Christina Bauer's Blog, page 24
March 29, 2021
New Look For Dimension Drift
Here’s what changed in the first cover in the series. The previous version was more of a mini-scene from the book, which looks great at cover reveals. That said, most of my sales at done at the thumbnail level, and I wondered if the detail goto lost on a page of covers. The overall new look is to focus on faces that really “grab” the viewer.
BUY NOW: Amazon / Apple / GooglePlay / Kobo / Nook / Smashwords
The story of Meimi Archer, a science genius who attends a Learning Squirrel High, a “school” with a lot of useless lesson plans. Then one day a n alien hottie materializes in her kitchen.
Things go downhill from there.
BUY NOW: Amazon / Apple / GooglePlay / Kobo / Nook / Smashwords
One day, eighteen-year-old Thorne may become the Emperor of the Omniverse, the single being who rules countless worlds. Trouble is, his father Cole–who’s also the current Emperor–is a sadistic freak. In fact, Cole won’t even keep his promises to the very humans who got him his throne. Thorne won’t stand for it. He decides to travel to the human world and make good on his father’s promises. What he doesn’t count on is falling in love…
BUY NOW: Amazon / Apple / GooglePlay / Kobo / Nook / Smashwords
After Meimi Archer awakens with amnesia, the government explains she’s a high school science prodigy who’s helping them ‘cleanse’ millions of citizens. Not cool. So Meimi pretends to agree while planning to wipe out the whole cleansing project. Except for her hot guard, Thorne. He can stay, even if he is from another planet. Hey, if you saw Thorne’s dimples, you’d understand.
BUY NOW: Amazon / Apple / GooglePlay / Kobo / Nook / Smashwords
Our heroine Meimi Archer has been assigned to attend ECHO Academy. There, the evil Headmaster believes that Meimi will help the government conquer other dimensions.
For her part, Meimi has some very different ideas. She’s starting a revolution. That is, if the Headmaster doesn’t find out and murder her first.
The post New Look For Dimension Drift appeared first on Monster House Books.
Happy Book Birthday to DARE!
DARE, PIXIELAND DIARIES BOOK 3 BOOK LAUNCH
TITLE: DARE, Pixieland Diaries Book 3
GENRE: Young Adult Paranormal Romance
SEE IT ON: Nook / Amazon / GooglePlay / Apple / Kobo
FORMAT: eBook
RAFFLECOPTER: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/f7ec85e735/?
About DARE (Pixieland Diaries Book 3)
What happens when a pixie outcast seizes the throne of Faerie… while her beloved elf prince becomes a wanted criminal?
Sassy pixie Calla loves the prankster life, even if it does make her an outcast among other fae. But everything changes when Calla’s magic erases an evil blight destroying the Faerie realm. That’s when the pariah pixie becomes something unexpected: a Fae Queen.
Yet no sooner does Calla take the crown than a new and unstoppable plague appears. Things get even worse when Calla’s longtime crush, the elf Prince ‘Dare’ Darius, appears to have masterminded the outbreak before fleeing to the mountains. According to the Faerie elders, there’s only one way to end this disease…
Calla must hunt down Dare and destroy him.
Yeah. Like that will ever happen.
Instead of killing anyone, Calla vows to cure the plague while proving Dare’s innocence. And if she must pull a few mega-pranks to make it all happen? Not a problem. Even so, the path ahead is still fraught with trouble. Secret enemies scheme to manipulate the outbreak—as well as Calla’s feelings for Dare—in order to bring our favorite prankster down, once and for all.
Pixieland Diaries Series
1. Pixieland Diaries
2. Calla
3. Dare
4. Winter Prince
5. Ley Queen
The post Happy Book Birthday to DARE! appeared first on Monster House Books.
March 23, 2021
I shouldn’t be posting this video.
There really is nothing like a deadline (along with the strong urge to avoid it) in order to inspire wackadoo activities in yours truly. Take today, for instance. I just recorded my own unboxing video, complete with funny faces. Check it out before I realize I may need a day job again some day… and decide to delete it.
If the video above doesn’t show above for some reason, then you can also view my shame by clicking here.
Enjoy!
The post I shouldn’t be posting this video. appeared first on Monster House Books.
March 16, 2021
DARE – Sample Chapter Live
Dear Diary,
This morning, I wake up with a plan. Now that I’m Queen of the Summer Fae, I shall fix two incredibly awful things about my realm. I’m talking stuff that’s way worse than getting hit in the face with troll dung (which happened to me once. Long story.)
Time for a list.
My Two Massive, Idealistic,
And Yet Totally Achievable Goals As Queen
One. Free the human changelings who are trapped in Faerie
Two. Drop-kick the summer elf lowlifes who are currently on the Elven “High” Council
Together, I call this my Changeling-Council Plan. Both things have been my sole obsession for years, if you don’t count Prince Dare. I’ve spent hours complaining about this stuff. Here’s how every conversation would go.
Me: The Winter Elves don’t keep human slaves. Someone should free the changelings in the Summer Realm, too.
Everyone: That’s the job of Protector Lazare.
Me: But what about the Elven High Council? If the council’s Summer Elves would agree with their winter counterparts, then we could free the changelings. We must swap out the summer fae on that council, pronto.
Everyone: You’re talking about two massive, idealistic and totally unachievable goals. Plus, if you try to mess with the changelings or the Elven High Council, then you’ll be exiled forever from Faerie or worse.
Me: You might have a minor point… for now.
That’s how life went until I exploded the evil Lazare and became Queen of the Summer Fae. These days, helping the changelings and fixing the High Council are absolutely my gig. Yes, here was a little sidetrack where I had to go save my father, but that’s all over.
Back to queening!
All of which brings me to the present moment. I lie curled under the covers in my royal bedroom and consider my next move. There are tons of folks I could consult about my Changeling-Council Plan. But there’s only one person who never-not-once questioned that I’d eventually kick the council’s butt and redefine changeling-hood.
Prince Dare.
Keeping a diary means being totally and brutally honest. And I’ve had a killer crush slight interest in dating Dare since we were kids. There’s actually a third and secret goal on my list.
Three. Dare
I don’t have anything more specific than that at this point. What can I say? I’m only sixteen.
But I do know what I need from Dare in terms of my Changeling-Council Plan. After all, the guy grew up in the Winter Court. He can help get stuff done. And the fact that he lives across Faerie isn’t a problem, either. The prince and I have a secret way of contacting each other that’s worked since we were kids: appearing to each other as ghosts.
One problem, though.
Last night, Dare and I went on a sleigh ride and totally smooched. Although it was my first kiss, I know there are rules about these things. At this point, the guy should reach out to contact me, not the other way around.
Which means I am not ghost-calling the prince.
Instead, I shall spend my time drawing a picture of something that is most definitely not Dare.
Like a tree.
– Calla
Dear Diary,
I miscalculated. For some reason, I ended up illustrating how intense-n-cute Dare looked right before he kissed me for the first time.
All my willpower is busted. I’m totally contacting him.
Today.
–End of Sample–
About DAREWhat happens when a pixie outcast seizes the throne of Faerie… while her beloved elf prince becomes a wanted criminal?
Sassy pixie Calla loves the prankster life, even if it does make her an outcast among other fae. But everything changes when Calla’s magic erases an evil blight destroying the Faerie realm. That’s when the pariah pixie becomes something unexpected: a Fae Queen.
Yet no sooner does Calla take the crown than a new and unstoppable plague appears. Things get even worse when Calla’s longtime crush, the elf Prince ‘Dare’ Darius, appears to have masterminded the outbreak before fleeing to the mountains. According to the Faerie elders, there’s only one way to end this disease…
Calla must hunt down Dare and destroy him.
Yeah. Like that will ever happen.
Instead of killing anyone, Calla vows to cure the plague while proving Dare’s innocence. And if she must pull a few mega-pranks to make it all happen? Not a problem. Even so, the path ahead is still fraught with trouble. Secret enemies scheme to manipulate the outbreak—as well as Calla’s feelings for Dare—in order to bring our favorite prankster down, once and for all.
BUY NOW: Nook / Amazon / GooglePlay / Apple / Kobo
Pixieland Diaries Series
1. Pixieland Diaries
2. Calla
3. Dare
4. Winter Prince
5. Ley Queen
The post DARE – Sample Chapter Live appeared first on Monster House Books.
March 15, 2021
It’s Off My Bucket List!
This item has been on my bucket list for ages… and I’m not just talking about becoming the greatest tap dancer in the world (an actual life goal from when I was six).
Nope, I mean buying the 25th anniversary edition of the classic book, Faeries. The original version came my way during my teenage years (I say teen years, you think secret hell.) It got my imagination going and provided a mental escape hatch in what was otherwise a crap time. The book still influences me to this day.
Wondering what the big deal is about? There’s a great guided video tour here. But for the purposes of this post, I’ll share why I love this work.
Simply out, the illustrations are sublime.
There are two artists who created this book. The first is Alan Lee, a guy who’s arguably best known for illustrating the Lord of the Rings novels. Then there’s Brian Froud, someone I consider the go-to guy for all faerie art. Both are mind-blowing in terms of their creativity and skill.
Here’s why the Faerie illustrations are special (to me, anyway). These artists don’t just draw a cute elves. They really think through the particular world behind each creature. For instance, a beautiful elf may have clothing with lovely geometric patterns… which then match designs behind them… and all carry a subtle visual theme of swords. The resulting message is one that combines beauty and death. Perfect for the fae.
And when it comes to evil creatures? Their work is even better. Some fae have a particular texture to their flesh… or no skin at all. I’d link in a bunch of their images, but that can get me in trouble. (I’m not even kidding. I’ve gotten–and paid–hefty fines in the past.) Instead, I’ll share a few pics that I own from my upcoming book, DARE. As you might imagine, this new novel is heavily influenced by Faerie.
I’ll kick off with the antagonist.
The Dragon Imperator
What I love about this illustration is how it takes an old image–namely a mysterious figure in a dark cloak–and adds something fresh. The extra arms are often used in Eastern art to show higher power levels, and I think that idea is conveyed here as well. The sword is a great addition (and it plays right into my story, but that’s a post for another time). And the style of illustration is rough and harsh, which also tells the story of the character. This piece is created by a Russian artist who goes by the name of Warm Tail.
Lady Kae
In a lot of ways, this is a standard image of a gorgeous elf. What makes this illustration special is the cone-style hat and unusual jewelry. This lady is clearly not your average fae. And in DARE, she certainly plays a special role. This pic is an adaptation of a full-color piece by one of my favorite artists, Majorgaine.
And here’s a snapshot of me happily coddling my new find. So exciting to find it on a rare books Amazon page as the original is out print. Bucket list item… done!
On a final note, if you want to find out more about DARE, you can check it out on Nook, Amazon, GooglePlay, Apple & Kobo.
The post It’s Off My Bucket List! appeared first on Monster House Books.
March 12, 2021
New Release – ANGELBOUND Illustrated Edition
Why are you doing this?
I used to have all my print titles created and distributed by Amazon/KDP. Going forward, I’ll still use KDP for Amazon.com… but I’m testing out another service, Ingram Spark, for what’s called expanded distribution to libraries, small bookstores and so on (these aren’t easily covered by KDP). Ingram Spark requires a new a universal product code called an ISBN. I didn’t want two print ISBNs out there that sell the exact same thing, so I’m creating illustrated editions, starting with ANGELBOUND.
What’s included in this edition?
In this enhanced paperback, there are eight full-page images. I’ve included high-definition pics of Myla, Lincoln, Walker, Xavier, the Earl of Acca, the Ryder mansion, and two pics of Myla and Lincoln. Woot!
How much does it cost?
I’ve asked for the enhanced edition to be priced the same as its non-illustrated counterpart: $15.95. Retailers always have the right to do funky stuff with pricing, though. The title is certainly listed at $15.95 on Barnes & Noble today.
I don’t see this book listed on my favorite retailer? What’s up?
This is a new release, so it may take a while to get into retailer search engines and link into other versions of this book. If you don’t see the book listed on your favorite retailer, please search by what’s called the ISBN (basically it’s a universal product code) which in this case is 9781946677761.
Why stop using Amazon for all your print?
Amazon isn’t compatible with small bookstores and libraries. I want to ensure my books are available as widely as possible, so I’m testing out Ingram Spark.
Will you be doing the rest of your books this way?
Right now, I’m working on illustrated editions of all the Angelbound Origins books. I’ll be sure to announce them as they go live! Depending on how Angelbound Origins goes, I may expand out to my entire catalog. Ingram Spark is a new vendor for me, so it will depend on how that relationship works over time.
I have a question you didn’t cover above. Grr!
Please feel free to reach out to me directly at cbauer (at) monsterhousebooks.com. I love reacting with readers and buyers!
Can I get a sneak peek at some of the illustrations?
Sure thing! Here goes…
Remember, the illustrated version of ANGELBOUND is now live on Barnes & Noble and Amazon!
The post New Release – ANGELBOUND Illustrated Edition appeared first on Monster House Books.
March 9, 2021
My Dream Cast for the Magicorum
As part of the launch tour for my new book, FIRE AND CINDER (Fairy Tales of the Magicorum 6), the lovely folks at Jazzy Book Reviews have asked me to share my dream cast for my magicorum series.
So without further ado, here goes!
Bryar Rose, a modern sleeping beauty
In terms of looks, I think a teenage Paris Hilton would be great for this role. In fact, my inspiration board for this character includes a few pics of Paris. In terms of acting chops, I’d like to graft some of Awkwafina’s personality in there. Bryar Rose has sass!
Knox, her werewolf boyfriend
This time, I don’t need to break out looks and personality. Please, let there be a time machine where I could bring back a young Marlon Brando to play Knox! Marlon could just as easily punch an enemy in the nose as kiss your face off. Love!
Elle, a modern Cinderella
Wow, this one is tough! You’d need a mash-up of the looks of … the toughness of Sigourney Weaver in the first Alien movie… and the sharp wit that makes Tina Fey everyone’s favorite. How hard can that be to find?
Alec, a modern prince charming
A teenage Brad Pitt, no question about it. Cute, funny, sexy as hell. Le sigh!
Agatha, an evil stepsister
Julia Louis Dreyfus before Seinfeld could pull this off. She’s strong-willed, funny and open about having faults.
Jacoby, an elf prince
Gah! Another tough one! I have to go with a teenage Robert Downey Junior. He is handsome and funny, sure. But he also can also show real pain and inner anguish. Jacoby hasn’t had an easy life!
So there you have it… my dream cast for Magicorum! Now where did I put that time machine?
The post My Dream Cast for the Magicorum appeared first on Monster House Books.
March 6, 2021
Preorder Alert – DARE
About DareWhat happens when a pixie outcast seizes the throne of Faerie… while her beloved elf prince becomes a wanted criminal?
Sassy pixie Calla loves the prankster life, even if it does make her an outcast among other fae. But everything changes when Calla’s magic erases an evil blight destroying the Faerie realm. That’s when the pariah pixie becomes something unexpected: a Fae Queen.
Yet no sooner does Calla take the crown than a new and unstoppable plague appears. Things get even worse when Calla’s longtime crush, the elf Prince ‘Dare’ Darius, appears to have masterminded the outbreak before fleeing to the mountains. According to the Faerie elders, there’s only one way to end this disease…
Calla must hunt down Dare and destroy him.
Yeah. Like that will ever happen.
Instead of killing anyone, Calla vows to cure the plague while proving Dare’s innocence. And if she must pull a few mega-pranks to make it all happen? Not a problem. Even so, the path ahead is still fraught with trouble. Secret enemies scheme to manipulate the outbreak—as well as Calla’s feelings for Dare—in order to bring our favorite prankster down, once and for all.
Pixieland Diaries Series
1. Pixieland Diaries
2. Calla
3. Dare
4. Winter Prince
5. Ley Queen
DARE brings fantasy to life with more than 50 full-page images
The post Preorder Alert – DARE appeared first on Monster House Books.
Book Quotes – SLIPPERS AND THIEVES $2.99 on Nook
The post Book Quotes – SLIPPERS AND THIEVES $2.99 on Nook appeared first on Monster House Books.
February 24, 2021
Best Quotes From The Book: FIRE AND CINDER
SEE IT ON: Apple / Amazon / GooglePlay / Kobo / Nook / Smashwords
Meet the Magicorum: modern folks who are supernaturally locked into fairy tale life templates. For eighteen-year-old Elle, that role is Cinderella. Meanwhile, Agatha is her evil stepsister. Things go downhill from there…
Cinderella On The Run
Elle—never call her Cinderella—has found the love of her life in Alec Le Charme, the prince of a jewelry dynasty. But when Alec gets spirited away, Elle must ditch her Manhattan home for the perilous Faerie Lands. To save Alec, Elle must also swap her glass slippers for a flying carpet. But will switching templates from Cinderella to Aladdin snap Elle’s sanity?
Whatever. Bring on the straight jacket. Elle is one Cinderella who’s determined to save her prince, no matter what.
Evil Stepsister or Elf Queen?
Agatha always accepted her role as Elle’s evil stepsister. Then her life template changes from nasty sibling to evil elf queen. Agatha has one thought on that score. Thanks but no thanks. Agatha refuses the regal life, even though stepping away from her crown means ignoring her lifelong attraction to the elf prince, Jacoby.
Then everything changes. Agatha discovers that Elle’s life is at risk… and the only way to save her Cinderella is by teaming up with Jacoby. Trouble is, that’s a lot of togetherness. Working with Jacoby could easily end in disaster, not only for Agatha’s heart, but also for Elle and Alec’s lives.
Fairy Tales of the Magicorum
Modern fairy tales with sass, action, and romance
1. Wolves and Roses
2. Moonlight and Midtown
3. Shifters and Glyphs
4. Slippers and Thieves
5. Bandits and Ball Gowns
6. Fire and Cinder
7. Fairies and Frosting
The post Best Quotes From The Book: FIRE AND CINDER appeared first on Monster House Books.
