I’m fond of giving so-called minor characters their due. They can be so neglected in fandom. Or they can shine. In Tsumiko and the Enslaved Fox, we meet Tsumiko’s younger brother Akira Hajime (mostly through his texts). The fourteen-year-old is full of stories about a “boy who is a bird.” That would be his best friend, Suuzu Farroost. Continue reading
Mood Stripes 021: Tempted
Disclaimer: I do hereby disclaim all rights and responsibilities for the characters in this audacious adventure… especially for the trusted one. A nod of recognition is bent towards Rumiko Takahashi for her creative prowess.
Chapter 21: Tempted
“They’re after the Jewel.” Continue reading
Kimiko and the Accidental Proposal
Cover Reveal. I’ve been leaking hints and teasers. For instance, the summary for Book 2 appears at the back of the print editions for Tsumiko and the Enslaved Fox. And those who bought signed copies from me got a peek at the cover art. But let’s make this all OFFICIAL. Book 2 of the Amaranthine Saga is indeed titled … Kimiko and the Accidental Proposal. Continue reading
Rampant Speculation
Guesses & Hopes. By now, you know the Amaranthine Saga borrows elements from my fanfics (set-up and setting). I did this to make the series FUN for those of you who have read (and reread) my fandom tales. For the record, the entire series is planned, outlined, and the next few books are even in the pre-write stage (thanks, NaNoWriMo). I know where I’m going, but I’d love to hear your guesses and hopes.
Which of my fanfics do you think should find their way into the Amaranthine story universe?
[[ POSSIBLE SPOILERS ]]
Author Q&A

Ask Forthy. You have questions, and I know how to dodge them. But there’s a decent chance I’ll answer them. Or you could address yourselves to the cast. (They might cooperate.) You can ask as many questions as you like. My only request is that you don’t pack two dozen questions into one comment. One or two related questions per comment will keep the threads from tangling.
[[ HERE THERE BE SPOILERS ]]
**Forthy doesn’t believe in author-spoilers, so you’re safe from me, but some of you are pretty durn smart. Questions, speculations, and predictions might be spot on (because I foreshadow like whoa). And naturally, all comments in the following threads will be spoilery for those who haven’t yet read Tsumiko and the Enslaved Fox. Hence the dutiful warning.
Post Release Party!
This weekend (May 4-5-6), I’m hosting and posting to celebrate the first book in the Amaranthine Saga—Tsumiko and the Enslaved Fox.

- Where? Right here on the blog.
- What’s Happening? Author Q&A, more character art, an official unveiling of Bk2, dignified squee-ing, and rampant speculation.
- How do I participate? In comments. Refresh often.
- Where do I post my questions? On the designated Q&A post.
- When? Give me five minutes. ::twinkle::
Mood Stripes 020: Still
Disclaimer: I do hereby disclaim all rights and responsibilities for the characters in this audacious adventure… especially for the one who made it in time. A nod of recognition is bent towards Rumiko Takahashi for her creative prowess.
Chapter 20: Still
Made it! Kagome huffed in relief. Carrion crows were Continue reading
Photo Challenge Entries
It’s been fun seeing more Photo Challenge entries. Are you plotting your shapshots? don’t put it off any longer! And don’t forget that you can also enter by posting pictures of your e-book. Here’s the photo sent in by Mariana.

Keep them coming! The challenge has been extended until 5/22, so you have plenty of time to enter. More details here >>
Next Weekend
May the forth be with you. This is a friendly reminder that there’s a post-release party planned for next weekend (May 4-5-6), which will include—but may not be limited to—an Author Q&A about Tsumiko and the Enslaved Fox, the first book in the Amaranthine Saga. Everyone who wants a copy can now get a copy (print editions ship promptly, digital editions provide instant access), but if you haven’t gotten around to actually reading the book yet … you have a scant week!
Save up your questions. Maybe you want clarification on some point? Maybe you’re hoping a favorite character will recur? Maybe you’re wondering if that teensy detail that piqued your curiosity was important? While I won’t forecast or spoiler, I’ll be happy to hint and teaser. Bring it!
Need ideas? Here are some questions I’ve seen lately: Continue reading
Mood Stripes 019: Found
Disclaimer: I do hereby disclaim all rights and responsibilities for the characters in this audacious adventure… especially for the one with a death wish. A nod of recognition is bent towards Rumiko Takahashi for her creative prowess.
Chapter 19: Found
Kagome tripped in her haste; then Sango had her by the elbow Continue reading
FanArt: Unspoiled
I rummaged through my fandom file for something to post and found this bit of art for Unspoiled. That fic garnered a lot of attention, from chibi art to full illustrations, cosplay, and even comics. Like this set of panels by Mako.

from Chapter 24, “Showery, Flowery, Bowery”
Mood Stripes 018: Woken
Disclaimer: I do hereby disclaim all rights and responsibilities for the characters in this audacious adventure… especially for the one who remembers. A nod of recognition is bent towards Rumiko Takahashi for her creative prowess.
Chapter 18: Woken
Shippo knew it was stupid, Continue reading
Photo Challenge Entries
I adore the creativity of these Photo Challenge entries. Are you plotting your shapshots? Don’t forget that you can also enter by posting pictures of your e-book. Here’s the entry tweeted by @Uittoni

Keep them coming! The challenge has been extended until 5/22, so you have plenty of time to enter. More details here >>
Mood Stripes 017: Drenched
Disclaimer: I do hereby disclaim all rights and responsibilities for the characters in this audacious adventure… especially for the withdrawn one. A nod of recognition is bent towards Rumiko Takahashi for her creative prowess.
Chapter 17: Drenched
“We cannot submerge you until Continue reading
ART: Forthright
Too cute! Story art is the best, but author art can be fun, too! Definitely gonna use this to create another blog header. Maybe one day, I’ll have a forth-sona for every mood. Thanks, FoxOfTwilight! ::twinkle::
