KSCollier/Author

2016-09-17T23:03:00.002-05:00

2016-09-17T23:03:00.001-05:00

THE INSECURE WRITER'S SUPPORT GROUP

On the first Wednesday of every month, there is a group that posts an honest post in reference to their writing; weaknesses, strengths, what you've learned along your own personal journey of writing. It is called Insecure Writer's Support Group. It's been around for some time, but I'm just discovering it. I'm excited, as I have belonged to the A to Z Challenge for many years. I've been out of the loop with schooling, moving, tending to grandchildren, and helping grown children move and get their lives in order. Thus, writing has taken a backdoor for me until recently. I'm back, I'm happy, I'm excited, and ready to get to work.

This is not the first Wednesday of the month, however, because I have just discovered this particular site of Alex J. Cavanaugh, I cannot wait. So I will randomly post for the month of September. We'll just pretend it is a week and half ago. This is the link, Insecure Writer's Support Group and it has a lot to offer new writers, old writers, and somewhere in the middle of both old and new writers.

Whatever you need to discuss, there should be someone who can help. After all, we are there to support and help one another climb the ladder to success.

Can't wait to be a part of this group. Awesome idea, Alex, just awesome!

2015-09-01T18:08:00.001-05:00

Love Matters
is finally available in paperback or eBooks.

All profits go to this wonderful foundation. Please purchase yours today. Give these children a chance.

Love Matters

Find it at Amazon

Island of Fear by Kathy Collier.

LOVE MATTERS

2015-08-10T21:12:00.002-05:00

This is the third of the Crimson Cloak Anthologies, LOVE MATTERS a collection of short works by various authors on a theme of LOVE in all its forms. All profits from this volume go to the International Children's Heart Foundation.

Please support this worthy cause. The hard copies will be available through Amazon and Create Space in a few more days.

Thanks for your support.

My short story "Island of Fear" is about a couple who struggles to survive a natural disaster on a an island in Florida.

Island of Fear

2015-07-25T15:29:00.001-05:00

Coming soon!

The anthology Love Matters through Crimson Cloak Publishing should be available by the end of July, 2015.

My personal author page is K S Collier. The title of my short story in the Love Matters anthology is Island of Fear by K. S. Collier.

Island of Fear is about a couple's love and endurance to survive an earthquake and ensuing tsunami on an island in Florida.

AND THE PLOT THICKENS

2014-11-05T01:38:00.001-06:00

First comes the idea.

Then the idea grows into a concept, then comes plot.

The plot begins to form and thicken into a full blown short story or novel.

What the heck is a plot and how do you know what the plot is before you even begin writing?

I have tossed around these very questions over and over again. I've read a myriad of books like The Plot Whisperer by Martha Alderson (an awesome book), 20 Master Plots by Ronald B. Tobias (very informative) and several others.

Grasping a plot is essential to writing a complete short story and/or novel. The main character must go through a change, internal or external. He/she must have conflict and resolve that conflict by the end of the story/novel with the character learning something, gaining something, or even dying.

All plots need good, strong emotional characters; a beginning, middle and end; dramatic action; scenes; and thematic purpose where the main character experiences some emotional breakthrough or understanding. He/or she must undergo this change to resolve the story.

In order to understand how to write a good plot you must read The Plot Whisperer by Martha Alderson. For short stories check out Donna Ippolito's blog www.expert-editor.com and click on Characters and Plot—a very informative article.

You stir and mix and simmer until the plot thickens and Voila you have a finished short story/novel you can be proud to have written.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Writing...What Does It Mean To You?

2014-07-07T18:35:00.002-05:00

I've been studying the business of writing for seven years now. The only thing I have not experienced is the writer's convention. I know they are awesome, and I look forward to making one this year. I've even studied what to expect when I do attend one, and how to get the most out of it while I'm there.

I self-published my first novel because of the age of my father and wanting him to hold a book in his hand. He was so proud. However, I wanted more. It wasn't satisfying to me to just self-publish. I've let the book sit there as it needed more editing.

Since then, I'm not only editing it, but having it critiqued and edited. Then, I'll finish polishing and start sending cover letters or querying the sale of my novel.

I now work as an editor and have come a long, long way since the day I decided I wanted to write and write seriously. I'm here to stay and will work until I die on all the aspects of this challenging business. I've always been told if you have to work, work doing something you enjoy the most. I enjoy editing, writing, and reading.

I've also taken a course on writing short stories for magazines. This has been a very informative course, and has given me the self-confidence I have needed to press forward. "If you think you can, then you can," is a motto I was raised with. Positive affirmation comes to you when you have done all you can to receive the outcome you are seeking.

I'm still not professionally published, but someday I will because I won't give up. As soon as I attend my first convention, I will be ready to proceed with my interviews and chance to query.

Some people become overnight successes while others take years to achieve the same goal, but the secret is setting the goal and never deviating from it. If writing is what you really want to do, then don't let anyone or anything stop you until you succeed.

Success comes to those who are willing to do all it takes, learn all it takes, and never stop until you reach your set goal. Are you willing to go the distance?

What's Your Story

2014-03-16T15:12:00.001-05:00

Anyone can put words on a computer or paper. Anyone can write. But, not just anyone can get what they've written published. Why?

There are so many people out there trying their hand at writing. We all want to publish a book?

Ask yourself. Are you willing to go the distance it takes to learn the art of writing? To polish and rewrite and accept rejection? Are you willing to throw it away and start over, if it wasn't an acceptable story? Are you willing to keep your day job, and keep trying?

Do you want to write no matter the costs? And it is expensive.

How far are you willing to go?

I would like to hear some stories from many of you, whether you are published, trying to get published, self-published, or just beginning.

I know there are a lot of writers/authors out there. So, please let me know what you've done that works, and maybe a little of what doesn't work. We all have a story. What's yours?

February/March Memories!

2014-03-02T20:22:00.004-06:00

Really? February has come and gone. March 1st passed before I realized it was March 2nd. Now that is busy.

It is a miracle I survived the month. One of my daughters moved back to this area, and I'm thrilled. I had to travel to Houston and help her pack. Two 26-foot trucks with trailers pulling vehicles behind them later, and we arrived in one piece. What an ordeal to move six grandchildren, ages 2 to 20. I'm exhausted, but so excited to have them so near.

The very week we returned, my 90-year-old father and his wife, along with my siblings and their spouses came for a reunion. Sad story, short, my father is in later stages of Melanoma and this may be our last reunion. It was our first in what seems like forever. I didn't want to see the week end.

I love my father so much, and the tight hug he gave me at the airport will remain with me for a very long time, my lifetime. We exchanged "I love you," and he said he loved me more and it became a debate as to who loved who more. I felt 5 again, then 10, then 18 and going out the door. I felt 25, 30, 40, 50, 60. All the years he has loved me flooded through me like a rush of wind blowing through your hair. Life IS just like a rush of wind. My last view of him was sitting in a wheelchair waiting to be rolled through security, his slumped shoulders from age and hard work, and his beautiful silvery white hair shining from the bright lights in the airport. I remember his blue eyes as he looked at me for the last time. These memories are mine forever, and I will miss him dearly when he succumbs to the fight.

I remember him young, vibrant, and full of spirit. His laughter so contagious that you thought you'd die if he kept it up. I love so many more things about him, including the sacrifices he made for his family. I love him and am proud to say that I am the luckiest daughter to have had such a wonderful dad.

We come. We live. We die.

My father loved our mother, loved us, and he taught and instilled within us great values. He made mistakes like all people, but he still loved us all. He was a magnificent dad. He worked hard for all the years I can remember, and had many friends.

Guess you could say he did his best.

Time is not our enemy, it's our best friend. May we all use what we have and spend it like the precious gift that it is. It won't be long and I'll be 90. It's a puff of wind away.

Write on.

This is my beautiful Dad.

January Blah, Blah, Blah

2014-01-16T17:42:00.002-06:00

Man, did I stay away. The end of 2013 was an extremely busy time for me.

Learning to manage time is crucial when you have such a busy lifestyle. Each day I pack so many activities into my life from exercising, to reading scriptures daily, cooking, cleaning, animals, husband when he's home, and the list goes on. I have children that live all over the country and have to spend some phone time talking with them.

On a monthly basis I teach a class on the 4th Sunday which requires advance prep time, and I visit teach 3 different sisters, and help my husband now with his home teaching.

After a leave of absence, I will be finishing my class on writing which requires homework.

Amidst all that craziness, which I am sure matches most of your lives, I write, and had been maintaining a blog, website, facebook, twitter, goodreads and other fun activities.

Prioritizing is important, as well as learning how to get the most out of your day without wasting time. How much time to spend on any one thing is important. Time is not something that can be recalled and I believe we need to spend it wisely.

So, my New Years resolution is to manage my time more wisely, and Write, Write, Write!

Whether it is a journal or a novel or short story, I want to write. I love to write, and I love learning all there is about writing. I feel I can't absorb enough information on this subject. Writing, editing, critiquing, submitting, and publishing, all involves knowledge and lots of hard work.

I've rolled back my sleeves and I'm moving forward. This is a New Year and the chance for new ideas and the resolve to make it happen.

Happy New Year my fellow writers and friends. May you all exceed your expectations this year.

Kathy S. Collier-Mehl

2013-11-25T16:11:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving! May you have a joyful holiday.

I'm thankful for my family, friends, health, and home; that all our needs are met, and I'm grateful for this beautiful country I live in. Also, for all the blessings that have come my way this past year, especially during such trying and stressful times.

May you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.

Write on!

Kathy S. Collier-Mehl

Another Veterans Day in America

2013-11-11T23:46:00.003-06:00

Samantha and her mom walked into the Taco Bell on this bright sunny Veterans Day. After ordering their food, they waited quietly for a few minutes and glanced around the full room with rarely an empty seat available. Men, women, and children of all ages filled the seats. Neither Samantha nor her mom said much.

"Mary, number 120," the employee shouted above the noise. Samantha returned with their Gordita cheese boxes, but before they ate Mary reached into her purse and pulled out a thick crisp stack of twenty dollar bills. Attached to the bills were yellow ribbons and tiny American flags. Secured to the yellow ribbons were small white thank you notes.

Mary stood on top of the bench, "Excuse me." Her voice quavered. She said a little louder this time, "Excuse me." She had their attention and there would be no turning back. Her heart pounded. She had never done anything like this before.

"Would you raise your hands if you are a veteran or actively serving in the military."

People exchanged glances. Fort Walton Beach consisted of service men from all the branches of service; officers and enlisted personnel. Several young men and a few women held their hands high. Samantha approached a table with four young men.

"Woe," one man said as she stopped at their table. Their smiles broadened because her beauty astounded them.

She had long, thick, chestnut hair that draped across her shoulders and rested at her thin waistline. Her brown eyes surrounded by thick black lashes were clouded over with moisture. Her hand shook as she shared a timid smile and handed each man a bill.

They exchanged confused expressions, but accepted the gift she placed in each of their hands.

"Thank you." Their smiles faded when they noticed one tear steal over the rim and slide down her cheek.

"No. Thank you," she said humbly, "thank you for serving our country and protecting us."

The stunned young men sat staring at the bills in their hands. Silence lingered where loud chatter had once filled the room.

Samantha walked to another table where two women sat and handed them the money. "This is in appreciation of your service, and we wanted to pay for your lunches today."

They nodded.

She went from table to table and distributed the gifts to each military person. Samantha noticed a little boy with his hand held high as he sat with an elderly man and his parents. "This is my great grandfather," the shiny black haired boy said with pride. "He served in World War II."

She placed a bill in his hand and the elderly man looked up. Another tear escaped over the brim of her thick lashes. "Thank you, sir, for your service to our nation."

The man nodded as his eyes delved deep into hers. She saw volumes of pain and knew he had a story to tell, but she wouldn't have the time to listen. She wanted to remain but moved on to another table.

When she finished Samantha returned to her seat, and everyone applauded the servicemen.

Things slowly went back to a low roar of conversations when Mary noticed an older man in a wheelchair nestled in the far corner of the room. His salt and pepper gray hair hung to his shoulders. No one had paid attention to him eating with a middle-aged woman. They hadn't responded when asked who were servicemen or veterans. A feeling she couldn't shake crept across the back of her neck.

She stood.

"Where are you going, mom?" Samatha asked with a mouthful of burrito. Her eyes followed the direction that Mary stared.

She didn't answer but slowly found her way to the table. She had the feeling the day before that she needed to write a special note and affix it to a hundred dollar bill. The man in the wheelchair had not seen her approach. She slipped her hand into his and placed the bill inside.

He looked up in surprise.

"Thank you," she said. She knew she had made the right choice. The man had all the appearance of a lost and forgotten soldier from the Vietnam era.

"How did you know?" he asked.

"Just a gut feeling. I wanted you to know how much I appreciate your service to our country. My husband served in Vietnam."

The man's eyes drifted down to his shriveled legs, vacant from the knees down. He looked back up, his clear blue eyes glazed with moisture. "Landmine," he muttered.

"I figured as much," she whispered. She patted his shoulder. Not able to remain there much longer without breaking down, she just said, "Thank you," then turned and went back to her table.

Her stomach too knotted to enjoy her meal, she fixed it to go and silently waited for Samantha to finish. She looked like her daughter, only a little heavier and with lighter hair. Though old enough to be her grandmother, the resemblance still showed.

Mary thought, How many stories would go untold by the men and women who served during these wars? How many would never know how much suffering and pain they endured because they never returned to tell their stories? Or maybe the pain was too much to share, but they could never forget? How many? Thousands. Millions. Would the children today appreciate the sacrifices they made on our behalf? It is our duty as 'We The People' to see that the veterans are never forgotten. How much a simple appreciative 'thank you' can mean to our not forgotten soldiers.

They quietly slipped out unnoticed and drove home in silence.

Another Veterans Day passed, and the thought of her husband, Alex, of forty years marriage would be honored by those simple little thank you notes and crisp twenty dollar bills; a small deed for a great sacrifice. He worked away from home, so they weren't able to honor him in person. Instead they shared their appreciation another way.

Happy Veterans Day.

Back To Writing

2013-08-01T12:38:00.002-05:00

After several months of craziness, I'm finally home. First it was the packing, then the move, afterwards, out of town for two and a half weeks. I'm finally home, but feeling jet lag and mentally just can't seem to pull myself together. I feel so disoriented and tired.

Guess I just need a few days of doing nothing. Maybe I'll read today. Lots to catch up on. Then I'll move on to writing and back to school. My second novel is on the front burner and I'm going to finish it. Then, it's onto a myriad of other writing projects.

In two weeks, I've got a book signing for local authors at our library. I'm looking forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones.

Have a wonderful week everyone. Write, write, write.

It's raining here today. Guess that adds to the melancholy. But, great for reading and just kicking back, right?

New Granddaughter

2013-07-24T12:37:00.001-05:00

We finally were able to visit our beautiful granddaughter this week. Of course, we are proud to welcome her to our family.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

This picture was on Sunday celebrating her Blessing Day.

This is the blankie her grandpa Bob wanted her to have.

Proud Grannie

We're enjoying our visit with the sweetest angel, and she is absolutely the best baby. She only cries when she is hungry or wet. She smiles all the time.

I love all of my grandchildren. What a blessing to be a grandparent and know you play a part in the grand scheme of future families for generations to come.

Finally Moved

2013-06-29T12:11:00.001-05:00

Wahoo! We did it! Closing happened, and we finally moved! We've been unpacking, unpacking, unpacking, and I'm so happy to see everything coming to fruition. I will be happy to hang my pictures, unpack the bookshelves, then three more kitchen boxes. Afterwards it's onto the garage which has to be moved from storage and settled.

Then, then, I can start writing as soon as I return from visiting our newest grandbaby in Utah. I'm so excited.

Life is settling down. Hopefully, it will stay calm for awhile, because I need space to breathe and get back into my story.

Life sure can throw you a curve when you least expect it.

Write on, my friends. I will join you soon. Wahoo!

Survival of The Moving Writer

2013-06-09T14:59:00.002-05:00

Okay. So the moving thing hasn't happened yet. I'm in limbo. The closing was changed to this Friday and everything is now in boxes downstairs in one room. I'm too organized for my own self. I'm finishing the last of the cleaning; baseboards, ceiling fans, and scrubbing any spots on carpet to ready for the carpet cleaners. I've steam cleaned bathrooms, kitchens, floors, carpets, and touched up walls with paint. There is nothing left to do but wait.

Our walk through on the new home was put off again, and frustration is setting in. If closing doesn't happen this Friday, we have no place to go. If I have to move everything into a storage unit and then have to move again, I'll scream, and scream, and scream some more.

My nerves are frayed and tickling my scalp. My hair is falling out, and my body hasn't found a spot that doesn't hurt. My husband, of course, bless his little pea-picking heart, is out on the boats and doing his thing, while I suffer, work, and slave myself to the bone (even my bones hurt).

I need a break here. So, I've decided to write to give me that Calgon moment and take me away into another world moment. My world. The world I love to escape into when my brain can't handle another second of stress. Yay! I can move my fingers to the beat of my thoughts. The sound of the keys tapping is music to my ears.

I feel my heart rate slow and my muscles relax as I tap, tap, tap away. The words flow like a waterfall over the edge of a mountainside. The sounds are soothing to my mind. I'm here in my world, and now ready to work on completing my second novel. To heck with moving. It can wait. I have better things to do. Aloha!

Moving

2013-05-15T19:39:00.004-05:00

Will be moving into our own home within the next thirty days. I'm sad to be leaving the island, but will feel much safer during hurricane season. The views will not be as pretty, but we'll only be two minutes from the beach. That is the good news.

Writing will be on the back burner until I get moved and settled, except for my homework, which I am late on that right now, but I'm not the immortal my body wishes it was. Sad to say, I do have to sleep sometimes.

It awes me how much I have accomplished with the packing the past week. Of course, my sweet husband has been a great help.

My entire office has been packed, all the pictures wrapped, all the nick knacks have been packed, and tomorrow it will be my closet and nightstand, and another closet. Afterwards, all I have left is the kitchen. This is killing me. We have moved three times and this will make the fourth in four years. This is the last and final. Thank goodness.

No blogging from me for the next month, maybe two. Have a wonderful summer, and I'll be back when I can.

Spring is in The Air

2013-05-05T17:58:00.000-05:00

Normally I don't post on Sunday, but I wanted to remove the Zombie Apocalypse from my post. I enjoyed the A to Z Campaign and glad I endured to the end. I was so busy last week, posting would have been impossible. We're in the process of buying a home, and moving for one last time, and all the paperwork involved kept me busy last week.

Writing is in the air. I feel the breeze of the words spinning around me like the fresh air that I breathe.

Enjoy the Spring season because Summer is almost upon us. I believe this cool Spring that Florida has just experienced is only a tease for the scorching hot Summer that is coming.

So pull out that UV protection and plan on lots of time cooling down in the water, or the wonderful air conditioning.

Up North is when everyone comes out to enjoy the warm air. Down South is when we go inside to enjoy the cool air.

Happy Writing Everyone!

Z is for Zombies

2013-04-30T16:29:00.001-05:00

In this article I won't bore you with all the Zombie fiction you've seen over the years like NIght of the Living Dead, or fiction novels. Yeah Right!

Often my daughter teases about the "Zombie Apocalypse." But, how close she really is to the truth of what lies ahead should our country come to a halt because of our leadership, stock market crashes, or natural disasters--all causing food shortages. We could easily find ourselves in the middle of a "Zombie Apocalypse."

It could begin with hunger lines, and then people breaking into your home in broad daylight...not to steal your television or valuables but to take your weapons and food. Then when the food runs out, they will get hungry enough to eat you. They could gather together in gangs or groups to strengthen their power to overtake you without much of a fight. Dead or alive, either way, you become their meal.

Before you know it, we are in a full blown "Zombie Apocalypse." The thought is horrifying, but possible.

I have to tell you I normally don't like Zombie movies or books, but I've read a recent Zombie series that I really enjoyed, the Hollowland Series by Amanda Hocking.

I also enjoyed the recent movie, Warm Bodies. It was grossly cute. (how about that oxymoron?)

Check Wikipedia out to read about Zombies from Haiti. They discuss animals.

Well whatever Zombie you envision, Zombie has many meanings. One is the bringing back of a dead body by using voodoo. Whatever the meaning it usually involves the undead or the devouring of human flesh.

If you like Zombie anything, then you would probably enjoy The Walking Dead series on AMC.

Whatever you choose, Zombies are pretty disgusting. Enjoy!

So 'Z' brings to end another year for the A to Z Challenge. I had fun and loved meeting new people. Have a great year.

Y is for Yay!

2013-04-29T23:41:00.001-05:00

YAY!

Can you believe it 'Y' has finally come. I'm so excited because the day has arrived. Tomorrow is the end of the Y to Z Challenge. It's sort of a melancholy moment.

Yet, the time has come for all good things to end. So until next year, may we find plenty to write until we meet again.

Happy A to Z Challenge. See you tomorrow. YAY!

X is Xyst or Xystus

2013-04-27T12:45:00.002-05:00

Xystus

Xyst is the alternative spelling for Xystus meaning portico, a architectural greek term for the covering of a gymnasium where sporting events took place, generally supported by many columns.

Today, you will see many copies of these great structures throughout time all over the world.

Like Klenze's Proplaen (Gateway) in Munich 1854-1862

Or

Thomas Hamilton's design for the Royal High School in Edinburgh. Built in 1831

Then there's

Leo von Klenze's Wahalla built in
Regensburg, Bavaria, 1842.

I think this is a beautiful building in the District of Columbia:

The Lincoln National Monument. The architecture was designed by Harry Bacon. The Greek building is in the form a Duric Temple, but still notice the Xystus surrounding the building supported by the huge columns. Construction began February 12, 1914 and was completed and dedicated May 30, 1922.

This style of Greek architecture will continue to grace the world with its beautiful structures for centuries to come.

W is for Waterspout

2013-04-26T17:31:00.005-05:00

A waterspout is a tornado that travels over water.

As a girl scout of 10 years old, I rode my bicycle about five miles from my home to cook my foiled meal over a campfire in order to earn a badge. The location was a levee on Lake Pontchartrain. Once there, I walked another mile along the levee until I came to the perfect spot to build my campfire.

I finished my meal and then suddenly the weather changed, the sky darkened, and the breeze increased. I put out the fire and made all my preparations to leave. By the time I arrived to the road to head home, twin waterspouts formed over the lake approximately half a mile out. The fascination of watching them spin kept me from rushing home.

I stood there and watched them touch, then break apart again as they danced across the water. They began to inch closer and closer before I realized the danger and decided I had better run for my life. By the time I had ridden about a block, I glanced back to see them suck back into the sky as though a great vacuum cleaner had pulled them into the clouds.

That was the first time I had witnessed a waterspout.

V is for Villains

2013-04-25T13:33:00.001-05:00

Every good story needs a villain.

In life there is an opposite, like good versus evil; light versus dark; human versus superhuman; man versus woman; dog versus cat; mortal versus immortal, and the list goes on. Without that opposition you have no story.

Batman is loaded with villains.

Lord of The Rings is story full of villains around every corner.

Harry Potter had more than one villain

Star Wars was another series packed with villains.

Then there was Captain Marvel

How about Superman?

I didn't show all the villains but just gave examples for memory recall. Villains can sometimes be the hardest to write about because of their sinister minds. As in real life, good always versus evil, and light overcomes darkness, but you must write about it.

Who is/are the villain(s) in your story? I would love to hear about them.

In my story, The Veil, Maurice Cavalier is the villain/antagonist. He is wealthy, alone, and desires to live forever to enjoy his good fortune. He will go to any lengths to find the fountain of youth, even murder.

U is for Umbrella

2013-04-23T23:09:00.000-05:00

Umbrellas host a myriad of uses, and come in all shapes, colors and sizes.

The golf umbrella ranges from 42 to 108 inches and is used against rain, wind, and the hot sun. It is generally a large umbrella and often seen in multi colors.

Then there are funeral umbrellas often used in New Orleans,

Or the Mardi Gras umbrellas

How about your patio umbrella?

Maybe the Chinese umbrella suits your taste. How beautifully delicate.



Of course there is always the cocktail umbrella.
Mm, Yummy!

Beach umbrellas are so inviting. In Florida the reflection from the white snowy sand will burn you even under the shade of the beach umbrella.



Umbrellas in Europe are typically depicted in movies as your black umbrella with a curved brown handle.

                                                                        I love this umbrella

Whatever the use, umbrellas always come in handy.

Baby ShowerBridal Shower

Okay, now you have the umbrella stroller

                                         or an umbrella that attaches



Well, I think I'm umbrella'd out! May you always find shelter from the elements under the safety of your umbrella. If not maybe you need to find umbrella insurance...

  Have a wonderful day!

T is for Twins

2013-04-23T10:52:00.001-05:00

Tommie and Will

Tommie and Will are fraternal twins in The Veil. Tommie is younger by ten minutes and her brother, Will, reminds her incessantly throughout their eighteen years that he is the older brother by calling her "baby sis, or little sis."

In this novel, the bond between the two is accentuated by telepathy. They only have the ability to hear each other--a secret they've maintained since their youth; not even their parents or siblings are aware.

I used telepathy to show the closeness or bond that twins share. Twins have always fascinated me, so I enjoyed creating these two characters.