Karen Swart's Blog, page 39
December 3, 2014
Book Blast & Giveaway: Mountain of Love and Danger by @Hopefulwords
BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – Mountain of Love and Danger SERIES – Fairwilde Fairy Tale Reflections AUTHOR – Gail Pallotta GENRE – Mystery and Romance PUBLICATION DATE – 10/14/2014 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) - 32, 440 PUBLISHER – Mountain Laurel Publishing / Create Space COVER ARTIST – Vanessa Riley
BOOK SYNOPSIS Jack Greenthumb finds romance in Fairwilde Kingdom—a different day—a different girl. Then a cruel mystery begins. Dad’s beaten, the family farm destroyed and Jack’s true love, Gwendolyn Bante, kidnapped. Jack’s undercover operation reveals Gwenie’s a captive atop a mountain accessible only by helicopter. Reaching her is a dangerous expedition even for a champion rock climber like Jack. However, a Greenthumb Acres employee plants a miraculous seed from Heaven for the rescue. Suspense mounts as Jack scales the perilous cliff to face a brute and a treacherous descent in this retelling of the fairy tale, Jack and the Beanstalk.
BUY & TBR LINKSAMAZON KINDLE – AMAZON PAPERBACK – BARNES & NOBLES NOOK – SMASHWORDS – GOODREADS
EXCERPTCHARACTER BIOSJack Greenthumb’s a great guy. He’s young and comes from a well-to-do family, so he’s been having fun riding girls around in his new car. However, when his dad’s attacked and his true love kidnapped, one quickly sees he’s courageous, determined and devoted to his family and girlfriend. Fortunately, he’s also a champion rock and mountain climber.Lonely darkness fell around Jack as he slipped into his harness and put on his climbing shoes. He crept in and out of the moon’s shadows to the base of the alp and took hold of the strong plant, the itchy touch of it not a problem, the strength of it boosting his confidence. Fueled by the fire burning in his heart to find Gwenie, he stepped on the first node and glanced back. Just one quick look. He didn’t know why. Maybe something in his psyche wanted to see the ground from whence he’d come one last time in case he never set foot on it again.
He climbed up the next nodule and the next as fast as his feet and arms would take him. A sense of leaving the everyday world overwhelmed him as it always did when he climbed, but this time it wasn’t freeing. An eerie sensation sent shivers through his bones with every foot he scaled. The breaking of twigs, crunching of leaves, and howling noises below grew fainter and fainter as he ascended higher and higher.
“Whooo-whoo.” Halfway up he met an owl that turned its head in a circle as it sat on the highest limb of a towering oak. He pulled upward while pushing with his lower body as he passed boulders and scraggly bushes lit by the stars and moon. He searched with his right hand for the next node, found it, moved up and placed his foot on the spot where it had been. The jagged surface on this mountain could rip open a person in an instant, but it was Jack’s fear for Gwenie that gripped him. The yearning to hold her safe in his arms seeped deeper into his pores each time he forged upward.
His body ached as he pulled with nerves wound as tight as a corkscrew for wanting to hurry to the top. Soon his leg muscles cramped. A gray piece of granite jutting out like the seat of a chair with a slab for a back tempted him. How could he rest after what he’d done to Gwenie? He had to keep moving, but what if his arms and legs gave out, and he never reached her? His head throbbed with decision making.
Just for a second he let go of the living pole. His foot slipped, and he slid down the precipice, debris rolling, crashing beneath him until the belay caught the rope and stopped his fall. His head swam as he thrust the spring-loaded camming device into a crack and anchored the cable. He swung to his right and sank to the rocky seat. The stones settled below him and silence filled the darkness where he sat tucked out of the light from Heaven.
Two days ago he was a slap-happy player in love with Gwenie since childhood, but content to drink life’s single pleasures a while longer. Now the need to take hold of a more profound passion that seemed as fragile as one of Dad’s orchids burned in his soul. The breeze whipping around him blew away images of fast rides through Fairwilde with a blond or a brunette laughing beside him. He needed Gwenie. Please Lord, let her be alright waiting for me.
He stretched out his legs then rubbed his palms together. Upward.
He swung out, grabbed hold of the beanstalk, pulled up with his hand and pushed with his foot as a blast of strong wind swayed the sturdy stem. The stars grew dim then disappeared as clouds rolled over them. Raindrops hit his head while lightning flashed, lighting up the sky—nothing but dark space as far as he could see. Then the flash.
He pulled up with his hand and pushed with his right foot—pulled up with his hand and pushed with his right foot again and again through the black void cut by occasional lightning. The tiny glow from the lamp on his helmet did little good in this storm. Another burst of air whipped around him, and the plant quivered. He touched a flat spot. The one Fernando told him to look for? He moved his fingers around it.
Yes. Relief as strong as the gust that bent the trees swept over him. The top. He wanted to shout I’m here Gwenie! into the stormy night over and over, but instead he leaned forward trying to see a way into the cabin.
AUTHOR BIO Award-winning author Gail Pallotta’s a wife, Mom, swimmer and bargain shopper who loves God, beach sunsets and getting together with friends and family. A former regional writer of the year for American Christian Writers Association, she won Clash of the Titles in 2010. Her teen book, Stopped Cold, finished fourth in the 16th Annual Preditors and Editors readers’ poll and was a finalist for the 2013 Grace Awards. She’s published short stories in “Splickety” magazine and Sweet Freedom with a Slice of Peach Cobbler. Some of her published articles appear in anthologies while two are in museums. Visit her web site at http://www.gailpallotta.com
AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE / BLOG – FACEBOOK – TWITTER – GOOGLE+ - GOODREADS
GIVEAWAYe-book of Mountain of Love and Danger
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December 2, 2014
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Choosing Evil by @kristinarienzi
Choosing Evil
Ensouled Trilogy
Book 1
Kristina Rienzi
Genre: Paranormal Suspense/Paranormal Romance
Publisher: Midnight Frost Books
Date of Publication: November 25, 2014
ISBN:
ASIN:
Word Count: 70k estimated
Book Description:
Serafina Murano is no stranger to the paranormal. All of her life she’s lived harmoniously alongside demons. Damon Serpe is a conflicted demon on a mission. Unexpectedly, they collide into each other’s lives and are inexorably drawn to one another.
Dark deadly secrets, gut wrenching betrayal, and elusive questions haunt her and have her entire life. Instinctively, Serafina realizes Damon holds the key to her understanding. If she trusts him, can he help decipher her recurring nightmares and unravel the mysteries surrounding her?
On the eve of her thirtieth birthday, she must select her path and make a difficult choice. One which will change her, and perhaps the world, forever.
Will Serafina embrace the truth and face her evil?
Would you?
Book Trailer http://youtu.be/U9wMf4zX7os
Find Choosing Evil on Amazon and Goodreads
Already late, Serafina began sprinting toward her building. She was still deep in thought and failed to pay attention. A second later, she slammed into what felt like a brick wall. Her coffee cup filled with mocha latte went flying, landing all over an impeccable pinstriped suit.
She stopped breathing when she faced the victim of her morning beverage. A handsome bronzed man, almost two feet taller than Serafina, stood in front of her. His irises were so light they looked almost clear. They held a world of intrigue and reeled her right in. Those iridescent opal eyes were magnificent and haunting, telling her almost everything she needed to know about him. He was a demon.
His smile was perfection, revealing a set of incredibly beautiful teeth. He was stunning and he wasn't human. Serafina wiped her moist palms on her dress and gave him a half-smile. "I'm so sorry." She rummaged through her purse for napkins or tissues, not fully understanding why the universe had chosen this moment, a time when her best self wasn’t present, to meet a gorgeous demon, like him.
"No problem, I’m Damon.” His smoky voice made her shudder with pleasure.
"Serafina,” she lowered her voice but it didn’t sound natural and it wasn’t nearly as sultry as she wished it had been. She stepped forward to shake Damon’s hand and her heel caught on the pavement. As she began to tip over, he grabbed her arm and pulled her up straight, all in one swift motion. Now attached to him, her arms wrapped around his waist in desperation. When she realized what she was doing, she shuffled away from him and tried regain her balance.
"Are you okay?" His expression showed his concern.
"I'm fine. But, I didn’t have my coffee yet." Serafina tried to flatten the wrinkles in her dress and right herself.
Damon laughed, catching her off guard. Relieved, Serafina laughed too. She didn’t expect her attempt at humor to work. Given her morning, she didn't think there was any wittiness in her to begin with, let alone, for it to come with such ease.
When Serafina’s laid eyes on the mess she had made, her posture went rigid. It was a coffee crime scene, straight out of a forensic textbook. Luminal would have exposed her caffeine attack for all to see. For her assault, she should have been handcuffed on the spot. "I've ruined your clothes.”
Damon brushed himself off and buttoned up his suit jacket. "I’m fine.”
"Yes, you are." Serafina meant to say it in her head, or at the least under her breath, but it had come out of her mouth loud and clear. Her face became hot in an instant, so she began fanning herself.
"This might sound like a line, but I’m glad you bumped into me. Where are you from?” Damon’s eyes twinkled, but his question sounded forced as if he already knew her answer.
"Home, today that is.” She failed horribly at making another joke. “But I've lived at the Jersey Shore all of my life." She tried to redeem herself "And, yes, it did sound like a line.” He was definitely the new one in town. "Did you move here recently?"
Damon shook his head. "I'm as new as you. I've lived in Rivershore for many years. I work in Maroon County and for just as long."
Rivershore was an upscale town not far from where she grew up in the modest beach town of Silver Lake. Although she had worked in the city for several years, Serafina spent all of her free time at the Jersey Shore, mainly Maroon County. Even more coincidentally, Serafina would turn thirty years old soon, so Damon was technically the same age as her. Demons never aged past the age of thirty.
From what he said, they had shared the commonality of living and working in nearby towns. So, it didn’t make sense she had never seen him before. Clearly, he had a knack for hiding. However, many years in demon terms could have been any amount of time since demons were practically immortal.
She studied him for more reasons than one, although he was striking and easy to admire. Damon’s exquisite appearance reminded her of a model or an actor. He had a rugged look, yet he was polished. He wore his expensive suit coupled with his five o'clock shadow as if it were a fashion statement. His ebony hair was long enough to push behind his ears. He was a unique mix of a tattoo artist and a Hollywood movie star. The combination really worked for him.
Serafina’s eye contact with him was firm but her muscles lost all of their tension. “Where exactly do you work? I can’t believe I’ve never seen you before.” She felt weak as she visually devoured Damon. She was certain she would have remembered him if she had seen him before. The fact their paths had never crossed was inexplicable to her. Then, so was the supernatural. Humans living with a paranormal reality made anything possible.
Right as Damon was about to answer, his watch alarm went off. He silenced it. "I've got to run, but it was nice meeting you, Serafina. I hope to bump into you again, and soon.” He touched her arm lightly in a goodbye gesture and once more flashed his award-winning smile.
By the time Serafina summoned the nerve to reply, "Me too," he was already gone.
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
Yes, since I was a kid! I was a shy kid and books were my whole world. I started very young, writing stories that were my own versions of stories by other authors I liked.
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
I’ve pretty much always thought of myself as a writer! I was always either scribbling fiction or working as a writer in my job.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
Either four years or twenty. I first started writing with hopes of publishing when I was in my early twenties. But then I gave it up for a long time. I started again when my daughter was very young. The first full-length novel I wrote at that time was GHOST PLANET, and that was published by Tor Books in 2012.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
Yes, I work as editorial director for SilkWords (where I’m also a partner). SilkWords is an interactive romance and erotica publisher. We publish branched fiction (Pick Your Path), and Reader Vote stories. If you’re curious, there’s a lot of free content up on our site: www.silkwords.com.
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
My tour book is RAVEN TAKES A PEARL, a steampunk BDSM novelette, second in my Fantasies in Color series. Twenty words was hard!
Steampunk lass leaves home for the first time to steal back her mother’s prize possession — finds herself instead.
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
Both! I publish science fiction romance novels via Tor Books, and I indie publish my erotica novelettes.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
My first published novel took less than two months. (True story!) My second took a year and a half. (Alas, also a true story.) My erotica stories are novelette length and take a couple weeks to write the first draft.
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
There are more Fantasies in Color stories coming! I also have a new Tor book out on Feb. 3 (ECHO 8, a paranormal, suspense, sci-fi mash-up with a love triangle). And I have an in-progress novelette on Wattpad — RED: LOVE IN THE TIME OF FLESH-EATERS (free read).
What genre would you place your books into?
Sci-Fi/Fantasy, though I do love mash-ups (see previous question!).
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
I’ve always written speculative fiction, and probably always will. I really love worldbuilding, and steampunk has such compelling settings. RAVEN is sort of a dark sister to a sweet steampunk romance I wrote for SilkWords, A HEART FOR COPPER. They both are set in the same world, have a hero who’s an inventor, and have a heroine who experiences an awakening.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
Jane Eyre is one of my all-time favorites. She’s smart and doesn’t take crap from anyone, not even the powerful and secretive Mr. Rochester. Ha, I just realized you said from one of MY books. But I think that would be like choosing a favorite child, so I’ll stick with this!
How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?
Since I was six! Books inspired me to write.
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
Post book contract, writing becomes as much profession as passion, and I’m pretty businesslike about it. In other words I work at my desk in silence most of the time. But it does get lonely, so sometimes I go to coffee shops just to be around other people. And I do sometimes listen to music when editing.
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
I’m on a self-imposed intervention with review reading. Up until recently I have read every word of every review. But occasionally there’s a really painful one and it’s impossible to scrub it out of your brain once you’ve read it. Nowadays if I see less than three stars, I don’t read it.
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
Almost without fail I choose a title first, and the rest of the story unpacks from that. But for RAVEN, I was well into writing the story before the title came.
How do you come up with characters names in your books?
Sometimes I name them after a literary character I love (like Elizabeth in GHOST PLANET). Sometimes the name is symbolic (like Pearl in RAVEN). Their name may have a meaning in another language (Asha and Pax in THE OPHELIA PROPHECY). And sometimes it’s just a name that seems like it suits them (Tess, Ross, and Jake in ECHO 8).
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
I always have some sense of the character by the time I’m a few pages in, but it’s usually in the revision process where their characters really develop.
Are there any hidden messages or morals contained in your books? (Morals as in like Aesops Fables type of "The moral of this story is..")
Not so much morals, but higher-concept stuff does seem to creep into my work. What it means to be human is a very common theme, explored through characters like Master Raven who are not fully human, and are often marginalized because of it.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
I have a Kindle but still love paper. Trade paperback, I think. Nice big words, not too heavy.
What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?
I’m not very good at choosing favorites (more on that below!), but a few books I loved and read multiple times: A WRINKLE IN TIME (loved the close family bonds, and awkward Meg), WATERSHIP DOWN (amazing characters), and LORD OF THE RINGS (amazing characters and setting). These days I don’t ever seem to have time for re-reading.
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
Some do, yes. Readers have to adjust expectations when it comes to films — things that work in books don’t always work in movies. My current favorite is the TV adaptation of OUTLANDER. A friend and I did an eight-hour binge on that one! I love it because it’s got great writing and they made good actor choices. I think my least favorite adaptation was THE TIME TRAVELER’S WIFE. I didn’t think the screenplay did the book justice.
Your favorite food is? Your favorite singer/group is? Your favorite color is? Your favorite Author is?
I suck at favorites! If I pick one, pretty soon I’m thinking about all the reasons I love a different one!
Kristina Rienzi was born and raised at the Jersey Shore where she still lives today. Her debut paranormal suspense novel, CHOOSING EVIL, is being published by Frost Books on November 25, 2014.
Professionally, Kristina has been active in the writing community as a member of the Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime-Central Jersey, Romance Writers of America and New Jersey Romance Writers, serving as Chair of the Literary Book Fair in 2013. Kristina has her Masters Degree in Psychological Counseling and her Senior Professional in Human Resources Certificate, working in both fields throughout her business career.
Personally, Kristina is married and a doggie mommy to Pekingese and Shih Tzu pups. Although a lover of New Jersey, she dreams of one day moving to Hawaii and living the “Aloha” way. When she’s not writing, she spends her time reading, watching paranormal investigations, rooting for her West Virginia Mountaineers or relaxing with her loved ones, wine in hand.
Kristina is currently working on BREAKING EVIL, the sequel to CHOOSING EVIL, as well as another paranormal suspense novel, UNLEASH THE WICKED, about an unsuspecting witch at the Jersey Shore.
Website: www.kristinarienzi.com
Blog: www.kristinarienzi.com/blog
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kristinarienzi
Facebook: www.facebook.com/kristinarienziauthor
Cover Reveal & Character Blast: Dead Girl Walking by @writeawaybliss
Dead Girl Walking (Royal Reaper) by Ruth Silver
Published: November 25, 2014
Publisher: Booktrope
Forget everything you know about grim reapers. Princess Ophelia Dacre sneaks out of the castle to visit her boyfriend in secret. A perfect night cut short when she’s brutally murdered. Ophelia is given the rare chance to become a grim reaper. She must become Leila Bele, cut ties with her old life, and follow the rules of the reapers. Her greatest adventure begins with death. Now includes the prequel Ashes to Ashes as a bonus story in the Booktrope edition. Available in eBook & Paperback. Add to Goodreads Available on Amazon | Barnes & Noble Excerpt “Listen, kid, I don’t care what you believe in. It’s not for me to say what’s true and untrue, real or unreal. My assignment was you. You get to be one of us, if you want it. Otherwise, you move on, life is over, kaput.” Ophelia backed away from the stranger. For the first time, she realized she didn’t feel cold and wasn’t shivering. Is this what being dead was like? “One of you?” “A grim reaper.” He held out his hand to properly introduce himself. “Edon Montgomery, head reaper and old soul.” Meet the Characters
Ophelia Dacre
The princess and heir to the throne, Ophelia witnessed her mother’s murder as a young child. Barely seventeen, she is a hopeless romantic at heart. Ophelia has fallen in love with Larkin, a commoner. Although she knew it’s against her fathers wishes, she continues to see her boyfriend in secret. Ophelia is passionate, cunning, and would do anything for her young sister Mara.
Leila Bele
Formerly Ophelia Dacre, Leila is the newest reaper and has trouble following the rules. She missed her life as a princess, and has trouble staying away from those she left behind.
Wynter Gael
A grim reaper and constant rule breaker. Wynter enjoys Leila’s company. His roommate and best friend, Jasper, keeps him in line.
Mara Dacre
Princess and younger sister to Ophelia, Mara is just fourteen years old. Full of love toward Ophelia, Mara will stop at nothing to know the truth about how her sister died, and who murdered her.
Larkin Alis
Not of royal blood, unbeknownst to him, Larkin was courting Princess Ophelia up until her murder. He is a suspect in her brutal slaying.
Edon Montgomery
Head reaper and considered an old soul, Edon’s job is to keep the other reapers in line. Tough but fair, Edon is always watching and fixing reaper mistakes. Although, he has a few secrets of his own.
Jasper Ehlers
A fellow reaper and best friend to Wynter, Jasper has been in love with Violetta for decades. He’s a romantic, constantly wooing Violetta through the decades, hoping to one day win over her heart.
Violetta Mercier
A grim reaper and roommate of Emblyn. Violetta is cheeky, dark, and quite often mysterious at first introduction. She loves to tease others and enjoys the thrill of being pursued by Jasper. She prides herself on being a reaper and lets it reflect in her appearance.
Emblyn Vernon
The good girl reaper. Emblyn follows the rules, most of the time. A friend to most reapers, Emblyn has a kind heart and upbeat attitude. She sticks up for those that need support, and is always there to offer a hand when necessary.
Astin Stafford
Of royal blood, Prince Astin and Princess Ophelia have an arranged marriage for the sake of their kingdoms. He’s kind, charming, but a bit of a push over. Ophelia has no romantic feelings toward Astin.
Juliana Stapleton
Once human over a thousand year ago, Juliana was forever marked a dark angel. With black wings and a duty of responsibility, she doesn’t take her job lightly.
About the Author
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Hellish Haven by @LBelowtheauthor
![Hellish Haven Banner - TOUR- 851 x 315_thumb[1]](http://lh6.ggpht.com/-18XJCdtjnGQ/VHyLMXUYEyI/AAAAAAAAM8Q/f8xxA4W8hS4/s1600-h/Hellish-Haven-Banner---TOUR--851-x-3%25255B1%25255D.png)
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Hellish Haven
L.K. Below
Genre: Dystopian Romance
Publisher: Kensington Publishing Corp.,
Lyrical Press Imprint
Date of Publication: November 17, 2014
ISBN: 9781616506254
ASIN: B00NJ0VL6A
Number of pages: 72
Word Count: 33,718
Cover Artist: Renee Rocco
Book Description:
Two lives. Two realities. But only one truth.
The Senator reigns all-powerful in a manifested picture-perfect world. No worries. No wars. Only the unspoken threat of oblivion if you step a toe out of line. On the other side of the divide, the rebels face a debilitating war against an invulnerable robotic army. Every day is a struggle to earn back their freedoms. Freedom to feel. Freedom of speech. Freedom of thought.
Sergeant Grant Baker is pivotal to the war effort. But ever since his wife’s abduction, he’s been walking around in as much of a daze as the Senator’s brainwashed citizens. Then Eva reappears—without memories of him or their son. And he’s willing to do anything to keep her. Even if it means jeopardizing the war.
Eva doesn’t know which side to believe. Her predictable life as a single nurse, or the man claiming to be her husband. All she knows is she needs to discover how to end the war, quickly. If she doesn’t choose sides soon, she may lose the man—and the life—she never knew she wanted.
Available at Kensington Books BN Kobo Amazon iTunes
Acting as vanguard for the injured squad, Grant turned a corner and froze. A hulky man carried a limp woman over his shoulder.
Grant automatically reached for his gun. Even if they weren’t yet across the divide, he couldn’t stand idle as a man accosted a woman. Or worse. He aimed the rifle at the criminal. “Set her down nice and easy.”
The man froze. He glanced over one meaty shoulder, his unshaven mouth set in a scowl.
“Set her down, or I’ll shoot.”
A gold tooth flashed as the criminal grinned. He hurled the small woman at Grant and dashed for the slim space between two buildings.
Grant moved without thinking. His gun clattered to the ground as he lunged forward to catch the woman before she split her head open on the sidewalk. He grunted as he caught her with her weight against his bruised forearms. He shot a flickering glance her way. A riot of brown curls obscured her face. He set her gently on the ground.
He dashed for the opening the shady figure had disappeared into, but saw no sight of the man. The delinquent was long gone.
Ashland panted as he jogged to Grant’s side. “What happened?”
If Grant never heard that question again, it would be too soon. He shook his head wearily. “Mugging, I guess.”
“They still have those here? I thought the Senator brought an end to violence.” Ashland drew sarcastic quotes in the air as he spoke.
Grant didn’t bother to answer. He turned to the woman and where his squad was now gathered. A horrified private glanced from the woman to Grant and back again. “What do you want us to do with her…sir?”
If they left her, the Senator’s people might find her and stick her back in the pen with the rest of their brainwashed sheep. Then again, that same goon might double back to continue what he started.
He crossed to the woman and crouched to lift her into his arms. Her tangled hair fell away from her face. He nearly dropped her. “Eva?”
Frantically, he pressed his ear to her chest. Her breathing was shallow, but her heartbeat steady and strong. He clutched her tighter. He couldn’t believe it.
He’d found his wife.
Character Name: Eva Baker
Character Bio: Born in the Bronx, Eva was a straight-A student who put herself through nursing school. When the impossible happened and the government began brainwashing its citizens into compliance, she joined a resistance movement in Manhattan, where she met and fell in love with her husband Grant Baker. She now lives with Grant and their son, Miguel.
Describe yourself. What is your worst and best quality?
I can get a little cranky in the morning, especially without coffee. If you threaten to do something to my family, I will travel to the ends of the earth to stop you.
What is the one thing you wish other people knew about you?
I loved my job as an emergency room nurse. At one time, I hoped to go back to school to become a nursing administrator or a nurse practitioner.
What is your biggest secret something no one knows about?
I’ve always felt awkward around my young nieces and nephews. I worried it would be the same with my son, Miguel.
What are you most afraid of?
My family dying. We’re in a situation where this is more likely to happen every day.
What do you want more than anything?
Peace. Freedom. I want the white picket fence with my husband and Miguel. You know…without the war attached.
What is your relationship status?
Happily married.
How would you describe your sense of fashion?
I used to be a lot more fashion-conscious. These days, I wear whatever is comfortable and combat-ready, usually military fatigues.
How much of a rebel are you?
Depends who you ask. If you ask the American government, I’m pretty sure my husband and I have made their Most Wanted list.
What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?
Miguel. I don’t know how I would keep going without my son…and his father, too.
What is your idea of happiness?
A quiet picnic, lying on the grass and picking shapes out of the fluffy clouds.
What is your current state of mind?
Alert. I have to be, these days.
What is your most treasured possession?
My coffee mug, especially if it’s filled.
What is your most marked characteristic?
My dark, curly hair.
What is it that you most dislike?
War, drugs, and guns.
Which living person do you most despise?
The Senator, though we’ve never met face-to-face. That is, if he truly is a person and not a figurehead.
What is your greatest regret?
That I was careless enough to be captured by the government. If I could, I would go back and stay in bed that day.
What is the quality you most like in a man?
I like men, especially my man, to be considerate. The little things remind you how wonderful a person is -- like if he gives you the last cup of coffee instead of keeping it for himself. That is marriage material.
What is the quality you most like in a woman?
I’m no believer in damsels in distress. If you find yourself in a bad situation, get yourself out of it. Don’t wait for a man.
Who is your favorite hero in fiction?
I used to love masked vigilantes like Zorro or Robin Hood. Now, it seems like we would need an awful lot of those to make a difference.
Which living person do you most admire?
I admire my husband for the strength he has shown in the face of all that has happened to us. He tries to hide it, especially from Miguel, but I know that my abduction has taken a hard toll on him. On all of us.
If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
I would give up anything if I was able to regain the memories the government wiped from me. Grant tells me stories -- about how we met, about Miguel’s infancy -- but they only serve to hurt me more. I will never remember what it felt like to hold my son in my arms for the first time, I won’t know his first smile or his first steps. I have him now, and I have my husband, but I do wonder what our life would be like if I was whole, and able to recall these precious things.
What is your motto?
Take one day at a time.
L.K. Below wrote Hellish Haven to bring her love of Orwell’s classic 1984 into the modern day…or near future, as it turns out.
She reads as obsessively as she writes and likes to Tweet about both at @LBelowtheauthor.
http://twitter.com/LBelowtheauthor
November 20 Twitter Party
1-2pm EST #hellishhaven
December 1, 2014
New Release: The Green Dagger by Kelly Hess
Title: The Green Dagger (BlackMyst Trilogy #2)
Author: Kelly Hess
Publisher: Booktrope
Published: December 2, 2014
Genre: Middle Grade, Fantasy
Tensions rise between Delvengard and Sorak as the Sorak queen demands the return of the Blade of Torrill. As Delvengard scrambles to locate the mythical weapon, many fear war is inevitable. Fritz, who secretly possesses the dagger, is tormented by its evil. Eager to take control of its power, he journeys in search of a mysterious being who may be able to help. The Green Dagger, Book Two of the BlackMyst Trilogy, continues the adventure, five years after the events of Book One, Eyes of the Enemy.Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iTunes
Title: Eyes of the Enemy (BlackMyst Trilogy #1)
Author: Kelly Hess Genre: MG, Fantasy Publisher: Booktrope Published: June 30, 2014 When a rogue band of the dreaded Sorak attacks his village, twelve-year-old Beynn Firehand escapes into the darkness of BlackMyst Forest to find help. During his quest, Beynn discovers his own powerful magic abilities. The price of his newfound powers, however, may be higher than he ever imagined. Amazon | Barnes & Noble | iTunes
About the Author
Kelly Hess grew up with a love of reading science fiction and fantasy that inspired him to write his own fantasy trilogy. He lives in Vacaville, California with his wife and son, and is putting the final details on the last book of his BlackMyst Trilogy: The Third Power.
Cover Reveal: Walk Home To Me by @jprand
BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – Walk Home To Me SERIES – Walking Series – Book 3 AUTHOR – Jill Prand GENRE – Contemporary, Military Romance PUBLICATION DATE – January 15, 2015
BOOK SYNOPSIS Bobby had one last mission to complete before he committed his life to Lisa. All he had to do was get home and put the ring on her finger. But he was captured and held while Lisa was told he was dead. After being rescued near death, Bobby is haunted by the events he survived in the past few months. The darkness won’t release its hold on him. How can he ask Lisa to share this new existence?
Lisa has tried to move on with her life, even though each night brings dreams of her soulmate. Guilt wracks her heart, she can’t force herself to love Brad like he should be loved, but she can’t let him go. Lisa knows she should cut out the part of her still grasping onto Bobby but doing so would kill her.
Brad knows Lisa will never love him the same way she loved Bobby, but he just needs her in his arms. Brad plans to hold onto Lisa and build the life he’s been dreaming of since sixth grade.
This is the heart-wrenching conclusion to The Walking Series. Three people will come to grips with the fact that love is not always enough, and sometimes you just have to walk away.
Goodreads link
PROLOGUE Bobby
I can’t believe I have to go back in two days. There wasn’t enough time. Two weeks is just too short of a leave – I’ve only seen her three times. Once leaving school when I hid in the back of the parking lot. Once she and her mother were packing up to go to Pennsylvania for Christmas; and yesterday she was sitting out on her dock. I was across the river hiding behind a boat just to gaze at her. I feel like such a stalker but my heart aches for her. I haven’t felt whole since I left for basic training. Now in just two short days I have to report to my Special Forces team. The casualty rate is fifty-nine percent so my odds of making it out in one piece aren’t in my favor. We’re going to the wilds of Afghanistan into the heart of Taliban territory. Along with normal patrols, my team could be called at any time to take out confirmed cells. Looking into the mirror I finish brushing my teeth. I look much different than when I left eighteen months ago. Gone is the shaggy hair Lisa loved to jerk on while we kissed, now it’s barely more than stubble on my head. I grew two inches and put on thirty pounds of muscle. That’s what happens when you carry seventy-five pounds of gear for ten hours a day. I wonder what she will think when she sees me. I can’t say I am sorry for leaving this town, that would be a lie. The Army has given my life purpose. Before enlisting the best I could have hoped for was being a plumber or electrician’s assistant until I could get a license. Now when I finally get out of the Army I can get a private security job. Hell, I could even qualify for Secret Service. I might even become a cop. A cop’s salary isn’t even close to what Lisa’s father makes but it’s nothing to sneeze at and it’s an honorable career. Much better than the minimum paying factory job that her father said I would end up in. I shake my head. There is no use thinking about a future that is over two years away. I have thirty-two months left before I can plan a future, that’s if I make it back alive. But tonight I have to see her one more time. I am hoping she will talk to me; she was pretty mad when I left. I had to break up with her; it wasn’t fair to ask Lisa to wait. At sixteen you shouldn’t be tied down to an absent boyfriend. I hear the music as I walk out my door. Joe’s house is just four away from mine and all the neighbors know by now that this party happens each year. As long as the kids stay inside or in his backyard, no one will call the cops to break it up. My heart rate climbs as I get closer to the door. The front door is open and I can see the crowd through the storm door. Patty and April are just inside so I know I won’t be getting in unnoticed. Taking a deep breath I open the door, “Holy shit!” Patty screeches, “Bobby Harber, where the hell did you come from?” She closes her arms around me. Patty lives across the street from me and we’ve been friends all my life. She is one of the only ones that know how hard I had it growing up. “I’ve missed you,” she whispers in my ear as she hugs me close. “I missed you too, Red,” I tell her using my childhood name for her. “I’m sorry I don’t write more.” She is the only one I write to now. Well the only one that gets sent the letters I write, I have hundreds written to Lisa stashed away and never posted. Patty’s arm gets ripped away from me, “Don’t be hogging him all to yourself, you bitch,” April says stepping into my arms. “Damn Bobby, you look good enough to eat,” she laughs while leaning back looking me up and down. April’s always been a flirt but she wouldn’t leave Greg for anything. “She’s in the kitchen, last I saw her,” April winks at me, “Go get your girl.” The best and worst part of our group is there are no secrets. My being here for just the party is an illusion that won’t last long to the friends who know me. I turn towards the kitchen, “I’ll see you both later,” but I don’t really mean it. “Just as long as you’re here tomorrow for clean-up crew,” Patty yells after me. New Year’s Day always starts with cleaning Joe’s house before we sit, eating and drinking leftovers while watching the games on TV. It will feel good to do something so normal so I turn and give her a thumbs up. I receive greetings from everyone on my way back to the kitchen, they all comment on how I’ve gotten bigger and how happy they are I’m back in one piece. I scan the kitchen when I enter, there are a bunch of guys sitting at the table probably going to start a game of quarters, I wave at them but I’m not here for drinking games. I’m surprised to see Brad here, he never really hung around our group but if I know him he’s still sniffing around Lisa. He always rubbed me the wrong way, I know he wants her but she only feels friendship towards him. Lisa’s not in here so I grab a beer and make my way into the family room where Joe sets up the dance floor. Joe is standing to the right of the doorway and I bump my shoulder into him as I search the room for Lisa. I find her just as Joe shakes my hand, “I wasn’t expecting to see you,” he says patting my back. “Where else would I be tonight?” I joke back, my eyes never leaving Lisa. She spots me and stops, her caramel eyes widen and I read so many emotions there; surprise, hurt, want, love – that surprises me, I thought she would hate me by now. I know Joe is saying something to me but I’m totally ensnared by Lisa; she’s changed too. Her hair cascades around her with curls and I want to bury my hands and face in it. She’s wearing a cute jeans skirt that shows off her long legs which I want wrapped around me, how many times have I dreamed about the silky feel of them? Her blouse is almost see through and the silhouette of her bra teases my eyes, making me ache to taste her nipples again. I’m getting hard and I haven’t even gotten close to her yet. Her eyes break contact with me when someone bumps into her and she turns away threading through the group dancing to Gimme More by Britney Spears. I start to chase after her but Joe restrains me with a hand, “She’s had a hard time moving on, Bobby. Be gentle with her.” I nod acknowledging the statement but it doesn’t stop me, I physically need to hold her. I follow her and see she’s talking to Debbie; I’ll be hearing from Jimmy about this, I promised him I wouldn’t get anywhere near Lisa but I can’t help myself. I step closer to her and turn her around running my hands down her arms, “Hey beautiful,” I say as I try to draw her into my arms. She pushes against my chest, “Really Bobby, you just show up here and expect me to just fall into your arms? Sixteen months and not a word. Not even a letter, email, or a damn phone call!” Stopping her from pulling away I stammer, “I missed you, baby. I just couldn’t be where I was and think about you too.” I pull her into me and lay my cheek against her head. “Please, baby, just let me hold you. I couldn’t stay away from you anymore. I only have two more days before I have to leave again and I want to spend them with you. Let me hold you and just talk to you. I miss your voice and the feel of you in my arms.” Her smell envelopes me and I feel like I’m home. She’s tense for a few seconds then her arms go around my waist and she presses her whole body against me, “I missed you too.” I pull away so I can see her face and the tears streaking down her beautiful face kill me. “Don’t cry, baby. I can’t stand it when you cry.” I lower my head to her and ghost my lips against hers. I want to devour her but I need to let her take the lead. She gasps and opens to me and I plunge my tongue in to taste her; beer and mint mix with her unique flavor and my body reacts to the one person who has the power to affect my soul. My heart beats wildly in my chest and my dick fills to the point of pain. I tilt her head to give me better access and the whole room fades into the background. I suck on her lower lip and she moans into my mouth as I bury my hands in her hair. She runs her hands over my chest and I can’t help it as my hand moves to her ass and I grind against her. My mouth leaves hers and I make my way to her ear, “I need to be alone with you, baby,” I whisper. “Let’s get out of here. My house is so close and there’s no one home.” I pull away and take her hand, “Will you come with me?” She nods her head, “I have to tell Jodi though. I’m her ride.” I look around and Debbie is still standing there, her eyes like daggers, “Hey Debbie, Lisa and I are going to my house to talk. Can you tell Jodi when you see her?” Debbie looks at Lisa, “Lisa, you are okay with this?” Lisa glances back at me with glistening eyes, “Yeah Deb, I won’t be too long. We’ll be at his house. If we’re not back by midnight send one of the guys down to get us.” Debbie nods and says, “Okay, I hope you know what you’re doing.” I don’t wait for Lisa to re-think about what’s happening, I grab her hand and drag her behind me to the door. She gasps when the cold air hits her, I should have let her get her coat but stopping now is not an option. I yank her closer to me, surrounding her with my heat as we make our way to my house. I slam the door open and it tries to close on us but I haul her through the opening then press her against it, “Oh God, baby, I’ve missed you so much,” I say lowering my mouth to hers again. My hands on her cheeks holding her in place for my assault, grinding my cock into her, “You are more beautiful than I remember. I just want to be inside of you,” my body is on fire for her. I pick her up and her legs wrap around me just like I fantasized about before. I want to hold her to me forever but I lower her onto the couch, following her down, bracing myself above her. I look at her below me and think how lucky I am that she didn’t reject me. I wouldn’t have blamed her and I feel like shit that I’m leaving again in two days and don’t have the strength to leave her alone. Her heart is in her eyes and I wonder if she can see the love I hold for only her reflected in my eyes. I can’t stop myself from touching I ease her shirt over her head then take her mouth again before making my way down her throat, over the pulse racing there, along her collarbone as I push the cups of her bra down to release those perfect breasts. I suckle her nipple and my cock jerks in my pants, “I missed the taste of you, baby, no one tastes like you. You are perfect.” I unclasp her bra and pull it off as her breath starts coming in gasps. I’ve made her come with my fingers and mouth but tonight I need to be inside her when she comes. My hand moves down her side and she shivers underneath me, god I love how responsive she is to me. It kills me that I wasn’t her first but I couldn’t take her virginity and leave, what kind of douchebag would that have made me. I drop my hand to her thigh and push up her skirt, her panties are drenched and I can smell her arousal. “God you are so wet for me, baby. I am going to make you come so hard,” I press the palm of my hand against the wet silk. “I need to taste you, baby. I missed having my tongue in you. “ I pull her skirt and panties off she spreads her legs for me and my heart misses a beat, “I almost forgot how beautiful you were.” I lower my head and inhale her scent, so unique to her. I part her folds with my fingers and lave her with my tongue in one long swipe. She arches her back, nearly pushing us both off the couch. I capture her leg and throw it over my shoulder and attack. I suck, lick and nibble on her clit as I ease a finger into her. She calls out my name and I almost come in my pants. “God you are still so tight, baby. I still wish I was your first,” I confess to her. “You will be Bobby. Steve and I never got this far,” she says. And just like that it’s like someone threw a bucket of ice water on me. I can’t take her virginity. I’m not asshole enough to make her a hook-up. I stop and look at her, “What do you mean? You guys were together for almost a year.” I don’t understand. “He wasn't you. It has always been you, Bobby.” I sit up. “I can’t be your first, Lisa. I am leaving in two days. I won’t do that to you.” “But you are the only one I want, Bobby,” Lisa cries. “Please, I want you so much.” God I want her so much but I can’t, won’t be that guy, “Get dressed, Lisa, we’re going back to the party.” I stand and hold my hand out to her. “Fuck you asshole! You think you can come back and I won’t be a virgin anymore so it would be ok to fuck me and leave me? That’s why you came back isn't it? You’re an asshole!” I wince at her words but as much as I want her it wouldn't be right. I've probably just blown any chance at ever having a life with her and my heart is breaking. Lisa grabs her clothes and gets dressed then stomps to the door. I follow her wanting to be near her even if she hates me. “Just where do you think you’re going? You need to stay here. You've already fucked up my night. The least you could do is let me try to salvage my New Year’s.” “I just want to make sure you get back okay,” I whisper. There are tears on her cheeks again and I put them there. “It’s four houses, Bobby. I will be fine but you will always be an asshole.” She turns and walks away from me and I let her. Leaning against the door frame I can’t believe this night ended any hope I held of future happiness. My heart just left and I’m never getting it back.
AUTHOR BIO Living in Northern New Jersey originally from Long Island, Jill Prand is a wife and mother of two girls. She's been an avid reader all her life, spending Sunday afternoons curled up with a good book. "We had a huge bookshelf in our den when I was a child with a diverse set of authors like Ayn Rand, Stephen King, Mario Puzo & Danielle Steele. I cut my literary teeth on Walter Farley, Judy Blume and SE Hinton before raiding my parent’s library." Jill is currently working on the Walking Series as well as a standalone novel. She loves to hear from readers.
AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKSFACEBOOK - JILLS JAGGERS GROUP - AMAZON - GOODREADS - BLOG - PINTEREST - TWITTER
Links to first two books
Watch Me Walk Away Amazon - Barnes & Noble - Kobo
Walk Into Me Amazon US - Barnes & Noble - Kobo
Reveal Organized & Hosted by
Book Blast, Giveaway & Interview: Seed: Keepers of Genesis I by @db_nielsen
Seed: Keepers of Genesis I
Keepers of Genesis Series
Volume I
DB Nielsen
Genre: YA PNR/ Urban Fantasy
Publisher: LBLA Digital
ISBN: 1908879181
ASIN: B00K75I06E
Number of pages: 432
Word Count: 160,000
Cover Artist: XLintellect PTY LTD
Book Description:
A powerful, hidden artefact is unearthed and, with its discovery, an ancient conflict is reignited. Seventeen-year-old Sage Woods, the daughter of an eminent archaeologist, uncovers the artefact’s disturbing secret and is placed in terrible danger.
Unwittingly, she has stumbled into an invisible war between two primordial dynasties of a supernatural order – a war in which she has a fateful role to play in a race to control the power of the SEED.
Embroiled in a quest that takes her from the British Museum to the Louvre to the Vatican Secret Archives, Sage realises that her blossoming romance with the mysterious, alluring St. John Rivers is inextricably tied to the artefact.
Up until now, St. John has managed to keep his true identity hidden, but Sage is determined to delve deeper to uncover his dark secret and his connection to the SEED.
It is a decision that will have a devastating effect on humankind…
Available at Amazon
One thrilling quest, twin sisters and their sweeping and adventurous romances, a perilous rivalry, intriguing exploration of some of Western culture's greatest mysteries, a magical tale of angels and demons throughout the ages. Incorporating historical facts intertwined with myth, fantasy, fascinating esoterica and love story, SEED is a captivating read which marks the arrival of a wonderful new voice in YA and crossover escapist literature.
I had no idea where to begin in my quest, so I decided to simply follow the path of least resistance, working my way around the exhibition. It was like a jigsaw puzzle; reconstructing pieces of the past and trying to find the bigger picture. I didn’t really know what I was looking for, I only hoped that there would be something, some tablet or bas relief, that would be able to shed some light on the artefact and, more importantly, on what I’d seen. I would have sworn that I saw it transform before my eyes in Dad’s office but I didn’t know whether I should doubt myself now. I’d only seen the artefact for a few moments and yet it had felt like it was speaking to me, imparting some ancient knowledge. Of course, I didn’t understand any of it, but I hoped to.
Because I was in a reverie, I almost missed the piece altogether. It was a tablet not much more than ten centimetres in length, containing a cuneiform inscription and a unique map of the Mesopotamian world. The symbols on the tablet were an exact copy of some of the symbols I’d seen on the artefact though a little more crudely formed.
The cuneiform inscription composed the top section of the tablet whilst, underneath it, was a diagram featuring two concentric circles. The outer circle was surrounded by triangles at what seemed to be random distances. The inner circle held more geometric symbols and cuneiforms. A rectangle in the top half of the inner circle in the centre of the tablet represented Babylon. Assyria, Elam and other cities were also depicted. The tablet and its inscription were by no means complete as it had been reassembled from the broken pieces found by archaeologists. Information was obviously missing but I was elated at finding anything that could tell me more about the artefact.
It was because I was so transfixed with my find that I initially failed to notice that I was being scrutinized from across the room. The first I became aware of it was a prickling sensation down my back, the hairs on my neck and arms raised giving me goose bumps. I turned my head round nervously, looking back over my shoulder.
He stood at a distance, a young man in his mid-twenties perhaps, taller than average. No mere accident of lighting, his slightly curly locks, the colour of polished brass, formed a halo around a face that was much too beautiful to be called handsome. The only way to describe him was golden. His skin was golden, his hair, which he wore slightly longer than was fashionable, curling into the nape of his neck, was golden and I suspected his eye colour was, if not golden, amber like mine.
When I caught him staring at me intently, he neither looked away in embarrassment nor did he pretend to know me. Instead, he continued to assess me with an unblinking, hypnotic gaze. It was I who broke contact first; flushing with embarrassment, I dropped my eyes at once.
This can’t be happening! I thought, feeling panicky. Dragging in a deep breath, my eyes skittered back to his. He was still staring at me, his indescribably beautiful face unmoved.
My heart fluttered in my chest. I didn’t know what to think – was this some random stalker or had he seen me before around the museum and couldn’t place my face, seeming familiar to him? No serial killer looked the way he did. He was dressed immaculately all in black; a pair of black trousers was topped by a fine woollen black turtleneck. He wore the sleeves rolled up, exposing his sun-kissed skin. And the black only accentuated the perfection of his face. Of course, I had no idea what a serial killer looked like, but I was fairly certain it wasn’t this golden god.
As curious as I was, I did the only thing that made sense; I ignored him – or pretended to. Deliberately turning my back on him, I tried to refocus on the tablet in front of me. But I was merely staring blankly, nothing was registering. It was all so unreal.
‘It’s not real.’ A low, attractive voice remarked by my side.
I almost jumped out of my skin, whirling to face the owner of that voice.
‘Sorry if I startled you.’ He smiled, apologetically. ‘I saw you looking at the map of ancient Mesopotamia.’ He nodded in the direction of the display case.
I blinked. He was even more stunningly golden up close. He belonged in a museum – he had the kind of face and figure that artists used as a model. Statues should have been made of this man, posing as Apollo, Phaenon or David. I almost envied him his looks; such beauty on a guy wasn’t fair.
I had been wrong about the eyes though; they were an impossible jade green flecked with gold and framed by the longest eyelashes on any guy I’d seen. He was also taller than I imagined; a good few inches above six feet. All in all, he was quite a package and way out of my league.
I somehow regained my scattered wits to stutter, ‘S-s-sorry?’
Great! Now he was going to think I was an idiot! An idiot with a stutter!
I almost groaned aloud.
Did you always wanted to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?
When I was a little girl I wanted to be a princess, a ballerina, and eventually a children’s doctor. I always enjoyed writing. When I was in high school, I would write short stories and poetry for the school magazine and even entered a few newspaper/ magazine writing competitions. I never formally studied creative writing – I think if you love to write (and have people read your work/s) then you’re a writer whether you’re published or not. Instead, I studied Humanities at university, majoring in English Language and Literature and Linguistics (Semiotics) and became a university lecturer. But I continued to write for fun and it was only when some of my students encouraged me to publish my novel that I thought about writing professionally (and not just publishing academic essays and articles for journals which many people would consider boring!)
When did you first consider yourself a “writer”?
I think it was when I sent my first novel to several agents and they showed interest in my work. Up till then I didn’t know if I “had what it takes”, that special ingredient, to be considered a writer. Receiving the affirmation of others – agents, editors, fellow authors, bloggers and readers – makes me realize I can write and I am a writer.
How long did it take to get your first book published?
Ages. I started Writing SEED in 2008 but it wasn’t until 2010 that I thought about finding an agent and publisher. I honestly didn’t understand how difficult it was to get an agent, let alone get published. I knew rejection was part of it – so I braced myself for the expected 20 rejection letters (according to Stephenie Meyer) and I was thrilled when not just one but several agents showed some interest in signing me up. But then I guess I just assumed, once you have an agent, you’d get a publisher. It didn’t happen that way. The problem was that my novel was considered New Adult before the genre was termed, so I just didn’t fit into any category. And some publishers had authors on their list that had Nephilim in their plots, so they didn’t want to take on a debut author with similar material. Ironically, after deciding to self-publish and go my own way, just after I’d signed the self-publishing contract, there was interest from a big traditional publisher. But, truth be told, I’m thrilled with being seen as an Indie author and realize that I wouldn’t have as much freedom to write what I do in a traditional publishing house.
Do you do another job except for writing and can you tell us more about it?
I lecture at university and also tutor students. I lecture at university in Linguistics and Semiotics but also get to tutor students in English Literature and Language (both canonical and popular texts on the course lists). I find it a real source of pride when my students graduate and get a job – they even stay in touch after they marry. I started lecturing when I was quite young, so I was almost the same age as many of my students – now I see their kids and can’t believe that I once taught them!
What is the name of your latest book, and if you had to summarize it in less than 20 words what would you say?
SEED is best described as The Mortal Instruments meets The Da Vinci Code!
Who is your publisher? Or do you self-publish?
I am an Indie author, self-published. Essentially I’d like to be a ‘hybrid’ – both traditionally published and also self-published. Right now, being an Indie writer suits me as it gives me a great deal of freedom, but I’m lucky in that I have a great deal of support from fellow authors, readers, family and friends, and my agent. And I think I’m in good company – not only have a lot of successful authors started in Fanfic which has broadened the industry (such as Cassandra Clare, E.L. James, etc…) some of them started with self-publishing then moved into traditional publishing (most notably, E.L. James). I didn’t write Fanfic but I think it’s great that there are avenues for writers to express themselves and get their words and works out there. I’ll continue in this direction and reassess when I get my next novel out there.
How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?
The first novel I wrote took only three months from the original idea to writing it in the manuscript form that was sent out to agents. This was SEED. But then the editing started as my agent and editor felt I needed to add a few things here and there in the backstory for Sage and her sister, Saffron. This blew out the word count to another 20,000+ words! The second novel in the series took about a year to write and it seems that the third (which I’m writing at the moment will take even longer). Saying this, I don’t write every day or to a schedule. I am trying to be more disciplined and I admire writers who can write 2,000 words a day and stick to a schedule. But I’m more a stop-and-start, when-the-mood-takes-me, bash out a chapter in a day then take a hiatus for two weeks, get some inspiration from other authors/ reviewers/ readers and bash out another few thousand words, get distracted by my family and grind to a stop (swearing in frustration because I want to write but have to prioritize), then do it all over again. On the upside, I do have a plan of where I want my novel to go and work around that. I always have a mental map of about half the chapters (including the beginning, climax and denouement) and let the rest work itself out.
What can we expect from you in the future? ie More books of the same genre? Books of a different genre?
I’m finishing off the YA/ NA paranormal romance series, KEEPERS OF GENESIS, and then I think I might like to try writing one of the ideas I have in the genre of dystopian fiction
What genre would you place your books into?
YA/ NA paranormal romance
What made you decide to write that genre of book?
I really love reading paranormal romance novels and fantasy. I really love high fantasy but was interesting in creating a world-within-our-world like JK Rowling. I also wanted to write more of a hybrid text where I could cross over from Twilight to The Da Vinci Code. And I wanted to inform the readers about real history whilst having romance and complication (and heroes and villains). So I chose this genre as it allowed me to experiment by including real history with theology and myth; so that the novel would be didactic and readers could also learn some interesting facts along the way.
Do you have a favorite character from your books? And why are they your favorite?
This is a tough question but I think … I think it would have to be Gabriel Chevalier because he’s such a charming, capricious, mischievous figure. Think Loki in The Avengers and Thor film series – that’s Gabriel. But Gabriel is quite charismatic and humorous too.
How long have you been writing?, and who or what inspired you to write?
I’ve been writing since 2008 but only thought of publishing my writing in the last four years. I think I began writing because I wanted stronger female role models in books for young adults as many of my students were walking into class with YA fiction where the heroine was often more of a blank slate and yet the hero was the really interesting character (they loved the hero and therefore wanted to be like the heroine – but I found that idea disturbing because young women today can be nerdy, kick-butt, adventurous, passionate and a hundred other things). The purpose of my writing is to provide suitable role models for young women and men. I hate passive female protagonists, especially in fantasy or dystopian fiction – if I can’t see them as interesting people, why would anyone like them and why would the hero fall in love with them? There has to be something more to a character that allows us to empathise with them. Ordinary is fine. Boring and insipid is not.
Do you have a certain routine you have for writing? ie You listen to music, sit in a certain chair?
I try to lock myself away in the library (my study) but it’s not very successful as I’m constantly disturbed by kids wandering in asking for food/ drinks/ misplaced toys/ misplaced clothing/ etc… I don’t listen to music but, interestingly, I think of musical accompaniment for chapters in my head. I do, however, prefer to write at night as it allows me to absorb the quiet in the house to order my thoughts (I get a couple of hours to myself if I’m lucky!)
Do you read all the reviews of your book/books?
I certainly used to read all the reviews, but now I only do it once in a while – and usually when I know someone whose opinion I value is posting a review. I think when you’re a debut writer, you tend to check the reviews more often and your mood changes accordingly – from self-doubt to elation or disappointment. I think I’ve been very blessed as the reviews of my novel (so far) have been really quite positive (and in no way am I asking for a bad review – but I get that not everyone will like my book as reading is such an individual matter of taste and interest). But I always remind myself that reviews aren’t for the writer; that they are for the readers – so that readers can make up their minds whether they want to read the book and what others think about the book. Generally, I think reviewers and bloggers do a good job of this and it’s great that they take the time to review (as long as it is constructive and not mean or personal).
Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?
I titled all the novels first so that there was a consistency (the sibilance of ‘s’ sounds). I wanted them to be snappy and short, something that popped (but worried that SEED sounded like a gardening book, so I added the KEEPERS OF GENESIS part).
How do you come up with characters names and place names in your books?
One of my friends, another author, chooses character names by going through a baby book (and then she becomes bored with it so that most of her characters’ names start with an ‘A’!) On the other hand, I choose character names for their meanings (like Sage meaning ‘wisdom’ or Saffron as an exotic spice which I think has connotations of being fiery and lively) and to be culturally-accurate (like if a character is from France, I’ve chosen names like Louis or Gabriel). The hero’s name has been specifically chosen – it’s Elijah St. John Rivers – and if you know Bronte’s novel, you’ll know that part of his name is taken from Jane Eyre (and with a specific purpose in mind – but you’ll have to read my novel to find out why!)
The place names are also important as these are real places in London, Paris and Vatican City. As Sage embarks upon a quest, she travels to these places and historical sites (from the British Museum to the catacombs of Paris) with St. John. I put a lot of research to make sure the descriptions were accurate so that readers, if they wanted to, could trace Sage’s journey (both in their mind and in reality!)
Are character names and place names decided after their creation? Or do you pick a character/place name and then invent them?
It’s all chosen beforehand or I’d never be able to keep track of characters and places. I don’t envy George RR Martin for the amount of characters and places he’s introduced in his series which he has to keep track of – no wonder he kills so many of them off!!
Do you decide on character traits (ie shy, quiet, tomboy girl) before writing the whole book or as you go along?
Sometimes, yes. Sage and Saffron are twins but with different personalities that complement one another. This was quite deliberate – they aren’t rivals at all but I wanted them to be ‘real’ characters and sisters. St. John is your typical sexy Renaissance man – a scholar, warrior, philosopher, lover, etc… The only character that sort of just came into being was one of the villains, Louis Gravois – he’s quite ‘emo’ and androgynous looking yet quite evil.
Are there any hidden messages or morals contained in your books? (Morals as in like Aesops Fables type of "The moral of this story is..")
I think there’s quite a few messages within the novel. One of them is that history is often stranger than fiction or fantasy. If we can understand the past, we can make sense of ourselves and our world.
Also, I want readers to understand that some things have to be taken on faith. There is much to discover still in our world – the unknown, the unexplored, the unseen – but, in the end, the story is about us; about love and mortality; the human condition.
Which format of book do you prefer, eBook, hardback, or paperback?
I love hard copies of novels. I love the smell of them and the feel of them. I love picking them up and revisiting them like they are old friends. It’s probably quite sentimental but I just love curling up with a hard copy of a good book.
What is your favorite book and Why? Have you read it more than once?
There are so many books I love but I’d have to say that three books stand out – Shakespeare’s Hamlet; Austen’s Pride and Prejudice; and Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. I’ve read them all more than once and have to say that they make me laugh and cry and think. I know it’s odd to include Shakespeare but I genuinely love Hamlet – it raises such metaphysical and philosophical notions that it still makes me contemplate the meaning of existence. On the other hand, I love Austen’s text because Elizabeth is so headstrong and feisty – she’s intelligent and wins the hero based on her brains and not simply her attractiveness. And I love Austen’s satire – that she critiques the values of her society such as class, gender, religion; very ground-breaking for a woman of her times. And lastly, Lee’s text is the most beautifully-written moral text ever – it teaches life lessons with a humility and simplicity that makes me wish I knew Atticus and Scout in reality.
Do you think books transfer to movies well? Which is you favorite/worst book to movie transfer?
Some do – like Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings trilogy which was utterly spellbinding and brilliant! But others just simply don’t quite live up to the books. I think the worst book to movie transfer was Frankenstein (almost every version!) – they just can’t seem to get it right. The creature is never portrayed properly – he’s meant to elicit empathy!
I do think, however, that they’ve got it right with some books by converting them to TV series rather than films. This is a great idea for both writers and readers! You get more, more, more – more of your favourite characters, more plot, etc…
Your favorite food is?
I love smoked salmon or gravlax (served with French champagne), though I’m also really partial to a High Tea (complete with scones/ jam & cream, finger sandwiches and petit fours) – must be my yearning for bonnets and bows and tea parties!
Your favorite singer/group is?
I have eclectic tastes so I listen to a lot of different styles – which means I probably would chose different songs to listen to rather than just one artist. If I had to choose an artist, it’s be a toss-up between U2 (their old stuff) and Adele (but I’m also really partial to Taylor Swift!).
Your favorite color is?
Hot pink (though red comes a close second)
Your favorite Author is?
I’d have to say Jane Austen because I always return to her novels for her pointed criticisms of society and for her wonderfully romantic relationships. She’s satirical (I love her ironic voice) and romantic (just check out the sexual tension between Elizabeth and Darcy!)
db nielsen was born in British Hong Kong and immigrated to Australia in childhood. db likes to travel the world with family; dividing time between residing in Sydney and visits to the cathedrals, crypts and museums the world over, doing research for new projects. The author is a university lecturer in Linguistics and Semiotics, and continues to teach English Literature and Language whilst writing fiction.
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Website: https://www.dbnielsen.com/
November 30, 2014
New Release: Heart’s Beat by @charityparkerso
BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – Heart’s Beat SERIES – Ugly Eternity AUTHOR – Charity Parkerson GENRE – GBLT Romance PUBLICATION DATE – December 1, 2014 PUBLISHER – Punk & Sissy Publications COVER ARTIST – Charity Parkerson
BOOK SYNOPSIS By day, Cade works as a mechanic. By night, he’s the drummer for a popular nightclub band. Music has always been his greatest love and biggest dream. That is, until Cade meets Dylan.
For Dylan, working as head bartender for Club Khronos is the ultimate job opportunity. There’s no way he could’ve foreseen how torturous the position would become. Six months of craving Cade has driven Dylan insane. No matter what he tries, Dylan can’t get a clear read on Cade. When Cade does finally make his move, Dylan realizes a fate worse than never having the man of his dreams—being kept a secret.
**Author Note** Heart’s Beat is the introduction to a new series—Ugly Eternity. You can grab this M/M Romance for only $0.99 USD. BUY & TBR LINKS
AUTHOR BIO Charity Parkerson is an award winning and multi-published author with Ellora's Cave Publishing, Indie Publishing House LLC, and Punk & Sissy Publications. Born with no filter from her brain to her mouth, she decided to take this odd quirk and insert it in her characters.
*Winner of 2, 2014 Readers' Favorite Awards *2014 Golden Ankh Nominee *2013 Readers' Favorite Award Winner *2013 Reviewers' Choice Award Winner *2012 ARRA Finalist for Favorite Paranormal Romance *Five-time winner of The Mistress of the Darkpath AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKSAmazon Author Page – Website/Blog – Facebook – Twitter – Google+ - Pinterest – Tumblr – Networked Blogs – Goodreads – Shelfari – Coffetime Romance – Ellora’s Cave - Passionate Ink
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November 29, 2014
Book Blast & Giveaway: Saving Charlie by @anneconley10
BOOK INFORMATION TITLE – Saving Charlie SERIES – Stories of Serendipity AUTHOR – Anne Conley GENRE – Contemporary Romance PUBLICATION DATE – Nov. 15, 2014 LENGTH (Pages/# Words) – 75K PUBLISHER – Anne Conley COVER ARTIST – Vanessa Booke
BOOK SYNOPSIS 100,000 children are sexually trafficked every year in the US. In the 1990s, Charlie was one of those children. She’s spent her adult life getting past that, trying to become a successful business owner in Serendipity, TX. Relationships are not goals for her. In fact, she’s not even sure she has what it takes to be a part of one.
Les is a fool for love. All he’s ever wanted was a girl. Now that every last one of his friends are married, and in happy relationships with families, he can’t stop thinking about the sexy lady who sells house parts, even if everything about her screams at him to stay away. He just can’t.
When they are thrown together on a cross-country road trip, Charlie’s past comes back to her full-force, long-buried memories inundating her. Les seems to be the only thing grounding her to the present, when everything else seems to be trying to tear her apart.
While it has a HEA, the road getting there is long, rough, and dark. Enjoy the ride.
BUY & TBR LINKS AMAZON – BARNES & NOBLES – ITUNES
EXCERPT #1 They were passing a sign for White Sands when Les tugged gently on a piece of her hair. “Let’s stop here for a little bit and stretch.” She agreed and when they pulled into the national monument, Charlie was overwhelmed. “Wow…It looks like a beach with no water.” Les climbed out of the truck and walked into a pristine patch of sand, unmarred by footsteps. She laughed as he proceeded to mess up the unadulterated landscape by doing cartwheels and whooping. She watched his transformation with blatant amusement and a little bit of jealousy. He was so carefree in almost everything he did. It was breathtaking to watch this grown man play in the desert like a child. “Hey, Charlie! Come here!” He called her over to where he was making a snow angel in the sand, flapping his arms and legs wildly. She couldn’t help herself. She stood next to him and fell back with a thud, making her own angel in the sand. She was close enough that her hand brushed Les’s when she flapped, and he grabbed it and clasped. She turned her head to look at him and saw his face breaking into a smile that matched her own. They gallivanted around, Les piggy-backing her around the park, having sand fights, and stealing kisses. Charlie couldn’t stop the giddy feeling erupting from her. Her entire adult life, she’d tried to stay away from being a part of something like this, and now that she’d finally let herself do it, she felt like a teenager. She wanted to touch Les all the time, walking hand in hand, or better yet, with her arm around his torso. She stole looks at him, and the best were the kisses he pretended to steal from her when she wasn’t expecting them. She was a part of something special with Les, a half of a whole, and the possibilities she allowed herself to ponder filled her with an unfamiliar longing. They snapped photos of each other clowning around, and themselves together. Charlie couldn’t remember when she’d had more fun, just laughing at herself and someone else. Les deposited her on a hill, with her back to him and told her not to look until he said so. She closed her eyes and nodded, then with a mysterious grunt, he was gone. She waited, a small smile on her face, wondering what he was up to. When he finally called to her from some distance, she looked. Les was at the bottom of a hill in an enormous heart he’d made by shuffling his feet in the sand. Inside the heart were the initials, C + L. It was an impossibly juvenile endeavor, and it brought a tear to Charlie’s eyes. She pulled out her phone and snapped a picture. Back at the truck, she watched, amused, as Les tried to shake all of the sand out of his clothes before climbing into her truck. He stripped off his shirt, socks and shoes before shaking everything out. She ignored the flutter in her belly at the sight of his shirtless chest, and instead poked fun at him slapping at his jeans. “Are you always so anal about dirt in vehicles?” He looked at her, his eyebrows waggling, an impish smirk on his face. “Why, Sweetness, did you just suggest Anal?” She blushed furiously, “No.” Getting into the truck, she was suddenly worried. Did he do that sort of stuff? He seemed so sweet, like a missionary type guy, maybe doggy-style, but anal? Was he into the hard-core stuff? Would he want to tie her up? Charlie didn’t do bondage, in any form. Back on the road, the silence was uncomfortable for Charlie as she tried to wrap her mind around the alarming thoughts racing through her head. Finally, she decided to just put it out there. “Are you into stuff like that? Anal?” He snapped his head around, shock evident on his face. “It was a joke, Charlie. I didn’t mean anything by it.” His fingers reached over for a tendril of her hair, and she rested her cheek on his hand. “I was just checking. I don’t...” she took a deep breath. “I don’t like sex like that.” His hand drifted down to her leg. “I just like sex, Charlie. And I have an idea if it’s with you, it’ll be amazing, no matter what kind it is.” He squeezed where his hand was on her thigh. “I don’t need all that other stuff, blindfolds and toys and stuff. I just like your basic sex.” Just the image in her mind of the two of them together had a warm pool of moisture coating the inside of Charlie’s panties. “So, you’re a missionary man?” He chuckled and adjusted his crotch while an adorable blush crept up his neck. Charlie liked that the conversation was getting to him, too. “Missionary, cowgirl, doggy-style, I like it all, but I like using the correct holes, and have never felt the need for aids in the bedroom.” Charlie heard the exhale of relief from her mouth, as well as Les’s soft chuckle, but she couldn’t concentrate on the relief she felt, she was too busy tamping down the images of Les making love to her in ways she didn’t really want to think about right now. Oh hell, who was she kidding? She totally wanted to think about them.
AUTHOR BIO Anne has written her entire life and has the boxes of angst-filled journals and poetry to prove it. She's been writing for public consumption for the last four years. Currently she is writing two romance series. In Stories of Serendipity, she explores real people living real lives in small town Texas in a contemporary romance setting. In The Four Winds, she chronicles God's four closest archangels, Uriel, Gabriel, Raphael, and Michael, falling in love and becoming human. She lives in rural East Texas with her husband and children in her own private oasis, where she prides herself in her complete lack of social skills, choosing instead to live with the people inside her head.
AUTHOR FOLLOW LINKS AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE – WEBSITE / BLOG – FACEBOOK – FB for FRIENDING – TWITTER – GOOGLE+ - PINTEREST
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