Taylor Fenner's Blog, page 170
May 25, 2016
"What I'm Reading" Wednesday #24
This "WIR"-Wednesday I'm reading a fantastic book by an author new to me...
Hush by Karen Robards
Blurb:
When Riley Cowan finds her estranged husband Jeff dead in his palatial home, she’s sure it’s no coincidence. The police rule it a suicide, but Riley thinks someone’s out for blood—specifically someone Jeff’s father ripped off in one of the biggest financial fraud cases of all time. She suspects that someone is trying to send a message to Jeff’s father: Tell me where the money is, or everyone you care about will die.
Enter Finn Bradley, an FBI agent with a dangerous secret. He's after the money too, and Riley quickly becomes his chief suspect. But when someone tries to kill her, he has no choice but to protect her until he can uncover the truth. The question becomes, can they discover the killer’s identity in time, before he resurfaces—and strikes again?
Why I Chose This Book / What I Think So Far: I kept seeing this book over and over for the longest time at Barnes and Noble but I never picked it up. I instantly loved the cover because I have major hair envy... I wish I could get my hair that color. And the woman holding her finger to her lips dares you to ask "what secrets is she hiding?" I finally grabbed this book off the shelf when I saw it on my latest library trip. Riley's ex-husband is the son of a man who pulled off a Bernie Madoff-esque investment scam and when Riley discovers Jeff hanging from the galley of his parents' former home she knows it's no suicide. Jeff would never kill himself, and he definitely wouldn't do that to his mother and his seventeen-year-old sister, who have already suffered so much. So Riley takes his phone and hightails it out of the house and makes an anonymous call to the police alerting them to Jeff's demise. What is on his phone? Clues to who might have killed him? Jeff swore that someone was out to get him and now Riley must face that someone was after him, and may come after her. Sexy FBI agent Finn is intrigued by Riley from the moment he spots her enter the Cowan estate, where he's hiding in the shadows, to discover Jeff's body. But when she doesn't react as he expected her to he wants to know why. What is Riley hiding and why did she take Jeff's phone? He knows she's hiding something based on her tight-lipped attitude, especially after a Ukrainian with diplomatic immunity breaks into her apartment and tries to kill her. Does Riley know where the money is? So far I really like this book. The author has created a story that's hard to pull away from. I'm constantly wondering what's going to happen next and who killed Jeff. I'm a big fan of this genre and can easily compare this author to some of my favorite authors: Nora Roberts, Sandra Brown, and Lisa Jackson. I can't wait to see how this book ends!
Hush by Karen Robards
Blurb:
When Riley Cowan finds her estranged husband Jeff dead in his palatial home, she’s sure it’s no coincidence. The police rule it a suicide, but Riley thinks someone’s out for blood—specifically someone Jeff’s father ripped off in one of the biggest financial fraud cases of all time. She suspects that someone is trying to send a message to Jeff’s father: Tell me where the money is, or everyone you care about will die.Enter Finn Bradley, an FBI agent with a dangerous secret. He's after the money too, and Riley quickly becomes his chief suspect. But when someone tries to kill her, he has no choice but to protect her until he can uncover the truth. The question becomes, can they discover the killer’s identity in time, before he resurfaces—and strikes again?
Why I Chose This Book / What I Think So Far: I kept seeing this book over and over for the longest time at Barnes and Noble but I never picked it up. I instantly loved the cover because I have major hair envy... I wish I could get my hair that color. And the woman holding her finger to her lips dares you to ask "what secrets is she hiding?" I finally grabbed this book off the shelf when I saw it on my latest library trip. Riley's ex-husband is the son of a man who pulled off a Bernie Madoff-esque investment scam and when Riley discovers Jeff hanging from the galley of his parents' former home she knows it's no suicide. Jeff would never kill himself, and he definitely wouldn't do that to his mother and his seventeen-year-old sister, who have already suffered so much. So Riley takes his phone and hightails it out of the house and makes an anonymous call to the police alerting them to Jeff's demise. What is on his phone? Clues to who might have killed him? Jeff swore that someone was out to get him and now Riley must face that someone was after him, and may come after her. Sexy FBI agent Finn is intrigued by Riley from the moment he spots her enter the Cowan estate, where he's hiding in the shadows, to discover Jeff's body. But when she doesn't react as he expected her to he wants to know why. What is Riley hiding and why did she take Jeff's phone? He knows she's hiding something based on her tight-lipped attitude, especially after a Ukrainian with diplomatic immunity breaks into her apartment and tries to kill her. Does Riley know where the money is? So far I really like this book. The author has created a story that's hard to pull away from. I'm constantly wondering what's going to happen next and who killed Jeff. I'm a big fan of this genre and can easily compare this author to some of my favorite authors: Nora Roberts, Sandra Brown, and Lisa Jackson. I can't wait to see how this book ends!
May 20, 2016
Self-Publishing Vs. Small Press: Which Is Right For You?
You've finished writing your novel and you're ready to dive into the world of publishing. Instead of going the traditional route you've decided you want to go Indie. But when presented with the choice of Small Press vs. Self-Publishing, which is right for you? I've done it both ways so here's a rundown of some of the pros and cons of each:
Small Press: What is a small press publisher? A small press is a publisher independent of the "big 5". Some small presses publish ten or fewer novels a year, others publish more.
My Experience with a Small Press Publisher:Before I ever got into self-publishing and after getting a couple rejections from the "big 5" I submitted my first novel, The Haunting Love, to a small press. We all obviously know that it was contracted by them. There are both pros and cons to my experience working with the small press I worked with. Remember, though, each small press operates differently, this is just my experience.
Pros:- The publisher pays for:* Editors* Cover Art- The publisher takes care of:* setting a timeline* getting layout and formatting together* obtaining ISBNs* getting the book onto Amazon & every other book platform- Having the publisher listed as the publisher of record for those snobby readers that don't want to read a book published by the author.
Cons:- Little-to-sometimes-no control over cover art- Some small presses only publish ebooks (no print books)- Lower Royalty Rate (most small presses offer 25-35% royalties to authors. This means for every $3.99 ebook you sell if your rate is 25% you get 99 cents and the publisher gets $3.00 before distributor fees)
Things you should definitely research or ask when looking into a small press:- Does the publisher publish print books as well as ebooks? If so, will that print book be available for sale on the same release date as the ebook? Is there a delay? Will you receive any authors copies for giveaways, reviewers, or personal use?
- What is the royalty rate? Is the rate negotiable?
- How much marketing will the publisher do for you? (Some publishers do a lot, while others do little-to-none, leaving you to do all the work.)
- What do some of their authors think of them as a publisher? If you are able t0, try to reach out to an author you know has published through the small press you're interested in and ask questions about their experience with the publisher. What do they like about working with the small press? Have they had any issues with them? Another good way to do research is to look them up on google. What do message boards, forums, or publishing blogs think of them? Are there any major complaints?
- Does the publisher charge anything to publish your book? If so, run far, far away!
My experience with the small press I published through was not a very positive one. Some days I curse them, but at least it opened me up to the world of publishing. It got my foot in the door so I could broaden my horizons and learn more about other types of publishing.
Self-Publishing: What is Self-Publishing?Publishing your work without going through a traditional or small press publisher.
My Experience With Self-Publishing:I've self-published two novels and each time I learn a little bit more about the industry and things I can improve on in the future, different marketing and publishing strategies, and such. I love self-publishing. For me it's easy and I can set my own pace. Sure, I've made mistakes but you take those mistakes and make sure you learn from them.
Pros: - Complete control over cover art-Ability to publish in any format you want: * eBook* Paperback* Hardcover* Audiobook- Higher Royalty Rate (KDP - Kindle Direct Publishing - offers a royalty rate of 70% for any ebook priced at $2.99 or higher. Smashwords offers 85% Royalties for books sold through their store and 60% for books sold through distributed channels such as Barnes and Noble and iBooks)- Ability to make available (or not available) on any platform you want. (Want to have your book just enrolled in Kindle Unlimited? With Self-Publishing, you'll have the freedom to sell your book wherever you want, have sales on holidays if you want, or reduce the price/have free days anytime.)
- You can set your own timeline. (I worked at a much faster pace than my small press publisher, and I HATE delays, but that's just me.)
Cons:
-Costs covered by small presses and publishers such as: cover art costs (whether you do your own cover or hire someone to make one for you) editors, formatters, costs to obtain an ISBN, etc. have to come out of your pocket. The loophole? Some of these things you can do for yourself or get for free. If you're handy with Photoshop or know someone that is you can make your own covers and your only expense is the stock image costs. I use a combination of friends and family to edit my novels, as well as Grammarly for some minor editing, and beta readers. Just make sure whoever you're using as an editor can spell and knows something about grammar. A former English teacher turned friend maybe? Formatting your book for ebook and paperback formats is pretty easy. Amazin has a handbook you can download to help you meet their guidelines, as does Smashwords. Lulu and Createspace give you the option of obtaining a Free ISBN through them for your print books, and ebooks don't require an ISBN, although Smashwords will assign one to your ebook if you use them.
Regardless of costs, as my Grandmother would say, sometimes you have to spend money to make money.
- You're on your own with marketing. (Although you can brainstorm some creative ideas to get the word out about your book.)
So there you go... These are just some of the pros and cons of small press vs. self-publishing. Before you make your choice do your research, ask other authors about their experiences with the path they've chosen, and in the end follow your heart. Everyone's publishing story is different. What works for one person may not work for another. Go with whatever feels right to you. Remember.. you can always do things differently with your next book. Nobody says that every single one of your books has to be published in the same way. Go small press with your first book, self-pub your second, use a different small press with a third. The possibilities are endless as the world of Indie Publishing grows every day.
Have fun, and let me know when your book goes on sale, I'd love to check it out!
Small Press: What is a small press publisher? A small press is a publisher independent of the "big 5". Some small presses publish ten or fewer novels a year, others publish more.
My Experience with a Small Press Publisher:Before I ever got into self-publishing and after getting a couple rejections from the "big 5" I submitted my first novel, The Haunting Love, to a small press. We all obviously know that it was contracted by them. There are both pros and cons to my experience working with the small press I worked with. Remember, though, each small press operates differently, this is just my experience.
Pros:- The publisher pays for:* Editors* Cover Art- The publisher takes care of:* setting a timeline* getting layout and formatting together* obtaining ISBNs* getting the book onto Amazon & every other book platform- Having the publisher listed as the publisher of record for those snobby readers that don't want to read a book published by the author.
Cons:- Little-to-sometimes-no control over cover art- Some small presses only publish ebooks (no print books)- Lower Royalty Rate (most small presses offer 25-35% royalties to authors. This means for every $3.99 ebook you sell if your rate is 25% you get 99 cents and the publisher gets $3.00 before distributor fees)
Things you should definitely research or ask when looking into a small press:- Does the publisher publish print books as well as ebooks? If so, will that print book be available for sale on the same release date as the ebook? Is there a delay? Will you receive any authors copies for giveaways, reviewers, or personal use?
- What is the royalty rate? Is the rate negotiable?
- How much marketing will the publisher do for you? (Some publishers do a lot, while others do little-to-none, leaving you to do all the work.)
- What do some of their authors think of them as a publisher? If you are able t0, try to reach out to an author you know has published through the small press you're interested in and ask questions about their experience with the publisher. What do they like about working with the small press? Have they had any issues with them? Another good way to do research is to look them up on google. What do message boards, forums, or publishing blogs think of them? Are there any major complaints?
- Does the publisher charge anything to publish your book? If so, run far, far away!
My experience with the small press I published through was not a very positive one. Some days I curse them, but at least it opened me up to the world of publishing. It got my foot in the door so I could broaden my horizons and learn more about other types of publishing.
Self-Publishing: What is Self-Publishing?Publishing your work without going through a traditional or small press publisher.
My Experience With Self-Publishing:I've self-published two novels and each time I learn a little bit more about the industry and things I can improve on in the future, different marketing and publishing strategies, and such. I love self-publishing. For me it's easy and I can set my own pace. Sure, I've made mistakes but you take those mistakes and make sure you learn from them.
Pros: - Complete control over cover art-Ability to publish in any format you want: * eBook* Paperback* Hardcover* Audiobook- Higher Royalty Rate (KDP - Kindle Direct Publishing - offers a royalty rate of 70% for any ebook priced at $2.99 or higher. Smashwords offers 85% Royalties for books sold through their store and 60% for books sold through distributed channels such as Barnes and Noble and iBooks)- Ability to make available (or not available) on any platform you want. (Want to have your book just enrolled in Kindle Unlimited? With Self-Publishing, you'll have the freedom to sell your book wherever you want, have sales on holidays if you want, or reduce the price/have free days anytime.)
- You can set your own timeline. (I worked at a much faster pace than my small press publisher, and I HATE delays, but that's just me.)
Cons:
-Costs covered by small presses and publishers such as: cover art costs (whether you do your own cover or hire someone to make one for you) editors, formatters, costs to obtain an ISBN, etc. have to come out of your pocket. The loophole? Some of these things you can do for yourself or get for free. If you're handy with Photoshop or know someone that is you can make your own covers and your only expense is the stock image costs. I use a combination of friends and family to edit my novels, as well as Grammarly for some minor editing, and beta readers. Just make sure whoever you're using as an editor can spell and knows something about grammar. A former English teacher turned friend maybe? Formatting your book for ebook and paperback formats is pretty easy. Amazin has a handbook you can download to help you meet their guidelines, as does Smashwords. Lulu and Createspace give you the option of obtaining a Free ISBN through them for your print books, and ebooks don't require an ISBN, although Smashwords will assign one to your ebook if you use them.
Regardless of costs, as my Grandmother would say, sometimes you have to spend money to make money.
- You're on your own with marketing. (Although you can brainstorm some creative ideas to get the word out about your book.)
So there you go... These are just some of the pros and cons of small press vs. self-publishing. Before you make your choice do your research, ask other authors about their experiences with the path they've chosen, and in the end follow your heart. Everyone's publishing story is different. What works for one person may not work for another. Go with whatever feels right to you. Remember.. you can always do things differently with your next book. Nobody says that every single one of your books has to be published in the same way. Go small press with your first book, self-pub your second, use a different small press with a third. The possibilities are endless as the world of Indie Publishing grows every day.
Have fun, and let me know when your book goes on sale, I'd love to check it out!
May 18, 2016
"What I'm Reading" Wednesday #23
I am head-over-heels in love with the series I'm reading this "WIR"-Wednesday!
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas
Blurb:
Feyre survived Amarantha's clutches to return to the Spring Court--but at a steep cost. Though she now has the powers of the High Fae, her heart remains human, and it can't forget the terrible deeds she performed to save Tamlin's people.
Nor has Feyre forgotten her bargain with Rhysand, High Lord of the feared Night Court. As Feyre navigates its dark web of politics, passion, and dazzling power, a greater evil looms--and she might be key to stopping it. But only if she can harness her harrowing gifts, heal her fractured soul, and decide how she wishes to shape her future--and the future of a world cleaved in two.
Why I Chose This Book / What I Think So Far: I bought this book at the same time I bought A Court of Thorns and Roses because I figured if I ended up loving the first book then I'd save myself from making a second purchase to get the sequel. After reading ACOTAR of course I had to read the second book! I am in love with the characters and the world Sarah J. Maas has created. ACOMAF picks up three months after Tamlin, Feyre, and Lucien leave Under The Mountain. I'm about 40 pages in and so far Tamlin and Feyre are now engaged but Feyre's freedom has now lessened with all of her duties as Tamlin's future wife and his overprotectiveness about her safety. I can't wait to see where this book takes these characters and I'm anxiously awaiting the reappearance of Rhys.
I also read the first book in this series this week...
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
Blurb:
When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a beast-like creature arrives to demand retribution for it. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she only knows about from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not an animal, but Tamlin--one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled their world.
As she dwells on his estate, her feelings for Tamlin transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie and warning she's been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But an ancient, wicked shadow over the faerie lands is growing, and Feyre must find a way to stop it . . . or doom Tamlin--and his world--forever.
What I Thought of This Book: OMG I loved this book! I was so afraid I wouldn't be able to get into this book. I usually am not a fan of fantasy but after reading Wendy Higgins's latest book, The Great Hunt, and loving it when I saw this book I thought: why not give it a chance? I am so glad I did. Not only was this story easy to get into but the characters, the storyline, the world that Sarah J. Maas has created in this book... it's amazingly written. You'll easily relate to and fall in love with Feyre, even if you're not the tomboyish-huntress type. She's strong, she's caring, and she'll do anything for those that she loves. This book kind of reminds me of the "Beauty and the Beast" storyline mashed together with a wild and sometimes dangerous world of the Fae, but that's what makes it all the more better. Bottom line, read this book. Even if you're just getting into the fantasy genre, like me, you won't be able to put this book down. It will keep you up late reading, be the first thing you reach for when you wake up in the morning, and keep you captivated when you dream about it at night. And have I mentioned that I am in love with the covers on both ACOTAR and ACOMAF? Seriously, they're beautiful and colorful! My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars!
A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas
Blurb:
Feyre survived Amarantha's clutches to return to the Spring Court--but at a steep cost. Though she now has the powers of the High Fae, her heart remains human, and it can't forget the terrible deeds she performed to save Tamlin's people.Nor has Feyre forgotten her bargain with Rhysand, High Lord of the feared Night Court. As Feyre navigates its dark web of politics, passion, and dazzling power, a greater evil looms--and she might be key to stopping it. But only if she can harness her harrowing gifts, heal her fractured soul, and decide how she wishes to shape her future--and the future of a world cleaved in two.
Why I Chose This Book / What I Think So Far: I bought this book at the same time I bought A Court of Thorns and Roses because I figured if I ended up loving the first book then I'd save myself from making a second purchase to get the sequel. After reading ACOTAR of course I had to read the second book! I am in love with the characters and the world Sarah J. Maas has created. ACOMAF picks up three months after Tamlin, Feyre, and Lucien leave Under The Mountain. I'm about 40 pages in and so far Tamlin and Feyre are now engaged but Feyre's freedom has now lessened with all of her duties as Tamlin's future wife and his overprotectiveness about her safety. I can't wait to see where this book takes these characters and I'm anxiously awaiting the reappearance of Rhys.
I also read the first book in this series this week...
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
Blurb:
When nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf in the woods, a beast-like creature arrives to demand retribution for it. Dragged to a treacherous magical land she only knows about from legends, Feyre discovers that her captor is not an animal, but Tamlin--one of the lethal, immortal faeries who once ruled their world.As she dwells on his estate, her feelings for Tamlin transform from icy hostility into a fiery passion that burns through every lie and warning she's been told about the beautiful, dangerous world of the Fae. But an ancient, wicked shadow over the faerie lands is growing, and Feyre must find a way to stop it . . . or doom Tamlin--and his world--forever.
What I Thought of This Book: OMG I loved this book! I was so afraid I wouldn't be able to get into this book. I usually am not a fan of fantasy but after reading Wendy Higgins's latest book, The Great Hunt, and loving it when I saw this book I thought: why not give it a chance? I am so glad I did. Not only was this story easy to get into but the characters, the storyline, the world that Sarah J. Maas has created in this book... it's amazingly written. You'll easily relate to and fall in love with Feyre, even if you're not the tomboyish-huntress type. She's strong, she's caring, and she'll do anything for those that she loves. This book kind of reminds me of the "Beauty and the Beast" storyline mashed together with a wild and sometimes dangerous world of the Fae, but that's what makes it all the more better. Bottom line, read this book. Even if you're just getting into the fantasy genre, like me, you won't be able to put this book down. It will keep you up late reading, be the first thing you reach for when you wake up in the morning, and keep you captivated when you dream about it at night. And have I mentioned that I am in love with the covers on both ACOTAR and ACOMAF? Seriously, they're beautiful and colorful! My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars!
May 13, 2016
Friday the 13th
It's that awesome time again... come on you all know what I'm talking about. It's...
In honor of Friday the 13th, I'm counting down my top 13 favorite horror movies of all time. When you're as much of a horror movie fanatic as I am... well let's just say I'll try to remember them all. But first, a WRITING PROMPT for all my writer friends out there...
Prompt:Write a story about a woman that falls in love with the killer from a classic (or newer) horror movie. Think Freddy Krueger, Michael Myers, Jason Voorhees, etc.
Taylor Fenner's Top 13 Favorite Horror Movies of All Time: (In no particular order)Some old, some new, some remakes, some originals.
The Haunting 1999, Starring Catherine Zeta-Jones, Liam Neeson, Lili Taylor, and Owen Wilson
The Roommate 2011, Starring Leighton Meester, Minka Kelly, and Cam Gigandet
House on Haunted Hill 1959, Starring Vincent Price
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane 1962, Starring Bette Davis and Joan Crawford
Crimson Peak 2015, Starring Tom Hiddleston, Jessica Chastain, Mia Wasikowska, and Charlie Hunnam
The Fog 2005, Starring Maggie Grace, Tom Welling, and Selma Blair
Shadow of a Doubt 1943, Starring Teresa Wright and Joseph Cotten
An American Haunting 2005, Starring Donald Sutherland, Sissy Spacek, James D'Arcy, and Rachel Hurd-Wood
Psycho 1960, Starring Janet Leigh, Anthony Perkins, Vera Miles, and John Gavin
House of Wax 1953, Starring Vincent Price
Nightmare on Elm Street 2010, Starring Roony Mara, Katie Cassidy, Kyle Gallner, Thomas Dekker, Kellan Lutz, and Connie Britton
Swimfan 2002, Starring Jesse Bradford, Erika Christensen, and Shiri Appleby
Scream 3 2000, Staring Neve Campbell, David Arquette, and Courtney Cox
Getting inspired to add some of these to your Netflix queue? I know I'm in the mood for a horror movie marathon tonight. Happy Friday the 13th, and remember...
In honor of Friday the 13th, I'm counting down my top 13 favorite horror movies of all time. When you're as much of a horror movie fanatic as I am... well let's just say I'll try to remember them all. But first, a WRITING PROMPT for all my writer friends out there...
Prompt:Write a story about a woman that falls in love with the killer from a classic (or newer) horror movie. Think Freddy Krueger, Michael Myers, Jason Voorhees, etc.
Taylor Fenner's Top 13 Favorite Horror Movies of All Time: (In no particular order)Some old, some new, some remakes, some originals.
The Haunting 1999, Starring Catherine Zeta-Jones, Liam Neeson, Lili Taylor, and Owen Wilson
The Roommate 2011, Starring Leighton Meester, Minka Kelly, and Cam Gigandet
House on Haunted Hill 1959, Starring Vincent Price
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane 1962, Starring Bette Davis and Joan Crawford
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Crimson Peak 2015, Starring Tom Hiddleston, Jessica Chastain, Mia Wasikowska, and Charlie Hunnam
The Fog 2005, Starring Maggie Grace, Tom Welling, and Selma Blair
Shadow of a Doubt 1943, Starring Teresa Wright and Joseph Cotten
An American Haunting 2005, Starring Donald Sutherland, Sissy Spacek, James D'Arcy, and Rachel Hurd-Wood
Psycho 1960, Starring Janet Leigh, Anthony Perkins, Vera Miles, and John Gavin
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House of Wax 1953, Starring Vincent Price
Nightmare on Elm Street 2010, Starring Roony Mara, Katie Cassidy, Kyle Gallner, Thomas Dekker, Kellan Lutz, and Connie Britton
Swimfan 2002, Starring Jesse Bradford, Erika Christensen, and Shiri Appleby
Scream 3 2000, Staring Neve Campbell, David Arquette, and Courtney Cox
Getting inspired to add some of these to your Netflix queue? I know I'm in the mood for a horror movie marathon tonight. Happy Friday the 13th, and remember...
May 11, 2016
"What I'm Reading" Wednesday #22
This "WIR"-Wednesday I'm rejoining Naomi, Puck, and Kai in the Thorn Chronicles...
Destroyed (The Thorn Chronicles #2) by Kimberly Loth
Blurb:
In an ideal world, Naomi would still be living in Vegas with Ginny and Alejandro, kissing Puck whenever possible, and becoming a Guardian. But Naomi’s never lived in an ideal world. Instead, she’s stuck back in Arkansas with Father, Kai, and the Destroyers. Plus, her mother's power lives on inside of Naomi and she has no idea how to get rid of it. As Naomi struggles to understand the destructive power and help Kai with his role as the Master Destroyer, a new threat arises. Destroyers are killing Guardians and now all of Naomi’s friends are at risk. Everyone thinks that Kai is the only one who can stop it. But Naomi knows better—she alone can end it all. But how?
Why I Chose This Book/ What I Think So Far: I loved Kissed (Thorn Chronicles #1) and I was really excited to read Destroyed. There's been a few months (and a lot of books) in between but I eagerly dived in. I'm nearly 50 pages in and for some reason it is not grabbing me as well as the first one did. I still like Naomi but I'm kind of wondering why Puck sent her to help Kai. At the beginning of Kissed I liked Kai, but now I kind of find him annoying. Naomi belongs in Vegas with Puck and her friends and family. Her being back in Arkansas with her dad and Kai is kind of a depressing thought. I guess I'll have to keep reading and see what happens.
Destroyed (The Thorn Chronicles #2) by Kimberly Loth
Blurb:
In an ideal world, Naomi would still be living in Vegas with Ginny and Alejandro, kissing Puck whenever possible, and becoming a Guardian. But Naomi’s never lived in an ideal world. Instead, she’s stuck back in Arkansas with Father, Kai, and the Destroyers. Plus, her mother's power lives on inside of Naomi and she has no idea how to get rid of it. As Naomi struggles to understand the destructive power and help Kai with his role as the Master Destroyer, a new threat arises. Destroyers are killing Guardians and now all of Naomi’s friends are at risk. Everyone thinks that Kai is the only one who can stop it. But Naomi knows better—she alone can end it all. But how?Why I Chose This Book/ What I Think So Far: I loved Kissed (Thorn Chronicles #1) and I was really excited to read Destroyed. There's been a few months (and a lot of books) in between but I eagerly dived in. I'm nearly 50 pages in and for some reason it is not grabbing me as well as the first one did. I still like Naomi but I'm kind of wondering why Puck sent her to help Kai. At the beginning of Kissed I liked Kai, but now I kind of find him annoying. Naomi belongs in Vegas with Puck and her friends and family. Her being back in Arkansas with her dad and Kai is kind of a depressing thought. I guess I'll have to keep reading and see what happens.
May 6, 2016
What's In A Character?
What's in a character, that which we call a rose... wait... that's a name. Oops. But really, what makes up a good character?
Characters are one of the most important parts of developing a story. Without characters, well, you'd just have a setting and a vague idea. As writers, we have to learn what makes a good, well-rounded character. After all readers...
It's true. Readers will form their own picture in their head of how they think a character looks based on your physical description of the character. But you can't just physically describe the character; they'd just come off as one-dimensional and boring. Characters need personality, depth, goals, wishes, needs, dreams... you get the picture.
One-Dimensional Characters can appear flat...
How does your character walk? Does he/she have a heavy-footed stomp, a light, bouncy gait, or a sexy swagger? Where is the story set, should your character have an accent? How do they dress? Why do they dress that way?
*Almost remember to show your reader instead of telling them. Instead of saying: "He had a southern accent." you could say, "His accent was as thick as molasses in January and the way he drawled his words sent a shiver down her spine."
All that aside, where can you find character inspiration?
People Watching
I'm an avid people-watcher. It is a habit I sink into automatically whenever I'm out in the general public. All you have to do is pay attention and watch.
The Walmart employee dressed up for St. Patrick's Day? That's a real leprechaun turned away from his clan because he was too tall. Without his pot of gold, he has to work a dead-end retail job for a living.
Darn, those pesky leprechauns...
The little old man crossing the street wearing a red English driving cap is really a weathered old art dealer. He's walked with that antique hand-carved cane ever since a high-risk art deal went bad and his buyer broke his kneecap. Oh, the secrets those deep wrinkles that line his face could tell.
The girl that works at the bookstore with the horn-rimmed glasses? She's really a spy, the mousy book clerk job is just a front. She's undercover chasing after a rare stolen manuscript, but she's been distracted by falling in love with her hunky tattooed co-worker.
See? Character inspiration can spring forth from watching people and thinking about what stories they might have hidden under the surface.
Visual Inspiration
Much like last week's blog pictures can inspire how you see (and how you want your readers to see) your characters. Does a model's picture in a magazine spark your inspiration? Do you see a visually pleasing photo of a person on Pinterest? A lot of the time when I really need to get a visual representation of how my characters look in my head I pop onto Pinterest and search through photos. I even put the pictures I find onto an inspiration board for whatever book I'm working on. Inspiration boards are a major help to writers.
Not only is this an awesome picture, this is pretty much how I envisioned Lizette in Out of Darkness.
Family and Friends Sometimes the people you know are just such... characters! We all know and love people that are just so different they'd make amazing characters in our writing projects. On the flipside, you might know someone who's hurt you or made you made angry so you might write that person into your story because killing them on paper is okay... in real life... not so much.
Just a fair word of advice, if you write someone into your story when you're mad at them you may not still be angry with them by the end of the book and you may regret killing the character off. Either way, I don't suggest using their real name, maybe just their physical description.
Have I ever used someone I know as inspiration in a story? Yes, yes I have. I've never used a real name, just a vague description, and sometimes the resemblance is only noticeable to me. While I won't tell you which characters are based on people I know, I will tell you that a lot of my male characters are loosely (and I really do mean loosely) based off of guys I've known. Guys I knew in high school then never saw again, guys I was involved with and it ended badly, guys I was involved with and it ended amicably but it didn't end amicably for the character, possibly a guy I'm currently involved with (shh!)...Then there are friends. But in all cases, these are just vague comparisons. Most times the physical descriptions are far from what the actual person looks like. So who knows, I might just have written about you ;)
Always remember... if you're friends with a writer...
Characters are one of the most important parts of developing a story. Without characters, well, you'd just have a setting and a vague idea. As writers, we have to learn what makes a good, well-rounded character. After all readers...
It's true. Readers will form their own picture in their head of how they think a character looks based on your physical description of the character. But you can't just physically describe the character; they'd just come off as one-dimensional and boring. Characters need personality, depth, goals, wishes, needs, dreams... you get the picture.
One-Dimensional Characters can appear flat...How does your character walk? Does he/she have a heavy-footed stomp, a light, bouncy gait, or a sexy swagger? Where is the story set, should your character have an accent? How do they dress? Why do they dress that way?
*Almost remember to show your reader instead of telling them. Instead of saying: "He had a southern accent." you could say, "His accent was as thick as molasses in January and the way he drawled his words sent a shiver down her spine."
All that aside, where can you find character inspiration?
People Watching
I'm an avid people-watcher. It is a habit I sink into automatically whenever I'm out in the general public. All you have to do is pay attention and watch.
The Walmart employee dressed up for St. Patrick's Day? That's a real leprechaun turned away from his clan because he was too tall. Without his pot of gold, he has to work a dead-end retail job for a living.
Darn, those pesky leprechauns...The little old man crossing the street wearing a red English driving cap is really a weathered old art dealer. He's walked with that antique hand-carved cane ever since a high-risk art deal went bad and his buyer broke his kneecap. Oh, the secrets those deep wrinkles that line his face could tell.
The girl that works at the bookstore with the horn-rimmed glasses? She's really a spy, the mousy book clerk job is just a front. She's undercover chasing after a rare stolen manuscript, but she's been distracted by falling in love with her hunky tattooed co-worker.
See? Character inspiration can spring forth from watching people and thinking about what stories they might have hidden under the surface.
Visual Inspiration
Much like last week's blog pictures can inspire how you see (and how you want your readers to see) your characters. Does a model's picture in a magazine spark your inspiration? Do you see a visually pleasing photo of a person on Pinterest? A lot of the time when I really need to get a visual representation of how my characters look in my head I pop onto Pinterest and search through photos. I even put the pictures I find onto an inspiration board for whatever book I'm working on. Inspiration boards are a major help to writers.
Not only is this an awesome picture, this is pretty much how I envisioned Lizette in Out of Darkness.Family and Friends Sometimes the people you know are just such... characters! We all know and love people that are just so different they'd make amazing characters in our writing projects. On the flipside, you might know someone who's hurt you or made you made angry so you might write that person into your story because killing them on paper is okay... in real life... not so much.
Just a fair word of advice, if you write someone into your story when you're mad at them you may not still be angry with them by the end of the book and you may regret killing the character off. Either way, I don't suggest using their real name, maybe just their physical description.
Have I ever used someone I know as inspiration in a story? Yes, yes I have. I've never used a real name, just a vague description, and sometimes the resemblance is only noticeable to me. While I won't tell you which characters are based on people I know, I will tell you that a lot of my male characters are loosely (and I really do mean loosely) based off of guys I've known. Guys I knew in high school then never saw again, guys I was involved with and it ended badly, guys I was involved with and it ended amicably but it didn't end amicably for the character, possibly a guy I'm currently involved with (shh!)...Then there are friends. But in all cases, these are just vague comparisons. Most times the physical descriptions are far from what the actual person looks like. So who knows, I might just have written about you ;)
Always remember... if you're friends with a writer...
May 4, 2016
"What I'm Reading" Wednesday #21
This week I'm diving into a book I've been looking forward to reading for months...
The Obsession by Nora Roberts
Blurb:
“She stood in the deep, dark woods, breath shallow and cold prickling over her skin despite the hot, heavy air. She took a step back, then two, as the urge to run fell over her.”
Naomi Bowes lost her innocence the night she followed her father into the woods. In freeing the girl trapped in the root cellar, Naomi revealed the horrible extent of her father’s crimes and made him infamous. No matter how close she gets to happiness, she can’t outrun the sins of Thomas David Bowes.
Now a successful photographer living under the name Naomi Carson, she has found a place that calls to her, a rambling old house in need of repair, thousands of miles away from everything she’s ever known. Naomi wants to embrace the solitude, but the kindly residents of Sunrise Cove keep forcing her to open up—especially the determined Xander Keaton.
Naomi can feel her defenses failing, and knows that the connection her new life offers is something she’s always secretly craved. But the sins of her father can become an obsession, and, as she’s learned time and again, her past is never more than a nightmare away.
Why I Chose This Book / What I Think So Far: Nora Roberts is one of my favorite authors and when I read the blurb for this book, all the way back in November when I was on Barnes and Noble's website doing some Christmas shopping for my grandmother I knew I had to get this book. Waiting five months for its release was tough but I can't wait to dive into this book. So far I'm only about a page in since I've been busy working on my own work-in-progress, but the first page grabbed me and I feel sad that I haven't been able to spend more time reading over the past few days. My plan is to curl up this afternoon and get lost in The Obsession.
The Obsession by Nora Roberts
Blurb:
“She stood in the deep, dark woods, breath shallow and cold prickling over her skin despite the hot, heavy air. She took a step back, then two, as the urge to run fell over her.” Naomi Bowes lost her innocence the night she followed her father into the woods. In freeing the girl trapped in the root cellar, Naomi revealed the horrible extent of her father’s crimes and made him infamous. No matter how close she gets to happiness, she can’t outrun the sins of Thomas David Bowes.
Now a successful photographer living under the name Naomi Carson, she has found a place that calls to her, a rambling old house in need of repair, thousands of miles away from everything she’s ever known. Naomi wants to embrace the solitude, but the kindly residents of Sunrise Cove keep forcing her to open up—especially the determined Xander Keaton.
Naomi can feel her defenses failing, and knows that the connection her new life offers is something she’s always secretly craved. But the sins of her father can become an obsession, and, as she’s learned time and again, her past is never more than a nightmare away.
Why I Chose This Book / What I Think So Far: Nora Roberts is one of my favorite authors and when I read the blurb for this book, all the way back in November when I was on Barnes and Noble's website doing some Christmas shopping for my grandmother I knew I had to get this book. Waiting five months for its release was tough but I can't wait to dive into this book. So far I'm only about a page in since I've been busy working on my own work-in-progress, but the first page grabbed me and I feel sad that I haven't been able to spend more time reading over the past few days. My plan is to curl up this afternoon and get lost in The Obsession.
April 29, 2016
All About Inspiration
A question I get a lot from readers is "What inspired me to write my novel (Enter name of novel here)?." or "What inspires me to write in general?"
Inspiration is everywhere. In the lyrics of a song, in an overheard conversation, in a random stray thought. What you do with it is entirely up to you.
Over the past few years, I've become what I'm sure some people would describe as "absent-minded" or "forgetful." My grandmother can ask me to bring her a kleenex on my way back from the kitchen but when I'm all wrapped up in my thoughts it's entirely possible that I'll sit down without grabbing the kleenex, Cheetos, Tylenol, whatever I was asked to bring on my way back. When I get an idea in my head I can't focus on anything else, I need to get that idea out before I can do anything else.
Where do I (and other writers) draw inspiration from?
Music
These lyrics from Make Me Wanna Die by The Pretty Reckless could inspire a kickass start to a paranormal story, maybe even with a vampire theme. But it's not always the music or the beat, or even the lyrics themselves. Sometimes it's just about how the song makes you feel and the images and scenes they create in your head.
Conversations
Conversations, whether overheard or otherwise can be great inspiration for dialogue. Like the image above says, clear warning... anything you say might at some time end up in my novel.
Dreams
Dreams are a rich wonderland of writing inspiration. Daydreaming is great but when you close your eyes and fall asleep and travel into a world completely created by your subconscious amazing stories can spring forth. A lot of the dreams and past lives in my novel, Finding Elizabeth were based off dreams I've had throughout my life. The key is being able to write them down before you forget.
Visual Inspiration
Look at this picture. Study it, get a real good look. What story does this picture tell? What is the girl running from? Are the headlights up ahead her salvation or her nightmare, continued? Writers can use pictures as inspiration to tell their story, as scene inspiration, a prompt, or to even help them visualize what they want to happen in a sequence.
Prompts
Whether using the picture prompt in the last section or the writing prompt in this one, prompts can inspire writers to come up with all kinds of different stories. Afraid someone else will write the same story as you? Not likely because everyone sees the prompt differently and writes in different styles. It's like the saying "no two people ever read the same book" meaning each person views something in their own way, their own mindset.
and the best way to get inspired?
Reading!
Reading makes for great inspiration. Reading a book about whatever you like may get you to thinking about the what ifs... and then you're off. As if I need to give you another reason to read more books. Remember, readers will rule the world, as soon as we finish this chapter.
These are just a few examples of things people can get inspired from. I once was inspired by looking at the shiny floor at a Cheesecake Factory restaurant... now that is a weird thing to get inspired by. Are you a writer? What inspires you, what gets you in the writing mood?
What tools can help you when you get inspired?
I highly recommend keeping something to write on and a writing utensil with you at all times. Whether it's a notepad, notebook, post-it note, napkin, pen, pencil, marker, eyeliner pencil.. you always want something on hand when that idea hits you. Don't have paper and a pen on hand but need to write down that awesome idea? Do you have a smartphone? There are tons of apps like Evernote that allow you to take notes right on your phone and who is ever that far away from their phone? Stick your writing stuff in your purse (or your pockets/wallet if you're a dude), next to your bed, in the bathroom for those awesome in-the-shower breakthroughs, and wherever else you hang out frequently.
Next week I think we'll discuss Character Inspiration...
Inspiration is everywhere. In the lyrics of a song, in an overheard conversation, in a random stray thought. What you do with it is entirely up to you. Over the past few years, I've become what I'm sure some people would describe as "absent-minded" or "forgetful." My grandmother can ask me to bring her a kleenex on my way back from the kitchen but when I'm all wrapped up in my thoughts it's entirely possible that I'll sit down without grabbing the kleenex, Cheetos, Tylenol, whatever I was asked to bring on my way back. When I get an idea in my head I can't focus on anything else, I need to get that idea out before I can do anything else.
Where do I (and other writers) draw inspiration from?
Music
These lyrics from Make Me Wanna Die by The Pretty Reckless could inspire a kickass start to a paranormal story, maybe even with a vampire theme. But it's not always the music or the beat, or even the lyrics themselves. Sometimes it's just about how the song makes you feel and the images and scenes they create in your head.
Conversations
Conversations, whether overheard or otherwise can be great inspiration for dialogue. Like the image above says, clear warning... anything you say might at some time end up in my novel. Dreams
Dreams are a rich wonderland of writing inspiration. Daydreaming is great but when you close your eyes and fall asleep and travel into a world completely created by your subconscious amazing stories can spring forth. A lot of the dreams and past lives in my novel, Finding Elizabeth were based off dreams I've had throughout my life. The key is being able to write them down before you forget.
Visual Inspiration
Look at this picture. Study it, get a real good look. What story does this picture tell? What is the girl running from? Are the headlights up ahead her salvation or her nightmare, continued? Writers can use pictures as inspiration to tell their story, as scene inspiration, a prompt, or to even help them visualize what they want to happen in a sequence.
Prompts
Whether using the picture prompt in the last section or the writing prompt in this one, prompts can inspire writers to come up with all kinds of different stories. Afraid someone else will write the same story as you? Not likely because everyone sees the prompt differently and writes in different styles. It's like the saying "no two people ever read the same book" meaning each person views something in their own way, their own mindset.
and the best way to get inspired?
Reading!
Reading makes for great inspiration. Reading a book about whatever you like may get you to thinking about the what ifs... and then you're off. As if I need to give you another reason to read more books. Remember, readers will rule the world, as soon as we finish this chapter.
These are just a few examples of things people can get inspired from. I once was inspired by looking at the shiny floor at a Cheesecake Factory restaurant... now that is a weird thing to get inspired by. Are you a writer? What inspires you, what gets you in the writing mood?
What tools can help you when you get inspired?
I highly recommend keeping something to write on and a writing utensil with you at all times. Whether it's a notepad, notebook, post-it note, napkin, pen, pencil, marker, eyeliner pencil.. you always want something on hand when that idea hits you. Don't have paper and a pen on hand but need to write down that awesome idea? Do you have a smartphone? There are tons of apps like Evernote that allow you to take notes right on your phone and who is ever that far away from their phone? Stick your writing stuff in your purse (or your pockets/wallet if you're a dude), next to your bed, in the bathroom for those awesome in-the-shower breakthroughs, and wherever else you hang out frequently.
Next week I think we'll discuss Character Inspiration...
April 27, 2016
"What I'm Reading" Wednesday #20
This "WIR"-Wednesday I've run the gamut of different book genres. Right now I'm reading...
Menagerie by Rachel Vincent
Blurb:
When Delilah Marlow visits a famous traveling carnival, Metzger's Menagerie, she is an ordinary woman in a not-quite-ordinary world. But under the macabre circus black-top, she discovers a fierce, sharp-clawed creature lurking just beneath her human veneer. Captured and put on exhibition, Delilah is stripped of her worldly possessions, including her own name, as she's forced to "perform" in town after town.
But there is breathtaking beauty behind the seamy and grotesque reality of the carnival. Gallagher, her handler, is as kind as he is cryptic and strong. The other "attractions"—mermaids, minotaurs, gryphons and kelpies—are strange, yes, but they share a bond forged by the brutal realities of captivity. And as Delilah struggles for her freedom, and for her fellow menagerie, she'll discover a strength and a purpose she never knew existed.
Why I Chose this Book / What I think so far: As is common with a lot of my recent reads I picked this book up through the Apollycon 2016 Virtual Signing Event a few months back. The description interested me and I'm enjoying the storyline so far.
Here's what else I've read since last week...
He Will Be My Ruin by K.A. Tucker
Blurb:
A woman who almost had it all . . .
On the surface, Celine Gonzalez had everything a twenty-eight-year-old woman could want: a one-bedroom apartment on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, a job that (mostly) paid the bills, and an acceptance letter to the prestigious Hollingsworth Institute of Art, where she would finally live out her dream of becoming an antiques appraiser for a major auction house. All she had worked so hard to achieve was finally within her reach. So why would she kill herself?
A man who was supposed to be her salvation . . .
Maggie Sparkes arrives in New York City to pack up what’s left of her best friend’s belongings after a suicide that has left everyone stunned. The police have deemed the evidence conclusive: Celine got into bed, downed a lethal cocktail of pills and vodka, and never woke up. But when Maggie discovers a scandalous photograph in a lock box hidden in Celine’s apartment, she begins asking questions. Questions about the man Celine fell in love with. The man she never told anyone about, not even Maggie. The man Celine believed would change her life.
Until he became her ruin.
On the hunt for evidence that will force the police to reopen the case, Maggie uncovers more than she bargained for about Celine’s private life—and inadvertently puts herself on the radar of a killer. A killer who will stop at nothing to keep his crimes undiscovered.
What I Thought of this Book: As Ms. Tucker's first attempt at the thriller genre this book was pretty good. In comparison to some of my favorites: Nora Roberts, Lisa Jackson, and Sandra Brown, however, I found the story a little predictable. I figured out who the killer was about three or four chapters in and Celine's secret life was pretty obvious from the moment Maggie found all that money in the hidden compartment of the lock box. Did I enjoy this book? Yes. Were some of the characters hard to feel sympathy for? Yes. I think this book holds promise if the author wishes to continue in the genre, as a place to grow from. My Rating: 3.5 of 5 Stars!
and...
Dirty (Dive Bar #1) by Kylie Scott
Blurb:
The last thing Vaughan Hewson expects to find when he returns to his childhood home is a broken hearted bride in his shower, let alone the drama and chaos that come with her.
Lydia Green doesn't know whether to scream or cry in a corner. Discovering the love of your life is having an affair on your wedding day is bad enough. Finding out it's with his best man is another thing all together.
Just when this runaway bride has nowhere left to turn, a handsome stranger offers her a broad, muscular shoulder to cry on. Vaughan is the exact opposite of the picture perfect, respected businessmen she's normally drawn to. This former musician-turned-bartender is rough around the edges and is facing his own crossroads. But Lydia's already tried Mr. Right and discovered he's all wrong--maybe it's time to give Mr. Right Now a chance.
After all, what's wrong with getting dirty?
What I Thought of This Book: This book was sooooooo good! Vaughan was completely drool-worthy and I loved him. The first few chapters of this book are hilarious and awesome, instantly drawing the reader in. Lydia was a great main character and I loved all the other characters Kylie Scott introduces to you in the first book of her new series. I can't wait to read the next book. As an added bonus I loved that Mal from the Stage Dive series (aka my favorite book boyfriend) made an appearance in this book and he's still as awesome as ever!
Menagerie by Rachel Vincent
Blurb:
When Delilah Marlow visits a famous traveling carnival, Metzger's Menagerie, she is an ordinary woman in a not-quite-ordinary world. But under the macabre circus black-top, she discovers a fierce, sharp-clawed creature lurking just beneath her human veneer. Captured and put on exhibition, Delilah is stripped of her worldly possessions, including her own name, as she's forced to "perform" in town after town. But there is breathtaking beauty behind the seamy and grotesque reality of the carnival. Gallagher, her handler, is as kind as he is cryptic and strong. The other "attractions"—mermaids, minotaurs, gryphons and kelpies—are strange, yes, but they share a bond forged by the brutal realities of captivity. And as Delilah struggles for her freedom, and for her fellow menagerie, she'll discover a strength and a purpose she never knew existed.
Why I Chose this Book / What I think so far: As is common with a lot of my recent reads I picked this book up through the Apollycon 2016 Virtual Signing Event a few months back. The description interested me and I'm enjoying the storyline so far.
Here's what else I've read since last week...
He Will Be My Ruin by K.A. Tucker
Blurb:
A woman who almost had it all . . .On the surface, Celine Gonzalez had everything a twenty-eight-year-old woman could want: a one-bedroom apartment on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, a job that (mostly) paid the bills, and an acceptance letter to the prestigious Hollingsworth Institute of Art, where she would finally live out her dream of becoming an antiques appraiser for a major auction house. All she had worked so hard to achieve was finally within her reach. So why would she kill herself?
A man who was supposed to be her salvation . . .
Maggie Sparkes arrives in New York City to pack up what’s left of her best friend’s belongings after a suicide that has left everyone stunned. The police have deemed the evidence conclusive: Celine got into bed, downed a lethal cocktail of pills and vodka, and never woke up. But when Maggie discovers a scandalous photograph in a lock box hidden in Celine’s apartment, she begins asking questions. Questions about the man Celine fell in love with. The man she never told anyone about, not even Maggie. The man Celine believed would change her life.
Until he became her ruin.
On the hunt for evidence that will force the police to reopen the case, Maggie uncovers more than she bargained for about Celine’s private life—and inadvertently puts herself on the radar of a killer. A killer who will stop at nothing to keep his crimes undiscovered.
What I Thought of this Book: As Ms. Tucker's first attempt at the thriller genre this book was pretty good. In comparison to some of my favorites: Nora Roberts, Lisa Jackson, and Sandra Brown, however, I found the story a little predictable. I figured out who the killer was about three or four chapters in and Celine's secret life was pretty obvious from the moment Maggie found all that money in the hidden compartment of the lock box. Did I enjoy this book? Yes. Were some of the characters hard to feel sympathy for? Yes. I think this book holds promise if the author wishes to continue in the genre, as a place to grow from. My Rating: 3.5 of 5 Stars!
and...
Dirty (Dive Bar #1) by Kylie Scott
Blurb:
The last thing Vaughan Hewson expects to find when he returns to his childhood home is a broken hearted bride in his shower, let alone the drama and chaos that come with her.Lydia Green doesn't know whether to scream or cry in a corner. Discovering the love of your life is having an affair on your wedding day is bad enough. Finding out it's with his best man is another thing all together.
Just when this runaway bride has nowhere left to turn, a handsome stranger offers her a broad, muscular shoulder to cry on. Vaughan is the exact opposite of the picture perfect, respected businessmen she's normally drawn to. This former musician-turned-bartender is rough around the edges and is facing his own crossroads. But Lydia's already tried Mr. Right and discovered he's all wrong--maybe it's time to give Mr. Right Now a chance.
After all, what's wrong with getting dirty?
What I Thought of This Book: This book was sooooooo good! Vaughan was completely drool-worthy and I loved him. The first few chapters of this book are hilarious and awesome, instantly drawing the reader in. Lydia was a great main character and I loved all the other characters Kylie Scott introduces to you in the first book of her new series. I can't wait to read the next book. As an added bonus I loved that Mal from the Stage Dive series (aka my favorite book boyfriend) made an appearance in this book and he's still as awesome as ever!
April 22, 2016
Why Every Indie Author Should Participate in an Author Takeover
Earlier this week I participated in my first Author Takeover Event on Facebook. The event was held for Chelsy's Book Review page to celebrate how far she had come.
I started out as a guest at the event, invited by my writer friend, Leanne Rathbone (Author of Grace). I had so much fun during her slot that I left a comment for the hostess asking if she was looking for any other authors. Since this was a two week long event Chelsy was happy to schedule me in this past Monday night.
To prepare for my takeover I watched what the other authors were doing and I planned out my hour-long takeover. I stuck to a basic plan; introduce myself, introduce my books, throw in a couple giveaways, post some fun facts about my books, add in a few links for my social pages and a personality quiz I developed for Out of Darkness, allow a little Q&A session, and finally at the end of my time thank the host.
Let me tell you, I had an amazing time. It was great talking to potential readers about not just my books, but about inspiration, music, and other things.
I know what you're thinking, "why should I want to do this? What makes you think anyone at the event will buy my books afterwards?"
Well, let's take potential sales off the table. You are interacting with potential readers. If you end up giving away a copy or two of your book but you gain a new fan who will want to read more books by you then you can count it as a win. Showing people you're friendly, personable, and above all approachable is of vital importance.
I'll let you in on a secret... Book Signings make me nervous. I'm not the most outgoing person in the world but I know book signings are all a part of the process. Author Takeover events can be just as worthwhile. And the best part? You can do it from home in your ratty PJs with your hair wrapped in a towel. It's so easy and it's basically like your normal social media self-promotion routine amped up by 100.
So, do you have a new book coming out and want to do something special to celebrate on release day? Consider having a release party event on Facebook and gather all your writer friends for a party/takeover. Let them take over the conversation for an hour or so and tell them to invite their friends. It's good karma because in the end not only does your new release get more exposure but you help your writer friends spread the word about their books at the same time. What do you think? Have you ever participated in an Author Takeover? Tell me about your experience in the comments. PS... If you do decide to hold an Author Takeover or know someone that is, let me know! I'd love to participate. :-)
I started out as a guest at the event, invited by my writer friend, Leanne Rathbone (Author of Grace). I had so much fun during her slot that I left a comment for the hostess asking if she was looking for any other authors. Since this was a two week long event Chelsy was happy to schedule me in this past Monday night.
To prepare for my takeover I watched what the other authors were doing and I planned out my hour-long takeover. I stuck to a basic plan; introduce myself, introduce my books, throw in a couple giveaways, post some fun facts about my books, add in a few links for my social pages and a personality quiz I developed for Out of Darkness, allow a little Q&A session, and finally at the end of my time thank the host.
Let me tell you, I had an amazing time. It was great talking to potential readers about not just my books, but about inspiration, music, and other things.
I know what you're thinking, "why should I want to do this? What makes you think anyone at the event will buy my books afterwards?"
Well, let's take potential sales off the table. You are interacting with potential readers. If you end up giving away a copy or two of your book but you gain a new fan who will want to read more books by you then you can count it as a win. Showing people you're friendly, personable, and above all approachable is of vital importance.
I'll let you in on a secret... Book Signings make me nervous. I'm not the most outgoing person in the world but I know book signings are all a part of the process. Author Takeover events can be just as worthwhile. And the best part? You can do it from home in your ratty PJs with your hair wrapped in a towel. It's so easy and it's basically like your normal social media self-promotion routine amped up by 100.
So, do you have a new book coming out and want to do something special to celebrate on release day? Consider having a release party event on Facebook and gather all your writer friends for a party/takeover. Let them take over the conversation for an hour or so and tell them to invite their friends. It's good karma because in the end not only does your new release get more exposure but you help your writer friends spread the word about their books at the same time. What do you think? Have you ever participated in an Author Takeover? Tell me about your experience in the comments. PS... If you do decide to hold an Author Takeover or know someone that is, let me know! I'd love to participate. :-)
