Eric T. Benoit's Blog, page 2

June 12, 2012

Witches – Phil Stern

Once again Phil Stern shows his ability to create an amazing story. Witches is the story of a coven of witches who travel between worlds using men for breeding stock and a man who finds that he also has the ability to use magic.


Available On AmazonWhen the women run into this man the results have the potential to be quite disastrous. It is now up to 4 of the most powerful young witches to save the universe from a man bent on their total destruction.


 


These characters are both believable and interesting and this short story left me wanting more. I would love to see Phil turn this story into a full fledged novel or perhaps even a series so that we can learn more about these amazing witches, their ability and their world.


 


Phil Stern is proving himself, time and again, to be a master story teller and character creator. If you like fantasy that sometimes has a modern twist then I highly recommend this book. It is a tale that will leave you wishing it were longer and wanting to know more.


May 2- Witches Reviewed at Books, Books, and More Books

May 4 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at Books, Books, and More Books

May 6 – Witches Reviewed at The Writing World

May 11 – The Reclaimed Reviewed at Books, Books, and More Books

May 18 – A Time for Ryda Reviewed at Books, Books, and More Books

May 19 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at My World

May 25 – The Bull Years Reviewed at Books, Books, and More Books

May 26 – Witches Reviewed at My World

May 31 – The Reclaimed Reviewed at Book Reviews, Fiction Reflection, & More

June 8 – Witches Reviewed at Immortality & Beyond

June 8 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at Book’em Eric

June 12 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at Words I Write Crazy

June 12 – Witches Reviewed at Book’em Eric

June 16 – The Bull Years Reviewed at My World

July 16 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at A Book Lover’s Library

July 19 – Witches Reviewed at A Book Lover’s Library

June 19 – A Time for Ryda Reviewed at Words I Write Crazy

June 22 – Witches Reviewed at Book Spark

June 23 – A Time for Ryda Reviewed at Book Spark

June 26 – The Reclaimed Reviewed at Words I Write Crazy

July 1 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at Soliloquy

July 2 – A Time For Ryda Reviewed at Soliloquy

July 3 – The Reclaimed Reviewed at Soliloquy

July 3 – Witches Reviewed at Words I Write Crazy

July 4 – Witches Reviewed at Soliloquy

July 5 – The Bull Years Reviewed at Soliloquy

July 6 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at B00K R3Vi3Ws

July 10 – Witches Reviewed at B00k R3Vi3wS

July 11 – Witches Reviewed at MK McClintock’s Blog

July 13 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at Bren’s Book Reviews

July 29 – The Reclaimed Reviewed at Self Taught Cook


Related Posts:Rogue Powers – Phil SternWaffles and PancakesSelf Publishing Does NOT Mean DIY.

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 12, 2012 01:00

June 11, 2012

Frederick Lee Brooke Guest Post

Please enjoy this guest post by Frederick Lee Brooke, author of the genre-bending mystery Zombie Candy. Then read on to learn how you can win huge prizes as part of this blog tour, including $550 in Amazon gift cards, a Kindle Fire, and 5 autographed copies of the book.




What Dad and I saw in Italy

by Frederick Lee Brooke

 



I was on the train yesterday returning from Rome back to Basel, where I live, and I mentioned Monte Chianti to my seatmate. We were on the Red Arrow, the Italian bullet train, which cruises at 180 mph and covers the distance from Rome to Milan in just under three hours. Rossana is a banker who was travelling to Milan on business; in her hand was a paperback mystery in English. That’s how we started talking. She sort of nodded and looked to the heavens and tried out the name: “Monte Chianti, hmmm. Nice.”



I like Italy so much I decided that the action in Zombie Candy, my latest mystery, should move to a fictional town in Tuscany called Monte Chianti in the second half. The action starts in Chicago, and moves to Tuscany.


But this trip wasn’t really research for Zombie Candy; for me, more of a victory lap. Plus Dad wanted to see Rome once in his life, so off we went on the train. On the way to Rome we spent three days in Como, in Northern Italy. We did not see Giorgio (that’s what the locals call George Clooney) but we did see some beautiful lake vistas. In the picture below we are coming down the side of the mountain in a cog railway. Sure hope the brakes hold on this thing!



I learned Italian at a language school. I also married an Italian speaker, but don’t ever try and learn a language from the person you’re married to. You have enough to argue about without her correcting your grammar. My wife’s English is better than my Italian anyway, but she likes it when I make the effort.



While in Rome Dad and I visited the Trevi Fountain. If you throw in a coin, legend has it that you’ll come back to Rome one day. I threw in a pocketful, just to be sure. Then we hit the Colosseum. The ancient brick dividing walls in the floor of the amphitheater kept the animals penned in before they were sent in to the ring to fight. How can this thing still be standing, after two thousand years?



This is what was left of our rental car after … no wait, just kidding! This mess was parked right outside our hotel, not far from the Vatican. The hotel desk clerk told us a moped caught on fire next to the unfortunate Mercedes. I didn’t believe him — do you?



We took an all-day excursion to the island of Capri, off Naples. This involved a long, cramped bus ride and a transfer to a ferryboat, but let me tell you, the views were worth it. Just look at the color of the Mediterranean, from halfway up the mountain.



And here is a picture looking up at the branches of a mature maritime pine tree. I couldn’t resist.



It was a great trip. Dad and I had some nice talks, we did a lot of walking, we ate like kings, and we saw some beautiful places. I hope that Trevi Fountain legend really works, and we’ll go back to Rome again soon.


 


As part of this special promotional extravaganza sponsored by Novel Publicity, the price of the Zombie Candy eBook edition is just 99 cents this week. What’s more, by purchasing this fantastic book at an incredibly low price, you can enter to win many awesome prizes. The prizes include $550 in Amazon gift cards, a Kindle Fire, and 5 autographed copies of the book.


All the info you need to win one of these amazing prizes is RIGHT HERE. Remember, winning is as easy as clicking a button or leaving a blog comment–easy to enter; easy to win!


To win the prizes:



Purchase your copy of Zombie Candy for just 99 cents
Enter the Rafflecopter contest on Novel Publicity
Visit today’s featured social media event

About the book: Weaving elements of mystery, horror and romance in a hilarious romp that starts in Chicago and ends in a quaint medieval town in sun-drenched Tuscany, Zombie Candy is a genre-hopping knee-slapper of a novel. Get it on Amazon.


About the author: Frederick Lee Brooke has worked as an English teacher, language school manager and small business owner and has travelled extensively in Tuscany, the setting of part of Zombie Candy. Visit Fred on his website, Twitter, Facebook, or GoodReads.


Related Posts:Joan H. Young – InterviewMarket Yourself, Market Your Book – Launch TimeBetter To Give Than To Receive?

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 11, 2012 00:01

June 10, 2012

Mandy Trouten – Interview

I recently met Mandy Trouten on Facebook and thought it would be cool to interview her. I have a question sheet I send out for online interviews that has almost 100 questions listed and I ask interviewees to please answer 8-15 of these questions and send the answers back. Mandy, as you will see, got a little over-zealous. :)




1. When did you start writing?


–I started writing books in 2006, with what will be my second book Shadows of Night. As it turns  out, that book took almost 6 years to write, which is a good thing considering how much has  changed since then.


2. What inspired you to do it?


–I was inspired to write Shadows of Night, a nonfiction, after I began researching peer sexual abuse in  2005 and discovered that there was virtually no info, never mind a book. I found statistics and, after a  while, I found legal cases and news stories, but it was a while longer before I found anything like what I  was looking for, which was what peer sexual abuse looks like and why the “little” things I remembered  were affecting me like they were. Similarly, I was inspired in 2010 to write Maybe Today with the  realization that, before a person will read Shadows of Night, they have to already be sufficiently  interested enough in learning about peer sexual abuse to seek research material. In addition, I wanted  to really convey how victims of peer sexual abuse feel and the personalities of perpetrators, as well as  the attitudes/decisions of others in their lives. When someone reads Shadows of Night, they’ll gain this  understanding, but it won’t be as personal, as real, as when that same person reads Maybe Today.  I hope Maybe Today will give people an understanding of the damage peer sexual abuse does to  children/teens, without first being victimized themselves.


3. Do you find that it is hard to get people excited about what you do?


–Sometimes. After 7 years of advocacy work–online, in the form of school projects and,  occasionally, through disagreements with coworkers–I’m not having as many problems as I used to,  but there are still more than enough people who think it’s a nonissue and/or one whose solution lies in  ignoring the bully.


4. What projects have you done?


–As mentioned in the previous question, I used peer sexual abuse as a subject for school assignments,   from writing two papers for English Composition I to including my advocacy work in the designing and   redesigning of my portfolio. A few years ago, a couple friends and I started a short-lived handmade  jewelry company, part of which centered on bringing attention to sexual abuse.


5. Any new projects coming up?


–I’m now in the process of creating inspirational and advocacy posters, as well as another line of  necklaces, bracelets and keychains. As is being done with child abuse and breast cancer, I hope to  bring the same level of interest to peer sexual abuse. I am also about to start the process of, hopefully,  getting my book in every local high school and public library.


6. Do you find it hard to share your work with others?


–As long as I’ve been an anti-abuse advocate, talking about sexual abuse is still awkward sometimes.  I do it anyway.


7. What is your opinion on people who post bad reviews?


–If your dislike is based in some way on the book, I think most authors/readers will want to hear  about it. Just try to keep it professional and keep your comments relevant to the actual issues. For  example, difficult to follow dialogue, lack of imagery, too much imagery, rambling narratives, etc. Don’t  go on and on about how the author is a loser and the book should never have been published.  Likewise, if your dislike is of a personal nature–for example, you hate everything about my book  because it’s about peer sexual abuse–that’s unfortunate, but I can’t please everyone and I don’t intend  to try. I hope only that you’ll choose to view the characters as real people, dealing with a real problem.


8. Do you have any particular networking groups you would like to share that have helped you move forward with your success?


–I would say probably every advocate/advocacy group that works to stop sexual abuse has helped  me succeed. So far, my favorite for information is AAUW (American Association of University  Women) and my favorite local groups are Defenders for Children and the network headed by Traci  Young Fant and Dexter L. Reaves.


9. Are you an independent artist or are you represented by an agency?


–Both. I was fortunate enough to have my book picked up by Tate Publishing, which includes  marketing work, but a lot of my success depends on me. It’s part of the package. There are things the  company can/will do as part of the contract, but as much or more is on me. I don’t really mind though.  Money and lack thereof aside, I graduated with a degree in Visual Communications right as the  economy went downhill. The details of the contract give me the opportunity to use my skills, which I  hope will get me into the graphic design field later.


10. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your field?


–Before you send your manuscript off to the publisher, be aware of the work that will be involved.  Unless you’re lucky enough to get picked up by a major publisher, complete with a monetary bonus,  there’s going to be a lot of networking, advertising work, promoting, and time involved just to get your  book off the ground. If you’re a visual communications major like me, this can actually be fun, but it  also gets old. So, make sure it’s something you really want to do. That said, I wish you the best of luck.  If you want to look me up online, I’ll be happy to recommend some connections. Last, if you really  want to write a book and see it published, go for it. Don’t let anyone tell you not to shoot for so lofty a  goal. You can work your job and/or do your schoolwork and still be trying to publish/promote a book.  The entire time I was writing Maybe Today, I was working fulltime in a McDonalds.


11. Anything you would like to share with readers on a personal note that would allow them to get to know you better?


–My favorite TV shows are Law & Order: SVU, NCIS, Burn Notice, Unforgettable and Criminal  Minds. I love country music, contemporary Christian, some metal, some rock and most 80s music. I  love dogs and cats. I love reading, especially historical fiction, historical romance and suspense thrillers.  As a Christian and an anti-abuse advocate, I would love to bridge the social gap between the two  groups. It galls me that there are so few Christians and Christian groups speaking out against abuse,  when the Bible is very clearly against it, just like it galls me to hear liberals and athiests claiming that the  Bible condones abuse. I’m proud to say that I’m slowly hearing more Christians/groups talking about  abuse. Likewise, I’m slowly hearing more people talking about sexual and nonsexual abuse in schools.  Both are the start of what I hope will be a revolution.


12. Have you made any mistakes along the way…for example, do you want to share anything be it a publishing company/agency that people should avoid?


–It’s a constant learning process, but I can’t think of any notable mistakes made.


13. What are your habits when you sit down to create? Do you have to be in a certain room? outside?


–I usually write in the living room on my laptop, but that’s where the “habits” end. I’ll write with music  or without, usually on my laptop but sometimes with paper. The type of music, when applicable, varies  by mood and what kind of scene I’m trying to write. Sometimes, I’ll write in my room or even in the  notepad section on my cellphone while walking down the street. It completely depends on where I am  and what I’m doing when an idea occurs to me or when I’ve actually made the decision to sit and write.


14. If you had one chance to get people interested in what you do, what would you say to them to get them to want to buy your art?


–That’s a question I’m still trying to answer myself… Everytime you talk to someone new, it’s essentially  your one chance to get them interested because you don’t know whether or not you’ll ever see or hear  from them again. Depending on whether it’s at a networking event or by email, I’ll either start out by  talking about the issue of peer sexual abuse in schools or I’ll put more emphasis on Lauren (the main  character) as a person.


15. Any favorite bands? Do you use music to inspire you as you create your art?


–Quite a few, the most notable of which right now is Sanctus Real. Yes, I do. The bands I like best  frequently get mentioned in my books, often in the form of a song that happens to be playing when the  main character turns the radio on, enters a building, is sitting in the park, etc. Often, I’ll also choose  what band to listen to by what scene I’m about to write, which is to say what mood/tone I want to  convey.


16. What steps have you taken to succeed?


–I’ve been an anti-abuse advocate for almost 7 years now. While writing Maybe Today, and after, I l ooked up every publishing company I could find and kept/tossed them according to who was  accepting manuscripts, when, from where and whether they require an agent. After Maybe Today was  accepted by Tate, I focused on expanding my online network and promoting the book. I’ll use  networking events and abuse-related events, both as an opportunity to address peer sexual abuse and  to promote my book. Attending an event is also beneficial for the intended purpose of learning more  about whatever it is the event is about, like succeeding as an entrepreneur or improving your  networking skills. Business cards aren’t strictly necessary, but they’re very helpful. I’ll join new  networks here and there, I’ve done a radio ad and, later this summer, I should be appearing on a news  show. As an anti-abuse advocate, I’ve succeeded by caring more about individual people than about  sales. Whether or not a person will ever buy my book is not a deciding factor in whether I give my time  to them. I want to be a financial success, ideally as an author, but it’s much more important to me to see  sexual abuse eliminated, to see perpetrators held responsible and to see victims/survivors heal from  what was done to them. As such, whenever I have the time, or whenever someone contacts me,  reaching out to victims/survivors becomes a priority.


17. Did your art come from just a need to express yourself or a particular experience that you had?


–I was sexually abused by classmates in high school, beginning on the first day of school and  continuing until the last weeks of 12th grade. My fictional books are based largely on these years and  my experiences since.


18. Do movies inspire you and if so, which ones?


–Sometimes, but I’m more often inspired by Catherine Coulter, Iris Johannsen and Mariah Stewart  books and by TV shows like Law & Order: SVU and Criminal Minds.


19. Do you prefer YA or Adult?


–Either


20. Anything exciting coming up in the near future?


–I hope so :)


21. What is your opinion on Indie publishers versus Self publishing?


–Correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe they’re one and the same. That said, good for them and I wish  the market and marketing field were more open to them. Self-publishing as a rule is notably harder than  publishing through a company, but it’s doable. It’s just a question of whether you’re wanting to stick  exclusively with e-books and, if not, what kind of book binding you want to use.


22. How did you get started?


–I became an anti-abuse advocate about the same time I became an author. I began researching peer  sexual abuse in 2005 and was not overly pleased with what little I found. The article that directly  influenced my first English Composition I paper on the subject suggested that sexual harassment is a  routine part of high school. Though I think the author was referring to the frequency, not whether or not  it belonged, I was peeved anyway and more than a little insulted at the prevailing social views at the  time.


23. What has been the hardest thing during the process of creating your art?


–During the actual creation of it, I couldn’t say. Probably editing. As is inevitable, there were things the  editor at Tate thought should be deleted or changed that I wasn’t about to budge on. We reached a  midway point in the end though and I’m happy with the outcome. :)


24. 5 words to perfectly describe you.


–I’m. More. Complicated. Than. That. :)


25. Any shout outs to people who have helped you along the way?


–Every person or group that has dedicated part or all of his/her/their life to exposing and eradicating  sexual abuse in schools and society, whether committed by an adult or a minor.


26. Give us a sample of your work.


–You can find a book excerpt at www.mandytrouten.com and at www.blogspot.com/mandytrouten.  You can find me at www.facebook.com/mandytrouten.


27. How do you build your character world?


–The character world in Maybe Today is based almost 100% on real places. The character world in  Silent Night, my next fiction, is realistic but, to the best of my knowledge, about 90% imaginary.


28. Favorite character you have written and why.


–Lauren Harrison and Bryan Redding from Maybe Today. Also Kate Lanford and Jesse Carmichael in  Silent Night. I’m not sure why. Naturally, I like their personalities. Other than that, I guess it would have  to be because the women are strong and stubborn, yet kind, smart, etc. They’re what I want to be  and/or what I was not too long ago. I guess it’s safe to say I like the guys because they’re my idea of  perfect, or nearly perfect, in terms of their personalities.


29. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?


–Living more comfortably than I am, promoting my 3rd or 4th book and having made considerable  progress toward eliminating peer sexual abuse in schools.


30. Will you ever stop creating art? and have you ever had a moment that you felt like quiting and why?


–I don’t plan on it. I’ve thought about it a few times, primarily when I’m feeling as if it and I aren’t going  anywhere, but it doesn’t last long. Even when it isn’t getting me anywhere, I continue because I want to,  because I see meaning in it and because it might inspire someone else.


31. Do you think that the future is ebook or print?


–ebook. I like printed books better, but I’ve been informed that ebook sales are far outreaching  printed  books, whether because they’re cheaper or as part of the fad associated with Kindles and  other e-readers.


32. Where have you had the most success in selling your work?


–I haven’t been out long enough to really answer that.


33. Do you use video to promote your work? Do you think that giving people a visual helps with sales?


–I have a couple videos on Youtube, but I’m not yet comfortable with that means of advertising. I  know it helps a lot for many people, but whether branching out onto Youtube will benefit my sales, I  don’t know.


34. How do you feel about erotic art?


–Not a big fan, but I guess it depends on how you define erotic. If you’re talking about porn, I’m out.  At the same time, I hold some appreciation for graphic art when the body parts are censored, if only  barely so.


35. Any websites you would like to share? Your own? or one that has helped you as an artist?


–nope


36. Have blog tours helped you reach more fans?


–I’m not at all sure what a blog tour is, but I hope that author interviews and the trading of advertising  space will help sales.


37. Any causes you are passionate about ? You can include a website address if you like.


–Poverty and any kind of abuse, but I care most about peer sexual abuse in schools.


38. Do you even watch the news and if so, does it inspire you in anyway?


–Sometimes. Honestly, I rely more on the internet because it allows me to skip past all the depressing  stuff and pointlessness and go straight to the stories I actually want to know about. As an anti-abuse  advocate, I would say that news stories frequently inspire me. If you check out my wall at  www.facebook.com/mandytrouten, you’ll find almost as many news stories as anything else.


39. Do you prefer technical or free style writing?


–I’m not sure what either is, but I write however works best for me at the time. Sometimes, I’ll just  start writing a scene and change things as I go. Other times, I’ll start with an outline and fill in the  storyline from there. Actually, I begin my books in general with the plot. Then, I create an outline, while  still filling out the plot. Then, I’ll start working from the outline–plugging in, changing details and moving  things around as I go.


40. Are you a dirty or clean writer?


–If you’re talking about language and graphic content, I try to keep it as clean as possible because I’m  working with a Christian publishing company and I’m not Linda Howard, nor am I a Harlequin blaze  author. If you’re talking about writing carefully or scratching things out, I would definitely say dirty. I  write what comes to me, when it comes to me. When I’m working with a pen and paper, I’ll scratch  things out. Sometimes, I’ll scratch out the substitute and write the first one or something else. I’ll write in  the margins too, complete with arrows and/or numbers.


41. If you could go back in time and meet one person who would it be and why?


–Christ. I’ll meet Him later I know, but I’d love to meet Him sooner. I think it would be great to see  what He looked like as a human.


42. Have you received any bad reviews and if so how did you deal with it?


–I received bad reviews on some of the poems I wrote early on in my advocacy work. The ones I  remember had to do with the expression that he/she didn’t like rhyming, the clear indication that he/she  knows next to nothing about abuse and, thus, missed the entire point and/or pointing out that certain  lines (lines I had never heard before) were cliché. Another said that peer sexual abuse was way over- discussed socially, while another said I shouldn’t bother because it’s always going to be around. This  last one had some rather twisted views on social norms and their connections to sexual abuse. Still  another said I clearly know next to nothing about sexual abuse and should leave it to the experts. Early  on as it was, I didn’t handle all of these in the most ideal manner; but, in time, I tried to handle them as  professionally as possible. To those who missed the point, I interpreted each line. To those who don’t  like rhyming, I told them rhyming generally works for me, then recommended some nonrhyming ones  that I thought they might like better. To those who claimed lines were cliché, I told them I hadn’t heard  them before. The one that said it was way over-discussed got a detailed response on how often it  happens, versus how many cases are reported, versus how often I hear it discussed. To the one who  said it’s always going to be there and is actually a regular part of society, I told him murder, theft and  drunk driving are too and asked if we are supposed to ignore them. To the last, I went off the deep end  and spelled out my history and advocacy history for him…


43. If you always spoke with your heart what one thing would you say to us?


–Thank you for interviewing me.


44. First kiss….passionate or awkward?


–Ask me again when I meet someone I don’t mind kissing. :)


45. What animals do you have?


–none


46. Do you like vampires who sparkle or bite?


–I guess I would have to say biters, since I’m not impressed by Twilight, but I like Vampire Diaries.


47. Favorite book.


–I love books in general, so I find it easier to name my favorite authors: Catherine Coulter, Iris  Johannsen, Jude Devereux, Tori Phillips, Lynn Dove, Robert Jordan and Frank Perretti.


48. If you could choose a paranormal lover, what would it be and why? examples…vampire, fairy, zombie (any paranormal creature)


–I wish I could answer that question, but I’m not that much into the paranormal.


49. Favorite movie or movies.


–Another tough call, but I enjoy movies like Honey, the Save the Last Dance movies, the Step Up  movies, the Bourne Trilogy, Fireproof, Pride & Prejudice and Blood & Chocolate.


50. Are you comfortable with your sexuality and does it play a huge role in your art?


–Yes, I’m very comfortable being straight. Whether it plays a huge role in my writing depends on what  you mean. Maybe Today and Shadows of Night barely address hetero/homosexuality and Silent Night  doesn’t  mention it at all, but you could argue that heterosexuality plays a huge role because, in Maybe  Today and Silent Night, there is a budding relationship between the main character and a male friend of  hers, as well as heterosexual relationships between friends of hers.


51. Pet peeves?


–Laziness in the workplace, bad customer service skills and unnecessarily rude customers. If you’re  working somewhere, you should do your best. Likewise, having a bad day means you aren’t going to  smile as often or as broadly, but it doesn’t excuse abusive and/or negligent behavior between  employees or between employees and customers. If you respect people less for working in fastfood  restaurants, eat somewhere else, but don’t treat employees like garbage, expect them to always be  perfect or call them stupid or lazy. As I understand it, most fastfood employees are in high school, in  college, have already graduated from college and/or have more than one job, with or without a family  to support. Being a fastfood employee does not make someone less deserving of respect than the staff  of, say, Olive Garden, or some degree-based job. It just means they’re getting paid much less to put up  with way more, while being dissed on Youtube by hundreds of thousands of people who have never  worked in fastfood.


52. The last thing you ever want to hear.



53. Are you clumsy or graceful?


–somewhere in between


54. Dream place to live and why?


–I don’t know, but I hope one day to have the option.


55. Favorite holiday…Halloween or Christmas?


–Christmas


56. Favorite word.



57. Favorite Toy.


–a stuffed rottweiler puppy


58. Dream date, who would it be and why?



60. Why do you promote art?


–Usually in support of someone I know or just because I like the book, the cause, etc.


61. Why do you think that the paranormal genre is so popular?


–I think probably for the same reason superhero stories are popular–people enjoy the opportunity to  enter a world in which the characters can do things we can’t.


62. Who would win in a stand-off? Vampire/Werewolf/Zombie? And why?


–Vampires are the fastest, werewolves are the strongest and zombies are already dead. I don’t think  any of them would win on sheer virtue of their race.


63. Do you have any fun giveaways going on?


–Not right now; but, if anyone has a following and wants to do a blog about my book, I will send them  a free copy of my e-book.


64. Where can we find your page/address?


– www.mandytrouten.com and www.facebook.com/mandytrouten


65. Did you find it difficult to get people to like your page? What did you do to get people to your page?


–No. I send out friends requests and people either accept or they don’t. So far, way more people are  accepting than declining. I also take advantage of places where I can leave business cards and trade  business cards at networking events.


66. Why do you think that people lie to get likes on facebook? Not everyone does, but I have seen a couple cases lately and I have no idea why people would be so stupid.


–insecurity complex


67. facebook or google+? Who wins in your book?


–good question… I use Facebook, but I’d like to think that Google has considerably better customer  service skills.


68. If you had the chance to live in a book, what book and what character would you be?



69. Hottest character in a book.



70. Best books you have read.



71. Who does your cover art? Do you design it yourself?


–The final cover for this book was done by Tate Publishing. Though I designed the original cover, and  hope to design future covers, company policy prohibits the use of outside designs.


72. Are you on goodreads? If so, please share your page address and has it helped you reach more fans?


–Not yet


73. Do you sell your work in any stores? If so, where?


–Maybe Today is available online through Tate Publishing, Books a Million, Barnes & Noble and  Amazon


74. How do you feel about all the bookstores starting to close? Do you think that it is just the corporate ones in trouble? Or do you feel that the small/independent ones are in danger too?


–I think it bites. I have a general respect for bookstores and can’t help but feel that, if bookstores  cease to exist, it won’t be long before books are almost completely electronic. As individual businesses,  whether the small/independent ones are in danger very much depends on their owners’ management  choices and the economy, as much as is true for corporate stores. The only real difference I think is  that, with corporate-owned bookstores, one’s downfall automatically affects the others. On the other  hand, small/independent businesses often have less money to work with and would I think have less to  fall back on in economy trouble. Likewise, I don’t think a small business has the same credit/loan  options as a store like Barnes & Noble would.


75. Do you think that ebooks have affected bookstores? Or do you think that there are enough people left out there who love to actually have the printed copy to save bookstores?


–Ebooks have definitely affected bookstores. There are many people who prefer printed copies; but,  especially with the recession, the lowest price usually wins out. The fact of the matter is that ebooks will  always cost considerably less than printed books and, as long as the customer has his/her own  computer and/or an e-reader, as well as the ability to buy online, he/she is more likely to buy an ebook.


76. Any libraries you would like to mention who are taking donations?


–None that I know of


77. Any galleries taking donations that you would like to mention?


–None that I know of


78. Is your art organic or do you plan it out before you create it?


–”Organic “seems like an odd choice of words, but most of my books are planned in advance. Maybe Today and Shadows of Night were begun, then organized.


79. Where do you exhibit your art?


www.mandytrouten.com and www.facebook.com/mandytrouten


80. How many hours a day would you say that you spend promoting your art or others art?


–3 or 9 hours, depending on the day. It’s a near 50/50 split between one half of the week and the  other.


Thank you Mandy! As you can all see, Mandy doesn’t mind answering questions so feel free to leave some for her, or me, below.


 


Related Posts:Don Franklin – InterviewMarket Yourself, Market Your Book – Launch TimeBe Comfortable While Writing

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 10, 2012 13:23

June 8, 2012

Rogue Powers – Phil Stern

Rogue Powers is a fun read. Mr. Stern has written a fine tale of two young people with extraordinary powers, one a commoner who isn’t supposed to have powers at all and the other a royal princess. When these two meet they find that royal or commoner doesn’t mean as much as the royal family would have people believe and together set off to escape kingdom.




The story in rogue powers is very well thought out and flows rather nicely. The reader, however, needs to be forgiving of the many minor typographical and grammatical errors. If you can overlook these errors then you will enjoy this book, if not I would suggest looking elsewhere. This book has much promise and with a proper re-edit I feel that it could easily be an Amazon top seller.


That not withstanding, Phil Stern excels at creating characters that you want to love, or hate and sometimes both. The characters in this book, with all of their powers and flaws, almost leap off the page at you screaming, “Here I am!” Follow the exploits of Anson and Lydia as they try to escape the castle and flee the kingdom and you will want to see them again.


May 2- Witches Reviewed at Books, Books, and More Books

May 4 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at Books, Books, and More Books

May 6 – Witches Reviewed at The Writing World

May 11 – The Reclaimed Reviewed at Books, Books, and More Books

May 18 – A Time for Ryda Reviewed at Books, Books, and More Books

May 19 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at My World

May 25 – The Bull Years Reviewed at Books, Books, and More Books

May 26 – Witches Reviewed at My World

May 31 – The Reclaimed Reviewed at Book Reviews, Fiction Reflection, & More

June 8 – Witches Reviewed at Immortality & Beyond

June 8 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at Book’em Eric

June 12 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at Words I Write Crazy

June 12 – Witches Reviewed at Book’em Eric

June 16 – The Bull Years Reviewed at My World

July 16 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at A Book Lover’s Library

July 19 – Witches Reviewed at A Book Lover’s Library

June 19 – A Time for Ryda Reviewed at Words I Write Crazy

June 22 – Witches Reviewed at Book Spark

June 23 – A Time for Ryda Reviewed at Book Spark

June 26 – The Reclaimed Reviewed at Words I Write Crazy

July 1 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at Soliloquy

July 2 – A Time For Ryda Reviewed at Soliloquy

July 3 – The Reclaimed Reviewed at Soliloquy

July 3 – Witches Reviewed at Words I Write Crazy

July 4 – Witches Reviewed at Soliloquy

July 5 – The Bull Years Reviewed at Soliloquy

July 6 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at B00K R3Vi3Ws

July 10 – Witches Reviewed at B00k R3Vi3wS

July 11 – Witches Reviewed at MK McClintock’s Blog

July 13 – Rogue Powers Reviewed at Bren’s Book Reviews

July 29 – The Reclaimed Reviewed at Self Taught Cook



Related Posts:Beyond The Writing: A Guide To Self Publishing And MarketingWaffles and PancakesSelf Publishing Does NOT Mean DIY.

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 08, 2012 02:10

Joan H. Young – Interview

I was recently privileged enough to be able to interview Joan H. Young, author of the dead Mule Swamp series as part of her blog tour.




Q: Anything you would like to share with readers on a personal note that would allow them to get to know you better?


A: I’m essentially a badly-dressed hermit who seems to have an occasional need to emerge into the spotlight and pretend to be important.


 


Q: Five words to perfectly describe you.


A: Outdoorsy, Christian, word-loving, railfan geek.


 


Q: Best books you have read.


A: This question is much better than trying to name a favorite book. I have a hard time with “favorite” labels, because it’s too hard to compare genres. However, it’s easy to list several favorites. I’m a real sucker for travel books, and Walk Across America by Peter Jenkins, Travels with Charley by John Steinbeck, and Blue Highways by William Least Heat Moon contributed significantly to my wanderlust. How Green Was My Valley by Richard Llewellyn has always impressed me with the fragile nature of the human condition without the tragedy of Steinbeck. The one and only romance that appeals to me is Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. Other good reads are Les Miserables, Andersonville, Endurance: Shackletons Incredible Voyage, and Descent by Jeff Long.


 


Q: Favorite movie or movies.


A: Again, I can’t pick one single film. However, the movies I seem to watch over and over include The Fugitive, Andromeda Strain, You’ve Got Mail (I have no idea why- I’m not a romantic comedy fan, but this one seems to work for me), Sneakers, Hunt for Red October, Big Business (a hilarious take on the switched twins theme), and 2001 Space Odyssey.


 


Q: Favorite Toy


A: It’s a package deal, which includes a backpack, tent, and walking stick!


 


Q: Dream place to live and why?


A: I need to live where there are four seasons, hills and lakes and forests. In a perfect world I’d own a small lake, be the only house on a hill overlooking the water and have it well-buffered with lovely cool woods.


 


Q: Any causes you are passionate about?


A: I’m completely obsessed with quiet non-motorized outdoor recreation. I think many of our ills and stressors would be cured by taking peaceful walks in the woods. Turn off the motors and the music and hike or paddle or bicycle. Your life will change for the better!


 


Q:  If you always spoke with your heart what one thing would you say to us?


A: Get off the couch- go outside, listen for the voice of nature and the voice of God.


 


 


 


 


Thank you for taking the time to visit with us Joan.


Everyone, please be sure to check out the next stop in the tour and visit with Angel Haze. Also, don’t forget to enter the rafflecopter!


 


a Rafflecopter giveaway


Related Posts:About The AuthorFlames of Khyveria – Excerpt 1Character Bio – Bethriel

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 08, 2012 00:00

June 6, 2012

Ray Bradbury Dies At 91

Ray Bradbury, the last of a generation of Science Fiction giants, which included the likes of Asimov, Heinein and Clarke, has left us.




We now must use what they have given us, their stories, advice and inspiration, to muddle our way through the Sci-Fi world. We are but mere shadows, imitators, pretenders to the now empty thrones of worlds foreseen. The worlds, both real and imagined, seem a bit more empty without them but there is hope. Hope of a new future yet to be written. Hope that one day someone will be able to sit on the throne of Sci-Fi once more and be worthy of the legacy these men have left behind. Hope that it may be one of us, sitting here today pondering what the future may be like and putting it to words in a way that captures the imaginations of all as did the masters before them.


These men left us much to think about. The infinite universe was theirs to create and command. They were the living gods that all sci-fi writers looked to for inspiration and advice. They may no longer be alive but their godhood has not been revoked. They are still the ones we all look to as we wonder what the future of mankind might hold in store for all of us. These visionaries will not soon be forgotten and they will never be replaced. Some may come along who are worthy of joining their ranks but none will ever be worthy of taking their places.


RIP. Ray Bradbury was 91 years old and the Author of Fahrenheit 451 and The Martian Chronicles as well as other beloved Sci-Fi classics.


 


Related Posts:Find Your Muse – Or Be Your OwnAbout The AuthorJoan H. Young – Interview

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 06, 2012 11:42

Ray Bradbry Dies At 91

Ray Bradbury, the last of a generation of Science Fiction giants, which included the likes of Asimov, Heinein and Clarke, has left us.




We now must use what they have given us, their stories, advice and inspiration, to muddle our way through the Sci-Fi world. We are but mere shadows, imitators, pretenders to the now empty thrones of worlds foreseen. The worlds, both real and imagined, seem a bit more empty without them but there is hope. Hope of a new future yet to be written. Hope that one day someone will be able to sit on the throne of Sci-Fi once more and be worthy of the legacy these men have left behind. Hope that it may be one of us, sitting here today pondering what the future may be like and putting it to words in a way that captures the imaginations of all as did the masters before them.


These men left us much to think about. The infinite universe was theirs to create and command. They were the living gods that all sci-fi writers looked to for inspiration and advice. They may no longer be alive but their godhood has not been revoked. They are still the ones we all look to as we wonder what the future of mankind might hold in store for all of us. These visionaries will not soon be forgotten and they will never be replaced. Some may come along who are worthy of joining their ranks but none will ever be worthy of taking their places.


RIP. Ray Bradbury was 91 years old and the Author of Fahrenheit 451 and The Martian Chronicles as well as other beloved Sci-Fi classics.


 


Related Posts:About The AuthorFind Your Muse – Or Be Your OwnFlames of Khyveria – Excerpt 1

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 06, 2012 11:42

June 2, 2012

Don Franklin – Interview

I recently had the privilege sit down and chat with Don Franklin for an interview. Don is a horror author with a unique voice and style of storytelling. He has learned to manipulate the psyche of his readers in a masterful way. Don’s first novel, The Reaper’s Walk: Hellstone is planned to be released in October, 2012, be sure to check it out.


From this point on, anything in italics is my response.

Q. When did you start writing?

A: I started in 2006. before that time my only writing as in high school.


Q. What inspired you to do it?

A: For years I told stories and people always said that I should write a book, so one day i decided to do it! Sounds like me.


Q. Do you find that it is hard to get people excited about what you do?

A: No it doesn’t seem to be. I write horror, and in that genre there are not a lot of lukewarm people, either people like it or they don’t. I’ve heard nothing but good things about my writing so far,(knock on wood). OWE! Could we please leave my head out of this vendetta against wood?


Q. What projects have you done?

A: Well my first and only novel is called “The Reaper’s walk :Hellstone” . It is the first book in a planned 5 book series.


Q. Any new projects coming up?

A: My next project is book 2 in the Reaper’s Walk series. It is titled “Bloodstone”. I’m hoping to have that one finished by the end of the year so it could possibly be out fall of next year.


Q. Do you find it hard to share your work with others?

A: No,not at all. I enjoy writing, but what i love most is seeing others get pleasure from my writing.


Q. What is your opinion on people who post bad reviews?

A: I think reviews good or bad are to be used by the writer as tools. Realistically speaking, I don’t think that any author will ever write something that everyone will like. There will always be critics that do not like your work. I look at their opinions as a means to tune my writing so it can be closer to the mainstream of what people want. I agree, this is a tough business and without a thick skin you can’t hope to be a success.


Q. Are you an independent artist or are you represented by an agency?

A: Up until a few weeks ago I was independent. Then my book was taken on by Greyhart Press. So they represent my writing at present.


Q. What advice would you give to someone just starting out in your field?

A: Believe in what you are writing. Look at your work as if you were in a bookstore skimming a potential buy. If it looks like something that you would like to read, then your potential readers would probably like it too.


Q. Any favorite bands? Do you use music to inspire you as you create your art?

A: My favorite female artist is Sade (pronounced shar-day). Her music is very laid back and relaxing. That makes it easy to concentrate on my thoughts.

My favorite male artist is James Taylor. Its JT, nuff said. Good choices, IMHO, JT is especially cool.


Q. Anything exciting coming up in the near future?

A: Well since I’m new to this, its all exciting to me! The cover art for my book should be finished in a few weeks and I’m excited about that. The publisher is shooting for an October release so that’s first and foremost on the excitement scale. The thrill of victory!


Q. What is your opinion on Indie publishers versus Self publishing?

A: I think both are viable options but self publishing was not the way to go for me for several reasons. First because of the cost involved. I have a family and we live on a tight budget. Secondly, I knew I didn’t have a finished manuscript as far as editing goes. I knew i did not have the skills to edit it myself , nor the money to hire someone to do it for me. I was lucky I found Greyhart. They are willing to do that for me because they believed in the strength of the story I wrote.


Q. Any shout outs to people who have helped you along the way?

A: Oh man! There are too many to count! My family and friends for their encouragement. But most of all,my friend Lita Tynes. She refused to let me quit on this, and believe me I almost did several times! She was a constant source of ideas and opinions, as well as a wealth of information. I am blessed  to have her as a friend, in fact I named my main character after her. So thanks Lita! Don’t the main characters in horror stories usually end up dead? “Sorry Lita, you’ve been a wonderful inspiration…but now you must die!”


Q. Do you think that the future is e book or print?

A: I think that E-book is the future but,…I also think that some people like the feel of a book in their hands and the sound and feel of turning the pages. So to a certain extent, I think that print books will be around for quite some time to come. Yep, nothing feels the same as an old, worn out, smelly book…aaahhhh…


Q. Do you use video to promote your work? Do you think that giving people a visual helps with sales?

A: I do use video, and yes i also feel that visuals will help create interest and thus generate sales. Lets face it, the best book ever written would not sell much with a dull uninspiring cover!


Speaking of video, folks can stop by my webpage and take a look at my book trailer. All comments are welcome.

http://donfranklin.wordpress.com/ and/or visit my face book page : http://www.facebook.com/TheReapersWalk

Thanks to all.


No, thank you Don. Some nice insights into how you work here.


I have also included Don’s trailer video below, please feel free to leave comments for either of us, thanks for stopping by.



Related Posts:Market Yourself, Market Your Book – Launch TimeFind Your Muse – Or Be Your OwnWrite For The Sake Of Writing







 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on June 02, 2012 10:42

May 31, 2012

Character Bio – Bethriel

The time has come for to start revealing some information about the people and places of Khyveria. Who better to start with than our main character, Bethriel?



Beth

I picture Beth sort of like this (when not wearing her leathers).


Name: Bethriel

Age: 16

Sex: Female

Hair: Red

Eyes: Green

Height: 5’8″

Race: Elf

Hometown: Borbury


Bio: Bethriel grew up in the tiny village of Borbury in the Northwest of the elven kingdom of Celdin. Her mother was a typical elf woman who loved her husband and daughter more than anything else in the world.  Her father was a scholar and she was his world. Like all elf children Bethriel learned to hunt and fish at a young age.She was exceedingly good with a bow and arrow. Being the daughter of a scholar she was also well-educated in the history of the land she lived in as well as those of the neighbouring nations.


Having been raised in a tiny village far from most of the goings on the world, however, Bethriel can be quite naive and is sometimes easily frightened. She tries to be brave and hide her fear but is rarely able to succeed. Curious, almost to a fault, Bethriel can often be seen observing the people and things around her just to try to better understand her surroundings and hopefully learn something from them.


The night she was forced to flee Borbury was the first time she had been out of her village alone and she desperately wanted to get to the Mines of Athronak to find her father, knowing that he would comfort her and soothe her fears. This was beginning of her adventure, along the way she would meet many people, some who help her and some who would try to hinder her. She would also learn what is means to be a child of prophecy and to feel the weight of the world on her shoulders. Bethriel’s adventures will also be yours when you read the Khyverian Chronicles. Join her as she travels the world in search of a way to save Khyveria from the ultimate evil.


Related Posts:About The AuthorFlames of Khyveria – Excerpt 1Khyverian Chronicles







 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on May 31, 2012 18:43

May 26, 2012

The Hero Chronicles Review

{EAV:c8cb007795de5b06}

As the first post on the new server and WordPress after moving from blogger I have decided to write a review of The Hero Chronicles by Christine E. Schulze.



On reading the opening paragraph of The Hero Chronicles my first thought was Oh no, not ANOTHER stale book about magical kids going to a magical school. Within the next few pages however my thinking shifted to Oh, no, NOT another stale book about magical kids going to a magical school. While the book does center on magical kids who do happen to be students at a magical school, the story here is far from stale.


Our group of heroes all learn to get along and love one another in order to battle several different evil forces throughout the series. With help from their teachers and each other they also find that when you love anything is possible. Love conquers all, I know it’s a cliché but in this case it’s true. While learning to use magic, battling evil foes and going through all of the pain of the ritual of dating Chasmira, Aaron and their friends find that love is the truest form of magic there is and nothing can stop it, not even death.


Christine E. Schulze has a wonderful imagination and a talent for words that is rarely seen in this day and age. Her brilliant word-smithing and obvious love of her craft shine brightly in The Hero Chronicles. She also has the rare talent of being able to invoke emotion and make you feel what her characters are feeling. All of these things combine to make a truly great story well worth taking the time to read.


If you’ve read this book, or not, and wish to put your $0.02 in please feel free to do so in the comments, thanks!


 


Related Posts:Khyverian ChroniclesCharacter Development Vs. Plot DevlopmentWrite For The Sake Of Writing

 •  0 comments  •  flag
Share on Twitter
Published on May 26, 2012 19:19