Jenni Merritt's Blog, page 7

Tour Stop: Mother Matters REVIEW

Tour Schedule


Motherhood Matters: Joyful Reminders of the Divinity, Reality, and Rewards of Motherhood
By Connie E. Sokol

Motherhood Matters Motherhood is a divine calling---but it may not always feel that way. Now you can show the women in your life how much they matter to you, with this delightful and heartwarming volume of wit and wisdom about the divinity, reality, and rewards of motherhood. Fresher than flowers and sweeter than chocolate, it's a perfect gift for the women who give so much. In these hectic days where life's demands can quickly become a heavy burden, Motherhood Matters helps you find more memorable moments and take the stress out of the to-do lists. Written with clarity, concision, and wit, this short, yet indispensable handbook is better than flowers, more guilt-free than chocolate, and gives back to the woman who sacrifices so much of herself every single day.  

Why I Picked This Book: When I was given the chance to be part of this blog tour, I couldn't resist.  A simple book reminding me why motherhood matters?  Just what I needed! (I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review.  I was not financially compensated in any way.)
My Thoughts:Short, sweet and to the point.  Just like this book.  Motherhood Matters is a quick read, full of thoughts and lessons that all mothers should remember.  It is full of quotes from LDS leaders, Conference talks, and scriptures.  For those of you not religious, this may not be the book for you.  But me?  It was just right.  
I am LDS, so many of the talks and stories shared in Motherhood Matters were familiar to me.  At the end of each chapter (which were all short) I felt refreshed.  It is easy to be disgruntled as a mom.  Exhausted.  Wondering if you are doing this right and wishing sometimes that it was different.  This book is a simple reminder that the job of a mother is a divine calling.  There are many chapters I plan on reading time and again, especially on those days that I am beyond frazzled.
The only reason for the slightly lower rating is that most of the writing felt like it was mere recap of talks and scriptures.  While the author does weave in some of her own thoughts and stories, I felt like many of the chapters were a bit rushed and lacking.  Just as I was feeling the "Yes, this chapter is speaking to me" feeling, it would end.  I would have liked to see more writing between the quotes.  But honestly?  Even with that, I loved this book.  
I plan to snag a hard copy of it, to have on my bedside table at all times.  If you are looking for that little mommy spiritual and emotional pick-me-up, this is a great quick read to add to your pile.


My Rating: (4 out of 5 stars)

Blue Hearts of Mars TOUR: Interview with Nicole Grotepas

Welcome to my stop for the Blue Hearts of Mars blog tour.  Today I have been given the chance to interview Nicole Grotepas.  Are you ready to meet this wonderful writer lady?  Away we go!

Nicole wrote her first fantasy novel in 7th grade on her mother's old Brother typewriter. It was never finished but it strongly resembled a Dragonlance plot and she's forever wondered what happened to the manuscript and Tonathan--the handsome elven protagonist. After living in Nashville where she worked as an editor, she returned to the Utah desert where she was raised. Nicole now lives near the Wasatch mountains with her husband. She writes and raises her son and three cats full time.

Website  |  Blog  |  Facebook  |  Twitter  | 

How are you doing today? 
     Good! My father passed away this morning, but he's been sick for a while and so it was a tender mercy. I dedicated Blue Hearts of Mars to him and he got to see it before he died. I'm happy about that. 
My condolences.  I am so happy your father got to see your work!Tell my readers a little about yourself:
     I'm a huge fan of Dr. Pepper and Celebrity Apprentice. I've lived in several cities, including Nashville, but I'm happiest in the desert. My son is almost two and so far he is the work I'm most proud of. My husband's name is Stoker and he still makes me laugh my head off, even though we've been together for eight years. Usually people become less funny, not more funny, right?
What is your writing process? Plotter… or pantser?
     I plot, but sometimes I don't know the ending till I'm halfway through. So, typically I plot as I go unless the story comes to me in one big rush. 
What sparked the idea for Blue Hearts of Mars?
     It was really a series of what-if questions after having the initial idea about a man being more machine than man. I'd been entertaining the question of what a soul is and if there's a point when very developed technology could harbor a soul or spirit. 
Do you see yourself at all in Retta? What trait do you wish you could steal from her?
     I see a little bit of myself in her but mostly she's a product of her environment and the life she's lived. If there's anything of me in her, it's her sense of humor. Her attitude is more optimistic than mine and that's something I'd like to take from her. She's determined and sure of herself in a way I never was at eighteen.
What has been one of the most rewarding experiences from being published?
     Having people read and enjoy the stories. I write them because I love doing it, but finding out that total strangers halfway around the world enjoy the stories is killer. 
What do you have in store for us in the future? Any new stories on the horizon?
     I'm considering a short story in the Blue Hearts world, and possibly a sequel. I never intended to write one, but I've been getting such positive feedback from readers that I feel like it would be fun to do it. The universe of Blue Hearts is pretty big and the possibilities are tantalizing. But, right now I'm working on a romance that's for an older audience. It's going to be epic and I'm insanely excited about it.  
Enough with the serious talk. Let’s do a fun question: Skittles or M&Ms?
     M&Ms! Peanut butter, peanut, or coconut flavor. 
If you were a superhero, what power would you have?
     Flying. 
What takes over your life when not writing?
     My husband and son, who are so worth it. I write for them. I used to play video games A LOT, but there's no time for that these days. 

In one sentence, tell my readers why they should read Blue Hearts of Mars:
     When love is forbidden, there's only one thing to do: fall in love.

_______________

Thank you, Nicole!  It was so great to "meet" you, and I cannot wait to see what you have in store for your readers next!  (Coconut M&Ms are my favorite.  Just saying!)

Make sure to check out the other blogs part of this tour.
And, of course, don't forget to check out Blue Hearts of Mars as well!

Retta Heikkinen knows the unspoken rule of society: love between androids and humans is forbidden. A simple enough edict until Hemingway Koskinen spends an evening charming her with his intense gaze, bewitching smile, and sparkling conversation that hints at so much more than the usual obsessions of high school boys. Rules were meant to be cast aside, especially when love beckons.

If only it were as simple as being in love.

Trouble is brewing, not just for Hemingway--for all androids. Secrets have been kept, lies propagated, and Retta soon discovers that a frightening future awaits thousands of androids if she doesn’t do something to stop it. Worse yet, she will lose the one love she’s ever endangered herself for: Hemingway.

Amazon | Kindle  | Goodreads

WIP Day - Moving

Have you wondered why in the last few weeks my posts have been sporadic and lacking?
Well, aside from normal every day to day distractions, there is a good reason.

My family is moving.

We made the commitment a few weeks back.  And in two weeks we will be leaving Oregon and heading back to Washington State.  We are very excited for the move.  I cannot wait to see my hubby do a job he loves once again.  To raise my kids in the same town I grew up in.  To be able to drive to the beach whenever I feel the urge, relish in the small town life, and honestly... start over.

We have loved it here in Oregon.  We really did.

In this very apartment even.
This apartment is where brought home our second son.  It is where I committed to my first ever NaNoWriMo and won.  It is where I wrote three other books.  Where I published PN and became the author I always dreamed I would be.  It is where I grew this blog and blossomed in my photography.  I have made friends here.  I have grown here.  And boy, I will miss here.

But we are ready to move.

The island is where I grew up.  And where I feel most inspired.  It is a place that embraces the arts.  While I have learned a ton and loved a ton about living so close to the city, I never stopped being an islander.  That just doesn't leave you.  (And not to mention, I get to live closer to my awesome writing buddy and fellow indie author Keary Taylor.  Are you ready for this, Keary?)

That being said: I am trying my hardest to not let this affect the edit of LJ.  My beta readers are still being busy bees, reading away for me.  This weekend I officially start the paper edit.  I will no doubt have to take a little time off to adjust to the move.  But I will still be here.  Editing.  Blogging.  And working hard to get this sequel out by the end of this coming summer.

Be patient with me.  These are big changes.  But they are good.

Now, back I go to packing!
(By the way: About 13 big boxes of books isn't bordering on obsession, is it?)

Blue Hearts of Mars (BOOK BLAST)

Blue Hearts of Mars by Nicole Grotepas


Retta Heikkinen knows the unspoken rule of society: love between androids and humans is forbidden. A simple enough edict until Hemingway Koskinen spends an evening charming her with his intense gaze, bewitching smile, and sparkling conversation that hints at so much more than the usual obsessions of high school boys. Rules were meant to be cast aside, especially when love beckons.

If only it were as simple as being in love.

Trouble is brewing, not just for Hemingway--for all androids. Secrets have been kept, lies propagated, and Retta soon discovers that a frightening future awaits thousands of androids if she doesn’t do something to stop it. Worse yet, she will lose the one love she’s ever endangered herself for: Hemingway.


Grab a FREE copy on Amazon - March 27th & 28th  
Praise

"Nothing like I've read before. A true original story! Everything is so well described. Now if they could make a follow up book and movie, that would be great!" ~Mrs. Z (Amazon)

"I was addicted to this book from the beginning. Life on Mars was very real and not at all a sci fi world I didn't understand . . . I found myself rooting for Retta and Hemingway from the very beginning. Easy reading, couldn't put it down and had it read in a weekend. Waiting for a sequel!" ~TNielsen (Amazon)

"The ending of this book is exceptional. While it was different from what I imagined, the way the author brought in a shocking revelation was amazing. I probably reread the last chapter 3 times letting it sink in and the meaning behind it. It was truly beautiful . . . I would love to see more of Retta and Hemingway!" ~Kat Meyer, (Goodreads)

"I love how the author populated Mars . . . so descriptive and comprehensive . . . I could clearly picture everything as if I was seeing the movie &/or was along for the ride. . . . Retta, the main character, is strong, opinionated, and a great champion for her cause." ~Megan (Amazon)

"I had been in the worst reading slump ever and came across this on Goodreads and thought I'd give it a try. Well, I was pleasantly surprised on how funny and exciting and mysterious it was . . . Mei, Retta's bff, had me laughing out loud quite a bit as well as Retta herself. I'd definitely hang out with those two." ~Deanneluvbooks (Goodreads)



Blue Hearts of Mars has made it to the quarterfinals of the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award.

Readers are invited to download the excerpts (here)and rate and comment on the entries. So please, if you want to contribute, download and rate Blue Hearts! Your support is incredibly appreciated!


Or purchase the full version of the book here:  Amazon




Author Nicole Grotepas

Nicole wrote her first fantasy novel in 7th grade on her mother's old Brother typewriter. It was never finished but it strongly resembled a Dragonlance plot and she's forever wondered what happened to the manuscript and Tonathan--the handsome elven protagonist. After living in Nashville where she worked as an editor, she returned to the Utah desert where she was raised. Nicole now lives near the Wasatch mountains with her husband. She writes and raises her son and three cats full time.



Website * Blog* Facebook * Twitter * Pinterest

Tour Schedule




Book Blast Giveaway
$50 Amazon Gift Card or Paypal Cash
Ends 4/14/13

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the author. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

WIP Day - The Beta Stage

If you follow me on Facebook or Twitter, you may already know: I have sent LJ off to my Beta readers!  Granted, this has happened about three weeks later than I had planned.  And this blog post is already a day late.

I originally wanted to be done with this last edit round in early February.  But life sometimes just can't leave you alone, and before you know it mid-March is here and you are just finishing things.  Being behind schedule is normal.  At least for me.

But I am there now!

I have had many people ask me about how the Beta stage even works.  Many authors do things very differently.  I thought it would be nice to share with you how this stage in the editing game works in my little writing world.

FIRST... I finish the in depth edit round that I have been stuck in for a few months.  Ideally it doesn't take that long.  But like I already said: I am almost always behind schedule.

While doing that, I decide on my Beta readers.  There are many things I take into consideration when making this decision.  Will they be honest with me?  Will they follow the directions I give so I can easily find all the input they return?  Will they read it in a timely matter?  Can they pinpoint grammar errors, plot gaps, character consistency, while still telling me things they love?  How good are the cookies they bribe me with?  Can I trust them to not share this writing with anyone?  Can they make me more cookies?

After all those questions are answered, and all the cookies are given, I email my list and tell them to wait.

SECOND... I have finished the edit round.  Taken a few deep breaths.  Scrolled through my WIP a few times.  Resisted the urge to change my mind and hide it in a drawer for a few months, or years, or forever.  I plop it into an email... and send it off.

A screen shot of the cover page... Oh man...
Now the Beta readers have it.  They are being busy bees, doing my bidding and hopefully making more cookies.  I try to resist the urge to bite all of my finger nails off, go insane, and tell them: "Just kidding!  That's not the book!  Give it back."

Which leads to...

THIRD... While my Beta readers are reading and editing away, I take a few days off.  Then: I print of the paper edit copy of my WIP.  I will mark it up all red and pretty like.  (Post about that process to come soon!)

FOURTH... Once all the feedback from all my Beta readers is back, I sit down, eat the stale cookies, and start sifting through each Beta edit.  I plug edits in, take advice, ask for explanations... And I move forward.

FIFTH... Make more cookies.

I cannot tell you how much I love my Beta readers.  I have already gotten feedback back from one, and am anxiously awaiting the rest.  They are amazing people who are setting aside time in their own busy lives for me, and millions of cookies could never thank them enough.  In a few days, I print that paper edit copy and off I will go.  For the time being, I am seriously searching Pinterest for a good cookie recipe, finding amazing reviews on PN that make me smile, and biting at the bit to get this WIP done.


Some of you have asked how you can become a Beta reader for me.  While I do not need anymore at this time for this project, I just may in the future.  You can always email me with your request and info about yourself, and I will keep you in mind. 

Happy Writing!

Prison Nation FREE Kindle Promo Weekend

With Lady Justice hard in the editing works, I figured it was about time to host another FREE promo weekend for Prison Nation.  Have you read it and want to pass the word on to other friends?  Have you been wanting to read it but just haven't had that $2.99 for your Kindle copy?  This weekend is your chance!

Today (3/15) thru Sunday (3/17) PRISON NATION is available FREE on Kindle.

Get it.  RIGHT HERE.
Help me climb those ranks in the free book lists!

Don't have a Kindle?  There's an app for that!
Most smart phones, tablets, and even the computer have free apps available for your Kindle reading pleasures.

Whether you are snagging your free copy this weekend, or prefer to wait until you can support this Indie author with a purchase,make sure to read Prison Nation before the sequel, Lady Justice, is released this summer!


Remember: The best way to show support to an author is to post a good review and spread the word.

Now go.  Get your copy.  Spread the word.  And read!

Supernatural Teen Fiction Extravaganza

 Last night I got the awesome chance to attend a book signing, full of super talented YA authors!  Elizabeth Fama, Jessica Brody, Marissa Meyer, Lish McBride, Jennifer Bosworth, and Ann Aguirre all gathered for a night full of book gabbing, joke cracking, and fan girling.

Oh wait.  That was me.  I was fan girling.
How could I not?

These women have all written amazing books.  They have created worlds that we are addicted to, and are far from stopping.  They are living the dream.  And getting to "spend" the evening listening to them brag about each others' work was more than a delight.


I think one of the greatest parts of book signings is meeting the authors.  We fall in love with their work.  With their characters and worlds and unfinished resolutions.  But then we get the chance to meet the authors, and find they are just as awesome if not more so than those books we adore.  They are people.  Talented, funny, book obsessed people.  And the world doesn't feel as big anymore.

I like to pretend they are all my best friends.  That isn't too weird, right?
(Hey Ann, you did admit we are BFFs and have dinner together every night.  It is so true...)

Now I have a stack of pretty signed books.  Some I have read already.  Some are waiting to be devoured.  And of course I grabbed a nice stack of swag.  Do you sense a swag giveaway in the future?


Thank you ladies, not only for the book signing event, but for creating these wonderful works of art!  I cannot wait to see what each of you have in store next.  And I hope I get to run into you again soon!

Jennifer Bosworth, author of Struck Elizabeth Fama, author of Monstrous Beauty Ann Aguirre, author of Enclave Lish McBride, author of Hold me Closer, Necromancer Jessica Brody, author of Unremembered Marissa Meyer, author of Cinder *ding!*
And just a random video clip from the lightning round Q&A

Kindle Fire HD GIVEAWAY

Kindle Fire HD Giveaway!
Hosted by I Am A Reader, Not A Writer

The winner will have the option of receiving a 7" Kindle Fire HD (US Only)


Or $199 Amazon.com Gift Card (International)


Or $199 in Paypal Cash (International)




Sponsoring Authors

Cascade Brides by Bonnie BlytheTwenty-Five Years Ago Today by Stacy JubaThe Return of the Dragon Riders by Kristian AlvaPrison Nation by Jenni MerrittThe Stone Guardian by Theresa McClintonFor What It's Worth by Karey WhiteHidden Heart by Camelia Miron SkibaThe Gryphon Series by Stacey RourkeShifting Pride by Laura DiamondFire Within (Guardian Witch #2) by Ally ShieldsThe Light of Asteria by Elizabeth IsaacsKiss Me, I'm Irish by Bella StreetLegend Unleashed by M. Latimer-RidleyInnovera Yakov- The Journey of a Thousand Eyes by Kia GarriquesThe Gifted by Deborah AndreasenReflection by Kim CresswellForbidden Temptation of a Vampire by Jodie B. CooperFamily Magic by Patti LarsenFall of Sky City by S.M. BloodingBlood Oath by T.L. ClarkeGrace Doll by Jennifer LaurensA Tale of the Other Kind by Leandi CameronAlexander Drake by Elizabeth Parkinson BellowsOwlet by Emma MichaelsAura by Rebecca Talley





Giveaway Details
1 winner will receive their choice of a Kindle Fire HD (US Only), $199 Amazon Gift Card or $199 in Paypal Cash (International).
Ends: 3/31/13

Open only to those who can legally enter, receive and use an Amazon.com Gift Code or Paypal Cash. Winning Entry will be verified prior to prize being awarded. No purchase necessary. You must be 18 or older to enter or have your parent enter for you. The winner will be chosen by rafflecopter and announced here as well as emailed and will have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Rafflecopter or any other entity unless otherwise specified. The number of eligible entries received determines the odds of winning. Giveaway was organized by Kathy from I Am A Reader, Not A Writer http://iamareader.com and sponsored by the authors. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.


a Rafflecopter giveaway

New Release: THE BANE by Keary Taylor

Remember the post I made a few weeks back, about Keary Taylor's newest creation?  Today is the day!

THE BANE is now available to purchase, to read, and to love.
If you had ever read Eden and loved it, you need to get this book.  The Bane is the revamped, newly edited, and the super pretty relaunch of Keary's amazing robot-take-over novel.  (Yes, the very same book that Keary has signed on with the producers of Twilight to turn into a motion picture!)  And even better yet: It is now being turned into a trilogy.  Tell me you are excited.

But wait... there is even more!
Along with the release of The Bane, Keary has also re-released The Ashes: An EDEN Prequel AND released an all new short story (also connected to The Bane) titled The Raid: An EDEN Short Story.

I hope you are all ready to read!

THE BANE is available through Kindle, Barnes and Noble, and paperback.
The Ashes and The Raid are available through Kindle.

Remember: The best way you can support an author, aside from buying their book, is posting a positive review and spreading the word.

Now go... Get your books!


     

Before the Evolution there was TorBane: technology that infused human DNA with cybernetic matter. It had the ability to grow new organs and limbs, to heal the world. Until it evolved out of control and spread like the common cold. The machine took over, the soul vanished, and the Bane were born. The Bane won't stop until every last person has been infected. With less than two percent of the human population left, mankind is on the brink of extinction.

Eve knows the stories of the Evolution, the time before she wandered into the colony of Eden, unable to recall anything but her name. But she doesn't need memories to know this world is her reality. This is a world that is quickly losing its humanity, one Bane at a time.

Fighting to keep one of the last remaining human colonies alive, Eve finds herself torn between her dedication to the colony, and the discovery of love. There is Avian and West – one a soldier, one a keeper of secrets. And in the end, Eve will make a choice that will change the future of mankind.  (Goodreads)

HAPPY READING! 

WIP Day - Writing Shouldn't Be Lonely

Hello again, Wednesday!

I hope all of you have had an amazing week.  Mine has been the usual roller coaster of ups and downs.  Just the usual of mommy-hood   Authorship.  Photo land and the lost me time.  Regardless, I am still intact!

I must say:  I love it when I am able to meet up with other writers online, and cheer each other on.  Being as we are a one car family, I am never able to find and make it to actual writing groups in the area.  Luckily though, the internet is here!  Whether it is with my amazing #writeshove buddies on Twitter, random shout-outs on my Facebook, or through messenger with the awesome Keary Taylor or other friends, my wide-spread writing group does exist.  If any of you out there find yourselves struggling with motivation, confidence, or just pure laziness: I really do recommend finding at least one crutch.  One person who you know will yell at you to keep going, check in on you when you are going, and tell you that you are amazing even when you feel far from it.

Writing doesn't have to be lonely.

Last night I met up with Keary for one of our writing nights.  In case you ever wondered what those are like, this is how our nights tend to run:


Sign online.  Say hello.  Share how we are doing, how our day was, how our kids drove us crazy.  Vent about chores.  Bills.  Movies we want to see.  Finally devolve into talking about our WIPS.  Maybe share a snippet.  Veer off course.  Come back, and brainstorm a bit more.After said rambling is done, we finally get to work.  We pick a time, agree to check in then, and stop talking to each other.  Knowing someone else is working along side you, even if they are in a different state, is amazing.  It sure keeps your bum in that chair.Once we reach the agreed on time, we stop.  Take a break.  Share how we did.  Brainstorm if needed.  Ramble about chocolate and kids.  Breathe.Then we pick a new time.  Say "get to work!" and back we go. 

Sometimes we are only able to meet up for an hour.  Sometimes more.  But every time, we get work done.  We get to visit.  And we get to remember that we aren't the only crazy writer mama out there.  I love it.

I always let everyone on Twitter know when I am working away.  If you are ever on, and ever wanting to push each other around, let me know!

- So how is LJ doing?  Pretty good!  I am getting so close to finishing this round of edits I can taste it.  It tastes like Whoppers.  (Maybe because that has been my go-to editing munchie lately...)  I am still aiming to finish this round by the end of the month.  Which just so happens to be tomorrow.  I have allowed myself up until this weekend though, being as this is a short month.  So, here I am, bum in chair, chugging away.

Sometime this next week I will post a little teaser snippet.  Keep your eyes out!


How has your week been?  Edit or write much? Eat any good chocolate?  Do share!

Happy Writing!