C.P. Murphy's Blog: Inside my thoughts!, page 2
July 7, 2016
Get St. Matthew’s House for FREE
Just a quick update today to remind you that you can get the Kindle edition to St. Matthew’s House Free until July 8th. Get yours here!
Please leave a review after you read it. I’d love to hear what you think.
And remember, St. Matthew’s House will always be FREE on Kindle Unlimited.
July 4, 2016
A little about reviews
Have you ever wondered why authors ask readers to leave a review on Amazon, or other online stores, after you finished reading their book? The intent of this blog post is to explain it a little better to you.
Picture this… Remember what it was like before the internet came along and buying books was a complete different experience. We went into a store, a real store that we can touch the walls with, and selected the books we wanted to read. A customer had an idea of what kind of book they wanted to read, and went to that aisle. (Hence, on Amazon you search Sci-fi, romance, nonfiction, ect- you did it years ago too.) There in the aisle was shelves full of books to choice from. The customer picked a book up, maybe judged it from its cover, and read the back of the book, the inside flap, any editorial reviews that were printed inside, and possibly started reading the first chapter. We put the ones we didn’t find interesting back, and we bought the ones that liked. You were able to hold it in your hands, feel it, skim through it, and check its price to see if you thought it was worth the price. Then the book was bought.
This happened at new and used book stores, by the way. I’m not saying that people can’t do this anymore, but bookstores in general are losing their appeals with all the online bookstores and ebooks available.
Now bring your mind back to the present day. You want a book, you go on Amazon, there are millions of books. Many of which are self-published so you have no idea who the author is. Now you really are clicking on the ones that your eyes are attracted to, or the title interests you. But is it good? You can’t tell, you can’t hold it, you can’t flip through the pages. Yes, you can download a sample, or what Amazon calls “Look inside the book,” but that only gets you so far. You must sample read what they allow you to sample, not like in the book stores days where you could read anywhere you wanted in the book. How do you know if you’d like it?
Reviews! When others read a book and then go back to the site in which they purchased it and leaves a review- it’s like telling someone else whether they should buy the book or not. Reviews tell us things like, the book was a page turner, the reader couldn’t put it down, the ending was perfect. Or, the review could be just the opposite, the reviewer might say that there were too many spelling errors in the book, or the characters weren’t strong enough. It’s valued information for you and makes your decision process easier. So after you read the book, you do the same and help another reader decide if they like it.
Sad fact- many good books go unsold because there are no reviews left. My historical fiction book, Amelia’s Story, was downloaded over 350 times when it was priced free during a promotional period after its release. I personally sold about 50 of them myself. Many people have told me that they loved the book. It made them happy, sad, angry. It made them cry, but they all told me it was good and they looked forward to my new books. Unfortunately, there are only a few reviews left on it, and when new readers discover it- there aren’t enough reviews to convince them that it’s worth the price. Tragic but happens to so many independent authors.
What do we do about that? We should read books and then leave a few sentences about them online. They don’t have to be professionally written, you don’t have to be a writer. Just tell others what you thought. My newest novella, St. Matthew’s House, is being released tomorrow and I sure hope that I can get reviews posted. I realize that I’m still new in the industry and I’m not going to be a household name anytime soon. That’s ok with me, right now I’m building up a following. That starts with what reviews.
Hope that give you a better understanding. Happy reading!
June 19, 2016
First review for St. Matthew’s House- 4 Stars
Check out the first review of St. Matthew’s House here.
Reviewed by Rosie Malezer for Readers’ Favorite
St. Matthew’s House: A Paranormal Romance Novella is written by C.P. Murphy. Young bride, TaShena, is shot dead on her wedding day by her abusive ex-boyfriend, Adam, before he turns the gun on himself immediately after seeing her lifeless body. After such a tragedy, the church is no longer used as a place of worship and is transformed into a residence.
When Sophia Demitri flees to Greenville to escape her abusive ex-boyfriend, Charlie, and start a new life, she feels blessed to find such a beautiful house, especially since she can easily afford the rent. Little does Sophia know that her every move is being watched by two ghosts – one of which is held against her will while the other rejoices in inflicting pain and torment on others. Sophia seems to feel their chilling presence and hear a woman’s voice whisper to her, which Sophia shrugs off as lingering dreams. When former groom-to-be, Frankie Everhart, notices that somebody has moved into the church where his beloved TaShena had been gunned down in front of him all those years ago, TaShena suddenly appears in his dreams, desperately trying to guide him towards the new girl in town. At first, it is to try to fill the void that TaShena’s death had created in Frankie’s heart, but it quickly escalates into something life-threatening with Sophia’s urgent need for protection from a man who only knows how to talk with his fists.
As a domestic violence survivor, I have to say that I got chills while reading C.P. Murphy’s paranormal tale of psychopathic abuse. Starting with the murder-suicide of a bride by her ex-boyfriend on her wedding day and moving on to a woman who, years later, unknowingly moves into the building where the murder-suicide had taken place whilst escaping her own nightmarish abusive past, St. Matthew’s House is a fast-paced thriller which keeps the adrenaline pumping from start to finish. Incorporating the afterlife into a maniacal obsession which had led to such a horrific crime creates a unique and incredible storyline, filled both with fear and unbridled passion. As difficult as it was for me to read, I enjoyed how the story played out so beautifully. I recommend this book to mature audiences who enjoy a lot of action and drama in their paranormal romance.
June 9, 2016
St. Matthew’s House in on presale!
I’m getting very excited as my new book is being released in less than a month! Over 60 people have shown an interest in receiving an advanced copy for a review, and its been sent to a few blogs for review. I’m in the process of setting up a virtual book tour, so stay tuned and I’ll tell you where you can find me.
The book will be exclusive on Amazon, on July 5, 2016. I can’t wait to see how the world feels about St. Matthew’s House (A paranormal romance novella).
Get your presale copy today and tell everyone you know who reads to get theirs. Stay tuned as the excitement continues.
And remember: it’s FREE on Kindle Unlimited:)
May 29, 2016
Breaking one of the golden rules!
Hello all!
One thing I’ve heard over and over is; if you want to be a successful writer, you need to blog often. Unfortunately I’m not on here as much as I should be. I just wanted to take a few minutes to update you all on why I’m not, and what I’m up to.
As much as I’d love to write full time, I can’t yet. I have a job that is demanding of my time. It seems that I get more days off then most people but believe me when I say, its a struggle to get there. When those days off do come around, I find that typical life gets in my way too. It’s difficult to be a social butterfly and to chop away at a writing career at the same time. Yes, I’ll admit, I’m somewhere between introvert and social butterfly. I’d love my time alone, but there are family and friend times that I also want to be a part of.
It’s not like I’m not working on my writing career; I’m just not blogging enough. Something I’ll try very hard to work on. Please have patience with me if my thoughts on here are scattered.
I have been working on my writing career. My 3rd book, a paranormal/supernatural romance novella is scheduled to be released on July 5, 2016. Whoohoo! I have advanced review copies out now, and soon it’ll be available for presale on Amazon. I’ve decided to make this novella just a Kindle for now. Maybe by Christmas time I’ll have it put in print but in my past experience, I’m selling more ebooks than I am print.
I’m also expecting the cover to be completed this coming week. Of course I’ll share it when it comes out. This is a very exciting time for me.
Also, I’ve had my historical fiction novel narrated and within the next few months it’ll be available on Audibles. It’s another thing keeping me busy, listening to the recording, making sure it’s right.
I have an outline going, story in my head, and I’ll be writing another book. Actually I have 3 in my head. Ahh, the struggles of a writer.
And if that’s not enough, I’m trying hard to finish reading books that I’d love to review. I downloaded some off of Amazon, authors I’ll tell you about soon enough. But also I’ve been reading a series, young adult, that I’m almost done with. Today’s agenda, to sit down and finish the last book. (I literally only have like 50 pages left). Won’t say what series it is, but will say I heard rumors of it coming to the big screen and I can’t wait!
I’m also half way through Shearwater: A Mermaid Romance by D.S. Murphy. No, we’re not related and no, we don’t know each other- just wanted to put that out there since we share the same last name. There are currently 174 reviews on Amazon, so why am I reading it? Because I’ve been following Murphy’s advice on book covers and launching a book, and really learned a lot. So even though he doesn’t necessarily need another review, I’m doing it out of pure appreciation of what he’s teaching me. Btw: I’m loving the story though.
So yes, as you can see I have been busy. I know its not an excuse not to blog and I will try my hardest to get on here more often. I’m sure I’ll be back soon with those reviews anyway soon.
Until then, hope you enjoyed my random thoughts.
May 1, 2016
Would you like an advanced readers copy?
I’m currently in the final production stage of St. Matthew’s House, just waiting on the cover. My tentative release date is June 21, 2016. I am seeking readers who would like to join Team C.P. Murphy by receiving an advanced copy (pdf which could be read on your computers/tablets/any device that supports pdfs). Readers who receive an advanced copy are then asked to post a review on Amazon the day of the review. Anyone who reviews the novella on release day will be entered to win a $25 Amazon gift card; anyone who posts their review during release week will be entered to win a separate $25 Amazon gift card. That’s two chances automatically if you post on release day. Also, anyone who joins Team C.P. Murphy (my newsletter) before release day is entered to win a $25 Amazon gift card. I strongly suggest that you go to my website, www.cpmurphy.com, and sign up because more details about the advanced copies, as well as the advanced copies themselves, will be emailed through the newsletter. Join Team C.P. Murphy today! As of right now, there are those 3 chances to win. You could win one, you might even win all 3:) Again, you’ll automatically receive the advanced copy by signing up for my newsletter. Thank you!
St. Matthew’s House: A Paranormal Romance Novella.
When Sophia moved to Greenville to forget her obsessive ex-boyfriend, she thought her life was about to begin again. She meets Frankie, the town’s playboy, and the two develop romantic feelings towards each other. But her home, once a church, has a different plan for Sophia. St. Matthew’s House has secrets that nobody wants to tell her about, especially Frankie.
April 1, 2016
The Descendant by Ally Capraro
I read this book to help out a fellow indie author. The story line took off right away, and that made the book kind of predictable, but I honestly enjoyed this story. Ava Davenport begins having strange dreams that somehow seem to come true when she’s awake. At first it’s thought to be stress since she’s busy planning her wedding to a man she has doubts about. She’s not sure if he’s the one or not and becomes attracted to the man in her dreams. He’s from another dimension and guards her throughout her life. After calling her wedding off, she goes out with Victor as a favor to her friend. Victor isn’t what he appears to be and Ava finds herself in danger with him. Her dream man, Meldrick, rescues her and takes her away from Earth where she will be safe.
Personally I find the romance a little unbelievable, although to the writer’s defense, Meldrick has loved Ava for years, long before she knew he existed. It’s an innocent romance though, good for young adults.
I won’t give away what happens after Ava is taken away but I will say that the end of this book is a cliff hanger and more is to come.
I rated this story 4 stars. It is a great story and I do recommend it but like I said earlier, it took off right away and didn’t leave room for the imagination to wonder what was going to happen. Considering this is Ally Capraro’s first book, I say she did a good job and I look forward to book 2.
February 9, 2016
Sophie’s Voice by Helen Hardt
Check this book and author out! Sophie’s Voice is now available. Here’s everything you need to know.
Lady Sophie MacIntyre has the voice of an angel, but due to her timid nature, no one ever hears it. After losing a bet to her conniving sister, Sophie auditions for the new musicale at the Regal Theatre run by handsome actor Zachary Newland. Though distracted by Zach’s elegant masculinity and her own nerves, she sings well and earns a role in the production.
Zach is a confirmed bachelor, and his taste in women leans toward the glamorous and uninhibited…until he meets the demure Sophie. Her delicate soprano and understated beauty captivate him. She responds to his inappropriate kiss, but quickly dismisses the heat between them. She’s a lady of the peerage, after all, and not one to associate with a rake like him.
Zach, however, is not so easily dissuaded. He gets what he wants, and he intends to help Sophie find her true voice…in more ways than one.
An excerpt from Sophie’s Voice:
Zach rushed out of the theatre and into the lobby. No sign of Lady Sophie. Looking out the door, he spied her getting into a hansom cab. The cabbie had taken her hand and was helping her into the coach.
He pushed the heavy glass door open and ran forward. “My lady, wait!”
Lady Sophie turned around, her face flushing a lovely raspberry color. She arched her eyebrows.
“If I may have a moment?” he said.
“I’m sorry. I am getting ready to leave for the Brighton estate, as you can see.”
“Yes, yes.” He turned to the cabbie. “You may go on. I’ll arrange for Lady Sophie’s transport in a few moments.”
“Yes, sir.” The cabbie tipped his hat.
“Mr. Newland”—Sophie cleared her throat gently—“what is this about? This is highly irregular, not to mention improper.”
“Yes, my lady, and I offer you my apologies. However, I could not let you leave without telling you how thoroughly I enjoyed your audition. I would like to offer you a leading role in the new musicale.”
“How are you able to offer me anything? You haven’t heard the other auditions yet.”
“I am familiar with all of the other actors and actresses who will be auditioning today. I know their voices. None of them can come close to you, my lady.”
Sophie fidgeted with her reticule. “I’m afraid, Mr. Newland, that I will be unable to accept a role in the production.”
What? Not able to accept? Did this woman have any idea of the talent she possessed?
Her pink lips trembled ever so slightly, and her cheeks deepened from raspberry to aubergine. Zach gulped, his pulse quickening. Had anyone kissed those lips? How they beckoned him. Sophie was of average height, coming up to his chest. He again eyed her dazzling blond hair swept up tight with only a few wispy curls free. How might it look flowing freely over her milky-white shoulders? Over her pert breasts?
“If you would be so kind, Mr. Newland…”
Zach stood, mouth agape. She had said something after his name, but he had heard no words. Only that voice, that voice from an angel, swirled around his head. He could not get enough of it. Still those rosy lips trembled, calling to him.
He couldn’t help himself. He gripped her shoulders, lowered his head, and pressed his lips to hers.
Meet Helen Hardt:
Helen Hardt’s passion for the written word began with the books her mother read to her at bedtime. She wrote her first story at age six and hasn’t stopped since. In addition to being an award winning author of contemporary and historical romance and erotica, she’s a mother, a black belt in Taekwondo, a grammar geek, an appreciator of fine red wine, and a lover of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream. She writes from her home in Colorado where she lives with her family. Helen loves to hear from readers.
You can find more information, or contact Helen Hardt through these links:
Buy Sophie’s Voice here:
Amazon Print: http://amzn.to/1YOzQOZ
B&N Print: http://bit.ly/1JB7u4w
iBooks: http://apple.co/1N10cd9
Kobo: http://bit.ly/1WK1DfF
Google Play: http://bit.ly/1iLKo0h
Books-A-Million: http://bit.ly/1Ms1gW6
Kindle: http://amzn.to/1Y5rBwN
Or enter to win here:
Win a copy of Sophia’s Voice by clicking this!
I’d also like to thank Wendy and Claire for introducing me to Sophie’s Voice! For more information on them:
Bare Naked Words Author Services
February 6, 2016
Pleasure by Lucia Jordan
I completely enjoyed Pleasure! Kelly is uptight, a characteristic I can see in many people in life. To read about her slowly releasing herself makes me realize she’s only human. Levi is a manly man who can’t stand her demands. He’s right there to bring her back down to Earth. I couldn’t read the sex scene fast enough, it was like I wanted it to happen. It was an exciting sex scene, not too dirty but not too innocent as well. I’m looking forward to book 2- but Pleasure can stand alone. It’s that good!
February 3, 2016
Me and My Stepbrother by Lisa C Clark
First off, I’m giving Me and My Stepbrother a 4 star review only because I did find the editing a little off. If it weren’t for the typos I would have given it 5 stars. We all make mistakes, they didn’t effect my thoughts on the story.
Me and My Step brother is a short story that leaves readers hanging at the end. Amy, and her new Stepbrother Trey, start off on the wrong foot. She comes off as a high class rich girl who pays little mind to the working class. Little does she know, Trey has more money than she ever imagined. Their relationship sparks as readers would guess happens in a romance, but just as things are about to get steamy… Twist in the story.
I think it was fast paced and am glad that it’s only the beginning. I’m looking forward to getting to know these characters more.
Find here, free for a limited time. Me and My Stepbrother
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