Mikey Brooks's Blog, page 6

Comic Con Fan X

I am always excited to go to conferences. I get even more excited when those conferences have people dressed as superheroes and nerdy fictional characters. Salt Lake Comic Con Fan Experience is this weekend and I'll be there as a special guest. I'm also chillin' at a table in Artist Alley Burgundy #15. Why not come check it out? For more info visit: http://saltlakecomiccon.com/

Wishing on Baby Dust

 
Wishing on Baby Dust back cover blurb genre: LDS Women's Fiction Infertility stinks. No one knows that better than Megan. After six years of insanity-inducing hormone drugs and desperate prayers, all she has to show for her efforts are enough negative pregnancy tests to fill a bassinet. All around her women are accidentally getting pregnant—like her star piano student—while Megan remains hopelessly barren. Megan’s never felt so alone. But she’s not the only one ruggling. Christina has just entered the world of infertility, made worse by the fact her husband isn’t ready to be a father. Their marriage, already hanging in the balance, is being torn apart. Then there’s Kyra, the mother of a precocious three-year-old. She’s shocked to be struggling with secondary infertility. A baby is priceless, but sometimes Kyra feels like she’s being forced to choose which commandment to keep: stay out of debt, or multiply and replenish the earth. When Megan and Christina are assigned as Kyra’s visiting teachers, they all realize that what you see isn’t necessarily what’s beneath the surface. Some secrets aren’t worth the cost of keeping them.

       

Author Bio Lydia Winters decided in first grade that she’d grow up to be three things—a mom, a teacher, and a writer. She’s lucky enough to have accomplished all three tasks. Lydia received her bachelor’s in history education from Utah Valley University. Soon after leaving her teaching career behind, she became a mother to adorable twin boys, who guarantee her life is never dull. Lydia is married to the most supportive man in the world. He regularly takes care of the twins and cooks dinner so she can escape with her laptop to chase her dream of being a writer. When she has time for hobbies, Lydia is a reality TV junkie, loves to cross-stitch, and sometimes even finds time to play the piano. She eats way too much chocolate and wishes she liked things like running or yoga. website | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest | Goodreads Author Page | Amazon Author Page

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The Gates of Atlantis SALE

We are excited to announce the amazing sale of THE GATES OF ATLANTIS COMPLETE COLLECTION on eBook. You can get this fantastic middle-grade series for just $0.99 (regularly $19.99). This sale price will available December 29th through January 12th. To help celebrate such a sale the Atlantis authors are giving away a Kindle to one lucky winner. 
Don’t forget to enter the GIVEAWAY at the bottom of this post!
About THE GATES OF ATLANTIS: Centuries ago the great city of Atlantis had to be hidden from humans. Now magically buried in the depths of the ocean, it is the source of all magic. All is well in the magical world…until the leaders of Atlantis listen to the whims of a mad man.

A group of teens set out on their own unique quests to fight for the world they love. They face dangers they didn’t know existed. As they battle their way through mysterious tunnels and secrets of the ancient world, they find themselves in a race against time. One by one, the mad man will shut down the Gates of Atlantis and destroy the magic. Can these unlikely heroes stop him before it’s too late?

Book 1: BANSHEE AT THE GATE, by Wendy Knight: Half-human, half-banshee Seven loves her life with her awesome brother Haran and her dad while delivering souls safely to death...until Death comes calling for Haran.

Book 2: GUARDIANS OF THE GATES, by Laura D. Bastian: Mermaid Talia wants to be a Guardian. Exander wants to leave Atlantis and explore the upper world. An accident at one of the gates gives them both their chance, but they also make a startling discovery—someone is destroying the gates.

Book 3: SECRETS OF THE MINE, by Juli Caldwell: Adam believes in myths and magic. Clancy doesn’t. Two normal kids’ lives change when they embark on the adventure of a lifetime on the back of a sea kelpie...if only they can get away from the strange creatures that are determined to stop them.

Book 4: MAGICIANS OF THE DEEP, by Jaclyn Weist: A trip to Ireland changes Colin’s life when a bite from a mysterious fish awakens unlimited knowledge and dormant magical powers. He knows exactly how to save a magical world, but can he get there before it’s too late?

Book 5: MADNESS BEHIND THE THRONE, by J.R. Simmons: Phoibos, bullied and taunted by other kids, believes something is wrong with Atlantis. His charm with the nobility and skill as warrior as he grows make him believe nothing will stop his quest to purge Atlantis from everything he finds impure.

Book 6: BATTLE FOR ACROPOLIS, by Mikey Brooks: Talon keeps getting in trouble. It’s not his fault things around him randomly burst into flame, but he’s not sticking around to find out what happens next. When foster sister Hattie encourages him to run, they make a break for it, only to find an unexpected destiny awaiting them in Atlantis. They just have to get there first. When they do, they find a lot of help. Characters from all the previous books appear to help fight Phoibos. These unlikely heroes risk it all to save the magic and fight for Atlantis.

Where to get the series on eBook:
Kindle: http://goo.gl/tiku9j
Nook: http://goo.gl/dmXSXN
Kobo: http://goo.gl/HqGuhC
iTunes: http://goo.gl/sSeNxB
The GIVEAWAY!One lucky winner will be selected to win a Kindle, 6" Glare-Free Touchscreen Display, Wi-Fi (Retail price of $79.99). A winner will be selected from those living within the continental United States. The winner will be announced January 13th and they will be notified via email to provide a valid mailing address. Good luck to all the entries and thank you for helping us share the news about this awesome series.
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Puzzle

You've found another piece to the puzzle! Come join the fun on the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/14447...

Holiday Sale

Holiday Sale!!
Did you know that on Amazon right now you can get the entire Dream Keeper Chronicles in paperback (all three books) for only $23.65 for Prime members? That’s crazy!

http://www.amazon.com/Dream-Keeper-Chronicles/dp/1939993032/
http://www.amazon.com/Dreamstone-Dream.../dp/1939993237/
http://www.amazon.com/Dream-Makers-Keeper.../dp/1939993490/
ALSO...all of my eBooks are just $0.99!!

The Dream Keeper (Book 1) http://www.amazon.com/Dream-Keeper-Ch...

The Dreamstone (Book 2)http://www.amazon.com/Dreamstone-Drea...
The Dream Makers (Book 3)http://www.amazon.com/Dream-Makers-Ke...

The Stone of Valhallahttp://www.amazon.com/The-Stone-Valha...

The Gates of Atlantis: Battle for Acropolishttp://www.amazon.com/Battle-Acropoli...

PlotWriMo

About six months ago Literary Agent Jill Corcoran, whom I’d have been following for a couple years on Facebook and Twitter, invited me to join a wonderful Facebook group called: A Path to Publishing. I found the group to be very welcoming and insightful into all the different paths to publication. Then I saw Jill was offering a video series with Martha Alderson (A.K.A. The Plot Whisperer) entitled: PlotWriMo: REVISE YOUR NOVEL IN A MONTH. At first I ignored the video series, thinking to myself, I have a BS in Creative Writing, I have four books published, why, oh, why would I need this? It’s just a waste of money… I was SO wrong!!
It wasn’t until Jill and Martha were offering an “Online Pitch Class” that I really got involved. I was struggling with my query letter and needed help. As part of the Pitch Class I was to watch the video series as a type of prerequisite. I am not kidding when I tell you that I learned more in the time it took to watch those eight videos than I ever learned in my expensive classes at the University. Both Jill and Martha share the key ingredients that need to be present in a novel for it to work properly. They explain them in terms I could easily understand AND they gave terrific examples for each point they made. I came away feeling like I had just obtained a vast well of knowledge. And knowledge to me is the greatest treasure on Earth. 
My pitch class went brilliantly! Jill and Martha didn't just helped me write my query letter better, but they taught me HOW to write it. I came away feeling confident about that query and it proved successful in getting FOUR full requests of my manuscript in my first run of submissions. I am so very grateful to Jill for inviting me into this amazing group, and for her and Martha for taking the time to create this video series. You can tell in thier genuine interactions with other writers that they do it because they care. You can see how compassionate they are about the craft of writing and those that wield its magic. 
This series of videos isn’t just for those struggling with their writing. This series is for ALL WRITERS—experienced and non-experienced. You will learn so much. If you “think” you know it all, like I did, you’ll be surprised. Everyone will come away from the series with knowledge that will benefit your writing in ways you always dreamed. Just try it out. You will not be disappointed.

ABOUT THE VIDEO SERIES

Jill and Martha offer writers two video series with more in production:

1) PlotWriMo: Revise Your Novel in a Monthhttp://apathtopublishing.com
8 videos, 5.5 hours + 3- hands-on exercises

Congratulations! You have written a draft of a novel. You’ve accomplished what many writers merely talk about and dream of doing – you have written an entire story from beginning to end. When you finish celebrating, it is time to revise: to re-envision and rewrite what you’ve written into a novel that agents, editors and readers will devour. Writing a great plot involves craft and skill and know-how. Before you undertake a major rewrite, first consider your story from all angles with the help of step-by-step instruction and daily exercises. You know you’re ready to rewrite when you’ve checked all the essentials elements for creating an exciting story with compelling characters and a meaningful plot.




2) How to Write and Sell a Picture Book with a Plothttp://apathtopublishing.com/how-to-w...

7 videos explain how to plot, write and sell picture books + provide exercises how to immediately integrate the concepts into your own unique story. Learn about all the different kinds of picture books, examples of character-driven and action-driven picture books, how to develop winning picture book concepts, what are the major turning points in every great picture book with a plot, writing, voice, character goals and motivation, how to revise, testing your theme and take-away, who to submit to and so much more…




Here’s How the Video Series Work

Each video includes an in-depth look at the specific elements promised and how to consider these essential story principles as you write, revise, rewrite, sell your story. Writing assignment(s) guide you with step-by-step instruction. Whether you decide to watch all the videos in a row and then go back and do the exercises or jump right in to the 1st video’s exercise, work at your own pace and take more or less time on the step-by-step exercises. The series are designed to fit into even the busiest of schedules. Sign-in and watch video lectures, complete homework assignments, and ask questions in a public forum on a timetable that fits your needs.

Shout Outs:

**The 1st draft you let yourself write any old way. Now revise your story from every angle

**Can't seem to #finish your #novel? Ready to give up? Before you do, revise!

**I’m finding the revision process FUN! Did I actually say that? Loving this process, thank you!

**Friends don't let friends ‪#revise alone
‬


Let's introduce you to Jill and Martha now!!


Jill Corcoran bio Jill Corcoran is the founder of Jill Corcoran Literary Agency and co-founder of A Path A Publishing
  Martha Alderson bio
Martha Alderson, author of The Plot Whisperer: Secrets of Story Structure Any Writer Can Master, is known as “The Plot Whisperer” for the help she offers writers worldwide. She is the founder of PlotWriMo: Revise Your Novel in a Month and the award-winning blog The Plot Whisperer

These ladies not only brought us these amazing author tools, but also offer another service with 2 levels of Participation (Participants and Observers):


Office Hours2nd Thursday of every month9:30-11:30am Pacificon-linehttp://apathtopublishing.com/office-h...

Active Participants and Observers

ACTIVE PARTICIPANTS: 8 authors each have 15 minutes to work with The Plot Whisperer Martha Alderson and Literary Agent Jill Corcoran on whatever you want help with. Read part of your manuscript, query, discuss energetic markers, concept, brainstorm plot, characters, etc and receive feedback you can immediately apply to your work. Active participants must watch either Plotwrimo: Revise Your Novel in a Month or How to Write & Sell a Picture Book Videos. This gives us a common language and baseline understanding of underlying plot and story concepts for better communication. Receive a critique of your First Pages, Query, Concept, or get help with your Characters, Where to Start your Story, Crisis, Climax, etc. It is your time...your choice
***OBSERVERS: 15 observer spots. As an observer, you do not participate/read your work, but listen and learn from others during these sessions.


SO MUCH HARD WORK FROM THESE LADIES! LET'S SEE WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING ABOUT THESE VIDEOS AND SERVICES:
Reviews of the series:

"The amount of time, heartache, frustration, and hell that these videos are saving me from is immeasurable."
"Don't wait until you have a first draft to get the video series. If you have an inkling of a concept, get the video series. The videos will show you how to define your energetic markers. You'll learn the difference between crisis and climax. The 8 videos constitute a 'top to toe' writing course. Jill Corcoran & Martha Alderson, thank you for giving me the opportunity to call myself a writer with pride." Dolly D Napal
"I have been writing, writing, writing, and reading about writing, but I knew I was still missing the mark. How I write and rewrite books will be forever changed for the better." Wendy McLeon MacKnight
"I felt overwhelmed with my latest revision. I feel like a weight has been lifted and I'm just on day one."

Last, but not least, these ladies offer a fantastic workship to help people actively learn from the
A PATH TO PUBLISHING services.


A Path to Publishing Workshops:http://apathtopublishing.com

We often tailor-make an advanced workshop for writers who have watched the series to ask questions and receive feedback on your own individual story. A Path to Publishing Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/apathtopublishing/
Everyone is welcome to join A Path to Publishing Facebook group created by Literary Agent Jill Corcoran and Plot Whisperer Martha Alderson as safe, smart, fun alcove for writers and illustrators to share and learn about the craft of writing and the book biz. This is NOT a place to sell your books but a wonderful forum for us all to advance our skills, our creativity, and our dreams plus learn about what Jill and Martha are up to at A PATH TO PUBLISHING.

Be sure to follow along and see what others are saying about these services and how they have helped them! Read individual reviews and more information about how this video series can help you!
December 1https://www.facebook.com/nordlingerDecember 1http://writingclassesforkids.comDecember 1http://inkandangst.com/December 1taffyscandy.blogspot.comDecember 1Rebeccalacko.wordpress.comDecember 2http://deescribewriting.wordpress.comDecember 2http://1st10pages.comDecember 2http://thestorytellersscroll.blogspot.comDecember 2www.katherine-hajer.comDecember 3http://www.jordanrosenfeld.netDecember 3http://robyn-campbell.blogspot.com/December 3http://aditebanerjie.comDecember 4lje1.wordpress.comDecember 4http://writtenbymikey.blogspot.com/December 4www.PenInHerHand.comDecember 5www.ChristineSang.comDecember 5Susan PDecember 5www.ChristineSang.com
AND NOW, JILL AND MARTHA ARE OFFERING SOME AMAZING PRIZES TONIGHT. SO BE SURE TO ENTER AND SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT THIS EVENT AND THEIR WONDERFUL VIDEO SERIES!


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Thanksgiving SALE

Thanksgiving Sale!! My way of showing my readers and future readers how much I am grateful for them helping me to achieve my dream as an author I have discounted ALL my middle-grade eBooks to just 99 cents! This will run Nov 25th through Nov 30th.

THE DREAM KEEPER (BOOK 1) Kindle  |  Nook  |  Kobo  |  iBooks  

THE DREAMSTONE (BOOK 2) Kindle  |  Nook  |  Kobo  |  iBooks

THE DREAM MAKERS (BOOK 3) Kindle  |  Nook |  iBooks |  Kobo

THE STONE OF VALHALLA Kindle   |  Nook |  iBooks |  Kobo

THE GATES OF ATLANTIS: BATTLE FOR ACROPOLIS Kindle   |  Nook |  iBooks |  Kobo

Ginnie West Series

About two years ago I was approached by Monique Bucheger to create the covers for her Ginnie West series. When she told me what the first book (Secret Sisters Club) was about I was immediately interested in reading it. I think there is a lack in middle-grade books that are about normal-everyday life. When I began, I fell in love Ginnie’s character. She is quirky, smart, rambunctious, but above all…real. Her pre-teen emotions and attitudes toward things really do scream a true live person. The story itself is a heartwarming tale of The Parent Trap meets An American Girl. Ginnie deals with a lot of grown up issues that a lot of kids have to face and she does it quite heroically (sometimes). I think any kids that have faced the loss of a parent, the hardships of friend, or longing of a lost dream will connect with this book and the other books in the series.
I am thrilled to share her books. Without further blabbing I give you The Ginnie West Series, by Monique Bucheger.
The Secret Sisters Club:

Twelve-year-old BFF’s Ginnie and Tillie, want to be sisters. Tillie's divorced mom plus Ginnie's widowed dad could equal a lifetime of round-the-clock girl talk and slumber parties. Too bad Dad vowed to never marry again. Ginnie and Tillie form a secret club. They come up with the perfect mission to change his mind: ‘Operation Secret Sisters’.

Before long, Tillie seems happier about gaining a dad than a sister. Ginnie suspects Tillie has turned ‘Operation Secret Sisters’ into a scam called ‘Operation Steal My Dad.’ Things get more complicated when Ginnie stumbles across her real mom’s hidden journals. Ginnie can finally get to know the mother she doesn’t remember and Dad doesn’t talk about. When Dad discovers she has the journals, he takes them away. Ginnie needs to figure out what the big mystery is before her relationship with her father and her best friend are ruined forever.


Excerpt from The Secret Sisters Club:

Tillie slipped into the hen house the next morning just as Ginnie finished gathering the eggs.“You’re late today. I’m done in here.”“Sorry, Mom’s car wouldn’t start. We had to get a jump.” Tillie rushed through the explanation so fast Ginnie had to let the words go through her mind again to understand what her friend had said. “Mom said she’d come go-carting with us tomorrow, so how are we gonna further our mission for OSS?”Ginnie shrugged. “I dunno, I hadn’t thought about it.”Tillie put her hands on her hips. “Why not?”“Calm your pickles, Tillie. You were there yesterday when Daddy asked me if you should be my triplet.” Ginnie rolled her eyes and smiled. “That means OSS’ll work.”Tillie slid her hands down her jeans. “Sorry, it’s all I’ve been thinking about.”“No prob. Here.” Ginnie handed her one of the two wire egg baskets and opened the bottom half of the door. “What are you so worried about? You practically live here anyway.” Tillie followed Ginnie out of the hen house and stopped. “Do you think when your dad marries my mom, he’ll adopt me? So I can be Tillie West and not Tillie Taylor anymore?”Ginnie shrugged. “I guess so. If you want him to.”“I dowant him to.” Tillie locked her eyes on Ginnie’s. “More than anything.” The urgency in her voice sent goose pimples across Ginnie’s arms.
Purchase Links:
Kindle | Paperback  Trouble Blows West:

Putting her body in motion before her brain is in gear creates a mountain of problems for 12 year-old Ginnie West. She is certain that defending her twin brother, Toran, from the biggest bully in sixth grade was the right thing to do. But Ginnie couldn’t be more wrong.

She quickly figures out that Toran doesn’t appreciate being rescued by a girl any better than Pierce likes being knocked down by one. When Pierce seeks revenge on Ginnie, Toran sets aside his anger and helps her plot a playback prank at Pierce’s house.

Sadly, Ginnie learns that Pierce has a reason for being a bully when she sees his dad drop him to the floor like a ragdoll with one awful blow to the chest. Realizing he’s a boy in big trouble, Ginnie decides to be his ally, even if he won’t let her be his friend.

Purchase Links:Kindle | Paperback  
Simply West of Heaven:
Twelve-year-old BFFs are matchmaking geniuses. They successfully schemed to get Ginnie’s widowed dad to fall in love with Tillie’s divorced mom. Sweet! Not long after though, Ginnie stumbles upon her late mom’s journals, making life even more awesome sauce … until her dad confiscates the journals, determined to protect Ginnie from a danger he won’t name.

Ginnie is counting on her future sister’s help to make Dad change his mind, but Tillie’s not so sure the ghost of Ginnie’s mom will make a good addition to their new family tree.

The girls’ world gets flipped upside-down when a blast from the past shows up and makes Tillie go nutburgers. Ginnie is torn between helping her best friend and what could be the answer to her prayers. Life gets complicated lickety-split in what is sure to be the most pivotal summer of Ginnie’s life.

Purchase Links:Kindle | Paperback
Being West is Best:
Twelve-year-old BFFs, Ginnie West and Tillie Taylor, are matchmaking geniuses. Together, they maneuvered Ginnie’s widower-dad into proposing to Tillie’s divorcee-mom. Sweet! Certain they are well on their way to sisterhood, each girl is floored when Tillie’s lousy-excuse-for-a-father puts in an appearance after a six year absence. Too bad “lousy dad repellant” doesn’t come in a can. Even though Tillie’s dad has sobered up and is determined to make amends, Tillie would rather he just disappear again. If he stays, “Operation: Secret Sisters” may need to be renamed “Operation: Not Gonna Happen.”

If that’s not bad enough, the biggest bully in seventh grade comes over often and wishes he could call the West’s farmhouse “home.” When the bully’s abusive dad shows up as well, Ginnie thinks it’s time to change her family’s motto from “When you’re here, you’re family” to “There’s no more room at the West’s.”

Purchase Links:Kindle | Paperback
POPCORN 
What fun middle-grade series is complete without a delightful picture book prequel?  When hunger wakes little Ginnie from her dreams she sets out to make herself a midnight snack. Hilarity and trouble ensues as she wrecks the kitchen in her attempts to make homemade popcorn balls. This is a delightful addition to the middle-grade series The Ginnie West Adventures, featuring Ginnie at at age 12.

Purchase Links:Kindle | Paperback
Exclusive Q&A with Author Heather Dowell interviewing Monique Bucheger
1. Do you call yourself a writer or and author?I sometimes use the terms interchangeably, but preferred to be called an author.Why? I think anybody can be a writer, but an author takes the extra steps of finishing a book and putting it on display for the public—not a step all writers are willing to take.
2. At what ages did you realize you wanted to be an author?I was a teen when I started writing “real” stories—but I had always made them up—just not written them down.
3. Top 5 shows you watch on TV?I don’t watch much tv—I’m the mother of 12—so my old tv watching time has become my writing time –though I would like to catch up on NCIS and Bones.
4. Any playlists you like to listen too when you write?I prefer to write in quiet—though there are songs that transport me into my “book world”—I usually listen to get in the mood—but then I turn the music off while I actually write.
5. Do you have any Pets?  We have 2 cats. A gray female named “Toad” (my 2 year-old granddaughter named her and a black male named “Megatron”)
6. If you could have any hobby, what would it be?Horseback riding
7. Any Works in Progress?I have started the 5th book in my Ginnie West series and I am working on the 1st 3 books in my second-unpublished- series.
8. Favorite writing time snack?I like good chocolate—Russell Stover Toffee sticks
9. Plotter of squatter? Why?I am a pantser who knows my books benefit from a little bit of plotting. I am trying to become more of a plotter—but it isn’t working for me as of yet.
Blog Tour Line up:


November 17        http://wantedhero.com
November 18        julkbearreads.wordpress.com
November 19        http://www.brookeblogs.com
November 20       http://sweet-n-sassy-book-a-holics.blogspot.com/
November 20       http://authorsandralove.blogspot.com/
November 21       http://authorcandyodonnell.blogspot.com/
November 22       semishort.blogspot.com
November 23       http://rebeccalamoreaux-anauthorinprogress.blogspot.com/
November 24       http://www.tristipinkston.blogspot.com
November 25       writtenbymikey.blogspot.com
November 26       http://valeriesteimle.blogspot.com/
November 27       https://www.facebook.com/pages/Triple-T-TotsTweens-and-Teens/1513585588875355
November 28        www.rebeccahjamison.com
November 28        www.mybookaday.blogspot.com
November 29        http://jessicaparkerstories.wordpress.com/
November 30        creationsbyvicky.blogspot.com

The Challenge

First off I have to say that I love this series. I had a chance encounter with Cas Peace when she was visiting America four a Writers Conference and Vacation. It was the start of a beautiful friendship. Cas has become one of my great mentors. I got her first book in the series and immediately fell in love with the characters. As I read I forgot about my own world. I was 100% wrapped up in the world of the Artesans. When an opportunity came for me to interview one of the main characters I totally jumped at it. Sully (Sullyan), of course, is my favorite character in the books. I think I have a small book crush on her. Then again, everyone seems to have a crush on Sully. It’s not that she is beautiful but she is strong, smart, and compassionate…she makes it easy to love her. When Cas asked me if I would be willing to illustrate the covers for her books I was both humbled and shouting whoops of excitement. This is like fan art to me! I hope Sully likes the way I depicted her. We’ll see what she says when I ask her…

DON'T FORGET TO CHECK OUT THE GIVEAWAY AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS POST
Interview With Sullyan :
Major Sullyan
What is the most important thing to you and why?
Sullyan: Loyalty is the most important thing to me. Some of my friends might have expected me to say that love was the most important thing and they’re right: it is true that love is extremely important. But if you had the kind of upbringing I did, you would know why I consider loyalty so essential. I spent the first thirteen years of my life not knowing who I was or where I belonged. I was not abused or ill-treated, but I had no sense of belonging to the place where I was raised. It was not my home, and no one there tried to make it feel like home. I developed no loyalty to it—all I knew was that I was not truly alive; that I lacked something fundamental. It was only when Mathias Blaine brought me to live at the Manor that I began to realize what was missing. Unwavering and unquestioning loyalty to one’s friends, one’s comrades, one’s King and one’s realm are what make a person whole and complete.
If you could arm wrestle any other character in the story who would you take on?
Sullyan: I love this question! The easy answer would be to say someone I knew I could win against, but that would not be right. I certainly would not take on Bull, or Robin, or even Taran. Not because I might lose, but because it would create awkwardness whoever won. We never contend between ourselves unless we are training, and then we never take things too far. I think the best person to arm wrestle would be Owyn Denny, a Kingsman and Elias’ Lieutenant Major at Port Loxton. Denny can’t resist a challenge and he loves to gamble. He would just adore running a book on who might win.  
You have so many that look to you as an example (a hero). Is there someone you look up to, someone who has acted the mentor role?
Sullyan: Well, you have my thanks for the compliment! I try to set an example for those I train, as well as the men of my company. As for me, the first person who showed any interest in me and gave me any kind of instruction was the bard, Fiann. He came to the Downs one year on his usual rounds of Albia and happened to hear me singing to myself in the hills. We became firm friends and it was Fiann who taught me that I was an Artesan. He shared his knowledge of the other realms with me, helped me hone my Artesan skills, and also taught me music. The day he allowed me to play his great harp is one of my most treasured memories. 

When did you first know you were in love with Robin?
Sullyan: As soon as I first set eyes on him. That might sound trite, but it is true. When Bull took me to that little garrison in Lychdale, in Garon Province, and the commanding officer brought Robin out, my heart did this strange little flip in my chest. I might not have immediately admitted it to myself, but I think my soul knew right then it had found its mate. I could not tell Robin that, of course! Not before we had even been introduced. But I think Bull knew it. I think he knew I would fall for Robin, and that was one of the reasons he made me go with him to Lychdale. 

For those that have not read the books, can you give them a reason to start? What is it about your story that you want people to know?
Sullyan: I want people to know what it is to have and return the unconditional love of dear friends and comrades. I want them to thrill to the excitement of battle, to feel the satisfaction of knowing you have protected realm and hearth and home. I want them to see how the desire for power can corrupt; to realize that wielding power takes skill—and the mightier the power, the more proficient that wielder must be. I want them to realize that power changes those who use it, and that in order to be changed for the better, the wielder needs a strong and sturdy heart: a heart supported and bolstered by unconditional love. I want them to be challenged as I have been challenged.   
I have depicted you in many portraits. Am I doing your beauty justice?
Sullyan: I am humbled that you consider me beautiful. I know that Robin does, and I know that he is pleased by the artwork you have made. You have a rare skill that is akin to an Artesan’s powers—you take raw earth elements and shape them into a new form, use them for the good and the pleasure of others. This is a skill I admire, and I am happy to be the subject of your talent.

What can you say about Cas? How is she doing telling your story?
Sullyan: Cas has another of the skills I admire: the skill of the bard. To reach another’s heart through song or story is to reach deeply—tales told by such skills often stay entrenched in such hearts, even stretching out into Time to become myth and legend. Judging by the many favorable comments my story has received, Cas is doing a fine job.
What is the hardest lesson you've had to learn?
Sullyan: Humility. When a person is blessed with a gift such as the powers of an Artesan, it is easy to become obsessed with, even possessed by, the opinion that you are somehow better than your fellows. The Artesan craft is so glorious that the temptation to use it simply because you can is ever close. Have you never wished you could make such a show of power that those who scorn you or put you down would be forced to shy away from you in fear? Think how tempting it would be to set yourself up as some kind of superhero—someone who could enforce every law, destroy every criminal, right every wrong? Yet no human is capable of withstanding the temptations of power once that power has been given free rein. Humility is the tool by which we govern our baser desires, and love is the basis of humility. All must learn it or be devoured by our own darkness.

You have sung so many songs throughout the series. Which has been your favorite? Is there a reason behind it?
Sullyan: I have always loved to sing. I cannot remember a time when I did not sing, even before I met the bard Fiann, who taught me much of singing and of music. To say I have a favorite song would be to tell a falsehood, but there is a song that means more to me than any other I have learned. “All That We Are” is the song my father Morgan penned for my mother, Bethyn. He did not compose the melody—that was ancient long before he lived and known, it seems, in every realm. But he took this tune and crafted words that told of his love for my mother, his soul mate. I believe she used to song it to me while I was yet in the womb, for I cannot recall a time when I did not know it. I knew it when I met Lord Fiann, who told me that the words I sang were the High Language of Andaryon, which none had taught me, and it was he who translated them for me so I knew their meaning. This song, which I call “Morgan’s Song”, is the song of my soul. It is a tangible link to my parents, my lineage, and it will never leave me. I believe it has yet a part to play in my life. Probably also my death.
You make the best fellan, can we know your secret? Maybe a recipe?
Sullyan: Ha! It is not I who make the best fellan, but Bulldog. He makes it dark and bitter and full of aroma, and it is his doing that I am addicted. His brew was the first I ever tasted when I came to the Manor (we did not brew fellan in the Downs) and it was his assertion that I would not like the taste that made me determined to try some. He could not believe that a small girl of thirteen could tolerate such strong flavors, but to me, the taste of fellan felt like something else that had been missing from my life, something else I craved without understanding why. Fellan is the taste, the smell, the warmth of home and hearth; it carries the memory of firelight, the murmur of friends’ voices, a sense of belonging and stability. As for the recipe, you will have to ask Bull!
About the Book :
Friend against friend, lover against lover, ally against ally.Conflict is coming …
 
Nine months have passed since Brynne Sullyan helped forge an alliance between the realms of Albia and Andaryon. A fragile peace reigns as both sides recover from the events of the previous year. Then mysterious raiders strike Andaryon villages. Attempts are made on the life of Albia’s High King. As Sullyan scrambles to find those responsible, unseen enemies threaten to pull apart everything she has worked for, including her marriage.

To betray either one would break her heart, but if conflict is inevitable, she must make a choice … The alliance begins to crumble, and Sullyan finds herself caught between two monarchs: the king she’s sworn allegiance to, and the man she loves as a father.  

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Meet the Author

Cas Peace was born in Hampshire UK, in 1957, and has lived there most of her life. Her first career was as a horse-riding instructor, and horses remain very close to her heart. She then spent 13 years working for the British Civil Service before leaving the UK to live in Italy for three years, 1991-1994. She speaks passable but by no means perfect Italian, and loves to return to Italy whenever she can. Cas's other great loves are anything to do with animals, especially dogs and horses, (she supports many animal charities) and also singing.  Cas loves folk songs and along with her husband, who plays guitar, has performed in many a Southern England folk club. Sometimes they even asked her back! She writes folk songs to accompany her fantasy novels, and offers them as free downloads from her website.

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Follow the Tour

November 24th – J E Haldeman/ Fenix Fire Designs – Guest Post/PlaylistNovember 24th – Inside Mikey's World – Character InterviewNovember 24th – Penny Writes – Review November 25th – A Book and A Cup of Coffee – Review November 25th – 4 Cover To Cover – Excerpt / SpotlightNovember 26th – Pinky's Favorite Reads – Author InterviewNovember 26th – Deal Sharing Aunt – Review/Interview/Top TenNovember 28th – Donna K. Weaver – Review November 28th – Dogs Moms Visits – Excerpt/SpotlightDecember 1st – A_TiffyFit's Reading Corner – Review December 1st – Jess Resides Here – Author InterviewDecember 2nd – Rooms with Books – Author Interview/Excerpt  December 2nd – Penny Writes – Review December 3rd – Paul Kater – Special Feature December 3rd – The FlipSide of Julianne – Author Interview December 4th – Journeys & Life by Oregonmike – Review / Top TenDecember 4th – Cabin Goddess – Special Feature December 5th – Pixie Vixen Book Reviews – Guest Post

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Attention teachers, librarians, tweens, and parents of tweens! Announcing a contest just for you... The Emblazon authors are giving away a brand new touch screen Kindle loaded with over 50 of their books. That’s a $300 value and hours of reading entertainment! Emblazon is a collection of authors who seek to create lifelong readers by creating top-notch literature for kids. They have a particular focus on ages 11 to 14. They’re hosting this fabulous giveaway to celebrate their first year and to treat you, the readers. The Rafflecopter contest runs November 3 through November 17 and is open to anyone who loves tween literature. a Rafflecopter giveaway Note: Signing up for the catalog is required for entry. Current subscribers are also eligible for entry. Winners must reside in the United States or Canada. 



List of Stops on the Blog Tour:
November 3rd:
This Kid Reviews Books

November 5th:
Jaclyn Weist, Author Blog


November 10th:
Bookworm BlatherMin Reads and ReviewsSharon Ledwith: I came. I saw. I wrote.

November 11th:
The Novel Mage


November 12th:R.K. Grow The Author
My Keys On: Writing, Illustrating, and More


November 15th:
Monique's Musings


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