Debra L. Martin's Blog, page 22
September 19, 2022
#Excerpt: THE UNLIKELY SPY by Sophie Schiller
The Unlikely Spy
Sophie Schiller
Publication date: August 21st 2022
Genres: Adult, Historical, Romance, Thriller
Casablanca meets Notorious in a Hitchcock-style thriller of espionage, romance, adventure, and intrigue.
1917. Emma Christensen is a young widow who returns to the Danish West Indies to reclaim the life and the villa she left behind. When she discovers her husband has disinherited her in favor of his young heir—an illegitimate son—she turns to the one thing she knows, gambling, and soon finds herself deeply in debt.
Emma is approached by Cornelius Smith, a representative of an American shipping line, who offers an alternative: infiltrate the suspicious Hamburg-American Line and spy on its nefarious leader, Julius Luckner, to gain valuable business intelligence for his firm.
It doesn’t take long for Emma to realize that both Smith and Luckner are not as they seem. Close to the Allies but even closer to the enemy, Emma bravely engages in missions that could blow her cover at any moment. But with the Panama Canal at stake, how far will she go to help the Allies?
A gripping and suspenseful World War I spy thriller from an accomplished thriller and historical adventure writer.
—
EXCERPT:
Smith took her arm and led her outside. They walked in relative silence as they headed to the park beside the Grand Hotel where they settled on a bench beneath the rustling trees.
“Tell me about your husband,” he said. “Why did he cut you out of his will?”
She rubbed her arms, trying to comfort herself. Slowly she told him about her life, how Axel had started drinking, how their marriage had crumbled. She related her shock at discovering that Axel had had an affair with the housekeeper. And how he had an illegitimate son to whom he’d left his entire estate. She told him how she hoped to get her house, but it seemed as if the only way to achieve that goal was by gambling.
Smith listened all the time, never taking his eyes off her. When she had finished, he emitted a low whistle. “If you continue gambling, you’ll lose a lot more than your shirt. You could end up in serious debt. You’re a smart woman. You should know how risky it is.”
“But what are my options?” she said.
Smith lit a cigarette and took a few puffs. “You’re one of the most capable, determined people I’ve ever met. You’re a problem-solver by nature, a tactical thinker. I see it in your eyes. I see it in the way you play cards. You can do whatever you set your mind to it. But if you continue down this path of self-destruction, you’ll end up like your father.”
“That’s easy for you to say. I’ve got nothing to fall back on. Gambling is the only thing I know. I feel like I’m caught in a vicious trap.”
“Emma, listen to me,” he grabbed her by the shoulders. “You have to quit this gambling before it ruins your life.”
“What do you care so much?” she asked. “That’s the one thing I don’t understand.”
“Because I think you can help me.”
“What?”
“Yes, I think you can help me. I think you can be useful to me and I to you. I think we can help each other.”
“Can you be more specific?”
“I’ve been watching you these past few days. You’re smart, you think fast on your feet. You have a good memory, and you’re highly observant. But above all, you don’t quit. You go after what you want and let nothing get in your way. You have all the right qualities for a job I have in mind.”
“What kind of job? And even if you had a job, it couldn’t possibly pay me enough to buy my house back.”
He looked at her inquisitively. “How badly do you want your house back?”
“Very badly.”
“Then I have a proposition for you. If you’ll agree to work for me, I’ll buy your house back. I’ll pay you enough money to give you a second chance at life. You’ll never have to gamble again. You’ll have everything you want.”
She eyed him skeptically. “Why would you do that for me?”
“Because I need your help.”
She thought for a moment. “You still haven’t told me about this job of yours. I have to know what it entails. Of course, there are some things I will never do.”
His face turned serious. “It’s a job that requires discretion, trustworthiness, and first-rate observational skills, all the qualities I’ve seen in you. It also requires extreme caution. But the person I hire must also be courageous. You have to have nerves of steel.”
She got up to leave. “Something about your job sounds suspicious and I’m not sure I can trust you. Besides, I want my freedom. I don’t want to have to answer to anybody. Can you understand that?”
“What good has all your freedom gotten you?” he asked. “You’ve been free to make all the wrong choices in your life. You’ve been free to get into debt. You’ve been free to gamble everything away. I’m offering you the chance to break free of all that. I’m offering you a second chance, Emma. Not many people out there get a second chance. Think about it. Did your father get a second chance?”
“You think I’m just a hopeless gambler like him.”
“No, Emma. If I did, I wouldn’t be offering you this job.”
The look on his face startled her. She knew he was serious.
She backed away from him, shaking her head. “I’m sorry to have taken your time, Mr. Smith, but I’m not interested. Now, if you’ll excuse me, it’s getting late and I’ve had too much to drink.”
Emma hurried through the park, back to her villa on Norre Gade, far away from Mr. Smith and his intrusive meddling. She had no intention of working for him or anyone else. She would make it on her own. She didn’t need his job to get her house back.
She didn’t know how wrong she was.
Author Bio:
Sophie Schiller is an author of historical fiction and spy thrillers. She loves stories that carry the reader back in time to exotic and far-flung locations. Kirkus Reviews has called her "an accomplished thriller and historical adventure writer." Publishers Weekly called her novel, ISLAND ON FIRE, "a memorable romantic thriller", her novel RACE TO TIBET, “a thrilling yarn,” and her TRANSFER DAY, “a page-turner with emotional resonance.” Kirkus Reviews called her latest novel, THE LOST DIARY OF ALEXANDER HAMILTON, "an engaging coming-of-age story of heartbreak, bravery, honor, and triumph." Her latest novel is THE UNLIKELY SPY, a historical spy thriller set during WWI. She graduated from American University, Washington, DC and lives in Brooklyn, NY.
Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter
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September 14, 2022
Interview with Colette R Harrell, LATER
Can you give us a brief overview of your latest book? Is it part of a series?
I am excited to share my latest book, Later, with you and your followers. This book is so different from anything I've done before. It's a historical set in 1859 and current in 2022. It's YA as one of the pivotal characters is a 12-year-old enslaved genius, Junie. It's an interracial romance as enslaved Sarah, and ex-Special Forces officer Zachary Trumble create a unique connection across time. It's science fiction and suspenseful because our protagonists are chased across two periods. Ooh, wee...am I sharing too much? Get your copy now and snuggle up in your easy chair for what I consider a great read (IMHO).
Do you have a favorite character?
How do you choose your favorite child? I travailed and birthed each one. I have unconditional love for even the ones who are bad to the bone. How could a good mother not love them all in spite of themselves?
Have you ever had a minor character evolve into a major one? Did that change the direction of the novel at all?
Did the character become the hero/heroine of their own book?
Later was a book about two adults in a forbidden love affair. Then comes the little heroine's younger brother, Junie. He's wily, strategic, humorous, and flawed. He grew on me, and his role expanded in the book. He brings justice to an unjust system. I want to know Junie in reality.
Did you try the traditional route to publishing, i.e. querying agents/publishers?
Yes. I have traditional books and an agent and Later is on audio through a traditional publisher. However, Later is also my first indie published book in paper and e-book format. I'm taking an opportunity to do this myself and step out on faith.
How long before you got your offer of representation/your first contract? Was it for your first novel?
Yes, my first novel was picked up a month after my agent shopped it. The stars aligned.
What factors influenced your decision to go with a particular agent or publisher?
My first agent was introduced to me by someone I trusted in the industry. She's a New York Times best selling author and has several books to film. It was a wonderful opportunity. I'm grateful. My new agent is someone I met in the industry who works with hybrid authors who want to do something different in choosing what is under contract and what is an author's indie effort. I find it the best of both worlds.
Briefly describe your journey in writing your first or latest book. Have you joined any FB author groups to inspire and help you along the way?
I fell and broke my ankle in three places. Bed bound, Later evolved from an idea to my newest novel. I'm in numerous Facebook author groups, and I love supporting their work and hearing the latest publishing news through their connections. They are also instrumental in providing tidbits of literary knowledge that enhance my skills. I've learned so much.
What factors influenced your decision to self-publish your book(s)?
Like most people, you weigh the pros and cons and then take an educated step toward your pros. I did the work to the best of my ability and didn't skimp on editors, book covers, or interior design. I'm praying I can put Later in enough hands for my indie debut to be profitable.
If you used a graphic designer/publisher’s designer, how involved were you during the creative process for your cover?
I was very involved. My first cover and designer didn't work. I lost money, but I wanted my cover art to draw an audience. My current book cover is the result of a lot of research to find the right designer. After outstanding communication and her expertise in fulfilling the vision, I was more than pleased. She's amazing!
What is your writing process? Do you listen to music or do you like silence?
Silence is golden. However, when I write something that has me dancing around, a little celebratory jig is in order!
Do you outline your story or just go where your muse takes you?
I start with a seat of my pants flow. Once I get the gist of where I'm headed, I outline. Then I promptly dismantle the outline as I continue to write because, at heart, I'm a pantser.
Did you hire an editor to review your manuscript before publishing?
My manuscript went through three levels of editing. It's costly, but my readers deserve it. My editors are professionals with contracts with multiple publishers. One of them was my editor at the publishing agency where I had my former contract, and she's someone I trust.
What have you’ve learned during your self-publishing journey?
I learned I didn't know half of what I thought I did. Thank goodness for the right people being open to guiding this journey.
Is your book available in audio format? Briefly describe how your narrator was chosen?
Yes, it's in audio. This was a contract I have with an audio publisher; they picked the narrator. I'm looking forward to the reaction from my listeners.
Do you find it difficult to juggle your time between marketing your current book and writing your next book? Do you try to write everyday or carve out certain times during the week?
I write Monday through Friday, even if it's editing what I've just written. I also write in creative spurts, at 2 am, on weekends, on my phone . . .
What advice would you give a new author just entering the self-publishing arena?
Don't skimp on quality. You'll have to spend money for skilled, experienced assistance. It's so worth it. Research your choices and trust their guidance. Attend workshops, read well-reviewed writer's how to books.
Besides writing, do you have any other passions?
Reading! It's fundamental. I'd rather be reading than most extracurricular activities.
Some fun facts about you, which do you prefer – dogs or cats? Chocolate or vanilla? Coffee or Tea? Talk or Text? Day or Night
I love this list. Let's go! Dog. Vanilla (does that make me boring?). Tea. Talk. Day and night.
What’s next for you?
I'm going to finish my book, A Life Kissing Frogs. It's a grown-up romantic comedy fairy tale. Yessss!!!
BOOK BLURB:
In 1859, Junie Benson was a twelve-year-old genius and enslaved. His older sister, Sari, had her own difficulties, including being auctioned to the highest bidder. She was also beautiful, flighty, and had a repetitive dream about a hazel-eyed white stranger.
Everybody with the good sense God had given them knew even her dream was forbidden.
In 2022, three things troubled ex-Special Forces Lt. Colonel Zachary Trumble . . . his new job as director of security for Burstein Labs, his loveless marriage, and the green-eyed siren who won’t let him sleep in peace.
Then time’s fickle hand brewed a recipe for a miracle . . . Stir in three runaway slaves, an avalanche, one mad scientist, and an unhappy, in-love hero to create a dish for revenge best served . . . Later.
Book Information Release Date: September 1, 2022Publisher: Intentional Entertainment LLCSoft Cover: 204 pages; (Price TBA); eBook $4.99Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B9Q9Z38W/ref=sr About the Author
Colette R. Harrell made her debut as an author with the book; The Devil Made Me Do It. As a published author, she has enjoyed meeting her readers; for her, it’s all surreal. She holds a master’s degree and worked as a director of social services, which allowed her a front-row seat to the conflict and struggles of everyday people.
Her day is filled as an Author, Playwright, Story Editor, Wife, Mother, Grandmother, and child of God. She wears many titles allowing twenty-four hours a day to meet the challenge.
Her goal in writing is to engage readers and provide them with golden nuggets of wisdom that feed and titillate. Her biggest lesson is that it takes a village to raise a dream. She loves and appreciates her village.
She prays everything God has for you manifests in your life. And that you stretch and reach for it!
Colette’s latest book is the historical/interracial/supernatural/paranormal Later.
You can visit her website at Coletteharrell.com or connect with her on Twitter, Facebook, Goodreads or Instagram.
September 9, 2022
#Excerpt: JUST LIKE FAMILY by Barbara Casey
Just Like Family
Barbara Casey
Publication date: July 28th 2022
Genres: Adult, Romance
All in one day, thirty-five-year-old Hallie Marsh learns that the man she loves, works for, and is living with has found someone else-and that she no longer has a job, a place to live, or a car since she crashed it into a hedge. Her feelings of rage and desire for revenge are soon replaced by a fascination with her new neighbors-four peculiar, elderly people who decide to buy an old run-down estate, fix it up, and live in it “just like family.”
—
EXCERPT:
Hallie’s heart raced as she walked briskly past the other offices to the executive suite at the end of the corridor. Since Jeff had sent word asking to see her, it must mean that he was finally finished with that project he had been working on day and night for the past several weeks and that he needed her as much as she needed him. She knew his divorce had just been finalized, although he hadn’t told her yet. She had called the courthouse downtown and found out on her own. He was probably just waiting for the right time to tell her. Over a romantic dinner at one of their favorite places. Or maybe he would take her somewhere for the weekend. He enjoyed surprising her. And there was the awards banquet tonight. He hadn’t mentioned that to her either, but naturally he would want her to go with him. In real estate circles, it was the event of the year. Even though it was supposed to be a secret, everyone knew that Jeff was getting the Salesman of the Year Award again. So much to celebrate and what better way than to make love in his office now.
“Mr. Darnell is expecting you, Ms. Marsh.”
Hallie smiled at the secretary, hoping that her demeanor was that of a public relations director going into a meeting with the president of the company and not of a woman who was going to make love to her boss in his office at four o’clock in the afternoon. “Thanks, Mary,” she said shifting her notebook in an exaggerated movement from one hand to the other, feeling slightly self-conscious. She suppressed the urge to giggle, something she frequently did whenever she felt self-conscious, and walked past the secretary’s desk. On the other side of the ornate double doors was Jeff’s office, a large multi-functional room that had both a southern and eastern exposure.
Jeff was standing with his back to her, looking out one of two mullioned, floor-to-ceiling windows, the one facing the intracoastal waterway. Hallie quietly closed the door and locked it. The desire she felt for him was tremendous and had somehow managed to gravitate to an area the size of a baseball between her naval and vulva. Without saying anything she unbuttoned her navy blue coatdress, silently applauding the fact that she had decided to wear it today since it was so easy to take off. Then she walked up behind him, slipped her arms around his waist, and pressed her body into his back. “You can’t imagine how much I have missed you,” she whispered when he turned around. She eagerly sought his lips as she loosened his tie and began unfastening the buttons on his shirt, completely forgetting the self-consciousness she had experienced moments earlier. He did that to her. Things she wouldn’t normally do under any other circumstances, she felt no inhibitions in doing with Jeff.
“Hallie, I need to tell you something.” Jeff held her trembling hands in his but she continued with the buttons, stopping only when she reached the buckle on his belt. She pulled his shirt loose from his trousers and opened it, exposing his bare chest. Then she tenderly kissed his neck, working her way down his chest and stomach with her mouth and tongue.
“Hallie, please. Stop. We have to talk.”
Hallie looked up into Jeff’s face, breathless and flushed with desire. Curiously at that moment she remembered seeing somewhere in a magazine two similar photographs side by side, the caption under one of them reading, “What’s wrong with this picture?”
Author Bio:
Barbara Casey is the author of several award-winning novels for both adults and young adults, and numerous articles, poems, and short stories. In addition to her own writing, she is an editorial consultant and president of the Barbara Casey Agency, established in 1995, representing authors throughout the United States, Great Britain, Canada, and Japan. In 2014 Barbara became a partner in Strategic Media Books Publishing, an independent publishing house that specializes in true crime and other cutting-edge adult nonfiction. Barbara lives on a mountain in Georgia with her three cats who adopted her.
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September 7, 2022
Interview with L.T. Getty, THE MERMAID AND THE UNICORNS
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Can you give us a brief overview of your latest book? Is it part of a series?
The Mermaid and the Unicorns follows Daphne, a young teenage mermaid turned into a human and sent to retrieve a unicorn for a sea witch. She meets human friends and finds a way to thwart the witch and return home.
The book was designed to stand on its own but I would like to write a direct sequel. I am in the middle of writing an indirect sequel, which follows mostly new characters set in that same world. I do have an idea for a sequel, but as of right now I have other projects that are taking priority.
Do you have a favorite character?
Larry the lumberjack. He is such a delightful grump who does nothing but help; I think subconsciously I wrote him as the dad who got dragged to a movie he didn’t want to see.
Have you ever had a minor character evolve into a major one? Did that change the direction of the novel at all? Did the character become the hero/heroine of their own book?
Several times, yes. In this book, the character Sedolei arrived to me before in the novel Garnet and Silver. He’s a unicorn and had a much larger part in that book, but I couldn’t not reuse him in this book. Unicorns aren’t really part of the fae realm depicted, so it wasn’t really a stretch to show unicorns in a very different world.
My Rogue Healer series with Champagne Books focuses on Koth, and really it’s a spin off of what I was developing in High School. Koth started out as a villain, but he was a lot of fun to write and I hated the convoluted reasons the heroes would interact with him, and he slowly became not so much a hero, but the person that the good guys knew would get his hands dirty when they were at a moral crossroads. Koth’s a lot more rounded as a character now then he was, plus it was a lot of fun to delve into the world before the majority of the cast in the main project were born.
How long before you got your offer of representation/your first contract? Was it for your first novel?
I started writing some time in Junior High and I got my first contract for Tower of Obsidian when I was 28. It was the same week I got my paramedic license. Now, Tower of Obsidian was definitely not my first novel; I wrote my first series in high school and didn’t really write much in University, mostly because of school demands and work, although I did write some shorts.
Are you currently under a traditional publishing contract for future books or do you have manuscripts that you will self-publish? Are you doing both?
My niece wants to know this too! Because the sequel is more aimed at a YA market as opposed to a MG one, I potentially could take it to my publisher, or pursue another publisher as the books belong in the same universe, but you needn’t read it them. I think I’ll probably self-publish it, but as of right now it’s not even rough drafted and needs to sit for a while once it is, so I wouldn’t look .
I have another title with Champagne Books coming out 2023, and hopefully it will be at least a trilogy, but I’m hoping for series.
What factors influenced your decision to self-publish your book(s)?
I wanted to try it. When I first started on the submit – wait – cry (I kid) cycle I would get occasionally good feedback, but often times I wasn’t tickling their fancy because I wasn’t always dancing to the accepted beat.
I looked into self-publishing years ago and the reality is that up until the internet and ebooks, it wasn’t feasible. Getting books into a bookseller’s shelf is difficult, and most distributors don’t want to bother individuals, so much as go to houses and ask what they have that meet criteria X for an upcoming season.
I decided to do it because I wanted to.
What is your writing process? Do you listen to music or do you like silence?
I like instrumental music or stuff I can’t sing along to. Same with when I’m studying.
As for my process – generally speaking I set myself a goal on a project and ballpark where I think I’m going, and set realistic goals. I’ve been doing this for a while, so I know about how long it takes me to do things. Different projects require more (or less) work, and so instead of saying, “I’m going to write a novel in a year” I break it down to a, “I want to write a book over the course of 10 months for a rough draft. I think it’ll be between 85-90k. That means I need to average 10k a month” and go from there. My schedule is prone to change and interruption, so that’s planned. Books don’t always cooperate with length, so it’s a weird combination of having good habits and being flexible.
I send my rough draft to Ron mostly for content editing. At this phase, I’m willing to make major changes to the story. Then I let it sit for a while, and make another plan while I’m writing another story. That’s why it’s okay for me to only write say a thousand words a day – I’m usually editing something else too.
If something’s not working, I find getting exercise allows my mind to reset, and I can sometimes work out plot issues if I’m walking the dog or doing laps in the pool.
I also think reading books is paramount, but not in the way that other writers have told me. When I read really big books – those 800+ page door stoppers – it teaches me to write to that pacing. If I want to write a tighter novel – The Mermaid and the Unicorns is about 68k – I need to read shorter novels and learn the pacing.
Do you outline your story or just go where your muse takes you?
I originally went with the term “Pantser” but I’m more of an in-between model than anything. I usually start out with an idea for a scene, and then I write the dessert first; the scenes that get my attention. I form a rough outline and create backstory, but I use an outline the same way I make a schedule when I’m on vacation. I know it’s important and what needs to happen, but if I decide to veer a certain way I didn’t expect – say, have lunch at a place I didn’t know existed – I’m not going to be mad. I often have too many ideas and have to cut back to make the story tight, but the good news is revision is part of the writing process, and I’d rather have too many ideas that can be taken out and explored in another story.
Did you hire an editor to review your manuscript before publishing?
Yes. I put out feelers and I honestly got a little frustrated because I keep getting the idea when I say “Copy Editor” some people think I meant, “Cheerleader”. Tell me when I’m making a stupid mistake, let me worry about the terrible quality of my puns.
Do you find it difficult to juggle your time between marketing your current book and writing your next book? Do you try to write everyday or carve out certain times during the week?
When I was starting to write it was easy because I needed to be home to watch my sisters and make supper. I had a very set routine, which got thrown out the window my final year of high school because my sisters no longer needed me and I got a job. I learned to be flexible and my process is hard to explain – I think building the habit is important, but because my university classes and work schedule was all over the place, I learned to try to hash out a scene or an idea and be task orientated. I can’t control people needing me or a computer break down, but if I find myself with a little bit of down time, I can edit a few pages, which is a few pages less for me to work on when I have a more designated time to do it.
Some fun facts about you, which do you prefer – dogs or cats? Chocolate or vanilla? Coffee or Tea? Talk or Text? Day or Night?
I’ll pet a crocodile if I knew it wasn’t going to bite me. I have pet a bat, once. I have a dog and a cat; the dog I really really wanted and the cat was a rescue, but turns out I love both.
I do love chocolate but vanilla is nice too, depending on what we’re having. If it’s ice cream, let’s go with chocolate. Pie? Vanilla.
I’m a tea drinker; the only way I have coffee is if it’s in some sort of fru-fru mochalatte with sprinkles. I don’t like coffee; I like desert.
On my cell phone, text me. I can talk to some people for hours; that way we don’t get side tracked.
I guess day but I do like my night shifts at work; I think it’s because a lot of the stuff I enjoy – kayaking, biking, etc., usually need to take place during the day.
What’s next for you?
I am hiring an editor for a novella for the Rogue Healer series and I then have to decide which project I’m going to self-publish next year; I’ve narrowed it down but I am wishy-washy. It’ll probably be another Middle Grade title.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
AUTHOR Bio and Links:
L.T. Getty is a rural paramedic from Manitoba. She enjoys writing science fiction and fantasy and generally being creative.
Amazon (American)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09F2MRB9N/
Amazon (Canadian)
https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B09F2MRB9N/
Kobo
https://www.kobo.com/ca/en/ebook/the-mermaid-and-the-unicorns
Goodreads
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60006465-the-mermaid-and-the-unicorns
Barnes and Noble
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-mermaid-and-the-unicorns-lt-getty/1140115966
Author Links:
My Blog
August 28, 2022
#NEW: VICTORY WRITING SHOP - Gifts and Tools for Book Nerds & Authors
Here's a special treat for both authors looking for practical advice on writing and editing as well as great ideas for author swag gifts.
Website: https://victorywriting.com
I've reviewed Ms. Victory's book, "How to Polish Your Manuscript in Ten Days" and found it immensely helpful.
Anne Victory bio:
You've probably already guessed that I adore books. Hell, I edit books for a living. 🙂 I also teach classes about writing, give presentations at conferences and to local writers' groups, and run a group that distributes ARCs (Advance Reader Copies) for authors. If it involves books, I'm here for it.
But the story of how this shop came to be and the things I sell is a bit of a winding road.
First—I've always wanted to do something creative that would also bring a smile to anyone who enjoys pretty things. That led me to designing illustrated journals. Books that let me express myself when creating them but would also let you enjoy an experience as you write, not just jot things down on some plain lined paper.
The next thing on my list–I use flip-top notebooks for jotting down notes, figures, pretty much anything on my mind. But all the ones I found were… ugly. There, I said it. So I started making little notepads that would bring me a touch of joy as I work. And I wanted to share them with you.
Well, all that's well and good, you might be thinking. But what about the rest of it?
I'm a firm believer in "going wide." This is basically when a self-published, indie author decides to not just use Amazon as their platform but to also utilize other book retailers and maybe even sell books directly from their website or at conferences. And okay—confession time.
I have a love/hate relationship with Amazon.
On the one hand, they indirectly put food on my table by helping my clients make money, which is how they pay for editing. My animals gotta eat. 😆 I also love the convenience of shopping on Amazon.
But on the other hand, I hate how big corporations drive out the mom-and-pop shops, and I'm not a fan of the soul-sucking way they treat their workers either. So I made the decision to go it on my own.
And it occurred to me that if I wasn't depending on Amazon to sell my books, then I could sell other things too. Makes sense, right? And I thought of how happy I'd be to walk into a shop that was dedicated to all things writing, reading, and freelancing. I'm only sorry my shop doesn't have some comfy chairs for you. 🙂
And, finally, I love to serve and teach. That's why I started my Academy, that's why I have a NetGalley co-op, and that's why I present at conferences. So don't be surprised if you find resources on the craft of writing and planners to help with productivity and organization.
If you love books as much as I do, you've definitely come to the right place. Bring your own comfy chair and browse as long as you'd like.
August 26, 2022
#SALE: .99 August 26-28, THE DUKE AND THE BLUESTOCKING by Debra Elizabeth
The Duke and the Bluestocking, Book 7
Can the duke convince the one young lady who doesn't want to marry that he's perfect for her?
Miss Emma Bainbridge is in danger of being labeled a bluestocking much to her mother's horror. With her love of reading and outspoken opinions, her views on marriage are not hard to predict. The last thing she wants is to give up what little independence she enjoys to the whims and demands of a husband. She'd rather be a spinster.
William Davies, the Duke of Richmond, met Miss Bainbridge when he escorted her and her sisters to the British Museum. He was intrigued with her intelligence and zest for learning. She's a stunning beauty and would make a perfect duchess. But there's a big problem, Miss Bainbridge does not want to marry anyone, not even a duke. Somehow he must convince her that she's the perfect woman for him. Will she finally relent and let him ignite the passion lingering just below the surface?
https://www.amazon.com/Duke-Bluestocking-Age-Innocence-Book-ebook/dp/B0B3Z2K7MR
#Excerpt: SHADOWS AND TWILIGHT by Jamie A Waters
Shadows and Twilight
Jamie A. Waters
(The Dragon Portal, #4)
Publication date: August 25th 2022
Genres: Adult, Fantasy, Romance
The only way for darkness to thrive is to destroy the light…
Sabine owes her life to the two demon brothers who helped keep her hidden from the Fae for the past ten years.
When she learns Dax has been forced back to the underworld to stand trial for his treasonous crimes, Sabine races to their volcanic home to save him. What she discovers is a long-hidden truth that has the potential to shape the future of their world or destroy it.
Only an ancient weapon of power can shatter the portal bindings…
The demons secretly recognize Sabine as the true queen of the Unseelie, and they’re determined to keep her for their own purposes. With her magic, they can escape the underworld and declare vengeance on those who oppose them.
But first, they must destroy all her ties to the light, including the man she loves.
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EXCERPT:
Another scream drew Malek’s attention back to the tunnel. His hand tightened around the hilt of his sword.
“We’ve got company. There’s not enough space here for me to shift without bringing down the tunnel.”
“Then prepare to fight,” Bane said, his silvered eyes turning to stare at the dark tunnel. “The hellhounds are
part of the Hall’s defense. They’re driving those creatures to us. They won’t stop until every living thing in their path is dead, including us.”
“Stay close and fight defensively,” Sabine said to Rika.
Dozens of large arachnoid creatures scuttled forward. They were nearly the size of wolves. Their exoskeletons were a deep black color, while yellow ooze dripped from their fangs.
“Spiders?” Blossom shrieked. “Spiders shouldn’t be that big! What kind of garden do those suckers live in?”
Malek sliced through the first one, leaping back as one of its sawtooth legs tried to swipe at him. He spun toward the next, narrowly missing a spat of the yellow ooze it had shot at him. Using his magic to fuel his strength and speed, he took the head of the creature.
“Watch their venom,” Bane warned, swiping his claws down one of the arachnoids’ necks.
Sabine threw shimmering orbs of condensed power. Each one burst apart, expanding like a magical explosion to cut down dozens of creatures at once. It was effective, but Malek wasn’t sure how long she could keep up the attack.
“Die, evil fiends!” Blossom shrieked and darted in between their legs, tripping the creatures as they tried to catch the pixie. One after another, they toppled over and then scrambled back to their feet.
Rika shouted a battle cry and lifted her short sword, hacking at the legs on the creatures Blossom targeted. Malek grinned at their teamwork and turned his attention toward the nearest attacker. He quickly cut it down before facing the next, each one brandishing its sharpened legs.
A creature struck out at Malek, but Sabine shot her hand out and speared the creature with another burst of magic. His gaze met hers, and in that moment, the connection between them flared to life. Love and undeniable need surged within him, mirroring the emotions in her eyes.
Sabine gave him a teasing smile. “Try not to die, will you? I have plans with you later.” “I wouldn’t dream of disappointing you,” Malek said with a grin.
Author Bio:
Jamie A. Waters is an award-winning fantasy romance author and dragon enthusiast. Weaving together magic, intrigue, and some delicious romance, she creates memorable and immersive worlds that provide the perfect escape. Her books feature strong, capable heroines and their swoon-worthy heroes who will stop at nothing to save the day.
Jamie currently resides in Florida with two neurotic dogs who enjoy stealing socks. When she's not pursuing her passion of writing, she's usually trying to learn new and interesting random things (like how to pick locks or use the self-cleaning feature of the oven without setting off the fire alarm). In her downtime, she enjoys reading, playing computer games, painting, or acting as a referee between the dragons and fairies currently at war inside her closet.
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August 24, 2022
#Review: THE SCOUNDREL FALLS HARD by Sophie Jordan
4 of 5 starsGwen Cully was a female blacksmith, the last of her family, but her livelihood is threatened when another blacksmith with two strapping sons moves into their village. She's barely holding on because her uncle and father have passed away and she's all alone. When a man bursts into her smithy, she's not sure what is going on until the villagers come and drag him away, bent on hanging him for his deceptions and thievery. Gwen could not stomach such blood-thirsty actions and claimed to love the man to save his life. Little does she know her life was about to change when she finds herself betrothed to Kellan Fox, the most handsome man she'd ever seen. Kellen could not believe his luck when a magnificent woman saves his life although he now finds himself betrothed to her. They make a pact that they'll remain just friends after their marriage, but that turns out to be impossible when sparks fly between them.
This was such a unique plot. I was intrigued by Gwen and Kellan trying to keep their hands to themselves especially after that first scorching kiss. Ms. Jordan slowly teases out the details of Kellan's past with his thieving father and how Kellan finally realized what he wanted and that was Gwen. There were no fancy balls or Society rules, and that was a nice departure from the usual books in the genre. This was my favorite book of the series so far and I look forward to reading the next book.
I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
August 23, 2022
#Review: BLAME IT ON THE EARL by Jane Ashford
2 of 5 starsI've only read the second book in the series, but it didn't seem to matter as "Blame It On the Earl" can be read as a stand-alone book. When I read the blurb, I thought it would be an interesting and engaging book weaving in the different legends surrounding King Arthur, but that didn't turn out to be the case. The hero, Kenver, wasn't much of a hero, more of a wimp who couldn't stand up to his parents. He was so weak that even when his mother's final malicious plans were revealed, he thought the best thing would be to work with her. Really?
There's no comeuppance for how mean and cruel this woman was all through the book?? It seems to be a common theme as it also happened in book two. That doesn't sit well with me at all. I did like Sarah. She was unique and kind, almost to a fault. There isn't much action - all the bad things that happen are in the earl's home. I forced myself to finish this story hoping the mother would get her due, but unfortunately, that didn't happen.
I don't think I'll bother to read any more in this series. I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.
August 19, 2022
#FREE: Aug. 19-22, THE SILVER CROSS by Debra L Martin
Book blurb:
There are two things Boston detective Lacey Gardner knows about killing vampires. Slicing off a head or a hit directly to the heart are the only surefire ways to kill one. Silver is their Achilles heel. A vampire never wears silver.
When she meets bartender extraordinaire Damon Harte, her heart does a quickstep for the dark, hunky guy. She's learned the hard way that having a love interest in her line of work can be heart-wrenching. She's kept to herself for years, but something about Damon captivates her and draws her to him. When she learns Damon's devastating secret, she knows what she has to do: kill the man who has stolen her heart.
Buy links:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Silver-Cross-Vampire-Nightlife-Novel-ebook/dp/B009BW6PUW
Reviewer Comments:
5.0 out of 5 stars excellent
By Lisa A. Markson
"When tragedy happens it can put your life in a tailspin. That is exactly what happened to Lacey Gardner after the death of her sister. Lacey is a detective in the Fringe department which is the division of the police department that deals with things of the paranormal and the regular department doesn't want to deal with. Lacey is really good for this job with the mess of her life she is able to connect with her job on a level most couldn't. The controversy between Damon and Nic gives us a story that we are unable to put down from the first page to the very last page. I love how the authors gave the background to who and what Damon was and the history of the Silver Cross he wore and why. Thank you for such a intense and amazing story. I highly recommend if you like a paranormal romance that has you on the edge of your seat."
5.0 out of 5 stars Another "Read into the Night" gem,By mooselise "never bookless"
"I loved the action right from the beginning of the book. It definitely got me hooked, and then I met the heroine, Lacey & absolutely loved her. It's nice to see a main character who is a strong assertive female. This book has action, adventure, romance and rich, well developed characters. I will be waiting for the sequel, cause I know it's coming!
"
5.0 out of 5 stars Phenomenal
By Amanda
"I loved this book! It had an awesome mix of mystery, action, and romance. Lacey was a fierce. strong-willed, lead female and I also really enjoyed getting to know her partners. Through them, you learned a little more about her too. Her and Damon had a great energy together and you could tell from the beginning that he wasn't like the other vampires, the ones that Lacey made a living getting rid of. I can't wait to read the next in this series and everything else from these authors!!" 5.0 out of 5 stars Exhilarating and Exciting
By Athena L Nagel "Athena L Nagel - The Stuff of...
"The Silver Cross was an excellent read. Not too slow at all - the pace was exhilarating and exciting. I read it in one (long) sitting. I found I just could not put it down. I needed to know what was going to happen next with Damon and Lacey - together or separately."
