Getting Fictitious Magazine Up and Running

Okay, so I know it's been a slow process, but I'd like to thank  the readers and authors supported Fictitious Magazine in the old format and still show interest in the new. I have changed it to a blog format. I do have the submission page up. There is one problem, I tried to log into my email at fictitiousmag@yahoo.com but was locked out because I couldn't remember the answer to the security question it gave me. I don't remember even setting one up! Anyway a minor setback, I'll get in there. ;)

 Everything will be up and running on Jan. 1st, so I hope you all stop by, check it out and follow if you wish. until then...Happy Reading!

http://www.fictitiousmagazine.blogspot.com/

I have made a discovery...

I HATE the WordPress blog, so I'm moving Fictitious Magazine to Blogger. The new link is fictitiousmagazine.blogspot.com. 
I don't know if this blog is easier to navigate or if I'm just used to it, but I feel so overwhelmed with WordPress and I don't like the way it is setup. I can't wait to get the magazine up and running again and if I'll never get it done on WordPress. 

Bear with me while I set up this new blog and get things ready for a January launch. You can still send submission and request for author interviews to me at fictitiousmagazine@yahoo.com. For those who have not read the submission guidelines I'll have them posted on the new site soon. I cannot pay authors for their work, but I can offer you a place to be read, post links to other sites and books. Yippee! If anyone wants to start following the blog just slide on over, this way you can keep up with the progress and maybe even let me know if you have any suggestions. :)

Happy Friday and Happy Reading! 

New Reviews!

My YA short story, "Alfred C. Bogeyman," has two wonderful reviews that I'd love to share.

Jocelyn said:

This was a very cute and fun story. I really enjoyed reading it and having a few laughs with Ralph, Sean, and Adrian.

This short story is about three children named Ralph, Sean, and Adrian who believe that the boogieman is scaring Adrian's little brother Sam. Adrian is the brave one in the group, Ralph is the brains, while Sean is afraid of everything. Feeling the need to protect his little brother Adrian and the boys go on a mission to find the boogieman and teach him a lesson. They come up with a plan to use Sean's dog Socks to track down the boogieman and scare him. I don't want to give too much away but I'll say I really liked the ending of the story and really enjoyed reading about Sean, Adrian, and Ralph. It was a really good read! 

Dan Spanton- Author of  The YA book Waiting for Natalie said:

I read ALFRED C. BOGEYMAN on a rainy October night in Maine, with a cup of hot chocolate and a bowl of candy corn, and enjoyed every minute. This tale from gifted storyteller M. ALLMAN is not a splurge at .99, but it's definitely a treat.

Thank you both for the wonderful reviews. Alfred C. Bogeyman if available in PDF and HTML from Fire and Ice and  at Amazon for Kindle.













Happy Reading!

Having a great weekend...

I attended the 2012 Writer's Conference at the Crump Theatre in Columbus, IN hosted by Pen It! Magazine. I had a great time there where I met and spoke with other writers.

This weekend "Alfred C. Bogeyman" was released for Kindle, and so far it's doing well. *Smiling* Click here for Kindle version.

I have also been working on Fictitious Magazine and plant to have it up and running on January 1st 2013. I am taking submissions and emails from authors interested in doing and interview on the site. You can read the guidelines by clicking here

 I hope to make the magazine a place for readers and writer to connect. :)

I am working on a new collection of short stories, Stories to Wrap Your Mind Around, scheduled for release sometime in 2013. So, Flashes of Fiction is no more. Those 5 stories will be a part of the larger collection and "Metamorphosis" that I was going to release as a Kindle short will now be in this collection as well, instead of a stand-alone story. I will have more information on this collection soon. :)

I hope everyone has a great Sunday.

Happy Reading!

My Review of Away With the Fairies by Jenny Twist

Away With the Fairies by Jenny Twist
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this imaginative, magical story and believe it would make wonderful story to read to children. :)

View all my reviews I know this is a short review, but it is short story and I don't want to give too much away. :)

It's that time of year once again...

Fall is here and Halloween is just around the corner. All during the month of October, there are scary movies on television, people are deciding what type of scary creature they want to be for Halloween and kids are dreaming of plastic pumpkins full of candy.

It's also a time for creepy stories. It was about this time last year I released my first horror/scary YA story, "Ally Ally Oxen Free." It seems the majority of readers have enjoyed this creepy story about a boy who is fascinated with bones and the human skeleton. Tom gets a change to dig and vacant lot and what he unearths makes all the neighborhood kids tremble with fear.
"Ally Ally Oxen Free" is available as a Kindle book for $0.99

My second horror/scary YA short story, "Alfred C. Bogeyman," was recently released from Fire and Ice. This story is about three boys who set out to find the boogieman and give him taste of his own medicine. Adrian and his two friends with the help of a dog, find who they believe to be the boogieman scaring Adrian's little brother. After their discovery, the boys and the boogieman have a battle of good and evil that involves bravery and laughter.

"Alfred C. Bogeyman" is available as a $0.99 PDF and HTML eBook from Fire and Ice 

For adults, Tales from Imagination's Closet has 29 short stories that range from creepy and horror/scary to downright bizarre. Right now the Kindle version is only $4.99.  You can also find the print version from Melange-Books and on Amazon.













Happy Reading!

My review of Waiting for Natalie. I loved this story.

Waiting For Natalie by Dan Spanton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Natalie is one determined young lady, and she stops at nothing to find out if the boy resembling her brother in Colombia is in fact her little brother who the family was told drowned. In this touching story, I felt like I was taking the trip right along with Natalie, feeling her elation with good news and disappointment with bad, and it isn't until the end that both Natalie and the reader both know if the Colombian boy is her brother.


View all my reviews

Upcoming Release!

My short story "Alfred C. Bogeyman" is scheduled for release on Monday, September 24th for Melange-Books young adult imprint, Fire and Ice.

Ebook format only click here to see available formats.


Blurb:
Since his father's deployment, Adrian feels he has to be the man of the house. So when the boogieman scares his little brother, Sam, every night, he and his friends, Ralph and Sean, are determined to find the boogieman and give him a taste of his own medicine. With the help of Socks, Sean's dog, their search leads them to small cottage behind the park where they encounter Alfred C. Bogeyman and the forces of fear, bravery and evil collide.


Happy Reading!

Books and Movies- The Women of Brewster's Place

I don't know about everyone else, but I LOVE to watch the movie made from a book--after reading the book of course. :)

The Women of Brewster's Place by Gloria Naylor is not a novel I would have chosen to read on my own. I actually read it because it was required for a women's literature course in college. I loved the book and just recently came across the movie on television. I began watching it only to realize it is a long move--mini series, I suppose. Anyway, I had missed half of it.

I was disappointed, so what do I do? Go to Amazon and buy the darned movie. :) So, hopefully I find it in the mailbox soon. I am anxious to see if the movie makes me the feel the same as the book.

   Naylor does an excellent job of creating true-to-life characters, and I  became absorbed into their life and problems and actually cared about them. I think that is a difficult task in writing, making the character to true to life, so real, that the reader forgets these are fictional characters. In the movie Oprah plays Mattie Micheal, the main character, who is one determine lady--if you ask me. :)

I won't go into the details of the books, but Mattie's son, Basil, ends up being arrested and charged with manslaughter. His mother puts up her house as bail, which she worked hard to pay for, and he skips bail, leaving her without her home. Mattie if forced to move to a tenement where she is a mother figure to the other girls living there. Each lady has her own story and that is what I think makes this such a great book. The reader learns about each character and becomes caught up in their life struggles. If you haven't read it, I'd recommend it. Although, I don't know how well I'll like the movie version, yet. :)

Happy Reading!

You don't have to start at the beginning!

When you write a story, do you always start at the beginning? I used to and it made me crazy. At times, I felt so much frustration that I gave up  on the whole project.

Then...while in college, I took several types of creative writing courses, and discovered that there is no rule that says you have to start at the beginning--no laws broken, no one hurt...nothing.

This works great for me, and I think it would work for  others writers who do not already piece their stories together this way.

How does it help?


It helps me in a few ways:

• Sometimes I have a conversation between two characters in my mind that starts to develop into a story, but trying come up with a beginning, and then building up to that specific scene is frustrating. So, I start with what I've got in mind and fill in the rest of the story around it. Sometimes, I write the scene and put it away for a while, and then come back to the story as ideas develop. 
• My creative juices, so to speak, flow better when I don't have to start at the beginning. I just start writing what has already developed, so I'm not sitting at the keyboard watching a blinking line on a blank page or wearing out my "backspace" key. Both make me crazy!
• Writing other scenes first helps me decide on a beginning or an end. For me, writing a scene with the main character in the middle or end of the action helps me flesh out my character, and in turn, helps me create more realistic characters. I understand their motives and can begin the story with that in mind. 

If you are a writer who hasn't tried this technique, I'd recommend it. I don't always write this way, but doing so frees the mind and allows you to concentrate and build on what has already developed in your imagination and getting that out on paper frees your mind to create the rest of the story. 

Happy Reading and Writing!

Submitting Makes Me Nervous

 I have been submitting some short stories, and I always become a bundle of nerves when I do. I often tell myself, "The editors won't pick my story." And then, I start making plans for the next step when it is rejected.

I know from experience that rejections come far more often than acceptances, so I guess I ready myself for it. This way I'm not as disappointed with a rejection and ecstatic when it actually is an acceptance.

I swear I hear the voice of Redd Foxx in my head saying, "You big dummy, your story isn't ready," or countless other things my pessimistic alter ego chooses to point out. I know many writers go through this type of self-doubt and sometimes it can really put a halt on the creative process. So, what can we do, as writers, when Mr. or Mrs. Pessimistic whispers in our ears?

1.) Tell your family and friends how you feel and they'll boost you right back up-at least for a little while. My husband and two girls lecture me when I become pessimistic and remind me of how far I've come.

2.) Do remember what you've accomplished thus far. Maybe you've finished your first short story or novel, or that first piece is published. Both are great accomplishments and stepping stones to more successful moves in the future.

3.) Keep writing! Even if you feel you've written crap. Write out the story and get it down. You can go back over it and edit it as much as you want. I've had first drafts waiting years for me to come back and revise, and when I read over them again new ideas come to mind that improve the story.

4.) Keep sending out submissions. Remember what one editor may hate, another may love. This has happened to me in the past. Everyone has an opinion and a preference and many times they differ vastly.

I plant continue writing and sending out submissions, even though I get nervous and negative thoughts race around my brain while awaiting responses. I guess this is something writers must endure if they want to succeed.

Keep Writing and Happy Reading!

New Review!

New review to share for The Peanut Buttor Tweatment. I am still working on some changes with the cover, but it will be up at Amazon soon. :)

Julie Barrett says:

The Peanut Buttor Tweatment by M. Allman
Illustrated colorful children's book about the day grammy comes to visit. His mother won't let him blow bubbles with bubblegum cuz once his uncle blew one so huge and popped it covered his whole face and it was a mess.
She brought all the children a nice gift they could play with.
She also gives them bubblegum and of course the same thing happened to him that happened to his uncle.
She looked at him and laughed because he did not have to go to the hospital to get the gum out of his fur. Peanut butter would do the trick.
Moral of the story is to listen to what your parents tell you because it is for your own good.

Thanks, Julie for your reading and taking time to leave an awesome review! 

Happy Reading!

Cover for Alfred C. Bogeyman

I have the cover, but do not have a set date for release. It will be soon though-Sept/Oct. It will be available in Ebook format only from Fire and Ice.

I haven't come up with a blurb for this short story, yet. I will. I have trouble coming up with my own blurbs. I can tell you it is a mixture of creepy and funny and a story that all ages can enjoy.

This is my second YA short story.My first is "Ally Ally Oxen Free." I am working on several others: "Metamorphosis," "Mermaid's Kiss," and "Hobo." I hope to have "Metamorphosis" out soon as a Kindle short story.

 I will update everyone when I have a definite release date!




Happy Reading!

Making Some Changes...

I am designing a new cover for The Peanut Buttor Tweatment now that I have had some experience with using the program  I use to create covers and drawings. I am also editing both of my children's books, so they will not be available for purchase for a couple of weeks. :)

I am still working on "Metamorphosis" and plan to have it ready for Kindle by October. Crossing my fingers that all goes well.

"Alfred C. Bogeyman" is coming out soon from Melange Books young adult imprint Fire and Ice. I hope to have the blurb and cover soon. I don't know why, but writing a blurb for my own story book is so difficult for me. I'll keep working on it. ;)

I have been working so much lately that I have little time to work on my fiction projects. I'd love to write fiction full-time...one day. A lady can dream, can't she?

I have two exciting writing events coming up!  I have a piece of creative non-fiction and poem that were chosen to be displayed in a fine arts gallery for Ivy Tech Community College~Columbus, Restart and the Women's Symposium. And...In October there is a writers conference in Columbus that I am attending and will have some copies of Tales from Imagination's Closet there for sell as well. I'm so happy to find activities that center around writing close enough that I can attend.

Happy Writing!

Guest Blogging at Book and Trailer Showcase

I did a guest blog for Book and Trailer Showcase earlier this week. If you are interested in reading  click here 

 I have been doing some copy-editing work as well as writing, and I do come across several issues that are easy fixes, such as:

Using semi-colons and colons in dialogue. Guess what? You don't need them in there. You really don't need that at all.  When people speak, they naturally takes pauses, speak with incomplete sentences or stop, but this can be easily shown with a period, and comma or an ellipsis. Semi-colons and colons are fine in non-fiction articles and scholarly reports, but they really have no place in fiction. Personally, I'd rather have two separate sentences rather than one joined by a semi-colon or colon. I think as readers, we can make a connection, if there is one, between the statements. When they are overused, it appears that the writer is trying too hard. Write a good story--that's all it takes.

Another common mistake is sentence fragments. Personally, I use them, sparingly, in writing. There are times when it adds little to the story, but using them constantly is not a good idea. It's distracting and sometimes downright confusing. So, writers please use complete sentences most of the time. :)

The last little things are dialogue tags. Some writers tend to overuse them.
For example: "I'm not going with you," Todd said angrily.
                      "Just stay home, then," Jan replied tearfully.
These are not necessary and really don't add to the story. Writers need to express how characters feel by what they say and how they act and react.
For example: Todd slammed his fist on table. "I'm not going with you."
                     "Just stay home, then, " Jan replied, turning away to hide her tears.
These, of course, aren't perfect but they add to the action of the story and eliminate annoying dialogue tags.

I hope these little tips help anyone going through a revision. I try to remember these tips myself when going through the revision process.

Happy Writing and Reading!

New Reviews

I had the pleasure of finding two new 5 star  reviews for two of my books on Amazon. 

Tales from Imagination's Closet:


This is a collection of short stories. I loved each and every one of them. Some of them made me shiver, while others had me laugh. I can't say who my favorite character was, since I loved them all. A must read for those who want variety in your life :) Each story is different and amazing in it's own way :D

Ally Ally Oxen Free:


I loved this book, I must admit it had me remembering things I did as a child. Yes, I loved to find things, but, I didn't look for bones 0.o Nor did I have a fasination in them. This story sent chills down my spine 0.o Not hard to do, considering I normally don't read books that do that. Loved it and must say, anyone who wants something to make you think and grip you to your seat, have a read :)






I am so pleased, and I do appreciate when readers buy my books take the time to leave a review. 


Happy Reading!

One Story-Three endings

I have been working on this one young adult book for over a year now. One thing slowing me down is that I have three ideas of how to end it, but I don't know which one I like best. The first is kind of spiritual in nature and leaves readers with a warm fuzzy feeling. The second leaves the reader hanging, mysterious, and one the reader can decide who they think a certain character is. The third is a creepy, kinda of a twist ending. None of which where in my head when I began writing the book. So, what do I do?

My daughter suggested writing all three endings and before the last chapter write if like a spiritual ending go to page # and so on for each ending, but I'm not sure if this would work. Would young adult readers like to read a book that contains alternate endings? I'm kind of intrigued by the idea, but not sure if any publisher would be interested, but there is always self-publishing it as a Kindle book.

Until I decide how to end the book, I cannot finish it. But, I must figure something out soon, because I'd really love to finish this book.

In this book, Hobo, Caleb is the main character and a kind of soft-hearted good kid, and his best friend, Mark, is a troublemaker, and gets Caleb in trouble at times.  The story takes place in the mid-70s and begins when a derelict makes a home under a bridge and Mark talks Caleb into going down to the bridge and spy on the Hobo. While there, the boys have an encounter with him, which ends up with Mark throwing a branch at the homeless man and hitting him in the head. Later that night, Caleb returns with bandages, aspirin and food  and finds the Hobo is not scary at all, but  a man with amnesia. He vows to find out who Hobo is and reunite him with his family. The ending changes depending on what Caleb discovers about this mysterious hobo.

I guess the best way to do this is write all three endings and ask my review group which they like best. You never now, once I get them all written, I may decide that one is better than the other two. :)

Happy Reading!

The Success of a Book Is Written in the Stars!

The stars that go along with book reviews, that is, or so most authors believe.  I'm not doubting that a book needs reviews to get noticed and be successful. What I am debating is how much that stars actually play a role in a book's success.

Personally, if I want to watch a movie or read a book, I do it, even if it doesn't have a high rating, and many times I actually like the book or movie. So, I wonder do others go by ratings and decide what to read or not to read-- just by other peoples' opinions-- or do they rebel and read it anyway?  Like me.

I personally do not like books about vampires, and I do not like the Twilight movies or books. A lot of other people do, I know, but I'm sure some people would agree and some would think I'm nuts. ( My kids love it, by the way.) So, there is no way I can be persuaded by good reviews to read the books or watch the movies for this series.

There has been a lot of drama lately over reviews, because it seems anything under 4 stars is unacceptable to most authors. But, I find a book with all 5 star reviews suspect, and I'll tell you why. Rarely, if ever, is there something that the masses agree on and can rally around, including books and movies. There will always be a difference of opinion on books, movies, art or just about anything.

When I see a book that doesn't have at least a few not-so-good reviews, I secretly think all the reviews are from friends, family or someone else who has a vested interest in this author. I'm not saying a book can't have a majority of good reviews; I am saying there will always be someone who does not like a certain plot, characters, the writing or whatever else they may find fault with, and these people let everyone know.

Now, I did the same thing as most authors do when they get their first 1 star review. I let it get to me, but that is not the way to handle it. I think authors have to remember that not everyone will like their work and when they send it out to the masses, there will be some people who just do not like it for whatever reason.

Switching gears a bit. Sometimes a lot of bad reviews can also make a book popular. I think it is because people are curious by nature and want to see for themselves if the book is really that bad. So, can the stars work both ways?

I do have one rating pet peeve. When someone rates a book with 1 star and leaves no comments or review. This makes me wonder if the person really read the book or are they just having a bad day and want to take it out on someone else. It doesn't make sense to me to do so.

I think I'll stick with my own method of choosing books. I will read what interests me, not because someone else liked it or didn't like it.  I will judge for myself.

Happy Reading!

Hello...Yes, it's me. Mrs-always-behind

I swear I always end up behind, so I guess that means I try to do too many things at once, huh? I just get high on excitement and think I'm superwriter/book reviewer. :) No, really. I do need  make use of that do list idea I had way back in January.

 I wanted to get the third book in the Hairington series, I'm Not a Tangle, out this summer, but guess what, it is not gonna happen. I haven't even started on the illustrations.

I wanted to get "Metamorphosis" on Kindle by July 1st. Umm...That was days ago.

I have read several books that I need to write reviews for, but it's not happening either. 

I have several works in progress, and I want to finish them all asap. :o

But...I have to work, so this cuts down on my time for writing. I do a great deal of ghost writing during the week to pay the bills and this leaves little time for my fiction writing, reading and review writing-- not to mention blog writing.

So, how do I get caught up? I think I need a little notebook to make a list of things I need to do in order of importance. I did this while I was in college and it worked for keeping me on track then, so I'm going to try it.

Okay now for some news.

I am participating in Mysti Parker's 20,000 hit giveaway on her blog Unwritten next month, so stop by and check out all the books you can win. I will be giving away 3 PDF copies of Tales from Imagination's Closet, 3 PDF or Kindle copies of "Ally Ally Oxen Free, " and 3 copies of Flashes of Fiction: Volume 1.  I will post more information as August 1st draws near.

I am continuing my work on the new and improved Fictitious Magazine. I wanted to have it ready by August 1st, but as I said earlier, I am always running behind, so I am now aiming for September 15th.  Wish me luck!

Happy Reading!

Fictitious Magazine Coming Back Better than Ever

Hi all,

I know many authors and readers were upset when I discontinued Fictitious Magazine, but it is coming back soon. There will be some changes. I am creating it on a Wordpress blog and it will have more to offer than ever before! I plan to do author interviews and links to author's works who contribute to the blog. I will post stories and poems daily as well. I am still working on getting it all set up and as soon as I do I will open for submissions and begin setting up author interviews. I do have some emails in my inbox for submissions and I will consider those as well if the pieces are still available. I hope to make Fictitious Magazine a place for where readers and authors can connect.

Thanks you all for support in the past.

Happy Reading.

My Review of His to Possess by Su Halfwerk

I read His to Posses  in one Saturday afternoon, and I loved it.  You can find out more about author Su Halfwerk  @ http://www.su-halfwerk.com/


Here is my review. *****




When I give a book the full five stars, it means I couldn't put it down. I read it all in one sitting. 

The story is a sweet romance with a spiritual element, which Ms. Halfwerk uses to tell a beautiful, touching story of a destined and lasting love. 

From the very first page, my heart went out to Jeremy, who is a ghost in love with Stacy, a flesh and blood woman. He is bound to a mansion where Stacy is working as a book appraiser. She is unable to communicate with him…at first, but then she conjures him, which allows them to meet. But, other circumstances still stand in the couple's way. 

I found myself reading, eagerly taking in each chapter; I had to know if Jeremy and Stacy would be together, and if so, how? 

I don't want to give away the ending, so I'll just say it was perfect. I was not at all disappointed. 

I look forward to reading more from this talented author.


Happy Reading! 

New MicroHorror story...

I wrote a creepy little piece and it's up at MicroHorror.com--"The Crayon Box"  I also have an older story there as well, "Only the Best." Feel free to check them out. I love the stories on that site. Creepy!


I have a long summer reading list, and since I have been feeling under the weather, I'll probably spend a quiet afternoon relaxing on my porch swing with my Kindle. :) But, there's some writing I want to work on this morning while things are still fresh in my mind.

Hope everyone has a lovely weekend.

Happy Reading

Why I Like KDP Select

When Amazon Kindle first announced KDP Select, I read articles and post for and against enrolling, but I chose to enroll my self-published works into the program. In all honesty, I like the program. Here's why:

First, readers can borrow a book- if they are Prime members of course. I like to offer this option to readers.
Second, borrowing still means I am paid for interest in my books. One month I actually made more money from borrowers than from buyers.
Third, I've tried Smashwords and I get a great deal of looks, but very low sales.
And lastly, I love the promotions, so I can offer the book for free and generate interest and reviews.
I plan to self-publish a couple more Kindle singles later this year, and I will enroll them in KDP Select.

The two titles I have available from Kindle now:

"Ally Ally Oxen Free" A horror/scary, young adult story about a boy with an unusual hobby.
 There are two review so far,

Author Jenny Twist had this to say:

What a delightful short story!. Tom is an ordinary, likeable boy who has an unusual interest. He is fascinated by bones. His hobby takes a macabre turn, when he undertakes an archaeological dig in a neighbour's yard.
Ms Allman's beautiful, spare prose and her tremendous gift for bringing her characters to life once again come together to produce a gripping tale. Another impressive performance. 

Another reader, S. Warfield offered this review:

"Ally ally oxen free" is a line that the children use when playing Hide and Seek in this story. It's a popular game with the neighborhool kids, and Tom, the main character, plays once in a while with his friends. Tom is more interested in bones, though. He likes to go on archeological digs and for the summer he has planned to dig on some back property of a man who owns a store. The man graciously allows him to go ahead and dig.

Tom and his friends are in for a surprise, especially in light of what the neighborhood has been talking about lately. Sometimes Tom finds animal bones and he studies them and reads about them. At other times, such as on this particular day, he finds something entirely different, and it serves to help solve a mystery and also helps to frighten Tom and his friends.

This is a short story that is well-written and can be enjoyed by older children as well as adults. It is also a bone-chilling story when you finish it.

You may buy the short story for $0.99 for Kindle or borrow it. If you do read, please leave a review and let me know what your thoughts. :)

The other title is Flashes of Fiction- It contains 5 very short stories and has two reviews on Amazon.

Volatalistic Phil wrote:

M. Allman, thank you for the opportunity allowing me to get familiar with some of your work--for free. I enjoyed reading your collection of five short stories. If I had to choose, my favorite story was "The Handbag" or "Shannon Elizabeth Riley." I found your collection to be wholesome and good fun. I wish you much success. 

Author Jenny Twist wrote: 

I first came across M. Allman in her first anthology, Tales from Imagination's Closet, and have been a fan ever since.
This latest collection is just as impressive - five tales ranging from dark science fiction to humour.
Metro Dome - a very disturbing distopian vision of a future where human life is confined to an environmentally-controlled dome, told through the eyes of an old man talking to his grandson.
Viral Smiles -a comedy in which the heroine attempts to spread a little happiness and only succeeds in annoying everyone she meets.
Shannon Elizabeth Riley - a heartbreaking tale of a lost little girl who finds her way home.
Operation Onion - Samuel Clemens has a very strange affliction. He emits different odours according to his mood, some of which are highly offensive. Can the poor man ever lead a normal life?
The Handbag - a delightful fairy tale with a twist.

If you are a lover of short stories, you cannot fail to appreciate Ms Allman's skill. She is a storyteller of the highest order, with a command of language far and away above average. The short story is the most difficult form to write and Ms Allman pulls it off over and over again. I particularly loved Shannon Elizabeth Riley.
Keep 'em coming, Molly.

Readers may also buy this one for $0.99 for Kindle or borrow it. If you do read, again I'd love to know your thoughts.

My next Kindle single schedule for release later this year is "Metamorphosis." This short story is bit different from my other work because it has a spiritual element to it. The story is about a young teen doing her best to deal with her mother's terminal illness, while struggling to understand how God can allow such things to happen. In the end, her grandmother offers the young girl a new outlook on life and death that helps her heal after her mother's passing. 

This will be self-published title, and I am still working on edits. I will have a definite release date soon, though. I hope you all check it out when it becomes available. 

Happy Reading! 

Another New Review

This review from author Tara Fox Hall has left me with mixed feelings. While she did give her honest opinion- which I think is great- I was a bit taken aback by the critique of a passage from one of my stories, "The Dark Mind". Am I wrong to think this a bit supercilious of another author?  ;-)

I'm not sure what to make of it, but I thank Ms. Hall for reading and taking time to write a review. You can find more information about Ms. Hall and her books on  by clicking here.

The Review:

Tara's Thoughts:

Usually for an anthology, I list the name and my thoughts. But with this amount of stories, I’ll just list the ones I liked best.

Finder’s Weepers was excellent! I loved the zing at the end. It was the perfect start to this kind of anthology, a story that kept you guessing, wondering what was going to happen, and when it ended, I wanted badly to read onto the next story right away.

Murder of the Future was very strange, but I enjoyed the story. It was of particular interest as my husband made AI a large part of his professional career.

Yesterday’s Children was unbelievable to me, but yet moving nonetheless.

I was also moved by Reflections of the Past.

If She Whispers had been shorter, I’d really think it would have been at home with any of the horror flash fiction websites on the Internet. A very interesting premise and I was sorry when the story ended, because I wanted to know what was going to happen next.

Laugh like a Baby was also too odd for me.

I liked the premise of the Roads not Travelled very much, and wish it would have been longer. Existence also was very entertaining!

In summation, I have to say I was hoping for more in this anthology. It never grabbed me, even though I liked the stories, and the ideas behind each one were very imaginative. Here is an example:

My feet pounded under me as I ran through the darkness. There was something in the black void behind me, chasing me. What it was I didn’t know, and part of me did not wish to find out. I was running through unfamiliar surroundings, in quintessence I

was running from the strange, into the mysterious.

Reading this, I am not scared at all. It seems like the words a child would use to recant a nightmare they had, except that the last sentence in the paragraph sounds more like a lit major’s try for creative writing in a college class. I feel distant from the action, even though I can clearly get a picture of what is happening. Some of that is the medium, in that it’s very hard to infuse a lot of emotion in a short story, and most of these stories are only a few pages long. But I was very wowed by the sheer imagination that this author has to think up such bizarre and entertaining stories. This is the most imaginative collection I have ever read.

 Happy Reading! 

New Review! :)

I have to say I am so excited about this review. I've been in a sort of  "bad place" lately, meaning not sure about my writing projects and whether I wanted to continue with fiction. I've been on a break from writing while I sort things out in my mind, but I've continued to journal and write down ideas and thoughts.

This review has brighten my day and made me feel that writing my stories are worth it as long as there are readers out there who enjoy what  my crazy imagination has conjured up.

So I thank ManicSribbler (aka Lyn Sofras) for this wonderful review. I am so pleased she enjoyed the book.

The breadth of this writer’s imagination dazzles me!  ‘Tales from Imagination’s Closet’ is a collection of around 30 short (some very short) stories of diverse genres which left me wondering what it must be like to live inside this writer’s imagination.  So many ideas and all so different!

If I had to pick out my favourites from this collection, they would be ‘Secrets Never Die’, about a gossipy aunt who returns from beyond the grave to do what she enjoyed doing in life; ‘Come Back Doug’ – a rather haunting story of being literally stranded in the desert of alcohol-dependency; ‘The Stalker’ a chilling tale about a stalker with an evil mission and ‘Yesterday’s Children’, which was all about being as old as you feel – literally.

There were many other fascinating stories which were so interesting and unusual that I wished they were longer: ‘Finder’s Weepers’ a very clever idea about your lies coming back to haunt you; ‘Inside His Mind’, about domestic engineering and great fun; Laugh Like a Baby – an unusual and interesting idea and ‘Grandma’s Scrapbook’ which I found absolutely delightful.

In short, there is something to suit all tastes in this collection.  I’ve always preferred longer novels to short stories myself, but I’m now converted.  It’s always useful to have a short story collection when you want a quick read to fill a short break or at bedtime.  I found myself dipping into ‘Tale’s from Imagination’s Closet’ in all sorts of situations and getting engrossed within seconds.  I could rarely only read one story at a time.

  I would certainly recommend it as a highly enjoyable short story collection and will watch this writer with interest in the future.

Happy Reading!

Beautiful Blogger Award

Fun + Driven = Beautiful!

I haven't had time to much blogging lately, but I have to take time to accept The Beautiful Blogger Award from the talented and  beautiful Jenny Twist. :) Thank you dear Jenny for the nomination, I am honored. http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4848320.Jenny_Twist/blog

So, this is what happens when you are nominated:

You write seven facts about yourself
You link to the blog of the person who nominated you
You link to seven bloggers whom you think deserve the award and let them know they have been nominated
Simple!

My 7 Facts:

1. I come from a large family and I am number 7 of eight children, and my parents just recently celebrated their 51st wedding anniversary.

2. I have a fear of the dentist, so I have never been in all my forty years, but I have great teeth. :)

3. I wrote my first story at age 7. It was about a super hero who got his super powers from eating chocolate chip cookies.

4. I grew up watching Looney Tunes with my father and I still enjoy watching them when I can.

5. I hate strawberries, and I find most people think this is weird.

6. I am a worrier and have many irrational fear. My daughter compares me to the character of  Aunt Josephine in Lemony Snickets A Series of Unfortunate Events.

7. I get along well with anyone that has a good sense of humor.

My seven nominees- Mysti Parker, Jennifer Steen, Eveli Acosta, Cassie McCown, Sharon E. Cathcart, Susan Stec and Anagha Uppal.


Happy Reading!

New Review

Just wanted to share this lovely review for Tales from Imagination's Closet by author Su Halfwerk.

Su wrote:
29 stories! Each unique, intriguing, and touching in its own way. I couldn't stop reading, the "just one more and then I'll sleep" promise was repeated several times a night.
My personal favorites are "Existence," "The Guardian," "My Friend, Clarence," and "The Roads Not Traveled."
The book is a mix of genres, sure to satisfy different tastes. I wish the book received stronger editing, despite that, M. Allman's imagination managed to shine through.
I'm sure the author's imagination isn't dry yet, I hope she's planning another collection of short and intriguing fiction.


You can find more information about Ms. Halfwerk and her book on her website. Click here


Happy Reading!

Guest blogging again today!

Every wondered what Tales from Imagination's Closet is about? If you're not quite sure, stop by Manic Readers and read my guest post about my very first anthology. Click here to visit and feel free to leave a comment if you like.

Also, check out Melange Books new YA imprint Fire and Ice. My short story "Alfred C. Bogeyman" is coming   this fall. Click here to check out the site and the books available now.

Happy Reading! 

Guest blogging and reviews

I am guest blogging today at Book & Trailer Showcase. Click here! Feel free to stop by, read and leave a comment if you like.

I am also guest blogging at Manic Readers on May 2nd talking about my first anthology of short stories, Tales from Imagination's Closet. 

Two new reviews of books in my children's series, The Hairingtons, from the wonderful  Mysti Parker, author of A Ranger's Tale and Serenya's Song.

Click to read her review of The Peanut Buttor Tweatment and Attack of the Dust Bunnies.

Happy Reading!

New Cover!

"Ally Ally Oxen Free" has a new look! I think this cover suits the story better than the old one.

In other news...Alfred C. Bogeyman is scheduled for publication through Melange-Books new young adult imprint--Fire and Ice-- in Sept/Oct. I will have more information as the date approaches. I do not have a cover, yet, but I will share it with everyone as soon as I do. As I understand it, Fire and Ice will launch in May, so I will provide a link at that time as well. The book will only be availabe in ebook format. I will keep you posted on the details.

Also, Stories to Wrap Your Mind Around, my new anthology of short stories is also an upcoming release from Melange-Books. It is scheduled for publication this fall. I will have more information on this later as well.





Happy Reading!

I don't write erotic fiction because...

Once people find out I write stories, one of the first questions many ask is, “Do you write those erotic sex novels?” (their words, not mine.)

I respond with a polite, “No, I write science fiction and fantasy…stuff like that."

Then people who think they know all about the business of writing  tell me that you there is a larger market for erotic novels.

Maybe there is, I can’t argue, because I don't have the statistics on that. But, that doesn’t make me want to change my interests and start writing in a genre that I don’t feel comfortable writing.

So, I think anyone who knows me well can vouch for me on this one. I get embarrassed easily, and if I were to write erotic scenes, I would walk around in a constant state of embarrassment with rosy red cheeks just thinking about someone reading it. I’m not the erotic kind of gal.

Why is that? Well, I think it takes a serious, mature person to write erotic scenes and feel comfortable doing so. I may be 40, but I am still a bit immature. A kid at heart, I’d say. (to make it sound better) Now, if it was a goofing around,  humorous sort of writing, that no one would take seriously, then I could probably whip up something, and I have.

I did write a story for a little contest on Writing.com back in December of 2006. It had to be all dialogue and not over 500 words, because the contest was The Dialogue 500, of course.  I wrote a story, “The Santa Seduction,” about a woman who, unsuccessfully, attempts to seduce the old jolly one himself.  

It did win, by the way.  I have pasted it below for those who would like to read it. I warn you, it is full of sexual innuendos, but at the same time, it is meant to be all in fun.

I hope you enjoy, as this is as close to erotic as my writing will ever be. Think of me blushing as you read it. J

The Santa Seduction

"Ouch! Why do people insist on having a fire on Christmas Eve? Everyone knows I have to come down-"

"Santa, I've been waiting up for you."

"Now, Santa can't leave any presents until all good girls are in bed."

"But Santa, I've been a bad girl, and I got something for you."

"Ho! Ho! Whoa!  Um…"

"A very special Christmas gift for you...big...round… and jolly."

"Maybe you should put that back on. Your nipples, er... I mean, It's quite chilly in here."

"Oh no Santa, I'm hot. Maybe you'd like to take off your coat?"

"No need to unbutton my coat. I'm fine."

"Your beard is so soft, like cotton. I bet it tickles."

"I really need to go. It's a really busy night, you know...all the kids-"

"Why Santa, is that a peppermint stick in your pocket, or are you just happy to see me?"

"It's candy. Would you like some? Ho ho, that tickles, I can get it out of my pocket, no need to help."

"Mmmm! So sweet."

"You really like sucking on those, huh? I don't think you should stick it so far…into your... mouth...like...that."

"Don't worry, I like to get a big juicy mouthful. Got anything else sweet in those pants?"

"I have a few chocolate balls. No maybe I already gave....Um… those aren't chocolate, my dear."

"All I'm asking for is one night of bouncing against that belly and finding out if it really is like a bowl full of jelly."

"You are a naughty one, aren't you?"

"Come on over her and slide down my chimney, Santa."

"Whew!  It is getting a tad warm in here, but…I…I can't. I'm a married man."

"What's a girl gotta do to turn you on? There's no way Mrs. Claus looks like this."

"I'll admit her bazooms aren't firm, round and perky, and she isn't as nicely groomed in the South Pole region, but she is a wildcat."

"Old Mrs.Claus?"

"Yeah, She's a nymphomaniac. I'm at her mercy 364 days a year.  Christmas is the only night my package gets a rest.  So, put your pretty little robe back on, and let me see what I can find in my bag for you.  Oh yes, a little toy to get you through the night."

"Thanks, Santa."

"Ho! Ho! Ho! Merry Christmas to all, and to all the good night!"

"Wait Santa! I don't have any batteries!"

Happy Reading!

My Review of Spellbound

  An anthology of Halloween tales - detailed story information at http://www.melange-books.com/

 

Spellbound is a wonderful collection of spine chilling stories. None of these are your typical ghost stories; they all have a new take on some old favorites, like werewolves, ghosts and scary haunted houses.

I loved every story in the collection, but as with any anthology of short stories, there are always those that resonate most with the reader.

“Room 1309.5” by John M. Mecom is a story of ultimate revenge with an ending that will left with me chills.

“Uncle Vernon” by Jenny Twist is an eerie tale with an unexpected ending.

“Half Seen, Half Hidden” by John Steiner is a new take on an old favorite with a gruesome and spine chilling ending.

“Ghost Taxi” by Joana Foreman is a different kind of ghost story and one that is not so much scary as sweet. The ending left me with a warm heart and smile.

“The Origin of Fear” by Tara Fox Hall starts out simple enough—a few college students going out to do some research, but things take a chilling twist once they arrive at their destination.

This is great collection and all the authors are to be commended for their brilliant imaginations and excellent writing.

 

Currently I'm reading Die Laughing by Louis K Lowy. The books combines two of my favorite things--comedy and science fiction. :)

Ch-Ch-Changes!

I have finished Alfred C. Bogeyman, but instead of self-publishing the story. It will be available from Melange-Books in Ebook format at a later date as part of the publisher's new YA line coming soon. :)

 I also have other publications in the works, but I'll have to post more once I have get it all worked out and know all the details for sure.

Stay tuned...

Happy Reading!

New Review and Some News...

First, I've made the decision to close Fictitious Magazine. I am busy with many other projects and work, and I am planning to do more book reviews. I love to read and want to make time to do so. :)

The newest review of Tales from Imagination's Closet is availabe on Amazon. Click here to read.
Thank you B. Carrigan. I'm happy you enjoyed the stories.










If anyone has a book that they would like reviewed contact me .

Happy Reading!

Wow! This is better :)

I got a new review of Attack of the Dust Bunnies. This one lifts my spirits,especially the part about the kids looking for dust bunnies because the book stirred their imaginations. :)
Click here to read the new review.

I'm still working on Alfred C. Bogeyman, so look for it on Kindle next month.  :)

Happy Reading!

Take the good with the bad, I guess...

I've got some new reviews this week on Goodreads. This is the where I have to keep in mind that not everyone will like what I write and I can't please everyone, so I can continue to write without negativity hanging over me. If I let this negativity get to me, I'll be over critical of everything I write and never get anything done. But, there is some good with the bad.

First the bad. I got a one star review for Attack of the Dust Bunnies. Click here to read.  It difficult to hear that the kids didin't even care for the book. 

But...there is a new 5 star review of Tales from Imagination's Closet. .Click here to read.

Happy Reading!

New Cover!

Just a quick post to to show everyone the new cover for the third book in the Hairington's series, I'm Not A Tangle.  It is scheduled for release summer 2012.

The Goodreads giveaway for Attack of the Dust Bunnies continues through January 30th, so there is still time to enter.











Happy Reading!

Some good changes:)

I'm excited! Createspace has made some changes that has allowed me to lower the price of The Peanut Buttor Tweatment and Attack of the Dust Bunnies to $8.99 for print. You can get them on Amazon. Click here for my author's page and a list of my books available on Amazon.com. 

Look for the third book in series this summer, I'm Not A Tangle.  Readers and Bub will learn the answer to where Hairington's come from.  :)

Solitude is still free for one more day! So, if you haven't gotten it, there's still time.

Happy Reading!

"Solitude" free on Kindle for a limited time

I am again taking advantage of the free promotion days on Kindle and offering my short story "Solitude" free from now until January 19th. I hope everyone enjoys it. I have also enrolled each of my  self-published Ebooks in th lending program, so any "prime" members can borrow the titles I have available on Kindle as well.

Click here to read!

If you like the Kindle short stories, remember you can buy an entire anthology of my short stories. Tales from Imagination's Closet has 29 short stories and it is available in  both print and in Ebook on Kindle.

Click to buy at Melange-Books or Amazon







Thanks to all who have bought, read and reviewed my books!

Happy Reading!