T.K. Rapp's Blog, page 9

Tuesday Teaser ~ Mine to Steal #1

Mine to Steal
MINE TO STEAL STORY AND TEASERS COPYRIGHT 2014. T.K. RAPP. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Filed under: Books, Teaser Tagged: 2014, AmWriting, Mine to Steal, MtS, Trey, writing

AUTHOR-(S) SPOTLIGHT – HAB Edition!

On February 22, at the Harmony Science Academy of West Houston, Wines & Labels Productions will be hosting the Houston Author Bash! There will be over 70 authors from all over he country, signing at this event and I will be one of them. I’m beyond excited, albeit scared, to participate, but really excited about the people who are also attending!

Since I usually have a weekly spot where I feature an author and promote a book and get to know them better, I decided to do it a little differently this week. I sent several of the awesome ladies I’m looking forward to meeting this weekend, a list of questions to answer about HAB and their pending visit to Houston (for those who are not from here).

So here it goes:

Author Spotlight: HAB Edition THANK YOU to:

Penny Reid = PR

RS Grey = RS

Stacy Borel = SB

Danielle Jamie = DJ

Vicki Green = VG

for taking the time to answer my odd questions.

(Click on any of the names above to visit their site!)

1. The Houston Author Bash is this weekend (duh!) Will this be your first signing, or have you done others before?

PR - Houston will take my signing V-card. I can’t decide if I want it gentle or rough… probably rough. (TMI?)

RS - This will be my first signing and I can’t believe I actually signed up to do it! The plan is to start the day off with mimosas so that the whole experience is much easier to handle!

SB - No, this isn’t my first signing. I had done one in Arkansas in October, which was a lot of fun. But this is my first one for the 2014 year.

DJ - This is my first signing and I am filled with a million emotions!! I can’t wait to experience my first signing in the town from my Savannah Series and I’m going to spend one evening in Galveston to take pics at places from my books which is super exciting!

VG - This will be my second. I attended my first one in Springdale, Arkansas October 26, 2013.

2. Are you a local author or will you be flying in (from what state)?

PR - I’m flying in from Florida (so there better be snow!!!!)

RS - I’m sort-of local J I grew up in Houston, but now I live in Austin. I’ll be driving in and staying with family for the weekend!

SB – I am a local author. I live in Southeast Texas near Beaumont.

DJ - I’m from NY so flying in

VG - No, I will be driving from Olathe, Kansas which is about a 12 hour drive for me but I have a friend coming with me. ROAD TRIP!

3. What are you most looking forward to this weekend?

PR - Meeting actual strangers who have read my books. This whole “author thing” still feels like some sort of cosmic joke. Maybe once I meet the people who have read my books, it will start to feel real.

RS - Meeting so many authors that I’ve grown to love over the internet! The first few moments will super awkward I’m sure— It’s hard pairing people with their profile pictures! It’s like we’ve all been paired on eHarmony and how we’re meeting for the first time. (I hope they like me! )

SB - Honestly, the fans/readers. The very first item I signed in Arkansas was a book a reader had made that had my book covers in them. I completely lost it and started weeping at my table while I wrote my name. Haha. I would have been worried that I scared her off, but turns out she’s my new editor. Lol As far as other events and happenings for the signing, meeting my fellow authors and learning new things from their experiences is always something I look forward too. And of course fangirling some of the authors.

DJ - Meeting my readers in person! & Experiencing the town I fell in love with while writing the Savannah books.

VG – Really I’m looking forward to meeting all the other Authors as well as the readers. Can’t wait!

4. What are you most nervous about?

PR - Meeting actual strangers who have read my books.

RS - Behind His Lens! If only I could bring Jude with me…

SB - I think there’s always going to be an underlying fear that nobody will approach my table. What if I go, and nobody knows who I am or hasn’t read my books?

DJ - The signing! I am nervous and excited.

VG - Tripping or falling over something in front of everyone. Lol No, actually there’s always a little bit of nervousness being in front of a ton of people but the excitement helps to overcome it.

5.Which books will you have with you for the signing?

PR - Neanderthal Seeks Human; Friends Without Benefits; Love Hacked

RS - Inevitable defeat. HAH! Luckily I’m sharing a table with you, aka T.K. Rapp, and we’ll both be diving in head first together.

SB - I will have all three of my novels, Ever Enough, Always Enough, and Touching Scars.

DJ - 4 Savannah Novels we have in paperback for the signing along with some really awesome swag!

VG - I will have all 4 of my books with me, swag items, and will be doing a raffle for a chance to win breakfast with myself and my cover model, who will be sitting next to me by the way.

6. What books are you most excited to share with fans this weekend? Why?

PR –  Love Hacked!! It comes out March 11. Therefore, I’m excited to give attending readers a sneak peek. 

RS – Behind His Lens is my answer by default, hah, but I’m still excited to share it with everyone!

SB - Honestly, I don’t know. All three of my books are special to me. Ever Enough is a personal novel, and it was my first. But Touching Scars was truly my baby. This is a tough question.

DJ - The Savannah Series, one reason being it’s based in Houston and the other being that I have so many amazing fans who love my series I can’t wait to meet them in person to sign their books.

VG - My newest release, Soul-Mates Forever. Why? Because it has sold better than all my books, has hit the bestselling in the Contemporary Romance and Erotica categories and because my cover model, Rob Anthony, will be with me to sign them as well. 

7. Are there any authors you looking forward to meeting this weekend? Who?

PR - TK Rapp and RS Grey J Because we’ve become Facebook friendly and they seem like my brand of normal. Of note, I’m also excited to meet other authors in general. I don’t know (personally) any other authors. 

RS - I can’t wait to meet Penelope Reid, Vicki Green, and Stacy Borel!! Also I’ve recently read a few books by Maya Banks so, of course, I’ll fangirl over her!

SB - Absolutely! The biggest one being, Maya Banks. I’ve been reading her novels for some time now, and I very much look up to her as a writer. As far as other authors go, I’ve made several friends in the Indie community, so I am excited to see again/meet my “colleagues”.

DJ - A TON! To name a few Hilary Storm, Vicki Green my table partner! And to meet Erin Noelle again I met her in Vegas but can’t wait to meet her as a fellow author instead of as a fan ha.

VG - I’m excited to meet all of them but Stacy Borel, TK Rapp, RS Grey, Maya Banks stick out but then to see my friend from the Arkansas signing, Julie Bailes is an added bonus and Danielle Jamie is my table partner so I’m very excited to meet her in person.

8. Do you plan on doing anything special while you’re in Houston?

PR - I’m arranging a dinner with a bunch of readers who have given me a heads up about attending (Saturday night). That feels pretty special. Also, I might sleep (that is also special). 

RS - Hanging out with as many fellow authors as I can! I’ll be staying with family, so some time will be devoted to them— but I’m planning on taking full advantage of having some of my favorite authors all together!

SB – If by special you mean, enjoy my time without my kids, then yes! Haha! I’m bringing my husband with me so he can see my writing world, and just how nuts it can be, but we live a little too close to Houston to really consider it an excursion, so there isn’t much in the way of plans.

DJ - I’m going to Crave Cupcakes which I wrote in my novels to take pics and get cupcakes to bring to my signing for fans! & I’m really excited to go to Galveston it’s been a dream of mine to go there and now I get to! I’m going to take pics at all Savannah and Kayden’s favorite places!

VG - Well, I won’t have a ton of time but I found the nearest Starbucks, good and drink places so I’m set but I’m game for just about anything.

9. Any “warning” for your fans?

PR - Hmm… I’m perpetually distracted and often think/say the same thing as the same time. It’s a problem.

RS - I’m not sure if I’m established enough as an author to have fans. At this point, I feel like every reader who ends up liking my book, and contacting me, turns into a friend! So they don’t need a warning! They know how loud I am already !!

SB - Ummm…I’m a hugger. I seriously get just as excited to see you, as you do me, except I probably am a little bit more than you.

DJ - Throw your diets out the window b/c I have cupcakes! Haa

VG - The only *warning* I can give is to watch out for my cover model, Rob Anthony. He’s gonna blow your socks off with his charm and sexiness.

10. Lightning Round!!! (Twitter-sized answer):

* Favorite Book:

PR - Persuasion, by Jane Austen

RS – The Fault in Our Stars

SB – Crow’s Row

DJ – Bared to You

VG – This Man Series

* Favorite Author:

PR – David Sedaris 

RS – Mindy Kaling

SB – S.E. Hall

DJ – Samantha Towle

VG – Jodi Ellen Malpas

* Ultimate Book Boyfriend:

PR - … hm. Captain Wentworth?

RS – Christian Grey (Sorry, I just can’t get over all the Jamie Dornan photos!)

SB – Jesse Ward & Archer Hale

DJ – Kayden Knox

VG – Jesse – This Man

* Boxers or Briefs:

PR – Commando

RS – Boxers!

SB – Briefs

DJ – Briefs

VG – Briefs

* Wine, Beer, Cocktail, Virgin:

PR – Wine

RS – I don’t drink alcohol much, can I swap for dessert?

SB – Beer

DJ – Virgin. I hate the taste of alcohol haa

VG – Beer

* Where’s Waldo:

PR – In jail

RS – Que? lol

SB – Still haven’t found him

DJ – Hiding in Houston? Haa

VG – Ummmmm

* What is your favorite word:

PR – Babaganoush

RS – Wow. You’re trying to make me think here. Can my favorite word be “haha”? Does that even count? Well. That’s what I’m picking so it’ll have to work!

SB – Fuck

DJ – AWESOME haaa

VG – Awesomeness

* Hidden Talent:

PR – I knit

RS – I’m pretty sure if I attempted to, I could still do a backflip. Maybe.

SB – I can sound like a goat & pig

DJ – I make a kick ass bow!

VG – I play the piano

* Books or Movies:

PR – Bitch, please

RS – BOOKS

SB – Books, always books

DJ – Both. I love to read a great book, but I love to watch a great movie too.

VG – Books

* Is Kermit right? Is it not easy being green:

PR - I was once painted green; I was the wicked witch in a production of The Wizard of Oz. It wasn’t easy because you couldn’t scratch your nose (or any other part of your face).

RS – You are so ridiculous and I can’t wait to sit by you for 9 hours.

SB – Kermit is right

DJ - I suppose? But I’m not green so who knows? haa

VG – Sure

* Ninjas or Pirates:

PR – NINJAS!!

RS – Pirates

SB – lol Pirates

DJ - Pirates! Especially if they look like Jonny Depp haa

VG – Pirates

* If You Could Change Your Name, What Would it Be:

PR – Penny Reid

RS – I love the name Emma or Kate.

SB – Ava Ward (Jesse Ward’s wige muahaha)

DJ - IDK I like Danielle but I guess Gabrielle? My Confirmation name haaa

VG – Jade

UPCOMING SIGNINGS by Author:

Penny Reid:

Wicked Book Weekend, Ft. Lauderdale, 3/7/2014

Authors in the City, NYC, 3/15/2014

Authors Under the Lights, LA, 3/22/2014

Georgia Author Signing, Atlanta, 4/5/3014

Cleveland Author Signing, Cleveland OH, 4/26/2014

The Great Author Escape, LA, August 2014

Penned Con, St. Louis MO, September 2014

* * *

R.S. Grey:

Indie Mashup, Houston, Texas, August 15-16, 2014

* * *

 Stacy Borel:

Arkansas

Tennessee

North Carolina

Houston

Indianapolis

Oklahoma

and I think I’m  missing one or two more.

* * *

Danielle Jamie:

NYC March 15th

Knoxville July 12th 

Houston again Aug 15-16th 

Alabama Sept 27th!

* * *

Vicki Green:

Indie Mashup, Springdale, Arkansas, July 24-26, 2014

Indie Mashup, Houston, Texas, August 15-16, 2014

Red Dirt BoCo, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, August 30, 2014

Penned Con 2014, St. Louis, MO, September 12-13, 2014

* * *

Thank you again, Ladies, for answering my questions and I can’t wait to see you this weekend!! Y’all are all so fabulous!!

XO

~T

Filed under: Author Spotlight, Books, Exciting, Friends, Signings Tagged: 2014, AmWriting, Author Spotlight, books, Danielle Jamie, HAB, Houston Author Bash, Penny Reid, RS Grey, Signing, Stacey Borel, Vicki Green

1 Year…

1 year ago today, I sat down and started drafting a story. I went old-school and pulled out a pen and paper and starting to plot out what would become, Being There. The main character’s names changed, the plot shifted and it took many twists and turns before it became what it is.

When I decided to do it, I had no real expectations in mind. The only thing I knew was that I was having so much fun writing Cass’ story and that’s all that mattered. I’ve said it many times, I had no plans to self-publish, but I did want to know if it was good enough. That’s where my friend Naomi came in. She’s incredibly blunt and honest, so when I sent the story to her, I knew that’s what I would get. My critique partners and betas know I LOVE constructive criticism…I need it. That’s what Naomi gave me. She told me things that I needed to fix, and things she felt I needed to scratch. Funny thing…she was right.

Back to the drawing board…

My printed manuscript and the bottle of wine my friend Kim brought me when I finished.

The second draft was hard for me to proceed with, because I loved the story as it was, even though I knew it needed adjustments. Once I got into it, it started clicking and I couldn’t stop writing. My house became messy, we ate whatever I was able to throw together last minute and I got no sleep. When i finished the book, I sent it to a few others that I trusted, so I could get their feedback. The best was from my friend David who sent me 5 pages of notes, edits and storyline suggestions that made it all come together. When I compiled all of these changes, I had a book that was staring me in the face with no where to go.

I sat on it…

My husband, having read none of the book, pushed me to publish. But I wasn’t ready. I was too scared and insecure. The idea of publishing terrified me to no end, but at the same time, the book was complete…why stop now? For a month, my finger hovered over the “publish” button, but I always found an excuse NOT to do it. Laundry, school, kids, practices, TV, other books. You name it, I probably used it as an excuse. But it was Molly McAdams who gave me the final push. She knew I was writing and was so supportive. I asked her how do you do it? I was so scared that I wasn’t sure I could go through with it. Her words to me: “Jump.”

When I finally did exactly that, I messaged her and I got the BEST response. One that I took a screen shot of and made my wallpaper for a couple of months. LOL! 

Being There ~ 2nd Cover

Because 1 year ago, I pushed myself to start something that I’ve wanted to do for so long, an entire new world has been opened to me. One where ANYTHING is possible, dreams come true, love always wins, best friends never leave, men are perfect, and imperfect women win them. That world, that I get to create, makes me smile. This writing-gig is pretty awesome. I have met some great people, and some I will get to meet others soon. I hope this roller coaster…this exciting, scary, twisty, angsty, painful, amazing…roller coaster never ends. I hope I ride it until I’m old and grey and there are no more stories for me to tell. 

Thank you for reading about my writing anniversary. I’ve got to get back to writing….someone won’t stop nagging me with what he’s going to do next.

You are the best!! 

XO

~T

Filed under: Books, Dreams, Exciting, Insight, Nervous, Ramblings, Thoughts, Writing Tagged: 2013, 2014, AmWriting, Being There, books, Cass, creativity, drama, Drew, Emogen, happy dance, Inspiration, Jumping, Mine to Lose, MTL, Rambling, Ryan, Thankful, Trey

AUTHOR SPOTLIGHT – Kahlen Aymes

As promised, the weekly Author Spotlight is back! I’m very excited about this week’s spotlight because she is a very busy woman and I am honored that she took some time out to answer my questions. In chatting with Kahlen, I have discovered a few things about her: 1. She is incredibly articulate and intelligent (not that I suspected otherwise). 2. She is a huge support of fellow authors. 3. Her integrity, hard work and talent have resulted in her becoming an Amazon, B&N and Smashwords Best Seller! Her most recent book, Angel After Dark, released on January 16.

Synopsis of Angel After Dark:

***This book is for Mature Audiences of 18+ for steamy love scenes***

Angel After Dark

Dr. Angeline Hemming is a beautiful, sassy, no-nonsense type of girl who has risen from a difficult past to become one of Chicago’s most successful and respected criminal profilers. In exchange for free commercials to promote her favorite charitable causes, Angel answers calls and gives relationship advice on a Friday night radio program.Alexander Avery is a gorgeous and successful corporate genius who doesn’t believe in love. When his girlfriend-of-convenience calls into Angel’s program, he is furious with the show’s host who doles out (what he considers) blind advice, without knowing all the facts… and he decides to give her a piece of his mind, and his side of the story!When Angel informs Alex he’s the one in need of a much-deserved lesson, all hell breaks loose as these two type-A personalities battle it out for control over minds and hearts, and yes, in bed. Not only are they fighting each other at every turn, but they are also struggling to uphold the convictions they each live by.It’s unclear who is stronger, but both must discover that to get what they desperately want, they may have to give a little… or a lot.

BUY LINKS:
AMAZON
SMASHWORDS
B&N

Get to know…

Kahlen Aymes

You published your first book in April 2012. What was it that got you into writing? - I lost my job in newspaper advertising when the economy tanked in 2009, and I’m the single breadwinner in our family. I started a coupon website and while it was being designed, I decided that I needed a way to network with women who were my principal target for my website.  My daughter was really into Twilight and even though I hadn’t read the books, I saw it was a big deal and researched it. I found the phenomenon of fan fiction and a light bulb went off; it was how I would network. I started to write a story and was amazed at the response! I discovered I loved writing and became consumed with characters. Soon, the website dream was shelved when my readers encouraged me to publish.
What is your favorite part of creating a story? - Seeing where it goes after the premise is developed; letting the story or characters lead me.
What do you believe is the hardest part of writing? - Pushing through scenes that are hard to write. Some just flow, others are work. And I hate sales. An occasional sale is great, but there is a lot invested if you really care about your book, and it’s hard to put it on sale. (Especially when it’s less than $4 to begin with.)
Did you consider going the traditional publishing route, or was indie the way for you? - Yes, I wanted to be traditionally published. I didn’t know much about indie publishing and I pulled all of my fan fiction down and for two years, I queried agents and publishers. I had some good results, a few rejections, but either way it took months of waiting to find out and readers were constantly asking me when, when, when?  So, I went the indie route. After I did, three NYC literary agencies contacted me and I signed with McIntosh & Otis Literary. My Remembrance Trilogy has been picked up by City Editions, so it’s traditionally published in France, in the French language. I still have hope for North America.  We’ll see.
How do you feel the publishing landscape has changed since publishing, The Future of Our Past? - There are a lot more writers, millions of books and it’s much harder to compete and be “found” by readers.  Also, traditional publishing has changed, too. Now they seem to be harvesting the most successful indie writers, as much as they find writers through queries, etc.
What do you love most about the indie author community? - There are many indie authors who offer a lot of help and support to each other. For the most part, there is a good camaraderie and I’ve made some good friends! And, I love when new writers trust me enough to ask me for writing and publishing advice.
Facebook is a huge tool for indie authors. It allows us to stay connected to readers and bloggers. In the last few months, they have made significant changes to how we are able to interact with “fans” and share information. Thoughts? - The reason you follow pages is because you want to know what is going on, with that person, event, etc.  But that isn’t happening anymore. It’s sad. In order for our fans to see everything we post, we have to boost each one. And still, not everyone sees it. (I think “keeping in touch” and “sharing information” was the premise behind why Facebook was created in the beginning, and in part, has fallen by the wayside.)
Has this affected your connection with fans? If so, how? - My connection with my readers? Absolutely. When I post, they may or may not see it. I wish I could afford to boost every post, but I can’t.
You are a best-selling author, with thousands of fans; what is the best compliment you have received from a fan/colleague/blogger? - Wow. I get a lot of PM’s from readers and bloggers after they’ve read my work and I love hearing from all of them! I’ve been told my books helped someone escape their physical pain enough that they didn’t have to take medication, that I saved a marriage, or “OMG! I can’t believe I just found your books!” Or that my series is the best one they’ve ever read. I feel overwhelmed and humbled. My readers are amazing! One and all, and I love their comments.
If there were one misconception about authors that you could correct, what would it be? - Writing is hard. Publishing is harder. It involves more than writing and hitting publish. It’s expensive. If it’s done right, it involves editing, cover art, models and sometimes photo shoots. Cover designers, formatters, beta readers, blog tours, signings, banners, swags, giveaways…it also takes time to write a good story. I wish I could hammer them out every other month, but my editing team is a picky bunch of bitches, and I’m on threat train with them.
Since 2012, you have written four books, your most recent, Angel After Dark, released mid-January and you have fantastic reviews (Congratulations!) What can you tell us about this story? - It’s the story of two very strong individuals who meet over the phone during a radio talk show because the man is angry that his girlfriend (albeit one he is breaking up with) called into the woman’s radio show to complain about him the week before. He calls in the to defend himself. Alex stereotypes Angel as a homely, frigid shrew and she thinks he’s the epitome of a womanizer. Sparks fly from the first conversation and they fight for control over each other. The attraction is explosive even before they lay eyes on each other. Alex doesn’t believe in love and Angel decides to turn tables on him and “be the man.” She doesn’t bargain on him being sex personified and he is knocked for a loop by her intelligent wit, potty mouth and beautiful face. Her main job as a criminal profiler is dangerous and a lot of other stuff happens in the series as well… but let’s just say, “it’s on.”  Here is a fan made trailer: VIMEO


Is there any part of your books that you can personally relate to? Do any of the characters have traits that are you? - Yes, and no. I hate writing scenes where I have to make my “perfect” men flail and fail… but it’s real, so I have to do it. And sure, there are parts of me in my characters.  I don’t think any writer, who writes with emotion, can keep pieces of themselves out of the pages.
Are you working on something right now? If so, is there anything you can tell us about it? - I’m working on a few things.  The second book in the After Dark series is completed and going into formatting soon, I’m writing the third book, another series and a stand-alone. I’m trying the stand-alone because I feel sometimes I lose opportunities with new readers because they won’t start a series until it’s complete. That’s hard for me… so I’ll try the other and see.
Who would you consider your inspiration personally? Professionally?  Personally, it’s my daughter and now my readers. Professionally? – I have many authors I read and adore; to list them would be difficult.
Has your family read any of your books? What advice or encouragement have they given you? - Yes. My sister is one of my editors. But she didn’t know I wrote until I had two books completely written. No one in my family knew until I decided to publish. My mother has read my books. My books are sexy so that was a bit awkward at first, but now it’s no biggie. They are all very supportive.
What would you consider to be your biggest accomplishment? - Writing wise, I’ve hit #2 on Amazon paid list, #1 on Smashwords, #23 on Barnes & Noble, won awards in the Twilight Fan Fiction world, those mean a lot to me. But mostly, it’s when a reader connects with my books. That’s the most amazing thing! I’m most proud of hitting Amazon’s Highest RATED list because that comes from the reviews. Personally, I’d just like my daughter to grow up with respect for herself and others, and to know that if she wants anything in this life, she better be prepared work her tail off to get it!
If someone asked for your advice about writing a book, what would it be? - It’s your book; your story. Write it from your heart and be true to it. Only make changes if you truly believe they should be made. It’s a tough business that’s very competitive… do it right. Get your book edited, and present a professional product. Price your book fairly, but don’t under price it. You worked your ass off for maybe a year, and your time, money, love, blood, sweat and tears… is worth something. If you want your readers to see the value in your books, YOU have to as well.
Are you reading anything right now? If so, what? - Yes, I’m reading Kelly Elliott’s new book Cherished and not-so-patiently awaiting Raine Miller’s fourth book in the Blackstone Series. Also, Beautiful Player by Christina Lauren is next up.
If you could say anything to your readers, what would you say? - You’re investing hours of your life with me when you read my books and I hope I’m able to place you within the pages with my characters. I thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for taking a chance on me. You are my inspiration… The very reason I write!  xo

Learn more about Kahlen Aymes by clicking any of the links below:

FACEBOOK

TWITTER

WEBSITE

Filed under: Author Spotlight Tagged: Angel After Dark, Author Spotlight, Kahlen Amyes

Say Something…

My brain is slightly frozen at the moment because I am so cold. But I’ll refrain from complaining about it too much since I know there are people around much colder! (Stay warm!)

As of today, Mine to Lose has been out for four weeks, and it has been a crazy four weeks. Honestly, I feel like it’s been four months. And I find it funny that I’m counting the weeks as if it were a newborn baby. I suppose in a way it is, only it doesn’t cry through the night, but oddly enough, it does keep me up.

Anyway, I digress.

I have been so appreciative of the reviews I have gotten from bloggers, authors and readers, it truly means so much to me. Since publishing, I’ve taken a little break from writing to do some reading. A luxury I don’t get when writing. Let me just say, most of what I’ve been reading are ARCs, and there have been a few books that I’m just reading because they are on my TBR. The ARCs that I’ve been privileged to read and just breathtaking and I can’t wait for them to be released to everyone!

BUT, Mine to Steal, is still a work in progress. I’m happy to say that I have started writing this story, and even showed a couple of people. I knew, halfway through Mine to Lose, that I was going to write this, and even though there was not a cliffhanger, it is a continuation (of sorts). In the coming weeks, I’ll share some teasers here on the blog.

And hopefully next week, I’ll start the Author Spotlight back up again. I love interviewing fellow writers, they are awesome and the nicest people.

I’m off now to cuddle with the cutest, furry little monster…

Oh! BTW, if you’re planning on attending the Houston Author’s Bash, I hope I get to meet you! RS Grey and I are sharing a table and we’re both kinda goofy, so we plan on having a great time!

Thanks for reading! Until next time…
XO
~T

Say Something by A Great Big World is BIG TIME on my playlist. And actually on my Mine to Lose Spotify Playlist. Go Check it out.

Filed under: Books, Exciting, Insight, New Books, Thoughts, Writing Tagged: 2014, AmWriting, Mine to Lose, MTL, Rambling, writing

Come Together…

 

There is a police officer in the small town of Friendswood, Texas who everyone recognizes. Maybe you’ve seen him directing traffic in a school zone, maybe you’ve had the unfortunate run-in because you were speeding or perhaps you just saw his friendly face and started a conversation. Whatever the circumstance, chances are, you know Officer Waggoner.

There is a man, in the small town of Dickinson, Texas that people recognize. He’s Tracie’s husband. He’s dad to his son. He’s a neighbor and friend to all. To these people, he is Justin.  

Justin Waggoner loves his wife, Tracie. You see it in the gentle way he speaks to her and in the loving glances he sneaks when he thinks no one is looking.  In the one time I have been around them, there is no hiding the love these two share, and that’s something special. My sister has always talked about how wonderful they are, and I’m so glad I got to see it with my own eyes. Their son is their pride and joy, the result of two amazing parents who work hard to raise a kind, loving, talented, smart and polite child. You know – the kind of kid that everyone wants to claim to have.

This family has had their share of ups and downs, but who hasn’t, right?

That’s where you’re wrong. While some of us have the occasional quarrel with our spouse, a fender bender that costs us a grand to fix or missing a few days of work to take our kids to the doctor, the Waggoner’s face something that not many of us have to.

Tracie was diagnosed with brain cancer, and understandably, they are devastated. They are a prayerful family who is putting their trust in the hands of the doctors who will treat this horrible disease, and their faith in God to work another of His miracles. The Waggoners are blessed with an abundance of family and friends who are standing by to do whatever they can to help them out. Home cooked meals, rides for their son, friendly visits to occupy their time or just a phone call to see if they need anything, there is no shortage of love for them.

Officer Waggoner’s co-workers have set up a fund to help with the rising medical costs for Tracie’s treatment, and within a few short hours, they raised over $5000. It’s a fantastic start, but they still have a ways to go. Anyone wishing to donate to help someone who has sacrificed so much to help all of us by serving our community can click on the link below. Any amount will help and please spread the word.

I wanted to share this link with anyone and everyone who will read this. Please consider donating, whatever you are able to, to help this amazing family. And prayers are always welcome and very much needed.

*** DONATE HERE ***

Officer Waggoner

XO

~T

Come Together by The Beatles….because that’s what we need to do.

Filed under: Friends, Thoughts Tagged: Brain Cancer, Cancer, Dickinson, Friendswood, Go Fund Me, Officer Waggoner, Police Officer, Support Tracie, Texas

Spin the Bottle…

Wow…I’ve gotten really lazy about posts in the last few weeks. I know I have things to catch up on, but where to start…

It’s LIVE!!!!

Mine to Lose – eBook Cover

Did I mention that my second book, Mine to Lose is LIVE!? I think I did, but what the heck, I’ll say it again. It’s been such an awesome thing to hear back from people who share their thoughts about the book. I’m so not done with these characters…well, one of them.

If you haven’t picked up your copy yet, it’s available at these links:

Barnes & Noble

Amazon

EVENTS! There are several signings that I will be doing this year, and into next. I’m pretty excited:

February 22, 2014 – I will be at the Houston Author Bash! My friend, R.S. Grey, and I will be sharing a table. If you have time and want to stop by, come say hello! We’d love to see you!!
August 15-16, 2014 – Houston Indie Mashup. More details to come!
September 12, 2014 – PENNED CON in St. Louis! OMG, this one is pretty big, and I’m terribly nervous. I’m going to have to bring books for people to sign for me, because some of my absolute favorites will be there.
May 1-2, 2015 – Yep…a year out, I will be in Tulsa, OK for the Hard Rock Author Event. This one was just announced yesterday and it’s pretty exciting. So many names, and at a casino….count me in!

On another note, if you read a book, whether it’s mine or someone else’s, and you enjoy it, please take a minute to leave a rating and/or a review. The indie community relies on readers to help spread the word, so be sure to share your thoughts about your favorites with others.

Thank you all for stopping by and I look forward to seeing you and chatting sometime! Have a great weekend, stay well, stay warm and have fun!!

XO

~T

Spin the Bottle by The Juliana Hatfield Three. For no reason at all, it’s just on and I like it!

Filed under: Books, Exciting, PennedCon2014, Signings, Writing Tagged: 2014, amazon, AmWriting, author, books, Emogen, happy dance, Inspiration, Mine to Lose, MTL, Ryan, Signings, TKAM78, writing

Walking on Sunshine…

A year ago, I turned 35.

A year ago, I declared – on this blog – that I was going to write a book. It was a birthday resolution. 

Well, here I am, a year later-a year older and I have not 1, but 2 books that I have published. I truly had no intention of publishing my first book, because the “writing” part was my bucket list item. However, my husband encouraged me to put it out there to see what happens. July, last year, I did just that…I published Being There.

But apparently I couldn’t stop there, and in August, while on vacation, another story came to me. I was sitting with my friend, Kari at the kitchen table… I grabbed my iPad to jot down a story idea and I showed it to her. I had two others going on, but this one just kept creeping in, so I gave it the time and attention it demanded. After weeks of of writing, then more weeks of writer’s block and multiple outlines to TRY to get me moving again, it started to flow. (Thank God! I was going nuts!!)

I loved writing Being There, but I think Mine to Lose is my favorite. It was hard to write because I knew better this time, but at the same time, what made it hard is what I loved.

So, today is a birthday/anniversary. Birthday because, well….I’m 36, now. :/ And anniversary because 1 year ago today, I went out with my family and let my husband tell the world that I was writing a book.

Cheers

Thank you to everyone who has encouraged me and given me the best feedback imaginable! I freakin’ love you!

Mine to Lose & Being There are available NOW on Amazon. 

Mine to Lose SHOULD be available in the Nook Store soon….

Katrina and the Waves – Walking on Sunshine…SO true today! 

Filed under: Blog Tour, Books, Exciting, Goal Setting, Insight, New Books, Writing Tagged: Emogen, Mine to Lose, Release Day, Ryan

Goodbye 2013…

Before I disappear for the day to celebrate the ending of one year and the beginning of another, I wanted to take a moment to think (write) about 2013.

This year has flown past in the blink of an eye. I seriously have to make a list of the thing that have happened (in no particular order):

I started writing a book! It was a bucket list item to even begin it, and once I started, I couldn’t stop. I loved every second of creating a place for Cass in my life, and for those who love her (and Drew).
I published a book! Holy crap! I published a book!! After I finished writing, Being There, my husband kept insisting that I needed to publish. It was absolutely terrifying and exciting all at once. I have loved the messages on Facebook that I have received from readers who enjoyed it. Totally makes me smile.
I got to go to Colorado! I have NEVER been before, and I got to make the trip with my husband, kids and my bestie and her family. I rode horses in the mountains….WTF!? It was too cool! The best part, definitely white water rafting, which was another bucket list item. And to our guide who made it his mission to drench me…told you you’d be in my book. Just saying’!
The worst part of my year was just a couple of weeks ago when my little Dixie, my puppy of 13 years, died. I miss her so much. She was a staple in my life and I swear I still see her around my house when I’m writing, cleaning or especially late at night when it would just be me and her. She always waited up for me to go to bed and our family is a little smaller now.
Got to see Mumford & Sons with my mom, sis, niece, best friend and my girls! The most AMAZING concert I have ever been to!!! I would totally go again in a heartbeat and I recommend everyone to go see them. I’m still on cloud nine when I think about it.
I wrote another book. Yep, if you have followed this blog, this isn’t news to you. I am putting the finishing touches on the formatting and it is scheduled to release on January 9, 2014, which also happens to be my birthday! I’m pretty excited and scared and worried and everything else, all at once.
Went tailgating. I realize this isn’t a big deal to most, but I have NEVER done this before and I did it…TWICE! Once for the Houston Texans game with my parents and my sister, the other with my hubby at the A&M v LSU game. Shocker….my team lost BOTH games, but whatever, it was fun and I’ve never done that before.
I went to my first author signing. I’ve never done that either! I got to go and see Molly McAdams and Colleen Hoover, both of whom I love so much! Highlight, I got to meet R.S. Grey, who will be sharing a table with me for the Houston Author Signing in February. I love this girl…she is so cute and sweet, I’m so excited to spend the day with her again. (OMG…we’re signing, WTF!?!?)

These are just SOME of the things that came to mind. I have loved 2013, I’ll miss it, but I also have high expectations of 2014. You better deliver .

I hope everyone has a fun, safe and awesome New Years Eve.

Don’t drink and drive

We out…
Filed under: Insight, Ramblings, Thoughts Tagged: 2013, AmWriting, Being There, happy dance, Mine to Lose, New Years

All I Can Do Is Write About It…

Merry Christmas!!! (Yes, I realize it’s late )

You probably don’t know this about me, but those who know me well do….I’m ALWAYS late! Hence why it’s taken nearly two months (possibly longer) to get Drew’s Scene completed. For those who don’t know…I promised that when I hit 1700 likes on Facebook, I’d write one scene from Drew’s POV, from Being There. As you have figured out, I’m L-A-T-E! 

If you want to read a special scene by Drew, click on this image below:

Drew & Cass

In other news…

Mine to Lose is on track to release on January 9 (which happens to be my bday!)
Mine to Lose will be available on iTunes, B&N and Amazon!!
To celebrate the Mine to Lose release, Being There will be on sale this Thursday. (Being there is only available on Amazon)
There will be a blog tour for Mine to Lose, so if you would like to participate, email me t.k.rapp@live.com
Be sure to Add Mine to Lose and Being There to your TBR on Goodreads (click either title to go to that page.)

I am going to try to post ONE MORE blog entry for 2013, so if you’re interested, check back tomorrow! Thanks so much for reading and hope you have a great day!!

XO

~T

All I Can Do Is Write About It – Lynyrd Skynyrd – such a great song (acoustic version)

Filed under: Blog Tour, Books, Exciting, New Books, Price Drop, Teaser, Writing Tagged: 2013, AmWriting, Being There, Cass, Drew, Emogen, happy dance, Inspiration, Mine to Lose, MTL, Ryan, T.K. Rapp, Thankful, Trey, writing