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The Valentine’s Day Post

February 14, 2022 ericab Blog - Random Tidbits - Real Talk 0 Comments

Obligitory Toast to Love

It’s Valentine’s Day! I’m sure you knew that already, though. You know your resident Smut Writer had to do a little Quickie for you to celebrate the day. It’s a bit broken off a story I never finished. It’s about a woman whose lover is dead. The lover asked his friend to take his place as the tradition of their people.

Did I mention the two dudes are dragons in human form and the main woman doesn’t know?

Anyway, I hope you enjoy it as always.

Other than that, I’m not sure what I’ll be doing today, especially since I’m writing this post in advance. I mean, other than working my day job. Mondays are the absolute worst.

Unfortunately, that doesn’t really give me a lot to talk about from my real life. That’s when I thought, I could always present my top 5 favorite romance movies I watch when I want to be swept off my feet for a couple of hours. If that’s not Valentine’s Day in the time of Covid, I don’t know what is.

My Top 5 Fav Romance Films

5. In Your Eyes (2014)

Now I’ve only watched this one once and it was a long time ago. I randomly came across it on Netflix one bored night long after Nate fell asleep.

From IMDb: Two seemingly unconnected souls from different corners of the United States make a telepathic bond that allows them to see, hear and feel the other’s experiences, creating a bond that apparently can’t be broken.

It gave me warm fuzzies. The only disappointing thing is it’s written by Joss Whedon, and he’s on the outs with everyone right now. Still, a lot of people worked hard on the film, so that shouldn’t stop someone from enjoying it. I mean, one asshole is just one asshole. Besides, the movie graced this world with a wonderful song by Twinbed called Trouble I’m In. Great song for writing a saucy, romantic sexy scene.

4. I Origins (2014)

I’m a sucker for past life stuff. Love it. I’m not sure how I’ve never written my own story about it.

From IMDb: A molecular biologist and his laboratory partner uncover evidence that may fundamentally change society as we know it.

The synopsis doesn’t really do it justice. It’s about finding a profound connection to someone, losing that love, and despite moving on, how those feelings can haunt you. Especially when the disconnect was sudden and you never really made peace with it. This one made me cry at the end.

3. Equals (2015)

This movie is beautifully sad with a great atmospheric soundtrack.

From IMDb: In an emotionless utopia, two people fall in love when they regain their feelings from a mysterious disease, causing tensions between them and their society.

Between this movie and The Great, Nicholas Hoult is one of my favorite Hollywood dudes. This was another movie I accidentally stumbled across late one night (it’s a pattern for me). He and Kristen Stewart really sold me on the forbidden romance thing. You could feel the anxiousness, frustration, and passion when they’re together. Good film to get you in the mood to write something a little depressing, but with twinges of hope.

2. Legend (1985)

I honestly don’t know if I’d really consider this a romance. It’s a fantasy film with romance, which is good enough for me.

From IMDb: A young man must stop the Lord of Darkness from destroying daylight and marrying the woman he loves.

So, this might be a problem, but Tim Curry was hot as Darkness. I don’t know what to tell you. I could be broken, but that’s ok. No shame. And let us not forget about the wonder that is Tangerine Dream’s soundtrack. I’ve written many scenes to Jack and Lily’s Theme. If I had to pick a favorite movie from childhood, this would be it.

1. Pride and Prejudice (2005)

Yes, I know the BBC mini-series is superior, but…I can’t help myself. I love this version to pieces.

From IMDB: Sparks fly when spirited Elizabeth Bennet meets single, rich, and proud Mr. Darcy. But Mr. Darcy reluctantly finds himself falling in love with a woman beneath his class. Can each overcome their own pride and prejudice?

I don’t even have any words. It was wonderful. I’ve watched it more times than I can count now. I will say that I would take either Colin Firth’s or Matthew MacFadyen’s Mr. Darcy ANY DAY. Too hot. Too, too hot.

Get Some of that VD Lovin Feeling

There are plenty of wonderful romances out there. Maybe you’re in the middle of your own. And, hey, if you are, tell me about it! I can always use inspiration. But, if you don’t have (or want) a romance of your own, I hope you’ll pop on one of these movies and it gives you the same amount of warm fuzzies as it does me.

Until later, hugs and kisses (and some other stuff, too)

I Have a PLAN!

February 7, 2022 ericab Blog - Real Talk - Updates 0 Comments

I Guess we can Call it a Plan…

I’ve been trying to come up with some ideas of things to blog about. I mean, I can talk and talk, but I should give making some sense a chance once in a while, amirite? While Googling around the Internets, I came across an intriguing blog post on Mixtus Media. It’s 100 NEW Blog Topics for Fiction Writers.

Now that sounds like something a girl can work with!

I’m not sure I’ll get to the whole 100, but as long as I try, I’ll have some content to pump out. More importantly, It will be a load of fun.

So many good ideas…I barely know where to start. I’m legit excited about it. Especially since I’m trying to write a few blog posts in advance on the weekends to keep me up to date for some time.

A Little Something to Get Started

15. Share the best writing advice you’ve ever gotten.

I’m going to have to say, the best piece of advice I’ve gotten is to JUST WRITE. Don’t stop. Just keep going. If a section of your story has you stuck, skip it and go to another part that will flow. The rest will come in time. And your first draft is just your first draft. It isn’t meant to be a masterpiece.

Also, write what you’re into. Write a book you’d like to read yourself if you weren’t the one writing it. Someone out there will enjoy it just as much as you do.

Just don’t worry. Make it fun. It should be a good time. Will it stress you out sometimes? HELL YES. But that’s okay. All writers go through THE STRUGGLE. You’re in good company.

Going Forward from Here

Right now, I’m dropping a post at least Mondays at 10:00 AM, EST. I hope you stop by then and find out a little more about what I’m working on!

In the meantime, catch a bit of my ongoing work, The Last Fae, here. It’s a little bit I particularly enjoyed writing that I hope you have fun with, too!

Until next time.

A Bit of E.D.Beale History

January 31, 2022 ericab Blog - Random Tidbits - Real Talk 0 Comments

Old Blog Stuff Getting a Second Go

I mentioned before I’ve been blogging off-and-on for YEARS now. A lot of it has been forgotten. Some things I almost want to bring back. I used to do this thing where I’d write a Letter to a Hot Guy on Sundays that part of me wouldn’t mind bringing back.

Anyway, while poking around on my OneDrive, I found an archive of some of my old works. I think I’ll post one of those every so often.

And Today is THE DAY

Let me start off by saying I’m a huge Star Trek geek. My one and only tattoo (so far) is of the Starfleet insignia on my upper back. It was part of my whole “might as well have a mid-life crisis” phase. It looks great, though I’m told I overspent on it. Ah well. In these hard times, I’m okay with dishing out a little extra while I have it. People gotta eat.

Anyway, I was beyond excited for the 2009 Star Trek when it came out.

Told you, been blogging for a minute, now. Still, having fun when I do it, so why the hell not?

After the movie, this happened. Remember, this is 2009 Erica, not 2022 Erica. There is Star Trek fanny fiction included. Please forgive the errors!

Took a Pic; Felt Cute

January 21, 2022 ericab Blog - Random Tidbits - Real Talk 0 Comments

…That’s it. Just felt cute

Okay, for the sake of my SEO, I guess I’ll need to write something to go along with this. Can’t promise you it will be great.

So last year, my birthday (which was yesterday, btw) was at the beginning of Covid. Or maybe I should say the beginning of it becoming REALLY BAD.

It was the BIG 40. I had wanted to throw a crazy 80s themed party. I’m not sure why I’m so fixated on the 80s. The 90s were my teen years. You’d think I’d go for that. But not this chick. She’s all hair bands and old-school hip-hop.

Entertaining Yourself

I made the best of it as I could. Had some good food. Drank a bit. After a few, I decided that I could still be 80s-tastic. I threw on some make-up in the style of those times and took a few pics.

They turned out pretty great. At least I think so. It was a hit with my friends, so it wasn’t so bad.

Same Shit, Different Year

This year I hit the same wall. Covid is still a thing and, despite being vaxxed, I’m not all for going out in a crowd right now. Any plans I wanted to make, I decided I could do them at a later date when things calm down a bit.

I’m not going to say I’m not bummed out about it. I am. But, luckily, Nate made the day great for me. He made me tacos, gave me booze, fed me cake, and let me control the TV for almost the whole day. It was nice and relaxing.

Only one thing was missing: Cute Pics.

I didn’t have the energy for it yesterday, but today I got dolled up and did a mini-photo shoot. The pics turned out really nice. I think. If nothing else, I’m thinking I don’t look like I’m in my 40s in these pics. NOTHING WRONG WITH THAT, AMIRITE?

The pic at the beginning was me having the last little bit of birthday cake. I had to replenish myself! Oddly, I’m most proud of that one!

Take THAT SEO! I made it past 300 Words…I think….

Anyway, I’ve been piddling around with some ideas of stories. In a few days, I’m planning to post an excerpt from The Last Fae, so be on the lookout. Other than that, I’ve started tinkering with a new story idea. I hear reverse harems are a big thing in erotica right now, which has caused a certain spark in my brain. I ran it past a friend of mine and she thinks I should go for it. I very well might! More to come on that in the near future as well. Check back soon, friend!

Here’s to Year 41

January 20, 2022 ericab Blog - Real Talk - Updates 0 Comments

In Which a Smut Writer Grows Older

IT’S MY BIRTHDAY!! </Grandmaster> | ^{Image by Kacumen from Pixabay}

Today is my 41st birthday. I know what you’re thinking: girlfriend looks good for her age! Well, thank you so much. I’m pleased you think so.

At any rate, as my birthday approached, I realized something was missing. You know, other than that big Powerball payout I didn’t win. I will not lie. I’m still pretty bitter about it. I had plans for that money!

In the last few days, I’ve started planning for my next moves. During that time, I wound up having to take a peek at this poor, neglected blog. I decided the old girl needed more security, so I got to that (CloudFlare is pretty awesome and I knew nothing about it!). And then…in the doing, I thought I broke my blog.

Boy was I pissed with myself.

Luckily, it was just a delay of some sort, and everything was right as rain. After breathing a huge sigh of relief, I read my blog out of gratitude to the Internet Overlords Above.

I thought to myself, this stuff isn’t so bad. In fact, I found it funny and charming, if I do say so myself. Then I thought, why in the world did I stop blogging.

Lack of time? Exhaustion? Laziness? Lack of ideas? If I had to hazard a guess, I’d say it’s all three.

But, you know, I really miss this side of my life. I enjoy writing, even if no one else is reading. It gives me a sense of purpose I can’t say I have during most of the day. More than anything, this is what I want to be doing. Just writing this little blurb is filling me with life and light.

My birthday will be a new beginning

I only got a quite few on my list of 40 Things to Do While I’m 40 done. The biggest one is I actually finished The Last Fae. It’s done. Still in need of edits. But it’s done.

For 41, there are only two things I want to do: blog and vlog. Little things that will make a big impact on my creative spirit and I desperately need it. I can’t say I’ll stick to a schedule, but my goal for right now is once a week. I’m ready to live what I think would be my best life. And it doesn’t matter if I’m the only one reading it! Hey, I’m people, too!

So check back every now and again. I have some stories to tell you.

(BTW: I’m working on a Quickie I’m going to call “Birthday Stuff.” It might be up later today!)

UPDATE: Birthday Stuff is LIVE

Four Weeks of Smut Writer

June 30, 2020 ericab Blog - Real Talk 0 Comments

Or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and to Write from my Inner Gutter

I can’t believe it’s been four weeks since I started my second attempt at adopting my Smut Writer persona. Honestly, I had given up on myself about it. Not sure why. Insecurity? Eh, it’s most likely the #1 reason.

But, despite that insecurity, I’ve done it. I pushed myself and now I’m proud to say I’ve published four shorts stories. It’s a wonderful feeling to say I’ve done something I’ve dreamed about for years.

Full disclosure: I did have one of my stories published before, but it was so long ago now. And that was before Smut Writer. It needed a little razzle-dazzle, so I fixed it up and released it.

I’m not going to lie, it’s been a challenge. I didn’t know a lot of the self-publishing information when I got started. If you’re looking to unleash your inner-Smut Writer, here are a few things I learned in my travels.

Getting Revved Up

Reddit can be a dumpster fire depending on where you’re looking. Luckily, there are still some great spaces. R/eroticauthors is ESSENTIAL READING. Their FAQ alone should be your holy grail for getting your erotica or romance writing grove on. I haven’t posted there yet (I’m shy…), but the community seems very kind.

The Write Stuff: Self-Editing Edition

Since I’m doing this for fun instead of profit (though I did manage to make a few dimes off of my free books), I’ve been trying my best to self-edit. Allegedly, erotica readers are a little more forgiving.

I’ve tried a few of the editing programs available out there. Here how I feel about them:

Autocrit: Gave the free trial a shot. It had a lot of stats and the interface wasn’t too hard to use. The monthly cost isn’t horrible if you’re really planning to dive into writing. The turn off for me was that you had to ask to end your trial. Like chatting with someone to ask. That’s not cool.

Grammarly: It’s fine for a free app. I didn’t like it for my actual story writing. However, for blogging it’s been essential.

Hemmingway: This one was good. You can’t do a whole lot at once on the web version, but the app makes it easy to find your writing’s flaws.

Prowritingaid: End the end, I went with this one. The toolbar in MS Word and the ease of use won me over. Definitely worth the $20 a month, for sure.

Pixabay, I Choose You!

Turns out, creating the covers for my stories is my favorite part of the process. I can’t claim to have any real talent. However, seeing the story in “lights,” even due to my own creation, made my work feel real.

Pixabay is the place to find good pics (though I wouldn’t kick Morguefile out of bed). I haven’t not found the right pics to do the job so far. Paired with GIMP, the best free image editor ever (IMO), you can easily come up with a cover. Extra bonus, get yourself some free for commercial use fonts at Just make it look like something you’d want to pick up to read yourself!

Smashy-Smashy vs The ‘Zon KDP

So far I’ve released stories on both Smashwords and Amazon KDP. Both are great platforms. However, if I had to pick between the two, it would be the ‘Zon. Smashwords is good, but getting your story properly uploaded is a chore. Hell, you have to upload it as a .doc file instead of .docx. How dare you? Also, it takes a lot of tinkering to get the file perfect for Premium status on Smashwords.

The biggest bonus in Smashwords (sidenote: I almost wrote Smashmouth EVERY TIME) is posting your story happens quicker.

‘Zon’s biggest bonus is enrolling in Kindle Direct. Money for page reads on Kindle Unlimited? Sign me up!

Despite my bias, I will be going between the two platforms for the three series of stories I’m working on: Knightcrest and Lady of the Wood on Smashy; Her Majesty’s Courtesan on KDP.

Click here for all my recent short story releases!

Burnout is a BEAST

Big lesson I’ve learned: pace yourself. Writing is a marathon, not a race. The push to get a new story out every week has given me drive, but also wiped my brain. Happy I gave it a shot, though. Sit back and enjoy the scenery. Let that story you’re working on blossom with time. No rush required.

I’m going to give a every two-week story drop a shot. I feel like that will be more manageable for a lady with a day job. Next up will be Delighted Bite: Tales from Knightcrest II.

Erica Beale, Smut Writer

It has been great to feel so productive. Four stories and still going strong. I’m glad I gave me a chance. Nothing may ever come of it, but at least I did it. Be sure to check back soon for more of my sweet sensual goodies, cuz a girl is in the mood.

My Sidetracked Life

June 16, 2020 ericab Blog - Real Talk 0 Comments

Or: Mass Effect 2 is a Heinous Dark Goddess

A game sidetracked me from my plan. It’s a problem.

I had every intention of publishing a new story every Tuesday. At least for this month while I’m furloughed one day a week. It seemed like the perfect time. And until now, it worked out nicely.

Then ME2 went on sale in the Microsoft Store.

Shit.

Though, to be honest, I gave ME1 a try and gave it a pass. I thought it would be the perfect game for me. Hell, it’s basically Dragon Age in space.

**I’m so fucking nice, I can barely stand myself**

But, I couldn’t get into it. I tried. More than once, even. I’d figured maybe the series wasn’t for me.

A few months ago someone on my FB friends list said that I should skip it and just head on to two. Well, he’s not just someone. He’s kind of my brother-in-law/married to my little sister from another family. Cool guy. Very smart and talented.

You see how I get sidetracked? This is how shit goes wrong.

Anyway, since the game was a steal (and ME3, mind you), I decided to give it a whirl.

Goodbye, fucking life.

Yeah, the game sucked me in. A girl has a universe to save. No time for writing.

This is not the attitude I should have.

But there it is.

Seriously, I’m grumbling, but the game is great. Loads better than the first one. That game had more clunkiness than I’m ready to deal with. I’m sad that I’m just jumping on board the train so I missed out on all the fun.

And Garrus. Yes, my wonderful Turian love god, have your way with me. Any day. Any hour. Just stop calibrating the ship’s guns, sweet love, and join me…

Sidetracked, again.

Anyway, as I mentioned in my last post, I’m in the process of editing Decontamination. I could probably get that baby out by the end of the week if I avoid the Effect for at least working hours tomorrow.

WISH ME LUCK.

I need it.

Loving Me, Loving You

June 12, 2020 ericab Blog - Real Talk 0 Comments

Happy Loving Day 2020!

Loving Day is an annual celebration held on June 12, the anniversary of the 1967 United States Supreme Court decision Loving v. Virginia which struck down all anti-miscegenation laws remaining in sixteen U.S. states

To imagine there was a time where my husband and I couldn’t legally be married in the United States. I wish I could say our country was still on the path of growth. I dunno, maybe it is? It seems like people are starting to listen to each other. And hopefully, listening will lead to better days.

Sometimes I feel like my erotic stories, which often involve mixed-race couples, are my way of trying to push for change. The story I’m working on now, Decontamination, deals with one character’s constant oppression due to the fact he is a human-alien hybrid.

If that sounds familiar to you, it’s because I had the story published before. I’m zhuzhing it up a bit and re-releasing it into the wilds of Amazon. Smashwords is my jam, but I want to see how KDP works. Maybe I could make a dollar off of it! You never know.

But, anyway, I’m grateful to the Lovings for going the distance and making it possible for couples like me and Nate to live happily. I look forward to the day where no one feels like they aren’t able to love those they do!

Other Loving Lovers?

Who else out there is celebrating Loving Day? I’d love to hear some stories. The crazier the better, if you ask me! Comment or send me a message. I’m all ears. Well, I guess eyes, considering…

In case you’re curious, my husband and I met on a Transformers website many moons ago. I was so girly he suspected I was a boy. Nope! All lady all the time. We got married in 2006 and are still going strong today.

Decluttering My Brain Space

June 9, 2020 ericab Blog - Real Talk 1 Comment

A Written Attempt at Regaining Personal Sanity

It’s been weeks since the last time I felt “OK.” I wouldn’t say I’m doing terrible or close to breaking down, but I haven’t been “OK.” Too much has been going on. My focus is zapped. My happiness has tanked.

Don’t get me wrong, I’ve had spurts of happiness. Ultimately, my life isn’t bad. I’m still working (from home even!). My husband and I get along well so we’re actually enjoy being trapped with each other. Home is a haven where I can routinely have fun and explore creative pursuits. I have two cats to keep me entertained when they’re not trying to trip me down the stairs. I have a good life. I am very lucky.

Yet, things are weighing heavily on me. I mean, I’m aware that it’s doing that to everyone right now, but I haven’t really expressed my personal feelings. Well, to Nate, but otherwise I typically keep my thoughts guarded. Nothing like a good old defense mechanism.

But, this morning, as I toil through work, I thought to myself “you have a blog! GET. TO. WRITING.” Now I’m here. The more I think about it, I realize how much easier it is to organize a fictional tale than it is to organize my actual thoughts and feelings.

It won’t stop me from trying.

Venting into the Chaos

I want to start off by saying, I like people. All kinds of people. I like learning about different cultures. I try to see the best in everyone, even if no one else wants to.

Is that cliche as hell? Yeah, probably. Who doesn’t, right? Everyone says that shit.

Anyway, recently, I find myself not liking people as much, even the ones I love. Ugly is being flung around. I’m not a fan. No one has room to enlighten themselves. They’re right and that’s it. They don’t want to listen. I know it’s always been that way, but it’s getting to me.

Is it so hard to try to learn from each other’s experiences? Isn’t it worthwhile making a point without cutting someone else down? Even if you don’t agree with someone, it’s not hard to be civil. If we can’t do that, how in the hell is anything supposed to change? How are we supposed to grow as a society?

Just take the moment to be kind. Yeah, not everyone deserves your kindness for sure, but show them a better way. It doesn’t cost you anything. They’re not going to remember the points (valid or otherwise) if you start the conversation by treating them like shit. There’s nothing to gain there.

Was now the Write Time?

I think I picked a really bad time to start writing. There’s too much going on and I highly doubt many will be interested in dark erotica fictions of any sort.

It’s unfair really. I FINALLY have the time now that our office is furloughed one day a week. I’ve put in some writing work. By the time I put this up, I would have self-published two stories on Smashwords (Bait and Awakening) and I’m working on the next thing.

Honestly, I don’t expect it to amount to anything. I’m more doing it for my own peace of mind, really. The books are free, so I’m not even looking for a profit.

The real problem is I feel super silly for doing it NOW. I should be something important. Or I feel like I should be, anyway.

Call Center Blues

I’m starting to suck at my job. I really am. My quality has gone down. Some patients get it, which is great. Some patients have forgotten we’re real people on the other end of the phone. And they seem to have forgotten our worlds have been turned upside down.

Healthcare is a beast. Please be kind to those in the field. We have a lot going on. Call center staff is on the front line, too, even if you don’t see us. A lot of responsibility has been doled out to us. We want to work with you, so please don’t work against us.

We can only do the best we can.

And it sucks when you make us cry. Yeah, that happened to me today. 10/10 would not recommend.

The end of thought

These are the things that really bother me at the moment. I just needed to get them out of my head so I can focus on my next story. The weight has been barely tolerable and I’d prefer not to break completely under the pressure. And even if no one sees this, at least it’s outside my headspace. But, if you are reading, thank you, friend. Until the next time we meet!

Where Have I Been…?

June 1, 2020 ericab Blog - Real Talk 0 Comments

Time to get back in that saddle

I’ll admit it’s been some time since I’ve posted on my blog. Sometimes life just kind of gets in the way. What can you do? Here’s a brief rundown of what’s been going on over the last few months.

I managed to beat NaNoWriMo for 2019. That shit was awesome. The pride I felt at finishing 50,000 words in a single month on a story I’ve been dreaming on for years…Yeah, that was a rush. Unfortunately, I kind of lost steam with the holidays rolling in.
I had surgery in January. It was supposed to be life-changing (in a good way), but as it turned out, the doctor didn’t pay attention to my needs at the consultation and wound up giving me the wrong surgery. I’m still mad.
Later that month, and the day before my birthday, my grandma died. Her loss hit me hard. I couldn’t focus on my writing for a long time.
The corona. I haven’t gotten it so far. I’m hoping things stay that way. Unfortunately, I take an immunosuppressant, so I spend a lot of time anxious.
I was lucky enough to have a job that didn’t really get affected, but there have been a lot of changes, so it’s been way more challenging (and stressful).

It’s been a lot to deal with. I find myself in the dumps more often than not, which really sucks. Adding all the shit that’s going on in the US has made the feeling worse. It’s not fun breaking down in tears to your husband because you’re frustrated about the world. He took it in stride! Still, I feel bad about it.

Anyway, I’ve decided to try blogging again as a way of maybe offsetting the frustrations. Now that I’ll be furloughed one day a week for June, I have more opportunities to drown myself in writing. Plus, I’m feeling bolder (just a bit), so I’m branching out.

The plan now is to release one of my novelettes on Smashwords. Bait due to release on 6/2. It’s been quite a ride trying to figure out how to pull this off. Lurking on r/eroticauthors has been essential reading! Do I expect anything to come out of self-publishing an erotic story? Not at all. But the fact that I’m taking the risk is EVERYTHING.

So, if you want a fun dark urban fantasy story to read, Bait will be available soon. You set the price (or none at all). I’m doing this for personal enjoyment and entertainment. Also, Smut Writer on Facebook still gets several likes a day, though I haven’t done anything with it. It’s weird, but fun. I guess now is a good time to be naughty? We’ll see!

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