Reyna Hawk's Blog, page 4
December 18, 2012
The Next Big Thing
Ok so what is the next big thing…. well here is a brief description
The chain was started by one author who answered 10 questions on his own blog, then tagged 5 other writers, who answered the same questions on their blogs the following week, and tagged another 5, and so on. Unfortunately, I was only able to get three (3) authors to agree to this; I’m hoping this doesn’t have too big of a ramification on this event
Here is the link to Charles’ page so you can see how it works: C. L. R. Dougherty
I was lucky enough to be invited to this event by Annamaria Bazzi an awesome author with her book “A Simple Matter of Justice” just released December 16, 2012.
Blurb for A Simple Matter of Justice: Abducted, raped and killed, Samantha is given a change to bring her killer to justice. In accepting the challenge from a talking wolf, she never imagined she would become a spirit hawk by night. In the turmoil of her new existence, would she find the courage to bring the killer to the forest where she knows he will receive justice?
Annamaria’s bio: Although born in the United States, Annamaria Bazzi spent a great deal of her childhood in Sicily, Italy, in a town called Sciacca. Italian was the language spoken at home. Therefore, she had no problems when she found herself growing up in a strange country. Upon returning to the states, she promised herself she would speak without an accent. She attended Wayne State University in Detroit Michigan, where she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Computers with a minor in Spanish. Annamaria spent twenty years programming systems for large corporations, creating innovative solution, and addressing customer problems. During those years, she raised four daughters and one husband. Annamaria lives in Richmond Virginia with her small family where she now dedicates a good part of her day writing.
You can visit Annamaria at:
Annamaria’s Website
Facebook page
Twitter
MY TAGGED AUTHORS
Elizabeth Delana Rosa is an awesome person and author. Her first book was released November 20, 2012 and is titled “Child of Loch”
Elizabeth’s bio: I have always been a writer. When I first learned to write in Kindergarten, I wrote about pigs who “groo” wings and became “butterfys.” I knew way back then that I would have a love affair with writing. It over took my life and has been a constant companion. Now over 20 years later, that love flows over into writing blogs, reviews, poetry and fantasy novels. Lastly I am a big nerd. I love Fantasy, YA, Paranormal Romance, and Sci-Fi books. My dream is to promote authors and help them reach the highest level of Success, while writing my own Fantasy Novels.
Blurb for Child of Loch: Twenty-three year accountant, J.J. McDonnell, has spent her life trying to be normal and hide her gifts, but all dreams of normalcy are dashed on her twenty-fourth birthday. A handsome man shows up on her porch with a marriage edict and news that the grandfather she has never met, has died. Her world is about to change forever. J.J. must make the perilous journey to the Loch and take her place on its throne. With no idea of what is expected of her and dark forces closing in at every turn, will J.J. be able to accept her destiny or will she be stopped before she can?
January Valentine is another awesome author I tagged for this project.
January’s bio: January Valentine is the pen name of Victoria Valentine, New York writer and indie book publisher. I chose to use a pen name because Love Dreams was originally going to be a red hot erotic story, and I wanted to separate Victoria, who writes contemporary fiction and children’s storybooks. Since my birth month is January, January Valentine seemed an appropriate pseudonym.
Book Blurbs: “Love Dreams” is a story about a handicapped young man who secretly falls hopelessly (and helplessly) in love with a young woman who hides herself, and her past, beneath a grim but beautiful exterior. This gentle romance builds into a powerful “reality”.
“Sweet Dreams” is a novel about a serial killer who is on the loose, working his way up the east coast.
The last great author I was able to tag is TL Bliss an author of seven (7) books. Considering that she does have 7 outstanding books published I am only going to list her page from Amazon where these books can be found. This books range from help with youngsters against bullies and building self-esteem; to the beginner’s guide to juicing. Check out her books, you won’t be disappointed.
TL’s bio: I am an aspiring author who loves to travel with my husband and write about whatever touches my heart. These stories can be anything from Christian fiction, children’s stories, to self-help/how-to guides, and is not limited to any one genre. I hope you enjoy reading each of my books as much as I enjoyed writing them.
Now for my answers of the Next Big Thing questions
What is the working title of your next book?
I haven’t gotten a definite title set yet; but I am thinking of Revealing Visions
Where did the idea come from for the book?
This book is an off-shoot of the 2012 releases of the Valentine/Petrilo Trilogy. I have had many requests to learn more about the characters from the trilogy and what they were doing behind the scenes. This book tells of Janie’s younger years; what Daniel was doing when he was away so much; and just what all Rico’s job entailed.
What genre does your book fall under?
It will fall under the category of drama and romantic suspense.
What actors would you choose to play the part of your characters in a movie rendition?
I did an entire piece on this subject not too long ago…. check out the guest post at To Read or Not to Read…
What is the one-sentence synopsis of your book?
Hmm, for this particular book maybe something along the lines of the reality and revenge of a Mafia hit man.
Will your book be self-published or represented by an agency?
Self-published all the way!
How long did it take you to write the first draft of the manuscript?
I am still writing it and at present I have nearly 6000 words completed.
What other books would you compare this story to within your genre?
Wow, this is a hard question. All I can say is it’s a romantic suspense containing love, murder, betrayal, lies, and greed. So any books that fall somewhere in those categories.
Who or what inspired you to write this book?
My mother, she told me I could do anything I set my mind to.
What else about the book might pique the reader’s interest?
This book will go deep into the mindset of a Mafia hit man. For those that have enjoyed the Valentine/Petrilo Trilogy; they will finally see how Rico became who he is and where he came from. They will learn what events made Janie into the person she is; and exactly what Daniel was doing when he was away all those times.
I am thankful and honored to be a part of this multiple blog hopping event. Thank you for all who participated. Below is a link to where my books can be purchased. Again thank you. ~~Reyna Hawk~~
November 22, 2012
Children of the Loch by Elizabeth Delana Rosa~~ Check it out
Check out Children of the Loch by Elizabeth Delana Rosa; now available on Amazon.com. Click picture to purchase
“Well I did it. I published through Kindle Direct Publishing. I think I should have gone with an easier venue. My bird-brain self uploaded the wrong folder then I was smart enough to upload the right one but change the price. I’m finally selling it as is. I don’t want to mess with anything else. I’m afraid I’ll botch it…lol. I am happy to say I have released my baby, Child of the Loch, for $3.99. I hope it does well and I’m looking forward to having sales to offer it to people who just can’t justify $3.99 for a book on their budget. It will be available on Amazon in 48 hours.
Enough about the mistakes made and pricing, I want to talk about this bittersweet moment. It is so sweet to have become a published author. I have finally produced something I think is worthy of the world. Let me explain. I am an avid book fan I love books in all their glory. The self-publication movement has birthed some of the best books I’ve ever read and some of the worst. I feel obligated to work hard to fall into the best books category. Over the last years I’ve written and re-written, edited and reworked this book to make it into what I think is the best version. I have accomplished what I set out to do. I created a world and character that anyone in my inner circle can read without me being embarrassed or unsure. I am representing myself and my family well. To me, it’s not just about writing a good book but being true to oneself in a way that people can enjoy and love.
The bitterness is that now that it’s finally out I feel like I’ve said goodbye to an old friend. Through we will see each other again; it will never be the same. The thing that I devoted my life to for the last few years has gone away. I think I’ll have a cookie and some wine to celebrate.
In closing, new ideas for the next book are already swirling across my mind. I don’t know when it will be out but I’m setting the time line of no more than 6 months. I hope you all have enjoyed the post. Good luck and Happy Reading. ”
Blurb for Children of the Loch:
Twenty-three year accountant, J.J McDonnell, has spent her life trying to be normal and hide her gifts, but all dreams of normalcy are dashed on her twenty-fourth birthday. A handsome man shows up on her porch with a marriage edict and news that the grandfather she has never met, has died. Her world is about to change forever. J.J must make the perilous journey to the Loch and take her place on its throne. With no idea what is expected of her and dark forces closing in at every turn, will J.J. be able to accept her destiny or will she stopped before she can?
Excerpt:
Chapter One
The King lay in the large, downy bed inhaling his last, sallow breaths. Self-reflection was all he had left in his weakened state; he contemplated his kingdom’s future that hung in the balance. The lives of his people would be destroyed and his kingdom would meet their disaster if his lost heir was not brought home soon.
The kingdom was already showing signs of his illness. He could hide it no longer. There was no need to make any edicts or long speeches. His people already knew there dire situation. The King was failing and taking the land with him. The Loch suffered with the King in the throes of a deadly infirmity.
The King could see out the open bay window shrouded in bright red velvet and golden cords. It contrasted to his decaying lands. His thoughts were punctuated with a sour wind and the distinct odor of putrid compost. What would his kingdom do without him?
The King was a good leader. He was well-loved by his people and in return he always put them before his own needs. The King would prevent his people’s demise at all costs, even if meant breaking the laws that he himself wrote in the Scroll of Decree 29 years ago during the Year of Light Nineteen Hundred and Eighty-Three.
The King knew he must send his fastest messengers to the far reaches of his kingdom, riding past the borders of the Kingdom of the Lochoan lands. The journey would take the messengers further than anyone had ridden in the last years of King’s rule.
Only one, whose very name was outlawed in the land, had made the arduous trek that had traveled through all the lands of many allies, as the messengers were about to do now. The exiled one’s journey had blazed a trail of tears and sadness to the Lochoan borders that bled out into Outlands. Lands that distanced far beyond the pale, pink, rising sun and the blue rain clouds of the Loch. However, these messengers’ journeys would be bringing hope and light to a barren land. It was time to gather the allies. Dark times were ahead and the enemies of the Loch would use it to their full advantage.
Even now, the King felt the people’s pain as acutely as his own. The King squeezed his almond shaped eyes tight against the physical pain. He was so ravaged by the illness that no one would recognize him. He was a ghost of his former self. Now, only his amber eyes were a distinguishable sign of his pure royal line.
The bevy of relatives had already gathered fighting for what was left of his kingdom. He heard their disappointed thoughts from time to time. They hated him for his tenuous grip on life. Their ochre shaded eyes were a variety of colors with only undertones and shadows, showing their royal lineage were of the distant past, which could only be verified by a scroll of lineages. Though they warred and plotted against each other to be the chosen heir, they would never do. The land would not replenish with their hard hearts and diluted blood lines. They held no love or bond to the land, not like a true “child of the Loch.”
The King had a direct heir. His mine drifted to the one whose veins were filled with the unpolluted blood of the first Queen. A gentle woman who bore curse of a connection to the land for imagined wrongs against the magic that governed the land. No one knew the full histories not even the King himself. It was of little importance because the curse was a blessing to her descendants.
The heir would heal the land and hold proof that none other would do.
The kingdom would know the heir upon its arrival. The entire line was blessed with unnatural beauty and gifts that were not apparent in any other clan of the Loch. The land would begin to heal itself, growing stronger as they drew closer. New growth bloomed in small sections at the corner of the castle due to the King’s momentary joy.
Other gardens died in the same breath, when the King rolled to his side in agony. The King’s pale, lined face contorted as seizures took him. His face turned purple from lack of breath and his hands curled into balls. He cursed his murderer again from bloody, foam covered lips.
The land suffered with him. An earthquake shook knocking vases off pedestals and pictures from their places on the stone walls. The King’s clumps of salt and pepper hair fell from his inflamed pink scalp. The land responded with pustules of rot that spoiled the crops leaving nothing edible. While the fever blisters popped oozing water and lymph into his jaundiced eyes, shut tight; flakes of pasty skin peeled from his dry lips and the trees withered bearing bitterly poisonous fruit.
Even now he knew that these final hours were passing with prejudice. The slow, steady decline of the once strong King was highly unexpected in the view of the long lives of his predecessors. They flourished for many lifetimes as stewards of the land.
Rumors flew about the kingdom blaming the loss of the Loch’s only heir, though it was many years ago for some. It was only a moment in the life of the King. It was common knowledge that the King’s broken heart still bore the weight of the Queen’s death by the hand of the General of the Turlinds, the greatest enemy of the Loch.
The true nature of the King’s illness could not be fathomed until it was too late. Test after test from the chief physicians to the peasant apothecaries drew the answers needed. It was not grief that had stolen the spry King’s health. It was poison from magic of darkness or herb of the vine that took its hateful vengeance upon the King’s body.
There was no antidote to either herb or spell. The cure for one could cause another to slaughter him more rapidly and excruciatingly. It was well known in the land that the long list of poisons or black magics in the Loch that caused the King’s symptoms would all end horribly with the much-loved King cold and maimed in his grave. He would be unrecognizable to all who knew him. There would be no hope of recovery. The King’s death warrant was signed, sealed and awaiting its hour of designation. He was a slave in his own body, mastered by the unnamed venom that flowed throughout his skeletal body.
Reviews:
Heather Alexander rated it 5 STARS
Wow, this short book packs a ton of punch. Josephina is heir to the throne of Loch, a land of magic, mythical creatures, purity, and fertility She is the halfling child of the son of the king of Loch and a human and has been living in our world her hole life. On her birthday a man named James, from Loch comes bearing a scroll that states she is to marry him and become the queen of Loch as her grandfather has died. Along the way she finds betrayal and love and brings together groups allied to her as well as enemies trying to thwart her. This book has mermaid,dragons, ogres, nymphs, elves, etc. It was fantastic and I can’t wait to read more. I hope this is a continuing saga, as I absolutely loved the characters and the story and I want more!!!!
Karen Vance Hammond rated it 5 STARS
“Are dreams real? What message do they send? Child of the Loch grabs your mind by the throat as it takes you vicariously through the eyes of Josephina in quest for the truth. An outstanding piece of work. You won’t be able to put this one down—diabolical entertainment!”
Karen Vance Hammond, Author of Shoe Marks a paranormal inspire by true events which took place in Texas.
Reyna Hawk rated it 5 STARS
So first let me say I am not a big fan of Sci-Fi or Fantasy. I have never been one that got into the stories with dragons and sorcery. However, this book captivated my interest from the beginning. I had to know what was going on with the King. As I read down the story line and met Josephine then I became enthralled with how she was going to save Loch and get out of the arranged marriage. I began thinking to myself how would I react to an arranged marriage and actually found myself giving her advice. I felt bad for Josephine and really had a disliking for her suitor James. Even though he is described as a very handsome man, I didn’t like him. Anyway the story line takes you through some tense moments and awesome descriptions that make you see the scenes playing out in your head. During these tense moments my heart actually raced a bit. I love Aurora’s manner of writing. It reminds me of the way a great story is told. Her metaphors crack me up at times but at others make me think “Wow that is exactly how that would be”. I give it five (5) stars and look forward to reading more of her work.
About the author… Elizabeth Delana Rosa
I have always been a writer. When I first learned to write in Kindergarten, I wrote about pigs who “groo” wings and became “butterfys.” I knew way back then that I would have a love affair with writing. It over took my life and has been a constant companion. Now over 20 years later, that love flows over into writing blogs, reviews, poetry and fantasy novels. You can find me on the web at www.crimsonflowerreview.com and www.elizabethdrosa.com
Check in next week for an interview with Elizabeth!!
November 18, 2012
Oh these tangled webs ~~~ Rico’s diary
The time is upon us and this is going to be one hell of a ride. I am right now waiting for the word to put this mission into motion. Everything me and Daniel have done is coming into light and I can only hope we survive. I know what Anthony’s plans are and I am doing everything in power to stop it. Daniel has been warned and I am on my way to LA. I have been hiding so much from everyone, I am scared to death one of these days I’m going to slip and reveal it all.
Janie is near and dear to me and I’m willing to do whatever needs to be done in order to bring her happiness. I just hope and pray she doesn’t turn against me once the truth comes out. Once again, it is a wait and see game.
Is this the end? ~~~ Daniel’s diary
I have got to make the most of my time with Janie now. The time is coming when I may not be around anymore. I have taken all the steps necessary to ensure that she will be set for a long time. I know this is going to be absolutely horrible for her, but there is nothing I can do to change it now. The wheels have been put into motion, there is no turning back. All I hope is when the truth finally comes out that she understands why I have done the things I have done.
I really hope she doesn’t run to Scott; that would be the absolute worse things she could do. Rico is prepared for this and is ready to step in at the right time. I’m scared but yet also relieved this will all be over soon. I pray Janie knows how much she means to me and that all this was done for her. I love you baby sister, and I am sorry for all the trouble I have caused.
November 11, 2012
Sticky situation~~~~Rico’s diary
I feel like I am stuck between a rock and a hard place. I am one of the most loyal people I know. My loyalty is strong in every aspect of my life. I am loyal to family, friends, and the business. However, I find myself doing things I know can jeopardize everything. The “family” is my life and my loyalty lies there and what is best for it. However, Daniel is my best friend and I’m becoming quite attached to Janie. I’m not sure she’ll be willing to put up with the things that will go down because of the business. There is so much I can’t tell her.
Me and Daniel have plunged headlong into some shady business that could get us both killed. I worry what will happen to Janie if that happens. I know she is stronger than she appears; but this would leave her completely alone. She’d be left with no one. I can’t let that happen.
This man makes me weak~~~ Janie’s diary
The more time Rico spends with Daniel and hanging around, the more I fall for him. He is so charming and is always a gentleman with me. The fact he is so handsome doesn’t hurt anything either. I am sure I can move pass Scott for Rico. I know it’ll be hard but having Daniel and Rico by my side will make it easier. I am looking forward to seeing Rico more and more. I can tell by his long looks at me and his treatment of me, it goes beyond just being nice and respectful. I’m not real sure how I feel about dating someone in the “family”. I’m sure it’s probably about the same as being in the “family”; once you’re in there’s no getting out. As much as I like Rico and falling for him, I’m not sure I want to do that. I’m not sure I want to get involved with something so dangerous and illegal. The thoughts that go through my mind with Daniel being in it, I’m not sure I could handle dating someone in the same dangerous job. But I just can’t help myself, there’s something about Rico— I can’t just walk away.
November 4, 2012
I will stand by her
Daniel’s sister, Janie is really something special. No one has ever made me think of the things she does. I think about the future we could have and what our kids would like. If I could only get closer to Janie without it being obvious; I’m really taken with her. There is something about her that makes me want to take care of her. She seems so lost at times. I watch her and her far off expressions; I wonder what goes through her mind at those moments. I’ll do whatever necessary to hold up my end of the deal with Daniel. I told him should anything happen to him then I will step in and be there for Janie. As much as I want to be with Janie; I just hope that day never comes.
My plans are working
Well Janie met the boys and I saw some sparks flying! I am happy to see that. Hopefully this will get Janie’s mind off of Scott. I know how Rico feels about her; and I could tell she likes him, so fingers crossed this goes as I hope. Yeah, let’s see Scott touch Janie now; Rico will personally make sure he is 6 feet under!
In my world things are getting pretty tight. I think Anthony is suspicious about the missing money. I don’t think he can lead it back to me; but even if he does I’ve got Janie well taken care of. I know that should anything happen to me though she is going to be devastated. Another reason I wanted to introduce her to Rico, he can help her handle anything that happens to me. She’ll need someone to lean on. It’s not that she can’t take care of herself, it’s just she has no one other than me.
October 29, 2012
Get your eBooks signed!!
In this day and age of technology, many readers are preferring to purchase eBooks for their Kindle, Nook, or other reader. The problem was always one that if they wanted to get the author’s signature; they then had to also purchase the paperback. Now all that has changed with Kindlegraph. Once you have purchased the eBook you can log on to the site and request a signature from the author. It is very simple! Visit the site and read the instructions on how to get your eBooks signed…. I have listed all of my books on this site…. you can do a search for the author of your eBooks and see if they have listed their books as well…… this is such a great tool for authors!!
Digital autographs for your eBooks
October 28, 2012
The girl of my dreams~~~ Rico’s diary
Wow, Janie is all grown up! She’s become such a beautiful young lady. The minute our eyes met I knew she will be the girl I marry and start a family with. There’s something so unique and mysterious about her. I’m not sure how Daniel will feel about his sister being with one of the “wise guys” but she is an adult; and from what I saw she’s interested in me just as much as I am of her. Daniel and I have been friends for a very long time, so I know how much he worries about her and what her life will be like. I know he wants her away from Scott and I’m just the man to rid her of this parasite. I don’t like Scott and have my suspicions on his abuse; I ever found out this to be true and he’s a dead man.
There are so many secrets to be kept in this business and in my friendship with Daniel; I just wonder how it’ll affect my chances with Janie. I’ll do whatever I can to make sure she’s happy and well taken care of. I have the means and will bring hell on anyone that hurts her. I’ve never believed in love at first sight…. until now.
