Tara Ellis's Blog: Making Progress, page 10
December 21, 2015
New Release!I'm excited to announce that book #4 in The S...
New Release!I'm excited to announce that book #4 in The Samantha Wolf Mysteries is HERE! It's available in both ebook and paperback format, and as always, is Free if you are a member of Kindle Unlimited!
The Heiress of Covington Ranch
Buy it here on AMAZON!
Free with Kindle Unlimited!
Middle school presents a new kind of challenge for Sam and Ally, but also a chance to make a unique friend. When one of their teachers needs help, the three of them come together to lend her support.
Nestled in the woods that surround their homes is Covington Ranch. An abandoned estate once used to raise famous horses, a family tragedy has left it forgotten and neglected. But someone has come back.
What does their teacher, a rich stockbroker, and a stolen ruby called The Eye of Jupiter all have in common? Sam and Ally vow to find out, and in doing so, start a chain reaction. It could either have dire consequences for those involved, or bring a broken family back together again.
The Heiress of Covington Ranch
Buy it here on AMAZON!
Free with Kindle Unlimited!
Middle school presents a new kind of challenge for Sam and Ally, but also a chance to make a unique friend. When one of their teachers needs help, the three of them come together to lend her support.
Nestled in the woods that surround their homes is Covington Ranch. An abandoned estate once used to raise famous horses, a family tragedy has left it forgotten and neglected. But someone has come back.
What does their teacher, a rich stockbroker, and a stolen ruby called The Eye of Jupiter all have in common? Sam and Ally vow to find out, and in doing so, start a chain reaction. It could either have dire consequences for those involved, or bring a broken family back together again.
December 7, 2015
.99 Sale for the Beach House Mystery
AMAZON LINK
THE BEACH HOUSE MYSTERY
The fun continues in book #3 of the Samantha Wolf Mysteries! What should be a quiet week at the beach turns into the most challenging mystery that Sam and Ally have uncovered yet. What’s the truth behind the odd family renting the cabin next-door? Is the tale of a sea creature and haunted lighthouse just a myth? How does a missing girl, and suspicious boat tie into all of it? The girls can’t solve this puzzle on their own, so they turn to their brothers for help.
Travel with them to the scenic Washington Coast and into the Olympic Rainforest, where the four have to work together to untangle the clues and fit the mysterious pieces together.
This is book #3 in the series, and one of my favorites! This is your chance to get caught up on the series before the fourth book, The Heiress of Covington Ranch, comes out on December 21st!
I also have a special promo code for you! You can use this code: BOOKDEAL25 for ONE paperback/hardback book purchase, and get 25% off!
Here is a link to my AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE where you can take your pick! How about starting with the first book in The Samantha Wolf Mysteries? Or maybe Bloodline, the first book in my YA trilogy? You know, books make great Christmas gifts! :)
(As always, if you have Kindle Unlimited, ALL of my books are FREE!)
December 4, 2015
How to (not) Take a Break
I recently finished writing the fourth book in my middle grade mystery series, and have a release date of 12.21.2015. (it's up for pre sale now)
Having just concluded a read-through/edit and sending it off for Beta Readers and editing, I sat back and immediately began planning what to do next.
A break. I needed to take a break. Thanksgiving was just a few days away, and then a huge couple of weeks of work, a book signing, photo shoot, and CPR instructing at the local High School.
A break.
Right. I don't think I quite understand the meaning of the word. Even when I try to force myself not to take anything else on, I seem to continuously think about what I should be doing, and then find myself writing out 'The List'.
Anyone else with me?
I always have a long list. Full of have to do, need to do, would like to do...lots of do's. Being an Indie Author, there is always something to DO. The good news, is that I love to do it. :)
This is how I know that being an author is my calling. Because no matter how tired, or stressed, or over-whelmed I get with everything else on my list, the one thing that will always make me smile and feel at peace is the 'write' item. I don't see it as a chore. I absolutely LOVE it.
So while I might not have allowed myself much of a 'break', and I'm a bit run-down and behind on my sleep and 'me' time...I'm still okay. Because in another week, I will be adding 'write a chapter' back to the top of my daily list, and my world will be right again.
Who's with me? :)
A picture I took while on my 'break'.
Having just concluded a read-through/edit and sending it off for Beta Readers and editing, I sat back and immediately began planning what to do next.
A break. I needed to take a break. Thanksgiving was just a few days away, and then a huge couple of weeks of work, a book signing, photo shoot, and CPR instructing at the local High School.
A break.
Right. I don't think I quite understand the meaning of the word. Even when I try to force myself not to take anything else on, I seem to continuously think about what I should be doing, and then find myself writing out 'The List'.
Anyone else with me?
I always have a long list. Full of have to do, need to do, would like to do...lots of do's. Being an Indie Author, there is always something to DO. The good news, is that I love to do it. :)
This is how I know that being an author is my calling. Because no matter how tired, or stressed, or over-whelmed I get with everything else on my list, the one thing that will always make me smile and feel at peace is the 'write' item. I don't see it as a chore. I absolutely LOVE it.
So while I might not have allowed myself much of a 'break', and I'm a bit run-down and behind on my sleep and 'me' time...I'm still okay. Because in another week, I will be adding 'write a chapter' back to the top of my daily list, and my world will be right again.
Who's with me? :)
A picture I took while on my 'break'. November 30, 2015
New Book Release: Lily Of The Valley
Happy Cyber Monday! In honor of the biggest internet shopping day of the year, or at least one of them, Faith Blum decided to do a blog tour release of her newest novel, Lily of the Valley. There are two giveaway opportunities and lots of fun interviews and excerpts.
About the BookHowdy, Teacher! You don’t know me, but my kids talk bout you a lot. I been lookin fer a wife and mother fer a few years and was wonderin iffen we cood meet and get to no each other a bit. I’ll come after skool to git yer answer. Grover Miller
Unruly schoolchildren, three suitors, and too many things to do. When Ruth Brookings rejects one of the suitors, he refuses to accept no for an answer. To make matters worse, when she prays for guidance, she’s answered with a challenge instead: To encourage her friend to find a wife—whether he wants one or not. Will she lose her friend just when she needs a friend the most? Will she be able to weather the storms she’s about to face? Purchase on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B016VAJ7EW About the Author
Faith Blum started writing at an early age. She started even before she could read! She even thought she could write better than Dr. Seuss. (The picture doesn't show it well, but there are scribblings on the page of Green Eggs and Ham). Now that she's grown up a little more, she knows she will probably never reach the success of Dr. Seuss, but that doesn't stop her from trying. When she isn't writing, Faith enjoys doing many right-brained activities such as reading, crafting, writing, playing piano, and playing games with her family. One of her dreams is to visit Castle City, Montana someday to see the ghost town she chose for her characters to live in. She currently lives on a hobby farm with her family in Wisconsin. Free Book
Today is the last day to get Be Thou My Vision (Hymns of the West #2) free! Here is the link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NF3QV52 GiveawayFaith has a Goodreads giveaway going on through November 30th! Be sure to check it out and enter to win one of two signed paperback copies of Lily of the Valley. Goodreads Book Giveaway
Lily of the Valleyby Faith Blum Giveaway ends November 30, 2015. See the giveaway detailsat Goodreads. Enter Giveaway https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/widget/161619 In addition to the Goodreads giveaway, Faith is also giving away all four of her paperback novels to one lucky winner! 
a Rafflecopter giveaway//widget-prime.rafflecopter.com/launch.jsBloggers involved November 29: Writings, Ramblings, and Reflections-Tour introduction Shanna Hatfield-Book Spotlight November 30: Musings of Inspiration-Author Interview/Book Spotlight C.K.Rich-Book Spotlight Singing Librarian Books-Book Review/Author Interview Writing Dreams-Author Interview/Character Interview/Book Spotlight Tara Ellis - Wife. Mother, Indie Author and Photographer-Book Spotlight Christa Reads & Writes-Book Spotlight Rebekah Lyn Books-Book Spotlight The Overactive Imagination-Author Interview Wildflower Acres-Book Review/Spotlight Jaye L. Knight-Book Spotlight Zerina Blossom's Books-Book Review/Spotlight God's Peculiar Treasure Rae-Book Spotlight Tamie Dearen’s Blog-Book Review/Spotlight
November 21, 2015
Kindle Countdown Sale for The Secret of Camp Whispering Pines
Amazon LinkThe Secret of Camp Whispering Pines
This is the second book in The Samantha Wolf Mysteries. The first book, The Mystery of Hollow Inn, is an Amazon best seller in the kids detective story genre! Don't miss out on the second installment!
.99 cents for three more days!Get it HERE
BLURB:
What could be better than hiking, swimming, and horseback riding? Having a mystery to solve, of course!
When Sam and Ally embark on their next quest together, they have no idea what secrets hide in the shadows at Camp Whispering Pines. Set in the beautiful, rugged mountains of the Pacific Northwest, the clues are slowly revealed, and it’s up to the two girls to figure it out.
New friendships are formed, while at the same time enemies lurk nearby. The closer they get to uncovering the truth behind the camp, the further they are pushed into danger and deceit. Can Sam and Alley put all of the pieces together before it’s too late? Follow them on another thrilling tale filled with excitement and adventure, along misty, high mountain trails and deep ravines, where the answers wait to be found!
November 17, 2015
Cover Reveal for Book #4 in The Samantha Wolf Mysteries!
The Heiress of Covington Ranch
Available NOW for pre-order HERE
Middle school presents a new kind of challenge for Sam and Ally, but also a chance to make a unique friend. When one of their teachers needs help, the three of them come together to lend her support.
Nestled in the woods that surround their homes is Covington Ranch. An abandoned estate once used to raise famous horses, a family tragedy has left it forgotten and neglected. But someone has come back.
What does their teacher, a rich stockbroker, and a stolen ruby called The Eye of Jupiter all have in common? Sam and Ally vow to find out, and in doing so, start a chain reaction. It could either have dire consequences for those involved, or bring a broken family back together again.
Book #4 in the The Samantha Wolf Mysteries
I'm excited about this one. It's a little more involved than the previous three, and really expands upon the characters. I'm in love with the cover, and already plotting book #5. Get your pre-order in now, so you don't miss the release date on December 21st, just in time for Christmas!
Looking for a unique gift for a loved one? Look no further!
Available NOW for pre-order HERE
Middle school presents a new kind of challenge for Sam and Ally, but also a chance to make a unique friend. When one of their teachers needs help, the three of them come together to lend her support.
Nestled in the woods that surround their homes is Covington Ranch. An abandoned estate once used to raise famous horses, a family tragedy has left it forgotten and neglected. But someone has come back.
What does their teacher, a rich stockbroker, and a stolen ruby called The Eye of Jupiter all have in common? Sam and Ally vow to find out, and in doing so, start a chain reaction. It could either have dire consequences for those involved, or bring a broken family back together again.
Book #4 in the The Samantha Wolf Mysteries
I'm excited about this one. It's a little more involved than the previous three, and really expands upon the characters. I'm in love with the cover, and already plotting book #5. Get your pre-order in now, so you don't miss the release date on December 21st, just in time for Christmas!
Looking for a unique gift for a loved one? Look no further!
November 6, 2015
A New Christmas Novella with Recipes from Author Deborah Garner!
Mistletoe at Moonglow
A Christmas novella with cookie recipes included!
The Timberton Hotel has always provided a perfect Christmas retreat for regular guests, as well as newcomers. But the small town of Timberton, Montana, hasn't been the same since resident chef and artist, Mist, arrived, bringing a unique new age flavor to the old western town. When guests check in for the holidays, they bring along worries, fears and broken hearts, unaware that Mist has a way of working magic in people's lives. Old-fashioned time spent together, exquisite food, conversation and a snowball or two offer guests a chance to trade sadness for hope. One thing is certain: no matter how cold winter's grip is on each guest, no one leaves Timberton without a warmer heart.
Amazon Link
Have you read any of Deborah Garner's books? If so, then I don't have to tell you that you are in for a treat with 'Mistletoe at Moonglow'. If you haven't, then you need to. I'll give you a little sample of the story, and it will immediately be clear as to why I enjoy her writing!
****
Excerpt from Mistletoe at Moonglow:
Mist set to work, weaving tapestries of eucalyptus and pinecones, bursts of floral colors and dry branches, ribbons and bark. As she created, she hummed Christmas melodies she’d known since childhood, the music of memories. Hours flew by. In the end, a magnificent arrangement spanned the center of the buffet, with miniature renditions of the same on each table.“Mighty fine.”Mist turned to see Clive standing in the doorway, nodding his head with approval. She smiled. It was a far cry from the western art he displayed in his gallery, but he was clearly impressed. That was the thing about holiday decorations. People’s hearts could bond over them.“Good afternoon, Clive. What brings you around today? Wouldn't be a certain lady we both know?” His face reddened like a schoolboy caught kissing a pretty girl under the bleachers.“You can tease me all you want, young lady,” Clive said. “But I’m here to replace a bulb in that entryway chandelier before the cookie exchange this afternoon. I don’t want Betty climbing up a ladder. Her hip’s been bothering her lately. She won’t say so, but I see the way she runs her hand over it when she’s been working too much.”“I’ve seen her do that, too. I’m glad you’re here to help her.”“Well, if not me, you’ll be climbing those ladders, too. And we don’t want that.”“That’s sweet of you to worry about me, but I’m strong and don’t mind climbing ladders.”Clive laughed. “Oh, I’m not worried about you. I just don’t want you falling and breaking an arm. What would we eat? The whole dang town might just starve.”Mist swatted him with a eucalyptus branch and pushed him out of the room. Both laughing, they almost bumped into a woman who stood directly under the chandelier in question. They straightened up quickly, like children just caught misbehaving. “Welcome to the Timberton Hotel,” Mist said, extending her hand.
*****
Deborah Garner is an accomplished travel writer with a passion for back roads and secret hideaways. Born and raised in California, she studied in France before returning to the U.S. to attend UCLA. After stints in graduate school and teaching, she attempted to clone herself for decades by founding and running a dance and performing arts center, designing and manufacturing clothing and accessories, and tackling both spreadsheets and display racks for corporate retail management. Her passions include photography, hiking and animal rescue. She speaks five languages, some substantially better than others. She now divides her time between California and Wyoming, dragging one human and two canines along whenever possible.
Be sure to go pick up your copy, light a fire, grab a blanket and whatever hot beverage you desire ... and enjoy!!!
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Website
Amazon
A Christmas novella with cookie recipes included!
The Timberton Hotel has always provided a perfect Christmas retreat for regular guests, as well as newcomers. But the small town of Timberton, Montana, hasn't been the same since resident chef and artist, Mist, arrived, bringing a unique new age flavor to the old western town. When guests check in for the holidays, they bring along worries, fears and broken hearts, unaware that Mist has a way of working magic in people's lives. Old-fashioned time spent together, exquisite food, conversation and a snowball or two offer guests a chance to trade sadness for hope. One thing is certain: no matter how cold winter's grip is on each guest, no one leaves Timberton without a warmer heart.
Amazon Link
Have you read any of Deborah Garner's books? If so, then I don't have to tell you that you are in for a treat with 'Mistletoe at Moonglow'. If you haven't, then you need to. I'll give you a little sample of the story, and it will immediately be clear as to why I enjoy her writing!
****
Excerpt from Mistletoe at Moonglow:
Mist set to work, weaving tapestries of eucalyptus and pinecones, bursts of floral colors and dry branches, ribbons and bark. As she created, she hummed Christmas melodies she’d known since childhood, the music of memories. Hours flew by. In the end, a magnificent arrangement spanned the center of the buffet, with miniature renditions of the same on each table.“Mighty fine.”Mist turned to see Clive standing in the doorway, nodding his head with approval. She smiled. It was a far cry from the western art he displayed in his gallery, but he was clearly impressed. That was the thing about holiday decorations. People’s hearts could bond over them.“Good afternoon, Clive. What brings you around today? Wouldn't be a certain lady we both know?” His face reddened like a schoolboy caught kissing a pretty girl under the bleachers.“You can tease me all you want, young lady,” Clive said. “But I’m here to replace a bulb in that entryway chandelier before the cookie exchange this afternoon. I don’t want Betty climbing up a ladder. Her hip’s been bothering her lately. She won’t say so, but I see the way she runs her hand over it when she’s been working too much.”“I’ve seen her do that, too. I’m glad you’re here to help her.”“Well, if not me, you’ll be climbing those ladders, too. And we don’t want that.”“That’s sweet of you to worry about me, but I’m strong and don’t mind climbing ladders.”Clive laughed. “Oh, I’m not worried about you. I just don’t want you falling and breaking an arm. What would we eat? The whole dang town might just starve.”Mist swatted him with a eucalyptus branch and pushed him out of the room. Both laughing, they almost bumped into a woman who stood directly under the chandelier in question. They straightened up quickly, like children just caught misbehaving. “Welcome to the Timberton Hotel,” Mist said, extending her hand.
*****
Deborah Garner is an accomplished travel writer with a passion for back roads and secret hideaways. Born and raised in California, she studied in France before returning to the U.S. to attend UCLA. After stints in graduate school and teaching, she attempted to clone herself for decades by founding and running a dance and performing arts center, designing and manufacturing clothing and accessories, and tackling both spreadsheets and display racks for corporate retail management. Her passions include photography, hiking and animal rescue. She speaks five languages, some substantially better than others. She now divides her time between California and Wyoming, dragging one human and two canines along whenever possible.
Be sure to go pick up your copy, light a fire, grab a blanket and whatever hot beverage you desire ... and enjoy!!!
Website
Amazon
November 1, 2015
FREE Ebook! The Mystery of Hollow Inn
Are you a fan of Trixie Beldon, Nancy Drew, or the Boxcar Children? Have you been looking for a current middle grade mystery series for you or your kids? The Samantha Wolf Mysteries is a fun, clean read suitable for all ages.
The Mystery of Hollow Inn is the first book in the series, and will be FREE from 12/1 to 12/5. Now is the perfect time to discover the world of Sam and Ally, two twelve-year-old girls that manage to always find a mystery, and help some people along the way.
There are three books out right now, with the fourth available for pre-order this week!
(The first two books are also in audiobook format!)
GET YOUR FREE COPY HERE!!
Twelve-year-old Samantha Wolf, and her best friend Ally, are excited to spend part of their summer break in the mountains of Montana. But unbeknownst to them, Hollow Inn is bathed in mystery and legend. After arriving, they soon discover that things are not going well for Sam's Aunt and Uncle, who own the Inn. There's vandalism, ghostly sightings, and rumors of lost treasures. Determined to help, Sam and Ally embark on a challenging journey to discover the truth.
The Mystery of Hollow Inn is the first book in the series, and will be FREE from 12/1 to 12/5. Now is the perfect time to discover the world of Sam and Ally, two twelve-year-old girls that manage to always find a mystery, and help some people along the way.
There are three books out right now, with the fourth available for pre-order this week!
(The first two books are also in audiobook format!)
GET YOUR FREE COPY HERE!!
Twelve-year-old Samantha Wolf, and her best friend Ally, are excited to spend part of their summer break in the mountains of Montana. But unbeknownst to them, Hollow Inn is bathed in mystery and legend. After arriving, they soon discover that things are not going well for Sam's Aunt and Uncle, who own the Inn. There's vandalism, ghostly sightings, and rumors of lost treasures. Determined to help, Sam and Ally embark on a challenging journey to discover the truth.
October 28, 2015
New Release From a Promising New Author!
The Firethorn Crown
I'm excited to share this new release, by Lea Doue. It just came out on October 24th, and is still priced at only .99! I haven't had a chance to read all of it yet, but I've gotten far enough to feel confident in recommending it. Better yet, this is even a clean read. (and I have to say that this cover is really, really good!)
The Firethorn CrownLea Doué
Princess Lily, the eldest of twelve sisters and heir to a mighty kingdom, desperately seeks a break from her mother's matchmaking. Tradition forbids marriage with the man Lily loves, so she would rather rule alone than marry someone who only wants the crown.
Fleeing an overzealous suitor, Lily stumbles into a secret underground kingdom where she and her sisters encounter a mysterious sorcerer-prince and become entangled in a curse that threatens the safety of her family and her people. Lily can free them, but the price for freedom may be more than she's willing to pay.
The Firethorn Crown, a re-imagining of “The Twelve Dancing Princesses,” is the first novel in the Firethorn Chronicles, a series inspired by fairy tales and other stories. Follow the sisters on their adventures in a land where sorcery is feared, women can rule, and dragons fly.
Find it on Amazon.
A little about the author!
Lea Doué
A native of south Georgia, Lea currently lives in Nova Scotia, Canada with her husband, their two boys, a rescue greyhound, and a cat. But, sadly, no dragons. Homeschooling and writing take up most of her time, but she also enjoys directing a small puppet team at her church. The Firethorn Crown, a re-imagining of Grimm's “The Twelve Dancing Princesses,” is the first novel in the Firethorn Chronicles, a series inspired by fairy tales and other stories.
You can connect with her here:WebsiteFacebookPinterest
I'm excited to share this new release, by Lea Doue. It just came out on October 24th, and is still priced at only .99! I haven't had a chance to read all of it yet, but I've gotten far enough to feel confident in recommending it. Better yet, this is even a clean read. (and I have to say that this cover is really, really good!)
The Firethorn CrownLea Doué
Princess Lily, the eldest of twelve sisters and heir to a mighty kingdom, desperately seeks a break from her mother's matchmaking. Tradition forbids marriage with the man Lily loves, so she would rather rule alone than marry someone who only wants the crown.
Fleeing an overzealous suitor, Lily stumbles into a secret underground kingdom where she and her sisters encounter a mysterious sorcerer-prince and become entangled in a curse that threatens the safety of her family and her people. Lily can free them, but the price for freedom may be more than she's willing to pay.
The Firethorn Crown, a re-imagining of “The Twelve Dancing Princesses,” is the first novel in the Firethorn Chronicles, a series inspired by fairy tales and other stories. Follow the sisters on their adventures in a land where sorcery is feared, women can rule, and dragons fly.
Find it on Amazon.
A little about the author!
Lea Doué
A native of south Georgia, Lea currently lives in Nova Scotia, Canada with her husband, their two boys, a rescue greyhound, and a cat. But, sadly, no dragons. Homeschooling and writing take up most of her time, but she also enjoys directing a small puppet team at her church. The Firethorn Crown, a re-imagining of Grimm's “The Twelve Dancing Princesses,” is the first novel in the Firethorn Chronicles, a series inspired by fairy tales and other stories.
You can connect with her here:WebsiteFacebookPinterest
October 26, 2015
My New Audiobook is Out! The Secret of Camp Whispering Pines
The Secret of Camp Whispering Pines
Book #2 in The Samantha Wolf Mysteries
3hrs 45min
Amazon Link
ACX Link
What could be better than hiking, swimming, and horseback riding? Having a mystery to solve, of course! When Sam and Ally embark on their next quest together, they have no idea what secrets hide in the shadows at Camp Whispering Pines. Set in the beautiful, rugged mountains of the Pacific Northwest, the clues are slowly revealed, and it's up to the two girls to figure it out. New friendships are formed, while at the same time enemies lurk nearby.
*******
With nearly four hours of entertainment, The Secret of Camp Whispering Pines is sure to keep the kids happy for that long car ride. You may even find yourself getting lost in the story. :)
The first book in the series, The Mystery of Hollow Inn, is also available as an audiobook.
Check out all of my titles and formats on my AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE and be sure to let me know what you think of my work!
Book #2 in The Samantha Wolf Mysteries
3hrs 45min
Amazon Link
ACX Link
What could be better than hiking, swimming, and horseback riding? Having a mystery to solve, of course! When Sam and Ally embark on their next quest together, they have no idea what secrets hide in the shadows at Camp Whispering Pines. Set in the beautiful, rugged mountains of the Pacific Northwest, the clues are slowly revealed, and it's up to the two girls to figure it out. New friendships are formed, while at the same time enemies lurk nearby.
*******
With nearly four hours of entertainment, The Secret of Camp Whispering Pines is sure to keep the kids happy for that long car ride. You may even find yourself getting lost in the story. :)
The first book in the series, The Mystery of Hollow Inn, is also available as an audiobook.
Check out all of my titles and formats on my AMAZON AUTHOR PAGE and be sure to let me know what you think of my work!
Making Progress
Just a little update!
As I shared in my last post, the adiobook for The Mystery of Hollow Inn is out! It's been about three weeks now and so far, I have gotten six very favorable reviews, so I've gaine ...more
As I shared in my last post, the adiobook for The Mystery of Hollow Inn is out! It's been about three weeks now and so far, I have gotten six very favorable reviews, so I've gaine ...more
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