Tia Silverthorne Bach's Blog, page 23

Meet some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) : Laura Howard

Please welcome the next guest in my Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. Last year I was excited to meet Laura, but she couldn’t make it to the con. Instead, I met her paper cutout (see picture below), which people were lovingly carrying around.

Finally, I met her in person this year. She’s warm, friendly, and so easy to talk to. Plus, I was fortunate to spend some extra time with her visiting the Parthenon on the last day. 
Thanks so much for hanging out on my blog today.
LH: I'm delighted you asked me to join you, thank YOU Tia!
I love your author bio, probably because so much of it speaks to me. I read Sweet Valley High and the Twilight series! When did you know you wanted to write, and how did your love of young adult books influence the type of writer you wanted to be?
LH: Haha... I've gotten more people to open up to me about Sweet Valley High than I can tell you. It's almost like it's a dirty little secret for some of us. :) After my kids were born, I felt like I had to do the whole "adulting" thing, so I naturally assumed it was time to turn to adult fiction. While there isn't anything wrong with adult fiction, it wasn't until I read the Twilight Saga that I realized how much I missed the raw emotion of YA fiction. You can imagine my surprise when I discovered there were so many other adults reading YA. I felt so vindicated and free. From that moment on, I devoured countless YA series to the point of near-obsession. As for writing...I will tell you that I have always dabbled in writing, but it never occurred to me that I might actually write for the public until around 2010. I credit the pioneers in self-publishing for giving me that freedom. :)

Your latest novel, Belong to Me, is a new adult contemporary romance. I love it. My review will go up later today. Please tell us about it.
LH: Belong to Me is a story about many layers of loss and ultimately learning to move on. It's a love story about two people, but it's also about family, both the ones we're born into and the ones we choose.

When did you decide to try your hand at writing new adult contemporary romance after so much success with young adult paranomal?
LH: Belong to Me was something I started a while ago, not really planning on ever letting it see the light of day. It was too close to my heart, a little too raw. I lost my brother and mother between 2006 and 2010 and it was a very cathartic experience for me to pour my emotions into that little novel. But, as a lover of primarily paranormal fiction, I wasn't sure my readers would appreciate the contemporary side of my writing. A friend read the manuscript one day and said, “You need to publish this. Even if only one other person reads it, it'll be worth it.”
So there you have it. And I found that I liked the world I created, even if there are no supernatural elements. I look forward to expanding the series in the future with other POV and other emotional issues they are experiencing. 
"Flat Laura" from UtopYA2014I'm all about characters and emotion first. I've been asking each of my participants... What is your favorite inspirational quote? Why?
LH: The best way to predict the future, is to create it. -Abraham Lincoln
So simple, but so true. It was so wonderful to finally meet you at this year's conference. What do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special?
LH: The thing that has set it apart for me is the ambiance. It's about connecting with people. Not just readers or writers, but all the creative people we interact with on social media. The energy everyone brings is a huge part of the experience. It's about being positive and it's almost as if there is an unwritten zero-negativity policy.
✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮

Last Movie you Saw: Inside OutComedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? Romance ;)Last book you Read: Promise by Kristie CookFirst Job: Cashier at Burger King :/Gift cards or cash? Gift cards...that prevents me from using it for my kids heheFavorite Vacation Spot: Anywhere peaceful. I love the beach as much as I love the mountains. 
More About Laura
I’m an author, a mother of 4 and a voracious reader.

My obsession with books began at the age of 6 when I got my first library card. Nancy Drew, Sweet Valley High and other YA novels were routinely devoured in single sittings. My mom took me to the library nearly everyday so I could get my fix!

Books took a backseat to diapers when I had my first child at the age of 21. It wasn’t until the release of a little saga called Twilight, 8 years later, that I rediscovered my love of fiction. Soon after, my own characters began to make themselves known. The Forgotten Ones is my first published novel.
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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) : Morgan Wylie

Please welcome the next guest in my Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. I’ve known Morgan online for a couple of years, but our lives recently crossed in a very “It’s a Small World” way.
We moved to California two years ago, and my daughter became friends with a sweet girl. One day when I was picking my elementary school daughter up from a playdate, her mom asked if I was an author because she noticed her sister and I were mutual friends. That sister… Morgan. So awesome!
So, this year, I was determined to finally meet Morgan. She’s amazing, sweet, and always has a smile on her face.
Thanks for hanging out on the blog today!
MW: It really is a small world sometimes, isn’t it?! I was floored when my sister asked if I knew you. I was like, “Well, yeah she’s awesome, but how do you know her?” It was so fun to FINALLY meet you in person and meet your lovely daughter as well.

My 15yo daughter was so excited to meet you this year, too, because she’s a huge fan of your The Age of Alandria series (I can’t wait to get to them myself). What book are you currently working on?
MW: Currently, I am wrapping up a new project. It’s an NA paranormal romance that takes place in Seattle. It’s called Rylen and follows him and his crew as they lead the pacific northwest faction of an underground network of supernaturals (think underground magical crime syndicate) as the confront a conservative group intent on ridding the world of magic. Look for it end of this summer!
That sounds so cool, and I love the cover! When did you know you wanted to be an author?
MW: I had dabbled with writing on and off during my school years, but hadn’t done much with it. In 2001, I had thought about writing non-fiction during some years I that I had shelved reading fiction, but just wasn’t “feelin’ it”. Finally, in 2007 I had been feeling the need and urge to read and write again (I know that took awhile to come back to it, right?) but just wasn’t finding the right story. I had decided that was what I really wanted to do though, and in 2009—7 months preggo—I finally found my story and have been writing it ever since.
My story is very similar. I always dabbled, but I started really writing when my first child was born. So, as an author, where do you see yourself in five years?
MW: Hmmm… I plan to continue writing full time (even more so than I am now), I want to be traveling more/attending more conferences, and want to be expanding not only further into YA and NA genres but also middle-grade.
I think Middle Grade is a great area to move into. I've thought about it myself. I've been asking everyone during this series to share their inspiration, because it's so important. What is your favorite inspirational quote? Why?
MW: “Not until we are lost, do we begin to find ourselves.” Henry David Thoreau. 
For me, I was trapped in a box of being someone I believed I should be or who people told me I was. It took me coming to a place in myself where I felt lost and unsure of who I was and where I was going in life. But then I found myself. It’s not always a quick easy path, but I believe it was essential for me to be lost in order to find myself.
It's like you know me or something! I could have given a very similar answer. UtopYA, renamed Utopia for it's fifth year in 2016, brings so many people together. What do you think makes it so special?
MW: For me, it has always been the people. I love and enjoy all the learning and inspirations, and FUN, but I have made truly enriching relationships—relationships that make me a better person and a better writer—there that I will continue to cherish for years to come.
I asked everyone to send in their favorite photo from UtopYA2015, and I love that Morgan sent this awesome collage...

✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮
Last Movie you Saw: Inside Out (loved it!)Comedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? RomanceLast book you Read: Spring Rain by Lizzy Ford and Edge Season Two, episode 4 by Jamie Magee, and Fighting Destiny by Amelia Hutchins (it was a binge reading week)First Job: Corporate Office Assistant for a health club (I think this was my first)Gift cards or Cash? Gift cardsFavorite Vacation Spot: Disneyland
I hope to see you in Nashville next year, if not sooner!MW: Absolutely!! Thank you so much for having me!!
More about Wylie
Morgan Wylie published her first novel, Silent Orchids, one year after moving across the country with her family on a journey of new discovery. After an amazing three years in Nashville, TN and the release of two more books, Morgan and her family found their way back to the Northwest where they now reside. Still working everyday with great optimism, Morgan continues to embrace all things: “Mama”, wife, teacher, and mediator to the many voices and muses constantly chattering in her head… where it gets pretty loud!
You can find her and news on her books at the following:
MorganWylie.netMorganWylieBooks on Facebook@MWylieBooks on Twitter/InstagramInfo@MorganWylie.net EmailGoodreads and Amazon(Author Bio)
Silent Orchids (The Age of Alandria: Book One) is FREE right now! Veiled Shadows (The Age of Alandria: Book Two)Daegan (The Age of Alandria: A Companion Novella) Fractured Darkness (The Age of Alandria: Book Three)
Please visit often for more UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) interviews, and check out the announcement post to seethe schedule and links to past interviews.

Carolina Book Fest Fun!

Good Monday morning.

I am heading back to California today after three incredible weeks of family bonding. Still, I must admit... I'm ready to not be living out of a suitcase. I haven't been home since 7/27. 

This past Saturday I attended the Carolina Book Fest. It was an amazing event. Our host LP Dover, and her amazing assistant Kim Walker, deserve a huge round of applause for a well-run, fun event. Not only did I meet new authors and readers, but I was able to visit with dear friends.

I shared a table with the lovely NL Greene, who was one of the writers on Fractured Glass. I love her!


And I got to see old friends and finally meet people I've known online forever. It's always great seeing Inger Iverson, Bethany Lopez, Michelle Hart, and Devyn Dawson, and I loved meeting Amy Miles, Nadege Richards, and Apryl Baker.


I hope to be able to make this event again next year. 

Hope everyone has an amazing Monday!

Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) : Eva Pohler

Please welcome my next guest in my Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. I actually met the beautiful Eva last year, but this year I got to hang out with her at The Parthenon just after UtopYA ended. It was the perfect way to wrap up a wonderful five days.

She’s truly a beautiful person and so eager to share her knowledge and inspiration with everyone. Much love for her.

Thanks for hanging out on my blog today!
EP: Thanks so much for having me!
When I read your author bio, I want to go back to school and study all things literature. What was your favorite literature class and why?
EP: Wow, that’s a tough one. You don’t waste any time, do you? Hmm. I think my very favorite was Narratology, because we analyzed the different elements in prose—such as plot, character, and point of view—using specific systems created by six different narratologists. I’d never looked at storytelling so analytically before that class, and I absolutely loved it.
Man, I really do want to go back to school some days! What inspires you most about teaching literature to college students? What’s the best thing a student ever said to you?
EP: The reactions of my students continue to remind me of the importance of stories in our lives. I love it when a student finds a deep connection with one of the assigned readings. It totally reinforces the idea that our work as writers is valuable to others.
The best thing a student ever said to me was in a letter. He told me that he entered my class hating literature and left it wanting to major in English so that he could teach it on the college level one day, too. He said my enthusiasm was contagious. That felt amazing.
I totally agree... your enthusiasm is contagious. So, now I have to ask about your writing. Is there a common element in all of your books?
EP: Another tough one! Maybe you should be a college teacher, too! You could write some really hard exam questions, lol.
I write two different types of books. My fantasy novels revolve around Greek mythology and the desire to experience adventures of god-like proportions. Usually these adventures lead the human protagonists to an important moment of self-actualization.
My suspense novels revolve around the idea that readers are like victims of the Stockholm Syndrome (the phenomenon that occurs when captives fall in love with their captors). Narrators lure us in, abduct us, and torment us with their stories, and yet we are grateful.
So inspiring. Now, what book are you currently working on? When can readers expect to get their hands on it?
EP: I’m working on the final book in The Vampires of Athens series, Vampire Ascension. It will be released on August 24th of this year. I’m so thrilled for everyone to discover how this trilogy ends!
Congrats! I have some more information and a short trailer about that below. So, I have to ask... what was your first favorite book? Why was it so special?
EP: Very first? Probably a Nancy Drew mystery. I loved trying to solve the mystery before the characters could.  I loved Nancy Drew, too. A question I've been asking everyone: What is your favorite inspirational quote? Why?
EP: I have two, and they both come from my series, The Gatekeeper’s Saga. The first was inspired by Alice Walker, author of The Color Purple, and is inscribed on a locket that Athena gives to my main character, Therese: “The most common way people give up their power is by believing they have none.”
The second comes from Hades: “Life isn’t fair, but death is.” I like this because it reminds us that we are all equal in the end. None of us is immune to death. I think we should try to remember that in our dealings with others.
I love those! It's been such a treat getting to know you at UtopYA the last two years. What do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special?
EP: As Rachel Harris said in a Publisher’s Weekly article, “It’s the conference with heart.” The Utopia team goes out of its way to make sure people feel included and to make sure the conference is successful for all. The authors who attend also try really hard to avoid being cliquish. They invite newbies in and make them part of the tribe.


Some lovely UtopYA-an women surround Eva ✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮
Last Movie you Saw: Jurassic WorldComedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? Drama!Last book you Read: A Cygnet’s Tale, by Susan BurdorfFirst Job: Pizza Maker at Mr. Gatti’s PizzaGift cards or Cash? Either!Favorite Vacation Spot: The mountains of Colorado

Thanks so much for hanging out today, Eva. Now, to share more about Vampire Ascension...




Watch the trailer


More About Eva


Eva Pohler is the Amazon bestselling author of The Gatekeeper's Saga, The Purgatorium Series, The Vampires of Athens Series, and The Mystery Book Collection. She also teaches writing and literature at a university in San Antonio, where she lives with her husband and three children.

You can keep in touch with Eva on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest,Linked In, and by email at eva@evapohler.com.


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) : PM Hernandez

Please welcome my next guest in my Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. 

I met PM early on, and she was a brand new face to me. Her beautiful hair (you’ll see in the picture below) drew my attention. Then, we started talking, and I knew we were going to be fast friends. After all, we both understand the perils of DC traffic. Whenever I saw her, I made a point to strike up a conversation. She’s magnetic.
Thanks for hanging out on my blog today.
PH: No problem. I feel like a rock star. I’ll make sure to have a list of demands next time. Spoiler alert: I only eat blue and green M&Ms.
Too funny. I've never met an M&M I won't eat. So, how did you hear about UtopYA, and what made you decide to attend?
PH: I’m always looking to improve my craft, meet more authors, and learn about the publishing industry. A fellow author suggested I attend BEA. I researched going, but quickly decided it was too much conference for me at this stage in my career. I figured there had to be a smaller conference geared more for my genre (YA/NA paranormal/fantasy/sci-fi). Google did the rest. What struck me most were the great reviews UtopYA got from past participants and the enthusiasm of the UtopYA community.
It is an amazing community. I felt at home the minute I stepped into the hotel. When did you know you wanted to write?
PH: I’ve been writing since I can remember, definitely since elementary school. I did fan-fiction before it had a name! I’ve been doing what I call serious writing - stories I’d actually want to see in print - for the last five years but only in the last year pursued it in earnest. I have a day job and it’s wonderful, but writing is what I love to do…full time if I can swing it.
I noticed a post on your blog talking about Dark and Bright, a manuscript you were writing during last summer’s CampNaNoWriMo. Is this what you are currently working on? If so, can you describe the story? If not, what are you working on?
PH: Dark and Bright was inspired by Frankenstein. I love the horror classics and wondered what if Frankenstein’s monster was a young woman? What if she didn’t know she was a monster? I wanted to explore the idea of a sheltered girl having the rug pulled out from under her, her life completely upended, and how that transforms her, inside and out. The story follows Caroline as she discovers the truth about her father and his experiments, and what she does with this discovery. She’s joined by Ethan, a young scientist who is part of an undercover operation to expose and put an end to her father’s horrifying work. While I’m querying Dark and Bright, I’m working on something unrelated involving aliens. The hot kind. Not the green kind. Not that there’s anything wrong with green aliens.
Hot aliens. I'm in! I can't wait to hear more about it. And Dark and Bright sounds fascinating. As an author, what would you like to accomplish by this time next year?
PH: UtopYA definitely got me thinking about goals and staying accountable to those goals. (I made a list and everything!) I’ve been querying, but the more I make friends with indie authors, the more attractive that path becomes. My goal is to either have a publishing deal by this time next year or join my indie friends. Who knows? Maybe I’ll have a book ready for Utopia 2016!
I know you can do it. I'm planning on buying your book in 2016! What was your first favorite book? Why was it so special?
PH: That’s so hard! As a young girl, it was Anne of Green Gables. I could totally relate to her rich interior life and her dissatisfaction with her looks. As a young adult, I got hooked on Emma and it’s still my all-time favorite. When you think about it, Emma is kind of annoying with a weird case of noblesse oblige. She means well, but she’s stuck-up. Watching her transform from a privileged know-it-all into a mature young woman is a great ride. I reread it about once a year. Keep your Mr. Darcy. I’m all about Mr. Knightley. (“If I loved you less, I might be able to talk about it more.” Swoon!)
Anne of Green Gables is one of my favorites. I knew we clicked for a reason. One question I'm asking all my Lovelies... What is your favorite inspirational quote? Why?
PH: There you go again with the hard questions! I’m a reader so all my favorite quotes come from books. One of my favorites is something Dumbledore says when he confronts Harry about his nightly visits to the Mirror of Erised: “It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.” I have a tendency to get caught up in shoulda, woulda, coulda. The quote is a good reminder to be present and mindful of where I am and what I have. It’s even engraved on the back of my iPad!
PM with her "book boyfriend" from the After Light premiereFinally, what do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special?
PH: It’s obvious that what sets UtopYA apart is the community. Everyone is supportive and awesome and downright cool. Something Janet Wallace (UtopYA/Utopia founder) said this year really stuck with me: “The only person you should compete against is yourself.” Utopia is filled with people looking to lift each other up. There is a sense from the whole community that as individuals succeed, they need to bring others along with them. Pay it forward, if you will. So many people got home this year and immediately clicked ‘buy’ for their 2016 tickets, myself included. That’s a powerful testament to the value of UtopYA. I love the ‘fight for your write’ theme for next year. It’s such an exciting time to be in the publishing industry. Authors have an unprecedented amount of creative control and choice. That means more wonderful books are on the market. My TBR pile is insane, but more creativity in the world is a beautiful thing.

✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮
Last Movie you Saw: Avengers: Age of UltronComedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? The best things in life have all four elements.Last Book you Read: Sea of Stars by Amy A. Bartol! Still getting over it.First job: Babysitter, of course!Gift cards or Cash? Gift cards, especially to places that sell books and/or coffee.Favorite Vacation Spot: Outer Banks, North Carolina, or my home state of California.
More About PM
Paulette (PM) Hernandez is a young adult/new adult paranormal, sci-fi, and fantasy author. Her day job involves writing, but it's a completely different style, sadly lacking in discussions of superpowers, werewolves, fairies, mad scientists, or steam-powered inventions. She is a self-proclaimed nerd. She wears a lot of black, not because she's cool but because she's fashion-challenged. She regularly has reading hangovers and tends to fangirl. You’ve been warned.
Please visit often for more UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) interviews, and check out the announcement post to seethe schedule and links to past interviews.

Generations of Lovely

Happy Monday!

I hope everyone is doing well. 

Summer is almost over, and I have packed in some pretty cool stuff. My husband and I enjoyed a getaway to New Orleans (pictures to come soon), and now I'm on the east coast hanging out with family.

My baby sister just had her third kid, Hudson Edward--the first boy grandchild in my family (and he's #9). We have generations of lovely, that's for sure.


Speaking of Lovelies, don't forget to check out my interview series, featuring the lovely people I met at this year's UtopYA (now known as Utopia). Check out the announcement post here . 

Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) : Ethan Gregory

Please welcome my next guest in the Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. After getting to know Christina Marie (who will be featured September 4), I knew I had to find and hug her cohort, Ethan, at UtopYA. I’m so glad I did. He’s vivacious and a great hugger. Such a sweetie!

Thanks for hanging out with me on the blog today.
EG: Thanks so much for having me Mrs. Tia, it’s such an honor! It’s not often I get to be on this side of the table! 
You are the brain and heart behind One Guy’s Guide to Good Reads. I love the tagline: Just one guy: reading, reviewing, living the dream. What inspired you to start this blog?
EG: Oh man, it’s a bit of a long story, so I’ll try to condense it.
I have been an avid reader for as long as I can remember. Everything from the phone book to cereal boxes. If it had words, I was in. As I grew up, reading became such an important part of my life. The novels I read really shaped who I am today. After high school, my life got so ridiculously crazy. I jumped right into the ‘adult’ life with two jobs and trying to make it as a full time student. As you can imagine, my passion for literature took a huge backseat. If it wasn’t for class, I didn’t have time for it. About six months shy of my college graduation, I realized that I wasn’t happy and that something was missing from my life. Something huge. Literature. I decided that day that I needed to make time for what makes me happy, so I did. I went out and purchased a Nook (via Craigslist, but that’s a whole other story) and haven’t looked back since.
Starting the blog was something I never intended upon doing. I came across a college-aged novel written by a popular NA author online one day and, even though it was well out of my ‘norm,’ I took a chance and read it. I fell in love. How crazy to know there was a genre out there directed towards people my own age. Characters with real problems that I could relate to? After devouring that novel, I reached out to the author via social media, and later email, where we bonded over our mutual love of the written word. When that author started a Street Team, I jumped at the opportunity, having no idea what such a thing was. I was astounded to be selected, but even more surprised to see I was the only guy. Being a male reader never stood out to me as a shocking thing. Reading is a big deal in my family. My father is a big reader, as is my brother. I guess it never occurred to me that males reading isn’t a common thing.
From that first interaction with the Street Team, readers, bloggers, and even authors began reaching out to me about ‘what it’s like to be a male reader.’ Authors were looking for male-written reviews, and I was approached by a handful when I finally decided to take the plunge and start the blog. I realized that if I was some sort of rarity in the book world, I wanted to make my voice heard. Through One Guy’s Guide to Good Reads I have met several male authors and male readers that have shown me that we really aren’t as uncommon as you’d think. We’re just quieter. Imagine that.
It was a love-hate relationship for a while, starting the blog, but once I got comfortable and settled, I can honestly say I’ve never done anything more fulfilling in my entire. This is my passion, and I’m so glad I found it once more. I have no intention of letting it go this time. Get used to seeing me book world, I don’t plan on going anywhere!
That WAS the shortened version. Geez…

And I have to share with everyone about your upcoming Book World: Behind the Scenes series where you are interviewing industry professionals who talk about all the work it takes to get from word document to bookstores. Check out the first post here. 
Of course I have to ask you ... What was your first favorite book?

EG: I know most people say something cliché like Harry Potter or Twilight, but as long as I had been reading, it really took quite some time for one novel to root itself in as a favorite. The first time I ever read a novel and said ‘this is it, my favorite novel’ was Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West. I read it for the first time when I was 13 (entirely too young). I didn’t understand ¾ of what I read, but the idea was just beyond intriguing. Since that time, I have read Wicked more times than I can count. I’m not exaggerating when I say I’ve probably read it at least 50 times. To this day it remains my all-time favorite novel. Seriously. It’s that amazing.
If you were to ask my mother, she’d tell you that Jamberry by Bruce Degen was my ‘first favorite’ story, but this isn’t her interview, is it? J Seriously though, I have to give a lot of credit to my mom who spent a lot of time reading to me when I was little. She instilled a love of literature in me very early on, and for that I am greatly appreciative.
I love that answer, although I must admit I'm a bigger fan of Gregory Maguire's Confessions of an Ugly Stepsister! But I'm the same way... books need to brew sometimes. I noticed you refer to Christina Marie of LuLo Fangirl on your blog in the comments section as your “bookish wife.” She’s amazing. How long have you been friends, and how did you know she was the one?
EG: Oh boy… Well… We do make quite the power couple, don’t we? You are right, Christina is amazing, and she truly is my bookish-better-half. Christina and I have been friends for about 15 months now. We only met last April for the first time. We only live about 3 hours apart, but I didn’t get to know her until I became part of the bookish world. Christina and I met for the first time at a book event in Des Moines, Iowa (random, right?) in the middle of one of the craziest weather days ever. Tornadoes, hail, you name it. I’ll never forget that day. We were both there to meet a couple favorite authors of ours. Funny enough, we really didn’t ‘hit it off’ right off the bat. I was actually terrified of her when I first met her. She’s feisty! In all seriousness though, from that first encounter Christina and I built our friendship and we’ve both been through so much together. She has been the single biggest supporter of me and the blog. Together we hosted the Halloween Author Invasion on Facebook this past October to HUGE acclaim (we’ll be doing it again in the Fall), even farther building our relationship. We’re about so much more than books. Christina has turned into one of my best friends--she’s my people. She ‘gets me’ more than most people I know. I’m truly fortunate to have her on my side.  How did I know she was the one? Have you metChristina? End of story! LOL.
So true. Meeting her is loving her. Same with you, so you guys fit together! Your bio said you were still looking for a career, but then you mentioned it needed updating. Have you found your calling?
EG: *sigh* Well, yes and no. I have found my calling. THIS is my calling. While I haven’t found a way to make it pay the bills quite yet, I know with more hard work and the right connections that could change any day. I am currently working an internship with the Corvisiero Literary Agency, but have many other bookish options on my plate. I’m trying to dabble a little in all sides of the industry to see where I best fit in! Publicity and Publishing are both huge on my list, so we will see what happens! As for now, I am content working my 9-5 then coming home and spending my evenings following my passion! Who could ask for more?

Right? It'll happen. You have the passion it takes to make sure it does. And I must know… you wore a crown at UtopYA. What’s its significance?
EG: Ah yes. I feel like I should have made an announcement at the keynote explaining this as everyonewas curious! The crown started out as an inside joke between my good friend, and bestselling author, Sherry D. Ficklin and I. I have been promoting Sherry out since day one, as she is one of my all-time favorite authors. Sherry and I made some jokes one night about me pimping out her books and she started referring to me as ‘Tyrone’ (because that’s a Pimp name apparently?).
The night before UtopYA, Christina and I arrived in Nashville well after midnight. We figured everyone would be in bed, alas a message from Sherry and her gang beckoned us to the lobby (I was meeting them for the first time). After hugs and a few flails, Sherry mentioned she had a gift for me. To my surprise (and the confusion of everyone in the hotel lobby), Sherry presented me with the crown, dubbing me ‘King Tyrone: The One True King of Literary Pimping.’ After placing the crown on my head, the entire group bowed at my feet. It was pretty hilarious actually, but extremely touching. Sherry is hilarious and such a fun lady. It was after being crowned that we decided the crown would not leave my head all weekend long.
It may not have been Sherry’s goal to make me stand out, but I had SO many people approaching me becauseof the crown and thanks to it, I made so many new bookish friends. It’s been discussed that my alter-ego ‘Tyrone’ may have to come out for every book event from now on! It’s was such a fun idea of Sherry’s and I’m so honored she thought to get it for me. Probably one of the highlights of my UtopYA experience!
OMG! I love that story. Sherry is clearly a sweetheart. So... I love to talk books. What qualities do your most loved books share?
EG: I’m a stickler for a few things. 1) Beautiful covers 2) Intriguing settings and 3) Captivating characters. Setting and character development are two of the heaviest things I consider when reviewing a novel. Any book I’m raving about will fit all three of those categories for the most part! I used to pretty much just read paranormal or historic fiction, but my interests have expanded exponentially so my list of favorite qualities has as well!
Spot on. I'm all about characters. So, there's a question I'm asking most of my participants because I love to be inspired. What is your favorite inspirational quote? Why?
EG: Definitely not a fair question since I have SO MANY favorite quotes. Dr. Seuss is usually my go-to, but when it comes to inspiration, this quote from Gregory Maguire usually comes to mind:
“Remember this: Nothing is written in the stars. Not these stars, nor any others. No one controls your destiny.” 
I’ll never forget the first time that quote really spoke to me. It was at a time when I really needed to hear those words and they still guide me on a daily basis. Maguire was right; we are the masters of our own fate. Only we can take control and accomplish our dreams. The man is a genius.
Okay, I'm definitely going to be re-reading that one all the time. What do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special?
EG: SO many things make UtopYA special, but my favorite part is the inclusion of my Indie and traditionally published authors. Anyone who follows my blog knows that I have a massive amount of respect for indie authors. While all authors are my rockstars, they hold a special place in my heart. Publishing is hard. It’s even harder to do it alone. I have mad respect for UtopYA for including these authors in their panels and exhibiting. It’s a great opportunity for the little guys to get their names out there. These past two years I have met some of my all time favorite authors just by chance. Who were just chilling at their tables. If UtopYA didn’t support indie authors the way they do, I would have never been introduced to their works!
✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮
Last Movie you saw: Poltergeist (the 2015 remake)Comedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? Hmm… I love disaster films so drama?Last book you read: The Pledge by Laura Ward and Christine Manzari (SO GOOD!)First job: Shop Hand/Truck Washer/Mechanic Assistant/Get-in-the-way-er (It was an interesting 3 years…)Gift cards or cash? Oh… Uhm… Gift cards. Favorite Vacation Spot: Gah. Hard choice. Uhm… Seattle. Went for the first time last summer and had the best week ever!
More About Ethan
A recent college graduate, Ethan hails from the Missouri Bootheel, though don't ask where, you'd miss it anyway! Ethan used his small town wit and charm to push his way through four years at Missouri State University where he graduated with a double bachelors degree in history and anthropology in the Spring of 2014. After working a long list of boring jobs, Ethan finds himself now on the search for a "career" while working a plethora of interesting jobs. When he isn't studying or working, Ethan can usually be found attached to his Nook reading the latest and greatest. His love of literature can be attributed to his amazing family and a few select instructors who have taught him that the best way to find himself is through a good book. An avid fan of the entertainment industry, Ethan is always up to date on the film and TV scene, but is a huge fan of all things Broadway (random, he knows).

As of Summer 2015, Ethan is also an agency intern with the Corvisiero Literary Agency under the direction of Sarah Negovetich.

His hobbies include sleep, looking for a prospective wife, and speaking in the third person. 
LINKS:
Instagram: @egrgryTwitter: @egrgryFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/OneGuysGuidetoGoodReadsGoodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/OneGuysGuidetoGoodReads
Blog: http://oneguysguidetogoodreads.blogspot.com/

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

Sin : Indie News & Highlights

On Mondays I usually share Indie highlights. So, this week it'll be a Tuesday feature. 

There's an awesome deal on Casey Bond's award-winning Sin series. Until August 15, the entire series (five episodes) is available for 99 cents! Don't miss your chance.

Links Amazon US
Amazon UK Amazon CA Nook Kobo iBooks Scribd Goodreads


Oh, and today's my birthday. So wouldn't it be fun to buy yourself the gift of a good series to celebrate. *smiles*

Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) : Mindy Ruiz

Time for another interview with a UtopYA Lovely. Please welcome, Mindy Ruiz. I met her at the Nashville airport. Together, we began to melt waiting for the hotel shuttle. As California girls, we weren’t holding up too well in the humidity. Still, her welcoming spirit drew me in, and I immediately felt like I’d known her for years.

Thanks so much for hanging out on my blog today.
MR: Ohmigoodness, thank you for having me! And thanks for having the air conditioner kickin’! hee-hee. I swear I lost seven pounds of weight and gained seven pounds of frizzy hair waiting for our hotel shuttle.
Right! Me, too! First, I want to congratulate you on your Best Debut Novel award for Enchanted Heart at UtopYA2015. To make it even more special, your best friend was in the audience. What was your first thought when your name was called?
MR: First thought: Wait, wha?! No. Freaking. WAY!
I really truly didn’t think they’d called my name. The Best Debut Novel category was stacked with some seriously awesome books and writers.  I was seated next to the lovely Delphina, (Best Debut Novel Nominee for her “Unless You Can Be a Unicorn.”) and ready to squeeze her neck when I saw my name on the screen. My best friend turned and squealed, “That’s you!!!” Then she pushed me out of my seat. I know I hugged Carol Kunz, slapped Adam Kunz a high-five, but, truly, nothing processed until I saw Regina Womba, my cover designer, and Janet Wallace.  It all started clicking and by the time I got on stage well, my Holy Skittles! (substitute skittles for the other S word) came flying out. 

Tina Donnelly with Mindy Ruiz & her dear friendI loved it. It was such a special moment. So, tell us a little about Enchanted Heart. Also, any exciting news about The Game of Hearts series?
MR: Enchanted Heart is about a deck of cards that controls the gambling and gaming in Las Vegas. Greek gods and a condemned-man-with-a-golden-touch, Midas, oversee the Cards.  

When the Queen of Hearts’ hidden daughter, Cassandra, comes back to Las Vegas, she triggers an ancient curse that upsets the balance of power. Cassandra's thrown into an underworld ruled by four powerful families with paranormal powers & her face on a mythological hit list.
Lying, Cheating Heart will be coming out at the end of July.
The final book in The Game of Hearts series will be out at the end of the year with the title Fatal Heart.
You mentioned the awesome Janet Wallace. How has she (and UtopYA) affected the writer you are today?
Mindy with Janet WallaceMR: Ohmilord, that’s like asking how does the sun affect a flower’s growth.  
UtopYA (Utopia Con) and Janet have affected every aspect of my writing career.  I wanted to go to the first UtopYA Con but was terrified of my own shadow. After watching Myra McEntire’s keynote speech, I swore I’d never miss out on a moment like that again.  The second year of UtopYA, I went to Nashville and successfully hugged every wall and blended in with every potted plant I could find.  I was terrified, but I was there meeting amazing people like Janet Wallace, Carol and Adam Kunz, Misty Provencher, Amy Evans, B.J. Sheldon and K.P. Simmon.  I sat in the awards ceremony that year and said to myself, “I want to be up there. I want to win an award.”
Six weeks before UtopYA Con three, Heather Hildenbrand had Janet on her call-in as a special guest. One of the crazy-awesome benefits of the call was a one-on-one hour chat with the Janet Wallace.
I scheduled my call, and my life was changed. 
People talk about that tipping point, or the x-factor, Janet, and Social Deviants were these things to me.  Through the Stand Up classes, which you can still purchase, I was able to root out all the excuses on why I couldn’t, shouldn’t, or wouldn’t be a successful author. I found my voice. I found my target audience, and I found a confidence buried under all the years of negative thoughts and self-talk. 
UtopYA and Janet affect every aspect of my life.  Each year I see the people, my tribe, at UtopYA (Utopia Con) I’m recharged to take on another year of standing naked in an Amazon or Barnes and Noble purchase Que. You just don’t find that at other conventions or in other people. 
Amen! So, please share your favorite inspirational quote and what it means to you.
MR:  No one can make you feel inferior without your consent. ~Eleanor Roosevelt.
I love Eleanor Roosevelt. She’s a lot like my Grandma, Victoria.  Eleanor was tough as nails and didn’t take shiz from anyone. And yet she had this kind, caring quality toward people. She was the weak persons’ voice when they couldn’t speak or were too afraid. I love this quote because I allowed people, insignificant people, to make me feel inferior my entire life.  I try not to anymore, but words are powerful weapons, and when a really mean review or a blatant comment about me as a person is floating around the virtual universe, I hold on to this quote.
What do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special?
MR: The people and Janet make this place special. Janet set out to make a convention where book lovers and authors could come and be together. Hugs and squeals are encouraged along with awkward fan-girl moments. You celebrate everyone’s victories and lift as you climb to the next level of success. You may go down to breakfast a party of one, but by the time you sit down, you’re a party of four.  
Not many people find their “one place” on this earth where EVERYONE is just like them.  
Earlier I said my best friend came to Nashville with me this year. I freaking adore this girl; she’s been my friend through twenty years of really amazing highs and near-fatal lows. Halfway through the convention she turned, looked at me and said, “This place … this is how your brain works? These are your people.” It was like she was seeing the real, inside-my-head, me for the very first time. I’m goofy. I’m a recovering introvert. I’m crazy awkward. I love playing an active role in the imaginary worlds that go on in my head, and I go bonkers when others can see that side.  I’m the colorblind dog who could not only see the rainbow, but had the audacity to talk about the adventure to those who couldn’t. 
Utopia is where I found other rainbow lovers like me. UtopYA rebranding itself to Utopia, it’s perfect because this convention, the people involved, this is my little slice of heaven on earth.  It’s exactly how I would have imagined a book lover’s utopia!
I love it. I'm a rainbow lover, too! Please share a photo you loved from UtopYA.
MR: I loved this photo Stacey Marie Brown captured.  My best friend is in the lower left and it’s like she’s using the screen to actually see who I am. Her very own looking glass, if you will.

✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮
Last Movie you saw: Trainwreck (Bethany Lopez and a movie theater that served Daiquiris. I’ll let you imagine the scene.) Comedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? Romance. Always romance!
Last book you read: Heather Lyons, The Collector Society. Fabulous book! First job: Courtesy Clerk at Sports Authority.  Gift cards or cash? Cash. Make it rain, baby! Make it rain!!!! Favorite Vacation Spot:  Anywhere with a pretty beach, an umbrella drink, and wifi for my kindle downloads. 

More about Mindy
Mindy Ruiz is the author of Utopia Con’s 2015 Best Debut Novel: ENCHANTED HEART, as well as, LYING, CHEATING HEART in the Game of Hearts Series. Since her first story about a magical, museum hopping chair in the fourth grade, she’s loved exploring those things that can not be explained, and must simply be believed.
Now, Mindy writes paranormal romance guaranteed to make your heart race. Her stories combine snarky heroines, tormented heroes and buckets of swoon.  Mindy is the lover of a good romance, the underdog, and all things John Hughes. She spends her free time chasing after three boys or flirting with her hunky husband. In the quiet moments, she’s watching fantasy television shows, cheering for the Dallas Cowboys, or hanging out at the beach with her very large and loud Italian family.
Mindy lives in a sleepy Beach Town in Southern California with her toes in the sand and her mind in the clouds.
Social media:www.facebook.com/MindyRuizBookswww.twitter.com/MindyRuizwww.instagram.com/MindyRuizwww.pinterest.com/MindyRuizBookswww.amazon.com/author/mindyruizhttps://plus.google.com/+MindyRuizBookshttps://www.goodreads.com/MindyRuiz https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindyruiz newsletter: http://eepurl.com/bkjTAH

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

Meet Some UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) : Snowa Fox

Please welcome my next guest in the Meet Some UtopYA2016 Lovelies (Unofficial) series. Snowa was a beautiful new find at this year’s UtopYA. I got the chance to talk to her several times (she won one of our IndieBooks Gone Wild giveaways). She’s lovely. I’ll never forget her sweet hug after I talked about how UtopYA has enriched my life.

Thanks so much for hanging out on my blog today. I love this selfie of us together, and I am not a selfie wizard by any means.


SF: Thank you for having me. I enjoyed my first UtopYA  so much and winning the giveaway was amazing, but meeting all the people was incredible! I highly recommend attending if you love books or writing in any form. 

Your first book, Crown of Smoke (The Angel Marked Series #1) just released in time for UtopYA2015. I just downloaded it and can’t wait to read it. Can you share the synopsis, book cover, and a fun teaser graphic here?





I love the idea of a dream guardian. How did this story idea come to you?

SF: I wanted to write the story of someone who was a hero, a prince, and instead of winning and gaining his future I wanted to see what would happen to one who lost it all, who had to resurrect a life they wanted from the ashes of a life of duty, privilege and honor. Would he be the same, would he rise above, would he fail?  I also love dream catchers and the idea that someone protects us while we sleep. I had many dreams about this story and it evolved as I did.

When can we expect the next book in the series?SF: hopefully late October or early November
When did you know you wanted to be an author? 


SF: When I was little, I always had my nose in a book and my head on an adventure. I won a young author award in fifth grade and became hooked on writing.

What’s your best advice to someone who’s struggling to finish their first book or suffering writer’s block?


SF: Try making lists of all the things that could change for a character: top ten things that could get worse, or what if you add an element that twists the story into a tale of horror, or tragedy, or romance. Just let your mind flow with it for a bit, to get into adventure mode. Finish the book. Decide early on how you want the story to end and have three options. Then make your way toward them and do not force it, let it jump out at you.

That's awesome advice. What is your favorite inspirational quote? Why? 


SF: Fairy tales do not all end happily, the ones that do contained a lot of struggle to get there. It grounds me in life and in writing, that there is no correct version, life holds as much sorrow as it does happiness and stories should too.

What do you think makes UtopYA, renamed Utopia for its fifth year in 2016, so special?

SF: This was my first year, but the love, support and friendships drive this conference beyond any other. I believe the momentum will overflow with the fifth year theme and help many more who are searching or struggling.

Please share with us one of your favorite pictures from UtopYA2015...



SF: I loved meeting Jo Michaels because her blog and her help have motivated me to read and do all I can to continually learn my craft so that my dream can come true!

Everyone loves Jo! She's awesome. Now for some...


✮✮✮✮✮ Quick Answers ✮✮✮✮✮
Last Movie you saw: Jurassic World 
Comedy, Romance, Drama, or Horror? Drama 
Last book you read: KillShot by Aria Michaels, currently reading Fractured Glass and The Moon-crossed Series 
First job: pet store, I love animals 
Gift cards or cash? Gifts cards 
Favorite Vacation Spot: a beach anywhere or a cabin in the mountains

More About Snowa

Mythology enthusiast and Reece's Pieces lover, Indie Author Snowa Fox is a native of Nashville, TN. She is happily married to a sweetheart of a guy who supports her dreams. She is the mother to  four pre-teen children and one furry baby named Harley who is a chihuahua and min-pin mix. She loves unique jewelry, painting, iced coffee and anything fantasy related.

You can contact her anytime via her website , Facebook personal page , Facebook author page , Twitter , and Amazon .

Crown of Smoke buy link
Please visit often for more UtopYA2015 Lovelies (Unofficial) interviews, 
and check out the announcement post to see 
the schedule and links to past interviews.