I thought I’d do a giveaway through Halloween! I’m offering two stories: a short story and a short novel. You can get both if you like! Just click on the covers to get your copies! 

***TRIGGER WARNING***
This post contains sensitive material that some readers may find disturbing.

I’m a South Louisiana girl, and we here are no strangers to hurricanes. In fact, one of our most famous adult beverages has that titular name. What has happened the last few weeks with Francine, Helene, and now, Milton is heartbreaking. The photos and videos are nothing until you’ve experienced one of them. There’s so much that the news doesn’t show and cannot capture. So, please allow me to share some things that may not be known about surviving a tropical storm or hurricane.

Yes, it is true, that with hurricanes, residents in their path have advanced warning if they listen to news stations. But this is only partially true. Hurricanes are unpredictable and can turn on a dime. They also can strengthen and weaken rapidly. Listen, it may seem logical to relocate if a hurricane is predicted to make landfall, but relocating takes money. Many people can’t afford it or have nowhere to go. Let me relay a story that happened during Katrina. I’m using names out of respect and for legal reasons.

Anyone who tracked Katrina will remember how it was all over the place, and it turned at the last minute. People who did evacuate, only took three days’ worth of clothes and essentials because they thought that would be all they needed. And by the time some people were told to evacuate, the roads were damn near impossible to travel due to bumper-to-bumper traffic. Who wants to be trapped on a highway during a storm? Hotels were booked and had jacked up their prices. Many of the gas stations had as well. Price gauging is the term for it.

But this is the story about one family. A woman, wife, and mother of three, worked at a business that refused to close. They told her that her attendance at work was necessary due to the kind of work she did, and if she didn’t come to work, she would be terminated. This woman had many years invested in the job, and for someone with her education, it was one of the better jobs she could get. Although not the breadwinner of her family, her income was necessary for her family, and the job provided benefits. At the time, Katrina was classified as a Category 2, but its status kept jumping. The business argued that its structure could withstand Category 3 hurricane winds.

The woman needed her job and elected to stay. Her husband refused to leave her. Therefore, he stocked up the home with supplies and made all the other necessary preparations to ride out the storm. When Katrina was upgraded to a Cat 5, many people who had planned to ride out the storm decided to leave. But then it was downgraded, and people changed their minds again and decided to stay. It eventually made landfall as a Cat 3. However, the surge and not the wind that caused the most damage. And many insurance companies found loopholes not to pay—saying water and flood damage wasn’t covered. But when your home has been leveled and washed out to sea, it’s hard to determine if it was knocked off its foundation by water or blown off by wind.

In any case, this woman went to work the day Katrina hit. And her employer was correct. The structure where she worked withstood the wind and most of the water. There was some flooding. And there were generators to help backup when power was loss; however, none of it mattered. I’ll explain in a minute.

The woman’s home, on the other hand, had flooded. Her husband took their children to the high level of their home, the attic, but it wasn’t high enough. One of the children was carried out by flood water. Her body was never recovered. The father and two other children were discovered clinging to each other. They’d drowned.

The day after the storm, when the destruction left by Katrina was visible in daylight, the business where the woman worked decided to relocate. Why? Because most of the town had been destroyed and there were no resources—no power, no gas, no phone (landline or cell) service, no running water. Temperatures were still in the 90s. So, no air conditioning. Grocery stores and pharmacies were closed. Hospitals were closed except for the most critical who could not be moved. Flood debris and sludge were everywhere, bringing all types of sanitation problems. Animals who had died in flood waters were unburied. It was unsafe to drive or walk down streets due to down powerlines.

I listened to this woman tell her story and cry over her choice. At the time, she thought she was making the best choice for her family. Had the storm not been as destructive and she’d been terminated as threatened, she likely would have lost her home in foreclosure and/or not been able to feed her children. She took the risk.

The point of this story isn’t to blame the woman. I don’t victim-shame, and yes, I believe she was a victim. I write this because I’ve been hearing many people on social media saying that what has happened to persons in the path of these latest hurricanes is their own fault and that they should have known better. But again, some people had nowhere to go. Oh, but there are shelters, right?

Sometimes, there are shelters. Shelters become full, too. Additionally, not all shelters are safe. Criminals and predators evacuate, too. New Orleans was looted because law enforcement had to get to safety, too. I remember hearing the threats of martial law due to conditions being so bad. When all the good people are gone, who’s left?

One coastal location had a marker where Hurricane Camille’s waters stopped. Well, Katrina went well beyond and took what Camille spared. People never imagined a storm worse than Camille’s. But each storm is different. Over-sensationalism by the media doesn’t help either. And if you think that doesn’t happen, think again. About a month after Katrina, the forecasters were all over the screens about a major storm with straight-line winds with over 80 mph gusts. Hearing this, schools and businesses closed as a precaution. There was a run on grocery stores and gas stations for supplies. Katrina traumatized people, especially the children. The day the storm hit, there were occasional gusts of twenty to thirty mph. Yes, it was windy, but nothing near what had been predicted. And the more these types of over-sensationalized reports happened, the more desensitized people became. This mistrust of news reports isn’t all unfounded.

Again, this post isn’t to point fingers at any person, business, or organization. It is a plea to view the people who have been affected by these storms with grace. It isn’t always as simple as choosing to leave. This post doesn’t come close to discussing the complexities of decision-making in the face of a storm.

1. If you want to help hurricane victims, please do research, and vet any organization before making any type of donation. Some organizations disburse very little of what is collected to victims. Much may go to administration. There are also fraudulent organizations that have no intention of helping victims.
2. Before donating, learn what types of donations are accepted. Some organizations will only accept cash. Thus, clothing and food donations made to these places may get thrown away.
3. If you can’t afford to make a cash donation, there are other ways to help. Manpower is always appreciated to help clean up areas as well as people who have and can use chainsaws. Cleaning products and detergents are also welcome. Items such as dog food, diapers, baby formula, and feminine hygiene products are generally needed but often overlooked. The one product I needed the most after Katrina was baking soda. The smell… I can’t communicate how bad the smell was, and I had food to spoil because I left the area. It was nearly a week before roads were opened to allow people to return. I remember two whole chickens had swollen and exploded in my freezer. I needed baking soda to help rid of the smell. (Remember, there was no running water during this time so I couldn’t scrub it out properly.)
4. Medical supplies such as bandages, rubbing alcohol, and antibiotic ointment are helpful. People get injured during these things but maybe not severe enough to be seen at a hospital or clinic. Yet, they need care. Consider making a blood donation for those who are more seriously injured.
5. And speaking of manpower and medical supplies, specialty skills are in high demand. Professionals like doctors, nurses, teachers, therapists, electricians, carpenters, etc., your services are needed.
6. It may seem insignificant, but a little goes a long way. Donate books, games, and toys. When storms hit, families can be displaced for weeks. This may be especially difficult for small children as they may not understand the situation. All they know is they aren’t at home, the adults are upset, and they have nothing to do to entertain themselves. Seeing a small smile on their child’s face can bring a parent so much peace.

A special shout out to the Cajun Navy who has been out there doing their thing. Bless each of you.

Organizations that are helping:

• American Red Cross
• Salvation Army
• Americares

That’s all a wrap. Was this post helpful? Do you think you’ll ever visit? Have you visited there? Let me know your thoughts in the comment section. If you like this post, please click the like button and share. Your feedback allows me to know the content that you want to read.

Demon Rodeo

If Brokeback Mountain, 8 Seconds, Poltergeist, and Supernatural had an orgy, Demon Rodeo would be the lovechild.

Demon Rodeo is available now on Amazon. For video book trailers, visit my TikTok page. The full blurb is on my Instagram and Amazon.

Demon Rodeo is the first book in the Chasing the Buckle series but can be read as a standalone. It’s a friends-to-lovers romance set in the rodeo world. These are not your typical cowboys. It’s a widely diverse cast of characters and a mashup of genres that aren’t always seen together. If you’re looking for a palate cleanser, this may be a book for you.

Order
⇨ Amazon: https://readerlinks.com/l/4174852
⇨ All Stores: https://books2read.com/u/bP8RG7

Until next time, happy reading and much romance. Laissez le bon temps rouler.

If you’re not following my blog, Creole Bayou, what are you waiting for? There’s always room at the bayou.

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Want to chat about writing, mental health, Cajun cuisine, Creole culture, or just spill some tea? If yes, let’s get connected. Follow me on one of my social links. There’s plenty to choose from.

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LOCKER ROOM LOVE

Locker Room Love Series

Are you searching for a sexy book boyfriend? You’ve come to the right place.

• Out of the Penalty Box (book #1) One minute in the box or a lifetime out.
• Defending the Net (book #2) Crossing the line could cost the game.
• Ice Gladiators (book #3) When the gloves come off, the games begin.
• Penalty Kill (book #4) Let the pucker begin.
• Future Goals (book #5) The future lies between a puck and a net.

About the Author

Hi, I’m Genevive, and I am a contemporary sports romance author. My home is in South Louisiana. If you like snark and giggles with a touch of steamy Cajun and Creole on the side, I may have your poison in my stash of books. Drop by the bayou and have a look around. The pirogues are always waiting for new visitors.

Report Card

Last week…

1. I had my chemo on Monday with all the usual symptoms that followed—nausea, body aches, fatigue, and insomnia. As of today, I’m getting back to normal.
2. I worked on edits for one author.
3. I slept—a lot.

This next week…

1. Tomorrow, I’ll get a white cell booster shot and have a blood draw. At some point soon, my oncologist is going to order up some more scans to see how the treatment is working.
2. I’m still working on edits for one author and will finish it by the weekend. Then I’ll start the next set.
3. I’ll try working/editing on of the pages I’ve already written for Ignition, just to keep the story in my head so at some point I can commit to writing new pages.
4. I have the last Delta Heat stories to take wide, meaning, to upload to sites other than KU.
5. Yes, my plan is very unambitious, but that’s okay.

Open Contests

Be sure to check out these posts and enter to win the prizes that are still up for grabs!

1. September into October (Contest) — Last day to enter! Win an Amazon gift card!
2. Happy International Coffee Day! (Contest) — Last day to enter! Win an Amazon gift card!
3. Word Search: Crafts you might enjoy… (Contest) — Last day to enter! Win an Amazon gift card!
4. Gabby Grey: Dedications (Contest) — This one ends soon! Win a FREE book!
5. Saturday Puzzle-Contest: Bucket List — This one ends soon! Win an Amazon gift card!
6. Cameron Allie: The Perfect October Fantasy Read is FREE–(for a limited time only!) — One more day to get your FREE book! 
7. Puzzle-Contest: Celebrating Ada Lovelace Day! — Win an Amazon gift card!
8. Krysten Lindsay Hager: YA Second Chance Romance that’s F*R*E*E for a Limited Time — Get your FREE book!
9. Saturday Puzzle-Contest: Halloween Movies & Activities — Win an Amazon gift card!

UPDATE: The winner is…Pansy Petal!
*~*~*

Halloween is always a fun time of year for our family. It’s the kickoff to the holiday season—Halloween, Thanksgiving, St. Nicklaus Day, Christmas, New Year’s Eve… We celebrate them all because we love excuses for celebrating.

For a chance to win a $5 Amazon gift card, solve the puzzle, and then offer suggestions in the comments for Halloween movies or activities that would be fun for the family!

For those interested, here’s my health update:  Read the rest of this entry »

Do you like YA contemporary novels with second-chance romance, soap stars, college basketball players, strong female friendships, cinnamon roll heroes, and cute banter? Not to mention there’s the added high stakes of a soap opera star up for an award and her first love playing in a college basketball tournament. If this sounds like your kind of book, then pick up Stars in the City for free from October 11^th-14^th on Amazon.

Stars in the City

Valeria Joseph seems to have it all: career as actress on the soap opera, Charmed Lives, and everyone wants to be her. Her so-star, Cecily Taylor, fixes her up with a rising pop star named Dex Doyle and suddenly Valeria has a bigger spotlight on her.

Then, on the busy streets of New York City, she runs into her first love, Davis, who she never got over. Davis is a college basketball player who is dealing with high pressure stressors of his own and they find themselves supporting one another and falling back in love.

But, just like being on a daytime soap is full of drama—so is the publicity that surrounds Valeria. Throw in a pop star who’s crazy about her, an award show event that trends on social media for all the wrong reasons, and tons of swoony moments. Can Valeria find true love in the big city?

What readers are saying: Sweet, charming YA romance perfect for summer. A lovely, sweet book about missed and second chances! Valeria has everything a girl could want, except the one that got away…

Written with a strong voice in the very popular first person, this book is a breezy, easy read with a sense of humor that keeps the pages turning. You care quickly about this cast of characters. I wanted the entire group to find happiness, including the antagonist. I would’ve loved this series in my late teens – it has all the gilded drama of Sweet Valley High without falling on too-adult themes. It’s a simple story of a second meet-cute that actually lasts.

Get it here FREE for a limited time:

Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/Stars-City-Krysten-Lindsay-Hager-ebook/dp/B0C19THWX3
Amazon CAN: https://www.amazon.ca/Stars-City-Krysten-Lindsay-Hager-ebook/dp/B0C19THWX3
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Stars-City-Krysten-Lindsay-Hager-ebook/dp/B0C19THWX3
Amazon AUS: https://www.amazon.com.au/Stars-City-Krysten-Lindsay-Hager-ebook/dp/B0C19THWX3

About the Author

Krysten Lindsay Hager is a bestselling author of YA and contemporary romance. She writes romance because she loves bringing people swoony moments and hope-filled happily ever afters. She writes about falling in love, fame, fitting in, frenemies, first loves, and finding your way in the world. She loves reading, watching movies, and lipstick.

Website: https://www.krystenlindsay.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krystenlindsay/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/krystenlindsay/

For all of those displaced or battening down the hatches to ride out this 1-2 punch of a second devastating storm, all I can say is you’re in my thoughts today. As a former Florida resident, many moons ago, I know you’re resilient, but this one looks so bad I worry for you all. I hope you had the wherewithal to escape the area. For those who chose to stay, I’ll be sending blessings and praying for you. ~ DD

UPDATE: The winner is…Debra Guyette!
*~*~*

Yesterday was Chemo Day—the third round. It’s funny; I almost looked forward to it—or at least I wasn’t filled with dread or fear. I know it’s the beginning of a miserable week, but I don’t even dread that. Not yet. I’ll probably rethink it on Wednesday or Thursday when the deep muscle and joint aches begin—but I have some good drugs to help with that. 🙂

Anyway, I came home from chemo, which ended at 3 PM, and headed straight to bed. Other than getting up for dinner or walks to the bathroom, I slept all the way until 3 AM this morning, and I’ve been up since, on a roll. I puttered picking up things, and even dusted my desktop (a huge chore given all the crap I have on the surface).

Then, I turned my attention to what to do with my blog today—since I def feel up to it.

I love quirky, obscure holidays, and today is an important obscure one. It’s Ada Lovelace Day!

Who is Ada? From the website Time and Date:  “Ada Lovelace was an English mathematician who worked with Charles Babbage on his calculating engine, called the Analytical Engine. Her plan to calculate Bernoulli numbers using the engine is now widely considered as the world’s first computer program. In 1980, the United States Department of Defense created a programming language and named it Ada in honor of Ada Lovelace’s contribution to the world of computing.”

I remember when the ADA programming language was a thing back in the day. I remember, too, the state of computers back when I was new to the Army. In fact, during my summer ROTC training before I graduated from college, I was selected to be part of a team that went to an Army base to evaluate an exercise the active duty units there were undergoing. Our job was to shadow and assist the active Army observers. We were the ones entrusted to gather their observations and put them together into a single, extensive report. We were given access to a computer to write up the report—beginning after duty hours so we didn’t disrupt the people who worked there during the day. I was assigned the job of typing up all those reports, editing, then printing out the report (my first editing job, y’all). The computer sent the book to a printer that spit out hundreds of punch cards that looked like the picture above. The others had to take that stack and walk it to another device that read the cards then produced the written report. All those cards had to be kept in order so two people carried it, one holding the cards from the ends and the other supporting it so it didn’t fall to the floor. If you had one card out of order, you had to reprint the entire thing. If they (the active duty folks) decided to make changes to the report you had to repeat the entire process again.

Still, I thought how cool was it that we were able to type up a report, making changes along the way, and we didn’t have to retype the entire thing. It did save labor on that end. LOL

A few years later, I was assigned to work on the general’s staff at Fort Gordon (now, Fort Eisenhower), Georgia and we actually had an internal email system that connected the staff to all the heads of different organizations on the post. So much progress in so few years. Shortly after that, I bought my first computer, a Radio Shack TRS-80, and I was the first on my block to own a personal computer. I had to learn a smattering of code to work it, but that was just part of the adventure!

Today? We all take for granted the innovations. Back then, we felt like we would soon be living in the Jetson’s future.

Anyway, sorry for the long post. Have fun with the puzzle. Solve the puzzle then tell me about any computer innovation that amazed you for a chance to win a $5 Amazon gift card!