Laura McNeill's Blog, page 18
July 23, 2013
‘Stay Tuned’ Featured on Ereader News Today
on Ereader News Today
I’m thrilled to share that Stay Tuned, my debut novel, was chosen as a featured Bargain Book on Ereader News Today website. For a limited time, the e-book is just 99 cents Here’s the link:
For a quick synopsis of the Stay Tuned storyline, click the YouTube video trailer below:
For more on Stay Tuned, and how the novel came to life, here’s an interview from one of my many wonderful Chick Lit bloggers who helped spread the word about my first book:
Stay Tuned
Interview
Like Melissa, you worked in TV news. How did your experiences in the industry shape Stay Tuned?
Stay Tuned is based—in part—on a true story. Before I began work at an Upstate New York television station as a reporter, the two main anchors (who were in a romantic relationship) got into a fist fight in the parking lot of the television station. They were fired, the incident made the newspaper, and a lot of ugly editorials and threats were exchanged. The story—and the irony of these two successful people losing their jobs—has always stayed with me. When I began to write Stay Tuned, I thought about something similar happening—this time, while the anchors were on live TV—and then let the readers watch what unfolded behind the scenes.
I also wanted the characters in Stay Tuned to be memorable, since the TV news industry is so full of amazing, unique people. My favorite weatherman used to bring his Dachshund in to the station, dress him in a tiny superhero cape, and carry him around in the studio. He actually went on the air with his dog during one show, but our news director quickly put a stop to that! One reporter—when stressed—used to bang on his keyboard with his fists and shout cuss words at the top of his lungs. We were all so used to it that everyone smiled and kept working when it happened! Also—one of the most talented anchors I worked with used to break into “Who Let the Dogs Out?” whenever he got into the mood—you can’t do that in many office jobs!
Who or what was the inspiration for Candace? She seemed like a great friend despite all her Dr. Phil quotes!
What hairdresser doesn’t like to give advice—even if it is from Dr. Phil? In all seriousness, Candace Daughtry is based on my best friend, Lisa. I took all of her wonderful qualities, turned her into a hair stylist, and made her (a little bit) obsessed with Dr. Phil! Like Lisa, Candace is the best friend a girl could ever have—someone you can call at midnight, the person you laugh the hardest with, the person who knows your worst faults and loves you anyway. My friend Lisa has overcome some of the toughest obstacles in life a person could face, and I wanted to draw on that same tenacity and inner fire in Candace. She’s a true friend—I hope everyone is blessed to have a Candace (or Lisa) in her life!
The Dr. Phil obsession was added to make her character stand out. Candace is close to perfect in every other way, so being addicted to Dr. Phil’s advice seemed like a way to add a quirky edge and round out her personality.
What book has had the most impact on your life?
It’s a tie between two novels: For a book that explores the bonds between women, I’d have to say The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd. I loved the setting, the characters, and the beautiful symbolism. It’s a coming of age story, a ‘triumph over tragedy’ novel written in a way that is both fresh and unforgettable.
My Sister’s Keeper by Jodi Picoult, to me, is hands-down a masterpiece (the ending made my cry). Picoult explores the relationships between sisters and how grave illness impacts a family. The author tells the story from more than half a dozen points of view, manages to give each a distinct personality, all the while weaving a story that breaks your heart and leaves you shell-shocked at the end. I hope to (someday) write a novel that leaves readers with that level of lasting, emotional impact.
What’s your writing routine?
I write best in the morning and do best with absolute quiet. I often go to the library at the local university near our house—if I stay home, the doorbell rings, the phone rings, and the Internet is too much of a distraction! The other essentials are lots of flavored coffee (yes, I am on a first-name basis with everyone at two coffee shops in town) and I must have my MacBook!
Just sitting down and typing does not work well for me. I have to have a plan and a rough outline. Once I have the story fixed in my mind, index cards come in handy for switching up scenes and seeing a timeline develop.
Thank you to everyone who’s spread the word about Stay Tuned!
Have a great week 
xx, Lauren
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July 18, 2013
Paintball and Prizes
This past weekend, I was lucky enough to be included in my son’s post-birthday bash, which included three rounds of Paintball and an awesome game of Capture the Flag.
I’m up for just about anything, so when the boys decided to include me, I jumped at the chance (hey, it was an opportunity to buy a camo shirt with pink accents – see photo above)!
Paintball Masters
Alan Edeker, Mathew Edker, and Patrick McNeill
As anyone who knows me well can attest, I’m much more of a girly-girl than a tomboy who rolls around in the red dirt, hides behind bunkers, and wears a protective face mask. And although I was shot twice (leg and hand) by my own son, I managed to hold my own and not get “killed” after the first round of the competition. (Yay!)
We had a great time and everyone left the park exhausted but happy.
Takeaways for the week: (1) It’s great when your son and friends want you to play paintball instead of just driving them there and dropping them off, (2) It’s awesome to try new sports and walk away with a few bruises, and (3) Hey, you never know when I might need to drop in a gun fight or paintball scene in my next book … and now I have some “real-life” experience!
What are some things you’ve done that you NEVER thought you’d try? I’d love to hear about them!
And, I really appreciate everyone who entered last week’s Stardust Summer competition and sent in all of the fabulous ideas for boy Christmas gifts! I can’t wait to finish up my holiday short story and share it with everyone.
My winner for the Stardust Summer signed paperback is:
Jen McGee
My winner for the Stardust Summer e-book is:
Mary Preston
Mary and Jen, please email me at laurenclarkbooks@gmail.com with your home address and current email. I’ll get your gifts out to you right away!
I’ll be holding more contests throughout the summer, so Stay Tuned for news on those. Hope your week is going great!
xx, Lauren
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July 10, 2013
Christmas in July – Gift Ideas for Boys?
I have exactly 21 days to finish writing my Holiday Short Story for a collection being released by 6 awesome Chick Lit Authors this December!
Here’s the list of contributing writers:
Isabella Louise Anderson
Cindy Arora
Laura Chapman
Lauren Clark
Libby Mercer
Nancy Scrofano
There will be many more details to follow, but for right now, I’d like your help figuring out the MOST-WANTED toy for an 8-year-old boy this Christmas Season. I’d prefer it be a non-video game, but it could be electronic. I’d love a classic toy, but something that’s also ‘Cool!’
I’m setting the story in Eufaula at PD’s new bakery, using Shug Jordan’s sister as the main character, her daughter, Ella Rae, and a few other friends from my favorite Alabama city! (Hello Linda & Ted Hicks!) There’s also a HOT UPS man involved, so this story is going to be a must-read!
Thanks for any suggestions you can pass along for boy gifts! I’ll be gifting one e-book copy of Stardust Summer to one commenter, and one signed paperback copy of Stardust Summer to another! Keep those ideas flowing this week. I’ll announce the winners on Wednesday, July 17th.
xx, Lauren
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June 6, 2013
Talkin’ Dixie at Club de Lecture
Club de Lecture, a West Mobile, Alabama Book Club, recently invited me to the home of J.J. Zandstra to discuss “Dancing Naked In Dixie.”
I have book club member Pam Ball to thank (see Pam in the photo to the far left), as we met this April at the Eufaula Pilgrimage!!!
We shared a delicious dinner, followed by dessert, and a lively discussion about Julia, Shug Jordan, Auburn University, and the Deep South.
Pam Ball surprised everyone—including me—by making PD’s Pillow Pockets for everyone to share. YUM!!!
Seated left to right: Carol Wiggins, Charlotte Stephan, me, Ms. Zandstra, Tish Fisackerly, and Karen Bohentin
Standing: JoAnn Grissett, Bren Hightower, Edie Daugherty, Alice Skelton, Theresa Orrell, and Christina Richie (Pam Ball took this photo)
It was a great evening and I am so blessed to have met this wonderful group of well-read and well-traveled women!
xx, Lauren
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June 4, 2013
And The Winners Are…
My book tour with Goddess Fish has come to a close, and I’m announcing the four winners today!
But first, I wanted to say a HUGE thank you to Marianne & Judy for setting it all up ….. AND to the wonderful bloggers who hosted my novel the past two weeks.
(Scroll down and look for the ** to click and read the book reviews)!
May 13: Lily Pond Reads
May 14: Bookgirl Knitting
May 14: Straight from the Library
May 15: The Life (and lies) of an inanimate flying object
May 16: Book ‘Em North Carolina
May 17: Brianna Lee Book Reviews
May 20: The Dan O’Brien Project
May 21: Shelley’s Book Case (Review)**
May 21: Beyond My Writing Space
May 22: You Gotta Read Reviews
May 23: Kaisy Daisy’s Corner (Review)**
May 24: Tinasbookreviews
May 27: Musings From An Addicted Reader (Review) **
May 28: Writer Wonderland
May 29: Deal Sharing Aunt (Review)**
May 30: Cocktails and Books (Review)**
May 31: It’s Raining Books (Review) **
May 31: Long and Short Reviews (Review)**
I’ve really loved reading all of the comments from the tour stops and used random.org to enter all of the names and select four winners! They are:
Shannon R - Signed Dancing Naked in Dixie & Swag
Book Lady – Signed Dancing Naked in Dixie & Swag
&
Catherine Lee – $20 Gift Card to Amazon or BN.com
Rita Wray – $20 Gift Card to Amazon or BN.com
I’ll be getting in touch with the winners later today to deliver the prizes! Congratulations and stay tuned for more contests later in the summer!
xx, Lauren
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May 29, 2013
Author Spotlight: Libby Mercer
Are you looking for a fun, chick lit read this summer?
Please pick up a copy of my friend and fellow author Libby Mercer’s new novel, The Karmic Connection, and dive into this adorable, new-age love story!
The Story:
Guilty of nothing more than working too much – or so they say – Adam Stowe is dumped at a “wellness center” in the middle of nowhere by a couple of concerned colleagues. When he meets Lorraine, the beautiful and bewitching yoga instructor, his spirits start to lift, but once he discovers what a flighty fruitcake she is, they drop back down to subterranean levels.
For Lorraine Jameson, Luna Wellness Center was a beacon of solace when her life was falling apart, and she can’t stand the way Adam’s toxic energy is poisoning the peace. He embodies everything negative about the life she discarded eighteen months ago. Despite being fiercely attracted to the arrogant man, she’s determined not to let Adam Stowe anywhere near her heart.
Adam and Lorraine couldn’t be more unsuitable as a potential couple… so why is the universe so dead set on uniting these two?
The Karmic Connection is a different kind of love story with a cast of quirky characters and a mystical, magical New Age-y flavor.
Libby’s Bio:
Born and raised in the Midwest, Libby Mercer’s adventurous spirit kicked in after graduating from high school, and she’s since lived in Boston, NYC and London. For several years, Libby worked in fashion – first as a journalist and then as a shopkeeper, and for a while she dabbled in design. Libby has been a writer for as long as she can remember. She penned her first book at age seven – a picture book entitled BIG and small. Countless numbers of stories later, her first book, Fashioning a Romance, was published in May 2012, followed by Unmasking Maya and The Karmic Connection. Libby lives in San Francisco.
Where to Buy The Karmic Connection:
Barnes and Noble.com
Amazon, Kindle Version
Have a great Wednesday, everyone!
xx, Lauren
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May 28, 2013
We Have A Winner!
After 682 entries, we have a winner for the 2013 Chick Lit Author Blog Hop!!
“Entry #440 Carol C.” was chosen in a random drawing.
She’s been contacted with instructions for receiving the Kindle Keyboard and will soon receive 25 ebooks for her reading pleasure (including my latest, Stardust Summer)!
A huge thank you to everyone who hopped with us, and a big hug to Julie Valerie, who coordinated the week-long activities on our 25-blog collective!
Have a great week,
xx, Lauren
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May 19, 2013
Chick Lit Author Blog Hop
Page 25 of Stardust Summer finds Grace Mason boarding a flight from Biloxi, Mississippi to the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York.
Her young son, Evan—ready to swim, sail, and fish—can’t wait to arrive north of the Mason-Dixon line. Who wouldn’t enjoy moderate temperatures, cool evening breezes, and almost no humidity, even in the middle of July?
This trip, however, marks the beginning of no ordinary journey for Grace. Her estranged father, Henry Mason, has just died. To make matters worse, she must face his wife, Kathleen, the woman she blames for her own mother’s death years earlier.
But after a frenzied arrival, Grace’s visit isn’t quite the disaster she predicts. Keuka Lake proves more beautiful and scenic than any photograph; she meets the town’s handsome (and single!) doctor, and Evan seems happier than he’s ever been in Mississippi.
The second Grace allows herself to relax, everything falls apart. Her stepmother’s behavior veers from polite and reserved to eccentric and crazy (singing at Henry’s funeral, a near disastrous boat ride); Grace can’t seem to take a step outside without running into her frustratingly-smart-yet-adorable neighbor Ryan Gordon; and everyone—including Evan—wants them to stay “Up North.” Even Mother Nature seems to be in on the game.
So, what’s a girl to do? (Win the grand prize! The 10th secret word in the 25-word sentence is: great)
Read Stardust Summer to find out!
I’ve included an excerpt below, and I hope you enjoy it—along with many of the other fabulous Chick Lit author work included in this week’s Blog Hop! If you’re new to Blog Hops or want to learn how to win the grand prize*, find complete information by clicking here: http://wp.me/p318Hj-lD
Thank you so much for stopping by Lauren Clark Books!
Stardust Summer
~PAGE 25~
The jet engines gunned to life just about the time Evan dropped off to sleep. Grace held back from sweeping the piece of dark hair sliding near his eye. She’d surely wake him up if she did.
Grace gripped her armrest tightly and checked for the second time that her seatbelt was securely buckled. She pushed herself against the seat back, trying to find a comfortable position as the jet taxied down the runway.
She thought about her father as they pushed through the clouds, white and gray surrounding them. If heaven existed, they were certainly closer at thirty thousand feet above the earth. Was her father there? Was he watching over her and Evan?
The idea of it made Grace wonder about her own mother—her biological mother. A drunk driver in downtown Gulfport had killed her instantly in a head-on collision. She’d never met her own grandson.
Grace’s eyes filled with tears. Her throat tightened. Never had she felt so desperately off-kilter. Her world was upside down. Her father was gone forever and Grace hadn’t been able to say goodbye. If there only had been more time, another day, more warning…
Pressing her head against the seat, she closed her eyes and hoped that her father hadn’t suffered. Grace wiped her cheeks, hoping no one had seen her cry.
Henry wouldn’t want her to be sad. If her father was sitting there, on the plane, he would be the first person to remind Grace that she hadn’t lost everything and everyone.
She and Evan had each other.
That, Henry would say, was a gift.
http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/shar...
Keep hopping! Click here to return to the list of blogs to read more great chick lit and find ALL of the secret words: http://wp.me/p318Hj-lD
xx, Lauren
*The Rafflecopter will close at 11:59 pm May 27. The winner’s name will be chosen by random and will appear on the Rafflecopter widget!
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May 16, 2013
Exciting News from Eric Hoffer Award
This morning, I’m so pleased to share that Dancing Naked in Dixie is among the Honorable Mentions for Commercial Fiction announced by the 2012 Eric Hoffer Book Award Committee.
Dixie also made the short list for the Grand Prize … which was pretty exciting! Who wouldn’t want to win $2,000, right?
Along with the Hoffer Grand Prize, the committee also awards the Montaigne Medal (for most thought-provoking books), the da Vinci Eye (for best cover art), the First Horizon Award (for outstanding debut books), four press awards (small, academic, micro, and self-published), and winners, runners-up, and honorable mentions in eighteen distinct categories, including e-books.
View a full listing of the contest results at www.HofferAward.com by pressing the “Winners” link. All category finalists are linked to the book winners page as well. Detailed coverage can also be found here: www.theUSreview.com.
Congratulations to all of this year’s Eric Hoffer Award winners, runners-up, and honorable mentions!
If you’d like to order a copy of Dancing Naked in Dixie, click here: DIXIE ON NOOK! or click here: DIXIE ON KINDLE!
xx, Lauren
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May 13, 2013
Happy Day-After Mother’s Day!
I hope yours was wonderful, whether you spent it at a special event, home relaxing, out with family, or enjoying time with friends! My weekend was a smattering of everything:
Saturday morning, I enjoyed a Mother’s Day Tea at Fairhope Christian Church. Sally Jones, this year’s chair, invited me to speak after reading Dancing Naked in Dixie several months back. It was a wonderful event, attended by eighty women and girls. A delicious breakfast was graciously served by a half-dozen men in the church.
Sally Jones, Chair of the Mother’s Day Tea
I talked briefly about my novels, writing, and developing characters, and spent the remaining time of the speech discussing the theme of this year’s Mother’s Day Tea … The Treasures of Our Lives. (You can see my “notes” on the podium in the photo below. I’ve included the last part of my speech at the bottom of this post … it contains some really super advice on HAPPINESS from former Coca-Cola CEO Bryan Dyson)
Breakfast at Fairhope Christian Church
Sally Jones then raffled off two lovely gift baskets, a flower arrangement, and a copy of Dancing Naked in Dixie. I brought Stardust Summer, Dixie, and Stay Tuned swag to hand out, signed books, and stayed to chat with everyone after we finished our meal.
Gift baskets, Arrangement, and Dixie
On Sunday, I spent the morning working on Pie Girls, then was given a sweet card from my son, along with Dove Bars, caramel candies, and a Snickers bar (tell me he doesn’t know what I like!) My younger son made me an adorable bookmark using paint and fingerprints (swoon!)
My Mother’s Day Gift – Sweet!
That afternoon, I enjoyed a late lunch with good friends at Mobile’s Kitchen on George. It was crazy-busy and jam-packed with people, but we all had a wonderful time catching up, talking about work, books, theater, travel, family, and kids.
Mobile’s Kitchen on George
This morning, I ran into a good friend and she said that her son served her Cap’n Crunch and Chocolate Milk in bed! I’d love to hear about your Mother’s Day! What made it special this year? Do you have a most-memorable Mother’s Day gift ever? Share it with me!
Have a great week!
xx, Lauren
(Excerpt from Mother’s Day Speech – May 11, 2013)
Today, I ask you to think about your treasures.
What —or WHO— brings you the most happiness?
What will you do today to get or keep that happiness?
Bryan Dyson, a former CEO of Coca-Cola, has this advice …
Don’t undermine your worth by comparing yourself with others. Our differences make each of us special.
Don’t take for granted the things closest to your heart. Without them, life is meaningless.
Don’t let your life slip through your fingers by living in the past or for the future.
Don’t be afraid to encounter risks. It is by taking chances that we learn how to be brave.
Don’t use time or words carelessly. Neither can be retrieved.
Don’t shut love out of your life by saying it’s impossible to find time.
The quickest way to receive love is to give; the fastest way to lose love is to hold it too tightly; and the best way to keep love is to give it wings.
I wish you a treasure-filled, very happy Mother’s Day.
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