S.A. Coumans Writer's Blog Page

Gratitude

2010-11-28T10:25:00.000-08:00

This year's Thanksgiving is now just a memory. Reflecting on this holiday, I realized how grateful that I am to be blessed with a wonderful supportive husband. He is always encouraging me to write by giving me time, a beautiful office with special handmade furniture, and many gifts to make my writing easier like new computers when he thinks they are getting too old and other tools of a writers trade. In real life, he is my tall handsome hero. Also, I am grateful for my family. They too are supportive and give me lots of praise and kudos. This past weekend during a visit to our family in Arizona, my 13 year old granddaughter told me she followed my "Mary's Christmas Wish" when it first came out for the first couple of months as it hit the #1 spot for weeks on end. I was amazed she would be interested and track the story's progress. She told me how proud she was that she had an "author for a grandmother". The best compliment of all was when she told me she liked that I wrote stories that had good morals (and ethics). I overheard my 9 year old grandson tell someone that his grandma was an author! Guess I better get busy and live up to their high expectations of being an author by writing the best story I can. Thank you to all of my family members and great friends who support my writing, by giving me kudos, or purchasing my Christmas story. I am grateful to be truly blessed.

Where do I start after suffering from Writer's block?

2010-10-18T08:17:00.000-07:00

Ok, it's been long enough having writer's block. Time for me to get back to what I enjoy doing.... Creating fun to read stories. Decided I'm probably going to rejoin my old critique group, if they'll have me. Since they were the ones I hung out with at HOW Conference, I'm guessing they'll have me! :) I'm not sure where to start - a new book, or work on the last book that is half finished or finally do my edits on the two books that are finished. Guess I need to look at my goals. I really wanted to get my pro-status this year, and the only way to do that is to send in to the Publishing houses. That's pretty scary. Not that I would get a rejection, but what if they want it? Then I'd have to perform.

FEAR - The thought is running around in my brain - 'What if I don't know how to write/edit anymore?' This is really what is holding me back. If I don't know where to start - then just sit down and do something. Everything needs to be done, pick something and do it. :)

Heart of the West Conference 2010

2010-10-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

This October I was fortunate to attend the annual Heart of the West Conference held at the Canyons in Park City, UT. The conference was held close to our rooms and were perfect for our needs. The food, networking and companionship was excellent. The setting outside was spectacular with fall colors at peak season. Saturday morning, I was looking out my hotel room window, and I saw three moose; two adults and one baby. They were just meandering along a path like they had all the time in the world. What a great day to start out the day. Our time was filled with workshops, HOW award luncheon, and hearty Scottsmen wearing kilts and playing their instruments for our entertainment. Those handsome Scottsmen were so appropriate for our Romance Writers group. Our guest author and speaker, New York Times bestseller Christine Feehan spoke in a down to earth way about her writing career. A couple tips she gave were - know your character's so well from the time they were born to present. - Know who you are as a writer. Know your shortcomings as well as your strengths and put tools in place to accomodate them. Example, If you are always rewriting where you can't finish the book, then make a point of not doing any rewriting until the book is finished. If you think of something to add to your story, instead of going back to put in, jot down notes and save them until the book is done. (I for one will try that method) She managed to give us encouragment to keep writing even in these tough financial times with publishing houses not buying as many books. Bottom line. Keep writing and improving our craft. * Our guest agent Laurie Mcclean from Larsen Pomada Literary Agency advised us when we contact an agent to mention something personal, like - we met at URWA Conference, and to make our query brief, powerful and personal. I loved how fun and approachable she was too! The marketing gals, Buzzbuster.com Nash and Shahar were very informative also. They told us how easy it is to market our books through the internet, facebook, Twitter, and Youtube.

August 2010

2010-08-12T09:05:00.000-07:00

July 2nd had shoulder surgery - it kicked me in the behind for way too long. It's already mid-August and I'm still sporting the chick black sling. I've heard black goes with everything! I don't think so in this case. Went to doctor yesterday and was told I no longer have to sleep with it on! Yeah!! Got behind the wheel of my car to see if I'd be able to drive, no go! Darn it! :(

Summer has been a wash, not able to do too much around house or yard. Although did get my kitchen updated. It looks soo good, I'm glad it's done. Now have to get the painting done in my kitchen, greatroom and hallway. Also plan to tile up the fireplace. Garden has been slim-pickin's, a few tomatoes although small, some sweet peas, 1 turnip, guess I better fertilize soon.

As far as writing goes, I have started editing Just Rewards. Had a few requests from editors but it's been so long, don't know if they will still want them. Oh well, updating and editing and hope to send it in soon. Would like to get my Pro status with RWA this year.

Thanksgiving 2009 - Opening of Christmas in Goodyear 2009

2009-12-04T13:28:00.000-08:00

Christmas is almost upon us. The year has flown by so quickly. As I get ready to make preparations for decorating the house, Christmas gift shopping and preparing for our upcoming trip to the Mexican Carribean, I reflect over this year. It has been one of my least productive years in the past 20+ years. I found myself backing away from living life to the fullest, sitting on the sidelines. I think sometime a person needs a bit of time, to look at the direction of the path they are following and decide if one is ready to follow a new and exciting path. I hit that time in my life and decided that I had to make a change. I regularly make resolutions Jan 1st - rarely to follow thru with the intended goal. This next year, I will succeed. especially with my writing goals and weight loss.

Rejection

2009-11-10T06:48:00.000-08:00

I haven't been spending very much time writing lately. In fact, I've been contemplating whether or not I'm really a writer. This past summer I made some changes, dropped out of my much loved group of critique partners, and focused on learning new painting techniques. Well, I'd say I have improved on my painting skills, which is good, but what about the extra time I was going to spend writing? Okay, so I received a very negative rejection from an editor in the spring who told me basically I sucked at writing. I tend to be a bit insecure, so I figured she must be right.

Okay, so if she is right and I do need new writing skills, what can I do about it? Well, I can always start at the beginning, and re-learn the writing process. Can I do this? Yup, I can! First step is to sit down at the blasted-computer and put some words down on paper. Next step, figure out where I should begin. Edit previous manuscripts or move forward and work on my current work in progress? hmmmm. . . .? Good question.

Belize school girls

2009-04-11T14:16:00.000-07:00

The children sang a special song to us to show their appreciation.

Painting rainbows, happy faces on the lunchroom wall.

2009-04-11T14:07:00.000-07:00

Volunteering In Belize Inner City School

2009-04-11T13:54:00.000-07:00

Belize - Feb 2009- Taking time to volunteer during our annual cruise this year was so rewarding. I had a great time painting the children's lunchroom and then helped pass out the pre-made school packages the group of volunteers collected and put together. Those children were the so darling and grateful. I was given lots of hugs from them

2009-04-11T13:44:00.000-07:00

My favorite author and me at the URWA Conference

2009-03-26T07:39:00.000-07:00

Recently, I received a rejection for my latest story Kari's Fairy Tale and needed to escape while healing my wounded ego. I happened to come across one of my favorite authors' books that I hadn't read. I needed a break and indulged myself. I wasn't disappointed. For now, I can smile again, and try to learn from my mistakes from the rejected submission.

I just finished reading Chritina Skye's book "To Catch A Thief" It was wonderful. It's exactly the kind of edgy-romantic suspence writing that I would love to write.

The American Cancer Society:

2009-03-18T08:07:00.000-07:00

The American Cancer Society:

My latest book review! Nice!

2009-02-25T07:46:00.000-08:00

Monday, January 26, 2009

Mary's Christmas Wish by Sheryl Coumans
Mary's Christmas Wish by Sheryl CoumansPublisher: The Wild Rose PressGenre: Contemporary; Paranormal; HolidayLength: ShortHeat: SweetRating: 3.5 booksReviewed by Peony
After a life-time spent regretting her decision to give up the her true love, Sister Mary Cantrell faces her impending death alone. When a familiar looking visitor dressed in a Santa Claus suit offers her a chance to go back in time, to relive that life-turning event, she finds the answer she'd been seeking was always there.I wouldn’t have thought a story that opened with an elderly, dying nun breathing her last breath on Christmas Eve could turn out to be romatic but that’s exactly what happens in "Mary’s Christmas Wish." This story is short but it packs a lot of emotion into it. This reader fell into Sister Mary Grace’s life effortlessly and completely.A story about the past and its secrets, and a life well-lived but still lacking in one small thing—or perhaps two—this sweet tale takes a turn that is unexpected but perfectly fitting. A stranger dressed as Santa comes into the nun’s room and asks what she wishes for. When she answers he prods, asking what she wishes for herself. Knowing she has nothing to lose, Sister Mary Grace answers.I very much enjoyed this tiny treat. My only wish for "Mary’s Christmas Wish" is that it could be longer. The writing is strong, the style pleasing and the characters engaging. I would have liked to spend more time with this couple if it had been possible."Mary’s Christmas Wish" is a sweet tale that is sure to warm hearts!
Posted by LASR Admin - Romance Reviews at 4:00 AM
Labels: Author A - C, Barbour Publishing, Christmas, Contemporary, paranormal, short story, sweet, The Wild Rose Press, three books

Friends & URWA Conference

2009-02-25T07:15:00.000-08:00

Catching up!

2009-02-24T18:34:00.000-08:00

My Gosh! Where has the year gone? I have been so busy, that I haven't had a chance to write on my blog. Over the past six months, It's been emotionally tough dealing with losing one of my very best friends who passed Jan 5th. Then I got pretty sick with a cold that turned into a bacterial infection, and asthma. So, it's taken everything I have for me to go to work, and take care of other important daily functions. Although a slow process, I managed to write on my new WIP (Nate's Story) and finish editing my latest short story, "Kari's Fairy Tale". Sunday, I sent in my third round of edits, now I'm anxiously waiting for a response from a new editor.

Now that I am on the mend, it's time to get organized and caught up with everything that was put aside for the past six months. My plans are to finish Nate's story (working name title) which is book 2 of a 3 book time travel series, by July. Haven't decided if I should edit the first 2 books or start on book 3 yet.

Thank goodness for my new kitty Porche who gives me lots of love.

Sheryl

2009 is around the corner!

2008-12-27T07:11:00.000-08:00

I can't believe 2009 is almost here. It has been a mixture of wonderful times and sad times. The sad, is watching a dear friends' health decline. Early on, when we knew it was terminal, I decided to focus on the right now. What can I do to honor my friend? The answer is to live everyday to the fullest. I can best serve her by being there, offering my hand in friendship to her and her family. I try not to let myself grieve yet, as she is still here in body. My memories with her are special and will be carried in my heart for the rest of my life. She is a wonderful person and friend. My most treasured moments were the many times we got together. She shared the experience of camping and kayaking with us. Now, we love to camp and kayak. She always encouraged me with my art and writing. Allowed me to be a part of her family as god-mother to her children. Thank you, Diane. I love you my wonderful friend.

The good times were spent with our friends and family. We enjoyed our time during our cruise to the Mexican Riveria, this past January, also trips to Pittsburgh, Pa; Traverse City, Mi; Park City; Wendover, NV; and a couple trips to Goodyear, Arizona to see Rob & Pam and grandkids. And, our trips to Pineview, to go camping & kayaking. How wonderful to have the opportunity to travel.

Good news - was when I sold my first short story, Mary's Christmas Wish to The Wild Rose Press. It topped the best seller list to #1 and maintained top seller for almost a month, (so far as it came out Dec 3rd) I finished writing my first book, Just Rewards Dec 31st 2007, and finished writing Madison's Lost Cowboy Oct. 10th 2008, and then went on to start another book, Nate's Lost & found Wife (WIP) Also, am reworking another short story for TWRP. Whew! it has been very busy and exciting.

Mary's Christmas Wish - out now

2008-12-11T04:56:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all who purchased my short story through The Wild Rose Press. Also many thanks to the book reviewers who read and gave my story such wonderful reviews! - Sheryl

Night Owl Romance (3.25 out of 5)
Ms. Coumans penned a charming tale of how one person needed to finally forgive herself for doing something to help another person, in a time of need, a very long time ago. It was a sweet tale of undying love Mary held for that one very special person she treasured ever so dearly. This was a heartwarming story wrapped around forgiveness and what the true meaning of Christmas really stands for.

Blue Ribbon Reviews
I was drawn to this storyline because of the uniqueness of the characters and the idea of having a Christmas wish granted and a ‘do over’ in life. I admit it, there are many things I would happily change. Sheryl Coumans delivers a thought-provoking tale in this one short story full of hope, dreams and wistfulness. Mary’s spent most of her life regretting one event that effectively wiped out any hope she had for marriage and children with the man she loved – or so she believed at the time. With MARY’S CHRISTMAS WISH readers are welcomed into Mary’s mindset as she remembers the events of that fateful day and realizes that when it came right down to it, she had no other option but the one she chose. Does Santa deliver and allow her a ‘do over’? You’ll just have to pick up a copy of MARY’S CHRISTMAS WISH to find out.
By Romance Junkies Reviewer: Chrissy Dionne

Mary's Christmas Wish - out now

2008-12-05T13:59:00.000-08:00

I am so excited, my short story came out on Wednesday, Dec 3, 2008 and by Friday it was #2 on 10 top bestselling list. For more information go to the website. I had a good review that wasn't too bad for a first time story 3.5 out of 5 stars!

http://www.thewildrosepress.com/

URWA Conference -

2008-10-06T07:39:00.000-07:00

I'm the one in pink! Alysia is next to me. The other picture is to show my nephew, Brenten (Nick Conrad looks like an older versian!)

URWA Conference

2008-10-06T07:30:00.000-07:00

October URWA Conference

2008-10-06T06:14:00.000-07:00

Well, I just finished a wonderful weekend up in Park City for the Utah Romance Writers Annual Conference. It was a spectacular drive up there with all the trees turning brillant colors of reds, oranges and yellows. I had the pleasure of riding with my critique partners, Alysia, Kathy, and Jan. We were all excited for the weekend - and none of us were diappointed.

The URWA writers conference was held at the Canyons. It started off with registration, then a luncheon where our President of RWA, Sherry Lewis gave us a very moving speach. I had to wipe back a tear or two! This was followed by wonderful workshops. Of more than sixty other writers, editors and agents, I felt like I was among a big family. Hugs, well wishes, sharing chocolate, giggles and networking with everyone sure made my heart sing with happiness. It was such a pleasure to see old friends and make new friends with those who came from out of town.

My pitch session with Megan McKeever from Pocket books - went well, at least I felt good about it. She did ask me for my first three chapters of Madison's Lost Cowboy, my current WIP (I'm wrapping up the ending, then plan to edit the chapters and synopsis - in the next couple of weeks) After I do my edits for Just Rewards, I'll be starting the sequel to Madison's Lost Cowboy.

I had a great time visiting with Cori Deyoe - an angent for 3 Seas Literary Agency - she was down to earth and fun to talk with. Also had the opportunity to visit with Nick Conrad from Ellora's Cave Publishing. He's also a very personable man. (He looks like an older versian of my nephew, Brenten)

The workshops were informative and motivating. I benefitted from them all. There were many issues that were adressed, that I realized how I could implement them in my own writing.

I plan on starting to renew my fitness program and rejoin her fitness blog- thanks to Cami Checkets talk.

Kari's Fairy Story

2008-09-27T16:56:00.000-07:00

When Kari Mayes is left at the alter by her groom and maid of honor, she seeks revenge with a magical fairy called Ella, who gives her the opportunity cause them trouble. Only after seeing their misery does she realize that she really doesn't want them to suffer. She finds forgiveness and she finds her true love in the process.

A Christmas Wish

2008-08-10T20:23:00.000-07:00

A Christmas Wish - Soon to be released this year in time for Christmas 2008 - Go to The Wild Rose Press for further information. See my author page!

Rebecca Winters - Website

2008-04-11T07:23:00.000-07:00

Rebecca Winters Mar 08, The Italian Tycoon and the Nanny, Harlequin Romance www.cleanromances.com

2008-04-09T20:08:00.000-07:00

Blurb:
A Christmas Wish by Sheryl Coumans packed a deep, emotional punch that I haven’t found in many full-length novels. The tone, the charm, reminded me of novels I’ve read by one of my favorite authors Catherine Cookson. Ms. Coumans has captured a slice of time and life that immediately drew me in. Bravo! Rebecca Winters

Madison's Lost Cowboy - S.A. Coumans

2008-04-09T19:53:00.000-07:00

JC Berkley is about to be hung for a murder he didn't commit. When a bolt of lightning strikes, he is propelled into the future. He wakes to find a beauthiful woman standing over him. Madison Matthews takes the lost cowboy home to her bed & breakfast where he helps as resident handiman. Their attraction toward one another leads to the ultimate question, will JC go back to his time and redeem his honor, or will he choose to stay in the current day. JC first must find his twin brother Nate and discover why he ended up in this time. Then, perform a rescue to a little girl who had been kidnapped by a child preditor.

First of three book series

Followed by:

Nate's Homecoming
Elisabeth's Second Chance