Shannon here: Candace West tells us all about her cat, Bowser. Comment or answer the question in this post to enter the drawing for a copy of her latest Historical Romance, Valley of Shadows. Winner’s choice of digital or print. Deadline: May 8th, 11:59 pm central time. Here’s Candace:
Every writer should have a mascot. Something that cheers their busy thoughts and fingers onward. I have one, and his name is Bowser.
He’s not a dog, nor is he the fire-breathing Bowser of the Mario games. My son did name him after the character, though. Rather than steal a princess, our Bowser is more likely to steal a nap whenever he gets a chance. He especially loves to steal my writing time. Often, while I’m in the middle of a scene, Bowser leaps onto the arm of my chair and nudges my arm with his furry, orange head.
Yes, Bowser is our spoiled but sweet tabby cat. Give him a ball, and he’s in heaven. Chasing and attacking his tail is a close second. I believe interrupting my story crafting is third. Sometimes he comes along at the right moment, when I’m needing a break. He’s a perceptive kitty.
Bowser also moseys into our classroom and flops down at my son’s feet, rolls over, and stretches his full length, effectively interrupting class. He may blink those innocent golden eyes, but he knows exactly what he’s doing.
Did I mention he’s the king of the house? His meows rattle the walls when he wants out. He bumps the screen door and yowls when he wants inside. His food bowl must NOT be next to his water bowl. And a fluffed pillow is much better than a flat one. When he approves, he rewards us with his deep purr and bestows the privilege of petting him. Recently, we bought a new sectional, and Bowser does not approve—not by a long shot. Oh well, a fella can’t have everything.
With all his peculiarities, Bowser is a sweetheart—mild and patient, rarely grumpy. He’s even sweet to the vet after an upsetting car ride.
Always ready for a cuddle, he’s just the dose of encouragement I need behind the keyboard.
About Candace: Candace West was born in the Mississippi delta to a young minister and his wife. She grew up in small-town Arkansas and graduated from the University of Arkansas at Monticello. At twelve years old, she wrote her first story, “Following Prairie River,” during a long car trip to Colorado. The writing spark has not dimmed since. She currently lives in Arkansas with her husband and their son along with two dogs and three bossy cats. Learn more & connect:
Candace’s Newletter & Blog Candace’s Facebook Candace’s Instagram
About the book – Valley of Shadows (Book 2 – Valley Creek Redemption – Can be read as a standalone title):
A shattered heart.
A wounded spirit.
A community in crisis.
Lorena Steen gave up on love years ago. She forgave her long-time estranged husband, but when circumstances bring her to the Ozark town of Valley Creek, she discovers forgiving is far from forgetting.
Haunted by his past acts of betrayal, Earl Steen struggles to grow his reclaimed faith and reinstate himself as an upstanding member of Valley Creek. He soon learns that while God’s grace is amazing, that of the small-town gossips is not.
When disaster strikes, the only logical solution is for Earl and Lorena to combine their musical talents in an effort to save the community. But even if they’re willing to work together, are they able to? Or will the shadows that descend upon Valley Creek reduce it to a ghost town?
Can’t wait for the drawing? Worried you won’t win? Interested in Candace’s other titles?
Get your copies now!
Lane Steen – Amazon Valley of Shadows – Amazon
A Star Will Rise: A Mosiac Christmas Anthology – Amazon
Question for Readers: What is your favorite thing about your fur baby? If you don’t have a pet, share something that always encourages you.
Come back April 30th for Kathleen Fuller!
My pet is no fur baby but he’s the most adorable little guy with his quills. Mr. Henry Houdini the Hedgie is a ball of cuteness and a terrible lover of escaping his home.
Awesome! I love it! He sounds like a lot of fun. And his name is perfect! Thank you for stopping by, Abigail!
I have a feather baby 😉 He is my working companion when I work from home – he provides entertainment. He can talk, sing, and make various sounds <3
I love birds! A friend of mine had a cockatoo, and he was hilarious. I’m glad you stopped by. Blessings!
I’m in love with Bowser, Candace. Orange is one of my favorite colors. I had an orange and white neutered Tom growing up. He looked just like Morris the Cat from the 9 Lives commercials with the exact same markings. So of course I named him Morris. Another favorite color is gray. I had a light gray with blue eyes growing up. In recent years, I’ve had two charcoal grays with grass green eyes. I had a calico in my teens, so I love them too. I’ve never had a siamese, but I’ve always thought they were pretty too.
Aww…Thank you! Bowser is a sweetheart, one of the best natured cats I’ve ever had. I have a soft spot for orange tabbies too. Thank you for having me!
I am a long time dog lover but like cats also. Unfortunately my husband doesn’t so we don’t have any.
Hi Vivian! We have two outdoor dogs, Honey and Samantha. They are very sweet, and Bowser thinks he owns them. I’m glad you came by!
I have a winner! Vivian Furbay won the drawing. I appreciate Candace for being my guest and everyone else for stopping by.