Destiny Booze's Blog: The Smiling Pains of Novelist Destiny Booze - Posts Tagged "series"
I'm in the newspaper. Here's the story.
Fincastle Herald/July 2009
For Destiny Booze, writing was a means of escape, an outlet, a source of fun and entertainment, and yes, a deep seeded passion above all else. But, it was never something to be taken seriously, until now.
After years and years of writing that began as soon as she was capable of holding a pencil, Booze's debut romantic suspense novel, Altered Beginnings was released May 15 from Whimsical Publications.
"It doesn't feel real," Booze said. "I've seen the book, held it, flipped through it, even signed a few copies for people, but the connection still isn't there. I need someone to pinch me." When she saw the final published paperback for the first time, Booze recalled thinking, "That's really my book? What kind of alternate universe did I wake up in this morning?"
The publication sure was a big shock to Booze and her family. "I remember my mom squealing with joy," Booze recalled. "Then, she said, I didn't know you knew how to do it." It was a statement that echoed inside Booze's head. She hadn't known either, but she did it.
Booze grew up at Jellystone Park Campground, a resort that her family managed. It was located a few miles out of Buchanan, in Arcadia. She described her childhood as fun, but a lot of hard work each summer. Along with her two brothers, she was expected to carry her own weight and help with whatever needed to be done for the camping season.
She saw herself as a small-town girl with dreams that didn't venture further than her front porch. "I always thought that I would take over at the campground. My brothers didn't seem interested, and I loved it there." She attended college, working toward a business degree, but the English classes were always her favorite. She loved the writing assignments.
A wrench was thrown into those plans when Jellystone was sold in 1999. The new owner was interested in a more hands-on approach to the business and took over the management duties. Booze's family found themselves searching for a new home, and moved to Roanoke. "My dad started working for UPS, but I felt utterly lost. The campground was all that I knew," Booze said.
She began writing more and more. It was more than a hobby. It was a coping mechanism. "I wrote my first book in high school, and though I can't say that it was good, I had loads of fun writing it. When I lost Jellystone, I tried writing a book about a girl at a campground, but it was too hard. I was too close to the situation. I must have started that story five times or better just to trash it every time," she said.
The next few years Booze described her life as an unconscious exploration to find herself. She job hopped from several different career paths. She tried day care, office work, even a couple positions in healthcare, but nothing settled her into a rhythm. "Nothing felt right," she said. "When I was at Jellystone, I felt confident in myself, and I was searching for that sureness again, but I just couldn't find it."
In between jobs, Booze wrote the book that would lead to her first publication. She began researching the publishing industry, and sending her manuscript to publishers. "I can't begin to tell you how many rejections I went through. All I can say is there were a bunch," she said.
Last year, she took a job as a community journalist with the Fincastle Herald. "Writing felt comfortable, and the restlessness within me instantly settled. I loved writing for the paper and it helped pay the bills, but writing books is where my heart kept leading me.”
Then, it happened. As she opened another letter from a publisher she thought, “probably another rejection.” But this time it was a legitimate offer with a real contract.
This year, for the first time, Booze became a fulltime novelist. "I know it's what I'm meant to do," she said. "It feels right."
Altered Beginnings is the first book in a series by Destiny Booze called the Outer Banks Suspense Series. It is available now through Barnes and Noble. Just ask for it at the counter, or you can order online at www.bn.com, www.amazon.com, www.waldenbooks.com, www.target.com, www.booksamillion.com or www.whimsicalpublications.com. The sequel, Predetermined Endings will be released later this year.
To find out more about the author or to find correspondence information, visit www.destinybooze.com.
For Destiny Booze, writing was a means of escape, an outlet, a source of fun and entertainment, and yes, a deep seeded passion above all else. But, it was never something to be taken seriously, until now.
After years and years of writing that began as soon as she was capable of holding a pencil, Booze's debut romantic suspense novel, Altered Beginnings was released May 15 from Whimsical Publications.
"It doesn't feel real," Booze said. "I've seen the book, held it, flipped through it, even signed a few copies for people, but the connection still isn't there. I need someone to pinch me." When she saw the final published paperback for the first time, Booze recalled thinking, "That's really my book? What kind of alternate universe did I wake up in this morning?"
The publication sure was a big shock to Booze and her family. "I remember my mom squealing with joy," Booze recalled. "Then, she said, I didn't know you knew how to do it." It was a statement that echoed inside Booze's head. She hadn't known either, but she did it.
Booze grew up at Jellystone Park Campground, a resort that her family managed. It was located a few miles out of Buchanan, in Arcadia. She described her childhood as fun, but a lot of hard work each summer. Along with her two brothers, she was expected to carry her own weight and help with whatever needed to be done for the camping season.
She saw herself as a small-town girl with dreams that didn't venture further than her front porch. "I always thought that I would take over at the campground. My brothers didn't seem interested, and I loved it there." She attended college, working toward a business degree, but the English classes were always her favorite. She loved the writing assignments.
A wrench was thrown into those plans when Jellystone was sold in 1999. The new owner was interested in a more hands-on approach to the business and took over the management duties. Booze's family found themselves searching for a new home, and moved to Roanoke. "My dad started working for UPS, but I felt utterly lost. The campground was all that I knew," Booze said.
She began writing more and more. It was more than a hobby. It was a coping mechanism. "I wrote my first book in high school, and though I can't say that it was good, I had loads of fun writing it. When I lost Jellystone, I tried writing a book about a girl at a campground, but it was too hard. I was too close to the situation. I must have started that story five times or better just to trash it every time," she said.
The next few years Booze described her life as an unconscious exploration to find herself. She job hopped from several different career paths. She tried day care, office work, even a couple positions in healthcare, but nothing settled her into a rhythm. "Nothing felt right," she said. "When I was at Jellystone, I felt confident in myself, and I was searching for that sureness again, but I just couldn't find it."
In between jobs, Booze wrote the book that would lead to her first publication. She began researching the publishing industry, and sending her manuscript to publishers. "I can't begin to tell you how many rejections I went through. All I can say is there were a bunch," she said.
Last year, she took a job as a community journalist with the Fincastle Herald. "Writing felt comfortable, and the restlessness within me instantly settled. I loved writing for the paper and it helped pay the bills, but writing books is where my heart kept leading me.”
Then, it happened. As she opened another letter from a publisher she thought, “probably another rejection.” But this time it was a legitimate offer with a real contract.
This year, for the first time, Booze became a fulltime novelist. "I know it's what I'm meant to do," she said. "It feels right."
Altered Beginnings is the first book in a series by Destiny Booze called the Outer Banks Suspense Series. It is available now through Barnes and Noble. Just ask for it at the counter, or you can order online at www.bn.com, www.amazon.com, www.waldenbooks.com, www.target.com, www.booksamillion.com or www.whimsicalpublications.com. The sequel, Predetermined Endings will be released later this year.
To find out more about the author or to find correspondence information, visit www.destinybooze.com.
Predetermined Endings - Released September 7, 2009!
Predetermined Endings, the sequel to Altered Beginnings and book 2 in my Outer Banks Suspense Series will be released September 7th!
Here's a blurb:
Predetermined Endings
By Destiny Booze
Angelica Chappell’s story makes huge headlines. Only a few months ago, she released a new pharmaceutical drug called Krytonix that effectively slows the spread of cancer cells. She has no idea her story will attract the attention of a serial killer. Suddenly, she is a target whether she realizes it or not. This killer is interested in more than her life. He wants her reputation, too. His first mission is to sabotage Krytonix.
William Pierce worked undercover for the FBI for five years to bring down a ruthless mobster that he ultimately is forced to kill. Two months passes by since that assignment. Still, William saw things he couldn’t talk about. He did things he couldn’t talk about. He believes his soul is damned. Returning to “normal” everyday life isn’t an option. He isn’t the same man he used to be. He refuses to return to FBI headquarters. He becomes a rogue agent with an agenda.
These two characters literally collide when Pierce's agenda leads him to Chappell. It will take both of them to keep Angelica alive and to figure out who is trying to kill her. William soon finds himself developing feelings for Angelica. Too bad for her killer, William worked as a trained killer for the mob. Will he find her killer and hand him over to the legal system to see that justice is served or will he search and destroy?
Here's a blurb:
Predetermined Endings
By Destiny Booze
Angelica Chappell’s story makes huge headlines. Only a few months ago, she released a new pharmaceutical drug called Krytonix that effectively slows the spread of cancer cells. She has no idea her story will attract the attention of a serial killer. Suddenly, she is a target whether she realizes it or not. This killer is interested in more than her life. He wants her reputation, too. His first mission is to sabotage Krytonix.
William Pierce worked undercover for the FBI for five years to bring down a ruthless mobster that he ultimately is forced to kill. Two months passes by since that assignment. Still, William saw things he couldn’t talk about. He did things he couldn’t talk about. He believes his soul is damned. Returning to “normal” everyday life isn’t an option. He isn’t the same man he used to be. He refuses to return to FBI headquarters. He becomes a rogue agent with an agenda.
These two characters literally collide when Pierce's agenda leads him to Chappell. It will take both of them to keep Angelica alive and to figure out who is trying to kill her. William soon finds himself developing feelings for Angelica. Too bad for her killer, William worked as a trained killer for the mob. Will he find her killer and hand him over to the legal system to see that justice is served or will he search and destroy?
More reviews of Altered Beginnings!
Comment/review = This was an action packed romance novel. I loved the interaction
of the characters. I am looking forward to the next book.
–Nancy M. Ingraham
Comment/review = The book keep me wanting to come back for more. It was very
hard to put down. very exciting and excellent to read. The author is great. I hope to
see more of her books
–Teresa21
Comment/review = What a book. This is a 220 some page book that was pacted with information, drama, romance, etc. It only took me a couple of days of reading and that is with interruptions. The writer doesnt give you a lot of unnecessary information. She makes all the necessary information available in short and sweet words. The characters and traits were right on the mark. For a short book there was a jam pack excitement and thriller.
–smd_569
Comment/review = This was really a fantastic book. Others that I have shared the book with just can't say enough good things. One friend bought the book to take on vacation for a "beach read" but couldn't wait after she read the first page and read the whole book before even leaving for vacation...said she just couldn't put the book down. Good work Destiny.
–Becky Booze
of the characters. I am looking forward to the next book.
–Nancy M. Ingraham
Comment/review = The book keep me wanting to come back for more. It was very
hard to put down. very exciting and excellent to read. The author is great. I hope to
see more of her books
–Teresa21
Comment/review = What a book. This is a 220 some page book that was pacted with information, drama, romance, etc. It only took me a couple of days of reading and that is with interruptions. The writer doesnt give you a lot of unnecessary information. She makes all the necessary information available in short and sweet words. The characters and traits were right on the mark. For a short book there was a jam pack excitement and thriller.
–smd_569
Comment/review = This was really a fantastic book. Others that I have shared the book with just can't say enough good things. One friend bought the book to take on vacation for a "beach read" but couldn't wait after she read the first page and read the whole book before even leaving for vacation...said she just couldn't put the book down. Good work Destiny.
–Becky Booze
Predetermined Endings Excerpt
Predetermined Endings by Destiny Booze ~ Coming September 7, 2009!
Predetermined Endings Blurb
Angelica Chappell’s story makes huge headlines. Only a few months ago, she released a new pharmaceutical drug called Krytonix that effectively slows the spread of cancer cells. She has no idea her story will attract the attention of a serial killer. Suddenly, she is a target whether she realizes it or not. This killer is interested in more than her life. He wants her reputation, too. His first mission is to sabotage Krytonix.
William Pierce worked undercover for the FBI for five years to bring down a ruthless mobster that he ultimately is forced to kill. Two months passes by since that assignment. Still, William saw things he couldn’t talk about. He did things he couldn’t talk about. He believes his soul is damned. Returning to “normal” everyday life isn’t an option. He isn’t the same man he used to be. He refuses to return to FBI headquarters. He becomes a rogue agent with an agenda.
These two characters literally collide when Pierce's agenda leads him to Chappell. It will take both of them to keep Angelica alive and to figure out who is trying to kill her. William soon finds himself developing feelings for Angelica. Too bad for her killer, William worked as a trained killer for the mob. Will he find her killer and hand him over to the legal system to see that justice is served or will he search and destroy?
Excerpt
She wished he would leave her alone. She even considered putting up the optional privacy window between the front and back of the car. Of course she wasn’t okay. Didn’t he understand just how serious this situation was?
“Want me to turn the radio to that funky station you like?”
The “funky” music he referred to was a hip-hop channel that played a combination of some rock, some rhythm and blues, and a bit of rap. It was actually the most listened to station of the area. It was also Patrick’s favorite. The old man had odd
tastes. One of her grandfather’s rules was that the station had to be turned off, or tuned into a classical station unless otherwise requested by the passenger. That rule applied to Chappell family or guests. Patrick was asking if she wanted that
music so he could listen to what he really wanted to. She wondered if he knew she was onto his little deception.
“Sure,” she said.
“Here you go.”
A new Justin Timberlake song filled the car. It didn’t help Angelica to relax. Her chest burned with stress and fear. The air she breathed actually hurt. Her life as she knew it could be over.
After another couple of minutes, Patrick tried again to start a conversation. “This will blow over, honey. Trust me. Everything does. People aren’t going to blame you. Everybody loves you.”
He was so wrong on so many levels. The public would want someone to blame and she would get that honor. She would be crucified. She expected that reaction and it was justifiable. She knew the burden was hers. Truth be told, she didn’t care what people thought and never had. Why should she? She never saw anyone outside of the lab anyway. She didn’t care if people hated her because of Krytonix. She did care that people were going to die because of her drug. It was her failure. It was her responsibility to figure out what was wrong. People’s lives were on the line. She accepted that accountability.
“Oh shit. Hang on.”
The hair on Angelica’s neck stood up when she heard the panic in Patrick’s statement. Her stomach nosedived to her feet and returned in utter turmoil. Her eyes darted to the road to find the source of the problem. They were close to home, a quiet part of town where tourists didn’t venture and traffic was far less dense. The road was curvy, leading to a steep grade to the top of a deserted hillside that held
the Chappell Mansion.
“Oh shit, oh shit, oh shit,” Patrick said again.
They were traveling much too fast for the winding road, even heading uphill. Patrick was wildly stomping on the brake, but nothing was happening. The car continued to accelerate as if he held the gas to the floor. He fought for control of the steering
wheel, but it looked as if it simply rotated round and round with the ease of an arcade game. Patrick’s face was flushed bright crimson and sweating, his eyes wide and glazed.
“Do something!” Angelica cried in desperation, torn between shock and fear.
It was obvious Patrick was doing his best. The sharp curve before them would be upon them in seconds, and unless some kind of miracle intervened, they were going straight ahead—over a sand dune and into the ocean.
Angelica grabbed onto the seat and held as tightly as she could. The car continued to accelerate. Everything seemed loud. Patrick was groaning. The radio was blasting. The roar of the tires was like drums beating a tune of anticipation.
In the last second, when all possible hope of rescue was gone, Patrick screamed. Angelica dipped her head in her lap and closed her eyes. The Lord’s Prayer was on her lips when she felt the car lurch into the air and plummet into empty space.
Predetermined Endings Blurb
Angelica Chappell’s story makes huge headlines. Only a few months ago, she released a new pharmaceutical drug called Krytonix that effectively slows the spread of cancer cells. She has no idea her story will attract the attention of a serial killer. Suddenly, she is a target whether she realizes it or not. This killer is interested in more than her life. He wants her reputation, too. His first mission is to sabotage Krytonix.
William Pierce worked undercover for the FBI for five years to bring down a ruthless mobster that he ultimately is forced to kill. Two months passes by since that assignment. Still, William saw things he couldn’t talk about. He did things he couldn’t talk about. He believes his soul is damned. Returning to “normal” everyday life isn’t an option. He isn’t the same man he used to be. He refuses to return to FBI headquarters. He becomes a rogue agent with an agenda.
These two characters literally collide when Pierce's agenda leads him to Chappell. It will take both of them to keep Angelica alive and to figure out who is trying to kill her. William soon finds himself developing feelings for Angelica. Too bad for her killer, William worked as a trained killer for the mob. Will he find her killer and hand him over to the legal system to see that justice is served or will he search and destroy?
Excerpt
She wished he would leave her alone. She even considered putting up the optional privacy window between the front and back of the car. Of course she wasn’t okay. Didn’t he understand just how serious this situation was?
“Want me to turn the radio to that funky station you like?”
The “funky” music he referred to was a hip-hop channel that played a combination of some rock, some rhythm and blues, and a bit of rap. It was actually the most listened to station of the area. It was also Patrick’s favorite. The old man had odd
tastes. One of her grandfather’s rules was that the station had to be turned off, or tuned into a classical station unless otherwise requested by the passenger. That rule applied to Chappell family or guests. Patrick was asking if she wanted that
music so he could listen to what he really wanted to. She wondered if he knew she was onto his little deception.
“Sure,” she said.
“Here you go.”
A new Justin Timberlake song filled the car. It didn’t help Angelica to relax. Her chest burned with stress and fear. The air she breathed actually hurt. Her life as she knew it could be over.
After another couple of minutes, Patrick tried again to start a conversation. “This will blow over, honey. Trust me. Everything does. People aren’t going to blame you. Everybody loves you.”
He was so wrong on so many levels. The public would want someone to blame and she would get that honor. She would be crucified. She expected that reaction and it was justifiable. She knew the burden was hers. Truth be told, she didn’t care what people thought and never had. Why should she? She never saw anyone outside of the lab anyway. She didn’t care if people hated her because of Krytonix. She did care that people were going to die because of her drug. It was her failure. It was her responsibility to figure out what was wrong. People’s lives were on the line. She accepted that accountability.
“Oh shit. Hang on.”
The hair on Angelica’s neck stood up when she heard the panic in Patrick’s statement. Her stomach nosedived to her feet and returned in utter turmoil. Her eyes darted to the road to find the source of the problem. They were close to home, a quiet part of town where tourists didn’t venture and traffic was far less dense. The road was curvy, leading to a steep grade to the top of a deserted hillside that held
the Chappell Mansion.
“Oh shit, oh shit, oh shit,” Patrick said again.
They were traveling much too fast for the winding road, even heading uphill. Patrick was wildly stomping on the brake, but nothing was happening. The car continued to accelerate as if he held the gas to the floor. He fought for control of the steering
wheel, but it looked as if it simply rotated round and round with the ease of an arcade game. Patrick’s face was flushed bright crimson and sweating, his eyes wide and glazed.
“Do something!” Angelica cried in desperation, torn between shock and fear.
It was obvious Patrick was doing his best. The sharp curve before them would be upon them in seconds, and unless some kind of miracle intervened, they were going straight ahead—over a sand dune and into the ocean.
Angelica grabbed onto the seat and held as tightly as she could. The car continued to accelerate. Everything seemed loud. Patrick was groaning. The radio was blasting. The roar of the tires was like drums beating a tune of anticipation.
In the last second, when all possible hope of rescue was gone, Patrick screamed. Angelica dipped her head in her lap and closed her eyes. The Lord’s Prayer was on her lips when she felt the car lurch into the air and plummet into empty space.
No doubt, my books are rated R
I've been surprised to discover that readers are surprised by the content in my stories...in a good way, I think and I hope. Wink
Do you want to know what to expect from a book by Destiny Booze? The answer is anything goes! No doubt, my writing is strongly rated R. Drug, sex, violence, etc...you name it, it could be there.
That's what I like to read, so that's what I like to write. So... What do you like to read? Is there content or a subject that can be too much for you?
I can tell you that I - without using the word always, because you should never say always - almost always have a happy ending. I hate books that don't end "right" and destroy my perfect fantasy land. It breaks my heart. I want the fairytale.
As for content that is just too much for me, one particular subject that makes me squeamish is the death of a child, even in a work of fiction. It brings up too many "mommy fears" for me to read. I can't handle it.
Let me know what makes you squeamish to read, or better yet, what makes you LOVE to read!
Do you want to know what to expect from a book by Destiny Booze? The answer is anything goes! No doubt, my writing is strongly rated R. Drug, sex, violence, etc...you name it, it could be there.
That's what I like to read, so that's what I like to write. So... What do you like to read? Is there content or a subject that can be too much for you?
I can tell you that I - without using the word always, because you should never say always - almost always have a happy ending. I hate books that don't end "right" and destroy my perfect fantasy land. It breaks my heart. I want the fairytale.
As for content that is just too much for me, one particular subject that makes me squeamish is the death of a child, even in a work of fiction. It brings up too many "mommy fears" for me to read. I can't handle it.
Let me know what makes you squeamish to read, or better yet, what makes you LOVE to read!
Outer Banks Suspense Series - Book 3
This book is in progress right now. Here's the introductory poem...
Accelerating Circumstances
In a moment of blindness,
She said yes.
Anticipation left her breathless.
That he was a stranger,
Added to the danger.
Excitement outweighed any wager.
With no thought or plan,
She went with the man.
Exhilaration heightened the night inside the van.
When they came to a stop,
He got on top.
Arousal masked the gun’s sudden pop.
Every thrust - a release of hate,
Coupling with a lifeless mate.
Disappointment was the murder, not perfect, not great.
Why did she have to die?
Her husband and son will later cry,
For a wife and mother that went goodbye.
The stakes accelerate for each kill,
Striving for the lust of that first thrill.
The disappointment and rage never-ending, until…
Destiny Booze
Accelerating Circumstances
In a moment of blindness,
She said yes.
Anticipation left her breathless.
That he was a stranger,
Added to the danger.
Excitement outweighed any wager.
With no thought or plan,
She went with the man.
Exhilaration heightened the night inside the van.
When they came to a stop,
He got on top.
Arousal masked the gun’s sudden pop.
Every thrust - a release of hate,
Coupling with a lifeless mate.
Disappointment was the murder, not perfect, not great.
Why did she have to die?
Her husband and son will later cry,
For a wife and mother that went goodbye.
The stakes accelerate for each kill,
Striving for the lust of that first thrill.
The disappointment and rage never-ending, until…
Destiny Booze
Release Day - Predetermined Endings!
It's release day for Predetermined Endings! It's available NOW! I'm so excited! I LOVE this book!
Here's where you can buy:
http://www.amazon.com/Predetermined-E...
http://books.barnesandnoble.com/searc...
http://www.booksamillion.com/search?i...
http://www.whimsicalpublications.com/...
Or...if you are interested in a signed copy, email me at destinybooze@gmail.com
Blurb:
Angelica Chappell’s story makes huge headlines. Only a few months ago, she released a new pharmaceutical drug called Krytonix that effectively slows the spread of cancer cells. She has no idea her story will attract the attention of a serial killer. Suddenly, she is a target whether she realizes it or not. This killer is interested in more than her life. He wants her reputation, too. His first mission is to sabotage Krytonix.
William Pierce worked undercover for the FBI for five years to bring down a ruthless mobster that he ultimately is forced to kill. Two months passes by since that assignment. Still, William saw things he couldn’t talk about. He did things he couldn’t talk about. He believes his soul is damned. Returning to “normal” everyday life isn’t an option. He isn’t the same man he used to be. He refuses to return to FBI headquarters. He becomes a rogue agent with an agenda.
These two characters literally collide when Pierce's agenda leads him to Chappell. It will take both of them to keep Angelica alive and to figure out who is trying to kill her. William soon finds himself developing feelings for Angelica. Too bad for her killer, William worked as a trained killer for the mob. Will he find her killer and hand him over to the legal system to see that justice is served or will he search and destroy?
Here's where you can buy:
http://www.amazon.com/Predetermined-E...
http://books.barnesandnoble.com/searc...
http://www.booksamillion.com/search?i...
http://www.whimsicalpublications.com/...
Or...if you are interested in a signed copy, email me at destinybooze@gmail.com
Blurb:
Angelica Chappell’s story makes huge headlines. Only a few months ago, she released a new pharmaceutical drug called Krytonix that effectively slows the spread of cancer cells. She has no idea her story will attract the attention of a serial killer. Suddenly, she is a target whether she realizes it or not. This killer is interested in more than her life. He wants her reputation, too. His first mission is to sabotage Krytonix.
William Pierce worked undercover for the FBI for five years to bring down a ruthless mobster that he ultimately is forced to kill. Two months passes by since that assignment. Still, William saw things he couldn’t talk about. He did things he couldn’t talk about. He believes his soul is damned. Returning to “normal” everyday life isn’t an option. He isn’t the same man he used to be. He refuses to return to FBI headquarters. He becomes a rogue agent with an agenda.
These two characters literally collide when Pierce's agenda leads him to Chappell. It will take both of them to keep Angelica alive and to figure out who is trying to kill her. William soon finds himself developing feelings for Angelica. Too bad for her killer, William worked as a trained killer for the mob. Will he find her killer and hand him over to the legal system to see that justice is served or will he search and destroy?
My Favorite Quotes from My Books
"'I didn't say I was done with you. You think you want to sleep with me? Let me show you what happens to girls who wake up in my room,' Freddie said.
He saw the fear in her face, but she obeyed. They always did."
— From Altered Beginnings by Destiny Booze
"'We're not really dating per se,' Leigh said.
Nate grinned. 'I wouldn't be so sure about that, pretty lady. I know my brother's tastes and you definitely have the main ingredients. His eyes ate more than his mouth at dinner.'"
— From Altered Beginnings by Destiny Booze
"An invisible fire scorched the bottoms of her hands, the feel reminding her of raw energy and stealth, and she tried to jerk away, unable to do so because the man held her in place. He would surely kill her now. No one touched a lion and lived to tell about it."
— From Predetermined Endings by Destiny Booze
"His glare snapped back on her with enough speed that she shrunk away from him. 'Make no mistake about me,' William said harshly. 'I'm not a good man! I'm a killer; I'm just one with an agency attached to my name.'"
— From Predetermined Endings by Destiny Booze
"A good man would help the two people in the limo because it was the right thing to do; a good man would turn himself in; a good man would beg for his job back; a good man would just let this case go and move on. William wasn't a good man, not anymore. He was on a mission."
— From Predetermined Endings by Destiny Booze
He saw the fear in her face, but she obeyed. They always did."
— From Altered Beginnings by Destiny Booze
"'We're not really dating per se,' Leigh said.
Nate grinned. 'I wouldn't be so sure about that, pretty lady. I know my brother's tastes and you definitely have the main ingredients. His eyes ate more than his mouth at dinner.'"
— From Altered Beginnings by Destiny Booze
"An invisible fire scorched the bottoms of her hands, the feel reminding her of raw energy and stealth, and she tried to jerk away, unable to do so because the man held her in place. He would surely kill her now. No one touched a lion and lived to tell about it."
— From Predetermined Endings by Destiny Booze
"His glare snapped back on her with enough speed that she shrunk away from him. 'Make no mistake about me,' William said harshly. 'I'm not a good man! I'm a killer; I'm just one with an agency attached to my name.'"
— From Predetermined Endings by Destiny Booze
"A good man would help the two people in the limo because it was the right thing to do; a good man would turn himself in; a good man would beg for his job back; a good man would just let this case go and move on. William wasn't a good man, not anymore. He was on a mission."
— From Predetermined Endings by Destiny Booze
Meet the Characters of Predetermined Endings
Join the main characters of Predetermined Endings for their very first interview by Author Destiny Booze! The subject is ambitions and careers as seen by each character at the beginning of their story.
Angelica Chappell (Naturally beautiful and feminine with light brown hair and light blue eyes) – She is a single, young scientist with an exceptionally high IQ. Her greatest achievement is Krytonix, a drug proven to slow the spread of cancer cells. She works for Chappell Pharmaceuticals, owned by her wealthy grandfather, Bruce Chappell.
Bruce Chappell – Revered as a man with resources, influence and power, Bruce pushes Angelica to succeed in his lab as he searches for the cure to cancer.
William Pierce (Italian good looks) – Nicknamed Slick during his time undercover, he is now a rogue FBI Agent, looking for answers and redemption. The trail he follows will lead him to Chappell Pharmaceuticals.
Leigh Lawson (Of both African American and Caucasian heritage, she is attractive and pretty. She has a dark complexion, long black hair and dark eyes.) – Once a troubled girl with a drug addiction, she is now a successful engineer working on a kids' fun zone. She currently resides with her boyfriend, Jason Altarez.
Jason Altarez (A gorgeous guy with dirty blond hair longer than his shoulders, blue eyes, and a large smile.) – He is a popular reporter in Nags Head. He wants to land a story about Chappell Pharmaceuticals, but so far, he has been turned down.
1. What is your definition of success?
Angelica smiled shyly. "Good question. I think..."
Bruce interrupted her. He placed a hand on Angelica's arm to stop her answer. Leaning forward, he said, "Our definition of success may sound like an unattainable ambition, but I believe it will become a reality at Chappell Pharmaceuticals. Our definition of success is finding a cure for cancer."
Jason challenged Bruce and Angelica with a pointed look. "Surprise, surprise. The personal measure of the rich and famous is to become more rich and famous," he said, his voice thick with disdain. "I think I have many different definitions of success. The most important is measured by my home and family. That's what matters most."
Leigh chewed a thumb nail as she waited for her turn to answer. "I guess I agree with Jason."
They all turned toward William where he stood stiffly in the back of the room, his face unreadable. His body stood tall, solid and alert, like a bodyguard. A toothpick stuck in the corner of his mouth. When everyone stared bluntly at him, he gave a small shrug. "Success is simple. It's survival of the fittest. That's all."
2. What is your greatest fear?
A polite smile stayed frozen on Angelica's face, a soft pink highlighting her cheeks. She didn't attempt to answer.
Bruce chuckled humorlessly, and said, "Nothing. Failure is the only thing I fear, and that's not an option." Then added pointedly, "Not even for the rich and famous."
Jason's eyes rolled upward for a beat, then returned. "My biggest fear is losing the people that matter to me," he said softly, his eyes sliding to Leigh.
Looking uncomfortable, and refusing to meet anyone's eyes, Leigh quickly mumbled, "Screwing up. Again."
A silence followed. Again, everyone turned to look at William. The toothpick slid to the other side of his mouth. Otherwise, he didn't move. "The land of the dead," he said. He didn't elaborate.
3. Who has influenced your life the most? Do you have a mentor?
Angelica's smile faded. Her face paled.
What looked like a quick, warning glare was shot at her from Bruce. He said, "Well, I'd like to think I have always provided Angelica with anything she needs."
Jason looked thoughtful for a moment. "There's been many different influences and mentors. My family in particular." He glanced quickly in William's direction. "Friends," he added softly.
Leigh shifted in her chair. Jason took her hand, and she settled back again. "I don't know. There wasn't anyone really. Not until... I guess Emma and Shawn are my answer. They couldn't make it today."
William moved, and the room grew tense in anticipation. He walked to the opposite wall and stood before the group, instead of behind it. He faced Jason. "My parents," he said. His eyes sharpened on Jason. "And friends," he added.
4. What are your dreams now? What do you want to happen in your life?
Angelica glanced at Bruce expectantly.
Bruce beamed. "There are so many things we want at Chappell Pharmaceuticals. We want to keep producing the drugs that save lives. There is so much we have planned."
Jason sighed a sound of disgust at that answer. "Bruce, if you want to talk about Chappell Pharmaceuticals, you should do an interview with me. These questions are meant to be directed at Angelica personally. Not you, not the lab. Why don't you try letting her answer for once?" Then, he visibly reigned it in and said, "Anyway, my dreams are of family. A beautiful wife, kids, happiness..."
Again, Leigh wouldn't look at anyone when she answered. "Happiness is what we all want, I think. It's just too damn bad it seems so hard to find."
For the first time, William looked slightly uncomfortable. He looked to the floor. "Peace. I just want peace."
5. One last question: how do you cope with failure?
No one smiled this time.
Angelica said, "I try again."
Bruce firmly countered, "We don't fail."
"She's right. Try again," Jason said.
Leigh said, "Try something new."
William said, "Correct the problem."
6. Anyone have anything to add? Any advice to pass along?
Angelica quietly cleared her throat and said, "Thank you for the interview."
Bruce nodded his agreement.
Jason said, "My advice to anyone with a dream is to keep at it. Never give up. Persistence is the key."
Leigh said, "I think you have to learn to believe in yourself."
William said nothing.
From the author: I hope you enjoyed getting to know the characters of this book a little better. I had a ton of fun doing this interview! To learn more about PREDETERMINED ENDINGS, visit www.destinybooze.com
Angelica Chappell (Naturally beautiful and feminine with light brown hair and light blue eyes) – She is a single, young scientist with an exceptionally high IQ. Her greatest achievement is Krytonix, a drug proven to slow the spread of cancer cells. She works for Chappell Pharmaceuticals, owned by her wealthy grandfather, Bruce Chappell.
Bruce Chappell – Revered as a man with resources, influence and power, Bruce pushes Angelica to succeed in his lab as he searches for the cure to cancer.
William Pierce (Italian good looks) – Nicknamed Slick during his time undercover, he is now a rogue FBI Agent, looking for answers and redemption. The trail he follows will lead him to Chappell Pharmaceuticals.
Leigh Lawson (Of both African American and Caucasian heritage, she is attractive and pretty. She has a dark complexion, long black hair and dark eyes.) – Once a troubled girl with a drug addiction, she is now a successful engineer working on a kids' fun zone. She currently resides with her boyfriend, Jason Altarez.
Jason Altarez (A gorgeous guy with dirty blond hair longer than his shoulders, blue eyes, and a large smile.) – He is a popular reporter in Nags Head. He wants to land a story about Chappell Pharmaceuticals, but so far, he has been turned down.
1. What is your definition of success?
Angelica smiled shyly. "Good question. I think..."
Bruce interrupted her. He placed a hand on Angelica's arm to stop her answer. Leaning forward, he said, "Our definition of success may sound like an unattainable ambition, but I believe it will become a reality at Chappell Pharmaceuticals. Our definition of success is finding a cure for cancer."
Jason challenged Bruce and Angelica with a pointed look. "Surprise, surprise. The personal measure of the rich and famous is to become more rich and famous," he said, his voice thick with disdain. "I think I have many different definitions of success. The most important is measured by my home and family. That's what matters most."
Leigh chewed a thumb nail as she waited for her turn to answer. "I guess I agree with Jason."
They all turned toward William where he stood stiffly in the back of the room, his face unreadable. His body stood tall, solid and alert, like a bodyguard. A toothpick stuck in the corner of his mouth. When everyone stared bluntly at him, he gave a small shrug. "Success is simple. It's survival of the fittest. That's all."
2. What is your greatest fear?
A polite smile stayed frozen on Angelica's face, a soft pink highlighting her cheeks. She didn't attempt to answer.
Bruce chuckled humorlessly, and said, "Nothing. Failure is the only thing I fear, and that's not an option." Then added pointedly, "Not even for the rich and famous."
Jason's eyes rolled upward for a beat, then returned. "My biggest fear is losing the people that matter to me," he said softly, his eyes sliding to Leigh.
Looking uncomfortable, and refusing to meet anyone's eyes, Leigh quickly mumbled, "Screwing up. Again."
A silence followed. Again, everyone turned to look at William. The toothpick slid to the other side of his mouth. Otherwise, he didn't move. "The land of the dead," he said. He didn't elaborate.
3. Who has influenced your life the most? Do you have a mentor?
Angelica's smile faded. Her face paled.
What looked like a quick, warning glare was shot at her from Bruce. He said, "Well, I'd like to think I have always provided Angelica with anything she needs."
Jason looked thoughtful for a moment. "There's been many different influences and mentors. My family in particular." He glanced quickly in William's direction. "Friends," he added softly.
Leigh shifted in her chair. Jason took her hand, and she settled back again. "I don't know. There wasn't anyone really. Not until... I guess Emma and Shawn are my answer. They couldn't make it today."
William moved, and the room grew tense in anticipation. He walked to the opposite wall and stood before the group, instead of behind it. He faced Jason. "My parents," he said. His eyes sharpened on Jason. "And friends," he added.
4. What are your dreams now? What do you want to happen in your life?
Angelica glanced at Bruce expectantly.
Bruce beamed. "There are so many things we want at Chappell Pharmaceuticals. We want to keep producing the drugs that save lives. There is so much we have planned."
Jason sighed a sound of disgust at that answer. "Bruce, if you want to talk about Chappell Pharmaceuticals, you should do an interview with me. These questions are meant to be directed at Angelica personally. Not you, not the lab. Why don't you try letting her answer for once?" Then, he visibly reigned it in and said, "Anyway, my dreams are of family. A beautiful wife, kids, happiness..."
Again, Leigh wouldn't look at anyone when she answered. "Happiness is what we all want, I think. It's just too damn bad it seems so hard to find."
For the first time, William looked slightly uncomfortable. He looked to the floor. "Peace. I just want peace."
5. One last question: how do you cope with failure?
No one smiled this time.
Angelica said, "I try again."
Bruce firmly countered, "We don't fail."
"She's right. Try again," Jason said.
Leigh said, "Try something new."
William said, "Correct the problem."
6. Anyone have anything to add? Any advice to pass along?
Angelica quietly cleared her throat and said, "Thank you for the interview."
Bruce nodded his agreement.
Jason said, "My advice to anyone with a dream is to keep at it. Never give up. Persistence is the key."
Leigh said, "I think you have to learn to believe in yourself."
William said nothing.
From the author: I hope you enjoyed getting to know the characters of this book a little better. I had a ton of fun doing this interview! To learn more about PREDETERMINED ENDINGS, visit www.destinybooze.com
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Amazon.com
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Whimsical Publications
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Where to Buy in Electronic Format (E-book): https://www.smashwords.com/profile/vi...
My books are available at the following bookstores. If you don't see it on the shelf, be sure to ask for it at the counter, or order online.
Barnes&Noble
www.bn.com
Books-A-Million
www.booksamillion.com
Amazon.com
www.amazon.com
Whimsical Publications
www.whimsicalpublications.com
Where to Buy in Electronic Format (E-book): https://www.smashwords.com/profile/vi...
The Smiling Pains of Novelist Destiny Booze
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