T.R. Graves's Blog: T. R. Graves, Author, page 24

YA Indie Carnival - Dream Casting for Warriors

It's that time of week again. Thanks for continuing to support the YA Indie Carnival and its sponsors. Today, my peers and I are sharing dream casts for our upcoming novels. Until now, I've shied away from putting faces on the characters of Warriors of the Cross . This post has given me the unexpected opportunity to share with you the phenomenal actors/actresses who would be perfect for the roles.

Blake Lively would absolutely be Dr. Allison Faith La Cross. Really, could anyone be more beautiful and talented?



Zach Efron would be Dr. Brody Kennedy, the only other Warrior. Drew Roy would be Clark Ardent, attorney... Guardian. Emma Roberts would be Mallory Peace La Crosse, Allison's troubled sister. Zhang Ziyi would be the malevolent, Dr. Suri Chan. Hallie Berry would be the admirable Marci Alfred, RN, Gillian's mother and Allison's friend. Sela Ward would be Lita Kennedy, Brody's amazing mother. Hugh Jackman would be James Joya, Allison's devoted father.
♬ANNOUNCEMENTS♬
The Von Strassenberg Saga by Gwenn Wright (book cover designed by Dani Snell):Book Trailer: 13 on Halloween by Laura A. H. Elliott's: Book trailer & Excerpt
Don't forget to visit the other carnival participant's and see who they cast as the stars of their books.✰ Dani Snell's Refracted Light Reviews
✰ Patti Larsen Author of The Ghost Boy of MacKenzie House, The Hunted Series and the Hayle Coven Novels
✰ Courtney Cole Author of Every Last Kiss, Fated, Princess, and Guardian. Also, she's a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles.
✰ Nicole Williams Author of Eternal Eden, and Fallen Eden. She is also a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles.
✰ Fisher Amelie Author of The Understorey, as well as a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles
✰ Laura A. H. Elliott Author of Winnemucca and soon to be released 13 on Halloween
✰ Amy Maurer Jones Author of The Soul Quest Trilogy as well as a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles
✰ Rachel Coles. Geek Mom. Book Reviewer Author of Diary of a Duct Tape Zombie, Whistles, Beergarden, Plagues, Bees of St. John, and Mushrooms
✰ T. R. Graves T.R. Graves: Author of Warriors of the Cross and soon to be released Guardians of the Cross
✰ P.J. Hoover Author of Solstice, The Emerald Tablet, The Navel of the World, The Necropolis
✰ Alicia McCalla Author of the upcoming science-fiction novel Breaking Free
✰ Abbi Glines Author of Breathe, and the upcoming Existence and Vincent Boys
✰ Cheri Schmidt Author of Fateful, Fractured, and Fair Maiden
✰ Lexus Luke Author of Manitou, The Sky People Saga
✰ Suzy Turner Author of December Moon and Raven
✰ K. C. Blake Author of Vampires Rule, Werewolves Rule, and Crushed
✰ Gwenn Wright Author of Filter
✰ Kimberly Kinrade Author of Bits of You, Pieces of Me and Forbidden Mind
✰ J.L. Bryan Author of Paranormals series - Jenny Pox, Tommy Nightmare, and Alexander Death
✰ Darby Karchut Author of Griffin Rising
✰ Madeline Smoot Author of Missing (Liv & Death)
✰ M. Leighton Author of Blood Like Poison Series, Wiccan, Caterpillar, Madly & Wolfhardt, and The Reaping

YA Indie Carnival - Dreamcast

It's that time of week again. Thanks for continuing to support the YA Indie Carnival and its sponsors. Today, my peers and I are sharing dream casts for our upcoming novels. Until now, I've shied away from putting faces on the characters of Warriors of the Cross . This post has given me the unexpected opportunity to share with you the phenomenal actors/actresses who would be perfect for the roles.

Blake Lively would absolutely be Dr. Allison Faith La Cross. Really, could anyone be more beautiful and talented?



Zach Efron would be Dr. Brody Kennedy, the only other Warrior. Drew Roy would be Clark Ardent, attorney... Guardian. Emma Roberts would be Mallory Peace La Crosse, Allison's troubled sister. Zhang Ziyi would be the malevolent, Dr. Suri Chan. Hallie Berry would be the admirable Marci Alfred, RN, Gillian's mother and Allison's friend. Sela Ward would be Lita Kennedy, Brody's amazing mother. Hugh Jackman would be James Joya, Allison's devoted father.
♬ANNOUNCEMENTS♬
The Von Strassenberg Saga by Gwenn Wright (book cover designed by Dani Snell):Book Trailer: 13 on Halloween by Laura A. H. Elliott's: Book trailer & Excerpt
Don't forget to visit the other carnival participant's and see who they cast as the stars of their books.✰ Dani Snell's Refracted Light Reviews
✰ Patti Larsen Author of The Ghost Boy of MacKenzie House, The Hunted Series and the Hayle Coven Novels
✰ Courtney Cole Author of Every Last Kiss, Fated, Princess, and Guardian. Also, she's a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles.
✰ Nicole Williams Author of Eternal Eden, and Fallen Eden. She is also a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles.
✰ Fisher Amelie Author of The Understorey, as well as a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles
✰ Laura A. H. Elliott Author of Winnemucca and soon to be released 13 on Halloween
✰ Amy Maurer Jones Author of The Soul Quest Trilogy as well as a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles
✰ Rachel Coles. Geek Mom. Book Reviewer Author of Diary of a Duct Tape Zombie, Whistles, Beergarden, Plagues, Bees of St. John, and Mushrooms
✰ T. R. Graves T.R. Graves: Author of Warriors of the Cross and soon to be released Guardians of the Cross
✰ P.J. Hoover Author of Solstice, The Emerald Tablet, The Navel of the World, The Necropolis
✰ Alicia McCalla Author of the upcoming science-fiction novel Breaking Free
✰ Abbi Glines Author of Breathe, and the upcoming Existence and Vincent Boys
✰ Cheri Schmidt Author of Fateful, Fractured, and Fair Maiden
✰ Lexus Luke Author of Manitou, The Sky People Saga
✰ Suzy Turner Author of December Moon and Raven
✰ K. C. Blake Author of Vampires Rule, Werewolves Rule, and Crushed
✰ Gwenn Wright Author of Filter
✰ Kimberly Kinrade Author of Bits of You, Pieces of Me and Forbidden Mind
✰ J.L. Bryan Author of Paranormals series - Jenny Pox, Tommy Nightmare, and Alexander Death
✰ Darby Karchut Author of Griffin Rising
✰ Madeline Smoot Author of Missing (Liv & Death)
✰ M. Leighton Author of Blood Like Poison Series, Wiccan, Caterpillar, Madly & Wolfhardt, andThe Reaping



YA Indie Carnival - Indie Idol

In today's Indie Carnival post, we are writing about Indie authors weadmire.  Our own special Indie Idols.  I've said several times The Sisters from The Warrior Series aremore than three wonderful characters. With this post, I'm being given the privilege of sharing some specialdetails that will help everyone to understand why I've picked The Sistersas my IDOLS. 

In Warriors of the Cross , the readers were introduced to Lita(Brody's mother) and Glenna and Sylvia (Brody's aunts).  Lita's character is based off my belovedmother-in-law (who died seven years ago of lymphoma).  Glenna and Sylvia's characters are reincarnations ofLita's very talented sisters (who are still alive and well).  While these three women are role models forwomen of all ages, they are especially inspirational to me because they were Indie (musician, author, andartist) before Indie was cool.   
Lita recorded an album 30+ years ago and sold them herselfat church functions.  Her singing wasinfamous to anyone who ever heard her. In fact, singing was such a part of Lita that her everyday speaking voicewas beautiful and melodic.  I personallywitnessed the way people were drawn in. Looking back, I realize it was her voice that literallypulled them her way.  While it may have been the reason people were attracted, they stayed close becausethe internal beauty and kindness she possessed.  Below, I've added a snippet of one of the songs from her album.  The transition from album to MP3 is not perfect, but it will give you an idea of how beautifully she sang.


Glenna.  In the book,I created a character whose words are so eloquent and poetic that her talentsare instantly recognized by anyone conversing with her.  The real-life Glenna is exactly likethat.  I've never met anyone else whose everyword should be documented for the world to relish in and appreciate for yearsto come.  Below, I've included just oneof the many, many powerful passages she shared with the world via smallpress more than 30 years ago.  The mostdifficult part of this post is narrowing her entire body ofwork down to one.  
Forgive me, Lord, if ever I should wrap myselfin pharisiac robes when I see another fallIn no way am I greaterbecause of another's weakness.At the most it only turns the eyesof the crowd away from my own frailty.Few of us would ever think of hurting someonephysicallybut too many times we have used the powerof "talk" to kill.Here, Lord, take these stones I hold.
Sylvia's created some of the most beautiful water-colorpaintings I've ever seen.  I've learned fromher to be selfless when it comes to my work. She's made a habit of giving her masterpieces away to people she knew would appreciate them rather than keeping them tucked away in a closet or sellingthem.  Actually, my most treasured art -that which exists on the walls of my house - was painted by Sylvia.  While these pieces are sentimental because ofthe labor that she put into them, I love them for the peace and tranquility they represent.  Sylvia partnered with Glenna and became a book illustrator.  Unfortunately, I couldn't download a sharp/crisp picture of Sylvia's work.  Rather than provide something that did little justice to Sylvia or her work, I chose not to include examples (for now). 

After 're-educating' myself on these great women's work, I'm more positive than ever that they are my role-models...my IDOLS.  They have shown me the importance of taking the road less traveled (if necessary) in order to make your dreams come true.  They also proved to me Indie does not mean less talented because there have been fewer people in the world more talented than these sisters.

Books by Glenna Oldham & Sylvia Grubbs:
✥Friends 
✥The Potter andthe Clay ✥Cherish theMemories ✥A Journal forPrayer & Praise ✥…for Hedelights in me 
Album by Lita Kennedy:
✥Sing Them Over Again

Don't forget to visit the other carnival participant's (women/men who are Indie Idols by their own right).

✰ Dani Snell's Refracted Light Reviews
✰ Patti Larsen Author of The Ghost Boy of MacKenzie House, The Hunted Series and the Hayle Coven Novels
✰ Courtney Cole Author of Every Last Kiss, Fated, Princess, and Guardian. Also, she's a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles.
✰ Nicole Williams Author of Eternal Eden, and Fallen Eden. She is also a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles.
✰ Fisher Amelie Author of The Understorey, as well as a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles
✰ Laura A. H. Elliott Author of Winnemucca and soon to be released 13 on Halloween
✰ Amy Maurer Jones Author of The Soul Quest Trilogy as well as a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles
✰ Rachel Coles. Geek Mom. Book Reviewer Author of Diary of a Duct Tape Zombie, Whistles, Beergarden, Plagues, Bees of St. John, and Mushrooms
✰ T. R. Graves T.R. Graves: Author of Warriors of the Cross and soon to be released Guardians of the Cross
✰ P.J. Hoover Author of Solstice, The Emerald Tablet, The Navel of the World, The Necropolis
✰ Alicia McCalla Author of the upcoming science-fiction novel Breaking Free
✰ Abbi Glines Author of Breathe, and the upcoming Existence and Vincent Boys
✰ Cheri Schmidt Author of Fateful, Fractured, and Fair Maiden
✰ Lexus Luke Author of Manitou, The Sky People Saga
✰ Suzy Turner Author of December Moon and Raven
✰ K. C. Blake Author of Vampires Rule, Werewolves Rule, and Crushed
✰ Gwenn Wright Author of Filter
✰ Kimberly Kinrade Author of Bits of You, Pieces of Me and Forbidden Mind
✰ J.L. Bryan Author of Paranormals series - Jenny Pox, Tommy Nightmare, and Alexander Death
✰ Darby Karchut  Author of Griffin Rising

YA Scramble - Winners Announced

 The YA Scramble was 24 hours of insanity as friends/follower/fans hopped from one blog to another, collecting letters and unscrambling the secret phrase. The answer was:

WE HEART YA BOOKS
One lucky person is walking away with the Grand Prize which includes lots of amazing gifts such as:❤ARC of The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab (with signed bookmark)
❤Ebook of Soltice by PJ Hoover (with trading cards)❤Ebook of The Space Between by Alexandra Sokoloff❤Paperback copy of Perception by Heather Cashman❤Signed paperback ARC of Anathema by Kathleen Tucker❤Chronicles of Vladimir Tod Gift Set (Trade Paperback ofEighth Grade Bites, Vlad Journal, Minion Bling Buttons and Vlad Tote)❤Signed paperback copy of Between by Cyndi Tefft❤Signed hardcover of Clarity by Kim Harrington❤ARC of Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor❤Signed ARC of Fury by Elizabeth Miles❤Signed paperback of Linger by Maggie Stiefvater❤ARC of Tris & Izzie by Mette Ivie Harrison❤Copy of The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney❤Winner's choice of 5 ebooks from a list of indie authors (see collage below for examples)❤Signed paperback of Sleepers by Megg Jensen❤Ebooks of Soul Quest and The Guardians of Souls by Amy Jones❤Kindle copy of Winnemucca by Laura Elliott (plus a guest post spot on her blog!)
❤Paperback copy of City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

 And the Grand Prize Winner is...Mindy Herbert! And now for a list of the other lucky readers whose names were drawn for the individual prizes... ✯ SableLexi wins a signed copy of Clarity by Kim Harringtonand a signed ARC of Carrier of the Mark by Leigh Fallon from Irish/Gail. ✯ Bookishly Malyza wins a signed paperback of Between byCyndi Tefft. ✯ Mirrormera92 wins a pack of Solstice trading cards fromPJ Hoover. ✯ Sarah Nicolas wins an ebook of Anathema by KathleenTucker. ✯ Lolawid wins a pre-order book of her choice from KaitlinSimpson. ✯ Janhvi wins an ARC of Loss by Jackie Morse Kessler fromJennifer Morris and a pack of Solstice  trading cards from PJ Hoover.  ✯ Britney Wyatt wins a book of her choice from DanielleBunner's list and FIVE ebooks from a selection of indie authors from T.R.Graves. (see collage above for examples) ✯ Tamara Basic wins an ebook of Perception from HeatherCashman and a pack of Solstice trading cards from PJ Hoover.  ✯ Roro wins a copy of Flying Blind by Deborah Cooke fromJennifer Morris. ✯ Erin Baker wins an ebook of Sleepers from Megg Jensen. ✯ Aeicha wins an ebook of The Glassheart Chronicles fromAmy Jones and a pack of Solstice trading cards from PJ Hoover. ✯ Aimee Brandon wins a signed paperback of Winnemucca fromLaura Elliott along with a Winnemucca  coffee mug and a guest post onLaurasmagicday.

YA Indie Carnival - Back to School Is the Theme

Welcome Back!  Believe it or not, this is the 10th installment of the YA Indie Carnival.  Last week's giveaway was very successful thanks to some great authors/blogger/followers.  

Without further ado, the winners are:
✥ BBurton
✥ EmilyTardy✥ Darby Karchut✥ Cassandra✥ Vivien✥ amabe421✥ LuvToRead09 (won a Warriors of the Cross eBook)✥ Paige✥ Kimy Unalesca✥ JulieWitt✥ AveryOlive✥ Jess✥ The Queenof Teen Fiction✥ krystallarson✥ Emily:Emily Ann Ward
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!!!
This week, the carnival participants are sharing 'a first day of school experience from our writing AND our lives'.  Let me tell you in advance that the'first day of school' story I'm sharing is NOT mine but rather someone else's.   
 
*****WhenI was in the 10th grade, I was at school and went outside to find my friends for lunch.  Leaving my class, I saw from a distance several of my friends were staring my way as if anxiously awaitingmy arrival.  The closer I got, the more obvious it became that they were bursting at the seams to tell me something. 

It turned out that they wanted to gossip about a newstudent.  The second I approached them, they pointed his way.  While they tried to be discrete by using head tilts and eye movements, I'm confident their actions were not nearly as 'clandestine' as they thought.  Ignoring their rudeness, my gaze followed the direction they were hinting toward. 

That is when Isaw the most beautiful person that I'd ever laid eyes on.  I'd never used the word ethereal in my life, but - right then and there - I knew it applied to him.  He casually leaned against one of the many walkwaypoles and pretended to ignore the way everyone watched him like he was an animal at the zoo.  As gorgeous as he was, my first impression was that hewas very sad and lonely.

In the background, I vaguely heard mybest friend filling me in on everything he'd heard about the boy, includingthe fact that he was in the 11th grade. Instantly, I realized it was unusual for someone his age to move to a new school.  I wanted to know more, but hewas too stunning to approach much less befriend.  I, instead,left him standing by himself. 

Here's the thing.  I'llnever forgive myself for not reaching out to him that day.  It turned out that his mother had moved him away from his loving father,his childhood home, and the only friends he'd ever known.  His entire life had been uprooted with hismove from the fourth-largest city to our tiny, little town inLouisiana.  Having been married to him for the last 25 years, I now know that move - that first day of school - was one of the hardest things he's ever done.  Almost a man by then, he had choices, but he followed his mother and become the man of the family. 

Even today, he is selfless.  He puts my needs and his kids wants above his own on a daily basis.  I'll never be able to share every lesson he's taught me over the years, but on that day, I learned it is NEVER inappropriate to reach out to someone who looks likethey need a friend…because they probably do.

*****
Warriors of the Cross - Allison La Crosses's first day of residency: 

"Now, you've heard enough from me. Here are the three Chief Residents you will be working with day andnight," she said introducing the woman and two men walking into theauditorium.

Making their way next to her on the podium, two of theminstantaneously became invisible.  Thethird person's presence meant every other person in the roomfaded to black.  He wore a whiteskin-tight, long-sleeved t-shirt – one hugging every sun-browned ripple on hisarms, chest, and abdomen – and a pair of OR green scrub bottoms.

"This is Dr. Patel," Dr. Medsin said as the woman next to herlifted her hand to let us know she was Dr. Patel.

"Next to her is Dr. Martinez."

With that introduction, the bearded man beside Dr. Patel gaveeveryone a peace sign.

"Finally, we have Dr. Kennedy." 

Dr. Kennedy nodded his head in acknowledgment of Dr. Medsin'scomments.  He stood legs spread apart andhands locked behind his back.  He had anenviable confidence since public speaking led to weakness and nausea for me.  My gasp was audible when I realized he wasthe beautiful man who blew past me at Clark's the day before.  The one I'd dreamed about. 
Watching him, I became hypnotized. I was unable to pull my focus away from the beaming golden light, whichwas blinding and bright.  Its source wasan aura emitting from his pores like he had a powerful radiance embedded withinhim.  When I regained focused, his glowdisappeared. 
Mesmerized, I found myself unable to look away from him or histhick, wavy hair, which was brown with natural highlights.  Admiring his eyes, I saw a natural hint ofpink lining the rims of his lids.  Thecolor of his eyes happened to be as unique and beautiful as him.  A thin brown ring lined his teal-greenirises.  I thought, again, that he had tobe more stunning than anyone I had ever seen. Man or woman.
******
Don't forget to visit the other carnival participant's blogs and say a quick 'Hi!' to our newest members.
✰ Dani Snell's Refracted Light Reviews
✰ Patti Larsen Author of The Ghost Boy of MacKenzie House, The Hunted Series and the Hayle Coven Novels
✰ Courtney Cole Author of Every Last Kiss, Fated, Princess, and Guardian. Also, she's a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles.
✰ Nicole Williams Author of Eternal Eden, and Fallen Eden. She is also a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles.
✰ Fisher Amelie Author of The Understorey, as well as a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles
✰ Laura A. H. Elliott Author of Winnemucca and soon to be released 13 on Halloween
✰ Amy Maurer Jones Author of The Soul Quest Trilogy as well as a contributing author in The Glassheart Chronicles
✰ Rachel Coles. Geek Mom. Book Reviewer Author of Diary of a Duct Tape Zombie, Whistles, Beergarden, Plagues, Bees of St. John, and Mushrooms
✰ T. R. Graves T.R. Graves: Author of Warriors of the Cross and soon to be released Guardians of the Cross
✰ P.J. Hoover Author of Solstice, The Emerald Tablet, The Navel of the World, The Necropolis 
✰ Alicia McCalla Author of the upcoming science-fiction novel Breaking Free
✰ Heather Cashman Author of Perception
✰ Abbi Glines Author of Breathe, and the upcoming Existence and Vincent Boys
✰ Cheri Schmidt Author of Fateful, Fractured, and Fair Maiden
✰ Lexus Luke Author of Manitou, The Sky People Saga
✰ Suzy Turner Author of December Moon and Raven
✰ K. C. Blake Author of Vampires Rule, Werewolves Rule, and Crushed
✰ Gwenn Wright Author of Filter
✰ Kimberly Kinrade Author of Bits of You, Pieces of Me and Forbidden Mind
✰ J.L. Bryan Author of Paranormals series - Jenny Pox, Tommy Nightmare, and Alexander Death

YA SCRAMBLER - Contest & Giveaway

Instructionsfor the YA Scramble:1) Visit thefirst blog (based on list of Participating Blogs).2) Read the guestpost for ALL 14 sites.3) Identify thePURPLE word in each of the guest blogs (below).4) Pick out the3rd letter from the PURPLE word.5) Go to the nextblog.6) Repeat #3, #4,and #5 until you've visited all 14 sites.7) At the end,take all 14 of the 3rd letters from the PURPLE words and figure out the messagenear and dear to our hearts.8) You will enterthat unscrambled message ONCE into thisform as your official entry for a chance to win some great prizes fromfantastic authors and bloggers.
Participating Blogs - All must be visited (scroll over name and click to access blog):✯Kaitlin Simpson
✯PJ Hoover
✯Cary Cummings
✯Heather Cashman
✯Kathleen Tucker
✯Jennifer Morris
✯Cyndi Tefft
✯Irish/ Gail
✯Danielle Bunner
✯Melissa Layton
✯T.R. Graves
✯Megg Jensen
✯Amy Jones
✯Laura Elliott
Guest Blog by: Melissa Layton
Topic: Timeless Titles

Every now and then you come across a book that pulls you in and plasters itself in your mind and heart so firmly, it simply won't let you go. One read just won't do, so you read it again and again... and again. You crave diving back into a world where anything can happen. Where good triumphs over evil and love never dies. Where characters are so believable they seem to leap right off the page. Where, though trials and seemingly insurmountable obstacles dot every page, the human spirit is able to accomplish anything. Have you ever experienced that? Have you ever fallen so madly in love with a book that you keep returning to the treasure hidden within its pages? I know I definitely have.

For this Scramble, I wanted to share five novels - or series, as the case may be - I know I will definitely be rereading for years to come. Then I realized it was near impossible to narrow it down to just five. So, without further ado, here are TEN titles I know I'll be rereading in 10, 20, 30 years from now. Enjoy!

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
This is one of my favorite series of all time. Honestly. Suzanne Collins is ridiculously gifted at creating unforgettable characters in an eerily believable world. Being a longtime fan of dystopian novels, I recently asked myself an interesting question: Why in the world do I enjoy this genre so much? I mean, if you think about it, dystopias are frequently filled with a lot of sadness, violence, oppression and other various awful things. Am I just a twisted person who likes to see people suffer? Is there something wrong me? Absolutely not. I've come to the conclusion that I like this particular genre not because of all the awful things, but because of the hope. Within many dystopian novels there is so much light and hope to be found, and The Hunger Games is no exception. I will continue to reread this series over and over, not because I enjoy all the struggles Katniss, Peeta and the Panem citizens have to go through, but because they have so much hope for a better world. I will reread this series because it shows that hope, strength, love and determination can conquer any darkness we may come across.
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
Speaking of darkness, there are few historical blemishes that can compare to the darkness found during World War II. Markus Zusak was definitely inspired when he wrote this touching and heart-wrenching novel. Narrated by Death, The Book Thief is a fantastic look at what it may have been like to be a child/teen growing up in Nazi Germany. This novel sucked me in like a well-powered vacuum and didn't spit me out until I had devoured each and every one of its 550 pages. So why will I be rereading this in years to come? Because the characters are engaging, the adventure, harrowing, and it is a reminder of what humanity is capable of - good and bad. Not to mention, it almost made me cry... no easy feat, I might add.



Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan I love me some mythology! Ever since I was a kid, I have been entranced by mythology. Rick Riordan is an absolute genius for making mythology accessible and entertaining. I wish Percy Jackson was around when I was a kid! Though the heroes are sent on outrageously difficult and scary missions, there is so much humor, camaraderie and heart in the series that you can't help but be swept up. Whether it's reading the series for myself or my future children, I absolutely know I will be reading Rick Riordan's novels for years to come!







Harry Potter by J. K. Rowling Though it may be hard for some to believe, there was a time in my life when I was not interested in reading. I know, right?! Shocking, but true. It may sound cheesy, but it was Harry Potter that slapped me upside the head and made me remember how much I loved reading. I can still recall the day I picked up the first Harry Potter book. The Goblet of Fire had just come out and a bookstore was getting ready to close, so all the books were at least 70% off. My Mum loves a good sale - especially a book sale - so we headed on over to see what we could grab. I had heard of J. K. Rowling's boy wizard books but I just couldn't understand the hype. However, I figured that with such a great discount, I wouldn't be losing much if I didn't like it. I bought the book, went home and began to read... later that day, I went back and bought the next three. Since then, I have been reading pretty much non-stop. I will be forever grateful to J. K. Rowling's magical world of Harry Potter for reigniting my love for reading.
The Chronicles of Narnia by C. S. Lewis
I don't care if some consider this a kid's book; I love it and couldn't have a Timeless Titles list without including it. So, at least for my purposes, this is a YA novel. Deal with it. Ahem... moving on. Oh my word, I LOVE this series. The themes and characters are so easy to identify with that The Chronicles of Narnia will always be relevant. Who doesn't remember reading The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe and wondering if every closet was a door to another world? C. S. Lewis is an amazing storyteller and his wonderful creation has captured the imaginations of so many children throughout the years. It is because of this that I will be reading this series well into my golden years, I have no doubt.






The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkien What can be said about The Hobbit?! Tolkien is a master at his craft and I will forever be a huge fan. He is able to weave such an intricate, entertaining, adventurous STORY that you simply can't escape it. Hobbits, wizards, dragons, dwarves, elves, trolls... this book has it all and then some! For those of you who may be intimidated by Tolkien, give The Hobbit a try. I dare you not to enjoy this fun, magical and adventurous read... I know I shall for many years!









The Wolves of Mercy Falls by Maggie Stiefvater If I had to describe this series in one word, that word just might be "exquisite." I am not really a "werewolf" fan, so I wasn't holding out much hope that I'd enjoy this series. Boy was I wrong. Maggie Stiefvater is a masterful weaver of words and she certainly makes some beautiful tapestries, by jingo! At the core of this story is a boy and a girl and the love they have fore one another. It's because of this novel that I have hope true love exists and can make it through anything. Okay, not just because of this novel, but you get the picture. Though I caught on to the series a bit late compared to some, I know I'll treasure it all my life.






I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith
A girl. A rundown English castle. A coming-of-age tale. I read this novel in high school and I have yet to forget it. Have you ever read a book so many times that it's like an old friend? Well, that's how this book is for me. I still feel a kindred spirit in Cassandra Mortmain, the main character. I was completely transported the second I picked up I Capture the Castle for the first time and it continues to have that effect on me to this day. I know I'll be reading this one into my dotage, without a doubt. I really can't put into words how much I love this novel. It's near impossible. If you haven't read this masterpiece by Dodie Smith, I recommend it. What a wonderful escape!




Book of a Thousand Days by Shannon Hale
There's just something about a wonderfully executed fairy tale retold, isn't there? Shannon Hale is one of the most enchanting writers to come along. Not only is she able to take an obscure fairy tale and totally revamp it, but her character building is magnificent. The heroine in this novel, Dashti, is one of those people you would do anything to be friends with. She's kind, loyal, brave and has a great sense of humor; even in a less than desirable situation. Honestly, would you ever expect those characteristics to be found in a servant who has been trapped in a tower for seven years with her mistress, a princess? I thought not. Not only is Dashti an amazing character, this story has a wonderful message. Will I tell you what it is? Nope. You'll just have to read it to find out!


To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee I know this might not technically be a YA novel, but I couldn't omit it from this list. I had a tendency to rebel against required reading whilst in school, though I wish I hadn't. I remember the day my tenth grade English teacher passed out battered copies of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird. After learning a bit about what life was like in that era, our class read the first few chapters aloud. I instantly fell in love. I enjoyed our class reading so much that I went home and finished the entire book, weeks ahead of schedule. This novel will forever be a favorite and I have and will reread it many times in my life.
So, what YA titles will you be rereading in 10 years?



GRAND PRIZE ITEMS:❤ARC of The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab (with signedbookmark)❤Ebook of Soltice by PJ Hoover (with trading cards)❤Ebook of The Space Between by Alexandra Sokoloff❤Paperback copy of Perception by Heather Cashman❤Signed paperback ARC of Anathema by Kathleen Tucker❤Chronicles of Vladimir Tod Gift Set (Trade Paperback ofEighth Grade Bites, Vlad Journal, Minion Bling Buttons and Vlad Tote)❤Signed paperback copy of Between by Cyndi Tefft❤Signed hardcover of Clarity by Kim Harrington❤ARC of Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor❤Signed ARC of Fury by Elizabeth Miles❤Signed paperback of Linger by Maggie Stiefvater❤ARC of Tris & Izzie by Mette Ivie Harrison❤Copy of The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney❤Winner's choice of 5 ebooks from a list of indie authors (see collage below for examples)❤Signed paperback of Sleepers by Megg Jensen❤Ebooks of Soul Quest and The Guardians of Souls by Amy Jones❤Kindle copy of Winnemucca by Laura Elliott (plus a guestpost spot on her blog!)
❤Paperback copy of City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Next, go to Kaitlin Simpson's blog.

YA Indie Carnival - Week Nine (Giveaway)

Collaboratingwith Cyndi Tefft for the last 2-3 months in the YA Indie Carnival has given me the perfect opportunity to learn a lot about her and her book.  For example, I know her first book is Between , andshe is a successful Indie Author (and a wonderful person). I also know thatwhen I added Between to my 'to-read' list on Goodreads, I immediately receivedseveral comments from friends stating the book looked interesting to them. Iwhole-heartedly agreed. As informative as the carnival journey hasbeen, there are still lots of facts about Cyndi that I don't know…questions yetto be answered.

Inthe spirit of becoming more familiar with Cyndi Tefft, author, I have beengiven the honor and privilege of interviewing her. Enjoy the discussion andread (if you haven't already) Between .
Have you always known you would one day become an author?Notat all! I wrote a lot of (bad) poetry when I was a teenager, mostly justdiatribes in loose verse about how This Guy or That Guy would certainly love meif he'd just open his eyes. It wasn't until 2009 that I decided to try my handat writing a novel. I wasn't sure if I could stick with it, but I fell in lovewith the characters and the story, so it just swept me along.

What author has been the most inspiring for you and why?
DianaGabaldon's Outlander series was my first taste of Scotland and after the firstbite, I was hooked! It was as if those books were a key to a lock I had insideme. Everything clicked into place, and I fell in love with Scotland: thepeople, the culture, the history… and the kilts! I knew I had to have my ownScottish Highlander, so Aiden MacRae was born. *swoon*

How did you end up with such an interesting book cover?
Thanks!I love the cover soooo much! I had an idea of what I wanted it to look likewith the dark background, Celtic lettering and blue smoke, but I am severelylacking in Photoshop skills. I met Clare Marshall on an author group onLinkedIn, and she was just starting up Woulds & Shoulds Editing and Design,so I asked her opinion. She and her partner Dave took my idea and cranked it upa notch. I couldn't be more pleased with their work!

What's your philosophy when it comes to reviews?
Readershave 1.863 gajillion books to choose from (give or take), so I am honored whenthey choose to read Between. For an indie author in particular, reviews arecritical, so I'm extremely appreciative when someone takes the time to puttogether their impressions of the book. The more reviews a book receives, themore exposure it gains, which can sometimes be a little bit of a chicken andegg situation!

Morethan anything, though, I love interacting with readers on Facebook, Twitter,and my blog. Having that personal connection with a reader takes the writingexperience to another level!

Can you summarize your book release plan for the next year?
I'mcurrently working on the sequel to Between, which is titled Hell Transporter.Aiden MacRae is a Transporter who takes souls from earth to heaven. In the nextbook, we meet his counterpart. The first draft is about a third complete rightnow and while I'd love to have it done sooner, it will probably be out in thespring of next year.

Thanks forhaving me on the blog!
Between is available in both print and ebook format from a varietyof online retailers:Ebook only: Smashwords, Apple
Print only: Createspace, My website (signed copy)
Print and ebook: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

There are avariety of ways to connect with me online: My blog, Facebook, Twitter, Goodreads, Shelfari, and LibraryThing.

Carnival visitors...Fora chance for people over 13 (internationally) to win FREE ebooks/etc. from the carnival authors, you need to:
❉Visit the sites listed below (click the name).
❉Comment on their Q & A posts (leave your email address).
❉Tweet information about the carnival [#yaindiecarnival].

Dani Snell - Book Blogger
Pattie Larsen - Author
Courtney Cole - Author
Wren Emerson - Author
Nicole Williams - Author
Fisher Amelie - Author
P. J. Hoover - Author
Laura Elliott - Author
Amy Jones Young - Author
Rachel Coles - Author and Book Blogger(My interview is here)
Tiffany King - Author
Cyndi Tefft - Author
Alicia McCalla - Author
Heather Cashman - Author
Abbi Glines - Author
Cidney Swanson - Author
Cheri Schmidt - Author
T. R. Graves - Author

TODAY'S GIVEAWAY PRIZES:
❉Kindlecopy of The Understorey by Fisher Amelie
❉ Kindledigitally-signed edition of Winnemucca by Laura A. H. Elliott and a Winnemuccasigned Coffee Mug
❉ Kindlecopy of Breathe by Abbi Glines along with an autographed canvas Breathe tote
❉ Kindlecopy of Solstice by PJ Hoover
❉ Kindlecopy of Between by Cyndi Tefft
❉ Kindlecopy of PineLight by Jillian Peery
❉ Kindlecopy of Filter by Gwenn Wright
❉ Kindlecopy of Eternal Eden by Nicole Williams
❉ Kindlecopy of Fallen Eden by Nicole Williams
❉ Kindlecopy of Soul Quest by Amy Maurer Jones
❉ Kindlecopy of Run and Hide by Patti Larsen (YA thrillers, 1 and 2 in a series of 4)
❉ Kindlecopy of Fractured by Cheri Schmidt
❉ Kindlecopy of Warriors of the Cross by T.R. Graves
❉ Kindlecopy of Diary of a Duct Tape Zombie by Rachel Coles
❉Kindlecopy of Bees of St. John by Rachel Coles
v Kindlecopy of Mushrooms by Rachel Coles
❉Kindlecopy of Whistles by Rachel Coles
❉Kindle copy of Beergarden by RachelColes

A sample of the great books written by the authors sponsoring the carnival:

YA Indie Carnival - Week Eight

Welcome back to theeighth installment of the YA Indie Carnival . This week, my fellow authors/bloggers are disclosing three tips thatcould be beneficial to other YA Indie authors. Early on in my Indie publishing career, I would have given almostanything to access this type of advice from mentors as inspiring as thoseparticipating in this carnival. Actually, I'm confident that I will discover secrets that will benefitme even today. 
I can honestly say that I have spent more hours than I care to admit searchingfor ways to improve Warriors of the Cross and my marketing of it.  Since the young adult genre is swarming with thousandsof great books/authors, I knew this would be a difficult task…and an exciting journey.  I was right on both accounts. 
Below, I'm revealing three of my favorite treasures.  It was difficult to narrow this list down to three.  There are so many talented and supportivepeople, wonderful tools to simplify the most complicated project, and unbelievable sites to help with every aspect of marketing.  While I want to share everything that I'velearned, I'm limited to a book cover designer, a book trailer creator,and a great marketing tool.
·        Bookcover Designero  Claudia with Phatpuppy Art is a phenomenalartist and a godsend to this Indie author. So far, she has graciously created three cover art designs for me.  She was the first person I contacted…and thelast.  Working with her makes this dauntingtask less intimidating.
HOT OF THE PRESSES: Enemies of the Cross - cover art

·        VideoProductiono  Animoto allows me to generate great (andprofessionally produced) book trailers. This is a small miracle considering the fact that I had spent hoursattempting - unsuccessfully - to develop book trailers.  Despitemy hard work, I was never able to create anything I wanted to share with theworld.  Animoto was so ridiculously simplethat I cursed myself for not finding them sooner.
·        GiveawayManagero  Goodreads. Need I say more?  This is the perfectwebsite which offers the chance for writers to communicate with the same peoplereading their books.  As an added bonus, Goodreadswill host a giveaway for the author. Everything about the giveaway is controlled by the author (how manybooks, how long it's listed, and the mailing of the prize books).  I can say from personal experience that this siteand all its author programs has contributed to my books getting added tomore than 1,000 book shelves.  Equally astonishing is the fact that almost 2,000 people entered the Warriors of the Cross / Guardians of the Cross Giveaways.   
Join me in visiting Aimee Brown's Blog where Heather Cashman's book PERCEPTION (The Tigers' Eye Trilogy, Book 1) is being given away.  Also, congratulations, Patti Larson, on the release of your new book Hide (Book Two of the Hunted Series).

NEXT, take a ride (by clicking their name) with:
Dani Snell - Book Blogger
Pattie Larsen - Author
Courtney Cole - Author
Wren Emerson - Author
Nicole Williams - Author
Fisher Amelie - Author
P. J. Hoover - Author
Laura Elliott - Author
Amy Jones Young - Author
Rachel Coles - Author and Book Blogger
Tiffany King - Author
Cyndi Tefft - Author
Alicia McCalla - Author
Heather Cashman - Author
Abbi Glines - Author
Cidney Swanson - Author
Cheri Schmidt - Author
T. R. Graves - Author

(see previous blogs for the authors' booklists)

YA Indie Carnival - Week Seven

Well, we've made it to week seven ofthe YA Indie Carnival .  Time flies when you are getting to know individualsas fascinating as the authors/bloggers collaborating with me during thisevent.  Of all thetopics we have discussed, this is the one most intimidating.  At least, I think it is.  Thisweek, we are revealing the first paragraph of a new story.  My nervousness is directly related to thefact that I'm unveiling never-before-seen paragraphs from Guardians of the Cross . 
Unable to decide which to share, I'm going to post TWO first paragraphs.  Theinitial one will be from  Guardians of the Cross's  prologue. The second onewill be from  Guardians of the Cross's   first chapter.
Without further ado, here goes.  Prologue
Julia strolledalong the beach with James, enjoying the beautiful orange and yellow shades ofthe sunset.  The way the scene mirroredoff the ocean's blue glass horizon made for a spectacular sight.  The serenity of the setting - along with the calming, salt-infused breeze - camouflaged the danger speeding toward her and her unborn baby faster than a just firedbullet.
Chapter One - Beginning to Heal
Lost foreverwas the wide-eyed innocence I'd embraced with a vengeance the first twenty-fouryears of my life.  In its place sat agaping hole of sorrow, the direct result of a lost life, a stolen childhood,and a kidnapped soul.
Disclaimer: Both could change before December's official release. This is simply how they stand today.

Feel free to provide feedback.  Then, join me in visiting my fellowauthors'/bloggers' sites and see what wonderful treasures they are sharing with us today.   While you're surfing from site to site, you can find out more about Amy Jones Young's Guardians of Souls Blog Tour.

NEXT, take a ride (by clicking theirname) with: DaniSnell - Book Blogger
Pattie Larsen - Author
CourtneyCole - Author
Wren Emerson - Author
NicoleWilliams - Author
Fisher Amelie - Author
P.J. Hoover - Author
Laura Elliott - Author
Amy Jones Young - Author
Rachel Coles - Author and Book Blogger
Tiffany King - Author
CyndiTefft - Author
Alicia McCalla - Author  
Heather Cashman - Author
T. R. Graves - Author

(see previous blogs for theauthors' book lists)

YA Indie Carnival - Week Six

It is hard to believe we have reached weeksix of the YA Indie Carnival .  I've really enjoyed getting to know my fellowauthors and their followers better.  Theyare an amazing group of people.  This week'stopic of discussion is 'How do you get inspiration for the stories youwrite/read?' 
I've said numerous times that mypatients and their families' grief were the inspiration for Allison La Crosse'spowers.  I still contend that healing thedying with nothing more than a touch (anda little soul sharing) would be an awesome ability. 
The inspiration for the Warriors of the Cross characters camestraight from life.  It occurred to methe most believable characters would be ones who embodied the characteristicsof people who I've known and cared about. At the same time, I thought it would be a good opportunity for mychildren to remember their Nana and Papaw through lovable cameo characters, ones who exhibitedtheir exact mannerisms.  I worried that pictures(no matter how great) would lead to one-dimensional and visual only memories.  There would be no sustenance to help mychildren to know that their grandparents loved and were loved.  By incorporating Nana (Lita - Brody's mom) andPapaw (Daddy - Allie's dad) into the story, I suddenly had an ingenious pathwhereby these wonderful people could be embedded into my children's hearts eventhough they barely knew them. 
The inspiration for the storyline, itsmorals, ethics, and love of God was created from a need to communicate with myteen aged daughter without making her feel like I was preaching.  I wanted to create strong and honorable role-modelswho could lead by example.  I realized thatif the story was told the right way, my daughter (or any reader) would walkaway knowing and understanding the story's messages without feeling like she(they) had suffered through an excruciating lecture.  This technique has been successfully utilizedby some talented authors.  With The Wonderful Wizard of Oz , L. Frank Baum  taught us 'there's no place like home'.  With Charlie and the Chocolate Factory , Roald Dahl convincedus that 'unspoiled, honest, and trustworthy people's dreams can come true'.  Now, I'm certainly not insinuating Warriors of the Cross is for children.  In fact, myseven year old son will have to be MUCH older before reading the series.  I'm simply suggesting that some of the mostmemorable books of all time have had powerful messages.  By design, Warriors of the Cross has a timelessconscience when it comes to love, tolerance, and compassion.
Join me in visiting my fellowauthor's/blogger's sites and find out what inspires them to write/read books.  Also, CONGRATULATIONS, Rachel Coles, on having your story, Orphans of Lethe, included in the What Fears Become horror anthology!

NEXT, take a ride (by clicking theirname) with:
DaniSnell - Book Blogger
Pattie Larsen - Author
CourtneyCole - Author
Wren Emerson - Author
NicoleWilliams - Author
Fisher Amelie - Author
P.J. Hoover - Author
Laura Elliott - Author
Amy Jones Young - Author
Rachel Coles - Author and Book Blogger
Tiffany King - Author
CyndiTefft - Author
Alicia McCalla - Author  
Heather Cashman - Author
T. R. Graves - Author

(see previous blogs for theauthors' book lists)