Brenda Sparks's Blog, page 56
August 5, 2013
Book Blitz: Rekindled Dreams by Linda Carroll-Bradd
Title: Rekindled Dreams
Author: Linda Carroll-Bradd
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: 7 October 2013
Blurb:
When museum curator Vena Fenton returns to her small Montana hometown, she’s forced to live under the same roof as the star of her teenage dreams. Enter Finnian Quaid, an environmental lobbyist who is contemplating a run for state representative.
Finnian needs a more settled image if he wants to progress - he needs a wife. With Vena living under his roof, the answer seems clear. But when the romantic sparks fly, will the just-for-show engagement stay pretend, or deepen into a love that will unsettle both their lives?
You can add Rekindled to your to-read list on Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18249147-rekindled-dreams
About the Author:
As a young girl, Linda was often found lying on her bed reading about fascinating characters having exciting adventures in places far away and in other time periods. In later years, she read and then started writing romances and achieved her first publication--a confession story. Married with 4 adult children and 2 granddaughters, Linda now writes heartwarming contemporary and historical stories with a touch of humor from her home in the southern California mountains.
You can find Linda here:
Website: http://www.lindacarroll-bradd.com/
Blog: http://blog.lindacarroll-bradd.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Linda-Carroll-Bradd-author/440814942635289
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lcarrollbradd
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1806413.Linda_Carroll_Bradd
Author: Linda Carroll-Bradd
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: 7 October 2013
Blurb: When museum curator Vena Fenton returns to her small Montana hometown, she’s forced to live under the same roof as the star of her teenage dreams. Enter Finnian Quaid, an environmental lobbyist who is contemplating a run for state representative.
Finnian needs a more settled image if he wants to progress - he needs a wife. With Vena living under his roof, the answer seems clear. But when the romantic sparks fly, will the just-for-show engagement stay pretend, or deepen into a love that will unsettle both their lives?
You can add Rekindled to your to-read list on Goodreads:
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18249147-rekindled-dreams
About the Author:As a young girl, Linda was often found lying on her bed reading about fascinating characters having exciting adventures in places far away and in other time periods. In later years, she read and then started writing romances and achieved her first publication--a confession story. Married with 4 adult children and 2 granddaughters, Linda now writes heartwarming contemporary and historical stories with a touch of humor from her home in the southern California mountains.
You can find Linda here:
Website: http://www.lindacarroll-bradd.com/
Blog: http://blog.lindacarroll-bradd.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Linda-Carroll-Bradd-author/440814942635289
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lcarrollbradd
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1806413.Linda_Carroll_Bradd
August 4, 2013
Book Blitz: Walking Weird Smut Saga (Vol. 5) by Gori Suture
Title: Walking Weird Smut Saga Vol. 5Author: Gori Suture
Genre: Erotic Horror
Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours
Synopsis:Synthesis, The Design of Moirai only glimpsed in the previous Smut Sagas is laid bare in Walking Weird, and this skein is a sticky one, ensnaring all of your favorite characters in Hecate’s web. After years of imprisonment, Astothan’s chance for escape finally comes. His cherished beloved from Geist Kinder is all he can think about, but time may not yield even for gods, and his struggle with forgiveness and love anew has only begun. Poor Jasper’s troubles were only just beginning in The Witch of Hainted Holler, and now he must pick up the pieces of that fateful day and carry the weight of the world on his scrawny shoulders, with the Grim Reaper his only friend. In Shatter Kinder, being a father was Phoenix's fondest wish; yet paternity of monsters is fraught with danger and omens. Eldridge and the rest of Omega begin to master the powers revealed to them in Asphyxia, yet old enemies hatch fresh schemes. The mad adamantine shuttle flies and as the weave grows ever taught, the sole path navigable is Walking Weird!
The confluence of Gori’s first four books is a torrid one, and the reader is sure to get wet, so kick back and enjoy, while you still can …
Author Bio
Hailing from the outskirts of Mayberry, North Carolina, Gori Suture has been writing fiction since she could hold a crayon. Her work is often allegorical, chronicling man’s pursuit of understanding God and the God within. Simultaneously debase and philosophical, she juxtaposes eroticism and horror with metaphysical introspection. She is currently working on the last of the Smut Sagas, the Sorrow and Rue Eroto-Obscurities, and a comic book series is also in the works.
Author Links
www.gorisuture.com
amazon.com/author/gorisuture
http://gorisuture.blogspot.com
http://thecolorofparadox.blogspot.com
https://twitter.com/GoriSuture
http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1388666.Gori_Suture
https://www.facebook.com/Erotic.Horror
http://www.tumblr.com/blog/gorisuture
August 3, 2013
Book Blitz: Patched Up by Stephanie Witter
Genre: Contemporary New Adult novel with a slow building romance. Due to some shocking scenes, this novel is not intended for readers under 18.
Length: over 85 000 words.
Blurb:
Skye followed her long time boyfriend to Seattle for their first year of college, but he dumped her after only a week. The relationship brought only pain and destruction in Skye's life, and yet, she can't bring herself to open up and live her life.
"What if I am already broken into pieces?"
She hates to be touched, hiding under her oversized shirts and behind her wild frizzy hair. Even her bubbly roommate can't reach her. And yet ...
"I'm the guy who knows how you can hurt so much that your insides feel like they're cut and bleeding."
The tall, handsome, and tattooed TA in her psychology class changes everything when he literally collides with her and confronts her. For the first time in a long time, she wants to try and open up to this guy whose dark, intense eyes can't hide his own pain despite his dazzling smile getting to her.
However, just when she's starting to live again, her ex-boyfriend comes back, breaking her time and time again, making it all the more complicated.
She wants to fight for herself and for this building thing with the TA, even when he pushes her away, but can two broken people patch each other up?
"I never thought colliding with someone could change lives, but it is possible."
* Patch Up on Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17979646-patch-up
Stalking Links:
* Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6982524.Stephanie_Witter
* Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/StephanieR76
* Facebook Page: http://www.facebook.com/Stephanie.witter.author
* Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/stephanie.witter.71
And if you want to add a little excerpt:
(The first meeting)
[...]
Without paying attention to my surroundings, I turn to my left to walk toward the row closer to the door where a seat is available. I take a step and collide with a hard body, almost toppling me over on the ground for the second time in less than an hour. A strong hand grips me firmly by the forearm. My body stiffens and my breath catches in my throat. It’s as if I can’t move besides yanking my arm free without looking up to see who I collided with.
“Are you all right?” he asks me in a deep and calm voice.
My eyes wander from my red Converse to his dark boots. I have to calm down. I’m being ridiculous. Calm down. I take a deep breath and look up slowly. Long, muscled legs in beat up dark blue jeans, an old black leather jacket open over a dark grey V-neck sweater that showcases an impressive tall body with broad shoulders and finally, longish and messy black hair, perfect straight nose, full lips, high cheekbones and expressive soft dark eyes that lock with my bluish-greyish ones. He looks older with his goatee perfectly trimmed. A perfect hot mess many girls would say. I’m just intimidated by this stranger, though.
“I’m fine,” I reply, my voice even. I push away some of my untamed locks and curse my auburn frizzy hair that is always all over the place.
August 2, 2013
Book Blitz: Repossession by Rachael Wade
Title: Repossession (The Keepers Trilogy #1)Author: Rachael Wade
Genre: New Adult, Sci-Fi, Apocalyptic, Romance
Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours
Synopsis:Skylla only knows that she has been kidnapped and held prisoner by the foreign invaders and their human allies. And that the world is ending. Or so the humans think. The invaders have made it clear that their arrival is one of hostile intent, and as their takeover spreads, so does the panic across the globe. No one knows how to defeat them, or if it’s even sane to try.
Jet, Skylla’s human captor, is up for the challenge, though. A traitor in Skylla’s eyes, he is working with them. But Jet has his own agenda; one that doesn’t include babysitting Skylla or helping the enemies. And as the human race struggles to keep the invaders from achieving their goal, Jet and Skylla’s paths collide to reveal the truth behind Skylla’s abduction.
The invaders are headed for the water. Jet is headed for the water. But that’s the last place Skylla wants to be. That’s where the future of humanity lies, and where the bridge to their yesterdays was burned. On a mission to take back what is rightfully theirs, Earth’s population is determined to make sure this isn’t the end. But some endings were never theirs to begin with.
*Recommended for ages 17+ due to sexual situations, language, and mature subject matter*
Buy Links:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Repossession-The-Keepers-Trilogy-ebook/dp/B00DJZ2TNO/ref=sr_1_1_bnp_1_kin?ie=UTF8&qid=1374078767&sr=8-1&keywords=Repossession
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/Repossession-by-Rachael-Wade?store=allproducts&keyword=Repossession+by+Rachael+Wade
Excerpt:
The quiet drone of a train’s chugging grew louder as it approached but was still eerily muted, a graceful ghost passing in the night. Minimal light shone from the front car as Jet stepped forward to align himself with its path.
“How do we know where it stops?” I asked, positioning myself next to him.
“We don’t.”
“So …”
“So we have to make a run for it.”
“You mean jump?”
“Yup.”
“As in … jump onto a moving train.”
“Yup.”
“This is crazy.”
“A dangerously disturbing level of crazy. No worries, baby.” He patted my shoulder with a smartass grin. “It’s just your area of expertise.” I narrowed my eyes at him, storing that one away for a future retaliation jab of my own.
Adrenaline spiked as the train grew closer, every nerve ending a live wire to the heart pounding violently in my chest. Jet grabbed my hand, glancing at my gun. “I’ll go first. Once I get a good grip, I’ll haul you up. Whatever you do, don’t stop running. And don’t let go.”
“I should go first,” I raised my voice to speak over the rumbling of the track. “You’re hurt. You’re going to need upper body strength.”
“I’m fine. Don’t fight me on this.”
Blood pounded hot in my ears, my heart rate jumping and hair blowing wildly around my cheeks as the train began to whizz by. The rush in my veins propelled me forward the moment I spotted an opportunity, and I launched into a controlled sprint. Springing upward, I lunged forward and latched on to the side of the car, the metal handle slipping beneath my sweaty grip. I shrieked and latched on harder, hearing Jet’s voice thunder behind me. The train’s vibrations rattled against my chest, sending my senses on high alert.
Clenching the handle until my knuckles hurt, I bit down on my lip to ease the tension and yanked hard to the right, feeling a heavy latch click and shift beneath my fingers. The door slid open and I hauled myself up and inside, grabbing onto the side of the frame to steady myself before flipping around to reach for Jet. He was running full speed after me, his arms pumping tight and sharp at his sides as he tore forward.
“Come on!” I yelled, extending one arm. It only took him a few seconds to catch up, his agile form sending his body off the ground and up onto the car before I could blink. With a loud shout, he clamped onto my arm, his other hand flying over his chest to cradle his gun. I was thrown onto my back with a thud before I knew what hit me, his body covering mine with a crash that left me seeing stars.
“Fucking crazy woman!” he shouted over the rail’s relentless roar, louder now that we were level with it. “What the hell do you think you’re doing?” His heat pressed into me, his arms caging me in as he stared down into my eyes, his nose aligned with mine.
“Fulfilling my sole purpose to drive you mad, it seems.” I couldn’t help it. The rush sent me sky-high and an explosive laugh escaped my lungs. I shook beneath him, my breath heaving against his chest.
“Damn it, Skylla!” He dropped his head as he gasped for air. “Seriously!” he added for effect, but there was nothing serious in his voice now. He was laughing too, just as deep, just as euphorically as I was, and I decided right then that the sound of Jet’s laugh was almost as sexy as his full lips and ripped body.
“Wanna go again?”
“You’re reckless. I can’t even look at you.”
“You’re crushing me.”
His head lifted, those blue eyes settling on me as his laughter slowed. “You deserve it.”
My hand shifted and found his injured hip; my fingers brushed the bandage through his shirt. He flinched. “And you need to admit when you need help.”
Pushing himself up, he rolled off me and sat back on his heels, wincing and gripping his side, his lips pulling back and teeth visibly grinding with the motion. I sat up and scooted forward, mindful of the gaping railcar door. I reached up and slid it shut, slamming it with a loud grunt until I felt it lock into place. The loud rumble of the wheels hitting the track was muted now, but the rattling hum still thumped away from outside, filling the dimly lit car with a shaky buzz.
“I’m fine,” he said.
“Fine. Play it your way. I’m going to see if I can find you some medicine.”
I helped push him backward to prop him against the wall, peeling his backpack from his shoulders first. “Try and rest, I’ll see what I can find out.”
“I’m not letting you wander around these cars alone. Not fuckin’ happening.”
“If you don’t rest and get medicine for that wound soon, I’ll be stuck wandering everywhere alone. That ointment won’t cut it. You’re going to need antibiotics. It’s starting to get infected.”
His gaze snapped up to mine and held my stare. “Finger on the trigger.”
“Fire on your mark.” I smirked.
Authors Bio:
Rachael Wade is the Amazon bestselling author of The Preservation Series, The Resistance Trilogy, and the upcoming sci-fi series, The Keepers Trilogy. When she's not writing, she's busy learning French, watching too many movies, and learning how to protect animals and the environment. Visit her at www.RachaelWade.com and www.LightsOnOutreach.com, or come chat with her on Twitter via @RachaelWade.
Author Links:
Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorRachaelWade
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RachaelWade
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4831558.Rachael_Wade
And now let’s learn a little more about the author from the interview she graciously provided.
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
When I was a kid, probably around 2nd grade. I was obsessed with movies and words. I was drawn to storytelling and was always imagining things, dreaming about scenes and characters.
How long did it take you to write your book?
All of my books are different. It generally takes me about 2 months to write the first draft, then it goes through the revising process and editing, so another month, sometimes more. It just depends. Some of my books were written within 3 weeks, and others over the course of a year.
What genre is your book? What made you choose to write in that category?
I write romance and science fiction, all within the New Adult and Adult categories.
What was your work schedule like when you were writing?
I seem to write better at night. Usually when I’m working on a book, I write for hours a day, nonstop, until I reach my word count goal or meet my deadline.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
Hhhmm I have no clue. I do need music when I’m writing and I like to have tea or a glass of red wine while I write, too.
Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?
So far, I ‘ve written mostly about places I’ve actually been or visited, or know someone who has been there, so I draw information and research from those sources. I do general fact checking via internet research or talking to someone who has experience in a particular area.
How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?
As of right now, I’ve written nine—eight novels and one novella. I’d say Love and Relativity is my favorite so far.
Are you currently working on another book? If so, is it part of a series or something different?
Yeah, I’m working on a few books. Right now I’m wrapping up edits on Declaration, the last book of the Preservation series, and I’m working on Always and Foreverland, a New Adult romance, as well as Restitution, the 2nd book in the Keepers Trilogy.
What do you like to do when you're not writing?
I love movies, concerts, and theatre. Also, anything outdoors. I love nature, just spending time outside with our dog and taking walks, dreaming about my next story.
What does your family think of your writing?
They’re very supportive of what I do, and I love them for it.
What was one of the most surprising things you learned about yourself in creating your books?
That’s a good question. I guess that I’m very human. That I struggle with the same things people all over the world do. That I’m not perfect and that I don’t have to be.
Do you have any suggestions to help others become a better writer? If so, what are they?
Believe in yourself. No matter how cheesy that might sound or how tired that advice is, it’s true. You have to believe in yourself to succeed. If you don’t know how to, find a support system. That system can be one person, whether it’s a teacher, a friend, a neighbor—just someone who sees your potential and loves you for you. Work hard, be classy, be respectful. Don’t give up.
Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say
I’m very fortunate to hear from my readers often via Facebook, Twitter, and e-mail. They let me know if they read one of my books, what they thought, or will sometimes ask questions about the next book or one of the characters. Sometimes they just want to say hey and chat about everyday stuff. It’s very humbling and it literally makes my day. Every tweet, Facebook message, and e-mail reminds me I have the best job in the world.
What do you think makes a good story?
Drama. Conflict. Passion. Pain. Mundane circumstances and extreme circumstances. Emotion. If something makes a reader feel, it’s a good story in my book.
As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
I wanted to write, sing, act (which is funny because I’m pretty shy) or be a killer whale trainer. I always wanted to work with marine animals. I did pursue a career with animals before I became a writer and loved every second of it.
Are you self published or do you have a publisher? If self published, what made you decide to go that route?
I’m self-published. The decision was an easy one for me. I was curious if it was possible to do it myself, and I knew I’d have control over my own work that way. I also love traditional publishing, though. My poetry was published traditionally in literary magazines before I chose to self-publish my novels. Both indie and traditional publishing have their pros and cons.
Do you have a website, fan page, blog or twitter we can pass on to your fans?
Yup, you can find me here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorRachae...
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RachaelWade
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/...
Website: http://www.rachaelwade.com/
Where can your books be found? Please list Your author page from amazon and links to your books anywhere else they can be purchased. thank you
Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Rachael-Wade/e/...
Barnes and Noble - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/s/racha...
Smashwords – http://www.smashwords.com/profile/vie...
Thank you for having me! J
August 1, 2013
Book Blitz: Holding The Link by Hope Welsh
Title: Holding the Link
Author: Hope Welsh
Genre: Paranormal
Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours
Synopsis:
Lana Summers and Cole Thomas met while fighting an ancient evil shapeshifter. Now, a month later, Lana is pregnant with their child.
Just when they are trying to cement their relationship, trouble begins once again. Lana begins to receive threatening phone calls. Is the evil shifter, Connall, back or is this new threat merely human?
Can their new relationship survive a new struggle when Lana isn't sure that
anything more than the threats of danger have brought them together? This time, Lana must make a sacrifice no one should have to make to save the man she loves.
The Prophecy
When two become one,
And one becomes two,
Power is true
Buy Links:
http://bit./HTLUS (US) http://amzn.to/10K16Bz (UK)
Excerpt:
“It’s not over.” Lana could barely suppress the scream as she awoke, her face covered in a sheen of sweat.
“Oh God,” she whispered. Cole turned to her and pulled her into his arms.
“What happened? he asked, concern lacing his quiet voice. Lana clung to him, resting her hand on the strong beat of his heart through his chest.
“Just a dream,” she muttered. “Sorry I woke you.” Cole reached over and turned on the bedside lamp. For a long moment, he didn’t speak, instead, he looked at her, waiting, she knew, for her to calm enough to talk to him. His capacity for patience never ceased to amaze her. Finally, she took a deep breath and looked into his eyes. “It’s not over.” Cole turned and looked at Lana, his dark eyes narrowed in concern. “What do you mean, it’s not over?” he asked. “You mean because of the calls?” Lana looked at Cole as he watched her carefully. Lana instinctively put her hand against her still-flat stomach, concerned for her unborn child. “I don’t know, Cole. I just have a very bad feeling,” she said quietly. She didn’t want to mention that this warning was very similar to the warning that had awoken her the night she’d met Cole. It had been her mom then…and again, now. Still, just in case it was just her mind playing tricks on her, she didn’t want to worry Cole needlessly.
Author Bio:
Hope Welsh writes romance fiction. Her first love is paranormal. She's also currently working on book two in the Prophecy Series. Book One is available now. Her current works in progress also include two young adult paranormal stories she hopes readers will enjoy.
She's been writing since she was in third grade, and has never looked back. She's also published some of her more steamy stories with various e-publishers using a pen name.
Currently, she lives in Florida. Hope enjoys creating characters that come alive on the pages! Her goal is always to provide an entertaining read that her readers will love.
Hope is available on Twitter @HopeWelsh and her blog is at hopewelsh.blogspot.com -- be sure to check her blog often, as she loves to run contests for her readers.
Links:
https://twitter.com/HopeWelsh
http://hopewelsh.blogspot.com
http://www.hopewelsh.net
http://facebook.com/AuthorHopeWelsh
Buy Links:
http://bit./HTLUS (US) http://amzn.to/10K16Bz (UK)
Author: Hope Welsh
Genre: Paranormal
Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours
Synopsis: Lana Summers and Cole Thomas met while fighting an ancient evil shapeshifter. Now, a month later, Lana is pregnant with their child.
Just when they are trying to cement their relationship, trouble begins once again. Lana begins to receive threatening phone calls. Is the evil shifter, Connall, back or is this new threat merely human?
Can their new relationship survive a new struggle when Lana isn't sure that
anything more than the threats of danger have brought them together? This time, Lana must make a sacrifice no one should have to make to save the man she loves.
The Prophecy
When two become one,
And one becomes two,
Power is true
Buy Links:
http://bit./HTLUS (US) http://amzn.to/10K16Bz (UK)
Excerpt:
“It’s not over.” Lana could barely suppress the scream as she awoke, her face covered in a sheen of sweat.
“Oh God,” she whispered. Cole turned to her and pulled her into his arms.
“What happened? he asked, concern lacing his quiet voice. Lana clung to him, resting her hand on the strong beat of his heart through his chest.
“Just a dream,” she muttered. “Sorry I woke you.” Cole reached over and turned on the bedside lamp. For a long moment, he didn’t speak, instead, he looked at her, waiting, she knew, for her to calm enough to talk to him. His capacity for patience never ceased to amaze her. Finally, she took a deep breath and looked into his eyes. “It’s not over.” Cole turned and looked at Lana, his dark eyes narrowed in concern. “What do you mean, it’s not over?” he asked. “You mean because of the calls?” Lana looked at Cole as he watched her carefully. Lana instinctively put her hand against her still-flat stomach, concerned for her unborn child. “I don’t know, Cole. I just have a very bad feeling,” she said quietly. She didn’t want to mention that this warning was very similar to the warning that had awoken her the night she’d met Cole. It had been her mom then…and again, now. Still, just in case it was just her mind playing tricks on her, she didn’t want to worry Cole needlessly.
Author Bio:
Hope Welsh writes romance fiction. Her first love is paranormal. She's also currently working on book two in the Prophecy Series. Book One is available now. Her current works in progress also include two young adult paranormal stories she hopes readers will enjoy.
She's been writing since she was in third grade, and has never looked back. She's also published some of her more steamy stories with various e-publishers using a pen name.
Currently, she lives in Florida. Hope enjoys creating characters that come alive on the pages! Her goal is always to provide an entertaining read that her readers will love.
Hope is available on Twitter @HopeWelsh and her blog is at hopewelsh.blogspot.com -- be sure to check her blog often, as she loves to run contests for her readers.
Links:
https://twitter.com/HopeWelsh
http://hopewelsh.blogspot.com
http://www.hopewelsh.net
http://facebook.com/AuthorHopeWelsh
Buy Links:
http://bit./HTLUS (US) http://amzn.to/10K16Bz (UK)
July 31, 2013
Book Blitz: Evanescent by Carlyle Labuschagne (with giveaway)
Title: Evanescent A Broken Novel Book two Author: Carlyle Labuschagne
Genre: Dystopian. Science- Fiction. YA
Release Date: November 2013
Publishers: Sensational Publications
Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours
Blurb:Her fall has just begun. Only his touch can save her from the shift that could destroy it all.
Within my blood runs a thing our kind calls The Shadowing Disease. It shadows over, and bends everything to its will. When the first blood- shift came, it tore through flesh and blood, threatening to bend me, break bone, shatter my mind and entrap my heart with its honeyed, seductive poison. It came with vicious intent, moving my thoughts and altering me forever. The shift has caused a rift within me. No one was safe when it entrapped me in its claws of foul lust. But I have the only antidote against the evil that becomes me – his touch alone has the power to release the spurs of sweet darkness that clung on for dear life. I knew what I had to do; the desperation pulled my mind with the deep determination of a hungry predator. But by the time the revelation raised me from the dark dungeon of my bounds – it might have been too late.
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16211604-evanescent
Only his touch can save her from the shift that could destroy it all http://www.carlylelabuschagne.com/evanescent.html ~ Evanescent A Broken Novel
Cover reveal - Events page for giveaways: https://www.facebook.com/events/371056329687183/
Buy Links for The Broken Destiny:
The Broken Destiny Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Broken-Destiny-Book-One/dp/1612048722/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1347131640&sr=1-1&keywords=carlyle+labuschagne
The Broken Destiny Barnes and Nobles http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-broken-destiny-carlyle-labuschagne/1112448868?ean=9781612048727
Teasers:
Powder
“Fine, I’ll help you, because I can see you’ll never give up on her, and I will never be my own if we don’t.”
“You better believe it,” Robert smirked.
The seven of us stood in thick, dusty, golden sand, huge pieces of rock and debris extruding like tombstones from ash. Battered, bruised and bloody, we watched as the ship disappeared over the huge dunes, our world turning to powder, everything ready to fly away in an escaping breath.
Author Bio:
Carlyle Labuschagne is a South African debut author working her way into the hearts of international readers with her first young adult dystopian novel "The Broken Destiny". She is not only an author, but works as a sales rep and marketing manager by day. She holds a diploma in creative writing through the writing school at College SA.
Carlyle, loves to swim, fights for the trees, and is a food lover who is driven by her passion for life. Carlyle also writes for IU e-magazine India, an inspirational non-profit magazine that aims at inspiring the world through words. The drive behind her author career is healing through words. Carlyle is also the founder of the first annual book drive – Help Build A Library inAfrica Project.
“My goal as an author is to touch people’s lives, and help others love their differences and one another.”
Links:
Twitter : http://twitter.com/#!/CarlyleL
Website : http://www.carlylelabuschagne.com/
Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12537426-the-broken-destiny-1-in-the-broken-series
Facebook : http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Carlyle-Labuschagne/189835811074342
The Broken Destiny Book Trailer http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FPWniWsvrk
Blog http://worldsawaybookblog.blogspot.com/
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July 28, 2013
Book Blitz: Sweet Serendipity by Jenna Pizzi
Title: Sweet Serendipity
Author: Jenna Pizzi
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours
Synopsis:
Sometimes you need to let go of the past in order to open your heart to love again.
Not every marriage is perfect. Rebecca knew she’d have to make some sacrifices. What she didn’t realize is that it would cost her, her heart. After nearly twenty years of marriage and one heart break after another, will she find the strength to let go and move on? Will she allow herself to love again?
Rebecca lived everyday with the same routine of caring for the kids, the house, and her husband Jack. Until one night she finds Jack with another woman, and Rebecca’s world falls apart. With the encouragement of her two closest friends, Rebecca realizes that she can find the happiness she deserves.
Ethan is an artist who lost his will to paint. When he meets Rebecca, he once again finds the inspirations he had been longing for. He knows that she has built walls around her, but he’s determined to break them down brick by brick to prove to her that she is worthy of being loved.
This is a heartwarming story of friendship, love, and overcoming tragedy to find that there is always a new beginning.
Available on Amazon.com only.
http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Serendipity-ebook/dp/B00C7PWVXU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369596286&sr=8-1&keywords=jenna+pizzi
Excerpt:
Thank you for today, Becky. It means a lot that you came with us.”
“I didn’t have much choice, Jack. Adam damn near had a nervous breakdown. I’d appreciate it if you’d have a talk with him and tell him that even if we’re not together, we still love him.”
“Becky, you’ve got to know that it’s his enthusiasm that keeps me going. If he still believes that we can work it out, then I believe that we can work it out. Do you understand? As long as he has hope, then so don’t I,” Jack told her.
She turned sideways and looked into his grey eyes. “Jack, we had our chance and it didn’t work. You chose comfort in someone else’s arms. I know that after all this time, it’s hard to imagine a life without us together, but I think you need to realize that is exactly where we are headed. I loved you, Jack. Somewhere along the way the love stopped. Somewhere I stopped being the person you came to for talking, and sharing, and laughing. We were broken before Brian died. His senseless death was just the final straw. I lost myself somewhere along the way. I stopped caring enough about myself to realize how damaged we really were. I surrounded myself with the kids and you with your job. It hasn’t been a marriage in a very long time. The kids will be grown soon, and what will we have left?”
Jack reached for her hand. “We’d have a new beginning. We’d have a chance to rediscover why we fell in love in the first place. We could travel; I could build that koi pond I always promised. We could have another baby.”
Rebecca laughed.
“I seriously hope you are joking. How is it that you go from where we are now to having a baby?”
“I have made many mistakes, but those kids are the only thing that I have done right. I’d be a better father, a better husband. You can’t tell me that you don’t look at Layla Grace and wish you had another one?”
“Everyone loves babies. It doesn’t mean that you and I having another one will fix us. I don’t know if I could ever trust you again.”
“How do you think I feel? Knowing your best friend works a few doors down from the man you’ve been having a fling with.”
“It’s more than a fling, Jack. He’s talking future plans.”
Jack downed his glass of wine and stood up.
“Then where is he?”
“He left town.”
“Ha. Why? He couldn’t handle the heat of competition?”
Rebecca stood up.
“That’s just the thing, Jack. To you, it’s a competition. I think the only reason you are even trying to do this is because you know someone else has feelings for me. If I wasn’t seeing someone, you’d still be running around with someone like Amber.”
He stood only inches from her, pulled up his sleeve, and pointed to his shoulder. "What does each and every tattoo on my body represent? I have how we met and our first date. I have our wedding and the birth of the kids. Each tattoo flows into the next. It wouldn’t make much sense to someone else, but with you, you know each and every picture. You know what each one represents. It is our story; the story of us. I still have plenty of room to keep going. I don’t want our story to stop. I want to tell our grandkids our stories someday.”
Rebecca started to cry. His words were cutting deep. He was telling her all the things that she wished he would have told her when it mattered the most. Jack got down on one knee. He held her hand in his and looked deep into her chocolate eyes.
“I have loved you for almost two decades, Becky. We were bound to hit a few snags along the way, but we can only learn to grow from our mistakes. I realize that you are the only one for me. I will never love anyone the way I love you. You are my past, present, and future. You are my heart and my soul. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Marry me, again.” A tear fell from the corner of his eye. She felt as though she were going to pass out. She never imagined that he’d be sitting here now, doing this.
Her tears were not tears of happiness, but tears of the past, tears of the years she had felt neglected and alone. They were tears for the years she had woken with the crying babies while he couldn’t be bothered. She cried for the years she felt like a single parent because his work always took top priority to him. She cried for all the empty holidays when it felt as though he never wanted to be there. She fell to her seat and held her head in her hands.
Author Bio:
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Jenna settled into America's hometown where she proudly calls home with her family. She is an avid book reader and collector with an entire room dedicated to her passion. At the age of twelve years old Jenna began writing, determined to be just like Stephen King or Dean Koontz.
For her it all starts with the flick of an image. From there a story is born. Being an eternal romantic, Jenna is a true believer in happy endings. It's the rest of the story that anything is possible. Writing is her passion. It is something that helps her unwind at the end of the day. She likes to tell stories that will pull at your heartstrings, or simply whisk you away even for just a little while. So grab your favorite blanket, and a hot cup of coffee and settle in for the ride.
Author Links:
Amazon Author Link: http://www.amazon.com/Jenna-Pizzi/e/B00B4ELVYU/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jenna-Pizzi/501878039840087
Website: Jennapizzi.com
Twitter: @jaderayne
Available on Amazon.com only.
http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Serendipity-ebook/dp/B00C7PWVXU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369596286&sr=8-1&keywords=jenna+pizzi
Author: Jenna Pizzi
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours
Synopsis:Sometimes you need to let go of the past in order to open your heart to love again.
Not every marriage is perfect. Rebecca knew she’d have to make some sacrifices. What she didn’t realize is that it would cost her, her heart. After nearly twenty years of marriage and one heart break after another, will she find the strength to let go and move on? Will she allow herself to love again?
Rebecca lived everyday with the same routine of caring for the kids, the house, and her husband Jack. Until one night she finds Jack with another woman, and Rebecca’s world falls apart. With the encouragement of her two closest friends, Rebecca realizes that she can find the happiness she deserves.
Ethan is an artist who lost his will to paint. When he meets Rebecca, he once again finds the inspirations he had been longing for. He knows that she has built walls around her, but he’s determined to break them down brick by brick to prove to her that she is worthy of being loved.
This is a heartwarming story of friendship, love, and overcoming tragedy to find that there is always a new beginning.
Available on Amazon.com only.
http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Serendipity-ebook/dp/B00C7PWVXU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369596286&sr=8-1&keywords=jenna+pizzi
Excerpt:
Thank you for today, Becky. It means a lot that you came with us.”
“I didn’t have much choice, Jack. Adam damn near had a nervous breakdown. I’d appreciate it if you’d have a talk with him and tell him that even if we’re not together, we still love him.”
“Becky, you’ve got to know that it’s his enthusiasm that keeps me going. If he still believes that we can work it out, then I believe that we can work it out. Do you understand? As long as he has hope, then so don’t I,” Jack told her.
She turned sideways and looked into his grey eyes. “Jack, we had our chance and it didn’t work. You chose comfort in someone else’s arms. I know that after all this time, it’s hard to imagine a life without us together, but I think you need to realize that is exactly where we are headed. I loved you, Jack. Somewhere along the way the love stopped. Somewhere I stopped being the person you came to for talking, and sharing, and laughing. We were broken before Brian died. His senseless death was just the final straw. I lost myself somewhere along the way. I stopped caring enough about myself to realize how damaged we really were. I surrounded myself with the kids and you with your job. It hasn’t been a marriage in a very long time. The kids will be grown soon, and what will we have left?”
Jack reached for her hand. “We’d have a new beginning. We’d have a chance to rediscover why we fell in love in the first place. We could travel; I could build that koi pond I always promised. We could have another baby.”
Rebecca laughed.
“I seriously hope you are joking. How is it that you go from where we are now to having a baby?”
“I have made many mistakes, but those kids are the only thing that I have done right. I’d be a better father, a better husband. You can’t tell me that you don’t look at Layla Grace and wish you had another one?”
“Everyone loves babies. It doesn’t mean that you and I having another one will fix us. I don’t know if I could ever trust you again.”
“How do you think I feel? Knowing your best friend works a few doors down from the man you’ve been having a fling with.”
“It’s more than a fling, Jack. He’s talking future plans.”
Jack downed his glass of wine and stood up.
“Then where is he?”
“He left town.”
“Ha. Why? He couldn’t handle the heat of competition?”
Rebecca stood up.
“That’s just the thing, Jack. To you, it’s a competition. I think the only reason you are even trying to do this is because you know someone else has feelings for me. If I wasn’t seeing someone, you’d still be running around with someone like Amber.”
He stood only inches from her, pulled up his sleeve, and pointed to his shoulder. "What does each and every tattoo on my body represent? I have how we met and our first date. I have our wedding and the birth of the kids. Each tattoo flows into the next. It wouldn’t make much sense to someone else, but with you, you know each and every picture. You know what each one represents. It is our story; the story of us. I still have plenty of room to keep going. I don’t want our story to stop. I want to tell our grandkids our stories someday.”
Rebecca started to cry. His words were cutting deep. He was telling her all the things that she wished he would have told her when it mattered the most. Jack got down on one knee. He held her hand in his and looked deep into her chocolate eyes.
“I have loved you for almost two decades, Becky. We were bound to hit a few snags along the way, but we can only learn to grow from our mistakes. I realize that you are the only one for me. I will never love anyone the way I love you. You are my past, present, and future. You are my heart and my soul. I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Marry me, again.” A tear fell from the corner of his eye. She felt as though she were going to pass out. She never imagined that he’d be sitting here now, doing this.
Her tears were not tears of happiness, but tears of the past, tears of the years she had felt neglected and alone. They were tears for the years she had woken with the crying babies while he couldn’t be bothered. She cried for the years she felt like a single parent because his work always took top priority to him. She cried for all the empty holidays when it felt as though he never wanted to be there. She fell to her seat and held her head in her hands.
Author Bio:
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Jenna settled into America's hometown where she proudly calls home with her family. She is an avid book reader and collector with an entire room dedicated to her passion. At the age of twelve years old Jenna began writing, determined to be just like Stephen King or Dean Koontz.
For her it all starts with the flick of an image. From there a story is born. Being an eternal romantic, Jenna is a true believer in happy endings. It's the rest of the story that anything is possible. Writing is her passion. It is something that helps her unwind at the end of the day. She likes to tell stories that will pull at your heartstrings, or simply whisk you away even for just a little while. So grab your favorite blanket, and a hot cup of coffee and settle in for the ride.
Author Links:
Amazon Author Link: http://www.amazon.com/Jenna-Pizzi/e/B00B4ELVYU/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jenna-Pizzi/501878039840087
Website: Jennapizzi.com
Twitter: @jaderayne
Available on Amazon.com only.
http://www.amazon.com/Sweet-Serendipity-ebook/dp/B00C7PWVXU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369596286&sr=8-1&keywords=jenna+pizzi
July 27, 2013
Book Blitz: Rock N Roll Promises by Ambear Shellea
Rock n Roll Promises Bk1The Rock n Roll Paraphantasy Series
Erotic Paranormal Romance
18+ Audience
Published by Hot Ink Press
Synopsis: Fulfilling a promise leads to searching her soul, her past, and the one night that changed her life forever...
Young, vibrant and with her whole life in front of her, Anna is looking forward to ringing in the new year at her favorite bar. Dressed to the hilt, ready for a great night, she meets Sebastian-Tall, mysterious and handsome. Her one-night stand turns into a one-life exchange!
The beginning of a new existence.
Anna finds her new life holds more than even she knows. It promises rock n roll, sex, love,secrets and a new set of rules. She embraces her new found self and learns to adapt. Anna, and her best friend, Paige, move back home to the states and live as normally as they can. As they say, best laid plans and all...Life has a different plan and yet another set of rules. Rules that even she breaks.
The creation of a whole new animal.
Excerpt 1
Anna and Jaxson
The bed screeched along the floor as she followed his lead, as her tired and sweaty body crumpled onto the bed. Her head rolled to the side as she looked at him. She noticed his body fashioned as much sweat as hers. His eyes were closed and he rested his hands on his chest as he tried to catch his breath.
Holy cow that was the best sex I have ever had!
His whispered voice sounded next to her.
“How was that?”
“It was OK.”
Actually, that was great, but let’s not feed his ego too much.
She almost laughed at the questioning and confused expression that crossed his face.
“OK? I made you scream more than once, I recall.”
“Yeah, I was faking it for your sake. I didn’t want to hurt your feelings.”
“Oh, really?”
“Really!”
“Huh, it didn’t feel faked to me. Your screams of pleasure were pretty convincing. I think you are lying.”
Chills ran throughout her frame as he gently ran his fingers up and down her leg. She concentrated on keeping her breathing even. She rolled her eyes his direction and placed a coy smile on her face.
“Guess you will be left with that burning question.”
“And what question would that be?”
“Was I genuine, or did I fake it?”
It was so damn good my cravings just may change. Whew, my heart is pounding.
“Guess there is only one way to find out. We will just have to do it again. Only this time, see if you can keep from screaming out my name.”
“Funny, I don’t remember screaming out Jaxson. Perhaps you were hearing things.”
“Oh no? Well, you will this time around.”
Author Bio:
Although I have always enjoyed writing, the dream to become a writer came when I read A Midsummer Night’s Dream by William Shakespeare, in the sixth grade. My early works, not published, were in the form of children’s stories I would read to my two daughters. I divide my days between the real world and the ones I’ve created. My life and my characters keep me very busy in my Mid-Western scene, where I live with my husband, and my children (both human and furry).
AmBear's Social Network
Twitter: @ AmBearShellea
Linkedin: AmBear Shellea
Google+: AmBear Shellea
Facebook Fanpage : https://www.facebook.com/AmBearShellea?ref=hl
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18068668-rock-n-roll-promises
Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/Pedalstem
Authorsite: http://ambearshellea.blogspot.com/
Booksite: http://rocknrollparaphantasy.blogspot.com/?zx=7e81d1ff814b80b6
Thank you for dropping by today to share your wonderful story and give readers a little more insight by doing an interview. So let's jump right in...
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
In the sixth grade. Our class had just read A Midsummer Night's Dream and I loved it.
How long did it take you to write your book?
About 9 months total. Editing included.
What genre is your book? What made you choose to write in that category?
Erotic Paranormal Romance. This series nagged me for months before I finally sat down and hammered it out. And just like that, I was hooked! I am a Fantasy junkie, but Anna and her gang sank their...Fangs, into me and I now I am in love.
What was your work schedule like when you were writing?
The schedule varies depending on what day of the week and what is on my agenda (paying Bills, daughters dance shows, practices, etc.) Basically it goes like this, when it goes smoothly, Headphones blasting my eardrums with upbeat rock music. Laptop is on and MS is open staring back at me, daring me to try and make sense of the loads of plot bunnies and story lines. I feverishly work until the words are two stepping with letters and numbers across the screen and I force myself to go to bed. It is usually 4 am by the time I get to this point. So, I grab a few hours of sleep and start another day of School, shopping and everyday life. Some days I am Superwoman and some days...Not so much. :) AND still, I have the best job in the planet. Only job where you can work in jammies!
Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?
I can't say that I get inspired by one thing or another, more like various places and things spawn small sparks if ideas. Some take hold and spin into something awesome and sometimes it fizzles into nothing.
How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?
I have finished four books and contributed a story an anthology. I have several more awaiting my attention that are not finished...Yet! But they are coming! So, stay tuned for that.
Are you currently working on another book? If so, is it part of a series or something different?
I am currently working on finishing Stars of fire, which is the third book in The Pedalstem Lillie Series (fantasy series) and book 3 in the Rock n Roll Paraphantasy Series. Yes, ladies that means more Sebastian, Ozzie, Anna and Jaxson!
What do you like to do when you're not writing?
Decorating for the holidays, designing posters and such and my "Other" addiction besides music, The Sims! Oh yes, my dirty little secret is out. I am a Sim-a-holic...and I'm not ashamed! :)
What does your family think of your writing?
Way Supportive. I even have a few friends who have threatened me to finish my books!
What was one of the most surprising things you learned about yourself in creating your books?
I have a twisted sense of humor!
Do you have any suggestions to help others become a better writer? If so, what are they?
Just write! Never quit and always stay opened minded to the fact that you can always learn something.
Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say?
Oh, this is a fun one. I hear a lot of different things from my readers. The biggest "When is the next book gonna be ready?" and next to that "Omg, Ozzie is hot!!" My favorite is when they give me feedback on the book they have finished even if there was something they didn’t like or something they felt should have been different. One thing as an author I love, is feedback from my readers.
What do you think makes a good story?
Just like in the movies, an awesome cast of characters. Plot and story line are very important but the best storyline, in my opinion, will fall short if the characters are not well developed and boring. Sidekicks are always my favorite characters.
As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
Besides writing...let's see there were several. A Veterinarian, dancer, singer, actress oh and at one time, a monster truck driver!
Are you self published or do you have a publisher? If self published, what made you decide to go that route?
The Pedalstem Lillie Series is published by Devine Destinies and The Rock n Roll Paraphantasy Series is published by Hot Ink Press.
Do you have a website, fan page, blog or twitter we can pass on to your fans?
All of the above. I believe that all of my social media links are listed below. :) Please feel free to stop by and see me.
Where can your books be found? Please list Your author page from amazon and links to your books anywhere else they can be purchased. thank you.
My work can be found at Hot Ink Press, Devine Destinies and Amazon. Rock n Roll Promises will be coming to a Kindle near you on July 15, 2013.
Amazon Author page
http://www.amazon.com/AmBear-Shellea/e/B0091F0KXW/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1372735640&sr=8-1
Devine Destinies :
http://www.devinedestinies.com/index.php?route=product/author&author_id=960
Hot Ink Press:
http://www.hotinkbooks.com/hot-ink-authors.html
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July 26, 2013
Book Blitz: Empyreal Illusions Jake Bonsignore
Title: Empyreal IllusionsAuthor: Jake Bonsignore
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy, Thriller
Tour Host: Lady Amber's Tours
Synopsis
Fourteen-year-old Breena Taljain’s dreary existence in the slums of Purgaire comes to a sudden end when a chance encounter with a criminal mastermind known as the Patriarch goes horridly wrong. His assault on her for refusing to pay for her mother’s addiction leaves her comatose and teetering on the edge of life and death.
Galbrecht Atalir is a washed-up doctor struggling to overcome his inner demons through alcohol and aggression. He never quite recovered from the unsolved murder of his family seven years prior. When he discovers Breena as his newest patient, he knows at once that the Patriarch is the one who eluded him for almost a decade.
The medicine Galbrecht gives Breena draws her into a heavenly paradise. When it ebbs away, though, the recurring trauma plunges her into treacherous hinterlands. There, Breena must learn to find power in courage, hope, and love to overcome fiends of hatred bent on permanently ending her existence.
With justice burning in his heart, Galbrecht begins a race against time to seek out the Patriarch in the underworld before Breena loses her struggle against the ever-darkening terrors of her mind….
Purchase Here:
Amazon (US) (Paperback or E-Book) - http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_1?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Empyreal+Illusions
Amazon (UK) (Paperback or E-Book) - http://www.amazon.co.uk/s/ref=nb_sb_noss?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Empyreal+Illusions
Barnes and Noble (E-book for Nook) - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/empyreal-illusions-jake-bonsignore/1115427220?ean=2940016473031
Excerpt:
Breena tilted her head upwards and glared at him as best as she could. How had she ever been scared of him? She understood him perfectly. Everything made sense now. She had found strength in her weaknesses. The compassion that had made her vulnerable in her former life was now invaluable.
“You’re wrong, Mulciber. I’m only fourteen years old. I’m not as strong as you…but at least…at least I can admit my faults. That takes true power. I know I can’t…I can’t do everything alone.” She coughed again and whimpered from the dull throbbing in her abdomen. “Life is all about g-give and take. I need others to catch me when I fall. There’s nothing…nothing wrong with that. I need my friends and they…they need me.” She huffed and wiped the sweat from her brows. “There’s more to strength than…than raw might. You just don’t want to accept the…the truth. You’re too scared. That’s…that’s why….” She hacked up spittle and heaved wildly. She could no longer make out anything but blurs of incandescent light. “That’s why I’m stronger than you, Mulciber.”
What? That…that doesn’t…that doesn’t…!
“It’s your turn to prove your strength to me. Break…break free of Izanami and join me. You need me and I…and I need you. Don’t…don’t be a coward.”
No more…no more, human!
Mulciber let out his fiercest shriek yet. One curt glance to his left halted Veku and Lilim in their tracks. Even Leinth stopped her relentless advance.
You…Mulciber hissed. You would call me a…a coward? Me? You are wrong! How…how dare you underestimate me? I am Mulciber, King of the Ifrits!
“Then…then show me the worth of a king’s pride.”
Author Bio:
Jake Bonsignore is the author of Descendant of Strife, Empyreal Illusions, and Awakening the Fire. He is a graduate of the University of South Florida with magna cum laude honors. Outside of his literary pursuits, he enjoys playing sports and is a fitness enthusiast. He is currently working on his next novel.
Thank you for dropping by today, Jake. We don't want to keep the readers waiting so I'll jump right into the questions. :)
When did you first realize you wanted to be a writer?
I first realized that I wanted to be a writer when I was in kindergarten. We had to write a one paragraph assignment about an Easter bunny, I ended up writing a two page story instead. I wish I still had it! But from that moment I knew I loved writing and always would.
How long did it take you to write your book?
Well, Empyreal Illusions and Awakening the Fire were originally one title … however, it was very long and feedback from multiple authorities in the publishing and authoring world advised it would be best to split … so between the two and working two jobs / college, it took me about 4 years to write both of them. I spent another 2 years editing, proofing, and effectively reducing both of them combined by about 70,000 words.
What genre is your book? What made you choose to write in that category?
Empyreal Illusions is YA Fantasy / Thriller. It’s YA Fantasy because Breena’s side of the story is largely in a fantasy setting (fever dream), whereas Galbrecht’s (the other protagonist) takes place in the criminal underworld. I chose to write in that Genre because fantasy has always had my interest. I see it as a good escape from the real world sometimes, and I chose to add the thriller elements in because I feel that you can’t go wrong with good psychological elements and plenty of action.
What was your work schedule like when you were writing?
While I was writing, my work schedule was largely 7:30am – 4:30pm like 2x a week, 7:30am – 7:30pm like 3x a week, and like 7:30am – 4:30pm on Saturdays. So I’ve been pushing a 6x a week schedule for years now, and that’s the reason Empyreal / Awakening took so long to complete and edit. For the first few years I had full time college in the mix too. I would have to (and still do) get up at 4:30am on each work day to sneak some writing time in before the day actually began.
What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?
After I complete a chapter, I go back and re-read it / proof it at least once before moving on to the next one. Also, if I come across a part that requires me to name a person or place I haven’t thought of yet, I will not proceed until I have the perfect name for that person / place. J
Where do you get your information or ideas for your books?
I have done a LOT of research for mine. Although it is a YA Fantasy, there are easily a hundred + references to various mythologies, cultures, religions, lore, symbolism, and allusions. So there have been lots of time put into Wikipedia and other google searches, not to mention some texts during the bi-weekly visits to the bookstores! Most of my ideas, though, come from the thinking time on the drives to work or music. A lyric here, the way this sounds there, can actually be very inspiring.
How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?
I’ve currently written three books. Descendant of Strife I wrote when I was 16, more as a “Can I do this?” than anything. I had it published through a small POD press back in 2007, before I began Empyreal Illusions. It’s set in a different world, and nothing like Empyreal at all. I also wrote Empyreal Illusions, and its sequel, Awakening the Fire. Of the three, Awakening the Fire is definitely my favorite. It wraps up Breena’s adventure that began in Empyreal, and has lots of other mythological and lore references, not to mention a lot closing loose ends and memorable quotes / scenes.
Are you currently working on another book? If so, is it part of a series or something different?
I am working on another novel! It is called The Lioness. It is actually a pure YA Romance, but it’s not your typical story. It’s a stand alone novel about a very outgoing and wily 17 year old girl who, following a disappointing heartbreak from a boy she thought she loved, travels the world with her best friend (a shy and unconfident boy) in search of the meaning of true love. It takes place in a world heavily influenced by European themes over the course of a summer.
What do you like to do when you're not writing?
Aside from reading, I am a fitness enthusiast, so I love working out and going to the gym. It’s also a good stress relief. Aside from that (and when I’m blessed with free time) you can usually find me on the PS-3 playing stuff like The Last of Us.
What does your family think of your writing?
My family loves it. I’ve gotten some pretty poignant reactions out of them, as well.
What was one of the most surprising things you learned about yourself in creating your books?
One of the most surprising things I’ve learned about myself is that I actually have the motivation and ability to do something difficult when I put my mind to it. Writing a book can be difficult, yes, but writing it while working two job and full time college can be even harder. I did not think that I would be able to follow through with it really, but I did, and that was a pleasant turn of events.
Do you have any suggestions to help others become a better writer? If so, what are they?
Don’t give up. Keep at it and remember of all things, writing is re-writing. Expect to edit your work multiple times. Additionally, the ideas you may have while plotting the story may not come to be when you actually write it. That’s normal, that’s expected, and it’s wonderful. Don’t ever lose heart or let non-constructive criticism get you down!
Do you hear from your readers much? What kinds of things do they say?
I have been fortunate enough to hear from my readers, and I’ve gotten tons of great feedback. Many of them have asked me when the movie is coming out (I wish!) Many of them were readers who do not typically indulge in the fantasy genre, and those have all given positive feedback and indicated how much they look forward to the sequel. I have been pleased and delighted!
What do you think makes a good story?
What I believe makes a good story is depth. I believe a good story will have characters whom the reader can really get to know and maybe relate to on some kind of level, as well as a storyline that is believable and deep. Presenting a theme or an overall message along with and throughout the story is an added bonus.
As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
Honestly, when I was a child, the main thing I wanted to do was be a writer. I have wanted that since kindergarten and still do. Aside from that, I had it in my head that I wanted to be a lawyer, but one thing led to another and that did not turn out to be.
Are you self published or do you have a publisher? If self published, what made you decide to go that route?
I am independent. I went independent because I like being in control of all aspects of my novel. I believe that I chose the most fitting cover (thank you again, Regina Wamba of Mae I Design!), the best formatting possible, and a very fair and reasonable price. I also like being able to host promotions when I choose them, as well.
Do you have a website, fan page, blog or twitter we can pass on to your fans?
Definitely!
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jakebonsignoreauthor
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/jakebonsignore
Blog: http://jakebonsignore.wordpress.com
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1438031
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/jakebonsignore
Where can your books be found? Please list Your author page from amazon and links to your books anywhere else they can be purchased. Thank you
Amazon - http://amzn.com/B00D18OUU4
Barnes and Noble - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/empyreal-illusions-jake-bonsignore/1115427220?ean=2940016473031
Signed Paperback (with Bookmark + Other swag goodies) – Contact me directly via Facebook or jakebonsignore.author@gmail.com
July 24, 2013
Book Blitz: Blood Ties by Gina Whitney
Title: Blood Ties
Author: Gina Whitney
Genre: New Adult Paranormal Romance
Blitz Host: Lady Amber's Tours
Synopsis:
College senior Grace is half witch, half mortal, and one of the most powerful supernatural beings in existence. Problem is she doesn’t know any of this yet.
But she’s about to find out—and fast. Her powers are awakening, and Grace is in danger as her transformation reignites an ages-old war between her clan and an evil rival witch faction that will stop at nothing to see Grace dead so their leader, the vicious, ruthless Catherine, can harness Grace’s incredible powers for her own dark purposes.
It’s up to Grace’s immortal Aunt Evelyn and her best friend Julie—a shape shifter from a long line of Native American mystics—to defend her. She also has James on her side, a witch from the Bolingbroke clan that has vowed since Grace’s birth to keep her safe. From the moment they meet, the two share a fierce supernatural attraction—a white-hot heat that neither can resist. Will their undying love protect her or put her in greater danger? Only time will tell, and time for Grace is running out.
Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sItnX6JkwrQ&sns=em
Links:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Facebook: Http://Facebook.com/gina.whitney.3
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ginamwhitney
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Blood-Ties-ebook/dp/B00CRKLQ8G/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1370715934&sr=1-1
Excerpt:
In her peripheral vision, Samantha thought she saw something in the distance, coming up fast. She broke into a jog, the plasticky tapping of her cheap work shoes filling the air as they hit the cobblestones. She looked back and saw a tall shadow of a murky figure gliding toward her on the buildings’ brick walls. The shadow seemed to be alive, not naturally conforming to the bends and corners of the buildings.
Samantha took off into a full sprint toward the gate, calling out to whoever would hear her. But no one heard her pleas, and the gate was still far, far away. It seemed like the figure was right upon her, and Samantha knew she had to take a life-or-death stand. She turned and swung wildly with her junky purse, but no one was there. She found no relief in that, and immediately started running again, digging through her purse simultaneously. She found her phone and tried to dial 911 as she ran, but her bouncing steps and trembling hand kept making her misdial.
Samantha hurled herself to the gate. She made a judgment call to hide in the guard shack. It hadn't been used in decades and was more ornamental than functional. Time and weather had worn down its lock, making it easy for Samantha to enter. She dropped down, afraid even to breathe for the noise it might make. She huddled deep in a corner, keeping the door closed with her foot.
The doorknob rattled. Samantha covered her mouth to keep from screaming. Then suddenly a loud thud shook the door. It was followed by a series of scratches and pounding overlaid by Samantha’s manic screams. Then, all at once, everything was silent outside the guard-shack door.
Samantha quieted down. Her eyes, mascara dripping and running from them, stayed on the door. Not seeing anything, she slowly leaned forward. The glass window behind her crashed in, and the figure’s hand grabbed the back of her shirt, then the nape of her neck. It yanked her back, slamming her against a small, metal shelf populated with safety manuals from the 1970s. They fell on Samantha like blocks of colored snow.
She threw them off and escaped the shack, running as fast as she could toward her dorm, which was on the other side of campus. Breathless, she came upon the student counseling services building. She could vaguely see Bao through the window. He was on the first floor, and his back was turned to her.
Samantha was about to scream bloody murder when the figure’s massive arm clothes lined her neck, collapsing her trachea. She was laid out on her back, but could still see Boa as he turned in her direction. He looked like he was already scared of something. Samantha kicked at the air, but kept missing the figure that loomed over her.
At the window, Bao just missed the figure dragging Samantha into the darkness. By then she was suffocating from her collapsed trachea, but death was too slow in coming.
Even though the figure had been instructed not to feed, it was just too hungry. It took near-erotic pleasure in snapping Samantha’s bones in its mammoth hands—first pulverizing her legs, then her arms, and finishing with her back. Before the merciful unconsciousness of death arrived, Samantha’s bleary eyes saw the killer’s canines growing longer as its face came down upon her.
And that face belonged to Grace....
Author: Gina Whitney
Genre: New Adult Paranormal Romance
Blitz Host: Lady Amber's Tours
Synopsis:
College senior Grace is half witch, half mortal, and one of the most powerful supernatural beings in existence. Problem is she doesn’t know any of this yet.
But she’s about to find out—and fast. Her powers are awakening, and Grace is in danger as her transformation reignites an ages-old war between her clan and an evil rival witch faction that will stop at nothing to see Grace dead so their leader, the vicious, ruthless Catherine, can harness Grace’s incredible powers for her own dark purposes.
It’s up to Grace’s immortal Aunt Evelyn and her best friend Julie—a shape shifter from a long line of Native American mystics—to defend her. She also has James on her side, a witch from the Bolingbroke clan that has vowed since Grace’s birth to keep her safe. From the moment they meet, the two share a fierce supernatural attraction—a white-hot heat that neither can resist. Will their undying love protect her or put her in greater danger? Only time will tell, and time for Grace is running out.
Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sItnX6JkwrQ&sns=em
Links:
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...
Facebook: Http://Facebook.com/gina.whitney.3
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ginamwhitney
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Blood-Ties-ebook/dp/B00CRKLQ8G/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1370715934&sr=1-1
Excerpt:
In her peripheral vision, Samantha thought she saw something in the distance, coming up fast. She broke into a jog, the plasticky tapping of her cheap work shoes filling the air as they hit the cobblestones. She looked back and saw a tall shadow of a murky figure gliding toward her on the buildings’ brick walls. The shadow seemed to be alive, not naturally conforming to the bends and corners of the buildings.
Samantha took off into a full sprint toward the gate, calling out to whoever would hear her. But no one heard her pleas, and the gate was still far, far away. It seemed like the figure was right upon her, and Samantha knew she had to take a life-or-death stand. She turned and swung wildly with her junky purse, but no one was there. She found no relief in that, and immediately started running again, digging through her purse simultaneously. She found her phone and tried to dial 911 as she ran, but her bouncing steps and trembling hand kept making her misdial.
Samantha hurled herself to the gate. She made a judgment call to hide in the guard shack. It hadn't been used in decades and was more ornamental than functional. Time and weather had worn down its lock, making it easy for Samantha to enter. She dropped down, afraid even to breathe for the noise it might make. She huddled deep in a corner, keeping the door closed with her foot.
The doorknob rattled. Samantha covered her mouth to keep from screaming. Then suddenly a loud thud shook the door. It was followed by a series of scratches and pounding overlaid by Samantha’s manic screams. Then, all at once, everything was silent outside the guard-shack door.
Samantha quieted down. Her eyes, mascara dripping and running from them, stayed on the door. Not seeing anything, she slowly leaned forward. The glass window behind her crashed in, and the figure’s hand grabbed the back of her shirt, then the nape of her neck. It yanked her back, slamming her against a small, metal shelf populated with safety manuals from the 1970s. They fell on Samantha like blocks of colored snow.
She threw them off and escaped the shack, running as fast as she could toward her dorm, which was on the other side of campus. Breathless, she came upon the student counseling services building. She could vaguely see Bao through the window. He was on the first floor, and his back was turned to her.
Samantha was about to scream bloody murder when the figure’s massive arm clothes lined her neck, collapsing her trachea. She was laid out on her back, but could still see Boa as he turned in her direction. He looked like he was already scared of something. Samantha kicked at the air, but kept missing the figure that loomed over her.
At the window, Bao just missed the figure dragging Samantha into the darkness. By then she was suffocating from her collapsed trachea, but death was too slow in coming.
Even though the figure had been instructed not to feed, it was just too hungry. It took near-erotic pleasure in snapping Samantha’s bones in its mammoth hands—first pulverizing her legs, then her arms, and finishing with her back. Before the merciful unconsciousness of death arrived, Samantha’s bleary eyes saw the killer’s canines growing longer as its face came down upon her.
And that face belonged to Grace....
