Stories 4 You: #moonlightmist

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Friday, April 26, 2019

Animals in Folklore Part 1

Rebecca Tran

Wolves in Norse Mythology

Over the next several posts I will be talking about animals in folklore. Wolves feature in several different cultures and will take at least two posts to cover. This week we will talk about wolves in Norse Mythology. Many people have a little insight into Norse mythology thanks to the show Vikings and the Thor movies. Although Thor takes mythology and twists it quite a bit. But both mention Ragnarok. It's the Norse version of the end of the world and at the center of it all is a giant wolf.

Fenrir is the son of Loki, the god of mischief, and Angrboda a giantess. To keep him under control the Aesir gods, or gods of Asgard, raised him themselves. When he grew too fast it worried the gods and they decided to chain him up. It took three tries to make chains strong enough to hold Fenrir and by then the wolf was suspicious. The god's tricked Fenrir into the chains. They claimed they wanted to see if he could break them. In the end the god Tyr placed his hand in Fenrir's mouth as a sign of good faith and Fenrir put the chains on. When the wolf couldn't break free Fenrir bit off Try's hand. A sword was placed in Fenrir's mouth to keep it open after that. The angry wolf howled and foamed at the mouth forming the river Expectation or Ván in old Norse. Legend says that at Ragnarok he will break free of his chains and run through the world with his bottom jaw on the ground and his upper jaw touching the sky eating everything in his path. It also says that Fenrir will kill Odin himself before one of Odin's sons finally kills Fenrir.

Two more famous wolves in Norse mythology are said to be Fenrir's offspring, Skoll and Hati. Scholars still debate the relationship but their names and function are known. Skoll and Hati chase the sun and moon through the sky giving the Norse people day and night. There is still debate over which one chased what though. One recognized author believes Skoll chases the sun and Hati chases the moon. It's hard to say for sure if he is correct. Religion and history were all oral traditions for the Norse people and changed depending on the story teller. There were also few records of anything. For now we'll have to enjoy the fact that wolves chased the sun and moon and won't catch them until Ragnarok comes.

Odin kept a pair of wolves as his constant companions. He named them Geri and Freki. Some prose refer to him feeding his wolves at the table while he drank only wine. Others refer to Odin's hounds on the battle fields searching for carion amongst the dead. Its not the nicest picture but I wouldn't want to mess with those wolves.

In my next post in this series I'll cover more wolves from European folklore.

A wolf plays a key role in my newest paranormal romance Honor Bound. If you want to see how my great white wolf features in my story you'll have to read it to find out. The book is featured in the Moonlight Mist anthology so you'll get 17 other steamy romances as a bonus.

I am a mother, pharmacist and author. I love all things fantasy and sci-fi. Romance is always a welcome bonus. I have two little girls and I love dogs, I have two of those as well, a Boston Terrier and a Pittie mix. So technically some would say I have four kids. I am currently on a writing hiatus but hope to get back to my romance series or my fantasy series soon. Right now my girls are my priority. My all time favorite series of books is the Sword of Truth series by Terry Goodkind. I've read all 12 of the original series at least twice and some 3 or 4 times. I know I'm a little obsessed but who doesn't like a normal guy that becomes a hero. Oh Richard Rahl! If you'd like to know more about me or my books please see my website. If you would like more info about my books you can find it on my store.

Thursday, April 4, 2019

Moonlight Mist

Rebecca Tran

I've said it before and I'll say it again, I love all things fantasy and science fiction. Mix in a little romance and you've got me hooked. When I decided to write a stand alone romance for an anthology that I am part of, Moonlight Mist, I stepped away from shifters and turned to Ireland for inspiration. More specifically the fae and Tir Na Nog, or Underhill as most know it, were my muse. Who could resist beautiful creatures and a land of magic? Certainly not me. The result was my newest title Honor Bound.

Blurb

Hallie O’Neil thinks she has it all figured out. She has a great career, serious boyfriend, and perfect New York apartment. Everything changes when an Irish Adonis walks into her work one afternoon. As hard as Hallie tries to fight it, Liam insists on inserting himself into her life. There’s something different about Liam that Hallie can’t figure out. Can she discover the truth before she’s in too deep?

Excerpt

Faolin gave Hallie her own room while she was visiting his Uncle’s home. He didn’t want to presume too much. It wasn’t surprising though when she slipped into his room after the house quieted down. Hallie always had a way of lighting his fire. After months apart though her touch was like an inferno. He hated having to return to Underhill even for that short amount of time. Being away from her was torture.

All of Faolin’s attention was focused on Hallie that night. He lavished every affection on her. Faolin brought her to the brink of ecstasy over and over before they both tumbled over the edge together. Hallie lay in his arms afterward content and beautiful. Faolin brushed the stray hairs from her cheek enjoying the fleeting moment.

With a slight growl of frustration, Faolin eased out of bed. He pulled on his pants and went downstairs. His aunt and uncle would still be awake. He found them in the library by the fire enjoying a glass of wine. His aunt studied him a moment, however, it was his uncle who spoke.

“I’m glad to hear the mortal pleases you.” His uncle smiled half laughing.

Faolin knew it meant they heard at least part of their lovemaking. At the moment he didn’t care. “She pleases me more than any woman has in centuries, uncle.”

His uncle stopped smiling, and his aunt set down her wine. “Can it be true?” his aunt asked studying him.

“Faolin I forbid…” His uncle started.

“Don’t, I beg you. When is the last time I asked anything of you?” Faolin asked his uncle.

His uncle snarled, “At least 300 years.” He let out a heavy breath. “It’s too soon Faolin.”

“At least grant me permission to pursue it.” Faolin offered his hand.

“You know the rules.” His uncle warned.

“Better than anyone” his aunt volunteered.

His uncle took Faolin’s hand “Agreed. I Faolin of Underhill swear that I will abide by the rules while pursuing Hallie O'Neil.”

“Honor and Magic bind thee.” His uncle said formally. Faolin felt the magic sweep over him. There was no going back now.

Honor Bound is part of a paranormal romance anthology Moonlight Mist written by many talented independent authors. It is available on Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble, and other fine retailers.

I am a mother, pharmacist, and author. I love all things fantasy and science fiction. It should come as no surprise then when I say I write fantasy, science fiction, and paranormal romance. I've also tried my hand at horror once or twice. I enjoy watching anime and romance movies. Currently I am working my way through Naruto Shippuden. Summer is coming and school is ending which means I'll spend more time at home with my kids than at work thanks to PTO. If you read my bios or my blog I'll keep you posted on our travels. If you want to find out more about me check out my website, or you can find my books on my store.

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Thursday, October 18, 2018

Fair Folk or Deadly Monsters

Fairies, Fae, Aes Sidhe, Seelie, Tuatha Dé Danann, Aos Si are all names for the same beings. But why do they have so many different ones? Fairies have origins from all over Europe. They have roots in Celtic, Slavic, French, German, and

English. The term fairy, contrary to popular belief is used to describe more than small magical human like creatures with wings. It is a loose term used to describe creatures of magic including things like goblins or gnomes, ethereal creatures, or sprites. If you think of the stories in Grimm's Fairy Tales you'll have a general idea of the types of creatures in this group.

The earliest origins of fairy lore stemmed from various ideas in multiple countries. Some cultures believe they are a hidden people that were around long before the human race. They once dominated earth but as humans spread they were forced into hiding. Others believed they are

Artist

fallen angels that did not follow Satan to hell, instead they chose to remain on earth. Another similar theory is that fairies are dead spirits that refused to pass on, while others go further and accuse them of being demons.

Fairies are recorded in oral traditions as early as the 13th century. Scottish ballads passed down stories such as Sir Orfeo and Thomas Rhymer. Their appearance in literature is scattered throughout the centuries. One of the earliest works was Beowulf in the late 10th to early 11th century. They resurface in the 16th century in stories like A Mid Summer's Night Dream, and The Faerie Queen.

In mythology and literature fairies can be helpful like Cinderella's godmother, or tricksters like Puck. Then there are the more harmful fae like goblins or trolls and even some who like to eat children. People throughout time have searched for wards and charms to keep from falling under their spells. Some believe wearing your clothes inside out, church bells and four leaf clovers will keep the fae away. Others think there is no protection. Unfortunately you'd probably have to know what type of fairy your dealing with and where they are from to find just the right method.

In my newest paranormal romance you won't even think about a charm to keep this fairy away.

Honor Bound

Liam is bored with everyday life in Underhill, the home of the Fae. When you’ve lived as long as he has few things hold any excitement anymore. When a mortal woman stumbles into Underhill all of that changes. She captivates him like none have in ages. Now Liam will stop at nothing to find her and make the mortal his. How far will he go to get what he wants?

Hallie O’Neil thinks she has it all figured out. She has a great career, serious boyfriend, and perfect New York apartment. Everything changes when an Irish Adonis walks into her work one afternoon. As hard as Hallie tries to fight it, Liam insists on inserting himself into her life. There’s something different about Liam that Hallie can’t figure out. Can she discover the truth before she’s in too deep?

Excerpt:

After dinner, they went for a walk in the park. It was the perfect night. The air was cool. The moon was almost full. Hallie cuddled in close. It sent warmth through his body. It had been a long time since a woman did that to him.

Faolin stopped walking and pulled Hallie close. She wrapped her arms around him staring up into his eyes. He felt like he could drown in the depths of those blue pools. Mercifully she closed her eyes as he bent to kiss her. With Hallie, it was always warm and tender. Affection radiated from her. Tonight there was more. Desire was there as well. She pulled him closer, and he deepened their kiss. His tongue explored the recesses of her mouth. Suddenly Hallie tore herself away with a slight laugh.

“Maybe we should go somewhere more private,” Hallie suggested.

That was fine by Faolin. He resisted creating a portal and walked with her tucked into his arm the whole way back. She played with his fingers kissing the tips now and then. It was enough to remind Faolin she wanted him. By the time they reached his apartment his pants were uncomfortably tight from Hallie’s teasing.

As soon as Faolin closed the door, he pinned Hallie to the wall with his body. His mouth covered hers and he felt the tension in her body rise. She wanted this as badly as he did. Hallie’s tongue slid into his mouth before she withdrew and bit his lip slightly. The lass was intent to drive him mad with desire. One of her small hands found its way under his shirt and ran over the muscles of his chest and abdomen. Hallie smiled against his lips. Faolin grabbed her ass and pulled her closer.

Hallie giggled slightly at Faolin’s forcefulness. It was the wrong move. The sound spurred his actions. If she liked that he could do so much more. Faolin picked her up and carried her to the bedroom. He tossed her on the bed then pulled off his shirt. Hallie lay back watching. She smiled with appreciation. Then he took off his pants, and she sat up a little. Faolin grinned. If that got her attention, he couldn’t wait to see what she did next.

You can find Honor Bound in Moonlight Mist a paranormal romance collection available 10/30/18

Moonlight Mist Blurb:

Somewhere underneath a moonlit night lies an underworld that some may not believe exists.

The creatures of this alternate plain lurk beyond the mist.

Searching.

Hungry.

Craving for what they need.

Some may find it. Some might even curb that hunger. But a few will not.

Without knowing what it is they need to satisfy a primal need, they seek out something more. Something that will test their limits in search of something greater. Something powerful... Something everlasting.

I am a mother, pharmacist and author. I write fantasy, sci-fi, and paranormal romance. I love all things related to books and writing. I am a huge nerd who loves Star Wars, Star Trek, Lord of the Rings and Dr Who. I have to catch up on the new season no "spoilers" please. If you would like to learn more about me or my work please visit my page or my website.

COMMENTS

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nicola L Osguthorpe

3 months ago - Shared publicly

Faries, how exciting
I shared on my author site

Tricia Drammeh shared this via Google+

3 months ago - Shared publicly

Joe Bonadonna via Google+

3 months ago - Shared publicly

Today on #OurAuthorGang, fantasy author Rebecca Tran offers up an excerpt from her novel, Honor Bound.

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Joe Bonadonna

3 months ago - Shared publicly

Very nice post, Rebecca. I like that you went deep into the Celtic thing. I love the "other races," and your excerpt is wonderfully enticing.

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Rebecca Tran

3 months ago

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Thanks Joe, I think most people think of English folk lore when they think of fae but they have deep roots in Ireland and Scotland. I could have done a whole post just on Irish fairy lore.

Joe Bonadonna

3 months ago

+Rebecca Tran -- you're welcome. Yes, you're right. And so much of Celtic mythology can also be found in other countries and cultures further north. The Danes had elves, too, for example. I often think the Fae went into hiding or into another realm with the rise of Christianity, a theory I once read somewhere years ago.