Jack Lewis Baillot's Blog, page 71

December 14, 2012

"We were all someone before we were chosen." "You should have seen Bunny!" "You promised not to mention that!"

 Wherein Jack gets a little sappy and does another blog fest.
 This has been a bit hard to write. I wasn't even sure how I was going to go at it for a long time. I've often mentioned how this book started, well - at least once or twice. All I wanted to do was write a story about an airship. And somehow, by the end of it all, I had four books and a complex, fun, exciting story I have become very fond of.
 There are many reasons I am so attached to this story. It was written during a very hard time in my life - I know, sounds dramatic, right? Yet, setting out to publish this book has brought me many new friends I have become very endeared to. So, though I have lost some very dear friends - which I think I will always regret - I am very honoured to have so many new ones.

 Publishing was harder then I ever dreamed it would be. I thought when I set out to do it I would have many people at my side, helping me out and holding me up. I came to realize that since this was something I wanted, I had to be the one who did most of the work. This book could not mean much to those who had not written it and if I wished to see it become anything I had to stick at it and go on even when it was hard.
 And it did get hard.

 The editing alone was enough to try my devotion. Did I want to publish enough to go through the torture of editing. And re-writing, and taking things out and adding things in - all at the last minute? Wouldn't it be better to back out and just keep writing, tucking my books away into documents to never face editing? (I considered this more then once.)

 And the research I had to go through. I had to research EVERYTHING. It started with the differences between self publishing and traditional. I researched agents, publishers, editors, and when I decided to self publish I researched other authors, Steampunk books. covers, more editors, formatting, layouts, other blogs, twitters, facebooks. I looked through piles of stuff, I read up on authors, I STALKED authors. In the past year I can tell you which authors made it and which didn't and why. I can now tell you which authors are likely to make it in the near future and which aren't. I read blog after blog, commented on blog after blog, trying to find at least one person outside of my family who would be interested in my book.

 Ever since I was 13 I dreamed of publishing so when I set out in earnest my family didn't think much of it. Why should they? This was likely just another attempt at it which would flop. It wasn't until I got closer to accomplishing it that they took me seriously.
 During the first few months, through the research and stalking, though I felt completely lost and often alone, aside from my sister who later got busy with her own life - happens when one turns 18.

 And during all this discouragement and feeling like I was failing and muffing everything, I met a girl. Aye, you know her, Clair Caprice.

 How it happened I never remember exactly, but she left a comment. Then another and another and then an email, asking if she could read my book. I was very reluctant to let anyone aside from my family read it as I wished to be a serious author. But for some reason, I couldn't tell Clair no. Everyone else I said they could read chapter one, but for a reason I still don't understand, I sent Clair the whole book.
 I shudder to think where I would be if I hadn't.

 After she read it, Clair emailed me one of the sweetest emails I've ever gotten. She not only liked my book, she loved it. And she gave me hope. Maybe this idea of publishing wasn't as mad as it seemed. Maybe I could actually do this. (I still have that email, I re-read it when I feel like running for the hills and moving into a cave.)

 And now I wish to thank you, each and every one of you. Everyone who read, commented, passed on word, or just stopped by for a glance at my site. Thanks to my sister who refused to let me hide when it came to stepping out into the internet world. Thanks to my brothers, who don't flee from my mad schemes and offer me a helping hand when I need it. Thanks to my mum and my dad who aren't afraid to tell me when something doesn't sound right in the book. Thanks to my brilliant photographer who walking through the capitol with me wielding a sword at his side.
 And I would like to send out a special thanks to Clair. Very often the people who stand behind and build another up are often overlooked. And if it wasn't for Clair, for her refusing to let me quit, I wouldn't be here.

 It was Clair who stood by me through the whole thing. She listened to me when I ranted and whined about how much I hated editing. She always had advice on what should be added to the book or taken out. (She gave Isidore a place to stay after I called him cute.) She answered all my late night emails. She showed me the importance of Hogan. She laughed with me, cried with me over the ending, and never turned me away when I just wanted a hug and some chocolate. Clair has been amazing through this all and there is no way I can ever thank her enough. (Not to mention she did me the honour of putting her wonderful drawings into my story.)
 And her being here for me, during the last month when I was sent the worse trial in my writing life, was the biggest blessing of all.

 And now, here it is. This has been an almost life time goal for me, and I never dreamed I would actually be here. An author, with a published book. Everything I researched. Every time I stood out in the snow on cold Saturday mornings. Every moment of filming the trailer and breaking branches. Every painful second of editing and nearly pulling my hair out. Every day of forgetting to eat, forgetting to look for clothes which didn't come up off my floor, of struggling through formatting has been worth it.
 All of the marketing I've done. All of the study I did. All of the late nights and early mornings. And I am finished - well, with book one. Not with the publishing and writing and editing and late nights and early mornings and forgetting to eat...you get the idea.

 I hope all of this will be worth it for all of you. Thank you for giving me a chance in the great big, writing world and I hope you will join me on the next adventure. I look forward to meeting you on board the airship and hope the journey there will be well worth the time it took to get there.

 And now I shall end my sappy ramblings and present to you...Haphazardly Implausible!



 Kindle Edition. HERE

 Nook Edition HERE (Sorry, it didn't like my cover so no cover imagine.)

 Paperback Edition from Lulu HERE!

 The Paperback should go up on Amazon as well as Barnes and Noble - but I don't know if it will be there right away.


 Now for The Hobbit Fest I am taking part in - because what better way to end a post?

 First Question.
 What is your favourite Hobbit characteristic/ or the one that you think closely resembles you...?
 Their love of food. And the one that resembles me? Big, hairy feet. (How's that an image for all of you?) Yep, Jack has big, hairy feet.

 2. If you could choose between a scrumptious second breakfast and a perilous unexpected journey, which would you prefer?
 JOURNEY!

 3. Have you ever left behind something on a journey (expected or unexpected_ and wished you could have it over and over again? (A pocket handkerchief?)
 I left my sword once. I almost cried.

 4. What is your favourite part or quote from the book that you hope will be in the movie?
 "What's in my pocket?" "What's in its pocketses, Precious?" That line caused me to fall in love with the story. I am certain it will be in the movie but if it isn't I am going to cry. More then I cried in Dawn Treader when Caspian didn't ask if Edmund and Lucy were from a round world.

 My last quote from Rise of the Guardians, until I see it again and can get more. I didn't get this quote the first time which is sad because it is my favourite now.
 Jack finds out he can find out who he was before he became Jack Frost and while he is talking to Tooth North comments on Bunny. Who, of course gets indigent over his friend's snickering. And now I wish I could have seen who Bunny was before he became a Guardian. *Smirk*

 I'm going to sleep.

 Allons-y!
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Published on December 14, 2012 02:23

December 13, 2012

"Before you were all tall and cool. Now you are cute and cuddly."

 The last book I will be featuring for my...I never did title it, did I? Oh well, now that it is over I suppose it is too late to do so.
 Anyhow, this book was written by a good friend of mine. (I used to be a part of a writer's group with her in fact.) And it is the only book on my list I have had the chance to read. So this shall be a review of it. It is titled The Krestel, written by Trisha Yeager. 


 Summery: Darin White has been to Pluto, but never as the captain of his own ship. Although interplanetary travel is normal, when the Kestrel encounters spacepirates near Jupiter, Darin learns that space - and the people in it - remains more of a mystery than he'd ever assumed.
 I have loved Trisha's writing for years so when I saw she had FINALLY published a book I bought it right away. Since then I have been slowly reading it so I can longer draw it out - since she has no other books in print.
 I loved this story. I shall admit, Darin isn't my top favourite hero she created, I shall always hobour a special place in my heart for another of hers, but Darin comes in very close. He is a rather laid back character who takes almost everything in stride and who loves to fly in space - who wouldn't though? He sometimes gets easily board, with good reason, and he is brave and daring.
 Though this isn't a really fast paced book, it is a lot of fun. It has a good mix of excitement and danger and the characters are wonderful. (I especially liked the pirates.) One of the best parts about the book was the fact that the people living on Pluto were annoyed their planet was no longer considered a planet. (At least someone is as unhappy about that as I.)
 I also discovered the planets were named after Greek gods, later changed to their Roman names. (I know, how I didn't know that before is beyond me. When the characters started talking about it I wanted to smack my head on something. I mean, Neptune? I've been reading Roman and Greek books, how could I have missed THAT?!)
 This is a book I can highly recommend. It is a fun space adventure, in fact, one of my favourite space adventures.

 You can learn more about Trisha HERE

 Today I also announce the winner of the Free Signed Copy of my book! (Which will HOPEFULLY get here by Friday so I can mail it out! *Eyes the slow mail.*)
 To pick the winner, I wrote everyone's names on bits of paper, put them in my special hat, and drew one. (Those who entered more then once got two pieces of paper.)
 And the winner is Kiminst! You need to email me and send me your address please so I can send you the book.
 Thank you everyone who entered! I hope you had fun, and I enjoyed reading your entries, I even added some new books to my to-read list.

 And this ends the book reviews. Tomorrow, my book will be out. And it is finally sinking in. And I am kind of like this right now.


 Eccept, you know, I don't have long blond hair nor a Flynn Rider taking me to see the lights. Not that I would mind...Flynn, not the long blond hair. (Okay, that was a bit weird.)
 Anyhow, when I'm not falling asleep - fighting to keep awake - I am either bouncing off the walls or getting ready to sit down and have a nice cry. I'm going to be a basket case tomorrow. I pity those who must be around me. With the lack of sleep, viewing The Hobbit, and my book being out I don't think anyone will be able to endure my company for long. And all my friends must put up with me as Friday is the day of the play I am in.
 And none of this feels real. I'm kind of in a daze and I don't think I'm ready. But I can't back out now...I have a feeling if I did so some of you might be displeased with me. And my mum would throw her shoe at me because she has been telling all her friends about her soon to be published author daughter. She insisted they all watch the trailer and has made me sound like Tolkien. "My daughter, Jack, she has a book coming out. And it is the best book ever. And you should buy it!" She is my best marketer. 
 But now, I think I will close. I've rambled enough and sleep is calling. (And I NEED it because for the next two days I will be getting very little of it.)
 I shall see all of you tomorrow, about three in the morning, if not later.
 Quote is from Rise of the Guardians, again. This was a rather funny scene which I can't explain because of spoilers. But, I will say this, it is the only time a person might get away with calling Hugh Jackman cute without him pulling out his Wolverine claws on them.
 Allons-y!
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Published on December 13, 2012 00:07

December 11, 2012

"Hello, Jack! I've heard all about you! And your teeth!" "My...teeth?"

 Today's book has just come out. On December 7th in fact. It has been mentioned on a few blogs before, which is how I came upon it.

 The book is titled Annabeth's War and is written by Jessica Greyson. You can find her blog HERE!! (She always has wonderful posts up.)

 Summery:
 With King Harold away at war Lord Raburn has his eye on the throne. Those who dare to stand in his way fall beneath his power. All but one. A girl named Annabeth. Can a common, ordinary girl, with love for king, country, and her father, achieve the impossible? Trained by her father, a master swordsman, outlawed Annabeth has only her sword, her wits, and her disguises to keep Belterra from falling entirely into Lord Raburn's clutches. Can she rescue her captured father and Prince Alfred? Will one girl keep the kingdom from falling?
 Now you can see why I wish to read it. It has everything I love in a story. Kings, castles, swords, evil villains, common heroes. It sounds like a wonderful story. And the cover is amazing! One of my favourite covers. 
 You can find the book on Amazon as well as Barnes and Nobles - I believe.

 It is finally starting to sink in that I only have two days left until I publish. I'm now more nervous - not to mention tired - then bouncing off the walls excited. I will save the excited for the 14th when I will need a huge energy boost. (I should pack a lot of sugar for that day...)


 Enter to Win a Free signed Copy of Haphazardly implausible!!
 Rules: Through the weeks of December 1st - 13th post about a book which has stood out to you recently - it would be preferable if this is a new book just coming out or which hasn't been out very long but it is't required.
 In your post, tell about what drew you to this book. (Cover, summery, author, website.) Tell others about it, and if you've finished it, you can tell us what you enjoyed about the story.
 (If the author has a website or blog, you might even leave a comment there to tell them about the post. Not required.)
 Once the post is up link back TO THIS PAGE. DO NOT leave the comment on my blog or it will not be counted. (As I won't be able to keep track of them) Leave a comment at the bottom of this page along with the link to your post. (I will be reading all the posts.) The comment will enter you in the giveaway.
 You may enter more then once, but you must do a new post for each comment, and it must be about a different book.
 Spread the word about new books you've discovered! 
 The winner will be contacted on the 13th. Their book will be mailed out the 14th so it will reach them at the same time as the others. I am excited to read your entries!


 Warning about this. I might not have the copies by the 14th. I am really hoping they come so I can mail the book out that day but if they are late I am very sorry. I had the hardest time trying to order them, the code was being completely shoddy. Also, to enter you DO NOT have to have a new book recently read. 8-D It can be an older book, or a book you plan to read. There has been some confusion on this, so I hope this clears it up.
 John was finally able to post again. http://johnthehedgehog.blogspot.com/
 I'm still missing some Book Party entries so if you could please send them to me that would be great.
 Also, I got an email from someone but my email said it was unable to come through. Was someone from here trying to get a hold of me? If so, you can send it through a comment if you like.
 Now, I am going because I am too tried to think anymore.
 Quote from Rise of the Guardians, when Tooth first meets Jack
 Allons-y!
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Published on December 11, 2012 22:01

December 10, 2012

"Okay, that's a little weird." "No, mate. That's adorable."

 I am doing two books today, written by two sisters.
 The Shadow Things by Jennifer Freitag The Soldier's Cross by Abigail J. Hartman.
 Jennifer's blog is HERE! and Abigail's is HERE!
 I didn't know of Abigail's book until a few weeks ago. I had been following Jennifer's blog for awhile and loved her posts - which always made me wish she had a book out. I was delighted to discover she did, and that her sister had one as well. If their book writing style is anything like their post style, I have a feeling the books will prove to be wonderful to read.



 Summery for The Shadow Things: The Legions have left the province of Britain and the Western Roman Empire has dissolved into chaos. With the world plunged into darkness, paganism and superstition are as rampant as ever. In the Down country of southern Britain, young Indi has grown up knowing nothing more than his gods of horses and thunder; so when a man from across the sea comes preaching a single God slain on a cross, Indi must choose between his gods or the one God and face the consequences of his decision.


Summery for The Soldier's Cross:
 A.D. 1415 Fiona's world is a carefully built castle in the air, made up of the fancies, wishes, and memories of her childhood. It begins to crumble as she watches her brother march away to join in the English invasion of France. It falls to pieces when he is brought home dead. Robbed of the one dearest to her and alone in the world, Fiona turns to her brother's silver cross in search of the peace he said it would bring. But when she finds it missing, she swears she will have it and sets out on a journey across the Channel and war-ravaged France to regain it and find the peace it carries.

 Exciting, no? Both books have gotten very high reviews as well.

 So, right now, I am trying to finish every last minute thing before publishing and trying to keep awake. And not think too much about the 14th. It will be a fun day but very tiring. I won't get home until late on Thursday as I will be going to the midnight showing of The Hobbit. On Friday I shan't have time to sleep in because I have marketing to do that day, then a copy of my book to mail - if they get here on time. Then I have to go before lunch to get my hair done for a play I am in, then I have to go and help with the last minute set up of the play, then do the play, then clean up - which will get me home my midnight at the earliest. 
 If anyone wakes me up before noon on Saturday I shan't be responsible for my actions. *Smirk*
 And right now I am leaving, to sleep.
 Enter to Win a Free signed Copy of Haphazardly implausible!!
 Rules: Through the weeks of December 1st - 13th post about a book which has stood out to you recently - it would be preferable if this is a new book just coming out or which hasn't been out very long but it is't required.
 In your post, tell about what drew you to this book. (Cover, summery, author, website.) Tell others about it, and if you've finished it, you can tell us what you enjoyed about the story.
 (If the author has a website or blog, you might even leave a comment there to tell them about the post. Not required.)
 Once the post is up link back TO THIS PAGE. DO NOT leave the comment on my blog or it will not be counted. (As I won't be able to keep track of them) Leave a comment at the bottom of this page along with the link to your post. (I will be reading all the posts.) The comment will enter you in the giveaway.
 You may enter more then once, but you must do a new post for each comment, and it must be about a different book.
 Spread the word about new books you've discovered! 
 The winner will be contacted on the 13th. Their book will be mailed out the 14th so it will reach them at the same time as the others. I am excited to read your entries!
 Quote is from Rise of the Guardians, surprised, right? I have many more quotes now that I saw it again. And some old ones I used, but now have the rest of the quote. As seen above.
 Allons-y!
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Published on December 10, 2012 22:02

December 9, 2012

"Tooth, fingers out of mouth."

 Today I am very excited to be talking about a series of books. These books are written by a blogger who not only always has fun posts, but spends his time in helping out new authors. His name is Alex Cavanaugh and you can find his blog HERE!
 I've yet to read his books. I was finally able to buy the first one and it is next on my list to read as soon as I get caught up on some others. There are three books in the series. CassaStar, CassaFire, and CassaStorm (Which will be out next year I believe, though I might have that wrong.) They are Science Fiction books which take place in space (and this is what drew me to them in the first place, and the covers.) I've heard a little about the characters since first learning of the books and they only got me more interested. The main character sounds like a lot of fun. (Whenever I hear of him I think of Captain Kirk, only more reckless. Kind of like in the movie, only not so much into the girl stalking.)



 Summery for book one: Few options remain for Byron. A talented but stubborn young man with a troubled past and rebellious attitude, his cockpit skills are his only hope. Slated to train as a Cosbolt fighter pilot, Byron is determined to prove his worth and begin a new life as he sets off for the moon base of Guaard.
Much to Byron’s chagrin the toughest instructor in the fleet takes notice of the young pilot. Haunted by a past tragedy, Bassa eventually sees through Byron's tough exterior and insolence. When a secret talent is revealed during training, Bassa feels compelled to help Byron achieve his full potential.
As war brews on the edge of space, time is running short. Byron requires a navigator of exceptional quality to survive, and Bassa must make a decision that could well decide the fate of both men. Will their skills be enough as they embark on a mission that may stretch their abilities to the limit?
 If you want to learn more about the books you can go to Mr. Cavanaugh's blog. (And, as soon as I read them, I plan to review the books.)

 I guess this is a good day to do his book, because today is the start of a fest in his honour. (I had forgotten the exact date. I am so bad with dates 8-P) This fest was put together as a way to thank Alex for all the help he has been giving to fellow authors. And what one has to do is answer four questions. So, here I go!

 In about 20 words, what does Alex look like?
 Um, I doubt anyone could know this but his wife, seeing as how he is a Ninja and all.
 In about 20 words, who could play Alex in a documentary? (Living or dead.)
 Sean Connery or Harrison Ford. Some adventure actor...with a cool voice.

 In 20 words, who does Alex remind you of?
 Indiana Jones - hm, I seem to be on some kind of theme here. (You know, smart, like a professor, but also not afraid to actually get out and do something. And help others out, even if the others shoot the backs off airplanes.)

 In 100 words, (Excluding the title0 write a flash diction using ALL these prompts:
 Cavanaugh
 Ninja
 IWSC
 Cosbolt
 Guitar
 I'm soddy at flash fiction...but here it goes.
 The Ninja stealthily dropped to the floor and adjusted his mask to make sure it hadn't slipped. Creeping about on tip toe, he slipped from the library where the moonlight shone on the spines of the books. One standing out. Cavanaugh. The Ninja didn't stop to look at the books though, he slipped into the living room where the guitar sat. Why the IWSC wanted him to steal it was beyond him, but he'd learned not to question orders. As his fingers closed over the guitar the lights in the living room flickered on. The Ninja spun around and found himself facing a man in a dressing gown.
 "I knew you would come," the man cackled as he pointed a pistol at the Ninja. "So I moved the guitar!"
 "The guitar is right there," the Ninja calmly answered as he pointed.
 "No it isn't," the man insisted, "that is a Cosbolt."
 "What is a Cosbolt?" the Ninja couldn't help but ask.
 "I have no idea," the man confided, "but that is it."

 The End.
 Can't say I didn't warn you!

 For Bonus Points:
 In 40 words leave a comment for Mrs. Cavanaugh, thanking her for sharing.
 Comment? Do I leave it here or on the blog...oh, none of you probably know. I shall do both then.

 "Dear Mrs. Cavanaugh,
 Your husband has been a huge help and encouragement in the writing world. So all the times he is not with you, thank you for sharing!"
***
Enter to Win a Free signed Copy of Haphazardly implausible!!
 Rules: Through the weeks of December 1st - 13th post about a book which has stood out to you recently - it would be preferable if this is a new book just coming out or which hasn't been out very long but it is't required.
 In your post, tell about what drew you to this book. (Cover, summery, author, website.) Tell others about it, and if you've finished it, you can tell us what you enjoyed about the story.
 (If the author has a website or blog, you might even leave a comment there to tell them about the post. Not required.)
 Once the post is up link back TO THIS PAGE. DO NOT leave the comment on my blog or it will not be counted. (As I won't be able to keep track of them) Leave a comment at the bottom of this page along with the link to your post. (I will be reading all the posts.) The comment will enter you in the giveaway.
 You may enter more then once, but you must do a new post for each comment, and it must be about a different book.
 Spread the word about new books you've discovered! 
 The winner will be contacted on the 13th. Their book will be mailed out the 14th so it will reach them at the same time as the others. I am excited to read your entries!
 Quote is from Rise of the Guardians which I talked my brother into going to see with me on Saturday.
 Allons-y!
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Published on December 09, 2012 21:10

December 8, 2012

"While I nodded, nearly napping, suddenly there came a tapping."

 Today I am very honoured to share with you all a guest post from the Illustrator of my books. My dear friend, Clair Caprice! You shall now have a chance to see the work she goes through for her drawings.
Salutations. I am Clair Caprice, Miss Jack's illustrator. She has probably mentioned me, but maybe you weren't quite clear on who this elusive personality happened to be. Let me 'splain.

No, it is too much. Let me sum up. And pay attention, because there will be a quiz afterward.
I write, primarily. Nothing you've ever heard of, because I've never published any of my work. But I write. And every once in a while I stop to eat, or sleep a few hours, or go on a secret mission. Everyday stuff that I'm sure all of you also do. And if I'm not writing, I'm probably watching a Disney movie. 
When I started illustrating for Miss Jack, I dropped out of the write race for a few months and concentrated mostly on drawing. That is not to say I am some kind of professional -- not in any sense of the word. This is me when I draw:


You can see Cheeta Anita creepily watching me in the corner.
Today, just to give you a peek into the mysterious methods and techniques I use, I am going to draw a portrait of the lovely River Song, played by Alex Kingston on Doctor Who.
First I find a picture I like. Usually I draw from memory, but since I want this one to turn out really well, I'm going to use a reference photo. I always used a reference photo when I was illustrating Haphazardly Implausible.


I don't have any special equipment, and I don't need any. Here is my trusty mechanical pencil, stocked with plenty of lead (I use 0.7 because I'm picky and diehard), and a sheet of sketch paper (I don't use a particular brand because I'm not picky, and I'm pretty flexible).


I get a few loose lines down to mark the general shape of her face. River's face is almost a perfect oval. Ears go between the eyebrows and the tip of the nose. Eyes sit right about the middle of the head. By the way, I've darkened the picture just so you can see -- the first few strokes are always much fainter than this. It makes them easier to erase later on, or cover up with shading.


Now I darken and define prominent features, like the bridge of the nose and the curve of the ear and the line of the jaw. River has soft lines, not harsh angles like the Doctor. 


Now for detail! Eyelashes, eyebrows, lips, hairline, etc. River has very expressive eyebrows. They convey a lot of emotion, and in this picture she's giving us a really sassy look. The little smirk on her lips also says a lot. (I feel like I sound really cheesy...)


Shading!  This is the best part. River's about to jump into 3D. The light is coming from her right, a little above her eyeline, so the shadows will fall on the left of her face. Her earring that's showing doesn't get shaded, though, because I want it to stand out and look sparkly. I like sparkly things. I forget what it was called, but when I was about eight or nine, all my friends were wearing this glittery stuff on their skin. I thought it was the coolest thing ever.


The background is nice and boring, so I don't have to spend a lot of time on it, and the lack of detail prevents you from being distracted from the main subject. And that's pretty much it. Ta da!


For the illustrations, I often did have to add in a complicated background. I'm better at drawing faces and hands than buildings and roads and such, so a lot of times I used a sort of 'map' to help me with things like foreshortening and perspective. After I had the basic background down, I added in the silhouettes of the characters. Drawing the characters was always the best part. The hardest one to draw was probably Tony, though Kirk's kilt did take a lot of work, and the easiest was Darcy. 
Here's the finished drawing next to the original still (which is from Time of the Angels in case you were wondering).


Many thanks to Jack for talking me into this; it's been lovely and I hope you all enjoyed it.Au revoir!~Clair

 The quote is a line from one of Poe's works. *Grin*


Enter to Win a Free signed Copy of Haphazardly implausible!!
 Rules: Through the weeks of December 1st - 13th post about a book which has stood out to you recently - it would be preferable if this is a new book just coming out or which hasn't been out very long but it is't required.
 In your post, tell about what drew you to this book. (Cover, summery, author, website.) Tell others about it, and if you've finished it, you can tell us what you enjoyed about the story.
 (If the author has a website or blog, you might even leave a comment there to tell them about the post. Not required.)
 Once the post is up link back TO THIS PAGE. DO NOT leave the comment on my blog or it will not be counted. (As I won't be able to keep track of them) Leave a comment at the bottom of this page along with the link to your post. (I will be reading all the posts.) The comment will enter you in the giveaway.
 You may enter more then once, but you must do a new post for each comment, and it must be about a different book.
 Spread the word about new books you've discovered! 
 The winner will be contacted on the 13th. Their book will be mailed out the 14th so it will reach them at the same time as the others. I am excited to read your entries!


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Published on December 08, 2012 21:37

December 7, 2012

"Dangerous! Come on! We're boys! And you know what boys say in the face of danger." "What?" "Mummy."

 I wasn't sure I was going to do this. I've been going back and forth for a month if not more. But, since neither carry spoilers, and it is less then a week to the release date, I decided it wouldn't hurt any. So, here you are. Some sneak peeks at what is coming in my book.

 Also, my friend Kendra just got the cover for the second book in her series. (I mentioned it early, Sew, it's a Quest.) The new cover is so pretty I am sharing it on here - and hopefully this won't get me thrown into a dungeon over some copyright law. *Peers around*.

This book will be out soon, I think. Don't quote me on that.
 See, isn't it pretty?! (I want to eat that cake...) *Stops drooling over the cake.* Right, moving on. Reveals!
 First, the chapter titles.
    Prologue. In Which a Trust is Betrayed
One. In Which Peter Jones fights an Air Battle in the dark
Two. In Which Peter is kidnapped by the famous Air Pirate Shamus Steed
Three. In Which Peter gets settled into his prison and Tony finds a clue
Four. In Which Tony goes A.W.O.L and Isidore leaves London, with a companion
Five. In Which Isidore is married and Steed goes to the general
Six. In Which Peter's escape is foiled
Seven. In Which Jack goes shopping
Eight. In Which Peter is again outsmarted and Steed is rescued
Nine. In Which there is a reunion while everyone runs for their lives
Ten. In Which Peter tries to accept his fate
Eleven. In Which Peter makes a life changing choice
Twelve. In Which Peter falls out of the Zeppelin and Singur's secret is revealed
Thirteen. In Which Peter fights in an Air Battle and Isidore finds himself in a lot of trouble
Fourteen. In Which Singur tells of his secret past
Fifteen. In Which Peter explores and risks his life
Sixteen. In Which Darcy and Peter find they can get along, somewhat
Seventeen. In Which Darcy asks about the rumors
Eighteen. In Which the Bellamy is attacked
Nineteen. In Which Kirk's mistake causes trouble
Twenty. In Which Kirk somehow manages to stay alive and Darcy falls off the Zeppelin
Twenty-One.In Which Peter tries to save Darcy
Twenty-Two.In Which Peter plays doctor in the snow
Twenty-Three.In Which Steed is forced to work with Tony
Twenty-Four.In Which Steed feels the need to worry about his Zeppelin's future
Twenty-Five.In Which War Approaches
 And, the illustration titles.



1...Attack!1...The Ragged Beggar Girl2...Face to Face with his Worst Enemy4...Escape from the Base6...Hannah Brown in Danger9...A Walk Through the Forest9...Isidore in the Closet9...Steed Helps Out?12...A Dive in the Bushes13...Unexpected Enemy14...Dinner with the Gypsies16...O'Malley's Appearance17...Bargaining with the Enemy19...Steed's “Lesson”19...Singur's Rescue21...Singur's Surprise22...Isidore's Mistake23...Barely Alive24...Fight with the Pipes25...Darcy Repays a Debt

 And, lastly, this was in the plans to be the trailer. I had one other, the first I did, but I didn't like it as much as this one. However, after showing some people who knew nothing of what the book was about, they said it didn't feel it explained it enough - which is something I was wondering about. So, I re-did the trailer to the one which can now be found on youtube. But I kept this one. And, well, I am releasing it now. It has lines from the book in it, and even though it is a little outdated, notice the cover, I still like it. So, enjoy!

Enter to Win a Free signed Copy of Haphazardly implausible!!
 Rules: Through the weeks of December 1st - 13th post about a book which has stood out to you recently - it would be preferable if this is a new book just coming out or which hasn't been out very long but it is't required.
 In your post, tell about what drew you to this book. (Cover, summery, author, website.) Tell others about it, and if you've finished it, you can tell us what you enjoyed about the story.
 (If the author has a website or blog, you might even leave a comment there to tell them about the post. Not required.)
 Once the post is up link back TO THIS PAGE. DO NOT leave the comment on my blog or it will not be counted. (As I won't be able to keep track of them) Leave a comment at the bottom of this page along with the link to your post. (I will be reading all the posts.) The comment will enter you in the giveaway.
 You may enter more then once, but you must do a new post for each comment, and it must be about a different book.
 Spread the word about new books you've discovered! 
 The winner will be contacted on the 13th. Their book will be mailed out the 14th so it will reach them at the same time as the others. I am excited to read your entries!



 Quote is from Doctor Who.
 Tomorrow there will be a post from Clair up. She will be showing everyone the work she goes through for her pictures.
 And now I am going off to read. (Kind of nice to actually relax a little...)
 Allons-y!
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Published on December 07, 2012 22:00

December 6, 2012

"Sorry for what? That you find my feelings for you offensive?"

 Today's picture from Clair is one of my favourites. (I say one because I have one I like slightly better. It redeemed things between Isidore and I since I said he looks very dashing in it.That made up for my cute comment.)
 I was rather glad Clair picked this one to reveal as I love the detail in it. (Especially the lamp.) And Jack. I love how Clair captures her smirk.
 This is the last picture reveal I will be holding. You know what that means, right? The book is out in one week!
 And now I shall stop talking and let you all enjoy Clair's wonderful picture!


 Everyone who entered the Book Party, I need your posts soon! *Arches eyebrows* So, if you could get those to me soon that would be great. (This week would be best.)
 There is still a chance to enter to win a free, signed copy of my book!!!! Click HERE!!!!!!!!!!!! to read the rules!!!!!
 I have a surprise for tomorrow for all of you, so be sure to drop back by!!
 Quote from North and South.
 Allons-y!!!!!
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Published on December 06, 2012 21:45

December 5, 2012

"They switched subjects back to something Jack knew better, such as swords and fighting."

 Well, looks like I'm back to publishing with Lulu. Since even I wouldn't buy my own book for 45.00. Still trying to figure out the e-book though.
 This book today is written by Natalie Bahm. You can find her blog HERE! She wrote the book to raise money to send to a family whose young son has been suffering an illness. (I don't remember the whole story and I cannot find the post about it, but he has to be in the hospital a lot and the money she gets from this book she is sending to help the family with the bills.)
 The book is titled The Secret of the Underground and it is a children's book though it sounds like it will be a fun, adventurous story. 


 Summery: Twelve-year-old Ally is the only witness to a bank robbery in her small town. Unable to block out the memory of the robbers, a notorious gang known as the Gauze Men, Ally joins her little brother and a bunch of neighborhood boys digging a hole in her backyard. Only the hole isn't just a hole - it's a massive set of tunnels snaking beneath the neighborhood and heading for an abandoned steel mill. Ally is old enough to know the danger, but she reasons spending time with sixth-grade heartthrob Paul is more fun than sitting at home with her worries. And dangerous it is - none of the kids' parents realize the tunnels exist, but the Gauze Men might.
 I saw this book, the cover, before I knew of Jemi's intentions with it and the cover interested me. (To be honest, it reminded me of Rick Rodiern's almost, or other adventure books I have read.) And since I love a good adventure story, a fast paced, fun one, I quickly added it to my list. 
 Aw, good, I found something about the baby boy Natalie is helping. Click HERE to learn the full story.

 Again, don't forget about the giveaway I am holding! The winner will receive a free, signed copy of my book! You can read the rules HERE!!

 Quote is from Mothstorm. A kind of rough quote as I don't remember it word for word.
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Published on December 05, 2012 21:45

December 4, 2012

"I rescued you!" "You dropped a building on me."

 I am having publishing issues again. Seems Amazon wishes everyone to pay 45.00 for my book.*Looks for a raise of hands of everyone willing. Listens to the crickets.* Aye, that's what I thought. I am looking into Lulu again. The price is better there, but they won't let me do the e-book. So, maybe the e-book shall be out on Amazon. (Confused yet?)
 Today's book I've not yet read. It is titled Only a Novel and was written by Miss Dashwood. (You can find her blog HERE.)



 Only a Novel's Summery Elizabeth Markette has always led a quiet and privileged life under the guardianship of her wealthy grandmother. But when her grandmother dies and leaves twenty-one-year-old Elizabeth alone in the world and nearly penniless, she’s forced to earn her own living for the first time in her life. Taking inspiration from her favorite British novels, she sets sail for England to seek a position as a governess. Before she can do that, however, she is rather abruptly and overwhelmingly befriended by a lonely and slightly eccentric young socialite, Lavinia Bancroft, who introduces her to the sparkling world of London society. Yet Elizabeth still feels the need to make her own way, though once she actually acquires a position, she begins to have doubts as to whether she’s actually qualified. The children she’s teaching don’t seem to like her, the housemaid seems far too eager to be friends—who wants to be friends with a housemaid?—and the stable hand keeps interfering with the children. Elizabeth’s one hope and consolation is that somehow, some way, Mr. Darcy will come riding out of the mists very soon indeed to save her from a life of respectable servitude. There’s just one problem—where is he?
 Everyone who knows me knows I am not a huge fan of Period Drama books, if that is what they are called. (You know, Jane Austin and such.) I do like Little Women, but that is about the only one. So when I first learned of Only a Novel I didn't think I would ever consider buying it or reading it.
 However, after reading the summery I reconsidered. The story sounds like it might be a fun twist on Pride and Prejudice. (Since I've yet to read it, I could be wrong) but I've the impression that everything the heroine dreams of backfires and her life takes a completely different twist. *Eyes the stable hand*. So, it sounds like it might be a fun book to read and I am rather excited to start it.
 And, before I go to tackle the publishing problems again, I will again say, there is a giveaway still. *Smirk*. You can learn about it here. GIVEAWAY!

 Also, Kendra at Knitted by God's Plan interviewed me! You can read it HERE!

 Quote is from the 2nd Sherlock Holmes movie.

 Allons-y!
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Published on December 04, 2012 20:56