Cathrina Constantine's Blog, page 72
August 9, 2013
Thank you to Vikki at Scribblings of an Aspiring Author...
Thank you to Vikki at Scribblings of an Aspiring Author for creating this Blog Hop. Press on her name to learn more and sign up to Celebrate the Small Things in your Life.
This week I'm celebrating my sheer determination to put lots of constructive words to my WIP, and stick with it.
***Social Media, step aside*** And something I rarely do, I ordered myself a goal: To reach the halfway point by the end of August. Wish me Luck!
Also I joined Alex J. Cavanaugh's remarkable supportive group at Insecure Writer's Support Group. Press on Alex's name to learn more.
I'd like to inform all my friends in the blog hemisphere I will be on vacation next week. Regrettably, or, fortunately, I will not have access to the internet which will drive me crazy!! I'll have to hike it to the local library to check my messages. With that said I will be off the radar for most of the week. I apologize ahead of time, I will not be able to visit many blogs.
Tell me what are you celebrating this week?!
August 7, 2013
Constantine Book Review: Love Through Time by Nana Prah
I was extremely honored to be asked by Nana Prah to read her debut novel prior to being released:
Love Through Time.
And Nana also asked for an honest review.
In this day and age, light romantic books seem almost nonexistent. I've recently read an article to bring back sweet, light romance novels, and I believe that's what Nana Prah has done.
Don't get me wrong, I love hot and steamy just as much as the next person. However, I yearn for the occasional tender love that seems to be outdated.
Jasmine Gibson, past the age of thirty, and jilted at the marriage altar, has a scarred heart.
It just might take the gorgeous, Sean Taylor to get her back in the saddle of love.
When Sean makes an appearance at her grandmother's house, Jasmine can't control her dizziness and faints. While simultaneously, Sean receives an arcane kick to his gut.
Jasmine begins to have vivid dreams of the past, the way past, like past lives; and after much deliberation she figures the people in her dreams are the past lives of her and Sean. And needless to say, the dreams hold torn fragments of life.
You will feel sparks and flaming passion spike between Jasmine and Sean while they attempt to reconcile with their past. (past lives that is)
Since I'm not one to put in spoilers, I would like to say, Nana spices up the novel with a bit of intrigue which keeps the pages turning.
Nana Prah has written one of the sweetest, romantic debut novels that I have had the pleasure to read.
I would advise everyone to read Love Through Time by
Nana Prah
BUY LINKS FOR LOVE THROUGH TIME:
Black Opal Books | Amazon| Barnes & Noble|Smashwords
|
Find me at:
Blog : www.nanaprah.blogspot.com
Twitter: @NanaPrah
Facebook: Nana Prah, Author
Love Through Time Blurb:
Defending her family – no problem. Recalling past lives – maybe just a small problem. Taking a chance on love again – well…
Jasmine Gibson has her world turned upside down when she meets gorgeous Sean Taylor. He’s the first man she’s been attracted to since her fiancé dumped her two years ago. But when the disturbing daydreams start, Jasmine begins to fear that her actions in a past life may have finally caught up with her.
Sean finds it impossible to stay away from Jasmine even though he can’t shake the inexplicable feeling of betrayal simmering deep inside him every time he sees her.
To complicate things, someone is out to hurt Jasmine and every time she and Sean are together the police have to be called. Even if Jasmine can make Sean trust her, the two of them may not stay alive long enough to enjoy their love this time around.
Love Through Time.
And Nana also asked for an honest review.
In this day and age, light romantic books seem almost nonexistent. I've recently read an article to bring back sweet, light romance novels, and I believe that's what Nana Prah has done.
Don't get me wrong, I love hot and steamy just as much as the next person. However, I yearn for the occasional tender love that seems to be outdated.
Jasmine Gibson, past the age of thirty, and jilted at the marriage altar, has a scarred heart.
It just might take the gorgeous, Sean Taylor to get her back in the saddle of love.
When Sean makes an appearance at her grandmother's house, Jasmine can't control her dizziness and faints. While simultaneously, Sean receives an arcane kick to his gut.
Jasmine begins to have vivid dreams of the past, the way past, like past lives; and after much deliberation she figures the people in her dreams are the past lives of her and Sean. And needless to say, the dreams hold torn fragments of life.
You will feel sparks and flaming passion spike between Jasmine and Sean while they attempt to reconcile with their past. (past lives that is)
Since I'm not one to put in spoilers, I would like to say, Nana spices up the novel with a bit of intrigue which keeps the pages turning.
Nana Prah has written one of the sweetest, romantic debut novels that I have had the pleasure to read.
I would advise everyone to read Love Through Time by
.JPG)
Nana Prah
BUY LINKS FOR LOVE THROUGH TIME:
Black Opal Books | Amazon| Barnes & Noble|Smashwords
|
Find me at:
Blog : www.nanaprah.blogspot.com
Twitter: @NanaPrah
Facebook: Nana Prah, Author
Love Through Time Blurb:
Defending her family – no problem. Recalling past lives – maybe just a small problem. Taking a chance on love again – well…
Jasmine Gibson has her world turned upside down when she meets gorgeous Sean Taylor. He’s the first man she’s been attracted to since her fiancé dumped her two years ago. But when the disturbing daydreams start, Jasmine begins to fear that her actions in a past life may have finally caught up with her.
Sean finds it impossible to stay away from Jasmine even though he can’t shake the inexplicable feeling of betrayal simmering deep inside him every time he sees her.
To complicate things, someone is out to hurt Jasmine and every time she and Sean are together the police have to be called. Even if Jasmine can make Sean trust her, the two of them may not stay alive long enough to enjoy their love this time around.
August 6, 2013
Guest Author: Kathy Bosman
I'm pleased to have the remarkable author Kathy Bosman visiting today.
Kathy started off writing children's books, and then evolved into a prolific novelist of inspirational and sweet contemporary romance.
[image error]
I've asked Kathy a few questions for you to get to know her better.
Kathy how much of You is in the stories you write?
I think I put a few details or foibles of myself in my characters
but I also like to make them unique. Some of my life experiences and feelings
about things may come out into my books. They say we should write what we know.
Generally, I stick to settings I’m vaguely familiar with. But I love entering a
fantasy world where it’s all fiction. I love making totally unique characters
who don’t exist in my life.
From start to finish, how long until you complete a manuscript?
Besides my Nano novel, I take about four to six months to write a
book and then a week or so to edit it which I like to do after I’ve stepped
away from it for a while. Every book is different though. Some of them flow
fast and others take time or life gets in the way. Some books have been
rewritten several times so have taken much longer. Cosmetic Heart took just
over a month because it was my Nanowrimo novel from last year. It needed lots
of editing though.
Do you find the editing and revision tedious? Or does it make you
thrive?
It entirely depends on the editor I work with, how difficult the
changes are, and what my time schedule is. Editing can be fun but most of the
time, I find it quite stressful because I begin to dislike my book and see all
the things wrong with it. The pendulum seems to swing from excitement to severe
self-doubt during the editing process.
What is your inspiration?
Reading a good novel or watching a great movie. And there’s
nothing like release day! Fellow writers who encourage me or readers who love
my books and write a good review make the journey so much happier.
What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?
I’m gobsmacked at obtaining my first publishing contract in
September last year. Since then, the contracts have been coming. I think that
achievement has made the path so much straighter for me to get books out there.
What's next in your life? Any future goals?
My goal is to have lots of books out there that readers love. I’m
working on a series book – book no 2 of The Creators series. Dragonfly Moments
came out with Decadent Publishing in May 2013 and was no 1 of the series. I
would like to write book 3 some time, too, so those are my focus at the moment.
My ultimate dream is to write a best seller one day.
Tell us about your book.
Cosmetic Heart is a sweet, contemporary romance set in Africa.
Lisa Heddly is a make-up artist at a top magazine in Pretoria, South Africa,
but she really wants to be a journalist. She writes in her spare time, but is
too scared to ask for a promotion from her intimidating boss, Dan Loriet, the
executive editor of the magazine. At the beginning of the book, he asks her to
pose as his fiancée who left him so he can save face with his family in
exchange for what Lisa wants. Lisa sees this as her opportunity to work toward
that promotion. She doesn’t realize that she will fall for her playboy boss and
for his family. Dan soon discovers that Lisa is very special and a growing
attraction develops. Unfortunately, her secrets cause a rift between them and
Lisa’s strong independent streak makes it hard for their relationship to
survive. Will Dan be able to break through the barriers Lisa has put over her
heart?
What advice can you offer writers?
Write and write and write. Keep on trying if you haven’t obtained
that contract and take as much advice as possible about your work. I’m still
learning lots about my writing and think the more I write and work with
editors, the more I learn. And be willing to try out new genres – you may
discover a whole new world of possibility out there for you.
Where is your favorite writing spot?
On Tuesday afternoons, I drop my daughter off at Cubs and sit in
the car all by myself for an hour to an hour and a half. Without internet
connection on my computer or any other distractions except for some gum or
another snack, I get my best writing done.
Lisa works for a top South African magazine as the make-up artist, but writes articles on the quiet. When the chief editor, Daniel, asks for her help in posing as his ex-fiancée to save face with his family, Lisa agrees, hoping to obtain a promotion in return. She doesn’t expect to fall for the handsome editor nor to fit in with his family who love her unconditionally. But Lisa has more secrets, and she doesn’t believe in love and family. After Daniel finds out her secrets, will his forgiveness and determination be enough to cut through all the layers Lisa has put over her heart?
You can find Kathy's books here:
Astraea Press: http://www.astraeapress.com/#!/~/product/category=662245&id=26514153
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Cosmetic-Heart-ebook/dp/B00E882ZWQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1375345345&sr=8-2&keywords=cosmetic heart
All Romance Ebooks: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-cosmeticheart-1252275-177.html
Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/342408
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cosmetic-heart-kathy-bosman/1116243534?ean=2940148659464
Thanks so much for hosting me!!
It was my pleasure, Kathy. And I wish you great success and the best of luck!
Kathy started off writing children's books, and then evolved into a prolific novelist of inspirational and sweet contemporary romance.
[image error]
I've asked Kathy a few questions for you to get to know her better.
Kathy how much of You is in the stories you write?
I think I put a few details or foibles of myself in my characters
but I also like to make them unique. Some of my life experiences and feelings
about things may come out into my books. They say we should write what we know.
Generally, I stick to settings I’m vaguely familiar with. But I love entering a
fantasy world where it’s all fiction. I love making totally unique characters
who don’t exist in my life.
From start to finish, how long until you complete a manuscript?
Besides my Nano novel, I take about four to six months to write a
book and then a week or so to edit it which I like to do after I’ve stepped
away from it for a while. Every book is different though. Some of them flow
fast and others take time or life gets in the way. Some books have been
rewritten several times so have taken much longer. Cosmetic Heart took just
over a month because it was my Nanowrimo novel from last year. It needed lots
of editing though.
Do you find the editing and revision tedious? Or does it make you
thrive?
It entirely depends on the editor I work with, how difficult the
changes are, and what my time schedule is. Editing can be fun but most of the
time, I find it quite stressful because I begin to dislike my book and see all
the things wrong with it. The pendulum seems to swing from excitement to severe
self-doubt during the editing process.
What is your inspiration?
Reading a good novel or watching a great movie. And there’s
nothing like release day! Fellow writers who encourage me or readers who love
my books and write a good review make the journey so much happier.
What do you feel is your greatest accomplishment?
I’m gobsmacked at obtaining my first publishing contract in
September last year. Since then, the contracts have been coming. I think that
achievement has made the path so much straighter for me to get books out there.
What's next in your life? Any future goals?
My goal is to have lots of books out there that readers love. I’m
working on a series book – book no 2 of The Creators series. Dragonfly Moments
came out with Decadent Publishing in May 2013 and was no 1 of the series. I
would like to write book 3 some time, too, so those are my focus at the moment.
My ultimate dream is to write a best seller one day.
Tell us about your book.
Cosmetic Heart is a sweet, contemporary romance set in Africa.
Lisa Heddly is a make-up artist at a top magazine in Pretoria, South Africa,
but she really wants to be a journalist. She writes in her spare time, but is
too scared to ask for a promotion from her intimidating boss, Dan Loriet, the
executive editor of the magazine. At the beginning of the book, he asks her to
pose as his fiancée who left him so he can save face with his family in
exchange for what Lisa wants. Lisa sees this as her opportunity to work toward
that promotion. She doesn’t realize that she will fall for her playboy boss and
for his family. Dan soon discovers that Lisa is very special and a growing
attraction develops. Unfortunately, her secrets cause a rift between them and
Lisa’s strong independent streak makes it hard for their relationship to
survive. Will Dan be able to break through the barriers Lisa has put over her
heart?
What advice can you offer writers?
Write and write and write. Keep on trying if you haven’t obtained
that contract and take as much advice as possible about your work. I’m still
learning lots about my writing and think the more I write and work with
editors, the more I learn. And be willing to try out new genres – you may
discover a whole new world of possibility out there for you.
Where is your favorite writing spot?
On Tuesday afternoons, I drop my daughter off at Cubs and sit in
the car all by myself for an hour to an hour and a half. Without internet
connection on my computer or any other distractions except for some gum or
another snack, I get my best writing done.
Lisa works for a top South African magazine as the make-up artist, but writes articles on the quiet. When the chief editor, Daniel, asks for her help in posing as his ex-fiancée to save face with his family, Lisa agrees, hoping to obtain a promotion in return. She doesn’t expect to fall for the handsome editor nor to fit in with his family who love her unconditionally. But Lisa has more secrets, and she doesn’t believe in love and family. After Daniel finds out her secrets, will his forgiveness and determination be enough to cut through all the layers Lisa has put over her heart?
You can find Kathy's books here:
Astraea Press: http://www.astraeapress.com/#!/~/product/category=662245&id=26514153
Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/Cosmetic-Heart-ebook/dp/B00E882ZWQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1375345345&sr=8-2&keywords=cosmetic heart
All Romance Ebooks: https://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-cosmeticheart-1252275-177.html
Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/342408
Barnes and Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cosmetic-heart-kathy-bosman/1116243534?ean=2940148659464
Thanks so much for hosting me!!
It was my pleasure, Kathy. And I wish you great success and the best of luck!
August 2, 2013
Nana Prah's Release Day!!
I have been so excited for this day. Mainly because one of my fellow Black Opal Book Author's and my ardent Book Review Partner, Nana Prah has a big release day TODAY!!!
**Drum Roll Please**
Let me introduce:
**Smiles and Applause**
I just know Nana is grinning from ear to ear and doing the happy dance!
Excerpt:
She was coming to terms about their past lives, but he was having trouble just dealing with her in this one.
“I must have been a great man in previous life,” Sean said jokingly, but Jasmine’s expression turned serious as she held onto the doorpost. “Are you all right? Are you getting lightheaded?”
“No, I’m fine.”
But he could tell something was bothering her. “Now you’re holding something back from me.”
“Do you believe in past lives?”
“I haven’t thought about it. I’ve seen so much in my travels around the world that I wouldn’t be surprised if it existed. Do you?”
“I think it might exist, and the thought about coming back and making your soul better is very appealing. At the same time it could be painful, especially if you hurt someone else in a past life and met them again in another.”
Sean felt a chill go up his spine. He knew there was something more to this conversation, but he couldn’t pin point it. He wanted to stay and talk with her about it, but he had to get back to studying.
He leaned down and kissed her cheek. It was nothing but a friendly kiss, but he felt the shock of it straight down to the soles of his feet. Jasmine looked just as affected as he was.
Scroll all the way down to learn more about Nana Prah and enter a Rafflecopter giveaway!!!
CC: Nana, please tell us a little about yourself.
NP: I’m a writer. I tagged myself with this label only last year, but it fits me well. Aside from writing I teach nursing and I love it. One thing I like to mention about myself is that I’m a black belt in the martial arts. If I could make chocolate my best friend without destroying it, I would.
CC: Are you a planner or a pantser?
NP: Pantser for sure. Right now I couldn’t plan a plot if it came up to me and outlined itself.
CC: Where do you get your back story?
NP: In my novel Love Through Time, the heroine, Jasmine, recalls her past lives. As I was writing, the lives just came to me (perhaps I was channeling my own past lives, who knows).
CC: Do you find the editing and revisions tedious? Or does it make you thrive?
NP: It makes me thrive. I like making things better (all part of being a nurse) and during the editing process I see improvements in my work. It makes me smile.
CC: For such a diversified person, what other goals or accomplishments would you hope to attain in the future?
NP: Being on the New York Times Bestseller is high on my list. I’d like to have my writing sustain me in a better life than I’ve become accustomed to. I’d like to get married soon. If only I could conjure up one of my wonderful heroes and make them real, I’d be all set in that department.
CC: Please tell us about your book, Love Through Time.
NP: I am the worst at this, so I’ll let my awesomely edited blurb do the telling for me:
Defending her family – no problem. Recalling past lives – maybe just a small problem. Taking a chance on love again – well…
Jasmine Gibson has her world turned upside down when she meets gorgeous Sean Taylor. He’s the first man she’s been attracted to since her fiancé dumped her two years ago. But when the disturbing daydreams start, Jasmine begins to fear that her actions in a past life may have finally caught up with her.
Sean finds it impossible to stay away from Jasmine even though he can’t shake the inexplicable feeling of betrayal, simmering deep inside him every time he sees her.
To complicate things, someone is out to hurt Jasmine and every time she and Sean are together, the police have to be called. Even if Jasmine can make Sean trust her, the two of them may not stay alive long enough to enjoy their love this time around.
BUY LINKS FOR LOVE THROUGH TIME:
Black Opal Books | Amazon | Barnes &
Noble
|Smashwords
|
Find me at:
Blog : www.nanaprah.blogspot.com
Twitter: @NanaPrah
Facebook: Nana Prah, Author
BIO:
Nana Prah was born in Ghana, West Africa, raised in the US and currently resides in Ghana where she loves her job as a writer and nurse educator. She has been writing since she can remember (in her journal) and has been an avid reader of romance novels since the eighth grade. She has finally been able to utilize the years and years of inadvertent research into writing her own romance novels where love always conquers all.
Thank you so much for hosting me on your blog. I’m trying to hit the ground running.
Nana has included a list of the dates and blogs that she will be on for the month of August.
Date
Blog
3- August
Cathrina Constantine
5- August
Kiru TayeWrites
6- August
Debbie Christiana
7- August
Lara Daniels Writes
8- August
Kathy Bosman – Romance Author
9- August
Lynda Frazier
13- August
Empi Baryeh’s Blog
14- August
Liv Rancourt
15- August
Via Linden Lounge
16- August
Readinpleasure
20- August
The Basement Level Five
21- August
Jami Gray’s Blog
22- August
For Romance Lovers Only
27- August
Conundrum Corner
28- August
Rinelle Grey
29- August
Dream Voyagers – Taryn Kincaid
Nana is giving away 3 $10 Amazon gift-cards at the end of the blog tour through Rafflecopter.
A Rafflecopter giveaway
**Drum Roll Please**
Let me introduce:
**Smiles and Applause**
I just know Nana is grinning from ear to ear and doing the happy dance!
Excerpt:
She was coming to terms about their past lives, but he was having trouble just dealing with her in this one.
“I must have been a great man in previous life,” Sean said jokingly, but Jasmine’s expression turned serious as she held onto the doorpost. “Are you all right? Are you getting lightheaded?”
“No, I’m fine.”
But he could tell something was bothering her. “Now you’re holding something back from me.”
“Do you believe in past lives?”
“I haven’t thought about it. I’ve seen so much in my travels around the world that I wouldn’t be surprised if it existed. Do you?”
“I think it might exist, and the thought about coming back and making your soul better is very appealing. At the same time it could be painful, especially if you hurt someone else in a past life and met them again in another.”
Sean felt a chill go up his spine. He knew there was something more to this conversation, but he couldn’t pin point it. He wanted to stay and talk with her about it, but he had to get back to studying.
He leaned down and kissed her cheek. It was nothing but a friendly kiss, but he felt the shock of it straight down to the soles of his feet. Jasmine looked just as affected as he was.
Scroll all the way down to learn more about Nana Prah and enter a Rafflecopter giveaway!!!
CC: Nana, please tell us a little about yourself.
NP: I’m a writer. I tagged myself with this label only last year, but it fits me well. Aside from writing I teach nursing and I love it. One thing I like to mention about myself is that I’m a black belt in the martial arts. If I could make chocolate my best friend without destroying it, I would.
CC: Are you a planner or a pantser?
NP: Pantser for sure. Right now I couldn’t plan a plot if it came up to me and outlined itself.
CC: Where do you get your back story?
NP: In my novel Love Through Time, the heroine, Jasmine, recalls her past lives. As I was writing, the lives just came to me (perhaps I was channeling my own past lives, who knows).
CC: Do you find the editing and revisions tedious? Or does it make you thrive?
NP: It makes me thrive. I like making things better (all part of being a nurse) and during the editing process I see improvements in my work. It makes me smile.
CC: For such a diversified person, what other goals or accomplishments would you hope to attain in the future?
NP: Being on the New York Times Bestseller is high on my list. I’d like to have my writing sustain me in a better life than I’ve become accustomed to. I’d like to get married soon. If only I could conjure up one of my wonderful heroes and make them real, I’d be all set in that department.
CC: Please tell us about your book, Love Through Time.
NP: I am the worst at this, so I’ll let my awesomely edited blurb do the telling for me:
Defending her family – no problem. Recalling past lives – maybe just a small problem. Taking a chance on love again – well…
Jasmine Gibson has her world turned upside down when she meets gorgeous Sean Taylor. He’s the first man she’s been attracted to since her fiancé dumped her two years ago. But when the disturbing daydreams start, Jasmine begins to fear that her actions in a past life may have finally caught up with her.
Sean finds it impossible to stay away from Jasmine even though he can’t shake the inexplicable feeling of betrayal, simmering deep inside him every time he sees her.
To complicate things, someone is out to hurt Jasmine and every time she and Sean are together, the police have to be called. Even if Jasmine can make Sean trust her, the two of them may not stay alive long enough to enjoy their love this time around.
BUY LINKS FOR LOVE THROUGH TIME:
Black Opal Books | Amazon | Barnes &
Noble
|Smashwords
|
Find me at:
Blog : www.nanaprah.blogspot.com
Twitter: @NanaPrah
Facebook: Nana Prah, Author
BIO:
Nana Prah was born in Ghana, West Africa, raised in the US and currently resides in Ghana where she loves her job as a writer and nurse educator. She has been writing since she can remember (in her journal) and has been an avid reader of romance novels since the eighth grade. She has finally been able to utilize the years and years of inadvertent research into writing her own romance novels where love always conquers all.
Thank you so much for hosting me on your blog. I’m trying to hit the ground running.
Nana has included a list of the dates and blogs that she will be on for the month of August.
Date
Blog
3- August
Cathrina Constantine
5- August
Kiru TayeWrites
6- August
Debbie Christiana
7- August
Lara Daniels Writes
8- August
Kathy Bosman – Romance Author
9- August
Lynda Frazier
13- August
Empi Baryeh’s Blog
14- August
Liv Rancourt
15- August
Via Linden Lounge
16- August
Readinpleasure
20- August
The Basement Level Five
21- August
Jami Gray’s Blog
22- August
For Romance Lovers Only
27- August
Conundrum Corner
28- August
Rinelle Grey
29- August
Dream Voyagers – Taryn Kincaid
Nana is giving away 3 $10 Amazon gift-cards at the end of the blog tour through Rafflecopter.
A Rafflecopter giveaway
August 1, 2013
Celebrating the Small Things
Once again, it's that time of the week to Celebrate the Small Things. And I' m so happy that Vikki at Scribblings of an Aspiring Author started this blog hop.
I wrote recently about visiting my son in Lancaster, PA, however, this past Saturday my son ventured home for the first time in 6 months! I gathered the entire family: gramma's, aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends for a monster cookout. We cooled off in the pool, played games and got wet with a water balloon toss!
Nothing gives me more joy then spending quality time with my family!!
With that said, what are you celebrating this week?
![[image error]](http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MG0vrx6gHgI/Uf_CDe6CeDI/AAAAAAAAAoo/hrkluin1dys/s1600/2%20cropped.JPG){kind=link}