Allison Martin's Blog: Allie's Updates

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I put books on hold all the time at my library. Physical books, ebooks, and audiobooks. I pay attention to where I am in line and how many copies of the books are available. 

But!

Every. Damn. time. 

They all come in at once. And now I’m drowning in books I really want to read, and on the clock to read them…

Sometimes I think being a mood reader is an extreme sport!

4 of them read, 9 more to go!

Wish me luck.

If so, I’ve got the ideal draw for you!

Some amazing authors have come together to bring you this giveaway, perfect for mood readers.

1 lucky winner will receive a paperback copy of everything listed below. This is open to US readers only..

 WildFire and Of Dust and Flame by Allison Martin 
 Always Yours by AJ Ranney
 Play Action Fake by Kameron Claire
 Surprised by Love: The Surprise Shifters Series Complete Collection by Krysta Fox
 Ruthless Oath by Ella Jade
 Hers to Rule by Coral A. Moore
 This is Meant to Be by Juliet McKinley
 Dangerously Yours by Anise Storm
 Flour, Sugar and a Tiffany Ring by Shannon Morse
 Awaken the Highland Warrior by Anita Clenney
 The Assassin’s Daughter by Shana Vernon
 The Billionaire’s Secret by Ashley Zakrzewski

Enter Here!

This is a very easy question to answer but also difficult to explain.

Main reason I love every book I read is because I don’t read books I don’t like.

The more complicated version is that it comes down to 5 things that I am about to poorly illustrate.

I DNF books super fast. I’ve been reading my whole life and have also written over 20 novels (not all of which have seen the light of day), so I can tell almost immediately if I’m not going to like a book. Sometimes I don’t make it past the first sentence before I NOPE that shit to the second hand book store.I’m like a golden retriever dressed up in a black cat costume. I look kinda mean but I love everyone and everything. I’m very empathic so it’s pretty easy for me to understand why characters behave in ways that don’t serve them even if I would have done different. Let people be who they are and see if they grow along the way. I don’t allow myself to be ‘influenced’. I take recommendations from people and creators I trust. It does not take me long to know if a creator and I have similar vibes. But in the same breath, if a creator liked a book I didn’t I don’t write them off either. I have pretty developed critical thinking skills and no interest to fit in.I read only 1 and 2 star reviews. I know, it sounds pretty backward, but I love shadow work and facing inner demons, so I know that if people are going off on a rant about a book, there’s a good chance I like what they hate. Especially if it’s about a FMC being ‘insufferable’. I love complex women. I support women’s wrongs. I can’t stand purity culture. Sign me up to women behaving badly! I’m a mood reader, so if I’m in the mood for something there’s a high chance I’m going to love it. I ate up every Emily Henry book in like a month because I was down bad for some rom com but also SUUUPER picky (I DNFd 12 books that month. TWELVE) so it was more that I was in the mood for the author and not the genre. Currently, I have THREE dark academia books on the go and am devouring them because that’s what I’m in the mood for.

Bonus reason is that hating things takes up a lot of energy, and I’m too lazy for that shit.

If I think a book is problematic I don’t platform it and instead support marginalized authors with my dollar bills, because my anxiety doesn’t do loud activism.

If I don’t like a book, I DNF it and never give it another thought because I’m already knee deep in a new story I love.

The biggest thing that keeps me on the path to banger reads is the acceptance of my own mortality. I literally don’t have time to waste on things that poison my heart with hate.

Current Reads:

Blood Over Bright Haven – ML Wang

Immortal Dark – Tigest Girma

Relistening to Legendborn – Tracy Deonn

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Tomorrow’s full moon is the perfect time to reflect, recharge, and—if you’re a writer—draw inspiration from the heightened emotions and mystical energy it brings. The moon has long been a symbol of love, fate, and transformation, making it a perfect muse for writing romance. Whether you’re crafting a swoony love story or a steamy slow burn, here are some full moon-inspired romance tropes to fuel your creativity.

Secrets Revealed

The full moon is all about illumination—both literally and figuratively. In romance, this could be a moment where a long-kept secret is exposed. Maybe one character confesses their love, an old letter is found, or a hidden truth about their past comes to light. This trope is packed with tension and emotional payoff, making it a great plot twist!

The Love Hypothesis by Ali Hazelwood – A fake-dating setup leads to unexpected confessions under emotional duress.
10 Things I Hate About You – The truth about Patrick’s initial deal to date Kat comes to light, leading to an emotional climax.

Fated Love / Soulmates

Many cultures associate the full moon with destiny. It’s the perfect backdrop for lovers who are inexplicably drawn to each other. Maybe they keep running into each other every full moon, or perhaps the night sky acts as a cosmic sign that they were meant to be together. This trope works beautifully in both contemporary and fantasy romance!

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern – Celia and Marco are bound by magic, their fates intertwined by forces beyond their control.
Serendipity – A couple meets by chance, and fate keeps bringing them together on nights with magical, moonlit energy.

Moonlit Confessions

There’s something inherently romantic about a late-night heart-to-heart under a glowing moon. A couple could sneak away from a party, take a moonlit walk on the beach, or meet on a rooftop where emotions run high. The moonlight softens their defenses, making this the perfect setting for confessions of love (or lust!).

People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry – A moment under the stars leads to a vulnerable, long-overdue confession.
Pride & Prejudice (2005) – Darcy’s rain-soaked confession (okay, not moonlit, but it has that emotional intensity).

Heightened Emotions & Uncontrollable Passion

The full moon is known for intensifying feelings, which makes for electric romance scenes. Maybe it’s the night when a couple gives in to their undeniable attraction, or a seemingly casual relationship suddenly becomes much more. This trope can add an irresistible tension to any romance plot.

The Spanish Love Deception by Elena Armas – A slow-burn romance where tension and passion build until the characters can no longer resist.
Atonement – That library scene is the epitome of uncontrollable passion and longing.

Shifter & Paranormal Romance

Of course, we can’t talk about the full moon without mentioning werewolves and other supernatural elements! Whether your character literally transforms or simply undergoes a personal metamorphosis, the full moon is the perfect time for major shifts in relationships, desires, and self-discovery.

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater – A werewolf romance where the changing seasons control their fate.
Underworld – A vampire-werewolf romance filled with transformation and forbidden love.

Wishing on the Moon

A lonely heart gazing up at the full moon and making a wish is a classic setup for a romance story. Maybe they wish for love without realizing it’s right in front of them, or perhaps their wish sets off a chain of events that leads them to their perfect match. This trope is full of hope, longing, and a little bit of magic.

The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab – A woman makes a wish that grants her immortality, but it comes with a cost.
Practical Magic – A childhood wish for love has long-term magical consequences.

The Tide Brings Them Together

The moon controls the tides, so why not let it control fate? A romance set near the ocean could use this natural force as a metaphor for love—uncontrollable, rhythmic, and sometimes overwhelming. Two lovers could meet because of a high tide event, a beachside festival, or even while chasing the waves.

Beach Read by Emily Henry – A summer by the water helps two authors work through their emotions and find love.
Message in a Bottle – The ocean itself becomes a force pulling two lovers together.

Cosmic Connection

Some lovers are simply written in the stars. Maybe your characters always seem to find each other on full moon nights, no matter where they are. Or perhaps they share an unexplainable connection that deepens when the moon is at its brightest. This trope works wonderfully for slow-burn romances with an element of serendipity.

Every Summer After by Carley Fortune – A romance spanning years, with fate constantly pulling them back to each other.
La La Land – A love story full of missed chances and fate-driven moments under the stars.

Using Full Moon Energy in Your Writing Process

Beyond inspiring story ideas, the full moon can be a great time to set creative intentions. Here are a few ways to use the energy of the full moon to fuel your writing:

Reflect on Your Characters – What emotional truths are they avoiding? What needs to be revealed?

Journaling for Clarity – Use the full moon as an opportunity to write down what you want to achieve in your current project.

Release Writing Doubts – Let go of perfectionism and self-doubt. The full moon is about embracing your power, and that includes your voice as a storyteller.

The full moon is a powerful symbol of transformation, clarity, and fate—making it the perfect source of inspiration for romance writers. Whether you’re crafting a swoon-worthy love story or just looking for creative energy, embrace the moon’s magic and let it light the way.

Which full moon romance trope is your favorite? Drop a comment below!

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Being a healthy author can feel like juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle. Writing, family, health, and marketing all demand time and energy, and no one really gives you a manual on how to keep it all in the air. If you’re in the same boat, let me share a few things I’ve learned about navigating this tricky balancing act.

Start with Health

It sounds obvious, but prioritizing your health makes everything else easier. When I’m well-rested, well-nourished, and have taken time to move my body, I’m sharper and more creative. Writing flows better, marketing feels less like pulling teeth, and I’m more present for my family. On days I skip those basics? It all starts to unravel. This doesn’t mean you have to spend hours meal-prepping or training for a marathon. Find what works for you—whether it’s a daily walk, ten minutes of yoga, or sneaking veggies into your pasta—and stick with it. When you inevitably slip, which we all do, just get back to it and start again.

The Writing Comes First

As an author, writing should always be the top priority. Without the book, there’s nothing to market. That said, finding writing time isn’t easy when life pulls you in a million directions. For me, it’s about carving out protected time—even if it’s just an hour—and treating it as sacred. I struggle in this area but I’m working on setting clear boundaries with family and friends during that time, and I’ve learned to silence my inner critic to get the words down. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be written.

Family Needs Flexibility

Balancing family responsibilities is a moving target. Some weeks, I have the bandwidth to make Pinterest-worthy meals, enjoy a clean home and a happy kid. Other weeks, we are living on Ramen in a pile of unfolded laundry. And that’s okay. I’ve learned that being present doesn’t mean being perfect. It’s about showing up when it matters most and being honest about when you need help.

Marketing Without Burnout

Marketing is often the hardest part for authors. It’s time-consuming, draining, and can feel like shouting into the void. What helps me is focusing on what feels authentic. For example, I’ve learned I’m happiest connecting directly with readers through email newsletters and blog chats like this one. Social media is fine, but it’s not my main priority because it’s not where my ideal audience lives. Do your research and pick one or two marketing strategies that align with your strengths and let the rest go.

The Myth of Perfect Balance

The truth is, balance doesn’t mean giving equal attention to everything all the time. I like to think of it more as blending instead of balancing. Some seasons are writing-heavy, while others require more focus on family or health. And depending on where you are in your life, your blend will look different and you have to be flexible enough to adjust when you need to. Instead of striving for perfection, aim for harmony.

Give yourself grace, and remember why you’re doing this in the first place.

If you’re an author trying to juggle it all, know this: You’re not alone. It’s messy, but it’s also rewarding. Take care of yourself, write the words, and trust that the rest will fall into place—one step at a time.

Heart-pounding romance and suspense in this small-town family saga.

So much advice centres on how many words are written, or scene cards are created, or outline completed. Sit down and write.

But what if you don’t work like that? What if you hate outlining or you can’t write everyday? Then what?

Are you still a writer? Are you still writing?

Yes. Absolutely.

A few years ago, whenever I would take my daughter to the pool she would cling to me. There was no way this kid was letting go, let alone swim on her own. We were sure that she would refuse to learn forever, but then the most interesting thing happened. We were at a pool and she said Mom watch me! She then jumped into the pool and swam to me.

I learned something very important about my kid that day. She does most of her learning inside her head. She watches, thinks, daydreams, and imagines herself doing things before she will actually do them.

She may have been refusing to swim, but she was paying attention. She was watching and listening and when she felt comfortable she would jump in and do it.

When I started thinking more about this way of learning so that I could best support her, I realized that she gets it from me. This is exactly what I do, but I’d never let myself lean into my own learning style.

A comment I get a lot is how fast I write. Most of the books I write are done within a few weeks, but what people don’t see is how long it takes me to feel comfortable enough with the story to jump in and start typing.

It took me over seven years to start writing the Stryker Brothers series. I’ve been working on my fantasy for over ten years, just now starting to write it. I spend a lot of time pondering different storylines, imagining my characters in multiple different scenarios, and daydreaming about scenes while listening to music that reminds me of the tone of the book.

But don’t let that discourage you, if you are an internal plotter you don’t have to take years like me. All I want for you is to understand that staring at a wall, daydreaming, drawing, imagining, listening to music, and thinking about your story are all things that will help you feel ready to tackle the actual word part of writing.

If you can’t write everyday but you spent some time pondering out a plot hole or thinking about how to make your character more three dimensional then you are writing.

A short word of warning: thinking about writing can be a procrastination tool. Shaming yourself for not writing also isn’t helpful. So be sure to keep your thoughts centred on your plot, your setting, your characters, or something that will help you find the right words for your book.

P. S. This is the worlds most visually boring blog post because I’m writing it on my phone from the balcony on my family holiday where I’m spending copious amounts of time thinking about my next novel but I haven’t written a single word. Other than these ones I suppose.

Ever dream of escaping to a small town where romance and suspense collide? Then I’ve got exciting news for you! Over the holidays, Wildfire, the first book in my Stryker Brother series, is just 99¢ across all major retailers thanks to a BookBub Featured Deal.

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Set in the picturesque fictional town of Raston, British Columbia, WILDFIRE introduces you to Xan and Briggs, who find themselves entangled in secrets, danger, and a romance worth fighting for. It’s a story full of heart, twists, and the kind of small-town charm and family drama that makes you want to stay forever.

Here’s what readers are saying:

“Okay, I think we’re sleeping on this book. If you like Devney Perry, those are the exact vibes I got in this book.” – 5 star review“…a story of lies, betrayal, love and drama that had an incredibly intense emotional impact on me.” – 4 star review“Briggs and Xan feel like magic on the page together and with family difficulties and a dark subplot, this story gives romance readers a taste of everything: heart, heat, love not just between the main characters but between them and their complicated and realistic family relationships.” – 5 star review

Readers have compared the STRYKER BROTHERS to books by Devney Perry and Catherine Cowles which blows my mind and makes me want to weep with gratitude.

Although if you ask my nine year old, most things make me want to weep (she would say with a preteen roll of her eyes…)

Whether you’re new to the series or just love a great deal, this is the perfect chance to dive into Raston and see why readers can’t stop turning the pages. And the best part? If you love WILDFIRE, there are two more books in the series waiting for you to devour. Grab the whole set for $5!

WILDFIRE is available for 99¢ for the holidays, so don’t wait! Click here to grab your copy.

Tropes include:

Second chanceSecret baby (child is 9 in the story, see above my experience with whip-smart preteens…)Single motherWildfire fighterStar-crossed loversFamily secretsCinnamon roll hero struggling with addictionMen in therapy (I’m not sure if it’s a trope but it should be!)Guarded Heroine fleeing a stalker

Already a fan of WILDFIRE? Share this deal with friends or family who need their next great read. And if you’re ready for more, Books 2 and 3 are also discounted and ready to take you even deeper into the heart of the Stryker family.

Thank you for being part of this journey. I can’t wait to hear what you think!

Happy reading,

When I get stressed I design book covers. I have alternate covers for almost all of my books and over the last week I’ve been messing around with Amazon Ads and decided to run an experiment.

The issues I’ve always had with the Strykers is that these boys don’t want to stay in their box. It’s sort of Romantic Suspense, sort of contemporary small town romance, and a touch of general (or women’s) fiction…

I’ve kept the original covers for the paperbacks as most folks these days like more discreet paperbacks, plus I love them and couldn’t bear getting rid of them completely.

But my experiment is leaning a bit more into the heartfelt emotional romance side of the series.

There is also another secret reason I changed the covers and a plan for this series moving forward, but you have to be an A-List Subscriber to find out.

I’ve been planning multiple series of Romantic Comedy novels about witchy-artsy girls who fall for hockey boys, and three best friends who ditch love to open a bookshop together, and a network of internet influencers who decide to get back at their exes…

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All nonsensical sexy fun, complete with outlandish plots, trending tropes, and signature Allie-esque characters who have real flaws and learn tough lessons about what it means to be unapologetically themselves.

So, I decided to create a whole-ass town in the rugged north wilderness (think like Alaska/Canada North) where all these characters are going to live and work and fall in love. That town is called Everlake, and you can already take a visit!

The Longest Night is available here and it is a free prequel short story that follows Maeve, a tarot reading hockey-hating illustrator who is back home for the holidays after she catches her boyfriend cheating, and not feeling very festive. Her entire family revolves around hockey: Her dad used to be the Athletic Director, her older brother is the assistant coach, her sister is the team’s physiotherapist and her younger brother is one of the best players on the team. And her mother? Every year, she throws the best Christmas party for everyone who is anyone in Everlake Athletics.

This includes her younger brother’s obnoxious best friend and teammate, Wyatt who takes great pleasure in driving Maeve nuts. But when all six foot four inches of him shows up she is suddenly seeing his charming grin, playful eyes, and ridiculously flirty behaviour in an entirely different light.

Maybe what she truly needs to get over her ex and survive a hockey-filled Christmas party is a distraction.

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Wyatt

I pull into the driveway of Jake’s parents’ place and jump out of the car, meeting him in the crisp, cold air. Night falls around Everlake fast at this time of year and the sky is a midnight blue already with hints of light behind the massive mountain range around town.

I blink at all the colours dotting almost every inch of the house and yard. Mrs. Bexley is usually a little subtler in her holiday obsessions, and I look at Jake with a raised eyebrow.

“Don’t ask.” He grunts as I crane my neck to see a ginormous Santa and a sleigh on the roof.

“How’s the real Santa going to fit up there now?” I point, and Jake punches me in the chest. I let out a sound somewhere between a huff and a laugh, following him inside.

The second I step in it’s like being transported into another world. A horror show in my opinion but each to their own I suppose. I shake the snow from my hair and push the strands from my face.

After my eyes adjust, they snap right to Maeve in tight leggings and a loose sweater falling off her shoulder to expose the twisting tattoos that snake over her pale skin. Her shoulder slopes up to her slender neck and the sharp angles of her face and sinister sneer on her full lips make my gut tighten.

She is the most fucking gorgeous woman I’ve ever seen.

I’ve been friends with Jake since I was five years old and tormenting Maeve Bexley was a sport for me until one day her dark eyes caught mine in a very different way. From that day on, the tables were turned, and it was Maeve that tormented me. She’s just never known it.

I saddle up beside her before she sees me, sliding my hands in my pockets and rocking back on my heels.

“What in the Christmas Crack House is happening here?” I ask and she jumps. Her whole body spasms before she hits me with that stare.

“Fuck sake, Wyatt,” she mumbles, but a small smile tugs at her lips. Maeve’s smiles are so rare I could count on one hand how many times I’ve managed to get one, but it’s been my life’s mission for a handful of years now.

Secretly, of course. I’m sure Jake would castrate me and hang my balls above the door as warning to all other men if I dared hit on her. Not because he’s a macho protector or anything. He’s just fucking weird that way. Has been since we were kids and everyone in school constantly told him how hot his sister was. He’d be pissed if he knew I felt the same way.

“You are looking as bright as a summer breeze today,” I add, and she rolls her eyes, tipping into me to playfully bump my shoulder with hers. I stumble sideways, making a show of flopping onto the couch as if she shoved me, but my mind races with the contact. She’s never done that before.

“Why are you even here?” she mutters dryly and walks away, but I don’t let her ditch me that easily.

“I was invited.” I jump up and do a little shuffle step to catch up to her, liking to be right next to her so she has to look up at me. Again, not puffy chest shit, I just like it when she notices I’m not the little pain in the ass I once was. Okay, pain in the ass still, but no longer little. She’s insanely tall for a woman, but she isn’t six, four like me now.

“Oh goodie,” she claps her hands in a mocking gesture and a laugh pulls along my throat.

“Admit it. You are happy I’m here. Now you can direct all your rage in my direction and not…” I gesture with a dramatic tilt of my head over to Mrs. Bexley and swear I can feel the heat of Maeve’s anger rolling across my body.

“Jake said it’s bad.” I continue and her nostrils flare like she’s a bull about to charge.

“You have no idea,” Maeve sighs, and I throw my arm over her shoulder, tucking her tight to me and ruffling her bangs. She puts her hands on my chest to shove me away, but doesn’t. She stands there, palms flat against me, and it sends a ripple of static through me so strong I have to force myself not to shudder.

“Don’t touch my sister,” Jake calls with a mouthful of dip, and Maeve shoves me backward.

“Yeah, don’t touch his sister,” she mocks, but she clenches her fists tight and won’t meet my eyes.

The weirdness of her reaction roots me to the spot with my head cocked sideways and confusion lacing my features. She scurries around me, up the stairs, and I manage to keep my mouth closed as I admire her walking away.

Honestly, sometimes I make her mad on purpose so I can watch her storm off.

My god, that ass.

“If you’re going to be here, Wyatt,” Mrs. Bexley interrupts me fantasising about her daughter and slams a box of ornaments into my chest. “Make yourself useful.”

I clear my throat and nod sharply, my cheeks heating at the embarrassment, and I’m glad I’m not the blushing type.

Read the Entire story here

Sometimes I think about how ridiculous my relationship with my husband would sound as a romance novel. I’d absolutely adore it on the page—but I know for a fact it would get roasted in reviews for being “too unrealistic.”

Still, it’s fun to imagine, so let me break down the tropes we’d hit if our story ever got turned into a book:

Trope #1: Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
Let’s start at the beginning. When we first met, I couldn’t stand him. He was this goofy, ultra-confident athlete, full of charm he knew he had, and I was the ‘misunderstood’, introverted art nerd who had zero patience for it. To be fair, he didn’t exactly make the best first impression. But then, through forced proximity (I dated one of his teammates which was wholly a terrible decision) and excellent banter, we somehow became friends. By the time we were 15 and 17, we were close enough that I could barely remember why I disliked him in the first place. Turns out, bickering builds bonds. And I crushed him in a competitive game of rock paper scissors. I’ve never won anything since so I’m starting to believe he may have lost on purpose…

Trope #2: Best Friend’s Off-Limits Cousin
Here’s where things get tricky: he’s my best friend’s cousin. Which, if you’ve ever been in this situation, you know is basically code for “absolutely do not cross this line.” He was off-limits, plain and simple. (Was that a rule he respected? Absolutely not. Did it add an extra layer of tension to our slow-burn friendship? You bet it did.)

Trope #3: Right Person, Wrong Time
This one should probably be the tagline of our story. There were countless moments when we could’ve made the leap from friendship to something more, but life just never lined up. We’d have these great conversations or these moments of chemistry where it felt like, okay, maybe this is it—only for one of us (Read: me) to hit pause because of maturity, fear, or other potential relationships. It was frustrating, it was messy, and it was very on-brand for a slow-burn romance that takes forever to get to the point. But no matter where we were in the world, we’d find our way back to each other.

Trope #4: Shameless Flirting, Reluctant Falling
The man is a shameless flirt. Always has been, always will be. Even back when I wasn’t ready to admit I liked him, he had this way of getting under my skin with the kind of teasing that was equal parts infuriating and irresistible. And of course, I tried my hardest not to fall for it. Spoiler alert: I failed. Miserably.

Trope #5: Teacher-Matchmaker
Now, here’s where things get almost too unbelievable. His mom was my grade 8 homeroom and social studies teacher. (Yes, you read that correctly.) She knew me before we were even friends, and at one point after he was in a not-so-awesome relationship told him he should be with someone like me. Now she’s the very best MIL a girl could have.

Trope #6: Long Distance, Quick Cohabitation
For a while, we were long-distance. (Because of course we were. Why make things easy?) But when the timing finally did work out, we didn’t waste any time. After about three months of official dating, we moved in together. Did it seem fast? Maybe. Did it work out perfectly anyway? Ehhhh, not perfectly, there were a few almost 3rd act breakups but it’s been 16 years now so I think we are doing okay. There’s something to be said for knowing when you’ve found your person and deciding you’re in it for forever.

Trope #7: BFF Soulmate Energy
At the end of the day, the real heart of our story is this: he’s my very best friend. He’s the person who knows me better than anyone, who can make me laugh when I want to cry, and who will always, always show up for me. We bicker like no one’s business, but underneath it, there’s this unshakable foundation of love and understanding that I can’t imagine my life without.

So yeah, if our love story were a romance novel, it would probably get 1-star reviews for being “too unrealistic.” The grumpy/sunshine pairing, the off-limits cousin twist, the magnetic attractions, the slow-burn dislike-to-friendship-to-lovers arc—it’s all a little too perfect. But here’s the thing: I wouldn’t change a single chapter.

READ THEM ALL HERE! Check out Brigg’s and Xan’s perfect song below.