Tia Silverthorne Bach's Blog, page 21

Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) : Kelly Martin

Please welcome my next guest in my Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. I met Kelly online when we were both taking Janet Wallace’s amazing class: StandUP. StandOUT. RakeItIn.
We connected right away, and became Happy Buddies. Our goal: to encourage and lift one another, especially when fears creep up. I couldn’t wait to finally meet her at UtopYA. Her smile lights up a room, and she has some wicked dance moves.
Thanks for hanging out with me on the blog today.
KM: Thank you for having me! I'm excited to get started... excited and scared. Very... very scared ;)
You are such an inspiration to me, because you are not shy to be you. I love your YouTube channel (subscribe here if you don’t – every video brings a smile to my face). Why did you decide to do video?
KM: Awwww. I'm so totally shy. You have no idea. As long as I have a backspace (or an edit button), I'm fine. BUT I'm working on it. I like doing videos because I think sometimes it is easier to get your point across on video. Plus, I love youtube and I wanted to be a part of it.
Youtube scares me, which means I really need to try it, too! You are quite prolific. Where do you get your story ideas? Do you have a favorite genre to write so far?
KM: Yeah. My 15th book comes out this month. That's just insane to me. My story ideas either come from a 'what if' question that pops in my head or a scene that I want to know how the people got there-- or just a random elevator ride (the book I'm working on now started on the elevator ride from the 10th to the 1st floor at utopya this year :) ).
15 books. Oh my. That's awesome. Tell me about your latest novel, The Fall. 

KM: It came out July 28th. It is the third book in the Sloan series. Sloan has had it rough. She was attacked in her house in the first book and doesn't know by who. You know by now (if you've read the books) but I won't spoil it if you haven't. There are also two brothers: Aaron and Ray. Aaron is the Dean Winchester type. Which is strange to me since I'd never watched Supernatural when I wrote it. Ray is the sweet, loveable sensible one. Most people are #teamAaron (he's so cute!). I'm one of the few #teamRay people. We shall see who wins Sloan's heart? (and you will find out in The Fall).
We have so much in common, including both having three beautiful daughters. What is your greatest dream for them? KM: My biggest dream for them is to be happy and to have supportive people in their lives (even when I'm not around). When your kids are old enough, what’s the first ‘80s movie—since I know we both love this decade—you are going to show them? I showed my daughter Footloose first, because I knew she’d love it.
KM: Back to the Future :) And Gremlins--- because I think it would be fun. Well, maybe Gremlins 2. I liked that one better. ;) My youngest loves Gremlins. We really are separated at birth. So, I've been asking all the lovelies... what's your favorite inspirational quote? Why?
KM: She thought she could, so she did.-- I don't know who said it, but I see it on pinterest a lot :) What do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special? KM: I think that it's lasted so long is special. The fact that it'll be my 4th time there is special for me. It is just a really cool experience, and I'm proud to be a part of it.
Kelly shared this awesome picture from the hotel lobby at UtopYA. Guess she can find her beloved Sam (from Supernatural) anywhere. 

Her lovely sister joined her for the festivities. Loved meeting her, too.

✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮ 
Last Movie you Saw: Friday the 13th (2009 version)Comedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? HorrorLast Book you Read: The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken (I love it!)First Job: Daycare workerGift cards or cash? CashFavorite Vacation Spot: Myrtle Beach
More about Kelly
Kelly Martin is a bestselling author of contemporary, historical, and YA romance. She has been married for over ten years and has three rowdy, angelic daughters. When she's not writing, she loves watching horror gamers on YouTube-- even though she's a huge wimp-- and drinking white chocolate mochas. She's a total fangirl, loves the 80s and 90s, and has a sad addiction to a certain British boy band (shhhh). Her favorite characters are the 'bad guys'-- especially those who, in their mind, are the heroes of the story. She loves helping her characters fight for their ever after. 

If you ever have a question or comment, feel free to email her at kellymartin215 @ yahoo . com ♥ You can follow her writing adventure at Kelly Martin Books
Please visit often for more UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) interviews, and check out the announcement post to seethe schedule and links to past interviews.

Find Your Tribe : #IWSG

The  Insecure Writer's Support Group  (or IWSG) is a wonderful group put together by the amazing Alex J. Cavanaugh (which now has an equally cool  Facebook group ). 

The first Wednesday of each month is the perfect opportunity to share my insecurities on the #IWSG therapy couch, get encouragement and support about such insecurities, and to read how other writers are faring.

Wow. I almost didn't make it this month. It's 10:30pm West coast time, so I guess I technically missed posting on Wednesday in a few time zones.

My last few weeks have been crazy. One thing I've noticed when too many things are happening at once... I start to doubt myself.

My focus wanes, and I start noticing all the incredible people around me who seem to have it together and are thriving. Life piles up, and I feel less and less capable as I juggle more and more things being thrown at me.

But thank the good Lord I have some people within the writing industry I can always turn to. Whether it's my StandUp Indies Private group, my happy buddy, or one of my awesome Fractured Glass/Seven ladies, I know there are people who will love me even when I'm in the pit and are there to help pull me out of it. Who aren't there to judge or belittle. 

I am so thankful for these people, and for many of you in this awesome group who come forward with advice or a good cheer to keep moving forward.

Since we all fall into insecurity's clutches from time to time, make sure and find your tribe. They are invaluable.

When's the last time you connected to your Tribe? If it's been a while, reach out. If you don't need them, they might just need you.

Living Life & Loving It

I've been so blessed to travel the last two weekends and see some family and friends. Living life is such an important part of who I am as a writer. Friends and family nourish my soul... and a fed soul feeds my writing.

First, I went to my cousin's wedding. He was my ring bearer twenty years ago, so I was feeling a bit old. Good thing I got married at 15. He he.


That's me with my very handsome cousin and my two sisters. So much fun! 

Then, I spend this past weekend with dear friends in Santa Barbara. My first visit... so gorgeous. And my girlfriends are the best. So much love.


Now, it's back to edits and wrapping up Chasing Destiny. More details on that will come soon. Yay!

Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) : Felicia Tatum

Please welcome the next guest in my Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. I’ve known Felicia Tatum online for a couple of years, but this was the first time I actually met her face-to-face. She had her daughter there, and I won her over when I gave her some fairy dust (okay, it might have been glitter, but she and I believed it was special).
As moms, Felicia and I joked that it might not have been the wisest choice to give away and had a couple of laughs. Later, I found out it did explode, but I’m sure it only means her family has a lifetime of wishes. Right?
Thanks for coming on the blog today!
FT: Thanks for having me! And FYI, I took some fairy dust, too ;)
After the story above, I have to ask: if you could have one wish from an author fairy, what would you ask for?
FT: Ohmygosh…umm…honestly, I’d want my writing to be enough to do everything I need to do to survive and maybe have a little extra to play. I love writing and I wish so hard for it to be my full time career.
So many of us would have the same wish. I recently downloaded Scornful Sadie, Dark Sorceress Trilogy #1, your latest novel. I can’t wait to read it, and I adore the cover. Can you tell us about it and share any teasers/graphics? 
FT: Yay!! Scornful Sadie is about 21 year old Sadie Tabors, a very powerful sorceress. She’s out and about fighting all the bad guys of the world when she goes back to see her family after five years away. Once she learns she’s the dark sorceress and there’s a prophecy that tells how she’ll change sorcery forever, she has to decide what she’s going to do, how she’s going to protect her family, and if it’s all worth it.

Love the teaser! Where do you get inspiration for your characters?
FT: Most new stories start from dreams, but Scornful Sadie is actually about a character from The White Aura series. She really grew on me and demanded her own story.
You are part of Dauntless Indies. How did this group get started? How do you support each other?
FT: Well, Sarah Cradit and I were talking about how it would be nice to have a group to talk about the ups and downs of publishing, the highs and lows of being an author, and decided to start it. It’s grown so much and we support each other in a lot of ways. Emotionally we’re all there for one another, we share new releases, we offer and seek advice. It’s just a great group of people :)
Community is so important. So, I've been asking all the lovelies... what's your favorite inspirational quote? Why?
FT: Do or do not, there is no try. Or something like that. Because it’s so true…you either want it badly enough to do it or you don’t.
Who doesn't love Yoda! What do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special?
FT: The people. I know more people at that con than any other I’ve been to and everyone greets each other with a smile and a hug. I love it!
A fun picture to share from this year's conference. Felicia with her Entangled Souls cover model, Nathan Weller.

✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮ 
Last Movie you Saw: Tinkerbell and the Pirate Fairy (told you I liked fairies)Comedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? ROMANCELast Book you Read: Dark Blessing by Sarah M. CraditFirst Job: Gas stationGift Cards or Cash? Cash
Favorite Vacation Spot: Smokey Mountains
More about Felicia
Felicia Tatum was born and raised in Tennessee. She always loved reading, and at the age of twelve began writing. Her passion for creating stories grew and in May 2012, she finally wrote her first novel, The White Aura.

She still lives in Tennessee with her daughter and her kitty. She loves cooking, books, and animals are some of her best friends. She watches a lot of Disney channel and often dreams up new book ideas. She's currently working on various projects. She's the author of the White Aura series, Scarred Hearts series, and Intoxicating Passion series.
Connect with Felicia Website Twitter Facebook
Please visit often for more UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) interviews, and check out the announcement post to seethe schedule and links to past interviews.

Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) : Delphina Henley

Please welcome my next guest in my Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. Thanks to the Indie-Visible group gathering, I was able to get to know Delphina this year. Cards Against Humanity will do that. She has a smile that lights up a room and is such a sweetie.
Oh, and she was a huge hit at the Saturday signing where she made everyone into a unicorn. And who doesn’t want to be a unicorn?
Thanks so much for hanging out on the blog today!
DH: I’m so excited to be here.
Unicorns clearly hold a special place in your heart. Your first two books have unicorn in the title: Unless You Can Be a Unicorn and Ask Me About My Unicorn. How did this come to be?
DH:  I have always loved unicorns and am addicted to shifter books.  I mentioned this to some HS friends and their reply was, “You should write some.”  Two years and a lot of memes later and I did.
Yay for your high school friends! You were recognized at this year’s UtopYA awards as a writer (Best Debut Novel: Unless You Can Be a Unicorn) and will be joining the 2016 conference as an official blogger (Delphina Reads Too Much). What’s the secret to wearing both hats?
DH: Honestly, I’m still trying to figure that out. My blog has definitely suffered as my writing has taken off.
Oh, I can feel you there. That's why I'm so grateful for these interviews. So, can you tell us about your current manuscript or plans for a next novel?
DH: I’m currently finishing two books. The Lion and the Unicorn will be released under my pen name Dara Fraser and is the first in an adult shifter series I am doing with Anchor Group Publishing. Mermaids Can Ride Bicycles is a chapter book for elementary age children and will be released under the name Delphina Miyares. 
Sounds like some awesome stuff is happening. Congrats! If we were playing a clean version of Cards Against Humanity, how would you finish this sentence: Always Be a ____________, unless you can be a unicorn or a _____________? Why?
DH: You saw me play Cards Against Humanity.  I stink at this game.  I give up after thinking about this question far too long.
ROFL! I'd say you should always be your authentic self, which you totally do! So, I've been asking all the lovelies... what's your favorite inspirational quote? Why?  
DH: It changes depending upon where I am in my life, but this is one that has always stuck with me. :  Never allow a person to tell you no who doesn't have the power to say yes. ~Eleanor Roosevelt
Love that one. What do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special?
DH: I have been to quite a few author events as a reader, blogger, and author.  While they were all great experiences, none of them held the magic that Utopia does.  Utopia is a weekend of inspiration, camaraderie, fun, education, relationships, and making connections in the industry.  I have heard many people say that it was life changing for them and of that I have no doubt.  It was for me.
So, I had to share me as a unicorn... so cool!

And a great picture from Delphina's UtopYA2015 experience. So much loveliness in one picture.

✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮ 
Last Movie you Saw: I can’t remember the name.  It was a Korean film I saw on Amazon Prime about HS kids and was pretty strange. Comedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? RomanceLast Book you Read: Doves For Sale by Lila FelixFirst Job: Taco BellGift Cards or Cash? GC Favorite Vacation Spot: Maine

More about Delphina


Delphina Henley has always been a unicorn. Delphina has been writing since she can remember and has always had a love of the paranormal. She is an avid reader and a self proclaimed shifter crack addict. Delphina currently lives in the Midwest with her husband and four kids.
Blog: http://bit.ly/delphinaFacebook http://bit.ly/FBunicornsTwitter: @DelphinaReads
About Unless You Can Be A Unicorn
Always be yourself.
That was the last advice Scout's Grandma Nora gave her before she died. Scout has spent her life trying to be anything but, but she has a chance to start anew as she moves several states away to college. She had always thought the glowing aura she saw around some people was a childhood fancy, but when it starts coming back just as she's starting her new life, she learns there was much hidden about who she truly is.
Thankfully, she has a motley crew to help her along the way: a spunky bookseller, a trustworthy pub owner, a commanding grandmother, a possible best friend, and a hot rocker boy who only has eyes for her.
About Ask Me About My Unicorn
Loving a unicorn is easy. Yourself . . . ? Not so much.
Val is powerful, kind, a bit quirky . . . but the daughter of hunters. Facing your long time crush is challenging on a good day. But throw in a set of parents who want to sell him, his family and his friends in bits and pieces for dark magic and it adds a whole new set of problems. As secrets are revealed and danger mounts, Val must come to terms with where she came from and become the woman she was meant to be.
Please visit often for more UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) interviews, and check out the announcement post to seethe schedule and links to past interviews.

Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) : Kristen Bauer

Please welcome the next guest in my Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. I actually first met Kristen’s adorable daughter. Since I was giving away fairy dust (okay, glitter in a bottle, but it’s all about the believing), cute young ladies seemed to find me. Oh, and Kristen has two equally adorable boys.
So, I was thrilled when Kristen made her way over during the Saturday signing. Her smile and glow make you want to run up and hug her.
Thanks so much for hanging out on the blog today!
KB: Thank you so much for having me and your kind words!
You are the creative mastermind behind Shooting Star Book Reviews. What inspired you to start a book blog?
KB: I wanted to be like the cool kids! Haha...I guess I just had this desire to express my opinion with everyone. No really, I wanted to help authors spread the word about their books. I love it when a friend comes to me looking for book recommendations and I can give them a name of an Indie author.
And we are so appreciative that you do! In your bio on the review site, you mention your obsession with Thorin Oakenshield (Hobbit)--for me, it’s all about Aragorn (Lord of the Rings)—and Ron Weasley. Which is more of a reflection of the type of hero/main character you like to read?
KB: Oh goodness! I think I like a mix of both. I like how strong, gruff, and honorable Throin is (and let’s face it...he’s played by Richard Armitage, *swoon*), but Ron is lovable, hilarious, and fiercely loyal.
Love your answer! In June, you created an author page on Facebook. What made you declare your intent to write? How long have you been writing?
KB: Being surrounded by everyone at UtopYA gave me so much inspiration and motivation. I’ve been working on my main novel for over 2 years now. Fear and hesitation kept causing me to push it back and find excuses not to work on it. I’m still terrified that no one will like it, but I’ve decided to write for ME now. I made friends with Tara Benham through a group of aspiring authors formed from UtopYA attendees, and she pushed me to create my page. It’s official now. I’ve made my commitment public; so I’m hoping it will keep my motivation going.
So excited for you. What can we expect from your first novel?
KB: I’m working on a YA paranormal retelling of Red Riding Hood. There’s a ton of other fairytale and mythical characters in it as well...Tinkerbell, Peter Pan, Sleeping Beauty, Snow White, just to name a few. There’s a twist to them but you’ll have to read it to find out. *wink*
Oooh. Sounds interesting. Okay, back to the Thorin and Ron juxtaposition. (Can you tell this fascinates me?) What are you most looking forward to exploring in your male characters?
KB: I hope to write loyal and respectful guys with a good sense of mischief and humor. I want them to treat their girls right. My children are very excited about my story and hope to read it one day. I want to make sure that my male characters set a good example for them.
As a mother of three girls, I totally agree with you. What about your main female character? In the female character movie universe, who inspires you? (See how sneaky I am, I’m digging to find out your female versions of Thorin and Ron.)
KB: I a big Black Widow fan. I also love Olive Pendergast from “Easy A.”
Strong females. Yep, we have so much in common. So, I've been asking all the lovelies... what's your favorite inspirational quote? Why?
KB: I have a few but these are the ones that resonate with me the most:“I love the person I’ve become, because I fought to become her” because 2015 has been the year of change for me. I took up kickboxing, we moved to Memphis to build our dream house, and I’ve got grand plans to finish my first novel this year. The second quote is “Don’t be afraid of being different, be afraid of being the same as everyone else.” I’ve never felt like I fit in anywhere and for the longest time I made myself miserable trying to be the person I thought I should be. Now, I just don’t care...haha!
Great quotes! What do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special?
KB: I loved that it focused mainly on YA authors. It was the first convention that I was able to bring my children (who are all avid readers) to and not have to worry about them seeing questionable covers or swag.
I found this great pic of Kristen with Nathan Weller....

✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮ 
Last Movie you Saw:In the theater? Minions, haha!Comedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? I like them all!Last Book you Read:I just finished Dead Over Heels by Alison Kemper (5 stars, so much fun! I’m working on my review for it) and I’m currently reading Poison Study by Maria V. SnyderFirst Job: Hostess with the mostest at this restaurant called Youngblood’s which was a lot like Applebee’s.Gift cards or Cash?Amazon gift cards are my fave because I can use them to feed my book addiction.
Favorite Vacation Spot: Somewhere cool. When I was 16 my parents took me to visit my favorite aunt up in Vermont in the fall. Fall is my favorite season and seeing all the leaves change...it was magical!
More about Kristen
Hi! My name is Kristen and I'm a certifiable dork. I'm obsessed with knitting, zombies, the color pink, Thorin Oakenshield, and Ron Weasley. I'm married to my best friend, Steve, and we have 3 minions to do our bidding. ;-) My favorite books to read are YA paranormal romance but I wouldn't turn down a spicy NA contemporary romance either. I started this blog so I could be like the all cool kids (I'm looking at you, Bawaka's Bookfair!). I can be extremely random. My apologies in advance. Thanks for stopping by!! :)
Connect with her on her Facebook page
Please visit often for more UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) interviews, and check out the announcement post to seethe schedule and links to past interviews.

Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) : Michele G. Miller

Please welcome the next guest in my Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. This year, sitting at the table next to me for the Thursday and Friday exhibitor spaces was Michele Miller. I’ve known her online for a while, but this was the first time I met her (and her super friendly husband, who manned the table quite a bit, too). 
It didn’t take long for it to feel like I’d known her in person for years. She’s sweet and so genuine. And I’m lucky, because I got to see her again this past August in Charlotte at the Carolina Book Fest.
Thanks for hanging out on the blog today!
MM: Thank you for inviting me by, Tia! Did you bake those cookies just for me? *dives in*
Of course. I'm all about cookies. It was great hanging out with you at UtopYA. You and your husband seem like such an awesome pair. How did the powers that be talk you into participating in the He Said/She Said panel? (This panel was set up like the Newlywed Game.) Oh, and for fun, what was the best question? Did you guys get it right?
MM: Utopia (formerly UtopYA) has been so good to me over the past 4 years. It was my very first author signing/convention and Janet has embraced me with such love so we pretty much told her years ago whatever she needs we’ll do. In 2014 my husband moderated a husbands of authors panel and the He Said/She Said panel came from seeing how much fun it was to watch the men squirm and the wives shout at them from the audience. My favorite question was, “Would your wife rather date a vampire, kill a zombie or participate in the Hunger Games?” He said vampire. My answer is heck no to the vampire! While I do love me some Angel (from Buffy) I have ALWAYS been terrified of people touching my neck. If we were on the old Newlywed show I would have hit him in the head with my answer card! I said Hunger Games btw, though none of these are on my bucket list of things to do.
LOL. Too funny. So, you were a Young Adult Author of the Year nominee at this year’s Penned Con. Online you wrote: I wrote and released FOUR personal and heartfelt books this year in the hopes of touching readers’ hearts. Judging by the reviews, I won. Covering depression, Mother Nature, self-harm and self-worth, true love, guilt and starting over, my books are a reflection of me. To be recognized by my peers for my words is a win. Of these issues, which is nearest and dearest to your heart as far as affecting readers?
MM: Into The Fire, my last release, is the book I’m most proud of. The book deals with a teen who after tragedy strikes turns to self-harm as a way of feeling alive again. She feels unworthy of life. Cutting is a taboo subject. I tried my best to deal with it a caring way so the act is not glorified. I wanted readers to understand the mindset behind my character. A lot of the pain and self-worth issues Dani goes through in the book comes from a personal place for me. I love the lesson she learns in the end. It’s one I learned myself. 

Wow. That's one I'll have to read. I recently finished From the Wreckage, and I loved it. I'll be reviewing soon! So, I saw on your website that you believe in love at first sight (and realized it at sixteen). I think that’s awesome. How did you know your husband was the one? 
MM: Truth is, the day I first saw him my soul said “you’re going to marry that guy.” I know it sounds ridiculous but I heard it. I didn’t even know his name! Over the course of the next few weeks, after I first saw him, our paths crossed multiple times. There came a point where I think we both thought someone was trying to tell us something. We never even had that “will you be my girlfriend/boyfriend” talk. We simply hung out one day and never stopped.
You seem so connected with your readers. So, what’s the best compliment a reader has ever given you?
MM: The messages I’m most honored to read are the ones from readers who complain about how tired they are because they couldn’t stop reading. I’m a huge reader myself so I know how that feels. I stayed up all night reading Hunger Games when it first released, I know what it’s like to have love affair with a book. That is the best compliment. 
The craziest are the two people who have said they loved my books as much as Harry Potter. That’s just crazy pants! LOL
I lose many hours of sleep for a good book, and I wouldn't have it any other way (although I'm sure my hubby and kids would like me to sleep more for mood's sake). What’s up next for you?
MM: I have so many things! I’m working on something completely different (adult, period piece, crime, romance) with my agent to pitch, but I’m also working on my Indie stuff. I have to finish my final Fantasy novel in the Tyalbrook series, two more spin-offs for my Wrecked series and the second Last Call novel, His Call.
Wow. You are busy. How exciting. I've been asking all the lovelies... what's your favorite inspirational quote? Why?
MM: I’m a quote junkie! I’ve always been a Robert Frost fan:
“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I — 
I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.” 
The road less traveled. The choice to choose the unpopular. The harder course. The scarier, unknown road. Blaze your own trail, follow your own dreams and think your own thoughts. These are the things that come to mind when I read those lines.
Amen! What do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special?
MM: There’s something just a bit different about it. It’s such a community. An energy strums through the hotel and you can’t help but pick up on it. I was at a big industry convention this spring and sat at the same table as some of the biggest names in publishing but I never felt the same connection to those people as I do to the attendees of Utopia. I think, for the most part, when you step into Utopia you know you are with others who are truly there to help support and life one another. It’s not about ego, sales or popularity.  
A favorite pic of Michele's from 2015...

✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮ 
Last Movie you saw: New? Inside Out, but we just introduced our 16yr old son to Dodgeball the other night.Comedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? Romance all the way.Last Book you Read: Crown of Midnight by Sarah J. MaasFirst Job: McDonalds Gift cards or Cash? Gift cards
Favorite Vacation Spot? Disney World
More about Michele


Michele writes novels with fairytale love for everyday life. Romance is always central to her plots where the genres range from Coming of Age Fantasy and Realistic Fiction to New Adult Romantic Suspense.

Having grown up in both the cold, quiet town of Topsham, Maine and the steamy, southern hospitality of Mobile, Alabama, Michele is something of an enigma. She is an avid Yankees fan, loves New England, being outdoors and misses snow. However she thinks southern boys are hotter, Alabama football is the only REAL football out there and sweet tea is the best thing this side of heaven and her children's laughter! 

Her family, an amazing husband and three awesome kids, have planted their roots in the middle of Michele's two childhood homes in Charlotte, North Carolina. 

Website: http://michelegmillerbooks.com
Email: authormichelegmiller@gmail.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorMicheleGMiller
Twitter: https://twitter.com/chelemybelles
Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/chelemybelles/


Please visit often for more UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) interviews, and check out the announcement post to seethe schedule and links to past interviews.

Lion King Come to Life

We had an amazing weekend!

That doesn't always justify a blog post, but this time I thought it did. 

We took the girls to see The Lion King production. I had seen it way back in 2004 during a visit to New York. Years later, I have three girls who love the Disney movie so much they named our puppies after it. Nala and Sarabi.

So, it made me wonder what other Broadway production of a Disney movie I'd love to see. Beauty and the Beast is coming to our area early next year, and I heard Aladdin had a limited run in New York. Both sound amazing.

But, I'm thinking maybe...

Mulan
Little Mermaid
Brave
Tangled

Okay, I might have had some help from my girls on picking those, but I love them all.

What Disney movie would you love to see in a live production? Even more fun, what book do you think might make an awesome show?

My daughters voted for Harry Potter!

Wishing everyone a fantastic Monday!

Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) : Ginny Gallagher

Please welcome the next guest in my Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. I met the amazing Ginny Gallagher in person at last year’s conference and highlighted her in my 2015 Lovelies post here .
Then, Ginny was the mastermind behind Gin’s Book Notes. But something amazing happened in the last year… Ginny is now writing, and her first book will be published later this year.
Ginny, I’m so excited that you are writing! Through Gin’s Book Notes and getting to know you, I know you have a passion for books, but what inspired you to write?
GG: I’ve always been a writer but being an author was one of those things that I always thought was beyond my capabilities. Then I went to UtopYA2015 and met all these amazing authors that I looked up to, and one of the many things that resonated with me was that this people were just like me. They were/are scared, they haven’t led a perfect life, they struggle to pay bills, get the laundry done, and many have jobs outside of writing. That was my “a-ha” moment, my you don’t have an excuse moment, and the moment I realized that I have just as much right to my dreams as others do. So I made a plan, derailed from said plan several times, and then got back to work on the plan. It takes courage and work—Lots of both.
Amen. It's all about persevering. So please tell us about the first book in The Cauldron Chronicles series?
GG: Oh…I’m so excited! I have five books planned and maybe a few bonus novellas. Book one is called Hawthorn Hedge. The main character Camille will soon turn sixteen and be sent to servitude training. But life doesn’t always go as planned, and in Camille’s case, it’s a blessing to discover that she might be more than she or anyone else ever believed her to be.
Sounds fantastic. I can't wait to read it. So, what's your writing process like? How did the story come to you?
GG: I’m still working on my writing process and trying on different things to see what works best for me. I need the structure of a brief scene outline to keep me on track, but then I like to see what happens with the characters with free writing within that scene structure. And I’m finding that rewriting is where a lot of things start to come together and make sense.
Revising is such an important component of writing. What other advice would you give new writers?
GG: This is the advice that I’m giving myself everyday: 
(1) Don’t get caught up in the details. You need to WRITE! Without a completed book (and more completed books) the details don’t matter. Before worrying about how to market yourself on Facebook worry about basic writing techniques. You can worry about the details while you are having your book edited.  
(2) Don’t get in a hurry. Plan things out. Give yourself time to learn and grow as a writer and as a new business owner because I promise you being an author is a business.
It so is! I've been asking all the lovelies... what's your favorite inspirational quote? Why?
GG: This one is hard for me because I really love quotes and my favorite changes weekly; sometimes daily. Right now I love:
“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”― E.E. Cummings
I love that. Simple, yet so true. What do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special?
GG:  The amazing, wonderful, book-loving souls that gather to share, encourage, and plan new dreams together.  I love them and this event so much!
A couple of fun pictures from UtopYA2015...
Ginny with the fabulous Christina Mercer and Chelsea Starling...

 And one with the awesome Misty Provencher...

✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮ 
Last Movie you Saw: Seventh Son (DVD) I really liked it. Comedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? Usually Romantic Comedy but I do love Action/Adventure. I’m a big super hero fan. Last Book you Read: The Big Leap: Conquer Your Hidden Fear and Take Life to the Next Level by Gay Hendricks First Job: bussing tablesGift cards or Cash? Gift cards Favorite Vacation Spot: Utopia (Nashville, TN)...of course.

More about Ginny

A slightly sarcastic, happily married writer, cover designer, and blogger. I usually have marker or paint on my fingers and I’m happiest when I’m writing, creating, reading, or spending time with my family and 5 fur kids.
I’m currently working on rewrites for my debut YA Fantasy novel, Hawthorn Hedge, Book One in The Cauldron Chronicles. I hope to have books one and two of The Cauldron Chronicles published by the end of the year. I have a total of five books planned for the series. I also have a mystery series that I’m itching to write.
I believe in happily ever after’s, know that magic is real, and refuse to accept that the world isn’t full of rainbows and butterflies.

Social Media Links

Website: http://ginnygallagher.comTwitter: https://twitter.com/AuthorGinnyGalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGinnyGallagher Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/authorginnygal/

Please visit often for more UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) interviews, and check out the announcement post to seethe schedule and links to past interviews.

Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) : ER Arroyo

Please welcome the next guest in my Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. During Saturday’s signing event, I was lucky enough to sit right next to her. We talked kids and books, and I fell in love with her sweet spirit and beautiful smile.
Thanks for coming onto the blog today.
EA: Thanks for having me. It was great to meet you (and your daughter), and I’m glad we’ve been able to connect after the con!
You are instrumental in a wonderful Facebook group: Band of Dystopian Authors & Fans. Tell us about the group and tell us how it came about.
EA: Last spring, I released The Offering, the second book in my YA dystopian series called the Sovereign Series. I was looking for places online to promote it, and at the time Facebook groups were becoming very popular places for people to discover/promote books. My friend (and at the time, also a publicist) suggested I find a dystopian group. Would you believe I could not find a single one?
So I approached my friend Cheer and asked her to start a group with me. We quickly hashed out what we wanted the group to be like – that we would focus on dystopian, apocalyptic, and post-apocalyptic fiction. That we would invite authors to join, and hope they would invite their fans. Together we would all build this community. It’s this idea that you can give fans a place to discover books and discover authors without feeling spammed. It’s a place where authors and fans alike can just hang out and love the same stuff together.
Today, about 13 months later, Band of Dystopian (BOD) is nearly 2,500 members strong. Between 175 and 200 of those are authors, that we know of. We support writers in all phases of their experience and careers – novice to bestseller. I like to say, “this is our tribe,” and I know many of our members would agree. Those who share our tastes in fiction, TV, movies, etc. have found a place to feel at home online. And Cheer keeps things crazy fun! So that helps.
Giveaways, games, discussions, release parties, writing exercises... we have a blast! For a bunch of doom and gloomers, we sure are a happy bunch.
I love the group. So much fun! Prep for Doom debuted at UtopYA and is officially on sale now. It’s described as: From the imaginations of twenty authors of dystopian and post-apocalyptic fiction comes PREP FOR DOOM, an integrated collection of short stories that tell the tale of a single catastrophe as experienced by many characters, some of whom will cross paths. How did this awesome piece come together? Which authors are featured?
EA: This project was born out of our BOD community. We have an author side group for authors to talk shop and conduct author business apart from the main group, and we just started some conversations and brainstorming sessions. Someone gave us the idea to write in the same universe, and we took it a step further and decided to actually write the same STORY. So we came up with a basic idea – a viral outbreak, similar to Ebola but airborne. All the characters would be facing the exact same catastrophe. I put out a fact sheet with parameters that each author had to adhere to. The symptoms of the virus, locations of safe havens and bunkers, suspicious persons, and most notably, a website called prepfordoom.com where a bunch of doomsday preppers have made plans for the end of the world. We allowed authors to submit their stories and from them we chose 21, a prologue plus 20 chapters.
Each author was free to create their character and scenario as long as they stayed within our parameters. A considerable amount of detail was smoothed out in editing, to make sure the world building was correct and consistent. Several characters appear in more than one story. The stories interlace in really cool ways, yet each is unique. Each is truly its own short story, yet also a “chapter” in the overall “novel.” The reader is witnessing a single apocalypse from 21 points of view. 
I was oversaw the project, worked on all the development editing, and I penned the final chapter. We had a great group of authors alongside me. Some of the authors are new, some are best sellers. Just an awesome, awesome group of people. Laura Albins, Amy Bartelloni, Brea Behn, Casey L. Bond, TK Carter, Kate Corcino, Harlow C. Fallon, Kelsey D. Garmendia, Caroline Gill, DelSheree Gladden, John Gregory Hancock, Casey Hays, Kate L. Mary, Jon Messenger, Monica Enderle Pierce, Cameo Renae, Hilary Thompson, Yvonne Ventresca, and Megan White.
That's an awesome group, and it sounds amazing. So, what’s up next for you?
EA: I’m working on a story for another anthology (unrelated to BOD) that’ll be out this fall. After that... Well, now that BOD has had me sufficiently distracted for the last year, I suppose I ought to finish the Sovereign Series. Two short stories remain, both prequels (the first one, Transgression, is already out). After that, I’m not sure yet!
Wow. You are a busy lady. So, I've been asking all my lovelies... what's your favorite inspirational quote? Why?
EA: “The truly creative mind in any field is no more than this: A human creature born abnormally, inhumanely sensitive. To them... a touch is a blow, a sound is a noise, a misfortune is a tragedy, a joy is an ecstasy, a friend is a lover, a lover is a god, and failure is death.
Add to this cruelly delicate organism the overpowering necessity to create, create, create -- so that without the creating of music or poetry or books or buildings or something of meaning, their very breath is cut off...They must create, must pour out creation. By some strange, unknown, inward urgency they are not really alive unless they are creating.” – Pearl Buck
Why? Because someone who came long before me understood what I spent my entire adolescence unable to verbalize. (<-- You can be safe in assuming what I just said has a lot to do with my affinity for young adult fiction. Don’t anyone dare try to tell me teenagers can’t feel complex, intense, and very REAL emotions.)
Amen! Well said. It was amazing to meet you in Nashville this year. What do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special?
EA: This was my first year attending. I loved that there were actual Young Adults at the conference! As Utopia expands, I hope and trust that will they continue to foster, support, and care for young minds.
✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮ 
Last Movie you Saw:SnowpiercerComedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? Umm. Science Fiction :) But I do enjoy a pretty healthy blend of all of the genres you listed. And The Walking Dead. I am failing at this “quick” thing.Last Book You Read:Eleanor & ParkFirst Job:Grocery store cashierGift cards or Cash?Whatever works for the giver Favorite Vacation Spot: What’s a vacation? ... I miss the beach, I’ll go with that!
I hope to see you at UtopYA next year!You bet!! Oh, and here’s my favorite photo from UtopYA. It’s me and my business partner, Cheer. It’s my favorite because we met in person for the first time at the con after working together for a year online. :)

More about ER 
E.R. Arroyo is the author of YA Dystopian, The Sovereign Series, and co-founder/owner of Band of Dystopian Authors and Fans, a Facebook community, blog, and company that champions dystopian, apocalyptic, and post-apocalyptic fiction. E.R. is passionate about books, music, and her family, and she loves to talk shop with other authors and with her readers.
Website  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  |  Band of Dystopian

From the imaginations of twenty authors of dystopian and post-apocalyptic fiction comes PREP FOR DOOM - an integrated collection of short stories that tell the tale of a single catastrophe as experienced by many characters, some of whom will cross paths. 

What begins with a seemingly innocuous traffic accident soon spirals into a global pandemic. The release of Airborne Viral Hemorrhagic Fever upon New York City’s unsuspecting populace brings bloody suffering within hours, death within a day, and spreads worldwide within a month. 

An online community called Prep For Doom has risen to the top of a recent doomsday preparation movement. Some have written them off as crazy while others couldn’t be more serious about the safety the preppers could provide in a global disaster. But when AVHF strikes, their preparation may not be enough to save them. 

Website  |  Amazon  |  Goodreads
Please visit often for more UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) interviews, and check out the announcement post to seethe schedule and links to past interviews.