Roxanne Rhoads's Blog, page 557

Interview and Giveaway with Jess Macallan

Today I'd like to welcome Jess Macallan, author of Stone Cold Seduction to Fang-tastic Books for an interview and giveaway.

Thanks so much for having me today! I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce myself and my new series.

What is it about the paranormal, in particular gargoyles, that fascinates you so much?

I've always loved everything paranormal, but have a soft spot for gargoyles. The gothic architectural style fascinates me. If my country neighbors wouldn't pitch a fit, I'd have a pair sitting at the end of my driveway. *grins* Most historians believe gargoyles were created as rain spouts,



Title: Stone Cold Seduction

Author: Jess Macallan

Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance

Length: Novel

Release Date: September 2011

ePub ISBN: 978-1-937044-24-4

Print ISBN: 978-1-937044-25-1



SET IN STONE - Book One - by Jess Macallan





"Elle. It's just Elle."

When a regular night of Robin Hood-ery results in the manifestation of some, um, unusual paranormal abilities, perfume-maker Elleodora Fredricks realizes the normal world she lives in isn't quite… normal. And neither is she, thanks to her father, king of the shadow elves. Not only is he evil incarnate and the reason Elle moonlights as a burglar—someone has to take care of all his victims—he's stolen her memories.

And only reading her fate can fix that.

Good thing she's got a trio of hotties willing to help her find said fate. Saving her oracle BFF's fiancée, falling in love with the gargoyle, and making up for breaking the phoenix's heart ought to be a piece of cake for the princess of the shadow elves.

If only the king didn't want his daughter dead…





About the Author:

Jess lives in the Inland Northwest with her husband and three children. She thrives on creative chaos. Curiosity drives her to try new things as often as

possible.

When not writing or chasing trouble, she teaches yoga, reads, runs a mini farm, watches MMA and gardens. The only things she takes seriously are

chocolate, tea and world domination. But mostly chocolate.























Giveaway Time

Jess is offering an ebook copy of Stone Cold Seduction to one lucky reader today

Want to Win?

Then leave a comment on this post with your email addy

Get a bonus entry (each)for following Jess on Twitter and Facebook

Review of Stone Cold Seduction by Jess Macallan

Title: Stone Cold Seduction

Author: Jess Macallan

Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance

Length: Novel

Release Date: September 2011

ePub ISBN: 978-1-937044-24-4

Print ISBN: 978-1-937044-25-1





Five Fangs for Stone Cold Seduction





SET IN STONE - Book One - by Jess Macallan





"Elle. It's just Elle."

When a regular night of Robin Hood-ery results in the manifestation of some, um, unusual paranormal abilities, perfume-maker Elleodora Fredricks realizes the normal world she lives in isn't quite… normal. And neither is she, thanks to her father, king of the shadow elves. Not only is he evil incarnate and the reason Elle moonlights as a burglar—someone has to take care of all his victims—he's stolen her memories.

And only reading her fate can fix that.

Good thing she's got a trio of hotties willing to help her find said fate. Saving her oracle BFF's fiancée, falling in love with the gargoyle, and making up for breaking the phoenix's heart ought to be a piece of cake for the princess of the shadow elves.



If only the king didn't want his daughter dead…

My Review:

This book sucked me right in. It was different and intriguing and before I knew it I was hooked and couldn't put it down.

I was drawn to the premise of a sexy gargoyle, I have not read any books where the lead guy is a gargoyle- but I have a confession to make. Back in the 90s when my oldest son was little I used to watch the cartoon Gargoyles with him every morning while he was getting ready for school and I was hooked on that hunky gargoyle Goliath and the budding romance he had going on with the human woman (can't remember her name). I was bummed when the show was no longer aired, don;t know what happened with it.

Anyway I ramble, but the point is I was hooked on the concept of the leading man being hard as a rock and I'm not just talking about his naughty bits. ;-)

The only problem I had with Stone Cold is at first I thought the timing was off- everyone seemed to know what was going on except the heroine, Elle, which didn't make sense if she's been around these people her entire life, especially her best friend, she should know at the minimum something was odd, a little different, but she was completely clueless about the entire supernatural community.

Then ding, ding, ding we find out why and suddenly everything starts making sense- to the reader and to Elle.

The characters are rich and mysterious, everyone has secrets and things are never quite what they seem. There's even a tad bit of a love triangle. I'm personally rooting for the stone man but how can one resist a flaming hot phoenix? Hmmmm.....

Twists and turns abound and then the book ends on a cliffhanger making you groan in frustration and simultaneously crave more.

It was fabulous.

Excerpt from Stone Cold Seduction

Title: Stone Cold Seduction

Author: Jess Macallan

Genre: Urban Fantasy Romance

Length: Novel

Release Date: September 2011

ePub ISBN: 978-1-937044-24-4

Print ISBN: 978-1-937044-25-1



SET IN STONE - Book One - by Jess Macallan





"Elle. It's just Elle."

When a regular night of Robin Hood-ery results in the manifestation of some, um, unusual paranormal abilities, perfume-maker Elleodora Fredricks realizes the normal world she lives in isn't quite… normal. And neither is she, thanks to her father, king of the shadow elves. Not only is he evil incarnate and the reason Elle moonlights as a burglar—someone has to take care of all his victims—he's stolen her memories.

And only reading her fate can fix that.

Good thing she's got a trio of hotties willing to help her find said fate. Saving her oracle BFF's fiancée, falling in love with the gargoyle, and making up for breaking the phoenix's heart ought to be a piece of cake for the princess of the shadow elves.

If only the king didn't want his daughter dead…





Excerpt from STONE COLD SEDUCTION by Jess Macallan

"You are my true mate."

My lips were still tingling, and my brain was fuzzy. "Jax, I'm not sure what that means."

He didn't answer, but instead pressed a kiss to my temple. And another to my cheek. Slowly, he nuzzled his way to my neck. I let my head drop to one side, giving him better access.

He whispered his approval, and lightly nipped at my neck. "It is a connection between souls. A bond determined by fate. I will show you what it means."

His lips and tongue were doing a slow, erotic dance along the oh-so-sensitive skin down my neck, and coherent thought was impossible. He could show me whatever he wanted, as long as he didn't stop.

I sighed, and Jax took that as acceptance. Before I knew what he was going to do, he'd scooped me up and was halfway up the stairs.

"Jax!" I yelped.

He stopped, but his muscles were vibrating with energy. He waited until he had my full attention before repeating, "I will show you. We are mates, connected in ways you and the phoenix will never be."

His silver eyes were bright and intense. I could admit to having had many, many fantasies where he'd carried me upstairs, and all sorts of amazing things had happened. But this was real. And he was dead serious. It scared me, thrilled me, and seriously confused me.

When I didn't respond, he lowered my feet to the floor and pressed me up against the wall in the narrow stairwell. His eyes held mine as he leaned close. "I will show you, so there are no doubts."

Then he kissed me again, and this time, he held nothing back. Possession, need, and barely leashed control. Jax's mouth told me more than words ever could. He leaned against me so our bodies were in full contact. Need burned through me. His taste, his touch, drowned out my worries. His scent surrounded me. He smelled crisp and clean. Like a sunny, winter day. But the heat he created inside me was intense. Just like the man himself.

Tour Party and Giveaway with Julieanne Lynch

Are you ready to be thrown into a realm of evil where deep, menacing shadows lurk? Of course you are! Get ready to be thrust into the dark world of In The Shadows and it's official blog tour... starting now!



First, I would like to take a second out to thank Fangtastic for this great oppurtunity to meet all of you, and all the hard work Roxanne has put into launching my blog tour. Thank you very much! YOU ROCK.



I truly loved every moment of writing In The Shadows and working with the wonderful characters that get brought to life within the books. I hope you enjoy reading In The Shadows just as much as I did writing it. As you will no doubt see for yourself, I take Giselle on a helter-skelter ride through chaotic worlds where nothing is as it seems and pitted against unreasonable odds. There she will meet a wide spectrum of characters, some who will become friends and others who pretend to be friends but are not. And of course, there will be characters you will love and hate, believe me.



Thank you to everyone joining me on this tour and I can't wait to for every stop. Bring on the party.



Sept 5 review and interviewoodles of books.oodlesofbooks.blogspot.com

Sept 6 Tour Party at Fang-tastic Bookswww.fang-tasticbooks.blogspot.com

Sept 6 Guest Post and ReviewAwesomesauce Book Clubhttp://www.awesomesaucebookclub.com/

Sept 7 Interviewhttp://jacqpaige.blogspot.com/

Sept 7 Guest Blogbooklurve.com

Sept 8 InterviewSellingBooks.com

Sept 7 Review and Guest Posthttp://achickwhoreads.blogspot.com

Sept 8 Guest PostBack of the Book Reviewsbackofthebookreviews.com

Sept 9 Guest Blog and Reviewhttp://donnasbloghome.blogspot.com/

Sept 10 Guest PostLivin' Life Through Books:http://dream-wish-live.blogspot.com/

Sept 11 InterviewLaurie's Thoughts & Reviews http://lauriethoughts-reviews.blogspot.com

Sept 12 Interview and ReviewDeea's Journal.deeas-journal.blogspot.com/

Sept 13 Interview and ReviewThe Ramblings of Amyhttp://amylunderman.blogspot.com/

Braintasia BooksSept 13 Reviewhttp://www.braintasiabooks.com/

Sept 14 review and guest blogBite Clubhttp://vampchixreadbooks.blogspot.com

Sept 15 Guest BlogSizzling Hot Bookswww.sizzlinghotbooks.net

Sept 16 guest post and reviewReaderGirlswww.readergirls.blogspot.com

Sept 17 Interview and Reviewthe fairytale nerdwww.thefairytalenerd.blogspot.com

Sept 18 Reviewhttp://booksfromthepurplejellybeanchair.blogspot.com



In the Shadows

By Julieanne Lynch



Published July 21st 2011

Strict Publishing International

ISBN 9780857791962



"In The Shadows", the first of The Shadows trilogy, is an urban fantasy of vampires and the supernatural, and much, much more.

In the shadows you will find lust and passion, battles for power and for blood, and death and fear around every corner. In the shadows you are carried away to an unknown future. Your destiny awaits, and you are no longer who you thought you were. You have a thirst, for blood perhaps, but a thirst for very much more than that.



Giselle was a normal girl with an attitude common to most girls of her age. Her family might not have been perfect (whose is?) but she loved them, and her future looked bright. She had an awesome best friend and a steady boyfriend, but how could she possibly have been so wrong about someone she loved? And how could she have been prepared for the darkness and for what she was to become?



"In The Shadows is a must read for anyone who loves urban fantasy." ~Review by Dawn and Wini Book Lovers

" Julieanne writes so eloquently you can feel and picture everything Giselle is going through, with no question as to what role every character in the book plays." ~Review by Ada McEwan

"Julieanne is a great story teller with a vivid imagination for the supernatural. I absolutely love everything about it." ~Reviewed by Firefly and Wisp



About the Author:



Fiery Librian Julieanne Lynch is an author of urban fantasy books for both adults and teens. Originally from Northern Ireland, Julieanne now lives in Ireland, where she works on her Shadows Trilogy and other series full-time. Before becoming a writer, she considered a few different career paths, a rock star being one of them. She studied English Literature and Creative Writing at The Open University, and considered journalism as a career path. However, she decided writing was the way for her and believes all of her education and reading prepared her for it.



An avid reader, Julieanne has always had an encompassing fascination with folklore. When not writing, she enjoys crime series such as Criminal Minds, CSI, NCIS and Cold Case, and loves anything with Vampires, listening to metal, meeting new people, drinking lots of green tea, and sharing her dreams with her children. She is a self-professed goth wanna-be,and is happy when left to write into the early hours of the morning.



Find Julieanne online:

http://www.julieannelynch.co.uk/

http://www.julieannelynch.blogspot.com



http://www.facebook.com/pages/Julieanne-Lynch/147566121974789

Giveaway Time

Want to win an ebook copy of In the Shadows

Or a prize pack that consists of:

In the Shadows signed cover art, key ring, magnet, personalised mug, business card, and pen?

Fill out the form below or if it is not loading properly visit this link

Loading...

Rue Volley Tour Party

Sept 3 InterviewBack of the Book Reviewshttp://backofthebookreviews.com/

Sept 5 Fang-tastic Books tour partywww.fang-tasticbooks.blogspot.com

Sept 7 short guest blog and excerptwww.roxannesrealm.blogspot.com

Sept 7 Interviewhttp://www.darkangelwritingtools.com

Sept 24 Review at Book & Movie Dimensionhttp://bmdepository.blogspot.com/

Sept 26 InterviewThe Ramblings of Amy - http://amylunderman.blogspot.com/

Sept 27 Guest Blog and Reviewhttp://donnasbloghome.blogspot.com/

Sept 29 ReviewBraintasia Bookshttp://www.braintasiabooks.com

Oct 2 reviewhttp://booksfromthepurplejellybeanchair.blogspot.com

Oct 3 Interviewhttp://jacqpaige.blogspot.com/

Oct 3 7pm ESTLive radio Interview with BK Walker Blog Talk radio

Oct 4 InterviewLaurie's Thoughts & Reviews http://lauriethoughts-reviews.blogspot.com

Oct 5 Excerptswww.Zenes-escape.blogspot.com

Oct 10 11 pm ESTOther Worlds of Romance RadioLive Radio



Blood and Light

By Rue Volley



Enter into the world of 16 year old Rue Volley...who up until one fateful night at a party, thought she was "normal" or as "normal" as she could be. But "normal" does not include being a vampire...a truth about herself that she will soon discover.



Rue Volley lives in the quiet little town of Calvary, Minnesota...nestled in the thick woods lining the great lakes. Rue, along with her brother Kai have lived an otherwise calm life up until their Mother was commited into Rolling River Asylum, after she mysteriously stopped speaking to anyone. Rue is convinced by her brother to attend a party on her birthday and after she experiences something that she cannot explain, she and everyone in her world is thrown into madness. Join Rue on this epic journey, 6 books in all, as she struggles with grief, love, humor, old crushes, new found infatuations, hot boys AND vampires, lots and lots of them.



This first book in the series starts you on a journey that you will find hard to ignore and once you start reading you will be hooked...or perhaps bitten.





Smoke and Mirrors

By Rue Volley



Book two in the Blood & Light Vampire series takes Rue, our teenage vampire, even deeper into the rabbit hole that has become her life. This book introduces a deeper look into the vampire city of "Valon" that all vampires derive from…taking a darker turn as you are invited into their world and their lack of compassion for the human race, and even in some cases, a total disregard for their own kind. As the story twists and turns you are also introduced to two new vampires, that of a sister/brother team by the names of "Jonah & Lily" who run a travelling carnival, luring unsuspecting humans into their lair, not only to seduce….but to feed upon.



Rue faces many dangers in this addition, not only from her own kind…but this new vampire breed…that of the rogues, who serve no one but themselves and their own desires. Rue also struggles with her want to be "normal" as she comes to terms with the fact that she is indeed a vampire of great importance, and as she navigates her way through this she is also coming to realize that Joshua Barrington has seduced her and perhaps stolen her heart. Please join us as you find yourself sucked deeper into an epic story in the life of one girl, who although she has good intention, may indeed be her own worst enemy. Book two is more graphic in nature…with language, sexual situations and violence. Sure to make you laugh, cry…and realize that sometimes you find yourself standing at the corner of WTF and OMG.



There are six books in the series, currently books 1 and 2 are available for sale at www.vamptasypublishing.co.uk



Direct link: http://www.vamptasypublishing.co.uk/#/blood-and-light/4553215984



http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/74866





About Rue Volley:



Rue Volley lives in Indianapolis, Indiana with her two pugs "Momo" & "Oshi" and her fantastic and supportive husband, Von. She attended Catholic Schools her entire life and ended up playing in an alternative rock band at the age of 18. She played music, specifically guitar, violin and handled vocals for the band, up until 2004, then she met her now husband, Von, and moved from Ohio to Indiana and started to work in retail management.



She spent the next 6 years running clothing stores and then she started to write, producing the 6 book vampire series in a little under 11 months.



She released the first book, "Blood & Light", on authorhouse in 2010, which is a self publishing company, and within 6 months sold over 2000 copies of the first installment, she was then noticed and picked up by Vamptasy Publishing in the UK and now the entire series will be available through Vamptasy. Rue splits her time between writing and photography now and plans on continuing the series, possibly for 2 more installments. She is also working on a new series, about a teenage witch, and plans to release this series sometime in 2012 through Vamptasy too. Rue is completely dedicated to her art and to her fans...and believes that if you think you can do something, it is as good as done.



http://ruevolley.moonfruit.com/



http://www.goodreads.com/ruevolley



http://twitter.com/#!/RueVolley



https://www.facebook.com/pages/Rue-Volley-Blood-Light-Series/166002266766880

The Perfect Costume- Still Searching

I had a chat with my bestie the other day- I now have her involved in my costume hunt.

She'll be hitting the vintage stores and shops in Texas, mainly the Dallas area- so if you know of a good one let me know and I'll send her there.

Since I have 2 Halloween Balls and a Costume party to go to I think I'll need a couple Halloween costumes.

Maybe a basic sexy vampire costume and then the fancy Victorian/Steampunk ensemble I'm looking for.

Pure Costumes has several great Vampire Halloween Costumes

I rather like this deluxe hooded vamp costume- classic red and black with the voluminous batwing style sleeves and corset style bodice.

And the fab thing- it's only $29.95... now that's in my price range :-)

And if you're looking for sexy plus size Halloween Costumes, Pure Costumes has them and the deluxe hooded beauty above comes in plus sizes for only $37.95

Then there's this sexy countess of mayhem costume- only $19.95 and it comes with the dress, cape, glovelettes, belt, collar and medallion.

That's a total steal- at that price I might have to buy it for a just in case costume.

Now if you're looking for something with a little more sex appeal check out this Vampire Vixen- they call that a dress, I'd a skirt to it but that's me. I don't tend to show that much skin anymore LOLI think this one's more for the teen and twenties women

Pure Costumes has such great deals- and right now they are offering flat rate shipping for just $5.99- that's for any size order



Disclosure this post is sponsored by Pure Costumes

Interview and Giveaway with Michelle Franklin Author of The Commander and the Den Asaan Rautu

Can you tell readers a little bit about yourself and what inspired to write in this particular genre?

When I was in high school, I used to plague my principle, who was also my English teacher, with terrible manuscripts of historical fantasy that I had written. One day, he said to me, "There is a series you must read. I know you will like it." He proceeded to hand me Pawn of Prophecy, the first book of the Belgariad. I read it in 3 hours and came back for the second book. He said he did not have it. I went to the bookstore that evening and bought the entire series. I devoured it in one weekend, and it was then I knew that I wanted to write high fantasy. I began writing my own series, and since then fantasy, romantic and high in particular, have become my genres of choice.

Please tell us about your latest release.

The latest release is called "Khantara". It's the very first standalone in the Haanta Series. It tells the story of Rautu's father, of how his father conquered part of a rival nation and in so doing discovers a slave woman named Anelta who desperately needs his assistance. The story depicts how Khantara saves Anelta and what trails their new love faces with regard to relationships between warriors and those of other nations.



What is your favorite scene from the Commander and the Den Asaan Rautu? Could you share a little bit of it, without spoilers of course?

One of my favourite scenes is Rautu and Boudicca traveling back to his homeland together. After having spent a year fighting at her side, he finally begins to let go of his reservations and they share a heated moment on deck.

Can you tell readers a little bit about the world building in the book/series? How does this world differ from our normal world?

The Haanta Series takes place on the world of the Two Continents. The Southern Continent is where the story begins. Frewyn and Gallei, the two warring nations, occupy a large portion of the south, and here is where the Commander and the Den Asaan meet. Frewyn is a Celtic-style nation while Gallei has more of a Scandinavian feel. There are many other nations on the Northern Continent that resemble Edwardian England, ancient Morocco and old Brittany, but their societies and cultures are very different from what images of those nations might suggest.

With the book being part of a series, are there any character or story arcs, that readers jumping in somewhere other than the first book, need to be aware of? Can these books be read as standalones?

There are many characters introduced in earlier books who are mentioned throughout the series. Not every character is in every book, but I do promise that all characters once mentioned do make a return in the series. Story arcs as well cross over into separate books, usually following the characters to whom the arc belongs.

What are your guilty pleasures in life?

Audiobooks read by Juliet Stevenson, Villars chocolate, and cafes, but I think it is many a writer's proclivity to share the same pleasures.



Other than writing, what are some of your interests, hobbies or passions in life?

Yoga and walks around my neighborhood, gaming, and reading Jane Austen novels.

What was the last amazing book you read?

The Magician's Elephant by Kate DiCamillo.

Where is your favorite place to read? Do you have a cozy corner or special reading spot?

In bed is the best place for me to read. I don't sleep as much as I should like to do, and reading in bed lulls me to sleep better than anything else does.

What can readers expect next from you?

In the next few months: Commander and Den Asaan Vol 2 to complete book 1 in the series and then onto From Frewyn to Sanhedhran vol 1, book 2 in the series. It's going to be an immense book, probably partnered by another standalone to complement the suject.

Where can readers find you on the web?

The official Haanta Series site is: http://thehaanta.blogspot.com/ There short stories, excerpts of upcoming books, giveaways and all manner of frivolity can be found.

Would you like to leave readers with a little teaser or excerpt from the book?

Rautu stood on the bow of the ship remarking his home with the commander at his side. He gazed at the island's white sands to the south, dense trees to the north, and the animation of the docks with a reverential countenance. He had been waiting for this homecoming for the greater part of three seasons, and when he regarded Sanhedhran for the first time in nine months, all the longing he had reaped during his separation rushed on him. He was eager to stand on the southern shore again and reclaim his place among the Amghari. His exhalations became labored, his eyes glowed with quiet joy, and the Den Asaan's estrangement was reconciled; he was home, and this was all that occupied him at present.

The commander smiled at the giant's silent worship and used his fascination as a diversion to place her hand atop his as it rested against the ship's railing. She savoured the texture of his stone-like flesh with her rough fingertips and then placed her hand along the railing beside his. She observed him to inspect any perceptible difference. There had been a momentary upturning in the corner of his mouth, but his gaze held firmly toward the island approaching. She was satisfied with his minimal recognition, but was amazed to feel his small finger suddenly wrapping around hers. He moved not otherwise, did not even peek at her from the corner of his eye, but she heard the sound of a profound sigh and knew whose sigh it was. She coiled her finger around his, looked toward their pending destination, and wondered how he should govern himself once returned to his people.





The Commander and the Den Asaan Rautu

By Michelle Franklin

Publisher: Red Willow Publishing

June 12, 2011





Book Description:



The Kingdom of Frewyn is being invaded by the Galleisian infantry and at the forefront of the battle is Boudicca MacDaede, a First Captain in the Frewyn armed forces. Her regiment is charged with defending the borders between the two nations, but when Frewyn's last line of defense falls, Captain MacDaede enlists the assistance of a Haanta, one of giants from the islands to the far north. Promising to free him from his imprisonment in exchange for his help, she gains his trust long enough for them to win the battle and save the Frewyn border from being breached. The giant's freedom is granted, but Rautu cannot return home unless he redeems himself in the eyes of his people for past his transgressions. He is offered a place by the captain's side, and together, they defeat the Galleisian forces and become the saviors of Frewyn.



One year later, King Alasdair Brennin takes the Frewyn throne, Boudicca is made commander, Gallei and Frewyn reach an accord, and Rautu is granted an invitation home. He is eager to return and see his brothers but finds it difficult to leave Frewyn without Boudicca at his side. He has become accustomed to her company and the idea of being made to live without her begins to distress him. Rautu invites the commander to the islands in hopes of finding a way for them to remain together, but when they arrive at the white shores of Sanhedhran, not everything goes as planned: one of the dangerous Haanta magi is freed, Rautu's three brothers are strangely missing, and the neighboring nation of Thellis leads an attack on the islands.



Together, the commander and the Den Asaan Rautu must find a way to unite their two nations and defend against the Thellisian fleets, but can they do so successfully when outside forces are attempting to keep them apart?





Giveaway Time

Michelle is giving away the newest book in the Haanta series

If you would like a pdf copy

Please leave a comment on this spot

The Equinox Print Giveaway

MJ is offering one lucky reader the chance to win

a signed print copy of The Equinox open to

US and Canada (green) and UK residents (red cover)

Want to win it?

Leave a comment on this post

Include your email address

And whether or not you are in the US, Canada or UK









The Equinox

A Novel of Horror by MJ Preston





Book Description:

It has existed for centuries.



A dark curse held captive by ancient ritual, a creature of insatiable hunger possessing the ability to change shape at will. During spring and fall equinox it would break through the walls separating our worlds to feed.



Now it walks among us unrestrained and very hungry.



Banished from the Chocktee Nation and obsessed with vengeance, Daniel Blackbird has been chasing the "Walker" across North America for over 14 years. Bearing a scar from his first encounter, he feels the abomination's telepathic pull and is drawn in whatever direction it moves, but it always seems to be one step ahead of him.



Until now!



Over a thousand miles away residents of the prairie town of Thomasville are trying to come to terms with unspeakable crimes.



In a race against time, Blackbird sets out for the prairie town which, as the Equinox approaches, is destined to become a killing ground where cultures and worlds will collide.





The Equinox is available through following distributors



http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/MJPreston



https://www.createspace.com/3627368



http://www.amazon.com/The Equinox

The Equinox Hardcover Giveaway

MJ is offering one lucky reader the chance to win a hardcover edition of The Equinox open to US (blue cover) and UK residents (red cover)

Want to win it?

Leave a comment on this post

Include your email address

And whether or not you are in the US or UK

The Equinox

A Novel of Horror by MJ Preston





Book Description:

It has existed for centuries.



A dark curse held captive by ancient ritual, a creature of insatiable hunger possessing the ability to change shape at will. During spring and fall equinox it would break through the walls separating our worlds to feed.



Now it walks among us unrestrained and very hungry.



Banished from the Chocktee Nation and obsessed with vengeance, Daniel Blackbird has been chasing the "Walker" across North America for over 14 years. Bearing a scar from his first encounter, he feels the abomination's telepathic pull and is drawn in whatever direction it moves, but it always seems to be one step ahead of him.



Until now!



Over a thousand miles away residents of the prairie town of Thomasville are trying to come to terms with unspeakable crimes.



In a race against time, Blackbird sets out for the prairie town which, as the Equinox approaches, is destined to become a killing ground where cultures and worlds will collide.





The Equinox is available through following distributors



http://www.lulu.com/spotlight/MJPreston



https://www.createspace.com/3627368



http://www.amazon.com/The Equinox

Interview with MJ Preston

Can you tell readers a little bit about yourself and what inspired to write in this particular genre?

I'm 46, married and have been writing since I was a kid. I have always had a fascination with the horror, and feel comfortable picking at the things others might find uncomfortable.

What is it about the paranormal, in windigo's, that fascinates you so much?

Native Culture has a number of stories about their people fearing the Windigo sickness or psychosis. The Windigo is said to be conjured up when a community indulges in cannibalism, there is so little written about this frightening creature and the more I researched, the more I begin to see the story unfold.

What inspired you to write this book?

The story came from a couple places. One of those harkens back to a childhood friend I had who was abducted by a child predator. My friend was found alive, thankfully, but his ordeal was that of torture and they never captured the monster who had abducted him. For me that monster lurking in the shadows was always more terrifying than the creatures I conjured up in my stories. That stranger became the model for which I would fashion one of my main characters after.

Please tell us about your latest release.

True crime meets monster hunting is a way you could put it. There is a dual story about a town that is coming to grips with a number of unspeakable crimes and a native man chasing after the shape changer who killed his grandfather. You'll have to read the book to see how it all relates.

Do you have a special formula for creating characters' names? Do you try to match a name with a certain meaning to attributes of the character or do you search for names popular in certain time periods or regions?

Most of the aboriginal names were researched to lend some authenticity to the Chocktee people and a few names are based on people I know. Others just ring true when I say them aloud.

Was one of your characters more challenging to write than another?

As mentioned earlier, one of the characters is based on a child predator. Finding my way into the mindset of that particular character was difficult and of course there are limits to what I will write about. I had to work extra hard to avoid generalizing while at the same time knowing that there are limits we must all consider when breaching a difficult subject.

Is there a character that you enjoyed writing more than any of the others?

There are a few characters who popped up in the writing of this book that I became very happy with. One of those characters names was Old Jake Toomey and he really came as a surprise, because he did not appear until later in the novel and as a result I ended up including him in the beginning. In another interview I mentioned that I like Old Jake so much that there may be another novel based on him.

Do you have a formula for developing characters? Like do you create a character sketch or list of attributes before you start writing or do you just let the character develop as you write?

How I find a character is I draw them. They may start out as a virtual sketch with just a first name, but eventually they begin to live and breath within my subconscious. I don't use lists. Instead I wrote about them in excess. These character building exercises did not make it to the final draft, but were useful in me finding out who they are.

What is your favorite scene from the book? Could you share a little bit of it, without spoilers of course?

I don't have any favorites, but one that stirs great emotion in me is that of a quarrel between husband and wife as they come to terms with the death of their child. It is a scene filled with such anguish and heartache. It is also written from the heart as my departed Mother lost one of her children, my brother, at the age of 7 years-old. I was very young, only 3 years-old, but my oldest brother was 8 when it happened. While I did not experience the loss on the day it happened I was able to see first hand how it haunted my Mother to her dying days. No parent should have to bury their child, but it is a horrible reality.

Did you find anything really interesting while researching this or another book?

I have learned that the North American Native People are a treasure trove of fascinating tales and history. I have learned a few things in researching this book and I now feel that we must move to reconcile the mistakes of our ancestors so that we may bring peaceful resolutions to signed treaties. I did not always think this way.

What is the most interesting thing you have physically done for book related research purposes?

I haven't yet, but I hope one day to attend a native pow wow and with their permission take photographs and even involve myself in some of the ceremonies.

Do any of your characters have similar characteristics of yourself in them and what are they?

(Devilish smile) I have been told that I have a scowl which can be somewhat intimidating. I picked this up in the army as a Non Commissioned Officer (NCO) teaching recruits. This is an attribute that hangs well on my Police Chief David Logan. I suppose there is a little of me in all of the characters, even my nefarious skin-walker, although I have yet to dine on the lower intestinal tract of one of my victims. (Wink)

Do you ever suffer from writer's block? How do you deal with it?

I don't know that I suffer from Writers Block in the traditional way where you stare morosely at a piece of paper with nothing to write. I write when the voice awakens in me and when it doesn't I do other things like draw, listen to music or make videos.

Do you have any weird writing quirks or rituals?

Music plays a large role in my writing experience. I like to listen to it as I write.

Do you write in different genres?

Novels will likely always end up in the horror genre, while short stories are all over the place. Dark humor and short pieces that tap into key emotions are always interesting. I do write serious pieces as well that are non fiction and I have penned a few blogs relating to personal stuff.

Do you find it difficult to write in multiple genres?

No, for me it's all writing.

When did you consider yourself a writer?

The day I stood over my mother's grave and tried to sum up her life in a few short minutes. She had always asked me to write her life story and that was the best I could do.

What are your guilty pleasures in life?

In one interview I mentioned beer, but I have a passion for white cake with sickeningly sweet icing. If there is a Birthday cake in the house I rise like a malnourished vampire and descend on it without mercy. I think my eyes actually roll back in my head when I feed.

Other than writing, what are some of your interests, hobbies or passions in life?

I love Halloween. All year long I am collecting all sorts of nasty things to display on my lawn come October 31st. The kids under the age of 6 usually walk right on by, while the more adventurous ones make it up the driveway past the severed limbs, werewolves, demon babies and chainsaw maniacs to score some candy. Most the parents around my burb think I'm disturbed.

What was the last amazing book you read?

I'm reading Stephen King's UNDER THE DOME, but recently I read Joseph Boyden's THREE DAY ROAD after finishing THE EQUINOX and I'm glad I did. Boyden is an amazing storyteller.

Where is your favorite place to read? Do you have a cozy corner or special reading spot?

Graveyard dirt.

What can readers expect next from you?

I am working on a new novel I call the The 4th Horseman. It is in the horror genre and I'll leave it at that for now.

Where can readers find you on the web?

I have two websites: MJ Preston - The Equinox and The Black Galleries I really would like to encourage people to visit both sites, but more so MJ Preston - The Equinox. There are a good number of videos and lot's of artwork there free for the viewing and if you're interested in getting THE EQUINOX this is an awesome way

to check it out.

Would you like to leave readers with a little teaser or excerpt from the book?

Excerpt from: THE EQUINOX

Chapter 10 - Misery

***

"I can't believe he'd be this irresponsible," Olivia exclaimed.

John was now standing in the doorway to their son's room. "What?"

Tap. Droplets of blood fell to the hardwood floor rhythmically from the two bandaged fingers on his right hand. The gauze was already soaked, sopping with claret, and every three or four seconds it released a fresh droplet. Tap.

He couldn't hear the splash of blood: his focus was on his wife, who stared at him defiantly.

"Who are you talking to, Olivia?"

Tap .

"I specifically told him to clean up his room before he went out, John, and I have had enough of being ignored." She stared right at her husband – but she didn't see him.

Tap .

"Olivia."

"You've got to talk to him, John. Set him straight."

Tap .

"Olivia."

"- tell him that he can't cut corners –"

Tap .

"Olivia, Tommy is gone. We buried him two days ago," John croaked.

But she kept going. "-like this. He's been getting away with too much, John."

Tap .

He moved forward and took her by the shoulders. His right hand left a bloody mark on the shoulder of her robe.

"He's dead, Olivia! You were there! We buried him. Please stop this: I can't do this alone."

Tap .

She fell silent, his words finally breaking through, her face dawning with comprehension – and then she started to scream.

"Stop it!"

John drew up his hand, ready to slap her, an arc of blood spattering on the World Series Pennant that hung above Tommy's computer desk.

Then she said something that stopped him.

"He came out of me," she cried. "He always listened to you and loved you more, but he came out of me. I carried him all those months, Johnny. I loved him just as much as you, but he loved you more."

John Parkins stood frozen, his eyes welling up with tears. Then he dropped his hand in shame and pulled her toward him.

"He loved you too, sweetheart. Every boy loves his mom."

"I want my baby back, Johnny! I want him home!"

"He's gone, Olivia. I'm sorry. It's my fault! I should have taken the day off. It's all my fault!" he cried. "He'd be alive right now if I had been a good father!"

"He came out of me, he was my baby and I want him back!"

They held each other in the emptiness of their son's room, drowning in despair. Surrounded by the memories of what was taken from them, little league pictures, baseball trophies, and from all sides pictures of their smiling little boy. Gone forever.

***