L.J. Higgins's Blog, page 8
July 2, 2017
Join L J Higgins Street Team!
Would you like to receive free, early copies of my upcoming books? Would you like to take part in exclusive giveaways? If you answered YES, all you have to do is join L J Higgins Street Team.
All I ask in return is for you to post an honest review during launch week. Yup, that’s it! Although the Street Team is only new, I hope to grow it into a community where I will host exclusive giveaways, and give you the chance to help me decide on book covers, character names etc.
As I don’t currently have a new release on the way, I’m giving those who sign up this month the chance to read and review one of my past releases.
All you need to do is sign up HERE!
I hope you can join this new exciting community of readers!
Keep Dreaming,
L J Higgins
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June 27, 2017
Interview with a Bookstagrammer
If you’re like me, you love seeing the beautiful photos of books, book shelves and bookish things on Instagram, and you’ve probably taken a few yourself. I was lucky enough to sit down with Bookstagrammer Tanya Tremain and learn a little about someone who loves to read so much they spend their time creating beautiful photos of their favourite books.
[image error]LJ: Tanya, thank you so much for talking with me today. Could you tell us a little about yourself?
TT: I’m a 36 year old mother of 3 beautiful girls. I’ve been married for just over 12 years and my family is my world. I live in beautiful Central Queensland. My favourite things to do are read (of course), watch Netflix, hang out with my friends and family and spend time at the beach.
LJ: As you mentioned you love to read, but what inspired you to become a bookstagrammer?
TT: I was watching a book review on YouTube one day. Silly me hadn’t realised there were so many people out there who shared book reviews and recommendations. I loved her review and in the comments below there was a link to her bookstagram account. I checked out her account and the photos were amazing. I had major book envy. So I decided to start taking some photos of my books to share with other book lovers. And so it started.
[image error]LJ: I love seeing your photo’s on my feed and was wondering what inspires them?
TT: Usually it’s whatever I’m reading at the time. But I do have a book subscription box addiction, so I always post pictures of my unboxings. And awesome bookish merchandise I buy from Etsy.
LJ: What is your favourite part of bookstagramming?
TT: Definitely connecting with other book lovers and my favourite authors. And finding out what new books are being released and what everyone is enjoying reading.
LJ: Where did your love of books come from?
TT: Definitely my mother. I remember her reading Enid Blyton books to me as a child for hours. I was always fascinated by the possibility of being transferred to faraway magical worlds right there between the pages of my favourite books.
[image error]LJ: What are your favourite genres to read?
TT: Fantasy for sure. I love being transported to faraway magical lands, where anything is possible. I also love dystopian, contemporary, romance and sci/fi.
LJ: What was the last book you bought?
TT: Flame in the mist by Renee Ahdieh.
[image error]LJ: Do you have a favourite book cover?
TT: This is a tough one, there are so many to choose from. But I love the cover of Splintered by A G Howard. I love Alice in wonderland and I thought this cover represented it beautifully.
LJ: If you could be a character from any book you’ve read. Who would you be and why?
TT: This one is easy, Feyre Archeron from A Court of Wings and Ruin by Sarah J Maas. She is tough, beautiful, kind, courageous and the high lady of the night court. She has amazing power. And she’s immortal. Plus she’s with Rhysand, who I have a major fictional crush on.
LJ: Where do you like to read?
TT: I love to read anywhere really. My comfy lounge, bed, at the library or at the beach with the waves crashing in the background.
LJ: Where can people find you on Instagram?
TT: @books_rock_my_world
A big thank you to Tanya for taking the time to give us a little insight to the woman behind her beautiful photos on Instagram. I’ve invited Tanya to join us on my blog every two months to share with us the books she’s read and loved, and can’t wait to hear her thoughts. Do you follow Tanya or love taking photos of books yourself? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!
June 20, 2017
Title Reveal – Secrets of Aurora, Book 2
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Because I can’t keep calling the second book in Secrets of Aurora, Book Two I think it’s about time I announced it’s title!
Utopia was book one, and book two will be…
EDEN!
Noticing a theme yet?
With Eden: Secrets of Aurora #2, going through its first round of edits, I’ve already kicked off writing book three and can’t wait to bring you the second instalment in the second half of 2017!
Haven’t read Utopia yet? Grab your copy at Amazon HERE!
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Do you think you know what Book Three’s title might be? Let me know in the comments!
June 11, 2017
Author Spotlight: Paul Summerhayes
This month I had the chance to chat with science fiction and fantasy author, Paul Summerhayes, who is the author of, The Warden Saga. As well as his novels, Paul has also written professionally for the gaming industry, and I was excited to learn more about him and his writing.
[image error]LJ: Can you draw us a picture of yourself or a picture that represents you?
P.S: The Galactic Cat Lord is my alter ego and was my avatar for a long time. Besides look at it, it’s funny.
[image error]LJ: Do you have any pet’s or kids?
P.S: I have two awesome kids, William, 12 and Lynette is 10. We have two dogs, one cat, five chickens and ten fish.
LJ: That’s quite the menagerie! Do you have passions/hobbies other than writing?
P.S: I love reading and I read every day. I prefer fantasy, sci-fi or action stories. A part from books, I enjoy tabletop games, spending time with my two kids and watching movies. I am also restoring an old car in my shed, which I hope to be driving by the end of this year—unfortunately, this is not the first year I have wished for that!
[image error]LJ: Where do you usually like to write?
P.S: I write at home on a PC, normally in the evenings and weekends. I try to write every day and have weekly word goals. I find setting targets is the way I achieve my goals.
LJ: Do you have a favourite quote you can share with us?
P.S: 80% of success, is turning up (Woody Allen). I’m a strong believer of having a go, regardless of the outcome. This is how I got into writing in the first place. I always wanted to write stories. Like everything I do, I did my research and made it happen. Being an author was my childhood dream and I persisted until it became a reality.
LJ: How about a favourite singer or band?
P.S: It varies depending on my mood, but I have always liked David Bowie and Queen. I also love movie theme music like The Lord of the Rings and Conan the Barbarian—have a listen to it one day. You’ll be surprised how good it is.
LJ: I’m a fan of Queen myself! So when you’re relaxing and listening to music do you prefer coffee or tea?
P.S: I drink black coffee 3 times a day. I can function without coffee, but why would anyone willingly make that choice?
LJ: Is there an author you wish more people knew about?
P.S: Robert E Howard. Although he is well known in the literary circles and some readers today, I think most people have forgotten or have never read many of the old masters. Howard is responsible for writing some of the first Sword and Sorcery books with characters like Conan, King Krull and Solomon Kane. Howard wrote his all his stories back in the 1930’s! No doubt growing up reading his books has been a big influence on my story telling.
LJ: Is there a year you would travel back to if you could?
P.S: I would travel back to the 1930’s and walk into the Eagle and Child pub in Oxford, England and introduce myself to J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. I would ask if I could join the Inklings and learn the art of storytelling from them.
LJ: Wouldn’t that be amazing! Can you tell me one thing people should know about you?
P.S: I would like people to know I love writing and I plan to write many more books in the years to come. Please look for my new fantasy series, The Sky Fire Chronicles, coming out in July 2017. There will be more information soon!
Thank you so much to Paul Summerhayes for taking the time to chat with me this month. Please head to the links below to find out more about Paul and his books.
Paul Summerhayes Website
Facebook
Amazon
Game Website
Newsletter & Free Story
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June 4, 2017
5 ways to decide what book to read next
With so many books to buy, but so little time to read them, if you’re like me your always on the lookout for your next favourite book. But in a world of many authors, genres and sub genres, how do we decide which novel is next? Here 5 ways to decide what book to read next.
[image error]My current TBR pile!
Read Reviews: Although not every book is for everybody, reviews are a great place to start. A review can give you great insight into what someone else did or didn’t like about a story and therefore help you decide if the book is right for you. Authors love receiving reviews for this exact reason, it helps the right readers find their book.
Book Swap: Why not ask a book loving friend if they’d like to read your favourite book and you’ll read theirs in return? Even if it doesn’t end up being on your ‘all time favourite books’ list, it’ll give you something to talk about and even fuel some healthy debate about what you did and didn’t like about the story.
Amazon Also Boughts: Find a book you enjoyed on Amazon and it will give you books purchased by people who also bought the book you loved. It’s a great way to
[image error]My Book Jar!
discover new authors in your favourite genres.
Goodreads: This site is perfect for book lovers. Not only can you put book’s into to be read and read lists, you can also post reviews and follow your friends to see what they’re reading. Goodreads also has a feature where you can select a book you enjoyed and it will recommend other books you might like.
Book Jar: Already have a TBR pile you’ll be lucky to get through by the end of the year but don’t know where to start? A book jar takes the stress out of deciding. Write the titles of each book you buy, ebook and print, and place inside the jar. Next time your ready for a new book, pick one at random.
These 5 ways to decide what book to read next really help me when I’m stuck for a book to buy or read. Do you use any of the above to choose your next read? Or do you do something I haven’t mentioned? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below!
May 24, 2017
YA Scavenger Hunt #19
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The code word for #19 is “DEVILS”
Want the chance to win another prize? L J Higgins is hosting a giveaway to celebrate Science Fiction and Dystopia!
Science Fiction/Dystopia GIVEAWAY!
Enter HERE for your chance to win EBook copies of the Dawn of Rebellion series by Michelle Lynn, Strain of Resistance by Michelle Bryan and the complete Dreamer Trilogy, along with some great Dreamer Swag!
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May 14, 2017
Author Spotlight – Patrick Hodges
This month I had a chat with author Patrick Hodges, who made his debut with the popular young adult, contemporary James Madison series and has recently released his first Science Fiction, Fantasy novel Pawns – The Wielders of Arantha, book one. It’s an intriguing story that has amazing characters and a storyline that weaves them all together. I enjoyed getting to know the man behind the books, and I’m sure you will too.
LJ: First of all, I’d love to hear about where you write.
P.H: I write on my brand new living room couch!
[image error]LJ: Do you have any kids or pets?
P.H: No human kids, but three furry kids. June, a border collie, Benji, a shih-Tzu/poodle mix, and Sunshine, an orange tabby. They are our blessings. And our curses.
LJ: You obviously love writing, but what else are you passionate about?
P.H: Reading, obviously! I love to read. Outside of reading, writing, and being an awesome husband, my main hobbies are sleeping, going to movies, dining out, sleeping, traveling, and did I mention sleeping?
LJ: Because you love to read, is there an author you wish more people knew about?
P.H: Michael Bailey, author of the Action Figures series. The man can write teenage social issues and interaction as easily as he can write superhero all-out throwdowns. Every word just jumps off the page.
LJ: Do you have a favourite quote?
P.H: “The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn’t exist.” From The Usual Suspects, my all-time favourite movie.
[image error]LJ: How about a favourite singer or band?
P.H: I love alternative and pop music from the 80’s and 90’s, the music I grew up on, so yeah, I’m “retro”. My favourite bands include Depeche Mode, New Order, Level 42, The Cranberries, Talk Talk, and so many more.
LJ: If you could travel back in time, what year would you travel to?
P.H: 1865. I’d tell Abe Lincoln to stay home that day. Who knows what more he could have done had he lived.
LJ: What is something you want people to know about you?
P.H: I make a mean pumpkin spice Bundt cake. It’s awesome.
Thank you so much to Patrick Hodges for taking the time to chat with me. You can find Patrick’s books on Amazon by clicking the image below.
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Find Patrick Hodges online:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
May 7, 2017
Launch Party – Utopia: Secrets of Aurora
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Picture a half indoor, half outdoor space. Lights strung overhead, wooden cable reel’s as tables, an eclectic mix of chairs, and the cover of Utopia projected over a low stage onto an iron wall. This was the setting for the official launch of Utopia: Secrets of Aurora, book one. The breeze was cool but not too cold, and didn’t deter people from coming along to help me celebrate.
It was a fun, albeit busy night, with a relaxing setting, delicious food, and great company. I was excited to see so many new faces, and meet more local book lovers. It was a very successful launch, and I couldn’t have done it without the help of my friends and family who support both me, and my dreams.
I need to thank my mum Jane, my sister Lisa, Heidi, Christine, Madeline, Margaret, and Casey, for helping set up, and making the night run so seamlessly. Together they greeted guests, sold books, served food and set up the event.
I wasn’t the only person celebrating on the night, Ann-Maree was celebrating her fifth cover design for me, and I’m excited to continue working with her on the Secrets of Aurora series. She also took the time to take photos of the occasion.
I may have hosted the event, but without two good friends of mine, Kylie and Helena, it would never have come together. They volunteered many lots of their own time in the lead up to the event to organise the running of the night, layout and also the catering. I can’t thank them enough for the time and effort they put into making the night as successful as it was.
Last but not least I have to thank you two children and husband Tim for always supporting me as I pursue my dreams. When doubt creeps in Tim is always quick to remind me why I write, and how far I’ve come. I’m incredibly lucky to have so much support and I can’t thank the amazing people in my life enough.
With the launch of Utopia complete, it’s time to get back into my office and finish writing book two in the series. Thank you to everyone who pre-ordered their EBook copy, purchased a print copy, showed their support with messages, and by coming along to the launch party. If you haven’t had the chance to grab your copy, Utopia is now available on Amazon HERE!
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May 4, 2017
Guest Blogger – Author LJ Higgins
When The Never-ending Notebook invited me to write a guest blog I couldn’t wait to share my love for my own Never-ending Notebook.
Today’s guest blogger is the very talented author LJ Higgins. Linda is one of my close friends who first encouraged me to share my Never-ending Notebooks with the world after receiving one of the first ones I ever made as a gift. Read on to find out how she uses her Never-ending Notebook in her busy life as a self-published author and mum of two.
When I was asked to do a guest post for The Never-ending Notebook (NENB) I was super excited to be able to express my love of my own Never-ending Notebook, as well as share ways it helps me organise my everyday life. I’ve had my beautiful NENB for six months and use it just as much, if not more, than the day I received it. Not only do I love how it can be personalised to suit my personal taste (denim outer and dream…
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April 30, 2017
Utopia Launch Week!
Everything you need to know about the release of Utopia: Secrets of Aurora, book one!
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I can’t believe the release date for Utopia: Secrets of Aurora, book one, is only 5 days away! If you are signed up to L J Higgins Reader’s List, in this months email you would’ve received a free excerpt from Utopia. If you missed out email me at ljhiggins01@hotmail.com, and I’ll sign you up to my readers list, and send the excerpt to you!
Don’t want to miss out on release day? Here some simple ways to make sure you’re one of the first to have Utopia in your hot little hands:
Pre-order your copy from Amazon HERE!
Pre-order your print copy directly from me! Send an email to ljhiggins01@hotmail.com, and I can send you a signed copy of Utopia for just $20 AUD + postage if needed.
Because I’m so excited, I’ve also reduced the Dreamer Trilogy to just 99c per EBook until the 6th of May! Click the image below to grab your copies before the prices return to normal. If you head to my Facebook Page, you can also share the post and tag a friend to gain entries in the draw to win a beaded dreamcatcher bookmark!
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Also, if you’re in the Gladstone region, Queensland, Australia, I will be hosting a launch party at Crow Street Creative, 6:30pm on the 6th of May! There will be prizes, nibbles and it is a byo venue.
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I look forward to Utopia‘s release and am excited to celebrate the launch this weekend!
