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🍁 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.

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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. 🙌🏼

Edits complete... and now I’m deciding which sto

Edits complete... and now I’m deciding which story to tell next. (Can you tell by my expression?) It’s been a crazy, wonderful, and incredibly hard journey. I can’t believe that a year ago, around this time, I posted about signing the contract. 🍁

Here we are a year later and the book is released, book two is on the way, and so many relationships and opportunities have opened because of it. There is one that I’m beyond excited about and wanted to share. 🙌🏼

I’ve been asked by the president of the Milton Society of America (Professor Angelica Duran from Purdue University) to attend the Renaissance Society of America conference in 2021 as a guest artist for #mortalsight along with the masterful painter/ artist Richard Kenton Webb. 💕

This is an incredibly huge honor with the biggest brains in classical studies. It’s completely beyond me, but I’m so thrilled to be a small part of the conference. And can’t wait to share the journey with you.

In this year of ups and downs, this invitation came as a bright spot in the swirling chaos.

Despite the turmoil around us, has 2020 brought you any joyful news?

“Painting is just another way of keeping a diary

“Painting is just another way of keeping a diary.” - Pablo Picasso

This painting titled “Freedom” sits in my entryway as a daily reminder of hope. It was painted by @marygammillart during a difficult season in my life. One where life felt uncertain and no path seemed clear. Where the days blended together in nothing but messy chaos.

Mary also happens to be one of my best friends. She knew my heart, my struggle, and my journey. For me this painting is a reflection of the words from her heart to mine spoken though each brushstroke. One of the things I love about this painting is what’s unseen, what’s painted underneath: a red cross that breaks to the surface in the murky grays.

For me, the beauty of art is how it opens up pathways and speaks hope into the dark places we can’t quite understand. I’m so thankful for Mary’s intuitive, artistic nature that speaks into every piece she creates. She’s currently working more with inks now, and I’m loving what’s coming forth. Can’t wait to get back up to Bozeman and see her work again. It’s been too long.

Is there a painting that marks a specific memory or event in your life? Or speaks to you in some way? Or maybe even one that draws you in every time you see it?

I’ve never been shot, or stabbed, or punched in

I’ve never been shot, or stabbed, or punched in the face, (thankfully) but my characters have. Sounds cruel, I know. 😳

But I have to say... if you write fiction that involves weapons, fighting, wounds, and general combat... this book is an absolute must! So thankful for @carla.c.hoch for her incredible expertise in this area, finding holes and common problems, those of us who don’t engage in combat regularly wouldn’t know.

Seriously, don’t write a fight scene without sifting through this gem. And a huge thanks to @carla.c.hoch for helping on my manuscript!
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#amwriting #carlahoch #fightwritebook #fightscenes #collidinglineduolog #yalit

“Music is the universal language of mankind.”

“Music is the universal language of mankind.” – Longfellow
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Music speaks a language to the soul, reaching places and touching emotions far deeper than words alone can do. I’ve always had a profound admiration for musicians and their ability to craft melodies and lyrics, tapping into something greater than themselves, and sharing it with the world.
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I always wished I could be one. Only dared to play the piano once, when I was in elementary school. But I was terrified about performing in a recital, so I quit. After only two weeks of practice.
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A little over a year ago, I picked up a new instrument for the first time since piano. Some of you know it’s the cello (named Lysander). I had a goal. Learn three songs: Ode to Joy, the theme to Jurassic Park, and Green Day’s Boulevard of Broken Dreams.
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I’m so thankful to @mariabaylock for willing to take on a musically challenged adult student and slowly teach me the basics from the ground up. I’m barely able to play Three Blind Mice at the moment, but I’m trying.
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There’s something about connecting with the instrument and feeling the music as I play (no matter how bad), that renews my creative spirit and gives me clarity that helps jump back into writing. It’s been one of the hardest, but most enjoyable things to chase after. And yes, there is a cello written into book two, how could I not?

Is there an instrument you’d want to learn how to play? Or maybe you played one in the past but haven’t in a while?
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I’d say learn the language.
Go after it.
Give it a try.

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#amwritingfantasy #writersofinstagram #musicspeaks #cellolove #nevertoolatetostart #sandrarhoads

*** LAST DAY TO ENTER *** 🎉 HIGH CHANCE OF WINN

*** LAST DAY TO ENTER *** 🎉 HIGH CHANCE OF WINNING***

Today is the last day to support artists through North Texas Giving Day by donating for a chance to win this Young Adult pampering basket for fiction readers (worth over $120...Could be yours for $25!) Only 8 entires so far...

Many non-profits have been hard hit by Covid, and i know it's a tough time for so many, but this organization relies heavily on donations from live events, which have been non-existent. This group of writers have been an instrumental part of my writing journey.

Please join me in helping them continue offer free events (currently hosted online) for artists, both local and nationwide. Our writer's group is hoping to raise $3000 and we're half way there.

Just a $25 donation could get you one entry to win!! If you go donate today, please comment on this post or private message me to enter your name in our drawing!!
$25 = 1 entry
$50 = 4 entries
$100 = 10 entries
Link to donate here: https://www.northtexasgivingday.org/ahdfwwriters?
What’s included in the YA Lit Getaway Basket?
* $40 Apple Gift Card
* Signed copies of Phantom Island Series Books 1-3 (by Krissi Dallas)
* Signed copy of Mortal Sight Exclusive hardback (by Sandra Fernandez Rhoads - Author)
* 2 fun Journals
* Sunset Glow candle & Apple Pumpkin Candle (from Bath & Body Works)
* Earbuds
* Phantom Island T-Shirt XL (Aerodorian)
* Saltwater Scented shower gel / Beach scented lotion (from Bath & Body Works)
* Custom bookmarks
* Mortal Sight signed bookplate and collector pins
* Bag of Soire Tea
* Two cozy blankets
Valued over $120 and could all be yours for a much smaller donation!

💥GIVEAWAY💥 Some of you know I'm involved wi

💥GIVEAWAY💥

Some of you know I'm involved with @arthousedallas, a collective group of creatives from all disciplines that believe in producing art for the common good. It’s a unique creative haven for all types of artists.

In these strange times, my Fort Worth Writer's group wants to inspire creativity while raising money for Art House Dallas so they can continue their support of artists, both local and worldwide. (Link to donate: https://www.northtexasgivingday.org/ahdfwwriters? )

We've put together a few baskets for a giveaway. Mine is a combined basket with author @krissidallas. We've created a YA getaway basket which includes:

* $40 Apple Gift Card
* Signed copies of Phantom Island Series 1-3
* Signed copy of Mortal Sight Exclusive hardback
* 2 Journals
* Sunset candle & Apple Pumpkin Candle
* Earbuds
* Phantom Island T-Shirt XL
* Saltwater Shower gel / Beach Lotion from Bath & Body works
* Custom bookmarks
* Mortal Sight signed bookplate and collector pins
* Soire Tea
* Two cozy blankets

Enter the giveaway by donating to:

https://www.northtexasgivingday.org/ahdfwwriters (link in bio)

$25 = 1 entry
$50 = 4 entries
$100 = 10 entries
Etc..

Comment or DM with your donation amount and I'll include your name. Donations open till 9/17/20. All donations are tax deductible. Winners will be chosen at random and announced on 9/20/20. Not affiliated with Instagram.

Check out other creative care baskets by: @sdhill @maggiephilpot @sarahkndjerareou @shannonreneeholt @sharileabower @stephaniesuire

Thank you for supporting this incredible community of artists. And if you're an artist, I'd encourage you to check out all the FREE online activities and events coming up, including a free live concert on 9.12.20. Details at www.arthousedallas.com

I’ve always thought creating a book on a blog wa

I’ve always thought creating a book on a blog was a cool, but terrifying, idea and I marveled at those who took the risk and did it. Emilie @createexploreread is not only an amazing designer (she designed my bookmarks and stickers) but has also blogged book in a month!

Suspended in the Stars. It’s a YA space Sci-fi which is something I don’t read a lot of, but I find the concept intriguing and can’t wait to check it out.

You can read it (for free) on her blog (www.eahendryx.blogspot.com) or on @Wattpad (under: emiliehendryx), but it will only be up until the end of September!

Book blurb:
A girl in hiding. A boy on the run.

When Talie Zarna, The Soaring Staress of the circus Phenomena, is forced to hide military deserter, Renner Cartha, her secrets are threatened as well as her heart.

Renner's flirtatious confidence is at odds with the seriousness of his crimes, and yet Talie risks everything she's come to cherish in order to keep him safe. Little does she know his own deception might be the end of the security she's found among the circus.

Traveling between planets while flying through the stars in a death-defying act, Renner and Talie find that they are stronger together than they've ever been apart.

What is your favorite type of sci-fi?
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#emiliehendryx #suspendedinthestars #wattpad #circus #yascifi #sciencefiction #ireadya

Honest confession: I don’t watch a lot of TV / m

Honest confession: I don’t watch a lot of TV / movies. But when I want to I never know what to choose, so I’ve started asking for suggestions.i wrote down a few that were suggested. Now that I’ve hit my deadline and need to feed my creativity, storytelling, and romance-inclined brain, I’m ready to sink into my couch and watch a few.⠀
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Any thoughts on must-see movies? What’s your all-time-everyone-must-see film?

I’m super thrilled to join @gillianbronteadams o

I’m super thrilled to join @gillianbronteadams on a live broadcast tomorrow at 1:00 CST to discuss Mortal Sight. She is amazing and the incredible co-host of RealmMakers livestream with @lhbrandenburg.
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Little known fact: I met Gillian at a RealmMakers conference years ago but I doubt she remembers me.
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I also met Lauren there. She was such a blast to hang with. It was my first writers conference EVER and Lauren was a pro, gliding through the crowds with ease and kindly took me under her wing. I’ll never forget it! 💕
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Have you ever have a time where you went somewhere and didn’t know a soul and someone took you under there wing?
I find myself in new situations all the time and am so thankful for the kindness of others. 🙏🏼
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I’d love for join us as we talk back-to-school bookish things, and more. See the link in her bio! @gillianbronteadams
Xoxo 💕

Trying to be serious for my new headshots... but i

Trying to be serious for my new headshots... but it’s so hard!

thanks to @_faith_thomas_ for incredible makeup and hair. She’s amazing and was such a blast and an incredible artist! And @widynphotography for getting the right shots despite my perpetual squint. 🙃 can’t wait to see how they turn out! 🙌🏼
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#mortalsight #collidinglineduolog #sandrarhoads #photoshoot #yaauthorsofinstagram #authorheadshots

Book two manuscript complete and shipped off for e

Book two manuscript complete and shipped off for editing... It’s finally done, ya’ll. I’m spent. And excited. And shaking.

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This story was a struggle born from my heart and write those final two words feels sweet but aches a whole lot more. I’ve never danced with a story for this long. Most of the time it was a joy, but we had several moments of knock out wrestling. Can’t wait to share what happens on the other side of Cera’s journey—2021!
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#mortalsight #collidinglineduolog #sandrarhoads #sandrafrhoads #enclavepublishing #enclaveescape #yalit #paradiselostmilton #yafantasybooks #yafantasyseries #amwriting

@jeanniekozminski thanks for sending this book sig

@jeanniekozminski thanks for sending this book sighting pic! Beyond thrilled to be on display @barnesandnoble with these giants!

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