Tricia Copeland's Blog, page 50
July 25, 2018
Special Guest Author Nicole Conway!
[image error]
Happy Thursday! I'm continuing my series on guest YA authors today! Nicole is a new author to me and I can't wait to read her books! So let's meet Nicole!
Q1: Describe your books.
A1: My 3 Dragonrider series (Dragonrider Chronicles, Dragonrider Legacy, and Dragonrider Trials) are my bestselling works and most popular. They are a YA epic fantasy following the life of a half-elf, Jaevid, and his many companions. They are action-packed, fast-paced, and sprinkled with hints of romance against a backdrop of war, struggle, sacrifice, and discovering what it truly means to embrace who you are. Readers call them "Game of Thrones for teens" because it has all the richness and development of a big-world fantasy series with none of the overly graphic material. What I love most about them is that you don't necessarily have to read the series in order. You can start with Legacy, Trials, or Chronicles! While they do happen chronologically, I've specifically crafted each series to be able to stand on it's own!
My YA anthropomorphic dragon-shifting superhero series, Fragments of Chaos, launches Spring 2019 with book one -- SCALES. I can't wait for this release because the main character, by far, is my favorite. Koji's quirky, clumsy, and nerdy voice is one I relate to on a deep level. He's the kind of guy I would have crushed on in high school! The series is yet another action-packed, awesome-battles-against-giant-mosters, adventure set against a New York backdrop. It's sure to please fans of the Reckoners, Marvel's Spider-Man, and any dragon-lover!
My other YA titles include Mad Magic--a modern, dark fairy tale for older teens--and my sci-fi series, Renegade Runners, coming in 2020.
Q2: When and why did you start writing?
A2: I honestly don't remember a time when I wasn't writing. It's been my passion and creative outlet for years. But I do remember finishing my first novel in the sixth grade. That work is actually the one being reworked into the Renegade Runner series!
Q3: What is your favorite genre to read and why?
A3: I love a wide variety of genres, honestly. I tend to pick books based on feeling connected to the main characters rather than staying true to one particular one. Some of my favorites include Ready Player One, Lord of the Rings, the Percy Jackson series, and Harry Potter.
(my personal aside, Lord of the Rings, check, Percy Jackson, check!)
Q4: What is your favorite genre to write and why?
A4: Epic Fantasy will always be my favorite. Chalk that up to a childhood spent immersed in Tolkien's world. While other little girls were dreaming of princes and sparkling tiara's, I was dreaming of dragons and the Riders of Rohan.
Q5: 3 Likes:
A5: Favorite Movies: - Pacific Rim (*rockfist for giant robot/alien battles*) - The Accountant (the character development in that film is just ... off the charts amazing) - The Fifth Element (A classic that I will never get tired of)
Q6: 3 Dislikes
A6: - Grasshoppers (they just creep me out ...) - Heights (if you ever want to see a grown woman sob like an infant, try to get me on a rollercoaster) - Tomatoes (unless they are fried and green get them awaaaaay)
(personal note: Fried green tomatoes = yum!)
Q7: What else should we know about you?
A7: I have a lot of passions and interests--nearly all of them nerdy to an excruciating degree. I love coffee. Real coffee. Not the sweet mocha stuff, though, I want it black like my soul and strong enough it puts me at risk for a cardiac episode. I also love Netflix, although I'm at a point now where I've watched so many things I'm running out of options. My favorite shows have been Daredevil, The Grande Hotel, Murphy's Law of Love, and Luther. I also love drawing, photography, and playing video games ... Which brings us to my biggest and most embarrassing obsession ... I. Love. Dragon Age. All the games. All the books. That game is my life. I will talk to you for HOURS about it--even if you've never played it before. I love everything about it, but most especially Cullen Rutherford. In my spare time, I write fan fictions of it. (And no, I'm not over Trespasser.)
You can find Nicole with the following links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorNicoleConway
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authornicoleconway/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ANConway
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/anconway/
Blog: https://bookishmomabroad.wordpress.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6498865.Nicole_Conway
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Nicole-Conway/e/B00J23LNMA
Web: www.authornicoleconway.com
Newsletter: https://www.authornicoleconway.com/bio
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nicole-conway
Happy reading!
Tricia
Happy Thursday! I'm continuing my series on guest YA authors today! Nicole is a new author to me and I can't wait to read her books! So let's meet Nicole!Q1: Describe your books.
A1: My 3 Dragonrider series (Dragonrider Chronicles, Dragonrider Legacy, and Dragonrider Trials) are my bestselling works and most popular. They are a YA epic fantasy following the life of a half-elf, Jaevid, and his many companions. They are action-packed, fast-paced, and sprinkled with hints of romance against a backdrop of war, struggle, sacrifice, and discovering what it truly means to embrace who you are. Readers call them "Game of Thrones for teens" because it has all the richness and development of a big-world fantasy series with none of the overly graphic material. What I love most about them is that you don't necessarily have to read the series in order. You can start with Legacy, Trials, or Chronicles! While they do happen chronologically, I've specifically crafted each series to be able to stand on it's own!
My YA anthropomorphic dragon-shifting superhero series, Fragments of Chaos, launches Spring 2019 with book one -- SCALES. I can't wait for this release because the main character, by far, is my favorite. Koji's quirky, clumsy, and nerdy voice is one I relate to on a deep level. He's the kind of guy I would have crushed on in high school! The series is yet another action-packed, awesome-battles-against-giant-mosters, adventure set against a New York backdrop. It's sure to please fans of the Reckoners, Marvel's Spider-Man, and any dragon-lover!
My other YA titles include Mad Magic--a modern, dark fairy tale for older teens--and my sci-fi series, Renegade Runners, coming in 2020.
Q2: When and why did you start writing?
A2: I honestly don't remember a time when I wasn't writing. It's been my passion and creative outlet for years. But I do remember finishing my first novel in the sixth grade. That work is actually the one being reworked into the Renegade Runner series!
Q3: What is your favorite genre to read and why?
A3: I love a wide variety of genres, honestly. I tend to pick books based on feeling connected to the main characters rather than staying true to one particular one. Some of my favorites include Ready Player One, Lord of the Rings, the Percy Jackson series, and Harry Potter.
(my personal aside, Lord of the Rings, check, Percy Jackson, check!)
Q4: What is your favorite genre to write and why?
A4: Epic Fantasy will always be my favorite. Chalk that up to a childhood spent immersed in Tolkien's world. While other little girls were dreaming of princes and sparkling tiara's, I was dreaming of dragons and the Riders of Rohan.
Q5: 3 Likes:
A5: Favorite Movies: - Pacific Rim (*rockfist for giant robot/alien battles*) - The Accountant (the character development in that film is just ... off the charts amazing) - The Fifth Element (A classic that I will never get tired of)
Q6: 3 Dislikes
A6: - Grasshoppers (they just creep me out ...) - Heights (if you ever want to see a grown woman sob like an infant, try to get me on a rollercoaster) - Tomatoes (unless they are fried and green get them awaaaaay)
(personal note: Fried green tomatoes = yum!)
Q7: What else should we know about you?
A7: I have a lot of passions and interests--nearly all of them nerdy to an excruciating degree. I love coffee. Real coffee. Not the sweet mocha stuff, though, I want it black like my soul and strong enough it puts me at risk for a cardiac episode. I also love Netflix, although I'm at a point now where I've watched so many things I'm running out of options. My favorite shows have been Daredevil, The Grande Hotel, Murphy's Law of Love, and Luther. I also love drawing, photography, and playing video games ... Which brings us to my biggest and most embarrassing obsession ... I. Love. Dragon Age. All the games. All the books. That game is my life. I will talk to you for HOURS about it--even if you've never played it before. I love everything about it, but most especially Cullen Rutherford. In my spare time, I write fan fictions of it. (And no, I'm not over Trespasser.)
You can find Nicole with the following links:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorNicoleConway
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authornicoleconway/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ANConway
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/anconway/
Blog: https://bookishmomabroad.wordpress.com/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6498865.Nicole_Conway
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Nicole-Conway/e/B00J23LNMA
Web: www.authornicoleconway.com
Newsletter: https://www.authornicoleconway.com/bio
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nicole-conway
Happy reading!
Tricia
July 24, 2018
My Vision Board Experience, Six Months In
Happy Tuesday! Today, I wanted to write about my vision board experience. If you haven't heard about vision boards, they are visual representations of what you want your future to be. The premise is that what you see on a daily basis becomes ingrained, so much so that the vision on the board becomes reality or you make it your reality because you're focused on the vision, the goals represented on your board.
I attended a presentation where the speaker explained what vision boards were and how to create in early January. It was a good presentation and I got how creating and displaying a board could help you stay on track with your goals, but I'm not a crafty person and while the exercise in thinking about the process of creating one was beneficial, I wasn't going to create a board. As an outtake, the first thing you're supposed to do when thinking of creating a board is come up with one word that is your focus or goal word for the year. What one word describes what you wanted to do for the year. I went through many words in this exercise and one rose to the top, FOCUS. I picked this because the prior year I'd added a lot to my plate and became over committed. I needed to figure out which things were important to keep in my life and which things I could let go.
So a month later, I decided to make a vision board. It couldn't hurt right? I re-purposed up one of my kids old presentation boards from school, gathered magazines, and started cutting out images that I was drawn to. What became clear to me is that several parts of my life were important to me, first family, next health, mental and physical, then my career and supporting my family monetarily, and finally time for my creative outlet, writing. This is my board and where I displayed it, above my desk resting on my lamp and computer monitor, so I could see it everyday.
And this is where my board is now...
[image error] ,The board fell behind my desk onto the floor, so now it rests between my desk and the wall, basically at my feet. But, I've still thought about my board, every time I kick it with my feet or my dog snuggles under the desk against the board. And I have made changes to focus on what matters. So here is what I learned about making a vision board so far (obviously I'm only six months into this so there may be more to learn):
1. It was a useful exercise to come up with a goal word, it helped me focus on what I needed for the year, which ironically turned out to be FOCUS.
2. The act of cutting images from magazines and deciding what would go on the board (you don't have to do it that way, if you're good at drawing, painting, etc., you could create images yourself) helped me pinpoint what was most important to me.
3. Even though I thought it sounded hokey, I have achieved what I set out to. I've focused my energies, cut out some activities that weren't aligned and were sucking my energy. I may have gotten there anyway, but having a visual (even not right in front of me) may have helped that process along. I've even dropped a venture that I thought I would keep. I liked it, but in the end, it didn't make the most important four cut (family, health, career, and $ support). I may come back to it, but that's for another time.
4. It's probably better to display the board in a more permanent manner, and in the future, I'll put more effort into that. But that's for 2019, baby steps and all! :)
Happy vision boarding (or not, no judgement)!
Tricia
I attended a presentation where the speaker explained what vision boards were and how to create in early January. It was a good presentation and I got how creating and displaying a board could help you stay on track with your goals, but I'm not a crafty person and while the exercise in thinking about the process of creating one was beneficial, I wasn't going to create a board. As an outtake, the first thing you're supposed to do when thinking of creating a board is come up with one word that is your focus or goal word for the year. What one word describes what you wanted to do for the year. I went through many words in this exercise and one rose to the top, FOCUS. I picked this because the prior year I'd added a lot to my plate and became over committed. I needed to figure out which things were important to keep in my life and which things I could let go.
So a month later, I decided to make a vision board. It couldn't hurt right? I re-purposed up one of my kids old presentation boards from school, gathered magazines, and started cutting out images that I was drawn to. What became clear to me is that several parts of my life were important to me, first family, next health, mental and physical, then my career and supporting my family monetarily, and finally time for my creative outlet, writing. This is my board and where I displayed it, above my desk resting on my lamp and computer monitor, so I could see it everyday.
And this is where my board is now...[image error] ,The board fell behind my desk onto the floor, so now it rests between my desk and the wall, basically at my feet. But, I've still thought about my board, every time I kick it with my feet or my dog snuggles under the desk against the board. And I have made changes to focus on what matters. So here is what I learned about making a vision board so far (obviously I'm only six months into this so there may be more to learn):
1. It was a useful exercise to come up with a goal word, it helped me focus on what I needed for the year, which ironically turned out to be FOCUS.
2. The act of cutting images from magazines and deciding what would go on the board (you don't have to do it that way, if you're good at drawing, painting, etc., you could create images yourself) helped me pinpoint what was most important to me.
3. Even though I thought it sounded hokey, I have achieved what I set out to. I've focused my energies, cut out some activities that weren't aligned and were sucking my energy. I may have gotten there anyway, but having a visual (even not right in front of me) may have helped that process along. I've even dropped a venture that I thought I would keep. I liked it, but in the end, it didn't make the most important four cut (family, health, career, and $ support). I may come back to it, but that's for another time.
4. It's probably better to display the board in a more permanent manner, and in the future, I'll put more effort into that. But that's for 2019, baby steps and all! :)
Happy vision boarding (or not, no judgement)!
Tricia
July 22, 2018
Jo Michael's Provocation Release
[image error] Tobias Butler has been sitting on death row since being sentenced for a gruesome murder in 2007. Bored out of his mind, he decided to apply to the online pen pal program in 2012. It's a pleasant distraction—nothing more, nothing less—for three years, until he's contacted by a beautiful, smart young lawyer named Jess. She's convinced he's innocent and wants to see him freed. As they organize their attack on the judicial system, he wonders how she plans to get his conviction overturned—because he's guilty, and he knows it. Jess is desperate to release him—and he's desperate to feel his hands squeeze the life out of her once she does.
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39076101-provocation
Author Bio:
Jo Michaels is...
Hi, I'm Jo. Let's forget all the "Jo Michaels is blah, blah, blah" stuff and just go with it. I'm a voracious reader (often reading more than one book at a time), a writer, a book reviewer, a mom, a wife, and one of the EICs at INDIE Books Gone Wild. I have an almost photographic memory and tend to make people cringe at the number of details I can recall about them and/or their book(s). My imagination follows me around like a conjoined twin and causes me to space out pretty often or laugh out loud randomly in completely inappropriate situations.
I have a degree in graphic design, and my journey to the end was one few students who begin that program ever complete. However, this was one case where my memory and OCD tendencies helped me. Graduation was one of the most amazing days of my life. But, my most amazing day was when my now husband proposed. Every little girl dreams of being Cinderella someday, and he pulled off the proposal of fantasies.
At the risk of sounding cliché, I'm going to let it out there and say how much I absolutely adore the man I'm married to. Along with my children, he's my whole world.
I've lived in Louisiana, Tennessee, and Georgia, but I've had my feet in almost every state. Traveling is something I adore, and have plans to someday see the Mongolia I've written about in Yassa.
One of my favorite things is hearing from fans! You can find me on social media most any day of the week. Connect! I'd love to hear from you.
Author Links:
Website: http://WriteJoMichaels.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/WriteJoMichaels
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WriteJoMichaels
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/WriteJoMichaels
Instagram: http://instagram.com/WriteJoMichaels
Blog: http://jomichaels.blogspot.com
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2rkgBSZ
Radio: http://blogtalkradio.com/ADailyCupofJo
Buy Links:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2LAd2AZ
B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/provocation-jo-michaels/1128294041?ean=2940155338888
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/provocation-10
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/provocation/id1413624385?mt=11
Excerpt:
Chapter 1
Victoria
Splinters of wood on the corner of the table curl up and away. They seem to be trying to escape the acrid stench of whiskey as much as Victoria is. Her father’s face is inches from her own, forcing the putrid smell through the air as he screams.
She winces as dirty fingernails bite into the soft flesh of her upper arm, and she grinds her teeth against the pain as it mingles with the ever-present terror. It’s better this way. Her mother might be saved from enduring another round of Daddy’s wrath…
***
“And then he was hitting me again.”
Victoria came back to the present, returning her attention to the patient on the couch. “How long has this been going on, Shelley?”
“He doesn’t do it all the time, you know?”
“How long?” Pressing the young woman might not have been the best idea, but duration was something that needed adding to the notes.
Nibbling on an already ragged thumbnail, Shelley answered, “Since our wedding day.” She whirled around. “But he doesn’t mean to! James is a good guy; he just has these moments.”
Little tears appeared on the yellow legal pad as Victoria wrote.
~~~
Patient has nubs for fingernails—shows distress. Likely cause is horrific encounters with abusive husband. Bruises on forearms outline as fingers. Prescribing anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications. See entry in med script log book 4581.034—S. Whitaker.
~~~
“And he always apologizes afterward, right? Maybe cries?” It was obvious where the discussion was going, and she wanted nothing more than to rip James Whitaker’s face off. Instead, she pressed her lips together in a tight smile.
Shelley was nodding, her eyes brightening like an excited child’s. “He’s so loving. He really doesn’t mean to do it. I make him so angry when I screw things up.”
Rather than squash the newfound lightness, Doctor Ward gave a tight smile, walked to her desk, and picked up a prescription pad.
~~~
Effexor XR – 500mg 1x per day
~~~
“I’d like for you to take these.” Ripping off the first piece of paper and handing it over, she wrote on the second.
~~~
Xanax – 2mg 2x per day
~~~
She scribbled her signature on the bottom, and that one was given over as well.
Shelley squinted at the squares of paper. “Do you really think I need these, Doc?”
“I’m not sure, but I’d like you to try them. They may help take the edge off.” Or at least help you get through the next couple of weeks. Still smiling, Victoria pulled her chair across the room and turned it so she could see the woman. “Tell me about your wedding night.”
Shelley’s eyes widened. “I… I uh…”
“It’s okay. No one will ever know what we talk about in here. You’re safe with me.” Bastard already has her terrified to tell anyone what really happens. Victoria felt her face get warm as anger vibrated up her spine, but she kept her features soft.
After a deep breath in and out, Shelley closed her eyes and spoke quietly. “We’d gotten a hotel room in a swanky place, and he’d bought tickets to a show. Since we were early, we decided to go to the hotel bar for a glass of champagne—you know, to celebrate—before we went to get something to eat.”
She chuffed, and a small smile appeared on her face. “It was truly lovely. At dinner later, we had a bottle of wine. I’m not a big drinker, so by the end of the meal, I was feeling pretty good.” Her face turned bright red, and she twisted her fingers until they turned white. “We got our seats, and that’s when my stomach decided it wasn’t happy with all the alcohol I’d put into it. I knew I needed a bathroom—and fast.”
Tears suddenly poured down her face. “I got up, but I was too late. There was barely enough time for me to make it to the stairwell outside the main hall. It was all over me, my dress, and my shoes.
“I didn’t know where I was, so I wandered until I found a restroom. After I cleaned myself off, I found my way outside and went back in through the main entrance.” Snot ran out of her nose, and she sniffed. “S… sorry. I…”
Doctor Ward handed over a wad of tissues. “It’s okay. Take your time.”
Several nose blows later, Shelley nodded. Her voice had gotten much louder. “I knew I smelled awful. I mean, who wouldn’t? But I made my way back to my seat anyway.” Fingers that had been clutched together flexed open and closed, vibrating.
“Are you okay?”
She nodded but was breathing heavily. “It’s just hard to think about, you know?”
“I do. Take your time.” Malice brewed, bubbled, and burned inside the doctor; she had an idea of where the story was going. If James had been in the room, Victoria was certain she would’ve killed him on the spot.
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/39076101-provocation
Author Bio:
Jo Michaels is...
Hi, I'm Jo. Let's forget all the "Jo Michaels is blah, blah, blah" stuff and just go with it. I'm a voracious reader (often reading more than one book at a time), a writer, a book reviewer, a mom, a wife, and one of the EICs at INDIE Books Gone Wild. I have an almost photographic memory and tend to make people cringe at the number of details I can recall about them and/or their book(s). My imagination follows me around like a conjoined twin and causes me to space out pretty often or laugh out loud randomly in completely inappropriate situations.
I have a degree in graphic design, and my journey to the end was one few students who begin that program ever complete. However, this was one case where my memory and OCD tendencies helped me. Graduation was one of the most amazing days of my life. But, my most amazing day was when my now husband proposed. Every little girl dreams of being Cinderella someday, and he pulled off the proposal of fantasies.
At the risk of sounding cliché, I'm going to let it out there and say how much I absolutely adore the man I'm married to. Along with my children, he's my whole world.
I've lived in Louisiana, Tennessee, and Georgia, but I've had my feet in almost every state. Traveling is something I adore, and have plans to someday see the Mongolia I've written about in Yassa.
One of my favorite things is hearing from fans! You can find me on social media most any day of the week. Connect! I'd love to hear from you.
Author Links:
Website: http://WriteJoMichaels.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/WriteJoMichaels
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WriteJoMichaels
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/WriteJoMichaels
Instagram: http://instagram.com/WriteJoMichaels
Blog: http://jomichaels.blogspot.com
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2rkgBSZ
Radio: http://blogtalkradio.com/ADailyCupofJo
Buy Links:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2LAd2AZ
B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/provocation-jo-michaels/1128294041?ean=2940155338888
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/provocation-10
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/provocation/id1413624385?mt=11
Excerpt:
Chapter 1
Victoria
Splinters of wood on the corner of the table curl up and away. They seem to be trying to escape the acrid stench of whiskey as much as Victoria is. Her father’s face is inches from her own, forcing the putrid smell through the air as he screams.
She winces as dirty fingernails bite into the soft flesh of her upper arm, and she grinds her teeth against the pain as it mingles with the ever-present terror. It’s better this way. Her mother might be saved from enduring another round of Daddy’s wrath…
***
“And then he was hitting me again.”
Victoria came back to the present, returning her attention to the patient on the couch. “How long has this been going on, Shelley?”
“He doesn’t do it all the time, you know?”
“How long?” Pressing the young woman might not have been the best idea, but duration was something that needed adding to the notes.
Nibbling on an already ragged thumbnail, Shelley answered, “Since our wedding day.” She whirled around. “But he doesn’t mean to! James is a good guy; he just has these moments.”
Little tears appeared on the yellow legal pad as Victoria wrote.
~~~
Patient has nubs for fingernails—shows distress. Likely cause is horrific encounters with abusive husband. Bruises on forearms outline as fingers. Prescribing anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications. See entry in med script log book 4581.034—S. Whitaker.
~~~
“And he always apologizes afterward, right? Maybe cries?” It was obvious where the discussion was going, and she wanted nothing more than to rip James Whitaker’s face off. Instead, she pressed her lips together in a tight smile.
Shelley was nodding, her eyes brightening like an excited child’s. “He’s so loving. He really doesn’t mean to do it. I make him so angry when I screw things up.”
Rather than squash the newfound lightness, Doctor Ward gave a tight smile, walked to her desk, and picked up a prescription pad.
~~~
Effexor XR – 500mg 1x per day
~~~
“I’d like for you to take these.” Ripping off the first piece of paper and handing it over, she wrote on the second.
~~~
Xanax – 2mg 2x per day
~~~
She scribbled her signature on the bottom, and that one was given over as well.
Shelley squinted at the squares of paper. “Do you really think I need these, Doc?”
“I’m not sure, but I’d like you to try them. They may help take the edge off.” Or at least help you get through the next couple of weeks. Still smiling, Victoria pulled her chair across the room and turned it so she could see the woman. “Tell me about your wedding night.”
Shelley’s eyes widened. “I… I uh…”
“It’s okay. No one will ever know what we talk about in here. You’re safe with me.” Bastard already has her terrified to tell anyone what really happens. Victoria felt her face get warm as anger vibrated up her spine, but she kept her features soft.
After a deep breath in and out, Shelley closed her eyes and spoke quietly. “We’d gotten a hotel room in a swanky place, and he’d bought tickets to a show. Since we were early, we decided to go to the hotel bar for a glass of champagne—you know, to celebrate—before we went to get something to eat.”
She chuffed, and a small smile appeared on her face. “It was truly lovely. At dinner later, we had a bottle of wine. I’m not a big drinker, so by the end of the meal, I was feeling pretty good.” Her face turned bright red, and she twisted her fingers until they turned white. “We got our seats, and that’s when my stomach decided it wasn’t happy with all the alcohol I’d put into it. I knew I needed a bathroom—and fast.”
Tears suddenly poured down her face. “I got up, but I was too late. There was barely enough time for me to make it to the stairwell outside the main hall. It was all over me, my dress, and my shoes.
“I didn’t know where I was, so I wandered until I found a restroom. After I cleaned myself off, I found my way outside and went back in through the main entrance.” Snot ran out of her nose, and she sniffed. “S… sorry. I…”
Doctor Ward handed over a wad of tissues. “It’s okay. Take your time.”
Several nose blows later, Shelley nodded. Her voice had gotten much louder. “I knew I smelled awful. I mean, who wouldn’t? But I made my way back to my seat anyway.” Fingers that had been clutched together flexed open and closed, vibrating.
“Are you okay?”
She nodded but was breathing heavily. “It’s just hard to think about, you know?”
“I do. Take your time.” Malice brewed, bubbled, and burned inside the doctor; she had an idea of where the story was going. If James had been in the room, Victoria was certain she would’ve killed him on the spot.
July 20, 2018
New Release - Faye Magic by Jo Michaels
Prepare yourself. It’s a competition like no other.Think: The Hunger Games meets The Selection.
The last one standing wins the man.
Meet Morgan LeFaye Woodenson. She has her life planned out. She’ll marry Sawyer, the love of her life, and they’ll run into the sunset to be nomads, surviving off the land, not reporting to anyone, free to live their lives as they see fit.
At least, that was the plan until the imprisonment.
When reagent Orinthal’s wife dies suddenly, Faye is forced from her home and thrown into an arena to compete with every other nineteen-year-old girl in Sector Sixteen for the highly coveted place at his side. If she doesn’t win, she dies; if she does win, she loses everything she loves.
Deception and ruthlessness fill her, and she’s determined to find a way to hold on to her dreams—even if that means becoming someone she never thought she’d have to.
Faye Magic
Author: Jo Michaels
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Editor: Tia Silverthorne Bach with INDIE Books Gone Wild
Cover Designer: Katie de Long
Hosted by: Lady Amber's PR
Find it on Goodreads ! https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/32996405-faye-magic
Get the book!
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2JzHc5t
B&N: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/faye-magic-jo-michaels/1129071703?ean=2940155330813
iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/faye-magic-the-othala-witch-collection-sector-16/id1410875457?mt=11
Kobo: https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/faye-magic-the-othala-witch-collection-sector-16
From Jo....
Hi, I'm Jo. Let's forget all the "Jo Michaels is blah, blah, blah" stuff and just go with it. I'm a voracious reader (often reading more than one book at a time), a writer, a book reviewer, a mom, a wife, and one of the EICs at INDIE Books Gone Wild. I have an almost photographic memory and tend to make people cringe at the number of details I can recall about them and/or their book(s). My imagination follows me around like a conjoined twin and causes me to space out pretty often or laugh out loud randomly in completely inappropriate situations.
I have a degree in graphic design, and my journey to the end was one few students who begin that program ever complete. However, this was one case where my memory and OCD tendencies helped me. Graduation was one of the most amazing days of my life. But, my most amazing day was when my now husband proposed. Every little girl dreams of being Cinderella someday, and he pulled off the proposal of fantasies.
At the risk of sounding cliché, I'm going to let it out there and say how much I absolutely adore the man I'm married to. Along with my children, he's my whole world.
I've lived in Louisiana, Tennessee, and Georgia, but I've had my feet in almost every state. Traveling is something I adore, and have plans to someday see the Mongolia I've written about in Yassa.
One of my favorite things is hearing from fans! You can find me on social media most any day of the week. Connect! I'd love to hear from you.
Find Jo!
Website: http://WriteJoMichaels.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/WriteJoMichaels
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WriteJoMichaels
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/WriteJoMichaels
Instagram: http://instagram.com/WriteJoMichaels
Blog: http://jomichaels.blogspot.com
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2rkgBSZ
Radio: http://blogtalkradio.com/ADailyCupofJo
Excerpt from Faye Magic...
Hot breath that reeked of decay peppered the back of Faye’s neck as she ran. Whatever the creature was, it was no more than a step or two away. Her thighs burned as she pumped her legs as hard as she could, not stopping when she reached the sand, diving headfirst into the surf and swimming out into the ocean.
Once she was past the breakers, she slowed and looked back, searching for Katarin.
There was no sign of her anywhere.
On the shore was the beast that had given chase. It was just clear of the water, running back and forth, sniffing the air.
“Katarin!” Faye screamed the girl’s name a couple of times but stopped when the creature lifted its bald head and stared back, taking a step toward the water.
Something grabbed Faye’s ankle and pulled her under. When she resurfaced, she gasped at the oxygen, taking in the maximum amount, terrified it would happen again. Ending things in a dark, watery tomb wasn’t an item on her bucket list, and her interview with Necro came back into her mind, making her wonder if her situation were orchestrated somehow.
Katarin’s head bobbed up, and she spit water, laughing.
“That wasn’t funny.” Treading water was making Faye’s arms tired, but the beast was still on the shore, snuffling, joined by the other ones. They were running in circles, yowling in their weird way. “We can’t keep this up all night.”
“What do you think about swimming to that island?” Pointing, Katarin quirked an eyebrow.
“Island?” Faye turned around. Sure enough, there was a land mass not too far away. “It’s better than staying here, waiting for our arms and legs to get so tired we can’t stay afloat.” She sighed. “Let’s go.” After they’d gone a short way, she found her companion had fallen behind a bit. “If you need to rest, say the word, and we’ll float on our backs until we can continue. Don’t wear yourself to exhaustion.”
“Okay. I need a minute now. Can we pause?”
“Sure.” In all honesty, Faye was dog tired, but she didn’t want to lose time if she didn’t have to. Gently, she flipped over and relaxed, letting her muscles recoup as her body bobbed up and down.
Something slick rubbed against her leg, and she shot up, splashing.
“I thought we were relaxi—” Katarin screamed and splashed, too. “What the hell is that?”
A fin rose out of the water a few feet away. It wasn’t long before another appeared.
Then three more.
“Is that a freaking shark?” asked Katarin.
They were going to die. Faye was well aware sharks were most active in the late evening and early morning, and she swallowed a lump of fear as she watched the gray triangles move in circles. “It is. Several, in fact.”
“Oh my Odin! We’re gonna die!”
Trying to remember the contents of the book she’d read about surviving shark attacks, she faced the animals as they moved, trying to keep them in her line of sight in case they charged. It finally hit her, and she yelled, “Hit them in the nose if they come after you! Be aggressive! They don’t like that.”
July 19, 2018
Author Spotlight - Martina McAtee
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Hi guys! I'm back from my summer break! In the next few weeks I'll be highlighting some authors I've recently met up with, some new, and some I knew before, but am getting to know better. I'm excited to learn about their books and I think you will be too! But, my love of exclamation points is starting to get the better of me, so let's talk about my first spotlight author, Martina McAtee.Martina writes upper/mature YA paranormal and urban fantasy stories with diverse characters. She's been writing her entire life. Her sister read to her from a very young age and when she was old enough to hold a pencil and form words she started putting together her own stories. She didn't have the courage to publish until 2015, but penned her first book at five with an orange crayon and a legal pad she stole from her mom's office. She reads from many different genres, but her favorite is psychological thrillers and suspense. She tries to infuse suspenseful elements into her young adult paranormal stories. She loves writing YA paranormal because she spent her entire life studying mythological creatures and monsters. She feels a physical bond with all things dark and spooky.
I asked Martina to list three of her favorite things, and here they are: french fries, strawberry acai refreshers from Starbucks, and binge watching Netflix. Who can resist Netflix, right? Her three big dislikes are talking on the phone, wearing pants, and doing the dishes. I am with her on the dishes thing, big time!
An RN and owner of 7 Sisters Publishing, a diversity driven YA publisher, she has two cats and two dogs, is a self-appointed PhD in binge-watching television, and USA Today Bestselling author of the Dead Things Series. Her books can be found at www.martinamcatee.com/.
She also can be found at the following:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/MartinaMcAtee1
Facebook Reader Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/martinasdeadlings/
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/MartinaMcAtee1
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Martina-McAtee/e/B012LSRR1S/
Goodreads Page: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14185645.Martina_McAtee
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/mcateem1221/
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/authormartinamcatee
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/martina-mcatee
June 27, 2018
To Keep Death's Vow by Kathy-Lynn Cross
[image error] I’ve read several stories by Kathy-Lynn in addition to first book of the Unseen Series, To Keep Death’s Vow. The premise and story of the first book intrigued me, and I was excited to dig into this new installment. The mystery and excitement do not disappoint. In this book, we learn more about Tevin, his nature as a reaper, and his clan of reaper brethren. More “unseen” entities with special gifts are introduced and I was impressed with Kathy-Lynn’s unique characters.
I don’t want to explain too much of the story, because I don’t like to give away spoilers. Kathy-Lynn writes the story through the eyes of two main characters, Alexcia and Tevin. Alexcia is a seemingly normal teenager save that she is plagued with horrific lifelike nightmares. Tevin, is an Unseen reaper of souls, destined to live in the shadows and deliver souls of departed humans to the River Styx. Their worlds collide when Alexcia is involved in a near fatal car crash. Little does she know that the unseen Tevin has bonded himself to keep her alive.
In this second installment of the series, we find Alexcia becoming more and more aware of the unseen world and Tevin battling to protect her. As a daemon creature, Tevin does not enjoy the luxury of feelings like love and concern, but he seems drawn to Alexcia’s soul and wrestles with his feelings for her. Can there be more to the story than either of them realize? The ending of this book just skirts that possibility and I am delighted that we get to read more about Alexcia and Tevin in the future. Kathy-Lynn tells me perhaps she will release the next book on Halloween of this year!
Happy reading!
Tricia
To Keep Death's Vow on Goodreads! Amazon!
So Shall I Reap-Book One The Unseen Series.
Amazon: bit.ly/SSIRbook1
Smashwords: tinyurl.com/y9eopdm4 #YAparanormal #reapers #eBook
I don’t want to explain too much of the story, because I don’t like to give away spoilers. Kathy-Lynn writes the story through the eyes of two main characters, Alexcia and Tevin. Alexcia is a seemingly normal teenager save that she is plagued with horrific lifelike nightmares. Tevin, is an Unseen reaper of souls, destined to live in the shadows and deliver souls of departed humans to the River Styx. Their worlds collide when Alexcia is involved in a near fatal car crash. Little does she know that the unseen Tevin has bonded himself to keep her alive.
In this second installment of the series, we find Alexcia becoming more and more aware of the unseen world and Tevin battling to protect her. As a daemon creature, Tevin does not enjoy the luxury of feelings like love and concern, but he seems drawn to Alexcia’s soul and wrestles with his feelings for her. Can there be more to the story than either of them realize? The ending of this book just skirts that possibility and I am delighted that we get to read more about Alexcia and Tevin in the future. Kathy-Lynn tells me perhaps she will release the next book on Halloween of this year!
Happy reading!
Tricia
To Keep Death's Vow on Goodreads! Amazon!
So Shall I Reap-Book One The Unseen Series.
Amazon: bit.ly/SSIRbook1
Smashwords: tinyurl.com/y9eopdm4 #YAparanormal #reapers #eBook
June 25, 2018
Be the Ruler - #Monday Motivation by Colleen A. Miller
[image error] Happy Monday! I recently had the pleasure of meeting life strategist and coach Colleen A. Miller. It was a chance encounter in a business mastermind group, but her energy captivated. When she passed around her card, I looked on the back and realized she also published a book. Intrigued, I emailed her. I take every chance I can get to connect with fellow authors, and since her comments in the meeting interested me, I was excited to hear more about her story. She accepted my invitation to coffee, but still I had no idea what to expect from our meetup.
Colleen’s warmth and energy immediately drew me in as we began to talk about writing and other creative interests. It turns out, Colleen is also a sculptor and makes the most darling animal statues. On our second meetup, Colleen shared her book with me. The novel is a memoir/narrative about her parents, childhood, and growing up in a small western city. It includes many funny stories from her past, as well as a glimpse into the history of southwestern Colorado which, as a relatively new Coloradan, intrigued me.
What I got from this tale, was so much more. Colleen writes of her learnings: “My lovability must be decided by me…”. What a profound statement reminding us that we have the power to write our own story, shape our feelings and lives after our own truth, not suck in and reflect other’s sometimes negative energy. Yes, the Lorraine Grisky’s of the world can clang their cymbals in hell, because when we make our own narrative, we don’t let others dictate how we feel about ourselves and are free to pursue whatever our soul desires! Thank you, Colleen, for sharing this piece of wisdom!
There is so much more in Colleen’s book, “Crash Those Cymbals in Hell, Lorraine Grisky”, found on Amazon. Learn all about Colleen on her website at colleen@lightenupconsulting.com. You can find her book on Goodreads or Amazon!
Wishing you the best!
Tricia
Colleen’s warmth and energy immediately drew me in as we began to talk about writing and other creative interests. It turns out, Colleen is also a sculptor and makes the most darling animal statues. On our second meetup, Colleen shared her book with me. The novel is a memoir/narrative about her parents, childhood, and growing up in a small western city. It includes many funny stories from her past, as well as a glimpse into the history of southwestern Colorado which, as a relatively new Coloradan, intrigued me.
What I got from this tale, was so much more. Colleen writes of her learnings: “My lovability must be decided by me…”. What a profound statement reminding us that we have the power to write our own story, shape our feelings and lives after our own truth, not suck in and reflect other’s sometimes negative energy. Yes, the Lorraine Grisky’s of the world can clang their cymbals in hell, because when we make our own narrative, we don’t let others dictate how we feel about ourselves and are free to pursue whatever our soul desires! Thank you, Colleen, for sharing this piece of wisdom!
There is so much more in Colleen’s book, “Crash Those Cymbals in Hell, Lorraine Grisky”, found on Amazon. Learn all about Colleen on her website at colleen@lightenupconsulting.com. You can find her book on Goodreads or Amazon!
Wishing you the best!
Tricia
June 18, 2018
My 8 Hours Alone, Without Internet or Cell Connections
[image error] This past week I found myself alone for eight hours without internet or cell connection. At first, I rejoiced. What better way to relax and unwind? Then, I realized my challenge. Most of the ways I entertain myself are books, music, and movies supplied to me by the internet! Okay, here was my dilemma: I’m alone, not in my house, without my books, movies, and exercise equipment. Not to be dismayed, I looked for other forms of recreation. In the end, I persevered, but it wasn’t without a few snafus. Here was what I did hour by hour:
Hour 1: Finished reading my previously downloaded book on my Kindle. (I am hoping this wasn’t cheating).
Hour 2: Exercised. (I probably would have extended this portion of my day, but as it was the south and summer. Heat and humidity conditions made this not such an appealing option.)
Hour 3: Finished two blog posts for books I read on vacation. (These will be coming soon!)
Hours 4-5: Prepared my favorite southern dish, cheese grits, and started on a work project. (Okay, yes, it was vacation, but finishing this chore, I rationalized, would help my re-entry into non-vacation mode.)
Hour 6: Went to grocery store to get dinner items for family. (Did I mention I had a car? I guess I could have gone to the movies or the bookstore, or both, duh! Oh, well, LOL!)
Hour 7: Showered to get sweat from said heat and humidity off my body and started dinner prep.
Hour 8: Dinner prep continued… with boredom setting in.
Hour 1: Finished reading my previously downloaded book on my Kindle. (I am hoping this wasn’t cheating).
Hour 2: Exercised. (I probably would have extended this portion of my day, but as it was the south and summer. Heat and humidity conditions made this not such an appealing option.)
Hour 3: Finished two blog posts for books I read on vacation. (These will be coming soon!)
Hours 4-5: Prepared my favorite southern dish, cheese grits, and started on a work project. (Okay, yes, it was vacation, but finishing this chore, I rationalized, would help my re-entry into non-vacation mode.)
Hour 6: Went to grocery store to get dinner items for family. (Did I mention I had a car? I guess I could have gone to the movies or the bookstore, or both, duh! Oh, well, LOL!)
Hour 7: Showered to get sweat from said heat and humidity off my body and started dinner prep.
Hour 8: Dinner prep continued… with boredom setting in.
May 27, 2018
An Unexpected Kind - Cover Reveal
Bradley... I used to think that love was for the weak.
It was not something that would ever tie me down.
Until I learned the truth behind my resistance.
When I let down my guard, I wasn’t expecting to find love.
Samantha’s voice called for my attention before I ever met her.
Now my heart is in need. My heart wants her.
And I will do whatever it takes to make it happen.
Samantha...
All I ever wanted was to be loved.
Until love crushed my heart into a million pieces.
I built a wall tough enough that no one could ever get that close again.
But Bradley isn’t just anyone. I’m not prepared for all that he is.
He’s searching for something that I don’t think I can give.
The more I try to deny him the harder it becomes.
He’s going to tear my wall down. And I’m torn because…
I wasn’t looking for love.
Love found me.
Join me in congratulating Angela K. Parker on her upcoming release and cover reveal! Here's a look at what you can expect!
Angela K. Parker is a country girl with a big heart. She grew up in Greeleyville, SC where she graduated from C.E. Murray High School. She received her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration/Finance from Limestone College in Gaffney, SC. Her passions include reading, writing, music and she loves spending time with her family. When she’s not engaged in any of the above, she’s knitting or catching up on the latest movies. She’s always had a very active imagination. Now she’s putting it to good use.
Author Links:
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2J7h8lS
Goodreads: https://goo.gl/JzwbFh
FB: https://www.facebook.com/angelaparkerauthor
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/parkersangels
Website: http://www.angelakparker.wordpress.com/
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cI3h6H
Twitter: @akpauthor
Instagram: @angelaparkerauthor
Pinterest: @angelaparkerauthor
Email: angelaparkerauthor@gmail.com
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/angela-k-parker
Pre-Order Links:
Universal: https://www.books2read.com/u/brGGDM
May 24, 2018
Mental Healthy Mental Happy 4 - Things to Consider
[image error] For Mental Health Awareness Month, I've been pairing with Jen Simon a nutritional consultant of FoodWorks Wellness LLC to bring you information on how nutrition affects mental health. Today Jen gives us some tips on things to look out for. She says If you are eating optimally and still experiencing emotional ups and downs, then looking deeper into what may be interfering is warranted. There are several conditions that can lead to mental health issues that should be ruled out or treated. Some of the conditions I consider are:
Gut dysbiosis and leaky gut discussed in week 2Food sensitivitiesGene SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphism) such as MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase which has a role in processing amino acids and forming vitamin B9, folate)PyroluriaHypothyroidismHeavy metalsToxin overload from metals, pesticides, environmentHormone imbalancesCandida overgrowthSleep issuesCholesterol below 160High histamine levels, which are indicated in depression schizophrenia, mania, racing mind, OCD (obssesive compulsive disorder) and ODD (oppositional defiant disorder)
I hope you've gotten some helpful tips from this series! Wishing you the best!
Tricia
Gut dysbiosis and leaky gut discussed in week 2Food sensitivitiesGene SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphism) such as MTHFR (methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase which has a role in processing amino acids and forming vitamin B9, folate)PyroluriaHypothyroidismHeavy metalsToxin overload from metals, pesticides, environmentHormone imbalancesCandida overgrowthSleep issuesCholesterol below 160High histamine levels, which are indicated in depression schizophrenia, mania, racing mind, OCD (obssesive compulsive disorder) and ODD (oppositional defiant disorder)
I hope you've gotten some helpful tips from this series! Wishing you the best!
Tricia
