Sarah Ballance's Blog, page 12
June 18, 2014
Laury Falter’s “Messenger” Tour: First Meeting and a #Giveaway
Best-selling author Laury Falter joins us today with MESSENGER – prequel to the incredibly popular Guardian Trilogy – and Eran’s account of the first time he met Magdalene. She’s also giving away the complete three book series, so let’s give her – and Eran – a warm welcome!
Laury Falter: First Meeting
Eran’s account of the first time he met Magdalene
“It was explosive. She fought me, hard…and well,” he paused to chuckle while shaking his head in amazement at the memory. “I’d watched her fight before, but I wasn’t ready for her strength. That part of her originates from her stubbornness. One of my favorite characteristics and it happens to be the core of her personality. It’s what drives her to help others, to put her life on the line for strangers. That’s Magdalene…my Magdalene.”
He smirked.
“I heard about this girl training others like her to survive our enemies. That was impressive. We have powerful enemies.” His gaze fell to the floor in deep reflection. “So when I found her training,” he laughed through his nose, “of course, I was enthralled, completely and absolutely void of any reasonable thought after laying eyes on her. The way her brown hair swung around, catching the wind from her speed, the blaze in her eyes, and those wings. I’d never, and haven’t to this day, seen whiter appendages. She was stunning. So much fury and love was wrapped up in that little frame of hers that I was completely taken from that very second on.”
Slowly, he nodded with certainty. “At that point, I knew. I knew that I’d be her guardian. That beauty, that innocence needed protection, and I was going to see that she got it. Nothing,” he insisted, “would stop me from it. What I didn’t count on was her rejection. I-” One side of his lips lifted in a confident grin. “I’m fairly capable of influencing women. But not her. Magdalene took time, several centuries, in fact. It took countless arguments, coddling of her sensitive ego – don’t tell her I said that – and an incredible amount of patience. The fight, I tell you, is in her blood.”
He drew in a deep breath, as if to let the feeling of her settle over him, while a smile played across his lips.
“I sensed all this on that first sighting. So I kept my distance, looking for a way in to dissolve that stubbornness.” He shrugged. “That was pointless. When we finally did meet, I had a good understanding of who she was, so again I wasn’t surprised by the fight she gave me. What surprised me…,” his eyes turned warm, remembering. “What I’ll never forget, what will stay with me forever, was the passion in her eyes…because it was aimed directly at me.”
MessengerThe Guardian Trilogy
Prequel
Book One
Messenger is the first prequel to the bestselling Guardian Trilogy – the breathtaking romantic saga about a love that has lasted centuries between a messenger and her guardian.
Maggie does not know she is a messenger. She has never met her eternal lover. She has never survived a Fallen One. All this changes when a messenger awakens in the Hall of Records only to die moments later, never to return.
As Maggie sets out to determine why the messengers are suddenly beginning to die, she crosses paths with the infuriatingly appealing Eran and their story begins.
In this riveting account of Maggie’s first life on earth with Eran, the star-crossed lover’s romance transpires amidst treacherous enemies, their friends’ resistance, and their own opposing wills. With the odds against her, can Maggie survive long enough to admit the feelings she has so carefully denied?
Find it @ Amazon | BN | Google Books
Excerpt
I twisted around in search of Eran.
He stood over a small body lying in an odd position. Its head was facing me and I could see Cedric’s face, dirtied with his eyes closed. His back was exposed and the grey appendages were in the midst of sinking into his body.
I looked up to find Eran staring over his shoulder at me, his handsome face contracting into dread.
He spun on his heel and sprinted for me, the fear in him deepening with each step.
As I waited for him, something flowed into my left eye, blinding me. I brought my hand to it and wiped. It was warm and stuck to me. When I pulled away to study whatever it was, a deep crimson color was swathed across my fingers. It collected at the bottom of my hand and dripped, splattering the same color on the dirt at my feet.
Blood…
Lots of it…
I suddenly felt dizzy, weak. I reached for Eran.
He was closer now, having taken to flight, the mist clearing in his wake. Down that narrow grey tunnel he created, at the end of it, something stirred. It left hollowness in my heart.
Cedric wasn’t dead.
He was knocked out and beginning to revive.
With Eran facing me, he had no idea.
I searched for my rapier, the one Oleg’s brother had given me. Somehow it had made it down the hill, landing a few feet away. The silver in its handle contrasted with the yellow grass, peeking at me from between the dead blades.
I went for it, picking it up, stumbling under its weight.
Then the ground came at me as I fell toward it. But before we could meet, I used the thrust of my fall and sent the rapier through the air.
My toes twisted with the force and my body rotated until I could no longer see Eran or Cedric or the rapier. I was facing the hillside by the time my shoulder and hip slammed into the dirt. But I was smiling because the aim was good. The rapier would hit its target. Eran would be safe.
I was smiling for all these reasons, and because I didn’t have the slightest notion how much danger I was actually in.
Find it @ Amazon | BN | Google Books
About the AuthorLaury Falter is a bestselling author of young adult romantic suspense and urban fantasy. She has three series out: the Guardian Trilogy, the Residue Series, and the Apocalypse Chronicles.
Facebook page | Goodreads page
Giveaway
Click here to enter to win a complete set of all three ebooks in the bestselling Guardian Trilogy.
A #Review of Elaina Lee’s “Written in Blood” (Romantic #Suspense) – Comment for a #FreeRead
I first posted this review back in 2011 and I’m thrilled to re-run it with the re-release of WRITTEN IN BLOOD, now with EsKape Press. Check it out, then let me know what you think…there’s a free read in it for you! But first, here’s the blurb.
Written in BloodWinner of the 2011 Golden Rose Award for Best Romantic Suspense
Lyndi Crisdean is assigned one of the hardest cases in her career as a defense attorney. A serial murder case. Investigating is Alek Trevian, the lead investigator for the district attorney. A handsome and supremely dangerous man. Lyndi finds herself in over her head when she chooses desire for Alek over common sense. If they’re caught, Lyndi will lose everything she’s worked for. Circumstances beyond her control pull her toward Alek, for he turns out to be the only one who can help when threats start to mount against her.
Lyndi may be the key Alek needs to bring down a murderous cult running loose in the city. When her beach house is broken into and a man begins to stalk Lyndi, Alek can’t help but reason Lyndi may be next on the cult’s hit list. The question is, will he discover the identity of the cult, keep her safe, and still win the case against the serial killer she’s defending, all while losing a battle against the strong, untamable desire she alone ignites within him?
Find for just 99c @ Barnes & Noble | Amazon | iTunes
Review
There are some places thighs just shouldn’t tingle, and the parking lot of a church – during Sunday school, no less – is one of them. (In my defense, I was stuck out there with a sleeping baby who was too sick to go to the nursery.) But at any rate, there I sat, almost panting with the heat generated between the two main characters in Elaina Lee’s WRITTEN IN BLOOD, absolutely unable to put it down. In a word: YUM.
As a reader, I’ve found most characters edge into one side of a mold or another – one sniff, and it’s an easy typecast … from there, I know what to expect. Heroine Lyndi Crisdean would have none of that. From our earliest meeting, I found her to be about as real as any character I’ve ever met. Her demons are realistic ones, and they play across the page with such natural ease that I not only sympathize with her actions, but find myself making those decisions right along with her. This is a fabulous place to leave the reader, right up until the point where Alek appears on the page.
Then it’s just plain torture.
Lyndi’s first encounter with her adversary Alek Trevian is the start of the kind of sexual tension that causes earthquakes. Even before the reader learns his name, there’s a tangible hint of danger surrounding him; needless to say, once they are properly acquainted the air throbs with forbidden promise . As a reader, you’re quivering, craving, begging for these two to get together, knowing you’re going to feel the release right along with them. But Ms. Lee is deliciously merciless in that sense, leaving that heat to filtrate the pages until you’re having to wipe the fog off the screen just to get to the next scene. And when Lyndi and Alek finally give in, they’re not the only ones panting at the prospect. The action is intensely erotic, but in a true-to-the-story kind of way. There’s no poetry, no flowers. Just raw, gripping need with an unforgettable onslaught. (I’m totally fantasizing about said onslaught, by the way. YUM again.)
Mouth-watering as it is, the sexual tension isn’t the only way WRITTEN IN BLOOD keeps the reader turning pages. Alek’s closet is stocked with a few unruly skeletons, and the premise of danger lurks just out of focus. As the bits and pieces fall away, the hero’s truth is in many ways more intriguing than the mystery. For Lyndi, the erratic actions of a man suspected of murder turn personal, but the answers are as clear as mud splattered over the twists and turns of this fabulous ride.
Where Ms. Lee really won me over, however, was in the details. The scratch of fingers on wool, the squeak of leather … discomfort, even, where pleasure made an easy out – these nuances take the story to the third dimension. And when the third dimension means a heart-pounding, breathless experience paired with a deep, exquisite aching that leaves you lost in need right along with the characters, it’s a most excellent place to be.
Even in the church parking lot.
Find for just 99c @ Barnes & Noble | Amazon | iTunes
Giveaway – Free Reads for Everyone!
Elaina is offering not one but TWO free reads. Check out FIRST KISS and A VERY SOUTHERN AFFAIR, then let her know which one you can’t live without. Leave your comment here with your email address and Elaina will be in touch shortly. In the meantime, please tell your friends and your social media accounts all about this amazing book!
June 15, 2014
$50 Book Blast #Giveaway: The Hunt for Tomorrow – An Online Scavenger Hunt
22 AUTHORS. 3 DYSTOPIAN BOXED SETS. 1 MASSIVE EVENT.
A virtual scavenger hunt through twenty-two fictional dystopias.
Friday, July 18 at 6:00pm (EST) – Sunday, July 20 at 6:00pm (EST).
Join THE HUNT FOR TOMORROW, an on-line scavenger hunt, and embark on a virtual odyssey through twenty-two dystopian futures. Become an intrepid scavenger and solve clues at each of the dystopian author stops as you navigate your way to the finish line where you’ll be entered into a random draw for the Grand Prize. For each correct answer collected along the way you’ll get an additional chance to win. During The Hunt, the authors will offer up their own exclusive material, sneak peeks, contests, and giveaways at their individual stops on The Hunt, giving all scavengers multiple chances to win bonus prizes.
The twenty-two participating indie authors include best-selling, award-winning and emerging writers from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom who all have books included in three dystopian boxed sets – - What Tomorrow May Bring,A Taste Of Tomorrow, and Shattered Worlds.
In a unique collaboration of story-telling, nineteen of the authors will write a progressive short story over nineteen days following The Hunt. The Grand Prize Winner of The Hunt For Tomorrow will name characters and contribute the title for this dystopian world, and all participants in The Hunt will receive an advance copy of the story for an exclusive period before it is made available as a free download. The Grand Prize also includes a signed copy of books included in the boxed sets, an ebook of all the boxed sets, and the first copy of this one-of-a-kind progressive story.
THE HUNT FOR TOMORROWbegins at http://huntfortomorrow.blogspot.com on Friday, July 18 at 6:00pm(EST)and ends on Sunday, July 20 at 6:00pm (EST).The Hunt is on for one weekend only, although there is no time-limit for completing the course. The Hunt is open to scavengers around the world; there is no cost to enter and one grand prize winner will be selected at random from all eligible entries.
Go to THE HUNT FOR TOMORROW for details and the full list of participating authors.
JOIN THE HUNT. JULY 18-20 .
Blast Giveaway
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 7/20/14 - Click here to enter the $50 Rafflecopter giveaway
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the publisher. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
June 11, 2014
Christine Warner’s “Secret Love” (Sweet Fifties Series) #historicalromance
Secret LoveSaranac, Michigan
March 1955
Lizzie Tarleton has always done things her own way—including the time at the tender age of thirteen when she confessed to her brother’s best friend she loved him. But now she’s a new teacher at the local high school, and independent enough to know that you can’t force love. She’ll find love when the time is right—even though her parents are adamant the time is now. The only downfall to her idyllic life is the fact that her childhood crush—who broke her heart—is now her boss. If only she could stop daydreaming about him.
Wayne Whitmore grew up on the wrong side of the tracks and worked hard to get where he’s at in life. Even though he enjoys being principal at the small town high school, he dreams of coaching baseball. When his best friend asks him to watch over his little sister at her new job at Wayne’s school, he agrees. What he doesn’t count on is how she’s grown from the pig tailed kid who told him she loved him, to the woman who breaks his concentration with her beauty and smile. Unable to get over his fascination, and afraid he’ll ruin his friend’s trust, Wayne applies for his dream job—one that will take him far away.
One night while decorating the school gymnasium for an upcoming sock hop, Lizzie and Wayne find themselves alone. They share a kiss and Lizzie realizes her childhood crush for Wayne has never died. Wayne decides he doesn’t want to let Lizzie get away.
Can they come to terms with their secret love and then overcome the other secrets they are hiding in order to get what they each want? Or is their timing for love still off?
Only 99c @ Amazon and Barnes & Noble
EXCERPT:
She blinked away the heat of tears forming at the back of her eyes. Their conversation had grown too serious. She needed to lighten things up a bit. “Remember when we used to play ‘What if?’”
He laughed. “What if Lizzie wore a dress?”
“Either she was going to church, or her mom was having a ladies’ social.” Lizzie giggled. “Ricky hated that game.”
“He’d get so mad when you’d start it.” He made the final cut on a small snowflake and added it to the pile before him.
“What if Wayne couldn’t throw his famous curve ball?”
“The school trophy case would be one trophy short. What if Lizzie wasn’t teaching here?”
She pouted. “She’d be sad. I have no idea what I’d be doing if I hadn’t found a job here. What does Lizzie have to do to show Wayne she thanks him?” She winked, enjoying their fun.
He cleared his throat. “What if Wayne said Lizzie owed him a kiss?”
Her belly trembled. What if?
“What if he stole one?” His voice lowered and he leaned in.
“Why don’t you find out?” she whispered.
Only 99c @ Amazon and Barnes & Noble
June 10, 2014
$50 #Giveaway: Blackwood Crossing by MK McClintock #historicalromance
Blackwood Crossing
If you had to make a choice, would it be loyalty or love?
Torn between loyalty to her family and refusal to marry a laird she despises, Rhona Davidson accepts a dangerous proposal from a man she knows only as Blackwood.
Leaving behind a life of leisure, Charles Blackwood bravely serves his country with honor and the skill of a trained British agent. When his newest case returns him to the wild Highlands of Scotland, he is faced with a choice between killing a man and saving the only woman he has ever loved.
Charles and Rhona join their lives, only to discover that their choices will result in bloodshed, unless they can uncover a truth long buried, deep in the Highland soil.
Praise for Blackwood Crossing
“MK McClintock has spun an enchanting tale deeply entrenched in the lands of Scotland and England that will leave you riveted to your chair until you turn the last page.”
- Donna McBroom-Theriot, mylifeonstoryatatime.com
“This is a wonderful book with suspense to keep me on the edge of my seat and surprises to keep me guessing . . . a feisty heroine and a strong, gentle hero . . . My poetic soul is fed by the beautiful descriptions of nature.” – Verna Mitchell, author of Somewhere Beyond the Blue
“Ms. McClintock has written another whirlwind romance set in a historical world. I loved returning to a world with such a mesmerizing atmosphere, and I am more than eager to read Devon’s romantic story in the next British Agent Novel.” – R. Harness, Amazon reviewer
“Her writing is always top notch . . . In BLACKWOOD CROSSING, her storytelling flows with a clear plot and strong characters.” – L. Townsend, Amazon reviewer
Amazon Kindle * Amazon Print * B&N NOOK * Kobo * AllRomance
Excerpt
Charles held the silver watch in his palm, watching the seconds and minutes pass. Devon would arrive to relieve him in half an hour. Until then, his thoughts would continue to be plagued with images of Rhona in the room behind him. If she had met him, Charles Blackwood, Viscount and British agent, and not Charles Pearce, the common man who saved her life a little more than two years ago, would they have found a way to stay together?
Keeping their identities secret was one of the reasons why both he and Tristan had quit the agency. Had the last assignment, which pulled them back into service, been for anyone other than a friend, they would have remained retired or at least tried to. That matter was easily solved, but then another case arose, and then another, until they found themselves once again at the top of the agency’s assignment list. They had managed for nearly two years to avoid accepting assignments, and Charles appreciated that Tristan was here for him.
He also knew there wouldn’t be another woman in his lifetime, and he was prepared to make his life a solitary one, but he never imagined escorting the only woman he had ever loved to another man. Charles recalled Rhona promising him that one day he would regret his choice to leave her behind.
“My father will never let me marry a commoner, but I will run away with you.” Rhona pressed her gloved hand against Charles’s face.
Charles turned his face inward and kissed her palm. “Nothing would please me more, but I can’t stay.”
Rhona pulled away. “I don’t understand.”
Charles ignored the heavy ache in his chest. “As you said, I’m a commoner, and England is home. It’s where my work is.”
“Then work here.”
“Too many are leaving Scotland. You know it’s not possible.”
Rhona stood from the bench they’d been sharing inside the walled garden, now left dormant with the heart of winter settling in. “It would be possible if it’s what you truly wanted.”
“Rhona, it’s not a simple thing for me to stay.”
“When do you leave?”
Charles stood beside her and reached out, but she backed away. His hand dropped to his side. “I have to leave in the morning.”
“One day, Charles, you will regret this choice.” Rhona walked quickly, frost and leaves crunching under each step as she moved farther away.
“I already do.” Charles’s whisper was carried away with the wind.
There’s also another giveaway taking place on Goodreads. Blackwood Crossing Goodreads Giveaway
Author MK McClintock
MK McClintock is an author, entrepreneur, and photographer. She enjoys spending hours walking along rivers or over mountains, loves the Scottish Highlands, and likes to put her creative energy to use in the kitchen. She dreams of a time when life was simpler, the land rougher, and the journey more rewarding. With her heart deeply rooted in the past and her mind always on adventure, McClintock lives and writes in Montana.
Goodreads * Facebook * Twitter
Pinterest * YouTube * Website * Blog
Blast Giveaway
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 6/30/14 - Click here to enter the Rafflecopter giveaway
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
June 9, 2014
Top Ten Best-Ever Healthy Weight-Loss Tips ($25 #Giveaway)
Pump Up Your Book is pleased to bring you Elle Eriksson’s Top Ten Best-Ever Healthy Weight-Loss Tips book blast June 2-13!
Title: Top Ten Best-Ever Healthy Weight-Loss Tips
Author: Elle Eriksson, RHN
Publisher: iUniverse
Pages: 122
Genre: Health and Wellness
Format: Kindle
Purchase at AMAZON
We all know that being slim does not always mean being healthy. In Top Ten Best-Ever Healthy Weight-Loss Tips, Elle Eriksson offers you sensible, effective ways to shed those unwanted pounds while improving overall health and wellbeing.
Blending personal wisdom with professional training and experience, Elle shares her insight and provides strategies for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Also included in these top ten tips is “a little food for thought” as the author explores some of today’s concerns around food quality and production.
With a variety of options for all body types, Elle guides you toward successful weight loss, using a whole-foods diet and realistic steps to attaining an active, balanced lifestyle. This easy-to-use guide includes a 21-Day Food/Weight/Fitness Journal along with real-life weight-loss success stories.
Elle Eriksson, RHN, is a registered holistic nutritionist, nutritional consultant, urban gardener, and cooking instructor. In her passionate concern for both the planet and animal welfare, she incorporates these issues into her down-to-earth approach to food, health, and weight loss. Elle lives with her family in Vancouver, British Columbia.
Elle is giving away a $25 Amazon Gift Card!
Terms & Conditions:
By entering the giveaway, you are confirming you are at least 18 years old.
One winner will be chosen via Rafflecopter to receive one $25 Amazon Gift Certificate or Paypal Cash.
This giveaway begins June 2 and ends on June 14.
Winners will be contacted via email on Monday, June 16.
Winner has 48 hours to reply.
Good luck everyone!
ENTER TO WIN!
June 8, 2014
New Prohibition Era Romance: “Romancing the Rumrunner” by Michelle McLean (Entangled Scandalous)
NEW from bestselling author Michelle McLean and Entangled Scandalous!
Romancing the Rumrunner
Prohibition Era Chicago
She’s worked too hard to be run out of town…
Jessica Harlan spends her nights as The Phoenix, the owner of the most popular speakeasy in town. Her days are spent running her respectable butcher shop and dodging prohibition agents and rival club owners who all want to put her out of business.
He’s worked too hard to let his heart get in the way…
When the opportunity arises to go undercover for the Feds to catch The Phoenix, Gumshoe Anthony Solomon jumps on it. But he never suspected the notorious rumrunner would be a dame – or that he’d be so drawn to the feisty little minx.
They play a dangerous game of cat and mouse, knowing they can’t trust the other, but unable to walk away. While their hearts dodge the crossfire, the mobsters raise the stakes, and even The Phoenix may not rise again.
Title: Romancing the Rumrunner
Author: Michelle McLean
Genre: Historical Romance
Length: 253 pages
Release Date: June 9, 2014
ISBN: 978-1-62266-732-1
Imprint: Scandalous
June 6, 2014
#Giveaway: #Kindle Fire HDX or $229 Amazon #giftcard or $229 Paypal #cashgiveaway (Winner’s Choice)
Enter to win 1 of 2 great prizes. Winner’s choice of a Kindle Fire HDX or $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 Paypal Cash!
The first prize is available via the rafflecopter below. The 2nd is available only to bloggers who post about this giveaway. You can find info on how to enter the 2nd giveaway in the rafflecopter.
Win a Kindle Fire HDX, Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash ($229 value)
All New Kindle Fire HDX 7″ Giveaway
The winner will have the option of receiving a 7″ Kindle Fire HDX (US Only – $229 Value)
Or $229 Amazon.com Gift Card (International)
Or $229 in Paypal Cash (International)
June Sponsors
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Author Claudia Burgoa
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Where The Broken Lie by Derek Rempfer
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YA Author – Ellisa Barr
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Fic Central
Author Barbara Silkstone
Aubrey Wynne: Historical Romance
Author Georgina Young-Ellis
Sign up to sponsor the next Kindle Giveaway here:
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Giveaway Details
1 winner will receive their choice of an all new Kindle Fire 7″ HDX (US Only – $229 value), $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 in Paypal Cash (International).
There is a second separate giveaway for bloggers who post this giveaway on their blog. See details in the rafflecopter on how to enter to win the 2nd Kindle Fire HDX 7″, $229 Amazon Gift Card or $229 in Paypal Cash.
Ends 7/1/14 - CLICK HERE TO ENTER via Rafflecopter
Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader and sponsored by the participating authors & bloggers. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.
May 28, 2014
JoAnne Myers, Author of “Murder Most Foul,” on Writing Mystery
Today I am delighted to introduce author JoAnne Myers, who is here to talk about one of my favorite genres: mystery. Whether you’re an author who wants to deepen your understanding of the genre or a reader who wants a behind the scenes glimpse, you’re bound to enjoy this look at what goes into writing a killer whodunit.
JoAnne Myers: Writing MysteryBefore writing a word, take some time to jot down key story points. As you’re writing, the story will want to take on a life of its own. Having a handy reference of key points will help keep your story on track and you from pulling your hair out. A list of key points is also helpful when outlining the story plot. You may very well find that the story begins to unfold as you’re writing down the key points. If this happens…let it! Write down any ideas or details that come to you, they’ll come in handy later.
Some key points to consider are; what is the mystery? This is the underlying theme to the entire story so be as in-depth as possible (has there been a murder or a theft or a kidnapping? If so, how and where was it committed?).
Hunt for the culprit. Every good story has at least one antagonist, but what steps must the hero or heroine take to find him/her? How will the villain evade the hero? How is the mystery solved? In mystery writing there are a lot of twists and turns. Write down your initial thoughts for plot twists, red herrings to throw the readers off the trail of the true villain, and of course the final stages of how the good guy will prevail…or does he? You need to decide whether or not the hero or the villain wins in the end. Many hero’s die trying to solve their case. Many are involved in physical altercations with other characters. You must decide how many altercations, the number of characters involved, and what weapons if any are used. It is not a good idea to only engage your characters with fist fighting. Throw in some knives, chains, falling from windows, or my favorite, a poisoning, and other nasty assaults.
Every great story has well rounded characters. We read fiction because we want to be entertained and develop a connection with the characters. Outlining items such as personality traits, physical features, and quirks can help bring your characters to life; a speech impediment, or limp, or a nervous twitch.
For the Protagonist, decide the name, age, where does he/she live, does he/she have a family or pets, what is their driving goal for taking on this particular case? Is the hero a police officer, a person sworn to honesty, pride, and valor. Or is the good guy a private detective being paid to find a certain someone. Or your main character could be a parent or sibling searching for a missing loved one.
For the Antagonist, decide the name, age, where does he/she live, is there an underlying reason for being the antagonist? Perhaps this person is a career criminal. On the other hand, maybe he/she is a good person that suffered an unjust and turned to crime out of bitterness and despair.
Then you have your support characters, who are the color of the story. They provide depth to the story whether good or bad. A support character could be as simple as a loud mouth hot dog vendor standing on a street corner or as in-depth as the villain’s partner in crime. In writing a mystery story, support characters can take on a life of their own with the reader, so make them interesting. Just because they are labeled support characters does not mean they are any less important than the main characters.
Next is the location of the story. When and where is the story set? These two key elements are what bring your story to life. Mystery story writing is a broad genre and could be set in any time period and in any place. When working with actual locations it is a good idea to do research on the location first. Readers want to feel as though they are there with the characters, so being able to accurately describe a location is vital. Time periods are no exception. If the story is set in 1940′s New Orleans, the reader will want to see their surroundings, not just be told the story is taking place in a speakeasy or church. Be descriptive!
A mystery story is not a story without a solid well thought out plot. Some things to consider when developing the story plot: What is the driving force of the mystery? To solve a murder, or rescue a kidnap victim? What does the villain do to thwart the hero? Does the villain get his goons on the hero? Is the hero being set up by the villain and now he is being hunted by police. What other obstacles get in the way of solving the mystery?
One of the most important elements of writing a mystery story is suspense. Giving away too much too soon will bore the reader. It is best if the suspense is sprinkled throughout the story; bring the mystery to light within the first few chapters, then as the story progresses add a clue here and there without revealing the outcome until the final chapter. Do not be afraid to add a “red herring” or false clue, within the stories context. Readers love nothing better than to think they have everything figured out only to find in the end they were mistaken the entire time.
The final few chapters of the story should hold the climax of the conflict and resolution between the hero and villain, including how all of the clues scattered throughout the story cumulatively solves the mystery. A good conclusion gives the reader a sense of closure in finding out how the hero solved the mystery. Remember that not all mysteries have to be completely solved or have a “happy” ending. If you are writing a series of stories, the villain may get away at the end of story #1 with the hero using clues from story #1 to track down the villain in story #2. In mystery story writing, the possibilities are only limited by your imagination.
Murder Most FoulWhen two dismembered torsos wash up on the banks of the local river in the small industrial town of Pleasant Valley, residents are horrified. Between contradicting statements, police ineptitude, lust, lies, manipulation, incest, the motorcycle gang The Devil’s Disciples, crooked cops, and a botched crime scene, everyone becomes a suspect.
The young beautiful Jackie Reeves, a registered nurse, believes the killer is a man from her past. She contacts the dangerously handsome FBI Agent Walker Harmon. An arrest is made, but Harmon and Jackie believe an innocent man is being railroaded by local cops. How far will these lover’s go to solve this heinous crime before anymore killings. Determined to find the truth, Agent Harmon and Jackie are forced to run a gauntlet of deep trouble and turmoil, which marks them for death.
Excerpt
Undaunted and short on patience, the agent stared at the fat jerk sitting before him gleefully puffing on a cigar, most likely homegrown in Detroit, Michigan, not Cuba. “I attend the Kingdom Hall on occasion,” he said.
“Well most of us like Malloy. He’s helped rid this town of criminals. He was a volunteer firefighter, and his wife cooks for the annual policeman’s ball. Hell, Malloy even coached volleyball for the kids when he wuz younger. Now a person who does that ain’t all bad,” the chief declared.
Barstow’s sudden burst of energy to safeguard his fishy friend, picqued Harmon’s interest. What had Malloy done? He decided he wasn’t leaving until he had the full, sordid story.
“So you and Malloy are pals, and he did something he couldn’t get out of, and you tried to salvage his job, but the big shots said, ‘No!’ Is that how it went?” Harmon asked.
“Yeah, Malloy did somethin’ real stupid.”
“I’m listening,” Harmon replied.
“The rumors of Malloy allowin’ his friends and family members to snoop through the cornfield, and photograph the area after the victims were removed, was true. Everyone is curious about this crime. Nothin’ this big ever happened in this town before, and the pictures were for souvenirs, you know. Then after the limbs were removed, he brought in a back hoe, and tore up the whole damned crime scene, involving Thomas.” The chief growled in disgust.
“Yeah, that was stupid,” Harmon said. “So Malloy’s unethical conduct was the reason the disciplinary board was in session?”
“Yep, they made their decision this mornin’,” the chief said. “He’s out. There was nothin’ I could do for him.”
“You’d think a cop with over twenty years’ experience would demonstrate better reasoning then destroy evidence. Unless he’s covering his own tracks,” Harmon said realizing what he was implying. “Do you believe Malloy committed the murders?”
“Now, I didn’t say that. A lot of officers were on this case, so a lot of mistakes happened. We never dealt with this type crime before. Many might have made the same mistakes Malloy did.”
Dismissing the chief’s excuses for Malloy’s incompetence, Harmon demanded an answer. He was tired of being duped by the local cops and wanted the truth, and wanted it now. Standing and placing both palms on the chief’s shiny desk, the agent looked the chief square in his squinty brown eyes and said, “Cough it up, Chief! There’s more to it then that. If there were numerous mistakes made by officers other then Malloy, why was he the only one kicked off the force? Now spit it out! What the hell did Malloy do?”
“All right, all right!” the chief whined, “Malloy screwed the dead girl three weeks before she was killed–and got caught!”
The Agent was speechless. Walking to the window overlooking Main Street, he stared vacantly. Hadn’t one of our witnesses suggested something like that? But–with the crisp wind howling, the citizens dining in the local cafés, others window shopping for Christmas or starting their shift at the town’s businesses–this seems unreal. How can such a seemingly sweet country town be so full of bad apples, savage murders, police misconduct and corruption, evidence tampering? This town is certainly no Mayberry, thought Harmon.
Review for “Murder Most Foul”
BTS Magazine-December 2013 Issue 17- Reviewer Marie Haney
Review: 5***** The author recreates the scenes with dramatic fashion, adding characters that are so realistic; it feels like you’re living the moment right along with them. She is a wonderful storyteller, paying attention to every intricate detail and leaving you hanging onto every word. If you’re a fan of crime thrillers, this book will definitely not disappoint!
About JoAnne MyersI have been a long-time resident of southeastern Ohio, and worked in the blue-collar industry most of my life. Besides having several novels under my belt, I canvas paints.
When not busy with hobbies or working outside the home, I spend time with relatives, my dog Jasmine, and volunteer my time within the community. I am a member of the International Women’s Writing Guild, Savvy Authors, Coffee Time Romance, Paranormal Romance Guild, True Romance Studios, National Writers Association, the Hocking Hill’s Arts and Craftsmen Association, The Hocking County Historical Society and Museum, and the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center. I believe in family values and following your dreams. My original canvas paintings, can be found at: booksandpaintingsbyjoanne.com
Other books by JoAnne Myers
“WICKED INTENTIONS” a paranormal/mystery anthology
“LOVES’, MYTHS’ AND MONSTERS’,” a fantasy anthology
“THE CRIME OF THE CENTURY,” a biography true-crime
“POEMS ABOUT LIFE, LOVE, AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN”
Other books soon available:
“TWISTED LOVE,” a true-crime anthology
“FLAGITIOUS,” a crime/mystery novella collection
Contact
Email: joannetucker98@yahoo.com
Buy Links
May 27, 2014
Collette Cameron’s “The Earl’s Enticement” and a $20 #Giveaway
Release Date: May 28
Genre: Historical Romance
Publisher: Soul Mate Publishing
Hosted By: Book Promotions by Literary Nook
The Earl’s Enticement Cover Blurb:
She won’t be tamed.
A fiery, unconventional Scot, Adaira Ferguson wears breeches, swears, and has no more desire to marry than she does to follow society’s dictates of appropriate behavior. She trusts no man with the secret she desperately protects.
He can’t forget.
Haunted by his past, Roark, The Earl of Clarendon, rigidly adheres to propriety, holding himself and those around him to the highest standards, no matter the cost. Betrayed once, he’s guarded and leery of all women.
Mistaking Roark for a known spy, Adaira imprisons him. Infuriated, he vows vengeance. Realizing her error, she’s appalled and releases him, but he’s not satisfied with his freedom. Roark is determined to transform Adaira from an ill-mannered hoyden to a lady of refinement.
He succeeds only to discover, he preferred the free-spirited Scottish lass who first captured his heart.
Find it @ Amazon
The Earl’s Enticement Summary:
Adaira Ferguson is a fiery, unconventional Scots. Though gently-born and the sister of a viscount who’s also a laird, she wears breeches, swears, raises horses, and at almost twenty, has no more desire to marry than she does to follow society’s dictates of appropriate behavior. She trusts no man with the secret she desperately protects.
Abused as a child, Roark Marquardt, The Earl of Clarendon, is haunted by the scars on his back and his father’s cruelty. That, along with his brother’s traitorous activities and his dead wife’s infidelities, has turned Roark into a man who rigidly adheres to propriety, holding himself and those around him to the highest decorum standards. Betrayed once, he’s guarded and leery of all women.
Mistaking Roark for his brother, a known spy, Adaira locks him in her keep’s dungeon. Infuriated he’s been imprisoned, Roark vows vengeance. Once she realizes her error and releases him, he sets about transforming Adaira from an ill-mannered hoyden to a lady of refinement. He succeeds only to discover, he prefers the free-spirited Scottish lass who first captured his heart.
Find it @ Amazon
Excerpt
Crofter Cottage
Marquardt advanced a few more inches. His face glistened with a fine sheen of sweat. “I’ll assume you knew there were horses available as well.”
After a paralyzing moment when she couldn’t exhale due to the fear hammering against her ribs, she released a measured breath and raised her chin in defiance.
“Which leads me to question why you deliberately deceived me?” His piercing indigo eyes skimmed her from hair to boots, lingering for a deliberate moment on her hips and chest before he smirked and lifted his disinterested glacial gaze to meet hers once more.
Adaira narrowed her eyes.
Infuriating man.
He found her lacking in feminine assets, yet he still indulged in an ogle? She cast a swift glance beyond him. Brayan must have decided he wanted no part in the abduction. Even she was having second thoughts.
What of Yvette then? No, this must be done.
“Deliberately?” She firmed her mouth, while raising the whip and settling her other hand around the sheath.
Her scheme would still work. It would be more difficult to carry off though. Truth to tell, a great deal more difficult, but she was confident she could do it.
Marquardt’s mouth twisted. “The blame is partially mine. It’s obvious you’re a skinny female, though your attire suggests otherwise. No doubt you’re a hoyden to boot.”
Arrogant toad.
Everything he said was true, so why did his words rankle? Mayhap it was his perfectly enunciated speech delivered in tones dripping with censure. She curled her lips. She was about to give him good cause for further disapproval.
Adaira raised the crop and settled into a defensive stance. “I care even less about your opinion of me, than I do the horse shite I stepped in earlier.”
His dark brows swooped together. He glanced downward, kicking the toe of his boot into the ground while shaking his head. “And she swears . . . like a common harlot,” he muttered. “A lack of Godly discipline and moral upbringing, to be sure.”
She scowled at him. “Do you do that often, talk to yourself?”
Wasn’t that a sign of madness? Ewan had hinted Marquardt was unhinged.
He waved his hand languidly at a fly buzzing near his face. “Your parents failed to instill in you the qualities a lady of gentle-breeding ought to possess.”
She pointed the crop at him. “Och, you pompous, Sassenach cur! I don’t care a trow’s hairy bum what you think of me, but you’ll not speak poorly of my parents.”
He swatted at the insect again. Even that was done with controlled precision. One crisp wave right. Another crisp wave left.
Adaira lunged and jabbed the whip in his direction, then danced a few steps backwards. “You dare to speak to me of appropriate behavior?” She laughed. “You? A known spy?”
His pupils dilated in surprise. Or was it irritation?
Thrust. Retreat.
“You who tried to attack Yvette and abduct her?”
Jab, jab. Retreat. The last lunge brushed his arm.
Instantly Marquardt’s demeanor changed. His face hardened into chiseled lines, his body went rigid, and his eyes narrowed to furious slits. “I’ve had enough of your confounded whip and your false accusations.”
Author Bio
Award winning, Amazon best-selling, and multi-published historical romance author, Collette Cameron, has a BS in Liberal Studies and a Master’s in Teaching. A Pacific Northwest Native, Collette’s been married for thirty years, has three amazing adult children, and five dachshunds. Collette loves a good joke, inspirational quotes, flowers, the beach, trivia, birds, shabby chic, and Cadbury Chocolate. You’ll always find dogs, birds, quirky—sometimes naughty—humor, and a dash of inspiration in her novels. Her motto for life? You can’t have too much chocolate, too many hugs, or too many flowers. She’s thinking about adding shoes to that list.
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