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“If music be the food of love, play on!” Whe

“If music be the food of love, play on!”

When I was seventeen, I saved up to buy my first instrument. What I really wanted was a conga drum, but couldn’t afford one. Instead, I bought a set of bongos, because I didn’t think I’d ever earn enough to buy a conga.

I played the tiny drums without technique or rhythm. I’d beat the hide of the twin cylinders anywhere I could without getting complaints. Most of the time it was in my car, or outside behind the house. That cherry-red mohawk teen wearing combat boots and second hand clothes swore her heart that one day, “when I’m published, I’ll buy myself a conga.” Silly dream, strange goal, but this past year, both came true.

I’m not giving up on playing my cello, Lysander, but this drum (I’m naming Orlando, from Shakespeare’s As You Like It) could quickly become my new obsession. There is something powerful, yet ominous about the sound of the drums as they underscore a song, bringing steady authority. I don’t have a clue how to properly form the beats, but it’s fun to try.

What about you? Do you set goals and then give yourself special rewards when you meet them?

🍁 MORTAL SIGHT paperback out now! When Worlds

🍁 MORTAL SIGHT paperback out now!

When Worlds Collide, Shadow Wrestles Light 🍁

Seventeen-year-old Cera Marlowe wants a normal life; one where she and her mom can stop skipping town every time a disturbing vision strikes. But when a girl she knows is murdered by a monster she can't explain, Cera's world turns upside down.

Suddenly thrown into an ancient supernatural battle, Cera discovers she's not alone in her gifting and vows to use her visions to save lives. But why does John Milton's poem Paradise Lost keep interrupting her thoughts?

In a race against time and a war against unearthly creatures, will decoding messages embedded in the works of classic literature be enough to stop the bloodshed and protect the boy she loves?

Shop soft-cover edition or kindle / e-book at Amazon.com, Barnesandnoble.com, and other major book retailers.

🍁 Guess what paperback releases next week???

🍁 Guess what paperback releases next week???

And it’s gorgeous! The cover is soft touch and looks incredible. What does that mean for the limited edition first runs in hard cover? Once they’re sold out, they’ll no longer be available. But I have to say I love this paperback. Super excited to release it next week! 🙌🏼

A few favorites ... April skies. Sunrise. A re

A few favorites ...

April skies.
Sunrise.
A restless ocean.
Chocolate covered pretzels.
Libraries.
And this room.

It’s where most of my writing happens. The shelves are filled with old books, college textbooks, travel guides from pre-google days), history books, non-fiction, and a lot of fiction with worlds I love to visit, explore and dream about.

Stories are powerful. Libraries are the doorway into these spaces. There is something magical about walking into the hushed quiet and being surrounded by the silence of a thousand voices waiting to be heard.

“...each time a child opens a book, he pushes open the gate that separates him from Elsewhere. It gives him choices. It gives him freedom. Those are magnificent, wonderfully unsafe things.” - Lois Lowery on The Giver

Stories give us the adventure we crave in the changing pace of our world. And some of you know I love a good adventure. 😏

So I’m daring to walk through the doors of this year with bold hope for new adventures, and big dreams. Perhaps even a chance to sign books and see faces in person for the Realms of Light release in April. At least I hope. 🙏🏼

What are some of your favorite things?

🍁 Around the corner... I love this part of my

🍁 Around the corner...
I love this part of my trail where the path winds, curving around an unseen bend and the unexpected waits. Sometimes it might be animals scampering into the woods or slithering across the concrete, sometimes joggers or bike riders, and sometimes there is nothing but the gentle breeze.

Even though the path always leads to the same place, I find the journey is never the same. It’s easy to take it for granted so I try to search for the beauty in the mundane, expected, and known.

This year has been far from expected and mundane. But I believe we’re all a little bit braver for getting up each day, putting our feet on the ground, and taking another step into the unknown.

Here’s to a new journey and a bend in the road ahead. Happy New Year. Stay brave! ❤️

“The former things have come to pass, and new things I now declare” Is 42:9

Merry Christmas 🎄 This year, like many of you,

Merry Christmas 🎄

This year, like many of you, we’ll celebrate differently than before. We might continue some traditions, let go of others, and try something new. But one tradition that always stays comes from my Cuban / Colombian heritage.

While I’m not a master chef in any capacity, the holidays can’t go by without having Cuban sandwiches and Colombian Ajiaco (chicken soup). Throw black beans and rice into the picture along with a few plantains and it feels like home. 😋

Wishing you a beautiful holiday and hoping there’s a small feel of home in however you celebrate, no matter how far apart you might be.

🎄 Wishing you a Merry Christmas and happy holid

🎄 Wishing you a Merry Christmas and happy holidays...

❤️

#christmasgreetings #holidaycheer #yauthorofinstagram #amwriting #hanginthere #realmsoflight #collidinglineduology #sandrarhoads #sandrafernandezrhoads #yaurbanfantasy #mortalsight #enclaveescape #yabookseries #duologybooks

📕Advance Reader’s Copy came in!! 💥 It’s

📕Advance Reader’s Copy came in!! 💥
It’s crazy wild to be holding this story in my hands. Can’t wait to share it with you. Working on the pre-order giveaway so stay tuned! 💫

🎨 What does your creative process look like?
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That’s a hard question to answer, but this picture sure does come close.
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After moving back into my house after a hot water leak adventure, I was unpacking and shelving journals (now that the Colliding Line Duology is complete). I had no idea how many notebooks I filled over the years—sketches, names, words, phrases, conversations, maps, outlines, plot points, charts, character arcs, and endings... I suppose my process is one of discovery. Each word chips away at a story buried somewhere underneath.
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I’m an old soul when it comes to exploring and I prefer ink and paper when I first start or when I feel stuck. For me, there’s something beautiful about seeing the messiness on the page. It’s a trail that reminds me how far I’ve come in the discovery. There is rarely a blank page. These journals are like a painters studio filled with drops of color from past projects, smudges of failure, and streaks of untamed inspiration.
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For me, the beauty of creating is that each process is so personal, not only for the one creating, but also for the project. I don’t believe there is a universal “right” way to create, except what allows the art and the story wanting to be shared come life.
•
I also imagine our own life is like a story. Sometimes it’s is hard, sometimes joyful, but it’s a process of discovery that is uniquely ours and a powerful story in the making, waiting to be told.

Almost there...
We’ve reached December! 🙌🏼 Finishing 2020 feels like a huge accomplishment in itself. This year has been filled with pain, adversity, fear, and endless struggles, but underneath the chaos is a shimmer of hope that never dies. Goodness rises and heroes are born. Some might not be recognized, others flourish in the spotlight, but we’ve all grown because we’ve endured. And our life makes a difference in the world.
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The painting I posted is one of my favorites and a central piece of Cera’s story in book two of her journey, Realms of Light. It’s called “Sadak in Search of the Waters of Oblivion,” (1812) by British Romantic painter, John Martin.
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Housed @southamptoncityartgallery, I’ve never seen this piece in person, but the man’s struggle to reach the famed water source to save his love feels all too real. His success lies just over the craggy cliff. And so does ours. He chooses to leave the darkness behind and strains for the light. Something I, myself, hope to do each day.
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I love the description posted on the gallery’s website: “He has almost reached his goal but clings, exhausted to a precipice. Placing his small figure at the bottom of the canvas highlights the enormity of the landscape and of the task ahead.” Yup. That description feels a lot like the thrasher-of-a-year called 2020, but there have been a few bright spots along the way. One of them for me, was the release of Mortal Sight. What bright spots have you experienced this year?
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Hang in there. We’ve almost crossed the finish line.

🔥 Bookmarks for Realms of Light came in and the

🔥 Bookmarks for Realms of Light came in and they’re incredibly GORGEOUS!

I love bookmarks. But honestly, since I read several books at once, I end up using whatever is flat and close by: hotel keys, napkins, receipts, pictures... I even used a $2.00 bill once and totally forgot I left it in the book until I lent it to a friend who handed me the money 😮

Emilie @createxploreread did an amazing job in the design (as usual) that captures the feel of the story. And the exclusive stickers, buttons, and bookplates make the total package for an exclusive pre-order giveaway I’m working up. it’s gonna be good, promise. 😏details coming soon!

And of course, I can’t wait to share Realms of Light, book two and final installment of the Colliding Line Series when it releases in April. The story was a beast to paint onto the page but it has some of my favorite characters and scenes that I can’t wait to share. Four months seems too far away...

Hoping 2021 will let me have a live book launch and maybe a small tour that Mortal Sight never had due to Covid lockdowns.🤞🏼

📚 What are your thoughts on bookmarks? Have any favorites?

💥 💥GIVEAWAY BUNDLE💥💥 I’m thrilled t

💥 💥GIVEAWAY BUNDLE💥💥

I’m thrilled to be part of this giveaway with these amazing authors! Giveaway brought together by @truth.readers - an encouraging post for teen readers- check it out if you haven’t yet.

We're giving away 9 clean YA books, just in time for Christmas. Each print book will be signed AND each participating author will send a handwritten note of encouragement to YOU! 🙌🏼

The Books:
1. R. J. Anderson - @rjandersonwriter – Swift (ebook)
2. Morgan L. Busse - @morganlbusse – Mark of the Raven
3. Sara Ella - @saraellawrites - Coral
4. Lindsay A. Franklin - @linzyafranklin – The Story Hunter
5. Emily Hayse - @songsofheroes – Seventh City
6. C. J. Redwine - @cjredwine – The Blood Spell
7. Sandra Fernández Rhoads - @sfrhoads.author – Mortal Sight
8. Chawna Schroeder (on Facebook @ChawnaSchroederAuthor) - Beast
9. Carrie Looper Stephens - @thetaleofvickland – The Zenia Wood
Brought to you by @truth.readers

HOW TO ENTER:
One entry for following all accounts, including truth.readers (will verify), additional entries for tagging friends or posting to stories (tag @truth.readers on story). Extra entry for a comment stating why clean YA fiction is important to you.

Rules: Contest ends 11:59 Dec. 5, CST. Winner announced by truth.readers on Dec. 6 at 3:00 p.m. CST. Must have parents' permission if under 18. U.S. only. Must be willing to provide mailing address to receive prizes. Contest not affiliated with or sponsored by Instagram.

#truthreaders #cleanYAgiveaway #Christmasbookhaul #truthinfictiongiveaway

🍁 Grateful for... old books, mentors, family, a

🍁 Grateful for... old books, mentors, family, and friends.

Especially this 1914 edition of Milton’s poetical works given to me as a gift from my mentor, friend, and fellow author @donnakwallace. I have several copies of Paradise Lost but nothing 106 years old!! It’s in incredible condition too! 🤩

I can’t help but wonder what life will be like 106 years from now. I’m totally hoping for flying cars or teleportation 🙃 and no trace of Covid. But I’m thankful that creatively sparks under change. We’re staying in this year. Cooking new recipes, keeping some old ones, and (maybe) starting new traditions. Wishing everyone a creative Thanksgiving! Hoping you take time to savor the day. Xoxo 💕

🙏🏼 Thankful For the opportunity to be a par

🙏🏼 Thankful
For the opportunity to be a part of the Firetrap book launch for @krissidallas (face shields temporarily removed for pics 😉)
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As a debut author, I never had a chance to experience a book launch. Mortal Sight was released in April during the height of the shut down. While it was exciting to see Mortal Sight in print, I missed out on a communal celebration. There is something magical about live and in-person events: the buzzing energy, vibrant voices, the smiles, and words of encouragement that make the years of writing in isolation feel worthwhile; that perhaps those words on the page, make a difference on one life, or maybe even two.
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It was a true blessing to get to experience this launch and play a small part in this grand celebration for Firetrap. Hanging with fellow author @jillcoxbooks was a blast and @gabigraves from Disney Channel is a truly remarkable girl and talented artist!
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This event made me realize the crucial need for artistic community, support, and encouragement during these times, more than ever. I’m thankful to be surrounded by this incredible tribe of artists! 💕🙌🏼
Hoping the world calms down and maybe Mortal Sight can share party with book two of the duology, Realms of Light! 🤞🏼

🌊 Saltwater break as storms roll in... This w

🌊 Saltwater break as storms roll in...

This was my first time on an east coast beach since I was fourteen. I’d forgotten about the playful sea grass, rowdy waves, and the thick saltiness of the sea air. I love how oceans and beaches all have different and unique “personalities.” Thankful to spend a few days with my mentor and friend @donnakwallace 🏖

Is there a place you love returning? A certain beach, trail, lake, city, etc?

I’m partial to west coast sunsets, but this view didn’t disappoint. I’ll take a beach any day (except during a hurricane) 😮

#eastcoast #writingbreak #staugustinebeach #sandrarhoads #sandrafernandezrhoads #amwriting #writingretreat #yaauthorsofinstagram #saltwatertherapy #collidingline

Thankful for a writing getaway in Florida to creat

Thankful for a writing getaway in Florida to create the next few projects. 📚

This view is a perfect landscape as I create. But I keep waiting for an alligator to surface, even though I’m told they’re not around... 👀🐊

I’m world building for two different stories right now because it’s not clear which one comes next. 🤯

These next few characters have been waiting their turn and I can’t wait to finally get on the page!

I might or might not be reading some of my favorit

I might or might not be reading some of my favorite classics for a new project. 📚

I’ve always felt sympathy for the monster in Shelley’s novel because he desired community and connection but was denied acceptance. I wonder how different the creature would turn out if he were loved by the community instead of shunned by it?

Sometimes I wonder: 🤔 how different am I from the monster? There have been times in my life when I’ve let society, or a situation define me, or harden my heart. And other times, I’ve been part of the fearful community, pushing away the unfamiliar.

So as part of a new project that might or might not explore these ideas, I’m delving into a new world, pulling out my old editions of the novel, and scouring my old notes. 🤗

And I also have a fond appreciation for Wilde’s wit... #notsurewherethiswillgo

Do you have any all time favorite classics?

🔥Realms of Light Cover Reveal!!🔥 I’m so e

🔥Realms of Light Cover Reveal!!🔥

I’m so excited to share the cover to Realms of Light, book two of the Colliding Line Duology! 🙌🏼

The cover was designed by the amazing @kirkduponce and the book will release in limited-edition hardcover from @enclavepublishing in April 2021. Thank you to @createexploreread for the graphic design! 💕

Here’s a peek 👀 at the story line:

🔥From the Ashes, Spring Will Rise 🥀

On the run from the brutal Sage and his army of Legions and Cormorants, seventeen-year-old Cera Marlowe knows the only place strong enough to protect her is the Alliance Council Estate.

Her introduction to the Estate is far from welcoming. As a Blight, Cera’s dueling powers of light and darkness make her a half-breed threat to the Alliance’s sacred powers. Her ability to decipher hidden messages in classical artwork buys her temporary shelter, but the clock is ticking as she’s faced with a daunting choice that could cost her everything—including those she loves.

***

I can’t wait to share this story with you. Pre-orders start now on Amazon and I’ll be doing a special pre-order giveaway soon so stay tuned!

🍁Audio Book Coming Soon! 🍁 Exciting news! E

🍁Audio Book Coming Soon! 🍁

Exciting news! Enclave has sold the audio rights for The Colliding Line Series to Oasis Audio! 🙌🏼 They have cast award-winning narrator Nicol Zanzarella to narrate Mortal Sight and book two of the duology. (Title release coming soon) 😃

Nicol’s decadent voice is absolutely perfect for the series and for fiery protagonist Cera Marlowe. It’s going to be amazing to hear the words performed. Audio performers have such a unique artistic gift that makes the words come alive. They paint scenes and tap emotions with just the sound of their voice or a nuanced inflection. I’m amazed by their gift. Truly. 🤩

Release dates are:
Mortal Sight- March 9, 2021
Book Two: April 13, 2021

What is your favorite audio book or voice actor?

🔥One week till cover reveal for book two of the

🔥One week till cover reveal for book two of the Colliding Line Duology!!!🔥

Can’t believe it’s getting so close. 🤗 The year has flown by so fast, but somehow not fast enough. I am so, so, SO exited to share the story with you, I can hardly wait!

If you know someone who might like a copy of book one, Amazon is having an incredible sale on Mortal Sight right now. 🙌🏼

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Fan Art and Contest Winners!

The wonderful community of the Colliding Line series creates beautiful art. This page is dedicated to the art the fans create as well as any contest winners.

Make sure to share your art with Sandra and use hashtags so the team can find your art to post to the gallery!

Say Hi!

sfrhoadsbooks@gmail.com

© 2019 Sandra Fernandez Rhoads. All rights reserved.