have recently announced their nominees for the highly sought after Black Quill Awards. I'm very proud to tell you that my collection, Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales, has been nominated for the BQ award in the Best Dark Genre Fiction category.

If you've recovered from the recent voting spree in the US elections and around the planet, I'd be grateful if you'd consider voting for my collection. It's a popular vote, so no electoral stuff to muddle the mind. It requires a quick registration (if you're not already signed-up as a subscriber - FREE) for the Dark Scribe site, which is well worth the effort because it's a fantastic magazine.

For the list of nominees and the voting info (bottom of the page): Click Here

OR

Register Here - Click
Ballot Page and Login - Click

Category: Best Dark Genre Fiction Collection
My Book: Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales

If you have any trouble voting, let me know and I'll try to help.

I can't thank you enough for your support! *fingers crossed*

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

CONTEST - Horror Library Vol 3 and DRP 10 Holiday Debut

2008-12-11T16:50:00.002-05:00

Note I'm running this contest for my friends at CBP and DRP. Enjoy!

HL V3 and DRP #10 Debut Contest

The dark geniuses at Cutting Block Press and Dark Recesses Press have been busy gathering some fine reading for their fans. Just a few of the names you'll find in these two volumes of dark goodness: Bentley Little, Clive Barker, Gary Braunbeck, Jack Ketchum, Jeff Strand, Michael Arnzen, Kealan Patrick Burke, Cody Goodfellow and many more. Whether you are a new fan or an old one, you're going to love this contest!

How to Play: All you have to do is post a comment here on this blog and you'll automatically be entered into the contest.

For an extra entry: Just post a link to this contest on your blog and leave a comment here with the link to your blog. Here's the main contest link: http://horrorlibrary.blogspot.com/2008/12/horror-library-vol-3-and-drp-10-holiday.html

Yup, it's that easy. But what do you win?

First Prize
One Copy of Horror Library Vol. 3
One Copy of Dark Recesses Press #10
$10 Gift Certificate to the Horror Mall

Second Prize
One Copy of Horror Library Vol. 3
One Copy Dark Recesses Press #10

Third Prize
One Copy of Horror Library Vol. 2

Fourth Prize
One Copy of Horror Library Vol. 1

Deadline for the contest: December 14th at Midnight, Eastern US Time

Winners will be announced the following weekend.

So there you have it, a great way to win some holiday gifts for your friends or for yourself. Good luck!

Wickedly Yours,
Cutting Block Press & Dark Recesses Press

Mama's Boy collection on Ebay - Cheap!

2008-11-25T23:42:00.003-05:00

Ebay!
Hey, gang, just in case anyone is looking for an excellent bargain on a signed, limited edition hardcover of Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales, here's one for you. Right now, it's listed a $5.00 with only 10 hours to go in the sale (ends around 9:30am, Wednesday, EST). The hardcover is normally $35.

It's not my listing, but it's a great deal so I thought I'd share it with you. Here's the ebay auction link:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230308795638&ssPageName=ADME:B:WNA:US:1123

In case I don't "see" you before Thursday, to you Yanks, have a marvelous Thanksgiving. To everyone else, have a great week!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

His, Theirs and Mine - News!

2008-11-16T16:59:00.006-05:00

HIS
I'm always thrilled when my friends do great things, so I thought I'd share a little greatness with you today. My dear friend, Edmund Schubert, has written something wonderful for us--his novel, Dreaming Creek from LBF books. I just ordered it today and I can't wait to have a great read by one of my favorite writers. Ed not only writes up a storm, he's also a very busy editor for a number of publications, including the fabulous Intergalactic Medicine Show. It's always a fantastic read if you haven't yet had the pleasure.

So support a fine writer and an excellent editor and stop by for a copy of Ed's latest at LBF Books or Amazon.com.

THEIRS
Oh yes, there's more goodness. The masters of madness and the publishers of Horror Library Volume 1 and Volume 2 are at it again. Horror Library Volume 3 has just been unleashed...er, released! This book just gets better with each generation. The latest has stories by Bentley Little, Gary Braunbeck, Michael Arnzen, Jeff Strand to name a few of the biggies, as well as some great up-and-comers such as Kurt Dinan, Sunil Sadanand and C. Michael Cook. For a look at the complete Table of Contents that will wow you--Click Here.

The Horror Library anthologies are truly events not to be missed. Get a copy of your own at Cutting Block Press!

MINE
A couple of new folks have gotten their hands on Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales and have a few very nice things to say about it.

Carol Reid reviews the MB collection at The Short Review. This site is absolutely a must for the short story lover in you. Short story collections are their passion, so be sure to browse the list while you're there checking out Carol's thoughts on "Mama's Boy".

A few words from The Short Review:
Fran Friel is a generous, spellbinding storyteller. Her love of a well-told tale is clear, from the first words of the opening story, Beach of Dreams: "With dawn still hours away, the storm howled in the cavernous spaces between the carcasses on the beach."

Michele Lee reviews the MB collection at The Fix. I had the pleasure of meeting Michele at Context 21 in Columbus, Ohio this past September. It was a delight to meet her in person, and of course, I'm thrilled that she enjoyed the collection.

Here's an excerpt from Michele's review:
Don’t let the first story in Fran Friel’s collection, Mama’s Boy and Other Dark Tales, deceive you into thinking this is some sort of “Horror Lite” book. The first story, “Beach of Dreams,” is a surreal, exotic tale of a man visiting a native tribe who is one day privy to examining strange things that wash up on their shores...Full of visceral imagery and summed up with a sad-sweet ending, this tale might make readers think Friel doesn’t have the balls to do more than flirt with horror.Perhaps purposefully deceptive, or perhaps just showing her versatility, Friel shatters that perception with her next offering, “Gravy Pursuits.”

Now, if I haven't snoozed you too much just yet, The Short Review also requested a short interview. If you have a few more moments to indulge in my yammerage, you can find the The Short Review Interview Here.

Thanks so much for reading the news, gang. I hope you found it helpful. Oh, and by the way, DO NOT MISS the annual Apex Raffle going on right now. You can win some incredible goodies over there, plus there's a signed and personally doodled copy of Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales up for grabs, as well. The tickets start at just $1.00 or $25 for a chance to win EVERYTHING!

See you soon, my friends.

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Realistically Hopeful and Fabulous Tunage

2008-11-10T14:52:00.007-05:00

Hopefully Hopeful With You
I try hard to keep my working life and my political views separate, but dang, I just love this tune and wanted to share it with you. I'm a realist and I don't expect miracles, but I sure am ready for a new day. No matter what your politics may be, let's rock the hope together, baby!

Have a magnificent week!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

A Halloween Treat - Gaiman Style- FREE!

2008-10-31T16:11:00.006-04:00

The Wonderful Mister Gaiman
Happy Halloween, my friends! Have I got an absolutely delicious treat for you, especially if you're a Gaiman fan.

As many of you know, I adore Neil Gaiman. He was "the straw that broke the camel's back inspiration" for me to start writing after many years of pining about it. Hence, I'll always be grateful to him. In addition to the writing, he's inspired me by the kind of person he is. By all accounts, he's a sweetheart of a guy and extraordinarily kind to his fans. His latest project proves that he posses a generosity of spirit--the kind that I love and aspire to.

On tour with his latest release, The Graveyard Book, he read a full chapter at each stop of his book tour. BUT if you missed it like I did (dang!), not only did he read a chapter at each stop, his readings were video taped. You'll find his video tour, in its entirety, at Mr. Bobo's Remarkable Mouse Circus website!

If you want a little background on the project, in his remarkable way, Neil talks about how The Graveyard Book came about:

The Treat
No tricks here, kids. Just a great Halloween feast, so go visit Neil (one of my favorite storytellers) at the Mouse Circus for a delicious treat of storytelling and wonder:

Click HERE for The Graveyard Book at Mr. Bobo's Remarkable Mouse Circus

Have a marvelous night full of sweets and shadows, my friends. Happy Halloween!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

A Little Halloween Warm-Up Treat

2008-10-24T12:46:00.004-04:00

I Want One
Talk about drawing a crowd for Halloween and scaring the dickens out of the youngins. Wouldn't this be fabulous? My thanks to the gorgeous and marvelously talented (and scary) author, AJ Brown, for this little goody.

Enjoy!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

A Controlling Idea? Huh?

2008-10-12T09:48:00.006-04:00

So What's It Really About?
At first blush, this blog appears to be for writers, but to the dedicated readers and movie viewers out there, this blog is for you, too. It will enrich your experience of books and films and help you see at the most fundamental level why some stories work and some don't.

Most of us have heard the terms theme and premise, and some will argue their meaning, but for today let's just say they're interchangeable and we'll go with premise as our focus. For our purposes, when we say premise, we're talking about the "controlling idea" (per Robert McKee in Story) or what a story is really about when you strip away all the window dressing. I'm eternally grateful to my mentor, Douglas Clegg, for reintroducing me to this concept because it makes the process of writing so much cleaner and the process of reading and movie viewing a ton 'o fun.

Egri Calls It Premise
Doug suggested the book, The Art of Dramatic Writing by Lajos Egri, to help me deepen my understanding of the subject of premise/theme. Egri refers to the subject as premise and he begins the book this way:

A man sits in his workshop, busy with an invention of wheels and springs. You ask him what the gadget is, what it is meant to do. He looks at you confidingly and whispers: "I really don't know."

Another man rushes down the street, panting for breath. You intercept him and ask where he is going. He gasps "How should I know where I'm going? I am on my way."

...Every sensible invention must have a purpose, every planned sprint a destination.

...Reams of paper of paper bear miles of writing--all of it without any point at all. There is much feverish activity, a great deal of get-up-and-go, but not one seems to know where he is going.

So again, what is the story really about? On the deepest level of your feeling self, what is the story saying to you? Premise is not to be confused with plot. It's not what happens to whom, it is what underlies all the action and interactions of a story--a statement of the human condition that everyone can feel or identify with, even if we don't agree with it. Egri offers the following examples:

Romeo and Juliet - Premise: "Great love defies even death."

King Lear - Premise: "Blind trust leads to destruction."

Macbeth - Premise: "Ruthless ambition leads to its own destruction."

Othello - Premise: "Jealousy destroys itself and the object of its love."

Driving Satisfaction
In exploring this subject, I have learned that in standard story telling you will find that every paragraph and every sentence drives toward the premise in a great story. Without this clear path, a story feels less satisfying even if you're not aware of why that's so. There's a sense of ungroundedness or something out of place, even if it's an interesting or entertaining story. The premise is the unifying force, the thing that holds all the elements together, and without it, a story doesn't feel solid.

Writers don't usually start out knowing what the premise of a story is, rather it emerges as they write, but the important thing is for them to notice it, and to then refine it to its simplest form. Ultimately, the story should be edited to clear away anything that doesn't support the premise and fill in the gaps to clarify and strengthen it where needed.

The Tease
As readers and movie watchers, if you're a geek like me, you can tease out this idea for yourself to see if a film or a book holds together. You'll start to notice that really powerful stories have very strong and clear premises. Sometimes they're hard to nail down at first, but if you keep paring down the themes within the story, you'll find one shiny idea that unifies the whole echilada. For a poorly written story, you may be entertained, but the theme, if you can pin it down at all, won't hold together from start to finish.

Teasing out the theme is harder than it sounds, but it's a very statisfying and instructive exercise, especially for writers and lovers of story. It really demonstrates how important this concept of a unifying idea is to every single aspect of a well wrought tale.

Reoccuring themes for writers will arise from this exercise, as well, since themes/premises ultimately come from their conscious and unconscous beliefs and passions. I suspect readers and movie viewers, if you look more closely, you'll find that you're drawn to the work of specific writers because your beliefs and passions are in alignment with the writer's (via the themes of their stories). Nothing like a little psycho-babble blogging, but I think you'll find this "premise" true.

I don't have the magic to fully convey what premise or theme is in one blog, in fact, I'm still learning myself, but I hope I sparked your curiosity on the subject AND its importance in the composition of a truly great story. Don't take my word for it, read Egri, McKee, Gotham Writers' and anyone who will enlighten you on the subject. Now, get out there and go hog freakin' wild with this idea (yeah, baby, I'm a party animal, eh?). I guarantee it will change your writing and your appreciation for a well told tale.

See you next weekend!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Radiohead and Nelson Santos Animation--Yumm!

2008-10-11T20:05:00.005-04:00

Ooooo...Ahhh...
Many of you know my fascination with animation. I'm like a magpie with shiny things when it comes to beautiful or clever animation, but add to that great music and I'm nearly gah-gah. Hence, my joy in the discovery at Nelson Santos's profile of his lovely bit of animation for the Radiohead song, "All I Need."

I hope you enjoy it, too.

watch more at aniBoom

It's been a bit of a tough week, so it's nice to share something lovely with you. I might just come back tomorrow for another quick hello, since my "no internet work week" has left me missing you.

Just in case I don't see you tomorrow, have a brilliant weekend and a fabulous week ahead!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Shocklines Film Series in New York!

2008-10-05T10:35:00.001-04:00

Hurray for New York
Some very lucky New Yorkers are going to be treated to a new and wondrous series at the movies--The Shocklines Film Series! I might even take the train down to enjoy a few of these jewels. Here's the scoop from Matt Schwartz, the founder of the series:

For those in the NYC area, I'm organizing a monthly film series devoted to horror films that have never gotten real theatrical distribution (so people can see the films on the big screen), and with horror shorts preceding the films. Nothing major -- just a little side project. One of my friends who does event programming professionally was looking for someone to handle a horror film series, and I volunteered.

You can get info at: www.shocklinesfilms.com

The first one will be October 29th at 8PM, featuring Dog Soldiers (from Neil Marshall, the creator of The Descent) with the short film Peekers directed by Mark Steensland, written by Rick Hautala based on a Kealan Patrick Burke short story. Additionally, anyone who comes will get a little promotional chapbook of the short story PEEKERS only available at this screening.

Hope you can make it! Feel free to spread the word. I'll be announcing the other films for upcoming months shortly.

So there you have it, gang. What a treat for you New York film goers. All the details are at the website where you can even purchase your tickets. In case you're wondering about the location, it's at: 92Y Tribeca 200 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10013.

For you non-New Yorkers, anyone up for a road trip??

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Mama's Boy Coupons!

2008-09-24T09:45:00.003-04:00

Whadda Deal!
I'm running mad short on time gang, getting ready to leave for Columbus (Context). I'm tieing up all my loose ends for writing obligations and the things on the home front, but I wanted to take a minute to share this little tidbit with you, just in case you're looking for a yummy deal of the MB collection:

From the desk of Jason Sizemore, publisher at Apex Book Company:

I'm excited about seeing Fran Friel this coming weekend at Context 21. So excited, that I'd like to offer a big discount.

Get $15 off the hard cover of Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales by using coupon code MAMASBOY15 at checkout.

Get $5 off the trade paperback of Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales by using coupon code MAMASBOY5 at checkout.

This deal is good through tomorrow.

http://www.apexbookcompany.com/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=24

Once again, I want to thank everyone for supporting of me and the my crazy collection. You're an amazing bunch of friends and readers! *HUGS*

See you next week!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Too Fast, Beach Yammering, Cleggage and Dynamic Art

2008-09-14T23:52:00.008-04:00

Going, Going, Gone?
This has been our first full summer here at the beach and the first time I can remember not wanting summer to end (at least as an adult). I love the Autumn and I've always looked forward to the end of the heat and humidity of Summer so I could get to the good stuff, but this year, I'm actually sad to see the leaves start to change. Don't get me wrong, I'm going to love the crisp air and Fall foliage, but I can't help but think of the snow and ice that soon follows (Yuck!) and missing these gorgeous sparkling sunny days.

Yammerings from the Beach
Anyway, I'll soon be birthing a new blog--a beach blog, to share snippets of the colorful people and the inspiration that time at the beach seems to generate with such ease. I've been taking pics and talking to some interesting beach characters, kind of getting ready to share the journey via the blog. Maybe no one be me will give a hoot about inspirations born of the beach, but they've been clamoring in my brain for expression. I'll keep you posted on the beach blog launch in case you want to see my alter-ego at work (that's the bike riding barefoot crazy lady with the camera who stalks the Bacci Ball court taking pictures of the old Italian guys with the chestnut sun burns who play the game like a religion).

Clegg Zone
Just a quick update of the mentoring progress for anyone who may enjoy a little sadistic glance into a good whoopin'. Doug's first major assignment was to work during the week Internet-free, except for email. It's been both fabulous and horrendous. Working without the distraction of the Internet gave me back an enormous amount of time and also showed me just how often I use the web as a distraction when the going gets tough with my work. It's been a revelation how often I turn to the Internet when I'm bored or tired, rather than do something I really want or need to do like ride my bike or take a nap. The unconscious auto-pilot aspect of it became very clear when it wasn't there as an easy escape.

Although the exercise was meant for only one week, it was such a success I've decided to make it my default way of working. I might add one evening a week, but not if I can help it. I got more done this week both workwise and lifewise, than I have in the last month. If you haven't tried a little net time out, I highly recommend it. It's very revealing and good for the soul.

I Love Weird Stuff
One last thing--I've been meaning to share this with you for a while now, but I really love kind of weird mind-binding sort of stuff. Following is a link to a Dynamic Art site that contains a demo of a moving piece of art. It's got a cool meditative vibe to it and a sense of spacially living images--neat music, too. Have a little look--CLICK HERE.

When that finishes, hit replay than come back here and let the music accompany the following piece, as well (the YouTube vid has no music, so it's more fun with the groovy vibe):

Have a great week. See you next weekend!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Surprise! No Net and Scooby Snacks

2008-09-07T10:08:00.017-04:00

SURPRISE!
Okay, you know that cool announcement I shared with you in my last blog, the one about Douglas Clegg's extraordinary plan to give back to the writing community? Well, I'll admit, I was a little bit envious that some lucky duck was going to get the benefit of Doug's amazing guidance as his first writing mentoree in the program--a once in a lifetime opportunity for sure--but my benevolent side prevailed and I started to feel really excited about Doug's plan. Big ideas tend to create brilliant ripples that inspire others, and this sort of thing makes me strangely happy. Yes, I'm a little odd that way.

Anyway, it had been a pretty tough month at the old Friel homestead, but the dust was starting to clear and I was going along minding my own business when I get a call from Doug. Well, needless to say, I was clueless when he asked if I wanted to be his first mentoree. I was stunned...and I'm still stunned. Talk about the planets aligning, lucky stars, good karma and huge blessings all rolled into one. I'm thrilled. I'm amazed. And I'm enormously grateful, to say the least.

We've begun working together and already I've gained some very important insights into my work and into my thinking process. This week, at my mentor's request, begins a BIG change for me that will make an enormous difference in my working life--No Internet during the work week! Yup, it's a little scary and there will be withdrawal, but I know it's a very important step toward my success in the writing world (and life). I'll still be around on the weekends, but with the exception of email, starting Monday, I'm cut off! It's going to be fun...eventually.

Steve Berry and Maui Dreamin'
As some of you might have noticed in my bios, I often talk about my Maui dreaming. Well, best selling author, Steve Berry, has been living the dream at least during the Maui Writers Conference. I'm determined to find my way to this conference one of these days, but in the meantime, I'm happy to chomp on the little Scooby Snacks that are tossed my way by those who have attended. I'm a good sharer, so following is a little Scooby love for your chomping enjoyment.

In the latest Writer's Digest Newsletter (subscribe to the newsletter here--they always have excellent "snacks" for writers), Steve shares his 8 Rules of Writing:

At the 2008 Maui Writers Conference, bestselling thriller writer Steve Berry says there are eight key rules that all writers must know and follow:

1. There are no rules. You can do anything you want as long as it works.

2. Don't bore the reader. You can bore the reader in a sentence, in a paragraph, by misusing words, poorly choosing words, using the wrong length, etc.

3. Don't confuse the reader. Don't misuse point of view. Don't do too much at once.

4. Don't get caught writing. Don't let you, the author, enter the story. (E.g., "And he never would see Memphis again." How would anyone other than the author know that the character would never see Memphis again?)

5. Shorter is always better. Write tight. It makes you use the best words in the right way.

6. Don't lie to the reader. It's OK to mislead, but don't lie. If you say the character's motivation is A and it turns out to be B (and you haven't foreshadowed it at all), the reader will feel cheated.

7. Don't annoy the reader. Don't use names that are hard to pronounce or write choppy sentences throughout the entire book. It keeps people from getting close to your characters.

8. You must tell a good story. Bad writing can be forgiven with a good story. A bad story with the most beautiful writing cannot.

I hope you enjoyed the Scooby Snack. I'd love to hear your thoughts on the "8 rules." Agree? Disagree? Your own rules?

I'll look forward to seeing you all in Maui someday soon!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Best Selling Author, Douglas Clegg Gives Back!

2008-08-24T13:00:00.002-04:00

Inspiration
There are a lot of talented and successful writers, but one of my absolute favorites is Douglas Clegg. I met him in an online author chat a number of years ago and even in that brief meeting he impressed me. He was generous with invaluable advice and he was kind in his manner, with no airs one might expect from a Best Selling author.

Since then he has impressed me many times over with his fabulous writing, his amazing support and his elevation of the genre with class, style and excellence. But yesterday he outdid himself by posting his intentions to support other writers. This is what he posted in his newsletter:

Dear Reader

After realizing how fortunate I've been as a novelist over the past 20 years, I've decided it's time to give back -- but in a way that I hope will serve the writing and reading community, as well as others.

Generally, I feel writers do give back -- often -- by writing the best fiction they can write.

But at this point, my life has been enriched by being able to write for a living and be part of the world of books and readers.

As a result, I've decided that:

1. All profits I receive from all small press editions of my books will, herewith, go directly to specific non-profits that I believe are out to shepherd the world a bit.

Additionally, I'll use some of these funds specifically for the support of aspiring writers who seek to improve their craft through classes, conferences, etc. in the form of scholarships and gifts.

Bear in mind, this won't make me give free rights or licenses to small press publishers. Those advances and royalties will become even more important toward funding what I believe are useful endeavors and charities.

2. I will be launching some small press editions of various novellas and older novels of mine, specifically to bring contributions toward these endeavors.

When a reader buys any of the small press editions designated for this funding, they'll know from a note inside the book that any income I make from these books will go directly to specific non-profits or toward supporting writers who want to improve their craft.

3. First on this agenda is a yearly scholarship for one writer's tuition for those who are attending Borderlands Boot Camp.

More will be announced soon about this, but basically, I'll pay for one student a year to attend the Boot Camp. This won't include transportation or food, but will cover the exact fee for Boot Camp. Again, details are coming soon, since I'll award this for the upcoming January session.

More information on Borderlands Boot Camp for writers here:

http://www.borderlandspress.com/workshops.html

I'll be teaching here in January in the Short Story division.

4. A reasonable portion of my yearly income from writing for the NY publishers will go toward organizations that promote reading and the arts.

5. I'll pick one writer to mentor during each calendar year. What the mentoring will mean is that I'll be available in email, within specific parameters that will be set.

I'll pick the writer from among any applicants that I believe show promise. At any time that the mentoring is not working out, I'll release the mentoree and myself from this -- no point in making the year go bad for anyone.

This will be a form of light mentoring, but I hope I can bring some knowledge and insight into a new writer's life.

I mentored -- very lightly -- Derek Nikitas with the Killer Year group via the International Thriller Writers in 2007. It was enjoyable and personally rewarding to be part of such a talented writer's early success, even if in a small way. Derek's novel, Pyres, is excellent, by the way.

When I pick a mentoree for 2009, it'll be someone who has clearly demonstrated a professional pursuit of writing fiction, and has a clear talent for it.

My mentoring will not including reading the drafts of a book or teaching writing. It will be about discipline, focus, story development, developing business acumen for this, and, I hope, guiding the mentoree in some way to augment her or his own career direction.

Details on this to come -- if I can't find the right mentoree, it'll be delayed until I find the right one.

Someone once wrote me demanding that I mentor her. Then, she grew irrational and furious when I told her I didn't have the time to do it.

So, I have to assume that sometimes, people are just plain crazy when it comes to wanting this kind of thing. Those folks'll be ignored by me. If you're even slightly crazy, don't ask. And I won't tell.

6. I am going to launch a writing class weekend for writers next summer, with a focus on story, drama and premise. Very informal, and as small as it needs to be.

Students will be responsible for their transportation, hotel, etc., as well as a fee that will cover the guest speakers' fees and any incidentals. I will pull in a few other novelists who I think can provide guidance and insight as well.

Truly, I don't care if we only get three people coming -- I think it's important to keep storytelling and writing alive, and it's up to experienced writers to teach this art and craft. Details to come.

All this arose from my sense that after 20 years, there's something I can offer from all I've earned -- and learned -- in this life's work. I hope it all helps, in some small way, as a contribution to the future.

And that is my note for you, right now. Again, I'll have more details about the upcoming small press books as we move into fall.

Hope your end-of-summer is a good one -

Best,

Douglas Clegg

So as you can see, Doug has done something extraordinary. May we all be inspired by his generosity!

Be sure to visit Doug at DouglasClegg.com for his FREE Story of the Month. And for updates about his work and his Writer's Support mission, Click Here to Subscribe to his Newsletter.

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Ready for Santa? Got Ten Bucks?

2008-08-19T18:26:00.011-04:00

A $10 Peace of Mind
Santa is buffiing up for the big event, gathering gifts and training the reindeer--he's getting ready, but are you? Oh yes, that's right, my friends--Christmas is ONLY four months away. Yes, there, there, take a deep breath. I know you don't want to think about it. I know you just want to wait until the leaves change and the wind shifts, but I want to offer you a peace of mind that only early holiday shopping can bring...and have I got a deal for you! *shines cheap shoes and straightens leisure suit lapels*

For your holiday shopping enjoyment, or simply for the delight of a great deal, Apex is having a $10 Sale. If you liked the MB collection (or you haven't ordered a copy yet), you can get trade paperback copies of MAMA'S BOY AND OTHER DARK TALES, the perfect stocking stuffer for those discerning friends and family members, for only $10. There are a number of other great titles available, too.

The catch is (and there's ALWAYS a catch) that the sale lasts for only one week and starts today, August 19th, so don't wait--shimmy on over to Apex for a book sale that will make your holiday shopping a breeze this year. Remember, do it for Santa! *big grin*

CLICK HERE for a the $10 Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales!

CLICK HERE for the complete list of $10 titles!

Happy shopping, you lovely little elves, you!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Mr. Liaguno Speaks...and I Love What He Has to Say!

2008-08-17T17:17:00.005-04:00

Vince Made Me Blush
As many of you know first hand, writing a book is hard work and selling it is hard, too. It's challenging to find ways to help your book get noticed by a larger audience unless you've got the marketing department of a large publishing house behind you and a lot of cash. But once in a while a really amazing book review comes along and makes all that hard work feel like a shining gold star on your forehead while also making it just a little bit easier to sell your book to the masses. Vince Liaguno's review at Dark Scribe Magazine is one of those reviews.

I really hope you'll pop over to Dark Scribe Magazine to take a look. And if you have a minute, tell me what you think.

CLICK HERE for the Dark Scribe review of Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales.

I'm really proud of this one, gang, so thanks for reading!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Inside Chizine and the Mind of Brett Savory

2008-08-13T18:11:00.006-04:00

Big Shoes
Just a quick bit of what I hope you'll consider excellent info. If you've been wondering how to fit in the big shoes of authors who have been published in Chizine Magazine, then read on. If you've been curious about the dark corridors of Chizine Magazine and Brett Savory's mind, then read on, as well. If you've always wondered how Chizine is really pronounced, then that's right, read on, my friend.

The Snutch Writing Group (don't ask what Snutch is...I'll never tell) had an exclusive chat with Brett Savory, publisher of Chizine Magazine, just the other day and they left the evidence behind in a entertaining and invaluable chat transcript. Sounds like they had a blast AND man, did Brett give them the keys to the kingdom.

So, if you want to know what the Snutch group discovered, go to John Mantooth's blog for the juicy details. You'll be glad you did! And if you're feeling frisky, come back to the blog and share what you've learned, especially that crazy name--is it Chai-zeen or Chee-zeen? What's your guess?

CLICK HERE for John's Blog and the Brett Savory/Snutch Group Transcript!

Btw, if you ever see John Mantooth's writing in your travels, stop and read it. He's danged good!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Special Chrispy News and Penguin Man...er, Ed Schubert

2008-08-12T17:56:00.004-04:00

Master of the Arcane
I want to share some wonderful news with you about my dear friend, Chris Perridas. It was just announced that he's the new associate editor of the new Bloodletting Press imprint, ARCANE WISDOM. Following is the press release from publisher, Larry Roberts:

I'm very pleased to announce that Chris Perridas will be joining the ARCANE WISDOM staff as an associate editor. Mr. Perridas will be very active in choosing, proofing and editing all AW's titles.

Chris and I are currently working on AW's first publication set for late 2008:

THE GREAT GOD PAN AND OTHER WEIRD STORIES
By Arthur Machen
Edited, with Introduction and Notes, by S. T. Joshi

Please share with me in congratulating Chris on his new position and Larry for being so brilliant in hiring Chris!

Penguin Man
Another dear friend, Edmund Schubert, the editor of Orson Scott Card's InterGalactic Medicine Show was recently interviewed by the lovely Alethea Kontis.

If you want to see what being a full-time editor can do to you, be sure to read Ed's interview. It's one of my favorites ever!

Read Penguin Man's interview - CLICK HERE!

Enjoy, gang, and have a fabulous week!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Horror World, Ron Kelly Goodness, Reviewy

2008-08-03T17:23:00.002-04:00

Horror World
Forgive my shameless plug (yet another one), but I'm very excited and honored to be the featured author at Horror World for the month of August. You'll find my story, "Bessie Green's Thumb," available there until the end of the month--FREE! Horror World publisher, Nanci Kalanta said it had a Twilight Zone feel, so if that's your cup of weird tea, please stop by for a read.

Click Here for "Bessie Green's Thumb."

At Horror World you'll also find:

A Simon Wood interview with Steve Wedel

The always fabulous Horror World Book Reviews

The Lastest Pod of Horror - #46 with The Three Steves

Ron Kelly Goodness
It's a great day for horror fans because novelist, Ronald Kelly is back in business in a big way. After a decade away from the industry, he's back in the writing game full-time. I'm new to his work, but after reading Flesh Welder, I can't wait for what he's got in store for us. On his website he's announced a TEN book deal with Full Moon Press. Hop on over to Ron's site for the full line-up--it's a stunning bit of news for Kelly fans around the globe.

Reviewy
Another bit of nice (and shameless) news--over at Goodscares, C. Michael Cook offers a very thoughtful review of Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales. Have a read and let me know what you think. Btw, Michael always has something interesting to read, so be sure to go back for more!

Also, for those of you who have ordered the hard cover limited edition, I have them in my grubby little paws as we speak. They'll be signed, numbered and in the mail to the publisher for shipping to you by Monday afternoon. If you don't have a copy yet, but you'd still like an inscription, 1) buy your hard cover copy from APEX today (SUNDAY) and 2) send me an email with your proof of purchase and 3) inscription info (your name or whoever you want the book inscribed to and if there's anything special you'd like written in the inscription) and I'll be sure to add it to the shipment for tomorrow.

That's the scoop for now, gang. Have a great week!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Font Conference and Free Braunbeck but Hurry by Fran Friel

2008-07-28T12:56:00.002-04:00

FREE Braunbeck
Five-time Bram Stoker Award winner author, Gary Braunbeck, has a treat for you--a FREE three part story posted at Horror World. The only thing is that it will disappear from the website August 1st! So pop on over to HorrorWorld.org and read Gary's story, "In Seeing: a story of Cedar Hill." Like Gary's latest novel, Coffin County, "In Seeing" is from his fabulous Cedar Hill series. Don't miss it!

Font Conference
Yes, let it be known, I'm a total geek, but I loved this vid. I thought you might like it, too...but you don't have to be a geek to enjoy it...I don't think. ;-)

See more funny videos and funny pictures at CollegeHumor.

Have a great week!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Last Call for Inscriptions on the HCs

2008-07-23T21:08:00.004-04:00

Hardcover Scrawls
Hey, gang, at last the shipment of hardcover limited edition copies of Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales are winging their way to me. I should have them sometime next week. If you've ordered a hardcover and would like an inscription, please let me know. You can post here or send me a message. If you have special instructions for your inscription (i.e. it's a gift for someone else), don't hesitate to tell me what you'd like written in your copy.

If you haven't ordered your hardcover copy yet and would still like to do so, you have a few days before I start scrawling my name on the books. There are limited edition numbered hardcover copies available at:

Apex Book Company and the Horror Mall

Of course the trade paperbacks are also available at Apex, Horror Mall, Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.com. I'll be happy to sign those too if you ship them to me directly (just ask and I'll be happy to give you my shipping address).

Penmanship is not my forte so I can't promise legibility, but I'll try my best! *wink*

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Links of a Lazy Woman

2008-07-20T12:23:00.001-04:00

Lazy Links
I missed my beloved NECON this weekend because I've been a tad under the weather here, but I'm overdue for a visit with you and since I miss you I thought I'd just drop by with a few fine links for your perusing pleasure. I hope you find them helpful or at least a bit entertaining.

For Writers and Other Masochists:

Book Proposals: A Recommended Read - by Douglas Clegg

Promotion, PROmotion, PROMOTION - by John B. Rosenman

More on Getting Your Books into Libraries - by Lucy Snyder

Mr. Manners: 10 Rules of Etiquette for Writers Conferences - by Douglas Clegg

Characters - The Heart of Any Story - by Joe Nassise

For Readers and Other Magnificent Creatures:

Apex Digest (now FREE and Online...and paying pro-rates to writers!) - Issue One

Clarkesworld Magazine - (FREE and Online - pays double pro-rate!) - Issue 22

Chizine - (FREE and Online - pays pro-plus rates to writers!) - Latest Issue

For the wondrous folks who aren't sick of hearing about the MB collection:

Shanna Wynne - On Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales

Kent Allard from Dead in the South - On the MB Collection

That should keep you busy for a couple of minutes. And be sure to go back again later to visit the folks listed above. There's always something funny, fascinating and fabulous within the pages of their blogs and websites.

Happy reading!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Sharpen the Blade...er, the Pencil - Writing Class

2008-07-15T11:17:00.006-04:00

Sharpen the Blade...er, the Pencil
One of the best writing classes I've taken was with Terri Brown-Davidson (with Gotham Writers). She's teaching her own classes now and I just saw this today. I know it's short notice, but she may still be taking students or at least she could put you on the list for the next class. It's very affordable compared to Gotham and many other classes. If you decide to take the plunge, tell her Fran sent ya'!

From Terri:

Introductory and Intermediate Fiction Writing

Regardless of whether you’re new to fiction writing or have already dipped your toe into the narrative waters, this fiction course is guaranteed to make you a better writer. We’ll discuss drafts, revise drafts, engage in craft talk, have daily discussions about writing topics and our writing progress, and offer constructive and meaningful criticism that’s guaranteed to take your work to the next level, no matter where you start. The criticism will be substantial and thoughtful—no “fluff” reviews allowed—but delivered in a way that respects you and your gifts as a writer. Most writers who enter this course see their lives transformed-or at least their work!

COURSE FEATURES:

1. Ten craft lectures on fiction

2. Daily dialogues with the instructor and other students in the course

3. Revision advice from your course colleagues and instructor; marketing advice on where to submit your fiction

COST: $200

I have five online writing courses beginning July 15th; I'll offer descriptions of all of them in this office. To learn more and/or enroll, please see my teaching/coaching Web site, TBD's Online Writing Courses and Coaching, at www.tbrowndavidson.com. Also, please feel free to contact me if you have questions!

Happy sharpening, my friends!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

From the Tube to the Crypt - Vid and Interview

2008-07-10T21:58:00.016-04:00

The Tube
Last week I got to see my Hypericon-tired mug on YouTube reading a story for a wonderful crowd at the con (it's a great audience for sure when the readings starting at 10PM on a Friday night...and they stay!). I was in brilliant reading company with Deborah LeBlanc, Laura Anne Gilman, James Newman, Ronald Kelly and Steven Shrewsbury. The fabulous John Hornor Jacobs video taped all of the reading for us (voluntarily) and did a wonderful job filming and editing. If you dare, you can have a peek at my reading--I read "Gravy Pursuits" from my collection, Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales:

The Crypt
YouTube was a first for me and my next first is a podcast radio interview. Oh, don't you just love technology? I do! So if you have a little free time for some of my yammering, some music and perhaps a little live reading, I'll be chatting with the wicked men of The Metal Crypt on Hard Rock Radio Live on Friday, July 11th at 7PM eastern time. It'll be a mix of music and me yammering away with the guys.

You can access the show at:

www.hardrockradiolive.com
or
www.myspace.com/themetalcrypt

Hopefully the show will be archived for later consumption (so you can FF through the bits where I stammer and stumble). I know they've posted earlier shows on YouTube, as well, so I'm sure I'll have a link available for that eventually.

Hope to "see" you at The Metal Crypt!

Btw, next week lovely and talented Garry Charles with be the guest at TMC, and the following week the legendary Ray Garton will be chatting with the Crypt gang!

That's it for now, gang. I still have pics to upload from Hypericon and a fabulous little pirate I've come to adore. Can't wait to show him to you. Until them, stay scary!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Join Me In Hell?

2008-07-03T16:06:00.000-04:00

I'm Going to Hell
Yup, I'm going to hell for this one. Wanna join me? While I'm gathering my thoughts and photos from my super-duper trip to Hypericon in Nashville, I'd just like to leave you with a little gift from Michael Arnzen's Goreletter Vol. 5.03. After you stop by and read all of the latest Gorey Arnzen goodness, click on the following link that I "borrowed" from Mike:

The Kitten Cannon

At least I won't be in hell alone. Mike will be there to keep me company. *grins*

I'll be back soon with a report from my Nashville visit and the launch of Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales. In the meantime, ya'll get shootin' some kittens...cyber-kittens, that it. See ya' in hell!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

PS - My high score was somewhere around 1400 feet. No kidding. Now that's one tough kitten!

Storewide 20% OFF?? Yuppers!

2008-06-25T11:30:00.008-04:00

Jason's Gone Mad
Okay, gang, just a quickie for you today. I'm doing the crazy last minute thing getting ready to go Hypericon in Nashville. I leave bright and early tomorrow morning. I'll be back on Monday (if I survive!).

In the meantime, I wanted to leave you with this excellent little tidbit. Apex publisher, Jason Sizemore, has had a temporary lapse in sanity and is offering a storewide 20% discount at Apex.

In his own words of madness:

We're having a store wide sale to celebrate four excellent events:

1) The release of Orgy of Souls by Wrath James White & Maurice Broaddus

2) The release of Beauty & Dynamite by Alethea Kontis

3) The release of Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales by Fran Friel

4) THE COMPLETION OF OUR WEBHOST MIGRATION!

Just enter the code NEWHOST on checkout to receive your discount.
www.apexbookcompany.com

The sale ends June 30th!

Apparently Jason's madness will be short lived so don't wait. Rush on over and order some Apex goodies. Of course, I have a particular favorite I could recommend, but they're all good.

See you when I get back from Nashville. I'll be singin' all the way home.

Happy Apex shopping!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Padrone the Time Lord and a Twisted Gemini

2008-06-19T14:48:00.003-04:00

Padrone on Time Management
Tom Monteleone, the author and publisher known and loved by many as Padrone has a lot to say about being a successful writer. His book on writing, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing a Novel, is jammed packed with excellent advice on the subject. I've had the pleasure of studying with Tom and his brilliant gaggle of author/instructors at the writing workshop, Borderlands Press Boot Camp. He knows his stuff so when I saw that Cemetery Dance Magazine had a link online for an article by Tom, I popped on over for a look.

Have a look yourself--definitely worth your time (pardon the pun):

Time Keeps on Slippin' . . . .Into the Future
Or: How to find the time to write
by Thomas F. Monteleone

Rebellion and a Twisted Gemini
Time management has been vexing for me as a writer. I have more time than most writers, but it can slip away from me if I'm not diligent. I love to write and I'm a naturally hard worker, but I have a personality that rebels against a rigid schedule BUT if I don't have some semblance of schedule, I can dawdle time away like sand through my fingers.

I used to beat myself up for not adhering to the sacred writing rule of "you must write everyday." And while beating myself up, I was also creating a subconscious backlash against my joy for writing which ultimately caused me to rebel. A kind of negative feedback loop formed which made me war with myself about writing. Of course, most of this war was raging on the subconscious level, but it led me to find all kinds of excuses not to write even when I wanted to and needed to (oh, the joys of being a Gemini...always of two minds). And since I work at home, there are plenty of easy excuses at hand: laundry, dishes, bills, oil changes for the cars, cleaning, etc. And then of course there's the oh so enticing "networking" online, blogging and "researching." Oh yes, I'm a master of self-distraction and delusion.

Anyway, I finally had to admit to myself that I couldn't be a work-a-day writer with a time clock and a page limit. I had to rekindle my joy for writing and let that guide me to finding my own rhythm schedule-wise. To find that joy again, I had to force myself NOT to force myself to write (my dutiful German genes run strong, but my Bohemian rebellion side won't be silenced!), but rather, I had to learn how to love it again. Before going to war with myself, I'd actually found writing fun. I LOVED the process of uncovering a story and finding a way to tell it to others that made it fun and interesting to them.

It took me a while to step away from the rigid scheduling idea and break the negative pattern I'd set up, but I'm finally there. I'm still doing a little dance with myself and learning how best to keep the fun fresh and be productive at the same time, but it's much easier now because I'm kinder and gentler with myself. One thing I did this year was wrap up my big projects just before Spring sprung here in New England. I was determined to have time to go to the beach and be outdoors in the beautiful weather while it lasted. Spring is short here before the heat and humidity set in and I didn't want to miss it sitting in my office staring longingly out the window when I live across the road from the sea. Ack...no way! I figure I'm halfway through my life - how many Springs do I have left? As the saying goes, "life's too short"and I might add, all work and no play makes Fran a dull writer.

Of course, sometimes you just have to hunker down and get the work done, but for someone with my personality, too much hunkering is poison to the process but just enough keeps the literary lifeblood flowing. So I say, find your own rhythm. Writing everyday is a great way to succeed and the best way, I think, but some of us need a bit of flexibility in that rule to stay the course for the long haul especially if you want to keep loving what you do. Viva la difference!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

A Chrispy Review and Nashville Paneling

2008-06-14T21:33:00.009-04:00

A Happy First
I've been so bad--I have so many things I've wanted to tell you but I haven't gotten the chance. Forgive me for my absence, but I'll at least leave you with a couple of bits to chew on.

Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales is nearing its release date of June 28th (yeehaw!) from Apex and I'm so happy to announce that along with its pending arrival comes its first review. A sweet one at that. I'm honored and thrilled.

Have a peek at a very Chrispy review from Chris Perridas at the Horror Mall:

Click Here (you might need to scroll down the page).

If you want to take the plunge:

MB is available for pre-order HERE.

Nashville Paneling
I'll be making my first trip ever to Nashville TN is a couple of weeks, and now that I think about it, it will be my first trip to Tennessee...so yeehaw, ya'll. I'm heading down for Hypericon to promote the MB collection. If you're in town, be sure to come on by.

If you happen to stop in, I'll be yammering away on a couple of panels:

Friday 2PM

SHORT AND SCARY
Tips on writing short horror fiction and why it is harder than you think.
PS Gifford, Matt Wallace, Fran Friel, Bill Snodgrass, Jason Sizemore (moderator)

Saturday 7PM

HOOKED FROM THE START
Writers talk about how to hook the reader at the beginning of the story
Fran Friel, Allen Gilbreath, Sara Harvey, Elizabeth Donald

I'll also be doing a reading at 10:30PM on Friday and a book signing at 3PM on Friday and 5PM on Saturday (I think in the dealer's room area).

I hope to see you there! And if you can't make it, I'll do my best to take some pics to share with you when I get back.

Hope you're having a great weekend!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

A Little Hair Pulling Help and Banner Beggin'

2008-06-01T13:20:00.001-04:00

Hair Pulling Help
As most writers soon discover, there's far more to writing than just crafting an entertaining story. You have to prepare your manuscript for submission, and in the case of novels, you have to write a compelling query letter and then you have to market yourself as if you know what you're doing. It's enough to send a writer into a bit of a hair pulling frenzy.

Well, today I've got a couple of links to help save at least a hair or two. This is old news for some of you, but hopefully it will help a few folks that still have their hair.

Make It Pretty
Unless you've taken a class on the subject or have a writer in the family, one of the things that you simply don't know as a new writer is how to format a manuscript for submission to an editor. And believe me, in my brief couple of years as an editor of a small mag there are lots of writers who don't know how to do this. A clean well-formatted manuscript makes an important strong first impression showing a commitment to being a professional. It can be a tedious job, but formatting is very important so don't skimp on the details. Hence, the following link is a good guideline for formatting a manuscript for submission (but remember to always read the specific guidelines of the editor you're submitting to--some have special requirements...sometimes silly ones...they have their reasons or they're sadist, but do it anyway):

William Shunn: Manuscript Formatting - Click Here!

Query Madness
Another important tool in the writer's tool kit is the skill of writing an compelling query to a publisher or an agent. Like a handshake at a meeting, the query letter is the first impression you give a potential agent or publisher of your work. Since they receive tons of queries everyday, a busy publisher or agent wants your query short, concise and clean. This sounds simple, but there's a real art to a great query letter. Here's a place to peruse for some very good advice on this mystical maddening writer's necessity:

Query Shark - Click Here!

Work It Baby
There are those lucky folks that are in the right place at the right moment and it all falls into place for them, but most of us have to do the hard work of getting our writing noticed by publishers and readers alike. Volumes have been written on the need to market in the writing business and amongst writers there are heated debates on this subject, but coming from a sales background and also running a private therapy practice for many years, I've learned that you have to do a little legwork or you wither on the vine waiting.

I guess my biggest lesson came from the Condo King. As a Realtor years ago, I worked with a marketing firm and they taught me the concept of "making it so." They introduced me to the Condo King, a guy struggling like all new Realtors to get a steady list of clients, that is until he bought a billboard and crowned himself the Condo King. Was he the Condo King? Debatable, but he indeed made it so with that billboard that turned him into the local go-to guy for condos. He talked the talk, but ultimately he walked the walk and delivered on his promise as the Condo King.

As writers our name and our work are our brand. I can hear the cringing of many writers as I say that, but it's a simple truth. What do you think when you hear about a new Stephen King, JK Rowling or Dean Koontz book? Most fans of their work think, "Oooo, gotta get that!" It's just like the album of your favorite band or the latest Prada purse dangling on a celeb's arm or a new Lamborghini model ripping up asphalt around the world --brands, baby.

But for the lowly writer without an army of marketers we've got to work with what we have at hand. First and foremost, good product and a good reputation. 1) Learn to write well and seek out teachers and colleagues who will offer you honest criticism. Let the sting of imperfection fade and learn from their comments. 2) Be professional and kind (or at least polite) in your public dealings. Blasting folks on message boards can be the kiss of death to your reputation. 3) Join message boards, writers groups, professional writers organizations and go to conventions. Get to know folks and build a good reputation that will help when your submission comes up for consideration. 4) Help others succeed. It feels really good to be helpful and people will remember your kindness. 5) Blog regularly, write articles, offer to interview your colleagues, volunteer to be a first reader or to do some editing for a mag or anthology--get your name out there so that when your submission comes before the editors and their choice is you or an equally talented writer whose name is completely unfamiliar, you'll have that slight and oh so important advantage.

I recently found a couple of free or inexpensive advertising resources to help spread the word. You might want to give them a try:

Horrorfind Banner Exchange

GenreBanners.com - Permuted Press Banner Exchange

Project Wonderful - Work like Ebay, bidding for banner ad space on sites of your choice

Well, this little blog has turned into a bit of a monster, but I hope you may have a least found something of interest here. Now I'm off to get some work done!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

PS: Speaking of banners, if you have a little space for a snazzy Apex/MB banner I'd be honored if you'd post it for us. Please let me know if you do! Here's the banner and the link:

Link to: http://www.apexbookcompany.com/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=24

Embed direct code - copy and paste into website or About me Myspace code (be sure change red brackets [ ] to same facing arrows < >):

[a target="_blank" href="http://www.apexbookcompany.com/cart.php?m=product_detail&p=24"][img border="0" src="http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c333/franfriel/APEX_Mamas_banner.gif" /][/a]

Tidbits: Apex Winners, Insults, Lair News and Book Guts

2008-05-18T23:34:00.001-04:00

Bits of Tid
Just a few odds and ends to report to you, gang, so I'll just get right to it and see if I can restrain myself from extraneous banter. Hey, did I just hear you scoff? Oh well, maybe you're right, but I can at least try.

First tidbit: The winners of the Support Apex contest have been announced over at Shocklines. To take a quick cyber-hike over to see if you're one of the lucky ones: Click Here.

Two free subscriptions to Apex, 4 issues of Dark Discoveries and a copy of Jennifer Pelland's, Unwelcome Bodies were all up for grabs and donated by Apex fans to help remind folks to subscribe to Apex Science Fiction and Horror Digest. The publisher needed a little help getting the word out that new subscribers were needed to keep their fantastic magazine afloat. If you'd like to add your support and receive one of the best mags in the business, stop on over to Apex and nab yourself a subscription for the very reasonable price of just $20 for four issues. Buying subscriptions keep magazines in business, which in turn gives writers a place to sell their stories so you have something wonderful to read!

Second Tidbit: After a whole long year of messing around, I'm FINALLY going to publish my newsletter. Thanks to everyone who subscribed WAY back when I launched the website. If you haven't signed up and you'd like to, Click Here.

Obviously from my newsletter publishing track record, you're assured I won't be spamming your email account with trivial ha-ha, BUT I can guarantee we'll have some newsletter-only promotions worth signing up for.

The inaugural issue will include a random drawing from all subscribers signed-up by the launch date, May 25th. The Prize: A signed/inscribed softcover copy of Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales. Only catch, you have to actually read the newsletter to see if your name was drawn. Not too tough, right? Subscribe Here!

Third Tidbit: I saw something over at David Niall Wilson's Macabre Ink that I wanted to be sure to share with you. When we shell out bucks to the small press often the limited editions we received are made by hand, which is the case with the books from Insidious Publications. They were the original publishers of my novella Mama's Boy, and since then they've been busy with several other titles. David interviews Chris Hedges in a fascinating photo essay on the making of a hand made book. Makes you really appreciate those little literary jewels even more. Click Here to have a look at "The Anatomy of a Book."

Tidbit Four: As you may have noticed, I'm easily entertained especially by strange things. One recent find for my personal amusement was The Alien Insult Generator. It's a random word generator but dedicated to, well...alien insults. If you stop by, you'll be treated such nuggets of nasty goodness such as, "Three eyed son of a radiation damaged toilet eating droid!" Or who could resist the "Dribbling son of a space sick nose worm." Oh yes, as I said, easily entertained. Click Here for more...I bet you get hooked too, you Bord sniffing son of a deranged space weevil! *giggles* Thank you John at Hollis.co.uk! Click Here and begin your dissent into alien insult hell!

Well that's is for the bits of tid. I hope you found something of interest. I hope to see you at the newsletter next Sunday!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Are You Mad Enough? Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales Pre-Order is Open!

2008-05-12T17:12:00.008-04:00

Are You Mad?
You know how time goes fast and slow at the same time sometimes? Well, this is one of those moments for me (and no this is not an episode of LOST, thankfully). It's a long process from the conception of a book to its final printing, but then suddenly it's there. Yes, suddenly it's ready to be unleashed on the unsuspecting!

So I'm very pleased to tell you (finally!), if you're mad enough to jump in this Gemini's twisted pool of dark fiction, then jump, baby, JUMP! The pre-ordering has begun for MAMA'S BOY AND OTHER DARK TALES!

I understand that of the 100 limited edition hardcover copies available, 30 were gone by noon. Woohoo! But the trade paperback is also available, so no worries unless for some crazy reason you want my chicken scratch of a signature in your collection (the fabulous cover artist, Billy Tackett, will also be signing...not sure if he does chicken scratch...I doubt it).

Click Here for the PRE-ORDER link for the MB collection at Apex.

Just In Case
By some small chance you haven't heard my yammering about Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales, then here's the basics. The title story, Mama's Boy, was a Horror Writers Association Bram Stoker Finalist in 2006 for long fiction and it's the title story (surprise!) of this fiction collection. There are 14 pieces of fiction in all, including 3 additional novellas written expressly for the collection. The magnificent Gary Braunbeck is slated for the intro and the book will be released June 28th. It will having its debut at Hypericon in Nashville TN! Shall we call it a literary cotillion of sorts?

Here's what a couple of wonderful writers had to say about the collection:

“Fran Friel has a genuine gift for storytelling. Her highly adaptable prose boils over with emotion: love, guilt, fear, and the myriad shades between. Mama’s Boy and Other Dark Tales marks the arrival of a stunning new talent.”
– Michael McBride, author of the God's End trilogy and Bloodletting

"Fran Friel is a rosy-cheeked, cheerful woman with a world-class seductive smile. Her obviously warm nature makes her icy fiction appear all that more unsettling. Her stories are well written, compelling, all with a muscular hard edge, with often surprising but very appropriate endings...and always absolutely brutally chilling. From the short-short shockers like "The Widow" and "Close Shave" that surprise like an unexpected poke in the eye, to the longer moving ones like "The Sea Orphan" and "Beach of Dreams," that jar you and linger like a solid, well-placed left hook to your kidney. Many have the quality of the renown title piece, MAMA'S BOY: At some point they make your sphincter muscle clench and spasm with shock. Scary stories that are not soon forgotten. And from such a nice person. Highly recommended."
--Gene O'Neill, Author of COLLECTED TALES OF THE BAJA EXPRESS and THE CONFESSIONS OF ST. ZACH

Not too shabby?

The Horror Mall is also carrying the collection, and if you have a favorite bookstore you prefer to patronize just drop me a note and I'll give you the ISBN numbers for ordering.

I can't thank you all enough for your support. You're why I do this crazy writin' thing--you make it all worth while.

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

FREE Subscription to APEX? Yuppers...plus AJ

2008-05-04T20:37:00.006-04:00

Free Subscription
Is that not just an absolutely gorgeous cover? Oh yes...oh yes it is. Like so many of the Apex Digest of Science Fiction and Horror covers, this one blew me away. This mag has been my favorite since I discovered it a couple of years ago. I'm a Apex for Life subscriber and when I saw that publisher Jason Sizemore put out a somewhat desperate plea for subscriptions I felt like I needed to help.

SO, I offered a chance for a Free Subscription as a way to draw some more attention to Jason's subscription drive, then a whole lot of other folks have jumped in to help with additional prizes. So pop on over to Shocklines for the details (register for the forum if you haven't already...it's an awesome board with LOTS of well-known genre writers in attendance) and just add a post to the thread. It's TOTALLY easy.

Clickety Here for the Link and a chance for a Free Apex Subscription!

Goodkin
You know how it is sometimes when you meet someone and they feel like kin? Well, that's AJ Brown and me. He's like my "little" brother and we have so many strange quirky things in common, you'd think we were really kin...and the best kind, goodkin.

Anyway, AJ has been a great inspiration to me with his talent and unbounded enthusiasm and energy. His love of the art of writing and his undaunted pursuit of a good story has helped to keep me writing sometimes when I didn't think I could, so I'm immensely honored that he dedicated a blog to me. If you have a moment, please stop by and visit AJ Brown's blog at the Horror Library Blog-O-Rama at Blogger or at HLBOR MySpace.

You can visit AJ at his Friday column at the HLBOR and anytime at:

MySpace

Theater of Nightmares

Enjoy and have a great week, gang!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

BEASTIAL! And a Sign of Lincoln...

2008-04-27T11:20:00.002-04:00

Mister Wolfie Romero
I've been too busy to keep up on what's going on with all my writing buddies, but with my stories for the collection complete and the edits almost done, I can breathe a bit and share some tidbits from my friends.

Notably, my pal Bill Carl's book, BEASTIAL: Werewolf Apocalypse is coming out in July from Permuted Press. And the thing that makes this especially notable is the blurb it received from one of the horror genre greats, Ray Garton.

Ray's blurb for BESTIAL:
"If you have an appetite for werewolves, this book is an all-you-can-eat buffet! Carl has done for werewolves what Romero did for zombies, and he's done it with flair and a sense of gruesome fun."
-- Ray Garton, author of LIVE GIRLS and RAVENOUS

I've dubbed Bill, Mister Wolfie Romero, and I can't wait to have a read of this fine bit of wickedness. Permuted Press (through the Horror Mall) has a nice free shipping pre-order deal if you have a hankering for a little werewolfie apocalypse action.

First Signing
I remember my first book signing. It was both exciting and scary. Would anyone stop? Would people buy the book? But I survived and actually enjoyed the whole process. A young and ambitious Horror Library member, author Lincoln Crisler recently had his first signing event. He's in the U.S. Army and has spent time in Afghanistan, so I figure a table at Barnes & Noble was a piece of cake for him.

I haven't had the pleasure of reading his book, Despairs and Delights, but I just wanted to take the time to congratulate him on his first signing. Quite an event for any young writer. Woohoo, Lincoln!

With the Mama's Boy collection done (editing not withstanding), my computer shackles have been removed (for now) and I'm off to have a leisurely breakfast. Wish you were here to join me!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

From the Mouths of [Eloquent] Babes

2008-04-25T16:43:00.004-04:00

Speechless
Not to go all global and green on you again, but this child's eloquence and passion blew me away. She says it all, speaking what my heart feels.

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Tree-Hugging Anyone?

2008-04-22T11:35:00.007-04:00

Oh yes, my friends, I'm a tree-hugger...AND kisser!

Just A Little Change
Do me (and my tree buddies) a favor?

Small Favor - When you go to a restaurant or stop in for fast food, use one napkin instead of two. Many of us just grab a handful by habit and millions of napkins and the trees that are cut down to make them are wasted everyday. Same thing with public restrooms, when you wash and dry your hands using those crank paper towel machines - consider cranking out a foot as opposed to three feet of paper towel. Takes a lot less to dry your hands than you may think!

Medium Favor - Switch to cloth napkins at home. Napkins take up very little space in the wash and you'll save a ton of money. I've bought a variety of colors and textures for everyday use and I've picked them up for 50 cents to a dollar each on the clearance racks at Target. I keep a basket of them on the kitchen counter.

BIG Favor - Switch to recycled paper products for your paper towels and toilet paper (our Stop and Shop carries it now - also Trader Joes). We did this last year. I used to think these products wouldn't be very good, but they're actually very good quality. They're more expensive, but 1) that makes us conscious over overusing them, 2) we'll pay in many other nasty ways such as pollution and deforestation 3) they use some nasty chemicals for bleaching paper in commercial toilet paper and paper towels...not nice for the bum or for things that may be associated with food (like microwaving...which btw, we don't own one).

Okay, enough favor asking on my part. What are some of the things you all do for the Green of it? Don't be shy. It's okay to be a tree-hugger!

www.grist.org
www.treehugger.com
www.sundancechannel.com/the green

Happy Earth Day, my friend!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Booty Results Coming Soon - Arrrgh!

2008-04-16T13:42:00.005-04:00

Loot News
The Pirate Contest results will be posted over the weekend, not that anyone is sitting on the edge of their seat waiting, but I thought I'd let you know just in case.

I finally finished the pirate tale (now titled, "The Sea Orphan") and I'm working hard of an even heftier novella for the collection titled, "Fine Print" (from Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales, for those of you who haven't heard me yammering about it yet). Some of you folks may have read the earlier version of this story in its incomplete two parts at the Horror Library. I've been asked by a number of extremely patient readers to finally finish it already so I took their request to heart. Turns out, if I were to continue the story in series form that baby would have been in at least five parts, so it will be a nice addition to the collection -- that is if you like a hefty story.

For Those Patient Readers
If you remember reading the first two parts of the original "Fine Print," please post a comment here. I'm contemplating something for you folks, since the first two parts were free and the final version won't be...if you get my drift. I want to be fair to you if you were one of the kind folks who read my stuff before anybody was willing to pay for it.

Well, I've got to get back to work here, since I'm sailing fast toward my deadline a little too quickly. And please forgive me for not being around much. I wish I had more time to visit...I miss you guys. But I'll spare you the maudlin rant and invite you to come back over the weekend for the booty call, pirate style! *wink*

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Publisher Sizemore on Bad Chicks & More Booty

2008-04-08T18:04:00.006-04:00

Quickie One
Just a quickie today, gang. I have work spilling down my chin and puddling on the floor. But before I drown, I wanted to share two quick tidbits.

Apex Science Fiction and Horror publisher, Jason Sizemore, is sharing his vivid imagination over at the Horror Library Blog-O-Rama. I do not confirm or deny part three of his essay. When you have a second, pop on over and decide for yourself:

Click On - The Horror of Women.

Quickie Two
Jeesh, I have so much more I want to share with you, but no time to spare. But I need to at least tell you that the Pirate Contest has some additional Booty for the taking. We now have a Second Prize of the hard cover edition of Jennifer Pelland's 2007 Nebula Finalist, Unwelcome Bodies! But you've got to play to win, so if you haven't walk the plank on over to the contest blog:

Right Here .

It's so easy, a one legged pirate could do it. *chuckles from sleepless delirium*

Thank you to Jason and Apex Book Company for the generous donation to the piratey goodness.

Back to work for me. Arrgh, Mateys!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Why a Sea Shanty? A Contest, Of Course!

2008-03-21T17:33:00.004-04:00

Shanty Me a Story
Okay, if you've stopped by my profile over at MySpace, you may have noticed the sea shanty playing as my profile tune. Why a shanty, you might ask...or maybe not, since I'm just goofy enough to post a sea shanty for the halibut (sorry, I couldn't help myself). Well, I'll tell you why. Besides the obvious moment of distraction from my story writing to compose a blog, I just needed a little inspiration. Believe it or not, mateys, I'm writing a pirate story. As a matter of fact, I've been writing it for hours and hours, hence my state of near madness and my need for distraction.

And yes, it's a horror story, but with a pirate ship background, and no there's no sea monsters (that I know of). I suspect this story is not your normal pirate fare, but what do I know? Well, I know I'm writing it, and I'm not normal, so it's just going to be different. It's called "Sea Urchin" and it will be one of my dark little lovelies (well, actually it's pretty long...and ugly) for the short story collection, Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales, due to be released this June from Apex.

Now, if you'll recall, I'm a Gemini, which means there will be a WIDE variety of story subjects in this book, and if you don't like pirates stories (I still think you'll like this one) there will be lots of other madness to indulge in. To name just a few, we've got gravy lovers, Pacific islands and nightmares, and science experiments gone wrong. There's parrots, critters with cleavers, shrubs with an attitude, and of course, there's that nasty little Stoker finalist, Mama's Boy.

Oooo, just this moment, this very minute (serious, just now), I had an inspiration. Let's do a contest! A pirate contest. Yeah!

Okay, here goes...

In the comments section of this blog, post one of the following:

1. Your Favorite Pirate Saying

2. Your Favorite Pirate Book or Movie

I'll do a random drawing from all the comments with a deadline of April 15th (if it's good enough for the IRS, it's good enough for me...tee hee). Watch here the following week and I'll announce the winner. The prize - A copy of Mama's Boy and Other Dark Tales (when it's released, of course).

BONUS- for an EXTRA chance to win a copy of the collection AND a signed original copy of the manuscript for the story "Sea Urchin" all you have to do is:

Post a pic of youself looking like a pirate in the comments section of this blog . Even an eyepatch will make it so, but feel free to be creative.

So there you have it, my first contest inspiration for the MB collection. I hope you like it. Just remember you shanty-phobes, this isn't a book about pirates, it's just one story, but the bugger of a story is haunting my every moment right now, so ARGGGGGH, we're doing a pirate contest!

Dang, pirates are cranky, aren't they? *wink*

Have fun, gang, and let me see your pirate within!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Got Dreams? Then Watch This!

2008-03-08T23:00:00.001-05:00

Got Dreams?
No matter what your dream - writing a best seller, painting a mural in Paris, singing at the Met, walking on Mars, fiddling at Carnegie Hall - watching this little video will help you along the path. Don't miss it - it may be just what you need to see today. It's certainly what I needed to see.

Thank you Nancy Frank for making sure I had a chance to see it. *HUGE HUG*

RandyPausch - The Last Lecture

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You can see the original Last Lecture held at Carnegie Mellon. It's a wonderful, more in depth version, just in case you're looking for more:

Part 1 or 4:
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=20438994

Part 2 of 4:
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=20445475

Part 3 of 4:
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=20451651

Part 4 of 4:
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=20456267

Btw, what are your dreams? I really do want to know. As you might imagine from my line of work, I like a good nightmare, but what you may not know is that I LOVE dreams.

Got dreams?

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

I'm No Hitchcock

2008-03-02T12:36:00.004-05:00

Even More Global Domination
Okay, before we get to the magnificent Alfred, I wanted to alert you to the ever growing threat of world domination coming from my favorite, I mean, that dastardly mag and publishing house Apex. The fiends have taken another giant step forward to their goal by hiding behind their brand spankin' new highly professional and easy to navigate website. Stop by and see for yourself. It's a hideous plot, I tell ya'. While you're there, be sure to buy something. Commerce is the only way to keep them distracted from their ultimate goal. I highly recommend Gratia Placenti...FABOO!

But if you can't beat 'em, Join 'Em!

Now, To Alfred
I've looked at a lot of elements that have contributed to my twisted sensibilities, hence my penchant for writing horror, and one of my earliest memories of being emotionally marred was Alfred Hitchcock's, Psycho. I was a darn good faker as a kid, and one fateful night, I faked being asleep on the sofa while my parents watched Norman do his dirty deeds. I watched the whole wicked movie with one eye closed, not moving a muscle for fear of being discovered and banished from the horror and the delight of my decadent viewing.

There's a reason why parents don't allow their kids to watch horror, and I'm living proof. That movie scarred me for life, and just now as I think about it, my novella Mama's Boy was no doubt an opportunity to purge some of that scarring. Jeesh, the things we discover buried in our own little psychic-cemeteries when we least expect them.

Anyway, I'd like to contribute to your delinquency by offering up a real treat. Last night I found a fantastic site - The Alfred Hitchcock Hour. There you'll find links to full length episodes of that wickedly wonderful show.

For a nostalgic ride into Scaryville with Alfred & Co. - CLICK HERE!

I'm No Hitchcock
No siree, I'm no Mr. Hitchcock, but that didn't stop me from making a lame attempt at a little video making myself. Actually, it was just a bit of a laugh to try making a video or sorts with the Slide.com program. It's very limited and it's too slow, and on and on I could complain, but it was free and it was fun. Following is the link rather than a video player. I didn't want to post the embedded video, because it plays automatically (no auto on-off switch - one of those things I could complain about, but I won't...or did I just? :D ), so I didn't want it to knock over anyone's machines, particularly folks that might have dial-up.

With all that said, please give the link below a little clickety, and let me know if you like my lame-o MB vid:

MB is Back - Summer 2008!

Have a fine week, kids, and enjoy a little Hitchcock for me.

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Dont Blame Me - It Was Wayne's Idea!

2008-02-22T13:38:00.003-05:00

More Cows?
Yeah, but don't blame me. It was the idea of the lovely and talented, Mr. Wayne Blackhurst. "Time for a 'Cows With Guns' reprise," he said.

What better excuse for me to post something brilliantly silly, than to please my pal from across the pond. This one's for you, Wayne.

The infamous, COWS WITH GUNS!

I promise (maybe), no more cows for a while...but chickens are fair game. tee-hee...

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Bovine Power...and Hugs Are Fuel?

2008-02-21T16:59:00.004-05:00

Bovine Power?
Need a little good news on the energy front? I know I do. This is a little silly, but I really like this idea. Some ecomagination coming to a cow pasture near you:

Hey, I always new hugs were fuel.

*hugs* Feel better?

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Lost in Vegas and Writin' Good

2008-02-12T12:56:00.001-05:00

Lost in Vegas?
I know it's been a LONG time since I last visited with you, and as many of you know, my husband and I went on holiday to Las Vegas...over Christmas. And no, despite my long absence, we didn't get lost, but we were almost swallowed by a monster - the amorphous blob of zombie shoppers and gamblers filling every hotel, show, restaurant and bus (The Deuce...no kidding, that's what they call it). Silly us, thinking it a novel idea to go to Vegas for Christmas. Seems everyone from Asia and the Middle East had the same idea.

Now with the whining complete, I can honestly say we had a great time. We didn't gamble, not even once! Never got around to it, but we had a FABULOUS room at The Venetian - the hotel with the gondolas. We slept a lot (much needed), ate excellent food and saw a ton of brilliant shows. If you love the Beatles like I do, going to see the Cirque Du Soleil's, LOVE, is worth the trip to Vegas. The music, the visual feast, the ingenious staging makes for a stunning event. Here's a little intro from YouTube: http://youtube.com/watch?v=bEsN9TRe7LU&feature=related

The other very cool thing we did while we were in Vegas is take a bus trip to the Grand Canyon Skywalk. The Skywalk is a suspended glass-floored bridge that hangs 4000 feet above the west rim of the canyon on the Hualapai Tribal land (or air, in this case). It's an amazing experience (scary, too!). Glass bottom boats have nothin' on this baby!

Now, what, you may ask, does all this have to do with writing? Well, nothing, but I'm FINALLY getting to that...

Writin' Good
You may remember that last year I subjected myself to a good thrashing at Borderlands Press Novel Boot Camp. It was fabulous, and being the masochist that I am, I went back for another whoopin' last month for the Short Story Boot Camp. Since I'm working on my short story collection, MAMA'S BOY AND OTHER DARK TALES (Apex - Summer 08), I thought it would be a great help to tidy up my writing brain and sharpen my skills with the help of writing masters, F. Paul Wilson, Tom Monteleone, Doug Winter and Ginjer Buchanan. Well, besides the literary lashings and the grueling all night writing sessions (plus, I got the freakin' flu on my drive down to the workshop...oops, more whining...sorry), it was the best thing I could have done! Let's hope my short story collection actually reflects the tireless efforts of the instructors and my very generous fellow writers (or Grunts, as we're fondly referred to). *fingers crossed*

The point of all this, other than shameless self-promotion? If you're a writer and you want to improve your writing, consider taking some classes. The submission/rejection process will help make you a better writers, but a couple of good classes can make an enormous difference in acceleratingly your skills in the craft of writing. Learning the fundamentals of plot, character development, grammar, voice, point of view, etc. can save you years of stumbling toward real publication success. Of course, some folks succeed without a single class, but it can take years...decades.

Starting with something as simple as a community college class in creative writing can be helpful. I started with local adult classes offered in my state as an education extension program. The classes were only a couple of hours a week for 6 or 8 weeks, but it gave me a starting point and some basics to work with. There are also some good online classes available, if you don't mind technology as opposed to face-to-face teaching. When I was starting out, I took a good class from the Ed2Go folks, Writing Fiction Like a Pro. It gave me an excellent start on understanding story structure via the Three Act Play concept. Also, Gotham Writers' Workshop offers online courses (and live classes in NYC). I took their Fiction Writing class with Terri Brown-Davidson. Of course, not all teachers are created equal, but Terri's class was excellent.

Gotham also has a couple of very good books available. They're literary fiction oriented, but good foundational writing is not genre-specific, so have a look at Writing Fiction: The Practical Guide, and The Fiction Gallery (great classic short stories - very good companion to The Practical Guide for reference to understanding difference in Point of View, dialog, etc). Also, Tom Monteleone's, Complete Idiot's Guide to Writing a Novel, is packed with excellent writing information, from basics to more advanced craft information.

A lot of literary fiction classes tend to be tough on genre writers, so be prepared to build a thick skin and maintain your focus on what's important; learning how to write well. And once you have the basics down, consider an investment in Borderlands Press Boot Camp, Odyssey-The Fantasy Writing Workshop or Clarion. If you're ready for an academic commitment to your writing career, Seton Hill College has an superb program with a Masters of Art in Writing Popular Fiction degree available. Their faculty list is definitely worth a look.

I know cash and time are often a big issue for folks when you talk about taking classes, but you can start small with a couple of good books, and classes can be as little as $50. Like any endeavor, whether for fun or for a career, an investment in yourself and your passion will come back to you in many ways. Besides, you're worth it! And no matter how you pursue your love of writing, be sure to spend plenty of time building those priceless friendships with other good writers. I've learned that fellow writers are an invaluable support. And you never know who might just be the next Stephen King or JK Rowling.

Okay, I'm done my yammering for today. It's great to see you all again. I'll be back soon. That's a promise...and a threat. *wink*

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Note: Thank you to Wally Cwik for the use of his Borderland Press photo of F. Paul Wilson, Doug Winter, Ginjer Buchanan and Tom Monteleone!

A Good Old Dog and An Apex Honor

2007-12-17T11:27:00.000-05:00

Yammerage
Oh, you know how I love to yammer, but still it's been slim pickin's here at the blog while I've been working on my short story collection. And I'd like to thank you so much for your continued friendship and support even in my absence. You guys are amazing! I really do miss you all, and I want to take a moment to wish you a very Merry Christmas and brilliant holiday season with your friends and families. My husband and I are actually heading out of town for the holidays, so I won't be around the MySpace water cooler for a couple of weeks. We're off to Vegas for Christmas...no kidding. Yeah, I know, we're mad, but it's going to be fun, fun, fun! And with the freakin' snow and ice outside my window right now, I can't wait to escape.

While I'm away, I have a little present to offer - I'm VERY honored to be the Apex Digest Online Featured Author for December and with that comes a free vintage Friel story, "Under the Dryer," and a fun interview (fun for me, anyway ;-) ) I did with Apex publisher, Jason Sizemore (including my ghost confessions!).

"Under the Dryer" is a story I wrote for The Horror Library a couple of years back, so the writing isn't my sharpest ,but it's a good old tale that includes a very good old dog. I hope you enjoy it! Btw, I'm also very pleased to have a short story appearing in the print version of Apex Science Fiction and Horror Digest in 2008.

You can read "Under the Dryer" HERE.

And my latest Apex yammer (interview) HERE.

You can also access other Apex Online treats HERE (including the first chapter of Cherie Priest's latest novel, No Flesh Nor Feathers.

When I get back from the holidays, I've got some cover art to show you! Gruesome goodness from the wonderful artist, Billy Tackett.

Holiday Hugs to You All!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Horn Tooting, Dark Recesses PRINT, More One Last Song

2007-11-13T16:31:00.000-05:00

Shameless Tootage
Before you completely forget about me, I thought I'd stop by with a little bloggin' to wet your whistle, or should I say, horn? Well, I'm tooting mine shamelessly, as I'm apt to do, so I beg your forgiveness.

Now with that sorry excuse for a disclaimer out of the way, my tootable items to share with you for the moment are a couple of lovely interviews. Firstly, I've become part of Heidi Ruby Miller's, Pick Six alumni, an honor for which I am most grateful.

You can find my Heidi's Pick Six interview HERE!

Secondly, the wonderful and talented author/publisher, Vince Liaguno, interviewed me for the Drawing First Blood: Interviews with Dark Genre Literature's Newest Talents section of Dark Scribe Magazine. If you haven't visited this excellent magazine, do yourself a favor and dig in. It's filled to the brim with great articles and interviews. Be sure to register, as well. It's FREE and registered readers will be privy to Members Only access pages.
Read My Drawing First Blood: Interview HERE!

Remember the One Last Song Blog?
CJ Hurtt and his accomplice, Shawn Richter have done it again. Many of you enjoyed the FREE read of the first issue of CJ's One Last Song from Brain Scan Comics, well, "One Last Song 2" has hit the cyberwaves and the shelves. If you'd like a FREE read of both One Last Song" Issue 1 AND Issue 2, get yourself on over to WOWIO and register (also FREE) and download CJ's latest. Your registration will also give you free access to the work of several other writer/artist teams, so go get 'em!

To The PRESS with Dark Recesses
That's right! Dark Recesses Press will find itself at the printers. The formerly online zine will be moving into the big leagues (where it belongs!) and becoming a print magazine.

From DRP publisher, Bailey Hunter:
"Dark Recesses Press has just finished up it's 2nd year as a PDF zine of Horror and Dark fiction, art, non-fiction and reviews. If you haven't had a chance to see what we are all about, the latest issue #8 is still available for free download from our site at darkrecesses.com "Come January, 2008 we will kick off our third year in print. We are now set up to take Pre-Orders and Subscriptions on the site at close to 15% off the regular cover price. We will be producing 2 printed issues / year along with a tri-annual scaled down version of the free PDF (this will not have the same content as the print issue). "The printed product will have a glossy full colour cover, be perfect bound with crisp, bright white smooth interior paper. There will be b/w and greyscale illustrations accompanying the stories."

To be eligible for the very reasonable reduced rate DRP subscription and to be a wonderfully awesome bonafide supporter of the small press, stop over at DRP soon and SUBSCRIBE or try before you buy and download a FREE PDF of Issue 6 HERE!

Well, I suppose that's enough lollygagging for me today. I hope you enjoy all the juicy reading! And in case I don't see you before next week, Happy Thanksgiving to all the folks in the US, and Happy November to the rest of your sweeties around the globe. Wherever you are, I give thanks for you!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

PS - Remember that little contest over at the HL Blog-O-Rama? Today's the last day for your chance to win some fine books - all you need to do is Subscribe to the HL Blog at MySpace. You'll find the detail HERE!

The Happy Halloween Blog-O-Rama Birthday Blow-Out Bash Contest

2007-10-31T15:06:00.000-04:00

Hey, Gang! This is what I'm up to for Halloween, and of course, you're invited! You know how I am with contests.

Happy Halloween Hugs to YOU,
Fran

A Momentary Obsession
First, let me apologize for my obsession with Halloween cake pics. I didn't know I had this obsession until I started looking for just the right pic for this blog, and discovered the wonderful world of Halloween cake decorating. Yeah, I know, I'm strange, but completely harmless unless you have a cake phobia. You don't, do you? Good heavens, is that your tongue swelling out of your mouth?? But I digress.

In the Beginning
By sheer coincidence, the Horror Library started blogging two years ago on Halloween. Chris "the Chrispy One" Perridas was struck with the inspiration for us to dive into the blogoshere and I foolishly took his challenge and built our first little blog at Blogger. We amassed a team and the HL Blog-O-Rama was born on Halloween morning and has been spreading our dark cheer into cyberspace ever since.

During those same two years, the Horror Library members have been busy with other projects, as well. The great and powerful Oz behind the curtain at Cutting Block Press, is the talented and oh so fetching, Mr. Boyd Harris. Along with our illustrious founder, RJ Cavender, Cutting Block has published four faboo anthologies - two with short stories, Horror Library Vol. 1 and Vol. 2; and two with novellas, Butcher Shop Quartet and Tattered Souls.

The Cutting Block Press books have received some fine reviews, and recently, Horror Library Vol. 2 has joined the race for a Stoker nomination. You'll find a couple of excellent reviews at the following links:

Skullring: Review of Horror Library Volume 1
Skullring: An Anthology Worth of a Stoker Nomination

The Perfect Marriage
Why, you might ask, should you join us to celebrate the perfect marriage of the Blog-O-Rama's birthday and Halloween? Loot...prizes...wining stuff, that's why! Yup, it's time high time for a contest, and I've come out of my blogging hiatus just so I can bring it to you!

So here's the deal, it's easy! Just CLICK HERE to subscribe to the HL Blog-O-Rama blog at MySpace. That's it! It's that easy, and if you're already subscribed, you're set!

On November 14 the winners will be announced from a random drawing of all the names in the HLBOR subscriber list.

The Loot:
Grand Prize:
A Collection of ALL Four Cutting Block Press Books
That's Horror Library Vol. 1 and 2, Butchershop Quartet and Tattered Souls!
Winner #2:
A Copy of Horror Library Vol. 1
Winner #3:
A Copy of Tattered Souls
Winner #4:
A Copy of Butchershop Quartet

And you KNOW if I'm doing a contest, there will always be a BONUS:
Win a copy of Horror Library Vol 2 AND a $10 gift certificate to the Horror Mall, the brand spanking new store from the horror publishing powerhouses, Bloodletting Books and Delirium Books.

To win:
1. Post the contest info OR a prominent link for the contest in your own blog.
2. Post a comment here or at the MySpace contest blog with a link to your contest blog post.
3. A winner will be chosen randomly from all the bloggers who shared the contest info.

That's it, kids. Now get subscribing, blogging and winning and have a very Happy Halloween!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

A Little Apex Raffle Heaven

2007-09-25T10:27:00.000-04:00

The Apex Halloween Grab-Bag Raffle
I came out of writing hibernation (again!) to share a bit of news I suspect you'll like a lot. In fact, a sweeter deal you'll seldom find! My friend, publisher and the purveyor of the finest sci-fi an horror magazine in the free world, the lovely Mr. Jason Sizemore, is offering a fantastic list of books and writing services in a wild and wonderful Halloween raffle. The dollar's value is shrinking around the world, but not here! For just a dollar you have a chance at wealth of literature from the best in the business.

So whip out those greenbacks kids and take a chance, while supporting the precious small press industry that keeps the best in genre fiction alive! A percentage of the proceeds will also go to the National Center for Family Literacy. A truly worthy cause.

See the details below and at Apex Digest:

You'll find nothing but TREATS here, guaranteed! Here's a chance to fill your pillowcase with all sorts of goodies, including rare items from some of the biggest names in the field. For only $1.00 per ticket. And, a percentage of all proceeds made will go to the National Center for Family Literacy!

One "ticket" will be selected as the winner for each item. So, the more "tickets" you buy, the greater your chances... Winners announced on Halloween at midnight . To bid on any of the fantastic items, just visit www.ApexDigest.com and simply put a "1" in the quantity field (for a charge of just $1). For a better chance at winning your item, just put in a "2" or a "3" (or a "20") and your chances will increase accordingly! Good luck!

This is just some of what you'll find to bid on:

In-depth short story critiques offered by famed writers and editors.
Copy edited original manuscript of Titan signed by Ben Bova.
Signed HCs of Homebody, Magic Street or Pastwatch by Orson Scott Card.
Signed MMPB of The Keeper by Sara Langan.
Signed TPB French edition of The Girl Next Door by Jack Ketchum.
Promotional Moral Orel photo or t-shirt signed by actress Carolyn Lawrence (voice of Orel).
Signed copies of award winning writer M.M. Buckner's: Hyperthought, Neurolink, and War Surf.
Original hand-written poem framed with signed photo of Grim Trixter author Brandy Schwan.
Signed reader's copies of Mary Doria Russell's new novel Dreamers of the Day.
Awesome stuff from Aradani Studios (Paul and Michael Bielaczyc).
Signed, HC limited edition copy of Dreadful Skin by Cherie Priest.
Giant gift box from Horrorview.com. including videos, shirts, etc.
Signed copies of Steven Savile's Warhammer trilogy: Retribution, Dominion, and Inheritance .
Three signed, sexy PR photos of author Angeline Hawkes-Fulbright.
HC of DUNE: The Machine Crusade or Ignition signed by co-author Kevin J. Anderson.
Signed, HC of Metal Swarm by author Kevin J. Anderson. This is the UK edition.
Signed, MMPB of The Freakshow by Bryan Smith.
Signed Tales of… pack by Geoffrey Girard: Atlantic Pirates, Jersey Devil, and Eastern Indians.
One year subscription to Shimmer Magazine
Signed & Limited Edition of I Sing the Body Electric! by Ray Bradbury (retail value of $150).
Signed copies of The Magic Goblet and The Magic Ring edited by Dr. Amy H Sturgis.
HC of The Last Rakosh by F. Paul Wilson.
TPB of Wet Work by Philip Nutman.
Signed, limited HC of Offspring by Jack Ketchum.
Signed Sterling Edition (publisher's copy with slipcase) of The Tery by F. Paul Wilson.
Galaxy Press/Writers of the Future Educators Pack – many books!
Blood-signed (by contributor Jodi Lee) TPB of Echoes of Terror anthology.
Extended Play: The Elastic Book of Music anthology edited by Gary Couzens.
Abaddon Books Gift Pack – many books!
Autographed ARC of Robert McCammon's Speaks the Nightbird.
Brian Keene pack: The Rising, City of the Dead, Terminal, Ghoul, Conqueror Worms, and Dead Sea .
And much, much more………

Click here to get your chance at some of that wickedly excellent loot!

You know the old saying..."You gotta play to win!"

I'm off this week to Columbus, Ohio for the sci-fi/horror convention, Context 20. I'll be yacking away on a couple of panels and doing a reading on Saturday afternoon. If you're coming to Context, I hope you'll stop by and say Hi. I don't bite...much. *wink*

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

"Lethargy My Friend" - A Little Skitchy for You

2007-09-19T23:29:00.001-04:00

Skitchy - Lethargy My Friend Music Video

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SKITCHY STUFF
I was missing you guys, so I thought I'd just stop in for a quickie. Hope you like this weird but strangely addictive music video. Could be the video love child of Fat Boy Slim and Dire Straits. I know. I have bizarre and ecclectic taste.

"Lethargy My Friend" was was produced by James Martin, from Wales. He wrote and performed the music, AND he created the video. LOTS of talent for one Welshman to wield. You can visit Skitchy here or here at MySpace.

Okay, that's my quickie for today. Back to work...then off to bed.

Be good...or not. *wink*

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Meaty Words, Pokemon and Aussies

2007-09-09T13:54:00.001-04:00

Odds and Ends
Words fascinate me, and because of my insatiable curiosity, thinking about words can take me down the strangest paths. Like today, for instance, I was preparing to do this blog and I had a lot of odds and ends type info to share with you. Then I got to thinking, where in the world did that phrase, "odds and ends," come from? Well, along with my insatiable curiosity, I also have a streak of stubborn laziness, so rather than take two minutes to look-up the origins of "odds and ends," I wasted ten minutes thinking about it. In my frivolous musings, I came up with my own hypothesis.

Having had the misfortune years ago of being a deli clerk, I remember that there were often bits too thin to slice left over at the end of a slab of deli meat. We'd slap them in a package and wrap them with plastic with the fancy "sear your fingers to the bone" sealing machine, then put them out for sale at a reduced price. Same "wholesome" deli meat goodness, great price! But I digress. The point is, I'm hallucinating that the phrase "odds and ends" came from the odd bits left over from the ends of deli meats, and that nifty phrase is probably attributable to the fine German butcher, Gunter Meathaus, from the mythical meat lusting Bavarian village of Wienerhoesen. Okay, maybe not, but it works for me!

So what does this have to do with horror? Nothing really, but I could pretend and say, MEAT, of course. There's a LOT of meat in horror...wet meat, rotting meat, bloody meat, monster meat. You name the messy meat and horror has it!

And today, I have some juicy odds and ends info-meat just for you, and since I've yacked on about my mental musings, I'll try to make it quick.

A New Aussie on the Block
The wonderful Steve Clark, publisher of Tasmaniac Publications has entered the small press arena with a bang. Tasmaniac is dedicated to quality horror novellas, and proof positive is one of Steve's first titles, Gary Braunbeck's, In the Midnight Museum. US bookseller, Bloodletting Press, is carrying Tasmaniac titles, but remember, ordering directly from the publisher always puts more money in the pockets of the writer and the publisher.

Click here to see all of Tasmaniac's excellent titles!

Pokemon Mama
Ryan Walsh posted the most hilarious thing I've read in years over at Shocklines.com. A woman, who I think could give Erma Bombeck a run for her money (alive or dead - *waves to Erma* - I know you're listening, Ms. Bombeck), is selling a set of Pokemon cards one of her SIX kids put in the shopping cart sans permission. Her item description is a slayer. Go read it!

Six kids! Now, that's horror real for ya'.

Those Aussies Are Busy

Million Puppet Project - now there's got to be a horror story in here somewhere, but until I dream that baby into life, I think this is just wildly cool. Studying the behaviors and feeding habits of puppets could be very important. You never know what getting a million puppets together in one place could do. World domination of socks, felt and fingers comes to mind. Be prepared! For your own safety, go visit the Million Puppet Project site. If not for yourself, do it for the children!

Okay, is that enough messy meat for today, kids?

Will You Remember Me?
One more thing, and this is strangely sad for me - I need to go off-line for a while (no, they're not removing my batteries, silly), so I can get some serious writing done.

In all honesty, I'll miss you. I do love blogging for you and hanging out in the comments bar and grille at the end of each yack fest I share with you. BUT, I'm too scatterbrained to work with the distractions of so much fun-ness. I'll need to find my fun in fiction for the next few months.

However, if I meet my writing goals weekly, I'll pop in and visit you as a delicious reward to myself (yup, you're sweet like honey to me - and non-fattening, too!). If my slackerness is under control, I'll give you an update and see what wickedness you're up to. Don't forget me in my absence. I promise, I won't forget you.

See ya', you sweeties!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

PS - If you're missing me (a megalomaniac dream of mine), you can drop me an email at franfriel AT gmail.com. I'm going to work on that newsletter I've been neglecting, as well, so feel free to sign-up, and please ignore the glaring typo in the "thank you for signing-up" message. Jeesh, you'd think I'd catch those typo gremlins in the act...but NOooo. *mutters to self*

Noctem Aeternus Loot & Apex Fame and Fortune

2007-09-02T12:38:00.000-04:00

Is It Halloween Yet?
I love Halloween, and it's right around the calendar corner. The munchkins in their costumes, the candles flickering in the crisp New England air, and the doorbell. Well, maybe not the doorbell...makes the dog insane, but I digress. If you want to do something extra fun for Halloween, go to the Keene Pumpkin Festival. I took the barfing pumpkin pic there a couple of years ago. It's a hoot. Thousands of carved pumpkins and building-size pumpkin towers, and at dusk, ALL the jack-o-lanterns lighted and eerily beautiful. If you don't mind a hefty crowd, check it out...and remember to take your camera!

Apex Halloween Coup
Another fabulous thing about Halloween is the annual Apex Digest Halloween Short Fiction Contest. As you all probably know by now, Apex is my favorite mag, and getting a story published within its yummy pages is a sweet coup for any writer. Writing the winning "post-apocalyptic" story will give you that privilege, plus a hot C-note ($100US) and a load of excellent prizes. Second place ain't too shabby either. For the full scoop, Go to Apex for the Contest Guidelines.

And while you're there, please be sure to check-out APEX ONLINE for some excellent FREE fiction, interviews and reviews. Btw, APEX is now open for regulare submissions, as well!!

Noctem Aeternus Needs A Swift Kick!
The upcoming, and much anticipated, Noctem Aeternus online magazine needs a kick...a kick start, that is. They pay 10 cents a word to their writers, which in today's zine market, is SUPER-FABOO. How can they do this? With advertising dollars! And big fat lists of subscribers is what advertisers need to see. SOOO, what NA needs from us, is a little help via our vast empires of family and friends. AND, they're willing to pay for the privilege to one lucky subscription contest winner who will receive an amazing haul of literary loot. If you love supporting the small press and/or you'd like a shot at the following list of excellent titles for your own library collection...

Run On Over to Shocklines to Get the Full Contest Details

The Loot:

* The Mothers And Fathers Italian Association by
Thomas F. Monteleone Signed #366 of 1000 Limited BP
Hardback.

* A Little Brown Book of Bizarre Stories by Thomas F.
Monteleone Signed #103 of 500 limited BP Hardback.

* A Little Brass Book of Full Metal Fiction by
Douglas E. Winter Signed #461 of 500 limited BP Hardback.

* Darker by SimonClark – Delux Limited (1000) Signed CD
Hardback.

* The Other End by John Shirley – Signed Limited (1000) CD
Hardback.

* Midnight Premiere edited by Tom Piccirilli – Signed Limited
(1500) CD Hardback.

* Prodigal Blues by Gary Braunbeck – Signed Limited (1000)
CD Hardback.

* Wild Things by Douglas Clegg – Signed Limited (1500) CD
Hardback.

* Dark Harvest by Norman Partridge – Signed Limited (2000)
CD Hardback.

* Camp Stalag by Bill Walker – Signed Limited (1000) CD
Hardback.

See, I wasn't kidding you - that's a sweet list of loot! And Michael Knost, the editor of Noctem Aeternus, is a friend of mine, and I know this mag is going to be a sensation. If you haven't signed-up for the FREE mag, do it today and send all your friends and family there, too. The contest deadline is September 30th, so get your peeps clickin' RIGHT HERE!

Jeesh, I've got tons more to tell you, but it'll have to wait until next time. Writing to do, places to go! I hope you're all having a fantastic weekend. And to you US folks, Happy Labor Day Weekend. Grill somethin' rare and juicy for me! *wink*

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

A World of Hurtt - One Last Song

2007-08-26T11:11:00.000-04:00

One Last Song Continues!
"Fame only costs your freedom. In 2046, American media personalities must obtain an officially sanctioned "performance card" or face internment in "terror aversion camps". Musician Amanda Casey is a rebel spreading the truth about her government's corruption via seemingly innocent love songs. What happens when she is found out? Written by C.J. Hurtt with art by Shawn Richter." --Book Description, One Last Song

In today's competitive publishing world, I think the comic book/graphic novel business is one of the toughest. To even get a chance at distribution is like beating a gauntlet of razors, lasers and machine guns. Then once you're standing at the finish line and you've got that first issue published, the real challenge begins - to get enough buzz and sales to warrant a second issue. Dang, comic book writers and illustrators must be crazy masochists, but I'm so glad they are, because they keep an important art form alive and growing.

A World of Hurtt
That brings us to a friend of mine, author, CJ Hurtt. He's been down this road many times now and he's on the cusp of finally passing through those golden gates into issue 2 and beyond. What that means for us is a free copy. Yup, I love free...and I know you do, too. To bring some more eyes to the series and give a boost to upcoming issue #2, the publisher, Brain Scan Comics, is offering a FREE e-copy of Issue 1 at WOWIO:

Get your FREE DOWNLOAD HERE!

And, of course, if you like Issue 1, OR if you just love supporting hard working artists and writers, pre-order ONE LAST SONG, Issue 2. You can pre-order at your local comic book store by usng the code APR073521. CLICK HERE for the Comic Shop Locator.

A Little Help for the Comically Impaired
I tried to find a way to pre-order the comic at an online store so you could just click and go, but I couldn't figure it out. If any of you know how to order comics online using a code, please post instructions in the comments and I'll transfer it here into the text. Thanks!

Happy Free-Reading! See you soon.

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

PS - My Gratitude
Btw, thanks to everyone who sent you warm thoughts and wisdom for my daughter after the passing of her dear friend, Kennedy. The memorial service was Thursday and over 500 people attended. My daughter said that the parents greeted every person that came through the door. I don't know how they did it. The funeral was Friday. Classes at the University of Maryland start on Wednesday. It'll be a tough start of the year for a lot of kids, but like so many of you have said, the passing of time will help the healing process. Thanks again for all the love.

No Whimsy, but "a Luminious Light Remains"

2007-08-23T13:58:00.001-04:00

No Whimsy, but a Luminous Light Remains
Life and death and a look inward and outward. It's BBT Mag Blogging Day for me. I really hope you'll stop by for a read:

Wickedly Yours at the BBT Mag Blog

Extra hugs all around...Thanks, gang...

Yours,
Fran Friel

A Little Stardust is Good for the Heart

2007-08-12T11:31:00.000-04:00

Stardust
If you love fantasy, visual delights and an excellent story, make sure you see STARDUST (fantastic website - be sure to check it out). I saw it last night and LOVED it. Its fairytale deliciousness is in keeping with Neil Gaiman's wonderful book by the same name. And I think of all the superb actors in the movie, including Charlie Cox, the lead (fabulous!), De Niro was my favorite. He blew my socks off! No spoilers here, but I think you'll love him, too.

Shameless Fanboy
So afraid he'll fall from the enormous pedestal I've erected for him, I'm always strangely relieved when another one of Neil Gaiman's projects thrills me. He's an unknowing mentor of mine, in his writing style, his talent and the kind and gracious manner in which he treats people. Before I started writing, I discovered his journal (he was blogging long before it was the "in" thing to do) and I was amazed at his constant communication and the easy manner in which he connected with his readers. There was a realness and an honesty in it that really impacted me. At the time, I didn't know I would someday be writing seriously, but I remember thinking to myself, "I want to be just like Neil"...well, of course, in my own Fran Friel way, but you get the picture.

Now, to put the man on an even high pedestal, the final straw that broke my resistance to being a writer and inspired me to finally get off my arse and do what I was supposed to be doing, was Gaiman's short story collection, SMOKE AND MIRRORS. For me, it sparked a bit of magic inside. The stories had a simplicity in their approach, or perhaps it was that honesty again...yes, vulnerable honesty. BUT to me, they were far more complex than they appeared on the surface, almost as if there was more written between the lines, and certainly more written IN the lines for those who wished to sink deeper than the basics of the story. I've experienced this same thing in his other work since, but suffice to say, SMOKE AND MIRRORS inspired me to finally start writing, rather than watching the magic from outside the alchemist's window.

So, poor Mr. Gaiman doesn't even know, but he's my muse, of sorts, and so high on that pedestal he sits, no mortal could remain there without toppling, eventually. But then again, I have a sneaking suspicion Neil Gaiman may be something more than a mere mortal.

Here's a little Gaiman interview for "fanboys" like me. Enjoy!
MySpace Comic Books: NEIL GAIMAN answers YOUR questions!

Add to My Profile | More Videos

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

WANTED! Pssst...submissions

2007-07-29T03:00:00.001-04:00

You're WANTED!
Okay, maybe there's no million dollars, no fame (well, maybe a little), no fortune, but you're wanted just the same...or at least your writing is. Three, count 'em, kids...three publishers want your wares.

Number One
BBT Magazine wants you to flash 'em! That's right. They're having a little flash fiction competition over at Blood, Blade and Thruster Mag. The short version of what they want:

- Topic - Write a Flash in which someone dies and it’s funny.

1. 1000 words or less. No exceptions

2. Relate to the contest topic.

3. As Blood Blade and Thruster is a publication of speculative fiction with a slant to the satirical, we will only accept works of horror, fantasy, and science fiction, which convey a self-deprecating or humorous view of the genre.

Are you game? If so, you'll find the full guidelines HERE.

Number Two
UK publisher, Hadesgate Publications, will be open for submissions for the month of August, according to their announcement at Shocklines message board today. In brief:

"WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
Previously unpublished novel sized manuscripts. Our bias is towards horror & dark fantasy."

Hadesgate has been publishing some beautiful books, and they're a great bunch of folks to boot. If you're interest, for the full scoop, stop by the Shocklines message board or the Hadesgate website.

Number Three
Cutting Block Press is now open for submissions for the anthology, Horror Library Vol 3. This wonderful short story series is a tough market to crack (yup, they gave me a big fat rejection for Vol 2!) and it just keeps getting tougher, but Cutting Block makes a darn "pretty" book with well written fabulous tales. What they're looking for:

"...the highest quality examples of all forms of Dark Fiction, running the gamut from traditional horror, supernatural, speculative, psychological thriller, dark satire, including every point between and especially beyond. No Fantasy or Sci-fi unless the horror elements are dominant.

"Stories will range between 1,000 and 6,000 words, though we'll look at longer works of exceptional merit. In that case, query before submission. Buying 1st worldwide anthology rights. We'll consider reprints, but query before submitting. Paying 1.5 cents per word, plus one contributors copy. For established authors, rates may be negotiable. Response time: three months or sooner. Deadline: We will accept submissions until filled."

Want to know more? Visit Cutting Block Press Here!

So there you have it, gang. Small, medium or large...a few sweet options for your writing chops to chomp on. So what are you waiting for? Getting writing! Woohoo...

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Fingers, Hands and a Strawberry Man

2007-07-26T12:43:00.000-04:00

Thursday at the BBT
Hi, Gang! I've missed you. Seriously, I really enjoy blogging and chatting with you all, but duty has been calling...a little long overdue fun, as well.

Since today is my 4th Thursday of the month blogging day over at BBT Magazine, I hope you'll CLICK ON OVER and visit me there. I've got a little Kincaid, Braunbeck and Shapiro goodness to share with you - Fingers, Hands and a Strawberry Man. So much to share...so little time.

Hope to see you there!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Mr. B and Mr. Hands

2007-07-15T10:40:00.000-04:00

Mr. Braunbeck Does It Again!
Gary Braunbeck's writing grabs you by the heart and the scruff of the neck and drags you down into his world with aching intimacy and wrenching horror. His disarming humor makes the ride even more treacherous. Just when you think it's safe to giggle...BAMM!

Looks like Mr. Hands, from Dorchester/Leisure is no exception. Check-out Gary's book trailer. It left me with my shoulders up around my ears and that feeling of GAH! in my throat!

If you're just discovering Gary's work, you're in for a treat! Not only is he a master writer, he's one of THE nicest guys in the business. Run, do not walk, to Gary's Bibliography and pick out something "nice" for yourself. You deserve some good Braunabeck today!

I just received my copy of Gary's novella, Smiling Faces Sometimes. Publisher and artist, Keith Minnion, did his usual brilliant job, making this one gorgeous little illustrated book, and I can't wait to get to the juicy Braunbeck insides. Yumm!

Rhode Island Bound
Well, that's it for me today, kids. I've got a loomer of a deadline and Necon (Northeastern Writers' Conference) right around the corner, which means I won't see you next weekend. I'll be sleeping with the fishes (Team Koi) and partying with the sweetest and best-est writers in the business. I wish you could ALL be there with us for what I consider summer camp for horror writers. Heaven knows I could use the break from moving boxes and renovations. Rhode Island, here I come!

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Maiden Voyage of the Wicked

2007-07-12T02:20:00.000-04:00

BBT Debut Scoop
Well, I'm live (just barely, since it's 2AM!) at the blog at Blood, Blade and Thruster Magazine. As promised, here's the link in case you want to check it out:
Maiden Voyage of the Wicked

And notice the logo title? You all helped me to create that, as it's how I always sign my blogs to you. Thanks so much for your unfailing inspiration!

I hope you enjoy my Maiden Voyage!

Hugs from Sleepy CT,
Fran Friel

The Gack, Sensory Deprivation and Kealan

2007-07-08T15:48:00.001-04:00

Slimed
Yeah, I got slimed this week - Got the Gack, as we say in our house. My husband went to Mexico on business and brought back this way-too-long-lasting souvenir - the flu. I would have preferred a pinata. I guess I was worn-out by the move to the new house, so those opportunistic little monster germs took advantage of my flagging immune system and set-up camp for the week.

I'm feeling much better today, but I missed the Live Earth concert because of those little slimy monsters. My husband, my daughter and her friend, Billy (my replacement) went to Giants Stadium yesterday for the event and had a blast. Sting, The Police, John Mayer, Dave Matthews Band, Melissa Ethridge, Bon Jovi, and a gazillion other bands were there to support change in the global climate crisis. While this historic event went on, what did I do? Mostly, I slept. *grumbles under breath at Mexican flu bugs*

Tasteless
A strange result of this flu was my loss of taste. My sinuses were so wacked-out, I couldn't taste anything! Funny thing, taste, you REALLY don't appreciate how wonderful it is until you don't have it. Yeah, I know, it's not like losing your sight or your hearing, but it certainly leaves the world strangely flat when a dish of strawberry ice cream is simply cold and smoothly textured, minus the sweet taste bud tones of red jeweled sweetness.

It left me thinking about sensory deprivation. Rather than extreme pain, just imagine the slow deliberate erosion of your senses - being stripped one sensory delight at a time including touch and movement. It got me to thinking that we're so tied into our senses as human beings that without them in this reality, what are we? If we had only one sense left, what would living be like? And if that sense was taken away, then what? Seems to me that if the person was still sane and physically viable, it would be like being imprisoned in the vessel of your body. What would the mind do? Are there diseases like this? I know, I'm weird, but it is a strange thought to consider. I've got a story idea burning a hole in my brain right now, so I'd love to hear your thoughts on this topic.

Elixir of KPB
One of the things that has certainly been good medicine for me during my Gack stint, is a little dose of Kealan. Kealan Patrick Burke, Bram Stoker Award winning author and editor, will be Second Tuesday Guest Blogger this week at The Horror Library Blog-O-Rama. Besides being awfully pretty, he's a marvelous writer. As the HLBOR blog wrangler, I've had the pleasure of sneak-peaking his essay and it's excellent and a subject close to my heart (or hate), at the moment. So, be sure to stop-by the HL Blog-O-Rama on Tuesday to read Kealan's essay, LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION, and while you're at it, check-out KPB's list of excellent books and offerings at his website - www.kealanpatrickburke.com . And if you still haven't had your fill of yummy Kealan goodness, you'll also find him at MySpace.

BBT Thursdays
Btw, I'm starting a new blogging gig this week over at Blood, Blade and Thruster Magazine. I'll be blogging the horror beat there on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month. BBT is a fine mag and a very busy blogging venue, so I hope you'll stop by and visit me on my maiden BBT blog voyage this Thursday. I suspect you'll recognize the title of my blog, Wickedly Yours. I'll try to remember to post a link for you, in case you want to check it out.

Now, be sure to thank your taste buds today, and by all means, avoid the evil GACK! *wink*

Wickedly Yours,
Fran Friel

Note: The fabulous slime doll photo is from Kyozotchy at Flickr. Stop by and send them some slimy love.