Julie Elizabeth Powell's Blog, page 91

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Murder, Madness, and Mystery by Darcia Helle

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Yes of course one of my stories is amongst this collection, and, as usual, I think it's great :)

However, I've just finished reading the others and have to say I'm impressed, and honoured to be alongside such fabulous writers. Each story fits the theme, each is written very well and I was drawn in immediately to the tales, enjoying them all.

I particularly liked Accidents Will Happen and True Colours because they gave me chills, although it's not easy to pick, as all the stories were excellent.

For a worthwhile cause and full of quality writing - I hope others will support by posting reviews and spreading the word.



View all my reviews

Psst!

I’ve snuck out while she’s busy. And it’s not always easy because she shuffles us around like a pack cards, using us as when she must. I can’t say that it’s a bad life, only sometimes it can be boring just waiting for my turn – and even then I don’t necessarily like what she does to me. Some of the worlds are awe-inspiring – whoops, I don’t think she’d like me using that phrase...not one for Americanisms, but then they can be useful, in my opinion. That’s not the say my opinion doesn’t sway her now and then...all of us are becoming quite good at that.

For instance, we can feel her drawing away, trying to steer us in a direction we just know won’t work, and it’s getting easier to control the journey of her words.

When I say we, I mean us, the waiting pool of spirits – and there are quite a number of us now. Some of us have had our moments – exciting too – while some have been developed in surprising ways, but some have been terribly abused, created on impulse for the sole purpose of death. Blatant slavery I’d say, although, to be fair, most of us could see the sense of it. Sometimes though, death is not the end, and well, that can only be good, we only have to wait and see. Penny says she can’t wait to see what might happen next, and loved the bit about bananas – had us terrified in case it was true...she insists it is.

Personally, I love it when she pops me in unexpectedly – well, part of me anyway, because sometimes she’ll bring out a dark side or even embellish my features to fit the part...it works too.

I will say that I don’t always get on with the others, though Billy’s a bit of fun, even if he’s frequently in trouble. And I did like the ending of that story – but those late nights nearly killed her. The thought of that had us in a panic, for if she goes, we go. And really, it’s not so dire. Pherson, however, gives me the creeps and I’ve refused to be in the same room, and if she ever puts me into the same story, then I’m off, I’ll deny her access, shut her off, press the no button, stop her...well, you get the picture.

And we can, you know. In theory, we could say no, but then where would we be? Stuck in the middle of nowhere with nothing for company. But as the years have passed, the relationship between us has blossomed, and although it can be a tug of war, for the most part we let her have her way, for the other part, we steer her...and she lets us.

It’s great when that happens. I’ve known others that have been so determined not to listen, that careers have crashed and burned because some don’t understand the symbiotic necessity of respect between the author and characters.

Well, I remember when she forgot this golden rule – though it was only once. It resulted in the worse story ever – EVER – and nearly broke her creativity. But we soon put her right and it’s been wonderful.

I feel sorry for her though. She works so hard, long hours working with us and the imaginative worlds and entertaining plots, and spends so much time pushing us towards the minds of others, and yet it all seems for nought.

We can tell when she’s sold a few stories or had a positive review; she seems lighter somehow, as if she’s of value.

But to us, she’ll always be our guiding star, that wondrous element that brings us alive. And I speak for us all, we’re eternally grateful, for without her, we’d still be an itch, an out of reach idea within the realms of imaginary creation, that waiting room for the wannabe stars of future stories.

Oh gee, she’s back, I must go, so please, I beg you, give her a break, read her work, it’s darn good, I’m sure you won’t be disappointed...and a positive review would please her far more than you realise. And us, for then we’d become famous too, and we’d love that. So spare a thought for us – me – I’ve been waiting a long, long time, for I was her first creation.

Call me...oh, no, I mustn’t tell, but I can say you’ll find me, and parts of me, all over her stories.

Goodbye and good reading.

Oh yes, here's a bit more about her...

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Author Name: Julie Elizabeth Powell

Written and self-published 12 books in a variety of genres – fantasy, psychological thriller, horror, humour, murder mystery, mystery adventure, short stories /poems and non-fiction.

Website: http://www.freewebs.com/julizpow
Facebook Page 1: http://www.facebook.com/julieelizabet...

Facebook Page 2: http://www.facebook.com/GoneByJulieEl...

Twitter: @starjewelz

Amazon Page: http://www.amazon.com/Julie-Elizabeth...

Links:

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_s...

Amazon USA: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_...

Lulu: (print copies) http://www.lulu.com/julizpow

Createspace: (print copies)
Gone: https://www.createspace.com/3801426
Slings & Arrows: https://www.createspace.com/3836987
Slings & Arrows and Gone Omnibus Edition: https://www.createspace.com/3832544
Lost Shadows: https://www.createspace.com/3960977

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/profile/vi...

Votes for book covers - 13, Of Sound Mind and The Avalon Trilogy

Hello all

I've entered the book cover for 13 on AuthorsdB and asking for votes!

So, have a look and if you like it, please vote. You can comment too if you wish.

It's easy - click on the link, click on the words 'Image Rating' and a line of stars will appear - then it's up to you.

Extra smiles :) :) :)

Oh, yes, I did design it myself. :)

Thanks

Here's the link: http://authorsdb.com/book-cover-award...

I've just noticed that two other of my book covers have been accepted - if you'd like to vote for Of Sound Mind - here is the link - http://authorsdb.com/book-cover-award...

And The Avalon Trilogy book cover - here is the link - http://authorsdb.com/book-cover-award...

Another Place Where I'll Post About Authors +

I've begun another blog - as my website doesn't seem to want to do it - mainly about self-published authors and anything that seems interesting. Although, my time is stretched to breaking point, I'll do my best to add to it as much as possible.

Take a look, you might like it:

http://julieelizabethpowell.blogspot....


I've also been interviewed and featured:

Indie Author Land: http://www.indieauthorland.com/2013/0...

BestsellerBound Recommends:
http://quietfurybooks.com/bestsellerb...

http://quietfurybooks.com/bestsellerb...

Quiet Fury Books:

http://quietfurybooks.com/blog/2013/0...

Indie Book Bargains:

Knowing Jack offer:
http://www.indie-book-bargains.co.uk/...

Misadventures Of Fatwoman offer:
http://www.indie-book-bargains.co.uk/...

Slings & Arrows offer:
http://www.indie-book-bargains.co.uk/...

Lost Shadows offer:
http://www.indie-book-bargains.co.uk/...

The Star Realm offer:
http://www.indie-book-bargains.co.uk/...

A Hundred Word Story: Lucky Coin
http://www.indie-book-bargains.co.uk/...

A Murderer's Heart offer:
http://www.indie-book-bargains.co.uk/...

Gone offer:
http://www.indie-book-bargains.co.uk/...

ALL THESE OFFER STILL STAND

Features of Me!

Thank you to everyone who has recently featured me and my books...

...just in case anyone didn't see, here they are...

Crime Spotlight 2 from Fanastic Books:
http://www.fantasticbookspublishing.com/
Featuring: A Murderer's Heart

http://www.fantasticbookspublishing.c...

***

BestsellerBound Recommends - http://quietfurybooks.com/bestsellerb...

13 - Book Trailer

Maria Savva: http://www.mariasavva.com/site/

http://quietfurybooks.com/bestsellerb...

The Avalon Trilogy

http://quietfurybooks.com/bestsellerb...

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Interview: Kevin Rau - http://www.kevinrau.com/?ID=kevinrau....

http://www.kevinrau.com/i/JuliePowell...

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Spotlight: Ricki Wilson

http://rickiwilson.com/4/post/2013/02...

***

Amy Mah - http://amymahvampire.blogspot.co.uk/

***

http://amymahvampire.blogspot.co.uk/2...

***

Fiona Wilson: http://nannyfi71.wordpress.com/about/

Lost Shadows review: http://nannyfi71.wordpress.com/catego...

Misadventures Of Fatwoman review: http://nannyfi71.wordpress.com/catego...

Figments review: http://nannyfi71.wordpress.com/catego...

***

Interview: Nat Wood: http://nwoodstories.blogspot.co.uk/

http://nwoodstories.blogspot.co.uk/20...

Thank you all so much :)

A Very Inspiring Blogger Award

I don't know how to insert the image - I've tried to follow the instructions but it doesn't work. I will put it on my website and Blogger post.

But here is the link to it: http://luchessa.files.wordpress.com/2...

I have been nominated for this award by author: Maria Savva, You can read her post here: http://www.goodreads.com/author_blog_...

Thanks, Maria

Here are the rules of the Very Inspiring Blogger Award:

1. Display the award logo on your blog
2. Link back to the person who nominated you
3. State 7 things about yourself
4. Nominate 15 other bloggers for this award and link to them

So, here are 7 things about me:

1 - I love my husband.

2 - I have a room full of craft-wares but don't have enough time to use them as much as I'd like.

3 - I love going to the cinema with my husband.

4 - Chocolate is my enemy.

5 - I want to live in Cinderella's Palace with Tinker Bell as a neighbour (I already have my Prince Charming).

6 - I cannot read fast enough.

7 - I'm an alien.

Now tag some bloggers:

Fiona Wilson: http://nannyfi71.wordpress.com/about/

Busy Mums Book Reviews: http://busymomsbookreviews.blogspot.c...

mcmt2: http://mtmc2.blogspot.co.uk/

The Indie Exchange:
http://theindieexchange.com/

A Very British Blog Tour 2013

My good friend, Maria Savva tagged me to take part in this blog tour. Here's the link to her blog where you can read her answers:

http://www.goodreads.com/author_blog_...

The idea behind the tour is to introduce readers to British writers.

Here are my answers to the questions:

Q. Where were you born and where do you live at the moment?

I was born in Barrow-in-Furness, which used to be in Lancashire but when the borders changed it became Cumbria. But I'll always think of myself as a Lancashire Lass.

I now live in Essex and have done on and off for many years. And although I prefer the friendliness of 'up north', it's too cold to live there...and 'chance' has kept me here.

If I could live anywhere in the world it would be Florida.

Q. Have you always lived and worked in Britain or are you based elsewhere at the moment?

I have always lived and worked in Britain.

Q. Which is your favourite part of Britain?

Devon and Cornwall is my favourite because it is so beautiful and I'd love to live near the sea. And unlike, Maria, I hate the buzz of the city and never go to London unless I really must. I think it's a scary place.

Q. Have you ‘highlighted’ or ‘showcased’ any particular part of Britain in your books? For example, a town or city; a county, a monument or some well-known place or event?

One of my 12 books, called, Knowing Jack, takes place in the Lake District where I used to go as a child. It not only has breathtaking views, it's also a place for adventures.

Most of my books are fantasy, so I suppose, they showcase my weirdness :)

Q. There is an illusion – or myth if you wish - about British people that I would like you to discuss. Many see the ‘Brits’ as ‘stiff upper lip’. Is that correct?

I think that emotions are still hidden from public view for the most part - except on TV shows. I'm not sure if it's to do with class, and I'm way down the scale...however, I don't like to see emotions paraded in public, whether that makes me typical British, I've no idea.

Q. Do any of the characters in your books carry the ‘stiff upper lip’? Or are they all ‘British Bulldog’ and unique in their own way?

All my characters are different and seem to be inside my head fully-formed and ready for action.

I can use quite a few sometimes - e.g. Lost Shadows has at least a dozen.

I never think of them as typical for any race, religion or creed, yet, I do believe they are unique characters.

Characters need to be 'rounded' so they can be contradictory or have redeeming factors if they are a 'baddie' - just like 'reality', I think, unlike characters, say from a Dickens' novel, where they can be seen as one-dimensional.

As Maria said, it depends on the story.

Q. Tell us about one of your recent books

I'm going to break the rule and tell you about two.

Lost Shadows was published only a few months ago. It's a psychological thriller /fantasy which deals with aspects of memory and what we'd do without it...where does it go? I've always been fascinated with how the mind works, so I had to run with this idea.

13, is a horror, which tackles the issues within the modern world - yes, it's weird, but then I do warn others about my alien mind. 13 was published yesterday - 17 February, 2013.

The Dream and Haunted are my two favourite reads from Maria, although I have read and enjoyed them all.

Q. What are you currently working on?

Having just finished 13, I have two other WIP. One is a romance with a twist and the other is...hmm, I'm not quite sure how it's going to go, but the characters will tell me.

Though I am trying to recharge my batteries and create in other ways - painting, making cards and jewellery etc. It's a great way to relax and think at the same time.

My dreams will tell me the rest.

Q. How do you spend your leisure time?

I'm busy all the time, however, when I'm not writing or reading or reviewing, I like to 'create' - as mentioned above. I also love the cinema and go with hubby as often as possible - great date too! Gardening is good - when the weather allows - as is walking around parks or overlooking the sea.

I like to help others, so promote by either Facebook or Twitter or generally helping where I can. This is why I read and review for as many other self-published authors as possible - and the diversity of reading is amazing because of it.

Q. Do you write for a local audience or a global audience?

I write for me because the stories are in my head and the characters lead the way.

Having said that, I'd love for my books to be read everywhere. I have sold some, though most are downloaded free. I've had some great feedback as well as poor. I try to ignore negativity and concentrate on enjoying the process of writing and hope that one day others may feel the same about my work as I do - of course I think it's brilliant! See, I'm always breaking the rules - no British restraint here!

I'm trying to accept that I'll never 'make it' because thinking about it is soul-destroying. I love to write and can't stop.

Thank you to everyone who has read my work - reviews too are wonderful.

Q. Can you provide links to your work?

Website: http://www.freewebs.com/julizpow

I have 13 books available on Amazon Kindle:

Amazon UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_s...

Amazon USA: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_...

and Lulu (for prints) http://www.lulu.com/julizpow

I've made six book trailer videos so far:

http://www.youtube.com/user/xxstarjew...

Excerpts can be found on Lulu and Kindle

Thank you for taking an interest.

I would like to invite the following British authors to take part in this tour:

Keira Michelle Telford

John Booth

Ruth Ellen Parlour

Donna Brown

David M. Brown

Fabulous Stories For You To Read

Here is a list of books I think everyone should read:

Haunted by Maria Savva

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Haunted-ebook...

My review:

I was lucky enough to read this story in advance of publication and I loved it from beginning to end.

I really enjoyed the in-depth character building - so important to a story - where I could see into the minds of each of them, making for great reading. The plot was dark and clever and kept me guessing until the end.

The story gave great insight into the emotions of mankind, where guilt can create an obsessive and insane point of view. We can wonder what we'd do in the circumstances given in the plot and whether conscience is a spark for 'doing the right thing' and if we don't, we have to accept the consequences - these issues are dealt with creatively, yet never once leaving behind reality...cleverly done.

A fantastic read, well written within its many twists and turns, and so far, my favourite story by this talented author.

Highly recommended.

*

House of Silver Magic (#1 The Magic Series) by John Booth

http://www.amazon.co.uk/House-Silver-...

My review:

I loved this book from beginning to end, not only because it was filled with magic and wonderment, but also that it was very different from other fantasy stories. As a fan of fantasy, in addition to it being a favourite genre as an author to write, I could recognise its difference immediately.

It is bursting with wonderful characters - good and evil - though each one is realistic and believable...even the fantastical creatures, which soon became the favourite part for me.

The story laid the foundation for further books, yet, it didn't disappoint with its great plot, which had many unexpected twists and turns and most definitely, surprises.

Although it had a curious mix of childlike qualities and more adult themes, I would say it is not for children as some scenes were dark and disturbing. And yes, there were some typos (as a writer, I know how impossible these are to detect and I have never read a book without any), yet nothing spoiled my enjoyment - it was wonderful and I fully intend to read the next two books and I look forward to seeing how the characters develop and the mystery of the Source is answered.

Highly recommended.

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Secrets by Darcia Helle

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Secrets-ebook...

My review:

I won a copy of this book and I was immensely glad I did - it was fantastic. It's extremely well-written and so fast-paced that it was almost mind-blowing, to coin a phrase. The characters are wonderful - both good and bad - and I couldn't wait to see what happened.

Secrets is a true testament to the saying that an easy to read book is difficult to write - a truly amazing talent.

There are many things I'd like to say about it, but I never give spoilers, however, I will say the storyline will have you on the edge of your seat, and that it certainly deals with how secrets can both save lives in the beginning but will destroy them in the end, if we don't take them by the scruff of the neck and shake them loose.

Highly recommended.

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Chronicles of M by Nicholas Forristal

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Chronicles-Bo...

My review:

I was sent a copy of this story by the author for a review, and I really enjoyed it. I liked the way it was so different and unexpected - and very well written.

Although a quirky and offbeat novel...and fantastical in many ways...the storyteller had a wonderful way of making it believable, with many twists, turns and surprises - just great.

I don't give spoilers, but will say that this book is definitely worth reading if you like the unusual - highly recommended.

I look forward to reading the next one in the series.

*

Earth Angel by Ruth Ellen Parlour

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Earth-Angel-S...

My review:

This story hooked me from the start. I loved the characters - such great imagination - and how the fast-paced plot was a masterpiece in storytelling.

The only criticism would be about the errors - but being an author, I understand completely how difficult it is to catch those naughty gremlins - it did not spoil the story, but it would benefit from an overhaul.

I thought some of the lines /descriptions were rich and original - absolutely wonderful.

I don't give spoilers but will say that this book is definitely worth reading for fantasy and adventure fans - and those who love a well told tale.

Excellent and highly recommended.

*

Broken Aro by Jen Wylie

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Broken-Aro-Th...

My review:

I was given this book for review and was delighted in how much I enjoyed it.

Aro is a believable and likeable character who is strong and brave with a deep sense of family. The other characters too fit beautifully into the story, and this first book in the series sets the scene for further enchanting adventures.

I don't give spoilers but will say that I like the developing pace, the insight into Aro's mind and feelings, and look forward to the next installment.

A recommended fantasy.

*

You Wish by Terry Tyler

http://www.amazon.co.uk/You-Wish-eboo...

My review:

I thought this story was very well written and hooked me from the beginning. The characters bring it alive and I could relate to the very real feelings it evoked within them. I didn't think the book was about luck at all, but more about the decisions people make and the consequences of them. It was very cleverly put together and I loved that 'extra' ingredient that always triggers my imagination - the idea of magic.

I don't give spoilers so I cannot say much more.

Highly recommended.

*

Silver: Archeron (A River of Pain) #1 Silver series by Keira Michelle Telford

http://www.amazon.co.uk/SILVER-Achero...

My review:

A fabulous start to this post-apocalyptic story. It's hard-hitting, believable and wonderfully written. Fast-paced, I was at once emerged within this credible world, where being tough is the norm.

Silver is likeable, believable, strong yet sensitive and always does what she must despite how terrible it is and I'm already reading the second in the series, desperate to find out what happens to her, Alice, Alex, Luka and the world of 'terrible creatures' that we can both abhor and feel some degree of sorrow for the awful lives they are forced to lead.

An amazing tour of survival, and I, for one, am looking forward to seeing how the story develops.

Highly recommended.

Shadows of the Realm by Dionne Lister

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Shadows-Realm...

My review:

I won a copy of this book and yes, I was lucky. The story is steeped in imagination, magic and enchantment, with characters that bring it alive in the most realistic way.

The writing is superb, with wonderfully rich descriptions, creating fantastic detailed worlds. The building of characters was excellent, so that readers have no choice but to care about what happens to them...rooting for the good and hating the bad - and with the right degree of uncertainty.

I also found the story original in parts and was fascinated by the ideas of several realms and how they could be used for 'magic'. The 'bonding' sequences were particularly intriguing and were portrayed amazingly well.

The only downside was that I will have to wait until the next book to find out what happens!

I do not give spoilers, but will say that overall this book hooked me from start and I didn't want to put it down - an excellent tale that I highly recommend.

Please hurry with the next installment!

*

Both the John Booth and Keira Michelle Telford books are the first in the series. I've read five out of six (I've just download #6) of the Silver series and all three of the Magic series. John stated that he would only write more if there was enough interest /find a publisher and Keira is writing #7 in this 10 book series.

*

These books are in no particular order of preference, I enjoyed them all and please, if you can, read them!

Of course if you only have limited reading time, choose mine first :)

I will add to the list - gosh, I've no idea, I'm too busy writing /reading...

Happy New Year and good reading (and writing).

And thanks to the authors for giving me such pleasure in their order of words :)

More trailers...

Here are another two trailers:

Of Sound Mind

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GxOCak...

And for fun: Chocolate Cake from my short story /poem collection: Figments

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_7FRA...

It'll be interesting to see what you think and if you like them.

Thank you.

Two more book trailers

Well, I'm really getting the hang of this! Although it's not easy sourcing photos (free) and music (free), I've thoroughly enjoyed creating two more trailers for my books.

See what you think:

Lost Shadows

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uM6ww...

Knowing Jack

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txytrA...

Just thought you ought to know.

Thanks