Eva Pohler's Blog, page 5

Become a Successful Bookstagrammer

A Guide to Becoming a Successful Bookstagrammer on Instagram

In the realm of social media, Instagram has become a hub for book lovers to share their passion for reading through visually captivating content. Bookstagram, a term coined for Instagram users dedicated to sharing their love of books, has evolved into a vibrant community where readers connect, discover new titles, and showcase their literary adventures. If you're an avid reader with a desire to join the ranks of successful bookstagrammers, here's a comprehensive guide to help you embark on your journey:

1. Define Your Niche and Style

Identify what sets your bookstagram account apart. Consider your favorite genres, themes, or unique perspectives you can offer. Whether it's focusing on a particular genre like fantasy, mystery, or romance, or emphasizing diverse voices and underrepresented authors, defining your niche will attract like-minded followers.

2. Curate Appealing Content

The visual aspect of Instagram is crucial. Invest time in curating high-quality, aesthetically pleasing content. Experiment with different photography styles, props, lighting, and backgrounds to create captivating images that highlight the books you're featuring. Consistency in visual style helps in building a recognizable brand.

3. Engage with the Community

Engagement is key to fostering a thriving bookstagram community. Interact with fellow bookstagrammers by liking, commenting, and sharing their posts. Participate in book-related challenges, discussions, and readathons to connect with a wider audience and discover new books.

4. Develop Compelling Captions

Craft engaging captions that complement your visuals. Share your thoughts, feelings, and insights about the books you're featuring. Encourage conversation by asking questions or inviting followers to share their opinions and experiences. Authenticity and personality in your captions will resonate with your audience.

5. Utilize Hashtags Strategically

Harness the power of hashtags to increase the discoverability of your posts. Research popular bookstagram hashtags relevant to your content, including genre-specific tags, author names, and book-related events. Strike a balance between niche and broad hashtags to reach both targeted audiences and explore pages.

6. Build Relationships with Publishers and Authors

Forge relationships with publishers, authors, and book-related brands within the literary community. Participate in book tours, virtual author events, and book launches. Tag authors and publishers when featuring their books, and don't hesitate to reach out for collaboration opportunities, such as book reviews, giveaways, or sponsored posts.

7. Stay Consistent and Authentic

Consistency is key to maintaining an engaged audience. Establish a regular posting schedule that aligns with your audience's preferences and your personal commitments. Stay true to your interests and passions, and share content that reflects your authentic self. Genuine enthusiasm for books is contagious and will resonate with your followers.

8. Continuously Learn and Adapt

The world of social media is constantly evolving, so be open to learning and adapting to new trends and features on Instagram. Stay informed about algorithm changes, new features, and best practices for growing your bookstagram account. Experiment with different strategies and analyze your insights to refine your approach over time.

Conclusion

Becoming a successful bookstagrammer on Instagram is a journey that requires dedication, creativity, and genuine passion for books. By defining your niche, curating compelling content, engaging with the community, and staying true to your authentic voice, you can cultivate a thriving bookstagram presence that inspires and connects readers around the world. Remember, the most rewarding aspect of bookstagramming lies in sharing your love of literature and fostering meaningful conversations within the vibrant literary community. Happy bookstagramming!

The Benefits of Being a Book Lover

The benefits of being a book lover have been substantiated by many studies over the years. Let's delve into them.

In an age where digital media and screens dominate our attention, the simple act of reading books still holds profound benefits. Research indicates that individuals who regularly engage in reading enjoy several advantages over those who don't.

1. Enhanced Cognitive Abilities

Numerous studies have shown that reading stimulates brain activity and improves cognitive functions such as memory, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. When we read, our brains work to comprehend the text, interpret characters' motivations, and follow the plot, thereby exercising various mental processes.

2. Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

Books provide a window into different cultures, experiences, and perspectives. Readers often develop a heightened sense of empathy as they immerse themselves in the lives of fictional characters or empathize with real-life struggles depicted in non-fiction works. Understanding diverse viewpoints fosters empathy and emotional intelligence, crucial skills for navigating social interactions and relationships.

3. Stress Reduction and Mental Well-being

Reading has been found to be a powerful stress-reliever. Engaging in a captivating book can transport readers to different worlds, temporarily offering respite from the stresses of everyday life. Studies have shown that reading for pleasure can reduce cortisol levels, alleviate symptoms of depression, and improve overall mental well-being.

4. Expanded Knowledge and Lifelong Learning

Books are repositories of knowledge, offering insights into history, science, philosophy, and a myriad of other subjects. Regular reading exposes individuals to new ideas, sparks curiosity, and encourages lifelong learning. Whether delving into a classic novel or exploring the latest non-fiction bestseller, each book has the potential to expand one's understanding of the world.

5. Improved Communication Skills

Effective communication is a cornerstone of success in both personal and professional spheres. Reading exposes individuals to diverse writing styles, vocabulary, and language conventions, thereby enhancing their own communication skills. Avid readers often express themselves more fluently, articulate ideas more clearly, and possess a richer command of language.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the advantages of being a book lover extend far beyond mere entertainment. From sharpening cognitive abilities to fostering empathy and expanding knowledge, reading offers a multitude of benefits for individuals of all ages. In a world inundated with distractions, cultivating a habit of regular reading can be a transformative practice that enriches the mind, nurtures the soul, and enhances the quality of life.

So, the next time you're contemplating whether to pick up a book, remember the myriad of benefits that await within its pages. Happy reading!

Who Are Eva's Divas?

Eva's Divas is the name of the official street team that I created years ago when I first started my writing career. Around twenty or thirty super readers helped me to spread the word about my books to other readers in exchange for rewards.

Once my career took off, I closed the group to focus more on my writing, but now that I have a reliable writing schedule, I want to bring the team back.

Part of my motivation in wanting to bring back Eva's Divas stems from wanting to provide my super fans an alternative way to receive premium rewards without having to pay for a premium membership. I know not everyone can afford to become a Premium Pohler Bear--the term of endearment I use to describe my over thirty premium members who pay $25 a month, or $250 a year, to receive monthly packages from me. The street team is a way to earn premium rewards through social sharing.

By completing 20 tasks per month (likes, shares, and comments on social media), Eva's Divas will earn an ebook or audiobook of their choice and an entry into a signed paperback giveaway each month that they participate. Eva's Divas will also be included in an acknowledgements page at the back of my books.

In order to participate, readers will need to have Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Goodreads accounts, along with either a Twitter or TikTok account. The number of followers isn't important.

Each week, Eva's Divas will need to like and comment on one Instagram post; like, comment on, and share one Facebook post; like and comment on one YouTube video; rate, review, or add one of my books to their Goodreads shelf; and either like and comment on a TikTok video or like and retweet a tweet. We will use a Google form to keep track of the social support.

Eva's Divas can participate on a month-by-month basis. This means that you can come and go as you need and aren't required to participate every month to be on the team. Eva's Divas can earn even more by becoming affiliates of Eva Pohler Books. Learn more about becoming an affiliate here.

If you would like to participate in March, you can join and keep track of your progress on this Google Form. And welcome to Eva's Divas!

Hot Springs Highlights

My husband and I joined my sister and brother-in-law for a long weekend in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where I conducted research for my upcoming July 4th release, Voices in the Vapors, the thirteenth book in my paranormal mystery series, The Mystery House Series.

So, here are my Hot Springs highlights:

The four of us stayed together in a lovely AirBnB called Paradise on the Green in Hot Springs Village. This three-bedroom, three-bath, beautifully decorated two-story home backed up to the Cortez Golf Course and a lake, where players have to hit across the lake from the tee box. Nestled among tall trees on a hillside, this house afforded some amazing views. Here we are on the back deck.

The men played golf on Saturday and Sunday on two of the nine courses in the village while my sister Lisa and I explored Hot Springs National Park and Bathhouse Row.

Just on the other side of this gate is a natural hot spring where you can reach over and touch the water to see how hot it is. (And it was HOT!)

We also filled our Yeti and water bottle at a spigot across the street, where it was free for anyone to get the natural spring water--though here it was 62 degrees (thank goodness!). The people filling their bottles and jugs claimed that the water had magical healing properties, and a nearby sign indicated the many minerals that the water contained. Whether it was magical or not, it was certainly delicious--dare I say magically delicious?

Down the street from this spigot and across the street from the entrance to the national park is what many consider the most haunted hotel in Hot Springs--the Arlington Hotel.

I kept waiting for that lady to move out of my photo, but she didn't seem to notice me, and more people were about to descend the steps, so I went for it. Below is a photo of the hotel signage.

And here's a view of the lobby with its chandeliers and golden elevator doors.

Right across the street from the Arlington is Josephine Tussaud's Wax Museum, at one time known as The Southern Club--a gambling den and hangout for many well-known gangsters from the 1930s, including Al Capone. Veronnica, one of my readers, happens to work at the museum, and she showed us a secret tunnel that was once used by Al Capone to travel from The Southern Club to his suite at the Arlington Hotel (suite 442). According to another reader named Mary, who stayed in Room 442 at the Arlington, the closet door in that room is nailed shut to prevent guests from exploring the tunnel.

The door in the wax museum, however, can be opened by employees. During my visit, Veronnica led my sister and me into what was once the men's room and is now the staff restroom to the secret door leading to the tunnel.

Veronnica unlocked the door and allowed me to explore it. At the bottom of steep stairs, I stepped into three inches of very cold water in complete darkness. We weren't allowed to travel all the way to the Arlington, but I was able to go far enough to pick up on some really creepy vibes!

Pictured above are Veronnica and me at the top of the steps leading down to the tunnel. And the shot below shows part of the tunnel, though it's hard to see anything but pipes and beams, even with my camera flash turned on.

Upstairs in the wax museum, we saw everything you can imagine. Here are some highlights: Barack Obama and Jimmy Carter, along with a line of others on an escalator, greet visitors at the entrance. At the top of the escalator awaits Pope John Paul the Second. Through winding corridors, an array of interesting characters await, many situated in dramatic scenes, including the assassination of Abraham Lincoln and a meeting between Richard Nixon and the royal family of the United Kingdom.

After touring the museum and tunnel, Veronnica gave my sister and me a wine tasting of eight different wines sold at $19.99 a bottle and all based on The Southern Club's original recipe (which was discovered in the basement after the property was bought by the museum). Although every flavor was delicious--these included "Original Pour," "Apple Pie," "Lemonade," "Strawberry," "Blackberry," "Watermelon," "Banana Pudding," and "Peach"--my favorite was "Original Pour" followed by "Blackberry."

The Wax Museum, Arlington Hotel, and national park are at an intersection in town that forms a V--forking around the national park. If you drive up the Arlington side, you'll eventually reach the entrance to the scenic drive up to the Hot Springs Mountain Tower and Trail. From the top of the tower, you see amazing 360-degree views of the area. Here's a selfie of my sister and me in the tower. I'm awkwardly trying to use my elbow to cover the window frame beside me so the view looks unobstructed by anything but us.

The trail below the tower is a 1.8-mile hike through the woods. There wasn't another living soul walking the trail with us, though the sign at the trailhead warned of bears!

Here we are in the woods. I'm red-faced and out of shape, while my beautiful sister who hikes regularly isn't phased a bit!

Now, let's go back to that intersection that forms a V around the national park. If you were to walk along the road on the museum side of that intersection, you would quickly come to Bathhouse Row.

Here's a map that shows you what I mean:

The first one we came to from that intersection is Superior, now a brewery. And guess what the main ingredient of their beer is? Yep, natural spring water from springs that run beneath the building!

My sister and I made our way down to Fordyce, which has been converted into a Visitor's Center. I was hoping to purchase an ornament there.

But the gift shop was all the way down in Lamar. So we walked past Quapaw and Ozark . . .

bought an ornament in Lamar, and then returned to Quapaw to soak in the hot springs spa! I was excited to meet another reader there, Erika, who happened to work at the bathhouse. She gave us some tips on how to best enjoy the pools.

Private spa rooms and massages can be booked, but all appointments were filled, so Lisa and I went into the public space, where there were four different pools each at different temperatures: 95, 98, 102, and 104 degrees. We spent the majority of our time in the 102 pool, which felt heavenly. My knee had been hurting, and the pool from the hot springs soothed it.

We met quite a few characters at the bathhouse, but you'll have to read the book to hear about them!

During our visit, we ate at some delicious restaurants. My favorite was the Grenada Mexican Grill at the Grenada Golf Course in Hot Springs Village. I ordered a shrimp taco salad that was to die for!

We also ate at the Fisherman's Wharf, but the wait was long and the food, though delicious, couldn't compete with the Grenada Mexican Grill.

We also ate lunch at the Purple Cow where a club sandwich and fries hit the spot nicely. Others in my dinner party were happy with the Philly steak sandwich, Reuben sandwich, and chicken salad sandwich.

And Sunday morning for brunch, while my sister hiked and her hubbie did some work on his laptop, my hubby and I met two of my favorite people for brunch at the Home Plate Cafe and Bakery, where I had a delicious pecan pancake with sausage. Do you recognize the adorable couple below?

I call them the Chip and Joanna Gaines of the self-publishing world--USA Today bestselling author Quinn Loftis and her lawyer and business manager-husband, Bo! We had such a great visit. Quinn even brought me a signed hardback copy of her newest release, Kingdom of Fangs, along with a wolf pup and adoption certificate! Thank you, Quinn!

Monday morning, we said goodbye to our Paradise on the Green and headed to Shreveport, Louisiana to Bally's Casino, where I won and lost at the slots but came out ahead at blackjack. My hubby and I started with $300 and left with $700! The photo below was taken while the machine was still singing and my dollars were adding up. I turned ten dollars into sixty on this machine, but then lost it all and another fifteen. Thank goodness the blackjack turned things around! I didn't have to try very hard. The dealer kept dealing me blackjacks!

The best part of this trip was getting to spend time with my sister, who lives in College Station, a few hours away from me. We don't see each other nearly as often as I'd like.

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed my Hot Springs highlights. I've already started writing Voices in the Vapors and can't wait for you to read it! It will release in ebook, paperback, hardback, and audiobook on July 4th and is available for preorder in ebook, paperback, and hardback in my store here.

Here's a short reel I made about the trip:

https://video.wixstatic.com/video/0af8be_6823a2c14679489faa3dafb466249ac1/1080p/mp4/file.mp4

If you enjoyed reading about my Hot Springs highlights, please share using the social icons below. Thanks!

Preserving Your Paperbacks and Hardbacks

Preserving Your Paperbacks and Hardbacks: Tips for Longevity

Books hold a special place in our lives, not just for the stories they contain but also for the memories and emotions they evoke. Whether you're an avid reader, a collector, or someone who simply appreciates the written word, taking care of your paperbacks and hardbacks is essential to ensure they remain in good condition for years to come. Here are some tips to help you with preserving your paperbacks and hardbacks:

Handling Clean Hands: Before handling your books, make sure your hands are clean and dry. Oils, lotions, and moisture from your hands can transfer to the pages and covers, leading to stains and deterioration over time. Since I often moisturize my hands, I keep baby wipes near my reading chair. Gentle Touch: Handle your books with care, especially when turning pages. Avoid bending or folding the pages, as this can weaken the paper and cause it to tear. I used to dogear and fold pages a lot. Those books are barely holding up. Support the Spine: When reading or carrying a book, support the spine with your hand to prevent it from bending or breaking. Bending the spine too much can cause permanent damage and creases. It's easier to break the spine than you might think.Storage Shelving: Store your books upright on sturdy bookshelves. Make sure the shelves are not overcrowded, as this can put pressure on the spines and cause them to warp. Avoid Direct Sunlight: Exposure to direct sunlight can cause the covers and pages to fade over time. Store your books away from windows and other sources of sunlight to prevent discoloration. Controlled Environment: Maintain a stable environment for your books by storing them in a cool, dry place with consistent temperature and humidity levels. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can cause the pages to expand and contract, leading to warping and deterioration. Use Bookends: Keep your books upright and supported with bookends to prevent them from leaning or falling over, which can result in creased covers, warped books, and damaged spines. Cleaning Dust Regularly: Dust your books regularly with a soft, dry cloth or a soft-bristled brush to remove dirt and debris from the covers and pages. Avoid using cleaning products or water, as they can damage the paper and ink. I use Swiffers with a gentle touch. Spot Cleaning: If you need to remove a stain or spot from a book cover, use a soft, damp cloth and gently blot the affected area. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this can cause further damage. Dry Environment: If your books become damp or wet, allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat sources. Once dry, gently press any wrinkled pages with a clean, dry cloth to smooth them out. I've even used an iron on low heat with a thick cloth between the iron and the page.Protective Measures Book Covers: Consider using protective book covers or dust jackets to shield your books from dust, light, and minor spills. These covers can also help preserve the integrity of the book's original cover artwork. Bookmarks: Use bookmarks to mark your place in a book instead of folding the corners or using makeshift bookmarks that can damage the pages. Learn from my mistakes! Book Repairs: If you notice any signs of damage or wear, such as loose pages or torn covers, consider having your books professionally repaired to prevent further deterioration. Some paperbacks can be easily replaced, but my most treasured copy of Lord of the Flies filled with notes (yes, I used to write in my books; now, I use book tabs), is beyond repair.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your paperbacks and hardbacks remain in excellent condition for years to come, allowing you to continue enjoying your favorite stories and cherished editions for generations to come.

If you like to collect special-edition hardbacks, please check out my anniversary edition of The Underworld Saga. It's comprised of three hardback volumes--one trilogy per volume--and each has a special map inside. When the spines are together, they form a Pegasus.

Learn more about this special anniversary hardback collection here.

Browse my other paperbacks and hardbacks here.

Why Buy Self-Published Books?

Readers often wonder why some authors choose to self-publish their work instead of using traditional publishing. Each route offers distinct advantages and challenges, but both routes can lead to amazing stories. So, if you've been asking yourself, "Why buy self-published books?", the answer is that you might miss out on some of the best reading experiences if you limit the scope of your choices.

Should You Buy Self-Published Books?Self-Published Authors:

Self-publishing empowers authors to take control of the entire publishing process, from writing and editing to marketing and distribution. With the rise of digital platforms and print-on-demand services, self-publishing has become more accessible and popular than ever before. Here are some key characteristics of self-published authors:

Autonomy: Self-published authors retain full creative control over their work, from cover design to pricing strategies. They have the freedom to experiment with genres, writing styles, and marketing approaches without the constraints of traditional publishing contracts. Speed to Market: Self-publishing enables authors to bring their books to market quickly. Without the lengthy submission and review processes typical of traditional publishing, authors can release their works in a matter of weeks or months, catering to rapidly changing reader interests and trends or to their own lifestyle choices. Higher Royalties: Unlike traditionally published authors who receive royalties typically ranging from 5% to 15% of the book's retail price, self-published authors can earn significantly higher royalties, often up to 70% of the book's sales price, depending on the platform and distribution channels chosen. Authors who sell direct from their own store can earn as high as 100%. Limited Distribution and Visibility: One of the main challenges for self-published authors is achieving widespread distribution and visibility for their books. While digital platforms like Amazon, Kobo, Apple, and Google Play offer global reach, breaking into brick-and-mortar bookstores and reaching mainstream audiences can be more difficult without the support of traditional publishing infrastructure.Traditionally Published Authors:

Traditional publishing involves authors submitting their manuscripts to established publishing houses, which handle all aspects of production, distribution, and some of the marketing. While securing a traditional publishing deal can be competitive, it offers several distinct advantages:

Prestige and Validation: Landing a traditional publishing deal is often seen as a stamp of approval from industry professionals. It can enhance an author's credibility and increase their chances of garnering attention from literary critics, award committees, and mainstream media outlets. Despite the number of independent authors earning seven and eight figures from their work, the industry still favors the world of gatekeeping, probably because it has to if publishing houses have any chance of survival. Professional Support: Traditionally published authors benefit from the expertise of editors, designers, and marketing professionals employed by publishing houses, whereas self-published authors must hire them out of pocket. Often the professionals serving the two types of authors are the same. Broader Distribution Channels: Traditional publishers have well-established distribution networks that enable authors to reach a wider audience through bookstore placement, library acquisitions, and international rights sales. This broader reach increases the likelihood of exposure to diverse readerships and translation opportunities. Advances: While advances vary widely based on factors such as genre, market trends, and author platform, traditionally published authors typically receive an advance payment against future royalties upon signing a publishing contract. While royalties may be lower compared to self-publishing, the upfront advance provides financial support during the book's development and promotion phases.

For me, creative autonomy and control over my publishing schedule made choosing the self-publishing route more attractive. Although some self-publishers fail to do their due diligence to produce a high-quality book, traditional presses have been guilty of churning out subpar products, too. To avoid purchasing low-quality books, readers should consult reviews and talk to other readers before making a purchase. The means by which a book is published should be less important, in my opinion, than the reviews and general reception of an author's work.

If you haven't already, I hope you'll open your mind to the world of self-published books. If you're so inclined, you can begin with mine.

I'm a USA Today bestselling independent author of over forty novels in multiple genres, including paranormal mysteries, thrillers, and young adult fantasy based on Greek mythology. My books have been called "addictive" and "sure to thrill" (Kirkus Reviews). Please find my series below and click on the image to learn more. My books are available in ebook, paperback, hardback, and audiobook, and new readers can sign up for a 30% off code that will be applied to their entire cart at checkout.

So, what do you think? Should you buy self-published books? If you found this interesting, please share using the social icons below. Thanks!

What Genre of Books Should You Read?

What Genre of Books Should You Read?

Answer the following questions to discover the type of books that align with your preferences and interests.

1. What do you prefer to do in your free time?

a) Explore new places and go on adventures.

b) Spend time with friends and family, engaging in fun conversation and sharing meals.

c) Participate in creative activities like painting, writing, or crafting.

d) Dive into deep thoughts and philosophical ponderings.

e) Go on romantic dates or dream about future ones!

2. What kind of movies or TV shows do you enjoy the most?

a) Action-packed thrillers and suspenseful dramas.

b) Heartfelt dramas and comedies that evoke emotions.

c) Fantasy or science fiction with imaginative worlds and creatures.

d) Thought-provoking documentaries and intellectually stimulating series.

e) Love stories with happy endings.

3. How do you feel about romance in books?

a) Love it! It adds excitement and tension to the storyline.

b) It's nice if it's a subplot, but not the main focus.

c) I enjoy a good romance novel every now and then.

d) Not really my cup of tea.

e) Totally necessary for maximum enjoyment!

4. What setting would you prefer for a story?

a) Exotic locations and fast-paced environments.

b) Realistic settings with relatable characters and situations, though I'm open to ghosts.

c) Magical realms and fantastical landscapes.

d) Contemporary society with deep societal issues.

e) Contemporary and realistic with a touch of whimsy.

5. What keeps you turning the pages of a book?

a) Unpredictable plot twists and action-packed scenes.

b) Emotional depth and well-developed characters.

c) Imaginative world-building and fantastical elements.

d) Intellectual stimulation and philosophical themes.

e) Tensions between characters romantically involved.

6. How do you feel about series or trilogies?

a) Love them! I enjoy following characters through multiple adventures.

b) I prefer standalone novels, but I'm open to series if they're compelling.

c) Series are great, especially when they explore complex worlds.

d) I prefer standalone novels with a clear beginning and end.

e) Love both series and standalone stories, as long as they promise a happy ending.

7. What kind of endings do you prefer in books?

a) Explosive and action-packed, leaving me on the edge of my seat.

b) Uplifting, with characters experiencing growth and change.

c) Magical and enchanting, with a sense of wonder and possibility.

d) Thought-provoking, leaving me contemplating long after finishing the book.

e) Happily ever after for characters in love.

8. How important is it for you to learn something new from the books you read?

a) Not very important. I read primarily for entertainment.

b) Somewhat important. I enjoy gaining insights from different perspectives.

c) Moderately important. I love exploring new ideas and concepts.

d) Very important. I seek books that challenge my thinking and expand my knowledge.

e) Not important at all. I just want to escape!

Results:

Mostly A's: You might enjoy thrillers and suspense novels that keep you on the edge of your seat with their fast-paced action and unexpected twists.

You should check out these books:

Mostly B's: You would likely appreciate contemporary novels that delve deep into the human experience and offer relatable characters and situations.

You should check out these books:

Mostly C's: Fantasy and science fiction books could be your go-to genres, offering imaginative worlds, magical creatures, and epic adventures.

You should check out these books:

Mostly D's: Philosophical and literary books might be your best fit, challenging your intellect and exploring complex themes and societal issues.

Check out these books, as they have deep plots that ask philosophical questions:

Mostly E's: You would enjoy romance novels in which the love story drives the main plot and leaves you with a satisfying resolution.

Check out these books:

If you thought this quiz, "What Genre of Books Should You Read?" was helpful (or maybe just fun), please share using the social icons below. Thanks!

Athena Sneak Peek

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LP05haRaQDI&t=4s

Here's an Athena sneak peek! It's from the opening of my upcoming young adult fantasy release, Athena: Gods and Monsters, Book One. Enjoy!

Warm blood cradled her, though it would be many days before she would have the words to comprehend it.

I am inside my mother’s womb.

It was cozy, warm, and soft. She stretched her arms, turned, and closed her eyes, but before she had fallen back to sleep with her knees pressed against her cheeks, a deep voice rang out in a threatening roar.

Her mother’s voice, calm and quiet, followed. “I will not destroy the babe.”

“Metis, you must, if you love me.”

That was her mother’s name—Metis.

“I will not.”

A pressure disturbed her cradle, followed by sudden jerks of movement and her mother’s wail. She clenched her tiny fists and uncoiled herself, ready to spring into action. She flattened her feet against her mother’s backbone.

Her mother’s screams unnerved her. For many hours, she listened to the distressing sounds and felt her mother flailing against her prison.

“Let me out of here!” Metis cried repeatedly.

Once her mother’s cries had subsided and all had gone still, she put her hand against her mother’s belly. It was warm and firm. “Mother? Are you well?”

Her mother flinched with surprise.

“Mother? Metis?”

Warm hands pressed the belly from the other side. “I am here, child. All is well.”

The sound of something scratching woke her from her slumber. She stretched her tiny fists. “Mother? What are you doing?”

“Tearing splinters from your father’s ribs.”

Her eyes opened wide, warm fluid coating them. “Why? How?”

“Your father, Zeus, is the king of the Olympians. He swallowed me because of a prophecy that I would give him a son who would one day unseat him.”

“I am not a son. I am a daughter, I believe.”

“Yes, I believe it, too. My only concern now is setting you free. I shall weave armor for you from these splinters and find a way to get you out.”

“I like it here.”

“For now,” her mother said. “But you are growing, and soon there will be little room. You will become restless and bored, and you will long for something more than this. I must prepare for that day.”

“Mother?”

“Yes?”

“I like my name. Thank you for it.”

“You are welcome, my precious child. And now, I want to exercise your mind with a riddle.”

Athena smiled, ready for the challenge.

Her mother began, “Imagine that your father gifts me a beautiful pear tree. If the main trunk has twenty-four branches, and each branch has twelve boughs, and each bough has six twigs, and each twig bears one piece of fruit, how many plums can the tree produce in one growing season?”

Athena put her finger in her mouth. After a moment, she removed the finger. “The tree can bear 1,728 pieces of fruit.”

Metis pressed her hands against her belly. “How wise of you to put it that way, since a pear tree would produce zero plums.”

“I thought you may have misspoken,” Athena explained.

“It was a trick. If you had said that the tree would produce 1,728 plums, you would have been wrong, because pear trees cannot produce plums, but because you said, ‘pieces of fruit,’ you bested me, the goddess of counsel!”

Despite the many riddles her mother told her to pass the time, Athena soon outgrew her cradle and felt suffocated by it.

“Let me out of here,” she said one day.

“You must find your own way out. I will help as much as I can.”

Athena searched for an opening and found one. Her mother bore down as Athena squeezed through, first her head and then the rest of her. When she was free at last, she found herself in another cradle not much bigger than the one she had left, made smaller by the presence of her mother.

Metis embraced her. “Well done, my precious child. When you are stronger, you must do that again.”

“Will you follow me?” Athena asked, still wrapped in her mother’s arms. She pressed her ear against her mother’s bosom and was comforted by the sound of her beating heart.

“It is not my destiny. It is yours.”

Athena’s stomach formed a knot, and tears pooled in her eyes. She would never leave her mother.

For many months, as she doubled and tripled in size, Athena watched Metis weave her father’s bone splinters into armor, making beautiful, ornate designs with red fibers stripped from her father’s innards. Her mother showed her how to make the weave tight and even.

“Will not my father miss his bone and innards?” Athena asked as she weaved a long splinter in the fashion shown to her by her mother.

“Look around. He is a god. Everything I take grows back within a day.”

“Are we also gods?”

“Indeed.”

“How did my father come to be the king?”

“Pull it taut, Athena. Here, let me show you.”

Metis took the breastplate in her hands and worked her magic. She had created a central floral design and was now developing a chain-link border around the edges.

Athena assumed her mother had forgotten her question, but after a while, Metis said, “Zeus’s father, Kronos, was once King of the Titans and ruler of all the earth. Like Zeus, he was told that his children would one day overthrow him. To avoid it, he swallowed each of his babes as soon as they were born.”

“Including Zeus?”

“No, he was spared by his mother after she had given up five of her children. She wrapped a stone in a blanket and gave it to Kronos to swallow instead. Then, she hid Zeus in a cave at Mount Ida on the island of Crete, where he was raised by nymphs. That’s where I met him. We swam and chased rabbits together. He often sought my counsel. I’m the one who gave him the potion that caused Kronos to vomit his five children from his belly. Zeus was waiting to rescue them. He and I and his mother whisked them away and, together, we made plans for the rebellion that made your father king of the Olympians.”

“He was lucky to have you, as am I.”

“It’s not over yet. While it’s true that Kronos has been captured, Zeus and his siblings continue to fight against Titan and Giant uprisings and search for ways to secure their rule. Zeus freed many of his father’s other children—Giants born of Gaia, the Earth—hoping they would come to his aid in vanquishing the followers of Kronos. But some turned on him.”

“Is my father a good warrior? A good leader?” Athena asked.

“He was until he swallowed us.”

“He did it to protect his throne,” Athena insisted.

Her mother met her eyes. “You don’t resent him for it?”

Athena shook her head. “I would have done the same.”

Metis’s blue-gray eyes widened with surprise. “So, you are ruthless like your father? I hope in time that you will learn compassion and empathy.”

Feeling snubbed, Athena said nothing as her mother continued weaving.

Almost an hour passed before Metis spoke again. “Nevertheless, you must escape. You’re fully grown. Even when I make myself as small as I can without compromising my work on your armor, there’s little room in here for the two of us. More importantly, you have a destiny ahead of you—adventures and glory beyond your greatest imaginings.”

Athena frowned. “Won’t you miss me when I’m gone?”

Metis dropped her weaving and cupped Athena’s face. “More than you can fathom. Stay close to your father, and you will be close to me.”

Athena enjoyed watching her mother weave the armor, and she especially took pleasure in doing it herself, when her mother would allow it. One day, as she watched Metis pull the threads in and out, she studied her mother’s face, admiring her beauty. Raven hair fell across her back and blue-gray eyes trimmed with long, dark lashes looked upon her work. Delicate but strong hands moved tirelessly, making intricate patterns in the armor. Athena wondered if she resembled her mother. She had the same color hair, though it didn’t quite reach her shoulders. And her skin was fair. But what of her eyes? Her face?

“Mother? Do I look like you?”

“Indeed, though your eyes are more brilliant—a stunning gray.”

Athena smiled and kissed her mother’s cheek.

“How about another riddle?” her mother asked.

Athena beamed. She loved it when her mother challenged her mind.

Metis cleared her throat. “When called in for questioning, a prisoner is warned by Zeus, ‘If you lie, I will throw you into the pit of Tartarus. If you tell the truth, I will swallow you.’ What does the prisoner say to save himself?”

Athena tapped her finger to her chin. After a moment, she replied, “The prisoner says, ‘You will throw me into the pit of Tartarus,’ because throwing the prisoner into the pit would cause a contradiction, since the prisoner would have told the truth. He can only be sentenced to Tartarus for a falsehood. And swallowing the prisoner would also create a contradiction, since the prisoner would have stated a lie and can only be swallowed after stating the truth.”

Metis embraced her daughter. “Very good. The prisoner might also say, ‘I am a liar.’”

Athena shook her head. “My answer is better, Mother.”

Metis laughed. “Why is that?”

“Because even liars sometimes tell the truth. If the prisoner says that he is a liar, Zeus could swallow him without contradiction.”

“You have bested your mother once again.” Metis embraced her daughter. “Can you make yourself small, like me? There will be more room.”

“I don’t know how.”

“Visualize it, and it will be so.”

Athena closed her eyes and imagined herself small, like a bird. Her perspective changed, and when she looked down at her body, she saw feathers.

Metis chuckled. “You’re a little owl. Keep practicing, my love.”

When Athena climbed her father’s ribs and leaned close to his throat, she could hear his conversations. Over time, she came to recognize the voice of Helios, the sun god, and his sister, Selene, the moon. They reported the movements of Zeus’s enemies to him. Athena also recognized the voice of Zeus’s new wife, Hera, who bore him two sons. They were called Ares and Hephaestus.

Zeus had children from other wives before Hera and after Metis. The twins Apollo and Artemis proved skillful with the bow and arrow. Hermes was easily the fastest and most cunning of all the deities. Persephone brought springtime everywhere she went. And Aphrodite, according to what others said, was the most beautiful, next to Hera.

There was another voice that Athena thought was the loveliest she’d ever heard. It belonged to a Titan named Prometheus. His deep, melodic voice soothed her and piqued her curiosity.

One day, Zeus announced that he would invite the Giants who had fled to the Caucasian Mountains to pledge their loyalty to him on Mount Olympus.

“They will be grateful for my mercy,” Zeus insisted.

Prometheus objected. “If you open the gates, they may strike. Instead, you should invite them to another location where our allies, hidden from view, surround the meeting place. If the Giants charge you, we will be ready. And, if they go down on their knees before you, you should test them before accepting their pledge.”

Athena grinned and nodded, whispering, “Well done, Prometheus!”

“Test them? How?” Zeus asked.

“Send them to attack the Titan rebels hiding in the Himalayas. If the Giants succeed in bringing the rebels back to the meeting place as your prisoners, then they will have earned your trust, and you will have killed two birds with one stone.”

“Mother, I think you’ve been replaced as Father’s counselor,” Athena called down to where Metis worked tirelessly on the armor.

“You might think so, but you are wrong. I often whisper advice to him while he sleeps. He thinks the ideas are his own.”

“Why do you wait until he sleeps? Why not speak to him now?”

“He hears better when all is quiet. Besides, it is easier for me to climb to his ear when he is lying flat.”

When her father next lay down to sleep, Athena climbed beside his ear and said, “Father, this is Athena, your daughter by Metis. If you set me free, I can help you win the war.”

Athena was startled when he mumbled, “Too dangerous for a child. Safer where you are.”

“But Mother says I’m full-grown, that gods age differently from one another.”

“Let me think on it.”

Athena’s heart soared.

Months went by without another word from Zeus, and Athena, as her mother had predicted, grew restless.

Metis took her daughter by the shoulders. “Bargain with your father. Tell him that in exchange for advice—advice that will help him win the war—you want your freedom.”

“What advice would I give?”

“The Giant Alcyoneus is only immortal in his native land,” her mother explained. “Tell Zeus to shoot the Giant and drag him across his borders, where he will die.”

Athena did as her mother said, and Zeus was pleased by the outcome.

“Father, now will you set me free?” Athena asked.

“It is not the time, but soon,” came his reply.

Athena fumed.

Suspecting that her father knew that the advice about the Giant had come from Metis, Athena climbed higher than she’d dared to go before, reaching into her father’s head. She was pleased when she neared his eyes and discovered that she could see the world through them. Determined to offer something indispensable to him for her freedom, she studied everything with an analytical mind. She held onto his skull as he fought Giants and Titans, and she noted which strategies worked and failed. Meanwhile, below her, her mother fashioned a spear.

Athena learned the names of her father’s greatest and strongest allies—his brothers Hades and Poseidon and his sisters Demeter and Hestia. Hera was perhaps his most loyal ally of all.

Swift, dark-haired Hermes led a charge into the Mycenean hills where a rebel base was believed to be located. The twins Apollo and Artemis weren’t far behind, their long, brown hair flowing in the wind. Each carried a bow and quiver of silver arrows—“Silver Shooters,” the twins had come to be called. Ares and Hephaestus flew on either side of their father. Although Athena couldn’t see them unless Zeus glanced back, his brothers and sisters were on his heels with Hera, Persephone, and Aphrodite, along with their allies, taking up the rear.

While her mother continued to work below, Athena watched the great battles through her father’s eyes with much pleasure. She longed to join her family against their enemies. Artemis and Apollo were indeed experts with the bow. It was a delight to watch Hermes run and fly in circles around the others. And Hephaestus’s craftmanship at the forge produced remarkable weapons.

The ally she was most anxious to see was the Titan Prometheus. She was enchanted by the perfect blend of beauty and wisdom he possessed. He wore his dark, curly hair cut short like his beard. Dark, brown eyes gleamed from beneath even darker brows. Like all the gods, his jaw was square, his neck muscled, and his arms ripped with iron bulk. But unlike the others, she saw unabashed warmth in his smile which, joined with his wise counsel and his stunning beauty, conspired to leave her breathless.

She became consumed by thoughts of Prometheus.

I hope you enjoyed this Athena sneak peek! If so, please share using the social buttons below.

280 99C Romantasy and Paranormal Romance Books

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Here's a sneak peek at some of the offerings. Notice that Thanatos, which has been described as MEET JOE BLACK meets PERCY JACKSON, is one of them!

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You can find Thanatos here.

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Countdown to Valentine's Giveaway

It's almost time for my annual Countdown to Valentine's Giveaway in the Pohler Bear Lounge. If you're not a member of the lounge, you're missing out. I run seasonal giveaways in there and chat with readers nearly every day. I seek cover advice and make all my book announcements there first. You can join the Pohler Bear Lounge on Facebook here.

Consider this your personal invitation to join me and the other Pohler Bears as we countdown to Valentine's Day. The event will begin on Saturday, February 10th with a single giveaway post--my FIRST VALENTINE. I'll post a new Valentine giveaway each day--leaving them open until the evening of the 14th.

Some of you may have big, romantic plans on the fourteenth, but for those who don't, you're invited to my ZOOM party, where I'll announce all the Countdown to Valentine's Giveaway winners, play games, and award one or two more prizes. The Zoom party will begin at 6:30 PM CST on Wednesday the 14th and will only take 30 minutes. I'll record it and post the reply in the lounge. On the night of the event, you can join the party here.

Here's a look at what I'll be giving away during the Countdown to Valentine's Giveaway.

First up for grabs is this beautiful "Just one more chapter" pendant. I love wearing mine. The chain is a good length, and the text really stands out. You can find this necklace in my store here.

My second Valentine will be a $20 Amazon gift card. One of these days, I plan to create gift cards that can be used in my store--hopefully by Easter, when I do my annual Eight Days of Easter Eggs!

It wouldn't be a Valentine's Giveaway without a book about Eros, also known as Cupid! This Valentine includes both the ebook and a signed paperback.

Like the third, this fourth Valentine includes the ebook and signed paperback edition. I chose The Hidden Tunnel of all the books in The Mystery House Series to give away because it's the only one that contains a romance. These books can be read in any order, so it's okay if you start with this one.

Because many of us enjoy spending time with our book boyfriends and book girlfriends, I thought this "Emotionally Attached to Fictional Characters" T-Shirt was a good choice for my fifth Valentine. It comes in black, too. You can find it in my store here.

As I said before, the Countdown to Valentine's Giveaway will culminate in a thirty-minute ZOOM party on Valentine's Day at 6:30 PM CST. You can join the night of the event here.

During the Zoom event, one of the prizes I'll give away is this adorable Valentine's Day T-Shirt for book lovers.

It also comes in hot pink, and there's a mug in my store of the same design. You can find them here.

Well, that about wraps up your sneak peek and invitation to my Countdown to Valentine's Giveaway. I hope to see you there in the Pohler Bear Lounge!