T.K. Rapp's Blog, page 13

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT – S. Celi

This week’s author spotlight features none other than Mrs. Sara Celi, author of The Palms & The Undesirable. I recently had a chance to read The Palms and asked Sara if she would mind talking a little about her books and what she has coming up.

Continue reading for the synopsis of: The Undesirable

The Undesirable

This book is Mature YA/ New Adult. It is recommended for readers 14 and over.

What if everything you knew turned out to be a lie?

Charlotte Walker knows how to live under the rule of The Party. She has managed for 18 years. She helps out her drunken mother and keeps life going at a familiar, steady pace. She doesn’t ask questions, even though she has many of them in her heart.

Fostino Sanchez knows how to live under the rule of The Party, too. For 19 years, he’s worked to be the perfect Party member. He knows what must be done to keep Maxwell Cooper in power, and how to find the The Undesirables that threaten to take away everything that matters.

As the months go by, what matters most to Fostino is Charlotte Walker.

While their love blooms, danger comes to Charlotte and Fostino’s small hometown of Harrison Corners, OH. Threats they never knew existed could take away all that they care about. And just when these two teens think they know what will come next, Charlotte learns the truth about a secret she has long suspected.

What Charlotte finds out changes everything.

EVERYTHING.

THE UNDESIRABLE is Charlotte Walker’s story, from her point of view. It is a thrilling, suspenseful tale of love, curiosity, adversity, and maturity against the backdrop of a futuristic war.

Should Charlotte trust Fostino with what she knows? Can she trust anyone? Will she find it in herself to rise up against terrible odds? What if the ultimate Undesirable is her?

 Get to know…

S. Celi

Thank you so much for taking the time to answer some questions and let people know about you! I am quickly discovering that there are, not only talented, but genuinely wonderful writers who support each other at any given time. It goes without saying, that you, my friend, are one of the good ones!

I haven’t had the chance to read your recently published novel, The Undesirable, yet, but I did just finished reading The Palms. It was a really enjoyable novella! Was this your first book? What do you feel was the hardest part?  The Undesirable was my first book. It was really hard for me to write, because it is such a dark story, but I had those characters and the story in my head for a long time. The Palms was much lighter—a nice break set in my favorite vacation town.
The Palms centers around Trent and Lauren, who run into each other after ten years. What do you feel is the most important “takeaway” of their story?  I think some of the best parts of life are the unexpected moments we have to change our future.
What is your favorite part of creating a story? I love the revision process. I feel like the story really grows during that time!
As we know, there are thousands of self-published authors out there, what do think is the biggest misconception about the industry? That it’s easy to do!
What was it about writing that was intriguing to you? Have you always wanted to write a book? I always knew I would write several books, even as a young child, when all I had was a love of reading. I wrote my first book in college after years of writing short stories. Then I focused almost a decade on journalism before finding my creative voice again.
What do you consider the hardest part of writing? The best?  The hardest part for me is finishing a project. I have to set deadlines or I’ll tinker forever on it! The best part is having a reader take the time to look at my work.
I know that you have received great reviews for both of your books, which is fabulous! How do you handle the rare occasions where you receive a negative review? Do you read them or avoid them? I invite and appreciate all feedback because it helps me to grow. Even the most scathing review has a takeaway that will make my future projects improve.
Who would you consider your inspiration personally? Professionally? Jamie McGuire, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Margaret Mitchell, Colleen Hoover, and Kate Middleton, and Grace Kelly are huge inspirations to me for various reasons.
What would you consider to be your biggest accomplishment? I like to think my biggest accomplishment is something I have not yet discovered in my life—that I’m growing each day and on a journey to a better me with each moment.
If someone asked for your advice about writing a book, what would you say?  Be prepared to work, take feedback, and grow with each moment!
Do you have a favorite author, if so, who? How in the world could I choose?
What is your favorite book of all time? Another hard pick! I do, however, read The Great Gatsby every year, so I guess it’s that.
Are you reading anything now? If so, what are you reading right now? I’m  always reading something!  Right now, it’s Such Great Heights by Chris Cole. I love it so far! Go grab it!
Are you working on another book now? If so, do you have a name for it? When do you hope to publish? Right now, Prince Charming is in the edit stages. It has a release date of January 28th. Here is the page for it on Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18131040-prince-charming
If you could say anything to your readers, what would you say? Thank you for reading!

Learn More About S. Celi by Clicking on the Links Below:

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

WEBSITE

Filed under: Author Spotlight, Books, Insight, WFDs, WFFDs, Writing Tagged: 2013, Author Spotlight, books, Inspiration, S. Celi, spotlight features, The Palms, writing

Hopeless Wanderer

The theme of today’s post is simple:

I LOVE Mumford & Sons!

Lawn at Mumford & Sons

The first time I heard of them was when they performed on the Grammy’s with Bob Dylan and The Avett Brothers a few years ago. My mom, sister and I fell in love immediately. So much, in fact, that we had purchased tickets to see Avett when they came to town, but it was rescheduled and we never saw them. My sister is a major Mumford & Sons fan…so much, that she had tickets to THREE, yes, 3, shows! I was so happy last spring when they added a Houston show, so that I would finally get to see them.

So last night, it happened. After all the waiting, anticipation and high expectations, we FINALLY got to see Mumford & Sons live. What did we think…..

AH-MAY-ZING!!!!!

I have been to numerous concerts ranging from pop (i.e. NKOTB…I’m not ashamed), classic (Van Halen….helz yes!), rock (STP, Bush, Foo Fighters and an endless list) and even Jimmy Buffett (sorry, not sure how to classify that one, LOL). But this was, by far, the BEST show I have ever been to! Those boys (sorry, men), know how to put on a fantastic show!

If you have ever been the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in Houston, you know that your place on the lawn can sometimes not be the best. Well, I’m sure that’s true at any outdoor venue. However, my friend and I got there 1 hour before the gates opened, with my kids, and once in, got center stage, edge of the lawn seats. O.M.G….I don’t think I could have asked for better placement.

I have watched Mumford & Sons, The Road to Red Rocks, many times since I have it on my DVR. Watching that made me so excited, but RR is THE venue for artists, so I figured there is no way our show could compare. I was so wrong in that assumption, and I am happy to admit it! They were energetic, fun and awesome showmen. The moment they took the stage, the crowd was on their feet, singing along and dancing to the music. I’m still in a state of shock that I was actually there, because they were that good. And, I couldn’t help but take notice of the lighting, because it was so damn cool! Every song was great, but my two favorites had to be I Will Wait and The Cave because you could hear the audience sing along, and that just gave me chills.

If you ever get the chance to see Mumford & Sons, I cannot say enough about the awesomeness that IS M&S! I will go again and again if given the opportunity. Needless to say, today’s blog title has EVERYTHING to do with how much I loved last night and how grateful I am that I got to be a part of such an epic night! I only wish they had played this song.

We were awe-struck!

Come back tomorrow for our regularly scheduled blog, not already in progress!

XO

~T

Filed under: Dreams, Exciting, Girls Night Out, GNO, Ramblings, Thoughts Tagged: 2013, Concert, EPIC night, Family, happy dance, Inspiration, Mumford&Sons, Rambling, T.K. Rapp

Dear Prudence…

It was just over two months ago that I published Being There, and I’ve learned a few things along the way that I thought I would share:

If you want do something, I mean, really want to do it, you will find a way to make it happen. You may fail, but you’ll never know if you never try. Mine was to write a novel, and watching that dream turn into a reality is beyond amazing. I want that for everyone who dreams big!
Accept help from people when they offer it, and ask for it when you need it. There are so many amazing writers who have done things and carved the path for the rest of us. Don’t ride their coattails, but learn from them and make your own way. Respect the time, energy, and resources they expended to grow their brand; grow your’s with hard work and determination, just like they did.
You have to have a thick skin to do this, and if you don’t have one, grow it fast. People aren’t going to hold back to spare your feelings, but take them with a grain of salt. You can’t please everyone all the time. Be okay with that.
Like most things in life, not everything comes easy. I have had moments where I’m unsure if I’m doing what I’m meant to do. Fortunately for me, these WFFDs take the opportunity to remind me (and others like me) why we do what we do…because we love it. Anything worth having is worth fighting for, so whatever it is you want out of life, career, family or faith, fight for it.
If you don’t like something, change it. Nothing is set in stone until you decide you’re done. So do with it, what you want, and tune out the naysayers, because they are there.

Well, that just about sums up my thoughts on the last two months of being published. It’s been an awesome ride and changes everyday.

In the meantime…

My, still UNTITLED #1 WIP has been sitting idle, while I work on UNTITLED #2 WIP. The good news is, #2 has a title!! If you were on Facebook last night, you would have seen the I HEART BOOKS takeover **exclusive**, featuring yours truly. Visit their Facebook page for all the details. It was so much fun!

Who am I kidding, I can’t keep a secret, or wait! So, the title of BOOK#2 is….

MINE TO LOSE

Needless to say, I am busy working on Ryan and Emogen’s story, spoiler alert…it’s a love story! Ha-ha. I’ll share more, very soon, or you can get a little spoiler on the I HEART BOOKS page.

If you have yet to read Being There, click any of the links below to get your copy:

Amazon

B&N

Diesel

KOBO

Sony eReader

Smashwords

 ;) If you don’t know, The Beatles are one of my favorite bands of all time. This song was just fitting!

Filed under: Books, Dreams, Insight, Ramblings, Thoughts, WFFDs, Writing Tagged: 2013, AmWriting, Being There, books, Rambling, T.K. Rapp, Thankful, writing

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT – Kimberly Stedronsky

I have to say, I am so very excited to spotlight my friend and wifey, Kim! She is the author of the amazing Roam Series novels, which include: Roam, Fall, Rise, Rush, Rule, Reign and West (a novella). Up to this point, I have read the first three and I absolutely LOVE them. Kim has a beautiful writing style and a very creative imagination, both of which keep me reading. So here we go…

Synopsis for the book that started it all : ROAM!!

Roam Camden is a bright girl in small town Ohio, eager to graduate high school and pursue her dreams of teaching history. Her well-planned path includes Logan, her life-long best friend… and now boyfriend. 

On the first day of her senior year she meets the new history teacher, West Perry, and senses that there is something deep within her soul that remembers him… and a life they once shared.

Roam quickly learns that her fate is not as simple as she once believed. She has spent six lifetimes, as far back as the fifteenth century to as recently as the 1970s, struggling to survive a prophecy that has forsaken her… and the man that she has loved throughout time. 

Evil is near, and now, in their last life together, West must protect Roam for the last time, save their unborn child… and in turn, save our world.

Violence/ 17+ Sexual Situations/ Mild Profanity

Get to know…

Kimberly Stedronsky

I’m so glad that you agreed to answer some questions for my Author Spotlight. I know that you are busy raising a family and working, not to mention, writing. So, THANK YOU!

Did you always want to be a writer?   I really have. My Barbies used to go through the most dramatic trials. Jem and Ken were totally having an affair behind Barbie’s back, until Skipper (that little snitch) ratted them out. Eventually I just transferred their drama to paper. I wrote all through high-school and college, but went through a ten year chunk of writer’s block when my daughter was born. The idea for Roam came to me one day last year, and that was it. Writer’s block over. Now I can’t stop!
You self-published your first book, Roam, a year ago. What was it like when you first published? Did you ever want to go the traditional route? I read through the pros and cons of traditional publishing versus self-publishing, and ultimately decided I wanted complete control over my work (for now.) That also meant learning a LOT by trial and error, but it was a good experience. I was really had such little exposure to the indie author world, and I hit PUBLISH all giddy and stupidly naïve. Thanks to some fantastic readers and reviewers, though, those first months of being published were just amazing. I’m very grateful!
What do you consider the hardest part of writing? What is your favorite part?  For me, the absolute hardest part of writing is needing to write, but not having the time. My favorite part is the story! Imagination is limitless (okay that was corny) but really, anything is possible. I love to make the impossible real by supporting it with factual evidence. Um… so… fiction. That was lame. Wow lol
As you know, I am a HUGE fan of your books. When you wrote Roam, was it always your intention to turn it into a series?  Thank you!! Yes, I’d always intended for Roam to be a series. I knew it would take at least 6-7 books to fully tell the story. I knew the overall plot from the beginning. I am a huge fan of family sagas and series, and building characters to their fullest potential.
The Roam series has many geographic and historical references, along with the fantasy part. I loved the way you melded them together. Did you like history growing up? Are these references an extension of that? I loved history because it was filled with the seediest stories imaginable. I was horrible at memorizing dates and names, but the stories I’d never forget. More than anything, the idea of past lives and reincarnation intrigued me. I wanted to write a smart fantasy that would combine elements of geography and history with magic and imagination.
I’ve heard readers refer to West as the “ideal” leading man. What is about him that you think appeals to your readers?  One thing I’ve learned about West Perry… readers are fiercely loyal to this man! Apart from being an incredibly hot immortal (that helps) he is also flawed… he doesn’t succeed at everything, but he fights to the death for Roam. He also treats her with respect, which makes him attractive to most women on a relatable level.
I loved the names of the characters in your book. West and Roam, especially! Where did you come up with the names?  Kind of a funny story… the town bordering mine is Perry, and every morning I drive to work and get stuck at the same stop light in West Perry. Most of the names in Roam are places in Ohio (Logan, Morgan, Roam -spelled Rome-, Troy, Camden…) I need to show my Ohio some love! Roam, of course, is my favorite B52’s song. 
Is there any part of your books that you can personally relate to? Do any of the characters have traits that are you?   I can definitely relate to Roam’s innocence and early maturity, and her relationship with an older man (my own husband is almost ten years older than I am, and I met him with I was eighteen.) I didn’t have any hot teachers like Mr. Perry though. I probably would have had way better attendance in high school, lol.  I’m also embarrassingly impulsive, like Eva. Everyone loves that above me
When your readers contact you about your books, what do they say? I absolutely love my readers. They are phenomenal, intelligent people, and I’ve made some great friends through my writing. They write to me to let me know how much they enjoyed the series and that I am a wonderful writer. That compliment makes me tear up every time. 
The series ended with Reign, but I know that you have another book due in October. Eighth Note is your newest novel, what can you tell us about this book?   Eighth Note (Fire Ballad One) is a spin-off of the Roam Series. This is a stand-alone PNR/Horror featuring Eva, Will, and Cole from the Roam Series.Eva has a very popular music blog called Fire Ballad, and Cole enlists her help in solving the strange death of a famous pop star, Nina Fayette. The surveillance videos of her suicide lead them to the Catskills in New York, and then to the studio where she died. The last song that she recorded begins to leak into the media, and everyone who listens is sentenced to a horrifying death.As an immortal filled with magic, Eva feels that she can stop the gruesome suicides by taking on the evil herself.

This series, unlike the Roam Series, is heavily paranormal/ horror. Which I love. A whole lot.
Who would you consider your inspiration personally? Professionally?  My personal inspiration- that’s a hard one. I don’t know what I’d do without my incredibly supportive family and friends. Music inspires me mostly. Professionally, I grew up being inspired by the incredible stories of Stephen King, Judith McNaught, and VC Andrews before she passed away. Lately, I’ve discovered some new, amazing writers in our indie author community, and my TBR list is overflowing. I adore movies, of course. Feels trite saying it, but it’s true.
What do your kids and husband think about your writing? Have they read your books?  My husband, Brian, is so supportive. He’s an avid reader, like me. He’s also SUPER sarcastic, tactless, and brutally honest. Did I mention he’s a Marine vet? And a stand-up comedian? **long low whistle** yeah, not the best audience as your first critic. I had no idea what to expect when he began reading Roam. A few chapters in, he turned to me and said, “Holy shit, Kimee, I can’t believe you wrote this. I keep reading and forgetting that it’s you!” Best compliment I ever got. Ever. My children are proud of me, and I let my oldest daughter (she’s 14) read Roam, Fall, and Rise. She loved them, which of course made me proud. I did not let her read Rush, Rule, or Reign yet, and absolutely not West, the novelette. Dear God, no.  No, no, no. LOL
What would you consider to be your biggest accomplishment?  My biggest accomplishment would be motherhood, and it’s still a work in progress. Not my job, or my books, or my Early Childhood Education degree, etc. Creating tiny humans that grow to be nice adult humans is hard work, and I’m determined to make sure they make the world better… at least to everyone’s lives they touch.
If someone asked for your advice about writing a book, what would it be?  Do it. Who cares who likes it or who doesn’t. Who cares if it’s about Mary Sue who falls in insta-love with Neanderthal caveman rockstar. Who cares. Entertain. Amuse. Shock. Invoke emotion. Who cares if you are a bestseller, or not, or make lists, or don’t, or see your book in stores… or just in your own child’s hands? In the grand scheme of things, do what you love, and maybe leave behind a few stories that touched someone in this short, beautiful life. (I’m usually not that profound. Rare moment of wisdom.)
Do you have a favorite author?  I have so many depending on genre and my mood. Have you read Mo Willems?? His books are hilarious! That darn pigeon, lol!             
Are you reading anything right now?  I just finished Beats (Kendall Grey) which just rocked. I love all her books. I’m patiently dying for Madeline Sheehan’s Unattainable, and I am REALLY looking forward to TK Rapp’s next book!! **impatiently taps foot and raises eyebrows expectantly in interviewer’s general direction**
If you could say anything to your readers, what would you say?  I love and respect each of you, and thank you from my soul for the support, kindness, and friendship you’ve given me. Emails, texts, FB messages, calls, reviews… I am forever in your debt for all the goofy smiles you’ve given me, as well as the new level of self-confidence you’d encouraged me to find. I’m so lucky to have each and every one of you!!

Thank you wifey!! You are such a wonderfully creative writer. I have enjoyed the first three books in the Roam series and I can’t wait to read the rest. I’m dying to read them now, but I have to pace myself! Thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. Now get back to writing!

Filed under: Author Spotlight, WFDs, WFFDs, Writing Tagged: author, Author Spotlight, Kim Stedronsky, Roam, writing

Human Contact…

I think anyone in the “arts” will admit that it’s nerve-wracking letting it all hang out there for the world to see. It’s your heart and soul that you put into the things you do so, naturally, you are protective. You do it for the love of the work, not the accolades. HOWEVER, when you do get the pat-on-the-back, the atta-girl or great job, that definitely helps build your confidence.

I can’t express how overwhelmed I am with some of the reviews that Being There has received lately! I’m humbled and excited that they loved the book and shared their thoughts with their fans and followers. Keep reading to see what Bloggers have said.

XO

~T

Back off my Books

“ BEING THERE was a breath of fresh air and took me for a ride.  Scenes were beautifully constructed and had me holding my breath and holding back tears.  I was happy, sad, concerned, fearful, hopeful and elated all within this well written story.  I found myself believing in fate, more than just a concept but as a reality.  BEING THERE will reach deep inside and take hold of you.”

Click HERE to read entire review!!

Follow Back Off My Books on Facebook

RMWTPC

“ BEING THERE was an incredibly pleasant surprise and in my opinion the sleeper hit of the summer. If you have not read this book, it is a must for your TBR list. The way that TK put together this story and intertwined the characters was not only beautiful, it caused moments of heartbreak, elation, tears and joy. You wouldn’t know this was her first book by reading it.”

Click HERE to read Lisa’s review.

Follow RMWTPC on Facebook

Falling in Fall

“Oh.My.Goodness. Best book I’ve read in a long time! I rated Being There with FIVE LEAVES!! I’m not even sure where to start because I don’t think my review will do it justice. I want to start off with saying that ALL of our FALLowers need to grab this book and give it a go.”

Click HERE to read Lo’s review!

Follow Falling in Fall on Facebook

These ladies have brought the biggest smile to my face with their words! If you haven’t read Being There yet, get your copy by clicking any of the links below:

Amazon

B&N

Diesel

KOBO

Sony eReader

Smashwords

Tripping Daisy is STILL the $hi+

Filed under: Book Review, Exciting, PennedCon2014, WFFDs, Writing Tagged: 2013, AmWriting, Being There, Book Review, happy dance, T.K. Rapp, writing

Remembering 9/11

It seems unreal to me that it was just 12 years ago that the United States was attacked by people filled with so much hatred. My thoughts and prayers are with those who still mourn the loss of friends and loved ones on that awful day.

Some people remember where they were when Kennedy was shot, or when Martin Luther King Jr. was killed.

For me, 9/11 was something that happened in my lifetime, and I remember almost every detail about how that day played out in my eyes.

We had only been living on the West Coast for about eight months, my husband was in the Navy. I had just started to wake up when my father-in-law called looking for my husband. I had no idea what was going on and he was relaying what he knew in a panic. I called every number I could to locate him, but all lines were busy, probably because everyone in the city was doing the same thing. With no other choice, I sat in shock, like the rest of the country, at the edge of my bed watching the events happen before my eyes.

I cried.

I was newly pregnant with my first child, and my immediate thought was “What kind of world am I bringing a child into?” My family called to check on my husband and I, and I was frantic, trying to figure out where he was and if he was okay. The anchors kept saying there was chatter that the West Coast was a target as well, so I was left to imagine the worst.

It would be almost a month before I got to see him again.

Somehow, I moved and dressed myself, and in a daze, drove myself to work. Walking into the office, I found it was where I needed to be. There were so many of us that were military spouses, in the same predicament: military member deployed, no communication and scared. We hugged each other, we cried together and we supported each other. No work was done that day because we all sat in the lobby, still in shock.

One of our coworkers lost his sister that day, although at that time, he didn’t know it, yet.

We all know that the world changed that day. We lost our sense of security, and I’m not sure we have gotten it back completely. Or if we ever will. The nation’s resolve to rise from the hatred, to come together across party lines to stand together, was a proud moment. In a time of terrible sadness, I was prouder than I ever have to be an American. Through all of the chaos and madness, hope and pride…and determination, seemed to be the motivating factors to begin the healing process.

I’ve been to numerous sporting events throughout my life, and sung along to National Anthem and America the Beautiful. Those words never held the meaning that they hold for me today. Since that horrible day 12 years ago, when I hear these songs, my heart swells with such pride and I can’t fight the tears, nor can I sing through them.

I’m proud of my husband and his service to our country. I’m thankful to those who continue to serve, and their families who carry the load back home. I have nothing but respect for those who put their lives on the line everyday, the police officers, fire fighters, emergency responders, every single man and woman in a U.S. Military uniform. You are my heroes.

9/11 changed everything, and I pray that the victims and their families find peace. I pray that our country never again witness something so tragic, or anywhere else in the world for that matter. I pray that my children will never have to experience the hatred that we witnessed that day.

Never Forget

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Filed under: Insight, Ramblings, Thoughts Tagged: 9/11, American Pride, Never Forget, Where Were You

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT – Brittainy C. Cherry

Brittainy C. Cherry

Today I decided that once a week I am going to spotlight fellow writer because, let’s face it, we are in this together. I have met some amazing people/writers/friends and we celebrate and commiserate, just like everyone else. I’m so excited to do this, because I’m a fan of these WFDs and I hope to someday read AT LEAST one book written by each of them

So here we go, my first spotlight is the beautiful and talented Brittainy C. Cherry. The Space in between is her debut novel, read on to learn more!

The Space in Between - Synopsis:

***WARNING: The following story contains mature themes, strong language, and sexual situations. It is intended for readers 18+ older.

She’s scarred by her past.

ANDREA EVANS is traumatized and guilt-ridden by the death of her fiancée. Tired of the gossiping small town, she travels to New York City to pursue her dream of dance.

He’s uncertain of his future.

COOPER DAVIDSON is a famous photographer and reality television star trying to flee from his own life filled with paparazzi, mental health clinics, and a cheating wife who is pregnant.

When Andrea and Cooper’s paths cross, they realize how damaged and in need of escapism they both are. The two create an arrangement to explore the space in between chaos and order with one another. The rules are simple—no emotional connections, no talking about the past, no speaking of the future, and when one finds order, the other walks away.

All is well until Cooper accidentally falls in love with Andrea.

Get to know…

Brittainy C. Cherry

So, The Space in Between is your first book? How long did it take for you to write and publish it? Yup! My first baby! I wrote it in two months, had it edited for a month or so, and published two months later! So a good five months! It seemed so much longer though! Haha!
Have you always wanted to be an author? I always wanted to entertain, I knew that much. And I’ve been writing since I was about fourteen. I am also an actress, and love being able to tell a story to a group of people, be it on stage or in a novel. So being an author has been one of my top two dreams, along with film!
Did you self-publish or go the traditional route? Why or why not? Self-publish. I didn’t want to go down the road of finding an agent, getting rejected, and so on and so forth. I didn’t want to give them a chance to break my spirit before my story even had a chance! I thought ‘if not now, then when?’ and I dived right into the world of self-publishing and I love it!
What do you consider the hardest part of writing? “Show don’t tell, show don’t tell, SHOW DON’T TELL!” haha!
Can you relate, personally, to your story? Yeah, I think there’s a little bit of me in each character. The way they react to situations. Even the villains are close to my heart because it makes me wonder ‘what made you so terrible? Why are you broken?’ and once I answer those two questions, it’s easier to relate to them. Also, I relate to the story in the way that I’ve been in the space between chaos and order, just trying to find a way through the dark hallways of life to get to the glimpse of light at the end of the tunnel. I think a lot of people can relate to that.
People who know me, say that certain parts are “so you.” When creating your characters, how much of them are based on parts of you? A lot of my friends say I’m goofy and sassy like one of the side characters Ladasha…but I think that’s mainly it.
What is your favorite part of creating a story? My FAVORITE part of creating a story is thinking that I know where the story is leading and then out of nowhere it turns into something completely different. The surprise is always exciting!
Your book is receiving great reviews, (congratulations!) do you read them? If you do, how do you handle negative reviews? Ha, thank you! Well, the negative ones sting, and I would be lying if I said that they didn’t but, I grow from them. Many just say it wasn’t their cup of tea, and so be it. That’s fine, hell, I don’t like green tea but I love black tea! So I just move on. (On the bad BAD reviews, I drink a glass of wine…lol)
Who would you consider your inspiration personally? Professionally? Personally? My mom. She has been pushing me since I was a child, telling me that I was good enough. I can never thank her enough. Professionally? All of the authors who are just out there doing it—making a life doing what they love. They inspire me daily.
What would you consider to be your biggest accomplishment? Hitting Publish. Just diving in this big ocean and taking that leap of faith. It’s scary in all the right ways.
If someone asked for your advice about writing a book, what would it be? Keep going. Finish it. There are so many amazing stories left untold because people stop and enter the ‘this is terrible’ phase. We ALL do it! So push yourself through that part and finish your story. You’ll be so glad that you did!
Do you have a favorite author? Colleen Hoover makes me cry like a dork. Sooo talented! I love her work!
What are you reading right now? The Fault in Our Stars By John Green (cries in a corner) Perfection.
Are you working on another book now? If so, when do you hope to publish? I am! It’s a spin-off called The Space Left Behind. I’m hoping for the end of this year, we’ll see! Fingers crossed!
If you could say anything to your readers, what would you say? Thank you for taking the time to give this new author a shot. Your love, support, and belief in me have been my strength each morning and every night. I am filled with gratitude. Thank you and much love your way!

Brittainy, you are amazing and I love the honestly in your answers. I wish you nothing but the most amazing success and happiness. Thank you for answering my questions and I can’t wait to read your book!!

XO

~T.K.

To learn more about Brittainy check her out:  Twitter, Facebook, Website

Filed under: Author Spotlight, Books, WFDs, Writing Tagged: author, Author Spotlight, Brittainy C. Cherry, The Space in Between

Pride & Joy…

Thank you! Those two simple words don’t seem to be enough, but they are exactly what I want to say.

Celebratory wine from my friend Slim!

Have I hit a best seller’s list? Nope.

Have I completed my 2 WIPs? Nah.

Does everyone love my book? Heck no!

So, why do these 2 words fit right now?

This journey, this incredible experience, of writing and publishing my own book has opened me up to so many things. I’ve had to put myself out there, and risk people hating, and/or tearing my baby apart. I’ve had to ask people to read my book, in hopes that maybe they like it, and will tell others. And I’ve had the internal struggles of self-doubt…maybe I’m not good enough. My experience is not unlike the other thousands of writers out there, I know this, because they are my friends, and without them sharing their own fears, triumphs and concerns, I think I would be a mess! I love my WFDs!

But here’s the thing…this whole thing is freakin’ awesome! It’s a roller coaster, and I don’t want off! One day, it’s so quiet, I could hear a pin drop. Then there are days like Monday, that leave my head spinning, in the best way possible!

Falling in Fall’s, Lo, read and reviewed Being There and wrote up a review that I am still high from. I love my book, I’m not even going to lie, but knowing that others out there, not only like it, but are telling others about it, is crazy. Then, my shock increases because, other bloggers, that I have not been in contact with, are reading and reviewing my book. There are so many amazing books, and they are reading mine?!?

I was blissfully enjoying a family day when I get a text that consisted of a screen shot, followed by:

YAY!!!!

Needless to say, I had to see what this was about, only to discover that I had received a fabulous review from Back Off My Books. I probably looked like an idiot jumping around with a goofy smile plastered on my face the rest of the day. I would even go so far as to say the smile was on my face while I slept.

And I have to say something about writers, as a whole. As a fan, I have had the pleasure of meeting Colleen Hoover (See my post from Nov…total fangirl moment) and Molly McAdams. These woman are so nice and approachable, and as a fan, these two solidified their place in my heart as wonderful people! As a writer, I am even more amazed by the writers I have “met” online. My short experience has left me in awe, because these are the very successful, mildly successful and newbies. These incredible people lift you up, encourage you, they share your pain and celebrate your victories. You really can’t ask for anything more.

I hope you were able to enjoy this Labor Day weekend. I know for me, it’s one that I won’t soon forget. I need to get back to writing. I can’t tell you the name of Book 2, but I’ll tell you, it is a love story, and the characters are worming their way into my daily life, which means my sleep is going to be crap soon! (Worth it!!)

XO

~T

8) Pride & Joy – Stevie Ray Vaughn….Uh, yes please!! All day long!

Filed under: Book Review, Books, Exciting, Friends, Milestones, Writing Tagged: AmWriting, Being There, Book Review, books, Cass, Drew, happy dance, T.K. Rapp, TKAM78, writing

Hello Sunshine…

Last week I posted a day early, this week, I’m  late. How’s that for balance? 

I’m very excited to reveal that the Being There cover was revamped! The cover has been uploaded to the kindle version, and should be available in the paperback version next week. I love this cover so much, and I hope you like it too! Cass & Drew deserved better

The NEW cover of Being There.

I had several people help me tweak the new look, and I am so appreciative…they were crazy patient with me! The ‘Best Peeps Eva,’ hubs & mom, Kim Stedronsky, R. Jean Wilson, Janis Baker, and Lisa Karafa  gave me such great feedback – THANK YOU!!

Let’s see, what else do I have to share this week??

I have something, but I can’t share yet. But I’m really excited, so I promise I’ll share soon!! (As in THIS WEEKEND!!)

In the meantime, please go check out these LINKS!!!

Being There Available on Amazon for $1.99!! (also available at Kobo, B&N, Diesel & iTunes)
Reader’s Candy - Love Her!! Whitney is so sweet and supportive of Indie writers
Reading My Way to Penned Con – Lisa is on a mission and spotlighting authors… And she’s super awesome!
Penned Con 2014 – Check out the list of authors attending! This is going to be a great event!
a Rafflecopter giveaway ">GIVEAWAY - You HAVE to check out this giveaway! V. Murphy celebrating 2k Likes!! (Way to go!!)

I’m still working on my current book, which is tentatively titled, but I’m not revealing it until it’s definite. (We’ll see) I had a writing breakthrough this week and got so much more done. Not to mention a power hour of writing with a buddy to motivate never hurts!  

I suppose this is it for this week. Have a wonderful LONG Labor Day weekend! And if you aren’t following me on Twitter or Facebook, click the link to the right.

XO
~T

Hello Sunshine, by The Riverside is playing right now. They have amazing voices. So Happy!!!

Filed under: Books, Milestones, PennedCon2014, Writing Tagged: 2013, AmWriting, Being There, books, Cass, Drew, happy dance, Inspiration, Jumping, T.K. Rapp, Thankful, writing

Being There…On Sale $0.99!!!

Cass…Being There

BEING THERE

On Sale @ Amazon

$0.99

Filed under: Books, Price Drop, Writing Tagged: AmWriting, Being There, Cass, Drew, Sale, T.K. Rapp, TKAM78, writing