Eden Baylee's Blog, page 84
March 26, 2014
New Release by @TobyWNeal ~ Shattered Palms
I’m thrilled to highlight the latest release from author and friend, Toby Neal. She’s the only author I know who lives in Hawaii and greets me with “Aloha!”
You will learn more about her in a future author interview, but I wanted to draw attention to her new novel, Shattered Palms, the 6th book in her wildly popular LEI CRIME SERIES. It’s garnering excellent reviews and climbing the charts, so pick up your copy!
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Sold via Amazon
Maui is lush mountains, cloud forest and exquisite birdsong—but for Detective Lei Texeira, arrows break that peace.
Someone is stalking poachers that are capturing Maui’s rarest birds, and Lei pursues the case with her usual leap-first, look-later style—but will she be able to catch a killer, save the birds, and still make it to her own wedding? Shattered Palms is a roller coaster ride from the top of Haleakala to the beach and back again, with extinction at stake.
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Connect to Toby
Website | Facebook | Twitter @tobywneal
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Filed under: Author Promotions
March 23, 2014
Music Monday says You Can’t Always Get What You Want
I’ve been providing clues to my new book for weeks now, and guess what? This is the final clue.
You know what that means, right? I’ve finished writing the book! :D
I’m excited, SUPER excited! Next steps: The manuscript goes to my wonderful editor, Annetta Ribken, and the amazing JB Graphics will design the cover and create a new book website for me.
It’s been a long haul. There is still so much to do, but for now, I just want to breathe and thank everyone who has been so patient, loving, and supportive during my writing process. I am thrilled with the book, and I hope you will be too.
Look for more information about my book in future blogs, including book title, release date details, marketing, and more.
As for this song by the Rolling Stones … it’s one of my favorites, and a perfect final clue.
Big love ♥
~eden
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” … I saw her today at the reception
In her glass was a bleeding man
She was practised in the art of deception
I could tell by her blood-stained hands
Oh, you can’t always get what you want
Oh, you can’t always get what you want
But if you try sometime
You just might find
You get what you need …”
Here were previous weeks’ song clues:
The Tide Is High | Crazy | Coconut | Mad World
Something | You’re So Vain | It’s Probably Me
Windmills of Your Mind | She’s Always a Woman
If you want to read other genres I write: erotica/romance, flash fiction, and short stories with a twist, check out the selection.
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Filed under: Musical Mondays
March 20, 2014
Read an Exchange with Author @RaymondBolton
Raymond, welcome to Eden’s Exchange, so thrilled to reconnect after writing with you as part of the collective Black Ink, White Paper. Recently, I had the pleasure of picking up your book, Awakening, The Ydron Saga.
Now we get to learn more about you and your writing.
Readers, please sit back and enjoy!
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Ray, are you a full time writer or do you have a day job?
Hopefully one day my writing will support me, but by day I’m a hairstylist.
Yes, I knew that about you. :) How do you divide your time?
These days, it seems my time divides me. I have clients both in Santa Fe, New Mexico and Portland, Oregon and I’m on a plane every Wednesday. What with maintaining these two businesses and trying to keep my marriage vital, I write whenever I can make time: hopefully mornings, sometimes when a client cancels her appointment, almost always while I’m in the air.
Wow, a traveling stylist! Do you have another profession you would you like to try?
Other than writing or hairdressing, I can’t think of another. I’ve spent 38 years making people feel good about themselves and I’m hoping to spend the next 38 providing people pleasure with my writing.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Over the years, I’ve worked hard to change everything about myself that needed changing. Seriously. This is not just vanity speaking. Now, as I move past middle age, I like whom I see when I look into the mirror.
Do you have a motto you live by?
Act as if you cannot fail. (Ashanti proverb)
I like that. How about what makes you laugh, and I mean, REALLY laugh?
When I’m at home, my wife and I get really goofy together. We spend a lot of time simply howling. I think it comes from the pure joy of being able to be our uninhibited selves and loving each other unconditionally.
What a lovely response. Let’s learn a bit more about your writing. Where do you draw your inspiration from?
I love people. I study them. My work puts me with hundreds every year and they tell me their stories.
What motivates you to write?
I need to write. I think I would die if I didn’t.
It’s a passion for you, that I know. What is the best advice you’ve received as a writer?
Be honest. Write from the heart.
Name a few of your favorite authors and books, and why you like them.
John Steinbeck’s East of Eden tops the list. Ever since I read it, the people he created inhabit me. Polar Star by Martin Cruz Smith: his facility with language drops the reader into the rich world he creates. The Magus by John Fowles: he taught me to question the “reality” I perceive. J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings for reasons too obvious to mention.
A great list, and you know I’m a fan of John Fowles too. How do you market yourself?
Although I am primarily relying on Twitter and KDP Select for the moment, I’m very fortunate that a number of writers who have read my writing, such as yourself, are choosing to feature me in their blogs.
How would you define your style of writing?
Literary. I love the English language, its richness, its subtle nuances and complexity.
I love the language too. No wonder we get along! What part of writing a novel do you enjoy the most? The least?
Getting a story down on paper is the hardest part. To paraphrase Hemingway, it’s like bleeding onto the page. Interestingly, while most writers say they detest revisions, I love them because I finally arrive at what I wanted to say in the first place.
Tell us the genre of your book.
I’ve classed Awakening as an epic fantasy, but it’s really a sci-fi/fantasy hybrid with steam punk overtones. Hah! Is that enough of a genre bender for you?
Ha! It is a mouthful, yes. Why should people read your book?
In my opinion, there is an over-abundance of sci-fi/fantasy books laden with action but thin on the human element. Readers want to climb inside characters’ heads. Even when the story is set in an unearthly world, they need to be plunged into situations they can relate to on a gut level.
How long did it take for you to write it?
I began writing Awakening in the early 90s. It was my first book, and was severely flawed when I finished it. Nonetheless, I always had faith in its underlying story and returned to it repeatedly while I developed my craft producing other novels, to polish it into the book it has become.
What has the reception been to Awakening?
Beyond anything I ever expected. Awakening has been out just over one month, and it has drawn almost all five star reviews. One reviewer has compared it to A Game of Thrones. StoryStork.com, the “Newsletter that delivers great books,” calls Awakening “awesome,” is featuring it in its February 9 newsletter and is sending information about it to 100 bloggers. I’m an unknown, self-published author, but I’ve already been invited to Seattle, Washington to do a book signing on February 22. See my website for details.
Fantastic news, Raymond! I know the event has already passed, but I hope it was a great success for you. This is a good time to give readers a taste of the book and where they can pick it up.
Book Blurb:
How does a world armed with bows, arrows and catapults, where steam power has only begun to replace horses and sailing ships, avert conquest from beyond the stars?
Prince Regilius has been engineered to combat the Dalthin, a predatory alien species that enslaves worlds telepathically, and to do so he must unite his people. But when his mother murders his father, the land descends into chaos and his task may prove impossible. Faced with slaying the one who gave him life in order to protect his world, he seeks a better way. Set in a vast and varied land where telepaths and those with unusual mental abilities tip the course of events, Awakening goes to the heart of family, friendship and betrayal.
And you can buy it via Amazon in two formats: ebook | Print
What is the best way for someone to support your book, aside from buying it?
The best way for anyone to support Awakening, or any other book they enjoy, is to tell others about it and review it. If reading it has given you pleasure, the best way to thank an author for the months or years spent creating that experience is to take a few minutes to write and post an honest review.
Fun lightning round coming up!
Aside from people/pets, what is the ONE item you would save if your house was on fire? My computer. It holds my entire life.
Favorite place you’ve traveled to or would like to travel to? There are two places, actually: Spetsis, Greece—the island upon which John Fowles set his novel, The Magus—and Hanalei, Kau‘ai.
Name a food you can eat everyday. Coffee. It’s what words are made of.
Salty or sweet? Both. Earlier in the day, salty. Later in the day, sweet.
Favorite style of music? Rock.
Your most guilty pleasure. Haagen Daz Vanilla Swiss Almond.
Favorite season. Autumn.
Any final words, Ray?
I think the reason I’ve gotten to really like you over the years and am grateful for your friendship, Eden, is your honesty and lack of pretense. Ya gets whatcha sees, Hon.
Thank you, and big hugs, Ray. I wish you continued success with Awakening and your future books. Readers, I also know Ray is doing a Goodreads Book Giveaway for his book. Enter by hitting the logo, and good luck to all!
~ eden
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Connect To Raymond
Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads
Raymond Bolton divides his time between Santa Fe, New Mexico and Portland, Oregon, between he works as a high-end hairstylist in both cities, and his family, which consists of his wife and editor, Toni, and their two cats, Sophia & Georgie.
He began writing in the early ’90s, and over the course of the years, began entering writing competitions. In 2010, having written only nineteen poems ever, he garnered third place in the Pacific Northwest Writers Association’s annual literary competition among over 1,200 entries. More recently, his novels have begun winning significant recognition. In 2013, under its working title, Renunciation, Awakening was one of eight finalists from among 950 entries from the US, Canada, the UK, Europe and Australia in that same competition. It also won writerstype.com’s June 2013 first chapter competition.
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Filed under: Author & Artist Interviews
March 16, 2014
Music Monday with She’s Always a Woman
There are a lot of women in my upcoming psychological mystery, and this song is one of my favorites about the diversity of a woman. Enjoy Billy Joel’s song as another clue to my book.
“… Oh … she takes care of herself
She can wait if she wants, she’s ahead of her time
Oh … and she never gives out
And she never gives in, she just changes her mind
And she’ll promise you more than the garden of Eden
Then she’ll carelessly cut you and laugh while you’re bleeding
But she’ll bring out the best and the worst you can be
Blame it all on yourself ’cause she’s always a woman to me …”
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To recap, the clues so far are:
If you want to read other genres I write in: erotica/romance, flash fiction, and short stories with a twist, check out the selection.
Have a wonderful week,
eden
Filed under: Musical Mondays
March 13, 2014
Read an Exchange with Author @DiBartoloJoseph
Serendipity played a role in my connection to Joseph DiBartolo, or Joey, as he has asked me to call him. I’m happy to share my space, so you can learn more about him.
Let’s begin … Joey, how would your best friend describe you in 20 words or less?
Easy going, loyal and loves to help others when possible.
How sweet. 
I know you’ve been very generous sharing about other authors on social media.
Are you a full time writer or do you have a day job?
I do have a day job (sales). I try to carve a couple hours out each day for writing and networking, more on my days off.
As for writing, what is the best advice you’ve received?
If you ever receive a bad review, use it as fuel to get better.
I agree, constructive criticism is an opportunity to improve.
On a personal note, is there one thing you want to do before you die?
Go to Italy.
Nice! How about w hat makes you laugh, and I mean, REALLY laugh?
Family Guy. Seth Macfarlane is a comedic genius.
That is a funny show. What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?
Finishing and publishing a book.
Let’s talk about books then, shall we?
Name a few of your favorite authors and why you like them.
Stephen King, Dean Koontz, Jim Butcher, Tolkien and Clive Cussler. Because they are all amazing in their own unique way. And I’m a huge Edgar Allan Poe fan.
How would you define your style of writing?
Fast-paced!!!
Is it important for you to know the title or ending of a book before you write it?
Nope. I always end up changing a million things along the way.
How do you market yourself?
Mainly social networking. I’ve met some amazing and helpful people along the way. (Eden Baylee)
Ha! Charmer. Do you have any advice for new authors?
Same advice that was given to me. Don’t let negative reviews stop you or make you doubt yourself. We all have stories to tell, so tell them!!
Tell me a little about your books. What is the genre?
Horror!! Working on two projects but my next to be published will be “The Rise of Peter Troy” Volume 1. A short story series about zombies. And I’m working on book 2 of The Battle for Blood series.
Excellent! I’ve included your latest book below too, and all three of them can be found on Amazon US and Amazon UK.
Tell us why should people read your books?
I think people will like my fast-paced style. I won’t let you get bored and you’ll actually care about what happens to the characters.
How long did it take for you to write them?
About two months while working on other projects in between.
You are fast! What inspired you to write these books?
I love zombie films/shows. Writing about them was inevitable.
What is the best way for someone to support your books, aside from buying it?
Leave a review. They go a long way.
Well said. To conclude the interview, let’s do a fun lightning round.
Aside from people/pets, what is the ONE item you would save if your house was on fire? My laptop.
Name a food you can eat everyday. Anything Chinese!!!
Salty or sweet? Sweet.
Cat/dog/other pet? Dog (Guido).
Your most guilty pleasure. Gaming,
Name something you cannot go a day without. Air.
Wow, you took me literally.
Favorite season. Being in Florida we don’t really have seasons but I’d have to say the winter. Small break from the heat.
Here is where we must part ways, I’m afraid. I hate winter! Thanks so much for sharing of yourself, Joey, and I wish you much success with your writing. 
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Joseph DiBartolo is a new author, avid reader, gamer and film enthusiast who resides in South Florida. After many years wasted in other lines of work he decided to follow his long time dream of becoming a writer. A Timely Curse is his first publication and is of the paranormal variety at novella length. His latest release, Essence is also in the paranormal/horror genre and is the first installment in the Battle for Blood series.
Find Joseph all over the Internet:
Author’s Database | Facebook | Goodreads
Blog | @Twitter @DiBartoloJoseph | Google +
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Filed under: Author & Artist Interviews
March 10, 2014
I’m Walking the Runway for @DaretoWearLove #fashion #aids #dtwl
Last month, I participated in the Dare to Wear Challenge to raise money for the Stephen Lewis Foundation. With your help, I raised over $1000! In total, the participants collected over $19,000 toward turning the tide of HIV & AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa.
♥ Thank you so much for your generosity. ♥
The Dare to Wear Love event culminates in a gala evening with dinner and a fashion show March 28th. This year, I was chosen to walk the runway, along with three of my fellow Dare to Wear Challengers!
Give it up for:
We will each be wearing original designs by the incredible Susan Dicks. She, along with other amazing Canadian designers are donating their talents for the show.
Six yards of this African cloth will be used to create my outfit
Tickets are still available for March 28th evening. If you’d like to see an amazing video from last year’s show, hit the poster below and enjoy!
My sincerest gratitude again for helping me spread the word for this wonderful cause.
~eden
♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Learn more about:
Dare to Wear Love and The Stephen Lewis Foundation
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Filed under: Important Announcements
March 9, 2014
Music Monday in the Windmills of Your Mind
There are a lot of mind games in my upcoming psychological mystery, and this song provides terrific metaphors for it. Enjoy the dreamy Dusty Springfield and another clue in my upcoming novel.
“… Like a circle in a spiral
Like a wheel within a wheel
Never ending or beginning
On an ever spinning reel
Like a snowball down a mountain
Or a carnival balloon
Like a carousel that’s turning
Running rings around the moon …”
To recap, the clues so far were:
If you want to read other genres I write in: erotica/romance, flash fiction, and short stories with a twist, check out the selection.
Wishing you a wonderful week,
eden
Filed under: Musical Mondays
March 8, 2014
Roll-Her Dervish~A new film by the incredible @BethofBamNorth
Filmmaker Beth Mairs of BAM North Productions is a dear friend, and I’m thrilled to be involved with her newest project, a film called Roll-Her Dervish. She has an IndieGoGo campaign for it now after following around the subjects of the film for over a year.
A trailer and all the details can be found on the site. As part of International Woman’s Day, Indiegogo is generously contributing an extra dollar for every $25 raised by this campaign, so please give what you can. It’s a great opportunity to see your money work even harder for you.
Find out more about Roll-Her Dervish on the Indiegogo page.
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Connect to BAM North Productions
Website | Facebook | Twitter: @BethofBAMNorth
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Filed under: Important Announcements
March 2, 2014
Music Monday says It’s Probably Me
Until my book is released, I’m featuring music to provide clues about its plot, characters, setting, mood, and more.
Sting and Eric Clapton in black and white, mysterious lyrics … all hard to beat.
“… When the world’s gone crazy and it makes no sense
There’s only one voice that comes to your defense
The jury’s out and your eyes search the room
And one friendly face is all you need to see
If there’s one guy, just one guy
Who’d lay down his life for you and die
It’s hard to say it
I hate to say it, but it’s probably me …”
To recap, the clues so far were:
If you want to read other genres I write in: erotica/romance, flash fiction, and short stories with a twist, check out the selection.
Have a lovely week,
eden
Filed under: Musical Mondays
February 27, 2014
You LIKE me! On winning the Versatile Blogger Award
Okay, so I stole Sally Field’s line, but I’m truly honored to receive the Versatile Blogger Award from author, Christoph Fisher, whom I had the pleasure of interviewing. If you missed it, you can still read it here.
For me, the most rewarding thing about blog awards is learning more about the person who nominated me. I rarely participate in these memes myself. If you want to know why, read my article from Nov. 2011, a year after I set up my blog.
In re-reading that post, I realized I had received this award before, so I thought I should finally participate. It’s great to be recognized by a peer, and versatility is something I value in blogs, but even more so in people.
Given that, don’t forget to find out why Christoph received his award.
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As part of this award, I’m supposed to tell you seven things about myself, then nominate fifteen other bloggers whom I think deserve this award.
They in turn, will keep this meme going (if they so wish), and we all get to discover some wonderful and versatile bloggers. So, here goes, and hope you enjoy
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1) I had my ears pierced at five by my aunt. She rubbed ginger root on my lobes and stuck a needle through them that had been heated over a burner. I don’t remember it hurting but I cried anyway. Here I am modeling my first pair of earrings. Please ignore the outfit.
2) I do not own a cell phone and have no intention of getting one. I never want to be that accessible, nor do I want to look like this guy.
3) My laptop is with me almost all the time, and I’m one of those obnoxious MAC users. You know who you are.
4) I’m an online Scrabble freak with about 20 games on the go at any given time. I play with friends, strangers, enemies. I’m also extremely competitive, so don’t expect to win.
5) I’m a strong advocate for sexual diversity and since 2011, have been a judge for the Feminist Porn Awards. It’s an incredible event sponsored by Good for Her, which supports the LGBTQ community in Toronto.
6) I still have all 130 of my 45s in pristine condition (numbered and dated of course). If you’re too young to know what a 45 is, then you probably won’t know what this is either.
7) I took two years of classes for a Conservative Jewish conversion. At one time, I could read Hebrew and recite many of the prayers. In the end, I went through three rabbis who would not convert me … but that’s a story for another blog.
And now the moment you’ve all been waiting for! Drum roll please …
I bequeath the honors to these fifteen bloggers, whom I have great respect for. It wasn’t easy to narrow down to only 15, but here goes …
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thedailygrime ~ Writer of funny, witty, and newsworthy posts
John Dolan ~ English author living in Thailand, polymath, smartypants
Nicole Chardenet ~ American author turned crazy Canuck author
Billy Ray Chitwood ~ Prolific author and poet who tells beautiful stories
Lisette Brodey ~ Author of multiple genres and terrific interviewer
Jamie White ~ Author, blogger, photo geek, editor
William Kendall ~ Writer, rogue, and scoundrel
Ned Hickson ~ Author and journalist of humor and writerly advice
Junying Kirk ~ Traveller, author, foodie, videographer
Sharkbait Writes ~ Author of multiple genres and gamer, Rob Pruneda
Justin Bog ~ Author, storyteller, pop culture connoisseur
ThrillWriting ~ Excellent resource for writers from author, Fiona Quinn
L.M. Stull ~ Poet, author, reader, runner, and so much more
Majk Ink ~ Author, school nerd and techno genius
Bloody Munchkin ~ Creative writer and advocate of worthy causes
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Filed under: Revelations & Humor
