A.L. Zaun's Blog, page 4
July 18, 2013
TEASER: It's Not Over
I was tagged in a post that required that I post a teaser from page 70 in my work in progress. If I didn't post the teaser, bad things would happen to me like perhaps gaining 10 lbs while writing or humidity on a rainy day, causing my hair to frizz.
So here it is, the first official teaser from It's Not Over.
This teaser is unedited and subject to change.
“You seem like a nice guy,” he started, “and it looks like she’s gotten her hooks into you.”
“Listen, motherfucker. I don’t know who the hell you are or what the fuck you want. So I’m going to tell you this once,” I said, straightening my shoulders and glaring at him. “I don’t think anyone, other than my mother, would consider me a nice guy. Leave her the fuck alone.”
He reached for a paper towel and laughed. “You’re out of your league. Frankly, I don’t give a shit if she fucks you or half the world’s population. At the end of the day, she’s going to fuck me when I want. End of story. Oh and by the way, remember, I’m old friend. You’re new friend or maybe more like friend for now.”
I clenched my fists, at least as much as my right hand would close. The rage that had seized me earlier took over as my shoulders tightened and my heart pounded. I could taste the fury that overtook me as I pinned him against the wall. “Old friend. Maybe you’re hard of hearing. I said leave her the fuck alone. You don’t know who the fuck I am.” I pushed back from him and ran my hand through my hair, trying to calm myself down.
Straightening his shirt, he came up to me with a fucking death wish. “I have what she wants. At the end of the day, I always win.”
This had to be one of those karma shit things, and I was getting a taste of my own medicine. I refused to believe I was anything like this asshole, even at my worst.
~Ana
So here it is, the first official teaser from It's Not Over.
This teaser is unedited and subject to change.
“You seem like a nice guy,” he started, “and it looks like she’s gotten her hooks into you.”
“Listen, motherfucker. I don’t know who the hell you are or what the fuck you want. So I’m going to tell you this once,” I said, straightening my shoulders and glaring at him. “I don’t think anyone, other than my mother, would consider me a nice guy. Leave her the fuck alone.”
He reached for a paper towel and laughed. “You’re out of your league. Frankly, I don’t give a shit if she fucks you or half the world’s population. At the end of the day, she’s going to fuck me when I want. End of story. Oh and by the way, remember, I’m old friend. You’re new friend or maybe more like friend for now.”
I clenched my fists, at least as much as my right hand would close. The rage that had seized me earlier took over as my shoulders tightened and my heart pounded. I could taste the fury that overtook me as I pinned him against the wall. “Old friend. Maybe you’re hard of hearing. I said leave her the fuck alone. You don’t know who the fuck I am.” I pushed back from him and ran my hand through my hair, trying to calm myself down.
Straightening his shirt, he came up to me with a fucking death wish. “I have what she wants. At the end of the day, I always win.”
This had to be one of those karma shit things, and I was getting a taste of my own medicine. I refused to believe I was anything like this asshole, even at my worst.
~Ana
July 8, 2013
COVER REVEAL: Present Perfect by Alison Bailey
Present Perfect by Alison G. Bailey
Release Date: August 6th, 2013New Adult Contemporary RomanceAmazing Book Cover by artist Robin Harper of Wicked by Design
Synopsis:
I’d been unsure about many things in my life except for one thing, that I have always loved him. Every single minute of every single day that I have been on this earth, my heart has belonged to him. It has never been a question, never a doubt. The love had taken on many different forms over the years, but it had always been a constant.
Everyone has their definition of love. There have been countless songs sung about it. A gazillion books, articles, and poems written about it. There are experts on love who will tell you how to get it, keep it, and get over it.
We’re led to believe love is complicated. It’s not the love that’s complicated. It’s all the crap that we attach to it and put in front of it that makes it difficult. If you’re smart, you’ll realize this before it’s too late and simplify.
____________________________________________
Amanda Kelly spent her entire life trying to control every aspect of it, while striving for perfection. Her obsession with being perfect, along with her feelings of worthlessness, consumed her. The one thing she thought was perfect in her life was the bond she shared with her best friend, Noah.
Everything was going according to her life plan until she woke up one day and realized she had fallen in love with him. The one thing she couldn’t control was the affect he had on her. Noah had the power to give her one hundred lifetimes of happiness, which also gave him the power to completely devastate her. He was the one thing in her life that was perfect, but she couldn't allow herself to have him.
Her life begins to unravel. Events take over and force her to let go of her dreams and desires. She needs to realize that a person cannot control the events in their life, only their reaction to them...but will it be too late for her to save her relationship with her best friend?
Present Perfect is a story of how past events have present consequences and how perfect your present could be if you stopped fighting and just allowed it to happen.
Dream Cast
Add to Goodreads To Be Read List
http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17727279-present-perfect
Find Alison Bailey:
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Alison-G-Bailey/223772144436171?fref=ts
Twitter:
@AlisonGBailey1https://twitter.com/AlisonGBailey1
Pinterest:
http://pinterest.com/alisongbailey/present-perfect-by-alison-g-bailey/
Blog
http://alisongbailey.blogspot.com/2013/05/heres-little-treat-to-get-you-geared-up.html
Present Perfect Playlist
:
About Alison
Alison was born and raised in Charleston, SC. As a child she would create (write) additional scenes to TV shows and movies that she watched. She attended Winthrop University and graduated with a major in Theater. While at school she began writing one act plays which she later produced. Throughout the years she continued writing and producing several one act plays, but then life got in the way and she hung up her pen for a while. At the end of 2012 a very talented author friend convinced Alison to go back to writing and see what happens. So she did and fell back in love with it. Present Perfect will be Alison's first self-published book. A few personal facts, Alison loves anything sweet, especially frosting, and is addicted to Diet Pepsi. Alison's philosophy: Don't let your obstacles define you. At times life can get pretty overwhelming, but with a great support system and a lot of humor you can get through them. If you have humor in your life your spirit stays strong and you can tackle anything.July 7, 2013
It's Not Over: Chapter 4-6
There was a slight speed bump in the writing process. Book Bash, Life, and Out of Breath got in the way.
But have no fear, I'm back in the saddle. Nearing 21,000 words, It's Not Over is coming to life.
A new character is re-introduced from Madison's past, Alex Santana. We first met Alex briefly when Madison and Rick were feeding the homeless.
***Her head reclined on my chest. She moved against my body with such ease and confidence. It was a fucking turn-on, and she could feel it. She loved having power and control over me. “You two should get a room.” We both quickly straightened, startled out of whatever the hell that was. Where the fuck was my head? “Alex, it’s been a while,” Madison said. “Rick, this is Alex, an, um…old friend.” Old friend, my ass.He was a fuck buddy. That son of a bitch was salivating as he eyed her from head to toe. I reached out my hand. “Rick Marin, new friend.” I wasn’t a fuck buddy, and I had no plans of ever being one. I might cop a feel here and there, but that was it. This guy was an asshole. I should know. I was Asshole Extraordinaire. “Alex Santana. I’ll see you later, Madison.” He winked at her and walked away.
It was then that I realized my arm was still wrapped around her waist. I let her go. I ran my hands through my shower-capped head and cursed that damn thing. ~Chapter 38 from The Do Over***
I'm tempted to post a teaser so that I could let you know more about Alex. All I'll tell you is that Alex has ties to Madison and a long standing connection. He may hold the "key" to what she thinks she wants, and he has no problem whatsoever in using it to get what he wants.
Will Alex Santana come between Madison and Rick?
PS: In case you're wondering if this is a triangle, the answer is a big fat NO.
~Ana
But have no fear, I'm back in the saddle. Nearing 21,000 words, It's Not Over is coming to life.
A new character is re-introduced from Madison's past, Alex Santana. We first met Alex briefly when Madison and Rick were feeding the homeless.
***Her head reclined on my chest. She moved against my body with such ease and confidence. It was a fucking turn-on, and she could feel it. She loved having power and control over me. “You two should get a room.” We both quickly straightened, startled out of whatever the hell that was. Where the fuck was my head? “Alex, it’s been a while,” Madison said. “Rick, this is Alex, an, um…old friend.” Old friend, my ass.He was a fuck buddy. That son of a bitch was salivating as he eyed her from head to toe. I reached out my hand. “Rick Marin, new friend.” I wasn’t a fuck buddy, and I had no plans of ever being one. I might cop a feel here and there, but that was it. This guy was an asshole. I should know. I was Asshole Extraordinaire. “Alex Santana. I’ll see you later, Madison.” He winked at her and walked away.
It was then that I realized my arm was still wrapped around her waist. I let her go. I ran my hands through my shower-capped head and cursed that damn thing. ~Chapter 38 from The Do Over***
.jpg)
I'm tempted to post a teaser so that I could let you know more about Alex. All I'll tell you is that Alex has ties to Madison and a long standing connection. He may hold the "key" to what she thinks she wants, and he has no problem whatsoever in using it to get what he wants. Will Alex Santana come between Madison and Rick?
PS: In case you're wondering if this is a triangle, the answer is a big fat NO.
~Ana
July 4, 2013
Out of Breath by Rebecca Donovan
Out of Breath by Rebecca DonovanMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Last fall, my friend, Daisy, told me that I had to read The Breathing Series. She was visibly torn up. She begged me because she needed someone to understand what she was feeling and someone to go through the journey with her.
I reluctantly picked up Reason To Breathe because I was selfish. I didn't want to go through an emotional journey. I wanted clean and neat, but being a good sport and friend, I started reading.
I fell in love with Emma and Evan. Their story was powerful. I read, I paced, I cried, I cringed. My heart pounded in my throat. My kindle nearly came to an untimely death as several times it was nearly flung against the wall. But hope carried me through until the story came to an end and my world came crashing down around me. How on earth was it possible for an author to create an experience that would shatter me? This wasn't just a ugly cry thing. This book reached in and grabbed my heart. I fell in love with Evan Matthews. I was on Team Emma Thomas. I rooted for them, believed in them, hoped for them.
I also thanked God that Barely Breathing was already on my Kindle. I immediately started reading. Why stop? I needed to know. I needed peace. I needed resolution. I clung to hope. The earth's rotation had shifted and life as we knew it was quickly coming to an end.
And then Rebecca Donovan did something that I didn't know was possible. She reached further into my soul, grabbing a part of my heart that wasn't available to fictional characters, and owned it. {insert profanity}. I hated this story. I hated what was happening. I hated Emma's choices. I hated the interference. I hated that Evan wasn't more present. I hated it because I loved them. I wanted them happy and whole. I wanted them healed. I wanted them to live happily ever after. But what I got was reality and it wasn't always pretty.
I read that book with my heart, pounding in my chest. The angst in this book was so intense that I questioned my sanity for wanting more, but I did. I was so invested in their lives that there was no way I could abandon them. I believe in them. I believed in love. I believed that at the end of all of this there was the hope that they would find the life they deserved. And then another crushing blow. I mean, I was certain that the planets would be colliding and the end of the earth was imminent.
I waited patiently...who am I kidding? I wasn't patient. I needed to know what happened. I didn't want to wait. My heart was ripped open, and I needed resolution, healing and closure. I needed peace. I needed to be okay. At the same time, Rebecca Donovan proved to be an unpredictable author. I didn't know what Out of Breath would bring. I was truthfully scared.
What kind of author has the ability to take a reader down a journey where you are scared to the point where you aren't sure that you'll be okay if the book ends any other way? One that has the talent to draw you in and make the characters so real to you that you feel like you know them, not just know them, but also love them.
Out of Breath downloaded onto my Kindle on July 2. I lay in bed, thinking I would start reading for an hour before I proceeded to continue working on my own novel. What I didn't realize was that I was so wrapped up into the story that before I knew it, it was 5am. I questioned whether or not I should continue reading or try t get a couple hours of sleep. I opted for sleep, but the story kept running in my head. My Kindle didn't rest. At work, I had it opened and continued reading. I couldn't stop.
For those who know me, they know I was Team Evan from the get go. In fact, I was Team Jonathan can go to Hell and take Analise with him. When I started reading and saw Emma a shell of herself in college, I was saddened. Then, the box that held Emma's memories tightly hidden deep within the crevices of her own heart was opened and the pain rushed over her. She needed to stop feeling and to forget. The partying started along with what I considered to be REALLY BAD CHOICES. What the hell was she doing?
Enter Cole. Ahhhhh. Team Evan. Remember? Oh yeah. Cole comes into the picture. Rebecca Donovan did something that I didn't know could be possible, she made me like him. I mean, I didn't think it was possible, but I did. Even though I saw that Emma found an escape with Cole, he was a good guy. It could've been much worse. I also think that Cole was a substitute Evan.
I PMed while reading the book. I shared with Savanna that I liked Cole and didn't want him getting hurt.
I wondered why so much of the book was spent on Emma's life sans Evan. Even though I was okay with Cole, I hated that Emma's life was a mess. I hated the choices she was making. I hated her state of mind. I hated that my focused, determined and goal-oriented friend was a walking disaster and quickly slipping down a very slippery slope to self-destruction.
Not everyone's path to recovery is pretty. Emma's was downright FUGLY.
Enter Evan. You'd think that the earth's axis would return to it's correct angle, but you're wrong. Say what? Oh yeah, there was no instant reconciliation. NO fucking way! Yup, I used the F word.
I couldn't stop reading. I needed more. I needed healing almost as badly as they did. One thing was clear, they loved each other and needed to find their way home.
After so much damage, so many hurt feelings, so much emotional wreckage, can true love survive? When do you let go and move on? Can you? How do you breathe when you're holding your breath?
In Out of Breath , Rebecca Donovan takes us down the bittersweet journey of our beloved Emma and Evan. I sit here with tears welling in my eyes, missing them and wanting more.
I sit on the swing, hanging from the old oak tree and hold tight to the hope that when I can't breathe, someone will breathe for me.
I LOVED this book. It wasn't what I had expected, but what I needed. The Breathing Series goes down as one of my favorite series of ALL TIME.
A must read!
Amazon Purchase Link
View all my reviews
~Ana
July 1, 2013
BOOK BLITZ: Who Has The Heart?
Who Has The Heart?By Tania Eddingsaas
Amazon Buy Link
Goodreads
Book Description
Who Has the Heart? is a novel of three intertwined romantic tales. Rob Walker, a college athlete, Bridgett LeMond, a reclusive author, and Duncan Adams, a British actor, share in their own words their personal stories of romance.
Rob Walker
My plan was to avoid women and lay low my senior year. I just wanted to focus on winning a basketball tournament, graduating, and getting drafted into the NBA. But as the saying goes, as soon as you stop trying to meet someone, you’ll meet someone, because out of the blue I met Beth LeMond. It’s weird, but ever since, my life is looking like the complex story-line in The Tale Trilogy novels and it’s killing me! All I need now is patience, as I wait to see how my ‘Tale of Romance’ will end.
Bridgett LeMond
I secretly made a fortune writing The Tale Trilogy under a pen name. But even with all my success, I find myself struggling with insecurities. I finally managed to leave my old boyfriend and get a place of my own, because I don’t mind living alone. However, now it seems my new good-looking neighbor has taken an interest in me. Yeah right! I don’t believe it for a second! Why would a hot professional quarterback be interested in me? I know for a fact relationships in real life can never live up to the romantic story found in my novel.
Duncan Adams
I was a completely unknown actor when I was discovered in a tiny theatre in London and offered the lead role in the Hollywood blockbuster series entitled, The Tale Trilogy. Once I moved to Los Angeles and filming began, I've become a huge star, and now my life is absolute madness! For instance, after the break-up with my beautiful co-star, my Director had the gall to arrange these ghastly public appearances for me. Why isn't it obvious to the Tale fans that this is all a publicity stunt? What a load of rubbish! Thank goodness my new personal assistant isn't a complete nutter. She has introduced me to a talented musical composer and as a result I have found my true passion in life. Now I have to find the faith to follow my heart.
When the three come together on the live television morning program, The Lucinda Michaels Show, secrets are revealed and second chances are offered in the surprising conclusion that will leave readers wondering: Who Has the Heart?
Book Trailer
Author Bio
Hello! I write contemporary romance stories. My first novel is a self-published, 3-part contemporary romance called Who Has the Heart?At this time, my second novel and one other work-in-progress, may or may not include the following: a womanizing record producer, opposite-minded photographers, a ranch in the Grand Tetons, a woman that gives relationship advice on a radio talk show, a physically and emotionally scarred unlucky-in-love musician, a finalist in Cleveland's Hottest Bachelor Contest, a cruise ship traveling Alaska's inside passage, a beautiful non-judgmental young woman, and a handsome rich prince - (not necessarily in that order). About me: I grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I now live just west of there in Brookfield with my husband, two very active boys, and a lazy cat named Pablo.
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tania-Eddingsaas-Romance-Author/495572607188094?fref=ts
Amazon- http://www.amazon.com/Tania-Eddingsaas/e/B00BTK0CXK/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1
Goodreads- http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6644927.Tania_Eddingsaas
Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Amazon Buy Link
Goodreads
Book Description
Who Has the Heart? is a novel of three intertwined romantic tales. Rob Walker, a college athlete, Bridgett LeMond, a reclusive author, and Duncan Adams, a British actor, share in their own words their personal stories of romance.
Rob Walker
My plan was to avoid women and lay low my senior year. I just wanted to focus on winning a basketball tournament, graduating, and getting drafted into the NBA. But as the saying goes, as soon as you stop trying to meet someone, you’ll meet someone, because out of the blue I met Beth LeMond. It’s weird, but ever since, my life is looking like the complex story-line in The Tale Trilogy novels and it’s killing me! All I need now is patience, as I wait to see how my ‘Tale of Romance’ will end.Bridgett LeMond
I secretly made a fortune writing The Tale Trilogy under a pen name. But even with all my success, I find myself struggling with insecurities. I finally managed to leave my old boyfriend and get a place of my own, because I don’t mind living alone. However, now it seems my new good-looking neighbor has taken an interest in me. Yeah right! I don’t believe it for a second! Why would a hot professional quarterback be interested in me? I know for a fact relationships in real life can never live up to the romantic story found in my novel.Duncan Adams
I was a completely unknown actor when I was discovered in a tiny theatre in London and offered the lead role in the Hollywood blockbuster series entitled, The Tale Trilogy. Once I moved to Los Angeles and filming began, I've become a huge star, and now my life is absolute madness! For instance, after the break-up with my beautiful co-star, my Director had the gall to arrange these ghastly public appearances for me. Why isn't it obvious to the Tale fans that this is all a publicity stunt? What a load of rubbish! Thank goodness my new personal assistant isn't a complete nutter. She has introduced me to a talented musical composer and as a result I have found my true passion in life. Now I have to find the faith to follow my heart.When the three come together on the live television morning program, The Lucinda Michaels Show, secrets are revealed and second chances are offered in the surprising conclusion that will leave readers wondering: Who Has the Heart?
Book Trailer
Author Bio
Hello! I write contemporary romance stories. My first novel is a self-published, 3-part contemporary romance called Who Has the Heart?At this time, my second novel and one other work-in-progress, may or may not include the following: a womanizing record producer, opposite-minded photographers, a ranch in the Grand Tetons, a woman that gives relationship advice on a radio talk show, a physically and emotionally scarred unlucky-in-love musician, a finalist in Cleveland's Hottest Bachelor Contest, a cruise ship traveling Alaska's inside passage, a beautiful non-judgmental young woman, and a handsome rich prince - (not necessarily in that order). About me: I grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I now live just west of there in Brookfield with my husband, two very active boys, and a lazy cat named Pablo.Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tania-Eddingsaas-Romance-Author/495572607188094?fref=ts
Amazon- http://www.amazon.com/Tania-Eddingsaas/e/B00BTK0CXK/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1
Goodreads- http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6644927.Tania_Eddingsaas
Giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway
June 22, 2013
Writing...It's Not Over is far from being Over Chapters 1-4
I sent the first three chapters to my beta readers last week. I was beyond thrilled with their feedback. Now, don't think that being thrilled at feedback means that they thought I should win a Pulitzer Prize or anything like that. It just means that they're holding me to a high standard and being so damn picky. Between me and you, they also LOVED it. So, thumbs up. I'm so excited to be writing the story of the two most hated characters from The Do Over.
It's Not Over picks up right after the "confrontation" in The Do Over.
I'm excited! They're complex, complicated, and royal pains in the asses. Will Madison be the woman who can bring Rick to his knees, and will Rick be the man who'll be able to break down the walls around Madison's heart?
I was listening to the radio and Aerosmith's Cryin' was playing. I find it quite apropo for this part of stage of the story.
Happy Reading. If you haven't read The Do Over, what are you waiting for?
~Ana
It's Not Over picks up right after the "confrontation" in The Do Over.
I'm excited! They're complex, complicated, and royal pains in the asses. Will Madison be the woman who can bring Rick to his knees, and will Rick be the man who'll be able to break down the walls around Madison's heart?
I was listening to the radio and Aerosmith's Cryin' was playing. I find it quite apropo for this part of stage of the story.
Happy Reading. If you haven't read The Do Over, what are you waiting for?
~Ana
June 21, 2013
One Month Mile Stone
When I embarked on the journey of allowing the story of my beloved characters to take a life of their own, I never in my wildest dreams--well maybe in my wildest dreams-- imagined that I would meet all of the "realistic" goals that I set.
The greatest satisfaction in sharing The Do Over with you has been connecting with the readers.
I'm excited about it but mostly humbled by the experience.
So to celebrate I'm doing a few things going on:
Giveaways:
1 Signed Paperback
4 E-books
a Rafflecopter giveaway
AND
2 Signed Paperbacks
.goodreadsGiveawayWidget { color: #555; font-family: georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; text-align: left; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; background: white; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidget img { padding: 0 !important; margin: 0 !important; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidget a { padding: 0 !important; margin: 0; color: #660; text-decoration: none; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidget a:visted { color: #660; text-decoration: none; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidget a:hover { color: #660; text-decoration: underline !important; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidget p { margin: 0 0 .5em !important; padding: 0; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidgetEnterLink { display: block; width: 150px; margin: 10px auto 0 !important; padding: 0px 5px !important; text-align: center; line-height: 1.8em; color: #222; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; border: 1px solid #6A6454; border-radius: 5px; font-family:arial,verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; background-image:url(//www.goodreads.com/images/layout/gr_bu... background-repeat: repeat-x; background-color:#BBB596; outline: 0; white-space: nowrap; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidgetEnterLink:hover { background-image:url(//www.goodreads.com/images/layout/gr_bu... color: black; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; }
Goodreads Book Giveaway
The Do Over by A.L. Zaun Giveaway ends June 28, 2013.
See the giveaway details at Goodreads. Enter to win
The greatest satisfaction in sharing The Do Over with you has been connecting with the readers.
I'm excited about it but mostly humbled by the experience.
So to celebrate I'm doing a few things going on:
Giveaways:
1 Signed Paperback
4 E-books
a Rafflecopter giveaway
AND
2 Signed Paperbacks
.goodreadsGiveawayWidget { color: #555; font-family: georgia, serif; font-weight: normal; text-align: left; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; background: white; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidget img { padding: 0 !important; margin: 0 !important; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidget a { padding: 0 !important; margin: 0; color: #660; text-decoration: none; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidget a:visted { color: #660; text-decoration: none; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidget a:hover { color: #660; text-decoration: underline !important; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidget p { margin: 0 0 .5em !important; padding: 0; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidgetEnterLink { display: block; width: 150px; margin: 10px auto 0 !important; padding: 0px 5px !important; text-align: center; line-height: 1.8em; color: #222; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; border: 1px solid #6A6454; border-radius: 5px; font-family:arial,verdana,helvetica,sans-serif; background-image:url(//www.goodreads.com/images/layout/gr_bu... background-repeat: repeat-x; background-color:#BBB596; outline: 0; white-space: nowrap; } .goodreadsGiveawayWidgetEnterLink:hover { background-image:url(//www.goodreads.com/images/layout/gr_bu... color: black; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; }
Goodreads Book Giveaway
The Do Over by A.L. Zaun Giveaway ends June 28, 2013. See the giveaway details at Goodreads. Enter to win
June 19, 2013
One Month-i-Versary
One month ago, I pressed SAVE AND PUBLISH on Amazon. I walked away from my computer with shaking hands and crawled back in bed. Yes, I really did do that. I pulled out my Kindle and started reading Cautious by E. L. Montes.
As I read through the prologue, I was PMing Emmy because honestly, I needed support. All of a sudden, I see on the top of my phone a notification that The Do Over was live.
I jumped out of bed, ran to my laptop, typed "T-h-e- d-o-v-e-r" on Amazon.com and cried.
I had goals, like everyone who publishes, and thank God and you, the readers, I achieved those goals within days! Truly humbling and a wonderful experience.
So to say THANK YOU to all of you for being part of an incredible journey in my life, I want to give a little back to you.
Here's a giveaway and maybe another little surprise in the works...
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thank you so much!
~Ana
As I read through the prologue, I was PMing Emmy because honestly, I needed support. All of a sudden, I see on the top of my phone a notification that The Do Over was live.
I jumped out of bed, ran to my laptop, typed "T-h-e- d-o-v-e-r" on Amazon.com and cried.
I had goals, like everyone who publishes, and thank God and you, the readers, I achieved those goals within days! Truly humbling and a wonderful experience.
So to say THANK YOU to all of you for being part of an incredible journey in my life, I want to give a little back to you.
Here's a giveaway and maybe another little surprise in the works...
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Thank you so much!
~Ana
June 9, 2013
Early Morning Phone Call
The house was quiet on this early Sunday morning, when I was shocked out of my peaceful sleep by a phone call from Dani Ruiz. Apparently, she likes reading reviews on Goodreads and Amazon and felt justified on waking me up early on the only day of the week I can sleep in.
"Hey, good morning. I'm sorry did I wake you?" she said softly in an apologetic voice.
"Um, no, not at all." I lied. I mean honestly, what would give her that impression? Perhaps the fact that I could barely speak and mumbled into the phone. What time is it anyway? I pulled my phone back to check the time and silently cursed her for calling at 7:20 a.m. What's wrong with this girl?
"Oh good. I know it's early, but I've gotten on Liam's clock, and he wakes up at the crack of dawn. I'll probably go back to sleep in a little while because I barely slept last night, but that's another story." She snickered. I hate her.
"Dan's, what's up? Speak fast because you're losing me. I have ADD this early in the morning."
"Well, you know how I like to read reviews? I know. I know. I know," she said as I was about to interrupt her, but before I could say anything she continued, "you tell me all the time not to read them, but I can't help it, and before you want to stage an intervention--don't. There's always something positive to learn from them."
"Okay, listen girl. It's Sunday morning, my only day to sleep in. Please don't wake me up talking to me about reviews. Unless..." I paused, "it's a good one."
"Um well, no. It's not, but that's not the point. I actually thought this one was funny."
I rolled my eyes. This had better be good. "Okay, tell me what was so funny because I'm about to hang up on you."
"Oh don't do that. Okay so here it is. You were accused of copying Fifty Shades of Grey. I mean really, I guess that's super cool. Although that would make me Anastasia wouldn't it? Wait, that would make Liam, Christian Grey," she said as her voice turned a little sultry.
It's Sunday morning and this chick is calling me and getting turned on thinking of Liam as Christian Grey. Oh.my.god. Obviously, she has no clue that I'm a single mom, who has a full-time job, and spend my nights telling their story so that they'll stop haunting me. I need SLEEP!
"Dani, in the famous words of Madeline Sheehan, 'reel it in, babe,'" I huffed.
"I love it when you throw book quotes at me. I just thought I would add that," she said in a perky tone.
I loved Dani--I really did, but sometimes, she was just too perky, and that usually meant she was excited about something or had some stupid idea. Typically, I preferred her feeling sorry for herself and a little melodramatic because she would tend to be more introspective and let me sleep.
"Okay, so I was thinking," she said. Yes, I was right. She has a stupid idea. "You know how they have those interviews after reality TV shows?"
"Sure, okay."
"We should have one," she said with a tinge of attitude. "Look, I think it's so cool to be compared to Fifty but other than Liam having that fantasy about tying me up and my denying thinking of kinky fuckery, I'm lost. I NEVER had my internal goddess doing back flips, and well, as much as I love making love to Liam, it's VANILLA. I have no problem with that because Liam redefines vanilla--sweet, silky, and very creamy." She chuckled softly. "The point is that people are making such ridiculous accusations, and it's wrong. I think we need to speak up."
I sighed deeply. I understood her frustration. It's the frustration that every author has when the critics share their opinions.
"Dani, sweetie. I think it's awesome that you want to speak up. I love your passion and desire to speak your mind. Trust me, I get that feeling of powerlessness when people say things, and you really can't say anything in response."
"Why can't we?"
"It's simple because it'll blow up in our faces. The truth is that reading is subjective. Everyone experiences stories differently. We have to respect that readers are allowed to feel their own feelings."
"Look Ana, I know that you're a professional and understand that when you publish you expose yourself and need to grow a thick skin. But let's face it, you can stay quiet, but you'll only become like Madison, and I'm not talking about the sex for sport. I'm talking about guarding your heart so much that you forget to feel. You're a passionate woman who wears her heart on your sleeve, and let's face it, those reviews aren't constructive, instructional, or helpful except to cast a negative impression to others about you and MY journey."
I pulled the covers over my head. This wasn't how I wanted to wake up. I wanted to sleep in. I wondered if I closed my eyes and rolled over if I could ignore her, but if she's taught me one thing is that she'll haunt me until I say something or do something. Otherwise, she'll drive me insane, and honestly, Fifty Shades of Grey? I laughed to myself because that seriously was absurd.
"Let me call you back. My brain needs to warm up before I comment further," I said, rubbing my eyes
"Okay, but don't take too long, or we'll just show up. I'm sure that Macy can hijack your blog or Facebook page." She threatened. Why did I ever breathe life into her?
"Very funny. For the record, watch it or I'll make it so you end up an old lady, sitting in a dark room full of cats," I said and then inserted a sinister laugh.
"You're evil. Call me back. Bye."
I quietly crawled out of bed and booted up my laptop. I pulled up the reviews on Amazon and read:
"I am 50% into this book and I don't know why I keep reading it. I guess I like Liam's character so much but that's it. Dani (the main character) is an idiot! Why does this author have to paint her this way?! If I had a hottie like Liam I wouldn't be trying to cheat on him with the douche bag that dumped me TWO YEARS EARLIER! Someone who can be so mature in her professional life is just so stupid when it comes to finding a good man and trying her best to screw it up. Whiney insecure and just TRYING to mess up a great thing. Also, through out this whole book it seems like this author read Fifty Shades of Grey and has copied so much of the language and scenarios that it's so obvious so much is a re-creation from those books. Be original-don't give us a Fifty Shades copy cat!"
I reached for my phone and called Dani. "Hey, I just read it. You've got to be kidding me," I said, laughing. "Girl, game on. Get everyone together. Enough is fucking enough!"
"I love this side of you," she said. "And I knew you would so I already called everyone. We'll be over in a little bit. This is going to be fun. I even called Madison and Macy's having a total fit about that."
"Hey, good morning. I'm sorry did I wake you?" she said softly in an apologetic voice.
"Um, no, not at all." I lied. I mean honestly, what would give her that impression? Perhaps the fact that I could barely speak and mumbled into the phone. What time is it anyway? I pulled my phone back to check the time and silently cursed her for calling at 7:20 a.m. What's wrong with this girl?
"Oh good. I know it's early, but I've gotten on Liam's clock, and he wakes up at the crack of dawn. I'll probably go back to sleep in a little while because I barely slept last night, but that's another story." She snickered. I hate her.
"Dan's, what's up? Speak fast because you're losing me. I have ADD this early in the morning."
"Well, you know how I like to read reviews? I know. I know. I know," she said as I was about to interrupt her, but before I could say anything she continued, "you tell me all the time not to read them, but I can't help it, and before you want to stage an intervention--don't. There's always something positive to learn from them."
"Okay, listen girl. It's Sunday morning, my only day to sleep in. Please don't wake me up talking to me about reviews. Unless..." I paused, "it's a good one."
"Um well, no. It's not, but that's not the point. I actually thought this one was funny."
I rolled my eyes. This had better be good. "Okay, tell me what was so funny because I'm about to hang up on you."
"Oh don't do that. Okay so here it is. You were accused of copying Fifty Shades of Grey. I mean really, I guess that's super cool. Although that would make me Anastasia wouldn't it? Wait, that would make Liam, Christian Grey," she said as her voice turned a little sultry.
It's Sunday morning and this chick is calling me and getting turned on thinking of Liam as Christian Grey. Oh.my.god. Obviously, she has no clue that I'm a single mom, who has a full-time job, and spend my nights telling their story so that they'll stop haunting me. I need SLEEP!
"Dani, in the famous words of Madeline Sheehan, 'reel it in, babe,'" I huffed.
"I love it when you throw book quotes at me. I just thought I would add that," she said in a perky tone.
I loved Dani--I really did, but sometimes, she was just too perky, and that usually meant she was excited about something or had some stupid idea. Typically, I preferred her feeling sorry for herself and a little melodramatic because she would tend to be more introspective and let me sleep.
"Okay, so I was thinking," she said. Yes, I was right. She has a stupid idea. "You know how they have those interviews after reality TV shows?"
"Sure, okay."
"We should have one," she said with a tinge of attitude. "Look, I think it's so cool to be compared to Fifty but other than Liam having that fantasy about tying me up and my denying thinking of kinky fuckery, I'm lost. I NEVER had my internal goddess doing back flips, and well, as much as I love making love to Liam, it's VANILLA. I have no problem with that because Liam redefines vanilla--sweet, silky, and very creamy." She chuckled softly. "The point is that people are making such ridiculous accusations, and it's wrong. I think we need to speak up."
I sighed deeply. I understood her frustration. It's the frustration that every author has when the critics share their opinions.
"Dani, sweetie. I think it's awesome that you want to speak up. I love your passion and desire to speak your mind. Trust me, I get that feeling of powerlessness when people say things, and you really can't say anything in response."
"Why can't we?"
"It's simple because it'll blow up in our faces. The truth is that reading is subjective. Everyone experiences stories differently. We have to respect that readers are allowed to feel their own feelings."
"Look Ana, I know that you're a professional and understand that when you publish you expose yourself and need to grow a thick skin. But let's face it, you can stay quiet, but you'll only become like Madison, and I'm not talking about the sex for sport. I'm talking about guarding your heart so much that you forget to feel. You're a passionate woman who wears her heart on your sleeve, and let's face it, those reviews aren't constructive, instructional, or helpful except to cast a negative impression to others about you and MY journey."
I pulled the covers over my head. This wasn't how I wanted to wake up. I wanted to sleep in. I wondered if I closed my eyes and rolled over if I could ignore her, but if she's taught me one thing is that she'll haunt me until I say something or do something. Otherwise, she'll drive me insane, and honestly, Fifty Shades of Grey? I laughed to myself because that seriously was absurd.
"Let me call you back. My brain needs to warm up before I comment further," I said, rubbing my eyes
"Okay, but don't take too long, or we'll just show up. I'm sure that Macy can hijack your blog or Facebook page." She threatened. Why did I ever breathe life into her?
"Very funny. For the record, watch it or I'll make it so you end up an old lady, sitting in a dark room full of cats," I said and then inserted a sinister laugh.
"You're evil. Call me back. Bye."
I quietly crawled out of bed and booted up my laptop. I pulled up the reviews on Amazon and read:
"I am 50% into this book and I don't know why I keep reading it. I guess I like Liam's character so much but that's it. Dani (the main character) is an idiot! Why does this author have to paint her this way?! If I had a hottie like Liam I wouldn't be trying to cheat on him with the douche bag that dumped me TWO YEARS EARLIER! Someone who can be so mature in her professional life is just so stupid when it comes to finding a good man and trying her best to screw it up. Whiney insecure and just TRYING to mess up a great thing. Also, through out this whole book it seems like this author read Fifty Shades of Grey and has copied so much of the language and scenarios that it's so obvious so much is a re-creation from those books. Be original-don't give us a Fifty Shades copy cat!"
I reached for my phone and called Dani. "Hey, I just read it. You've got to be kidding me," I said, laughing. "Girl, game on. Get everyone together. Enough is fucking enough!"
"I love this side of you," she said. "And I knew you would so I already called everyone. We'll be over in a little bit. This is going to be fun. I even called Madison and Macy's having a total fit about that."
May 20, 2013
The Do Over is LIVE
Today, May 20th was the intended release day for The Do Over, but I got it back from the fabulous Angela from Fictional Formats on Saturday and had twitching fingers.
I loaded everything up Saturday night and contemplated if I should or shouldn't press SAVE and PUBLISH. Decisions, decisions, decisions.
When I woke up Sunday morning, I decided I might as well do it. I've heard of the nightmares with Amazon taking an eternity to get a book to go up, and if nothing else, I wanted to make sure it would be up by Monday.
So I pressed Save and Publish and crawled under my covers, hiding from the world while reading Cautious by E. L. Montes. It was obvious what I'd be doing, right? Well, I had to PM her because my heart was pounding, and while I was doing that in the safety of my bedspread cocoon, I saw a notification flash on my screen, IT'S LIVE ON AMAZON. I thought it was a question. Nope, we were live on Amazon.
A fabulous first day! I'm beyond humbled and grateful for each person who bought the book, borrowed from a friend, and even those bastards who decided to pirate it within an hour of it being up.
While on my journey, I've met some pretty fantastic people and so many of them have been incredibly supportive.
Here's a blog post you MUST check out -- learn a little more about The Do Over and enter for your chance to win a copy of the e-book! Reviews By Tammy and Kim .
There are so many other people, strangers that took a chance on me, read my book and fell in love with it. Friends that I've made along the way. They are fantastic. I'm so grateful to each and every one of them!
Thank you!! <3
~Ana
I loaded everything up Saturday night and contemplated if I should or shouldn't press SAVE and PUBLISH. Decisions, decisions, decisions.
When I woke up Sunday morning, I decided I might as well do it. I've heard of the nightmares with Amazon taking an eternity to get a book to go up, and if nothing else, I wanted to make sure it would be up by Monday.
So I pressed Save and Publish and crawled under my covers, hiding from the world while reading Cautious by E. L. Montes. It was obvious what I'd be doing, right? Well, I had to PM her because my heart was pounding, and while I was doing that in the safety of my bedspread cocoon, I saw a notification flash on my screen, IT'S LIVE ON AMAZON. I thought it was a question. Nope, we were live on Amazon.
A fabulous first day! I'm beyond humbled and grateful for each person who bought the book, borrowed from a friend, and even those bastards who decided to pirate it within an hour of it being up.
While on my journey, I've met some pretty fantastic people and so many of them have been incredibly supportive.
Here's a blog post you MUST check out -- learn a little more about The Do Over and enter for your chance to win a copy of the e-book! Reviews By Tammy and Kim .
There are so many other people, strangers that took a chance on me, read my book and fell in love with it. Friends that I've made along the way. They are fantastic. I'm so grateful to each and every one of them!
Thank you!! <3
~Ana
.jpg){kind=link}