Whoa - I've been gone all day; my new lady friend had a day off, and we made the most of it. Got a lot of catching up to do! First of all - the disclaimer. I wanted to let those who like the werewolf/vampire stuff know that this was something different, and to alert those who aren't horror fans to check it out. A little unwieldy, I know, but I felt it was necessary.
Ambrose: I'm honored, man. I know you're a tough critic, and I can see the skill and professionalism you bring to your own work. I'm humbled, and appreciate the fact that you think it's publishable. It's drawn partly from life in the sense that I'm a part time musician and have seen similar scenarios. Got another 20 years before I'm as old as Dan, though! I thought the insertion of the lyrics would give the tale some authenticity, and I appreciate Claire letting me use "I Tried to Warn You" as one of "Ali's" songs. Your comments are much appreciated.
'Ginnis: Kara, I'm truly flattered that you were thinking about the story after reading a preliminary draft. I'm proud of the fact that you thought the characterizations were great, because I was trying to emulate the top-notch characterization and spot-on dialogue you've achieved with your "Tinseltown" series. You set the bar pretty high with that one, hun, and I hope I came close. And I really do apologize for spoiling your literary crush on Dan
. Unfortunately, Dan and Ali's relationship is one of the main plot drivers, as you will see. As always, you know your comments are like gold to me.
Keplaz: Thanks for taking the time to read it, Kep, even if it isn't exactly your cup of tea. The fact that you can hear Arizona playing means I've done my job. BTW, they should sound kinda like the Eagles - a
lot like the Eagles, actually!
Nupur: You're embarrassing me, Nup! Glad you liked it, and glad you think it should be published. I need to finish the lyrics to "The Road That Lies Ahead." I kinda hear a tune for it, too.
ea_blue: Thanks, Eric. Bob Seger, eh? Pretty much the same era, similar music. Glad you thought that, because that's the "feel" I was aiming for. And Ali is a cutie, isn't she? She manages to be tough and vulnerable at the same time. Right now she's kind of reeling from the wonder of it all, but she'll soon see it's not all roses and cream.
xtremelady: Claire, I can't thank you enough for letting me use your lyrics to "I Tried to Warn You." I came across them again when I was editing your latest story, and I stopped dead in my tracks when I read it, because I realized they would be
perfect as one of Ali's songs. Must have been fate! Anyway, I wanted to have the bit about equalizing the guitar to sort of set an authentic tone. This is the kind of mundane stuff that goes on at a soundcheck, and it can drive you crazy!
Thanks for the comments.
Jimbalaya: Thanks, Jimbo. As far as repercussions for Ali, the title is "Fallen Angel." 'Nuff said!
Venomous Vixen: Bri, I'm glad you liked it. I'm trying to impart a feel that these guys (Dan and Gene) are looking back over almost 30 years of history. Oh, and don't worry - I haven't forsaken the "undead" completely!
Just trying not to be typecast! As always, you know how much your comments mean to me.
RENA HANDS: Glad you liked the "smartass" dialogue, RENA. I was trying to imply that Dan and Gene have always talked to each other like that - it's their way of showing affection for each other. As far as the Ali's part-Eurasian heritage goes, her almond-shaped eyes are very slightly slanted. Look at a picture of the beautiful Michelle Branch to get an idea of what I mean; Michelle is of mixed heritage, too. Oh, and a guitarist NEVER, EVER drops a guitar case deliberately!!Thanks for your comments - glad you like it.
Thanks again to everyone for taking the time to comment!
Rick
.