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Patricia Reding
a book bubble about
Oathtaker
Science Fiction & Fantasy
Author Insight
Everyday Events
One thing that makes a story real for me, is when its characters do everyday things--although of course, as an author, I don't want to bog my readers down with too many such details. Still, a touch now and then reminds readers that the characters are in many ways like us. When I write such scenes, I try to add some quirk of an interpersonal relationship, or perhaps some unique food, or note an intriguing decoration. Here, I had fun showing Faith as the very capable woman she is, easily able to get Dixon to follow her bidding. Mara's noticing this shows her increasing awareness of his every move. Another thing here that I had fun with was the breakfast menu. First of all, who doesn't love scrambled eggs as described? But it was the fruit that I wonder if anyone notices. I like to take fresh fruit and sprinkle it lightly with some fresh herb or another. The (very) best is rosemary, which marries--oddly-with fruits like melon, apple, and my favorite: pear. Chop fresh rosemary leaves to small bits, and then sprinkle them over fresh fruit like you would season anything else. The result is a fresh, juicy, fruity, earthy taste unlike any other. Let me know if you decide to try it!
Book Excerpt
Oathtaker
Faith greeted Mara and Dixon when they made their way into the kitchen. With the house so full, she was serving breakfast in shifts. Francis and Patrick sat at one end of the table, Ted at the other.
“’Mornin’ again, Dixon. ’Mornin’ to you too, Mara. A lot of commotion already today, huh? Well, I hope you two rested well.” Ted slapped Dixon lightly on the back, directing him to an open chair, then guided Mara to another. “A couple more hungry mouths here!” he called out. “Let’s get some more of that great breakfast over this way.”
“Let me help,” Dixon offered before taking his seat.
Faith jostled him. “No, I wouldn’t hear of it. There’s only so much room in here and you’d just be in my way.”
“Well, if you’re sure—”
“Sit. Sit,” she ordered, gently pushing him aside and pointing to his chair.
Dixon sat.
Mara smiled at how malleable he was in Faith’s capable hands.
Faith set out dishes for everyone, then refilled plates and bowls of eggs, scrambled and sprinkled with cheese and chives, crispy bacon, slices of sweet melons and pears sprinkled with finely chopped rosemary, and crusty bread.
Nina arrived with Eden. Then they all ate, enjoying breakfast over small talk.
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