The countdown is on!
Untamed releases in three weeks and this is the most disconnected I’ve felt from release. That’s not to say I’m not connected to the book, but with all of my changes in socials recently, the state of the world, and personal events in my life, it’s hard to get a pulse on things. This has actually been better for my mental health but let’s hope that holds during release week!
Currently, Untamed is with my amazing editor, Megan. She informed me yesterday that I used a version of “fuck” 185 times in the book, and let me just tell you I’m not sad about that! While a few of those occurrences may disappear, expect plenty of profanity.
If you haven’t already, there is still time to preorder your E-book for $2.99! Print details will be available soon.
Behind the Scenes
It’s amazing what I can get done when I’m not held captive by social media. Does that mean I’m caught up on my writing now that I’m no longer on Meta or active on TikTok? No! That area is completely out of whack.
It does mean I spend way more time in my kitchen. I’ve always enjoyed cooking and baking, but never felt like I had the time. (I recognize this is about choices, many of which have been changing.) Lately, as I find ways to control what I can in a time that feels like utter chaos, I’ve enjoyed focusing my energy on providing my family with healthier foods.
While others may have always been making food from scratch, I feel very accomplished with all of the things I now make. I can identify every single ingredient and know that we have access to food at any time without having to run to the store. My children are learning more skills and loving food in a new way, as well.
Aside from the plum jam, sandwich bread, and sourdough starter pictured, I’ve added homemade granola, bagels, ranch dressing and dip, mayonnaise, butter, and more to our pantry/fridge.
I’m a firm believer that fed is best, but this change has done wonders for my mental health, and even our family time.
Writing Updates: My writing time is limited these days. My two and three year olds have decided they no longer need naps, and they’re busy. Add in homeschooling my older two, activities and field trips, and the last six weeks being a solo parent as my husband was working out of state, and “me” time is almost non-existent.
I am still writing, just not in the order I need to. That said, I’ve found that leaning into my wants with writing and where I’m feeling creative yields better results than forcing things. So I’m writing a little out of order in terms of my publishing goals, but slow and steady, I guess? Hah!
Giveaway Countdown!
If you missed it last edition, or you haven’t had a chance to participate yet, there is still time to get in on the DOUBLE giveaway for signed copies of Untamed! Make sure you get your entries in by Valentine’s Day!
Screenshot your requests for any of my titles at your library and submit them here. This is for any format, but entries are per title.
As a reminder: US winners will receive a signed copy of Untamed, and international winners will receive an unsigned copy with a signed book plate sent separately. This is the best way I can make international giveaways achievable with current shipping rates.
*This is a subscriber-only giveaway!*
Bookish Spotlight
Jayde Collins’ debut is available!
The Secret Stalker, a psychological thriller, is book one of The Hollywood Series.
Stars. Lovers. Liars. Killers.
This is Hollywood, and everyone has a part to play in a shocking novel of suspense.
Hollywood actress Rosemarie Chambers has big dreams of becoming a star actress in the acting industry. When a movie premiere goes south after she discovers a threatening note left by an overzealous fan. She begins receiving romantic and creepy text messages from an unknown number.
As threats begin to escalate, she is left with no choice but to recruit Vance Houston, a highly respected bodyguard with hidden secrets of his own. She attempts to ignore the threatening texts, letters, and notes, hoping they will disappear in a matter of time. However, it only gets worse. As Rosemarie and Vance begin to uncover the identity of her stalker, mysterious incidents happen beneath her feet.
As they work together day and night, Rosemarie’s feelings for Vance starts growing. Once hatred for hiring a bodyguard slowly begins to transform into a romantic relationship. Suddenly, when her sister vanishes without a trace, the threats take a sinister turn. She begins to question whether or not she can trust Vance, or if he is in fact, her true stalker?
With her sister’s life on the line, it’s no longer about survival, it’s about finding out the truth before it’s too late.
ARC Reminders
ARCs are still open for the Garden of Desires collab. These eight books are written by eight different authors and have only one connection: a captivating theme of flowers. They range in spice, darkness, length, and so much more. If you’re interested, check out the master list here. Tropes and content warnings are included. Make sure to review all the details before signing up as each has its own requirements.
XOXO, Amanda