Realm Lovejoy's Blog, page 22

HENGE - Blog Tour Recap pt. 11

Today we have a very nice review from Andra:


"Put down your TBR piles boys and girls, we have a REAL winner with Henge, and you are going to need to drop everything to get your hands on this one! I'm not going to lie. I haven't been this excited about the first book in a series in a LONG time."--Unabridged Andra
My posts:
-Illustration of Vivian
-Research trip: Tintagel sea

I'm so thrilled to hear back from readers that they are enjoying Henge. Thanks to everyone who have sent me comments. Each of you readers are still making this series as strong as can can be--if you liked Henge, please do spread the word! 
This week we have a ton of reviews coming in through Xpresso. Stay tuned for more reviews!






February 9th-Dowie’s Place-See Kiki Read-Ogitchida Kwe’s Book Blog-Rhea’s Neon Journal-Hit or Miss Books-Aphonic Book Reviews
February 10th-Archaeolibrarian – I Dig Good Books-My Full Bookshelf Reviews-21st Century Once Upon A Times-She’s Got Books on Her Mind-the screenbook.-The Rest Is Still Unwritten
February 11th-Once Upon A Time A Review-Once Upon a YA Book-Because Reading is better than real life-Istyria book blog
February 12th-The Word at My Fingertips-The Book Carousel-Angela’s Library-The Theory Of Books -happy tails and tales-Leabhar Caife-February 13th-Miss Little Book Addict YA House of Books-Forever Obsession-The Haunted Rose-Diamond&Coal Book Reviews-Jackie’s Book shenanigans-A Whisper of Thoughts
February 14th-Poetry and Book Reviews of a Young Artist-Bookwyrming Thoughts-Otakutwins Reviews-Rosa de Verano


--Realm

Le Fay Series - Meet Vivian!

We've reached our last portrait reveal! Last but not least...


Meet the mysterious... VIVIAN!

Vivian is a super important character in the Arthurian legend that I think the average person is probably unaware of. (Most know Arthur, Merlin, Lancelot, Guinevere.) Vivian is just as important... she's the Lady of the Lake (iconic image of hand holding sword in the lake). She gave Arthur the famous sword Excalibur. Did you know that the wise genius Merlin had a lover? It's Vivian! Vivian took down Merlin--she was his end. She's super powerful and underestimated, just as Morgan le Fay is. 

Most portray Vivian as a wise and tranquil lady. I made mine a bit abrasive and self-obsessed. (After all she is based on a woman who imprisoned her love!) I really enjoy writing and drawing Vivian.

Here's a scene where Morgan le Fay speaks with Vivian for the first time:


I spot Vivian reading by herself at one of the tables. Her head is propped in her hand, causing her hair to curtain down one side of her face. She looks deeply bored by whatever she’s reading. I walk up to her.“Hi,” I say. “Vivian, right?”She looks up at me, her expression unchanging. “Do I know you?” she asks.Of course she does. I fight the urge to scowl. “Um, I’m in Arthur’s Round.”Vivian frowns at me. If there were a competition for the world’s most condescending look, she would win. “No shit,” she says.“Clearly, you’re not here to make friends,” I say, mustering a smile.“Do you want something?”“Uh,” I begin, hesitant. “You know, I was really impressed with that magic you showed at the welcoming party. How did you learn that trick?”“I learned in a quiet place alone. I learned by not having people distract me and talk to me.”I grimace but try to remain friendly. “What inspires you to hone your magic?”Vivian gives me another hostile look of disgust as if I were a leper. She picks up her book, pushes her chair back, and walks away. I blink, stupefied. What is her problem? I’ve never even talked to her before. Fuming, I walk off, no longer in the mood to study.Consider yourself suspect number one, Ice Queen.
Looks like Morgan met her match! I hope you enjoyed the portrait!


--Realm

Le Fay Series - Research Travel: Tintagel, part 1 - Sea

More photos from my research travel resumes! Today I am sharing photos from Tintagel, Morgan le Fay's hometown in my novel Henge. I have so many photos from Tintagel that I'm going to split it into three parts: sea, town, and castle. Gorlois (Morgan's father) is known as Gorlois of Tintagel in the Arthurian legend, so straight away, I knew where her hometown should be! Tintagel is also one of the most important Arthurian places... which I'll get to in another post. 

We stayed in Tintagel for two days since it's such an important location for Morgan's character and understanding her past. I really wanted to get an idea of what it might be like to live there.

Lucky for me, I get to have my character's home in such a cool place. Makes researching a lot more fun.



One of my favorite parts of the trip was taking a long walk along the Celtic Sea. It's the most beautiful walk I've ever been on. Tintagel's ocean is swoon-worthy with the dramatic cliffs and dark teal sea. You can't go anywhere without seeing a really photographable scene.








I could imagine that for Morgan le Fay, it must be a really important part of her memory in Tintagel, to be by the sea where she practiced fire. A really serene section in her otherwise tumultuous life.


Slate everywhere creates naturally beautiful patterns:
I hope you enjoyed the photos of the beautiful Cornish beaches! 

Excerpt from Henge:
"Tintagel rolls by. The deep teal sea crashes into dark jagged rocks underneath heavy clouds. Occasionally the silver sunlight peeks through, like a flash of a knife, getting a few rays in before a cloud rolls over it again. We pass endless fields that seem to be only occupied by sheep—fluffy and sleepy as dreams."--Henge (Le Fay Series) 
More photos from the area to come. If you click on the tag "research" you can see more posts from my travels.

--Realm

HENGE - Blog Tour Recap pt. 10!

We have reached the tenth recap! There's still more coming. The tours went on strong for three months (big thanks to all the lovely tour hosts). I sincerely hope you enjoyed the tour and all the posts. If you have any feedback for me such as what you'd like to see more of for the next book tour, please do let me know! The tour is built to be fun for you and a way for you to get to learn about the book--your opinion matters! 

I had the trailer reveal last week and super appreciate everyone who shared the link through various social media sites!

This week the tour with Enchanted is finished. 

Here are review highlights from last week:


"I had trouble putting this book down and can’t wait for the sequel. This book has it all a budding romance?, mystery, magic, action and suspense."--Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock
"This is a lovely, entertaining YA fantasy novel. The author has an unique, engaging writing style. The characters are lively and vivid. Morgan is awesome from start to end, and easy to relate to. Teenagers will love it, and adults probably will too."--Editor Charlene
"I definitely would read on in this series. A great start with believable drama and well-crafted characters."--V's Reads
"I enjoyed the story telling style, the characters and the twists and suspense. I also like the determination of the protagonist Morgan."--Slysam Enjoys and Shares
Interview:
The Book Daily interviews Morgan le Fay from Henge!


Next stops through Goddess Fish:
February 4: Unabridged Andra'sFebruary 4: Triquetra Reviews
--Realm

HENGE - Trailer Reveal

Today is the Henge trailer reveal day! Hurray! It's hosted by YA Bounds. I hope you enjoy the trailer. (Plus there's a giveaway if you follow any of the links I retweet on Twitter!)
Here are preview screenshots:




And here's the trailer! It was created by me using my artwork for the paperback:

I wanted an epic feeling in there with a dark edge and sense of unease with Morgan le Fay highlighted. This trailer is also interesting because it doesn't just focus on Henge, the first book, it focuses on the series.

And in case you've never seen my previous trailer... this is the book trailer for my debut novel CLAN. Hope you liked!

Cheers,


--Realm

HENGE - Blog Tour Recap pt. 9!

This week I am debuting the book trailer for Henge on YA Bound on Wednesday! Hope you'll check it out! 

The Enchanted Book Tour ends next week. I hope you entered the giveaway. The grand prize consists of a signed paperback, signed "Hear Your Calling" print, signed postcard, Arthur's Round badge, and a bookmark handmade by me specially for Henge!





Enter here to win!

Review highlights:

"The characters are amazing, especially Morgan. This is easily one of my favorite books ever."--I'm an Eclectic Reader
"I loved that there was a lot of action and the book kept my attention. I definitely want to read the next book in the series."--karen writes stuff
 "Morgan is a vivid, strong character from the moment the book starts. The author has a way with character description that really thrusts you into the story."--Long and Short Reviews
Interview:
Editor Charlene interviews me on writing!

Travel:
Research trip to Avebury stone circle

Art:
Meet Lancelot!

I'm seeing a new steady trend for Henge sales and I hope that's good news for the series. (It's typically up and down spikes.) I'm really hoping to continue to find new readers and any help from you to spread the word would be highly appreciated! 

Remaining stops:


January 27th: Book Excerpt @ NaYa BooksJanuary 29th: Book Review @ PRATRFebruary 1st: Book Review @ Editor Charlene’s Blog
Stay tuned for Wednesday! Dun dun dun...


--Realm

Le Fay Series - Meet Lancelot!

So far you've met Morgan le Fay, Merlin, and Guinevere from Henge (Le Fay Series)... Next it's Lancelot!


Meet the dashing knight-in-not-so-shiny-armor... SIR LANCELOT! 



When I first drafted the series Lancelot was meant to be a minor background character but he quickly came to the foreground and will continue to play a key role in the series. Lancelot serves as the new High Knight in Camelot and is the only major character who doesn't use magic. 

In the Arthurian legend, he is certainly my favorite knight. I imagine him to be super badass. A lot of other versions of Lancelot feature him as brunette, a bit emotional, and a do gooder. My version is pretty much the opposite of other versions but I hope readers enjoy his character.   

Here's an excerpt with Lancelot that I think shows he character well:

A recorder is on the table. He flicks it on. He sees the bewilderment on my face and doesn’t look away as he lights a cigarette, which I’m sure is not allowed in here.“Gorlois must be proud that you’re in Arthur’s Round to serve the King.”His cigarette smoke is already suffocating me.Lancelot studies me. His eyes are silver and searing. The first thing I think of is a knife. His eyes are weapons—and he knows the affect they have on people, especially women. His mouth curves into a smile, deliberate and slow.
I hope you enjoyed meeting him! We are nearing the end of the portrait reveals for this book... Last will be Vivian!


--Realm

Le Fay Series - Research Travel: Avebury

More photos from the research trip for Henge (Le Fay Series)! On our way out of Cornwall, we decided to stop by Avebury and then Stonehenge. Our friend in London highly recommended we go to Avebury which was pretty close to Stonehenge and unlike Stonehenge, you can walk right up to the stones and touch it. Since there's a ton of stones of various shapes and sizes, there's a lot of photo opportunities and less crowds that will interfere with photo-snapping. 

Avebury contains the largest stone circle in Europe and it's pretty underrated in my opinion. Some of the stones are far bigger than Stonehenge and the stone circle is so large that I couldn't even see the full circle. 









Research-wise, I believed it's a good idea to see more stone monuments than one for reference. 
Joey and I walked through a short trail where we passed a man selling ancient maps. Then we walked along the stones that studded the grassy ground. It's a phenomenal site--some of the stones you can't help but think a super hero (or an earth magic user!) placed it there.
Here's the scale:

Yeah, huge! Avebury should inspire more stories for creatives out there.
We stopped by the gift shop and picked up a bottle of honey mead created by the bees there. (Which I saved until Henge released a year later.)



I hope you enjoyed the photos! Coming up next, Tintagel, Morgan le Fay's hometown!

--Realm

HENGE - Blog Tour Recap pt. 8!

My two books (Henge and Clan) are on sale on Amazon UK now for a few days so I went over to the site to check it out and saw this:




Henge has been the #1 Arthurian bestseller for a week. Hurray! I'm glad Henge found an audience in the UK where Henge is set in.

In other news I finished the second draft of the next book in the Le Fay Series. Whenever I sat to write it, I wrote without hardly any pause--the story coursed through me. Now I must revise it and then send it to my developmental editor.

Some new reviews:


"I loved Morgan, she’s one of my favorite characters ever. I would recommend this book to all YA fans, especially if they like fantasy."--Bedazzled Reading



"Beautiful and fierce imagery that would make for a spectacular movie or challenge a comic book illustrator."—A Virtual Hobby Store and Coffee Haus

"Henge is a well-written, unique take on a classic story. Playing with the Arthurian legend can be a risky thing, but the author has made it just different enough to make it her own."--Books in the Hall


Interviews:
Plain Talk BM interviews me on my writing process!
Miss Little Book Addict interviews Guinevere from Henge!

Art:
Portrait of Guinevere!

Travel:
My research trip to Stonehenge!

Coming up next... photos from Avebury and a portrait of Lancelot!

This week on Enchanted:


January 19th: Book Review @ I’m an Eclectic ReaderJanuary 21st: Author Interview @ Editor Charlene’s BlogJanuary 23rd: Book Review @ Karen writes stuffJanuary 25th: Character Interview @ The Book DailyCheers,

--Realm

Le Fay Series - Meet Guinevere!

The portrait reveal continues! This week I am introducing you to Guinevere, Morgan le Fay's best friend in the Le Fay Series.


Meet the warmhearted and radiant... GUINEVERE:



I love Gwen. I would want her as my friend. She's genuinely nice. She plays a key support role in the series though she may not show up often. She contrasts Morgan and is a stabilizing person for many characters. In the traditional legend she plays as someone very queenly in personality. I made my Gwen different--humble, personable, and sweet, though still powerful.

Here's an interview with Guinevere on Little Miss Book Addict's blog! 
Here's a scene where Morgan meets Gwen the first time:

The scent of herbs and roasts waft over me. I pass by glass cases showcasing the lunch items. Though the stewing meat, golden cobblers, and layered sandwiches look amazing, I can’t conjure an appetite, still having butterflies in my stomach. I take a scone and clotted cream and jelly onto a plate and sit in the first empty seat I see. I scan around the room for other Round members, but the room is too crowded. Taking a bite of the dry scone, I curse myself for not getting tea too. Camelot may have nice food, but the scone definitely doesn’t compare to the rich, soft ones back home.“Is that all you’re having for lunch?”I look up. A petite girl—another Round member, judging by her badge—stands with a tray eying my lone scone dubiously. I don’t recognize her. She wasn’t in the competition or in the Magic Control Test. It’s possible that she was too short for me to notice her, but I doubt I would miss someone so stunning. Wavy, honey-blond hair frames her naturally pink and dimpled cheeks. She smiles at me, radiant. “It can’t be healthy,” she adds.“I’m fine,” I retort sharply.“I’m Guinevere,” she replies, mimicking my tone and hostile expression.I soften, realizing how tense I am. I clear my throat. “My name is Morgan.”“May I sit with you?”“Sure,” I say.She sits across from me. Her plate holds half a cod sandwich and a salad. The light from the window brightens her face, her eyes emerald green. She exudes a warm aura— nonetheless, something about her intimidates me. Various textbooks say that magic users have a sense for other magic users. She doesn’t have the cold air of a water user, the heat of a fire user, or the calm of a wind user. Rather, she has some kind of glow, like the sun.“Nobody should eat alone,” she says. 

I hope you enjoyed meeting Guinevere!

--Realm