Michele Israel Harper's Blog, page 2

It’s Release Day for Joan of Arc!

You guys, I can’t tell you how much this book means to me.

This is the culmination of my master’s degree, a high-quality classic released in such a way to appeal to a modern audience.

But I have been in love with this book for most of my life.

I originally found a used copy of this book in a thrift store as a child and begged my mom to let me take it home.

It was a hard-fought and hard-won battle, but I eventually took home my beat-up little copy and devoured it.

And I became obsessed with all things Joan of Arc and French.

(Yeah, I totally revealed the cover yesterday, thanks to being swamped with homework and library work and life. At least it’s gorgeous, right?)

Speaking of gorgeous covers, I sent a mockup of what I wanted to my professor, Allyson Longueira, and she created this gorgeousness. I am in love!

She completely exceeded my expectations.

Now, back to my Joan of Arc story!

I read this book a second time for my undergrad degree, and chose Joan of Arc as my senior history research project. If I didn’t get a passing grade, I didn’t graduate. (I passed! Whew!)

And now I have the honor of releasing a high-quality edition of this stunning classic novel for my master’s degree.

This was the final full-length novel of Twain’s career, and he considered it the best thing he’d ever written.

And let me tell you, Mark Twain destroyed Sherlock Holmes, one of my favorite literary characters of all time, with his wit and sarcasm, but he had such a deep respect for Joan of Arc, he treated her story with a reverence you will not see anywhere else in his writing.

She captured his heart, she captured mine, and I wholeheartedly believe she will capture yours as well.

(And just so you know: I read this beauty FIVE TIMES to hunt out typos introduced in the public-domain file and to format it into its current state of gorgeousness, so I know this book like the back of my hand!)

I also wrote a foreword and afterword for this particular edition, and I included five of my favorite Joan of Arc illustrations throughout history, exclusive to this edition.

I hope you will check out this beauty, available right now, today, in ebook, paperback, and hardback. I can’t wait for you to read this lovely edition!

You can get this gorgeous classic right here: https://wordfirepress.com/gpcw/

All my love!

Michele

About the book:

She saved France when she was fourteen . . .

She was burned at the stake for her efforts . . .

Meet the girl who captured Mark Twain’s heart.

A forgotten masterpiece from one of America’s greatest authors—and the last full-length novel he ever wrote—Joan of Arc follows the Savior of France from her childhood in Domrémy, to her campaigns throughout the French countryside, to her demise at the hands of the English and Burgundians.

Mark Twain was sarcastic, witty, and oft-irreverent, but he had a soft spot for the Maid of Orléans. (As will you after you read this book!) He spent twelve years in research, two in writing, including multiple visits to the National Archives in Paris, and proclaimed Joan of Arc the “best of all my books!” If you love well-written classics of stunning historical figures, then this is the book for you.

Hey, Guess What? I Went Back To School!

Sooooo, I’m up far too late tonight, turning in homework assignments while updating my website, and I realize—I never told you I was going back to school!

(Or maybe I did? I don’t remember.)

But I did notice my last post was a million years ago (or October 2021, take your pick).

So I’m getting my master’s degree in creative writing, publishing concentration, and it is one of the best experiences of my life!

We are learning so many wonderful things, and the best part is, we’re focusing on so much real-world info, I will immediately be able to put into practice everything I’ve learned.

What I haven’t already, that is.

I’ve wanted my master’s degree since before high school (granted, I thought it would be in archaeology then), but up till this point of my life, I hadn’t found a program that just fit, you know?

Enter Kevin J. Anderson’s publishing program at Western Colorado University.

This is the first one that has felt so right, including exactly what I wanted to learn. And from two incredible professors who are currently working in the industry.

They share such good info, you guys.

I hear their next cohort is already full, but if you’re considering a practical creative writing degree that teaches you the business side of things and how to support yourself as an author, authorpreneur, publishing staff—anything along those lines—I can’t recommend this program highly enough.

Okay! So this quick update at two in the morning has definitely spiraled into raving about my classes.

(I love them so much!)

But this was supposed to be a quick update! Here’s the rest:

Not only did I go back to school, I also took a part-time job as a school librarian.

Yeah, because I had time for that. (Lol!)

Pretty much what happened was this: There was a need, and I jumped in to fill it. As I do. Because it was books.

I had no experience, no training, and I had just a few months to revamp the entire thing all by my lonesome and get it ready for the students to use this semester.

Talk about a learning curve!

The library hadn’t been weeded (did you know this is vital to a library’s health, just like a garden’s? I had no idea!), it hadn’t been updated in fifty million years (I jest, I jest. Maybe just fifty? Still exaggerating, but yikes. It was bad.), and I had to teach myself how to label, shelve, and navigate the Dewy Decimal System.

Let me tell you, not only am I not worthy to walk in a librarian’s shadow, they get their master’s degree in library science for a reason.

Thankfully a very kind retired librarian was able to help me navigate this whole new side of the book world. I most likely would have died without his help.

This post is getting so long, you guys.

Last thing, hopefully!

My writing time since school started in August has been nada. Zilch.

For months and months, I’ve just been staring at my WIP files longingly, dreaming of the day I might once again open them.

I didn’t even attempt NaNo this past year with how much homework I had. (But I did get to hear Grant Faulkner speak, and that was divine!)

Not writing was making me super cranky. As in, I just felt unsettled, like something was wrong, like no matter how hard I was working, I was putting all my energy toward all the wrong stuff.

You know what I mean?

So I started rewarding myself with 30 minutes of writing every time I turned in a school project early.

And I stopped bringing home so much library work. (Okay, I still bring some home, but I’m doing better!)

Those 30 minutes, though I only earned one or two a week, started adding up.

And adding up. And adding up.

So here’s the main news . . .

And it’s not even that dramatic . . .

But I want to make it feel that way . . .

I have three books nearing completion!

What the what?

I started writing a super secret story for my newsletter subscribers only and am just a few pages away from the end.

Diamond Unicorn Kingdom is 10k away from being complete. (My kids are begging for this one.)

And Quell the Nightingale is going through its final edit before I send it for feedback.

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

How even? Like, I’m up late right now getting stuff done, and I need to get up soon for my school and then the library and . . . I shouldn’t be right at the finish line for one book, let alone three!

I’m just . . . amazed.

And hoping I’ll have something delicious for you to read very, very soon.

When shall they be out, you may ask?

I make no promises, because I’m going to finish my school strong and then finish out the school year at the library, but the moment I know, you will know, promise.

It feels so good to be writing again. And I can’t wait to send all my lovely readers my free “thank you” book.

That’s it. That’s all the news.

Hopefully it won’t be another six months until I talk with you again!

What delightful things have you been up to? I want to know!

In Him,

Michele

Power On Blog Tour

I can’t tell you how excited I am that there’s a new book in H.L. Burke’s Supervillain storyworld!

These are some of my fave superhero books ever (right up there with the Dear Hero duology and Jason Joyner’s Rise of the Anointed trilogy), and I couldn’t be happier that this author has written another spinoff series.

First there was the Supervillain Rehabilitation Project.

{Amazon Series Link Right Here: https://amzn.to/3oBLqBF}

You may remember me raving about each of these books as they released.

Yes, they are that good, and yes, I will still rave about them to anyone who will listen.

All five ebooks in this series are on sale right now for $.99 each! This is the perfect time to check them out!

Then there was the Supervillain Romance Project.

{Amazon Series Link Right Here: https://amzn.to/3FnVMLG}

Both stories are so fun and so sweet! And yes, I raved about them both when they came out too.

They are perfect if you’re looking for a superhero adventure with lots of action and the sweetest romance ever!

And now there is the Supervillain Rescue Project.

{Amazon Series Link Right Here: https://amzn.to/3BkwRGk}

Because yes, there will be more, and I am already so thrilled about the next book in this series!

Gah! I am just so excited!

This book releases in two days, and I cannot wait for it to pop up on my Kindle!

You know I’m going to read it in one day. (I mean, that’s what I did with all the other books in this storyworld.)

Want to know more about the book? Here you go!

Jake’s family ties have turned to cuffs. 

Born with the ability to fragment his body at a molecular level, Jake Lucas has devoted his life to his uncle’s supervillain gang. When he’s captured by superheroes, he’s certain his life is over at only sixteen.

To Jake’s surprise, he doesn’t end up in prison but at Camp Sable: an intervention project for at-risk super powered teens. Jake’s not interested in rehabilitation. As far as he’s concerned, the camp mentors are just a barrier between him and his true family, the Sand Fox gang.

Forced to work alongside the likewise screwed up duo of fire-powered Marco and electricity manipulator Laleh, Jake waits for the perfect escape opportunity. Having friends and the chance at a real family is more appealing than Jake originally thought, but going soft can cost a supervillain his life. Jake soon finds the forces fighting to control his life threatening to tear him apart. 

Will Jake choose to remain the villain his uncle made him, or become the hero his new friends think he can be?

A Young Adult Superhero series featuring found family, friendship, and one superpowered ferret.

I hope you love each of these books as much as I do!

In Him,

Michele

About the Author:

H. L. Burke has written more books than she can count—because she’s written a lot of books, not just because she can’t count very high. 

Easily distracted by shinies, she has published in many subgenres including fantasy romance, Steampunk, and superhero, and always creates story worlds with snark, feels, and wonder. 

Married to her high school crush, she spends her time writing, spoiling her cat, and supervising her two supervillains in training (aka her precocious daughters). 

An Oregon native, she wilts without trees and doesn’t mind the rain. She is a fan of delicious flavor, a follower of the Light, and a believer in happily ever after.

Author Links:

www.twitter.com/hlburkewriter  

www.facebook.com/hlburkewriter 

www.hlburkeauthor.com  

www.instagram.com/burkesdragons 

www.facebook.com/groups/hlburkereaders/    

https://www.amazon.com/H.-L.-Burke/e/B00EYQ1HLW

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/7230868.H_L_Burke

Come Join My Online Release Party Tonight!

You simply must come to my online release party tonight for Silence the Siren! (Pretty please?)

Co-host Laura A. Grace and I have so many fun giveaways planned.

{Release Party Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/l2l2bookreleaseparties}

The party starts at 8 PM EST and runs till 10 PM.

Hope to see you there!

And oh my goodness, you guys! You made release day absolutely fabulous!

I can’t even get over how many of you shared my release and left such encouraging comments. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!

I especially want to thank the bloggers who have shared such wonderful posts on my blog tour!

I have had such fun reading them, and I think you will too. (Well done!)

Silence the Siren Blog Tour Schedule:

Mon., 8.16, “Be Our Guest Post: Michele Israel Harper” Cathrine Bonham, cobonham.comTues., 8.17, “Random Interview with Author Michele Israel Harper” H.L. Burke, hlburkeauthor.com/blogWed., 8.18, “Review of Silence the Siren” Kelly Bridgewater, kellybridgewater.blogspot.comThurs., 8.19, “Guest Post: Andersen’s The Little Mermaid and Silence the Siren” Jaye L. Knight, blog.jayelknight.comFri., 8.20, “A Visual Sneak Peek of the Characters in Silence the Siren” Laura A. Grace, lauraagrace.com/blog

And my Instagram Tour!

These are hands down some of the most gorgeous posts I have seen on Instagram.

(Yes, that might have to do with featuring my book, but wow, you made it stunning!)

Silence the Siren Instagram Tour Schedule:

Sun., 8.15, L2L2 Publishing, @l2l2publishingSun., 8.15, Michele Israel Harper, @michele_israel_harperSun., 8.15, BookLaunchBFF, @booklaunchbffMon., 8.16, Laura A. Grace, @lauraagraceauthorMon., 8.16, Jebraun Clifford, @jebrauncliffordMon., 8.16, Anne Wheeler, @annewheelerauthorTues., 8.17, Emilie Haney, @createexplorereadTues., 8.17, Katie Clark, @KatieClarkBooksTues., 8.17, Emerald Barnes, @emeraldbarnesTues., 8.17, Megan, @the_bookish_ravenWed., 8.18, Laurin Boyle, @laurinboyleWed., 8.18, Lydia Jane, @lydiajanewritesThurs., 8.19, Tabitha Caplinger, @Tab_CaplingerThurs., 8.19, IfCatsCouldRead, @ifcatscouldreadThurs., 8.19, Sadie’s Spotlight, @sadiesspotlightThurs., 8.19, Jenelle Schmidt, @jenellelschmidtFri., 8.20, Grace Rocca, @ge.roccaFri., 8.20, Stephany Araujo, @newsystephFri., 8.20, Travelers Wife 4 Life, @travelerswife4life

There are also a few honorable mentions who, WOW, posted some gorgeous release-day photos!

Release Day Reel: @lydiajanewrites (You simply must check out this stunning reel she made! Oh my goodness!)Release Day Post: @bookish.believer Release Day Post: @huntington.hailey Challenge Day 1: @booklaunchbff Challenge Day 2: @booklaunchbff Challenge Day 3: @booklaunchbff Blog Tour Insta Post: @burkesdragons Silence the Siren Feature: @writeraliciagrumley Kill the Beast Feature: @newsysteph My Release Day Post: @michele_israel_harper My Alternate Cover Post: @michele_israel_harper

(All links take you directly to the post itself on Instagram.)

If I forgot anyone, please let me know, and I will add them to the list!

Is that everything?

Oh! The giveaway!

Okay, so the massive Newsletter Giveaway ends on the 21st if you’d still like to enter!

There are daily entries for joining my Insta challenge, as well as extra entries for ordering Silence the Siren or signing up for my newsletter.

{You can enter right here: https://kingsumo.com/g/2owetc/silence-the-siren-newsletter-giveaway}

Whew! I think that’s all the release-party post I have in me!

Thank you again from the bottom of my heart for encouraging me, being excited about my books, and making this release day so memorable.

I hope you enjoy your new book!

And please do join me for my release party tonight! I’d love to give back just a little of what you’ve given me over the years. (In thousands of gorgeous prizes. Okay, maybe not thousands, but you know what I mean.)

Love you all!

In Him,

Michele

Silence the Siren Ro has been hired to hunt a deadly muse of sirens before they sink any more ships.

Silence the Siren is available now!

Preorder swag is available until the 24th or while supplies last.

I hope you love your new adventure!

This high-seas adventure is a Little Mermaid reimagining of the Hans Christian Andersen persuasion and the second book in the Beast Hunters series.

Order Now! About the Book Huntress Ro LeFèvre is offered a job to hunt a pest plaguing the Seven Seas. A siren has been sinking the king of Angleterre’s ships, and in turn, vast amounts of his wealth.

Fleeing heartbreak, Ro gladly accepts, but there’s just one problem. The king will credit the Marquis de la Valère, and no other women are allowed on the voyage.

Ro will just see about that.

Hiring an all-female pirate crew without the king’s knowledge, Ro hopes they will follow her to the Caribbean, not take the gold and flee.

But when Ro is plunged deep into the ocean by the siren she’s being paid to kill, presented the sirens’ side of the story at knife point, and pressed to join them or die, Ro must decide whether to complete her mission, join the sirens, or something in between.

Before the sirens sink the ship full of men above.

This high-seas adventure is a Little Mermaid reimagining of the Hans Christian Andersen persuasion and the second book in the Beast Hunters series. Order Now$5 Damaged PaperbacksSpecial Edition HardcoverBeast Hunters Series PackSigned PaperbackPreorder Goodies Details Author: Michele Israel Harper
Series: Beast Hunters, Book 2
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling
ASIN: 1943788529
Endorsements “Ro is back, and I am here for it. Battered from her previous adventures, she launches headfirst into a new one full of excitement, betrayal, and numerous twists. I absolutely loved the tie-ins from various fairytales and Harper’s unique spins on classic stories. If you want a story full of blooming romance, friendship, and sacrificial love, you’ll want to dive head-first into this book.”– Hope Bolinger, author of the Blaze trilogy and the Dear Hero duology “Silence the Siren is a fresh take on a classic fairy tale that I did not see coming! Michele Israel Harper weaves a wildly creative tale that will have your heart beating fast with excitement one moment and then breaking the next. Ro is the heroine we’ve all been waiting for. You’ll be rooting for her as she takes on man and sea in this odyssey-esque adventure. Can’t wait to see what Harper does with the rest of the series!”– Julie Hall, USA Today Bestselling author of the multiple award-winning Life After series “Michele Israel Harper continues her unique spin on fairy tales well-loved. While the Huntress dives into waters unknown, there is enough familiar and new to keep readers invested in this intricate and expanding world that feels almost as real as our own history.”– Derrick Elchers, author of The Battle for Art “Silence the Siren takes readers on a high seas adventure that sets personalities from all over the fairytale spectrum on a crash course with peril and betrayal. Michele Israel Harper offers a delightful cast of characters who struggle with complex emotions, tight dilemmas, the very real frustrations of their own limitations. The story’s deft weaving of resonant retelling and original twists will keep readers enthralled to the last page.”– Rebecca P. Minor, fantasy author, artist, and Realm Makers founder “Silence the Siren does not fall into the fairy tale trap of simple good and evil, but features a protagonist who insists there are two sides to a story—and then is frustrated when neither is as honorable and noble as pretended. Perseverance and honesty are as important as strength and ferocity (although we get those, too!). And it’s all in a fascinating world where multiple fairy tales mingle and tangle.”– Laura VanArendonk Baugh, award-winning author of The Songweaver's Vow and the Shard of Elan series “Michele Harper creates a marvelous world in Silence the Siren, where French fairy tales are spun into something new, their golden story-threads woven into lavish, compelling tapestries. From pirates to princesses to sirens, things are never quite what they seem. Enemies become friends and vice versa, magic turns up in the most unexpected places, and the promise of true love hovers on the horizon.”– Merrie Destefano, award-winning author of Shade: The Complete Trilogy Other Books in "Beast Hunters" Beast Hunter Kill the Beast Quell the NightingalePreview Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the page above are "affiliate links." This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Silence the Siren Release Day!

Oh my goodness, after thousands of years and years and years, my book is finally here!

***Cue all the happy dancing in the world!***

I’m so exhausted from all the release-week prep, I’m not even sure how to celebrate!

But since my birthday is next week (and my master’s program also starts next week), I plan on at least celebrating with sushi takeout (veggie only always) and an at-home movie.

My husband also suggested the Renaissance Faire at our local castle (yes, you read that correctly) or a weekend at Holiday World.

What would you do to celebrate a book release if it were you? I welcome suggestions!

One thing I know for sure I’m doing to celebrate is mailing someone this incredible prize!

{You can enter here until the 21st.}

And don’t forget to join me at my online release party on Thursday for another grand prize similar to this one!

See? Almost identical. ;-)

For me, writing a book takes months of daydreaming, sketching out scenes and plot points that simply must happen, then a mad dash to write down the story as it comes to me.

I usually write fast but edit slowly, combing through the manuscript for just the right words, making sure the plot works and the dialogue makes sense, rewriting scenes as they need to be rewritten, before it goes to critique partners, then beta readers, then rounds of editors until the story is as perfect as it can be.

So months (and even years) later, it finally makes it into your hands, and I wait with bated breath for reviews to start rolling in so I know what you think.

(So, yes, please, leave a review! It helps more than I can possibly say.)

And that’s it! I just wanted to share my happy day with you.

I hope you love this adventure!

In Him,

Michele

Beast Hunters Beast Hunter Author: Michele Israel Harper
Series: Beast Hunters, Book 0
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling

This is the story that started it all: How Red Riding Hood killed the wolf, escaped the beast, and became a huntress. This prequel novella weaves seamlessly into the first book of the Beast Hunters series, Kill the Beast.

More info →Signed Bookplate Kill the Beast Author: Michele Israel Harper
Series: Beast Hunters, Book 1
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling

This heartfelt and magical adventure is a Beauty and the Beast reimagining where Red Riding Hood is hired to hunt and kill the beast.

More info →Signed Bookplate Silence the Siren Author: Michele Israel Harper
Series: Beast Hunters, Book 2
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling

Silence the Siren is available now!

Preorder swag is available until the 24th or while supplies last.

I hope you love your new adventure!

This high-seas adventure is a Little Mermaid reimagining of the Hans Christian Andersen persuasion and the second book in the Beast Hunters series.

More info →$5 Damaged PaperbacksSpecial Edition HardcoverBeast Hunters Series PackSigned PaperbackPreorder Goodies Quell the Nightingale Author: Michele Israel Harper
Series: Beast Hunters, Book 3
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling

Quell the Nightingale is the third book in the Beast Hunters series.

Coming soon.

More info →

Silence the Siren Releases Tuesday!

Oh my goodness, after all the waiting, it’s finally here!

Silence the Siren, book two of the Beast Hunters series, releases this Tuesday!

I have all kinds of release fun planned, but the one I’m most excited about is my newsletter giveaway.

And I think you’ll be excited about it too!

Since I decided not to have an in-person book signing this year, I put together a huge prize basket, similar to the one I had for Kill the Beast‘s release.

Would you like a peek?

Here you go!

Isn’t that gorgeous? I had so much fun collecting the items for this giveaway.

You can enter right here: https://kingsumo.com/g/2owetc/silence-the-siren-newsletter-giveaway

And if that’s not amazing enough, I have another similar giveaway for the grand prize for my online release party.

(Whew! Can you believe it? I’ve been working on all of this for ages, and now it’s all happening at once!)

My online release party is next Thursday (the 19th) from 8–10 PM EST.

{You can join me right here!}

I also have an Instagram tour and challenge set up by L2L2 Publishing.

If you’d like to check out the tour, here’s the schedule!

Silence the Siren Instagram Tour Schedule:

Sun., 8.15, L2L2 Publishing, @l2l2publishingSun., 8.15, Michele Israel Harper, @michele_israel_harperSun., 8.15, BookLaunchBFF, @booklaunchbffMon., 8.16, Laura A. Grace, @lauraagraceauthorMon., 8.16, Jebraun Clifford, @jebrauncliffordMon., 8.16, Anne Wheeler, @annewheelerauthorTues., 8.17, Emilie Haney, @createexplorereadTues., 8.17, Katie Clark, @KatieClarkBooksTues., 8.17, Emerald Barnes, @emeraldbarnesTues., 8.17, Megan, @the_bookish_ravenWed., 8.18, Laurin Boyle, @laurinboyleWed., 8.18, Lydia Jane, @lydiajanewritesThurs., 8.19, Tabitha Caplinger, @Tab_CaplingerThurs., 8.19, IfCatsCouldRead, @ifcatscouldreadThurs., 8.19, Sadie’s Spotlight, @sadiesspotlightThurs., 8.19, Jenelle Schmidt, @jenellelschmidtFri., 8.20, Grace Rocca, @ge.roccaFri., 8.20, Stephany Araujo, @newsystephFri., 8.20, Travelers Wife 4 Life, @travelerswife4life

If you’d like to know about the challenge (which includes extra entries in the giveaway), you can go here: {Link to L2L2 Publishing for Insta challenge graphics, hashtags, and hosts.}

Okay, have I forgotten anything?

Oh, yes! The blog tour! :D

As you can imagine, with everything else going on, I didn’t want an extended tour this time. So these lovely bloggers filled my tour in one day, and I had to hurry to close the form to keep it small! I am so honored.

If you’d like to read just a few behind-the-scenes posts about the magical world of Silence the Siren, definitely check out these posts.

Silence the Siren Blog Tour Schedule:

Mon., 8.16, “Be Our Guest Post: Michele Israel Harper” Cathrine Bonham, cobonham.comTues., 8.17, “Random Interview with Author Michele Israel Harper” H.L. Burke, hlburkeauthor.com/blogWed., 8.18, “Review of Silence the Siren” Kelly Bridgewater, kellybridgewater.blogspot.comThurs., 8.19, “Guest Post: Andersen’s The Little Mermaid and Silence the Siren” Jaye L. Knight, blog.jayelknight.comFri., 8.20, “A Visual Sneak Peek of the Characters in Silence the Siren” Laura A. Grace, lauraagrace.com/blog

And I think that’s everything!

Thank you so much for supporting me and my books! I love writing so much, and I’m so happy when you enjoy these stories I write for you.

Please leave a review for Silence the Siren when you’re done—I can’t wait to hear what you think!

I hope you love your new book.

In Him,

Michele

Silence the Siren Ro has been hired to hunt a deadly muse of sirens before they sink any more ships.

Silence the Siren is available now!

Preorder swag is available until the 24th or while supplies last.

I hope you love your new adventure!

This high-seas adventure is a Little Mermaid reimagining of the Hans Christian Andersen persuasion and the second book in the Beast Hunters series.

Order Now! About the Book

Huntress Ro LeFèvre is offered a job to hunt a pest plaguing the Seven Seas. A siren has been sinking the king of Angleterre’s ships, and in turn, vast amounts of his wealth.

Fleeing heartbreak, Ro gladly accepts, but there’s just one problem. The king will credit the Marquis de la Valère, and no other women are allowed on the voyage.

Ro will just see about that.

Hiring an all-female pirate crew without the king’s knowledge, Ro hopes they will follow her to the Caribbean, not take the gold and flee.

But when Ro is plunged deep into the ocean by the siren she’s being paid to kill, presented the sirens’ side of the story at knife point, and pressed to join them or die, Ro must decide whether to complete her mission, join the sirens, or something in between.

Before the sirens sink the ship full of men above.

This high-seas adventure is a Little Mermaid reimagining of the Hans Christian Andersen persuasion and the second book in the Beast Hunters series.

Order Now$5 Damaged PaperbacksSpecial Edition HardcoverBeast Hunters Series PackSigned PaperbackPreorder Goodies Details Author: Michele Israel Harper
Series: Beast Hunters, Book 2
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling
ASIN: 1943788529
Endorsements “Ro is back, and I am here for it. Battered from her previous adventures, she launches headfirst into a new one full of excitement, betrayal, and numerous twists. I absolutely loved the tie-ins from various fairytales and Harper’s unique spins on classic stories. If you want a story full of blooming romance, friendship, and sacrificial love, you’ll want to dive head-first into this book.”– Hope Bolinger, author of the Blaze trilogy and the Dear Hero duology “Silence the Siren is a fresh take on a classic fairy tale that I did not see coming! Michele Israel Harper weaves a wildly creative tale that will have your heart beating fast with excitement one moment and then breaking the next. Ro is the heroine we’ve all been waiting for. You’ll be rooting for her as she takes on man and sea in this odyssey-esque adventure. Can’t wait to see what Harper does with the rest of the series!”– Julie Hall, USA Today Bestselling author of the multiple award-winning Life After series “Michele Israel Harper continues her unique spin on fairy tales well-loved. While the Huntress dives into waters unknown, there is enough familiar and new to keep readers invested in this intricate and expanding world that feels almost as real as our own history.”– Derrick Elchers, author of The Battle for Art “Silence the Siren takes readers on a high seas adventure that sets personalities from all over the fairytale spectrum on a crash course with peril and betrayal. Michele Israel Harper offers a delightful cast of characters who struggle with complex emotions, tight dilemmas, the very real frustrations of their own limitations. The story’s deft weaving of resonant retelling and original twists will keep readers enthralled to the last page.”– Rebecca P. Minor, fantasy author, artist, and Realm Makers founder “Silence the Siren does not fall into the fairy tale trap of simple good and evil, but features a protagonist who insists there are two sides to a story—and then is frustrated when neither is as honorable and noble as pretended. Perseverance and honesty are as important as strength and ferocity (although we get those, too!). And it’s all in a fascinating world where multiple fairy tales mingle and tangle.”– Laura VanArendonk Baugh, award-winning author of The Songweaver's Vow and the Shard of Elan series “Michele Harper creates a marvelous world in Silence the Siren, where French fairy tales are spun into something new, their golden story-threads woven into lavish, compelling tapestries. From pirates to princesses to sirens, things are never quite what they seem. Enemies become friends and vice versa, magic turns up in the most unexpected places, and the promise of true love hovers on the horizon.”– Merrie Destefano, award-winning author of Shade: The Complete Trilogy Other Books in "Beast Hunters" Beast Hunter Kill the Beast Quell the NightingalePreview Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the page above are "affiliate links." This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Quell the Nightingale Cover Reveal!

I can finally share the next cover in my Beast Hunters series with you!

Oh my goodness, I’m so excited.

I have enjoyed writing Quell the Nightingale more than I can say.

Where is it . . . I keep getting asked?

So the book is written, but it’s a mess. I seem to be one of those authors who can pound out a massive novel in just a few weeks—and then the revising begins.

(***cue crickets for months***)

During that time, I am staring hard at my screen with a scowly face, kinda forgetting that the outside world exists, until it’s in manageable-enough shape to share with critique partners, then beta readers, then editors, etc.

But! I’ve emerged just in time to share its cover, do all the things for Silence the Siren‘s release, then disappear back into my writerly hidey-hole.

So let’s show you this cover!

But first . . .

Here’s what book three in the Beast Hunters series, Quell the Nightingale, is about:

Huntress Ro LeFèvre races back to France with one thought on her mind: get there before her niece succumbs to a sleeping curse—a niece she didn’t even know she had.

Ro must use all her skills as a huntress to find the enchantress responsible before the child reaches the point of no return, before she is crushed by the curse’s power and never wakes again.

Thanks to her extended time fighting the sirens, she hasn’t much time.

Trapped in a tower with a feisty girl who is far too protective of her pet swans and her enormous coils of hair, Ro’s heart is shattered when the mysterious empress known only as the Nightingale keeps Ro from her goal, toying with her as though she has all the time in the world to waste.

Where is the blasted Queen of the Fairies when Ro needs her most?

This charming and nonstop adventure is a Wild Swans, Rapunzel, and Nightingale mashup, with hints of “The Ballad of Mulan,” and is the third book in the Beast Hunters series.

Happy sigh. I just love this series so much.

Okay, okay, I’ll show you the cover now. :)

Isn’t it beyond gorgeous? I’m so happy Sara Helwe Digital Arts agreed to do my covers!

(Speaking of which, I have more cover news I can’t share with you just yet, but it’s coming!)

Also, Silence the Siren comes out in less than a month!

“Michele Harper creates a marvelous world in Silence the Siren, where French fairy tales are spun into something new, their golden story-threads woven into lavish, compelling tapestries. From pirates to princesses to sirens, things are never quite what they seem. Enemies become friends and vice versa, magic turns up in the most unexpected places, and the promise of true love hovers on the horizon.”

—Merrie Destefano, award-winning author of Shade: The Complete Trilogy

You can still get your preorder goodies here, and I just got word that the form will stay open an extra week since I had to ask for the release date to be moved a week earlier. Hurray!

I hope you love my books!

In Him,

Michele

Beast Hunters Beast Hunter Author: Michele Israel Harper
Series: Beast Hunters, Book 0
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling

This is the story that started it all: How Red Riding Hood killed the wolf, escaped the beast, and became a huntress. This prequel novella weaves seamlessly into the first book of the Beast Hunters series, Kill the Beast.

More info →Signed Bookplate Kill the Beast Author: Michele Israel Harper
Series: Beast Hunters, Book 1
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling

This heartfelt and magical adventure is a Beauty and the Beast reimagining where Red Riding Hood is hired to hunt and kill the beast.

More info →Signed Bookplate Silence the Siren Author: Michele Israel Harper
Series: Beast Hunters, Book 2
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling

Silence the Siren is available now!

Preorder swag is available until the 24th or while supplies last.

I hope you love your new adventure!

This high-seas adventure is a Little Mermaid reimagining of the Hans Christian Andersen persuasion and the second book in the Beast Hunters series.

More info →$5 Damaged PaperbacksSpecial Edition HardcoverBeast Hunters Series PackSigned PaperbackPreorder Goodies Quell the Nightingale Author: Michele Israel Harper
Series: Beast Hunters, Book 3
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling

Quell the Nightingale is the third book in the Beast Hunters series.

Coming soon.

More info →

Cover Reveal in Just a Few Days!

Oh my goodness, you guys, I have a cover reveal in less than a week!

This coming Thursday, July 29th, the cover for the next book in the Beast Hunters Series, Quell the Nightingale, will be on display for all the world to see.

And I would love for you to join me!

{Sign-up link right here >>> https://forms.gle/i9w5AuZ1adbtLqgS6}

If you’d like to share my cover, sign up at the link above, and the cover will be sent to you this Tuesday.

Aren’t those books just lovely lined up together on a shelf like that?

Speaking of which, Silence the Siren releases in LESS THAN A MONTH!!!

(Cue all the screaming and flailing and throwing of confetti!)

Don’t forget that if you preorder, you will get tons (and I do mean tons) of preorder goodies.

Here’s the preorder form link!

{Get your goodies here >>> https://forms.gle/HyyLaEso4XQuCMRZ6}

Speaking of goodies, here’s what I’ve got for you!

As of this posting, I have around ten signed copies left, about twenty paperback packs, and roughly forty ebook packs. (So about half of what I started with. I went a little crazy, okay? It’s all so beautiful!)

A thousand times, thank you for being so encouraging and loving my books!

I can’t tell you how much I love writing them for you.

Have the best time reading ever!

In Him,

Michele

Coming Soon: More Silence the Siren news (such as blog tour, Insta tour, and an exclusive offer for my newsletter subscribers), and I JUST SAW THE COVER FOR SLAY THE WOLF! :O

That book comes after Quell the Nightingale, then there are only two more books after that. (And yes, they’re all plotted and partially drafted.) Excuse me while I hyperventilate from excitement over here.

Okay, I have to go do all the things to bring you all the books. Hugs!

Silence the Siren Ro has been hired to hunt a deadly muse of sirens before they sink any more ships.

Silence the Siren is available now!

Preorder swag is available until the 24th or while supplies last.

I hope you love your new adventure!

This high-seas adventure is a Little Mermaid reimagining of the Hans Christian Andersen persuasion and the second book in the Beast Hunters series.

Order Now! About the Book

Huntress Ro LeFèvre is offered a job to hunt a pest plaguing the Seven Seas. A siren has been sinking the king of Angleterre’s ships, and in turn, vast amounts of his wealth.

Fleeing heartbreak, Ro gladly accepts, but there’s just one problem. The king will credit the Marquis de la Valère, and no other women are allowed on the voyage.

Ro will just see about that.

Hiring an all-female pirate crew without the king’s knowledge, Ro hopes they will follow her to the Caribbean, not take the gold and flee.

But when Ro is plunged deep into the ocean by the siren she’s being paid to kill, presented the sirens’ side of the story at knife point, and pressed to join them or die, Ro must decide whether to complete her mission, join the sirens, or something in between.

Before the sirens sink the ship full of men above.

This high-seas adventure is a Little Mermaid reimagining of the Hans Christian Andersen persuasion and the second book in the Beast Hunters series.

Order Now$5 Damaged PaperbacksSpecial Edition HardcoverBeast Hunters Series PackSigned PaperbackPreorder Goodies Details Author: Michele Israel Harper
Series: Beast Hunters, Book 2
Genre: Fairy Tale Retelling
ASIN: 1943788529
Endorsements “Ro is back, and I am here for it. Battered from her previous adventures, she launches headfirst into a new one full of excitement, betrayal, and numerous twists. I absolutely loved the tie-ins from various fairytales and Harper’s unique spins on classic stories. If you want a story full of blooming romance, friendship, and sacrificial love, you’ll want to dive head-first into this book.”– Hope Bolinger, author of the Blaze trilogy and the Dear Hero duology “Silence the Siren is a fresh take on a classic fairy tale that I did not see coming! Michele Israel Harper weaves a wildly creative tale that will have your heart beating fast with excitement one moment and then breaking the next. Ro is the heroine we’ve all been waiting for. You’ll be rooting for her as she takes on man and sea in this odyssey-esque adventure. Can’t wait to see what Harper does with the rest of the series!”– Julie Hall, USA Today Bestselling author of the multiple award-winning Life After series “Michele Israel Harper continues her unique spin on fairy tales well-loved. While the Huntress dives into waters unknown, there is enough familiar and new to keep readers invested in this intricate and expanding world that feels almost as real as our own history.”– Derrick Elchers, author of The Battle for Art “Silence the Siren takes readers on a high seas adventure that sets personalities from all over the fairytale spectrum on a crash course with peril and betrayal. Michele Israel Harper offers a delightful cast of characters who struggle with complex emotions, tight dilemmas, the very real frustrations of their own limitations. The story’s deft weaving of resonant retelling and original twists will keep readers enthralled to the last page.”– Rebecca P. Minor, fantasy author, artist, and Realm Makers founder “Silence the Siren does not fall into the fairy tale trap of simple good and evil, but features a protagonist who insists there are two sides to a story—and then is frustrated when neither is as honorable and noble as pretended. Perseverance and honesty are as important as strength and ferocity (although we get those, too!). And it’s all in a fascinating world where multiple fairy tales mingle and tangle.”– Laura VanArendonk Baugh, award-winning author of The Songweaver's Vow and the Shard of Elan series “Michele Harper creates a marvelous world in Silence the Siren, where French fairy tales are spun into something new, their golden story-threads woven into lavish, compelling tapestries. From pirates to princesses to sirens, things are never quite what they seem. Enemies become friends and vice versa, magic turns up in the most unexpected places, and the promise of true love hovers on the horizon.”– Merrie Destefano, award-winning author of Shade: The Complete Trilogy Other Books in "Beast Hunters" Beast Hunter Kill the Beast Quell the NightingalePreview Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the page above are "affiliate links." This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

So Excited to Celebrate New Book Azriel by Lee James!

I’m so excited to be a part of Lee James’s blog tour for Azriel today!

One of my favorite things to do to support a fellow author (especially a fellow pub sister) is to co-host their release party.

And tonight I’ll be doing just that.

If you want to join us, RSVP right here, and I’ll tell you more about the book and the prizes below!

{RSVP link to Azriel’s online release party.}

About the book:

Bree Faro learns early in life that she can only depend on herself. Due to her feisty nature and unusual ability with a sword, she is educated in every fighting style imaginable and excels at them all. When she’s sent to infiltrate the city of Azriel, Bree does not expect to find her place among the Watchmen of the Keep, but they welcome her as one of their own.

 

Little does Bree know that her new companions are in danger.

 

An immortal creature lies in wait for any Keeper of the Flame, the city’s water source has dried up, and they are under constant attack from the Yirtzi—former Watchmen reduced to vengeful spirits, who sold their souls for power only to realize the enemy of Yahweh does not translate to the friend of mankind. Not only that, but the Watchmen are fraying. Hostilities come to a head when a Watchman is murdered.

 

Only a Watchman can kill another Watchman, and all eyes shift to Bree.

 

Bree finds herself faced with a choice. Does she engineer the betrayal of the powerful city, or does she embrace her destiny as a true Watchman of Yahweh and find the killer before it’s too late?

Let me tell you, this story is a rollercoaster ride of awesomeness I couldn’t put down! Lee has written a beautiful story from her heart, and it shows on every page.

Now here are more deets about the online release party!

The party is this evening (Thursday, June 17th) from 8–10 PM EST, and here’s the link to the party.

There are so many beautiful books and prizes we’ll be giving away this evening, including some of my own books. (Yay!)

Here’s a quick sneak peek of tonight’s giveaways, and if you’d like to see more, check out this blog post on my publisher’s website or stop on by the party tonight around 8 PM. I would love to get to chat with you about our fave books and more!

First up, my lovely co-hosts!

Get to know Azriel author Lee James, party co-host Laura A. Grace, and me and enter our fun giveaways for some incredible bookish prizes.

Of course my publisher, L2L2 Publishing, would feature some of their other releases. Aren’t they gorgeous? I love these covers (and stories) so much!

Also, I have some fun Silence the Siren news that I can’t wait to share with you! I’ll be sending out a newsletter first, then I’ll post it on here a few days later. Sign up here if you’d like to be the first to know!

I hope you love my new book. <3

I can’t even tell you how much I love Tiger Queen by Annie Sullivan. This tale of a desert queen who fights to win back her kingdom is such a good read, and I am so happy to give away a signed hardback of one of my fave stories.

(And it is definitely one of my fave stories—I’ve read it three times.)

Happy sigh. Lee James specifically requested to give away a signed copy of my Wisdom & Folly Sisters. I can’t tell you how much that blessed me!

I hope you enjoy it as much as she did!

Okay, I just had to sneak this one in here too.

If you are new to my books, this prize pack is the perfect intro to my various storyworlds and writing style.

This is one of my fave prizes to send out, and if you win it, I can’t wait to hear what you think!

And those are all the sneak peeks I’ve got for you!

There are so many more prizes and giveaways and games, and I sincerely hope you will stop by and celebrate with us.

{Last RSVP link, my lovely readers!}

Also, if you’ve enjoyed my post and would like to stop by any of the other blog stops on Azriel’s tour, here is the blog tour schedule!

Monday, June 14th, “Azriel: The Watchmen Saga Begins,” Laurin Boyle, www.laurinboyle.wordpress.comMonday, June 14th, “Interview with Lee James, Author of Azriel,” Mary Schlegel, www.maryschlegelauthor.comTuesday, June 15th, “Review of Azriel by Lee James,” Pam Halter, www.pamhalter.com/fairiesfantasyfaith..., June 15th, “Azriel Release Day: A Most Sacred Secret,” Lee James, www.leejameswrites.comWednesday, June 16th, “Azriel Blog Tour: A Writer Writes,” Laura A. Grace, www.lauraagrace.comThursday, June 17th, “Review of Azriel by Lee James,” Crystal Grant, www.crystalgrantfaithandfiction.comTh..., June 17th, “Azriel Release Party Tonight,” Michele Israel Harper, www.MicheleIsraelHarper.comFriday, June 18th, “Weekend Reads: Review of Azriel by Lee James,” Laurie Lucking, www.landsuncharted.comFriday, June 18th, “Azriel Blog Tour: Swords and Magic and Intrigue, Oh My,” K.A. Cummins, www.authorkacummins.com

Thank you so much for stopping by, and see you tonight!

In Him,

Michele

Azriel Purchase Link (L2L2 website):

https://www.love2readlove2writepublishing.com/books/azriel

About the author:

Lee James writes stories of hope and redemption. Whether she creates fantasy, mystery, or historical fiction, her beautifully awkward characters traverse a dark labyrinth on their journey to a hopeful end. Her work is dedicated to sharing the beauty of Christ, one faith-infused project at a time. Keep up to date with Lee and her stories at www.leejameswrites.com.

Social Media Links:

Website: www.leejameswrites.comAmazon Author: www.amazon.com/Lee-James/e/B08L1H5HSKGoodreads: www.goodreads.com/author/show/20795422.Lee_JamesInstagram: www.instagram.com/ljamesthewriterTwitter: www.twitter.com/LJamestheWriterFacebook: www.facebook.com/writerleejamesPinterest: www.pinterest.com/LeJa56/azriel

Online Release Party Link (Thursday, June 17, 2021, 8–10 p.m. EST):

https://www.facebook.com/groups/l2l2bookreleaseparties

 

Celebrate New Book Traitor with Us Tonight!

I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to be a part of Laurie Lucking’s blog tour for her new book, Traitor!

Book Two in the Tales of the Mystics series, Traitor is a beautiful story of redemption, magic, and arranged marriage that makes for the sweetest romance. Laurie’s characters lift off the page and her settings draw you in until you feel you’re in Delunia yourself.

I loved every minute of it.

And now Laura A. Grace and I get to co-host Laurie Lucking’s online release party for this stunning new release.

This party kicks off tonight at 8PM EST, and you can RSVP right here.

Would you like a few sneak peeks of the prizes available? Of course you do! :D

Happy sigh. I just love books so much, and these four are such good ones.

See you tonight!

In Him,

Michele

About Traitor by Laurie Lucking:

Princess Penelope has finally found a way to redeem her past mistakes—if only it didn’t require betraying her new fiancé.

Princess Penelope has been the object of gossip and ridicule ever since she returned home in disgrace following her failed engagement to the Crown Prince of Imperia. When her father offers a new start in a country far across the sea, she has no choice but to accept.

Even if it means another betrothal, this time to a total stranger.

Penelope arrives in Delunia determined to avoid bringing further shame upon her family. But her devoted, caring fiancé makes it harder to guard her heart than she anticipated, and rumors of dark magic haunt her with memories she’d rather keep buried far beneath her pristine exterior.

When a poverty-stricken village outside the palace gates looks to her as their hope for a brighter future, Penelope embraces the opportunity to make amends for her transgressions. But in order to help, she must manipulate her new fiancé, putting her reputation on the line once more. And her heart.

Can Penelope rise above the failures of her past, or will she forever be branded a traitor?

About the author:

Laurie Lucking loves hoarding books, singing at the top of her lungs, playing games that don’t involve too much strategy, and spending time with her husband and three energetic kids. A recovering attorney, she now spends her days as a stay-at-home mom and has discovered writing young adult romantic fantasy is way more fun than drafting contracts. Her fairy tale–inspired stories combine the excitement of discovering new worlds with the timeless enchantment of falling in love. Find out more about Laurie and her writing adventures at www.LaurieLucking.com.

Follow her here:

Website: www.laurielucking.comBlog: www.landsuncharted.comAmazon Author: www.amazon.com/Laurie-Lucking/e/B0796DGHX8Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/laurielucking