A Bend in the Road

Photo by HotBlack

As I close in on what is the last book in my YA Steampunk Series, I lift my head out of the fog of writing furiously to look around.

I see change. A definitive step in the direction I've been avoiding for some time...yet knew was inevitable.

Through the years many have suggested this path, but I resisted. Content to just deal with the issues that constantly popped up in my current situation despite the frustration and feeling of helplessness. I had always hoped things would get better or that I would somehow be able to gain enough traction to change the situation.

It has become clear to me now that what I hoped for is not going to happen.  That's okay. I get it now.

If I wasn't ready for such a big step in the past. I feel like I am now. So here is to change and adventure and taking scary steps.

Until next time..Go Write!

+Raquel Byrnes 

Rapscallion and Other Useful Insults

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Even though it is Shakespearean, I fully embrace the concept...as should we all, I say!

I was amazed at the number of fantastic insults I learn during my research for my Victorian Steampunk novel.  I mean...surely we should bring these back into use!

Quackery (of course)
Balderdash
Cad
Bounder


Mental Floss has a list of 56 Victorian Slang Terms we should seriously consider bringing back.

So as you head into the weekend...

Throw on some gaspipes and paste on your giggle mug. Its going to be nanty narking!

Have a lovely weekend, my lovelies!

by +Raquel Byrnes

Cosplay and Writing

I recently had the opportunity to help organize a Steampunk Formal for my daughter's high school prom. It was tons of fun and allowed for many creative projects. From a giant clock to transforming NERF pistols into copper-patina colored weapons. 

My daughter was inspired by my research for the YA Steampunk novel I recently wrote and I have to say that it was such a wonderful bonding time.

Plus, as a writer, I often do tons of research, but when I try to share it with others I can literally see the glaze pass over their eyes...sigh.  So this was awesome for me both as a mother and a writer.

She has since moved on to other cosplay themes. A huge Bioshock Infinite fan, she sewed her own 'Young Elizabeth' costume that she wore to an Adventure Ball this summer. It was so fun talking about the dirigible and airship nomenclature with her.

I'm looking forward to SteamCon and ComiCon this upcoming year...my other daughter is a HUGE anime fan so I may be heading to an anime convention as well. Yes, apparently my family is just a giant brood of nerds...but we're fun ones!

For those of you interested in cosplay, I post tons of tutorial and DIY project links over at my author website: Raquel Byrnes Books.com.

What about you? Is there something you share with a friend or family member that crosses over into your writing world?

by +Raquel Byrnes