SquawkRadio Comments

I have a favorite pair of shoes I wear whenever I need a boost. They’re about 10 yrs old now, black platform sneaker type but they can totally change the way I feel and give me a shot of confidence when I need it

I don’t have one particular piece of clothing or accessory, but I over the past couple years, I’ve discovered skirts.  Yep, skirts.  I was quite the tomboy growing up, and then had jobs and grad school where being dressy wasn’t required.  It’s still not required, but I’ve discovered that wearing a skirt and the feeling of, well, femminity that comes with it, is quite empowering!

Hi Elizabeth!  I admit I haven’t read your books yet, but a friend who goes by the name MaryKate but who should actually be dubbed book pimp has raved about them, so I’ve added them to my list.

V-necked tops.  Nothing risque, but when I wear a pretty blouse with a nice piece of jewelry, I feel more in control and much more confident about myself.  Tastefully feminine, I guess you could say.  It works wonders.

Hi Elizabeth! Nice to see your here.

I don’t have one thing that is my favorite. I feel a little more confident when I wear skirts even though I’d rather be in sweats. lol

Questions for you:

Which female character of yours is the most like you and why?

If you could describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Hi Elizabeth!

I can’t believe that you are here again and that we get to chat with you!

I loooooooooooooooove love love love love Lara and Keir. I can’t wait to see what happens, and I just love how you write!!!

Before I forget to ask..what now? are there any new projects coming from your shirt after this trilogy? ?

And, as for your question.. I am shedding some lbs and tring to put a knockout look together. A new hair cut… I hope that will help me just everyday . I am definitely feeling like I need that extra edge lately.

At university I tended to wear the shirt I most understood the lesson in to exams! Or the shirt I wore when I studied, in the hopes that it has also absorbed knowledge! Once I think I wore a shirt for four or five days straight (in winter...) just because of that. I also had to be using the pen I studied with to write the essay questions!
I seriously still think they gave me some form of confidence!

Good morning!

Lis, that is what I am talking about.  That ‘shot of confidence’.  No one else may know, but you feel better just putting them on.

Theresa, I agree but I just wish I could skip the pantyhose!

Stacy, thank MaryKate for me.  <g>

Beth

Well, silly as it may sound, when I really need something to give me a little confidence, I put on my prettiest undies.  No one knows they’re there but me so it’s kindof like having a secret weapon.

I want to add my praise to your writing.  I loved Keir and Lara and hope that at some time in the near future, there is at least one more trilogy happening for them.  I mean, we have to know what happens during the winter, and on the way back, and if Liam wins the spring challenges, and, oh so much more.

Thanks for taking time to answer our questions!

KimW,

Which female character is most like me?  Probably Anna the Cook, except I can’t cook for the life of me.  <g>

Three words?  Imaginative, funny, practical.

Beth

LauraT,

Thank you!  A new haircut - now there is something I hadn’t thought of - that would be a nice touch for a character, wouldn’t it?  Maybe if. . .hmmm. . .let me make a few notes.

New projects.  Oh yes.  The voices in my head just keep talking to me.  [looking around workroom] I have pending right now, at least five ideas for books, which includes the new one and -maybe- a “War” book.

Beth

wandergurl,

I’m with you.  There are times when I have to rummage through the dirty laundry to find my magic shirt.  [Thankfully, writing is a solitary business]

And I have the pen I signed my first contract with!

Beth

maibeeme,

Well, I am not contracted for another ‘War book right now, but that doesn’t stop the characters from talking to me.  I think you are right, though.  It should probably another set of three.

Ah, spring on the Plains.  I am sure its lovely, mind you, but then there are the rains and the flash floods, and rutting ehats. . .not to mention. . .er. . .nevermind.

Beth, the cruel tease

Beth,

I haven’t read your books but I am running out to the book store to pick them up - they sound so intriguing! I’m of Icelandic descent so I love to read tales of fierce warriors & the strong women who tame them. I have a pair of clogs that I wear a lot that make me two inches taller & that seems to give me that extra boost of confidence!

Nina,

Well, hold off for a bit.  We are giving away signed copies of all three of my books today, plus a bar of hand-made vanilla soap.  Wait up and see if you win!

Beth

You are such a gifted writer, Beth, and I am swinging by the book store for ‘Warlord’ tonight.
-Interesting thought, I wore a uniform for a while, and that, indeed set my tone for the day. If I was rushed, or hurried, I forgot things during the day, or felt unready.
-Now, I have a ‘magic’ pencil (Hello Kitty) that I draw with, and a magic brush I paint with..art inspiration, no doubt! Luckily, I work at home, so I can get away with out the ‘work’ clothes most of the time.

Welcome, Elizabeth! The prizes sound great. Reading and cleanliness...two of my favorite things. When other writers praise your work so highly, you must be fab!

I wear my mother Margaret’s engagement ring every day and that makes me feel protected somehow. It is a double-diamond ring (like the slot machine )made from my paternal great-grandmother Margaret’s earrings. So I have a couple generations of Margarets watching over me.

Code word is trouble43. Margarets, keep me out of it.

ms mary,

Thank you!  Ah yes, routines are important too, aren’t they?  I know that if my morning routine is distrubed, it can throw me off the rest of the day.

Beth

Maggie,

The ring sounds lovely.  I really like the idea of the ‘protection of the generations’. 

Beth

Hi Elizabeth,

Thanks for being here, I am really looking forward to reading your books. 

It’s jeans for me.  I have to dress for work everyday (no jeans allowed) and getting home and putting on those “forbidden” clothes really gives me a boost.  I also like freshly washed hair, on a good hair day.  If your hair is cooperating you can face most anything. 

Beth,

I love Lara n Keir.  I haven’t gotten Warlord yet but you can bet I will.  I also want to reread the first 2 again so I will continue where Warsworn left off fresh in my mind.

As for facing the day or anything, I don’t have a thing, but how my hair comes out most days sets the pace somehow. 

My best friend of 20 years had a 40th BD party for her DH.  His sister put a video together of him over the 40 yrs.  I was unable to attend the party but she told me in every picture my hair was different.  A different cut, color or texture.  Until then I had never really thought about it.

I guess it’s a cheap (used to be anyway) way to change my look and give me a boost.

This is really sad, but for me it’s makeup.  I work at home and car pool kids all day, and I look like it.  So if I put on makeup, especially lipstick, my whole outlook perks up.

I’m really, really looking forward to reading your books!  I’ve always loved fantasy, especially with a good romance.  It’s great to discover an author that everyone is so excited about!

Carolyn

I feel my best when I put on makeup and wear a nice outfit.  Getting out of casual clothes and wearing something nice makes me feel positive and energized.

Beth, I made the mistake of starting Warlord before Warprize.  I stopped (but not immediately, mind you ) to go on the hunt for the first one. 

Would you call yourself laid back??  From what I’ve read so far, I get a laid back vibe from your writing (even if the characters are not), a kind of stillness. 

And I wear a tiger’s eye mala.  It somehow gets my brain pointed in the right direction.

We all have small private ways of boosting our confidence, don’t we?

Although let’s not get started on bad-hair days.  those can be just nasty!

Well, I’m off to the day job.  See you at lunch!

Beth

Beth,
I’m so excited that Warlord is out!  I’m going to have to get it today.

They are finding out so much about the brain these days.  I’ll bet there is a scientific reason why your magic shirt works.

I don’t have any magic clothes.

Ahh Beth -
So good to see you here at Squawk radio.

I can’t think of anything I wear on a regular basis for confidence. But if you need that magic shirt of yours patched, then I’ll do it for you if it means you keep creating fantastic books like the Warprize series!

Warlord caused me to stay up all night! Sleep seemed so trival to finding out what happened next to Lara and Keir.
If was going to be stranded on a desert island and could only take 10 books with me, 3 of them would be yours!

Thanks so much for the fantastic reads. What’s up with cleaning though? Why do you have red leather gloves laying around?

I just need to gush a moment!!! I’m so excited this trilogy is complete. I love Lara and Keir and had to stop reading after the first book cause the cliffhanger nearly sent me into apoplexy! No seriously, it did.  But I’m jumping into the last two this weekend...Your ability to turn a fantasy into a complete romance without interfering with the ‘world’ building...I’m just plain old wowed at it! 

And for that confident edge?  I just wear really pretty underthings...gives me the edge of I know something you don’t!

Hi Beth-- Can’t wait to get these books!  With everyone here raving about them, I feel like I’ve been missing out.    As for my “magic”, when I write I have to have a particular CD of instumental music.  When I turn it on, I’m just transported into my writing world. It also helps that the family can’t stand the music and thus won’t come sit in the office with me!    As for clothing, anything black!  I always feel dressy when I’m wearing a classic black top or pants.  (Might also be that I’m hoping that black really IS slimming, too!  )

Now my question for you is, do you outline heavily for your books?  How do you keep track of everything in Keir and Lara’s world?  Enquiring minds want to know!  Thanks

See I gush and forget to ask what’s next!  LOL!  Are you thinking of staying in the fantasy world?  I sure hope so!

Many times I wear a sapphire ring when I need an extra boost.  I started years ago because sapphires are supposed to bring courage. 

I’m not a fantasy reader at all, but with all the raving, I’ll add your books to my “buy me” list, Beth.  I appreciate your being here and talking to us.

I have a special t-shirt I only get to wear once a year.  My local bookseller gave it to me and it says, “I FINISHED A BOOK TODAY.  WHAT DID YOU DO?”

LOL! I really do pimp your books out to everyone, Beth! I was saying to Stacy this morning that I think I’ve probably reread WARPRIZE fifteen times. I simply love this series.

OK, thing that boosts my confidence. Pretty underwear. *blushes* That’s embarrassing, and no one knows but me, but I love matching underwear sets, and spend waaaaay more than is appropriate on them. It’s like, even though I’m wearing boring work clothes, I’ve got gorgeous underwear on underneath. No one knows but me, but it makes a difference.

I guess that’s kind of stupid, huh?

Hi Beth

I just read Warlord last night- and I loved it.  It was fab.  Keir is soo hot!  But you must write another War book, we need to know what happens next.

To give myself a boost - I wear earrings.  I have a whole collection of them.  Big, small, cheap, expensive (and my sisters!).  I just feel more confident when i’m wearing them.

Looking forward to reading more of your work.  Want to share anything?? Please?

(head banging on desk)

The books sound wonderful. Just what i like to read. Do you have any idea how many authors are on my must buy list???

(whimper)

Must get second job to support book habit....

Welcome Beth, I have your War series on my must read list.  I too like matching undies, something about it makes me feel sexy, so no MaryKate, I dont think its stupid. Although me and sexy parted ways about 10 yrs ago, I keep promising myself that if l lose 20lbs then I am buying a whole new undie wardrobe.  At work my favorite accessory is my headphones.  If I dont have music blaring in my head I cant block out my annoying co-workers, (I am sometimes a little anti-social), and the headphones keep most people away.  If the headphones dont then the chair dancing does, then people just think I’m wacko, but hey, whatever works right?

Welcome Beth! 

About 10 years ago I had a dress that I absolutely felt amazing in.  I always felt confident in that dress so I’d wear it anytime I had to sing a solo at church.  Solos always make me extremely nervous but “the dress” would take the edge off.  Unfortunately about five years ago I had to retire it because either it shrunk or I expanded or a little bit of both. 

I am still in search of its replacement.

Hi Elizabeth!  I need to pick up WARLORD to complete my trilogy!  I can’t wait to read all three back to back to back!

I have my favorite or “lucky” pair of flip-flops.  There’s just something about them that makes me feel comfortable in whatever I’m doing.

Uh oh, my code word is: death 44

Hi, Elizabeth.  I have several pieces of Celtic jewelry and I usually wear one of them to make me feel better.  Most of them were given to me by my mother-in-law, who passed away last year.  When I wear the jewelry, it makes me feel like she’s a little bit closer.

I didn’t think that one could actually be in pain from not being able to go to the bookstore, but I know I am! My local used bookstore opens and closes exactly when I have to be in and when I get out of work.

I’ve almost caved and gone to the regular bookstore, but the cheap in me keeps screaming to wait until the weekend and get all the books at half the price. Hehe.

Anyway, you better believe this series is on my TBB and TBR list. :D I can’t wait!

As for luck and confidence: my favorite jeans. I’m stuck in work clothes 4 days a week (thank the gods for causal friday) and I always itch to get into them (If I don’t just go straight to pajamas). I adore my jeans, especially being fresh out of college! I throw those suckers on and play some nice powerful rock music and I’m good to go! :D

Welcome Elizabeth! I like that you have a magic shirt that encourages you to write.  I just wonder what the Squawkers write in and their little rituals.

I also use jewelry for courage and strength whenever I’m ready to do battle.

Welcome Elizabeth!  It’s wonderful to have you here. 

I really like how you keep the book and characters alive with you throughout your day and not just when you are writing.  I am not a writer, but I do admire all writers.  You are truly gifted to be able to transport us to other worlds and deeply feel.

As far as clothing.  Many times during each month, we have meetings with high profile individuals, CEO’s, VP’s, Dr’s.  I want to feel secure in those meetings, so I wear my power suits.  Mostly, they are black or navy, but they do the job.  We women always seems to be battling ego and testosterone in those board rooms. 

Rhonda,
I refuse to believe that I’m expanding. But I have noticed that my clothes seem to be shrinking.  I guess that happens when your clothes are getting old but you’re not, right?

Elizabeth, thanks for being here.  I don’t usually read fantasy either, but your books sound so good they will have to be the exception.

To boost my confidence I splurge on a really good haircut.  My hair is naturally curly and it can sometimes be hard to find someone who knows how to tame it.  A good cut can do wonders and has the good fortune of lasting several weeks.

Getting really dressed up helps too, since I don’t have the occassion to do that much.

I have a stunning pair of shiny black leather....heads out of the gutter, please.....3 inch heeled, knee high boots, that even under a pair of jeans or slacks or with a skirt makes me feel like a million bucks, however, I do work in an office environment, so I save the short skirt, hooker look for my DH on date night

Soooooooo happy to have you here on the Squawk, again, I cannot tell you how much I loved your series, just beyond words, best impulse buy EVER!!!!!!!!!  I have a TBR pile that only has two more books left in it, and even though I read the Warlord this weekend, once the pile is depleted, I think I will start with Warprize and read all the way through again...maybe I won’t cry this time???

nahh, I will

Hi Mz Beth!

I just typed my post came back to find it and thought it was deleted because of content or something. LOL, I forgot to push submit!

Anyway, I’m very excited to try your series. Can I expect hot romance, and HEA ?

I pull out all the stops when arming myself for battle. Precision makeup, fave perfume,
a high-heel and power earrings. 

I just have to look nice to feel better during the day.  Last weekend I wore one shirt all weekend because I felt so strong in it.  But then I ended up hitting a deer.  Amazingly, I didn’t cry and I am a huge animal person.  I think it was the shirt.  You see it’s a shirt with a “300” picture on it.  My sister had made it for me (it looks professional too) for the opening of the movie beacause I was really looking forward to it.  I think it gave me the Spartan strength.  I might have to wear it more often.

A pair of killah heels!!! Instant “feel-good I am Woman” deal.

Hello Elizabeth ((waving like mad))) LOL I’m situated in South Africa and I hope this messages reaches you. Wow great to have this opportunity of chatting with ya.

Unfortunately I have not the pleasure of reading Warlord as yet, but I’m sure it will be a joy to read when I do!

My question is how do you go about researching naming your characters, towns? You always make it a unique world when I read you stories that’s its so amazing.  Also love the way you bring us into your world and lets our imagination run wild *lol*

I look forward to your releases even though it takes a heck of a long time to reach our shores (when it released in the US it takes a further 4 weeks to be available on this side of the world) for us to order. So take pity on us poor souls here when you all go out and get the new releases ... LOL

mmm very apt the code I had to put in “meaning” especially wrt to my Q *grin*

This old sceptic here don’t have any magic shirts or perfumes.

Okay, Beth, tell us—what’s on your t-shirt? What’s the design that’s getting faded and cracked? We all need to know.

Beth-

What do you think could be the = to Lara’s outfit in Warlord for us contemporary chics? I know I would love to feel like that, fictional, or not.

I wonder what would make up the best suit of armor for us? - even just for everyday things, or those times going to parties and emptying out the closet doesn’t seem like enough then back out to the grocery store…

Welcome, Beth!

I second what Christina asked-what is the picture that is faded and cracked?

I wear a necklace that belonged to my grandma, it makes me feel like she is still close to me.

Also, I have an outfit my hubby just absolutely love to see me in. When he gets that look in his eye- I feel as though I can take on the world.

Di

I find combing my hair and making sure I’m not covered in kid crap or dog slobber is pretty much all I need

But I like rituals for writing--mine usually involves lots of tea drinking from my favourite mug

In addition to agreeing with all the raves over this trilogy, I’d like to add that you lucked in to the 3 most beautiful covers I’ve seen in years.  Those blue eyes grab me everytime.

I always wear my wolf bracelt and a necklace with two wolf charms. I am a little bit superstitous, especially when it comes to writing exams.

For me, its a pair of heels.  If I feel like I don’t look my best, or somehow my outfit isn’t as bangin’ as I thought it was when I first put it on, a pair of cute heels would do the trick.  Since I’m barely over 5’1”, the extra 3 inches or so make a huge difference.  And if its my mood or confidence that needs the help, just the way you have to walk and sway your hips really helps to perk you up.

Also--earrings.  I can’t leave the house without earrings.  They’re an instant outfit-perk-me-up.  Today, I just bought a pair of really gorgeous earrings from a sidewalk vendor for $2!!

I agree with Carolyn, CrystalB, and anyone else who said make-up makes them feel more confident. It just adds a little something. “I still look like me, but in color” as Streisand says in “The Mirror has Two Faces.”

And (shameful secret coming up...) shaving my legs, which I don’t do regularly in the winter, is also a nice boost. Usually, when it gets to the point that I think, “Geez, what would happen if I’m in an accident and they have to cut off my slacks and see my fuzzy legs?”—basically, when I’m more worried about embarrassment than potential injury, that’s when I know it has gone too far! What can I say? Without a DH or significant other, I have no reason NOT to grow Chia pet leg hair. OK. I think I’ve grossed enough people out now.

LOL Wirdald!!! lol.

Hi Beth,

I read the first chapter of Warprize on your website and loved it.

My magic item is a bracelet that my six year old son made for me by himself. It just spells out his name but since he has dyslexia even this used to be impossible for him.
He is one of those kids who, after you read him a story once, could recite the whole thing back to you but until recently letters and numbers were just so many squiggles on the page.
He has had to go to summer school, repeat kindergarten while all of his friends went on to first grade, and spend half of his Saturdays with a tutor instead of watching cartoons with his brother and sister.
It is still a struggle for him to read but his eyes and his brain are finally making that connection.

That magic bracelet helped me finish my first book. It is just a kid’s book with only the words that my son needs to learn to graduate from kindergarten but it is a start and I might just finish my big people’s book by the time he is about 20 or so.

Hey, Beth.

I read the first two books again over the weekend and then Warlord and fell in love with the characters all over again. I think what I like best about the books is that they combine two genres I love best: romance and sci-fi. Coincidentally I watched Conan The Barbarian over the weekend as well and was struck by the similarities. Are you a Robert Howard or Robert Adams fan? I’ve waited so long for someone to write this kind of book for women. Thanks so much and I ‘m looking forward to reading your stories with old and new characters.

It’s kick @$$ red toe nail polish with high heeled sandals and hoop earrings for me.

Hi and welcome Beth; you are a new to me author.
I feel better about myself in summer when I wear an anklet and my sandals with my clam diggers.  The anklet has a butterfly dangling and I associate butterflies with my now deceased parents and happiness.

I’m a magic believer, guess that’s why I’m an avid reader *grin*

I’ve always believed since my earliest memory to put out my wish and the universe would respond accordingly. To give you goose bumps there have been occasions (don’t ask me how) that it comes true. Perhaps its a positive attitude dunno, but what I do know is if I hold onto my wish it never happens…

I just can’t explain it perhaps its my own kind of Magic

Christina asked just what I thought of reading about your tee - what’s on it, Beth?

I’ll find myself wearing a favorite worn-out tee to put myself in a relaxed comfort zone, usually when stressed.

I’ll be looking forward to your new series, but sure do hope those characters from the Plains keep speaking to you to write more about them.

Work has a very casula dress environment so dressing up always gives me a boost.

I can’t wait to read WARKING, Beth. Even after I finsihed the book the characters kept chrurning in my head and I was thinking about the changes that Lara would bring to the the Firelanders. Would she convince them to let the warriors keep their babies? Would she make it back to XY before the baby was born?...
So many question and no answers as yet.

I loved the description of the plains. I could see it vivdly in my mind. I hope they make a movie out of the 3 books!

Many days I don’t wear any jewelry but when I need a boost I’ll put some of my favorite jewelry on.

Beth - So glad you came to visit!  I resisted your books for a long time because I’ve found that as a 30 year reader of science fiction and fantasy my standards for romance fantasy are usually higher than authors deliver.  That said, WOW!  You have done a marvelous job of world building.  I love the characters and the plot, too!  I’m so glad Warlord is finally here - I’m headed to town later this week to buy it! 
Oh, and for me, battle armor is great undies (even tho I’m a long way from young and cute, now) and diamond earrings
and necklace - they’ve always made me feel fearless!
Cousin it - you tell your son to hang in there.  The adults I know with dyslexia are marvelous creative people, some who like to read and some who don’t.  Reading is not the only way people communicate.  Kind of heretical for this blog <g> but true!

What gives me that extra edge is wearing makeup and earrings.  I like collecting unusual earrings and when I wear a pair they make me feel extra special and attractive.

A shot of whiskey?  That would do it if I drank the stuff!!  But seriously, I’m such a whimp, I avoid difficult situations or confrontations like the plague…

I don’t own any sharp clothes (faded jeans and ratty t-shirts), killer heals (flat shoes only!) or war paint (a.k.a. makeup...)

I’m the turn tail and run for it kinda girl.

Hi Elizabeth!

I have to say that when I need a boost I usually put on my favorite pair of Sketchers and a couple of spritzes of my Bulgari perfume.  It just gets me feeling better!

Hi Elizabeth!

I loved your post - the things that make us feel the most comfortable can completely change our outlook...saying that, I don’t actually have anything...oh yeah, I do. This is going to sound weird: PJs. There is something about getting into your PJs and crawling into bed. No matter what, the world feels better. OK, during the day that doesn’t quite work, so I always make sure I have a book handy. I never go anywhere without a book...YUP, I’m the person reading in the bank queue

I’m really looking forward to reading all about Lara and Keir in Warlord. I can’t wait to read most about Firelander culture! I’m not sure when your book is getting to New Zealand but I’m keeping my fingers crossed it’s soon! Long may the magic shirt last and all the best with Warlord and progressing the next book!

orannia

PS Vanilla soap sounds lovely

PPS My verification word is function47 - very apt!

Oh, and froggie - I have the exact same reaction to confrontations as you - run! If I can’t, I compromise.

orannia

This is an odd question I know but what would make you stop writing?

Hi, Elizabeth!

I wear a jade necklace that was a graduation present from my parents.

I waited until Warlord was released before reading Warprize and Warsworn(purchased when originally released).  I love Lara and Keir and hope to read more about them in the near future.  It was difficult waiting for Warlord to come out, staring at Warprize and Warsworn on my shelf, but definitely worth the wait!

As an avid reader of all different genres I must admit that I haven’t read anything by you. The series looks like my kind of read and should be added to my TBR pile. When I bowled on a league I had a lucky pair of socks that I wore every week. I think it helped I once bowled a 289!

Hi Beth,

When I need a boost, earrings are a must for me.  Big shiny, dangling ones.  No little stud earrings.  I even got pierced three times just to get more earrings on my ears. LOL

I have to admit--there are a lot of little things I wear that give me that extra boost. Really fuzzy socks, a really beautiful hat my grandmother knit me, and a silver necklace my boyfriend gave me.

This is going to sound really weird, but having my cat sit on/by me really helps me work. Yes, she’s absolutely impossible, but I’ve gotten so used to it that it is kind of hard to focus without her. LOL

cousin it, Di R, Mary C and RobynL—Jewelry really can be such a mood picker-upper, especially when there’s meaning behind it.

I always wear the ring my Mom and Dad gave me from their vacation in Arizona last year. They and my little brother picked it out, and evidently they agonized over getting *exactly* the right one. The very fact that they put so much thought into it meant it was automatically perfect!

I remember when my sister and I bought Mom a ring from the quarter machine when we were little—she wore it all day!

I love hearing little personal tidbits like that - thanks. (maybe some day you can sew part of what’s left onto another t-shirt lol).
I don’t think I have one thing in particular but it does seem no matter how many clothes you have that you tend to pull out your old favorites - I guess things that are comfortable or make you feel pretty lol.

I haven’t read any of your books as yet, but I loved the excerpt and it sounds wonderful.

~*~Hello! The series look great!

~*~Whenever I need to wear something that serves the purpose of battle armor, i wear the diamond cross my moher gave me on my 18th Christmas. It always gives me a dose of that mixture between faith-based strength and motherly love that i need to get through any rough patch.

~*~Meredith~*~

~*~PS-Cousin It, your son sounds like a wonderful little boy. You are truly blessed.

I’m so excited!  I didn’t think Warlord was coming out until May and I had been hoping to get drawn for the ARC at Christmas.  I have read the first 2 several times and can’t wait to read this one.  When are you going to quit your day job and just start writing full time?

I have a heart locket that my grandchildren gave me many years ago. When I am down or sad, I pull it out. It brings my family closer and things seem to be better.

Your books sound wonderful!

I also have a magic shirt that I wear whenever I am going to be tested in some way (literally tested - have you seen all the exams a new teacher has to take now-a-days?!)

Even though my rational mind knows it is ridiculous, there is a small part of me that still believes my ease at passing those tests had a lot to do with my magic shirt.

Okay - this day did not go as planned.  But I am now home, and the cats are fed, and I am free to blog!  So - let me read for a bit and get caught up.

Er. . .lordinheaven, this might take a while - you guys have been busy!

Beth

NcNan,

Lord help me if they start studying my brain.  That will set science back a decade or two.

Beth

Carolyn, CrystalB

Whatever works is the important thing.  Its that empowerment that matters.  What’s interesting here is how many forms that empowerment takes.

J Perry Stone,

I don’t know if ‘laid-back’ is right for me.  I can be fairly intense at times.  Perhaps focused is a better word.

h2clark,

Don’t think I won’t take you up on the offer!
And you are right, cleaning is highly over-rated.  One of my favorite quotes is:

“My idea of cleaning is to sweep the room with a glance.”

And as to those gloves. . .well, let’s just say I am a terrible tease.

Beth

Tiffina,

You know, that’s a good point.  If no one knows about the power of your particular item, then they can’t take the power away.
Please note that I haven’t said what is on my t-shirt. <g> So I am safe.

And yes, fantasy is my thing.  No worries there.

KrisM,

Yeah, I have certain CDs that I play as I write.  Helps me get in the mood.  One has celtic keening on it. . .makes me weep.

And yes, I am an outliner.  My outlines run about 30 pages.  I have a bible for the series, and maps, and a hand-drawn picture of Marcus so I can keep track of his scars.  Doesn’t mean that I don’t mistakes, though.  Or have to go back and re-read my book to make sure I didn’t make a mistake.

knitterlynn,

Thanks for taking a chance on me.  Let me know what you think!

Beth

MaryKate, Dobby, thank you.  It’s so good the here that from readers!

kay,

Sorry.  Er. . .NOT!

heh, evil author at work!!!

cathzoe,

Exactly.  whatever works!

Rhonda,

Oh man.  Don’t even talk about that.  I gain weight just thinking about it.

Beth

AndreaW, flip-flops?

gannon, celtic earrings sounds way too cool.

Jen, I think your local bookstore is very cruel.  That would make me nuts.

elsiehogarth, think we can get the Squawkers to tell us their magic items and rituals?

Prudence - amen, sister!

Beth

CJ, thanks for taking a chacne on me.  Let me know what you think when you are done.

kate-o, I’ll be honest.  I still can’t read parts of my own books without tears welling up.  You know which scenes I am talking about, right?

tami, I think so.  Hot love scenes, swords, men in leather, and HEA. . .but not without a few bumps in the road.  Heh.

Beth

FilmPhan, if I can find the time, I want to see that film. Did your car survive?  How about you?

midwestgal - LOL!  Gonna have to take your word for it - I wear flats all the time!

bite_me_ash, I hate to tell you this but I don’t research them at all.  I just make them up.  Sometimes a name just comes to me, sometimes I have to work on it.  I got ‘Keir’ from a baby name book.  Lara is named after one of my characters from an old D&D game I was in many years ago.  I’m really glad you like them, though.

Now, I don’t know if you can find it where you are, but Gollancz is publishing Warprize in the UK in hardback, and it is a beautiful book.  Try looking for that - it just cam out last month.

Beth

Christina,

Nope.  Not saying.  Must protect the magic in the shirt.

Beth

Laura T, that’s really hard to say.  And to be honest I don’t know which gives Lara more confidence - the dres or the satchel.

Of course, she is gonna need her satchel. . .

<evil author grin>

Di, no no no.  Not telling.

Toni Anderson, oh yes.  A glass of iced tea, some dark chocolate, digging through the dirty laundry to find the magic t-shirt. . .

quiltpcp,

You are so right.  And I have to thank the lovely art department at Tor Romance for their work, because it is lovely.

Beth

Dannyfiredragon, its not superstition if it WORKS, don’t ya know.

miss_annalee, $2.00?  You scored!  Unless they turn your ears green.  And even then, as long as they look really good.

Wirdald, ROFL!  I just snorted iced tea!

cousin it, tell your son to hang in there.  Dsylexia is tough. 

Angela - CONAN RULES!  I collected all the comic books when I was younger, and the books are so good.  I’ve been reading fantasy for years.  I write the kind of story that I want to read, and I am so glad you enjoyed it!

Beth

And the winner of autographed copies of all three of Elizabeth Vaughan’s wonderful WARPRIZE series and a bar of vanilla soap (which is wonderful!) is ... Statch!

Congratulations, Statch! I’ll send you an email with the info you need to get your prize!

RobynL, I love the image of the butterfly on an anklet.  What a lovely reminder!

bite_me_ash, I know that I am grateful for my magic of telling stories.  I just wish there was more magic in the world.

Pambook, you don’t want me to ruin the magic, do you?  Especially when I have lots more stories to tell.

colinfirthfan, caught that reference, did you?  Heheheheh. <evil author grin>

Maureen, I think jewelry is one of the top two for ‘magic items’ in this group!

b erwin, Thank you, that means a great deal to me.

froggie, ah, but knowing your strengths and weaknesses is also an effective weapon, yes?

brownone, oooo. . .Bulgari!

orannia, may I say how lovely NZ appears?  I love LOTR for the scenery alone.  One of these days. . .

Beth

bite_me_ash, wow - that’s a tough one.

[the question is what would make me stop writing?]

I have always made up stories in my head, for my own amusement.  I doubt that anything will stop that.  But writing?  I have to get it down on paper.  I just have to.

But ‘stop being published’?  That is a different ball of wax.  This is a business after all, with all the pressures that implies.

Still, I doubt I’d ever stop, bite_me_ash.

Beth

Mary C, I am so glad they were worth the wait!

Teresa W, I never thought of socks - I like that!

cwhang, three times in each ear?  I had a hard enough time getting mine pierced just once!

stephanieh05, don’t say that too loud.  I have seven cats, and if they get that idea, I am in trouble!

Wirdald, I think jewelry is the winner, hands-down.

catslady, you are a genuis!  Why didn’t I think of that??

MightyAphrodite, I love that phrase.  “faith-based strength and motherly love”

ithicca, that might be a while coming.  See I enjoy the day job, even with all its stress.  And I have to tell you that I have worked long and hard to get where I am today.  I don’t know that I can walk away from that.

But I can promise you a book a year, okay?  And I will do my best to make them worth the wait!

Karen G, how lovely!

Jenni, clearly we are ‘magic-shirt’ sisters.  Does yours have holes in it?

Beth

Statch,

Congratulations!

Three signed copies and a bar of hand-made vanilla soap!

Beth

Way to go Statch!  You’ll be able to soak in a nice bath, read your 3 books and wash away the suds with a great smelling soap…

Well, I am going to call it a night. 

Thank you, everyone, for making me feel so welcome.  I enjoyed this so very much!

Beth

Wow, this is amazing! I never win anything and to win this when I love this trilogy so much! My sister is going to be thrilled too, because now I’ll give her my copies :->. (She loves the trilogy too.)

Christina, I got your e-mail. Thanks so much, and I’ll e-mail Beth with the information.

Statch

You know what gives me the extra edge? don’t laugh, but a nose stip. 

I figure if anyone realizes that your nose is black head free also means that they are noticing that you are nose is black head free...makes you kinda wonder what else they are noticing.

Crap....

She’s gone before I could pseter her about Lara’s purse. I love purse. ... but no evil author grins! hahaha.. must go buy this book now… !!!

Congratulations Statch!

orannia

PS My verification word is miles54...miles to go before I sleep (although it’s early morning here)

AWSOME READ !!! hAVE ME HOOKED FROM THE START !!! LOL I HAVE A FAV MAN THAT MAKES ME FEEL SOO SEXY WHEN I WEAR HIM LOL . I AM A BIG GIRL AND HE MAKES ME FEEL LIKE I HAVE A 14 IN WAIST AND NO STRECH MARKS . AND I AM 20 YEARS YOUNGER . LIZE I ADORE YOUR BOOKS AND STILL TELL ANYONE WHO WILL LISTEN TO READ THEM ./ ALSO HUBBY READ THEM AND THINKS THEY ARE VERY GOOD ALSO HUGS

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/letstalkbooks
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http://blog.myspace.com/119829344 come chat about your books at my group anytime you want ok hugs alma