K.C. Sprayberry's Blog, page 187

Author Interview: Found in Prague by: Dana Newman

Today on Out of Control Characters we interview Dana Newman, author of the romance Found in Prague. This is a delightful love story, a tale about a couple from very different countries meeting and finding their attraction too much to ignore. I had the very good luck to read this book, and I'm as in love as Katica and Michal.




KCS:      Please tell us about your latest book.
DN: Found in Prague is a sweet, romantic fiction that will leave you sighing aloud as American college freshmen, Katica Coleman, traverses across the Atlantic Ocean to Prague in the heart of Europe to find herself, meet her long-lost relatives, and experience all the giddy waves of excitement and dizzying stomach butterflies that are the essential elements of first-time young love. Leave your body in your bedroom/living room/kitchen and allow your mind to be transported into the red-roofed, black-spired city of enchantment. Follow Katica as she meanders through the winding cobblestone streets, snow-covered castles and aromatic crepe cafés, losing and finding herself again and again.

KCS:      How much of your personality and life experiences are in your writing?
 DN:Found in Prague is absolutely chock full of both my personality and life experiences. While I would not go so far as to say that Katica is me, because I did take many artistic liberties with her personality and mannerisms, there are certainly similarities between us. And, once again, while Found in Prague, is definitely not my true travel story, I did use many events from my own explorations and adventures living in Europe to write the book. Insider scoop: the terrifying toilet scene in the creepy hotel did really happen to me!
KCS:      What do you do to relax and recharge your batteries?
 DN: About a thirty minute walk from my apartment in one direction is a gorgeous, Gothic-style downtown area, and about twenty minutes in the other direction is a Baroque palace with sprawling green grounds, wooded trails to get lost in, a moat of sorts, and numerous bronze statues. When I need to recharge, I simply zone out and go for a stroll in either direction.
KCS:      Would you like to write a different genre than you do now, or sub-genre?
DN: Definitely! I’m currently working on a book that is written in a very different style and genre than Found in Prague. More poignant, my next book will be a candid and moving yet light-hearted coming of age-type novel aimed at everyone who has ever felt lost in life. Written in the first person, I will use some of my own experiences within the story, however, as with Found in Prague, I will add pizazz, stretch the truth, and outright make stuff up as I deem fit. This book is shaping up to be “PG-17,” but still something I could allow my mom to read. Probably. Maybe not my dad, though.
KCS:      Fill in the blank favorites -
 DN: Dessert: Rich, moist flourless chocolate cake with fresh strawberries and either whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Peanut butter could be substituted for the strawberries if not in season.
City: Prague, of course!

Season: Summer
Type of hero: The sexy bad-boy who outwardly acts as though he doesn’t want to help people and couldn’t care less, but is actually a soft, loveable teddy bear on the inside and ends up risking his life to save the world at the end.
Type of heroine: Answers to nobody, takes no crap, was destined to save humanity--knows it and is proud to do it; uses her sheer sexiness and seduction skills to outsmart men and her ability to whoop ass whenever necessary.
KCS:     Where do you see yourself in five years?
DN: The fantasy or the more pragmatic reality? You can decide which option is which...
Option 1) Living on a quiet, serene island in a simple yet elegant bungalow (with all the modern amenities, of course) just a five minute walk from the ocean front with my goldendoodle dog (who does not yet exist in my life) and my husband (check, have him). I’d spend my days writing while the sea air breezes through the house, and perhaps in the evening I’d bartend at the shack next door for a little extra cash.
Option 2) Writing more and working at my “real job” less. Within five years I’d like to have published at least two more books. By then, I hope to have flexible enough work hours that I can get the aforementioned goldendoodle doggie and spend my mornings and evenings walking her with my husband and tossing the frisbee in the park, which is of course conveniently right down the street from our home.
KCS:      What is the hardest part of writing/the easiest for you?
 DN: Let’s start with the easiest part of writing for me: coming up with ideas. Scattered all over my apartment are torn scraps of paper of different sizes and shapes, all brimming with concepts, plots, character names and scenarios for the next, self-acclaimed “Most Amazing Book in the World.” Only problem is, I’d have to live to 150 to turn them all into books or even short stories! And since my goal is to live to 125, I must concede that it simply won’t be possible...
 Now we come to the hardest part: Writing the first ten chapters. I write the first draft from beginning to end, and the first ten chapters are make or break for the book. I don’t do outlines, which means that during this period in the book’s creation, I’m still working out the characters, the plot and the storyline, trying to figure out whether the original angle is actually a viable one or not, and if not, can I go in a different direction with it or should I simply broom the whole thing. If the book idea makes it through the first ten chapters, I consider myself officially in too deep to quit; I’ve already put so much time and effort into the work that I’m fully invested in seeing the project through to the end.
KCS:      What is the most rewarding thing about being a writer?
 DN: Being able to create something that is part me--my experiences, emotions, doubts, worries and personality--and part imagination and fantasy. I am not just present within my main character of this book, but in every character I’ve ever created. Even if they are nothing like me, my thoughts, experiences and emotions make up who they are, what they do and where they go. However, the beauty of writing fiction is that I am not bound by the things I’ve actually seen or by how the events truly played out in real life. I can weave parts of the truth into the fantasy I’ve created and then sprinkle a little fairy dust on top just for good measure.
KCS:      If you weren't writing, what would you be doing?
DN: Baking. Always a hobby of mine, baking is yet another outlet for the creative fantasies and boundless imagination that floats around my head.
KCS:   Are there any words of encouragement for unpublished writers?
DN: It’s NOT easy, but it IS doable. There are times when the project is going to feel too unimaginably big; times when you are going to seriously consider giving up; and probably even times when you will doubt your abilities as a writer. Don’t give in to any of those fears! Keep typing away, building your book one word at a time. If it’s too overwhelming to consider the project as a whole, focus on one chapter or even just one page at a time. One day you will wake up and realize that, seemingly overnight, each one of those words, pages and chapters you wrote have grown together to create the full work. And that will be a glorious day.
Just to whet your whistle, we're including a synopsis of Found in Prague:



After receiving an odd email during her first semester of college, Katica Coleman traverses fearlessly across the Atlantic Ocean to Prague in the heart of Europe looking for answers to her family's past but ends up finding so much more. Katica quickly learns that it's easy to fall in love while meandering through the winding cobblestone streets, snow-covered castles and aromatic crepe cafés of the magical country that is her family's homeland. But is the charming Czech boy with the intoxicating accent and cool, charismatic gait someone she should let herself get lost in? He always seems to come to her assistance at just the right moment, but can he really be trusted? Katica cannot help but wonder whether she should listen to her wary gut or give in to the giddy waves of excitement coursing through her body....

Here are the links where you can purchase Found in Prague:

Amazon Goodreads Here is all you need to know about Dana Newman: 

Dana Newman, like Katica Coleman, the main character in Found in Prague,
is a second generation Czech-American. Her childhood was filled with dinner table stories about dynamic adventures of life in another land during another time. After graduating from the College of Journalism and Communications at the University of Florida in 2008, she set off on her own adventure with Prague as the destination. To write this book, she has woven the vivid stories from her childhood into her own travel experiences and then sprinkled a little fairy dust on top.
 Blog Goodreads Amazon Author Page Facebook 

Guest Post: How To Do A Book Event by: Nancy Curteman (Author of Murder Down Under)

After my Library Book Event I received several questions from my blog readers and other authors about how I planned and presented the event. There are probably many different answers to the question: How to do a Book Event. So, I will share my process.

My first step was to contact my local library and speak with the events planner. We agreed on a Book Event date and time.

My next step was to determine the agenda for the event based on the tine allotted to me and share it with the events planner. She allotted me an hour and a half with an additional 20 minutes to set up. She arranged seating and advertising. In addition, I posted some flyers in places that had bulletin boards—Starbucks, Pete’s Coffee

So, here is the agenda I created and how the actual event worked:

10:40 I arrive and set up my table. On the table I displayed my books and recipes for foods mentioned in my mystery book—Lamingtons, Pavlova and ANZAC Biscuits. I also baked six dozen ANZAC Biscuits for attendees to taste.

11:00 I mingled with people as they gathered for the event while my husband assisted me by selling books to those interested in purchasing them.

11:15 I shared a brief introductory piece about myself. I talked about my earliest writing experiences, influences on me as an author, my blog, the novels I had already published. I explained why and how I started writing mysteries.

11:30 I described my writing style which is character driven and contrasted it with plot driven writing.

11:40 I shared a synopsis of the novel I was highlighting for the event, “Murder Down Under.”

11:50 I described the traits and origin of three of my main characters and two of my secondary characters.

12:15 I took questions, sign books.

12:30 The event ended, but people stayed to chat and ask more questions.

Why have a Book Event rather than just a book signing? Simple, it provides a great opportunity to interact with readers, it sells books and it’s fun.

Now take that leap in the dark and plan your own Book Event.

Guest Post: Katy Krump on How Hard Is It To Write Teen Fantasy

Our second feature today is from Katy Krump, author of the teen fantasy Blue Dust: Forbidden. She's talking about how hard it is to write teen fantasy.

     Honestly, I don’t find it too hard. I suppose it’s because basically I’m a teenage girl masquerading as a middle-aged woman. I once asked my mother what it felt like to ‘be old’ and she said, ‘I don’t feel any different now from how I felt when I was sixteen.’ I did the required eye-rolling and snorting and thought, ‘Pshaw, rubbish,’ or words not as complimentary, and continued with my happy, uncluttered teenage life, boiling with fury when I was dismissed or treated as insignificant because of my youth. Now, I realise she was right.   I still feel sixteen in my head, though of course I’m much wiser. I am, really I am. I remember the feeling of disempowerment and in direct contrast to that, the rush of knowing I was invincible and would never get as old as my mother. Those moments of pushing the boundaries just to see what would happen are as clear now as they were back then. I was often treated as if I was too young to have valid opinions or thoughts and constantly told that I’d ‘understand’ when I was older. Those feelings have influenced my writing and are a major motivation for my choosing to write teen fiction. I clearly recall the muddle in my head as I tried to find my true self, the surging hormones that made me feel out of control and dangerous, and Qea, the heroine in Blue Dust : Forbidden, reflects these emotions. I think it’s vital for a writer to draw on life experiences. My book is sci fi/fantasy about an alien. Obviously I’m not an actual alien, but I do understand what it’s like to be a stranger in a strange place after emigrating, so I took what I knew and turned it on its head. For me, using personal experiences makes the writing easier. It’s not necessary to write exactly what happened, but turn it around and you have a fantasy story.   I have clear memories of my childhood and teenage years and the uncontrollable passions that could swamp me in an instant. I was a bit of a loner, but I spent a lot of time observing others (in a non-stalker way of course) and it was through these observations that my writing began. Times have changed so much with all the technology and social media that young adults are involved in, and yet the essence of growing up, discovering your true persona, parental and sibling relationships, negotiating the quagmires of friendship and love, remain constant. I store up my observations of people’s behaviours and dialogue, and use them in my writing. Once you learn to do that, the writing gets easier.   As far as writing fantasy is concerned, I’ve always had an over-active imagination, so writing for the teen market helps me excise and share some of the weirdness in my head. We didn’t have a television until I was fifteen and so I read prodigiously and spent a lot of time making up stories in my head. I loved sci fi and fantasy television programmes, which back then were filled with dodgy special effects and cardboard rocks, because they made me realise I wasn’t the only one with thoughts about other worlds. There has to be an exciting story and strong characters who undergo challenges and face terrible dangers. Fantasy enables the monster to be bigger and scarier. The worlds can be more bizarre because nothing is impossible in fantasy, and I love the freedom of this genre. I love words, and spend a lot of time finding the ‘perfect’ word for a sentence. I don’t dumb down my writing even though it is for teenagers and I’ve had some interesting comments from young readers who enjoy the words I use. My thought is that if someone doesn’t understand a word they can look it up, which is what I used to do and nowadays ‘Doctor Google’ makes it easy. Blue Dust : Forbidden didn’t start out as a fantasy. Halfway through I realisedit was taking a direction I didn’t like and so I stopped and thought about what kind of story I really wanted to write, and instantly came to ‘fantasy/sci fi’. I turned it around and immediately it became easier as I was able to let my imagination run riot, unbound by having to keep it all ‘real’. As with any writing, teenage fantasy needs to have a strong story, believable characters and the correct structure. Structure and character development can all be learned, but it’s what you do with the technical skills that matters most, in my opinion. Correct spelling and grammar are important, but for me with fantasy, it’s the story and characters that matter most. Dodgy structure, grammar, spelling etc., can be fixed. A writer must believe in the writing and the genre. It would be no good my trying to write a book about the joys of motorcycles, because I don’t care about them, but strong female protagonists and fantastical worlds, that’s what I care about. My advice to writers is to find the genre that makes your soul sing, spend some time learning about the technical aspects and then do it. Write whatever you want to no matter how weird it might feel or seem to others. Fantasy is ideal for people with vivid imaginations, like me. The writing is the easy apart. It’s what comes afterwards that’s difficult; re-writing, editing, learning how to take out a superfluous passage or even chapter, even though you love it, that’s hard. As with anything, discipline, perseverance , willingness to take constructive criticism from an editor and self-belief are vital when writing. Getting what you’ve written published is a whole other story...   Katy was an English and music teacher before almost losing her sense of humour (and mind) and deciding she needed to devote herself to the thing she loved most - writing. She published a number of children’s musicals and then became a full-time television scriptwriter for children, entered a nationwide scriptwriting competition and was selected to be on the writing team of a popular South African soap. She also worked as an advertising copywriter, wrote radio ads and jingles, educational textbooks and readers...anything writing-related to keep the wolf from the door. Basically, she’s constantly writing, books and TV scripts and if not that then plotting, planning and scheming how to take over the world! Like her creation Qea, the feisty heroine in Blue Dust: Forbidden, Katy understands something about being an alien after she embarked on a new journey, crossing the galaxy to settle on a new planet (England) many moons ago. Some like to call this process 'immigration'. Katy is now a proud possessor of a maroon Intergalactic Wayfarer Permit and has come to love the aliens she mixes with daily. You can find Katy's book at Amazon. Interested in knowing more about Katy: Check out these websites:WebsiteGhostly Publishing 

Blitz: My Two Uncles

  Today on Out of Control Characters, we bring you the first of two fabulous books available for kids. This one is about living in alternative family situations, My Two Uncles by Jeff Rivera.    Here's where you can find this book: Amazon Barnes & Noble Kobo 
Look at this interview with Jeff Rivera for all you need to know about My Two Uncles:

Ruth Anne Woods interview     Jeff Rivera is an author and inspirational media personality. He has appeared on national television, radio and print in such outlets asForbes.com, The Boston Globe, Publishers Weekly, Right On! Magazine, Rotarian Magazine, TMZ, WABC, WNBC, WCBS, SITV, American Latino and NPR. His humble beginnings of living in American poverty on welfare and food stamps as the child of a single mother, to his days living in his car and final rise to becoming a published author, journalist and media personality have inspired many. 
Finally, here's where you can find Jeff on the web:

Website Twitter Amazon Fan Page Goodreads Huffington Post Whether you live in an alternative family or are interested in explaining one, this is the book for you. Thanks for stopping by, Jeff, and we hope your book does well.  

The Orb of Truth (Book 1 in the Four Horn Series) by: Brae Wyckoff

 Today on Out of Control Characters, we're talking to Brae Wyckoff, author of The Orb of Truth, Book 1 of the Four Horns series. Before we start, a little more information about this delightful book I had a chance to read this week:
 

Synopsis:
In the hundreds of years since the Holy City disappeared, darkness has fallen over the land. Human kingdoms have seized control of the realm, scattering the other races into hiding.
Bridazak, a skilled thief, and his friends, a Dwarf and a fellow Ordakian, have dared to remain within the human communities and live relatively quiet lives, until they discover a mysterious, magical artifact. The three friends are thrust into an adventure that will challenge their faith, their purpose, and their destiny as they chase a forgotten and lost prophecy across the realm of Ruauck-El, where they hope to discover the origins of the strange item and their place in its history.
An ancient, unknown enemy threatens the completion of their journey at every turn. Bridazak is about to face the biggest adventure of his life, one that may change the known realm, and answer the questions he has carried all his life. Will they unlock the truth?
Wow! Even though I've already read this book, I want to read it again. It sounds very fascinating. Now, to introduce Brae:
And now we get down to the nitty gritty. Oh, I just love these character interviews. We get to know about how they feel about their story.  
For the author:
1.      Talk to us about The Orb of Truth
The Orb of Truth is a classic adventure set in a realm filled with good vs evil, magic, and intrigue. I love to take my readers on an incredible journey where they will be whisked away from reality and become friends with the rich characters of Ruauck-El. If you love Lord of the Rings then you will love The Orb of Truth, first book of the series. The sequel is due out later this year (2013) and is called The Dragon God.
 
2.      Author Bio
Brae Wyckoff was born and raised in San Diego, CA and is working toward a Psychology degree. He has been married to his beautiful wife, Jill, for 20 years, and they have three children; Tommy, Michelle, and Brittany. He has a beautiful grandson named Avery. Brae has been an avid gamer since 1985. His passion for mysterious realms and the supernatural inspired him to write The Orb of Truth, the first in a series of fantasy action adventures. Brae describes The Orb of Truth as a cross between the Lord of the Rings and the Wizard of OZ where you will be swept away into a magical land of Dwarves, Elves, and Halflings.
 
For the character: Bridazak
1.      Introduce yourself to our readers. Where do you fit into the story? What should we know about you?
Hello everyone. My name is Bridazak. This is my first interview ever so I’m a little nervous. Halflings don’t do these kinds of things normally.
Well, Brae Wyckoff and I first met over twenty years ago when roleplaying Dungeons and Dragons. That is where I told him of my story and he wanted to write about it. You see I was an orphaned Ordakian, Halfling for those who don’t know what an ordakian is, anyway, I tell you this because I have always asked myself two questions. “What is my purpose in life and do I matter?”
My life was forever changed on that fateful day I met The Orb. It seems like yesterday still. Anyway, I am forever indebted to Brae for bringing my story to your world. You only have part of the story and the next books will be even better than the first. I was told not to give anything away.
 
2.      What do you think about the author? Tell us everything. We want to know.
Well, glad you asked. My take is this, Brae is a stand-up human that really has a way with words on paper to capture the surroundings and feelings of everything that transpired. Brae and I are now working on the 3rd book, The Vampire King, while the 2ndis being edited. I am amazed how Brae can take my story and write is so precisely. It is hard to believe that what he is writing actually happened to me.
Brae visits what you would call an “office”, but in Ruauck-El, we call it a tavern. His “office” is called Starbucks. We do a lot of work at this Starbucks place, talking through the story and me trying to explain the creatures of the realm so he can describe them perfectly.
I do know this, and he probably won’t like me saying so, he snores. I snuck into his house a couple times because I needed to tell him some important information that couldn’t wait and well, holy crap, this human was louder than my dwarven friend, Dulgin. I realized that I didn’t have to sneak at all. He wouldn’t hear a thing. Brae also refuses to acknowledge his nightly snorting and tells us we don’t know what we are talking about. He reminds me of Dulgin in some ways.
 
3.      What are your feelings about this story?
I realize that your world finds it entertaining, but in reality this story is my life. My feelings are heavy at times remembering the hurtful past but overall my journey has been fruitful. I can say that HOPE found me during my travels and I will never regret the outcome. When you read The Orb of Truth then you will understand what I’m talking about.
 
4.      How do you feel about being a character in this book?
I’m not sure why Brae chose me to be the focal point of this story although I play a big part in it but there are so many others who also played a big role. Don’t get me wrong, I love to be the center of attention most of the time and understand my role as a leader with my friends, but there are times when I think Brae should have highlighted others more.
 
 
5.      What do you see in your future? (No spoilers please!)
Well, I’m no fortune teller, but there are times that I get glimpses within my mind of what is to come. I have seen great things coming that I have not even told Brae yet, but he is in store to behold a great adventure himself that will rival my own.
I’m working on writing the 3rdbook with Brae which revolves around Vampires but I wasn’t there most of the time as I was on my own adventure. I can’t tell you more than that, but you will understand when you read the 2nd book entitled The Dragon God.
 
6.      Is there another The Orb of Truth in the future? Will you be part of it?
 
Did you know that Brae’s original title was Bridazak the Brave? I thought it was a horrible title and I’m so thankful he changed it to The Orb of Truth.
There is only one Orb but what comes next revolves around the basis of what the first book foretold.
I am indeed part of the future books. There are so many stories to be told but so little time. Brae is working with me on the foundation of the series and then we can go back and share all the side adventures that happened with me and my friends.
I remember breaking into the Pasha’s Palace and barely escaping with my life. This is just one example of hundreds to share.
 
7.      Say a movie producer comes knocking. What actor/actress would you want to play you and why?
Brae mentioned this also, but I am uncertain as to your Hollywood realms ways. Brae showed me the Lord of the Rings movies and I was deeply enthralled. I later found out that the story was made up and I could not understand why. This Earth realm is strange, but I do fancy the talking shows.
I also saw The Avengers and though I did not understand all of the magic these heroes wielded, I did like the Jeremy Renner actor who portrayed Hawkeye. He is a natural with the bow and I feel that he could pretend to be me in one of your movies through the Hollywood town.
 
So, now that we have your interest, are you ready to find out how to follow Brae on the web, or pick up his work? Check out the links below:WebsiteBlogFacebookGoodreadsFan ClubTwitterHere's where you can purchase your own copy of The Orb of Truth:Amazon (paperback)Amazon KindleAnd, drum roll please, here's the book trailer: Just for you, we now present a surprise:            

Review: To Kiss A Ghost (Hungry Ghost 2)


A good young adult book is hard to find, but find one I did when I read Becky Pourchot's latest tale in the Hungry Ghost series. To Kiss A Ghost kept me on the edge of my seat to the very end. Read my review below:

   Fifteen-year-old Gala Rhyce is an illustrator for comic books, touched by one ghost, and has this fantastic paranormal power. She sees ghosts and their auras. She also see human auras. All this makes her different, and she wants to be normal as she approaches her first day of a brand new school, in her new hometown of Flagler Beach, FL. But the spirits are determined Gala won't be normal. She has a job to do, and a boyfriend, Cy, to break up with now that he's in college. Her latest adventure doesn't start off great, what with a ghost dog causing her tremendous physical damage, but Gala meets a "Ghost Boy" she names Jaylen. Things really heat up when a prank crazy ghost, Roy, attaches himself to her. Just when she thinks she has things figured out, life throws Gala a curve ball she never saw coming. Becky Pourchot weaves a paranormal tale of one teen's calling to help clear ghosts from the human plane with ease. To Kiss a Ghost is a fun easy read for any and all teens. The action is believable, and hysterically funny as Gala's ten-year-old brother gets into the act by "enchanting" food for the ghosts. There is heartbreak when Gala must give up a ghost she's come to love, with a sweet, enduring kiss, but there is also hope for the future when she discovers her ghost is actually a teen not much older than her recovering from a fire that destroyed his home. To Kiss a Ghost garners five stars for it's entertainment value, it's realism, and for being good enough to hope the sequel comes out soon.   Becky Meyer Pourchot was a writer before she knew she was a writer. She was the kid who could tell scary stories at a Halloween party, giving everyone goose bumps, then the next day proudly make her family laugh at the dinner table. In her debut book, I Look Better In Binary, Becky draws on her childhood experiences as a Jewish kid growing up in the Midwest to create a collection of short stories that are, at once, hilarious and touching. Becky credits her family, friends, and one special teacher for the encouragement she needed to become the writer she is today.   

Author Interview: Polyamory and Pregnancy

Today, Out of Control Characters hosts Jessica Burde, author of Polyamory and Pregnancy. First, a little bit about Jessica:



Jessica Burde is an author, freelance writer and poly activist. She has been in polamorous relationships for nearly 10 years and is a member of the Polyamory Leadership Network and Yahoo PolyResearchers group. Jessica is also the author of the PolyonPurpose blog, which covers topics such as STIs and safe sex, children in polyamory and religious views of polyamory. Much of her freelance writing has been for medical and parenting websites, including advice for new parents, the stages or pregnancy and more.
Jessica has several future books planned
for the Polyamory on Purpose Guides series, including Safer Sex for the
Non-Monogamous, The Poly Home and Raising Children in Polyamory. She plans to
publish one guide a year. Jessica also writes fiction, and has a novel-length
erotic fantasy that she hopes to release as a webserial in October 2013. A mother of 3 children, all born into
polyamorous relationships, Jessica currently lives in western Tennessee with
her long-term partner and youngest son. She misses the Appalachian mountains
and hopes to move east in the next few years

Before we get into your interview, tell us about Polyamory. I've never heard of this before.
 
Polyamory can be defined as the practice of having or desire
to have more than on sexual/romatic/intimate relationship at one time, in an
honest and ethical manner. A person in a polyamorous relationship might be part
of a group marriage, a swinger, a single person with several SOs, dating a
person in a married couple, in an open marriage or any combination of the
above. The central focus of polyamory is that these relationships occur with
the full knowledge and consent of everyone involved.
Poly folk face some unique challenges in
a culture designed for monogamy. Polyamory on Purpose was started first as a
blog and now as a book series to discuss some of the daily-life challenges and
ways to navigate them.     Here's a synopsis of Polyamory and Pregnancy:







The first complete guide to pregnancy in polyamorous relationships, Polyamory and Pregnancy covers every step of welcoming a new life into your polycule. Whether you are planning ahead for future children or are on your way to the baby shower, you will find something here to help on your journey:

Unexpected pregnancies Planning for pregnancy
Important decisions during and after
pregnancy
Poly-friendly prenatal care
Birth certificates and paternity
Custody and co-parenting
And more... Can you tell us a little about Your Book?

Sure. It’s written for people in non-monogamous relationship who are dealing with a pregnancy in their relationships, or planning for a pregnancy. I’ve been involved in polyamory for nearly ten years, and have three kids. In a world build around heterosexual monogamy, having a child in a non-traditional family creates some unique challenges, and there isn’t much information publicly available on what those challenges are or ways to cope with them.
Is there a historical angle you can share with us?
The modern polyamory movement originated in the 1980s. I don’t actually know much about the development of polyamory as such, but there has been various forms of non-monogamy practiced throughout human history. Religious polygyny is the most well known in America, and has an understandably bad reputation given the infamous (and well publicized) actions of people like Warren Jeffs. However, non-monogamy has taken many different forms, and most of those forms have led to healthy relationships.
Prior to polyamory, the US saw swing culture and before that the free love of the 60s and 70s. While the free love movement died out, swinging continues to be popular in many parts of the country. During the Victorian era, the practice of a wealthy man keeping a wife and a mistress was a socially sanctioned but never acknowledged form of non-monogamy. In Tibet and Nepal sometimes a man will marry several men, which is known as polyandry. The Musuo culture is becoming widely known as a representative of a family style that breaks all of our assumptions. The badly named “walking marriages” they practice are nothing resembling marriage at all. Instead, women and men both live with their mother’s clan. At night men go to visit the women of their choice. The women can let them in, or shut the door in their face. These relationships aren’t formal arrangements – they last as long as both parties want it too. Sometimes for a single night, sometimes for decades. In the morning, the man returns to his mother’s clan, where he helps to raise and support his nieces and nephews. Any children of these relationships are raised by the mother and her family.
In ancient Persian culture, and some branches of modern Islam, there is the tradition of marriages “for a set period.” So you could get married with the intention of only being together for a few weeks or a few months.
I think that polyamory has learned and developed from all of these. The crucial idea of polyamory is that as long as everyone is honest and treats each other with respect, anything goes. This means that any of these forms of non-monogamy and many others can be found in poly circles. However, unlike stereotypical non-monogamy (which bears as much relation to reality as stereotypes ever do), with in polyamory everyone is involved in their form of non-monogamy by choice, with the honest and and enthusiastic agreement of everyone involved.
When did you know you wanted to be a writer?
I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember, but I think it was in high school that I decided writing was what I wanted to do with my life. I joined a creative writing class and had an amazing time. For the first time I had people who took my writing seriously and were willing to give the critiques and suggestions I needed to make my writing better.
Of course I always intended to write fiction or poetry. A decade ago, I never would have guessed my first book would be non-fiction.
What books have most influenced your life most?
Mercedes Lackey’s Bedlam’s Bard was my introduction in modern non-monogamy.
Jonathan Bach’s Jonathan Livingston Seagull was my inspiration for years.
Kahlil Gibran, The Prophet. I’ve gone through more copies of that book than any other. I just keep coming back to it.
Anne McCaffery’s short story “The Littlest Dragon-Boy” was my introduction to sci-fi/fantasy in seventh grade English. Never say that there is nothing good in English text books. You may find the story in there that shapes the rest of your life.
Are there any new authors that currently interest you? And which is your favorite author of all time?
Oh god...
Well, Patty Briggs isn’t “new” any more, but she was when I picked her up for the first time. Ryk Spoor isn’t as new as he used to be, but is still hitting his stride. I’m looking forward to seeing were he goes from here.
A.G. Carpenter, Balogun Ojetade and John Scalzi are authors I’ve discovered in the last year that I am looking forward to reading more of.
Do you have any little ‘things’ you do or traditions you follow when you write?
Nope. I squeeze in writing when I can, around a rambunctious two year old and keeping up with my paid work. When I get half an hour and inspiration, I sit my butt down and write.
Actually, yeah, there is one thing. When I get half an hour and no inspiration, I put on a YouTube playlist I called “Energize,” full of songs whose beat and lyrics both are designed to kick me in the ass and get me typing.
Do you have a dedicated space, a particular office or piece of machinery?
Well, there is my laptop. I’ve been through 3 in the last two years, so I’m not sure how ‘dedicated’ it is, but it’s what I got.
Do you ever write longhand? Do you ever use a tape-recorder?
Longhand is for poetry, the rare times I write it. Prose is almost always typed. I do use dictation software. I think better when I pace, so being able to walk around and talk at my computer sometimes is nice. Also was very helpful when the little guy was younger – I could hold him when he was teething or falling asleep and keep writing.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your published works?
This is my first published work, so it’s a bit early to say. I do wish I’d been able to find other people will to share their stories of pregnancy and polyamory, but I didn’t think to look until late in the writing process, and many people are very private about that kind of thing. I’ve recently heard of a quad who had a child together and write an article about their experiences. It would have been nice to have a chance to talk with them and see if they’d be willing to share some stories for me to include. Many for the second edition.
What do you love most about writing?
Hard to say – I love the feeling of a sentence that fits perfectly – there are a few sentences in my current fiction project that I’ll go back and read over and over again. I love sharing my thoughts and experiences and the way my writing can help other people and help shape the world. I love words and the way they can have so many different meanings depending on how they fit together.
What kind of research did you do for this book?
Surprisingly little. Mostly it was the research of living this stuff for nearly a decade. I did some factual research for sections on contraceptives and infertility, since those aren’t areas I know much about. For the section on legal issues and DNA testing, I had to do some research into how things are handled in other countries. One of the major criticisms of a lot of poly books is that they are US centric, and I really wanted to make this as accessible as possible for an international audience.
What's a typical working day like for you? When and where do you write? Do you set a daily writing goal?
I don’t think I have a “typical” day. Every so often I’ll set a schedule for my day, and stick to it for maybe 2 or 3 weeks and then it flies out the window. I try and do my writing in the morning, I seem to be at my best then and get the most done with the least delays.
I do set writing goals, but not word counts. I break my writing into tasks: “I want to finish writing this scene, complete these two freelancing projects, and get two blog posts up.” If I don’t finish in the first go, then I’ll get up and do some dishes, play with the boy, run errands, and come back for a shorter stint in the afternoon, then again after the little guy goes to bed. But the bulk of my work is done in the morning – around 2 pm my brain switches to low gear and stays there. Afternoon is best for more active stuff.
What is the hardest part of writing for you?
Trusting myself. It’s not so bad with the non-fiction. But with fiction writing, I’ll get caught on a single sentence, not sure how to find the words to convey the image I want.
With the non-fiction, the biggest challenge is believing that I have something to say that people want to here. I don’t doubt my stories the way I doubt my non-fic. The support I’ve gotten from the poly community and my family and friends has made a big difference.
What’s the best thing about being an author?
Get back to me in 10 years and maybe I’ll have figured it out.
What are you working on now?
I have an erotic fantasy that I’m hoping to release as a webserial in the fall. It’s taken the backseat the past few months, so I’m looking forward to giving it some more attention now.  The main character is man who sells himself to a sadistic fae in order to save his sister – and ends up getting a lot more than he bargained for.
I’m also planning out the next few Polyamory on Purose Guides. I have several topics I want to write on (Raising Children in Polyamory, the Poly Home, Safer Sex in Non-Monogamy, etc), not sure yet which one to tackle next.
What advice would you give aspiring writers?
Take a couple of years to just write for fun – don’t worry about publishing or finding any agent or finishing a novel. Just write. You’ll get better without even realizing it.  
Spend some time working as a freelance writer. It will give you practice for dealing with rejection and picky editors, and it’s a great way to learn about the business side of writing – marketing yourself, crafting proposals, etc.

Anything else you wish to share …
Polyamory isn’t for everyone, and if it’s a new idea to you, check out some of the great resources available for learning about poly before you go picking up a book specifically about polyamory and pregnancy. If you are dealing with the really fucked up situation of a person cheating in a supposedly monogamous marriage and someone getting pregnant, there may be some things in here that may apply to your situation, but this book is written with the assumption that readers all openly and freely choose to be non-monogamous. Very Interesting. Now, the most important part. Where to find Jessica Burde. Jessica Burde Blog Website Goodreads Amazon Twitter or Twitter    

Blitz: Paint Me Beautiful

A new book is a coming, Paint Me Beautiful. Here's a quick look at what it's all about. Let me tell you, I can't wait to get my hands on it and read the story. It's a story many, many teens live every day.




“I'm dying to be beautiful.”
My story isn't unique. You've heard it before. I'm just a girl who doesn't eat as much as she should. See, I have goals, big ones, and nobody is going to stop me, not even a boy named Emmett. He has good intentions and he's hot as hell, but he doesn't understand what it's like to want something so bad that you'll do anything for it. I'm going to become a model, even if it kills me. Dream big or go home, that's what they always say, right?

C.M. Stunich was raised under a cover of fog in the area known simply as Eureka, CA. A mysterious place, this strange, arboreal land nursed Caitlin's (yes, that's her name!) desire to write strange fiction novels about wicked monsters, magical trains, and Nemean Lions (Google it!). She currently enjoys drag queens, having too many cats, and tribal bellydance.

Always a fan of the indie scene and 'sticking it to the man,' Ms. Stunich decided to take the road less traveled and forgo the traditional publishing route. You can be assured though that she received several rejections as to ensure her proper place in the world of writers before taking up a friend's offer to start a publishing company. Sarian Royal was born, and Ms. Stunich's books slowly transformed from mere baking chocolate to full blown tortes with hand sculpted fondant flowers.

C.M. is a writer obsessed with delivering the very best and scours her mind on a regular basis to select the most unusual stories for the outside world.

Goodreads

Review: Bad Apple

A threat to remain silent or she ends up like the kittens silences Neal Marchal for eight years. She's an orphan, connected to her stepmother's family, with no close kin to protect her. It's a life full of secrets, of a hidden dream involving music, and a group of people who are the only family she has, even if they are different … hurtful.
The intervention of a cop with a good heart after a neighbor is murder gives Neal hope, but she still holds back. Everyone knows the mountain people of apple country in New York don't abide by the same rules as other folks. Yet, these differences threaten to destroy Neal, until she meets a guy with a band, and an offer.
Barbara Morgenroth weaves a tale of a family steeped with "bad apples," and a teenager surviving by her wits and her dreams. Neal's plight mirrors the plight of so many children, so many families, and yet she finds ways to escape – through writing and eventually music. It's a testament to the strength of the human spirit as Neal journeys from terrified, hide away teen to a confident singer and a person willing to accept help from others. This is a story that will appeal to teens who have experienced hardship and survived. I highly recommend this book.


"You tell and next time you won't even be able to crawl away."
Neal Marchal lived with this threat for the next eight years. When she finds her neighbor murdered, she knows who did it. The why is the secret the family has been keeping forever. The reminder to never reveal the secret is her limp.
She rebuilt her life and now Neal has everything to live for--music, performing and a growing affection for the young man who pulled her to safety.
Then Joe comes home. Neal knows Joe's going to finish what he started 8 years ago because she told. But this time Neal vows the outcome will be different.
  
Barbara was born in New York City and but now lives somewhere else.  Starting her career by writing tweens and YA books, she wound up in television writing soap operas for some years.  Barbara then wrote a couple cookbooks and a nonfiction book on knitting.  She returned to fiction and wrote romantic comedies. When digital publishing became a possibility, Barbara leaped at the opportunity and has never looked back.  In addition to the 15 traditionally published books she wrote, in digital format Barbara has something to appeal to almost every reader from Mature YAs like the Bad Apple series and the Flash series, to contemporary romances like Love in the Air published by Amazon/Montlake, and Unspeakably Desirable, Nothing Serious and Almost Breathing. Amazon Barbara Morgenroth Blog    

Review: Falling into Paradise

And now it's time to reveal how I feel about the delightful romance, Falling into Paradise!



Sophie Redmond is warm and loving but hurt by her past – hurt by people who should know better, and others who would use her to their own ends. Damon Watson has never had a deep relationship. This small town sheriff is known as the Romeo of Paradise Falls. He gives her a speeding ticket their first day in town, and she remembers all her rules about men when he faces her again. Those rules came about after a career breakdown, and the memories of her less than idyllic childhood, but Damon's bent on getting as close to her as he can.
Secrets from the past rule her their heads, but not their hearts. What begins as an erotic romance quickly morphs into a fascinating, breathtaking romantic suspense. Mistakes of the past no longer rule Sophie and Damon as they realize what is most important to them.
Kemy Chetty turns up the heat in this novel right at the beginning, yet this book is more than two people attracted to each other. The reader will be able to relate to the humanness of Damon and Sophie. They will feel the pain of each of these star-crossed lovers as they fight to overcome their pasts and move forward with their futures. Chetty draws out the ache of losing a precious child, and how it brings these two adults closer and closer. Every moment is fraught with danger, and even injured Sophie manages to push herself past the pain of all rejections to see the future – even if means she has to be alone. Damon's surprise will have everyone sighing with romantic happiness. There are moments of "I never saw that coming" followed by "oh, she didn't." But the one thing I know about Falling Into Paradise. It's a page turner I want to return to many times in the future.