Tanya Contois's Blog, page 36
December 9, 2011
Is It Worth The Ink?
Sinead MacDughlas
What to do, what to do? I'm having another of my first-time-author inner conflicts. I've e-published my anthology, downloaded the eBook and Kindle versions, and read both. Now I want to hold my creation in my hands, in paper and ink, with that shiny new paperback cover. So I'm checking my print-on-demand options.
I've nearly settled on Createspace. In fact, I'm positive I'll be publishing the print version of my full-length novel with them. As far as my research has shown, they have the best pricing and the easiest system to use. Everything is laid out for the first-timer, including marketing strategies and advice.
Here's where I run into difficulty: the anthology is only 55 pages. Less the Table of contents, copyright page, and acknowledgements, The Unscheduled Stops is 50 pages. Anthologies aren't always in high demand; single author anthologies by debut, Idie authors, even less so. Is it worth putting my anthology into print?
Here are my options:
I can use the standard distribution plan. That puts my book in the e-store and on Amazon. At $6.10 I would make $1.22 for each eStore sale and $0.00 on each Amazon sale.
I can pay a one-time $39 "Pro" plan fee and $5 every year after, (this is the cost Per Title). With the Pro plan I get Expanded distribution. Now I can price the book at $5.40. This would make me $2.17 for each eStore sale, $1.09 for Amazon, and $0.01 for each Expanded Distribution sale.
My dilemma lies, not in the amount of money I would make on this book, but in pricing it high enough that I don't have to pay to make sales. If I price any lower, it would actually cost ME money to sell my book to readers. For example; at $4.99, I would have to pay $0.16 for every copy sold through Expanded Distribution. Now that may be pennies a copy, but it's pennies I don't have.
So, I price at least $5.40, BUT...who is going to pay $5.40 or more for a 50 page anthology of short stories and poetry? Is there enough of a market to make having the paperback edition worthwhile?
As much as I want to hold my "baby" in my hands, (paper and ink, with that glorious, full-colour cover), I can't afford to pay out of pocket to make that dream a reality. What do you think? Would you pay... let's say, six dollars, for a 50 page book?
Interview with author Amie Flagg
1. Did you always know you wanted to be a writer or was there
something else you wanted to do as a career?
I always knew I wanted to write, but at first I didn't want to get published. I just wanted to write for my own amusement. I wanted to do everything, but once high school was just about over, I chose the career of mortician. I found out that it was boring for me, so I dropped the classes. People started telling me, "Put your writing talent to good use and publish a book already", but I needed a good story first. And now, here I am, publishing short stories and books. Writing is the career path I am destined for.
2. Is there one author that you have read every book that they have written?
Stephenie Meyer. Twilight I finished first and didn't read those until right before the movie came out. Then I found The Host and absolutely fell in love with it. I would read The Host again before Twilight. (Sorry all of you Twilight fans!!) Also, there's Vince Flynn and his Mitch Rapp series that I can't stop reading and L.J. Smith is addicting, so whenever a new book comes out, I'm on it.
3. In you opinion what is the best movie adaptation of a book that you've read?
The best? Hmm...I have to say Harry Potter. The movies were so well done, and even though I love the books a tad bit better, I can watch those films all day. Amazing casting and effects! I wasn't disappointed at all!
4. When you are browsing book stores what is the first section you go to?
The young adult section lol. Always! That's the only section I go to really.
5. If your book was being made into a movie do you already have actors
in mind for each role? What bands/singers would you put on the
soundtrack?
Haha, yes I do! As soon as I'm done with a book, actors start flooding my mind, It's just picking the right ones! For singers and bands, that one gets a little more tricky because I write in different genres. I favor Evanescence, Red, The Fray, Sarah Barielles, and Eric Clapton. TV shows help with music. A lot of the songs I hear on The Vampire Diaries (fave show) I've never heard before and are beautiful. It's a good thing I write vampire stories lol.
6.. When you're creating characters do you incorporate traits from
people you know?
Yes, I do. I want my characters to be as real as possible and what better than bringing people you know into your book? I do use good and bad traits from everyone. No one is perfect. We all have our good and bad days. It's what makes up interesting. I find that using a friend/family's certain trait allows you as the writer to connect more with your character.
7. If you had the chance to have a sit down with any author alive or
deceased who would it be and why?
L.J. Smith. I absolutely love her and I love her style of writing. This woman is so creative and I feel like I connect with her on so many levels. To me, she is incredible. I would love to pick her brain and see what makes her tick and how she comes up with her ideas.
December 8, 2011
Interview with Monique Domovitch and review of Scorpio Rising
1. Did you always know you wanted to be a writer or was there something else you wanted to do as a career?
I think I first decided I wanted to be an author when I was around ten or so. I remember writing short stories about witches and monsters and sitting on the porch and reading the to my brothers and sisters. But then, I also wanted to be a nun, a ballerina, an actress, a singer and a spy. Maybe those other dreams were just my author's imagination running wild with me, because I kept coming back to my dream of becoming a writer, which I only achieved after the age of fifty.
2. If you had the chance to co-author a book with anyone who would it be and why?
I absolutely loved Dominick Dunn and I would have loved to write with him. Mind you I would probably have been so tongue tied that I couldn't have uttered a word in his presence—but just to be in his presence. Ahh!
3. Is there any books you've read that were so emotional that you teared up?
Here's the thing. If a book doesn't make me tear up, I'm disappointed. I want a book to stir all of my emotions. In fact, when I wrote the Sting of The Scorpio, I was crying during an entire scene. I still tear up a bit when I reread it and I've heard from some readers who told me they cried too. So, back to your question, books that have made me cry…Sophie's Choice was the one that had me crying the ugly cry. That book was gut wrenching. I will never forget it.
4. What is the first book that you remember reading?
The first book I remember reading was one I borrowed from my parents' library when I was about twelve years old. The Long Walk, which is the true story of an escape from a concentration camp and the harrowing trek to freedom, by Slamovir Rawicz. If you want a book to make you cry, that one will do it. I carried that story in my heart for a long time.
5. If your book was being made into a movie do you already have actors in mind for each role? What bands/singers would you put on the soundtrack?
Well, I don't which part he would play, but I would have to get Brad Pitt, if only so I can meet him. All kidding aside, I would love Robert Pattinson to play the role of Alex, Kiera Knightley to play Brigitte and Evan Rachel Wood to pay the role of Ann Turner.
6. What are 10 random facts about yourself?
I'm the oldest of ten children, and after I moved on my own, every one of my brothers and sisters came to live with me, one after another while they went to college.
I have big feet. I wear a size 9 ½ shoe, but I tell myself that big feet are a sign of intelligence in women. So there.
I am a dog lover. I have three dogs and would have more but my husband has warned me that if I get one more dog, he'll go. Sometimes I'm still tempted. Hehehe.
My hobby is beekeeping. I have one hive now and am planning to start five or six more this spring. I love every one of my little bees. But I haven't gone so far as to name them.
I would rather wash dishes by hand than use a dishwasher. I don't mind loading the washer but just hate taking out the dishes.
A year and a half ago, I decided to stop coloring my hair and let my natural color grow out. I now have silver hair. Notice I said silver, not gray.
My first language is French. I didn't start speaking English until I learned it in school.
My favorite fantasy is meeting with aliens from outer space and having a flying saucer ride. Woohoo. What fun—as long as they let me go home afterwards.
I have two children, a daughter, Carol Ann and a son, Martin. I combined their names—Carol Ann Martin—to make up my pen name for the murder mystery I am writing for Penguin.
I absolutely believe in the power of dreaming. If we can dream it, we can achieve it.
I met my husband at the age of 54, got married one year later and have never been so happy in my life…which proves that it's never too late for love.
Scorpio Rising by Monique Domovitch was a gripping story full of excitement and plenty of twists and turns that left me hooked. The characters of Brigitte and Alexander were perfectly written and there were several scenes such as the one with "Gigi" that made me gasp out loud. Scorpio Rising is most definitely a book that I'd recommend to friends. Monique Domovitch has a great writing style and I'm looking forward to seeing where she'll take the characters Brigitte and Alexander next.
I think I first decided I wanted to be an author when I was around ten or so. I remember writing short stories about witches and monsters and sitting on the porch and reading the to my brothers and sisters. But then, I also wanted to be a nun, a ballerina, an actress, a singer and a spy. Maybe those other dreams were just my author's imagination running wild with me, because I kept coming back to my dream of becoming a writer, which I only achieved after the age of fifty.
2. If you had the chance to co-author a book with anyone who would it be and why?
I absolutely loved Dominick Dunn and I would have loved to write with him. Mind you I would probably have been so tongue tied that I couldn't have uttered a word in his presence—but just to be in his presence. Ahh!
3. Is there any books you've read that were so emotional that you teared up?
Here's the thing. If a book doesn't make me tear up, I'm disappointed. I want a book to stir all of my emotions. In fact, when I wrote the Sting of The Scorpio, I was crying during an entire scene. I still tear up a bit when I reread it and I've heard from some readers who told me they cried too. So, back to your question, books that have made me cry…Sophie's Choice was the one that had me crying the ugly cry. That book was gut wrenching. I will never forget it.
4. What is the first book that you remember reading?
The first book I remember reading was one I borrowed from my parents' library when I was about twelve years old. The Long Walk, which is the true story of an escape from a concentration camp and the harrowing trek to freedom, by Slamovir Rawicz. If you want a book to make you cry, that one will do it. I carried that story in my heart for a long time.
5. If your book was being made into a movie do you already have actors in mind for each role? What bands/singers would you put on the soundtrack?
Well, I don't which part he would play, but I would have to get Brad Pitt, if only so I can meet him. All kidding aside, I would love Robert Pattinson to play the role of Alex, Kiera Knightley to play Brigitte and Evan Rachel Wood to pay the role of Ann Turner.
6. What are 10 random facts about yourself?
I'm the oldest of ten children, and after I moved on my own, every one of my brothers and sisters came to live with me, one after another while they went to college.
I have big feet. I wear a size 9 ½ shoe, but I tell myself that big feet are a sign of intelligence in women. So there.
I am a dog lover. I have three dogs and would have more but my husband has warned me that if I get one more dog, he'll go. Sometimes I'm still tempted. Hehehe.
My hobby is beekeeping. I have one hive now and am planning to start five or six more this spring. I love every one of my little bees. But I haven't gone so far as to name them.
I would rather wash dishes by hand than use a dishwasher. I don't mind loading the washer but just hate taking out the dishes.
A year and a half ago, I decided to stop coloring my hair and let my natural color grow out. I now have silver hair. Notice I said silver, not gray.
My first language is French. I didn't start speaking English until I learned it in school.
My favorite fantasy is meeting with aliens from outer space and having a flying saucer ride. Woohoo. What fun—as long as they let me go home afterwards.
I have two children, a daughter, Carol Ann and a son, Martin. I combined their names—Carol Ann Martin—to make up my pen name for the murder mystery I am writing for Penguin.
I absolutely believe in the power of dreaming. If we can dream it, we can achieve it.
I met my husband at the age of 54, got married one year later and have never been so happy in my life…which proves that it's never too late for love.
Scorpio Rising by Monique Domovitch was a gripping story full of excitement and plenty of twists and turns that left me hooked. The characters of Brigitte and Alexander were perfectly written and there were several scenes such as the one with "Gigi" that made me gasp out loud. Scorpio Rising is most definitely a book that I'd recommend to friends. Monique Domovitch has a great writing style and I'm looking forward to seeing where she'll take the characters Brigitte and Alexander next.
Interview with Lorena Bathey, author of Beatrice Munson
1. Did you always know you wanted to be a writer or was there something else you wanted to do as a career?
No, I didn't know I wanted to be a writer. I did write a journal, like most teenage girls. And I was an English major in college, but that was more because I loved to read. Perhaps that is a prerequisite for being a writer. I really wanted to be in advertising and do copywriting but not a novel
2. Is there one author that you have read every book that they have written?
Well, I do have a few authors that I've read a lot of their works; Stephen King is a big favorite. But I can't read his scary books because they scare me so much I can't sleep. He is the master at horror because he lets you make the fear bigger in your own mind. But I love his work for the way he weaves a story around so many characters. The Stand is a masterpiece of that.
3. In you opinion what is the best movie adaptation of a book that you've read?
Actually, I remember feeling that Cider House Rules was a well done movie to the book. And of course being a huge fan of Stephen King I think Green Mile and Misery were amazing. The movie I thought outdid the book was Remains of the Day. That book was slow but the movie was wonderful.
4. When you are browsing book stores what is the first section you go to?
I really like the soft bound books. You know the section in the middle with a bunch of new books all stacked together. I like the feel, size and weight of the better paperbacks. I will browse first looking at the covers and titles to see which one grabs me. Then I usually read the first page to see if I like the writing style and feel. If it gets me to turn to the next page, I will usually buy it.
5. If your book was being made into a movie do you already have actors in mind for each role? What bands/singers would you put on the soundtrack?
Oh, absolutely. I did a whole video on Beatrice Munson. I have ideas in my head for my new novel, House on Plunkett Street. But because I see my books like movies in my heads while I'm writing them, picking a cast is easy because I know how they look and their way of being.
Soundtrack is a little different since I have such eclectic taste. But for House on Plunkett Street, I would absolutely see a lot of Radiohead. My next novel, The Ex, would have a lot harder rock like Disturbed and Dope.
6. When you're creating characters do you incorporate traits from people you know?
Sometimes...well....probably. But it's more small characteristics they have rather than an entire character. Like in Beatrice Munson, I have several women that are the main characters and while they all have their own personalities there are aspects of people I know, or even myself.
7. If you had the chance to have a sit down with any author alive or deceased who would it be and why?
Actually, there are two. One is, Shakespeare, because let's face it we all want to know the real deal. Did he write everything, was he simply the front man. Plus, I love his bawdy writing style. The other is Jane Austen. I am a big fan of her writing and I'd love to just know if she really was like Elizabeth Bennett or not.
No, I didn't know I wanted to be a writer. I did write a journal, like most teenage girls. And I was an English major in college, but that was more because I loved to read. Perhaps that is a prerequisite for being a writer. I really wanted to be in advertising and do copywriting but not a novel
2. Is there one author that you have read every book that they have written?
Well, I do have a few authors that I've read a lot of their works; Stephen King is a big favorite. But I can't read his scary books because they scare me so much I can't sleep. He is the master at horror because he lets you make the fear bigger in your own mind. But I love his work for the way he weaves a story around so many characters. The Stand is a masterpiece of that.
3. In you opinion what is the best movie adaptation of a book that you've read?
Actually, I remember feeling that Cider House Rules was a well done movie to the book. And of course being a huge fan of Stephen King I think Green Mile and Misery were amazing. The movie I thought outdid the book was Remains of the Day. That book was slow but the movie was wonderful.
4. When you are browsing book stores what is the first section you go to?
I really like the soft bound books. You know the section in the middle with a bunch of new books all stacked together. I like the feel, size and weight of the better paperbacks. I will browse first looking at the covers and titles to see which one grabs me. Then I usually read the first page to see if I like the writing style and feel. If it gets me to turn to the next page, I will usually buy it.
5. If your book was being made into a movie do you already have actors in mind for each role? What bands/singers would you put on the soundtrack?
Oh, absolutely. I did a whole video on Beatrice Munson. I have ideas in my head for my new novel, House on Plunkett Street. But because I see my books like movies in my heads while I'm writing them, picking a cast is easy because I know how they look and their way of being.
Soundtrack is a little different since I have such eclectic taste. But for House on Plunkett Street, I would absolutely see a lot of Radiohead. My next novel, The Ex, would have a lot harder rock like Disturbed and Dope.
6. When you're creating characters do you incorporate traits from people you know?
Sometimes...well....probably. But it's more small characteristics they have rather than an entire character. Like in Beatrice Munson, I have several women that are the main characters and while they all have their own personalities there are aspects of people I know, or even myself.
7. If you had the chance to have a sit down with any author alive or deceased who would it be and why?
Actually, there are two. One is, Shakespeare, because let's face it we all want to know the real deal. Did he write everything, was he simply the front man. Plus, I love his bawdy writing style. The other is Jane Austen. I am a big fan of her writing and I'd love to just know if she really was like Elizabeth Bennett or not.
December 7, 2011
Short Story "I Love You": by Dominique Weldon~
"I love you."
His words sent my heart in a panic. The flutter in my chest that of a hummingbird--and all because of three simple words. The darkness of the night left his eyes smoldering. Nobody was around his parked car, leaving the two of us alone outside on my street. Everything was too much, any more, and my heart would burst.
"Y-Y-You what...?" I finally managed to whisper.
He shook his head, then took a step closer towards me. Out of instinct, I took one back, causing me to press against his car's door. A startled breath caught in my throat; yet, all I could do was stare.
That's when all his words came out in a rush. "I'm tired of waiting for the 'right moment.' I can't take anymore of this... waiting bull! I just want... I just..."
A rare moment, one I thought I'd never see in my life. Here he is...so helpless, so unlike him. No--this isn't right. I began to pull away, squeezing my eyes shut to force the tears back. Such a typical girl move, but I couldn't help it.
"Stop," I begged. "You know we can't do this. We're only--"
His mouth then covered my own. My sentence never had a chance to end, cut off by his kiss. The warmth exploded in my chest, and my hand cupped his face. I couldn't fight it--continuing to kiss him under the night sky.
His words sent my heart in a panic. The flutter in my chest that of a hummingbird--and all because of three simple words. The darkness of the night left his eyes smoldering. Nobody was around his parked car, leaving the two of us alone outside on my street. Everything was too much, any more, and my heart would burst.
"Y-Y-You what...?" I finally managed to whisper.
He shook his head, then took a step closer towards me. Out of instinct, I took one back, causing me to press against his car's door. A startled breath caught in my throat; yet, all I could do was stare.
That's when all his words came out in a rush. "I'm tired of waiting for the 'right moment.' I can't take anymore of this... waiting bull! I just want... I just..."
A rare moment, one I thought I'd never see in my life. Here he is...so helpless, so unlike him. No--this isn't right. I began to pull away, squeezing my eyes shut to force the tears back. Such a typical girl move, but I couldn't help it.
"Stop," I begged. "You know we can't do this. We're only--"
His mouth then covered my own. My sentence never had a chance to end, cut off by his kiss. The warmth exploded in my chest, and my hand cupped his face. I couldn't fight it--continuing to kiss him under the night sky.
Character interview with Fay from Rabbits in the Garden by Jessica McHugh
1. Why do you find rabbits procreating to be so dirty?
It's not the procreating that bothers me. It's the partner-swapping. I marked every rabbit in my garden with matching colors the first time I saw them making love. When I see them again, if the colors don't match, well, I don't like that at all. Maybe I'm a bit old-fashioned, but I was raised to believe that our bodies are sacred gifts from God not be shared with anyone but our husbands and wives. I can't abide naughty rabbits, and I certainly can't abide naughty children.
2. Do you ever feel bad for making Avery take care of the rabbit problem?
Not at all. I've seen so many children led astray by parents who didn't have the courage to stand up and say "This is right and this is wrong. This how you grow up to be a good, clean person and this is how you end up a hussy." I didn't want my daughters to turn out like that, so I gave them the garden to teach them responsibility, to teach them what can happen when they allow their lives to be poisoned by careless passions. I only wish they had listened.
3. What's the reason behind your dislike of men?
Men are fine when they toe the line. As long as they remember their manners and keep their hands to themselves, we get along just fine.
4. If you knew that Avery was going to snap would you do anything differently?
I raised my girls with their best interests at heart. It is not my fault they chose to deviate from the path I paved for them. It's also not my fault that Avery takes after her father. She's always been headstrong and impetuous, just like him. And just like him, she's always delighted in defying me. I had to teach her a lesson. What else could a loving mother do?
5. What happened to Avery's father?
It's not polite to speak of the dead, especially when his death was such a tragedy. Poor Avery, she doesn't even believe she was at fault. Not that I can blame her. I denied her madness for a long time too. How could I not? I wanted to keep her safe. I didn't think I'd have to keep Jason safe too. I suppose I failed them both. Now it's my job to make sure Avery gets the help she truly needs. Taunton Asylum is really the best thing for her. She has to accept her sins. It's the only way she'll ever survive in this world full of alluring monsters. After all, not everyone is as sweet as me.
http://www.jessicamchughbooks.com/
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Jessica McHugh is an author of speculative fiction that spans the genre from horror and alternate history to epic fantasy. A prolific writer, she has devoted herself to novels, short stories, poetry, and playwriting. She has had ten books published in three years, including "Rabbits in the Garden", "The Sky: The World" and the first three installments in her "Tales of Dominhydor" series. More info on Jessica's speculations and publications can be found at JessicaMcHughBooks.com.
December 6, 2011
Scottish Prince, Preview
Hello All Things Books,
Today I'm showing you an exclusive preview of 'The Scottish Prince'. A Children's book I have coming out in the New Year. Its the perfect little book for your Fairytale, Scottish needs. I hope you enjoy, keep an eye out for my Interview with Tanya, coming here very soon. Here is an exclusive look at its cover and excerpt.
Excerpt:
One day though when he was playing with his Mermaid friends in Ayr. He heard them talk about the how the girl of light was all alone in the Island of Darkness. That if she were to remain as sad as she was then she would turn as dark as the Island itself.
The Story of the young girl made the Prince want to go seek out this girl of lightness that had been banished to the Island of Darkness. Because her parents were as dark as the night sky. The more the Prince heard about Bertha being trapped on the Island where the Sun never raised. The more he wanted to rescue her from the never ending darkness.
He packed up Jessie. He was going to go fight the monster that would protect the Islanders from the Pride and warriors of Scotland.
Travelling with Jessie, his trusty motorbike. He drove over the wide, very deep ocean where he fought evil seagulls and sharks with huge, pointed teeth. They would snap at Jessie from every direction.The Scottish Prince wasn't alone on his adventure, he brought along with him, his mermaids, Selkies and even his Dragon friends. He fought hard and long against the beasts, the evil spirits that had always prevent Bertha from leaving. The Island of Darkness to go in search of a happier place.
I hope you all enjoyed the story and will be back next week for the A Different Life: My Sacrifice exclusive!
Kristal McKerrington
Today I'm showing you an exclusive preview of 'The Scottish Prince'. A Children's book I have coming out in the New Year. Its the perfect little book for your Fairytale, Scottish needs. I hope you enjoy, keep an eye out for my Interview with Tanya, coming here very soon. Here is an exclusive look at its cover and excerpt.
Excerpt:One day though when he was playing with his Mermaid friends in Ayr. He heard them talk about the how the girl of light was all alone in the Island of Darkness. That if she were to remain as sad as she was then she would turn as dark as the Island itself.
The Story of the young girl made the Prince want to go seek out this girl of lightness that had been banished to the Island of Darkness. Because her parents were as dark as the night sky. The more the Prince heard about Bertha being trapped on the Island where the Sun never raised. The more he wanted to rescue her from the never ending darkness.
He packed up Jessie. He was going to go fight the monster that would protect the Islanders from the Pride and warriors of Scotland.
Travelling with Jessie, his trusty motorbike. He drove over the wide, very deep ocean where he fought evil seagulls and sharks with huge, pointed teeth. They would snap at Jessie from every direction.The Scottish Prince wasn't alone on his adventure, he brought along with him, his mermaids, Selkies and even his Dragon friends. He fought hard and long against the beasts, the evil spirits that had always prevent Bertha from leaving. The Island of Darkness to go in search of a happier place.
I hope you all enjoyed the story and will be back next week for the A Different Life: My Sacrifice exclusive!
Kristal McKerrington
Interview with author Chuck Waldron
U.S. born, Canadian novelist Chuck Waldron is currently working on his fourth novel, a thriller about an investigative blogger who uncovers more than he ever imagines…and has no idea what to do with his discovery.
His first novel,
Tears in the Dust
, is a mystery set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War in 1937. When Alestair Ferguson volunteers to fight in the International Brigade he doesn't realize the true price he will have to pay. Chuck's second novel,
Remington and the Mysterious Fedora
, is a quirky fantasy, a story about what happens when a young man sits at the keyboard of a manual typewriter and puts on an old fedora. When the fedora and its mysterious power begins to whisper a story to him, the young man has a strange adventure indeed. His third novel,
Served Cold
, spans decades and stretches from the countryside of rural Ontario to a quiet artists' studio in Tucson, Arizona. With lots of murder and mayhem in between, the story is what happens when a long-standing feud erupts into hot-blooded vengeance.
Chuck wrote over thirty short stories before setting out to write novels that are affordable and entertaining. He has attended writing workshops in Iowa, Florida, Georgia and Ontario, Canada.
"I grew up," Chuck said, "listening to my grandfather, an Ozark Mountain story teller, spinning tales of the caves on his farm, describing them as hiding places once used by the Jesse & Frank James' gang. It didn't matter if the stories were true or not. Those legends set fire to my imagination, creating images that emerged slowly over the years, finally igniting as my short stories and novels."
Now, thirty-plus short stories and three novels later, ideas keep coming, with more novels under development. Do they share anything in common? Each has its own unique voice and tale to tell, yet, at their heart, his stories tell about the human condition – the good, the bad and the ugly.
Chuck adds, "stored images that echo in my writing include train whistles in the night, Norman Rockwell childhood scenes, U.S. Army memories, blue collar jobs, university, a professonal career, and finally retirement. Many of my images are drawn from this pool of memories: places visited, sights seen, and people met. The rest I filled in with my imagination: dreams of places yet to be visited, sights yet to be seen, and people yet to be met."
His literary roots were planted in the American Midwest and thrived when transplanted – over thirty-nine years ago – to the rich, cultural soil of Ontario. He and his wife, Suzanne, spend their summers in Kitchener, Ontario and are warmed by a winter sun in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
You can visit Chuck at http://www.writebyme.ca and at www.chuckwaldron.com . Visit him at Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/writebyme and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/wordstir .
About Remington & The Mysterious Fedora
Surprise is in store when, in the back of a strange used goods store, Josh finds an old Remington typewriter and a fedora with some very mysterious powers. As Josh embarks on his first novel writing adventure, he finds that his new hat has its own story to tell – of a time before history began – and is quite demanding of Josh's attention. As the story consumes him, Josh's life begins to unravel, and he soon finds he is unable to separate himself from the hat and the story. When the last page is written, Josh is left with more questions than answers…both about the story and his own life.
Read the first chapter here .
Giveaways, Contests & Prizes!
To celebrate the release of Chuck Waldron's new fantasy novel, Remington & The Mysterious Fedora, he is offering one free paperback copy of his book at Pump Up Your Book's 1st Annual Holiday Extravaganza Facebook Party on December 16. More than 50 books, gifts and cash awards will be given away! Click here for details!
Did you always know you wanted to be a writer or was there
something else you wanted to do as a career?
The urge to create stories like Remington & the Mysterious Fedora has always crept around the edge of my mind. I have always had a passion for stories and cherished my first library card when I was eight years old. I think I've always wanted to be a writer but a professional career often got in my way. Now I have time to embrace my writing passion full time.
If you had the chance to co-author a book with anyone who would it
be and why?
I think it would have been a hoot to co-author a book with Robert Parker. But, I would really pick Darcie Torres, my editor. The two of us would make a great writing team.
Is there any books you've read that were so emotional that you teared up?
There are three that came to mind, To Kill a Mockingbird, the Grapes of Wrath & the Diary of Anne Frank
What is the first book that you remember reading?
The Black Stallion, by Walter Farley
If your book was being made into a movie do you already have actors
in mind for each role? What bands/singers would you put on the
soundtrack?
Whew, what a question. I had someone like David Kross in mind while I wrote the character Josh in Remington & the Mysterious Fedora. His two girlfriends would be played by Mia Wasikowska and Emily Barclay
What are 10 random facts about you?
Tall
Shy
Curious
Stood on the North Pole once
Cry during sad movies
Love cats
Detest intolerance
Married to a wonderful woman
Tried leaping a tall building and it hurt
Love, absolutely love, to write.
His first novel,
Tears in the Dust
, is a mystery set against the backdrop of the Spanish Civil War in 1937. When Alestair Ferguson volunteers to fight in the International Brigade he doesn't realize the true price he will have to pay. Chuck's second novel,
Remington and the Mysterious Fedora
, is a quirky fantasy, a story about what happens when a young man sits at the keyboard of a manual typewriter and puts on an old fedora. When the fedora and its mysterious power begins to whisper a story to him, the young man has a strange adventure indeed. His third novel,
Served Cold
, spans decades and stretches from the countryside of rural Ontario to a quiet artists' studio in Tucson, Arizona. With lots of murder and mayhem in between, the story is what happens when a long-standing feud erupts into hot-blooded vengeance.Chuck wrote over thirty short stories before setting out to write novels that are affordable and entertaining. He has attended writing workshops in Iowa, Florida, Georgia and Ontario, Canada.
"I grew up," Chuck said, "listening to my grandfather, an Ozark Mountain story teller, spinning tales of the caves on his farm, describing them as hiding places once used by the Jesse & Frank James' gang. It didn't matter if the stories were true or not. Those legends set fire to my imagination, creating images that emerged slowly over the years, finally igniting as my short stories and novels."
Now, thirty-plus short stories and three novels later, ideas keep coming, with more novels under development. Do they share anything in common? Each has its own unique voice and tale to tell, yet, at their heart, his stories tell about the human condition – the good, the bad and the ugly.Chuck adds, "stored images that echo in my writing include train whistles in the night, Norman Rockwell childhood scenes, U.S. Army memories, blue collar jobs, university, a professonal career, and finally retirement. Many of my images are drawn from this pool of memories: places visited, sights seen, and people met. The rest I filled in with my imagination: dreams of places yet to be visited, sights yet to be seen, and people yet to be met."
His literary roots were planted in the American Midwest and thrived when transplanted – over thirty-nine years ago – to the rich, cultural soil of Ontario. He and his wife, Suzanne, spend their summers in Kitchener, Ontario and are warmed by a winter sun in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
You can visit Chuck at http://www.writebyme.ca and at www.chuckwaldron.com . Visit him at Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/writebyme and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/wordstir .
About Remington & The Mysterious Fedora
Surprise is in store when, in the back of a strange used goods store, Josh finds an old Remington typewriter and a fedora with some very mysterious powers. As Josh embarks on his first novel writing adventure, he finds that his new hat has its own story to tell – of a time before history began – and is quite demanding of Josh's attention. As the story consumes him, Josh's life begins to unravel, and he soon finds he is unable to separate himself from the hat and the story. When the last page is written, Josh is left with more questions than answers…both about the story and his own life.
Read the first chapter here .
Giveaways, Contests & Prizes!
To celebrate the release of Chuck Waldron's new fantasy novel, Remington & The Mysterious Fedora, he is offering one free paperback copy of his book at Pump Up Your Book's 1st Annual Holiday Extravaganza Facebook Party on December 16. More than 50 books, gifts and cash awards will be given away! Click here for details!
Did you always know you wanted to be a writer or was there
something else you wanted to do as a career?
The urge to create stories like Remington & the Mysterious Fedora has always crept around the edge of my mind. I have always had a passion for stories and cherished my first library card when I was eight years old. I think I've always wanted to be a writer but a professional career often got in my way. Now I have time to embrace my writing passion full time.
If you had the chance to co-author a book with anyone who would it
be and why?
I think it would have been a hoot to co-author a book with Robert Parker. But, I would really pick Darcie Torres, my editor. The two of us would make a great writing team.
Is there any books you've read that were so emotional that you teared up?
There are three that came to mind, To Kill a Mockingbird, the Grapes of Wrath & the Diary of Anne Frank
What is the first book that you remember reading?
The Black Stallion, by Walter Farley
If your book was being made into a movie do you already have actors
in mind for each role? What bands/singers would you put on the
soundtrack?
Whew, what a question. I had someone like David Kross in mind while I wrote the character Josh in Remington & the Mysterious Fedora. His two girlfriends would be played by Mia Wasikowska and Emily Barclay
What are 10 random facts about you?
Tall
Shy
Curious
Stood on the North Pole once
Cry during sad movies
Love cats
Detest intolerance
Married to a wonderful woman
Tried leaping a tall building and it hurt
Love, absolutely love, to write.
December 5, 2011
Promo for Death of Innocence by Kayden McLeod
Death of Innocence
Book One of the Foxworth Coven Series
By Kayden McLeod
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance (Vampires, Deities, M/F)
Hate Rating: Three
Warning: Some violence, off-scene rape
Publisher: Solstice Publishing (Solstice at Night)
Price: $4.99
Buy the Book
Summary:
Even unconditional love cannot always banish an eternal nightmare
The Foxworth family has blazed a trail through human and vampire history alike, changing the ways of both races in Canada for all time. The Council has demanded a full report for the long and twisted tale of how the Surrey Coven had come to be the most powerful and feared; an assemblage that anyone would question before coming up against.
The Leader of the Surrey Coven, Canya recalls how her family came to be. A story filled with pain and heartache, until she meets Gregory Foxworth: a debonair CEO to the family shipping company. Gregory remembers taking her away from a life that shocks him, hoping to shelter and love her. But little does he know all he has done, was make her a target for a sadistically warped man. One who will have her and his own personal brand of vengeance. Sometimes, a grudge is forever.
Excerpt (Rated PG, with sexual references):
The sunlight shone over the light sprinkling of white snow. Her hair caught the surreal light, throwing blue highlights through the strands that now stretched past her waist.
She'd always enjoyed the outdoors. It was one of the many things about her that had dragged my attention, and held it so securely.
"I want you to realize just how important nature is to us. We draw our power from everything around us. We need blood to live, just as the land needs to be fertilized. But this is our world Canya—not the city. Look around you." I held my arms out to encompass everything from the trees, to the ground, to the sky.
I wiggled my fingers and the snowflakes on the ground rose into the air, dancing at my bidding. They swirled into a small tornado, moving over the flagstones to where she stood.
Her laughter flowed over the picturesque landscape when she plunged her hands into the snow, coming up with a lump that she packed hard with her hands. A wicked light entered her eyes as she strolled forward.
I'd been caught up in the swing of her hips, so sensually seductive. And then she threw her white orb at me with deadly accuracy. It pelted me on the forehead while I'd stared at her body like the haven it was meant to be.
Dancing away from me she giggled. I gave chase when she caught up her skirts and took off into the middle of the yard.
"I am going to get you for that," I called to her, knowing I could catch her at any time, but giving her the illusion of safety.
"I'm counting on it."
Dark thoughts were forgotten as I flicked both hands and the snow fell from the evergreen branches above her head. White flakes rained down around her, creating a solid sheet in every direction. I watched her turn left and right looking for me, amusement bright on her face.
"This isn't fair, Greg! How can I compete with this?" Canya called into the snow.
She moved forward and never left the enclosure while it moved with her. I stayed just far enough away, always behind her that she never found me.
"You shouldn't throw those orbs at me then," I whispered in her ear, moving with inhuman speed when she whirled, but I wasn't there.
Canya chuckled as she plopped down into the snow. I watched her curiously as she began to pack more snow.
"Snow-balls Greg, they are called snow-balls. Get into this century."
I couldn't contain my laughter at her snide comment. Her head snapped up in the direction where I'd been. A snow "ball" came flying, exactly where my head had been.
"I am in this century, here with you." I moved behind her, quiet as a mouse. She'd made a rather large pile of projectiles, completely oblivious.
"Actually you are not here with me. It would seem, for all intents and purposes that you're hiding from your fiancé. I think you are scared of getting pelted again." Her teeth flashed in the sunlight, the wall of snow creating a safe cocoon for her.
I grabbed her around the middle and she shrieked in my ear, tossing her over my shoulder with snow still grasped in her hands.
"Scared of a little witch like you?" I laughed as she tossed the snow over my head backward. I playfully slapped her enticingly vulnerable bum, while being slung so helplessly. "This is a very interesting predicament you have put me in."
"Whatever predicament do you refer to?" Her mind became blank, carefully not thinking of anything.
Her tiny hand slid down my back, sending shivers through me the cold could never compete with. My own moved down her body and over her backside, so lightly she shuddered.
My breath caught in my throat. It was the first time we had touched in such a manner. Now I feared if I didn't stop, I would drop her to the ground and indulge in every fantasy that had kept me up at night. It wasn't that I hadn't had sex before, but it had been a very long time.
Once Canya had moved in, I'd not taken a single lover: vampire or otherwise. More often than not, blood and sex intermingled so tightly that one often led to the other, no matter which came first. Sex was commonplace for us—as easy as breathing and we partook in it just as often.
My body grew hot and tight enough, I thought it would drive me insane. I wanted to run my tongue over every inch of her luscious skin. To lose myself in her mouth, move down her body with delicate slowness, until her cries pushed me over the edge.
"You are a cruel woman." I set her on her feet. The look in her eyes made me growl with frustration.
My body protested, needing to touch her again in any way she saw fit. Canya looked like a mythical siren or a nymph, purely tempting. I had no problem with succumbing to this particular temptation, except perhaps her feelings on the matter. It was too soon. I knew this, though that did not make it any easier to bear.
"Revenge is always sweet. Since you're mine now, I think it is acceptable." She pranced past me. I flicked a hand in the direction of the whirling snow, and it fell harmlessly to the ground.
Natural Urges
Book Two of the Foxworth Coven Series
By Kayden McLeod
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance
(Vampires, Shifters, Deities)
Word Count: 76,561
Hate Rating: Three
Warning: Some violence off-scene rape
Buy the Book
Summary:
Love conquers all...and evil seeks to destroy it.
Arcadia Foxworth has no idea what destiny has in store for him. He thought his life as an elite Council Hunter of Rogues was his perfect career choice. But little does he know his fate truly lies in one little powder keg, Korbin Callows. She's beautiful, graceful—and a stripper. After having woken up, remembering nothing about her old life, Korbin had to pull herself together and make tough decisions to survive a harsh world. And now people she doesn't even know are out to kill her. She finds herself relying on Arcadia to maneuver the new dangers presented to her, as she starts to recall who she really is. A powerful being that could make every vampire in British Columbia fall to their knees, including Arcadia.
Excerpt: PG 13
I stopped the truck and pulled to the side of the road on a partially built subdivision. The wooden skeletons of the houses rose like sentinels against the cobalt tinted onyx horizon studded with fiery crystal chips glowing an unearthly white edged in cerulean.
"What's here?" Korbin asked when she reached for the doorknob.
It felt good to see she still trusted me. Even after what had just happened to her. It went leagues toward healing my self-annoyance.
"We will walk the rest of the way, if you don't mind. You may want to change into your running shoes though."
"Okay." She got out, and went to the back, where her bags were and pulled out a pair of well-worn white and blue sneakers. She exchanged her footwear, and turned. Her face was excited to see what I had in store for her as I took her hand, leading her between the houses to the field behind them.
"Oh, Cad, look up at that sky. It's so gorgeous!"
I followed her gaze to the full moon that set the landscape with enough light to see the outline of the tall spruce and pines that lined the opposite side of the field in front of us. The light also reflected off of the tranquil pond to our left, just behind a ring of trunks. The gentle breeze brought the scent of freshness and wildflowers to us in caresses.
I wrapped my arm around Korbin's shoulders as we walked, missing this area, where Jana had taken Ceanna and I as children.
I didn't often relax outside of my territory—but I wanted to take Korbin somewhere special. I remembered when Canya and Gregory had moved us to Surrey, from New Westminster when the other Covens had come to British Columbia, narrowing out territory from an entire province, to the Fraser Valley.
"I love it here," Korbin said.
We crossed under the canopy of pine needles above, to stand on the edge of the small body of water. The moment we did, the green and white Christmas lights strung from tree to tree blinked on, illuminating the area. One by one, hunter green tapered candles burst with tiny flames, their bottoms buried in the sandy dirt along the shore. My sisters' special addition.
The breeze picked up enough that a cottonwood tree nearby released tiny white particles into the air, to float around us like soft snow. Olive coloured cattails swayed back and forth, in a dance only nature could produce.
White rose petals alongside purple and magenta wildflowers scattered over the grass around a plush dark russet blanket, the colour of rich soil filled with minerals.
I took Korbin's hand and led her to the blanket so we could sit down. "Thank you, Arcadia. I can't believe you did all of this."
"Actually, it was Ceanna and Josealynn," I replied.
Korbin grinned. "Figures. It has a woman's touch."
"They are very good at what they do."
Korbin sighed. "It must be so nice to have a family who cares for and loves you so much."
The sad tone made me wince. "They are your family now too, you know. All of us have every intention of keeping you safe and happy."
"I know," Korbin said. "Tell me about them, your sisters and parents. I want to know more about them. They have been so good to me, and I can't even tell you how much that means."
"My parents have led a hard life, keeping our Coven together in the direst of circumstances. They aren't my real parents, though. The people who bore me died some time ago in a war with an old Coven member, Antonio, who sought to destroy our people. He killed more than half of our ruling family. He was a truly evil man." "What happened to this Antonio?"
"Eventually he had been caught by the Council, and given the most severe punishment any vampire could receive—humanification. Afterward, he was taken to Europe for questioning. We've heard nothing else about him, but he left his legacy behind. My real Father and Gregory's brother, Corbin had been mated to my Mother, Jana. Antonio wanted Jana enough to kidnap her and take her to Greece. While they lived there, they bore two sons, Ambrosios and Doros, my brothers."
"That must've been hard for you. Were they taken to Europe too?"
I shook my head. "They were placed into a Coven who could take care of them, though they took off on their own not too many years after, to travel the world. My brothers visit from time to time, though they won't stay long. Neither feel comfortable here; they don't feel like part of the family because of the sins of their parent. But Ambrosios does come more often. He seems rather taken with my sister, Josealynn, who I suppose is my cousin, though Corbin."
"It is strange that your Father has the same name as me," Korbin replied.
"I thought much the same thing a few times. It could be coincidence or this destiny we share." "Does it bother you?"
"It did at first, but not anymore. If anything, it reminds me of the good times I had with my Father when I was a little boy."
Korbin frowned. She took a moment before speaking. "I remember being told once, when vampires died, they became ghosts with a choice of leaving this world for the next life, or they stayed here in this realm. Did you get a chance to say goodbye?"
I looked over the water, feeling my chest grow tight. "They never moved on. Corbin and Jana are still here, but Ceanna and I don't see them much. Corbin once told me that Ceanna and I were grown up, and we didn't need our parents anymore. We had to stand on our own two feet, and allow them to live their lives." I said the words slow, quietly as the anguish of missing them set in.
"That is crap!" Korbin burst. "How could they be so selfish?"
I winced. Frequently, throughout my life, people had commented on the same thing. But as usual, I couldn't sully my memories of my Father enough to call him selfish. Not after all he had lost.
"We have Gregory, Canya and Josealynn. Ceanna and I have no need of people who don't want anything to do with us." And that was a frank as I'd ever been.
Korbin threw her arms around me in a tight hug. "I am so sorry, Arcadia, but I can never agree with that. No matter how old you are, or how many replace those who bore you, people still need their mom and dad. If they can't see how much this still hurts you, they are blind and willingly ignorant. You are a good man, one who fights for what he believes in, and loyal to a fault. They should be proud of you and be at your side, not off gallivanting on their own whims."
The emotion in her voice made my throat burn. My arms wrapped around her, and we just stayed like that for countless moments. Even with the sensitive topics of discussion, just touching this woman gave me a sense of peace I hadn't possessed since I turned seven years old. A century was a long time to feel as I had.
Korbin centered me, and even more profoundly, she calmed my Curse. She allowed the darkness to flee long enough, so I could catch glimpses of the light; for that alone, I would be eternally grateful.
"I think it would be so easy to fall in love with you," I whispered.
About the Author:
Kayden McLeod lives in beautiful British Columbia, and is the author of the M/F Paranormal Romance and erotica series, The Coven Series, which consists of three Covens; The Foxworths, The Cornwalls and The Jerichos. She also dabbles in a multitude of other genres that are in the works, like BDSM, Ménage, M/M and Horror. As well, Kayden is a freelance Graphic and Cover artist, a Cover Artist for XOXO Publishing, and an owner of Otherworlds Publicity and Siren Book Reviews.
Connect with Kayden online:
Website: http://kaydenmcleod.com/
Blog: http://kaydenmcleod.blogspot.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?i...
Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kayden-...
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/KaydenMcLeod
Deviant Art: http://kaydenmcleod.deviantart.com/
Interview with author Mara Lohrstorfer Purnhagen
1. Did you always know you wanted to be a writer or was there
something else you wanted to do as a career?
Yes, I always wanted to be a writer. I was writing stories before I could spell, and I've always kept journals and written short stories. I have binders full of stories and two novels completed that will never be published. They were projects I completed because they were personal to me, and I'm not sure I want anyone else to read them.
2. Is there one author that you have read every book that they have written?
There are several! I love Anne Tyler, Richard Peck, Laura Lippman and Gabriel Garcia Marquez. I've read all of their books.
3. In your opinion what is the best movie adaptation of a book that you've read?
I'm not sure. I'm really looking forward to the Hunger Games movies, though- from the clips I've seen so far, it looks like they're going to nail it!
4. When you are browsing book stores what is the first section you go to?
I always go to the children's section first. I love to find books for my kids. Then I wander into the YA section, usually armed with a camera. I take pictures of the covers, especially if the book is written by someone I know. That way, I can post the picture on Facebook. Then I make my way into fiction and finally, magazines. It's a good, two-hour process for me!
5. If your book was being made into a movie do you already have actors in mind for each role? What bands/singers would you put on the soundtrack?
Not sure about actors, but I do put together a playlist for each one of my books. I listen to music as I write. Here's a partial list for the book I'm working on now:
1. Exile Vilify by the National (there is always at least one National song on all of my playlists—they're my favorite band).
2. Kingdom of Rust by Doves
3. Midnight City by M83
4. Typhoon by Crooked Fingers
5. Tamer Animals by Other Lives
6. Take the World by She Wants Revenge (I see this song as the final one, perfect for the last chapter)
6. When you're creating characters do you incorporate traits from people you know?
Sometimes. It's more like including an inside joke. For example, a restaurant in the Past Midnight series is called Giuseppe's. My husband used to play in a band, and they came up with fake names. His was Giuseppe (in real life, it's Joe).
7. If you had the chance to have a sit down with any author alive or deceased who would it be and why?
I've been lucky enough to meet some of my favorite living authors in person, so I would go with someone who has already passed on. That's tough, though! Can't I host a big dinner party and invite a dozen of my favorites? No? Then I have to go with William Shakespeare, for the simple fact that I want to solve the mystery of who he was!
something else you wanted to do as a career?
Yes, I always wanted to be a writer. I was writing stories before I could spell, and I've always kept journals and written short stories. I have binders full of stories and two novels completed that will never be published. They were projects I completed because they were personal to me, and I'm not sure I want anyone else to read them.
2. Is there one author that you have read every book that they have written?
There are several! I love Anne Tyler, Richard Peck, Laura Lippman and Gabriel Garcia Marquez. I've read all of their books.
3. In your opinion what is the best movie adaptation of a book that you've read?
I'm not sure. I'm really looking forward to the Hunger Games movies, though- from the clips I've seen so far, it looks like they're going to nail it!
4. When you are browsing book stores what is the first section you go to?
I always go to the children's section first. I love to find books for my kids. Then I wander into the YA section, usually armed with a camera. I take pictures of the covers, especially if the book is written by someone I know. That way, I can post the picture on Facebook. Then I make my way into fiction and finally, magazines. It's a good, two-hour process for me!
5. If your book was being made into a movie do you already have actors in mind for each role? What bands/singers would you put on the soundtrack?
Not sure about actors, but I do put together a playlist for each one of my books. I listen to music as I write. Here's a partial list for the book I'm working on now:
1. Exile Vilify by the National (there is always at least one National song on all of my playlists—they're my favorite band).
2. Kingdom of Rust by Doves
3. Midnight City by M83
4. Typhoon by Crooked Fingers
5. Tamer Animals by Other Lives
6. Take the World by She Wants Revenge (I see this song as the final one, perfect for the last chapter)
6. When you're creating characters do you incorporate traits from people you know?
Sometimes. It's more like including an inside joke. For example, a restaurant in the Past Midnight series is called Giuseppe's. My husband used to play in a band, and they came up with fake names. His was Giuseppe (in real life, it's Joe).
7. If you had the chance to have a sit down with any author alive or deceased who would it be and why?
I've been lucky enough to meet some of my favorite living authors in person, so I would go with someone who has already passed on. That's tough, though! Can't I host a big dinner party and invite a dozen of my favorites? No? Then I have to go with William Shakespeare, for the simple fact that I want to solve the mystery of who he was!
