<![CDATA[Alainna MacPherson

<![CDATA[Alainna MacPherson - Blog]]>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 18:28:21 -0800Weebly<![CDATA[What's Happening Now?]]>Sun, 22 Feb 2026 19:59:00 GMThttps://www.alainnamacpherson.com/blog/whats-happening-nowWhat am I working on now, you ask? Book 1 in my first-ever dark academia called Nerium Academy.

I'm about 1/2 in now, and I love it so much!

FMC is 18-year-old Gracelynn, who finally makes it to the cloaked school for Others, fulfilling her grandmother's dying wish. Only, she doesn't have an acceptance letter or tuition money, and the guy who finds her seems to have staked some sort of claim on her. As well as his two friends. Things were already weird before she arrived, but suddenly they've gotten a little more so since. And now Penn, Jagger, and Massey have to figure out what the hell is going on while trying to solve the mystery that is the newest student.

If you enjoyed Zodiac Academy by The Twisted Sisters and Elemental Fae Academy by JR Thorn, I think you'll love this one. Stay tuned for some sneak peeks. :)

]]><![CDATA[Breaking News!]]>Sat, 21 Feb 2026 18:20:19 GMThttps://www.alainnamacpherson.com/blog/breaking-news

I have officially sent the manuscript of Piercing the Horizon to my editor! We're on the countdown for ARC sign-ups!

If you haven't signed up and would still like to, there's still some time. For those who haven't read the first two books, they are available on Kindle Unlimited. If you don't have KU, email me. and I can get you a private download.

ARC SIGN-UP

Read Beneath the Surface

Read Through the Shadows

]]><![CDATA[New Hangout]]>Mon, 16 Feb 2026 17:54:13 GMThttps://www.alainnamacpherson.com/blog/new-hangout

This just in, there's a new hangout for me and my friends to share our books, what we're reading, answer questions for other writers, share resources and services we've used and had success with. Come on in and join us! Both Readers and Authors welcome!

]]><![CDATA[Almost Finished!]]>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 16:04:56 GMThttps://www.alainnamacpherson.com/blog/almost-finished

Sign-Up

ARC reader that said "The book would have been much better without that mention at the back of the book. Today I finished the last chapter of the last book of the Surface series. My alien romance that was supposed to just be about two species trying to survive, in different ways, turned out to be about a struggle of racism, a centuries-long cover-up, genocide (very lightly), and even a pandemic. The book was finished in February and went out to ARC readers in March. Right before COVID was even a real concern. Before quarantines. And before the murder of George Floyd.

Upon its release, I had a mention at the back of why Black Lives Matter, including names of those who had died (that I could find) at the hands of police in recent years. I didn't advertise it, I didn't tell anyone about it, but got one review from an ARC reader that said "The book would have been much better without that mention at the back of the book.

That I should remember that there were also Irish Slaves." I replied to her with a single sentence that said "Thank you for reading, but I'll keep the mention as you might be the target market needing it's reminder."

I didn't have the energy or drive to finish the last book for a few years, as you can already tell, but I did during the time of ICE harming and killing US Citizens, Black and White. A president ignoring the constitution and violating human rights on the daily.

I really hope I did the story justice and satisfied the readers, though. As much as this is a dystopian, sci-fi and fantasy series, it coincidently aligns with the crap that we're facing now, and that is intimidating.

And so, I end this post by saying, thank you for reading and supporting me. Sharing posts, leaving reviews, and word of mouth goes a long way to help me as a writer. ♥ ♥ ♥

]]><![CDATA[the Book Mash]]>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 14:14:31 GMThttps://www.alainnamacpherson.com/blog/the-book-mash

Not sure if I shared it here, but The Book Mash Podcast did a BLOG BOOK REVIEW on A Shield of Blood and Honor. If you haven't heard their podcast yet, CHECK THEM OUT!

]]><![CDATA[sneak peek - Piercing the Horizon]]>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 15:51:07 GMThttps://www.alainnamacpherson.com/blog/sneak-peek-piercing-the-horizonIt's time for a sneak peek of Piercing the Horizon! Exclusive to blog/newsletter subscribers/pack readers. you're all the first ones to read the first chapter (unedited). click here to read.

Please note: You do not have to sign up for anything, but it will ask you for an email before opening. this is strictly for pirating reasons. by entering your email, I'm able to see when people share to pirating sites.

reminder: ARC Sign-Ups for Piercing the horizon are now open.

]]><![CDATA[reviews are growth]]>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 20:54:00 GMThttps://www.alainnamacpherson.com/blog/reviews-are-growthBelow is a review done by a Reedsy reader. Is it a good review? Yes. Does it offer constructive criticism? Also, yes. These are the kind of reviews I truly appreciate. It offers me insight into what the reader enjoyed about the book and what aspects could be improved on. This was a new animal for me, writing this book. The murder investigation, the dating app, stalker male character. So I expected to see some sort of issues, and now I know where I can make changes for the next book.

All of that said, here is the full review for you all to read, and THANK YOU to the reviewer, Satabdi Mukherjee. To see more of her reviews on Reedsy, CLICK HERE.

Alainna MacPherson’s A Shield of Blood & Honor is the first entry in her Vlathe City Series, a dark‑edged urban fantasy novel that blends mystery, romance, and supernatural intrigue.

The story follows Ros, a woman striving to build a life without compromising her moral compass or revealing the secrets she carries—secrets that, as the book frequently reminds readers, “aren’t just mine to keep.”

When a mass murder suddenly pushes her into the spotlight she has tried to avoid, Ros becomes entangled in a dangerous web of investigations, personal history, and reluctant alliances.

The book’s premise is immediately compelling: Ros is forced to rely on a stranger to help keep her past hidden even as other “unfortunate events” unfold. Her best friend also signs her up for a dating app, injecting an unexpected dose of humor and chaos into an otherwise tense plotline.

As Ros juggles nightly dates, an intense investigator on her tail, and the hunt for a killer, the novel develops a layered narrative that oscillates between action, supernatural politics, and interpersonal drama.

"However, the novel is not without its weaknesses. "

One of the strengths of the novel is its world‑building, which is original, engaging, and full of potential. The highlights of the book are its action‑packed pacing, accessible prose, and compelling supernatural elements, making it entertaining and unpredictable.

The presence of dragons, magical dynamics, and morally gray characters adds texture to the setting, making Vlathe City feel like a gritty, enchanted urban sprawl where danger is constant and loyalties are questionable.

However, the novel is not without its weaknesses. There are issues with continuity and pacing, particularly in the opening chapters. These early chapters occasionally cause readers to pause in confusion rather than stay immersed in the story.

Also, the male lead’s overly controlling behavior early in the book is putting off—selecting Ros's food and drink, tracking her through hacking, and falling into “insta‑love” within minutes. While this behavior tapers off, it remains a divisive aspect of character development that may not appeal to all readers.

"The book balances humor and tension, and its supernatural elements add flair without overwhelming the human story at its core."

Despite these flaws, A Shield of Blood & Honor offers an entertaining, fast‑paced urban fantasy experience. Ros is a relatable protagonist forced to confront uncomfortable truths while navigating danger, romance, and self‑preservation.

The book balances humor and tension, and its supernatural elements add flair without overwhelming the human story at its core.

Overall, MacPherson’s novel will likely appeal to fans of character‑driven urban fantasy with romantic subplots and high‑stakes mystery. While some structural refinements could strengthen the narrative, the book’s imaginative world‑building and emotional tension lay a promising foundation for future installments in the Vlathe City Series.

For readers seeking a fresh urban fantasy with grit, secrets, and a touch of chaos, this debut is worth exploring.

]]><![CDATA[Room shuffle and arcs]]>Sun, 25 Jan 2026 16:32:45 GMThttps://www.alainnamacpherson.com/blog/room-shuffle-and-arcs

I've moved offices! Did I get a new location? Nope. Did I give up the room I was in so my daughter could have her own room? Yes. Where did I put my office then, you ask? Why, in the corner of the second living space we have that is attached to the kitchen. Pros! All three kids have their own space now. Cons! They still insist on being in mine and there's no longer a door.

The sacrifices of a SAHM, am I right?

What have I been up to other that The Room Shuffle? I've been trying to finish writing Piercing The Horizon, book 3 in the Surface series. If you're unfamiliar with it, it's a sci-fi/dystopian romance. If you're interested in learning more about it, here's Book 1: Beneath the Surface.

ARC sign-ups are currently open. Release date isn't until April, but I realize that many readers probably haven't read the first two books and I want to give people time to do so. To be an ARC READER for Piercing the Horizon, CLICK HERE! For those who DO NOT have Kindle Unlimited, you can let me know on the form and I can send you private links to read the books free.

Today, I hope to get 3K words written on PTH. I am at the part just before the climax of the story. I am so excited about how this whole series has come full circle. I say this because I didn't even know how it was going to end until a few weeks ago, even though I wrote the first book in 2020. It just so happened that the story is still relevant. Which is extremely infuriating.

In case anyone was wondering, yes, this book is very political. All of my books are in some form or another. I have a platform, even if it's small, and I will continue to use it to fight for what's right. Even if it is just to tell stories to spread awareness.

It's also FULL of spice. ;)

That's it for now. I hope to get back in the habit of doing blog entries again. It's just been busy since school started for the kids again. I hope everyone is staying warm during this huge cold front and has a great Sunday!

Read Books 1 & 2 Now on Kindle Unlimited

Book 1

Book 2

]]><![CDATA[Release Day!]]>Tue, 30 Sep 2025 15:49:03 GMThttps://www.alainnamacpherson.com/blog/release-day

Read Now

]]><![CDATA[Not a freelancer but a ghostwriter]]>Tue, 05 Aug 2025 17:46:52 GMThttps://www.alainnamacpherson.com/blog/not-a-freelancer-but-a-ghostwriter

In the rapidly evolving world of writing, distinguishing between various roles can be quite challenging. Two roles that often get confused are ghostwriters and freelance writers. While both play crucial roles in content creation, they are not interchangeable. Understanding the distinction is essential, whether you're seeking to hire a writer or considering a career in writing yourself. Recently, I've had to unravel the differences between these two professions as I sought out work outside of my own writing.

'ghostwriter' on AppleTV Image: SesameWorkshop

As the digital age continues to reshape how we consume and produce content, the demand for skilled writers is on the rise. At least, that's what all my Google Searches have led me to believe and I'm going to hold onto hope that that is still true. According to a 2021 report by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, writing jobs are expected to grow by 9% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. In hindsight, I wonder if BLS took into account the ride of AI? Alas, with the rise of online content consumption, this growth reflects an increasing need for both ghostwriters and freelance writers. However, many people mistakenly use these terms interchangeably, which can lead to confusion and misaligned expectations. Especially if you're looking for job listings in either category.
Understanding whether you are “not a freelancer, but a ghostwriter” or vice versa is crucial for aligning your career goals or hiring needs. After some digging, into the nuanced differences between ghostwriters and freelance writers, and believe this will help you identify which role suits your needs or career aspirations.

1. Ownership and Credit
One of the most significant differences between ghostwriters and freelance writers is the aspect of ownership and credit. Ghostwriters create content that is officially credited to someone else, often in exchange for a higher rate or a long-term contract. Conversely, freelance writers typically receive credit for their work, allowing them to build a portfolio under their name.
Practical Implementation Tips

For Clients: Decide if you want to publicly credit the writer. If the content will be published under your name or brand, consider hiring a ghostwriter.
For Writers: If building a personal brand is important to you, focus on freelance writing jobs that offer bylines or credit.

"Becoming" by Michelle Obama Released in November 2018

For Example: Many autobiographies are written with Ghostwriters. Often, the celebrity whose life story is being told is not the actual writer. Instead, a ghostwriter works behind the scenes to craft the narrative. The celebrity receives credit, while the ghostwriter remains anonymous, often receiving significant compensation for their work. For example, take a look at how many books are under James Patterson's name. The author has admitted to using ghostwriters for his story ideas in the past.
2. Nature of Work
Ghostwriters and freelance writers also differ in the nature of their work. Ghostwriters often engage in long-term projects such as books, speeches, or comprehensive reports. Their work requires deep immersion into the subject matter and often involves working closely with the client. Freelance writers, on the other hand, may tackle shorter, varied assignments across multiple topics, allowing for greater flexibility and diversity in their work.
Practical Implementation Tips

For Writers: If you enjoy in-depth research and long-term commitments, ghostwriting might be for you. If you prefer variety and the freedom to explore different topics, consider freelance writing.
For Clients: If you need ongoing content creation over an extended period, hiring a ghostwriter might be beneficial. For one-off projects or varied content, a freelance writer might be more suitable.

For Example: A ghostwriter might be employed by a business executive to write a series of speeches over several months, requiring them to capture the executive's voice and messaging accurately. In contrast, a freelance writer might write a single article or a series of blog posts for a variety of clients, each on different topics.

3. Client Interaction
The level of client interaction also distinguishes ghostwriters from freelance writers. Ghostwriters often work closely with clients, requiring detailed interviews and regular consultations to ensure that the content reflects the client’s voice and intentions. Freelance writers may have less intensive interaction, focusing more on delivering the content based on a brief or guidelines.
Practical Implementation Tips

For Clients: If you desire a collaborative process, a ghostwriter might be more suitable. For straightforward assignments, a freelance writer who can work independently might suffice.
For Writers: Consider your comfort level with client interaction. If you enjoy collaboration and detailed feedback, ghostwriting could be a good fit. Meaning that introverts would probably thrive as freelance writers. Less social interactions and chances for panic attacks.

For Example: A ghostwriter might spend hours interviewing a client to write a memoir, ensuring every detail aligns with the client’s experiences and desired narrative. Conversely, a freelance writer might receive a brief with guidelines for an article and work independently to complete it. Remember though, that during these visits; travel, coffee, food and hotel stays can be considered for tax write-offs.
4. Compensation
Compensation structures often differ between ghostwriters and freelance writers. Ghostwriters usually command higher fees due to the anonymity of their work and the intensive nature of their projects. Freelance writers might receive lower per-project fees but have the advantage of working on multiple projects simultaneously, potentially increasing their overall income. Rather than be paid hourly, you're paid by the project, which means you could work at your pace if you are juggling home life, as well.
Practical Implementation Tips

For Writers: If you are “not a freelancer, but a ghostwriter,” focus on negotiating higher rates that reflect the anonymity and effort involved.
For Clients: Consider your budget and the type of content you need when deciding between hiring a ghostwriter or a freelance writer.

For Example: A ghostwriter might charge a substantial fee for writing a book, considering the time, research, and anonymity involved. In contrast, a freelance writer might accept multiple lower-paying assignments, writing articles or blog posts, providing a steady income stream. Filing taxes will be tricky but just make sure to keep records of all the people you worked for throughout the year and get 1099s when tax season comes around.

5. Skill Set
Both ghostwriters and freelance writers require strong writing skills, but their specific skill sets often differ. Ghostwriters need the ability to adapt to different voices and styles, as they must write as if they are the client. Freelance writers, however, benefit from versatility and the ability to write across various subjects and formats.
Practical Implementation Tips

For Writers: Assess your skills and interests. If you excel at mimicking voices and styles, ghostwriting might be a strong fit. If you prefer writing across different genres and topics, freelance writing offers more opportunities.

For Clients: Evaluate the specific skills needed for your project to determine whether a ghostwriter or a freelance writer is more suitable.

For Example: A ghostwriter might specialize in capturing an author's unique voice for a novel, while a freelance writer might write product descriptions, travel articles, and technical manuals, showcasing a broad range of writing styles and topics.

Whatever you are, own it!

The journey to understanding whether you are “not a freelancer, but a ghostwriter” involves recognizing the unique aspects of each role. From ownership and credit to the nature of work, client interaction, compensation, and skill set, each factor plays a crucial part in defining these professions.
Ultimately, the decision between hiring or becoming a ghostwriter or a freelance writer hinges on your needs and goals. For clients, it's about finding the right fit for your project, while for writers, it's about aligning your skills and preferences with your career path.
As you contemplate your next steps, consider these questions: What type of writing best aligns with your personal goals? How important is public recognition or anonymity to you? By answering these questions, you'll be better equipped to determine your path in the writing world, whether as a ghostwriter or a freelance writer.

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