Krista Ames's Blog, page 119
March 16, 2013
Author, author...
...read all about her !!
Today we have a non-fiction author with us :) Please welcome...
Debbie Fellows
Thanks for being with us today Debbie, can you tell us a little about yourself?Well, one I forgot I had to type this on the computer lol. I prefer writing with pen and paper. I hope you can grin and bear it since I don't do all of my own editing. I am a very proud Mom of four adult children, which that doesn't seem like it can be possible yet. Time went a little faster than I thought it would. I live a very quiet life or private rather would be a better word. I guess I have always been that way. When I choose to be around other people that is fine and all but I really value my private life. No big mystery or anything, just the way that I am. I enjoy vegetable gardening, not flowers—they just don't seem to do well in my hands with the dying and all, but that's okay. I like them fine enough just can't grow them.Music is my first passion, I think it always will be. I've never been able to read a word and with all that's gone on the last couple of years still haven't gotten that far yet. Acoustic guitar is my first love.Had the chance to play some piano when I was younger but again it was by ear. I've drawn when I feel like it, pencil mostly, just animals and such. Did a pen and ink of a house once. Took forever, although I wouldn't mind doing another sometime again. Have enjoyed window painting for my kids when they were little and I think all of those were cartoons like Beauty and the Beast; holiday scenes, Christmas, Halloween and such. And have done character cakes for my kids, had a ton of fun with those, although time consuming, so worth it though. The last one I did was Jack Skelington from Nightmare Before Christmas for a birthday for my youngest daughter. I don't use molds or anything, just free hand it.
Do real life events find their way into your stories?I'm thinking so, my book is non-fiction.(smile) Do you ever mimic family members or people you know when you choose characters?Not on purpose. Since I never knew I was writing a book I didn't choose the characters so I couldn't be mimicking them I don't think.
Do you find yourself going back to the same inspiration for each story or is it always something different?Don't know yet. This is my first book and I have never written anything else, although I am sure there will be a second book although I am not planning one. Just got that feeling. When do you write? Early morning? During the day sometime or all day? I never plan on writing. I have a, well it's like a journal and that's the only thing I ever write in and that is whenever the thought comes to write. No specific time just whenever
How do you feel about marketing your book?Honestly, I didn't want to at first. I thought I would have to be out in the public all of the time and I'm not a very public person. Then I had a bad injury about a year and a half ago, and any thought of marketing has been put on the shelf, but with more and more recovery I may just want to.
What social sites do you feel works best for marketing?Again, honestly, I don't know. I used MySpace for the website at first because it was recommended to me that I should have a website and it is still on the back of the book, but then a friend had started a Facebook page so we could keep in touch since she lives out of town and I found it was handier to use Facebook for the book as well. It's like everything is there. I have Twitter but I hardly ever use it.
Do you like to pitch stories to your publisher or do you wait until you have written the story and have a final manuscript to hand in?I suppose if I knew I was going to write a book I may have pitched it to someone but I didn't know I was writing one. What I did do though was when I figure out I had wrote a book was to call and talk to a friend about it and she suggested I self publish which I am not a hundred percent sure I would ever do that again. It is an amazing amount of work. Another friend offered to edit it thankfully, but she and I had to keep looking it over and that took over a year, because I am picky lol.
Is there any other genre you would love to try writing? If so, what is it?Like on purpose? Lol. I can't see myself writing anything else. I never thought of myself as a writerbefore.
Now just for fun, I have a few personal questions Favorite five Favorite male actor: don't have one, didn't really watch t.v. much until my injuryFavorite vehicle: truck, any, just like trucksFavorite way to relax: gardeningFavorite Ice Cream: Black CherryFavourite Outfit: jeans, tee or sweatshirt depending on the weather And for a bonus: If you could pick any place in the world to live, besides where you are now, where would it be? (Of course without the hindrance of jobs or money)
Easy, somewhere just outside of town, not sure which town, but somewhere where I could have about a acre of garden and horses, have always loved horses. One of my aunts used to have horses and when I would go out to her place to visit her and my uncle I would ride the horses sometimes too. It's just a freedom; I can't explain it. Where can our readers find you? Have to share something with you here. When I first read this question the first thought that came to mind was, good luck on that, and find me? Why do I want to be found? Lol anyways since I am still in recovery from my accident I decided to keep everything in one place, well two actually...
http://www.facebook.com/debbie.fellow...
Is there any upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where canwe find it?I have just the one book right now and it is called “No Happily Ever After, But...”
http://bookstore.iuniverse.com/Products/SKU-000120119/No-Happily-Ever-After-But.aspx
Amazon Amazon UK B&N Canada at Chapters Press Release
Do you have a favourite recipe you'd like to share?yep you're going to love this:Candy Shop Pizzagreat to make with kids1 1/2 cups all purpose flour1/2 teaspoon baking soda1/2 teaspoon salt10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) butter, softened1/2 cup granulated sugar1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract1 egg2 cups chipits semi sweet (chocolate chips)1/2 cup peanut butter1 cup chopped candy bars, Butterfingers, Skors, etcPreheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease 12 to 14 inch pizza pan or baking dish. In asmall bowl combine flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.In a large mixer bowl, beat butter, white sugar and brown sugar until creamy. Beat in egg and vanillaextract. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in chipts. Spread batter in prepared pan. Bake 20 to 25minutes until lightly browned. Immediately sprinkle 1 cup chipits (after you get it out of the oven lol)over crust drop peanut butter by spoonfuls over chipits. Let stand for about 5 minutes or until chipsbecome soft and shiny. Gently spread chocolate and peanut butter over crust. Decorate pizza withchopped up candy bars. Cut into wedges; serve warm.
This interview was an experience in itself. I think this is as much writing I have done on purpose ever.This is also my first interview I have accepted.You have been great to work with and I thank you for having me.
Thank you for visiting with us Debbie, it was a pleasure !!!
Until next time, happy reading !
Krista
Today we have a non-fiction author with us :) Please welcome...
Debbie Fellows
Thanks for being with us today Debbie, can you tell us a little about yourself?Well, one I forgot I had to type this on the computer lol. I prefer writing with pen and paper. I hope you can grin and bear it since I don't do all of my own editing. I am a very proud Mom of four adult children, which that doesn't seem like it can be possible yet. Time went a little faster than I thought it would. I live a very quiet life or private rather would be a better word. I guess I have always been that way. When I choose to be around other people that is fine and all but I really value my private life. No big mystery or anything, just the way that I am. I enjoy vegetable gardening, not flowers—they just don't seem to do well in my hands with the dying and all, but that's okay. I like them fine enough just can't grow them.Music is my first passion, I think it always will be. I've never been able to read a word and with all that's gone on the last couple of years still haven't gotten that far yet. Acoustic guitar is my first love.Had the chance to play some piano when I was younger but again it was by ear. I've drawn when I feel like it, pencil mostly, just animals and such. Did a pen and ink of a house once. Took forever, although I wouldn't mind doing another sometime again. Have enjoyed window painting for my kids when they were little and I think all of those were cartoons like Beauty and the Beast; holiday scenes, Christmas, Halloween and such. And have done character cakes for my kids, had a ton of fun with those, although time consuming, so worth it though. The last one I did was Jack Skelington from Nightmare Before Christmas for a birthday for my youngest daughter. I don't use molds or anything, just free hand it.
Do real life events find their way into your stories?I'm thinking so, my book is non-fiction.(smile) Do you ever mimic family members or people you know when you choose characters?Not on purpose. Since I never knew I was writing a book I didn't choose the characters so I couldn't be mimicking them I don't think.
Do you find yourself going back to the same inspiration for each story or is it always something different?Don't know yet. This is my first book and I have never written anything else, although I am sure there will be a second book although I am not planning one. Just got that feeling. When do you write? Early morning? During the day sometime or all day? I never plan on writing. I have a, well it's like a journal and that's the only thing I ever write in and that is whenever the thought comes to write. No specific time just whenever
How do you feel about marketing your book?Honestly, I didn't want to at first. I thought I would have to be out in the public all of the time and I'm not a very public person. Then I had a bad injury about a year and a half ago, and any thought of marketing has been put on the shelf, but with more and more recovery I may just want to.
What social sites do you feel works best for marketing?Again, honestly, I don't know. I used MySpace for the website at first because it was recommended to me that I should have a website and it is still on the back of the book, but then a friend had started a Facebook page so we could keep in touch since she lives out of town and I found it was handier to use Facebook for the book as well. It's like everything is there. I have Twitter but I hardly ever use it.
Do you like to pitch stories to your publisher or do you wait until you have written the story and have a final manuscript to hand in?I suppose if I knew I was going to write a book I may have pitched it to someone but I didn't know I was writing one. What I did do though was when I figure out I had wrote a book was to call and talk to a friend about it and she suggested I self publish which I am not a hundred percent sure I would ever do that again. It is an amazing amount of work. Another friend offered to edit it thankfully, but she and I had to keep looking it over and that took over a year, because I am picky lol.
Is there any other genre you would love to try writing? If so, what is it?Like on purpose? Lol. I can't see myself writing anything else. I never thought of myself as a writerbefore.
Now just for fun, I have a few personal questions Favorite five Favorite male actor: don't have one, didn't really watch t.v. much until my injuryFavorite vehicle: truck, any, just like trucksFavorite way to relax: gardeningFavorite Ice Cream: Black CherryFavourite Outfit: jeans, tee or sweatshirt depending on the weather And for a bonus: If you could pick any place in the world to live, besides where you are now, where would it be? (Of course without the hindrance of jobs or money)
Easy, somewhere just outside of town, not sure which town, but somewhere where I could have about a acre of garden and horses, have always loved horses. One of my aunts used to have horses and when I would go out to her place to visit her and my uncle I would ride the horses sometimes too. It's just a freedom; I can't explain it. Where can our readers find you? Have to share something with you here. When I first read this question the first thought that came to mind was, good luck on that, and find me? Why do I want to be found? Lol anyways since I am still in recovery from my accident I decided to keep everything in one place, well two actually...
http://www.facebook.com/debbie.fellow...
Is there any upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where canwe find it?I have just the one book right now and it is called “No Happily Ever After, But...” http://bookstore.iuniverse.com/Products/SKU-000120119/No-Happily-Ever-After-But.aspx
Amazon Amazon UK B&N Canada at Chapters Press Release
Do you have a favourite recipe you'd like to share?yep you're going to love this:Candy Shop Pizzagreat to make with kids1 1/2 cups all purpose flour1/2 teaspoon baking soda1/2 teaspoon salt10 tablespoons (1 1/4 sticks) butter, softened1/2 cup granulated sugar1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract1 egg2 cups chipits semi sweet (chocolate chips)1/2 cup peanut butter1 cup chopped candy bars, Butterfingers, Skors, etcPreheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease 12 to 14 inch pizza pan or baking dish. In asmall bowl combine flour, baking soda and salt; set aside.In a large mixer bowl, beat butter, white sugar and brown sugar until creamy. Beat in egg and vanillaextract. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in chipts. Spread batter in prepared pan. Bake 20 to 25minutes until lightly browned. Immediately sprinkle 1 cup chipits (after you get it out of the oven lol)over crust drop peanut butter by spoonfuls over chipits. Let stand for about 5 minutes or until chipsbecome soft and shiny. Gently spread chocolate and peanut butter over crust. Decorate pizza withchopped up candy bars. Cut into wedges; serve warm.
This interview was an experience in itself. I think this is as much writing I have done on purpose ever.This is also my first interview I have accepted.You have been great to work with and I thank you for having me.
Thank you for visiting with us Debbie, it was a pleasure !!!
Until next time, happy reading !
Krista
March 15, 2013
Free this weekend....16th and 17th !!
Get your copy this weekend !!
Free on Amazon
Passionate TidesbyJ.N Johnson
Brand new release throughSunshine Press Books After catching her husband in the arms of another woman, Paisley feels like nothing can help her climb out of the depressing hole that had become her life. With the divorce pending, her home up for sale, and her career on hold, she hopes the opportunity to house sit in the coastal town of Topsail Island will bring on the inspiration she is searching for.
After leaving his home in Tennessee for the white beaches of North Carolina, Jake finds more than the fresh start he was looking for. His new upstairs neighbor has sparked more than his interest, but their pasts keep threatening to dampen their futures.
Can two lost souls find love in Topsail Island, North Carolina? Or will the ghost of loves lost ruin their second chances at true love?
currently available through Amazon
Free on Amazon
Passionate TidesbyJ.N JohnsonBrand new release throughSunshine Press Books After catching her husband in the arms of another woman, Paisley feels like nothing can help her climb out of the depressing hole that had become her life. With the divorce pending, her home up for sale, and her career on hold, she hopes the opportunity to house sit in the coastal town of Topsail Island will bring on the inspiration she is searching for.
After leaving his home in Tennessee for the white beaches of North Carolina, Jake finds more than the fresh start he was looking for. His new upstairs neighbor has sparked more than his interest, but their pasts keep threatening to dampen their futures.
Can two lost souls find love in Topsail Island, North Carolina? Or will the ghost of loves lost ruin their second chances at true love?
currently available through Amazon
March 13, 2013
Author, author .... spotlight @dmoncrief0131
Today we have a great great author in the spotlight with her brand new release .....
An Imposter in Townby Denise Moncrief(Moonlight Mysteries Series) Peyton Chandler hides some dark secrets behind her false identity. She's been using her dead sister's identity for years, hiding from multiple threats from her past. When Sheriff Brian Parker receives a note claiming there's an imposter in town, he doesn't know where to start his investigation. What will he do when he discovers the woman he longs for isn't who she claims to be? Buy Links:Still Moments Publishing Amazon Smashwords CreateSpace for POD Print Excerpt: Peyton Chandler entered her house through the carport door and dropped her purse on the kitchen counter. A pile of unwashed dishes awaited her in the sink. Tackling the housework would have to wait another day. Every muscle in her tired body groaned. She glanced at the envelope in her hand postmarked New Orleans. Johanna’s letters arrived twice a year without fail. The return addresses were always a post office box—the zip codes from all over the country. She ripped the envelope open with a shaky hand. A picture of Jake nestled between the folds of a short note. I need four thousand dollars. J. She would have cut the woman off years ago if it weren’t for the boy. Her eyes riveted on Jake’s likeness. He had slate gray eyes, sandy brown hair, and attractive Powell features like his biological father. Trim and tall. Handsome already. Nothing about Jake resembled her husband, but then Jake wasn’t her husband’s child. She was already pregnant when Mason Osborne married her. Thoughts of Mason sent shivers down her spine. She wondered if he was still looking for them. His anger with her when he discovered her pregnancy by another man was only the beginning of his animosity toward her. Mason’s abuse only grew harder when he discovered Jake’s biological father was his nephew.
She left Mason before Jake was born, but he’d found her and dragged her back to the ranch with him. He had promised her he’d kill her if she left him again. Worse yet, he’d take her child away from her. She couldn’t let that happen, so she took the chance, got some help from Johanna, and ran anyway. She counted the years. Jake would be eleven years old now. It’s been so long since I’ve seen him. He was so young when we left Albuquerque. She trudged down the hallway to her bedroom and laid the picture on her nightstand. The photo would go in the album with the others—an album she didn’t dare show anyone. Guilt pressed down on her psyche. She needed a shower. Running the water as hot as she could stand, she scoured her skin until it was raw and allowed the cleansing liquid to sluice over her body and wash her remorse down the drain. But no matter how hard she scrubbed, there was still plenty of regret to stain her conscience. She stumbled out of the stall and tripped on the surround. The heat dizzied her. She wrapped her robe around her and leaned against the bathroom counter, unwilling to face her reflection in the mirror. The phone rang in the other room. She raced to catch it before the last ring, but picked up a second too late. Out of breath, she dropped onto the edge of the bed and clutched the comforter. Her skin throbbed from the abuse in the shower. She grabbed a bottle from the nightstand and smoothed on lotion to soothe the abuse. With a weary sigh, she gazed out the window. The nearby mountains rose in the distance, but the scene’s usual therapy provided no comfort. Jake's picture beckoned her to take another look. Thoughts of her baby snatched at her heart. She wiped a stray tear from the surface of the photo. Everything she did, she did for him—to hide him and protect him from the evil men that would destroy her by destroying him. Buy Links: Still Moments Publishing Amazon Smashwords CreateSpace for POD Print About our Author: Denise wrote her first story when she was in high school -- seventeen hand-written pages on school-ruled paper and an obvious rip-off of the last romance novel she read. She earned a degree in accounting, giving her some nice skills to earn a little money, but her passion has always been writing. She has written numerous short stories and more than a few full-length novels. Her favorite pasttimes when she's not writing are spending time with her family, traveling, reading, and scrapbooking. She lives in Louisiana with her husband, two children, and one very chubby dog. www.denisemoncrief.com www.denisemoncrief.blogspot.com www.facebook.com/DeniseMoncriefAuthor https://twitter.com/dmoncrief0131 http://www.amazon.com/Denise-Moncrief/e/B007Y6Z1CU
Author, author...
... read all about it !!!
Yay !! We have D.T. Dyllin here to share a little about herself!!
Welcome D.T., so great to have you here with us. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Ummm…yeah…sure, I guess. LOL I hate talking about myself, actually. I’d rather just talk about characters, or books but I’ll give you the generic stuff. I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, and I now live in Nashville, TN, with my Hubby and two very spoiled GSDs. Oh whoops, I think you can read that in my bio, so I’ll give you something extra. My two fur-babies are named Loki and Kira. Loki is two years old and he definitely lives up to his name as a goofy trickster. Kira is one and is my little hellhound. I think that’s pretty self-explanatory. She’s fiercely over-protective of me, and it’s actually something we’ve been trying to work on with her. When I was sick recently she tried to guard me from Loki and my Hubby. She just didn’t understand that they were on my accepted visitor list. Lol But I’ll stop now, as you can probably tell, I could go on for a very long time about my dogs, possibly forever.
Do real life events find their way into your stories?
Real life events definitely inspire similar events in my stories. I will say that sometimes some of the ‘darker’ or ‘disturbing’ scenes are a way for me to work out some of my own personal demons. I’ve had some things happen to me in my past that I didn’t have some hottie swoop in and save me from. Real life doesn’t work that way, but in my fantasy world whatever I want to happen does. The events are very loosely based, more of a symbolic inspiration, if you will. It’s surprisingly cathartic to write the darker stuff and to kind of release it. And by writing it set in a paranormal landscape it keeps things from going too dark and twisty though. Eventually, I want to work on some contemporary stuff but I’m sort of afraid I might scare people. As it is people think my stuff is drama filled and angsty. I want to laugh and say… “You ain’t seen nothin’ yet.” *winks
Do you ever mimic family members or people you know when you choose characters?
Yes, I steal bits and pieces from people that I both love and hate that I know in real life. I want my characters to be as realistic as possible.
Do you find yourself going back to the same inspiration for each story or is it always something different?
It’s always something different. I would get bored otherwise.
When do you write? Early morning? During the day sometime or all day? After the kids go to bed?
I mostly write at night. I’m a night owl, and I don’t have the mental capacity to be creative during the day.
How do you feel about marketing your book?
Honestly, I hate it. I don’t like to talk about my books. It feels weird sometimes. I mean, I do…to a point, but I’m always worried I’m going to come off as one of ‘those’ authors. I think you all know what I mean…”Hey you! Buy my book! Why haven’t you purchased my book yet?” There’s a fine line between marketing/promotion and being an ass. But how do you know when you’ve crossed that line? No one’s going to tell you to your face. So I’d rather just not do it at all, which apparently isn’t an option. *sad face
What social sites do you feel work best for marketing?
*shrugs I try to keep only the bare minimum of social media sites for myself. I have my blog/website, Facebook, Twitter, and I’m on Goodreads. Until last year I didn’t even have any of those. It can all be overwhelming to someone like me. That’s why I neglect some of my sites…well most of the time. They all take away from what I really want to be doing…writing.
Do you like to pitch stories to your publisher or do you wait until you have written the story and have a final manuscript to turn in?
I always wait until I have a full manuscript before doing anything with any of my stories. Who needs the extra pressure of trying to get something else done on a deadline? I have enough time constraints as it is.
Is there any other genre that you would love to try writing? If so, what is it?
Like I mentioned above, I want to do something contemporary. But everything I write is always going to be in the romance genre. I’m just a romance junkie and I would get bored if I had to write anything without it.
Do you always/ever see yourself as the heroine/hero when you write a story?
Only as far as I try to get inside their head as I’m writing, like an actress doing a part, but not more than that.
Just for fun, I have a few personal questions,
Favorite 5
1) Favorite Male Actor - Hands down, Johnny Depp. It’s not just because he’s hot, because honestly I think there are a lot of other actors that are a lot hotter. It’s his personality that seems to shine through. Maybe he’s not who he seems to be, but I’m extremely attracted to the guy that he portrays to the public. He seems quirky, smart and yet a little dark and broody. He also seems to have a slightly ‘off’ sense of humor. I love that. Not to mention how passionate he is about his work. My Hubby knows that if Johnny ever noticed that I was alive and that he might have some competition. Buahahaha!
2) Favorite vehicle – Anything that goes fast. I have a need for speed. I once got a speeding ticket on the way to traffic school. ‘Nuff said.
3) Favorite way to relax – Reading.
4) Favorite ice cream – Haagen dazs chocolate chocolate chip. No competition.
5) Favorite outfit – Jeans, black t-shirt, black boots.
And for a bonus: If you could pick any place in the world to live, besides where you are now, where would it be? (Of course, without the hindrance of jobs or money needed) On a remote island somewhere.
Where can our readers find you??
Email: dtdyllin@gmail.comTwitter: @DTDyllin https://twitter.com/DTDyllinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/D-T-Dyllin/258426047570107?ref=hlWebsite/blog: dtdyllin.com http://dtdyllin.com/Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/D.-T.-Dyllin/e/B0078VU6MQ/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5763250.D_T_Dyllin
Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it?
Hidden Gates
Book one of the P.J. Stone Gates Trilogy For P.J. Stone, being a “Seer” who has never seen anything is less than fun. And P.J. isn’t known for her patience.
To make matters worse, she must choose a suitable mate to continue the Seer bloodline. Duty always comes before her heart…at least that’s what her parents taught her. When she finds herself wanting someone who is considered off-limits, P.J. is forced to question everything she believes.
As if navigating her love life isn’t complicated enough, P.J. finally receives a vision—of a threat to her world that only she can perceive. But no one will believe a fledgling Seer’s warnings. With nowhere else to turn, she may decide to trust a stranger with her life, her world, and maybe even her heart.
Publisher: Dragonfairy Press http://dragonfairypress.com/
Excerpt: "No, we can't," he growled. "God knows how much I want to, how long I've thought about it. That's why Tammie and I broke up—because it wasn't right; I couldn't get you out of my head. It wouldn't have been right to be with her when I was thinking about you the whole time. But it doesn't change the fact that you're a Seer and I'm a Guardian. You're too good for me, out of my league."
I blinked at him in surprise, letting his words fully sink in. I was the reason he broke up with Tammie? He wanted me? Like reallywanted me? "You can have me." And I meant it. I realized as I said the words that I always had—and always would be—his for the taking.
"Be careful, Peej." His voice was low and husky. "If you keep offering, I might just take it."
I stepped into him, resting my hand on his arm. "I wouldn't offer it if I wasn't willing to let you have it." His sea-storm eyes threatened to pull me under, to wash away any thoughts of anything but him.
Some reviews:
http://www.booksniffersanonymous.com/2013/01/review-hidden-gates-by-dt-dyllin.html
http://bookend2bookend.blogspot.com/2013/01/hidden-gates-by-dt-dyllin-review.html?zx=c11b974e03f490e1
http://bookaddictbieke.blogspot.be/2013/01/review-hidden-gates-by-dt-dyllin.html
Thanks so much for being with us today D.T. It was a pleasure hearing about book 1, Hidden Gates and we can't wait to hear what else you have in the works so make sure to stop by again soon !!
Readers, you know the drill......get out there and get your copy today !!!
Amazon Barnes & Noble Dragonfairy Press Until next time, happy reading !! Krista :)
Yay !! We have D.T. Dyllin here to share a little about herself!!
Welcome D.T., so great to have you here with us. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Ummm…yeah…sure, I guess. LOL I hate talking about myself, actually. I’d rather just talk about characters, or books but I’ll give you the generic stuff. I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, and I now live in Nashville, TN, with my Hubby and two very spoiled GSDs. Oh whoops, I think you can read that in my bio, so I’ll give you something extra. My two fur-babies are named Loki and Kira. Loki is two years old and he definitely lives up to his name as a goofy trickster. Kira is one and is my little hellhound. I think that’s pretty self-explanatory. She’s fiercely over-protective of me, and it’s actually something we’ve been trying to work on with her. When I was sick recently she tried to guard me from Loki and my Hubby. She just didn’t understand that they were on my accepted visitor list. Lol But I’ll stop now, as you can probably tell, I could go on for a very long time about my dogs, possibly forever. Do real life events find their way into your stories?
Real life events definitely inspire similar events in my stories. I will say that sometimes some of the ‘darker’ or ‘disturbing’ scenes are a way for me to work out some of my own personal demons. I’ve had some things happen to me in my past that I didn’t have some hottie swoop in and save me from. Real life doesn’t work that way, but in my fantasy world whatever I want to happen does. The events are very loosely based, more of a symbolic inspiration, if you will. It’s surprisingly cathartic to write the darker stuff and to kind of release it. And by writing it set in a paranormal landscape it keeps things from going too dark and twisty though. Eventually, I want to work on some contemporary stuff but I’m sort of afraid I might scare people. As it is people think my stuff is drama filled and angsty. I want to laugh and say… “You ain’t seen nothin’ yet.” *winks
Do you ever mimic family members or people you know when you choose characters?
Yes, I steal bits and pieces from people that I both love and hate that I know in real life. I want my characters to be as realistic as possible.
Do you find yourself going back to the same inspiration for each story or is it always something different?
It’s always something different. I would get bored otherwise.
When do you write? Early morning? During the day sometime or all day? After the kids go to bed?
I mostly write at night. I’m a night owl, and I don’t have the mental capacity to be creative during the day.
How do you feel about marketing your book?
Honestly, I hate it. I don’t like to talk about my books. It feels weird sometimes. I mean, I do…to a point, but I’m always worried I’m going to come off as one of ‘those’ authors. I think you all know what I mean…”Hey you! Buy my book! Why haven’t you purchased my book yet?” There’s a fine line between marketing/promotion and being an ass. But how do you know when you’ve crossed that line? No one’s going to tell you to your face. So I’d rather just not do it at all, which apparently isn’t an option. *sad face
What social sites do you feel work best for marketing?
*shrugs I try to keep only the bare minimum of social media sites for myself. I have my blog/website, Facebook, Twitter, and I’m on Goodreads. Until last year I didn’t even have any of those. It can all be overwhelming to someone like me. That’s why I neglect some of my sites…well most of the time. They all take away from what I really want to be doing…writing.
Do you like to pitch stories to your publisher or do you wait until you have written the story and have a final manuscript to turn in?
I always wait until I have a full manuscript before doing anything with any of my stories. Who needs the extra pressure of trying to get something else done on a deadline? I have enough time constraints as it is.
Is there any other genre that you would love to try writing? If so, what is it?
Like I mentioned above, I want to do something contemporary. But everything I write is always going to be in the romance genre. I’m just a romance junkie and I would get bored if I had to write anything without it.
Do you always/ever see yourself as the heroine/hero when you write a story?
Only as far as I try to get inside their head as I’m writing, like an actress doing a part, but not more than that.
Just for fun, I have a few personal questions,
Favorite 5
1) Favorite Male Actor - Hands down, Johnny Depp. It’s not just because he’s hot, because honestly I think there are a lot of other actors that are a lot hotter. It’s his personality that seems to shine through. Maybe he’s not who he seems to be, but I’m extremely attracted to the guy that he portrays to the public. He seems quirky, smart and yet a little dark and broody. He also seems to have a slightly ‘off’ sense of humor. I love that. Not to mention how passionate he is about his work. My Hubby knows that if Johnny ever noticed that I was alive and that he might have some competition. Buahahaha!
2) Favorite vehicle – Anything that goes fast. I have a need for speed. I once got a speeding ticket on the way to traffic school. ‘Nuff said.
3) Favorite way to relax – Reading.
4) Favorite ice cream – Haagen dazs chocolate chocolate chip. No competition.
5) Favorite outfit – Jeans, black t-shirt, black boots.
And for a bonus: If you could pick any place in the world to live, besides where you are now, where would it be? (Of course, without the hindrance of jobs or money needed) On a remote island somewhere.
Where can our readers find you??
Email: dtdyllin@gmail.comTwitter: @DTDyllin https://twitter.com/DTDyllinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/D-T-Dyllin/258426047570107?ref=hlWebsite/blog: dtdyllin.com http://dtdyllin.com/Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/D.-T.-Dyllin/e/B0078VU6MQ/ref=ntt_dp_epwbk_0Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5763250.D_T_Dyllin
Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it?
Hidden GatesBook one of the P.J. Stone Gates Trilogy For P.J. Stone, being a “Seer” who has never seen anything is less than fun. And P.J. isn’t known for her patience.
To make matters worse, she must choose a suitable mate to continue the Seer bloodline. Duty always comes before her heart…at least that’s what her parents taught her. When she finds herself wanting someone who is considered off-limits, P.J. is forced to question everything she believes.
As if navigating her love life isn’t complicated enough, P.J. finally receives a vision—of a threat to her world that only she can perceive. But no one will believe a fledgling Seer’s warnings. With nowhere else to turn, she may decide to trust a stranger with her life, her world, and maybe even her heart.
Publisher: Dragonfairy Press http://dragonfairypress.com/
Excerpt: "No, we can't," he growled. "God knows how much I want to, how long I've thought about it. That's why Tammie and I broke up—because it wasn't right; I couldn't get you out of my head. It wouldn't have been right to be with her when I was thinking about you the whole time. But it doesn't change the fact that you're a Seer and I'm a Guardian. You're too good for me, out of my league."
I blinked at him in surprise, letting his words fully sink in. I was the reason he broke up with Tammie? He wanted me? Like reallywanted me? "You can have me." And I meant it. I realized as I said the words that I always had—and always would be—his for the taking.
"Be careful, Peej." His voice was low and husky. "If you keep offering, I might just take it."
I stepped into him, resting my hand on his arm. "I wouldn't offer it if I wasn't willing to let you have it." His sea-storm eyes threatened to pull me under, to wash away any thoughts of anything but him.
Some reviews:
http://www.booksniffersanonymous.com/2013/01/review-hidden-gates-by-dt-dyllin.html
http://bookend2bookend.blogspot.com/2013/01/hidden-gates-by-dt-dyllin-review.html?zx=c11b974e03f490e1
http://bookaddictbieke.blogspot.be/2013/01/review-hidden-gates-by-dt-dyllin.html
Thanks so much for being with us today D.T. It was a pleasure hearing about book 1, Hidden Gates and we can't wait to hear what else you have in the works so make sure to stop by again soon !!
Readers, you know the drill......get out there and get your copy today !!!
Amazon Barnes & Noble Dragonfairy Press Until next time, happy reading !! Krista :)
March 12, 2013
Author, author....
... read all about it !!!
Today we have Zoe Forward sharing a little bit about herself and her work as a writer !
Welcome, so great to have you here with us. Can you tell us a little about yourself?Thank you for inviting me to visit! I’m a veterinarian with a passion for writing fiction and a special love for archaeology, especially anything Egyptian. Although I’ve been on field research expeditions to rain forests, I’ve never had a chance to visit a hot, sandy country and see a working archaeological dig site. It’s a goal. And I’m good at goals. Do real life events find their way into your stories?Occasionally, I do find incidental observations or events that work for a story. But I do not base my stories on real-life events. Do you ever mimic family members or people you know when you choose characters? I can say with certainty I’ve never based a character on an immediate family member. But I have borrowed traits from acquaintances for some of the characters I’ve developed. When I’ve done so, it is done with love for these are characters that make me laugh. Do you find yourself going back to the same inspiration for each story or is it always something different? Each story I write involves a lot of research and world building along with character development. The basis is unique for each story. For DAWN OF A DARK KNIGHT I was inspired by an African proverb: However long the night, dawn will break. For the hero, Ashor, this is the story of how the darkness he fights was lifted by the love of one woman. When do you write? Early morning? During the day sometime or all day? After the kids go to bed?I wish I had the luxury of scheduling my writing. I’m thrilled when I steal a few minutes in a busy day to pen some pages. Most of my plotting and brainstorming happens on my work commute or walking the dog. Bottom line is that I make it happen. But my writing days are anything but routine or typical. How do you feel about marketing your book? This is a must and it’s super fun. I’m excited for readers to discover DAWN OF A DARK KNIGHT and hear feedback. I can only hope they love the characters and their adventures as much as I do. What social sites do you feel work best for marketing? Facebook is a wonderful tool. Isn’t it amazing how word of mouth has changed over the years? Now we all Facebook or Blog. Do you like to pitch stories to your publisher or do you wait until you have written the story and have a final manuscript to turn in? I like to have the manuscript completed before I pitch. I worry if an idea intrigues an editor or publisher that it will be requested right away. And if it’s not done…oh my. Then, my writing process would be affected by the pressure of needing it finished yesterday. For me writing is a layering process that takes time. Is there any other genre that you would love to try writing? If so, what is it? I’ve dabbled in other genres, but each time the story gets going it turns paranormal. For right now, this is where I belong. Do you always/ever see yourself as the heroine/hero when you write a story? A huge part of the process is putting myself into the head of the character I’m writing. I do not see this person as being a reflection of me, but simply an exercise in understanding the character. Just for fun, I have a few personal questions, Favorite 5 1) Favorite Male Actor - Christian Bale2) Favorite vehicle - Toyota Land cruiser3) Favorite way to relax – Reading a good book4) Favorite ice cream – Cookies-n-cream5) Favorite outfit - Pjs And for a bonus: If you could pick any place in the world to live, besides where you are now, where would it be? (Of course, without the hindrance of jobs or money needed)Somewhere warm with people always in a good mood like…Maui. If Egypt wasn’t always experiencing some sort of internal strife, it’d be a gorgeous place to reside. Where can our readers find you?? Email: zoe@zoeforward.comFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/authorzoe.forwardWebsite/blog: http://www.zoeforward.comAmazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Zoe-Forward/e/B00AESQL24/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6591244.Zoe_Forward
Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it? DAWN OF A DARK KNIGHT BLURB
In the shadows of our world, a secret band of warriors fights to protect us. They are the last line of defense against an evil no human can stop. An ancient nemesis has resurfaced. Duty demands that Ashor Vlahos, Scimitar Magi commander, recruit a magical healer to fortify the remaining eight magi. The gods' choice is the woman who helped him escape torture a decade ago. Ashor couldn't have imagined a better punishment for his vow-breaker homicidal incidents than for the gods to bind him irrevocably to the only woman in the universe he cannot have. The soul-searing desire she ignites in him is strictly forbidden. Kira Hardy, M.D. is a brilliant, hardworking internal med resident with big secrets. But when Ashor asks for aidafter a brutal daemon attack, she is sucked into his dangerous, secret world. Enslavement to the magi, no matter how hot they are, may be an unattractive life plan, but being targeted for death by their enemies is less tolerable. She must trust the sexy, tormented Ashor to keep her safe while he must deny his ultimate desire and keep Kira at arm’s length lest he bring destruction down on them both. As a centuries-old evil catches up to them, they face a crucial decision—follow the gods' rules or follow their hearts. Publisher: Wild Rose Press: http://www.thewildrosepress.comAmazon buy link: http://www.amazon.com/Dawn-Dark-Knight-ebook/dp/B00ADAD9AU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1354734975&sr=8-1&keywords=dawn+of+a+dark+knight EXCERPT“Watch out,” Kira shrieked as a four-door import pulled alongside the SUV. The driver targeted Ashor with a gun. “Down,” Ashor commanded. He dodged the firing muzzle and grabbed Kira forward to avoid the bullet’s path. The bullet left clean holes in the side windows and a spiderweb of cracked glass. “Persistent bastards,” Ashor grumbled as he jammed the SUV into gear and rammed the car next to them before peeling away. Just as they hit the road, Ashor’s new cell phone squealed in a high-pitched, synthetic, musical noise. “You okay?” he asked, ignoring the phone. To clear his side view, Ashor thrust his elbow through the spiderweb of cracked safety glass. Glass cubes showered everywhere. “Shit.” He wiped his body free of debris. “I’m fine,” she replied. She whiplashed into the seat as the SUV was rammed forward. Ashor tapped the brakes. The cars crashed together again, slamming them forward and then forcefully back in their seats. “Can’t you do a spell or something to protect this car or make his explode?” Kira asked. “What? No.” “Aren’t you a magus, which implies magician or sorcerer? You guys are supposed to do magic spells.” “The spells were lost.” His phone rang again. “Lost? What kind of moronic organization loses the spells!”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Zoe thanks so much for spending some time with us and we wish you loads of success on Dawn of a Dark Knight !! Readers, make sure to get your copy today !!
Publisher: Wild Rose Press: http://www.thewildrosepress.com
Amazon buy link: http://www.amazon.com/Dawn-Dark-Knight-ebook/dp/B00ADAD9AU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1354734975&sr=8-1&keywords=dawn+of+a+dark+knight Until next time, happy reading !! Krista
Today we have Zoe Forward sharing a little bit about herself and her work as a writer !
Welcome, so great to have you here with us. Can you tell us a little about yourself?Thank you for inviting me to visit! I’m a veterinarian with a passion for writing fiction and a special love for archaeology, especially anything Egyptian. Although I’ve been on field research expeditions to rain forests, I’ve never had a chance to visit a hot, sandy country and see a working archaeological dig site. It’s a goal. And I’m good at goals. Do real life events find their way into your stories?Occasionally, I do find incidental observations or events that work for a story. But I do not base my stories on real-life events. Do you ever mimic family members or people you know when you choose characters? I can say with certainty I’ve never based a character on an immediate family member. But I have borrowed traits from acquaintances for some of the characters I’ve developed. When I’ve done so, it is done with love for these are characters that make me laugh. Do you find yourself going back to the same inspiration for each story or is it always something different? Each story I write involves a lot of research and world building along with character development. The basis is unique for each story. For DAWN OF A DARK KNIGHT I was inspired by an African proverb: However long the night, dawn will break. For the hero, Ashor, this is the story of how the darkness he fights was lifted by the love of one woman. When do you write? Early morning? During the day sometime or all day? After the kids go to bed?I wish I had the luxury of scheduling my writing. I’m thrilled when I steal a few minutes in a busy day to pen some pages. Most of my plotting and brainstorming happens on my work commute or walking the dog. Bottom line is that I make it happen. But my writing days are anything but routine or typical. How do you feel about marketing your book? This is a must and it’s super fun. I’m excited for readers to discover DAWN OF A DARK KNIGHT and hear feedback. I can only hope they love the characters and their adventures as much as I do. What social sites do you feel work best for marketing? Facebook is a wonderful tool. Isn’t it amazing how word of mouth has changed over the years? Now we all Facebook or Blog. Do you like to pitch stories to your publisher or do you wait until you have written the story and have a final manuscript to turn in? I like to have the manuscript completed before I pitch. I worry if an idea intrigues an editor or publisher that it will be requested right away. And if it’s not done…oh my. Then, my writing process would be affected by the pressure of needing it finished yesterday. For me writing is a layering process that takes time. Is there any other genre that you would love to try writing? If so, what is it? I’ve dabbled in other genres, but each time the story gets going it turns paranormal. For right now, this is where I belong. Do you always/ever see yourself as the heroine/hero when you write a story? A huge part of the process is putting myself into the head of the character I’m writing. I do not see this person as being a reflection of me, but simply an exercise in understanding the character. Just for fun, I have a few personal questions, Favorite 5 1) Favorite Male Actor - Christian Bale2) Favorite vehicle - Toyota Land cruiser3) Favorite way to relax – Reading a good book4) Favorite ice cream – Cookies-n-cream5) Favorite outfit - Pjs And for a bonus: If you could pick any place in the world to live, besides where you are now, where would it be? (Of course, without the hindrance of jobs or money needed)Somewhere warm with people always in a good mood like…Maui. If Egypt wasn’t always experiencing some sort of internal strife, it’d be a gorgeous place to reside. Where can our readers find you?? Email: zoe@zoeforward.comFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/authorzoe.forwardWebsite/blog: http://www.zoeforward.comAmazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Zoe-Forward/e/B00AESQL24/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6591244.Zoe_Forward
Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it? DAWN OF A DARK KNIGHT BLURB
In the shadows of our world, a secret band of warriors fights to protect us. They are the last line of defense against an evil no human can stop. An ancient nemesis has resurfaced. Duty demands that Ashor Vlahos, Scimitar Magi commander, recruit a magical healer to fortify the remaining eight magi. The gods' choice is the woman who helped him escape torture a decade ago. Ashor couldn't have imagined a better punishment for his vow-breaker homicidal incidents than for the gods to bind him irrevocably to the only woman in the universe he cannot have. The soul-searing desire she ignites in him is strictly forbidden. Kira Hardy, M.D. is a brilliant, hardworking internal med resident with big secrets. But when Ashor asks for aidafter a brutal daemon attack, she is sucked into his dangerous, secret world. Enslavement to the magi, no matter how hot they are, may be an unattractive life plan, but being targeted for death by their enemies is less tolerable. She must trust the sexy, tormented Ashor to keep her safe while he must deny his ultimate desire and keep Kira at arm’s length lest he bring destruction down on them both. As a centuries-old evil catches up to them, they face a crucial decision—follow the gods' rules or follow their hearts. Publisher: Wild Rose Press: http://www.thewildrosepress.comAmazon buy link: http://www.amazon.com/Dawn-Dark-Knight-ebook/dp/B00ADAD9AU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1354734975&sr=8-1&keywords=dawn+of+a+dark+knight EXCERPT“Watch out,” Kira shrieked as a four-door import pulled alongside the SUV. The driver targeted Ashor with a gun. “Down,” Ashor commanded. He dodged the firing muzzle and grabbed Kira forward to avoid the bullet’s path. The bullet left clean holes in the side windows and a spiderweb of cracked glass. “Persistent bastards,” Ashor grumbled as he jammed the SUV into gear and rammed the car next to them before peeling away. Just as they hit the road, Ashor’s new cell phone squealed in a high-pitched, synthetic, musical noise. “You okay?” he asked, ignoring the phone. To clear his side view, Ashor thrust his elbow through the spiderweb of cracked safety glass. Glass cubes showered everywhere. “Shit.” He wiped his body free of debris. “I’m fine,” she replied. She whiplashed into the seat as the SUV was rammed forward. Ashor tapped the brakes. The cars crashed together again, slamming them forward and then forcefully back in their seats. “Can’t you do a spell or something to protect this car or make his explode?” Kira asked. “What? No.” “Aren’t you a magus, which implies magician or sorcerer? You guys are supposed to do magic spells.” “The spells were lost.” His phone rang again. “Lost? What kind of moronic organization loses the spells!”
~ ~ ~ ~ ~
Zoe thanks so much for spending some time with us and we wish you loads of success on Dawn of a Dark Knight !! Readers, make sure to get your copy today !! Publisher: Wild Rose Press: http://www.thewildrosepress.com
Amazon buy link: http://www.amazon.com/Dawn-Dark-Knight-ebook/dp/B00ADAD9AU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1354734975&sr=8-1&keywords=dawn+of+a+dark+knight Until next time, happy reading !! Krista
March 11, 2013
Author, author... giveaway !
...read all about it !!!
Please welcome our guest today, Laura DeLuca
My Super Sexy Cousin Andrew DiPalma - Cover Model for Player
If the title of this post didn't get your attention, I'm sure this photo will. Nice, huh? Believe it or not, this incredibly sexy man is my little cousin, Andrew DiPalma. He has been modeling and acting for at least ten years now, and he's very good at what he does. He has had some small roles in major movies like We Are Marshall and Meet the Joneses. He was a head liner in some independent films including a horror flick called Dead Girl. Last year, he also had a fun part in Cougar Town. Take a look at this picture from that gig.
He has also done tons of commercials, including one for Diesel underwear.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOgFgn...
But my favorite picture of him is the one where he is just Uncle Andrew. This was taken after my daughter Willow's Christening (To my pagan friends--don't worry, she had a Wiccaning too, but a baby can never have too many blessings!). Andrew flew all the way from California to New Jersey to be there for this special day, and it meant so much to my family.
When I was working on the cover for Player and I was glancing through some images of male models, it suddenly occurred to me that I was a complete idiot. I have the perfect model right in my family. He is nothing like the main character personality wise, but as far as looks go, he's absolutely perfect. It’s actually kind of funny that the sweetest most lovable guy in the world always gets the role of the womanizer. But it just goes to show you that you can never judge of a book by its cover---unless of course, Andrew is on that cover!
If you want to learn more about Andrew DiPalma, you can visit his website www.andrewdipalma.com or become his fan on face book - https://www.facebook.com/AndrewDiPalm... . It’s worth it just for the eye candy!
Player
by
Laura DeLuca
Joshua Handover had it all. He was handsome, rich, athletic, and had always been popular with the ladies. Yet, until he gets paired up with his beautiful but shy lab partner, Rosa, he never allowed himself to fall in love. As the chemistry between them grows, Josh realizes that his player days have come to end. But it seems his change of heart has come too late. Not only is Rosa leery of his bad boy reputation, he has four vindictive ex-girlfriends who are on a rampage. At first he doesn’t take their threats seriously, but then his tires are slashed, someone tries to poison him, and one of the girls turns up dead. Josh doesn’t know who to trust, but one thing is certain. It definitely isn’t worth the price he’s paying to be a player.
Excerpt:
Someone else came over to offer Nadine their congratulations, so Josh said goodbye and went to his locker to get his backpack. He figured he would meet up with Andrea and Rosa in the parking lot. He fumbled with the combination before finally getting the door to swing open. Something glittered on the top shelf and caught his eye. He reached for it, and a small scrap of paper fluttered to the floor.
At first he wasn’t sure what he was holding. It was a pink plastic tiara with some big gaudy plastic jewels. It was the type of thing he had seen in dollar stores for little girls’ birthday parties. It was practically broken in half, and the edges were sharp. Josh pricked his finger on the jagged point, and a few drops of blood welled from the small wound. He put his finger in his mouth as he bent to pick up the paper that had fallen. When he read it, the broken crown suddenly made sense and he wondered how he could have been so naïve. He should have realized from the instant he saw it what it meant.
“Josh decided to play around
Now one of his girls is under the ground.
Another has a big bump on her head.
And by the end of the dance, the queen will be dead.”
Buy Links: Amazon Smashwords Barnes & Noble
About the Author:
Laura "Luna" DeLuca lives at the beautiful Jersey shore with her husband and three children. She has been writing stories for as long as she can remember. Old high school friends would tell you she was always scratching in her notebook instead of paying attention in class and the children she used to babysit for always loved to hear her scary stories at bedtime. In addition to writing fiction, Laura is also the sole author of a popular review blog called New Age Mama. She is an active member of her local pagan community, and has been studying Wicca for close to eight years. She loves writing young adult novels, because it keeps her young at heart. She is the author of three published works including Destiny, Destiny Unveiled, and Phantom, and has several more projects in the works.
Author Links:
Site Twitter Facebook Goodreads
Giveaway:Laura is giving away a print copy of Player during her Tour. For a chance to win just fill out the Rafflecopter Below. This is open to US residents only.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Please welcome our guest today, Laura DeLuca
My Super Sexy Cousin Andrew DiPalma - Cover Model for Player
If the title of this post didn't get your attention, I'm sure this photo will. Nice, huh? Believe it or not, this incredibly sexy man is my little cousin, Andrew DiPalma. He has been modeling and acting for at least ten years now, and he's very good at what he does. He has had some small roles in major movies like We Are Marshall and Meet the Joneses. He was a head liner in some independent films including a horror flick called Dead Girl. Last year, he also had a fun part in Cougar Town. Take a look at this picture from that gig.
He has also done tons of commercials, including one for Diesel underwear.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOgFgn...
But my favorite picture of him is the one where he is just Uncle Andrew. This was taken after my daughter Willow's Christening (To my pagan friends--don't worry, she had a Wiccaning too, but a baby can never have too many blessings!). Andrew flew all the way from California to New Jersey to be there for this special day, and it meant so much to my family.
When I was working on the cover for Player and I was glancing through some images of male models, it suddenly occurred to me that I was a complete idiot. I have the perfect model right in my family. He is nothing like the main character personality wise, but as far as looks go, he's absolutely perfect. It’s actually kind of funny that the sweetest most lovable guy in the world always gets the role of the womanizer. But it just goes to show you that you can never judge of a book by its cover---unless of course, Andrew is on that cover!
If you want to learn more about Andrew DiPalma, you can visit his website www.andrewdipalma.com or become his fan on face book - https://www.facebook.com/AndrewDiPalm... . It’s worth it just for the eye candy!
Player
by
Laura DeLuca
Joshua Handover had it all. He was handsome, rich, athletic, and had always been popular with the ladies. Yet, until he gets paired up with his beautiful but shy lab partner, Rosa, he never allowed himself to fall in love. As the chemistry between them grows, Josh realizes that his player days have come to end. But it seems his change of heart has come too late. Not only is Rosa leery of his bad boy reputation, he has four vindictive ex-girlfriends who are on a rampage. At first he doesn’t take their threats seriously, but then his tires are slashed, someone tries to poison him, and one of the girls turns up dead. Josh doesn’t know who to trust, but one thing is certain. It definitely isn’t worth the price he’s paying to be a player. Excerpt:
Someone else came over to offer Nadine their congratulations, so Josh said goodbye and went to his locker to get his backpack. He figured he would meet up with Andrea and Rosa in the parking lot. He fumbled with the combination before finally getting the door to swing open. Something glittered on the top shelf and caught his eye. He reached for it, and a small scrap of paper fluttered to the floor.
At first he wasn’t sure what he was holding. It was a pink plastic tiara with some big gaudy plastic jewels. It was the type of thing he had seen in dollar stores for little girls’ birthday parties. It was practically broken in half, and the edges were sharp. Josh pricked his finger on the jagged point, and a few drops of blood welled from the small wound. He put his finger in his mouth as he bent to pick up the paper that had fallen. When he read it, the broken crown suddenly made sense and he wondered how he could have been so naïve. He should have realized from the instant he saw it what it meant.
“Josh decided to play around
Now one of his girls is under the ground.
Another has a big bump on her head.
And by the end of the dance, the queen will be dead.”
Buy Links: Amazon Smashwords Barnes & Noble
About the Author:
Laura "Luna" DeLuca lives at the beautiful Jersey shore with her husband and three children. She has been writing stories for as long as she can remember. Old high school friends would tell you she was always scratching in her notebook instead of paying attention in class and the children she used to babysit for always loved to hear her scary stories at bedtime. In addition to writing fiction, Laura is also the sole author of a popular review blog called New Age Mama. She is an active member of her local pagan community, and has been studying Wicca for close to eight years. She loves writing young adult novels, because it keeps her young at heart. She is the author of three published works including Destiny, Destiny Unveiled, and Phantom, and has several more projects in the works.
Author Links:
Site Twitter Facebook Goodreads
Giveaway:Laura is giving away a print copy of Player during her Tour. For a chance to win just fill out the Rafflecopter Below. This is open to US residents only.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
March 7, 2013
Author, author.... ~ spotlight ~
...read all about it !!
Crossfire of Love’s Anniversary Tour
Crossfire of Love will be on sale for $1.99 for the month of March.
Can an arranged marriage lead to love?
Recent college graduate Gabriella has finally married the man of her dreams, the older, charismatic attorney Lorenzo Martinez. She's had a crush on him for as long as she can remember and always imagined they'd one day find their happily ever after. Unfortunately, they enter into a union arranged by their fathers.
Lorenzo is charming, protective, and loyal to his crime lord father Carlo. When Carlo asks Lorenzo to marry Gabriella he jumps at the opportunity. He's been drawn to her for many years and knows by marrying her he's helping to protect her father.
Gabby is resentful and won't be Lorenzo's charity case. But sparks fly and the couple soon gives into their desire, realizing they were meant to be together.
What happens when Carlo's enemies threaten their future? Will someone get caught in the crossfire?
Content Warning: graphic sex, some violence
Excerpt: Lorenzo walked up the porch steps, turning to stare at her. "Are you coming, Gabriella?" No one but Lorenzo and his father called her by her full name. She liked when Lorenzo said it. He'd always made it sound so formal and sexy.
These were the first words he had spoken to her since they left the courthouse. They were married in the chambers of the prestigious Judge John Cartwright. He'd been a family friend of the Martinezes for many years. He was their go-to man whenever they needed something done fast and legally. Well, legal in her new father-in-law's eyes anyway.
She hurried up the steps and followed Lorenzo inside their new home. It was built within a matter of months after she'd agreed to marry him. Carlo wanted them to have their privacy, but he also wanted to keep them close. He didn't trust she'd hold up her end of the bargain, and keeping her on the property was the best way to ensure she wouldn't run.
It was silly, really. How could she run from a family like this? They had ties all over the world. There wasn't any place she could escape to that they wouldn't know about. She was a woman of her word. She said she would marry Lorenzo and she did. She'd find a way to cope. She always had.
Lorenzo pulled his jacket off, poured himself a scotch, and then loosened his tie. "Would you like a drink?"
"No, thank you," she said.
Most brides would be dancing the night away and drinking champagne by this point in their wedding night. She didn't think that was part of Lorenzo's plan.
"I didn't think you'd go through with it." He sipped the amber colored liquid as he looked her over.
"I said I would."
"I know, but when push actually came to shove, I thought you'd run."
"You don't know me that well," she said. "I don't run."
"Good." He smirked as he put the glass to his lips.
Gabby couldn't take her eyes away from those lips. She'd never had the pleasure of having them on her own. Judge Cartwright hadn't asked him to kiss his bride. She hated herself for thinking about him that way.
"You could've stopped this. Why didn't you?" she asked.
As they stood in front of the judge, she kept hoping he'd put an end to the charade and stop the wedding. It didn't make sense to her why he had agreed to marry her. She didn't have a choice. Her father's gambling debts made sure of that. But she didn't understand why he'd allowed things to get as far as they had.
"I was just as trapped as you were." He downed the rest of his scotch.
She didn't believe that. She knew he respected his dad, but she didn't get why he wouldn't have put his foot down and said no to such a life-altering decision.
"You could've told your father no from the beginning. Why would you agree to marry someone if you didn't have to?"
"Look." He shook his head. "It's done now. We're going to have to make the best of it."
"Make the best of it?" She plopped down on the leather sofa. "I'm twenty-two years old. I just graduated from college, and you want me to make the best of it?"
"I know this isn't what you might have wanted, but it is what it is. You agreed, and now it's done. You can't go back on it now. My father won't forgive that."
Buy Links: Beachwalk Press Amazon Barnes & Noble
About the Author:
Ella Jade has been writing for as long as she can remember. As a child, she often had a notebook and pen with her, and now as an adult, the laptop is never far. The plots and dialogue have always played out in her head, but she never knew what to do with them. That all changed when she discovered the eBook industry. She started penning novels at a rapid pace and now she can't be stopped.
Ella resides in New Jersey with her husband and two young boys. When she's not chasing after her kids, she's busy writing, attending PTO meetings, kickboxing, and scrapbooking. She hopes you'll get lost in her words.
Author Links: Site Facebook Author Page Twitter
Crossfire of Love’s Anniversary Tour
Crossfire of Love will be on sale for $1.99 for the month of March.
Can an arranged marriage lead to love?
Recent college graduate Gabriella has finally married the man of her dreams, the older, charismatic attorney Lorenzo Martinez. She's had a crush on him for as long as she can remember and always imagined they'd one day find their happily ever after. Unfortunately, they enter into a union arranged by their fathers.
Lorenzo is charming, protective, and loyal to his crime lord father Carlo. When Carlo asks Lorenzo to marry Gabriella he jumps at the opportunity. He's been drawn to her for many years and knows by marrying her he's helping to protect her father.
Gabby is resentful and won't be Lorenzo's charity case. But sparks fly and the couple soon gives into their desire, realizing they were meant to be together.
What happens when Carlo's enemies threaten their future? Will someone get caught in the crossfire?
Content Warning: graphic sex, some violence
Excerpt: Lorenzo walked up the porch steps, turning to stare at her. "Are you coming, Gabriella?" No one but Lorenzo and his father called her by her full name. She liked when Lorenzo said it. He'd always made it sound so formal and sexy.
These were the first words he had spoken to her since they left the courthouse. They were married in the chambers of the prestigious Judge John Cartwright. He'd been a family friend of the Martinezes for many years. He was their go-to man whenever they needed something done fast and legally. Well, legal in her new father-in-law's eyes anyway.
She hurried up the steps and followed Lorenzo inside their new home. It was built within a matter of months after she'd agreed to marry him. Carlo wanted them to have their privacy, but he also wanted to keep them close. He didn't trust she'd hold up her end of the bargain, and keeping her on the property was the best way to ensure she wouldn't run.
It was silly, really. How could she run from a family like this? They had ties all over the world. There wasn't any place she could escape to that they wouldn't know about. She was a woman of her word. She said she would marry Lorenzo and she did. She'd find a way to cope. She always had. Lorenzo pulled his jacket off, poured himself a scotch, and then loosened his tie. "Would you like a drink?"
"No, thank you," she said.
Most brides would be dancing the night away and drinking champagne by this point in their wedding night. She didn't think that was part of Lorenzo's plan.
"I didn't think you'd go through with it." He sipped the amber colored liquid as he looked her over.
"I said I would."
"I know, but when push actually came to shove, I thought you'd run."
"You don't know me that well," she said. "I don't run."
"Good." He smirked as he put the glass to his lips.
Gabby couldn't take her eyes away from those lips. She'd never had the pleasure of having them on her own. Judge Cartwright hadn't asked him to kiss his bride. She hated herself for thinking about him that way.
"You could've stopped this. Why didn't you?" she asked.
As they stood in front of the judge, she kept hoping he'd put an end to the charade and stop the wedding. It didn't make sense to her why he had agreed to marry her. She didn't have a choice. Her father's gambling debts made sure of that. But she didn't understand why he'd allowed things to get as far as they had.
"I was just as trapped as you were." He downed the rest of his scotch.
She didn't believe that. She knew he respected his dad, but she didn't get why he wouldn't have put his foot down and said no to such a life-altering decision.
"You could've told your father no from the beginning. Why would you agree to marry someone if you didn't have to?"
"Look." He shook his head. "It's done now. We're going to have to make the best of it." "Make the best of it?" She plopped down on the leather sofa. "I'm twenty-two years old. I just graduated from college, and you want me to make the best of it?"
"I know this isn't what you might have wanted, but it is what it is. You agreed, and now it's done. You can't go back on it now. My father won't forgive that."
Buy Links: Beachwalk Press Amazon Barnes & Noble
About the Author:
Ella Jade has been writing for as long as she can remember. As a child, she often had a notebook and pen with her, and now as an adult, the laptop is never far. The plots and dialogue have always played out in her head, but she never knew what to do with them. That all changed when she discovered the eBook industry. She started penning novels at a rapid pace and now she can't be stopped.
Ella resides in New Jersey with her husband and two young boys. When she's not chasing after her kids, she's busy writing, attending PTO meetings, kickboxing, and scrapbooking. She hopes you'll get lost in her words.
Author Links: Site Facebook Author Page Twitter
March 5, 2013
Author, author... Laura DeLuca
...read all about her !!!
Today we have the wonderful Laura DeLuca with us :) So great to have you Laura, can you tell us a little about yourself? I live at the Jersey Shore with my husband, Timmie, and my four kids whose ages range from 1 through 12. In addition to being a writer, I am also a mom blogger and we own a restaurant at the Jersey Shore. What or who initially inspired you to become a writer? I always wanted to be a writer, but it was Christopher Pike who inspired me to write YA. I loved him as a teenager and he remains one of my favorite authors to this day. What kind of research do you do for a novel and how extensive do you get? Most of my research comes from reading. For the Destiny, I read at least a dozen books on Wicca. I also use search engines a lot, especially when I wanted to describe places in Florida and Vermont I had never been to. Do you have a special place you like to do your writing? If I have the opportunity, I love to write out in nature, especially at the beach. As a reader, what types of works do you like to read and do you think they influence the genre/genres you write in? I love historical and paranormal books and it definitely influences my work, though I tend to read only adult novels and not YA anymore. What is your favorite method of writing...as in laptop, desktop, Ipad or the old fashioned pencil and paper?? I am probably one of the only authors left who still hand writes my first draft. After that, I use my desktop computer to type it out and make revisions. When you need a break or some time off from the trials of being a writer, what can you be found doing? Walking on the beach or nature trails, meditating, or taking a bubble bath. Is there anything about yourself nobody knows that you would like to share with our readers?? I’m afraid my real life is pretty boring, and I don’t have many secrets worth sharing. One thing that not that many people know is that I’m really into past lives and have had several successful regressions. Okay now for fun, I have a few personal questions, Your Favorite 5 1) Favorite color –Green2) Favorite dessert – Tiramisu 3) Favorite Season –Fall4) Favorite sad song- My Heart Will Go On (Yes, I know its corny)5) Favorite Romantic movie – Titanic And a bonus, what is your ideal romantic vacation?? Since I live at the Jersey Shore, my whole life is a vacation, but I would really like to go to Ireland. Doesn’t have to be romantic though. Hubby can stay home with the kids. Where can our readers find you?? Email: timmiedeluca@comcast.netTwitter: www.twitter.com/authorldelucaFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/authorlauradelucaWebsite/blog: http://authorlauradeluca.blogspot.com/Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Laura-DeLuca/e/B004L7NLPE/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/authorlauradeluca Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it? Destiny
Gabriella is a witch. The problem is, she doesn't remember. She repressed the memories of her powers years ago when her mother was murdered. Now, the warlock who was responsible for her mother's death has set his sights on Gabriella. He is determined to use her fear to turn her to the dark side of magick…even if it kills her. Her mother's spirit is reaching out to warn her, but even that she pushes away. Desperate to save her daughter, the spirit finds a male witch–one that just happens to be in love with Gabriella. Darron is more than willing to help but the two young witches will have way more to battle than just an evil warlock. There are overbearing jocks and petty rich girls who get tempers flaring and often set Gabriella and Darron at odds. There is more to the story than Gabriella and Darron could even imagine. There are terrible secrets to be revealed, battles to be waged, and lives will be lost. Only after Gabriella and Darron both come to terms with who they really are, and open themselves up to the true meaning of magick, can they have any hope of fulfilling their destiny.
Destiny Unveiled
Gabriella and Darron thought their magickal battle was over when they defeated the evil warlock, Richard. When her Aunt Donna seeks Gabriella's help in rescuing her catatonic daughter from the Dark Coven, Gabriella discovers that her cousin holds a power within her that would be catastrophic in the hands of the evil witches. Gabriella's coven sets out on a journey that may be their last. Along the way, they meet new allies, face devastating treachery, and battle not only the Dark Coven, but the darkness within themselves. When Gabriella finally comes face to face with the cousin she never knew existed, her true destiny is unveiled, and the fate of the mortal world is in her hands.
Destiny Excerpt:
Her eyes scanned the room, from the pale blue sofa to the bloody dent in the wall. But she didn’t need her eyes to know Darron was there. Her heart sensed his presence before her eyes saw him lying in a heap on the ground. His body shuttered with occasional spasms, and even though he wasn’t fully conscious, his lips were twisted in a grimace of pain. Uttering a gasp of surprise, Gabriella flew to his side. She knelt beside him, and choked back a sob as she took his hand in her own. She saw his chest rise and fall and was glad to know was alive, but she felt helpless as she watched his face contort in pain. She noticed something wet andsticky on her fingertips. She gently titled his head and saw a large gash that looked like it needed medical attention. The skin around the gash was so deeply bruised it looked almost black. “Darron, what happened to you?” He didn’t move or reply. Gabriella moved her hand from the cut on his forehead, and her fingers dripped with blood. She bit her lower lip with fear. She knew enough about head injuries to know that the wound could be serious. She grabbed a few tissues from a box on the coffee table, and tried to apply pressure to the wound, but it was useless. The tissues were soaked through in seconds. “Darron?” She squeezed his hand, and fought back tears of fear and frustration. “Darron, please open your eyes. Please be all right!” He squirmed and groaned a little in response. Looking at his contorted features, Gabriella felt incompetent and useless. She didn’t know what to do to help him. The cut must need stitches. The blood was gushing through her fingertips, and she was sure his life was slipping away just as quickly. More than anything, Gabriella wanted to help Darron, to end his suffering. Her thoughts, her desperation, caused something deep inside of her to stir. Something that had long been napping was awoken. The power she had fought so hard to deny was forcing its way to the surface. This time she didn’t struggle against that power. Her instinct to hide from it was finally overcome by the thought of losing someone else she cared about. Gabriella was pulling strength and warmth from the earth, as though her legs were tree roots taking nourishment from the element. A tingling sensation began in the tips of her toes and spread slowly though her body as she breathed in the essence of the element of air. Her blood flowed and grew warm, the element of water, bringing the power to the surface. She was overcome by a vigorous strength as she envisioned her spirit encircled by the element of fire. She felt so powerful that she thought she could stop the world from churning if that was what she wished. Gabriella focused the power, remembering for a moment her mother’s lessons. She looked down at her battered friend. She willed him to open his eyes and look at her. She demanded it of him. Gabriella would have thought it was impossible, but she felt herself grow warmer. Her face dripped with perspiration. The power within her reached a climax. Then finally, when she thought she might burst, she felt the energy release. It seeped through her fingers, and shined with an illumination that only she could see. She heard herself chanting unfamiliar words, and scarcely recognized her own voice. “By the power of earth, water, fire and air, Heal this man who’s in my care. Goddess, hear your daughter’s plea. As I will it, so mote it be!” Gabriella repeated the words three times. Three was the number of power. Then she watched as the wound on Darron’s forehead healed before her eyes, becoming smaller and smaller, until finally it was gone. The blood was still warm and sticky, but beneath the blood, the skin was smooth and unmarred. Even the horrible bruise had vanished. Gabriella stared in open astonishment, marveling at the work she had done.
Destiny Unveiled Excerpt:
After collecting the offering from his followers, the leader returned to the center of the circle and the waiting initiate. With one quick motion, he sliced open his own palm. He held his hand over the cup, letting his blood drip slowly into the chalice, until the wound miraculously healed before Darron's startled eyes. When the chalice was full, he carried it to the eager initiate who took the cup firmly into his hands and tilted it towards his lips. "As this blood makes you one with our flesh, so your soul follows to become one with the darkness," the English voice intoned. As the initiate drained the last of the liquid in the chalice, his hood fell away, revealing a blonde ponytail pulled back over a pale white face, made even paler by the outline of bright red blood around his lips. Darron watched in stunned, horrified silence as his own face turned to meet his gaze. Eyes turned as black as coals stared back at Darron with a grim smile of satisfaction. "Rise Darron," the leader commanded. And as he spoke, he lifted the hood from his head. Rise brother of the Dark Coven." About the Author:
Laura “Luna” DeLuca lives at the beautiful Jersey shore with her husband and four children. She loves writing in the young adult genre because it keeps her young at heart. In addition to writing fiction, Laura is also the sole author of a popular review blog called New Age Mama. She is an active member of her local pagan community, and has been studying Wicca for close to eight years. Visit her on her websites at http://authorlauradeluca.blogspot.com or http://newagemama.blogspot.com .
Website / Facebook / Twitter / G oodreadsLaura, thanks so much for visiting with us today and we wish you great luck with Destiny and Destiny Unveiled. They both sound like great books!!
Until next time, happy reading !! Krista
Today we have the wonderful Laura DeLuca with us :) So great to have you Laura, can you tell us a little about yourself? I live at the Jersey Shore with my husband, Timmie, and my four kids whose ages range from 1 through 12. In addition to being a writer, I am also a mom blogger and we own a restaurant at the Jersey Shore. What or who initially inspired you to become a writer? I always wanted to be a writer, but it was Christopher Pike who inspired me to write YA. I loved him as a teenager and he remains one of my favorite authors to this day. What kind of research do you do for a novel and how extensive do you get? Most of my research comes from reading. For the Destiny, I read at least a dozen books on Wicca. I also use search engines a lot, especially when I wanted to describe places in Florida and Vermont I had never been to. Do you have a special place you like to do your writing? If I have the opportunity, I love to write out in nature, especially at the beach. As a reader, what types of works do you like to read and do you think they influence the genre/genres you write in? I love historical and paranormal books and it definitely influences my work, though I tend to read only adult novels and not YA anymore. What is your favorite method of writing...as in laptop, desktop, Ipad or the old fashioned pencil and paper?? I am probably one of the only authors left who still hand writes my first draft. After that, I use my desktop computer to type it out and make revisions. When you need a break or some time off from the trials of being a writer, what can you be found doing? Walking on the beach or nature trails, meditating, or taking a bubble bath. Is there anything about yourself nobody knows that you would like to share with our readers?? I’m afraid my real life is pretty boring, and I don’t have many secrets worth sharing. One thing that not that many people know is that I’m really into past lives and have had several successful regressions. Okay now for fun, I have a few personal questions, Your Favorite 5 1) Favorite color –Green2) Favorite dessert – Tiramisu 3) Favorite Season –Fall4) Favorite sad song- My Heart Will Go On (Yes, I know its corny)5) Favorite Romantic movie – Titanic And a bonus, what is your ideal romantic vacation?? Since I live at the Jersey Shore, my whole life is a vacation, but I would really like to go to Ireland. Doesn’t have to be romantic though. Hubby can stay home with the kids. Where can our readers find you?? Email: timmiedeluca@comcast.netTwitter: www.twitter.com/authorldelucaFacebook: http://www.facebook.com/authorlauradelucaWebsite/blog: http://authorlauradeluca.blogspot.com/Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Laura-DeLuca/e/B004L7NLPE/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/authorlauradeluca Is there an upcoming or current release you would like to share with us today and where can we find it? Destiny
Gabriella is a witch. The problem is, she doesn't remember. She repressed the memories of her powers years ago when her mother was murdered. Now, the warlock who was responsible for her mother's death has set his sights on Gabriella. He is determined to use her fear to turn her to the dark side of magick…even if it kills her. Her mother's spirit is reaching out to warn her, but even that she pushes away. Desperate to save her daughter, the spirit finds a male witch–one that just happens to be in love with Gabriella. Darron is more than willing to help but the two young witches will have way more to battle than just an evil warlock. There are overbearing jocks and petty rich girls who get tempers flaring and often set Gabriella and Darron at odds. There is more to the story than Gabriella and Darron could even imagine. There are terrible secrets to be revealed, battles to be waged, and lives will be lost. Only after Gabriella and Darron both come to terms with who they really are, and open themselves up to the true meaning of magick, can they have any hope of fulfilling their destiny.
Destiny Unveiled
Gabriella and Darron thought their magickal battle was over when they defeated the evil warlock, Richard. When her Aunt Donna seeks Gabriella's help in rescuing her catatonic daughter from the Dark Coven, Gabriella discovers that her cousin holds a power within her that would be catastrophic in the hands of the evil witches. Gabriella's coven sets out on a journey that may be their last. Along the way, they meet new allies, face devastating treachery, and battle not only the Dark Coven, but the darkness within themselves. When Gabriella finally comes face to face with the cousin she never knew existed, her true destiny is unveiled, and the fate of the mortal world is in her hands.
Destiny Excerpt:
Her eyes scanned the room, from the pale blue sofa to the bloody dent in the wall. But she didn’t need her eyes to know Darron was there. Her heart sensed his presence before her eyes saw him lying in a heap on the ground. His body shuttered with occasional spasms, and even though he wasn’t fully conscious, his lips were twisted in a grimace of pain. Uttering a gasp of surprise, Gabriella flew to his side. She knelt beside him, and choked back a sob as she took his hand in her own. She saw his chest rise and fall and was glad to know was alive, but she felt helpless as she watched his face contort in pain. She noticed something wet andsticky on her fingertips. She gently titled his head and saw a large gash that looked like it needed medical attention. The skin around the gash was so deeply bruised it looked almost black. “Darron, what happened to you?” He didn’t move or reply. Gabriella moved her hand from the cut on his forehead, and her fingers dripped with blood. She bit her lower lip with fear. She knew enough about head injuries to know that the wound could be serious. She grabbed a few tissues from a box on the coffee table, and tried to apply pressure to the wound, but it was useless. The tissues were soaked through in seconds. “Darron?” She squeezed his hand, and fought back tears of fear and frustration. “Darron, please open your eyes. Please be all right!” He squirmed and groaned a little in response. Looking at his contorted features, Gabriella felt incompetent and useless. She didn’t know what to do to help him. The cut must need stitches. The blood was gushing through her fingertips, and she was sure his life was slipping away just as quickly. More than anything, Gabriella wanted to help Darron, to end his suffering. Her thoughts, her desperation, caused something deep inside of her to stir. Something that had long been napping was awoken. The power she had fought so hard to deny was forcing its way to the surface. This time she didn’t struggle against that power. Her instinct to hide from it was finally overcome by the thought of losing someone else she cared about. Gabriella was pulling strength and warmth from the earth, as though her legs were tree roots taking nourishment from the element. A tingling sensation began in the tips of her toes and spread slowly though her body as she breathed in the essence of the element of air. Her blood flowed and grew warm, the element of water, bringing the power to the surface. She was overcome by a vigorous strength as she envisioned her spirit encircled by the element of fire. She felt so powerful that she thought she could stop the world from churning if that was what she wished. Gabriella focused the power, remembering for a moment her mother’s lessons. She looked down at her battered friend. She willed him to open his eyes and look at her. She demanded it of him. Gabriella would have thought it was impossible, but she felt herself grow warmer. Her face dripped with perspiration. The power within her reached a climax. Then finally, when she thought she might burst, she felt the energy release. It seeped through her fingers, and shined with an illumination that only she could see. She heard herself chanting unfamiliar words, and scarcely recognized her own voice. “By the power of earth, water, fire and air, Heal this man who’s in my care. Goddess, hear your daughter’s plea. As I will it, so mote it be!” Gabriella repeated the words three times. Three was the number of power. Then she watched as the wound on Darron’s forehead healed before her eyes, becoming smaller and smaller, until finally it was gone. The blood was still warm and sticky, but beneath the blood, the skin was smooth and unmarred. Even the horrible bruise had vanished. Gabriella stared in open astonishment, marveling at the work she had done.
Destiny Unveiled Excerpt:
After collecting the offering from his followers, the leader returned to the center of the circle and the waiting initiate. With one quick motion, he sliced open his own palm. He held his hand over the cup, letting his blood drip slowly into the chalice, until the wound miraculously healed before Darron's startled eyes. When the chalice was full, he carried it to the eager initiate who took the cup firmly into his hands and tilted it towards his lips. "As this blood makes you one with our flesh, so your soul follows to become one with the darkness," the English voice intoned. As the initiate drained the last of the liquid in the chalice, his hood fell away, revealing a blonde ponytail pulled back over a pale white face, made even paler by the outline of bright red blood around his lips. Darron watched in stunned, horrified silence as his own face turned to meet his gaze. Eyes turned as black as coals stared back at Darron with a grim smile of satisfaction. "Rise Darron," the leader commanded. And as he spoke, he lifted the hood from his head. Rise brother of the Dark Coven." About the Author:
Laura “Luna” DeLuca lives at the beautiful Jersey shore with her husband and four children. She loves writing in the young adult genre because it keeps her young at heart. In addition to writing fiction, Laura is also the sole author of a popular review blog called New Age Mama. She is an active member of her local pagan community, and has been studying Wicca for close to eight years. Visit her on her websites at http://authorlauradeluca.blogspot.com or http://newagemama.blogspot.com .Website / Facebook / Twitter / G oodreadsLaura, thanks so much for visiting with us today and we wish you great luck with Destiny and Destiny Unveiled. They both sound like great books!!
Until next time, happy reading !! Krista
Book Blitz: Fire's Ice by Brynna Curry
Fire's Ice by Brynna Curry
Ultimate power, or endless love? Born the son of a Scottish laird a thousand years ago, but now trapped by his cousin's spell, Devin McLoch has seen countless battles and death. The erstwhile thief has turned away from darker pursuits to lead a life of peace, protecting those he loves and considers part of his clan.
However, there is one woman he can never forget, who must be given a chance to change, to accept her heart and his.
Arianne Farrell is just as dangerous and intoxicating as her power. Imprisoned in an ancient stone dance more than a thousand years ago, her only chance at freedom from the spell is through love—a love she denied. When Devin asks for her aid to save another from imminent death, she realizes there is more at stake than just her freedom or her heart.
WARNING: Two stubborn sexy wizards using magic with no bounds, scorching love scenes, and happy ever after. Ever play with fire? Buy Links: eBook - Amazon Kindle – B&N Nook - iTunes - ALL ROMANCE Print - Amazon– Createspace - B&N Excerpt – (Steamy) Dark, rich chocolate colored bedding echoed the tile framing the fireplace. Dainty furniture, curved legs and soft cushions, yet the poster bed was large and sturdy. She’d seen it before while she visited his dreams. Definitely Devin’s room. And remembering didn’t help the ache snaking through her body. Walking into the en suite, the first thing to catch her eyes was the floor-to-ceiling mirror covering one wall. Arianne studied her reflection. Her long, dark curls were mussed and tangled around a pale face. Her lips were pink and just a bit swollen from Devin’s kiss. The only thing she wore was a long white shirt. Sniffing the collar, she smelled the crisp, clean fragrance clinging to the material. His shirt, not conjured. Devin didn’t wear cologne, but the scent of his soap always stayed with her. He must have changed her clothes. What else had she missed?
Because I love you. Men were ever a puzzle. Still, hadn’t she known? The dreams they shared had changed over time, slow and sweet instead of hot and fierce. A softness came over his face each night she visited his sleep, the same one she had seen this morning. Just that look was enough to have her quaking inside. She found a bottle of bubble bath on the side of the tub. Thanks to Devin's dreams and Allie's influence, she had knowledge of modern conveniences such as indoor plumbing. Turning the faucet on hot, Arianne poured two capfuls under the stream and let the water run until the big round tub filled. Reluctantly, she unfastened the shirt buttons and let the material fall away to the floor. Slipping into the frothy bubbles, she sighed and let the reality of her situation sink in. I am finally out of that wretched circle. True enough, but she was still in a prison of sorts. One with running water, walls, food that didn’t taste like air, and a sexy male witch bent on driving her to frustration. Not so bad, all things considered. Being trapped in the stone dance didn’t mean she hadn’t noticed changes in the world around her for a thousand years. She tipped her feet out of the water, waved toward them, and turned her toenails a bright fiery red. Allie brought her little things from the modern world. Mostly books filled with sweet love stories; more than a few of them brought a blush to her cheeks. What would Ryan think of his daughter’s taste in novels? Better not to head down that road. Allie had dreams of being a writer like her aunt and uncle. If what she liked to read was any indication, she’d write hot. Very hot. Speaking of hot, a soft tapping sounded at the door. Her maddening laird had returned. “Okay in there?” His voice sounded hesitant. “Breakfast is ready.” Time to ruffle the phoenix’s feathers a bit. “There is no need to be shy, Devin. You can come in.” ***** The sound of splashing water rippled past his ears. Temptress. Knowing Ari was just on the other side of the door, naked and wet, willing to succumb to every fantasy he could imagine, was a torment in itself. All he had to do was accept her sultry invitation and toss aside his plan. But she deserved a sweet slide into love, not the wild, mad rush of pleasure he craved. One palm rested on the door of its own volition, ready to comply. Not yet. Now, if only his traitorous body would listen to his heart. “That depends, sweetheart.” “Oh?” she called out from the other side. “On what?” Devin chuckled at the line, but he just couldn’t resist teasing her. “What are you wearing?” She laughed. “Bubbles. Lots of bubbles. Share them with me.” He saw it so clearly. Ari’s creamy skin peeking through the frothy bubbles. Open, welcoming. Need clawed under the skin, screamed at him. Why the hell not? Feeling a quiver of desire vibrate through his body, he called her bluff. “And what would you have me do with those bubbles? Hmm, Ari?”
“Oh, I am sure you could think of something. Something deliciously wicked. I have shared your dreams. I know your fantasies, Devin.” Oh, you have no idea. His mind made up, Devin opened the door. She lay in his huge garden tub, feet propped up on the rim, eyes closed, waterfall of black hair piled on top of her head. A soft smile graced her face. So she was enjoying their teasing banter. “Have you changed your mind and decided to join me?” “Maybe.” No reason he couldn’t push them both to the edge. Pulling the t-shirt over his head, Devin tossed it into the corner. He laid his cellphone on the sink--out of danger--kneeled by the edge of the tub and dipped one hand into cooling water, using his magic to heat it. “Mmm. Nice.” He let his voice drop to a whisper as he leaned close to her ear. “I want to slick my hands over every inch of your skin until you shiver from the heat.” His fingers found the back of her knee in the water and trailed higher along the inside of her thigh. “And then…” A soft “Devin” slipped from her lips as Arianne’s eyes flew open. “And then…” Reviews: https://docs.google.com/document/pub?id=1Kg3xfhIrh-tJ9jAUz7_40tMAHVp9hKMeEuaA81sTT48
March 4, 2013
Author, author.... Guest Blog
...read all about it !!! Today we are thrilled to be the first stop on this tour !!
The first stop on the BLOOD YELLOW Tour!
I’m so thrilled to be writing this guest blog. This is the first stop of my third book tour and I just can’t believe I’ve come so far in such a short time. Over the last five months it feels like my whole world has flipped upside down and now I’ve captured an audience and published works of fiction and have fans.
BLOOD YELLOW is the second full length novel that I have written and I am very pleased with it. I’ve taken the characters that were introduced in BLOOD PURPLE and expounded on their current situations. You will find the book takes place three months later and everything has changed. Which is understandable, three months is a long time. This time around though you will see that Nasir starts to take a bigger focus of the book, more of a voice. That father role really jumps out onto the pages and he, a time or two, has to put Zayn and Nikole in their place. Part of being a God-Father is doing the hard stuff even when you don’t want too.
I did things a little different this time around, I wrote some of the words in Arabic. Part of what I want to establish in this world is the culture. While yes they live in Colorado Springs, they very much are Lebanese Vampires. Middle Eastern decent. Middle Eastern culture. That means words like mother father brother sister etc would naturally be in their native language. My publisher was very kind and let me go back through BLOOD PURPLE and add the Arabic phrases so the series match but I think it helps add some authenticity to the culture. Even though the drastic nature of some of the things they do in no way representing what their culture is in the actual country of Lebanon.
Something else that I start exploring in this book (and I do more of in BLOOD GREEN) is their past culture as an Algula race and what life was like back home in Lebanon. The traditions the Algula practiced and some of the ways of life that they gave up when they moved to America. I really wanted this book to be juicy with detail and help the reader learn more about the race and the world I created. My dilemma is this, there are a limited number of books. BLOOD GREEN is book 3, then BLOOD BLACK is book 4, BLOOD WHITE will be an extra’s book with a couple short stories and some deleted scenes I couldn’t fit in anywhere but wanted to happen so I won’t have a lot of time to get everything out there that I want too.
On the plus side however – the overall reaction from my beta readers and early reviewers is unanimously this, “they loved BLOOD PURPLE but after reading BLOOD YELLOW they can’t remember why because it was just so good.” Which completely makes me smile because as a writer, I want to improve with each book and each story I tell and I want my readers to be invested with me along the path so I want you all to grow with the characters too.
One thing about my writing is I leave out the fluff, it’s very short when you compare it to others of the PNR genre, about 1/3 of the size of a BDB book, however- that doesn’t mean the content isn’t just as good.
So take a weekend and sit down and explore the world of the Algula. It’s an amazing place, full of adventure and wonder. I promise you will finish the book and will know one thing if nothing else, you will never meet a vampire like mine. They don’t sparkle, they don’t cower to humans with stakes, they don’t fry in the sun. They feel, they bleed, they love and they fight. About the author: Ashley is married and lives in Houston with her husband Tony. They have two dogs named Toto and Doogie. They have been together for almost 8 years and he brings her more joy than she could ever imagine as a child. She loves to read and has been hooked on the romance genre ever since her lifelong best friend Laura gave her "Ashes to Ashes' by Tami Hoag to read when they were younger. Ashley finds her strength through her family, especially her parents. They always support her in life and they push her to strive for greatness. There once was a motto that Ashley heard in her youth through her Taekwondo life 'Reach for the Stars' and that is what Ashley has always done. It was through her upbringing that the values Ashley has and display's came from. With her Parents always cheering her on in life she was able to grow up having faith in herself and her ability to conquer the world. Website Facebook Book trailer
The first stop on the BLOOD YELLOW Tour!
I’m so thrilled to be writing this guest blog. This is the first stop of my third book tour and I just can’t believe I’ve come so far in such a short time. Over the last five months it feels like my whole world has flipped upside down and now I’ve captured an audience and published works of fiction and have fans.
BLOOD YELLOW is the second full length novel that I have written and I am very pleased with it. I’ve taken the characters that were introduced in BLOOD PURPLE and expounded on their current situations. You will find the book takes place three months later and everything has changed. Which is understandable, three months is a long time. This time around though you will see that Nasir starts to take a bigger focus of the book, more of a voice. That father role really jumps out onto the pages and he, a time or two, has to put Zayn and Nikole in their place. Part of being a God-Father is doing the hard stuff even when you don’t want too.I did things a little different this time around, I wrote some of the words in Arabic. Part of what I want to establish in this world is the culture. While yes they live in Colorado Springs, they very much are Lebanese Vampires. Middle Eastern decent. Middle Eastern culture. That means words like mother father brother sister etc would naturally be in their native language. My publisher was very kind and let me go back through BLOOD PURPLE and add the Arabic phrases so the series match but I think it helps add some authenticity to the culture. Even though the drastic nature of some of the things they do in no way representing what their culture is in the actual country of Lebanon.
Something else that I start exploring in this book (and I do more of in BLOOD GREEN) is their past culture as an Algula race and what life was like back home in Lebanon. The traditions the Algula practiced and some of the ways of life that they gave up when they moved to America. I really wanted this book to be juicy with detail and help the reader learn more about the race and the world I created. My dilemma is this, there are a limited number of books. BLOOD GREEN is book 3, then BLOOD BLACK is book 4, BLOOD WHITE will be an extra’s book with a couple short stories and some deleted scenes I couldn’t fit in anywhere but wanted to happen so I won’t have a lot of time to get everything out there that I want too.
On the plus side however – the overall reaction from my beta readers and early reviewers is unanimously this, “they loved BLOOD PURPLE but after reading BLOOD YELLOW they can’t remember why because it was just so good.” Which completely makes me smile because as a writer, I want to improve with each book and each story I tell and I want my readers to be invested with me along the path so I want you all to grow with the characters too.
One thing about my writing is I leave out the fluff, it’s very short when you compare it to others of the PNR genre, about 1/3 of the size of a BDB book, however- that doesn’t mean the content isn’t just as good.
So take a weekend and sit down and explore the world of the Algula. It’s an amazing place, full of adventure and wonder. I promise you will finish the book and will know one thing if nothing else, you will never meet a vampire like mine. They don’t sparkle, they don’t cower to humans with stakes, they don’t fry in the sun. They feel, they bleed, they love and they fight. About the author: Ashley is married and lives in Houston with her husband Tony. They have two dogs named Toto and Doogie. They have been together for almost 8 years and he brings her more joy than she could ever imagine as a child. She loves to read and has been hooked on the romance genre ever since her lifelong best friend Laura gave her "Ashes to Ashes' by Tami Hoag to read when they were younger. Ashley finds her strength through her family, especially her parents. They always support her in life and they push her to strive for greatness. There once was a motto that Ashley heard in her youth through her Taekwondo life 'Reach for the Stars' and that is what Ashley has always done. It was through her upbringing that the values Ashley has and display's came from. With her Parents always cheering her on in life she was able to grow up having faith in herself and her ability to conquer the world. Website Facebook Book trailer
