Susan Buchanan's Blog, page 26
October 8, 2012
UNVEILED! The Dating Game cover
Well, true to my promise, here is the first in the start of a series of blog posts, in the run up to the launch of The Dating Game on 2nd November.
As you may recall, I had the Sign of the Times cover re-done a few months ago, by wonderful designer, Brad Covey. He impressed me so much, I asked him to do my future covers. So, here for your delectation is the final cover for The Dating Game
So, there you have it, but how did we get here? Let's look at the previous versions. I am 'stealing' the idea of showing readers the previous versions, from a very good friend of mine, fellow author Tracie Banister, who did this for the launch of her latest novel, In Need of Therapy.
I suppose you could look at this as a spot the difference game!
This is what it looked like before -
but I decided in retrospect, that I preferred it with just the Happy Ever After dating agency poster and without the side awning.
Before that we had:-
but I thought my name was too close to the title and would be lost when viewed on Amazon.
Prior to that we played around with the following:-
But I wasn't keen on the door, although I could see the motivation behind it. A few other little tweaks took us to the next version.And that's how the cover was made and I love it! I hope you do, too. My thanks go to Brad Covey, my wonderful designer. He has already been commissioned for my next cover, for my third book, which will be out hopefully in March 2013. You can check out Brad's other designs at www.bradcovey.com (oh, and did I mention, he's also a writer? Very talented boy!)and you can follow him on Twitter at @bradcovey Tune in on Wednesday, when I will be introducing you to some stars and famous people mentioned in The Dating Game
As you may recall, I had the Sign of the Times cover re-done a few months ago, by wonderful designer, Brad Covey. He impressed me so much, I asked him to do my future covers. So, here for your delectation is the final cover for The Dating Game
So, there you have it, but how did we get here? Let's look at the previous versions. I am 'stealing' the idea of showing readers the previous versions, from a very good friend of mine, fellow author Tracie Banister, who did this for the launch of her latest novel, In Need of Therapy.
I suppose you could look at this as a spot the difference game!
This is what it looked like before -
but I decided in retrospect, that I preferred it with just the Happy Ever After dating agency poster and without the side awning.
Before that we had:-
but I thought my name was too close to the title and would be lost when viewed on Amazon.
Prior to that we played around with the following:-
But I wasn't keen on the door, although I could see the motivation behind it. A few other little tweaks took us to the next version.And that's how the cover was made and I love it! I hope you do, too. My thanks go to Brad Covey, my wonderful designer. He has already been commissioned for my next cover, for my third book, which will be out hopefully in March 2013. You can check out Brad's other designs at www.bradcovey.com (oh, and did I mention, he's also a writer? Very talented boy!)and you can follow him on Twitter at @bradcovey Tune in on Wednesday, when I will be introducing you to some stars and famous people mentioned in The Dating Game
October 7, 2012
Six Sentence Sunday - 07/10/2012
That's right - it's Sunday and that means a return to Six Sentence Sunday, after a few weeks break from it.
So, here's this week's six from Sign of the Times - enjoy!
As the siren faded, the traffic gradually started to move again."Thank God,” she thought in relief. But as she approached the crux of the hold up, she felt uneasy. Something wasn’t right. Slamming on the brakes, she got out, oblivious to the car horns honking behind her. A scream tore from her throat.
You can see the other Six Sentence Sunday participants at www.sixsunday.com (after 2pm UK time and 9am EST)
and you can buy Sign of the Times at the following links:-
http://amzn.to/GKqZGd (UK) & http://amzn.to/IYN0Fc (US & other .com sites)
Tune in tomorrow where I will finally reveal the cover for my new novel, The Dating Game! Don't miss it!
Happy Sunday everyone! Sooz
So, here's this week's six from Sign of the Times - enjoy!
As the siren faded, the traffic gradually started to move again."Thank God,” she thought in relief. But as she approached the crux of the hold up, she felt uneasy. Something wasn’t right. Slamming on the brakes, she got out, oblivious to the car horns honking behind her. A scream tore from her throat.
You can see the other Six Sentence Sunday participants at www.sixsunday.com (after 2pm UK time and 9am EST)
and you can buy Sign of the Times at the following links:-
http://amzn.to/GKqZGd (UK) & http://amzn.to/IYN0Fc (US & other .com sites)
Tune in tomorrow where I will finally reveal the cover for my new novel, The Dating Game! Don't miss it!
Happy Sunday everyone! Sooz
October 5, 2012
Review of The Violin Man's Legacy by Seumas Gallacher
Yep, it's Friday and we are back to our standard day for reviews - apologies for any confusion the last few weeks, but there has been a lot going on. So, here's my review for The Violin Man's Legacy, which I know has had at least 16,000 paid downloads. Enjoy!
Thriller with bloody twists and turns as ruthless killers meet their match in a former SAS hit squad.
Jack Calder is an ex-SAS soldier working with former colleagues at ISP, a specialist security firm. He is sent to investigate a murderous diamond heist in Holland, but swiftly learns that there is a very strong Far East connection. He then travels to Hong Kong where he meets the glamorous chief of ISP's local bureau, May-Ling.
I started reading this book months ago, but I wasn’t really in the mood to read a thriller, so only came back to it a few weeks ago. The title and the cover of The Violin Man’s Legacy, which has a picture of a gun on it, attracted me initially. I was intrigued as to what violins and guns had in common, as I am a big lover of classical music.
I love crime novels and thrillers, so thought I would give this one a go. I particularly liked that it had an international feel and as a keen traveller, I could recognise some of the places that I had been to; Amsterdam, Hong Kong, South America. I especially liked the portrayal of corruption in South America, and found that to be in keeping with what I have always imagined to be the case there.
The beginning of the novel is set in Glasgow, of which I a native, so Jack’s background and family history starting off in Govan also appealed to me. Of course, this is an area close to the author’s heart, too, being himself from Glasgow originally. There is a very poignant moment which connects the violin and Glasgow, but you will have to read it to find out what it is!
It’s clear the novel has been well researched. Perhaps the author has a related background. The detail gone into with regard to the Triads, the SAS, how operations are carried out, as well as the lengths the SAS go to look after their own is second to none.
Plus there’s a love interest, in the form of sexy sidekick May-Ling!
The almost report-like style would appeal to many, particularly, if I may say so, men (I can think of several family members and male friends who would like this book) If you enjoy books light on description, but solid on narrative, with plenty of dialogue, then this is for you.
In my opinion, fans of Lee Child and Jack Higgins would enjoy The Violin Man’s Legacy.
You can buy The Violin Man’s Legacy from Amazon UK - http://amzn.to/UldhmEand Amazon US (& other .com sites) - http://amzn.to/WsGtW8 You can also visit Seumas Gallacher's Amazon Author page and find out more about his new novel , Vengeance Wears Black, here:- UK - http://amzn.to/SB9PBh and US (& other.com sites) - http://amzn.to/Q0vlNM
Tune in on Sunday when we return to Six Sentence Sunday - time to meet another character from Sign of the Times but who will it be?
Have a great weekend everyone. I am having 2 days 'off' whilst my book is at the proofreader and then back to work with a vengeance (no pun intended!)
Thriller with bloody twists and turns as ruthless killers meet their match in a former SAS hit squad.
Jack Calder is an ex-SAS soldier working with former colleagues at ISP, a specialist security firm. He is sent to investigate a murderous diamond heist in Holland, but swiftly learns that there is a very strong Far East connection. He then travels to Hong Kong where he meets the glamorous chief of ISP's local bureau, May-Ling.
I started reading this book months ago, but I wasn’t really in the mood to read a thriller, so only came back to it a few weeks ago. The title and the cover of The Violin Man’s Legacy, which has a picture of a gun on it, attracted me initially. I was intrigued as to what violins and guns had in common, as I am a big lover of classical music. I love crime novels and thrillers, so thought I would give this one a go. I particularly liked that it had an international feel and as a keen traveller, I could recognise some of the places that I had been to; Amsterdam, Hong Kong, South America. I especially liked the portrayal of corruption in South America, and found that to be in keeping with what I have always imagined to be the case there.
The beginning of the novel is set in Glasgow, of which I a native, so Jack’s background and family history starting off in Govan also appealed to me. Of course, this is an area close to the author’s heart, too, being himself from Glasgow originally. There is a very poignant moment which connects the violin and Glasgow, but you will have to read it to find out what it is!
It’s clear the novel has been well researched. Perhaps the author has a related background. The detail gone into with regard to the Triads, the SAS, how operations are carried out, as well as the lengths the SAS go to look after their own is second to none.
Plus there’s a love interest, in the form of sexy sidekick May-Ling!
The almost report-like style would appeal to many, particularly, if I may say so, men (I can think of several family members and male friends who would like this book) If you enjoy books light on description, but solid on narrative, with plenty of dialogue, then this is for you.
In my opinion, fans of Lee Child and Jack Higgins would enjoy The Violin Man’s Legacy.
You can buy The Violin Man’s Legacy from Amazon UK - http://amzn.to/UldhmEand Amazon US (& other .com sites) - http://amzn.to/WsGtW8 You can also visit Seumas Gallacher's Amazon Author page and find out more about his new novel , Vengeance Wears Black, here:- UK - http://amzn.to/SB9PBh and US (& other.com sites) - http://amzn.to/Q0vlNM
Tune in on Sunday when we return to Six Sentence Sunday - time to meet another character from Sign of the Times but who will it be?Have a great weekend everyone. I am having 2 days 'off' whilst my book is at the proofreader and then back to work with a vengeance (no pun intended!)
October 4, 2012
Winner of Girly Book Blog Hop Giveaway
Hi guys
Just a very quick post, as today I finished editing The Dating Game and sent it off to the proofreader! Yay! So, 48 hours of relaxation now, more or less.
But, in the meantime, just to advise who won the ebook copy of Sign of the Times, as a result of The Girly Book Blog Hop giveaway.
Drum roll!!!!
The winner is......
Samantha Stroh Bailey. I'll be contacting you shortly, Samantha to see which format you require it in, but for now, I'm off for a well-deserved and long overdue nap!
Tune in tomorrow for my book review of thriller X by author Y! Well, you didn't really think I was going to tell you now, did you?! OK, I'll give you a clue, it's by a bloke!
Sooz
Just a very quick post, as today I finished editing The Dating Game and sent it off to the proofreader! Yay! So, 48 hours of relaxation now, more or less.
But, in the meantime, just to advise who won the ebook copy of Sign of the Times, as a result of The Girly Book Blog Hop giveaway.
Drum roll!!!!
The winner is......
Samantha Stroh Bailey. I'll be contacting you shortly, Samantha to see which format you require it in, but for now, I'm off for a well-deserved and long overdue nap!
Tune in tomorrow for my book review of thriller X by author Y! Well, you didn't really think I was going to tell you now, did you?! OK, I'll give you a clue, it's by a bloke!
Sooz
October 2, 2012
INTERVIEW - with author Maria Savva
Today I am joined by author Maria Savva. So without further ado, let's learn all about her! And there is a lot to learn!
You have written several full length novels and several collections of short stories. I’ve only read Coincidences and you were kind enough to give me an Advance Review Copy of your new book, Haunted, so what you can tell us about the others? Genre/topics.
A Time to Tell is a family saga. It also deals with the subject of domestic violence. I worked as a family lawyer for a couple of years, and dealt with quite a few domestic violence cases. In fact, Penelope, the character who suffers domestic violence, was inspired by all of those women I met, in some way. A Time to Tell is a drama and a romance, but not a typical romance; it is more a story about true love.
Second Chances is a contemporary fiction novel. The main character, James, is a solicitor. Many of the scenes where we see James at work reflect my experience of working in law firms, of course embellished for entertainment value. There is quite a lot of humour in the book. The book deals with a relationship breakdown. I would say it is a drama.
The Dream is the first of my novels with a touch of the paranormal about it. Haunted, you may have noticed also has a hint of the paranormal. The Dream is about relationships, but also about fate and destiny as opposed to free will, and features a timeslip.
My short story collections contain a mixture of different genres. Pieces of a Rainbow contains 7 short stories, each one inspired by a different colour of the rainbow. The colour could be an emotion that we usually associate with that colour, or just the colour of someone’s clothes, or the name of someone in the story. That’s the only themed collection. The other two are mixtures of stories I’ve written over the years. There are love stories, ghost stories, even a sci-fi one! They mostly have twists in the tail.
Having just finished Haunted, I can safely say it is completely different to Coincidences, in genre in particular. However, relationships are key to both novels, both the presence and the lack of them. Is this borne throughout your other novels, and if so, how?
I think so, yes. I have always been interested in human psychology and the way people interact. Having always been more of a listener than a talker, I have been a natural observer of human behaviour. My novels are often for me a way of trying to work out why people behave in a certain way. A form of therapy, almost. My novels are character driven, and people and their relationships are at the core of them all. I was lucky enough to work as a lawyer dealing with family law, criminal law, immigration, litigation, wills and probate, property law etc. I met lots of different people from all walks of life and they all inspired me in some way with my writing.
Haunted is a very dark tale, but I found myself feeling some empathy for the protagonist, although I felt I shouldn’t. Why did you go down the dark route and is this the only work where you have done so? If not, where else? I didn’t actually intend to go down the dark route. Haunted, or the idea behind Haunted, is a book I had wanted to write for about 8 years following a news report I saw on TV about a random murder. I guess that I wasn’t ready to write it until now. In between that time, I have read some darker books and also co-written a book (with Jason McIntyre) about a murder Cutting The Fat. I suppose all these things went together to inspire me to write it. Interestingly when I was younger I read a lot of dark fiction, so the influences may be evident in Haunted. It was my intention to make the reader feel empathy for Nigel. I wanted to write a book about crime from the perspective of the perpetrator and to make the point that anger can be a destructive emotion. I have written a few dark tales in my short story collections too.
In Coincidences there are so many twists and turns, but I, priding myself on being a detective, guessed all of them, except one, from the strategically placed clues. Yet, in Haunted, the reader is definitely kept guessing more and my Inspector Clouseau abilities didn’t help me. Was this intentional, as it was a novel regarding a crime and what was your thought process?
It was intentional. And indeed, I would like to think that I have left the ending open enough so that the reader can make their own decision as to whether it is a psychological thriller or a paranormal novel.
The attitude of Alice’s mother, Stephanie, in Coincidences is quite extreme given that she is unaware of some of the later revelations. Doesn’t this seem like sour grapes and what do you think this says about Stephanie?
Stephanie has been keeping a secret for many years and has been eaten up inside by guilt for doing this. Feeling selfish. Her attitude may seem extreme, but that is defensiveness. Also, remember, that she never had any closure when it came to Roger leaving her. She still loved him when he left and there are a lot of unresolved issues surrounding this.
Which genre have you not written in yet that you would like to?
I would like to write a children’s book. A picture book, maybe. I like drawing and painting, so would like to illustrate the book as well. Whether I will find time to do this I am unsure.
In Coincidences, who is your favourite character and why? Alice. She goes through a lot in the book, and we see lots of different emotions and different sides to her. She’s probably the character who is most like me in that book.
Which of your works is your baby and why?
All of them are my babies. Each one is different, which is intentional. I was always annoyed when I would buy the third book by a favourite author and feel as if it was just the same as the last book I’d read by them. I like diversity and variation. I know that’s not how you get a bestseller, but I’m in this for the love of writing.
Given the many twists and turns in Haunted, keeping us guessing right up until the end, can you tell us if you always knew how it would turn out?
I never know how any of my books are going to end. This ending surprised me as it’s not the typical ending you’d find in one of my novels…
As a lawyer, have you ever considered writing any legal thrillers? Could we coax a John Grisham out of you? No, I don’t think so. But, I never say never. It could happen…
Fun Stuff
Novel you couldn’t live without The Alchemist, Paulo Coelho.
I know you love music, what’s your favourite rock band?
I couldn’t just pick one. That’s impossible. Some favourites include Papa Roach, Anthrax, Def Leppard, Thunder, Whitesnake, Iron Maiden, The Cult, Owl, Metallica, Linkin Park… this is not an exhaustive list, it could go on for ever!
Last concert/gig you went to:
The tribute concert for Jim Marshall (Marshall amp pioneer) at Wembley Arena on 22nd September. The line up was awesome: Nicko McBrain(Iron Maiden), Joe Satriani, Zakk Wylde, Doug Aldrich, Yngwie Malmsteen, Glenn Hughes, to name a few.
Who would you most not want to be trapped in an elevator with?
Someone who doesn’t like my books If you were on a quiz show as a contestant, which category would you dread coming up?
Current affairs. I am so caught up with my writing/promoting etc. that I have no idea what’s going on in the world…
You have probably gathered I am Rupert Penry Jones daft. Who is your RPJ?
For me, it’s usually rock stars that I go daft over... at the moment it’s probably Doug Aldrich as I saw him on stage at Wembley last week and it reminded me that I used to have a crush on him LOL
Most recent movie you enjoyed
I haven’t been to the cinema for about 100 years. I recently watched Shirley Valentine, my favourite ever movie on DVD after I hadn’t seen it for about 10 years, and I really enjoyed it again. I don’t have enough time to watch films these days. Sadly.
Facebook or Twitter
Both. I am embarrassed to admit to being addicted to both of these.
If you were a Superhero(ine), which super power would you like to have?
It would be good to be able to read people’s minds and know what they’re really thinking!
When was the last time you dressed up for Halloween and what did you dress up as? Plus, what character would you most like to dress up as?
That would probably be back when I was a child, and I have no idea. Although, most probably it would have been a witch or a ghost. As for dressing up as a character, a witch would be fun. Or maybe Catwoman. Thanks Maria for joining me today - you can catch up with Maria on her website at www.mariasavva.comTwitter - http://twitter.com/maria_savvaFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Maria-Savva/171466979781?ref=hl
LOOK OUT for the UPCOMING RELEASE of Haunted, scheduled for Halloween if I am not mistaken and very appropriate, too! You can buy COINCIDENCES from Amazon at http://amzn.to/QlKCIQ (UK) & http://amzn.to/RwDevR (US & other .com)You can also check out Maria's other books on her Amazon Author pages - http://amzn.to/h1iU91 (UK) & http://amzn.to/Szt8qr (US & other .com) TUNE IN ON THURSDAY FOR THE LUCKY WINNER OF MY GIRLY BOOK BLOG HOP PRIZE
You have written several full length novels and several collections of short stories. I’ve only read Coincidences and you were kind enough to give me an Advance Review Copy of your new book, Haunted, so what you can tell us about the others? Genre/topics.
A Time to Tell is a family saga. It also deals with the subject of domestic violence. I worked as a family lawyer for a couple of years, and dealt with quite a few domestic violence cases. In fact, Penelope, the character who suffers domestic violence, was inspired by all of those women I met, in some way. A Time to Tell is a drama and a romance, but not a typical romance; it is more a story about true love.
Second Chances is a contemporary fiction novel. The main character, James, is a solicitor. Many of the scenes where we see James at work reflect my experience of working in law firms, of course embellished for entertainment value. There is quite a lot of humour in the book. The book deals with a relationship breakdown. I would say it is a drama.
The Dream is the first of my novels with a touch of the paranormal about it. Haunted, you may have noticed also has a hint of the paranormal. The Dream is about relationships, but also about fate and destiny as opposed to free will, and features a timeslip.
My short story collections contain a mixture of different genres. Pieces of a Rainbow contains 7 short stories, each one inspired by a different colour of the rainbow. The colour could be an emotion that we usually associate with that colour, or just the colour of someone’s clothes, or the name of someone in the story. That’s the only themed collection. The other two are mixtures of stories I’ve written over the years. There are love stories, ghost stories, even a sci-fi one! They mostly have twists in the tail.
Having just finished Haunted, I can safely say it is completely different to Coincidences, in genre in particular. However, relationships are key to both novels, both the presence and the lack of them. Is this borne throughout your other novels, and if so, how?
I think so, yes. I have always been interested in human psychology and the way people interact. Having always been more of a listener than a talker, I have been a natural observer of human behaviour. My novels are often for me a way of trying to work out why people behave in a certain way. A form of therapy, almost. My novels are character driven, and people and their relationships are at the core of them all. I was lucky enough to work as a lawyer dealing with family law, criminal law, immigration, litigation, wills and probate, property law etc. I met lots of different people from all walks of life and they all inspired me in some way with my writing.
Haunted is a very dark tale, but I found myself feeling some empathy for the protagonist, although I felt I shouldn’t. Why did you go down the dark route and is this the only work where you have done so? If not, where else? I didn’t actually intend to go down the dark route. Haunted, or the idea behind Haunted, is a book I had wanted to write for about 8 years following a news report I saw on TV about a random murder. I guess that I wasn’t ready to write it until now. In between that time, I have read some darker books and also co-written a book (with Jason McIntyre) about a murder Cutting The Fat. I suppose all these things went together to inspire me to write it. Interestingly when I was younger I read a lot of dark fiction, so the influences may be evident in Haunted. It was my intention to make the reader feel empathy for Nigel. I wanted to write a book about crime from the perspective of the perpetrator and to make the point that anger can be a destructive emotion. I have written a few dark tales in my short story collections too.
In Coincidences there are so many twists and turns, but I, priding myself on being a detective, guessed all of them, except one, from the strategically placed clues. Yet, in Haunted, the reader is definitely kept guessing more and my Inspector Clouseau abilities didn’t help me. Was this intentional, as it was a novel regarding a crime and what was your thought process?
It was intentional. And indeed, I would like to think that I have left the ending open enough so that the reader can make their own decision as to whether it is a psychological thriller or a paranormal novel.
The attitude of Alice’s mother, Stephanie, in Coincidences is quite extreme given that she is unaware of some of the later revelations. Doesn’t this seem like sour grapes and what do you think this says about Stephanie?
Stephanie has been keeping a secret for many years and has been eaten up inside by guilt for doing this. Feeling selfish. Her attitude may seem extreme, but that is defensiveness. Also, remember, that she never had any closure when it came to Roger leaving her. She still loved him when he left and there are a lot of unresolved issues surrounding this.
Which genre have you not written in yet that you would like to?
I would like to write a children’s book. A picture book, maybe. I like drawing and painting, so would like to illustrate the book as well. Whether I will find time to do this I am unsure.
In Coincidences, who is your favourite character and why? Alice. She goes through a lot in the book, and we see lots of different emotions and different sides to her. She’s probably the character who is most like me in that book.
Which of your works is your baby and why?
All of them are my babies. Each one is different, which is intentional. I was always annoyed when I would buy the third book by a favourite author and feel as if it was just the same as the last book I’d read by them. I like diversity and variation. I know that’s not how you get a bestseller, but I’m in this for the love of writing.
Given the many twists and turns in Haunted, keeping us guessing right up until the end, can you tell us if you always knew how it would turn out?
I never know how any of my books are going to end. This ending surprised me as it’s not the typical ending you’d find in one of my novels…
As a lawyer, have you ever considered writing any legal thrillers? Could we coax a John Grisham out of you? No, I don’t think so. But, I never say never. It could happen…
Fun Stuff
Novel you couldn’t live without The Alchemist, Paulo Coelho.
I know you love music, what’s your favourite rock band?
I couldn’t just pick one. That’s impossible. Some favourites include Papa Roach, Anthrax, Def Leppard, Thunder, Whitesnake, Iron Maiden, The Cult, Owl, Metallica, Linkin Park… this is not an exhaustive list, it could go on for ever!
Last concert/gig you went to:
The tribute concert for Jim Marshall (Marshall amp pioneer) at Wembley Arena on 22nd September. The line up was awesome: Nicko McBrain(Iron Maiden), Joe Satriani, Zakk Wylde, Doug Aldrich, Yngwie Malmsteen, Glenn Hughes, to name a few.
Who would you most not want to be trapped in an elevator with?
Someone who doesn’t like my books If you were on a quiz show as a contestant, which category would you dread coming up?
Current affairs. I am so caught up with my writing/promoting etc. that I have no idea what’s going on in the world…
You have probably gathered I am Rupert Penry Jones daft. Who is your RPJ?
For me, it’s usually rock stars that I go daft over... at the moment it’s probably Doug Aldrich as I saw him on stage at Wembley last week and it reminded me that I used to have a crush on him LOL
Most recent movie you enjoyed
I haven’t been to the cinema for about 100 years. I recently watched Shirley Valentine, my favourite ever movie on DVD after I hadn’t seen it for about 10 years, and I really enjoyed it again. I don’t have enough time to watch films these days. Sadly.
Facebook or Twitter
Both. I am embarrassed to admit to being addicted to both of these.
If you were a Superhero(ine), which super power would you like to have?
It would be good to be able to read people’s minds and know what they’re really thinking!
When was the last time you dressed up for Halloween and what did you dress up as? Plus, what character would you most like to dress up as?
That would probably be back when I was a child, and I have no idea. Although, most probably it would have been a witch or a ghost. As for dressing up as a character, a witch would be fun. Or maybe Catwoman. Thanks Maria for joining me today - you can catch up with Maria on her website at www.mariasavva.comTwitter - http://twitter.com/maria_savvaFacebook - http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Maria-Savva/171466979781?ref=hl
LOOK OUT for the UPCOMING RELEASE of Haunted, scheduled for Halloween if I am not mistaken and very appropriate, too! You can buy COINCIDENCES from Amazon at http://amzn.to/QlKCIQ (UK) & http://amzn.to/RwDevR (US & other .com)You can also check out Maria's other books on her Amazon Author pages - http://amzn.to/h1iU91 (UK) & http://amzn.to/Szt8qr (US & other .com) TUNE IN ON THURSDAY FOR THE LUCKY WINNER OF MY GIRLY BOOK BLOG HOP PRIZE
September 26, 2012
The Girly Book Blog Hop and Competition
hi everyone
I was fortunate enough to be asked to participate in this blog hop, where several authors will write articles and hold interviews with secondary characters from their novels.
In my case, I have chosen the rather controversial, sexy, Lucy from SIGN OF THE TIMES.
Read on to find out more!
Interview with Lucy Jameson, Holly’s sister, in SIGN OF THE TIMES
Interviewer: You’re an eminent cardiologist. How have you managed this, being a woman in essentially a man’s world?
Lucy : Well, there are more female cardiologists now than ever before, but yes it is still very much a man’s world. I think by being determined, very intelligent and hungry to succeed, I have got where I am now. And I fully expect to be promoted in the next few years when my Head of Dept retires.
Interviewer: What’s your attitude to fidelity?
Lucy: I openly admit to having dalliances, albeit I don’t share that info with Carl. What he doesn’t know can’t hurt him. We get on well, but he is so tied up in his restaurant, he doesn’t have time for me. But that’s only part of the reason. Yes, perhaps if Carl was more attentive, I wouldn’t have sex as often with other men. But I like the variety and the excitement – the newness of it all. I am able to separate sex and relationships. I have a relationship and occasionally sex with Carl and I have sex with whom I please, when I please. Men get away with it all the time, why shouldn’t women?
Interviewer: Who’s the person closest to you and why?
Lucy: Definitely my sister, Holly. I’m a lot tougher than her, but she is also very strong in her own way. I would do anything for her and she for me. We disagree on many things, including my infidelity, but we are also in tune on many other areas. She is adventurous like me and also very successful in her career as a travel writer. As our parents are dead, she’s also the only immediate family I have.
Interviewer: Have you ever truly been in love?
Lucy: What’s love? I like Carl, a lot and yes, there have been others prior to Carl whom I felt affection for, but I don’t believe in all this The One nonsense. There might well be someone right for you, at a particular time in your life, but as for marriage and staying with someone for the rest of your life, I can’t imagine anything more boring; particularly if you didn’t sleep with anyone else, ever again. I have been in lust many times though – that feeling when you can’t get enough of someone – want to rip every shred of clothing from their body, can’t wait to feel their lips on yours…
Interviewer: Do you ever use your looks to get what you want?
Lucy: Not really, not in a major way. OK, yes, I’ve been guilty of batting my eyelids and giving someone a smile, even crossing my legs to show off a bit more of them and sometimes allowing a glimpse of stocking, but really only when I fancy someone. I’ve never done it in a work context. I want to be treated seriously and on merit. I’ve never slept with anyone to get where I am professionally, or quite frankly even snogged anyone. That’s not to say I haven’t slept with colleagues of the same grade, but do it to further my career with someone in a higher position – no way.
Interviewer: What do you say are your key attributes?
Lucy: Apart from the obvious physical ones? (Lucy gives a cat-like smile). I am very loyal (apart from the sex), would defend those who matter to me to the hilt and I don’t take crap from anyone. I will always fight someone’s corner for them, if I believe in them.
Interviewer: If you weren’t a cardiologist, what would you be doing?
Lucy: Something related to sport. I love ski-ing, maybe I’d be a ski instructor. And of course there would also be plenty of hot men to hold my attention!
Interviewer: Do you have any interesting hobbies?
Lucy: Ski-ing, both on water and on snow. I also like kite-surfing and canoeing. I’m very sporty. I’m actually off ski-ing to Switzerland shortly.
Interviewer: Would you like children and are you a family person?
Lucy: God no, I have no intention of ruining my body with having children, plus as I am so career-oriented, I don’t want to take time away from it. If I want to spend time with kids, Tom’s family has a surplus of them. They’re like rabbits that lot!
Interviewer: What couldn’t you live without?
Lucy: Sex, pure and simple. Fortunately, that’s never been a problem for me.
Interviewer: What would be your ideal date?
Lucy: Meeting a handsome stranger by chance, engaging in a little flirting with him, having dinner, some fine wine, then heading back to his hotel for some amazing, hot, no-strings attached sex. Oh, I forgot I’ve already done that – many times.Interviewer: Thanks, Lucy for joining us today. It's been great to get an insight into your life and what makes you tick.
Lucy: You're welcome, now I guess I better get back to saving lives!
(little did Lucy know that not long after this interview, things were about to change for her dramatically)
GIVEAWAY - I will be giving away an ebook copy of SIGN OF THE TIMES as part of the blog hop. To be in with a chance to win, all you have to do is leave your starsign and identify a trait you have which is typical of your starsign, as a comment on the blog. Good luck!
BLOG HOP - to visit the other blogs in the blog hop and to take part in their fantastic giveaways - just click here:-
I was fortunate enough to be asked to participate in this blog hop, where several authors will write articles and hold interviews with secondary characters from their novels.
In my case, I have chosen the rather controversial, sexy, Lucy from SIGN OF THE TIMES.
Read on to find out more!
Interview with Lucy Jameson, Holly’s sister, in SIGN OF THE TIMES
Interviewer: You’re an eminent cardiologist. How have you managed this, being a woman in essentially a man’s world?
Lucy : Well, there are more female cardiologists now than ever before, but yes it is still very much a man’s world. I think by being determined, very intelligent and hungry to succeed, I have got where I am now. And I fully expect to be promoted in the next few years when my Head of Dept retires.
Interviewer: What’s your attitude to fidelity?
Lucy: I openly admit to having dalliances, albeit I don’t share that info with Carl. What he doesn’t know can’t hurt him. We get on well, but he is so tied up in his restaurant, he doesn’t have time for me. But that’s only part of the reason. Yes, perhaps if Carl was more attentive, I wouldn’t have sex as often with other men. But I like the variety and the excitement – the newness of it all. I am able to separate sex and relationships. I have a relationship and occasionally sex with Carl and I have sex with whom I please, when I please. Men get away with it all the time, why shouldn’t women?
Interviewer: Who’s the person closest to you and why?
Lucy: Definitely my sister, Holly. I’m a lot tougher than her, but she is also very strong in her own way. I would do anything for her and she for me. We disagree on many things, including my infidelity, but we are also in tune on many other areas. She is adventurous like me and also very successful in her career as a travel writer. As our parents are dead, she’s also the only immediate family I have.
Interviewer: Have you ever truly been in love?
Lucy: What’s love? I like Carl, a lot and yes, there have been others prior to Carl whom I felt affection for, but I don’t believe in all this The One nonsense. There might well be someone right for you, at a particular time in your life, but as for marriage and staying with someone for the rest of your life, I can’t imagine anything more boring; particularly if you didn’t sleep with anyone else, ever again. I have been in lust many times though – that feeling when you can’t get enough of someone – want to rip every shred of clothing from their body, can’t wait to feel their lips on yours…
Interviewer: Do you ever use your looks to get what you want?
Lucy: Not really, not in a major way. OK, yes, I’ve been guilty of batting my eyelids and giving someone a smile, even crossing my legs to show off a bit more of them and sometimes allowing a glimpse of stocking, but really only when I fancy someone. I’ve never done it in a work context. I want to be treated seriously and on merit. I’ve never slept with anyone to get where I am professionally, or quite frankly even snogged anyone. That’s not to say I haven’t slept with colleagues of the same grade, but do it to further my career with someone in a higher position – no way.
Interviewer: What do you say are your key attributes?
Lucy: Apart from the obvious physical ones? (Lucy gives a cat-like smile). I am very loyal (apart from the sex), would defend those who matter to me to the hilt and I don’t take crap from anyone. I will always fight someone’s corner for them, if I believe in them.
Interviewer: If you weren’t a cardiologist, what would you be doing?
Lucy: Something related to sport. I love ski-ing, maybe I’d be a ski instructor. And of course there would also be plenty of hot men to hold my attention!
Interviewer: Do you have any interesting hobbies?
Lucy: Ski-ing, both on water and on snow. I also like kite-surfing and canoeing. I’m very sporty. I’m actually off ski-ing to Switzerland shortly.
Interviewer: Would you like children and are you a family person?
Lucy: God no, I have no intention of ruining my body with having children, plus as I am so career-oriented, I don’t want to take time away from it. If I want to spend time with kids, Tom’s family has a surplus of them. They’re like rabbits that lot!
Interviewer: What couldn’t you live without?
Lucy: Sex, pure and simple. Fortunately, that’s never been a problem for me.
Interviewer: What would be your ideal date?
Lucy: Meeting a handsome stranger by chance, engaging in a little flirting with him, having dinner, some fine wine, then heading back to his hotel for some amazing, hot, no-strings attached sex. Oh, I forgot I’ve already done that – many times.Interviewer: Thanks, Lucy for joining us today. It's been great to get an insight into your life and what makes you tick.
Lucy: You're welcome, now I guess I better get back to saving lives!
(little did Lucy know that not long after this interview, things were about to change for her dramatically)
GIVEAWAY - I will be giving away an ebook copy of SIGN OF THE TIMES as part of the blog hop. To be in with a chance to win, all you have to do is leave your starsign and identify a trait you have which is typical of your starsign, as a comment on the blog. Good luck!
BLOG HOP - to visit the other blogs in the blog hop and to take part in their fantastic giveaways - just click here:-
September 23, 2012
Update on this weekend's FREE Kindle promotion
Afternoon! Free promo for SIGN OF THE TIMES is going well. I woke up to #22 this morning in the UK chart. Yesterday, I got as high up the US chart as #140, although I slipped back a bit since. Annoyingly, the Amazon hourly rankings haven't been working since 8am, so God knows where I am now, but the downloads have been good. And, interestingly, after a lot more US downloads initially, the UK has overtaken the US again.
So, if you don't already have your FREE copy of SIGN OF THE TIMES - today is the last day! Get your copy now - http://amzn.to/GKqZGd & http://amzn.to/IYN0Fc The one thing that I have been impressed by, even more than I expected to, and I genuinely mean this, is how amazing all my Twitter followers and Facebook followers have been. I have had more RTs than I know how to reply to and have been put in Twitter jail for RT theirs back, as I have gone over hourly limits several times! And then my FB guys, when I told them, I was in Twitter jail, immediately rallied round and Shared my event and RTd me on Twitter! I honestly can't thank everyone enough - and, on that note, back to Twitter!
catch up soon and enjoy your SundaySooz
PS Next week I'll be back with Six Sentence Sunday!
So, if you don't already have your FREE copy of SIGN OF THE TIMES - today is the last day! Get your copy now - http://amzn.to/GKqZGd & http://amzn.to/IYN0Fc The one thing that I have been impressed by, even more than I expected to, and I genuinely mean this, is how amazing all my Twitter followers and Facebook followers have been. I have had more RTs than I know how to reply to and have been put in Twitter jail for RT theirs back, as I have gone over hourly limits several times! And then my FB guys, when I told them, I was in Twitter jail, immediately rallied round and Shared my event and RTd me on Twitter! I honestly can't thank everyone enough - and, on that note, back to Twitter!
catch up soon and enjoy your SundaySooz
PS Next week I'll be back with Six Sentence Sunday!
September 22, 2012
FREE Promo Update for Sign of the Times
Morning! Naturally I was up early, although not as early as last FREE Amazon promo - a more reasonable 7 after a 1am finish. When i went to bed I was at #63 in the UK chart and when I got up I was at #40. I have all my FB and Twitter friends to thank for helping me get there, so now I am just continuing my efforts today and tomorrow, to see if I can get as high up as possible in that all-important chart. Also..., broke through the top 200 in the US chart, am currently at #187, so am really happy with that - the US being an even larger market. Anyway, off I go again! Back later, Sooz
PS for some reason I was thinking this was Sunday. But just to say, I will not be participating in Six Sentence Sunday this week, due to the promo. So, if you have been on Planet Zorg and haven't seen my FB updates my zillion tweets you can get your FREE copy of SIGN OF THE TIMES until 8am GMT on Monhttp://amzn.to/GKqZGd (UK)http://amzn.to/IYN0Fc (US and other .com) have a great Saturday and think of me stuck at this laptop whilst you are out enjoying yourselves!!! Incidentally, the laptop is literally on its last legs. The Blue Screen of Death has appeared recently and twice in 24 hours. I just hope it makes it until Mon morning. Guess I'll be laptop shopping Mon...Sooz
PS for some reason I was thinking this was Sunday. But just to say, I will not be participating in Six Sentence Sunday this week, due to the promo. So, if you have been on Planet Zorg and haven't seen my FB updates my zillion tweets you can get your FREE copy of SIGN OF THE TIMES until 8am GMT on Monhttp://amzn.to/GKqZGd (UK)http://amzn.to/IYN0Fc (US and other .com) have a great Saturday and think of me stuck at this laptop whilst you are out enjoying yourselves!!! Incidentally, the laptop is literally on its last legs. The Blue Screen of Death has appeared recently and twice in 24 hours. I just hope it makes it until Mon morning. Guess I'll be laptop shopping Mon...Sooz
September 20, 2012
Review of Coincidences by Maria Savva
Yep, guys, due to the free promo starting tomorrow, I have pushed the review up to today, to ensure it gets enough visibility.
So, without further ado, have a look at my 5 star review for Coincidences by Maria Savva. (NB: this will be free on Amazon Sun 23rd-Tue 25th Sept inclusive)
As ever, I don't recap the story - that's what the synopsis or product description is for - links at the bottom of the page.
A family drama which has you fighting Alice's corner
I'd been trying to get around to reading this for some time, after the synopsis caught my eye. I read it in 2 days, and found I couldn't get on with the other things I was meant to be doing until I'd finished it.
The author planted little clues along the way, so there were no great surprises for me, as I do like to be a bit of a detective, as I read, and I picked up on her clues. In other instances, my over-active imagination got me there and I was delighted to be proven right.
However, the crux of the story, not mentioned in the synopsis, I thought was brilliant and one I had not seen coming and also one I have not seen addressed by other authors I have read. Likewise, the ending, I hadn't guessed that.
The story is relatively simple and uncluttered, but it reminded me of what great chefs say about cooking. Keep it simple and often the simplest is the best.
You really feel for the mother, Stephanie and the daughter, Alice. Even when I thought Stephanie was being selfish, I still felt a little sorry for her. There are characters later in the novel, who quite frankly I would have liked to shake them and punch their lights out. And there's a shining beacon of a character, whose sunny disposition makes it all worthwhile.
I could imagine Alice's various meetings with her mother, Alice's visits elsewhere - you'll need to read it to see where! I could even imagine clearly the ensuing chaos.
The relationship with Stephanie's friend, Ria is also very important, although I did think the introduction of a key piece of info, was rather a late introduction, but believe me if that's my only quibble, Ms Savva has done an excellent job.
If there were half stars, I would have given this 4.5, as I think 5 stars is for something truly exceptional and can be overused. However, given the quality of the writing, I am happy to round this up to 5, rather than down to 4.
A wonderful tale which I was happy to discover. Am delighted that Ms Savva has so many other books for me now to go and get my teeth into.
And, for the record, I have just finished Maria Savva's soon to be published novel, Haunted (I was lucky enough to get an advance review copy). Check in next week for my interview with Maria re all her works and what makes her tick.
In the meantime, should you wish to read the product description and download Coincidences, here are the links.
Amazon UK - http://amzn.to/S6uUit
Amazon US & other .com - http://amzn.to/RxoCyc
And remember the free promo for SIGN OF THE TIMES will start around 9am tomorrow! Get your copy then!
Bye for now
Sooz
So, without further ado, have a look at my 5 star review for Coincidences by Maria Savva. (NB: this will be free on Amazon Sun 23rd-Tue 25th Sept inclusive)
As ever, I don't recap the story - that's what the synopsis or product description is for - links at the bottom of the page.
A family drama which has you fighting Alice's corner
I'd been trying to get around to reading this for some time, after the synopsis caught my eye. I read it in 2 days, and found I couldn't get on with the other things I was meant to be doing until I'd finished it.
The author planted little clues along the way, so there were no great surprises for me, as I do like to be a bit of a detective, as I read, and I picked up on her clues. In other instances, my over-active imagination got me there and I was delighted to be proven right.
However, the crux of the story, not mentioned in the synopsis, I thought was brilliant and one I had not seen coming and also one I have not seen addressed by other authors I have read. Likewise, the ending, I hadn't guessed that.
The story is relatively simple and uncluttered, but it reminded me of what great chefs say about cooking. Keep it simple and often the simplest is the best.
You really feel for the mother, Stephanie and the daughter, Alice. Even when I thought Stephanie was being selfish, I still felt a little sorry for her. There are characters later in the novel, who quite frankly I would have liked to shake them and punch their lights out. And there's a shining beacon of a character, whose sunny disposition makes it all worthwhile.I could imagine Alice's various meetings with her mother, Alice's visits elsewhere - you'll need to read it to see where! I could even imagine clearly the ensuing chaos.
The relationship with Stephanie's friend, Ria is also very important, although I did think the introduction of a key piece of info, was rather a late introduction, but believe me if that's my only quibble, Ms Savva has done an excellent job.
If there were half stars, I would have given this 4.5, as I think 5 stars is for something truly exceptional and can be overused. However, given the quality of the writing, I am happy to round this up to 5, rather than down to 4.
A wonderful tale which I was happy to discover. Am delighted that Ms Savva has so many other books for me now to go and get my teeth into.
And, for the record, I have just finished Maria Savva's soon to be published novel, Haunted (I was lucky enough to get an advance review copy). Check in next week for my interview with Maria re all her works and what makes her tick.
In the meantime, should you wish to read the product description and download Coincidences, here are the links.
Amazon UK - http://amzn.to/S6uUit
Amazon US & other .com - http://amzn.to/RxoCyc
And remember the free promo for SIGN OF THE TIMES will start around 9am tomorrow! Get your copy then!
Bye for now
Sooz
September 19, 2012
Breaking News - Free Promo Alert 1.2,3 authors!
Well, I did say I had some news to share mid-week, so now's the time. This Fri 21st Sept- Sun 23rd Sept inclusive, Sign of the Times will be FREE!! Yip, nada, zip, diddly squat to pay!
So if you've been humming and hawing about whether to buy it or not, or if you simply have only now come across my blog, now's the time!!
BUT, I'm not just going to share that with you. Two of my favourite authors, Terry Tyler and Maria Savva are also having free promos in the next week.
Full details of all three promos are contained in Maria's blog post in the link below - links for all countries and all books!
Enjoy and happy reading!
Sooz
http://t.co/vMbEaO6Y
So if you've been humming and hawing about whether to buy it or not, or if you simply have only now come across my blog, now's the time!!
BUT, I'm not just going to share that with you. Two of my favourite authors, Terry Tyler and Maria Savva are also having free promos in the next week.
Full details of all three promos are contained in Maria's blog post in the link below - links for all countries and all books!
Enjoy and happy reading!
Sooz
http://t.co/vMbEaO6Y
