Realm Lovejoy's Blog, page 21
March 11, 2015
Video game - 10 years
As of this year I have been in the video game industry for 10 years!
A few projects I worked on:
I am very fortunate to have been a part of some of the biggest franchise in video game history. I'm honored to have learned from some of the best people in their respective fields and am grateful for the toolsets I was able to acquire: story, art, technology, visual communication, and teamwork.
It's an exciting time for possibilities with visual storytelling. I hope each story that I write is a beginning that will have a bigger manifestation in the future: something entirely new in our CG experience.
My journey as a storyteller and artist is ongoing. This new decade is exciting because I am now equipped with the tools and experience I worked hard the past decade to acquire. What's next? I'm excited to find out and I hope you'll stay tuned as well.
--Realm
A few projects I worked on:
I am very fortunate to have been a part of some of the biggest franchise in video game history. I'm honored to have learned from some of the best people in their respective fields and am grateful for the toolsets I was able to acquire: story, art, technology, visual communication, and teamwork.
It's an exciting time for possibilities with visual storytelling. I hope each story that I write is a beginning that will have a bigger manifestation in the future: something entirely new in our CG experience.
My journey as a storyteller and artist is ongoing. This new decade is exciting because I am now equipped with the tools and experience I worked hard the past decade to acquire. What's next? I'm excited to find out and I hope you'll stay tuned as well.
--Realm
March 9, 2015
HENGE - Blog Tour Recap pt. 15
Hello everyone! At the end of this week the next book in the Le Fay Series is going to one of my editors. I highly recommend you read HENGE before the 2nd book promotions begin to trickle in so that you can have the best experience as the hints unravel.
Now onto some humbling reviews:
"My final thoughts are pretty self explanatory if you've made it this far down my review: GO READ THIS BOOK! It's fantastic and fun and reading a re-telling about Morgan and Merlin just makes me so deliriously happy!"--Forever Obsession
"I love that Lovejoy kept me guessing, and I can’t wait to see where the rest of this series takes Morgan and the other citizens of Camelot by the time this saga is over!"--Angela's Library
"Take everything you know about King Arthur, think about it, and now throw it out the window. Holy crap this is a fantastic book!!"--Happy Tails and Tales Blog
"King Arthur stories are one of my major addictions, and HENGE by Realm Lovejoy feeds that addiction perfectly! "--Miss Little Book Addict YA
Love HENGE? Spread the word!
--Realm
Now onto some humbling reviews:
"My final thoughts are pretty self explanatory if you've made it this far down my review: GO READ THIS BOOK! It's fantastic and fun and reading a re-telling about Morgan and Merlin just makes me so deliriously happy!"--Forever Obsession
"I love that Lovejoy kept me guessing, and I can’t wait to see where the rest of this series takes Morgan and the other citizens of Camelot by the time this saga is over!"--Angela's Library
"Take everything you know about King Arthur, think about it, and now throw it out the window. Holy crap this is a fantastic book!!"--Happy Tails and Tales Blog
"King Arthur stories are one of my major addictions, and HENGE by Realm Lovejoy feeds that addiction perfectly! "--Miss Little Book Addict YA
Love HENGE? Spread the word!
--Realm
March 4, 2015
Le Fay Series - Research Travel: Tintagel, Part 2: Town
Today I am posting photos from Tintagel--the town itself! Tintagel is Morgan le Fay's hometown in HENGE. Prior to my travel, I googled Tintagel a lot since it was one of the most important places for me to research for the story and I dreamt of going there in person. I was so excited to actually be there! It was surreal.
Tintagel is a very peaceful town. I can't imagine anyone ever being stressed out there. There's also a ton of sheep! We went to say hi to some and they bounced away from us at lightning speed like cottonballs on springs. They're so cute!
These beautiful slate fences divide the fields everywhere. I just loved them.
Tracing Morgan's steps in Tintagel. I could easily relate to her. I also grew up in small towns. No matter how beautiful, I yearned to go to the cities and see the world and seek my dreams. It was easy to walk in her shoes and understand her thoughts here.
Picture book style town! So cute:
We stopped by King Arthur's Arms for lunch. Got some Cornish tea and pasties! So delicious.
Some more food we had through the trip. This is breakfast in Tintagel (and most parts of Britain)... Wowza! Joey and I don't eat big breakfasts... we are kind of a eat a piece of toast and go about your day type of people. We are not used to a big plate of assorted proteins. I got a sense of morning rituals during my travel with the tea and all different food first thing in the morning. It's nice to be at a place where things are slowed down enough to enjoy a breakfast. I included a breakfast scene in HENGE to show this morning feast aspect that I imagined to be a memorable part of Morgan's childhood and perhaps a grounding element for her:
At night we went to a seaside restaurant. It was a tiny place made of stones and we had to drive down the most narrow road to get there. I had the best meal I had in Britain there. It was local sea bass. So delicious! I had to include this meal in HENGE:
I hope you enjoyed my photos from peaceful Tintagel!
--Realm
Tintagel is a very peaceful town. I can't imagine anyone ever being stressed out there. There's also a ton of sheep! We went to say hi to some and they bounced away from us at lightning speed like cottonballs on springs. They're so cute!
These beautiful slate fences divide the fields everywhere. I just loved them.
Tracing Morgan's steps in Tintagel. I could easily relate to her. I also grew up in small towns. No matter how beautiful, I yearned to go to the cities and see the world and seek my dreams. It was easy to walk in her shoes and understand her thoughts here.
Picture book style town! So cute:
We stopped by King Arthur's Arms for lunch. Got some Cornish tea and pasties! So delicious.
Some more food we had through the trip. This is breakfast in Tintagel (and most parts of Britain)... Wowza! Joey and I don't eat big breakfasts... we are kind of a eat a piece of toast and go about your day type of people. We are not used to a big plate of assorted proteins. I got a sense of morning rituals during my travel with the tea and all different food first thing in the morning. It's nice to be at a place where things are slowed down enough to enjoy a breakfast. I included a breakfast scene in HENGE to show this morning feast aspect that I imagined to be a memorable part of Morgan's childhood and perhaps a grounding element for her:
At night we went to a seaside restaurant. It was a tiny place made of stones and we had to drive down the most narrow road to get there. I had the best meal I had in Britain there. It was local sea bass. So delicious! I had to include this meal in HENGE:
I hope you enjoyed my photos from peaceful Tintagel!
--Realm
March 2, 2015
HENGE - Blog Tour Recap pt. 14
Before I begin the recap, I'd like to take a moment to remember Leonard Nimoy. A wonderful human being and an icon in sci-fi. The inspiration he gave us lives on. He played my favorite character in Star Trek and the depth he added to his character will forever inspire me.
Remembering his words, I am doing my best to live in the moment. So far my year has been busy but full of energy. I'm in work-hard mode and I'm getting ready to reveal the title of my next book to you. In the meantime, check out these humbling reviews of HENGE!
"...I knew this would be hands down a solid 5 for me. Realm Lovejoy is now one of my top authors, she is a phenomenal story teller!"--Because Reading is Better Than Real Life
"To put it simply, I loved this retelling; it had all of my favourite characters, and it wasn't just spitting them out and generating them in just another setting. It was re-birthing them..."--The Book Carousel
"If I type his name more, maybe he'll show up. Because I'd like that. Merlin. Okay, fine, it won't work. But Merlin is seriously awesome."--The Word at my Fingertips
"The suspense in this novel builds from chapter to chapter, with new twists and turns to keep the pages turning. In some ways it reminded me of the Harry Potter books, especially at the beginning when Morgan was leaving for the magic academy."--Once Upon a YA Book
Hope you read HENGE! Coming up next, photos from Morgan le Fay's hometown, Tintagel!
--Realm
Remembering his words, I am doing my best to live in the moment. So far my year has been busy but full of energy. I'm in work-hard mode and I'm getting ready to reveal the title of my next book to you. In the meantime, check out these humbling reviews of HENGE!
"...I knew this would be hands down a solid 5 for me. Realm Lovejoy is now one of my top authors, she is a phenomenal story teller!"--Because Reading is Better Than Real Life
"To put it simply, I loved this retelling; it had all of my favourite characters, and it wasn't just spitting them out and generating them in just another setting. It was re-birthing them..."--The Book Carousel
"If I type his name more, maybe he'll show up. Because I'd like that. Merlin. Okay, fine, it won't work. But Merlin is seriously awesome."--The Word at my Fingertips
"The suspense in this novel builds from chapter to chapter, with new twists and turns to keep the pages turning. In some ways it reminded me of the Harry Potter books, especially at the beginning when Morgan was leaving for the magic academy."--Once Upon a YA Book
Hope you read HENGE! Coming up next, photos from Morgan le Fay's hometown, Tintagel!
--Realm
February 25, 2015
Birthday 2015
Celebrating my birthday with gold and laurel which to me symbolizes getting through a milestone. I chose the Butterfly Lounge as the venue because of the butterflies, forever beautiful, encased in glass--it's a reminder that some things can be timeless.
10 years ago everything was new to me and I had to make myself from nothing. Today I’ve got a decade of experience and wisdom behind me. I had the honor of working on some incredible projects. I’ve learned so much about art, storytelling, and writing. I’ve got amazing family, friends, partner, and the best bunch of readers an author can hope for. And! A series that I’m beyond excited for—the Le Fay Series!
I can’t wait to share more of my work with you! It’s only just begun and every year it only gets better.
I will continue to pour my whole heart into telling you stories the best way I know how to. Thank you for being with me through this journey!
"I want to be forever young… Do you really want to live forever, forever and ever."—Temperance
The next night, my real birthday, Joey took me to a nice restaurant that overlooks Seattle.
We had this awesome flaming dessert. Orange ice cream covered in meringue and flaming cognac! A great way to finish the birthday weekend (and get excited for the Le Fay Series).
--Realm
10 years ago everything was new to me and I had to make myself from nothing. Today I’ve got a decade of experience and wisdom behind me. I had the honor of working on some incredible projects. I’ve learned so much about art, storytelling, and writing. I’ve got amazing family, friends, partner, and the best bunch of readers an author can hope for. And! A series that I’m beyond excited for—the Le Fay Series!
I can’t wait to share more of my work with you! It’s only just begun and every year it only gets better.
I will continue to pour my whole heart into telling you stories the best way I know how to. Thank you for being with me through this journey!
"I want to be forever young… Do you really want to live forever, forever and ever."—Temperance
The next night, my real birthday, Joey took me to a nice restaurant that overlooks Seattle.
We had this awesome flaming dessert. Orange ice cream covered in meringue and flaming cognac! A great way to finish the birthday weekend (and get excited for the Le Fay Series).
--Realm
February 23, 2015
HENGE - Blog Tour Recap pt. 13
It's been nearly four months since Henge released and it's still going strong! This wouldn't have been possible without you reader-knights, so thank you very much for spreading the word and supporting the series!
Henge book trailer giveaway ends today! I hope you entered for a chance to win.
"I am stunned at how amazing Henge was. It was refreshing, exciting, and I love Morgan. Really, I love everything about this story, but especially Morgan."
--My Full Bookshelf Reviews
"Morgan is such a wonderful character because you can feel her emotions through the pages. Wherever this series takes me I plan on enjoying the ride."--She's Got Books on Her Mind
"...will entice you from the very beginning. Be prepared to want more as Realm Lovejoy plays with a fan favorite and gives it a fresh new vibe!"
--The Rest is Still Unwritten
"Lovejoy's Morgan le Fay is a complex main character. Her journey of self-discovery, closely followed by the reader, is twisted. She aims for success, but it's tainted by her longing for revenge and justice. "
--21st Century Once Upon a Time
"..very enjoyable and recommended for anyone who enjoys the Arthurian legends with a twist."
-- Archaeolibrarian
I have this reminder posted on my computer... it reminds me to do my best everyday and that this is an ongoing journey:
Thank you so much, everyone!
--Realm
Henge book trailer giveaway ends today! I hope you entered for a chance to win.
"I am stunned at how amazing Henge was. It was refreshing, exciting, and I love Morgan. Really, I love everything about this story, but especially Morgan."
--My Full Bookshelf Reviews
"Morgan is such a wonderful character because you can feel her emotions through the pages. Wherever this series takes me I plan on enjoying the ride."--She's Got Books on Her Mind
"...will entice you from the very beginning. Be prepared to want more as Realm Lovejoy plays with a fan favorite and gives it a fresh new vibe!"
--The Rest is Still Unwritten
"Lovejoy's Morgan le Fay is a complex main character. Her journey of self-discovery, closely followed by the reader, is twisted. She aims for success, but it's tainted by her longing for revenge and justice. "
--21st Century Once Upon a Time
"..very enjoyable and recommended for anyone who enjoys the Arthurian legends with a twist."
-- Archaeolibrarian
I have this reminder posted on my computer... it reminds me to do my best everyday and that this is an ongoing journey:
Thank you so much, everyone!
--Realm
February 22, 2015
Happy Year of the Ram!
Here's a Dragon + Ram hybrid I saw at the International District in Seattle:
My family and I went to watch the parade and dances. It was a great way to kickoff the birthday weekend.
Here's a shot of sheep in Tintagel, Morgan le Fay's hometown in Henge:
I hear that the year of the ram is about being bold. So dear readers, be brave and go for your dream!
--Realm
My family and I went to watch the parade and dances. It was a great way to kickoff the birthday weekend.
Here's a shot of sheep in Tintagel, Morgan le Fay's hometown in Henge:
I hear that the year of the ram is about being bold. So dear readers, be brave and go for your dream!
--Realm
February 18, 2015
Le Fay Series - Main Cast
The portrait reveals concluded for the first book in the Le Fay Series, Henge! When the next book comes out I will add in more portraits. Do you have a favorite?
I hope you enjoyed these illustrations as much as I enjoyed drawing them! As always, feel free to send me illustration requests.
--Realm
I hope you enjoyed these illustrations as much as I enjoyed drawing them! As always, feel free to send me illustration requests.
--Realm
February 16, 2015
HENGE - Blog Tour Recap pt. 12!
I've been getting a lot of reviews so I finally got around to posting
my review policy for the 2nd book in the Le Fay Series
--coming out later this year! If you're interested in receiving a free copy, please read the policy.
Lots of review highlights for the next month! Here are highlights for you to check out this week:
"...I REALLY want the second book right now. What an glorious mix of Arthurian legend and fantasy. Only – This takes place in the UK, and there is technology such as guns, phones, cars. ‘Hogwarts meets Panem’ was the first thing that caught my eye when people described this book, and indeed it was just as amazing as both of those series."-- Aphonic Book Reviews
"Realm Lovejoy did a spectacular job on this book it was detailed so well it felt like I was sitting on her shoulders watching and feeling everything, it also reminded me of the Hunger Games with a spin off attitude of spy kids. I really love this spectacular book and I give this book a whopping, flying 5 stars ***** and two thumbs up."--Ogitchida Kwe's Book Blog
"An alluring start to what is sure to be a fun and exciting YA series. Suitable for all ages, Henge‘s swirling tale of magic and suspense will delight from start to finish. I eagerly anticipate the next edition in the Le Fay series."--See Kiki Read
"Throughout the story, the author planted twists, turns, betrayals and secrets at every corner."--Hit or Miss Books
"Looking forward to more Lancelot, Mordred, Merlin and of course King Arthur himself."--Rhea's Neon Journal
Review Policy (Le Fay Series)The 2nd book in the Le Fay Series will be out later this year! Here are requirement to be eligible to receive a free review copy of the 2nd book:—You must have read the first book, HENGE.—You crossposted your review of HENGE on Amazon. (GoodReads a plus, too!)—Your review of HENGE reflects your interest in the story.If you’d like to review HENGE or be on the list for the next book, you can email me at: rtlovejoy (at) yahoo (dot) comThank you! I hope you enjoy HENGE and will stay tuned for the next book!
--Realm
Lots of review highlights for the next month! Here are highlights for you to check out this week:
"...I REALLY want the second book right now. What an glorious mix of Arthurian legend and fantasy. Only – This takes place in the UK, and there is technology such as guns, phones, cars. ‘Hogwarts meets Panem’ was the first thing that caught my eye when people described this book, and indeed it was just as amazing as both of those series."-- Aphonic Book Reviews
"Realm Lovejoy did a spectacular job on this book it was detailed so well it felt like I was sitting on her shoulders watching and feeling everything, it also reminded me of the Hunger Games with a spin off attitude of spy kids. I really love this spectacular book and I give this book a whopping, flying 5 stars ***** and two thumbs up."--Ogitchida Kwe's Book Blog
"An alluring start to what is sure to be a fun and exciting YA series. Suitable for all ages, Henge‘s swirling tale of magic and suspense will delight from start to finish. I eagerly anticipate the next edition in the Le Fay series."--See Kiki Read
"Throughout the story, the author planted twists, turns, betrayals and secrets at every corner."--Hit or Miss Books
"Looking forward to more Lancelot, Mordred, Merlin and of course King Arthur himself."--Rhea's Neon Journal
Review Policy (Le Fay Series)The 2nd book in the Le Fay Series will be out later this year! Here are requirement to be eligible to receive a free review copy of the 2nd book:—You must have read the first book, HENGE.—You crossposted your review of HENGE on Amazon. (GoodReads a plus, too!)—Your review of HENGE reflects your interest in the story.If you’d like to review HENGE or be on the list for the next book, you can email me at: rtlovejoy (at) yahoo (dot) comThank you! I hope you enjoy HENGE and will stay tuned for the next book!
--Realm
February 13, 2015
Le Fay Series - Happy Valentine's Day 2015!
Here's a card from me to you readers:
Thank you so much for reading Henge and for your support! Whether you're single, taken, or complicated, I hope you have a wonderful Valentine's Day!
Xo,
--Realm
Thank you so much for reading Henge and for your support! Whether you're single, taken, or complicated, I hope you have a wonderful Valentine's Day!
Xo,--Realm
