Brynna Gabrielson's Blog, page 2

June 26, 2013

Summer Book Crush!

Hot sun, hot sand, cool drinks, dark tans. Ahhhh. But your summer won’t be complete until you land a new BOOK BOYFRIEND, right? Lucky for you, we’ve got you covered!  

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  SUMMER BOOK CRUSH offers 50+ titles in many genres. This means 50+ chances to (fictitiously) fall in love. And the best part? Each of these gems is only 99¢, but for a limited time only. The SUMMER BOOK CRUSH event starts on June 26th and ends (yes, even the best things in life end at some point) on June 28th. So don't wait up! Mingle with our BOOK BOYFRIENDS and invite all your friends to participate too. There are plenty of BOOK BOYS to share!

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  Find your summer’s fling between the pages of a book. And don't stop on one - after all we have many BOOK BOYFRIENDS for you to mingle with.

* HAPPY READING * HAPPY SUMMER *

 
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Published on June 26, 2013 03:22

June 13, 2013

Terrible Me

I'm such a bad blogger. This poor blog has just been sitting here, collecting dust, while I continuously forget to update it. Well today that changes (at least for today...).

So what's new? In the writing world, for me, not much at all. Why? Because I've been mad busy doing all sorts of other stuff. Being unemployed, I really should have all this time on my hands, but somehow I do not. This is most part has to do with two things - 1. I'm getting married in August and have been planning for the wedding, and 2. On Friday my fiance and I finally moved into our new flat - which thus has been a mess of packing and unpacking and buying things we need, and worst of all, assembling flat pack furniture. It's not been pretty my lovelies. My right thumb is red and swollen and sore from unending use of the screwdriver, and I have scratches all over my feet from the corners of the 'wood' pieces used for the furniture. So far I've assembled the following: a kitchen table and four chairs, a tv unit, a 6 drawer dresser, a bed with drawers under it,  and a desk. I've still got my desk chair and bedside table to go.

On the bright side, Rory and I finally have our new home and we love it. It's a two bed flat, but it's lovely and spacious with great light. And I HAVE MY NEW OFFICE! It's not done being set up yet, but when it is, it will become my writing haven and I WILL WRITE A NEW BOOK! I WILL I PROMISE!

So, that's what's new in Brynnaland.

Until next time

xxx
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Published on June 13, 2013 05:33

April 21, 2013

LIKE ME!

Hello Lovely Readers!

Long time, once again, no talk. Apologies once more for the lack of posts.

Firstly, the big news of my life. I've moved back to the UK! Permanently! I've been here about two weeks now and it's been pretty awesome. Just spending time getting settled and figuring things out. I'm going to hopefully have my new office set up soon so I can get writing writing writing!

Not a lot of news for Starkissed. I have, however, set up a new Facebook Author Page. I figured it was time I not just push Starkissed, but also started to push myself as an author. If you want to hop over there and like it, I'd be super grateful. Link here: https://www.facebook.com/brynnagabrielsonauthor

I've been reading lots lately. I just finished the five Mortal Instruments books by Cassandra Clare. I read the first three years ago, but hadn't done the last two yet, so I read all five in like a week. A great series that I really enjoy. I'm looking forward to the sixth and final one. I've been thinking of checking out her other Shadowhunters series - The Infernal Devices. Anyone read it? Is it any good? I'm one of those people that get attached to characters, not universes, so I have a hard time reading companion novels, or prequels. Anyways, tell me your thoughts (if you have any).

I went and saw the new Tom Cruise movie Oblivion last week. I enjoyed it far more than I thought I would. I believe it's based on a Graphic Novel. Though I don't really read Graphic Novels so I'm not likely to check it out. Either way, the movie was good and kept me entertained right until the end. Give it a shot if you're looking for a film to see.

Anyways,  must go. Don't want to keep rambling and end up boring you with a menu of all the food I ate last week.

Brynna


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Published on April 21, 2013 12:18

March 21, 2013

Marching On

I know, I know, I really am the worst at keeping this blog up to date. I'm just terrible. Sorry my loves. In fairness it has been a kind of whirlwind, busy busy busy few weeks for this girl.

I've been back in Canada since the end of January, but I'm heading back to the UK as of April 4th. This of course, is less than two weeks away now and I am beyond thrilled, of course. But it's also kind of a bitter sweet thrill, because I have to leave everyone here again. Also there's the whole packing my life and shipping it to the UK bit that's a bit irritating. I hate packing. I've accumulated so much stuff in my 25 years on this planet, and not all of it is going to fit in two suitcases. So that's what I've been up to, among other things. Sorting through years of my belongings and deciding whether to keep them or toss them, store them or take them. Shudder.

Rory was out for a couple weeks too, which was amazing. I got to show him bits of my home and it was so fantastic. But they were the fastest two weeks of my life.

Anyways, in writing news, I've been so busy dealing with things here I haven't had much time to get things going. This is super disappointing because I've got a story just burning to get out of me. When I get to England, once we have a place, first order of business is to get myself a desk and some silence so I can let it free.

I will give you this one tidbit. The title as of now (this could change at any second) is Everything You Are.

Okay. Other news. Starkissed sales have finally surpassed 5000 copies. Colour me blissful.  Especially seeing as sales have really slowed down this month. I'm grateful for every sale, but gosh would I love a few more. So if you know anyone who hasn't had a chance to read it, TELL THEM TO. Right now it's only 3.20 on Amazon.com in account of the fact that the Sony Store in Canada has it listed at $3.29, even though I changed that price to the proper one months ago. Unfortunately the store won't update, and until they do, the price of Starkissed remains $3.28 and below on Amazon. So get it while it's cheap, cause it should be listed at $3.99 one of these days.

Anyways, I must do something productive. Like sleep.

Sooner than later,

Brynna
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Published on March 21, 2013 23:55

January 17, 2013

Milestone!

Wow I've been slacking in the blogging department. I am so sorry. In my defence, it's been a crazy month. For those who aren't aware, I'm in the process of moving all my stuff out of my place down to Rory's in Wiltshire, while also getting ready to head back to Canada for a couple of months. While doing this I'm also getting my new visa application together and trying to find places to live and doing other top secret stuff. Plus it's been weeks of goodbyes as I won't see many of my friends here for a good long while, and some - like one of my besties Rachul, who just moved back to the states - I won't see for even longer. So ya, busy busy busy.

But here I am blogging because I've got a little bit of exciting news to report. Nothing massive, but sales of Starkissed finally hit 4000 copies sold about an hour or two ago! I'm really excited, as I have been with all the other sales milestones! Bring on 5000 now!

Other than that not a ton to report on. Back to Canada on the 28th, so getting a bit sad/excited. Sad to leave England, my friends, and Rory (even though I should be back soon). But excited to see everyone back home.

Anyways, off to get some productive things done.

Brynna

Oh and Happy New Year 17 days late.

I didn't make any resolutions to break.
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Published on January 17, 2013 05:22

December 24, 2012

Sale! Bargains! Discount! Get it now!

A quick note to remind you all that Starkissed is currently on sale for $1.99 to celebrate Christmas. 3 days only - December 24th, 25th, and 26th. And even better, a whole whack of ebooks by some awesome authors are also on sale to celebrate the yuletide spirit. Follow the link to find some great titles!

http://anindieaffair.blogspot.com.au
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Published on December 24, 2012 05:49

December 21, 2012

Merry Christmas to all

I'm not sure if I'll have much chance to post over the next few days, so I just wanted to drop a quick Merry Christmas to everyone (that is everyone who celebrates Christmas - to those who don't...happy whatever this time of year brings you).

And for those of you looking for a quick fun read to get you through the holidays, guess what - Starkissed will be on sale for $1.99 from December 23 to Dec 26th. So make sure to pick up a copy. It will be available via KOBO and Amazon.

Merry Christmas readers, friends, family, random people who have stumbled upon this blog.

Brynna
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Published on December 21, 2012 08:29

December 19, 2012

Distinctly Excited.

Today I am happy. I'm so happy I'm not entirely sure how express the joy I'm feeling in actual words. Instead I feel like throwing my arms in the air and screaming a cacophony of sounds that may resemble something like: ohmyfreakinggodholymollyflimmingflabberfloogetyfloopybalalalalala.

Why am I so happy? Well remember how all those months ago when I started this blog and released Starkissed it was actually for a school project? In more specific terms it was for my major project, which, for those who don't quite fathom the majorness of said project, is like a dissertation. It was worth a third of my entire degree. And guess what? Today I got the results.

For those who need a bit of a recap, my major project was essentially a case study of my self-publishing of Starkissed. So all the work I did on my book was, in a great deal, for the purposes of this project. For example, I taught myself photoshop so I could make the cover. I taught myself ebook creation so I could create the ebooks. I proofread and edited my own copy. I started this website and did a whole ton of social media and marketing. Anything and everything that involved the publishing of Starkissed was done by me. I didn't hire anyone for any purposes. All to teach me how to be a self-published author, to see if I could make it work. I wrote a marketing plan and a report, which were massive, and handed them in last September.

While it started as a project, it actually turned into a dream. Doing this project made me realize what I want to do, and that's write. And showed me that I can do it and make money. So...this project was big for me. And last night, I was terrified. December 19 had been looming for months but it was finally here, results were just hours away. I was so...pessimistic I suppose is the right word. I convinced myself that I was going to pass and just barely. Which is why when I woke up this morning I was beyond shocked because I actually did more than pass. I got a distinction. A mark worlds higher than I'd convinced myself I deserved. And because I did so well on my project, I actually got a distinction for the whole whopping degree.

I'm floored, beyond words. And thankful, just thankful. I poured myself into that project. I took a chance on something that I though might work out...and wow did it. When I started that project I thought I might sell 75 books in the first month. I sold over 750. And as of now? Well I've surpassed my goal for 3000 sold by years end. I'm actually getting close to 3500 copies sold. I should hit that number, and likely even surpass it, by December 31.

This has been an amazing, wonderful, fantastic journey and I just want to thank everyone who supported me. To all those who bought Starkissed, or reviewed it, or shared a link with a friend. To all those who told me I wasn't crazy and that my cover was pretty and that my story was funny. You all are a part of this moment for me! Thank you.

With that I will stop rambling on and get started on whole new adventure (writing one that is). Stay tuned.

Brynna




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Published on December 19, 2012 14:58

December 11, 2012

Best Films of 2012 part two!

So to those of you who read my last post and are waiting for the sequel - ie the second part of my top ten list of films for 2012 - the wait is over! I meant to post this sooner, but you see I decided I had to see Miley Cyrus's new film, So Undercover, before I made my final decision - (This is a joke, although I did see that movie this afternoon and while silly, it was surprisingly delightful).

Anyways the wait is over. So let us begin counting down the top five Best Films of 2012: The Brynna Edition. 

5. Friends with Kids - I don't think many people saw this delightful romantic comedy, but I must say that I whole heartedly enjoyed this film from start to finish. It's funny, dramatic, a little bit heartbreaking, but also completely heartwarming too. I think I even shed a tear near the end. The supporting cast was great, how could it not be with Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph and that lovely irish guy from Bridesmaids (I probably should go look up his name but I'm not too bothered at the moment). Anyways, for those who love a simple, sweet, and fun romance/comedy - see this one now! 

4. Les Miserables -Disclaimer #1 - I have never seen the musical, nor listened to the soundtrack. Disclaimer #2, I've not actually seen the movie yet! So how does this make my top five films of 2012? Well because of the trailer my friends. If a trailer can have me gripped as completely as the trailer for this film does, then surely it's going to be amazing. Besides that, the cast is absolutely fantastic. I'm so excited to see Anne Hathaway as Fantine. I love a good musical and I love an epic tale, so I'm positive I'm going to love this movie. And if not, well then my bad. 

3. Silver Linings Playbook - I saw this film last week and absolutely adored it. I was a bit weary at first, what with Bradley Cooper playing a man recently discharged from a mental hospital, but it was fantastic. He was amazing and once again Jennifer Lawrence turned in an astounding performance. I think I want to be her best friend. 

2. The Avengers - Confession to those who do not know me well, I love Thor. To be more specific, I love the Thor movie that came out last year. It ranks well up there in my top films of all time. I have no idea why it has struck such a chord with me, but it has. Chris Hemsworth is just...wow in the role. So needless to say, another movie crops up with Thor in it, I'm going to love it to death. And I did love this movie. An important note is that I don't just love Thor, I love nearly all comic book movies (though I don't actually read comic books) so this was just a buffet of wonderful. Iron Man, The Hulk, Captain America, Hawkeye....but mostly Thor. It was gripping, action packed, fun, exciting. I really had the best time watching this movie. I can't wait for the for the next one, and all the individual Marvel films in between. 

1. The Dark Knight Rises - Batman Begins is actually pretty much my all time favourite movie (tied with Dirty Dancing), so needless to say I'm a bit enamoured when it comes to Christopher Nolan's Batman trilogy. I waited for this movie with baited breath and it did not disappoint. I was gripped from start to finish and loved nearly every minute. I would have loved all the minutes if I could have understood anything Bane said..But I loved the story and the journey, and I really loved Anne Hathaway as Catwoman. Such a great movie. I know that many regard The Dark Knight as the best of the three films, and it is a fantastic film, but I never really liked it as much as Batman Begins. Rises, however, maybe has just barely notched passed Begins as my favourite of the trilogy. I think I'll have to see it a few more times before I decide outright. Either way, it was my favourite movie of 2012. 


A few honourable mentions: The Five-Year Engagement, Ted, The Amazing Spiderman, and The Vow. 

There you have it - my top ten movies of 2012. Of course I didn't have time to see every movie that came out this year, and like Les Miserables, not all the movies of 2012 have been released yet.  I'm really looking forward to a couple more to come such as: This is 40, Jack Reacher, The Guilt Trip, and The Hobbit. But from what I've seen and what I know of myself, these are the ten best movies in my opinion and that's the point of this blog! 

What were you favourite films this year? 

Brynna
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Published on December 11, 2012 15:03

December 7, 2012

Best of...FILMS

So leading up to the end of the year I thought I'd do a bit of reflection over the past year and make a few best of lists, because I love making lists. Yes I'm one of those people. So today I bring you the Best Films of 2012 (Part One): The Brynna Edition. Do note that I've been busy and broke this year, and thus haven't seen everything that came out, but from what I've seen - here's 2012 in review.


10. Skyfall - I'm not a Bond aficionado in the least, I've only seen a few Bond movies to date, but I must say the newest Bond was fantastic. Who knew Daniel Craig was so...smouldering? I didn't. There's something about him as Bond. In other movies I can take or leave him to be honest, but as Bond...well I wouldn't leave him!

9. Argo - One of few dramas that have kept me glued to my seat. Ben Affleck really is a fantastic actor/director. Long gone is the crippling shadow of J.LO and Bennifer . Also loved the Canadian element.

8. Brave - I'm not the world's biggest fan of animated films. Don't get me wrong, I like many many of them. But Pixar never seems to fail me. Brave may not be the grandest Pixar offering, but I really enjoyed the spunky Merida. Red heads rule.

7. The Hunger Games - So many books to movies go oh so wrong. But this adaption of The Hunger Games did the books absolute justice. Sure there were bits from the book that didn't make it to the screen, but it wasn't detrimental to the film. I can remember leaving the theatre with my friends bitching and moaning about Josh Hutcherson as Peta, but I thought he did a great job and I loved the connection between him and Jennifer Lawrence's Katniss. Speaking of Jennifer Lawrence, holy crap that girl is amazing! New favourite actress.

6. The Perks of Being a Wallflower - I read the book when I was 14 I think, and loved it then, though the story had long since escaped my brain when I saw the film. Emma Watson was lovely as Sam and I happy to see her break free from her Harry Potter beginnings (though I will always revere her as Hermione). Logan Lerman was fantastic and I can see a fantastic career ahead of him. Great film.


Stay tuned for films 5 - 1.

Brynna


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Published on December 07, 2012 14:16