Lee Ryder's Blog, page 45
October 28, 2013
On picture taking companies....sort of a rant but not really.
I just recently got my son's pictures done for his senior portrait, after having paid a 20.00 sitting fee which they had no idea that he could have one clothing change with and he had to inform them of that we waited patiently for the pictures. We got them today and for me it was a lackluster moment, none of his poses were really amazing and said buy me buy me. But my son is a senior and will have senior pictures.
For us it was quite a huge sticker shock! The cheapest package being 169.00 and only one of the 10+ poses that they used could be used.
The area I live in is economically depressed, many kids are not as fortunate as my son. How many of these kids will have the ability to have a senior portrait. There are families here struggling to put food on the table they can't afford such expensive things as these pictures. Even the school pictures are getting out of hand for priciness. I've taken to doing my own pictures of my kids because they are more natural and not so staged and sometimes with the fake smiles that are definitely not the smile of my kid.
My thoughts on this, picture companies should offer a payment plan or free photos for the kids that can't afford them. They make millions of dollars every year doing these pictures. So many people struggle here in our town, it's not compassionate nor is it right for them to come into towns like this where people are struggling to make ends meet and take money they don't have.
I will probably take my own pictures of him somewhere beautiful on a gorgeous day for his senior picture and he can use one of his canned pictures for the yearbook. (BTW they are 100.00 and he won't get it till next fall when he's not in high school)
For us it was quite a huge sticker shock! The cheapest package being 169.00 and only one of the 10+ poses that they used could be used.
The area I live in is economically depressed, many kids are not as fortunate as my son. How many of these kids will have the ability to have a senior portrait. There are families here struggling to put food on the table they can't afford such expensive things as these pictures. Even the school pictures are getting out of hand for priciness. I've taken to doing my own pictures of my kids because they are more natural and not so staged and sometimes with the fake smiles that are definitely not the smile of my kid.
My thoughts on this, picture companies should offer a payment plan or free photos for the kids that can't afford them. They make millions of dollars every year doing these pictures. So many people struggle here in our town, it's not compassionate nor is it right for them to come into towns like this where people are struggling to make ends meet and take money they don't have.
I will probably take my own pictures of him somewhere beautiful on a gorgeous day for his senior picture and he can use one of his canned pictures for the yearbook. (BTW they are 100.00 and he won't get it till next fall when he's not in high school)
October 25, 2013
Saying Goodbye Without Saying Hello by Raebeth McGee-Buda
I was truly honored and blessed to meet Raebeth McGee-Buda on Facebook and we quickly struck up a friendship. She is such a talented author and so very brave for sharing her story of love, loss, grief, and healing with us in her newest book Saying Goodbye Without Saying Hello which tells the story of her daughter Dakota who was born just too beautiful for this world and went right up to be with the angels.
Synopsis:The journey of pregnancy brings hope, joy, and love for the expecting mother. The hope of giving birth to a new life. The joy of feeling this new life grow inside of her. The love that starts with a test that doesn’t ever end. Dreams for the unborn child flood the new mother’s mind, as well as those around her. Each step of the pregnancy is a cherished moment. The anticipation of meeting her cherished baby builds from the very first month and ends after birth.
This is the story of one mother and how a few words changed her life forever. How a piece of her faded when she heard these words: “There’s no heartbeat.” When RaeBeth Buda lay in the hospital in labor, she and her husband heard those dreaded words.
What happens when all of those dreams are shattered in a moment’s notice? How does one cope with the loss of their child? This is the story of their journey and of the devastating grief of the loss of her daughter, Dakota Emily Buda.
*****
Small Teaser Saying Goodbye Without Saying Hello
Shortly after our perfectly imperfect wedding, my husband and I headed off to our honeymoon. We were thrilled. It seemed like things were finally falling into place. He had a great job and we were happy. The honeymoon was amazing. We decided to take a trip to the Pocono’s for the most amazing time at the most beautiful and entertaining resort we could find...Pocono Palace. I felt like a princess. We overly enjoyed our honeymoon. We took walks, played games in the game room, and made some memories would will last a lifetime.
Of course our honeymoon went by too quickly and after two weeks, we headed home. I was glad to though because I was missing my daughter. She’s an amazing little girl who has one heck of a sense of humor. She brightens our world. There’s not a day that goes by where she doesn’t make us laugh or make our hearts melt. Her personality is amazing and her outlook on the world is impressive.
Let me introduce to you our princess, Emma. She’s our world, our breath that we breathe, and we love her more than life itself. She’s a daddy’s girl and isn’t your typical little child. She loves to get down and dirty with her daddy when working on cars, but won’t hesitate to spend the day getting her nails painted with Mommy.
When we got back from our honeymoon, life went back to the way it was. Emma started first grade and Greg went back to work. I had a book I needed to finish writing. I tried so hard to finish this book but out of the blue, I started to get sick. My stomach would hurt and I was exhausted. Several weeks went by and I didn’t seem to be getting any better.Then it came to me, I might be pregnant.
My Review
Saying Goodbye Without Saying Hello is a poignant touching story that reaches right down into the very soul of the reader grabbing your heart and holding onto it even tearing it out at times. There were so many moments I just wanted to reach into the book and hug Raebeth at that moment. This story touched my heart and my soul in so many ways. Being an angel mom myself I knew her pain, the same kind of pain but not the same as we all grieve differently. Raebeth was so honest and took you right to the heart of what she was feeling in that moment and what her view was on what was going on at that moment. It takes you into the heart and soul of a mother who was rocked to her very core by the loss of her baby. This is an amazing true story beautifully written and carefully crafted to really bring you into the story with her. You're standing beside her the whole time, feeling what she's feeling and seeing what she's seeing her joy, her anguish, the gut wrenching pain when she got the news of no heartbeat. I loved this story, it truly is an excellent read but moreso an even better insight into loss. Raebeth was so brave to be able to share this story with the world, I know I will be recommending it to everyone.
Now let's meet the amazing mind behind Saying Goodbye Without Saying Hello the lovely Raebeth Mcgee-Buda in an awesomely unauthorized set of crazy questions for an amazing lady!
What food WON'T you eat?
I refuse to eat any type of sea food, sausage, and most cheeses.
Is there a pen color you like better than others?
Yes, as a matter of fact there is. I love to write with a pink colored pen over any other color.
If you could dip anything in chocolate what would it be?
I would stick with the strawberries. Yes I’m not very creative here but it’s really good.
If there was one thing you could paint purple what would it be?
I would paint my Mother’s car purple because that’s her favorite color.
Favorite past hairstyle could be anything?
I absolutely loved when I had my hair mainly a medium brown with caramel and blonde highlights. I actually miss it.
What would your superhero name be?
Well, call me conceited but I consider myself a hero already. I am the hero to my daughter.
And what would your superpower be?
I have the ability to kiss away pain, hug tears away, and make her laugh at anything I say that’s silly to brighten her day!!
Would you have a sidekick?
Yep, and I do... I call her Mom!!! Without my mother being by my side to be a hero to my daughter, I don’t know how I would have come this far.
What would be an important part of your backstory?
I would say the part about how I have endured so much within the twenty six years of my life and I am still ticking. I have been through abuse, bullying, death, and every imaginable problem within a relationship and here I am... still here to actually write my story and tell others about it.
Who is YOUR favorite superhero?
My favorite superhero would be my mother. She is the strongest person I know and has been through hell... only to come out smelling like wild gerbera daisies. She’s one tough cookie. I’m so proud to call her my mother. **Rachel, you’re awesome and I’m so blessed the Lord chose you for my Mother.** Favorite Disney Quote:
There’s several quotes that I really love. It’s hard to pick between them.
“Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen. No body knows my sorrow.” – Zazu from The Lion King
“If your heart is in your dream, no request is too extreme.” – Jimmy Cricket
“Listen to me, the human world is a mess.” – Sebastian from The Little Mermaid
“No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish, will come true.” – Cinderella (Top favorite right now because it speaks volumes to me.)
Ok now a few mundane ones
Who inspires you?
Every Angel parent out there who has walked this journey before I did. I think I look up to each one of you and that gives me hope. Hope for my future and I can see that my future will have tears and a bit of pain... but I’ll survive. This isn’t the end of me.
Favorite book genre?
I love a clean romance or paranormal romance story.
Favorite Author?
This one is a hard one to answer. I love reading Edgar Allen Poe and Stephen King above all though.
What is your take on social media do you like it / hate it / love hate relationship and why?
It would depend. Facebook has its perks. One thing that bugs me about it is the fact that so many authors out there constantly have giveaways and contests that deal with readers buying their book and reviewing them for big prizes. Then, I see stacks of books or Amazon gift cards being given away. In a way I feel this is sort of like buying the reviews. I’d rather have my readers share their reviews because they want to. Not because they’ll get prizes out of it.
I also think it makes it hard for the less fortunate when it comes to Authors who can’t afford to give away big stuff all the time. Yes, when I broke into the publishing world, I did giveaway a Kindle Fire. There was so much that was going on within that party. So, many readers acted like they were pumped up for my book, when in fact it was the Kindle that looked nice. After the party and the tour started, there weren’t that many people who followed. Of course, nothing was offered as a prize in a giveaway on the tour.
Therefore, I would say that I have a love/hate relationship with it.
About the Author: [image error]RaeBeth McGee-Buda was born in southwestern Pennsylvania in 1987, the second daughter of Rachel Yost and Arthur Curtis McGee. RaeBeth grew up loving to read and write poetry, as well as short stories. Her childhood dream was to become a teacher. Rae Beth's dream of writing was created in her eleventh grade literature class where writing became her passion.
RaeBeth married in August 2012 to her husband, Gregory Stephen Buda Jr. and resides in a small Pennsylvania town of Fairchance. RaeBeth is a full time mother of one beautiful little girl and a mother to an angel in heaven as of May 27th, 2013.
She graduated from American Intercontinental University in 2010 with her associates in business administration. She enjoys spending her time writing and feels that connecting with readers is her main goal.
Author Links:
Facebook | Blog | Twitter | Website | YouTube | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon | Authordb
Email raebeth.buda@gmail.com
Title: Saying Goodbye Without Saying Helloby RaeBeth McGee-BudaGenre: Nonfiction/Christian/Grief & LossAudience: AdultFormats: Paperback and EbookE-Cover By: RaeBeth McGee-BudaPaperback Cover: Marcy RachelEditor: Lee RyderISBN-10: 1484801466ISBN-13: 1492110884Date Published: October 15, 2013
Giveaway <a id="rc-dd530948" class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/disp..." rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="http://leeryderabfa.blogspot.com//d12...
Synopsis:The journey of pregnancy brings hope, joy, and love for the expecting mother. The hope of giving birth to a new life. The joy of feeling this new life grow inside of her. The love that starts with a test that doesn’t ever end. Dreams for the unborn child flood the new mother’s mind, as well as those around her. Each step of the pregnancy is a cherished moment. The anticipation of meeting her cherished baby builds from the very first month and ends after birth.
This is the story of one mother and how a few words changed her life forever. How a piece of her faded when she heard these words: “There’s no heartbeat.” When RaeBeth Buda lay in the hospital in labor, she and her husband heard those dreaded words.
What happens when all of those dreams are shattered in a moment’s notice? How does one cope with the loss of their child? This is the story of their journey and of the devastating grief of the loss of her daughter, Dakota Emily Buda.
*****
Small Teaser Saying Goodbye Without Saying Hello
Shortly after our perfectly imperfect wedding, my husband and I headed off to our honeymoon. We were thrilled. It seemed like things were finally falling into place. He had a great job and we were happy. The honeymoon was amazing. We decided to take a trip to the Pocono’s for the most amazing time at the most beautiful and entertaining resort we could find...Pocono Palace. I felt like a princess. We overly enjoyed our honeymoon. We took walks, played games in the game room, and made some memories would will last a lifetime.
Of course our honeymoon went by too quickly and after two weeks, we headed home. I was glad to though because I was missing my daughter. She’s an amazing little girl who has one heck of a sense of humor. She brightens our world. There’s not a day that goes by where she doesn’t make us laugh or make our hearts melt. Her personality is amazing and her outlook on the world is impressive.
Let me introduce to you our princess, Emma. She’s our world, our breath that we breathe, and we love her more than life itself. She’s a daddy’s girl and isn’t your typical little child. She loves to get down and dirty with her daddy when working on cars, but won’t hesitate to spend the day getting her nails painted with Mommy.
When we got back from our honeymoon, life went back to the way it was. Emma started first grade and Greg went back to work. I had a book I needed to finish writing. I tried so hard to finish this book but out of the blue, I started to get sick. My stomach would hurt and I was exhausted. Several weeks went by and I didn’t seem to be getting any better.Then it came to me, I might be pregnant.
My Review
Saying Goodbye Without Saying Hello is a poignant touching story that reaches right down into the very soul of the reader grabbing your heart and holding onto it even tearing it out at times. There were so many moments I just wanted to reach into the book and hug Raebeth at that moment. This story touched my heart and my soul in so many ways. Being an angel mom myself I knew her pain, the same kind of pain but not the same as we all grieve differently. Raebeth was so honest and took you right to the heart of what she was feeling in that moment and what her view was on what was going on at that moment. It takes you into the heart and soul of a mother who was rocked to her very core by the loss of her baby. This is an amazing true story beautifully written and carefully crafted to really bring you into the story with her. You're standing beside her the whole time, feeling what she's feeling and seeing what she's seeing her joy, her anguish, the gut wrenching pain when she got the news of no heartbeat. I loved this story, it truly is an excellent read but moreso an even better insight into loss. Raebeth was so brave to be able to share this story with the world, I know I will be recommending it to everyone.
Now let's meet the amazing mind behind Saying Goodbye Without Saying Hello the lovely Raebeth Mcgee-Buda in an awesomely unauthorized set of crazy questions for an amazing lady!
What food WON'T you eat?
I refuse to eat any type of sea food, sausage, and most cheeses.
Is there a pen color you like better than others?
Yes, as a matter of fact there is. I love to write with a pink colored pen over any other color.
If you could dip anything in chocolate what would it be?
I would stick with the strawberries. Yes I’m not very creative here but it’s really good.
If there was one thing you could paint purple what would it be?
I would paint my Mother’s car purple because that’s her favorite color.
Favorite past hairstyle could be anything?
I absolutely loved when I had my hair mainly a medium brown with caramel and blonde highlights. I actually miss it.
What would your superhero name be?
Well, call me conceited but I consider myself a hero already. I am the hero to my daughter.
And what would your superpower be?
I have the ability to kiss away pain, hug tears away, and make her laugh at anything I say that’s silly to brighten her day!!
Would you have a sidekick?
Yep, and I do... I call her Mom!!! Without my mother being by my side to be a hero to my daughter, I don’t know how I would have come this far.
What would be an important part of your backstory?
I would say the part about how I have endured so much within the twenty six years of my life and I am still ticking. I have been through abuse, bullying, death, and every imaginable problem within a relationship and here I am... still here to actually write my story and tell others about it.
Who is YOUR favorite superhero?
My favorite superhero would be my mother. She is the strongest person I know and has been through hell... only to come out smelling like wild gerbera daisies. She’s one tough cookie. I’m so proud to call her my mother. **Rachel, you’re awesome and I’m so blessed the Lord chose you for my Mother.** Favorite Disney Quote:
There’s several quotes that I really love. It’s hard to pick between them.
“Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen. No body knows my sorrow.” – Zazu from The Lion King
“If your heart is in your dream, no request is too extreme.” – Jimmy Cricket
“Listen to me, the human world is a mess.” – Sebastian from The Little Mermaid
“No matter how your heart is grieving, if you keep on believing, the dream that you wish, will come true.” – Cinderella (Top favorite right now because it speaks volumes to me.)
Ok now a few mundane ones
Who inspires you?
Every Angel parent out there who has walked this journey before I did. I think I look up to each one of you and that gives me hope. Hope for my future and I can see that my future will have tears and a bit of pain... but I’ll survive. This isn’t the end of me.
Favorite book genre?
I love a clean romance or paranormal romance story.
Favorite Author?
This one is a hard one to answer. I love reading Edgar Allen Poe and Stephen King above all though.
What is your take on social media do you like it / hate it / love hate relationship and why?
It would depend. Facebook has its perks. One thing that bugs me about it is the fact that so many authors out there constantly have giveaways and contests that deal with readers buying their book and reviewing them for big prizes. Then, I see stacks of books or Amazon gift cards being given away. In a way I feel this is sort of like buying the reviews. I’d rather have my readers share their reviews because they want to. Not because they’ll get prizes out of it.
I also think it makes it hard for the less fortunate when it comes to Authors who can’t afford to give away big stuff all the time. Yes, when I broke into the publishing world, I did giveaway a Kindle Fire. There was so much that was going on within that party. So, many readers acted like they were pumped up for my book, when in fact it was the Kindle that looked nice. After the party and the tour started, there weren’t that many people who followed. Of course, nothing was offered as a prize in a giveaway on the tour.
Therefore, I would say that I have a love/hate relationship with it.
About the Author: [image error]RaeBeth McGee-Buda was born in southwestern Pennsylvania in 1987, the second daughter of Rachel Yost and Arthur Curtis McGee. RaeBeth grew up loving to read and write poetry, as well as short stories. Her childhood dream was to become a teacher. Rae Beth's dream of writing was created in her eleventh grade literature class where writing became her passion.
RaeBeth married in August 2012 to her husband, Gregory Stephen Buda Jr. and resides in a small Pennsylvania town of Fairchance. RaeBeth is a full time mother of one beautiful little girl and a mother to an angel in heaven as of May 27th, 2013.
She graduated from American Intercontinental University in 2010 with her associates in business administration. She enjoys spending her time writing and feels that connecting with readers is her main goal.
Author Links:
Facebook | Blog | Twitter | Website | YouTube | Pinterest | Goodreads | Amazon | Authordb
Email raebeth.buda@gmail.com
Title: Saying Goodbye Without Saying Helloby RaeBeth McGee-BudaGenre: Nonfiction/Christian/Grief & LossAudience: AdultFormats: Paperback and EbookE-Cover By: RaeBeth McGee-BudaPaperback Cover: Marcy RachelEditor: Lee RyderISBN-10: 1484801466ISBN-13: 1492110884Date Published: October 15, 2013
Giveaway <a id="rc-dd530948" class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/disp..." rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a><script src="http://leeryderabfa.blogspot.com//d12...
October 24, 2013
Gemini Rising Ethereal Fury by Jessica O'Gorek
I had the honor and privilege of being able to interview the UBER talented Jessica O'Gorek Author of Gemini Rising Ethereal Fury.
What inspired you to write Gemini Rising?
My inspiration was Twilight and the Host but I also wanted to create something that would speak to the younger generation in a healthy way. I wanted to have romance but or the kind that takes over your soul and makes you feel like you’re nothing without each other. Violette and Onyx are crazily attracted to each other but they don’t reek of co-dependency like Edward and Bella. It was just after New Moon had been released and I started thinking about how could supersede vampires and werewolves and come up with an entirely different creature that was faster, stronger, sexier and who’s existence more meaningful.
Are any of the characters in the book like you? Who is your favorite character?
I love Onyx because he is so sweet, yet so mean at the same time. He is constantly at war with himself and struggling with his own conscience. When he feels something, it is extreme. He also has a lot in common with Edward Cullen, my fantasy husband. However, he has a stronger and more pronounced personality.
Which character do you love to hate?
The Bishop is my least favorite because he is a bully at heart. He just wants power and control and to hell with whoever he hurts in the process of getting it.
If you could pick any five songs to be the soundtrack to this book what would they be?
Any of the five songs on the Breaking Dawn 2 or Eclipse Soundtrack
And Now a few personal questions:
Do you have a favorite author? Stephanie Meyer and Stephen King
Which people inspire you, it can be anyone living or dead?
My father. He passed from lung cancer last year and I miss him dearly. He had a perverse sense of humor but a kind and gentle heart and soul. He was a published author and also taught creative writing, English, Spanish, anatomy, massage, and literature.
If you had to leave one message for everyone to remember what would it be?
Well, See yah later.
Who inspired you to become an author?
My father. I grew up listening to the clacking of the typewriter and handing him my silly poems for him to proofread. Her never said anything discouraging to me.
Is there anything you’d like to say to your fans?
I love you, thank you, and please walk beside me on the path to my dreams! If you are an aspiring author and need help or advice, I am always here for you and you can use my blog to promote you via spotlights, interviews or reviews!
About the author
Jessica O'Gorek was born in Chesapeake, Virginia on April 19th, 1979. She was raised within the American Indian religion and was taught great respect for the earth and all its living beings. Powwows, sweat lodges, vision quests, you name it, she's done it. She was the weird kid who would confront kids on the playground in elementary school when they squished a bug. She would very sincerely tell them what they were doing was morally wrong and then shewould pray for the bug to come back as a butterfly in its next life.
She grew up admiring her father, Barry Weinstock, as an author. When she was twelve she started hand writing novels. Her first one was two thousand pages. Her daughter, who is thirteen, is currently working on her first novel.
And now for my review of this really interesting enchanting book!
To say that I enjoyed Gemini Rising would be an understatement. I found myself drawn into the tangled web of the story and held tight on the edge of my seat! I fell in love with Onyx who is this brutishly beautiful character who does have a heart but it takes a lot to get into his hard shell. I found myself spinning between loving the Gemini or loving the humans each had their own failings that were beautifully brought out as the story went on. I also have a huge respect for the earth, who I believe the mother character was and I loved her she was like an unforgiving god in a way. This story has serious undertones that make you think and touched my heart in ways I didn't think a book could. This is a 10 star book on my list and I know I will be assigning it to my daughter and sons to read, Jessica is such a talented wordstress and she knows how to tell a story for sure!
Links: Amazon Link : http://www.amazon.com/Jessica-OGorek/e/B00CT8A5TM/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/jessica.w.ogorek?fref=tsTwitter: https://twitter.com/GeminiRising1
What inspired you to write Gemini Rising?
My inspiration was Twilight and the Host but I also wanted to create something that would speak to the younger generation in a healthy way. I wanted to have romance but or the kind that takes over your soul and makes you feel like you’re nothing without each other. Violette and Onyx are crazily attracted to each other but they don’t reek of co-dependency like Edward and Bella. It was just after New Moon had been released and I started thinking about how could supersede vampires and werewolves and come up with an entirely different creature that was faster, stronger, sexier and who’s existence more meaningful.
Are any of the characters in the book like you? Who is your favorite character?
I love Onyx because he is so sweet, yet so mean at the same time. He is constantly at war with himself and struggling with his own conscience. When he feels something, it is extreme. He also has a lot in common with Edward Cullen, my fantasy husband. However, he has a stronger and more pronounced personality.
Which character do you love to hate?
The Bishop is my least favorite because he is a bully at heart. He just wants power and control and to hell with whoever he hurts in the process of getting it.
If you could pick any five songs to be the soundtrack to this book what would they be?
Any of the five songs on the Breaking Dawn 2 or Eclipse Soundtrack
And Now a few personal questions:
Do you have a favorite author? Stephanie Meyer and Stephen King
Which people inspire you, it can be anyone living or dead?
My father. He passed from lung cancer last year and I miss him dearly. He had a perverse sense of humor but a kind and gentle heart and soul. He was a published author and also taught creative writing, English, Spanish, anatomy, massage, and literature.
If you had to leave one message for everyone to remember what would it be?
Well, See yah later.
Who inspired you to become an author?
My father. I grew up listening to the clacking of the typewriter and handing him my silly poems for him to proofread. Her never said anything discouraging to me.
Is there anything you’d like to say to your fans?
I love you, thank you, and please walk beside me on the path to my dreams! If you are an aspiring author and need help or advice, I am always here for you and you can use my blog to promote you via spotlights, interviews or reviews!
About the author
Jessica O'Gorek was born in Chesapeake, Virginia on April 19th, 1979. She was raised within the American Indian religion and was taught great respect for the earth and all its living beings. Powwows, sweat lodges, vision quests, you name it, she's done it. She was the weird kid who would confront kids on the playground in elementary school when they squished a bug. She would very sincerely tell them what they were doing was morally wrong and then shewould pray for the bug to come back as a butterfly in its next life.
She grew up admiring her father, Barry Weinstock, as an author. When she was twelve she started hand writing novels. Her first one was two thousand pages. Her daughter, who is thirteen, is currently working on her first novel.
And now for my review of this really interesting enchanting book!
To say that I enjoyed Gemini Rising would be an understatement. I found myself drawn into the tangled web of the story and held tight on the edge of my seat! I fell in love with Onyx who is this brutishly beautiful character who does have a heart but it takes a lot to get into his hard shell. I found myself spinning between loving the Gemini or loving the humans each had their own failings that were beautifully brought out as the story went on. I also have a huge respect for the earth, who I believe the mother character was and I loved her she was like an unforgiving god in a way. This story has serious undertones that make you think and touched my heart in ways I didn't think a book could. This is a 10 star book on my list and I know I will be assigning it to my daughter and sons to read, Jessica is such a talented wordstress and she knows how to tell a story for sure!
Links: Amazon Link : http://www.amazon.com/Jessica-OGorek/e/B00CT8A5TM/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/jessica.w.ogorek?fref=tsTwitter: https://twitter.com/GeminiRising1
October 21, 2013
Anchor Group!!!!
Halloween Event with Anchor Group Publishing
If you are not familiar with this publishing company
you must do so, a.s.a.p. Here is their link to Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchorgroupp...
and the lovely website http://anchorgrouppublishing.com/
BE SURE TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY AT THE BOTTOM OF THE PAGE
A wonderful group of authors
belong to this firm and its imperative for all book lovers to meet them.
So many delightful books are published monthly from Anchor Group.
You will meet a few now.
Anchor Group has decided to do an annual Halloween event and giveaway for all the fans.
Not only are the authors hosting giveaways but they have also included snippets from their books.
They were asked to include the spookiest parts of their books so that the Halloween theme will spread from blog to blog.
Without further ado, here they are.
Enjoy!
Author Emily Fogle
Chasing Flames
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Spooky Teaser:
A sudden flood of panic froze me where I stood. I could only stand there, gaping in shock at the horrifying beast. Its shadow blotted out the waning light and blocked the view of the outside world. I stared at it with my mouth hanging open. The tip of my tongue held onto my scream, too terrified to let it go.
A hideous face of matted fur and gnarled teeth glared at me. Its eyes glowed blood red, and a monstrous paw with jagged dagger-claws reached out toward me. The tip of one nail snagged on my shirt and I could feel the horrendous power beneath its grip. I tried to run, but my fumbling feet got tangled together. Hard, I fell on the wood floor. I kicked my legs, trying to get away from the beast, but it closed the distance before I could back up an inch. It crouched down in front of me, kneeling on all fours, and I could see its ripping teeth.
It was so close.
With one twisted claw, the monster ripped at his face with tearing nails. The fur-riddled flesh tore away from the wolf’s face, but the slashing fingers did not shred the skin. Instead, it melted away into a solid hunk of deformed fur. What was left in the wake of the gruesome carnage was ...
Find Emily on FB https://www.facebook.com/AuthorEmilyF... and attend her Release Event for Chasing Flames:
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Author Karen Swart
Kasayda Hellhound Awakened
Spooky Teaser
I could hear a girl’s giggle as he stepped out silently. I followed the silent approach he was doing, and closed the door slowly. Turning around, I could see the couple in the corner of the alley; the girl was between the wall and the guy.
Chax moved along the wall, keeping his eyes on them, one slow step at a time. I looked at him and decided that this is as far as I go. I don’t want to be in the middle of whatever he has in mind. The girl suddenly screamed, and I looked away from Chax to them. The ally was dark, so I couldn’t make out what’s going on. She was hitting him on the back but he wasn’t backing off. The next thing I knew, Chax punched the guy in his side, a growl like a beast escaping into the alley.
Holy crap, it’s not a guy, it’s a freaking demon!
I took a few steps back. So not ready for this yet.
The demon turned around and faced Chax, who already had his swords drawn; he stood there ready and waiting. The guy’s face changed then, into what can only be described as a cross between a cat and a dragon. He had two large fangs sticking out of his mouth and from his chin downwards, I could see what looked like dark liquid running down, crap it was blood!
I stopped dead, not wanting to attract attention to me. The demon stormed forward attacking Chax, who only stepped aside, made two swipes with his sword and then walked over to the girl. I looked at the demon to see why the hell Chax is just leaving it and not killing it, only to see its head missing, and the body slumping to the ground.
Something hit my boot so I looked down straight into a pair of eyes, I jumped away from it. “Oh that’s so gross,” I complained and slammed into the opposite wall, keeping my eyes on the head.
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Author Lucian Barnes
City of The Dead
Spooky Excerpt
Find Lucian on FB
https://www.facebook.com/lucianbarnes...
Confusion swirled through his consciousness. The last thing he remembered was being lashed to a tree as the main course for an army of bugs. Had they detoured around him and gone after an alternate food source? He didn't think so, but why else would he still be here?
Just thinking about it made him itch, like the massive column of insects was crawling over his skin at this very moment. Realizing he could move now, George reached with one hand for his other arm to dig his fingernails into his flesh and peel it from his bones if he had to in order to quell the maddening sensation.
"No!" he screamed into the still dusk air as he watched his fingertips pass right through his arm. "This can't be!" Spinning around he came face to face with what was left of his body. Most of his flesh was gone, but there were still tiny fragments of tissue clinging to the skeletal frame which was bound tightly to the enormous oak. Tilting his head toward the sky George bellowed out in rage, vowing to pay the Black Knight back for what he had done to him. It was now just a matter of how and when he would exact his revenge upon his former master.
Author Elizabeth Kirke
More Than Magic Series
Spooky Excerpt
It was dark, truly dark. I had thought that it was dark in the desert, but I had been able to look up and see stars. The canopy of leaves above us was so thick that I couldn't see a single star. I wasn't sure if I had ever been somewhere with literally no light anywhere in sight. The fact that I was moving made things even eerier.
"How well can you see in the dark?" I had to ask. TS hadn't stumbled once, even though I could feel him hopping and stepping over obstacles.
"Me?" TS asked. "Well enough."
We probably walked for another five minutes when TS stopped.
"You smell that?"
"Yeah," Thomas said. "Been hearing it, too."
"What?" I asked.
"We're being watched," Thomas whispered.
"Why do you come here?" an unfamiliar voice asked. I nearly jumped out of my skin. Suddenly a horrible snarling hiss came from way, way too close to me. TS tensed and growled.
Find Elizabeth on FB http://www.facebook.com/morethanmagic
Author Christy Sloat
The Visitors Series
Spooky Excerpt
Ephraim kissed me in an attempt to distract me, and for a moment it worked. I got lost in his arms as he held me gently. The kiss deepened a bit more, and then I opened my eyes. That’s when things went all wrong. I saw a misty cloud coming toward us. At first I thought it had to be low lying fog, until I started to see the eyes forming in the mist. I pulled myself away from Ephraim and he turned around to see what I was seeing. There was no way he would be able to see it, because he didn’t see the dead. But they say those who are close to death can see death. It’s completely true because he saw them. At first he was frozen as they walked closer to us. Then he got up and backed away, scared. He wasn’t used to seeing them like I was. Scratch that! I was never going to get used to this, but I had to try if this was my life now. I went toward the mist as the dead started to surround me, locking me inside a circle of their bodies. Their eyes were glassy and their faces veiny and gruesome. They didn’t look like their former selves, unless they were zombies in their life. A woman put her hand on my arm. I froze as her clammy palm rested on my skin. It felt cold at first, and then wet. “Who are you?” I asked with a shaky voice. She tried to talk, but her mouth was sewn shut. Her lips were moving so fast; she was desperately trying to tell me something. Only murmuring came out.“Brylee, get away from them,” Ephraim called. I didn’t try to get away, like an idiot stayed there. A man, whose lips were not sealed, came forward. “You surround yourself with the dead?” he asked as he pointed to Ephraim.“He isn’t dead. He is alive. Why are you here?” I snapped. “He isn’t dead yet, but he will be soon.” I shivered at his words. The woman pointed to a spot in the grass and led me to it. I was being shoved toward a place I had no clue of what it was. Once I was on top of it, I saw them … graves. The headstones bore the names of the dead that now surrounded me.
Find Christy on FB www.facebook.com/christysloat
Author Amy Richie
Sapphire City
Spooky Excerpt
“There’s nothing to be afraid of,” I whispered to myself. Just a mysterious light in the ocean. Probably happens all the time.
I reached the dock and hesitated again. I would just have a quick look and then leave. No big deal. I took a deep breath and walked all the way to the edge of the dock.
“Stella.”
With my heart hammering fast enough to make me dizzy, I looked down into the calm water. I didn’t really expect to see anything, but there it was … a small circle of beautiful orange light. My breath caught.
Find Amy on FB https://www.facebook.com/pages/Amy-Ri...
Author H.J Daly
Awaken
Spooky Excerpt
As they fought with the tangled branches and thick undergrowth it took them a while to reach their friend. They could already see the blood pouring down his cheek, his pupils blacker than the night. He stood motionless, caught in some sick game between two creatures who were circling him in the small clearing. The creatures had no need for weapons, their claw like hands were tipped with razor sharp talons, each tip delivering a small dose of poison. One ran up to Bendrin, its thick serpent tongue lashed out, licked the blood from his face and sighed in ecstasy.
The boys had seen enough and managed to angle a bow in the small space to hit one of the creatures in the neck. It shrieked out and fell to the floor, seeing its opportunity, the other dived on top of its fellow creature and started to devour the flesh before it had even stopped struggling. Quickly, they reached Bendrin and between them, began to drag him back through the trees. It was a wasted effort, the cries from the dying creature had brought others and they all wanted to play.
Find H.J on her blog: http://redribbonwrites.blogspot.co.uk/
Author Katherine Polillo
The Watchers Trilogy
Spooky Excerpt
I shot down a side street, thinking it was probably no one, just my mind playing tricks on me, but why not try to lose them anyway. As soon as I turned the corner, I felt better. I let a sigh escape my lips as I tried to determine how to get where I needed to go from my new location. Suddenly, the sound of footsteps echoed through the dark alley and a distinct panting noise rose along the quiet night. I lost all control and broke into a desperate run for the opposite end of the alley, where I would again be shot off onto a street with hopefully someone in screaming range, or at least a streetlight. I really didn’t want to face my attacker in the dark. I could face the minions of Hell, just not in the dark. I hit the end of the alley at a dead run and promptly dove into a large hydrangea bush meant to mark the property line of someone’s front yard. I clamped a hand over my mouth and attempted to slow my racing heartbeat. Crouching down, I attempted to make myself as small as possible while I waited to see who my assailant was.
I didn’t have to wait long. From the alley emerged a large chocolate lab, its owner not far behind. The dog’s leash grasped firmly in his hand as he jogged out of the alley and made a left onto the main street. The adrenaline slowly began to dissipate, leaving me feeling euphoric and foolish all at once. I sat back on my backside, relief and chagrin mixing as a giggle escaped my lips. I had surely brought paranoia to a new level. Standing, I started attempting to free myself from my hiding spot, realizing the poor bush was never going to be the same. I caught a reflection out of the corner of my eye and I froze in place. It was as if the sun had glinted off something metallic, only there was no sun … it was midnight. I stood, still half in the bush, waiting for the reflection to happen again. I glanced around the seemingly empty street, waiting, but it didn’t reoccur. Jerking my purse free of the branches that entwined it, I hurried off for home. I couldn’t quite shake the feeling that I was being watched .
Find Katherine on FB: https://www.facebook.com/WatchersTrilogy.
Author Stacey Rourke
The Gryphon Series
Spooky Excerpt
Somewhere between sleep and awake he came to me. The mattress shifted under his weight as he settled in beside me. Warm breath teased against my ear. “I could ne’er leave you, lovey.” His wandering hands gripped my waist and rolled me to face him. This warbled land governed by sleep couldn’t conjure his whole essence—too much time had passed for that. Instead it teased me with glimpses of what I’d been missing; silky hair caressing my cheek. Hot kisses traveling down my neck. Emerald eyes filled with an insatiable hunger. The sensual awakening that jolted through me when his mouth found mine. “I’m always with you,” Caleb whispered against my lips. I twined my arms around his neck and pulled him closer—a move that garnered a low groan of appreciation. His hands roamed up my arms and encircled my wrists. In a sudden, shockingly violent, move he forced them down against the mattress and pinned me there. I gaped in confusion as green eyes blinked to sapphire blue. His seductive stare twisted into visible disgust and hatred. Like ink dumped from a bottle, the black drained from Caleb’s hair. The dripping color leaked away to reveal long strawberry blond hair ponytailed at the nape of his neck. Alec. But not the latest version of him currently possessed by a three hundred year old demon. This was the Alec I first met whilst rolling a tire. The carefree boy I had started to fall for before fate intervened. Yet the look that darkened his gaze was more murderous then welcoming. I thrashed and bucked beneath him but couldn’t seem to summon one iota of strength. His grip on my wrists tightened to the point of pain. “Is he worth it?” He hissed in my face, “Is he worth the blood on your hands?” Crimson red blood bubbled up Alec’s throat. It seeped between his teeth and dribbled down his chin. “Will he still want you when he knows what you’ve done and what it cost?” Squeezing my eyes shut, I cringed further into the mattress as blood rained down. The warm stickiness, with its pungent rusty smell, dripped on my face and soaked my shirt. I risked a glance up to see Alec’s lips curl in an evil grin. “Now, how ‘bout a kiss?” He bowed his head and crammed his blood soaked lips to mine. My muffled scream quickly turned into a gurgled gasp for air as I fought not to drown in this crimson hell. -Excerpt from Ascension, Gryphon Series Book 4 releasing in November
Find Stacey on FB https://www.facebook.com/staceyrourke...
Author Alicia Michaels
Lost Kingdom of Fallada Series
Spooky Excerpt
“Such anger,” she said with a ‘tsk’. “I can see that you have much passion, Elf. I shall enjoy your company greatly before I kill you. Perhaps watching your beloved die will take the wind out of your sails.”
Kai simply glared at her, his eyes cold, blue slits of rage. His chest heaved with the force of his anger. Eranna shrugged and turned back to Zara, approaching the stone slab again, her lips parted in a gruesome grin. When she reached the altar, she plucked a lock of Zara’s hair from the ground and inspected it with interest.
“Such beauty,” she murmured. “Such freshness and youth, wasted on a mere human. I know of your father’s treachery, girl. He stole from Fallada what was rightfully mine, and I intend to have it back.”
“Please,” Zara pleaded, hoping to appeal to the woman’s sense of right and wrong—if she possessed any at all. “Why are you doing this? What did I ever do to you?”
Eranna laughed. The sound was bitter and raw. “Do to me? Why, nothing, child. You are my enemy simply by circumstance of your birth. You are an abomination, an anomaly; you have no right to exist. What right do you have to such power? You do not even know how to control it! You are weak, a simpering little girl with no idea the kind of might she possesses within her bones! And why should you possess it when I am so much more worthy? Why should you experience the joys of a lover’s embrace and his child in your belly while I …” she trailed off, her expression crestfallen as she turned her back on Zara. For a moment, Zara thought she detected the glisten of tears in the queen’s eyes. “It is no matter,” she continued, her voice gruff and choked. “I will amass so much power unto myself, that no one will stand in the way of what I want. I shall have it all; beauty, youth, power, eternal life.” She turned back to Zara, her knife glistening in the candlelight. “And I shall begin by taking from you what I so rightfully deserve.”
Zara could only stare, hypnotized by the madness in Eranna’s eyes as she advanced on her knife raised. Through the roaring in her ears, she faintly heard Kai’s roars of anger, his voice growing hoarse, soon smothered by the rattling of his chains as he fought against them to no avail. The glint of the knife caught her eye as Eranna lifted it high over her head.
Her smile was sad as she turned for one last look at the love of her life. He’d ceased struggling and stared back at her with tears in his eyes, silent sobs shaking him from the inside.
“Zara,” he whispered as he realized then that the fight was over.
“I love you,” she whispered, closing her eyes as a swift current of air warned her of the knife’s descent.
From Beyond the Iron Gate: Zara’s Journey
A FREE read, and prequel novella to the Lost Kingdom of Fallada Series
Find Alicia on FB: www.facebook.com/fantasybyalicia ENTER THE GIVEAWAY HERE!!!!!http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/29d9475/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway
October 16, 2013
The World has Changed
I'm way excited about the release of my new book Broken Earth next month. So I thought I'd do a little self interview to get you excited!
What inspired this book:
Everything I write comes to me in my brain at the strangest moments, and if I don't write it down it's gone forever. So I always have a notebook next to me! The bible verse at the beginning of the book inspired me, JK Accini and the Hunger Games were also big inspirations (HUGE FAN OF JK ACCINI CHECK HER OUT!)
Who inspired Jess:
Jess is a combination of facets of myself, and facets of other characters I've read. She's tough but soft inside. She likes you to think you can't hurt her.
Who inspired Ian:
very self explanatory...Ian Somerhalder as a kid. I have a thing for Ian Somerhalder.
Who inspired Lucie:
My 11 year old daughter. My daughter when she was young is Lucie EXACTLY.
What city is it in? You talk about the city:
I like to think maybe NY or Chicago or Boston not sure which one. Any large city in the northeast could be the setting for Broken Earth.
The cemeteries, what about those?
I'm a student of the supernatural so old cemeteries have a certain romance for me.
Who are your favorite authors:
Some of my favorite authors are Christy Sloat, J.K. Accinni, TM Scott, Brae Wyckoff, CM Wright, Dean Koontz, and John Saul. There are so many though it would make it's own book.
What one book do you remember as a kid?
The Missing Person's League by Frank Bonham this book is very much in the spirit of that book.
How about a little spoiler:
Sure!
It all began with a war. Not between countries, not even between Heaven and Earth but between humans and the earth. It started over a thousand years ago when our ancestors began using the Earth’s resources for industry. The industrial machine craved natural resources for years and years slowly depleting natural resources and causing us to become even more reliant on new resources and then depleting them and the cycle went on and on to where we are today.
Again I am so thrilled to be releasing my debut book Broken Earth. I hope you enjoy it!
What inspired this book:
Everything I write comes to me in my brain at the strangest moments, and if I don't write it down it's gone forever. So I always have a notebook next to me! The bible verse at the beginning of the book inspired me, JK Accini and the Hunger Games were also big inspirations (HUGE FAN OF JK ACCINI CHECK HER OUT!)
Who inspired Jess:
Jess is a combination of facets of myself, and facets of other characters I've read. She's tough but soft inside. She likes you to think you can't hurt her.
Who inspired Ian:
very self explanatory...Ian Somerhalder as a kid. I have a thing for Ian Somerhalder.
Who inspired Lucie:
My 11 year old daughter. My daughter when she was young is Lucie EXACTLY.
What city is it in? You talk about the city:
I like to think maybe NY or Chicago or Boston not sure which one. Any large city in the northeast could be the setting for Broken Earth.
The cemeteries, what about those?
I'm a student of the supernatural so old cemeteries have a certain romance for me.
Who are your favorite authors:
Some of my favorite authors are Christy Sloat, J.K. Accinni, TM Scott, Brae Wyckoff, CM Wright, Dean Koontz, and John Saul. There are so many though it would make it's own book.
What one book do you remember as a kid?
The Missing Person's League by Frank Bonham this book is very much in the spirit of that book.
How about a little spoiler:
Sure!
It all began with a war. Not between countries, not even between Heaven and Earth but between humans and the earth. It started over a thousand years ago when our ancestors began using the Earth’s resources for industry. The industrial machine craved natural resources for years and years slowly depleting natural resources and causing us to become even more reliant on new resources and then depleting them and the cycle went on and on to where we are today.
Again I am so thrilled to be releasing my debut book Broken Earth. I hope you enjoy it!
October 11, 2013
My New Book Broken Earth Cover Reveal
I'm so excited to show you all the new cover to my debut book Broken Earth that I will be releasing next month! This is so HUGE for me and I want to thank you guys for all your support!
And now the cover!
'Synopsis:
It all began with a war… Jess’ life was turned upside down when the plagues came and destroyed her family. The cities are surrounded by immense graveyards that are inhabited by dangerous gangs that rule the cities and hold the inhabitants under their thumbs. It’s a game of life and death and only the strong survive to live another day. About the author:
Lee Ryder is a mother of 3 children and one angel. She currently lives in New England. She started writing small works at an early age and was featured in local publications. She studied theater and vocal performance and was featured in several plays. She believes in love at first sight and married her soul mate at age 19. She also has read reviewed and edited other published works. You can visit her at her blog and on her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MsLeesFanfiction?ref=br_tf
http://leeryderabfa.blogspot.com/
October 10, 2013
Release Day Blitz for REAP by Christina Channelle
Foreign, or rather unfamiliar, would be the word I would use to describe how I felt.
Faintly, I could hear the glimmer of voices surrounding me in this dark haze, caressing my ears like skin against silk. I felt like I was in a cocoon of sorts, protectively enveloped, quietly drifting in some far-off place. I wanted to stay that way forever.
But we all know that what you want never really seems to happen in the real world.
Something’s not right in Mia’s head.
The first thing is that her name isn’t Mia. In fact, she has no clue what her name is—who she is. All that she knows is that she’s not like the ones who found her: Dante with his kind blue eyes, Amy with her child-like demeanor, James with his questioning gaze.
And Briggs.
The one she cannot decipher no matter how hard she tries.
As Mia tries to fit in with these people, a strange occurrence is amidst outside. And as she finally remembers who she is …
Well, let’s just say that things get a little more complicated.
We have the privilege of an interview with the main character of Reap
Amy Nolan done by the Amazing Christina Channelle
Christina: Alright, guys! Another day, another interview. Today I bring in the lovely Amy Nolan. She busted free from the confines of her apartment building, courtesy of three brawny dudes, and she’s here to chat with us. Hi, Amy!
Amy: Hi! Sooooo happy to be here. I can’t even contain myself.
Christina: I can see that, Amy. You can’t seem to sit still.
Amy: Sorry.
Christina: That’s okay. No need to pout. Let’s get on with some questions, the very reason you’re here. People want to get to know a bit about you.
Amy: That’s amazing, I love people! Ask away, ask away.
Christina: Okay. Let’s start easy. What’s your favorite color?
Amy: Pink, of course. Every shade imaginable.
Christina: How about music?
Amy: I love Adele, Christina (you and her have the same name, you know) and Florence (everybody should love Florence). Oh, and Maroon 5. That Adam is dreamy…
Christina: That he is. What about your favorite show?
Amy: Glee! The Bachelor and the Bachelorette. Basically anything that involves love and singing.
Christina: Twilight or Vampire Diaries?
Amy: Twilight! They’re so much friendlier, don’t you think?
Christina: Right, Amy, dear. I hear you like to bake and made a business out of it. What’s your favorite cupcake?
Amy: Oh, that’s easy. Vanilla cupcake with white chocolate chips and macadamia nuts, topped with coconut shavings. Mmm, I want one right now…
Christina: I’m right there with you on that. How about you make some when you’re done?
Amy: I would love to.
Christina: Yum … I mean, great! Next question: What’s your favorite fashion accessory?
Amy: My choker, of course. It’s a gift from my wonderful friend, James. He’s a dreamboat, let me tell you.
Christina: I bet he is. Dog lover or cat lover?
Amy: Kittens! They are the cutest thing ever. I met a girl with eyes just like a kitten’s. I even named her. Mia. Sounds almost like, meow.
Christina: You named a … girl?
Amy: Yeah. I know, sounds crazy. But it’s a long story.
Christina: Right. Well, that seems to be all the questions I have for you today. Thanks so much for stopping by.
Amy: Can I do it again sometimes? I can even bring Dante and James. I don’t know about Briggs though.
Christina: Absolutely, Amy. Wait! Before you go, about those cupcakes…
Giveaway Details
Rafflecopter Giveaway
There will be a day-long giveaway on October 11, 2013, to celebrate the release of Reap, It’s a Rafflecopter giveaway, and the prize is an autographed copy of Reap, by Christina Channelle. This giveaway is open internationally, so anyone can enter.Link:http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/share-code/NjRhZDQ2MTRjOTAxZTM1NTBiMzEyMDc1OTQwNjg0OjQ=/
Hourly Giveaway
We will be hosting an hourly giveaway on Facebook starting at 2pm ET and running through till 10pm ET, on the profile www.facebook.com/ash.torbeck. Facebook is in no way affiliated with this giveaway, and prizes will be awarded and distributed by the author, Christina Channelle. Hourly giveaways will end at 10pm ET, and to find out how to win, you’ll have to stop by each hour!
About the author:
Name/Pen Name: Christina Channelle
Bio: A dreamer, Christina Channelle holds two degrees in health sciences but has always had a passion for writing. You will find her reading other young adult novels, or typing up a new story on her computer. When not writing, Christina spends her free time at the movies, listening to music, or eating sushi. She’s a reality TV junkie and has a close relationship with many characters on TV that have been a topic of many heated discussions among friends. She resides in Ontario, Canada.
Author Links:
Website: http://channellewrites.wordpress.comFacebook: http://facebook.com/ChristinaChannelleTwitter: http://twitter.com/channellewritesGoodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6862036.Christina_Channelle
Other books by Christina Channelle
Blood Crave SeriesDahliaFallen Tears (A Blood Crave Novella)Rowan
Novellas/Short StoriesDealing With ItThose Four Letter Words
Buy Links:
Barnes & Noble: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/reap-christina-channelle/1116875194?ean=2940045253406 Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/355391 a Rafflecopter giveaway
October 3, 2013
Happy Birthday!
When my birthday rolls around each year, I tend to get a bit sentimental. I look back at the events of the last year and what my ups and downs were. This year was by far the hugest roller coaster of all. As everyone knows I'm a stay at home Mom, Blogger, Author, Poet, Singer and so many other things. My husband does a lot of traveling for work and we're okay with that it's something that has become old hat for us. He loves what he's doing and that's all that matters :)
This year has seen the loss of my Godfather, who was truly a special and bright point in my life. He and I shared a birthday so this day of all days is bittersweet for me. I miss him, very much. I also lost my Aunt this year, very suddenly and without warning, and just recently a man that I loved very much and was someone who was like a Grandfather to my kids.
Death, like life is a process. There's stages of grief and they are supposed to go in order but they truly don't. I am at a stage of acceptance for all death knowing that there is life beyond death and that we will all meet again. But it's still sad, and my heart hurts sometimes.
This year has also had highs for me, finishing the first draft of my book, editing 3 books, working with some pretty awesome authors like Christy Sloat, S Cu'Anam Policar, Jamie Gibson, and of course the amazing Raebeth Buda. I'm looking forward to the release of my book Broken Earth and I hope that all of you are looking forward to it as well. I also have some other projects in my pocket that are being worked on and there's some collaborations going on which are going to be SO COOL! So stay tuned.
Today I turn 38, but age is just a number and you should never count your age in years you should just count the amazing blessings in your life.
