Kelly Hashway's Blog, page 97
June 9, 2013
Monday Mishmash 6/10/13
Happy Monday! Here's my mishmash of thoughts:
Last week of school My daughter's last day is Thursday. I can't believe she's going to be a first grader soon.Free Monthly Newsletter With the excitement of BEA, I forgot to send out my monthly newsletter last Monday. It will go out at 5pm EST today. If you aren't signed up yet but would like to receive one, click here.Advantage: Heartbreak I'll be posting a teaser this Wednesday for my second novella in the Game. Set. Match. Heartbreak series. Check back for it.Melinda's Museum Magic My newest picture book is here! You can find Melinda's Museum Magic for sale on Amazon.
Stalked by Death teaser I made a teaser video for Stalked by Death. Check it out.
That's it for me. What's on your mind today?
Last week of school My daughter's last day is Thursday. I can't believe she's going to be a first grader soon.Free Monthly Newsletter With the excitement of BEA, I forgot to send out my monthly newsletter last Monday. It will go out at 5pm EST today. If you aren't signed up yet but would like to receive one, click here.Advantage: Heartbreak I'll be posting a teaser this Wednesday for my second novella in the Game. Set. Match. Heartbreak series. Check back for it.Melinda's Museum Magic My newest picture book is here! You can find Melinda's Museum Magic for sale on Amazon.
Stalked by Death teaser I made a teaser video for Stalked by Death. Check it out. That's it for me. What's on your mind today?
June 6, 2013
Triangles by Kimberly Ann Miller
While I was at BEA, I was lucky enough to snag a copy of Triangles by my publishing house sister, Kimberly Ann Miller. I've been looking forward to reading this one.
A cruise ship. A beautiful island. Two sexy guys. What could possibly go wrong?
In the Bermuda Triangle—a lot.
Hoping to leave behind the reminders of her crappy life—her father's death years ago, her mother's medical problems, and the loser who's practically stalking her—seventeen-year-old Autumn Taylor hops on a ship with her sister for a little distraction. When she wakes up in the Bermuda Triangle, she fears she's gone nuts for more than one reason: that loser's suddenly claiming they're a happy couple... a hot guy is wrapping his arms around her and saying "Happy Anniversary"... and suddenly, she's full of bruises, losing her hair, and getting IV medication. Autumn visits the ship's doctor, hoping for a pill or a shot to make the craziness go away. Instead, she's warned that these "alternate realities" could become permanent.
She just has to ask herself one question—how the hell is she going to get out of this mess?
Kimberly Miller received Bachelor's degrees from Georgian Court University and Rutgers University and a Master's degree from The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She is an avid reader and particularly enjoys true crime and young adult novels. She grew up in New Jersey and currently resides in Monmouth County with her husband and three cats. When she’s not writing, she loves to travel to sunny islands where she snorkels by day and stargazes by night. She always takes her Nook with her.
Twitter: @KimberlyAnnNJ: https://twitter.com/#!/KimberlyAnnNJ
Blog: http://writersbytheshore.blogspot.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000972287894
Tumblr: http://kimberlyannmiller.tumblr.com/
Email: KAMillerWrites (at) aol (dot) com
Website: kimberlyannmiller.com
Buy links:
Barnes and Noble
Amazon
The Book DepositoryWhat do you think?
A cruise ship. A beautiful island. Two sexy guys. What could possibly go wrong?
In the Bermuda Triangle—a lot.
Hoping to leave behind the reminders of her crappy life—her father's death years ago, her mother's medical problems, and the loser who's practically stalking her—seventeen-year-old Autumn Taylor hops on a ship with her sister for a little distraction. When she wakes up in the Bermuda Triangle, she fears she's gone nuts for more than one reason: that loser's suddenly claiming they're a happy couple... a hot guy is wrapping his arms around her and saying "Happy Anniversary"... and suddenly, she's full of bruises, losing her hair, and getting IV medication. Autumn visits the ship's doctor, hoping for a pill or a shot to make the craziness go away. Instead, she's warned that these "alternate realities" could become permanent.
She just has to ask herself one question—how the hell is she going to get out of this mess?
Kimberly Miller received Bachelor's degrees from Georgian Court University and Rutgers University and a Master's degree from The University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She is an avid reader and particularly enjoys true crime and young adult novels. She grew up in New Jersey and currently resides in Monmouth County with her husband and three cats. When she’s not writing, she loves to travel to sunny islands where she snorkels by day and stargazes by night. She always takes her Nook with her.
Twitter: @KimberlyAnnNJ: https://twitter.com/#!/KimberlyAnnNJ
Blog: http://writersbytheshore.blogspot.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000972287894
Tumblr: http://kimberlyannmiller.tumblr.com/
Email: KAMillerWrites (at) aol (dot) com
Website: kimberlyannmiller.com
Buy links:
Barnes and Noble
Amazon
The Book DepositoryWhat do you think?
June 4, 2013
Come What May Release Day Giveaway!
I've been waiting for this release for a long time! Faith Sullivan is one of my new favorite authors. If she writes it, I'm reading it. Without further ado, here's Come What May!
Title: Come What May (Heartbeat #2)
Author: Faith Sullivan
Expected release date: June 4, 2013
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age Group: New Adult
Ebook available at: Kindle ($2.99)
Paperback available at: Amazon ($6.99)
Book Description:
Adam is through with love.
He unravels blaming himself for what happened with Katie.
His final moments with her echo through his nightmares.
She owns him body and soul.
To dull the pain, Adam invites a string of women into his bed. Fueled by alcohol and desperation, his meaningless hook-ups provide little comfort. When he closes his eyes, it's Katie he sees.
The only one who helps to ease his guilt somewhat is Jada. But as his new ambulance partner, Adam considers her off limits. He doesn't want to get seriously involved with anyone, much less her. Yet he can't stop fantasizing about the feel of her caramel skin against his.
Despite his intentions, Adam's bond with Jada deepens as they respond to a series of emotional calls. Their mutual attraction becomes undeniable. But how can he give his heart to Jada when it still belongs to Katie?
Excerpt:
But I’m unsure of where this is going. Is he trying to open up or just making idle conversation? Whatever it is, it’s not enough for me. I crouch, hanging my legs over the side. A cool breeze issues from the waterfall. Its hypnotic rhythm is so relaxing. I can stretch out right here and fall asleep. I lean back on my elbows and close my eyes against the sun. So I’m startled when something smacks me in the face.
It’s Adam’s t-shirt. He’s standing before me in nothing but his jeans. “Care for a swim, Jada?” Laughing, he peers over the edge. All I see are the broad lines of his back. It doesn’t get any sexier than that.
“You’re going to jump into that tiny little pool of water?” My pulse is racing, but somehow I keep my voice steady.
“No, we’re going to climb down together. But you’re going to have to lose some of that clothing first.” His gaze runs across the length of my body, and I’m on fire.
“If you think I’m going to strip down…”
I shut up when I realize he’s bending over me. “Well, you can rid yourself of these muddy shoes for starters.” He undoes the laces and gently slips them off. My breathing gets heavy when his fingers slide up to remove my sock. He doesn’t stop there. On his knees before me, his touch glides up my leg as he rolls the cuff of my pants.
“That takes care of the bottom half. Now what about the top?” I ask brazenly. I’m fighting to regain control of the situation, but it’s a lost cause.
He pulls me up with him, and our bodies are so close together. He grips my waist and I start to get dizzy. Drawing me in, I’m surprised when he tugs at the fabric of my shirt, untucking it in a series of quick motions. His actions cause my chest to rub against his. My legs get shaky and I think I’m going to have to grab onto him for support. But I resist and somehow keep my hands to myself. Slowly, he unfastens the last two buttons and ties the shirt at my waist. His fingertips linger over the exposed skin of my midriff. His touch is driving me wild. I can’t take much more of this.
Stepping back, I feel so exposed even though I’m not showing that much skin. He’s practically naked in front of me and he doesn’t seem embarrassed at all. It’s like he wanted to bring me to some secluded spot in order to seduce me. Was this his plan all along? I’m so confused. Nothing is ever clear with him. It’s impossible to figure out what’s going through his mind and why he’s practically taking off my clothes in the middle of the woods.
And that’s the problem. I kind of like it. His unpredictability keeps me guessing, and I’ve never been so turned on. I’m practically panting before him, wishing his hands would explore every inch of me. But for some reason, it seems like there’s an invisible barrier separating us. He teases me but doesn’t take it further. And all that does is make me want him more. I’m not the type to pursue a guy, but I’d put myself out there for him if I knew that was what he was after. But what if it’s not? We do have to work together, and things can get really awkward between us if I’m wrong.
A shadow of a frown crosses his face when he sees me back away from him. Whatever was happening in that moment is over—I can’t tell if he’s disappointed or relieved. His chest rises and falls as he clenches his fists. The sheer masculine beauty of his sculpted torso is right in front of me. Yet he appears so fragile. Like one hasty word from me will break him. We’re so close. If only I knew his true intentions. Is he just playing with me or is he after something more?
“C’mon, let’s cool off.” But I can’t allow myself to get that close to him again. My thoughts scatter just picturing him against me in the water. With my inhibitions lowered, I’ll be too tempted. If I let down my guard and give into him, I’ll only regret it later when he acts like nothing’s changed between us.
“Nah, you go ahead. I’m just going to stick my feet in.” The creases in his brow deepen, but I don’t stop. “If I have any hope of salvaging this uniform, I don’t think it’ll take any more wear and tear.” It’s the lamest excuse ever, but it’s all I have to go with.
“Suit yourself.” He’s pissed as he makes his way down the rocky incline. He doesn’t even wait for me. What girl wouldn’t want to fool around with him in the water after all that? Who would ever turn him down?
Only me.
The first book of the HEARTBEAT series is only 99 cents on Amazon!
Click cover to purchase.
Random Things about Author, Faith Sullivan:
- She was so much smarter as a teenager.
- She's a slow reader.
- She tends to like a book more for its characters rather than its plot.
- She appreciates people who are genuinely kind and come through when you need them.
- As a creative person, she's not always fun to live with, but she keeps things interesting.
- She misses the days when all she had was a rotary phone that didn't even have an answering machine.
- She's a child of the 1980s, and a teenager of the 1990s.
- She loves her dog.
- She likes to travel and see new places - when her limited budget allows.
- She thinks in another lifetime she lived in the UK somewhere by the coast.
- When she feels an emotion, she feels it deeply. It's a curse.
- She has an overactive imagination. Writing helps alleviate that problem.
- Nine times out of ten, she believes a good book trumps reality.
Author Links: Blog | Amazon | Twitter | Goodreads
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Title: Come What May (Heartbeat #2)Author: Faith Sullivan
Expected release date: June 4, 2013
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Age Group: New Adult
Ebook available at: Kindle ($2.99)
Paperback available at: Amazon ($6.99)
Book Description:
Adam is through with love.
He unravels blaming himself for what happened with Katie.
His final moments with her echo through his nightmares.
She owns him body and soul.
To dull the pain, Adam invites a string of women into his bed. Fueled by alcohol and desperation, his meaningless hook-ups provide little comfort. When he closes his eyes, it's Katie he sees.
The only one who helps to ease his guilt somewhat is Jada. But as his new ambulance partner, Adam considers her off limits. He doesn't want to get seriously involved with anyone, much less her. Yet he can't stop fantasizing about the feel of her caramel skin against his.
Despite his intentions, Adam's bond with Jada deepens as they respond to a series of emotional calls. Their mutual attraction becomes undeniable. But how can he give his heart to Jada when it still belongs to Katie?
Excerpt:
But I’m unsure of where this is going. Is he trying to open up or just making idle conversation? Whatever it is, it’s not enough for me. I crouch, hanging my legs over the side. A cool breeze issues from the waterfall. Its hypnotic rhythm is so relaxing. I can stretch out right here and fall asleep. I lean back on my elbows and close my eyes against the sun. So I’m startled when something smacks me in the face.
It’s Adam’s t-shirt. He’s standing before me in nothing but his jeans. “Care for a swim, Jada?” Laughing, he peers over the edge. All I see are the broad lines of his back. It doesn’t get any sexier than that.
“You’re going to jump into that tiny little pool of water?” My pulse is racing, but somehow I keep my voice steady.
“No, we’re going to climb down together. But you’re going to have to lose some of that clothing first.” His gaze runs across the length of my body, and I’m on fire.
“If you think I’m going to strip down…”
I shut up when I realize he’s bending over me. “Well, you can rid yourself of these muddy shoes for starters.” He undoes the laces and gently slips them off. My breathing gets heavy when his fingers slide up to remove my sock. He doesn’t stop there. On his knees before me, his touch glides up my leg as he rolls the cuff of my pants.
“That takes care of the bottom half. Now what about the top?” I ask brazenly. I’m fighting to regain control of the situation, but it’s a lost cause.
He pulls me up with him, and our bodies are so close together. He grips my waist and I start to get dizzy. Drawing me in, I’m surprised when he tugs at the fabric of my shirt, untucking it in a series of quick motions. His actions cause my chest to rub against his. My legs get shaky and I think I’m going to have to grab onto him for support. But I resist and somehow keep my hands to myself. Slowly, he unfastens the last two buttons and ties the shirt at my waist. His fingertips linger over the exposed skin of my midriff. His touch is driving me wild. I can’t take much more of this.
Stepping back, I feel so exposed even though I’m not showing that much skin. He’s practically naked in front of me and he doesn’t seem embarrassed at all. It’s like he wanted to bring me to some secluded spot in order to seduce me. Was this his plan all along? I’m so confused. Nothing is ever clear with him. It’s impossible to figure out what’s going through his mind and why he’s practically taking off my clothes in the middle of the woods.
And that’s the problem. I kind of like it. His unpredictability keeps me guessing, and I’ve never been so turned on. I’m practically panting before him, wishing his hands would explore every inch of me. But for some reason, it seems like there’s an invisible barrier separating us. He teases me but doesn’t take it further. And all that does is make me want him more. I’m not the type to pursue a guy, but I’d put myself out there for him if I knew that was what he was after. But what if it’s not? We do have to work together, and things can get really awkward between us if I’m wrong.
A shadow of a frown crosses his face when he sees me back away from him. Whatever was happening in that moment is over—I can’t tell if he’s disappointed or relieved. His chest rises and falls as he clenches his fists. The sheer masculine beauty of his sculpted torso is right in front of me. Yet he appears so fragile. Like one hasty word from me will break him. We’re so close. If only I knew his true intentions. Is he just playing with me or is he after something more?
“C’mon, let’s cool off.” But I can’t allow myself to get that close to him again. My thoughts scatter just picturing him against me in the water. With my inhibitions lowered, I’ll be too tempted. If I let down my guard and give into him, I’ll only regret it later when he acts like nothing’s changed between us.
“Nah, you go ahead. I’m just going to stick my feet in.” The creases in his brow deepen, but I don’t stop. “If I have any hope of salvaging this uniform, I don’t think it’ll take any more wear and tear.” It’s the lamest excuse ever, but it’s all I have to go with.
“Suit yourself.” He’s pissed as he makes his way down the rocky incline. He doesn’t even wait for me. What girl wouldn’t want to fool around with him in the water after all that? Who would ever turn him down?
Only me.
The first book of the HEARTBEAT series is only 99 cents on Amazon!
Click cover to purchase.
Random Things about Author, Faith Sullivan:
- She was so much smarter as a teenager.
- She's a slow reader.
- She tends to like a book more for its characters rather than its plot.
- She appreciates people who are genuinely kind and come through when you need them.
- As a creative person, she's not always fun to live with, but she keeps things interesting.
- She misses the days when all she had was a rotary phone that didn't even have an answering machine.
- She's a child of the 1980s, and a teenager of the 1990s.
- She loves her dog.
- She likes to travel and see new places - when her limited budget allows.
- She thinks in another lifetime she lived in the UK somewhere by the coast.
- When she feels an emotion, she feels it deeply. It's a curse.
- She has an overactive imagination. Writing helps alleviate that problem.
- Nine times out of ten, she believes a good book trumps reality.
Author Links: Blog | Amazon | Twitter | Goodreads
a Rafflecopter giveaway
June 2, 2013
Book Expo America=Heaven!
I'm not posting a Monday Mishmash because the one thing on my mind is BEA! I don't even know where to start because BEA blew me away. First, I have amazing publishers. Everyone (and I mean EVERYONE) from both houses was absolutely sweet and personable. I'm going to explain things with some photos for you too. :)
I met some really awesome Spencer Hill Press people, like:
Me with Kate Kaynak, owner of Spencer Hill Press
Yes, it's blurry, but I swear it's because Kate is so busy she never stands still. ;)
Timothy Miller signing his book Awoken for me!
Me with Sherry Ficklin, author of Extracted
Me with Tyler Jolley, Author of Extracted with Sherry Ficklin
Dan Cohen with me at my signing for Stalked by Death
Rich Storrs (A.K.A. "The Closer") with me at my signing
Me with Trisha Wooldridge, my editor for the Touch of Death series
Lisa Amowitz, Kimberly Miller, Michelle Pickett, Jennifer Allis Provost, me, and Dorothy Dreyer (the Scene13 girls)
My signing was surreal. When I showed up after my author breakfast (which was also extremely cool) I had a line of people waiting for me. I sort of stared in disbelief for a while. I wish I took a picture of the line. The awesome ladies at Swoony Boys Podcast showed up with a gift for me, which was so sweet of them. Also, Donna from School Library Journal came to get Stalked by Death. She introduced herself and I profusely thanked her for the great review she did for Touch of Death in the March issue of SLJ. She took a picture with me and said she'd review Stalked by Death, too. I got a little choked up over that.
George Klutz, fellow ICL member, came to see me
Me with Brooke DelVecchio, who was awesome enough to get Stalked by Death on Friday and come back with her copy of Touch of Death on Saturday to have me sign it. :)And my Month9Books family was there too!
Heather Reid (author of Pretty Dark Nothing) and me
Me getting a signed copy of Gabriel Stone from Shannon Duffy
Georgia McBride (owner of Month9Books) and me
Dorothy Dreyer (author of My Sister's Reaper), Lisa Basso (author of A Shimmer of Angels), and me
And here are some other awesome people:
Lauren Hammond (my agent) and me
LM Preston, Lauren Hammond, me, and Lisa Amowitz
And I got in trouble for trying to get this picture of Jim Carrey, but this was my third shot and I got him!
And here's my view as I sadly exited the building. I'm already counting down to next year. I will definitely be back.
Since it's Monday, please let me know what's on your mind.
I met some really awesome Spencer Hill Press people, like:
Me with Kate Kaynak, owner of Spencer Hill PressYes, it's blurry, but I swear it's because Kate is so busy she never stands still. ;)
Timothy Miller signing his book Awoken for me!
Me with Sherry Ficklin, author of Extracted
Me with Tyler Jolley, Author of Extracted with Sherry Ficklin
Dan Cohen with me at my signing for Stalked by Death
Rich Storrs (A.K.A. "The Closer") with me at my signing
Me with Trisha Wooldridge, my editor for the Touch of Death series
Lisa Amowitz, Kimberly Miller, Michelle Pickett, Jennifer Allis Provost, me, and Dorothy Dreyer (the Scene13 girls)My signing was surreal. When I showed up after my author breakfast (which was also extremely cool) I had a line of people waiting for me. I sort of stared in disbelief for a while. I wish I took a picture of the line. The awesome ladies at Swoony Boys Podcast showed up with a gift for me, which was so sweet of them. Also, Donna from School Library Journal came to get Stalked by Death. She introduced herself and I profusely thanked her for the great review she did for Touch of Death in the March issue of SLJ. She took a picture with me and said she'd review Stalked by Death, too. I got a little choked up over that.
George Klutz, fellow ICL member, came to see me
Me with Brooke DelVecchio, who was awesome enough to get Stalked by Death on Friday and come back with her copy of Touch of Death on Saturday to have me sign it. :)And my Month9Books family was there too!
Heather Reid (author of Pretty Dark Nothing) and me
Me getting a signed copy of Gabriel Stone from Shannon Duffy
Georgia McBride (owner of Month9Books) and me
Dorothy Dreyer (author of My Sister's Reaper), Lisa Basso (author of A Shimmer of Angels), and meAnd here are some other awesome people:
Lauren Hammond (my agent) and me
LM Preston, Lauren Hammond, me, and Lisa AmowitzAnd I got in trouble for trying to get this picture of Jim Carrey, but this was my third shot and I got him!
And here's my view as I sadly exited the building. I'm already counting down to next year. I will definitely be back.
Since it's Monday, please let me know what's on your mind.
May 30, 2013
Romancing the R.A. Release Week Giveaway
So May 28th wasn't just the release day for Advantage: Heartbreak and few other title from Swoon Romance. It was also the release day for Romancing the R.A., a New Adult romance by Ashelyn Drake.
Noelle Buckman is looking forward to making a fresh start in college, one that doesn’t involve immature high school boys. The second she steps on campus for freshman orientation, she can sense the possibilities. Especially when she spots Andy, a resident adviser who’s not just hot but also thoughtful enough to open doors for a girl.
And Andy has his eye on Noelle. Even when her nerves take control and she thinks she comes off as a hillbilly with no direction, Andy can see what she’s really like and he’s more than a little interested.
But orientation is less than two full days and there’s an entire summer between Noelle and Andy. Will her attempt to romance the R.A. be as short-lived as college orientation?
Find it on Amazon for only $.99!
To celebrate, Ashelyn is giving away a $10 Amazon or B&N gift card! Enter by filling out the rafflecopter form below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
What's the last romance (adult, NA, or YA) that you read and enjoyed?
*I'm at BEA, so if I get behind on the comments, that's why.
Noelle Buckman is looking forward to making a fresh start in college, one that doesn’t involve immature high school boys. The second she steps on campus for freshman orientation, she can sense the possibilities. Especially when she spots Andy, a resident adviser who’s not just hot but also thoughtful enough to open doors for a girl.
And Andy has his eye on Noelle. Even when her nerves take control and she thinks she comes off as a hillbilly with no direction, Andy can see what she’s really like and he’s more than a little interested.
But orientation is less than two full days and there’s an entire summer between Noelle and Andy. Will her attempt to romance the R.A. be as short-lived as college orientation?
Find it on Amazon for only $.99!
To celebrate, Ashelyn is giving away a $10 Amazon or B&N gift card! Enter by filling out the rafflecopter form below.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
What's the last romance (adult, NA, or YA) that you read and enjoyed?
*I'm at BEA, so if I get behind on the comments, that's why.
May 28, 2013
Horse Charmer guest post
Today I'm participating in the Horse Charmer Virtual Tour. First, here's the cover and blurb for this YA fantasy:
A gifted princess. A special horse. A quest for the truth.
At sixteen years old, Cassia would rather spend her days in the royal stables than in the royal court. But as the eldest child of King Robet and Queen Sarahann she obediently performs her duties as the Princess of Karah.
Her safe world changes forever when her father is murdered in the neighboring kingdom of Vespera. Cassia grapples with his loss as her mother prepares her for her new role as queen. Her first task - she must travel to Vespera to marry a prince she barely knows to fulfill the treaty her father signed just before his death.
Nothing is as simple as it seems with political intrigues and unusual powers shadowing Cassia on her search to find out who killed her father and why.
I have the author, Angelia Almos, with me talking about her first experience riding a horse. Take it away, Angelia!
It’s funny that Kelly asked me to talk about my first experience riding a horse. I have always remembered going on this pony ride when I was little that wasn’t like the traditional pony rides. Usually, a pony ride is run one of two ways. 1) the pony is hooked up to this merry-go-round like contraption where they walk in a circle like a carousel. Or 2) you are hand-walked on a course or a little trail which has been set up by the pony ride people. Every time I come across any pony rides, it is one of these two.
Yet, I have this memory of this “track” where the ponies were turned loose and would go one of three speeds. The slow inside walk track. The fast middle trot track. And the super fast canter track. This has been something I have remembered and think of and wonder, was it a dream? No one I have ever mentioned it to has been to one like this.
Imagine my surprise and delight when earlier this spring I headed to Los Angeles for a girls only trip with my daughters. On one of the days we decided to explore Griffith Park and drive around. At one of the entrances is a pony ride place. We pull in and I couldn’t believe what I saw. It was the very track I have “remembered” forever. The ponies turned loose in a groups with their riders tied to the saddles as they walked on the inside track, trotted on the middle track, and (though different from my memory) bigger ponies trot even faster on the outside track.
My youngest had to take a ride and though wanted to do a fast pony decided to do a walker since the trotting line was looooooong. While there I texted my dad to ask if this was the place I had always remembered. He didn’t remember it specifically since I always went on any pony ride we came across. But he did say they did take me to Griffith Park when I was little (before I was 5 and started riding lessons) and if that place was there then that I would have demanded to go on a pony ride. I wish I took a picture so I could show it here. But here is the website if you are curious - http://www.griffithparkponyride.com/
So, I am pretty sure I reconnected with my first remembered horseback ride.
For the rest of you, have you ever ridden a horse? (Confession: I think horses are beautiful, but I'm too chicken to ride one.)
A gifted princess. A special horse. A quest for the truth.
At sixteen years old, Cassia would rather spend her days in the royal stables than in the royal court. But as the eldest child of King Robet and Queen Sarahann she obediently performs her duties as the Princess of Karah.
Her safe world changes forever when her father is murdered in the neighboring kingdom of Vespera. Cassia grapples with his loss as her mother prepares her for her new role as queen. Her first task - she must travel to Vespera to marry a prince she barely knows to fulfill the treaty her father signed just before his death.
Nothing is as simple as it seems with political intrigues and unusual powers shadowing Cassia on her search to find out who killed her father and why.
I have the author, Angelia Almos, with me talking about her first experience riding a horse. Take it away, Angelia!
It’s funny that Kelly asked me to talk about my first experience riding a horse. I have always remembered going on this pony ride when I was little that wasn’t like the traditional pony rides. Usually, a pony ride is run one of two ways. 1) the pony is hooked up to this merry-go-round like contraption where they walk in a circle like a carousel. Or 2) you are hand-walked on a course or a little trail which has been set up by the pony ride people. Every time I come across any pony rides, it is one of these two.
Yet, I have this memory of this “track” where the ponies were turned loose and would go one of three speeds. The slow inside walk track. The fast middle trot track. And the super fast canter track. This has been something I have remembered and think of and wonder, was it a dream? No one I have ever mentioned it to has been to one like this.
Imagine my surprise and delight when earlier this spring I headed to Los Angeles for a girls only trip with my daughters. On one of the days we decided to explore Griffith Park and drive around. At one of the entrances is a pony ride place. We pull in and I couldn’t believe what I saw. It was the very track I have “remembered” forever. The ponies turned loose in a groups with their riders tied to the saddles as they walked on the inside track, trotted on the middle track, and (though different from my memory) bigger ponies trot even faster on the outside track.
My youngest had to take a ride and though wanted to do a fast pony decided to do a walker since the trotting line was looooooong. While there I texted my dad to ask if this was the place I had always remembered. He didn’t remember it specifically since I always went on any pony ride we came across. But he did say they did take me to Griffith Park when I was little (before I was 5 and started riding lessons) and if that place was there then that I would have demanded to go on a pony ride. I wish I took a picture so I could show it here. But here is the website if you are curious - http://www.griffithparkponyride.com/
So, I am pretty sure I reconnected with my first remembered horseback ride.
For the rest of you, have you ever ridden a horse? (Confession: I think horses are beautiful, but I'm too chicken to ride one.)
May 26, 2013
Monday Mishmash 5/27/13
Happy Monday! Here's my mishmash of thoughts:
1. BEA Woo hoo! I'll be at BEA Thursday evening through Saturday! If you're there, look for me at the Spencer Hill Press booth.
2. Melinda's Museum Magic I got the proof for my upcoming picture book, Melinda's Museum Magic this weekend. And even though I was sick with a fever, I made a video to share it with you.
3. Advantage: Heartbreak releases tomorrow! The second novella in the Game. Set. Match. Heartbreak series will be out tomorrow! And what's a release day without a giveaway? So here's what you can win.
Winner's choice of either Love All or Advantage: Heartbreak: (ebook only)
And, if the winner is in the US or Canada, he/she will also get a Game. Set. Match. Heartbreak drawstring bag and a Love All coin.
Simply fill out the rafflecopter below to enter. Good luck.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
That's it for me. What's on your mind today?
1. BEA Woo hoo! I'll be at BEA Thursday evening through Saturday! If you're there, look for me at the Spencer Hill Press booth.
2. Melinda's Museum Magic I got the proof for my upcoming picture book, Melinda's Museum Magic this weekend. And even though I was sick with a fever, I made a video to share it with you.
3. Advantage: Heartbreak releases tomorrow! The second novella in the Game. Set. Match. Heartbreak series will be out tomorrow! And what's a release day without a giveaway? So here's what you can win.
Winner's choice of either Love All or Advantage: Heartbreak: (ebook only)
And, if the winner is in the US or Canada, he/she will also get a Game. Set. Match. Heartbreak drawstring bag and a Love All coin.
Simply fill out the rafflecopter below to enter. Good luck.a Rafflecopter giveaway
That's it for me. What's on your mind today?
May 23, 2013
Talking with Tom from The Chemistry of Fate by Meradeth Houston
Today I have a special treat for you. Author Meradeth Houston is here interviewing Tom from The Chemistry of Fate. Take it away guys!
“They are everywhere, can be anyone, and are always the last person you’d expect.” When Tom stumbles across his grandfather’s journal, he’s convinced the old man was crazier than he thought. The book contains references to beings called the Sary, immortals who are assigned to save humans on the verge of suicide. They certainly aren’t allowed to fall in love with mortals. Which the journal claims Tom’s grandfather did, resulting in his expulsion from the Sary. As strange as the journal seems, Tom can’t get the stories out of his head; especially when he finds the photo of his grandfather’s wings.
Tom’s only distraction is Ari, the girl he studies with for their chemistry class.
Ari has one goal when she arrives in town: see how much Tom knows about the Sary and neutralize the situation. This isn’t a normal job, but protecting the secrecy of the Sary is vital. If Tom is a threat to exposing the Sary to the public, fate has a way of taking care of the situation, usually ending with the mortal’s death. While Ari spends time with Tom, he becomes more than just an assignment, but how far can a relationship go when she can’t tell him who she really is? When she finds out just how much Tom actually knows about the Sary, Ari is forced to choose between her wings, and her heart.
Thanks so much for hosting me Kelly! I thought I’d give everyone a little introduction to Tom today, and allow you to get to know him a little better (and realize just why I love the guy in all his slightly-nerdy glory).
MH: (I sit down at my desk and take a long sip from a mug of something that is theoretically water. Tom settles uncomfortably into the seat across from me, nervously rubbing his hands together.) Nice of you to join us here today, Tom!
Tom: Thanks for having me. I think. Just what was this job interview for again?
MH: Yeah, about that, we’ll talk once we’re done, m’k? Moving on, tell me Tom, are you currently seeing anyone?
Tom: Wait, what does thathave to do with a job?
MH: (Another sip) It just does. We like to be thorough. So, are you seeing anyone?
Tom: (Looking around like he might bolt for the door any second.) No. I don’t have time.
MH: Don’t have time? Come on, there has to be someone you at least have your eye on? A guy who looks like you (I can’t help eyeing the nice muscles on his arms) doesn’t have trouble getting dates, I’m sure.
Tom: You’re not going to give in until I say a name are you?
MH: Nope. Not a chance.
Tom: There’s a girl I study with for our chemistry class. Without her, I’d probably be flunking. She’s way out of my league though. Nothing’s going to happen.
MH: I’m very sorry to hear you think that. You two haven’t done anything other than study together?
Tom: (Sighs) She’s asked me to grab coffee a few times. But I can’t get involved. I need to keep my grades up.
MH: Why is that so important?
Tom: I’m on a full ride scholarship but the required grades are really high. If I don’t keep them up, so long scholarship and so long college.
MH: Sounds rough.
Tom: Yeah, well, that’s why I need another job…?
MH: We’ll get that to that, I promise. Tell me, do you work anywhere else already?
Tom: I have a job in a genetics lab on campus. I work there part-time.
MH: Do you like it?
Tom: It’s good. My boss is a little crazy, but it keeps me out of student housing.
MH: What’s so crazy about your boss?
Tom: He’s, just, nuts. I mean, yesterday I walked in on him doing a fashion show for himself, singing to Thrift Shop. He saw me and was excited to have an audience for the last of it.
MH: That does sound, random. I’ll bet he keeps work entertaining at least.
Tom: Yeah, definitely. And he’s been really good getting me experience in the lab. Speaking of which, this position, it’s working in a lab right?MH: (Looking at my watch) I’m so sorry Tom, but I have to run! Thanks for stopping by and we’ll be in touch!
Thanks, Meradeth and Tom! Check out The Chemistry of Fate on Amazon and B&N. It's only $2.99 during the blog tour, so hurry!
Also, Meradeth has a giveaway for you! It's for a $10 Amazon GC and a beautiful journal. Enter below. And be sure to thank her or comment about the interview.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
“They are everywhere, can be anyone, and are always the last person you’d expect.” When Tom stumbles across his grandfather’s journal, he’s convinced the old man was crazier than he thought. The book contains references to beings called the Sary, immortals who are assigned to save humans on the verge of suicide. They certainly aren’t allowed to fall in love with mortals. Which the journal claims Tom’s grandfather did, resulting in his expulsion from the Sary. As strange as the journal seems, Tom can’t get the stories out of his head; especially when he finds the photo of his grandfather’s wings.Tom’s only distraction is Ari, the girl he studies with for their chemistry class.
Ari has one goal when she arrives in town: see how much Tom knows about the Sary and neutralize the situation. This isn’t a normal job, but protecting the secrecy of the Sary is vital. If Tom is a threat to exposing the Sary to the public, fate has a way of taking care of the situation, usually ending with the mortal’s death. While Ari spends time with Tom, he becomes more than just an assignment, but how far can a relationship go when she can’t tell him who she really is? When she finds out just how much Tom actually knows about the Sary, Ari is forced to choose between her wings, and her heart.
Thanks so much for hosting me Kelly! I thought I’d give everyone a little introduction to Tom today, and allow you to get to know him a little better (and realize just why I love the guy in all his slightly-nerdy glory).
MH: (I sit down at my desk and take a long sip from a mug of something that is theoretically water. Tom settles uncomfortably into the seat across from me, nervously rubbing his hands together.) Nice of you to join us here today, Tom!
Tom: Thanks for having me. I think. Just what was this job interview for again?
MH: Yeah, about that, we’ll talk once we’re done, m’k? Moving on, tell me Tom, are you currently seeing anyone?
Tom: Wait, what does thathave to do with a job?
MH: (Another sip) It just does. We like to be thorough. So, are you seeing anyone?
Tom: (Looking around like he might bolt for the door any second.) No. I don’t have time.
MH: Don’t have time? Come on, there has to be someone you at least have your eye on? A guy who looks like you (I can’t help eyeing the nice muscles on his arms) doesn’t have trouble getting dates, I’m sure.
Tom: You’re not going to give in until I say a name are you?
MH: Nope. Not a chance.
Tom: There’s a girl I study with for our chemistry class. Without her, I’d probably be flunking. She’s way out of my league though. Nothing’s going to happen.
MH: I’m very sorry to hear you think that. You two haven’t done anything other than study together?
Tom: (Sighs) She’s asked me to grab coffee a few times. But I can’t get involved. I need to keep my grades up.
MH: Why is that so important?
Tom: I’m on a full ride scholarship but the required grades are really high. If I don’t keep them up, so long scholarship and so long college.
MH: Sounds rough.
Tom: Yeah, well, that’s why I need another job…?
MH: We’ll get that to that, I promise. Tell me, do you work anywhere else already?
Tom: I have a job in a genetics lab on campus. I work there part-time.
MH: Do you like it?
Tom: It’s good. My boss is a little crazy, but it keeps me out of student housing.
MH: What’s so crazy about your boss?
Tom: He’s, just, nuts. I mean, yesterday I walked in on him doing a fashion show for himself, singing to Thrift Shop. He saw me and was excited to have an audience for the last of it.
MH: That does sound, random. I’ll bet he keeps work entertaining at least.
Tom: Yeah, definitely. And he’s been really good getting me experience in the lab. Speaking of which, this position, it’s working in a lab right?MH: (Looking at my watch) I’m so sorry Tom, but I have to run! Thanks for stopping by and we’ll be in touch!
Thanks, Meradeth and Tom! Check out The Chemistry of Fate on Amazon and B&N. It's only $2.99 during the blog tour, so hurry!
Also, Meradeth has a giveaway for you! It's for a $10 Amazon GC and a beautiful journal. Enter below. And be sure to thank her or comment about the interview.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
May 21, 2013
An Interpretation of Dreams Guest Post by YA Author Heather Reid
I'm so excited to have my Month9Books publishing house sister Heather Reid with me today. Ever since seeing Heather's gorgeous cover and reading the blurb, I've been dying to get my hands on Pretty Dark Nothing.
Seventeen-year-old Quinn hadn’t slept a full night in twenty-three days. She’s terrified of the demons that stalk her dreams, pull her into a deep dark nothingness and whisper hauntingly of her death. Exhausted, Quinn dozes off in the school hallway, and Aaron, an amnesiac with a psychic ability, accidentally enters her nightmare. If Quinn can learn to trust her heart, and Aaron can discover the secret locked away in his fragile memory, their combined power could banish the darkness back to the underworld for good. That is, unless the demons kill them first.
Heather L. Reid is both American and British and has called six different cities in three different countries, home. Her strong sense of wanderlust and craving for a new adventure mean you might find her wandering the moors of her beloved Scotland, exploring haunted castles, or hiking through a magical forest in search of fairies and sprites. When she’s not venturing into the unknown in her real life, she loves getting lost in the worlds of video games or curling up by the fire with good story. For now, this native Texan is back in the Lone Star State, settling down with her Scottish husband and dreaming up new novels to write.Purchase on Amazon or
B&N
Find Heather on Twitter: @HeatherLReid and check out her website: www.heatherlreid.com.
Take it away, Heather!
An Interpretation of Dreams
"Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there, wondering, fearing, doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before."
Edgar Allan Poe
Last night, fireworks exploded in the sky around our house. Millions of red and blue lights streaked across the night sky. The windows rattled from the concussion echoing across the neighbourhood and I was frightened. I ran for my husband and begged him to wake up. Something strange was going on and we needed to get out of here. Turning on the news, we were shocked to find entire cities had been destroyed by an eerie green death ray (think War of The Worlds). The Earth was under attack and all we could do was watch the devastation play out around us. That’s when I woke myself up.
I’ve always been a vivid dreamer. As a child, I suffered from night terrors and sleep walking. Although I eventually grew out of the sleep walking, the nightmares never went away. I would dream of faceless entities and demons on a reoccurring basis. I spent my pre-teen years trying to rationalize my fear while I spent my nights huddled under my covers with a book and a flash light afraid to fall asleep for fear of what would greet me in my dreams. There were even nights I suffered from severe and terrifying sleep paralysis as well as out of body experiences.
When I got older, I started to control my dreams instead of letting my dreams control me. As I slept, I became aware that I was dreaming and would make choices to change the outcome. Sometimes I would choose to run from whatever was chasing me, or sometimes I would stop the dream and change it completely. It wasn’t until I started reading books about dreams and dream interpretation that I found out about lucid dreaming and became fascinated with the meaning of dreams. Keeping a dream journal helped me reflect on what was going on in my everyday life that might affect me. It helped me take control and understand what my unconscious was trying to tell me. I still have nightmares every now and then, but I understand them now, and I rarely wake up in a cold sweat anymore.
Want to know about lucid dreaming, false awakenings, and dream interpretation? Check out some of these links. http://psychology.about.com/od/statesofconsciousness/p/dream-interpret.htmhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucid_dreamhttp://www.dreammoods.com/http://www.dreambible.com/
Are you a lucid dreamer? What are your thoughts on the meanings of dreams?
Seventeen-year-old Quinn hadn’t slept a full night in twenty-three days. She’s terrified of the demons that stalk her dreams, pull her into a deep dark nothingness and whisper hauntingly of her death. Exhausted, Quinn dozes off in the school hallway, and Aaron, an amnesiac with a psychic ability, accidentally enters her nightmare. If Quinn can learn to trust her heart, and Aaron can discover the secret locked away in his fragile memory, their combined power could banish the darkness back to the underworld for good. That is, unless the demons kill them first.
Heather L. Reid is both American and British and has called six different cities in three different countries, home. Her strong sense of wanderlust and craving for a new adventure mean you might find her wandering the moors of her beloved Scotland, exploring haunted castles, or hiking through a magical forest in search of fairies and sprites. When she’s not venturing into the unknown in her real life, she loves getting lost in the worlds of video games or curling up by the fire with good story. For now, this native Texan is back in the Lone Star State, settling down with her Scottish husband and dreaming up new novels to write.Purchase on Amazon or
B&N
Find Heather on Twitter: @HeatherLReid and check out her website: www.heatherlreid.com.Take it away, Heather!
An Interpretation of Dreams
"Deep into that darkness peering, long I stood there, wondering, fearing, doubting, dreaming dreams no mortal ever dared to dream before."
Edgar Allan Poe
Last night, fireworks exploded in the sky around our house. Millions of red and blue lights streaked across the night sky. The windows rattled from the concussion echoing across the neighbourhood and I was frightened. I ran for my husband and begged him to wake up. Something strange was going on and we needed to get out of here. Turning on the news, we were shocked to find entire cities had been destroyed by an eerie green death ray (think War of The Worlds). The Earth was under attack and all we could do was watch the devastation play out around us. That’s when I woke myself up.
I’ve always been a vivid dreamer. As a child, I suffered from night terrors and sleep walking. Although I eventually grew out of the sleep walking, the nightmares never went away. I would dream of faceless entities and demons on a reoccurring basis. I spent my pre-teen years trying to rationalize my fear while I spent my nights huddled under my covers with a book and a flash light afraid to fall asleep for fear of what would greet me in my dreams. There were even nights I suffered from severe and terrifying sleep paralysis as well as out of body experiences.
When I got older, I started to control my dreams instead of letting my dreams control me. As I slept, I became aware that I was dreaming and would make choices to change the outcome. Sometimes I would choose to run from whatever was chasing me, or sometimes I would stop the dream and change it completely. It wasn’t until I started reading books about dreams and dream interpretation that I found out about lucid dreaming and became fascinated with the meaning of dreams. Keeping a dream journal helped me reflect on what was going on in my everyday life that might affect me. It helped me take control and understand what my unconscious was trying to tell me. I still have nightmares every now and then, but I understand them now, and I rarely wake up in a cold sweat anymore.
Want to know about lucid dreaming, false awakenings, and dream interpretation? Check out some of these links. http://psychology.about.com/od/statesofconsciousness/p/dream-interpret.htmhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lucid_dreamhttp://www.dreammoods.com/http://www.dreambible.com/
Are you a lucid dreamer? What are your thoughts on the meanings of dreams?
May 19, 2013
Monday Mishmash 5/20/13
Happy Monday! Here's my mishmash of thoughts:
Scholastic Book Fair I'm working the Scholastic Book Fair at my daughter's school again this week. Even though I just placed an online order, I'm sure I'll be buying more books.Cricket's Drive Around Town This weekend I got the color illustrations for my upcoming picture book and they blew my mind. This book is going to be so adorable!Into the Fire I just sent my edits off to my editor this past weekend for Into the Fire, which is coming in January 2014 through Month9Books. And I updated my FB author page so the gorgeous cover is on there. :)Stalked by Death ARC My Stalked by Death ARC arrived on Saturday! Squee! I thought I wasn't getting it until BEA, so I'm really excited to get to hold my pretty book!Advantage: Heartbreak Less than 10 days until the release of Advantage: Heartbreak, novella #2 in the Game. Set. Match. Heartbreak series. Yay!That's it for me. What's on your mind today?
Scholastic Book Fair I'm working the Scholastic Book Fair at my daughter's school again this week. Even though I just placed an online order, I'm sure I'll be buying more books.Cricket's Drive Around Town This weekend I got the color illustrations for my upcoming picture book and they blew my mind. This book is going to be so adorable!Into the Fire I just sent my edits off to my editor this past weekend for Into the Fire, which is coming in January 2014 through Month9Books. And I updated my FB author page so the gorgeous cover is on there. :)Stalked by Death ARC My Stalked by Death ARC arrived on Saturday! Squee! I thought I wasn't getting it until BEA, so I'm really excited to get to hold my pretty book!Advantage: Heartbreak Less than 10 days until the release of Advantage: Heartbreak, novella #2 in the Game. Set. Match. Heartbreak series. Yay!That's it for me. What's on your mind today?
