Monthly Archives: September 2024

Review of Robert Bryndza’s Coco Pinchard Series: A Perfect Blend of Humor, Heart, and Wit

If you’re in the mood for a light-hearted, laugh-out-loud read with just the right amount of emotion, then Robert Bryndza’s Coco Pinchard series is for you! This collection of stories is nothing short of fabulous, combining witty British humor with relatable life moments that will leave you chuckling, teary-eyed, and thoroughly entertained.

While the Coco Pinchard series may not fall under the “classic romance” genre, it has plenty of heartwarming and romantic moments that fans of the genre will adore. What truly sets it apart, though, is its strong comedic voice. If you’re a fan of Bridget Jones’s Diary, you’ll find a kindred spirit in Coco, a character who navigates the chaos of life with endearing optimism and quirky charm.

What’s Inside the Boxset?

1. The Not So Secret Emails of Coco Pinchard

In this opening novel, we get a hilarious and often touching glimpse into Coco’s life as it unravels through emails. Coco, navigating life post-40, sends candid updates to her friends and family as she deals with a crumbling marriage, awkward dating escapades, and in-laws that are nothing short of eccentric. The epistolary format makes the story even more engaging, and you’ll quickly find yourself rooting for Coco as she faces life’s mishaps with humor and resilience.

2. Coco Pinchard’s Big Fat Tipsy Wedding

Things are finally looking up for Coco — a successful career, great friends, and a new man to love. But, as life would have it, her “happily ever after” doesn’t come without complications. Bryndza once again brings the laughs as Coco is left hanging when her boyfriend mysteriously disappears. There’s a healthy mix of intrigue, romance, and witty banter that keeps the story fresh and addictive.

3. Coco Pinchard, the Consequences of Love and Sex

Coco’s life seems like it’s on track, but the third installment throws in some unexpected challenges. Her relationship with her grown son, Rosencrantz, takes center stage as he encounters his own troubles. The mother-gay son dynamic here is one of my favorite aspects of the series, with Rosencrantz’s dry humor and Coco’s unflinching love adding real emotional depth. There’s also the ever-present meddling ex-mother-in-law, a surprise pregnancy, and more. It’s a whirlwind, but one that’s full of laughs and heart.

4. A Very Coco Christmas

Who doesn’t love a Christmas prequel? Set in 1985, this novella is a throwback that gives us a glimpse into Coco’s life before everything went haywire. We meet some unforgettable characters like Ethel, Coco’s future mother-in-law, and a turkey hilariously named Jean Paul Belmondo. It’s short, sweet, and a delightful addition to the series — perfect for getting into the holiday spirit.

5. Coco Pinchard’s Must-Have Toy Story

The final installment takes us back to the ‘90s, where Coco is in full holiday survival mode, scrambling to get her hands on a coveted toy for her son Rosencrantz. The frenzy over “Tracy Island” and Coco’s determination to make Christmas perfect encapsulate every parent’s holiday stress — but Bryndza keeps it funny and relatable, making this the perfect feel-good finale.

Final Thoughts

I’ve been listening to the Coco Pinchard series every morning on my walks, and let me tell you, there have been multiple times I had to stop walking because I was laughing so hard. I definitely got some odd looks from people, but hey, I’m used to that! This series is perfect for brightening up your day, whether you’re out for a stroll or relaxing at home.

What’s even better is that this gem is available in ebook, print, and audiobook formats. And the audiobook? It’s over 28 hours long! Considering that it’s priced at just $9.99, I’d say that’s off-the-charts amazeballs value! You’re getting an entire saga of humor, heart, and British wit for a steal.

You can find it at all major online retailers, but here’s the best part: If you sign up for a free trial of the Audible Plus subscription program, you get a free month to test out the service, and you can listen to the entire Coco Pinchard boxset for free! It’s an incredible deal and the perfect way to dive into Coco’s world without spending a dime upfront. Whether you’re new to Audible or just looking for your next great listen, this series is a must-have!

To sign up for a free Audible Plus trial and listen to the series for free, click here. If you’ve already got an Audible membership click here to get the audiobook.

To read the ebooks, you can purchase the boxset or read the books individually. They’re available on Amazon, Kobo, Google Play, and Nook.

Writing Romantic Comedy: Capturing Humor, Heart, and Heat in The Big Time

Romantic comedy is one of the most beloved genres in storytelling, offering the perfect blend of humor and heart. It’s a space where readers can laugh, feel all the feels, and fall in love with characters who navigate the messy world of romance. When writing my novel The Big Time, I wanted to tap into that blend—flawed characters, witty dialogue, and those unforgettable moments of vulnerability. And sometimes, that means letting your character sing a ridiculous song about bananas!

1. Create Relatable, Flawed Characters

The heart of any romantic comedy lies in characters who are flawed and relatable—people we can laugh at, cry with, and cheer on. Chris Reynolds, the protagonist of The Big Time, is a struggling actor trying to make it in Hollywood. He’s been rejected from countless auditions, and after turning down a role in a porn film, he’s on the verge of moving back home. That’s when his ex, Jett Sumner, a musician on the rise, reappears in his life.

Chris’s situation is one that many of us can relate to—the fear of failure, the struggle to make it in a tough industry, and the uncertainty of what the future holds. This is what makes Chris so endearing, despite his setbacks. We’ve all felt like we’re one step away from packing it all in.

Writing Tip: Don’t be afraid to let your characters be imperfect. Their flaws make them relatable and provide a natural space for growth over the course of the story.

2. Infuse Humor in Dialogue—and Situations!

Romantic comedies thrive on humor, and it doesn’t always have to come from witty banter—sometimes, it’s situational. One of my favorite moments in The Big Time is when Chris auditions for a role and is asked to perform a ridiculous, off-the-wall number called The Banana Song. Picture this: Chris, at the end of his rope, is handed a giant stuffed banana and has to belt out a silly tune about bananas while holding it. It’s absurd, funny, and yet, it’s exactly the kind of thing that happens in the entertainment industry.

Writing Tip: Situational humor can add depth to your characters and lighten the mood, even when things are tough. Don’t be afraid to get a little silly—it keeps the story fun!

3. Play With Timing and Tension

Timing is everything in romantic comedies—both in the humor and in the love story. In The Big Time, Chris and Jett reconnect at a time when both are focused on their careers. Chris is barely holding things together in Hollywood, while Jett is about to hit the big time as a musician. Their chemistry is undeniable, but the timing couldn’t be worse. Chris is desperate to rebuild his life, and Jett can’t afford distractions.

The tension comes from watching two people who clearly belong together try to navigate their ambitions while fighting off old feelings. Will they manage a fling, or will their hearts force them to admit that they’ve always been meant for more?

Writing Tip: Timing is a powerful tool in romantic comedy. Let the tension between what the characters want and what they need build throughout the story. It will keep readers hooked!

4. Mix Humor With Emotional Vulnerability

While humor is essential, the real heart of a romantic comedy lies in emotional depth. In The Big Time, Chris and Jett’s connection isn’t just built on their electric chemistry or their funny moments together. Underneath it all is the pain of their first breakup, unresolved feelings, and the question of whether they can move past old wounds to find happiness together.

For example, Chris’s fear of failure in Hollywood is paralleled by his fear of failure in love. As much as he tries to keep things casual with Jett, deep down, he knows that Jett is the one person who could truly break his heart again.

Writing Tip: Emotional vulnerability gives your romantic comedy substance. It’s those moments of raw honesty that make the love story meaningful.

5. End With a Satisfying Payoff

No romantic comedy is complete without a happily-ever-after that leaves readers smiling. After all the chaos—bananas included—Chris and Jett have to confront their real feelings for each other and make a decision about their future. The ups and downs of their relationship culminate in a heartfelt resolution, where both characters are not only together, but stronger for having faced their fears and insecurities.

Writing Tip: Give your characters the ending they’ve earned. A romantic comedy should leave readers feeling uplifted and satisfied, knowing that love—and a little laughter—conquered all.

Writing romantic comedy is all about balancing humor with heart. The Big Time was an absolute blast to create, from the playful moments like Chris’s banana-filled audition, to the emotional journey that he and Jett embark on together. If you’re writing your own rom-com, remember: it’s the blend of laughter and vulnerability that makes the genre so irresistible! The Big Time is available at all major online retailers, including Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, Nook, and Smashwords.

How to Craft Unforgettable Characters in Romance: Going Beyond the Tropes

In the world of romance, tropes are like comfort food: they’re familiar, and they’re what readers come back for time and again. Whether it’s enemies-to-lovers, friends-to-lovers, or forbidden romance, these beloved plot devices give the genre its recognizable heart. But if you’re looking to write characters that linger in the reader’s mind long after they’ve closed the book, it’s essential to go beyond the tropes and dig deeper into what makes your characters tick.

Take Father Matteo from Confessions: Justin’s Penance as an example. He might fit the mold of the “forbidden love” trope, as a priest who struggles with his attraction to a student. But Matteo’s character stands out because of the emotional depth, vulnerability, and complexity of his journey. Rather than just relying on the scandalous nature of the trope, his internal conflict — a push-and-pull between his faith and his desires — makes him more than just a vehicle for the plot. He becomes someone readers can empathize with, no matter their background.

Here’s how you can craft unforgettable characters in your own romance stories:

1. Start with the Trope, But Don’t Stop There

Tropes are useful because they give you a framework to build your story around. But remember, tropes shouldn’t define your characters; they should guide them. For example, in the forbidden love trope, it’s easy to fall into a pattern of “Priest falls for a student, moral dilemma ensues.” However, Matteo’s backstory — growing up in El Salvador, struggling with his faith from a young age, and having a personal connection to his parish — gives his conflict more weight. We’re not just watching a man resist temptation; we’re seeing someone grapple with his spiritual identity, upbringing, and sense of self-worth.

Tip: Ask yourself what more you can add to the trope. What aspects of your character’s past, their personality, or their environment make their experience with the trope unique?

2. Give Your Characters Internal Conflicts

What makes a character truly memorable is their internal journey. External conflicts are important, but it’s the characters’ inner battles that resonate with readers on a deeper level. Father Matteo’s struggle with guilt, shame, and faith is what drives his decisions and reactions. He’s not just tempted by desire; he’s haunted by his inability to reconcile his role as a priest with his humanity.

Tip: Think about what your character wants vs. what they need. Matteo wants to be a good priest, to serve the Church, and to uphold his vow of celibacy. But what he needs is redemption, forgiveness, and a sense of peace with his human nature. His internal conflict is what makes him relatable, even if readers can’t personally relate to his specific circumstances.

3. Make Them Vulnerable

Readers connect with characters who are flawed and vulnerable. Perfect heroes or heroines might seem appealing at first glance, but they’re not as compelling as characters who struggle, fail, and face challenges within themselves. Matteo is deeply vulnerable — his guilt over his actions with Justin, his fears about losing his way in the Church, and his doubts about his faith all make him a character readers want to see grow.

Tip: Show your characters’ weaknesses and let them struggle. Vulnerability doesn’t make a character weak; it makes them human. Whether your character is battling their own demons, like Matteo, or struggling to open up to love, those moments of vulnerability are what readers will remember.

4. Develop Their Backstory

A rich backstory can give depth to your characters and explain why they act the way they do. Matteo’s upbringing in a deeply religious household, his history of questioning his faith, and his father-son relationship with Father Rafael all provide context for his internal struggles. Without these layers, Matteo’s moral dilemma might feel shallow. But with them, we understand why he feels so torn and why his decisions are so difficult.

Tip: Spend time fleshing out your character’s backstory. It doesn’t need to be pages of exposition, but knowing where your character comes from will inform how they react to the present. Their fears, desires, and motivations should all stem from their personal history.

5. Allow Growth and Change

Romance is all about the journey. Characters who start in one place emotionally and end in another are the ones who stick with readers. Matteo begins his story trapped in guilt and self-loathing, but he’s seeking redemption and peace. His willingness to consider new paths, like a retreat at Holy Cross Abbey, shows that he’s on a journey toward healing and self-acceptance.

Tip: Show how your characters evolve throughout the story. They don’t have to become completely different people, but growth — even in small ways — can make their arc satisfying. In romance, this often involves the characters finding the courage to love or be loved, but it can also mean reconciling with past mistakes or embracing new opportunities.

6. Focus on Relationships, Not Just Romance

While romance is the core of the story, other relationships in your character’s life can give them depth and context. Father Matteo’s connection with his mother and Father Rafael shows different facets of his personality. These relationships also serve as mirrors for Matteo’s own internal journey. His mother represents his childhood faith and duty, while Rafael represents the possibility of renewal and forgiveness.

Tip: Develop supporting characters who challenge, support, or mirror your main character. These relationships can help highlight your protagonist’s growth and provide more insight into their personality.

Conclusion

Tropes may draw readers in, but unforgettable characters will keep them hooked. By focusing on internal conflict, backstory, vulnerability, and growth, you can create characters who feel real, relatable, and multi-dimensional. Whether you’re writing forbidden love, friends-to-lovers, or any other classic romance setup, what will truly make your story stand out is the depth and authenticity of your characters.

So next time you’re crafting a romance, ask yourself: how can I go beyond the trope to create characters that readers will remember long after the final page?

Happy writing!

Confessions: Justin’s Penance, Lust, and Ecstasy is available at Amazon, Apple Books, Google Play, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, and Smashwords. You can also purchase it from the Cruz Publishing bookstore.

Meet Max Coleman!

Today, we’re sitting down with Maxwell “Max” Coleman, the celebrated food blogger and journalist behind some of the most mouthwatering content on the web. Known for his sharp wit, discerning palate, and passion for culinary exploration, Max has carved out a niche for himself as a voice to be reckoned with in the food world. As he moves into his new loft in RVA’s Shockoe Bottom, we caught up with him to chat about food, life, and everything in between. Maxwell is a main character in the upcoming novel “Electric.”

Q: Welcome, Max! Let’s dive right in—what inspired your passion for food? Max: Thanks for having me! Honestly, food was always a big part of my life growing up. I come from a pretty diverse neighborhood, so I was surrounded by all these incredible flavors and dishes from different cultures. Food became more than just something to eat; it was a way to connect with people and experience their stories. That love for food only grew over time, and now I get to write about it and share those experiences with others. It’s like the best job in the world.

Q: Your blog has taken off in recent years. What do you think sets your approach apart from other food bloggers? Max: I think it’s a mix of things. First, I’m super curious—I love getting into the nitty-gritty of a dish, finding out what makes it tick. It’s not just about how it tastes, but the story behind it, the technique, the creativity. Also, I try to be really supportive of local chefs and restaurants. RVA has an incredible food scene that’s often overlooked, and I love being able to spotlight the talent here.

Q: You recently moved to RVA from Norfolk. What brought you to the River City? Max: RVA just felt like the perfect place for a fresh start. I’ve been through some tough stuff in the last few years, and this city has this amazing energy—creative, a little gritty, but full of heart. Plus, my new videographer lives nearby in Church Hill, and we’re really taking the blog to the next level with her professional touch. It’s an exciting new chapter.

Q: Let’s talk astrology for a second—you’re a Leo. Do you think your zodiac sign influences how you approach life and your work? Max: Oh, 100%. (laughs) Leos are known for being passionate, and that’s definitely me when it comes to food. I throw myself into everything I do, whether it’s trying a new dish or writing a review. Leos are also all about loyalty and shining a light on others, which I like to think I do by supporting local chefs and restaurants. We’re natural leaders, but that can come with a bit of ego too, and I won’t lie—I’ve had my struggles with that.

Q: You’ve mentioned some personal challenges—how have they shaped who you are today? Max: Yeah, I’ve faced some pretty serious stuff. A few years ago, I was injured during a political protest at UVA. That experience left me with physical injuries and emotional trauma that I’m still working through. My passion for food helped pull me out of some dark places—it gave me something to focus on, something positive.

Q: How does your journey influence the content you create? Max: It’s all connected. I think my readers see that I’m not just writing about food for the sake of it. There’s a depth to the work, whether it’s talking about the artistry of a dish or supporting a restaurant that’s struggling. I know what it’s like to have to rebuild, and I feel that same resilience in the food world, especially with local chefs who pour their heart and soul into what they do. I try to bring that authenticity into my work.

Q: What’s next for you? Max: I’m really excited to keep growing the blog with my videographer in Church Hill. We’re pushing out some great content, and I want to dive even deeper into the local food scene here in RVA. Beyond that, I’m focusing on staying healthy and working through my recovery. Life’s a journey, and I’m just taking it one step—and one dish—at a time.

Q: Any last words for your readers? Max: Just keep exploring! Whether it’s a new restaurant or a dish you’ve never tried, food has this incredible power to connect us and help us grow. And to my fellow foodies in RVA and beyond, thanks for sticking with me on this wild ride. There’s a lot more to come!

Max Coleman’s journey from food lover to influential blogger is as complex and layered as the dishes he writes about. We’re thrilled to see where his passion takes him next!

#RVAFoodScene #MaxColeman #FoodBlogger #LeoEnergy #BehindTheScenes

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Writing What You Know: Transforming Personal Experience into Fiction

Meet Jordan Reyes, a character inspired by you know who.

Have you ever read a character in a novel and felt an uncanny connection, as if the author had somehow peered into your own life? Chances are, that character was born from the author’s personal experiences. As a writer, I’ve discovered that some of the most compelling stories emerge when we draw from our own lives, transforming our experiences into fictional narratives that resonate with readers on a profound level.

I’m an author specializing in romance novels, particularly those featuring LGBTQ+ characters. My works include “Ignited,” an MM romance, and my current project, “Breaking The Ice,” a lesbian romance novel. Through my journey as a writer, I’ve come to appreciate the power of infusing my characters with aspects of my own life experiences.

In this post, I’ll explore how authors, including myself, often draw from our own lives to create authentic, multi-dimensional characters. I’ll share insights from my writing process and offer tips on how you can harness your personal experiences to enrich your fiction.

The Value of Personal Experience in Fiction

When we write what we know, we bring an unparalleled level of authenticity to our work. Our personal experiences provide a wellspring of emotions, details, and nuances that can breathe life into our characters and settings. This approach allows us to write with conviction about the thoughts, feelings, and reactions of our characters because we’ve lived them ourselves.

Moreover, drawing from personal experience can add layers of complexity to our characters. We understand the contradictions, the inner conflicts, and the growth that comes from lived experiences. This depth can make our characters more relatable and engaging for readers.

Case Study: “Breaking The Ice”

Let me illustrate this concept with an example from my current work-in-progress, “Breaking The Ice.” This novel tells the story of a congresswoman who falls in love with a political activist named Jordan Reyes. Jordan is a passionate woman working for a non-profit called The People’s Progress Alliance.

Jordan’s character is loosely based on my own experiences as a political activist in the 1990s. During that time, I was deeply involved with organizations such as Clean Water Action, Citizen Action, and The South Carolina Wildlife Federation. I also worked on election campaigns for former Virginia Governor Doug Wilder and former congressional representative Jim Moran.

By basing Jordan on my own experiences, I can imbue her with authentic passion for political causes, a realistic understanding of the challenges faced by activists, and genuine reactions to the political landscape she navigates. These elements of realism can make Jordan a more compelling and believable character for readers.

From Real Life to Fiction: The Transformation Process

Of course, transforming personal experiences into fiction isn’t as simple as transcribing one’s life onto the page. It’s a delicate process of selecting, adapting, and reimagining real events and emotions to serve the story.

When creating Jordan, I didn’t simply replicate my own life story. Instead, I carefully chose specific experiences and traits that would contribute to her character arc and the overall narrative. For instance, I might use the adrenaline rush I felt during a particularly tense protest to describe Jordan’s emotions during a pivotal scene. Or, I might draw on the frustration I experienced when facing political roadblocks to add depth to Jordan’s motivations.

The key is to use these personal experiences as a foundation, then build upon them with imagination and the needs of the story. This way, the character becomes a unique individual, distinct from the author, yet grounded in authentic experiences.

The Benefits and Challenges of Writing from Personal Experience

Drawing from personal experience in your writing comes with both advantages and potential pitfalls. Let’s explore these in more detail.

Benefits:

  1. Emotional Connection: When you write about experiences close to your heart, that emotional resonance often translates to the page. This can create a powerful connection with readers who sense the authenticity in your words.
  2. Rich Details: Personal experiences provide a wealth of specific details that can bring your writing to life. The texture of a protest sign in your hands, the particular shade of the sky on a tense election night – these details add vibrancy to your scenes.
  3. Confidence in Your Voice: Writing about familiar territory can boost your confidence as an author. This assurance often results in more assertive, compelling prose.

Challenges:

  1. Maintaining Objectivity: It can be difficult to separate yourself from your experiences when fictionalizing them. Remember, your character is not you, and their journey may need to diverge from your own for the sake of the story.
  2. Respecting Privacy: When drawing from real-life experiences, especially those involving other people, it’s crucial to consider privacy and potential legal issues. Always change identifying details and consider the impact your writing might have on others.
  3. Balancing Fact and Fiction: It’s easy to get caught up in recreating events exactly as they happened. However, the needs of your story should always come first. Be prepared to alter, combine, or even invent experiences to serve your narrative.

Tips for Writers

If you’re interested in incorporating more of your personal experiences into your fiction, here are some tips to get you started:

  1. Keep a Journal: Regular journaling can help you capture the emotions and details of your experiences while they’re fresh. This can be an invaluable resource when you’re writing.
  2. Practice People-Watching: Observe the world around you with a writer’s eye. How do people interact? What quirks do they have? These observations can help you create more rounded characters.
  3. Mine Your Emotions: Think about times when you felt strong emotions – joy, fear, anger, love. Use these emotional memories to inform your characters’ experiences.
  4. Use the “What If” Technique: Take a real experience and ask, “What if things had gone differently?” This can be a great way to springboard from reality into fiction.
  5. Be Selective: Not every personal experience needs to make it into your writing. Choose the ones that best serve your story and characters.
  6. Seek Feedback: Share your work with trusted readers. They can help you identify where your personal connection to the material enhances the story and where it might be holding you back.

Conclusion

Writing what you know doesn’t mean limiting yourself to strict autobiography. Instead, it’s about using your lived experiences as a springboard for your imagination. By blending personal knowledge with creativity, you can craft stories that feel authentic and resonate deeply with readers.

In my own writing journey, from “Ignited” to “Breaking The Ice,” I’ve found that drawing from my experiences as an activist has allowed me to create characters with depth, passion, and believability. It’s given me a unique voice and perspective that I can share with my readers.

Remember, every experience you have is potential material for your writing. The key is learning how to transform those experiences into compelling fiction. So, the next time you sit down to write, consider mining your own life for inspiration. You might be surprised at the stories you find waiting to be told.

Breaking The Ice

Reserve your copy of “Breaking The Ice” today. It’s available exclusively on Amazon, and is in the Kindle Unlimited subscription program!

Breaking The Ice