Susan Francis's Blog, page 2
May 26, 2013
What's new? (On Writing)
I am (supposed to be) writing the 3rd instalment of my Aintree Tales series, but I am struggling with this one. The central plot evades me. Very annoying.
At the same time, I am playing around (in my head) with another novel and the central plot for that one is as clear as day. This one would be an adult novel, i.e., the protagonists are over 21 (as opposed to "Fifty Shades" adult).
I am tempted to shelve Aintree Book 3 but I don't want to. There's some good stuff there already. I just need to get my creative juices flowing.
At the same time, I am playing around (in my head) with another novel and the central plot for that one is as clear as day. This one would be an adult novel, i.e., the protagonists are over 21 (as opposed to "Fifty Shades" adult).
I am tempted to shelve Aintree Book 3 but I don't want to. There's some good stuff there already. I just need to get my creative juices flowing.
April 27, 2013
And the winners are ...
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ BUTTERFLY PORCUPINE ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
Congratulations to Jennifer and Jason, winners of my Spring 2013 Giveaway. Your signed copies are on their way to you. Enjoy!
Congratulations to Jennifer and Jason, winners of my Spring 2013 Giveaway. Your signed copies are on their way to you. Enjoy!
April 9, 2013
Butterfly Porcupine Giveaway
~ * ~ * ~ * ~ BUTTERFLY PORCUPINE ~ * ~ * ~ * ~
For a teenage boy, chasing a girl can be like chasing a butterfly. But what if your butterfly turns out to be a porcupine? This is Kai Hansen's predicament when he pursues Tasha Wood, the girl who moves into the house opposite his.
Kai decides to proceed with caution, but not be put off, after all, bristles aside, the porcupine is a harmless creature.
Click on the link below for a chance to win a free signed paperback copy of my first novel.
Competition open to CA, UK and US only.
http://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/sho...
For a teenage boy, chasing a girl can be like chasing a butterfly. But what if your butterfly turns out to be a porcupine? This is Kai Hansen's predicament when he pursues Tasha Wood, the girl who moves into the house opposite his.
Kai decides to proceed with caution, but not be put off, after all, bristles aside, the porcupine is a harmless creature.
Click on the link below for a chance to win a free signed paperback copy of my first novel.
Competition open to CA, UK and US only.
http://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/sho...
March 31, 2013
Two versions of the same song, Excerpt #2
Paul
I’m going to the theatre and I’m running late, thanks to my mother. I was ready and about to leave when she said, “Where are you going dressed like that?”
“I told you, I’m going to the theatre.”
“Dressed like that?”
“Yes” I said, defensively. I’m wearing a new T-shirt under my brown leather jacket, my best Diesel jeans and brand new suede Converse trainers. “This is my smart casual look” I informed her.
“Paul, what you’re wearing is not appropriate.”
“It’s fine. No one dresses up for the theatre these days” I said, as if I knew what I was talking about.
“Can’t you wear a proper shirt?”
I shook my head defiantly. It’s not enough that I agreed to get my hair cut at her salon on her recommendation and now have a James Dean-type quiff that I’m still unsure about.
“At least change into your brown leather shoes.”
I headed back to my room. It was less time-consuming to comply than to argue, and I was willing to compromise and wear the shoes if it meant getting past the fashion police.
Going to the theatre to watch modern dance is not exactly my idea of a fun night out, so I was reluctant to go when Kai phoned to invite me, but I’d agreed to go for one reason and one reason only - a girl.
“Come on. It’ll be a good night out. You’ll enjoy it.”
“It’s not really my thing.”
“It’s not exactly mine either, but it’s for Kris’ 18th. Tasha’s coming.”
“Great - all the more reason for me to tag along.” It’s not that I dislike Tasha - she’s nice enough - if a little moody and self-absorbed.
“Will’s coming too.”
“You’re still not selling it.”
“... and Serena” he said.
“Really?” I asked, feigning mild curiosity.
“Yeah, we all have dates apart from her so if you come, it would even up the numbers.” I noticed he was careful not to suggest I be her date - which suggested she didn’t know about it.
“She probably wouldn’t want that” I said, fishing for clues.
“Sure she would.”
“Does she even know I’m invited?”
“No - better keep it that way for now.”
“I haven’t said yes yet.”
“Great. See you later” he said and then hung up. I realised the ‘yet’ was probably an indication that I’d already made up my mind. He knew exactly what carrot to dangle - and it had worked.
I grab my car keys and hurry out of my room for the second time, now wearing my brown leather shoes. My plan is to hurry before she catches me again, but it doesn’t work. She is hovering by the front door, blocking my exit, determined to scrutinise me one last time before she lets me leave. She gives me the once-over and, while brushing non-existent dust off the shoulders of my jacket says, “That’s much better.” I know she hates the T-shirt and the jeans - she doesn’t get the distressed look - but she is trying to meet me half way.
“Have a wonderful time” she says, kissing me on the cheek - lately, she has become increasingly emotionally demonstrative - then, finally, stepping aside, she lets me pass.
“Thanks, see you later” I say, feeling embarrassed by her display of affection, and leave.
I get into my car and head west to Ealing.
I turn off the main road at my destination. The large double iron gates slow me down as I enter the code to open them. I look at the clock on the dial as they slowly open. I’m 15 minutes late.
An excerpt from Two versions of the same song, Tales from Aintree Court, Book 2
I’m going to the theatre and I’m running late, thanks to my mother. I was ready and about to leave when she said, “Where are you going dressed like that?”
“I told you, I’m going to the theatre.”
“Dressed like that?”
“Yes” I said, defensively. I’m wearing a new T-shirt under my brown leather jacket, my best Diesel jeans and brand new suede Converse trainers. “This is my smart casual look” I informed her.
“Paul, what you’re wearing is not appropriate.”
“It’s fine. No one dresses up for the theatre these days” I said, as if I knew what I was talking about.
“Can’t you wear a proper shirt?”
I shook my head defiantly. It’s not enough that I agreed to get my hair cut at her salon on her recommendation and now have a James Dean-type quiff that I’m still unsure about.
“At least change into your brown leather shoes.”
I headed back to my room. It was less time-consuming to comply than to argue, and I was willing to compromise and wear the shoes if it meant getting past the fashion police.
Going to the theatre to watch modern dance is not exactly my idea of a fun night out, so I was reluctant to go when Kai phoned to invite me, but I’d agreed to go for one reason and one reason only - a girl.
“Come on. It’ll be a good night out. You’ll enjoy it.”
“It’s not really my thing.”
“It’s not exactly mine either, but it’s for Kris’ 18th. Tasha’s coming.”
“Great - all the more reason for me to tag along.” It’s not that I dislike Tasha - she’s nice enough - if a little moody and self-absorbed.
“Will’s coming too.”
“You’re still not selling it.”
“... and Serena” he said.
“Really?” I asked, feigning mild curiosity.
“Yeah, we all have dates apart from her so if you come, it would even up the numbers.” I noticed he was careful not to suggest I be her date - which suggested she didn’t know about it.
“She probably wouldn’t want that” I said, fishing for clues.
“Sure she would.”
“Does she even know I’m invited?”
“No - better keep it that way for now.”
“I haven’t said yes yet.”
“Great. See you later” he said and then hung up. I realised the ‘yet’ was probably an indication that I’d already made up my mind. He knew exactly what carrot to dangle - and it had worked.
I grab my car keys and hurry out of my room for the second time, now wearing my brown leather shoes. My plan is to hurry before she catches me again, but it doesn’t work. She is hovering by the front door, blocking my exit, determined to scrutinise me one last time before she lets me leave. She gives me the once-over and, while brushing non-existent dust off the shoulders of my jacket says, “That’s much better.” I know she hates the T-shirt and the jeans - she doesn’t get the distressed look - but she is trying to meet me half way.
“Have a wonderful time” she says, kissing me on the cheek - lately, she has become increasingly emotionally demonstrative - then, finally, stepping aside, she lets me pass.
“Thanks, see you later” I say, feeling embarrassed by her display of affection, and leave.
I get into my car and head west to Ealing.
I turn off the main road at my destination. The large double iron gates slow me down as I enter the code to open them. I look at the clock on the dial as they slowly open. I’m 15 minutes late.
An excerpt from Two versions of the same song, Tales from Aintree Court, Book 2
March 28, 2013
Two versions of the same song, Excerpt #1
Serena
“Serena, let’s go!” my brother Will calls out to me from downstairs. I am in my room, taking a final glance at myself in the mirror.
We are going to the theatre with friends to celebrate Kris and Tasha’s birthdays. They both turned 18 last month. Kristina Hansen is Will’s girlfriend. She and her brother Kai were still in Australia visiting their mom, Monica, on her birthday.
A year ago, Monica was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was worried that telling them would jeopardise Kris’ and Kai’s studies, so she kept it from them for almost a year. They had flown out to Sydney to be with her in July, after they had been told. It was obviously a tough time for them. By then Monica had already had surgery, had completed her chemo and was at the early stages of recovery. She was now in remission.
Daniel, Kai and Kris’ dad, arranged this theatre trip for Kris and her friends. He is taking his new girlfriend. We know this trip has also been orchestrated so she can meet Kai and Kris.
I was reluctant to accept when they invited me, knowing once again that I would be the one who made the party an odd number - the one without a date.
I decided to go for the smart-casual look. I am wearing black skinny jeans and a black satin camisole. Over it I am wearing a charcoal grey transparent chiffon blouse my mom made for me.
I stand in front of the mirror and examine myself in my outfit. I glance at my flat chest and scrutinise my lack of height; I am just five feet one. I focus on the positives. I have often been told I am pretty, and the number of guys I’ve caught checking me out hasn’t gone unnoticed, but looking at myself I don’t see it. I see neither beauty nor ugliness; I just see me. I have a small waist, well-proportioned hips and my legs are okay.
Then I chide myself for my vanity. I know it shouldn’t matter. It is the beauty within that matters; this is what I keep telling myself. But it has been like that recently, a constant seeking of reassurance that I look okay and that there is nothing wrong with me.
I slip into black high stiletto suede ankle boots and pull on a grey long-sleeved shrug over my blouse. It contains mohair, so it feels warm and I decide I will not need a jacket. I grab my purse.
Will calls out to me again.
“Come on Serena, let’s go!”
“Okay! I’m coming” I say, switching off the light and hurrying out of my room.
Excerpt #1 from Two versions of the same song, Tales from Aintree Court book 1
Want to read more? Look inside the eBook version at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A...
Susan Francis' blog http://spot4susan.blogspot.co.uk/
“Serena, let’s go!” my brother Will calls out to me from downstairs. I am in my room, taking a final glance at myself in the mirror.
We are going to the theatre with friends to celebrate Kris and Tasha’s birthdays. They both turned 18 last month. Kristina Hansen is Will’s girlfriend. She and her brother Kai were still in Australia visiting their mom, Monica, on her birthday.
A year ago, Monica was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was worried that telling them would jeopardise Kris’ and Kai’s studies, so she kept it from them for almost a year. They had flown out to Sydney to be with her in July, after they had been told. It was obviously a tough time for them. By then Monica had already had surgery, had completed her chemo and was at the early stages of recovery. She was now in remission.
Daniel, Kai and Kris’ dad, arranged this theatre trip for Kris and her friends. He is taking his new girlfriend. We know this trip has also been orchestrated so she can meet Kai and Kris.
I was reluctant to accept when they invited me, knowing once again that I would be the one who made the party an odd number - the one without a date.
I decided to go for the smart-casual look. I am wearing black skinny jeans and a black satin camisole. Over it I am wearing a charcoal grey transparent chiffon blouse my mom made for me.
I stand in front of the mirror and examine myself in my outfit. I glance at my flat chest and scrutinise my lack of height; I am just five feet one. I focus on the positives. I have often been told I am pretty, and the number of guys I’ve caught checking me out hasn’t gone unnoticed, but looking at myself I don’t see it. I see neither beauty nor ugliness; I just see me. I have a small waist, well-proportioned hips and my legs are okay.
Then I chide myself for my vanity. I know it shouldn’t matter. It is the beauty within that matters; this is what I keep telling myself. But it has been like that recently, a constant seeking of reassurance that I look okay and that there is nothing wrong with me.
I slip into black high stiletto suede ankle boots and pull on a grey long-sleeved shrug over my blouse. It contains mohair, so it feels warm and I decide I will not need a jacket. I grab my purse.
Will calls out to me again.
“Come on Serena, let’s go!”
“Okay! I’m coming” I say, switching off the light and hurrying out of my room.
Excerpt #1 from Two versions of the same song, Tales from Aintree Court book 1
Want to read more? Look inside the eBook version at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00A...
Susan Francis' blog http://spot4susan.blogspot.co.uk/
March 8, 2013
INTERNATIONAL eBOOK GIVEAWAY-
Hi there,
Spring is approaching and with it a chance to have a break and hopefully some YOU-time. How about relaxing with your feet up and a free book?
I am pleased to offer 5 eBook copies of my second novel Two Versions of the Same Song.
Although this is the second Aintree Tale it is a stand alone story.
For a chance to win one of the copies please follow the instructions below. Please note: You must follow the instructions in order to qualify.
(1) Send an email to aintreetales@gmail.com with the subject title: Spring 13 TVoSS Giveaway
(2) Include your name, email address and your preferred ebook format (ePub, mobi for Kindle or PDF)
Only entries received from Friday 8th to Saturday 30th March 2013 will be eligible.
Five winners will be picked at random and contacted by email on Sunday 31st March with her/his copy included.
This is an international competition.
Good Luck : )
[Parental guidance: Please note that the F-word appears several times in this novel, as does the topic of teenage sex.]
Find out more at http://spot4susan.blogspot.co.uk/
Spring is approaching and with it a chance to have a break and hopefully some YOU-time. How about relaxing with your feet up and a free book?
I am pleased to offer 5 eBook copies of my second novel Two Versions of the Same Song.
Although this is the second Aintree Tale it is a stand alone story. For a chance to win one of the copies please follow the instructions below. Please note: You must follow the instructions in order to qualify.
(1) Send an email to aintreetales@gmail.com with the subject title: Spring 13 TVoSS Giveaway
(2) Include your name, email address and your preferred ebook format (ePub, mobi for Kindle or PDF)
Only entries received from Friday 8th to Saturday 30th March 2013 will be eligible.
Five winners will be picked at random and contacted by email on Sunday 31st March with her/his copy included.
This is an international competition.
Good Luck : )
[Parental guidance: Please note that the F-word appears several times in this novel, as does the topic of teenage sex.]
Find out more at http://spot4susan.blogspot.co.uk/
February 18, 2013
Two Versions of the Same Song - Q & A
1. What is Two Versions of the Same Song about?The story is a moral dilemma told from two perspectives.
Serena Wilkins is convinced that she detests Paul Adams, who is the cousin of her friends Kris and Kai, because he humiliated her in front of everyone the day they met, and has been rude and dismissive towards her ever since. Several weeks after her 16th birthday, Serena and Paul have their first proper conversation at a house party. It is the first time he has as much as acknowledged her in 2 years, so she is suspicious and wary of his intentions. But, to her frustration, she starts to feel something else for him too.
Paul and Eloise have been together for two years, since 6th form college, where they met. Theirs is Paul’s first serious relationship. Things become difficult after graduation when Eloise moves to Birmingham to start medical school and he remains in London and joins a band. The cracks in their relationship widen as they struggle to deal with a long distance romance and things get complicated when Paul runs into Serena at his New Year’s Eve party and convinces her to talk to him.
After that night, Serena and Paul do their best to avoid each other, but are brought together by Kris to perform a song at her brother Kai’s 18th birthday party.
Serena is convinced that Paul is unobtainable, while Paul is torn between his love for Eloise and the growing attraction he feels for Serena – an attraction that becomes so strong they are both tempted to cross the line.
When I came up with the premise of the novel it occurred to me that the obvious thing to happen would be to cross the line. Then I got to thinking what it would be like NOT to cross the line while being in constant contact with that person. I wanted to explore the consequences of ‘doing the right thing.’ That’s what the book is about.
2. Where did you get the idea for the novel?
I’ve noticed that a common theme in YA romance is for teenage girl to fall in love with teenage boy (and vice-versa) and for them not only to be completely devoted to each other, but often the implication is that they are soul mates, will get married and live happily ever after. I appreciate that it could happen – but it’s highly unlikely and yet that’s the general message being sold. I wanted to write about the flip side to the perfect teen romance because in reality your first love is unlikely to be your last. Maybe I’m being controversial and maybe it won’t sell as many copies, but it’s the story I wanted to write.
3. The relationships in the novel are quite complicated, aren’t they?
Yes, I like to think of it as a 3-Dimentional love triangle.
4. How did you come up with the title "Two Versions of the Same Song" for the novel?
In the literal sense: Paul is a musician and Serena has a good singing voice, which is how they come to be performing live at Kai’s 18th birthday party. In the novel Paul explains how he discovers the song they pick to sing for Kai. He hears two versions of the same song played on a radio show. The first (original) version shows that the song is perfect for Kai because it’s the sort of music he is into and the second version shows that it is perfect for Serena as it suits her voice.
In the metaphoric sense: I had the idea to make the tale read like a love song with both characters offering a different version. In both versions there are passages that are repeated – like a chorus, and other passages that are very similar and link – like a bridge.
One could also say the first (original) version is symbolic of Paul’s character and the second of Serena’s.
5. How long did it take you write and what were the challenges?
It took me about six months to complete the first draft and another 18 months to re-write countless drafts until I just had to make myself stop, step away from it and hand the manuscript over to my editor.
Okay, I will admit that the novel had a structural problem that was picked up by my editor. I had to restructure it at the last minute and that was a challenge. I learned a very important lesson to apply in the future – K.I.S.S. (KEEP IT SIMPLE, STUPID).
Susan's author blog http://spot4susan.blogspot.co.uk/
Susan's review blog http://soozbookreviews.blogspot.co.uk/
February 9, 2013
Attention Writers! Self Publishing Tips - Guest Blog by Dee Doanes
I am delighted to post this guest blog by Dee Doanes, author of The Man With the Green Suitcase, a paranormal mystery novel that has been receiving rave reviews - so check it out.
Self-Publishing Tips: Book Editing. Book Covers, and Research
So many writers keep asking me how to self-publish books that I wanted to share Four Steps that will helping new writers out there. I had interest in my book from a great literary agent. I decided to self-publish when I thought about the things I could on my own since I had a background in marketing.
These are the Four Detailed Steps I did, including the costs, to self-publish my book:
Step 1 Hire a Book Editor
After writing my book the first thing I spent money on was hiring a professional book editor. Ann Kempner Fisher was my editor. She is absolutely the best! She’s located in the U.S. It cost $1,300 and was well worth the money. Most good and experienced editors charge $4.00- $6.00 per page. If you’re located in the U.K. join a well-known writers group and get referrals from writers in the group. Spending money on editing is a necessity and not an option. Some self-published writers havn’t done this and say publicly that paying for a book editor is too expensive. They post on blogs that they wanted to publish books quickly on Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). Then I read complaints on Amazon reader forums and Good Reads forums, readers having to struggle to read books with bad grammar, misspellings, etc. You only have one time to impress readers and won't get another chance. Stephen King, James Patterson, and other professional writers always use editors. Self-published writers have to do the same thing to compete.
Step 2 Format Book for Publication
I formatted my book for Kindle. This was difficult to do myself so I went on Fiverr.com to find someone to format my book per KDP requirements: set up the margins, table of contents, etc. This cost around $25. The people that do book formatting charge by the number of pages. Fiverr is a wonderful marketplace to find all sorts of inexpensive services for your book project including: website updates, social media marketing, book promotions, logo/ad design, graphics, etc. Just look for the highest rated vendor in the appropriate category and place your order via Paypal.
Step 3 Design Book Cover
I used 99 Designs to get a distinctive and low cost book cover illustration and design (for $299). This was a very good price since good illustration can cost around $500-$1,000. I heard about 99 designs from fellow writer Tim Ferriss. He's written several best sellers: The Four Hour Work Week, The Four Hour Body, The Four Hour Chef. He really knows how to market books! 99 Designs is a crowd sourced marketplace where several designers and illustrators submit work based on your specifications. You set the price and choose the winner.
A book cover is an important tool in attracting and selling your book to readers, especially for my genre which is paranormal mystery. I have seen some outstanding book cover artwork for established paranormal writers. Then I have seen some poorly designed book covers in the market place from self-published authors. If you want to compete with mainstream published authors you can’t look like an amateur!
Please note: Illustration is different than design. (My cover is an illustration).I have many artists friends and know a lot about different mediums of art. Without getting too technical, an illustrator typically does art by hand. A designer typically assembles pre-existing graphics, photos, vectors, etc. An illustrator can design, but not all designers can illustrate. For new writers, you probably should illustrate your book if it is: children's, horror, paranormal, fantasy, or sci-fi.
Step 4 Research the Book Marketplace
I researched my genre to see what types of books were in the market place. I checked Amazon bestsellers lists, Wall Street Journal bestsellers lists, and went to Barnes and Noble bookstore. This helped me prepare my market campaign for when I started promoting my book. I will discuss this in another post about book marketing. Questions to ask yourself are: How many books out there are like your book? Are you writing a niche topic?
Any writers interested in learn any more self-publishing tips please check out my blog: http://www.deedoanes.com and join my Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/deedoanesauthor
Self-Publishing Tips: Book Editing. Book Covers, and Research
So many writers keep asking me how to self-publish books that I wanted to share Four Steps that will helping new writers out there. I had interest in my book from a great literary agent. I decided to self-publish when I thought about the things I could on my own since I had a background in marketing.
These are the Four Detailed Steps I did, including the costs, to self-publish my book:
Step 1 Hire a Book Editor
After writing my book the first thing I spent money on was hiring a professional book editor. Ann Kempner Fisher was my editor. She is absolutely the best! She’s located in the U.S. It cost $1,300 and was well worth the money. Most good and experienced editors charge $4.00- $6.00 per page. If you’re located in the U.K. join a well-known writers group and get referrals from writers in the group. Spending money on editing is a necessity and not an option. Some self-published writers havn’t done this and say publicly that paying for a book editor is too expensive. They post on blogs that they wanted to publish books quickly on Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP). Then I read complaints on Amazon reader forums and Good Reads forums, readers having to struggle to read books with bad grammar, misspellings, etc. You only have one time to impress readers and won't get another chance. Stephen King, James Patterson, and other professional writers always use editors. Self-published writers have to do the same thing to compete.
Step 2 Format Book for Publication
I formatted my book for Kindle. This was difficult to do myself so I went on Fiverr.com to find someone to format my book per KDP requirements: set up the margins, table of contents, etc. This cost around $25. The people that do book formatting charge by the number of pages. Fiverr is a wonderful marketplace to find all sorts of inexpensive services for your book project including: website updates, social media marketing, book promotions, logo/ad design, graphics, etc. Just look for the highest rated vendor in the appropriate category and place your order via Paypal.
Step 3 Design Book Cover
I used 99 Designs to get a distinctive and low cost book cover illustration and design (for $299). This was a very good price since good illustration can cost around $500-$1,000. I heard about 99 designs from fellow writer Tim Ferriss. He's written several best sellers: The Four Hour Work Week, The Four Hour Body, The Four Hour Chef. He really knows how to market books! 99 Designs is a crowd sourced marketplace where several designers and illustrators submit work based on your specifications. You set the price and choose the winner.
A book cover is an important tool in attracting and selling your book to readers, especially for my genre which is paranormal mystery. I have seen some outstanding book cover artwork for established paranormal writers. Then I have seen some poorly designed book covers in the market place from self-published authors. If you want to compete with mainstream published authors you can’t look like an amateur!
Please note: Illustration is different than design. (My cover is an illustration).I have many artists friends and know a lot about different mediums of art. Without getting too technical, an illustrator typically does art by hand. A designer typically assembles pre-existing graphics, photos, vectors, etc. An illustrator can design, but not all designers can illustrate. For new writers, you probably should illustrate your book if it is: children's, horror, paranormal, fantasy, or sci-fi.
Step 4 Research the Book Marketplace
I researched my genre to see what types of books were in the market place. I checked Amazon bestsellers lists, Wall Street Journal bestsellers lists, and went to Barnes and Noble bookstore. This helped me prepare my market campaign for when I started promoting my book. I will discuss this in another post about book marketing. Questions to ask yourself are: How many books out there are like your book? Are you writing a niche topic?
Any writers interested in learn any more self-publishing tips please check out my blog: http://www.deedoanes.com and join my Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/deedoanesauthor
February 2, 2013
Great books I read in 2012
The only thing I enjoy more than writing is reading books. Seriously! Sure, I do other things. I have a life - honestly! I hang out, I love the movies, restaurants, theatre etc. But there is a small part of me that feels like all that stuff just erodes precious reading and writing time. ( I'm guessing some of you will relate :D )
Here are some of the great novels I read and reviewed in 2012 that stood out for me.
Young Adult
Carnival of Souls by Melissa Marr
Finding Summerland by Paige Bleu (indie author)
In the Middle of Nowhere by Julie Knudsen (indie author)
Living Violet (The Cambion Chronicles #1) by Jamie Reed
The Moon Dwellers by David Estes (indie author)
Adult
A Bed of Knives by Elizabeth Jasper (indie author)
The Casual Vacancy by JK Rowling
Goodnight Beautiful by Dorothy Koomson
NW by Zadie Smith
On the Island by Tracey Garvis-Graves
Here are some others that I didn't get around to reviewing but absolutely loved.
BTW, I have a blog - finally! It's called My B-Spot and the link is: http://spot4susan.blogspot.co.uk/
Here are some of the great novels I read and reviewed in 2012 that stood out for me.
Young Adult
Carnival of Souls by Melissa Marr
Finding Summerland by Paige Bleu (indie author)
In the Middle of Nowhere by Julie Knudsen (indie author)
Living Violet (The Cambion Chronicles #1) by Jamie Reed
The Moon Dwellers by David Estes (indie author)
Adult
A Bed of Knives by Elizabeth Jasper (indie author)
The Casual Vacancy by JK Rowling
Goodnight Beautiful by Dorothy Koomson
NW by Zadie Smith
On the Island by Tracey Garvis-Graves
Here are some others that I didn't get around to reviewing but absolutely loved.
BTW, I have a blog - finally! It's called My B-Spot and the link is: http://spot4susan.blogspot.co.uk/
January 26, 2013
Interview with Paige Bleu, Author of Finding Summerland
I am pleased to post this interview with indie author Paige Bleu who has written an excellent debut novel, Finding Summerland the first of a series called The Ameryn Chronicles (which I highly recommend).
What is your book about?
Follow the journey of two star crossed souls as they explore who they are, and the ties that bind them. Enter a world intentionally forgotten. A place buried by history, where only the chosen are aware of its existence. A place covenants are made and broken. Where myth leads to truth. And forbidden love threatens to destroy, or be destroyed. Becoming just another casualty in their shadow war.
Edgy enough to engage readers who enjoy unravelling a mystery…Sweet enough, to grab onto the hearts of the romance lovers! Stretch the bounds of ordinary imagination…Where legends breathe and dreams are alive. A ‘trippy’ journey to a new reality…
If you could travel in a Time Machine would you go back to the past or into the future?
Definitely the past. I’ll see my own future soon enough and to be frank, beyond that scares me! I would go back and see the building of the megaliths and the other wonders of the world. Maybe back even further to when it all began. That would be amazing.
If you could invite any 5 people to dinner who would you choose?
1-The Dali Lama: He fascinates me
2-Karl Pilkington: He tickles my funny bones
3-Alexander Skarsgrard: YuMmY
4-Nikola Tesla: My hero
5-Neil Diamond: Don’t laugh! I’ve loved that man since I was 6!
If you were stranded on a desert island what 3 things would you want with you?
1-Aquaphor: I hate chapped lips!
2-A Bible: I would want good reading material and I figure you can never read it too many times.
3-Sunscreen: I’m very pale!
What is one book everyone should read?
Jane Eyre. It was written so beautifully. The language, the symbolism, it’s unlike most books you would find today. It’s timeless.
If you could have any superpower what would you choose?
Invisibility. Think of all you would learn.
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?
This is like a trick question! Only one? Come on….really!! How bout 1/5 rocky road-1/5 chocolate mint chip-2/5 nutty coconut-and 1/5 Oreo. See how I foiled you. Seriously, I would buy that ice cream if it existed!
If you could meet one person who has died who would you choose?
My Grandfather who died before I was born.
What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?
I never eat breakfast. Coffee is my breakfast. I love the chocolate chip frappes from Micky D’s!! Breakfast of champions. Usually Lucky Charms are my 4 am snack though.
Night owl, or early bird?
I’m psycho in the morning before my frappe and a moment alone. Def a Night Prowler! I write a lot at crazy hours. Some of my best (perhaps full of typos!) work.
One food you would never eat?
Oysters….gross
Pet Peeves?
Lying with no good reason. Everybody lies from time to time but usually for a legit reason…not just for sport. Errr!
Skittles or M&Ms?
M&Ms hands down. I’m a chocolate girl. I’m a vegetarian…I eat enough real fruit!
Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.
I’ll cry a lot if you don’t and do you really want that on your conscience?
Any other books in the works? Goals for future projects?
LivEternal, the second book in the series is in full swing…hopefully ready for release by December. My goal is to find the time to finish all 5. Then I have another series up my sleeve.
What inspired you to want to become a writer?
I always wrote. It was in me when I was born. I was a weird kid who daydreamed a lot and had imaginary friends! Then when I grew up I assimilated for awhile. Now I’m back like a phoenix!
Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.
An email from my first real fan. She’s a 13 year old girl struggling to become a writer. She said she looked up to me and asked me about my challenges so far…it almost made me cry. Even though I’ve never met her and I’m nobody’s hero, it touched me. Someday I know I’ll be reading her books!
If you could jump in to a book, and live in that world which would it be?
Narnia. That would be a trip!
What is your dream cast for your book?
A bunch of raw, Indi artists. People you’ve never heard of. Although I would make Alexander Skarsgard Sabian. He would be too hot to refuse!
Is there a song you could list as the theme song for your book or any of your characters?
Hurt by Johnny Cash. It sums Wes up in book one.
What’s the craziest writing idea you’ve had?
To write a non fiction. I’m very private but I have some truly amazing stories. Don’t we all?!
Right now Paige is working on the second installment of the ‘Ameryn’ series, ‘LivEternal’. Future projects include another young adult, paranormal series, as well as a few short stories and memoirs. Beyond that could be anything…that’s the beauty of being an indie-author…you never know what might come next!
HERE ARE THE WAYS YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE AND FOLLOW PAIGE:
GOODREADS:
BOOK PAGE- http://bit.ly/PzxL9v
AUTHOR PAGE- http://bit.ly/SpZeJ7
FACEBOOKS:
AUTHOR FAN PAGE- http://on.fb.me/RSzWR4
BOOK FAN PAGE- http://on.fb.me/Vwg0Vi
TWITTER:
http://bit.ly/Pzy2t9
BLOGS:
PAIGE BLEU- http://bit.ly/RhMHGi
BLEUS’S REVIEWS- http://bit.ly/TctMif
BUY THE BOOK:
AMAZON PAPERBACK LINK:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1477...
http://amzn.to/Qsi6sM
AMAZON KINDLE LINK:
http://www.amazon.com/Finding-Summerl...
http://amzn.to/Rj7d9j
SMASHWORDS:
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
WEBSITE:
http://paigebleu.wix.com/paigebleu
What is your book about?
Follow the journey of two star crossed souls as they explore who they are, and the ties that bind them. Enter a world intentionally forgotten. A place buried by history, where only the chosen are aware of its existence. A place covenants are made and broken. Where myth leads to truth. And forbidden love threatens to destroy, or be destroyed. Becoming just another casualty in their shadow war.
Edgy enough to engage readers who enjoy unravelling a mystery…Sweet enough, to grab onto the hearts of the romance lovers! Stretch the bounds of ordinary imagination…Where legends breathe and dreams are alive. A ‘trippy’ journey to a new reality…
If you could travel in a Time Machine would you go back to the past or into the future?
Definitely the past. I’ll see my own future soon enough and to be frank, beyond that scares me! I would go back and see the building of the megaliths and the other wonders of the world. Maybe back even further to when it all began. That would be amazing.
If you could invite any 5 people to dinner who would you choose?
1-The Dali Lama: He fascinates me
2-Karl Pilkington: He tickles my funny bones
3-Alexander Skarsgrard: YuMmY
4-Nikola Tesla: My hero
5-Neil Diamond: Don’t laugh! I’ve loved that man since I was 6!
If you were stranded on a desert island what 3 things would you want with you?
1-Aquaphor: I hate chapped lips!
2-A Bible: I would want good reading material and I figure you can never read it too many times.
3-Sunscreen: I’m very pale!
What is one book everyone should read?
Jane Eyre. It was written so beautifully. The language, the symbolism, it’s unlike most books you would find today. It’s timeless.
If you could have any superpower what would you choose?
Invisibility. Think of all you would learn.
What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?
This is like a trick question! Only one? Come on….really!! How bout 1/5 rocky road-1/5 chocolate mint chip-2/5 nutty coconut-and 1/5 Oreo. See how I foiled you. Seriously, I would buy that ice cream if it existed!
If you could meet one person who has died who would you choose?
My Grandfather who died before I was born.
What is your favorite thing to eat for breakfast?
I never eat breakfast. Coffee is my breakfast. I love the chocolate chip frappes from Micky D’s!! Breakfast of champions. Usually Lucky Charms are my 4 am snack though.
Night owl, or early bird?
I’m psycho in the morning before my frappe and a moment alone. Def a Night Prowler! I write a lot at crazy hours. Some of my best (perhaps full of typos!) work.
One food you would never eat?
Oysters….gross
Pet Peeves?
Lying with no good reason. Everybody lies from time to time but usually for a legit reason…not just for sport. Errr!
Skittles or M&Ms?
M&Ms hands down. I’m a chocolate girl. I’m a vegetarian…I eat enough real fruit!
Please tell us in one sentence only, why we should read your book.
I’ll cry a lot if you don’t and do you really want that on your conscience?
Any other books in the works? Goals for future projects?
LivEternal, the second book in the series is in full swing…hopefully ready for release by December. My goal is to find the time to finish all 5. Then I have another series up my sleeve.
What inspired you to want to become a writer?
I always wrote. It was in me when I was born. I was a weird kid who daydreamed a lot and had imaginary friends! Then when I grew up I assimilated for awhile. Now I’m back like a phoenix!
Tell us your most rewarding experience since being published.
An email from my first real fan. She’s a 13 year old girl struggling to become a writer. She said she looked up to me and asked me about my challenges so far…it almost made me cry. Even though I’ve never met her and I’m nobody’s hero, it touched me. Someday I know I’ll be reading her books!
If you could jump in to a book, and live in that world which would it be?
Narnia. That would be a trip!
What is your dream cast for your book?
A bunch of raw, Indi artists. People you’ve never heard of. Although I would make Alexander Skarsgard Sabian. He would be too hot to refuse!
Is there a song you could list as the theme song for your book or any of your characters?
Hurt by Johnny Cash. It sums Wes up in book one.
What’s the craziest writing idea you’ve had?
To write a non fiction. I’m very private but I have some truly amazing stories. Don’t we all?!
Right now Paige is working on the second installment of the ‘Ameryn’ series, ‘LivEternal’. Future projects include another young adult, paranormal series, as well as a few short stories and memoirs. Beyond that could be anything…that’s the beauty of being an indie-author…you never know what might come next!
HERE ARE THE WAYS YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE AND FOLLOW PAIGE:
GOODREADS:
BOOK PAGE- http://bit.ly/PzxL9v
AUTHOR PAGE- http://bit.ly/SpZeJ7
FACEBOOKS:
AUTHOR FAN PAGE- http://on.fb.me/RSzWR4
BOOK FAN PAGE- http://on.fb.me/Vwg0Vi
TWITTER:
http://bit.ly/Pzy2t9
BLOGS:
PAIGE BLEU- http://bit.ly/RhMHGi
BLEUS’S REVIEWS- http://bit.ly/TctMif
BUY THE BOOK:
AMAZON PAPERBACK LINK:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1477...
http://amzn.to/Qsi6sM
AMAZON KINDLE LINK:
http://www.amazon.com/Finding-Summerl...
http://amzn.to/Rj7d9j
SMASHWORDS:
https://www.smashwords.com/books/view...
WEBSITE:
http://paigebleu.wix.com/paigebleu
