Sharon Stevenson's Blog, page 5
August 1, 2013
Let me pick your brain on Zombies...
Fancy the chance of winning a $25 Amazon Gift Card? Got a few minutes and an opinion on zombies?
Fill out the following short survey (copy and paste, or just give me your answers) and email it back to me at sharonstevensonauthor@gmail.com by the end of day Saturday 16th August, with ‘Zombie Survey’ in the subject line. I will pick a winner at random and announce them on Sunday 17th. Survey results will be published by the end of August.
Reader Survey: Cool & Unusual Zombie Books
1. What is your all-time favourite zombie book?
2. What is most important to you in a zombie book?
a. Brains!!! If there’s no gore it’s not a proper zombie book
b. Characters you really care about and want to see survive
c. Action packed thrills and chills
d. A unique or unexpected twist to the story
e. A sense of humour
f. Other -
3. Why do you think zombies are so popular right now?
4. What would you love to see in zombie books in the future?
a. More zombie love stories
b. More classic zombie horror
c. A horror genre mash-up with vampires
d. Something totally different and fresh
e. No more freaking zombie books please – I’m all zombied out!
f. Other –
5. What do you hate about zombies?
a. They’re disgusting
b. They’re stupid
c. They always eat people I like
d. They spread way too quickly
e. No matter how many you kill there’s always more
f. No one’s ever prepared for them
g. Nothing, zombies are awesome!
6. Zombies or Vampires?
a. Zombies!
b. Vampires!
c. Dead things disgust me
d. I’m bored with both
e. Depends on the book
f. Werewolves!
Any other comments you want to make on this topic -
Would you like to be informed by email of other competitions, giveaways and special offers? (If no you will only be emailed if you win this prize draw)
a.Yes please
b. No thanks
Fill out the following short survey (copy and paste, or just give me your answers) and email it back to me at sharonstevensonauthor@gmail.com by the end of day Saturday 16th August, with ‘Zombie Survey’ in the subject line. I will pick a winner at random and announce them on Sunday 17th. Survey results will be published by the end of August.
Reader Survey: Cool & Unusual Zombie Books
1. What is your all-time favourite zombie book?
2. What is most important to you in a zombie book?
a. Brains!!! If there’s no gore it’s not a proper zombie book
b. Characters you really care about and want to see survive
c. Action packed thrills and chills
d. A unique or unexpected twist to the story
e. A sense of humour
f. Other -
3. Why do you think zombies are so popular right now?
4. What would you love to see in zombie books in the future?
a. More zombie love stories
b. More classic zombie horror
c. A horror genre mash-up with vampires
d. Something totally different and fresh
e. No more freaking zombie books please – I’m all zombied out!
f. Other –
5. What do you hate about zombies?
a. They’re disgusting
b. They’re stupid
c. They always eat people I like
d. They spread way too quickly
e. No matter how many you kill there’s always more
f. No one’s ever prepared for them
g. Nothing, zombies are awesome!
6. Zombies or Vampires?
a. Zombies!
b. Vampires!
c. Dead things disgust me
d. I’m bored with both
e. Depends on the book
f. Werewolves!
Any other comments you want to make on this topic -
Would you like to be informed by email of other competitions, giveaways and special offers? (If no you will only be emailed if you win this prize draw)
a.Yes please
b. No thanks
July 29, 2013
Fun 5 - 'How I Exiled My Inner Bitch' by Miv Evans
Today Miv Evans is answering my Fun 5 questions on her book 'How I Exiled My Inner Bitch'.
How I Exiled My Inner Bitch
Fun 5 Q&A:
Can you give us a one sentence synopsis that sums up your story?
An anti-social woman tries to hide her imaginary friend from her boyfriend and his hormonal daughters.
If you could make up your own genre for this book what would it be?
A psychological comedy.
What do you want your readers to get out of the book?
I want them to laugh out loud, and to reflect how much of our childhood we carry with us for our entire lives.
What message lies at the heart of your story?
Deal with your psychological issues yourself instead of taking prescription drugs.
If you could have any of the traits/powers of one of your characters for the day which would you take and why?
The inner bitch says whatever she wants to whoever she wants. I would like to have the same good time.
This book is coming out soon and is already getting great reviews from readers who have received advance copies. Check it out right here on goodreads:
How I Exiled My Inner Bitch
How I Exiled My Inner Bitch
Fun 5 Q&A:
Can you give us a one sentence synopsis that sums up your story?
An anti-social woman tries to hide her imaginary friend from her boyfriend and his hormonal daughters.
If you could make up your own genre for this book what would it be?
A psychological comedy.
What do you want your readers to get out of the book?
I want them to laugh out loud, and to reflect how much of our childhood we carry with us for our entire lives.
What message lies at the heart of your story?
Deal with your psychological issues yourself instead of taking prescription drugs.
If you could have any of the traits/powers of one of your characters for the day which would you take and why?
The inner bitch says whatever she wants to whoever she wants. I would like to have the same good time.
This book is coming out soon and is already getting great reviews from readers who have received advance copies. Check it out right here on goodreads:
How I Exiled My Inner Bitch
July 26, 2013
Fun 5 - 'Sing the Midnight Stars' by C.M.J. Wallace
Today C.M.J. Wallace is answering my Fun 5 questions on her book 'Sing the Midnight Stars'.
Sing the Midnight Stars
Fun 5 Q&A:
Can you give us a one sentence synopsis that sums up your story?
A cold-blooded killer lusts for others’ magic; a drug-addicted detective vows to thwart him.
If you could make up your own genre for this book what would it be?
Epic fantasy/suspense pretty much nails the tenor of the book. The genres exist independently (of course!), but blending them opens up interesting possibilities.
What do you want your readers to get out of the book?
I’d like my readers to be entertained and drawn into the book. But I’d also like for them to feel that my characters and the setting are real, that it’s a world they would live in if they could.
What message lies at the heart of your story?
This isn’t a message, exactly, but the epigraph, presented from the point of view of one of the main characters, sums up the tone of the book: I wonder now, had we known what would be released—both the great good and the great evil—whether any of us would have had the courage to continue. It was the terrible price of the Rondural’s awakening.
(The Rondural is a nifty sphere with dormant thaumaturgic properties, by the way.)
What makes this book different from others in the genre?
What sets Sing the Midnight Stars apart from so many other fantasy books is the intrigue—shiploads of it.
The third book in this series 'This Darkling Magic' made it into Indie Author Land's Top 10 last week which is just another reason you should check out 'Sing the Midnight Stars' now!
Sing the Midnight Stars
Fun 5 Q&A:
Can you give us a one sentence synopsis that sums up your story?
A cold-blooded killer lusts for others’ magic; a drug-addicted detective vows to thwart him.
If you could make up your own genre for this book what would it be?
Epic fantasy/suspense pretty much nails the tenor of the book. The genres exist independently (of course!), but blending them opens up interesting possibilities.
What do you want your readers to get out of the book?
I’d like my readers to be entertained and drawn into the book. But I’d also like for them to feel that my characters and the setting are real, that it’s a world they would live in if they could.
What message lies at the heart of your story?
This isn’t a message, exactly, but the epigraph, presented from the point of view of one of the main characters, sums up the tone of the book: I wonder now, had we known what would be released—both the great good and the great evil—whether any of us would have had the courage to continue. It was the terrible price of the Rondural’s awakening.
(The Rondural is a nifty sphere with dormant thaumaturgic properties, by the way.)
What makes this book different from others in the genre?
What sets Sing the Midnight Stars apart from so many other fantasy books is the intrigue—shiploads of it.
The third book in this series 'This Darkling Magic' made it into Indie Author Land's Top 10 last week which is just another reason you should check out 'Sing the Midnight Stars' now!
July 23, 2013
This week in links
Here's what's happening this week on the blog -
I've reviewed the following books -
Cerulean Dreams
Red Written
Dead Bastards
I'm reading and will review by end of day Sunday -
Slaughterhouse-Five
Information Cloud
Dungeon Crawl
My Fun 5 Q&A was yesterday with Deb Huston for her book 'Phineas Blue Shadows & Light' -
sharonstevenson.moonfruit.com/blog/45... …
The second Fun 5 will be with C.M.J Wallace about her book 'Sing the Midnight Stars' on Friday 07/26
Today I posted a spotlight on Dan O'Brien's 'Cerulean Dreams'-
sharonstevenson.moonfruit.com/blog/45... …
Also, on my book review blog today I'm talking about Jonathon Fletcher's Josiah Trenchard series -
http://chettsgenie.wordpress.com/2013...
That's all for this week, phew!
If you really want more...
Check out this extract from my new book about a magically animated dead guy -
http://www.sharonstevenson.moonfruit.... …
Lastly, just a reminder there's still time to enter the Reader Survey to win $25 Amazon Gift Card! -
http://www.sharonstevenson.moonfruit.... …
I've reviewed the following books -
Cerulean Dreams
Red Written
Dead Bastards
I'm reading and will review by end of day Sunday -
Slaughterhouse-Five
Information Cloud
Dungeon Crawl
My Fun 5 Q&A was yesterday with Deb Huston for her book 'Phineas Blue Shadows & Light' -
sharonstevenson.moonfruit.com/blog/45... …
The second Fun 5 will be with C.M.J Wallace about her book 'Sing the Midnight Stars' on Friday 07/26
Today I posted a spotlight on Dan O'Brien's 'Cerulean Dreams'-
sharonstevenson.moonfruit.com/blog/45... …
Also, on my book review blog today I'm talking about Jonathon Fletcher's Josiah Trenchard series -
http://chettsgenie.wordpress.com/2013...
That's all for this week, phew!
If you really want more...
Check out this extract from my new book about a magically animated dead guy -
http://www.sharonstevenson.moonfruit.... …
Lastly, just a reminder there's still time to enter the Reader Survey to win $25 Amazon Gift Card! -
http://www.sharonstevenson.moonfruit.... …
July 22, 2013
Fun 5 - 'Phineas Blue Shadows and Light' by Deb Huston
Today Deb Huston is answering my Fun 5 questions on her book 'Phineas Blue Shadows and Light'.
Phineas Blue Shadows and Light
Synopsis:
Phineas Carlyle is descended from a secret clan of genetically divergent human beings who possess extraordinary powers. As a boy, Phineas doesn’t fully understand his powers, but he’s learning fast. On his 18th birthday, he breaks free from his luxurious but sheltered life, embarking on a journey of self-discovery that leads to intrigue, danger and romance. He battles enemies intent on exploiting his powers for evil and personal gain. He falls in love for the first time with Sasha, a troubled and mysterious young woman. As his adventures unfold, Phineas gains control of his powers, learns about the Gift of his ancestral clan and how to protect their powerful secrets.
Fun 5 Q&A:
What makes this book different from others in the genre?
Phineas Blue Shadows and Light is a character driven story about family, ancestry, coming of age struggles and issues of identity and self-awareness within an alternate reality of extraordinary paranormal powers, merging the normalcy of everyday life with the fantasy of the paranormal.
What message lies at the heart of your story?
To harm another is to harm oneself. The interconnectivity of all life is a message lost in the modern world, but one that bears constant repeating and this book and series acts as the backdrop to this message.
Which musician could sing the soundtrack to your main character’s life?
Pink, or Sting, or Michelle Chamuel, depending upon the song.
What do you want your readers to get out of the book?
I want readers to experience some of the stressors that plague young adults and the alternative approach to life, success, love, even family that they have adopted that should be nurtured and celebrated rather than ridiculed or attacked.
In overwhelming numbers, new adults have a fresh, more inclusive approach toward life and those different from themselves. This author believes an open-mind is the most productive mind. I believe new adults stand on the threshold of washing away the ways that have brought this planet to the brink. They possess the drive and creativity to mainstream a sustainable lifestyle with a more reverent approach to the footprint we all leave on this planet. But their greatest challenge is to overcome a technology that encourages narcissism rather than interpersonal connection.
I have written this series for them, as a ballad to their struggles and their successes.
Which movie director would you choose to bring your book to the big screen and why?
Katherine Bigelow. She has an incredible eye for detail, is a master storyteller, and although this has not been a genre she has explored, I believe in her talent to meld reality with the paranormal in the same way as I envision it.
Phineas Blue Shadows and Light
Synopsis:
Phineas Carlyle is descended from a secret clan of genetically divergent human beings who possess extraordinary powers. As a boy, Phineas doesn’t fully understand his powers, but he’s learning fast. On his 18th birthday, he breaks free from his luxurious but sheltered life, embarking on a journey of self-discovery that leads to intrigue, danger and romance. He battles enemies intent on exploiting his powers for evil and personal gain. He falls in love for the first time with Sasha, a troubled and mysterious young woman. As his adventures unfold, Phineas gains control of his powers, learns about the Gift of his ancestral clan and how to protect their powerful secrets.
Fun 5 Q&A:
What makes this book different from others in the genre?
Phineas Blue Shadows and Light is a character driven story about family, ancestry, coming of age struggles and issues of identity and self-awareness within an alternate reality of extraordinary paranormal powers, merging the normalcy of everyday life with the fantasy of the paranormal.
What message lies at the heart of your story?
To harm another is to harm oneself. The interconnectivity of all life is a message lost in the modern world, but one that bears constant repeating and this book and series acts as the backdrop to this message.
Which musician could sing the soundtrack to your main character’s life?
Pink, or Sting, or Michelle Chamuel, depending upon the song.
What do you want your readers to get out of the book?
I want readers to experience some of the stressors that plague young adults and the alternative approach to life, success, love, even family that they have adopted that should be nurtured and celebrated rather than ridiculed or attacked.
In overwhelming numbers, new adults have a fresh, more inclusive approach toward life and those different from themselves. This author believes an open-mind is the most productive mind. I believe new adults stand on the threshold of washing away the ways that have brought this planet to the brink. They possess the drive and creativity to mainstream a sustainable lifestyle with a more reverent approach to the footprint we all leave on this planet. But their greatest challenge is to overcome a technology that encourages narcissism rather than interpersonal connection.
I have written this series for them, as a ballad to their struggles and their successes.
Which movie director would you choose to bring your book to the big screen and why?
Katherine Bigelow. She has an incredible eye for detail, is a master storyteller, and although this has not been a genre she has explored, I believe in her talent to meld reality with the paranormal in the same way as I envision it.
July 19, 2013
Fun 5 - 'The Pregnant Mule' by Sola Odemuyiwa
Today Sola Odemuyiwa is answering my Fun 5 questions on his book 'The Pregnant Mule'.
The Pregnant Mule. by Sola OdemuyiwaThe Pregnant Mule. by Sola Odemuyiwa
Fun 5 Q&A:
In ten words or less, what is your book about?
A man finds that he has five years to live.
What do you want your readers to get out of the book?
Make them think about life and current affairs. ‘If destiny is the mind rolled ahead of the tread of life like a carpet, Mensah had had his altered at birth. He had spent his life trying to reclaim it, by casting and recasting his mind, not sure what the effort was worth, but knowing that he could not afford to dwell on his doubts, because his life had also been cut short.’
What message lies at the heart of your story?
Reason should triumph over myth. ‘Myths, religions, the cotton buds with which we salve our souls, cleanse, reinvent our pasts,’ said Mensah. ‘In the wrong hands can kill.’
Is there a song that perfectly describes a moment in the book?
“Ain’t no stopping us now” by Mcfadden and Whitehead.
Can you give us an extract that sums up your main character’s personality?
‘Mensah had this gift, someone once told him, of “rolling a simple statement up into an issue, to stand on its head, roll on its side, turn inside out until he had worn it to shreds”. In his quieter moments Mensah sometimes wondered where he got his love for an argument. He couldn’t have got it from the ADHD vaccine. The Nationalists’ jab was supposed to becalm you, although he didn’t believe those who lay in bed all day claiming that the vaccine had robbed them of free will and intiative.’
The Pregnant Mule. by Sola OdemuyiwaThe Pregnant Mule. by Sola Odemuyiwa
Fun 5 Q&A:
In ten words or less, what is your book about?
A man finds that he has five years to live.
What do you want your readers to get out of the book?
Make them think about life and current affairs. ‘If destiny is the mind rolled ahead of the tread of life like a carpet, Mensah had had his altered at birth. He had spent his life trying to reclaim it, by casting and recasting his mind, not sure what the effort was worth, but knowing that he could not afford to dwell on his doubts, because his life had also been cut short.’
What message lies at the heart of your story?
Reason should triumph over myth. ‘Myths, religions, the cotton buds with which we salve our souls, cleanse, reinvent our pasts,’ said Mensah. ‘In the wrong hands can kill.’
Is there a song that perfectly describes a moment in the book?
“Ain’t no stopping us now” by Mcfadden and Whitehead.
Can you give us an extract that sums up your main character’s personality?
‘Mensah had this gift, someone once told him, of “rolling a simple statement up into an issue, to stand on its head, roll on its side, turn inside out until he had worn it to shreds”. In his quieter moments Mensah sometimes wondered where he got his love for an argument. He couldn’t have got it from the ADHD vaccine. The Nationalists’ jab was supposed to becalm you, although he didn’t believe those who lay in bed all day claiming that the vaccine had robbed them of free will and intiative.’
July 16, 2013
Fun 5 - 'Ocean's Gift' by Demelza Carlton
Today Demelza Carlton is answering my Fun 5 questions on her book 'Ocean's Gift'.
Ocean's Gift
What is your main character’s biggest flaw?
Joe Fisher's not the brightest globe in the box, with a tendency to get distracted by a pair of lovely breasts. Add the two together and…well, the mermaid next door just looks like a beautiful woman to him.
Can you give us an extract that sums up your main character’s personality?
“You work too hard. You have no fun at all, mate. Still living at home, what are you saving your money for?”
“When I’ve got enough, I’m going to buy a house outright. Then I’ll look at settling down, maybe finding someone to spend the rest of my life with. Maybe even have a family.” Two years and I’ll have enough money to buy a house. Then I can finally move out of my parents’ place and start living.
“You need to enjoy life, brother. Have a good time.” Dean winked.
“You’re not my brother.” Thank God for that. “And I am going to enjoy my time off. I’m going to spend at least a week fishing,” I reminded him.
If you could have any of the traits/powers of one of your characters for the day which would you take and why?
I'd want Sirena's body – with all the capabilities of the people of the ocean's gift. No, not because she's gorgeous. I'd want to be able to breathe under water and call sea creatures to me, just for a day with a camera. I'd get the best photos and video ever, enough to keep me amused for a lifetime. Sharks, fish, whales, seals, lobsters, octopi – just for a day.
Can you give us a one sentence synopsis that sums up your story?
Modern day mermaid meets Australian fisherman – with beer, lobsters, sharks and some cursed islands off the West Australian coast.
Is there a song that perfectly describes a moment in the book?
The first scene in Ocean's Gift, where Sirena finds and loses her first love in a storm, matches up almost perfectly with Florence and the Machine's Never Let Me Go. From the love Sirena finds with the man she saves from a shipwreck to the way Florence screams, "NO!" and describes him as "so cold and so sweet" when Sirena loses him to the sharks and the waves. I wrote the scene before I'd ever heard the song, so the first time I heard it I was stunned that a song captured Sirena's time with Giuseppe so perfectly.
Ocean's Gift
What is your main character’s biggest flaw?
Joe Fisher's not the brightest globe in the box, with a tendency to get distracted by a pair of lovely breasts. Add the two together and…well, the mermaid next door just looks like a beautiful woman to him.
Can you give us an extract that sums up your main character’s personality?
“You work too hard. You have no fun at all, mate. Still living at home, what are you saving your money for?”
“When I’ve got enough, I’m going to buy a house outright. Then I’ll look at settling down, maybe finding someone to spend the rest of my life with. Maybe even have a family.” Two years and I’ll have enough money to buy a house. Then I can finally move out of my parents’ place and start living.
“You need to enjoy life, brother. Have a good time.” Dean winked.
“You’re not my brother.” Thank God for that. “And I am going to enjoy my time off. I’m going to spend at least a week fishing,” I reminded him.
If you could have any of the traits/powers of one of your characters for the day which would you take and why?
I'd want Sirena's body – with all the capabilities of the people of the ocean's gift. No, not because she's gorgeous. I'd want to be able to breathe under water and call sea creatures to me, just for a day with a camera. I'd get the best photos and video ever, enough to keep me amused for a lifetime. Sharks, fish, whales, seals, lobsters, octopi – just for a day.
Can you give us a one sentence synopsis that sums up your story?
Modern day mermaid meets Australian fisherman – with beer, lobsters, sharks and some cursed islands off the West Australian coast.
Is there a song that perfectly describes a moment in the book?
The first scene in Ocean's Gift, where Sirena finds and loses her first love in a storm, matches up almost perfectly with Florence and the Machine's Never Let Me Go. From the love Sirena finds with the man she saves from a shipwreck to the way Florence screams, "NO!" and describes him as "so cold and so sweet" when Sirena loses him to the sharks and the waves. I wrote the scene before I'd ever heard the song, so the first time I heard it I was stunned that a song captured Sirena's time with Giuseppe so perfectly.
July 14, 2013
Reader Survey - Win an Amazon Gift Card!
I've decided to try out something new - Reader Surveys. These will be short surveys just for fun but to make it more interesting there will be a $25 Amazon gift card up for grabs! Just for filling out the survey you'll be entered into a prize draw. The following surveys are open until 31st July. Email entries to sharonstevensonauthor@gmail.com by this date, with 'August Reader Surveys' in the subject line.
Topics for August:
1. Kick-Ass Females in Fantasy Fiction
2. Cool & Unusual Zombie Books
You don't need to know about any specific books for these surveys but need some interest in the topic so you can give informed opinions. You only need to answer one of the surveys to be entered into the prize draw, but if you answer both you will get two entries into the draw. The winner will be picked and notified on 15th August.
Instructions:
Copy and paste the below into the body of your email, indicating your answers by deleting the other options. There are 2 questions that require your own answers and an additional space for any comments you may have on the topic. I will post the best comments along with the survey results.
Reader Survey 1: Kick-Ass Females in Fantasy Fiction
(The terms ‘kick-ass’, ‘strong’, and ‘alpha’ are used interchangeably here)
1. Who is your all-time favourite Kick-Ass Female in Fantasy Fiction?
2. What is the main thing that makes a character so Kick-Ass?
1. Inner strength
2. Physical fighting skills
3. Witty banter
4. Selflessness
5. Looks good in leather
6. Always facing their own fears
7. Other –
3. Do you like strong female characters?
1. Yes
2. No
3. It depends on the character
4. Why do you think strong females are so popular in Urban Fantasy books?
5. Does anything bother you about these alpha female characters?
1. They never seem to have weaknesses
2. They are unrealistic stereotypes
3. Nothing, I love them!
4. It depends on the character
5. They’re always physically perfect
6. They crack too many jokes when they’re kicking ass
7. Other –
6. Do you prefer alpha males to alpha females?
1. Yes
2. No
3. I love both!
4. I hate both!
5. Don’t care as long as the story’s good
Any other comments you want to make on this topic -
Reader Survey 2: Cool & Unusual Zombie Books
1. What is your all-time favourite zombie book?
2. What is most important to you in a zombie book?
1. Brains!!! If there’s no gore it’s not a proper zombie book
2. Characters you really care about and want to see survive
3. Action packed thrills and chills
4. A unique or unexpected twist to the story
5. A sense of humour
6. Other -
3. Why do you think zombies are so popular right now?
4. What would you love to see in zombie books in the future?
1. More zombie love stories
2. More classic zombie horror
3. A horror genre mash-up with vampires
4. Something totally different and fresh
5. No more freaking zombie books please – I’m all zombied out!
6. Other –
5. What do you hate about zombies?
1. They’re disgusting
2. They’re stupid
3. They always eat people I like
4. They spread way too quickly
5. No matter how many you kill there’s always more
6. No one’s ever prepared for them
7. Nothing, zombies are awesome!
6. Zombies or Vampires?
1. Zombies!
2. Vampires!
3. Dead things disgust me
4. I’m bored with both
5. Depends on the book
6. Werewolves!
Any other comments you want to make on this topic -
Topics for August:
1. Kick-Ass Females in Fantasy Fiction
2. Cool & Unusual Zombie Books
You don't need to know about any specific books for these surveys but need some interest in the topic so you can give informed opinions. You only need to answer one of the surveys to be entered into the prize draw, but if you answer both you will get two entries into the draw. The winner will be picked and notified on 15th August.
Instructions:
Copy and paste the below into the body of your email, indicating your answers by deleting the other options. There are 2 questions that require your own answers and an additional space for any comments you may have on the topic. I will post the best comments along with the survey results.
Reader Survey 1: Kick-Ass Females in Fantasy Fiction
(The terms ‘kick-ass’, ‘strong’, and ‘alpha’ are used interchangeably here)
1. Who is your all-time favourite Kick-Ass Female in Fantasy Fiction?
2. What is the main thing that makes a character so Kick-Ass?
1. Inner strength
2. Physical fighting skills
3. Witty banter
4. Selflessness
5. Looks good in leather
6. Always facing their own fears
7. Other –
3. Do you like strong female characters?
1. Yes
2. No
3. It depends on the character
4. Why do you think strong females are so popular in Urban Fantasy books?
5. Does anything bother you about these alpha female characters?
1. They never seem to have weaknesses
2. They are unrealistic stereotypes
3. Nothing, I love them!
4. It depends on the character
5. They’re always physically perfect
6. They crack too many jokes when they’re kicking ass
7. Other –
6. Do you prefer alpha males to alpha females?
1. Yes
2. No
3. I love both!
4. I hate both!
5. Don’t care as long as the story’s good
Any other comments you want to make on this topic -
Reader Survey 2: Cool & Unusual Zombie Books
1. What is your all-time favourite zombie book?
2. What is most important to you in a zombie book?
1. Brains!!! If there’s no gore it’s not a proper zombie book
2. Characters you really care about and want to see survive
3. Action packed thrills and chills
4. A unique or unexpected twist to the story
5. A sense of humour
6. Other -
3. Why do you think zombies are so popular right now?
4. What would you love to see in zombie books in the future?
1. More zombie love stories
2. More classic zombie horror
3. A horror genre mash-up with vampires
4. Something totally different and fresh
5. No more freaking zombie books please – I’m all zombied out!
6. Other –
5. What do you hate about zombies?
1. They’re disgusting
2. They’re stupid
3. They always eat people I like
4. They spread way too quickly
5. No matter how many you kill there’s always more
6. No one’s ever prepared for them
7. Nothing, zombies are awesome!
6. Zombies or Vampires?
1. Zombies!
2. Vampires!
3. Dead things disgust me
4. I’m bored with both
5. Depends on the book
6. Werewolves!
Any other comments you want to make on this topic -
July 13, 2013
Fun 5 - 'Shaping Fate' by Kayla Payeur
Today Kayla Payeur is answering my Fun 5 questions on her book 'Shaping Fate'.
Shaping Fate
Fun 5 Q&A:
Which paranormal/fantasy creatures inhabit this book?
I have a demon horse, Cerberi, Shadow-Wolves, evil little demon pixies called Keres, Gods, and more demons!
If you could have any of the traits/powers of one of your characters for the day which would you take and why?
I would definitely take the teleportation. Go anywhere in the world without getting on a plane or boat? Yes, please!
Which movie director would you choose to bring your book to the big screen and why?
I would love to see a combined effort from Tim Burton and Spielberg. I think between the two of them, they could capture the dark emotions and action scenes better than anyone else.
Tell us five things your main character loves?
His little sisters (The Fates), the cloud of terror surrounding him, Grey Goose, fishing, and grappling is the demon horse, Azrael.
Tell us five things your main character hates?
His older sister (Ker), sunlight, Helios, emotions…two-thirds of everyone else?
Shaping Fate
Fun 5 Q&A:
Which paranormal/fantasy creatures inhabit this book?
I have a demon horse, Cerberi, Shadow-Wolves, evil little demon pixies called Keres, Gods, and more demons!
If you could have any of the traits/powers of one of your characters for the day which would you take and why?
I would definitely take the teleportation. Go anywhere in the world without getting on a plane or boat? Yes, please!
Which movie director would you choose to bring your book to the big screen and why?
I would love to see a combined effort from Tim Burton and Spielberg. I think between the two of them, they could capture the dark emotions and action scenes better than anyone else.
Tell us five things your main character loves?
His little sisters (The Fates), the cloud of terror surrounding him, Grey Goose, fishing, and grappling is the demon horse, Azrael.
Tell us five things your main character hates?
His older sister (Ker), sunlight, Helios, emotions…two-thirds of everyone else?
July 8, 2013
Fun 5 - 'The Other Half' by Elaina Roberts
Today Elaina Roberts is answering my Fun 5 questions for her book 'The Other Half'.
The Other Half
Fun 5 Q&A:
What message lies at the heart of your story?
I believe the main message would be that there is always two sides to every story. The antagonist, Colonel Hunsinger, views the nonhumans as monsters or demons, thus denying a reunion with his only son – now a vampire. Kristiana begins the novel seeing only the trouble the Reveal has caused humans through the destruction of personal relationships, loss of jobs, and vastly different views on crime and punishment. The rest of the world is divided between seeing the “perfect nonhumans” or the “evil monsters” without acknowledging that, like humanity, they have the potential for both.
From Chapter Three:
“Colonel Hunsinger’s methods may be skewed but he does have a legitimate worry, you know. There’s nothing to stop any of you from holding the human race by the throat.”
“Is that what you think we want? Most of us have lived for centuries; some for millennia. The last thing we want is the aggravation of trying to rule a hostile race that has no desire for our oversight.”
“Then why hang around? Now that the war is over and things are going smoothly, why not just disappear back to wherever you came from?” Kris crossed her arms over her chest, wishing she didn’t sound so petty and childish but needing to drive it home that not everyone welcomed the Others with a ticker-tape parade. “The human race did just fine before all of you popped out the woodwork like a bunch of freakin’ mutant daisies, and we will do just peachy if you crawled back into your holes. The Others cause too many issues that are being ignored because it’s not politically correct to bring them up, until the only way to get the point across is to rant and rave and cause a fuss like the Colonel’s doing.”
Would you say this was action oriented or character driven?
Definitely character driven. While there are moments of action, the emphasis is on the relationship between Kris and Michael, and her growth from stubborn prejudice to acceptance to a fierce and trusting love for her nonhuman mate.
How bad is your bad guy, on a scale of mildly fiendish to brutally evil?
Colonel Friedrich Hunsinger, Leader of the Human Purity League, suffers from an acute case of xenophobia aggravated by the personal and professional losses that occurred just prior to, and shortly after the Reveal. He cannot see the humanity in the “monsters” that robbed him of everything he held dear; therefore, he doesn’t see that what he does is evil.
What is your main character’s biggest flaw?
Kristiana’s major flaw would be her own prejudice. Though she has known about the Others since she was a teen, a variety of misfortunes has shown her their darker sides. She has seen the problems that have arisen since the Reveal, and have watched those in the positions to solve those problems sweep them under the rug. While many see the romanticized vision of the nonhumans, she begins the novel seeing only their flaws.
Who is the most important person to your main character?
Kristiana’s last surviving relative is her sister, the Leroux Pack’s Madame Alpha, Shaela Leroux. Kris would do anything, and risk anything for her sister. Before she meets Michael Zakhara, Shaela’s family is the only nonhumans she trusts.
The Other Half
Fun 5 Q&A:
What message lies at the heart of your story?
I believe the main message would be that there is always two sides to every story. The antagonist, Colonel Hunsinger, views the nonhumans as monsters or demons, thus denying a reunion with his only son – now a vampire. Kristiana begins the novel seeing only the trouble the Reveal has caused humans through the destruction of personal relationships, loss of jobs, and vastly different views on crime and punishment. The rest of the world is divided between seeing the “perfect nonhumans” or the “evil monsters” without acknowledging that, like humanity, they have the potential for both.
From Chapter Three:
“Colonel Hunsinger’s methods may be skewed but he does have a legitimate worry, you know. There’s nothing to stop any of you from holding the human race by the throat.”
“Is that what you think we want? Most of us have lived for centuries; some for millennia. The last thing we want is the aggravation of trying to rule a hostile race that has no desire for our oversight.”
“Then why hang around? Now that the war is over and things are going smoothly, why not just disappear back to wherever you came from?” Kris crossed her arms over her chest, wishing she didn’t sound so petty and childish but needing to drive it home that not everyone welcomed the Others with a ticker-tape parade. “The human race did just fine before all of you popped out the woodwork like a bunch of freakin’ mutant daisies, and we will do just peachy if you crawled back into your holes. The Others cause too many issues that are being ignored because it’s not politically correct to bring them up, until the only way to get the point across is to rant and rave and cause a fuss like the Colonel’s doing.”
Would you say this was action oriented or character driven?
Definitely character driven. While there are moments of action, the emphasis is on the relationship between Kris and Michael, and her growth from stubborn prejudice to acceptance to a fierce and trusting love for her nonhuman mate.
How bad is your bad guy, on a scale of mildly fiendish to brutally evil?
Colonel Friedrich Hunsinger, Leader of the Human Purity League, suffers from an acute case of xenophobia aggravated by the personal and professional losses that occurred just prior to, and shortly after the Reveal. He cannot see the humanity in the “monsters” that robbed him of everything he held dear; therefore, he doesn’t see that what he does is evil.
What is your main character’s biggest flaw?
Kristiana’s major flaw would be her own prejudice. Though she has known about the Others since she was a teen, a variety of misfortunes has shown her their darker sides. She has seen the problems that have arisen since the Reveal, and have watched those in the positions to solve those problems sweep them under the rug. While many see the romanticized vision of the nonhumans, she begins the novel seeing only their flaws.
Who is the most important person to your main character?
Kristiana’s last surviving relative is her sister, the Leroux Pack’s Madame Alpha, Shaela Leroux. Kris would do anything, and risk anything for her sister. Before she meets Michael Zakhara, Shaela’s family is the only nonhumans she trusts.
