Reena Jacobs's Blog, page 22

You've won a digital book! Now what?

I've done a few giveaways… not too many, but enough to come across a few problems. I've been lucky to have quite a few indie/small press authors sponsor giveaways at Ramblings of an Amateur Writer. For most authors in this category, digital books are hot. In fact, many don't even bother publishing print versions. As a result, many of the giveaways I tend to offer here feature digital works.

Alas, not everyone has a Kindle, Nook, or other eReader. Fear not, my readers! There are ways for you to still read that delicious book, eReader or not. Plus, if you receive a digital gift in a format incompatible to your eReader, I may even have the solution to that.

Kindle Gifts

If you receive a Kindle gift, it's actually associated with your Amazon account. So if you claim it, it'll go into Your Kindle Library, which is maintained by Amazon. When you do get a Kindle, you'll be able to select the reads you want uploaded to your Kindle through Your Kindle Library screen. In fact, I believe you have the option to load your complete library onto your Kindle once you get one. All you have to do is associate your Kindle with your account. Cool deal, cause you don't have to worry about your goodies getting lost.

When you win: Provide the Amazon email you use to sign into Amazon, not the @kindle.com or @free.kindle.com provided by Amazon. Wait for the Kindle Gift email and follow the instructions to claim your prize.

Smashwords Coupon

Smashwords coupons are great! Most authors offer their books in a variety of formats through Smashwords (pdf, mobi, ePub, html, you name it). If you have an eReader, chances are you'll find your format here.

When you win: Sign up for Smashwords if you don't already have an account. It's free, and you don't have to have a payment method on file for free eBooks. Go to the book link and click the "add to cart" button. In the next screen, you'll see a box where you can add your coupon code. Do it! Then click update. From there you can check out and follow the download instructions.

No Kindle?

Amazon has kindle applications that allows you to read mobi files on your computer, iPad, iPhone, etc. You can find the applications here: Kindle Application

So even if you don't have a Kindle you're good to go. If you load any of the works on your Kindle application, you can still load the same work on your Kindle when you purchase one. I used the computer application for quite some time before I picked up a Kindle. Sometimes I still use the Kindle application to check formatting issues. Amazon syncs works to both my Kindle and my computer application.

No eReader at all?

No problem. ePub seems to be the most common format. Like Amazon, most book distributors who offer eReaders also provide apps for the computer and other devices. I'm just going to mention threes places to get apps for ePub, since I've used these three myself. Nook, Sony Reader, and Adobe Digital Edition.

Incompatible format? Try Calibre

You received a Kindle gift but have a Nook, or received an ePub file but have a Kindle. That sucks! Well, it doesn't have to. There's a conversion program called Calibre which is free. You can find information on that here: Calibre. Many authors these days are offering their works DRM-free. All of my works are DRM-free except for Brandon's Story on Amazon and maybe B&N. So if you receive an incompatible format which is DRM-free, you can run it through Calibre to convert it to a format readable by your eReader.

So that's the low-down, my reading buddies. If you win a eCopy, there's no reason to make winning awkward for all by asking for substitutes or special accommodations. Simply try one of the solutions above.

Anyone else want to share advice on digital books and compatibility?

Working Wednesday #26

It's been forever since I've done a Working Wednesday. I'm guessing the last was either the last week of October or the first week of November. Well, folks. I'm doing away with the Working Wednesdays. Not sure what I'll do instead or if I'll do anything specific for Wednesdays.

Now that doesn't mean I'm going to stop doing my updates. I'm just not going to do them here and not as consistently. For now on, my updates will be done on my website under the category Writing Updates.

Why the change, you ask? I feel like this blog focuses a little too much on me when I have the main website for that purpose. I want more of a separation. You'll still see posts about my upcoming releases, and I'll continue to advertise my works in the widgets and such… but no more updates about mundane writing progress.

Let's keep the focus on books, authors, and publishing in general.

So that's that. No more Working Wednesday.

Tuesday Teaser: Blog Hop Sponsors

I'm afraid I've gotten a bit over my head with this upcoming blog hop. I just did a count and 17 titles are up for grabs, plus a reader's choice. Wow! The quick and dirty on this blog hop.

Romancing Christmas Giveaway Hop (Dec 10-16)

The Romancing Christmas Giveaway Hop is a hop where each participating blog hosts their own giveaway and then all hosts are linked up so our followers hop between one blog to another! Sponsored by Reading Romances.

Meet the Sponsors!
D.S. White

Her motto: I am who I am by the graceof God

An avid reader, D.S. White is the former proprietor of an online African-American bookstore and wholesale dealership. Unfortunately, she didn't have a back up plan for 9/11/01.

She is the divorced mother of a fabulous 21-year-old who is in her senior year at the University of Pennsylvania. D.S. White loves traveling but most of it to date has been done within the pages of a book. While planning that mother/daughter trip in the distant future, she's tried her hand at acting, singing, dancing, modeling, cosmetology and sales.

A budding wordsmith, she has few credits to date which opened her eyes to the need for a place where writers of color could congregate, a Water Cooler, if you will. There writers of all levels of experience can find awards, contests, markets, scholarships and more, specifically geared to writers of color.

Aware of the need for reading material which accurately reflects the look and mindset of the person of color, she decided to do her part to facilitate the same. If you remember nothing else from her bio, remember that she loves God and is always happy to share what He's done in and for her life.

Ms. Dee is offering Age is Just a Number: Adventures in Online Dating

MEET DIVINE: female, thirty-seven, slaphappy, young at heart, self-employed; an online newbie, living in New York. She is fresh out of a long-term relationship and has completed the two-year mandatory wound-licking I-hate-men mourning period. Unfortunately for Divine, someone neglected to inform her that dating has been upgraded to new millennium level. But maybe she shouldn't worry…hemlines aren't the only things that have gone up.Thirty-somethings are premium dating material now…at least for the twenty-year-olds…Divine's experiences are the basis for the serial memoir I call"Age Is Just a Number," a lens through which to view the world of online dating.

Pick up Age Is Just a Number at: Smashwords, The Book Depository, and Barnes & Nobles

Tristram La Roche

Tristram La Roche was born in London and spent much of his childhood in Europe. His career has included tourism and yacht charter, as well as a brief period working as a freelance journalist. His interests include travel, art, theatre, cinema, books, cars and current affairs, and he is passionate about the rights of the GLBT community.

Always an avid reader, Tristram turned his hand to writing relatively recently. As someone who grew up in less liberal times, he wants to help break down the barriers that still exist for GLBT citizens. His vehicle, very subtly, is his fiction.

Tristram lives between London and the North of England with his civil partner. He is always happy to hear from his readers – his email is tristramlaroche@gmail.com

Mr. La Roche is offering On My Knees

Surviving on alcohol and antidepressants, Mark staggers through his unhappy marriage and watches his London architectural business head for the rocks. When another nasty argument with his wife sends him to the gym to blow off steam, a tall, dark stranger enflames a part of him he's denied all these years, trying to convince himself he's not "weird." But Mark's not weird, he's gay. And after a taste of Attila's lips, nothing can put that genie back in the bottle…

Pick up On My Knees at: Barnes & Nobles

And!!! Lorenzo il Magnifico

When Luke visits Florence he hopes it will be the start of a new chapter in his life. A chance meeting with a tall, handsome waiter and that chapter starts far sooner than he could ever have imagined.

Lorenzo is everything Luke has been looking for. Hot, sexy and uninhibited, he pushes buttons Luke never knew existed. But Luke lives in England, Lorenzo in Florence, and the time soon comes for them to part…

Can this holiday fling become more than just sex? Can it, in fact, turn into a magnificent romance?

Pick up Lorenzo il Magnifico at: Smashwords and Barnes & Nobles

PLUS!!! Fixed

A spin of the wheel can change everything…

Mike had it all. A business in the south of France, money, and a handsome boyfriend. But when the world's economies nose-dived, he lost the lot—including Kurt. With nothing left, he finds himself back home in the north of England, living in a broken-down rented flat, alone.

When the boiler breaks down, the repairman turns out to be an old acquaintance—one who was never Mike's social equal. Now Pete's the one with money and security, his own thriving company and a collection of classic cars. Pete's joie de vivre is impossible to resist, but how can Mike face being a kept man?

Pick up Fixed at: Barnes & Nobles

Lenore Wolfe

Lenore grew up in Montana, and Alaska, and currently lives in central US. She is a member of Romance Writers of America, holds a BA in Sociology, from the University of Northern Colorado, with a minor in writing and is a student of the Shaman path

Ms. Wolfe is offering Dark Warrior

Amanda Kane has always had visions of the man she's destined to marry–a cowboy who will help her save her ranch. But Hawk is no ordinary cowboy. He carries a powerful secret. A secret that leads to betrayed.

Pick up Dark warrior at: Smashwords and Barnes & Nobles

Elizabeth J Kolodziej

Elizabeth J Kolodziej, a young fiction writer originally from Torrance California, is a smart and original thinker who has researched the origins of vampires, werewolves, and witches for many years. She writes her books from the knowledge she has gained while trying to be as original and inspiring as possible. Her books encompass both true folklore facts along with innovative ideas motivated by the great writers around her. This book is her first, but not her last, in a new series entitled Vampyre Kisses.

Ms. Kolodziej is offering Vampyre Kisses.

Vampyre Kisses is an enthralling story about a young woman named Faith, who seems content with her life, but deep down craves more excitement. Then a mysterious man named Trent enters her world and everything changes. Surprising to Faith, Trent is a green-eyed vampire from Ireland. She is even more amazed to find out that she is a witch, and the last of her kind.

Faith learns that she is destined to restore her witch line and becomes more powerful as she gains confidence and knowledge, but danger lurks everywhere — especially when unknown assailants steal the most important gems from the vampire master and werewolf royalty.

Now surrounded by a world filled with mystifying vampires and werewolves, can Faith gain enough power to help her friends and rescue the stolen gems?

Pick up Vampyre Kisses at Barnes & Nobles, Smashwords, or The Book Depository.

Kristy K. James

All it took was the encouragement of a student teacher in a ninth grade writing class and Kristy K. James was off and running. She has been writing for more years than she'll ever admit to, and loves every aspect of it. From creating characters who are so real that they sometimes take over the writing when they don't like where she's taking a story, to adding as many twists and mysteries to her plots as she can get away with.

She is the author of Reluctant Guardian, A Fine Mess, and The Stranger in my Head.

Kristy currently lives in Michigan with her family, too many pets and the occasional spider. She spends her time living in her make-believe worlds, cooking and baking up a storm, and doing her best to learn to say 'no' when stray animals wander into her large country yard.

Reading is one of her favorite pastimes, as is traveling around the state, especially to coastal beaches to enjoy the sound of the waves crashing on the shore and gulls screeching overhead.

Ms. James is offering her latest release, Reluctant Guardian

Except for her brother, Devon O'Leary has lost everything in the world that matters to her. When the opportunity to start over arises, they travel a great distance, hoping for a better life, only to discover that all is not what it seems.

Everything Tristan Montgomery has ever wanted is finally within reach. As long as he agrees to the terms of his enemy's will. If he declines, the prize will be lost forever. Is a dream fulfilled worth the misery it will bring?

Pick up Reluctant Guardian at Barnes & Nobles or Smashwords.

PLUS!!! A Fine Mess

When Annie Blake discovers a terrible secret, she must decide how far she is willing to go to protect those she loves. Surprisingly, Ian McCann proves to be more help than she ever imagined, but complicates her life even more so than it already is. What will happen when the two forge a marriage of convenience? One that defies every Christian belief that Annie holds dear?

Pick up A Fine Mess at: Smashwords

Raven Corinn Carluk

Talking about myself is much harder than writing a book. You'd think a wordmistress wouldn't have such a problem, but I do. Let me rework a flat scene any day. Simple background: I'm married, have lots of pets, still work full time, and grew up in Las Vegas. But there's so much more to a person than that. Writing is more than just words on paper to me. It's a passion, an incessant need, a deep-seated drive to be a storyteller. I knew I wanted to be an author as far back as high school. Writing may have taken a backseat a few times, but I finally made it. My stories have bite because I'm a little different, and like slightly different things. No shock horror here, or cheap gimmicks meant to offend, or pandering to the latest trend. My vampires love human blood, my dragons hunt people, and my elves are magical and arrogant. Romance and darkness will always go together for me. Love really can get you through anything, as I know from personal experience. My characters will always have that glimmer of new love, that bond with a soulmate, and will do anything to be with their one and only. When I'm not busy having things killed. Being deeply romantic doesn't mean I'm not also a violent or twisted writer. Fight scenes, bloodshed, dark magic, and triumphant villains all have their places in my tales. I'll never apologize for who I am. Sometimes abrasive and uncouth, full of contradictions and juxtaposition, I am merely who I am. And what I am is a storyteller wanting to craft new entertainments for you.

Ms. Carluk is offering three (3) copies of her anthology, Stories with Fang o,.,o

Crawling from unknown depths, these collected stories await your discovery. Fantasy, and horror, and paranormal. Vampires, and elves, and monsters. Tales of darkness and lust. Unexpected turns, rousing battles, and undying love.These tales are for those wishing to sample the other side.Also included: Keila and Varick's first date.

Pick up Stories with Fang at: Smashwords

Ms. Carluk is also offering three (3) digital copies of Deadlands. (International giveaway)

Vanya, misunderstood and alone, is one of the few necromancers in a world sundered by chaos. Superpowers have crumbled, genetic experiments have gone wild, and people have fallen back on old ways. Few can stand against the wilderness, but she teams with a mercenary group capable of doing just that. However, members of The Last Hope don't know her darkest secret: Vanya must find a vampire to open her to death or go insane. Prophetic dreams promise relief, and have lead her to the path of Alexander. He is everything Vanya needs and more, and she finally knows where he makes his lair; the ruins of Louisville. She just needs to cross the Deadlands to get there; hostile territory east of St Louis overrun by feral animals, genetic monstrosities, and the dreaded neospawn ghouls. Certainly not the kind of place an addicted necro wants to be alone while suffering withdrawals. Meaning she must enlist the aid of the mercenaries who are as wary of her death powers as everyone else. Can determination and The Last Hope see Vanya to her dream vampire's arms?

Pick up Deadlands at: Barnes & Nobles or Smashwords

Steena Holmes

I'm Steena Holmes. A wife. A mother of three daughters and I live in Calgary, Alberta.

I'm a chocoholic and author. I love to read, bake, create cover designs, read and write.

I have a secret to share … I write steamy romances as Anya Winter.

Need to get a hold of me? I'd love to chat! Email me at steenah@telus.net

Follow me on twitter – @SteenaHolmes or @AnyaWinter

Ms. Holmes is offering Chocolate Reality

Not many women would be able to look on the bright side of things when they are left at standing at the front of a church, alone, in a white dress, with everyone blaming her for the groom's cold feet. Yet that's exactly what Wynne does. When the only comfort she could find was in the form of chocolate, Wynne decided to open her own shop, called Chocolate Blessings.

With a not-so-secret passion for chocolate, Wynne focuses all her energy on making her passion a success. Which really isn't all that hard, think about it – what woman doesn't like chocolate? But, despite all this, Wynne can't ignore those sweet and utterly delectable dreams of love that refuse to go away. In her dreams, Wynne is dancing in the arms of a very strong and handsome man. But which man? Is it the one she turned away from years before out of fear, or the one who left her standing at the altar? Wynne has no sweet clue.

To the surprise of her best friends, Wynne finds herself knee-deep in planning her ex-fiancé's engagement party. In the whirlwind that occurs, Wynne must decide which man she is still in love with – the one who walked away or the one in her dreams. Before she can let her heart trust in love again, Wynne finds herself having to face deep heart issues in regards to trusting God first.

Pick up Chocolate Reality at: Smashwords, The Book Depository, and Barnes & Nobles

Plus as Anya Winter she's offering The Master

A semi-naked photo, taken almost ten years, almost ruins everything for Madison Pearce. With a glass of champagne in hand, Madison is about to call her recent job a success, until she is pulled her into a private room and a secret, one from her past, resurfaces.

Along with the lover, she never expected to see again…

Pick up The Master at: Amazon

AND!!! The Blindfold

Samantha thought she had the afternoon free. After a busy morning in court, her body sizzled at the idea of an afternoon of submissive sex to her Master.

Ordered to wear a blindfold, Samantha surrenders to the passionate teaching of the man who can make her body sing. Until her blindfold comes off and she's forced to bear her punishment.

Nothing else matter to her, until an insistent knocking on the door alerts her that they aren't as alone as she thought they were.

Pick up The Blindfold at: Smashwords and Barnes & Nobles

In addition!!! Ms. Holmes is sponsoring books by her fellow authors buddies…

Siren's Song by D.L. Snow

After giving up fame, Joss Jones wants a normal life. Maybe she'll find it in Bandit Creek. Or…maybe not. From the moment she moves into the old mansion she inherited, she's stalked by a ghost who torments her before dragging her back in time to Bandit Creek, 1899. Has she gone crazy or is this old mining town, full of saloons, gambling, whoring and fortune seekers her new reality? It feels real enough as does the ghost who brought her here. His name is Morgan Hawes and he is very much alive. Is Morgan the key to Joss finding her way home or is Joss stuck for the rest of her life as the Siren of Bandit Creek?

Pick up Siren's Song at: Smashwords and Barnes & Nobles

Death at Bandit Creek by Amy Jo Fleming

Charlotte Fraser is running away, broken-hearted. She is the new teacher in a one-room school house in Bandit Creek, Montana. The year is 1911 and she has arrived just in time to stage the annual Thanksgiving pageant but . . . when she gets there, she learns that the old school teacher, Eileen McArthur is missing. Could Charlotte be in danger too?

The young sheriff, Alec Forrest, is searching for Eileen McArthur. He gets nothing but grief from the young women in Bandit Creek, but it seems that Charlotte will be more trouble than any of the rest. And will he ever find out what happened to Eileen McArthur?

Pick up Death at Bandit Creek at: Smashwords

Last but not least, my buddy
Benjamin Jones

Benjamin Jones was born in Greeneville, TN but currently resides in Little Elm, TX with his wife, two daughters, two dogs, and one cat. Benjamin has been writing for close to 15 years while working various 9-5 jobs but, all the while, finding time to keep the writing the main priority and always trying to hone his craft.

Raised off of horror movies and seeing the recent glut of vampire books/movies/TV shows, inspired Benjamin Jones, along with illustrator Justin Taylor, to come up with the idea for H.U.B. – Humanity's Ultimate Battle to take vampires back to the time when they weren't focused so much towards the teen audience and instead to the time when they were feared and only wanted blood. H.U.B. Volume 1 and Volume 2: Blowback are currently available right now with H.U.B. Volume 3: The Tipping Point due to be released on 9.10.11.

Benjamin is available for convention visits/speaking engagements, print, radio and web interviews as well as guest blog postings. To schedule an interview or speaking engagement you can contact him at ben@whatishub.net

Mr. Jones is offering Head above Water

When that which you've struggled so hard to get is taken from you, how far would you go to get it back? How much would you sacrifice for love?

Head Above Water, the new romance novel from Benjamin Jones, tells the story of Leena and Darryl, two people destined to be apert but determined to be reunited no matter the cost.

Stay tuned for buy links: Smashwords, The Book Depository, and Barnes & Nobles

Bonus For Readers

Here's your chance to get involved. In addition to the sponsors' offerings, you're going to help me choose what other books to offer. This is what I want from you. Head to this blog post. In the comments leave the title and author of a romance book you absolutely loved and would like others to read also. Additionally leave the title and author of a romance book you're DYING to own. So you're naming two books here, peeps!

When it's time for the giveaway, only sponsored prizes and books suggested by the commentators will be a part of the giveaway.

Interested in joining the fun? Become a sponsor for the upcoming blog hops. Email me at reenajacobs@reenajacobs.com. Want to sponsor a prize? Click here to see how to get involved!

Authors Helping Authors: What I gained from #NaNoWriMo 2012

Wednesday ended NaNoWriMo 2011.

This year was my second time around. I have to admit, the event was a little bumpier than I'd expected. In fact, I didn't even start until day 2.

The thing was, I wasn't sure I wanted to participate this year. I thought about all the projects I had underway and said I needed to knock those out first. I just didn't have time for NaNo.

Then November 1 came around, and I accomplished all of… nothing. Wait a minute here, I said to myself. Isn't this the month you're going to get some work done? Okay… so I wasn't starting on the right foot.

November 2: I realized the best way to be productive was to get over my goals and start that new project. I threw together a outline for Harem and got to it. I have to say, that missing day took me forever to make up. Day 18, I finally inched over the bar.

Every day was a struggle to get myself motivated. Even after I caught there were days I wanted to quit. I even slacked a few days, not meeting my minimum goal. Then I decided to give Write or Die a try.

Now here's the thing with Write or Die. Last year I gave it go, and it was annoying as hell. I just couldn't concentrate with all the blaring going on when I slacked. Now I don't know if it's because I had the wrong settings or if it's changed since then, but the program was more distracting than helpful.

Everyone was tweeting about it in the #NaNoWriMo channel this year. As for me, my past experience wasn't good so I avoided it… until just a few days before the end of NaNo, and you know what? It works!

The obnoxious blaring was gone. Instead the screen transitioned from white to a deep red when I slacked. And there is noise. I found that out the first time I tried the Desktop version. I'm ashamed to admit, but I did get distracted and started web surfing my first attempt. I don't know what it was playing, but it wasn't obnoxious. It was more of a where's that music coming from?

One thing for sure, it got me back on track without distracting me to the point I couldn't concentrate.

I've been using Write or Die ever since. Set at 15 minutes, I can get anywhere from 350-550 words written. It's turned writing from becoming a torturous chore which can easily take me ALL day to scrape out a few hundred words to a few 15-minute intervals of highly focused writing sprints.

Now that NaNoWriMo is over, I've made a goal of 1k words a day. And with Write or Die, it's such an easy task to accomplish. I'm looking at 2-3 sessions (30-45 minutes) a day. Even when I was pumping out my first novel way back when I was full of motivation, I wasn't this efficient.

So, this year, I'm recommending Write or Die. It has changed the way I write for the better. In fact, after my first day using it, I went to my husband and asked if I could purchase the Desktop edition. Yes… I went to my husband to get permission to spend $10 from my book royalties. I know… odd. I just feel better with his seal of approval when it comes to writing and blog related expenses, regardless of the source of the funds.

There you have it. A++ for Write or Die.

 

More Black Friday Winners!

So I've been sending of emails and prizes like crazy. I was on a roll people. The final winner for Reluctant Guardian responded, and I passed her info off to Kristy K. James. Apparently, I missed a few winners. Shame on me, but Yay for us!!! We can never have too many winners, right?

Courtesy of Ms. James, 3 more winners!!!

And the Winners are!
Kathryn Merkel
LadyVampire

and

Rea

Reluctant Guardian is available at Barnes & Nobles or Smashwords.

Winners! I encourage you to thank the Ms. James for her contribution is by completing a review of their work(s).

Emails have been sent to the winners. Winners will have until Friday, December 2, 2011 to claim their prize(s). Non-responsive winners will forfeit their prize(s), and new winners might be selected. Remember to check your spam folder!

And remember to visit again. There'll be another giveaway blog hop in a few weeks. XOXOXOX

Want to sponsor a giveaway? Want to do an interview or guest post. Email me. reenajacobs at reenajacobs dot com

Cyber Monday Giveaway: Did she say $125? #CyberMonday #Giveaway

I think Sarah Palin said it best, "You betcha! Here's your chance to:

Support Four Debut Authors and Snag $125!
Four books
Two Days
Great Prizes

With this contest, there is something for everyone and it's SO simple to be in on the winning!

On November 28 and/or 29, purchase 1 or all 4 of the debut author's books listed here. Then forward proof of purchase (the receipt Amazon sends you will do just fine) to : motionsrider@yahoo.ca and get up to 4 entries into a draw for a $100 Amazon gift card!

WHAT?!?!!? Ask me if I could use an extra $100 for the holidays.

It's that easy, no reviews, no hoops to jump through. Just a great .99 book or two. Or three or four. AND, if the person who wins the $100 Amazon Gift Card has purchased all 4 books, an additional $25 Amazon Gift Card will be awarded to the winner!

As long as you're in… go for the gold, right? $0.99? $3.96. What's the difference? I'll tell you the difference. $25 in your pocket… or mine.

On top of that, 2 random commenter's picked from 2 of our participating blogs will receive $5 gift Amazon gift cards . So, be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think of the promo, the books, or the authors.

Did you leave a comment? I sure hope so. Money is on the line!

Winners will be chosen randomly, one entry per person, per book.

All winners will be announced on December 7th on Wringing Out Words (http://shannonmayer.blogspot.com)

"Between" by Cyndi Tefft

It just figures that the love of Lindsey Water's life isn't alive at all, but the grim reaper, complete with a dimpled smile, and Scottish accent.

After transporting souls to heaven for the last 300 years, Aiden MacRae has all but given up on finding the one whose love will redeem him and allow him entry through the pearly gates.

Torn between her growing attraction to Aiden and heaven's siren song, Lindsey must learn the hard way whether love really can transcend all boundaries.

Buy Now & Enter to Win!!! Amazon.com, Smashwords, The Book Depository, Barnes & Nobles

"Until Dawn: Last Light" by Jennifer Simas

When darkness falls, whose side will you be on?

For the past six years, Zoë has been anything but "normal." Struggling to accept her immortality and thrown into a war that's been waging in the shadows for over a thousand years, Zoë must now become who she was meant to be, joining the other Chosen to save what's left of humanity. When the endless night falls over the Earth, will she be able to save the one man who reminds her of what it is to be human, or will it be too late?

Until Dawn: Last Light is a story of death and despair, love and longing, hope and hopelessness, and the ability to survive and keep going even when it seems impossible – when you want nothing more than to give up.

This one too! Amazon.com

"The Kayson Cycle" by Jonathan D. Allen

A stranger enters a dying town and makes a desperate plea…

The Kayson Cycle introduces the Kayson Brothers, a pair of faith healers who once wowed crowds in a traveling show but went their separate ways after a night in which a healing took a dark turn. Jeffrey Kayson disappeared into the wilderness and William Kayson, wracked by guilt, moved to the failing mining town of Calico Hills to build a nice, quiet life – one that has lasted for over ten years.

His quiet, predictable life crumbles when a mysterious stranger walks into his tavern bearing a proposal to find his long-lost brother and do the one thing that William has sworn to never do again – have his brother heal a woman. William soon learns that he can't escape his family – or his destiny.

Includes an exclusive sample chapter of The Corridors of the Dead. Please note that this is a Kindle Single, and around 6,000 words in length.

We don't just half do things around here. Pick up this title also! Amazon.com, Smashwords,

"Sundered" by Shannon Mayer

A miracle drug, Nevermore, spreads like wildfire throughout the world allowing people to eat what they want, and still lose weight. It is everything the human population has ever dreamed of and Mara is no different. Only a simple twist of fate stops her from taking Nevermore.

As the weeks roll by, it becomes apparent that Nevermore is not the miracle it claimed. A true to life nightmare, the drug steals the very essence that makes up humanity and unleashes a new and deadly species on the world that is bent on filling its belly. Locked down within their small farm home, Mara and her husband Sebastian struggle against increasingly bad odds, fighting off marauders and monsters alike.

But Sebastian carries a dark secret, one that more than threatens to tear them apart, it threatens to destroy them both and the love they have for each other.

Now Mara must make the ultimate choice. Will she live for love, or will she live to survive?

As long as you've come this far, round it off with one more chance? Amazon.com, Smashwords

Since you've read this far, you might as well comment for a chance to win your Amazon GC!

 

Black Friday Giveaway Winners!

We've reached the best part of the giveaway ~ Announcing the Winners!

First a shout out to the many generous authors who pitched in to make this giveaway hella attractive.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

I know what you folks want… and I'm getting to it. One way you can thank the authors for their contribution is by completing a review of their work(s). So if you're one of the many winners, keep that in mind. And I think it goes without saying, every author loves your financial support, so pick up copies of their books!

Without further ado (or rambling in the case of me), I present the winners.

2 eCopies of AMBASADORA ~ Sponsored by Heidi Ruby Miller.
And the winners are!
Cindy McCune

and

Miranda Grissom

If you didn't win a copy of AMBASADORA, don't fret. You can pick up your copy at Barnes & Nobles, The Book Depository, or Smashwords.

An eCopy of A Summer in Oakland ~ Sponsored by Shellie Neumeier.
And the winner is!
Lena M. (Vegan Lenna)

A Summer in Oakville is available at Barnes & Nobles or The Book Depository.

An eCopy of The Devil and Preston Black ~ Sponsored by Jason Jack Miller
And the winner is!
Linda Henderson

The Devil and Preston Black is available at Barnes & Nobles or Smashwords.

An eCopy of Vampyre Kisses ~ Sponsored by Elizabeth J Kolodziej
And the winner is!
Helen Bush

Vampyre Kisses is available at Barnes & Nobles, Smashwords, or The Book Depository.

  2 eCopies of Reluctant Guardian ~ Sponsored by Kristy K. James
And the winners are!
Shirley (Creative Deed)

and

Darlene (Darlene's Book Nook)

Reluctant Guardian is available at Barnes & Nobles or Smashwords.

[image error] 3 eCopies of Stories with Fang o,.,o ~ Sponsored by Raven Corinn Carluk
and the winners are!
Jasmine1485 (Nothing To Fancy)
Persephone (Persephone's Winged Books)

and

Bella Bunnell

Stories with Bite is available at Smashwords

Also sponsored by Ms. Carluk ~ (3) eCopies of Deadlands
And the winners are!
Diana
Midnight

and

jacque stengel

Deadlands is available at Barnes & Nobles or Smashwords

An undisclosed number (??) of eCopies of my work
And the winners are
Control Freak: Brandon's Story

Kelsey d, Vanessa N., Juana Esparza, SharonS, Julianne, blackwolf

Control Freak: Regina's Story

Theresa Manfredi, Cindy McCune, Shirley, Veronique Cummings, Debra Thomas, Donna McBroom-Theriot, Terri Matlock, teressa oliver, Alysia, Identity Seeker

Shadow Cat

Victoria Sloboda, Patsy Hagen, June M., Julie S., CrystalGB, Cheryl Raymond, Gena Robertson, Angela Brown, DANIELA, Kitty Bullard

I Loved You First

Crystal F, Sara Riouch, Jennifer Messerschmidt, Yto, Donna Lawrence, miki, Maegan Morin, Judy Cox, Clarissa (Bookadicea)

A book worth up to $10 from The Book Depository or a $10 Amazon Gift Card
And the winner is!
Brenda Demko

By the way, if you haven't put in your book request for the Romancing Christmas Giveaway Hop, head over and do that. Only sponsored books and books requested by the readers will be up for grabs in that giveaway.

Again, Many Thanks to Our Generous Sponsors!!!
And don't forget to tip them with a review.

Emails have been sent to the winners. If you're name is amongst the list of winners, but you did not receive an email, please contact me at reenajacobs at reenajacobs dot com to claim your prize so I can remedy the situation. Winners will have until Friday, December 2,  2011 to claim their prize(s). Non-responsive winners will forfeit their prize(s), and new winners might be selected. Remember to check your spam folder!

***Mail returned undeliverable to: Vanessa N.

Email me. reenajacobs at reenajacobs dot com to claim your prize.

Thank you all for participating in this blog hop. And remember to visit again. There'll be another giveaway blog hop in a few weeks. XOXOXOX

Want to sponsor a giveaway? Want to do an interview or guest post. Email me. reenajacobs at reenajacobs dot com

Black Friday Book Bonanza (Nov 25-27)

My goodness! The response to the Black Friday Book Bonanza was overwhelming! Thanks to so many generous authors, we have loads of prizes to offer. I sure hope I don't make any huge mistakes in this presentation. So here goes. Today kicks off the…

Black Friday Book Bonanza (Nov 25-27)

The end of the year is creeping up, and it's time to clear some space on the bookshelves. What better time to give away books than the holidays? Instead of running out to the stores on Black Friday, stay in and win new or new-to-you books. The hosts for this hop are Heather from Book Savvy Babe, Jenn from The Bawdy Book Blog, and Lisa from Alive on the Shelves.

I have to be honest. I lost track of the number of prizes. Anyone remember that scene from the Milla Jovovich movie UltraViolet when the computer voice says, "Number of weapons… many." Okay. that's this giveaway.

A Toast to Our Sponsors!
Heidi Ruby Miller

Heidi Ruby Miller writes Science Fiction Romance because the relationship is as important as the adventure. She loves high-heeled shoes, action movies, Chanel, intense music, and video games. Heidi also teaches creative writing at Seton Hill University, where she graduated from their renowned Writing Popular Fiction Graduate Program the same month she appeared on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. The writing guide Many Genres, One Craft, which she co-edited with Michael A. Arnzen, is based on the Seton Hill program and her novel Ambasadora was her thesis there.

She has had various fiction and non-fiction publications, as well as various jobs, including contract archaeologist, foreign currency exchanger at Walt Disney World, foreign language teacher, and educational marketing director for a Frank Lloyd Wright house. Heidi is a member of The Authors Guild, Pennwriters, Broad Universe, EPIC, SFR Brigade, and Science Fiction Poetry Association (SFPA). You can read her author interview series at http://heidirubymiller.blogspot.com. She lives near Pittsburgh with her writer husband, Jason Jack Miller.

Ms. Miller is offering two (2) eCopies of her latest release AMBASADORA. (International giveaway awarded via Smashword Coupon)

If everyone told you love wasn't real, would you still be willing to die for it?

Citizens of a six-moon system in our arm of the Milky Way don't remember Earth, only the History of a generational worldship culture. In their multi-partner society a caste system rules tradition, but the governing body of the Embassy rules everything else. Obsessed with celebrity, beauty, and power, relationships and conceptions are based more on DNA than emotional ties…or should be. What the citizenry can't escape are the human feelings of love and jealousy that turn the sterile to honorable suicide, force a couple to make the ultimate sacrifice, and allow rebels to spin their world into a violent revolution. Ambasadora Sara Mendoza becomes the unwilling face of this revolution. Captured, tortured, and given a second chance at freedom, she proves that sacrifice for the man she loves is more honorable than sacrifice to a society's antiquated mores.

Ambasadora is available at Barnes & Nobles, The Book Depository, or Smashwords.

Shellie Neumeier

Married for over 20 years, Shellie and her husband have four wonderful kiddos and two goofy greyhounds. After receiving her undergraduate degree in Secondary Education from the University of Wisconsin—Madison, she went on to acquire an early childhood education certificate. Shellie also served in youth, children's, special needs and family ministries for over twenty-two years.

Now she enjoys teaching her teens how to drive and chauffeuring her preteens across the Wisconsin countryside. And once in a while, she loves to read big people books (you know the kind without pictures). Shellie writes because it keeps her away from her husband's power tools and because every now and then, she doesn't have the choice, it just takes over. Her best inspiration comes from God and the occasional walk along a country road with her greyhounds. In addition to writing, Shellie speaks at youth groups, conferences, and women's retreats. If you would like more information regarding her speaking engagements or to invite her to speak at yours, please contact our office at info(at)shellieneumeier(dot)com.

Ms. Neumeier is offering a digital copy of her latest release, A Summer in Oakville. (International giveaway)

One Magical Summer in Oakville, Wisconsin, Love Finds its Way through Four Entwined Lives. Tessa Hasmer Murphy has a secret. Estranged from her husband, will she let a past love and a fight to save the family farm destroy her marriage and daughter Lindsay's happiness? Lindsay Murphy plans to live on her grandparents' farm until she can find a job, but developer Brandon Calloway has other plans for the property. As she wages war against him, will she lose her heart and the farm both? Widower Arthur Hasmer's life and that of his son, Andy, spiral out of control. Then old friend, Dana London, reenters the picture with the power to help them all back to love, joy and faith. Andy Hasmer has the ultimate bummer life. No mom, not much of a dad, no future. When he's sent to the farm and wrecks the truck, nothing could be worse than the lousy job he takes to pay Grampa back—except maybe putting up with the pastor's daughter, Ella.

A Summer in Oakville is available at Barnes & Nobles or The Book Depository.

Jason Jack Miller

Jason Jack Miller hails from Fayette County, PA, as in, "Circus freaks, temptation and the Fayette County Fair," made famous by The Clarks in the song, "Cigarette." He is a writer, photographer and musician who has been hassled by cops in Canada, Mexico and the Czech Republic. An outdoor travel guide he co-authored with his wife in 2006 jumpstarted his freelancing career; his work has since appeared in newspapers, magazines, literary journals, online, and as part of a travel guide app for mobile phones. He wrote the novels Hellbender and All Saints during his graduate studies at Seton Hill University, where he is now adjunct creative writing faculty. He's been a whitewater raft guide, played guitar in a garage band and served as a concierge at a five star resort hotel in Florida. Now he's an Authors Guild member. When he isn't writing he's on his mountain bike or looking for his next favorite guitar. He is currently writing and recording the soundtrack to his novel, The Devil and Preston Black. Find him at http://jasonjackmiller.blogspot.com. Tweet him @jasonjackmiller.

Mr. Miller is offering a digital copy of his debut release, The Devil and Preston Black. (International giveaway awarded via Smashword Coupon)

You'd think finding a song named after you on an old record would be kind of cool. But that's not how it goes down for Preston Black. What starts out as a search for his old man turns into a quest for an original version of "The Sad Ballad of Preston Black". Turns out the song is about his deal with the devil, a deal Preston doesn't really remember making. When the devil decides it's time to cash in things get really interesting. People he loves get hurt, and Preston starts to wonder if a long fall into an icy river is his only way out. Lucky for Preston, he has help. A music ethnographer with connections in some of Appalachia's darkest hollows convinces him that his salvation can be found in the music. Preston can buy that. It's the hexes, curses and spells he has a hard time with. And it's the ghost of John Lennon who convinces Preston to do something about it.

The Devil and Preston Black is available at Barnes & Nobles or Smashwords.

Elizabeth J Kolodziej

Elizabeth J Kolodziej, a young fiction writer originally from Torrance California, is a smart and original thinker who has researched the origins of vampires, werewolves, and witches for many years. She writes her books from the knowledge she has gained while trying to be as original and inspiring as possible. Her books encompass both true folklore facts along with innovative ideas motivated by the great writers around her. This book is her first, but not her last, in a new series entitled Vampyre Kisses.

Ms. Kolodziej is offering a digital copy of her debut novel, Vampyre Kisses. (International giveaway)

Vampyre Kisses is an enthralling story about a young woman named Faith, who seems content with her life, but deep down craves more excitement. Then a mysterious man named Trent enters her world and everything changes. Surprising to Faith, Trent is a green-eyed vampire from Ireland. She is even more amazed to find out that she is a witch, and the last of her kind. Faith learns that she is destined to restore her witch line and becomes more powerful as she gains confidence and knowledge, but danger lurks everywhere — especially when unknown assailants steal the most important gems from the vampire master and werewolf royalty. Now surrounded by a world filled with mystifying vampires and werewolves, can Faith gain enough power to help her friends and rescue the stolen gems?

Vampyre Kisses is available at Barnes & Nobles, Smashwords, or The Book Depository.

Kristy K. James

All it took was the encouragement of a student teacher in a ninth grade writing class and Kristy K. James was off and running. She has been writing for more years than she'll ever admit to, and loves every aspect of it. From creating characters who are so real that they sometimes take over the writing when they don't like where she's taking a story, to adding as many twists and mysteries to her plots as she can get away with. She is the author of Reluctant Guardian, A Fine Mess, and The Stranger in my Head. Kristy currently lives in Michigan with her family, too many pets and the occasional spider. She spends her time living in her make-believe worlds, cooking and baking up a storm, and doing her best to learn to say 'no' when stray animals wander into her large country yard. Reading is one of her favorite pastimes, as is traveling around the state, especially to coastal beaches to enjoy the sound of the waves crashing on the shore and gulls screeching overhead.

Ms. James is offering two (2) digital copies of her latest release, Reluctant Guardian. (International giveaway awarded via Smashwords coupon)

Except for her brother, Devon O'Leary has lost everything in the world that matters to her. When the opportunity to start over arises, they travel a great distance, hoping for a better life, only to discover that all is not what it seems. Everything Tristan Montgomery has ever wanted is finally within reach. As long as he agrees to the terms of his enemy's will. If he declines, the prize will be lost forever. Is a dream fulfilled worth the misery it will bring?

Reluctant Guardian is available at Barnes & Nobles or Smashwords.

Raven Corinn Carluk

Talking about myself is much harder than writing a book. You'd think a wordmistress wouldn't have such a problem, but I do. Let me rework a flat scene any day. Simple background: I'm married, have lots of pets, still work full time, and grew up in Las Vegas. But there's so much more to a person than that. Writing is more than just words on paper to me. It's a passion, an incessant need, a deep-seated drive to be a storyteller. I knew I wanted to be an author as far back as high school. Writing may have taken a backseat a few times, but I finally made it. My stories have bite because I'm a little different, and like slightly different things. No shock horror here, or cheap gimmicks meant to offend, or pandering to the latest trend. My vampires love human blood, my dragons hunt people, and my elves are magical and arrogant. Romance and darkness will always go together for me. Love really can get you through anything, as I know from personal experience. My characters will always have that glimmer of new love, that bond with a soulmate, and will do anything to be with their one and only. When I'm not busy having things killed. Being deeply romantic doesn't mean I'm not also a violent or twisted writer. Fight scenes, bloodshed, dark magic, and triumphant villains all have their places in my tales. I'll never apologize for who I am. Sometimes abrasive and uncouth, full of contradictions and juxtaposition, I am merely who I am. And what I am is a storyteller wanting to craft new entertainments for you.

[image error] Ms. Carluk is offering three (3) copies of her anthology, Stories with Fang o,.,o

Crawling from unknown depths, these collected stories await your discovery. Fantasy, and horror, and paranormal. Vampires, and elves, and monsters. Tales of darkness and lust. Unexpected turns, rousing battles, and undying love.These tales are for those wishing to sample the other side.Also included: Keila and Varick's first date.

Stories with Bite is available at Smashwords

Ms. Carluk is also offering three (3) digital copies of Deadlands. (International giveaway)

Vanya, misunderstood and alone, is one of the few necromancers in a world sundered by chaos. Superpowers have crumbled, genetic experiments have gone wild, and people have fallen back on old ways. Few can stand against the wilderness, but she teams with a mercenary group capable of doing just that. However, members of The Last Hope don't know her darkest secret: Vanya must find a vampire to open her to death or go insane. Prophetic dreams promise relief, and have lead her to the path of Alexander. He is everything Vanya needs and more, and she finally knows where he makes his lair; the ruins of Louisville. She just needs to cross the Deadlands to get there; hostile territory east of St Louis overrun by feral animals, genetic monstrosities, and the dreaded neospawn ghouls. Certainly not the kind of place an addicted necro wants to be alone while suffering withdrawals. Meaning she must enlist the aid of the mercenaries who are as wary of her death powers as everyone else. Can determination and The Last Hope see Vanya to her dream vampire's arms?

Deadlands is available at Barnes & Nobles or Smashwords

Reena Jacobs

Hi! I'm me and the web manager of Ramblings of an Amateur Writer. I enjoy NOT playing with animals and children. My favorite pastimes are reading and web surfing. As usually, I can't leave well enough alone, so I'm throwing a few goodies in also.

I'm offering an undisclosed number (??) of digital copies of my work. Winners' choice. (International giveaway award via Kindle gift with some restrictions)

Close your eyes kiddies, some of these works are not for you. If you're 18+ and can handle a little eroticism, you're welcome to enter to win any of my works. If you're of the younger persuasion (under 18), you may enter to win I Loved You FirstONLY. I'm sure folks are tired of me talking about my books. Rather than going into a long dragged out commentary about what each work is about, I'll just do a quick listing and genre. Feel free to click the link for more details.

Control Freak: Brandon's Story ~ Short Story, Couples Erotica
Control Freak: Regina's Story ~ Short Story, Couples Erotica
Shadow Cat ~ Contemporary Fantasy/Erotica
I Loved You First ~ Contemporary Love Story/LGBT elements


I'm offering a book worth up to $10 from The Book Depository (International) or a $10 Amazon Gift Card (US-only).

Winner's choice if you're in the US, and by default your choice of books if you're not. My understanding is us lowly folks in the US can only send Amazon Gift Cards to folks in the US. If I'm wrong, definitely leave a comment. It won't change the prizes for this giveaway, but keep in mind, another blog hop occurs at the end of the month with a similar prize offer. I'd love to offer the gift card internationally.

International winner must be on The Book Depository's Shipping List.

By the way, if you haven't put in your book request for the Romancing Christmas Giveaway Hop, head over and do that. Only sponsored books and books requested by the readers will be up for grabs in that giveaway.

As always, entering is easy.

You'll earn 1 point for completing the form.
An additional point for sharing the giveaway and leaving the link (Twitter, Facebook, Blog, Linked, MySpace, etc.). *Optional*
You MUST be a GFC follower or one of My Honored Ones. To become one, either sign in at the top of the website or via the sidebar to the left.
Comments are appreciated, but only entries from the form count.
Giveaway ends Sunday, November 27, 2011 at 11:59 PM ET.
Please read the giveaway policy for the nitty gritty.

Follow @ReenaJacobs

Many Thanks to Our Generous Sponsors!!!

Are you following the Black Friday Book Bonanza? See what the next three participants on the list have to offer!

Candace's Book Blog
Tarah Scottt
T. C. Archer

For a full list, visit here.

Interested in joining the fun? Become a sponsor for a giveaway or upcoming Blog Hop. Email me at reenajacobs@reenajacobs.com.

Tuesday Teaser: Blog Hop Sponsors

Wow! All I can say is Ramblings of an Amateur Writer has had a lot of writers sponsor giveaways for the upcoming blog hops. Originally, I'd plan to introduce sponsors the Tuesday following the day they made their offerings. I think it would make too long of a blog post. So, this week, I'm just going to share the sponsors for the blog hop which starts this Friday and save the others for next Tuesday. Sound good? I think so.

So a reminder of what's coming up this week:

Black Friday Book Bonanza (Nov 25-27)

The end of the year is creeping up, and it's time to clear some space on the bookshelves. What better time to give away books than the holidays? Instead of running out to the stores on Black Friday, stay in and win new or new-to-you books. The hosts for this hop are Heather from Book Savvy Babe, Jenn from The Bawdy Book Blog, and Lisa from Alive on the Shelves.

By the way, it's not too late to sponsor a giveaway. Pop an email off to me at reenajacobs@reenajacobs.com and we'll work out the details.

Roll Call!

You might recognize the first two names from our blog hop just a few weeks ago. Heidi Ruby Miller and Shellie Neumeier were gracious enough to join in a second time. Woot! So if you didn't win one of their books last time, fear not! You now have another opportunity. Wow! That's a lot of smiley faces.

Heidi Ruby Miller

Heidi Ruby Miller writes Science Fiction Romance because the relationship is as important as the adventure. She loves high-heeled shoes, action movies, Chanel, intense music, and video games. Heidi also teaches creative writing at Seton Hill University, where she graduated from their renowned Writing Popular Fiction Graduate Program the same month she appeared on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire. The writing guide Many Genres, One Craft, which she co-edited with Michael A. Arnzen, is based on the Seton Hill program and her novel Ambasadora was her thesis there.

She has had various fiction and non-fiction publications, as well as various jobs, including contract archaeologist, foreign currency exchanger at Walt Disney World, foreign language teacher, and educational marketing director for a Frank Lloyd Wright house.

Heidi is a member of The Authors Guild, Pennwriters, Broad Universe, EPIC, SFR Brigade, and Science Fiction Poetry Association (SFPA).

You can read her author interview series at http://heidirubymiller.blogspot.com.

She lives near Pittsburgh with her writer husband, Jason Jack Miller.

Ms. Miller is offering her latest release, Ambasadora.

If everyone told you love wasn't real, would you still be willing to die for it?

Citizens of a six-moon system in our arm of the Milky Way don't remember Earth, only the History of a generational worldship culture. In their multi-partner society a caste system rules tradition, but the governing body of the Embassy rules everything else. Obsessed with celebrity, beauty, and power, relationships and conceptions are based more on DNA than emotional ties…or should be.

What the citizenry can't escape are the human feelings of love and jealousy that turn the sterile to honorable suicide, force a couple to make the ultimate sacrifice, and allow rebels to spin their world into a violent revolution.

Ambasadora Sara Mendoza becomes the unwilling face of this revolution. Captured, tortured, and given a second chance at freedom, she proves that sacrifice for the man she loves is more honorable than sacrifice to a society's antiquated mores.

Are you an eager reader? Pick up Ambasadora today at Barnes & Nobles, The Book Depository, or Smashwords.

Shellie Neumeier

Married for over 20 years, Shellie and her husband have four wonderful kiddos and two goofy greyhounds. After receiving her undergraduate degree in Secondary Education from the University of Wisconsin—Madison, she went on to acquire an early childhood education certificate. Shellie also served in youth, children's, special needs and family ministries for over twenty-two years.

Now she enjoys teaching her teens how to drive and chauffeuring her preteens across the Wisconsin countryside. And once in a while, she loves to read big people books (you know the kind without pictures).

Shellie writes because it keeps her away from her husband's power tools and because every now and then, she doesn't have the choice, it just takes over. Her best inspiration comes from God and the occasional walk along a country road with her greyhounds.

In addition to writing, Shellie speaks at youth groups, conferences, and women's retreats. If you would like more information regarding her speaking engagements or to invite her to speak at yours, please contact our office at info(at)shellieneumeier(dot)com.

Ms. Neumeier is also offering her latest release, A Summer in Oakville.

One Magical Summer in Oakville, Wisconsin,

Love Finds its Way through Four Entwined Lives.

Tessa Hasmer Murphy has a secret. Estranged from her husband, will she let a past love and a fight to save the family farm destroy her marriage and daughter Lindsay's happiness?

Lindsay Murphy plans to live on her grandparents' farm until she can find a job, but developer Brandon Calloway has other plans for the property. As she wages war against him, will she lose her heart and the farm both?

Widower Arthur Hasmer's life and that of his son, Andy, spiral out of control. Then old friend, Dana London, reenters the picture with the power to help them all back to love, joy and faith.

Andy Hasmer has the ultimate bummer life. No mom, not much of a dad, no future. When he's sent to the farm and wrecks the truck, nothing could be worse than the lousy job he takes to pay Grampa back—except maybe putting up with the pastor's daughter, Ella.

It's never too soon to go shopping. Pick up your copy today at Barnes & Nobles or The Book Depository.

Ms. Miller convinced her hubby to join in the fun. It's gotta be pretty cool having someone in the household who understand what it's like to be a writer.

Jason Jack Miller

Jason Jack Miller hails from Fayette County, PA, as in, "Circus freaks, temptation and the Fayette County Fair," made famous by The Clarks in the song, "Cigarette."  He is a writer, photographer and musician who has been hassled by cops in Canada, Mexico and the Czech Republic. An outdoor travel guide he co-authored with his wife in 2006 jumpstarted his freelancing career; his work has since appeared in newspapers, magazines, literary journals, online, and as part of a travel guide app for mobile phones. He wrote the novels Hellbender and All Saints during his graduate studies at Seton Hill University, where he is now adjunct creative writing faculty. He's been a whitewater raft guide, played guitar in a garage band and served as a concierge at a five star resort hotel in Florida.  Now he's an Authors Guild member. When he isn't writing he's on his mountain bike or looking for his next favorite guitar. He is currently writing and recording the soundtrack to his novel, The Devil and Preston Black. Find him at http://jasonjackmiller.blogspot.com.  Tweet him @jasonjackmiller.

Mr. Miller is offering his debut release, The Devil and Preston Black.

You'd think finding a song named after you on an old record would be kind of cool. But that's not how it goes down for Preston Black.

What starts out as a search for his old man turns into a quest for an original version of "The Sad Ballad of Preston Black". Turns out the song is about his deal with the devil, a deal Preston doesn't really remember making.

When the devil decides it's time to cash in things get really interesting. People he loves get hurt, and Preston starts to wonder if a long fall into an icy river is his only way out.

Lucky for Preston, he has help. A music ethnographer with connections in some of Appalachia's darkest hollows convinces him that his salvation can be found in the music. Preston can buy that. It's the hexes, curses and spells he has a hard time with.

And it's the ghost of John Lennon who convinces Preston to do something about it.

John Lennon got you curious? Grab a copy today at Barnes & Nobles or Smashwords.

Elizabeth Kolodziej is one of the first authors I met on this self-publishing journey. One thing's for sure, she's always willing to share her knowledge. And now she's going to share her writing.

Elizabeth J Kolodziej

Elizabeth J Kolodziej, a young fiction writer originally from Torrance California, is a smart and original thinker who has researched the origins of vampires, werewolves, and witches for many years. She writes her books from the knowledge she has gained while trying to be as original and inspiring as possible. Her books encompass both true folklore facts along with innovative ideas motivated by the great writers around her. This book is her first, but not her last, in a new series entitled Vampyre Kisses.

Ms. Kolodziej is offering her debut novel, Vampyre Kisses.

Vampyre Kisses is an enthralling story about a young woman named Faith, who seems content with her life, but deep down craves more excitement. Then a mysterious man named Trent enters her world and everything changes. Surprising to Faith, Trent is a green-eyed vampire from Ireland. She is even more amazed to find out that she is a witch, and the last of her kind.

Faith learns that she is destined to restore her witch line and becomes more powerful as she gains confidence and knowledge, but danger lurks everywhere — especially when unknown assailants steal the most important gems from the vampire master and werewolf royalty.

Now surrounded by a world filled with mystifying vampires and werewolves, can Faith gain enough power to help her friends and rescue the stolen gems?

Is the cover enticing you to buy? Find it at Barnes & Nobles, Smashwords, or The Book Depository.

I recently started chatting with Ms. James, and I have to say, she's quite friend… not to  mention patient. Anyone who's dealt with me through emails, knows what a scatterbrain I can be at times. So far she's taken it in stride.

Kristy K. James

All it took was the encouragement of a student teacher in a ninth grade writing class and Kristy K. James was off and running. She has been writing for more years than she'll ever admit to, and loves every aspect of it. From creating characters who are so real that they sometimes take over the writing when they don't like where she's taking a story, to adding as many twists and mysteries to her plots as she can get away with.

She is the author of Reluctant Guardian, A Fine Mess, and The Stranger in my Head.

Kristy currently lives in Michigan with her family, too many pets and the occasional spider. She spends her time living in her make-believe worlds, cooking and baking up a storm, and doing her best to learn to say 'no' when stray animals wander into her large country yard.

Reading is one of her favorite pastimes, as is traveling around the state, especially to coastal beaches to enjoy the sound of the waves crashing on the shore and gulls screeching overhead.

Ms. James is offering her latest release, Reluctant Guardian

Except for her brother, Devon O'Leary has lost everything in the world that matters to her. When the opportunity to start over arises, they travel a great distance, hoping for a better life, only to discover that all is not what it seems.

Everything Tristan Montgomery has ever wanted is finally within reach. As long as he agrees to the terms of his enemy's will. If he declines, the prize will be lost forever. Is a dream fulfilled worth the misery it will bring?

I checked out the trailer earlier. Seems to be a bit of diabolical scheming going on. Find it at Barnes & Nobles or Smashwords.

 

 

Interested in joining the fun? Become a sponsor for the Black Friday Book Bonanza or the upcoming blog hops for December and/or January. Email me at reenajacobs@reenajacobs.com.

Non-Fiction Review: What's the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian?: A Guide to What Matters Most by Martin Thielen

With NaNoWriMo going on, I'm afraid I've postponed this review for several weeks. Shame on me. I do hope you'll forgive me. So I picked this goodie up from NetGalley. The title totally intrigued me. I had to know… okay I wanted to know what Martin Thielen had to say about it. So the blurb from Goodreads:

Pastor and author Martin Thielen has compiled a list of ten things Christians need to believe—and ten things they don't—to "qualify" as Christians. This lively and engaging book will be a help to seekers as well as a comfort to believers who may find themselves questioning some of the assumptions they grew up with.

Many people in the twenty-first century hunger for an expression of Christian faith that is different from the judgmental and narrow-minded caricatures they see on television or in the news. With an accessible style that's grounded in solid biblical scholarship, Thielen shows how Christians don't need to believe that sinners will be "left behind" to burn in hell or that it's heresy to believe in evolution. And while we must always take the Bible seriously, we don't always have to take it literally. At the same time, Christians do need to believe in Jesus—his life, his teachings, his death and resurrection, and his vision for the world. Thielen articulates centrist, mainline Christianity in a way that's fresh and easy to understand and offers authentic Christian insights that speak to our deepest needs.

Let's start this review off by providing a quote from the book:

I've had an epiphany. I realize that I don't reject Christianity. Instead, I reject the way that intolerant Christians package Christianity.

I love that! Years ago, I refused the title of Christian for that very same reason. It's odd though. On the inside and out, I was very much Christian orientated… a lot more so then than I am now. Yet instead, I would call myself a follower of the bible or a follower of Christ. I didn't want to be known as a "Christian." In my mind, taking on the title would mislead people into thinking I was one of the hypocritical mainstream Christians. And one thing for sure, I didn't want to be associated with them.

Martin Thielen had a very engaging style, which made this work an enjoyable read. I will admit, there were times he was long-winded though, writing the same theme in various ways. It gave me the impression he needed words to fill the page rather than getting his point across in an effective method. Still, he kept me entertained.

Mr. Thielen broke the book into two parts: What folks don't have to believe and What folks do have to believe. So I'm going to address each part separately.

Part One: What you don't have to believe

One thing I didn't like about part one, is the author tried to slant ideas to fit what he wanted to believe rather than what is actually in the bible. For example, explaining away all the unhappiness in the world, as if God had no hand in any of it. At some point, Mr. Thielen asked, "how can we serve a God like that?" referring to incidents people label as "acts of God," like tornadoes, car wrecks, earthquakes, etc. I'm not saying God is up in the clouds wreaking havok. However, if we look at the history in the bible, God has been known to do just that. The Old Testament (OT) is full of "acts of God." The New Testament (NT) has a few of its own also.

To say my God wouldn't… or I couldn't serve a God like that, is rather naive, in my opinion. Now I'm not out to make God a bad guy, and I agree folks are quick to pass blame to God when things don't go right. However, I think it's important to face the reality of what's in the bible when trying to teach the bible.

Other times, Mr. Thielen takes modern ideas which are popular in society and applies them as biblical fact when they're very much contradictory to the bible. For example, he says, "God doesn't want people to be in the bondage of slavery. Nor does God want women to be submissive, second-class citizens. God intends for marriage to be a partnership, not a hierarchy." Now I'm all for equality. I want it for myself. Yet hierarchies and submissiveness is very much a part of the bible. Submissiveness is not a bad thing; it keeps order. And being submissive doesn't necessarily make one a second-class citizen nor does it deny partnership. Likewise, being at the top of the hierarchy doesn't mean one must treat those in submission poorly. I would even go as far to say, if one had a master or husband who truly walked the Christian lifestyle, being the slave or wife wouldn't be such a burden.

That's not to say I'm a proponent of slavery or want to take a step into the past and strip women of the rights they've gained. I am just saying, the bible says what it says even if we don't want to believe it. If we throw out submissiveness to husbands and masters (employers for us present day people), where do we stop? Do we stop being submissive to Christ? Stop being submissive to God? Submissiveness has it's place. We shouldn't throw out a concept because some individuals abuse the power.

Here's the thing. Women do have important, valuable roles in society. The problem isn't submission; it's the undervaluing of the gifts women possess.

I could go on with my objections about part one, but I'd rather not. Let's just say, there was a lot in there which didn't jive right. Still there were some inspiring pieces.

My favorite chapter by far was 5: God cares about saving souls but not about saving trees. Remember, these are things we DON'T have to believe to be a Christian. The idea behind chapter 5 was folks get so caught up in the battle, they forget there's an entire war out there. For example, the issues of homosexuality and abortion. Honestly, it seems like Satan is pulling a slight of hand with a lot of folks who call themselves Christian. "Lookie over here!" Get Christians to focus all (most of) their energy on abortion and homosexuality, and they'll miss the big picture: bringing folks to Christ through love.

As Mr. Thielen puts it "Exclusively private faith degenerates into a narrow religion, excessively preoccupied with individual and sexual morality while almost oblivious to the biblical demands for public justice." God cares about saving souls. He also cares about other things, like trees, the hungry, world peace. There's no need to make God one dimensional.

Part one ends with what I think is the biggest turn off for non-Christians. Judgmental attitudes. Mr. Thielen tells a story about a friend struggling with his personal life who is later hounded by a judgmental Christian about returning to church.

One day she asked my friend, "Don't you want to go to heaven?"

In weary exasperation he responded, "not if it's full of people like you."

Haha. How many of you out there have had the same thoughts? Mr. Thielen's bottom line is "True Christians leave judgment to God."

Overall, Mr. Thielan had some great points in Part One. Other times he turned the bible into a smorgasbord where one can pick and choose what works best for his/her lifestyle. Mostly, I think it's important to understand that True Christianity is about what's in the bible, not necessarily the way people who call themselves Christian present Christianity to the world.

Part Two: What you do need to believe

I'm not going to go deep in Part 2 because most of it I'll say was irrelevant. Mr. Thielen seemed to go off on tangents, which did not focus on the the questions "What's the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian?" Yes, he answered the question, but it could have been done in 1 chapter versus the 10 chapters he used to do it. Perhaps he was trying to make the two parts even: Ten don't needs and ten do needs. Like I said, 1 chapter (chapter 1 specifically) answered the question. After that, we hit some nice to know information. Other information I'll say was specific to the teachings of his church (mainstream Christians even), because they don't support my understanding of the bible.

Though not an item in part 1 or 2, Mr. Thielen concluded the book with a bit of evangelicalism in chapter 21. I found it to be an excellent addition. While Part 1 & 2 dealt with the nitty gritty assertions (even though I didn't support all of the findings), the last chapter addressed the most important issue in a person's life (according to Christians): Salvation.

My bottom line for What's the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian? — It's an engaging read, has a lot of instructive information, but is also full of fallacies.

As I tell my husband, commentaries and such are great, but people really need to get into the Word so they can decipher what is true and not true when information is presented to them.

Would I recommend What's the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian? Yes and no. If you're unfamiliar with biblical teachings, I wouldn't recommend reading this work solo or for using as a basis for Christianity. However, it would be a nice book to study with someone who is knowledgeable about the bible. I also think it'd make an excellent book for a study group. Why? Because either of the latter two scenarios would provide the opportunity for discussion. When readers hit the areas which are questionable, they can talk it over, compare notes, and look up scriptures to determine if the bible supports Mr. Thielan's ideas or not.

What's the Least I Can Believe and Still Be a Christian?: A Guide to What Matters Most by Martin Thielen is available at: Barnes & Nobles andThe Book Depository