Devika Fernando's Blog, page 74
February 5, 2015
Book Club Blog Tour - Featured - Wrong for the Right Reasons by Rity Lalit
Wrong For The Right Reasons by Ritu Lalit
The Blurb
Shyamoli Verma’s timing is wrong. In her late twenties, she finds that her marriage is irrevocably broken. She comes back to her parents with her pre-teen son and an infant daughter, only to find that she is unwelcome.
Independent and brash, she decides to bring up her children and also get a divorce without any support from friends and family.
Written with wry self deprecating humour, this is the story of a divorced woman's quest for love and security.
Buy @
Amazon.com |Amazon.in |
The Story Told In Pictures
Meet the Author
Ritu Lalit is a corporate slave turned fiction writer. A voracious reader, she is a gold medalist post graduate in English Literature who spent most of her childhood in remote areas in the northeastern parts of India, lying on grassy hillsides daydreaming and reading books.
She loves spinning tales, but no longer has her captive audience as her children grew up and flew away from the coop. Her three dogs don’t pay much attention. She began writing in the vain hope that the characters she creates will listen to her, even do her bidding.
She has five books out in the market, A Bowlful of Butterflies, HILAWI, Chakra, Chronicles of the Witch Way and Wrong, for the Right Reasons. Her fifth novel, His Father’s Mistress is coming soon.
You can stalk her @
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January 30, 2015
Featured - The Fantasy Genre - Guest Post by Author Varun Prabhu
I've always been a fan of the fantasy genre, although writing in it is still only a far-away dream for me. For now, I'll happily settle with sharing this interesting guest post by Indian author Varun Prabhu, who will soon publish his first fantasy novels. Read on to find out about the sub-genres in fantasy and why research is so important.
The Fantasy Genre - Guest Post by Varun Prabhu
Ever attempted a genre in which all other genres can be accommodated? Now you ask: Which genre may that be? Hey, I tell you: It's fantasy, of course. Fantasy can have supernatural, young adult, horror, mystery, suspense; hey, even science fiction. Awesome, isn't it? Yes, but when you tell some people that you are writing fantasy (especially the non-fantasy reading population), they have the audacity to ask you why you are writing such an easy genre and what good you will get out of it? No, I am not speaking about those who are open-minded about other genres but don't read/write fantasy; I am speaking about those who view writing fantasy as writing for children, who believe it can be written with the twitch of your fingers. Of course, it can't. All fantasies are not fairy tales and don't start with Once Upon A Time.
To all those who consider fantasy writing an easy task, I can prove that you are pretty much mistaken about it. Let me tell you the truth.
Fantasy has so many sub-genres, but let's say, three major divisions stand out: Urban Fantasy, High Fantasy, and Historical Fantasy.
Urban Fantasy is what we also call Low Fantasy. Now, this is relatively easy compared to the other two because here you are using our very own Earth as the setting. However, you can pretty much do anything in it. Research is paramount. Hey, you can even research mythical creatures and put them in your low fantasy story. This is what the urban fantasy authors are doing these days. Vampires, werewolves, fairies, etc...Use whatever suits your story. It is all set in a contemporary setting, so the descriptions are less and hence, as a reader, you find them easy to read and the story moves at a good pace. Of course, that depends upon the style of the writer.
High Fantasy, now this is a solid genre. Here you create a separate new world, a new universe. That universe has your rules, your laws. This world may have magic or may not. It is up to you. You can have the same mythical creatures you might research for low fantasies, but you could give them new names. You could create new languages, new cultures, new regulations. To do all these, you require the skills of world-building and that is an entire topic in itself. Charting maps is no easy task. Rivers, climate, weather, mountains, etc, you will have to take care. What fruits grow in what climate, what vegetables grow in what regions; the author has got to take care of all this. This genre is quite descriptive and one cannot blame. Research is maximum here. You need to create a history and mythology, and use that to influence current events. Most fantasies are a derivative form of mythologies and folklore we have come across in our world. For example, “The Lord of The Rings” is based on The Norse mythology. I, as a writer, dabble in this genre, for the most part. It allows me the freedom to make and bend the rules as I will. My upcoming “War of Illusions Trilogy” and “The Glaecean Chronicles” are all high/epic fantasies.
Historical Fantasy is nowadays a well sought out genre. Don't confuse this with Historical Fiction where facts are more important. Historical Fantasy is where you create a separate world but use elements of that historical period of the earth which you are researching. For example, you create a world which resembles the cultures and rules in, say, The Victorian Era. “A Song of Ice and Fire” is a good example of a series belonging to this genre, although it is classified under Medieval Fantasy which again is another sub-genre of Historical Fantasy.
Now that we have got to know the classifications, we already see that research is important in all the sub-genres. Better the research, better your story will be. So when you sit down to write fantasy, make sure you RESEARCH well, and when you are done, WRITE. Fantasy is definitely not an easy genre to attempt, but if you have adequate focus, it is not that DIFFICULT as well. To people who judge you and call your story a FAIRY TALE, tell them that the original fairy tales are dark and gritty (hey, don't forget the GRIMM BROTHERS), and then keep WRITING. Prove them wrong. Fantasies can be read by people of all ages.
People read fantasy to escape from the harshness of reality, but fantasy can send you a message that might help you face the problems in the real world. Who knows?
Trust me, friends, it is an interesting genre to read, and a much more interesting to write. So what are you doing here? Get Writing. Don't worry about the judgments. Go Ahead and Write; But like I said, Do Your Research.
About the Author
Varun Prabhu is a freelance ghostwriter, article writer, editor & proofreader, and an academic writer. He writes both fiction and non-fiction. As a fiction writer, he specializes in supernatural drama, epic fantasy, historical fiction, horror, and science-fiction. Currently, he is writing an epic fantasy series and also a sword-and-sorcery fantasy trilogy, the first book of which he will release soon.
You can reach him at http://facebook.com/Varun.Prabhu.Author
The Fantasy Genre - Guest Post by Varun PrabhuEver attempted a genre in which all other genres can be accommodated? Now you ask: Which genre may that be? Hey, I tell you: It's fantasy, of course. Fantasy can have supernatural, young adult, horror, mystery, suspense; hey, even science fiction. Awesome, isn't it? Yes, but when you tell some people that you are writing fantasy (especially the non-fantasy reading population), they have the audacity to ask you why you are writing such an easy genre and what good you will get out of it? No, I am not speaking about those who are open-minded about other genres but don't read/write fantasy; I am speaking about those who view writing fantasy as writing for children, who believe it can be written with the twitch of your fingers. Of course, it can't. All fantasies are not fairy tales and don't start with Once Upon A Time.
To all those who consider fantasy writing an easy task, I can prove that you are pretty much mistaken about it. Let me tell you the truth.
Fantasy has so many sub-genres, but let's say, three major divisions stand out: Urban Fantasy, High Fantasy, and Historical Fantasy.
Urban Fantasy is what we also call Low Fantasy. Now, this is relatively easy compared to the other two because here you are using our very own Earth as the setting. However, you can pretty much do anything in it. Research is paramount. Hey, you can even research mythical creatures and put them in your low fantasy story. This is what the urban fantasy authors are doing these days. Vampires, werewolves, fairies, etc...Use whatever suits your story. It is all set in a contemporary setting, so the descriptions are less and hence, as a reader, you find them easy to read and the story moves at a good pace. Of course, that depends upon the style of the writer.
High Fantasy, now this is a solid genre. Here you create a separate new world, a new universe. That universe has your rules, your laws. This world may have magic or may not. It is up to you. You can have the same mythical creatures you might research for low fantasies, but you could give them new names. You could create new languages, new cultures, new regulations. To do all these, you require the skills of world-building and that is an entire topic in itself. Charting maps is no easy task. Rivers, climate, weather, mountains, etc, you will have to take care. What fruits grow in what climate, what vegetables grow in what regions; the author has got to take care of all this. This genre is quite descriptive and one cannot blame. Research is maximum here. You need to create a history and mythology, and use that to influence current events. Most fantasies are a derivative form of mythologies and folklore we have come across in our world. For example, “The Lord of The Rings” is based on The Norse mythology. I, as a writer, dabble in this genre, for the most part. It allows me the freedom to make and bend the rules as I will. My upcoming “War of Illusions Trilogy” and “The Glaecean Chronicles” are all high/epic fantasies.
Historical Fantasy is nowadays a well sought out genre. Don't confuse this with Historical Fiction where facts are more important. Historical Fantasy is where you create a separate world but use elements of that historical period of the earth which you are researching. For example, you create a world which resembles the cultures and rules in, say, The Victorian Era. “A Song of Ice and Fire” is a good example of a series belonging to this genre, although it is classified under Medieval Fantasy which again is another sub-genre of Historical Fantasy.
Now that we have got to know the classifications, we already see that research is important in all the sub-genres. Better the research, better your story will be. So when you sit down to write fantasy, make sure you RESEARCH well, and when you are done, WRITE. Fantasy is definitely not an easy genre to attempt, but if you have adequate focus, it is not that DIFFICULT as well. To people who judge you and call your story a FAIRY TALE, tell them that the original fairy tales are dark and gritty (hey, don't forget the GRIMM BROTHERS), and then keep WRITING. Prove them wrong. Fantasies can be read by people of all ages.
People read fantasy to escape from the harshness of reality, but fantasy can send you a message that might help you face the problems in the real world. Who knows?
Trust me, friends, it is an interesting genre to read, and a much more interesting to write. So what are you doing here? Get Writing. Don't worry about the judgments. Go Ahead and Write; But like I said, Do Your Research.
About the AuthorVarun Prabhu is a freelance ghostwriter, article writer, editor & proofreader, and an academic writer. He writes both fiction and non-fiction. As a fiction writer, he specializes in supernatural drama, epic fantasy, historical fiction, horror, and science-fiction. Currently, he is writing an epic fantasy series and also a sword-and-sorcery fantasy trilogy, the first book of which he will release soon.
You can reach him at http://facebook.com/Varun.Prabhu.Author
January 29, 2015
Featured - Perfect For Her by Kathleen Ann Gallagher
Today I have another friend of mine stopping by with her latest release. Ladies and gents, please give it up for amazing Kathleen Ann Gallagher, a true fighter and a kind soul, and her new romance novel "Perfect For Her".
Perfect For Her by Kathleen Ann Gallagher About the Book
Perfect For Her (Book 2, City Lights Series)
Energetic and motivated Angela Carnes landed her dream job in NYC, as an editor for a news show and she loves it. Her career is going much better than her love life. After a break-up with Mr. Wrong she’s determined to leave the past behind. Angela didn’t expect the best man for her friend’s wedding to be so damn hot. Dr. Eric Bradley has a body to die for, a dynamite personality, and he’s recently partnered with a medical team. What not to want?
Eric is determined to have it all. He graduated from medical school top of his class, bought and renovated a house, and landed a spot in an established family practice. It is finally the time to get back into the dating world, IF the woman he wants sticks around when she learns about his situation at home.
Angela and Eric discover the passion between them during the wedding preparations. Their attraction is hard to deny… Angela finds herself lost in Eric’s passionate embrace. But after the reception everything wilts.
Will she be able to step aside while Eric honors his family obligations or will the lonely nights and broken promises force Angela to leave behind the man she knows is…Perfect For Her?
EXCERPT
A day that started out in a frenzy had turned out to be unbelievable. Eric picked up the leather case left by the waiter and signed the bill. Angela’s stomach flipped as she anticipated the rest of the evening. She’d already been wrapped in his arms, and she imagined what it’d be like to go a step further tonight. He brought out a side of her she kept under locks with other men. His sensuality came across loud and clear. The way he moved, his intense stare, and his deep voice, aroused her in a way she hadn’t felt in a long time. Angela couldn’t stop fantasizing about running her fingers along his chest, down to his stomach, and around his muscular thighs. He made her feel sexy, and she enjoyed her erotic daydreams. It usually took her longer to be intimate with a man. She’d been shy and reserved. Maybe it was from being burned by a men in the past. There was no denying her urge to be close to Eric.
“Are you ready to leave?”
She tilted her head and nodded. Angela folded her napkin and stood. Her handsome date got up, put his arm out and reached for her hand. She loved all of the attention. It felt as if she floated on air. Eric’s strong fingers cradled hers as if it was something they did all the time, and she welcomed the gesture.
“Do you mind?” he asked.
“No, it’s nice.” His touch was gentle and she imagined how it’d feel all over her body. Hoping he didn’t read her mind, she lifted her purse over her shoulder. She’d let him be the one to make the first move and by the way things were going, she had a hunch she’d be in his arms before their date was over. The evening held the possibility of a romantic involvement with Dr. Eric Bradley and she couldn’t remember when she’d had such strong desires.
“It’s a great night to take a walk. How about it? My car is in a nearby parking lot.” He gave her hand a gentle squeeze.
“I’d like that.”
GIVEAWAY
Message from the author: I’m giving away an e-book copy of Perfect For Her . Bonus prize ~ if you haven’t read Savannah’s Journey, let me know in your comment, and I’ll add it to the giveaway. To enter follow this link to my blog and tell me your favorite place to visit in NYC. http://kathleensplacetoreflect.blogspot.com/2015/01/newsletter-giveaway.html
If you haven’t been there, tell me a place in NYC you’d love to visit if you had the chance.
Savannah's Journey by Kathleen Ann Gallagher About the Author
Although writing is my passion, nursing is my vocation. I work in an emergency room, and it's been challenging, and rewarding, to be such an integral part of so many other's daily struggles. I have a wonderful husband who always offers his support, and never complains about my crazy schedule. One of our favorite romantic getaways is Cape May, New Jersey, an old historic beach town where we take a step into the past, and enjoy life's simple pleasures. Although my children are all grown with busy lives of their own, Chaz, our Shepherd mix, still dutifully stands guard at the house. We are also blessed with three adorable grandsons.
Other interests of mine include cooking, reading, and the theater. However, spending time with my family is most important to me. Even though my life is filled with work, family, etc., my mind continues to ponder the next story or concept for a new novel.
You can find Kathleen here:
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorKathleenAnnGallagher?ref=aymt_homepage_panel
https://twitter.com/Kathleenwrites?lang=en
http://kathleensplacetoreflect.blogspot.com/?zx=a72fe800f947f4d2
http://kathleenanngallagher.weebly.com/
https://plus.google.com/u/0/117606070036565136137/posts
Perfect For Her by Kathleen Ann Gallagher About the BookPerfect For Her (Book 2, City Lights Series)
Energetic and motivated Angela Carnes landed her dream job in NYC, as an editor for a news show and she loves it. Her career is going much better than her love life. After a break-up with Mr. Wrong she’s determined to leave the past behind. Angela didn’t expect the best man for her friend’s wedding to be so damn hot. Dr. Eric Bradley has a body to die for, a dynamite personality, and he’s recently partnered with a medical team. What not to want?
Eric is determined to have it all. He graduated from medical school top of his class, bought and renovated a house, and landed a spot in an established family practice. It is finally the time to get back into the dating world, IF the woman he wants sticks around when she learns about his situation at home.
Angela and Eric discover the passion between them during the wedding preparations. Their attraction is hard to deny… Angela finds herself lost in Eric’s passionate embrace. But after the reception everything wilts.
Will she be able to step aside while Eric honors his family obligations or will the lonely nights and broken promises force Angela to leave behind the man she knows is…Perfect For Her?
EXCERPT
A day that started out in a frenzy had turned out to be unbelievable. Eric picked up the leather case left by the waiter and signed the bill. Angela’s stomach flipped as she anticipated the rest of the evening. She’d already been wrapped in his arms, and she imagined what it’d be like to go a step further tonight. He brought out a side of her she kept under locks with other men. His sensuality came across loud and clear. The way he moved, his intense stare, and his deep voice, aroused her in a way she hadn’t felt in a long time. Angela couldn’t stop fantasizing about running her fingers along his chest, down to his stomach, and around his muscular thighs. He made her feel sexy, and she enjoyed her erotic daydreams. It usually took her longer to be intimate with a man. She’d been shy and reserved. Maybe it was from being burned by a men in the past. There was no denying her urge to be close to Eric.
“Are you ready to leave?”
She tilted her head and nodded. Angela folded her napkin and stood. Her handsome date got up, put his arm out and reached for her hand. She loved all of the attention. It felt as if she floated on air. Eric’s strong fingers cradled hers as if it was something they did all the time, and she welcomed the gesture.
“Do you mind?” he asked.
“No, it’s nice.” His touch was gentle and she imagined how it’d feel all over her body. Hoping he didn’t read her mind, she lifted her purse over her shoulder. She’d let him be the one to make the first move and by the way things were going, she had a hunch she’d be in his arms before their date was over. The evening held the possibility of a romantic involvement with Dr. Eric Bradley and she couldn’t remember when she’d had such strong desires.
“It’s a great night to take a walk. How about it? My car is in a nearby parking lot.” He gave her hand a gentle squeeze.
“I’d like that.”
GIVEAWAY
Message from the author: I’m giving away an e-book copy of Perfect For Her . Bonus prize ~ if you haven’t read Savannah’s Journey, let me know in your comment, and I’ll add it to the giveaway. To enter follow this link to my blog and tell me your favorite place to visit in NYC. http://kathleensplacetoreflect.blogspot.com/2015/01/newsletter-giveaway.html
If you haven’t been there, tell me a place in NYC you’d love to visit if you had the chance.
Savannah's Journey by Kathleen Ann Gallagher About the AuthorAlthough writing is my passion, nursing is my vocation. I work in an emergency room, and it's been challenging, and rewarding, to be such an integral part of so many other's daily struggles. I have a wonderful husband who always offers his support, and never complains about my crazy schedule. One of our favorite romantic getaways is Cape May, New Jersey, an old historic beach town where we take a step into the past, and enjoy life's simple pleasures. Although my children are all grown with busy lives of their own, Chaz, our Shepherd mix, still dutifully stands guard at the house. We are also blessed with three adorable grandsons.
Other interests of mine include cooking, reading, and the theater. However, spending time with my family is most important to me. Even though my life is filled with work, family, etc., my mind continues to ponder the next story or concept for a new novel.
You can find Kathleen here:
https://www.facebook.com/AuthorKathleenAnnGallagher?ref=aymt_homepage_panel
https://twitter.com/Kathleenwrites?lang=en
http://kathleensplacetoreflect.blogspot.com/?zx=a72fe800f947f4d2
http://kathleenanngallagher.weebly.com/
https://plus.google.com/u/0/117606070036565136137/posts
January 28, 2015
Author Interview - 10 Questions with Kia Carrington-Russell
It's been a looooong time since I last got to bug an author friend with questions. So I'm really happy I have Kia Carrington-Russel visit my blog all the way from Australia. A round of applause please, because she'll also reveal more about her latest release! :-)
Kia Carrington-Russell Interview with Kia Carrington-Russell
Author Interview – Kia Carrington-Russell
1) What do you like most about being an author? What least?
I love all the amazing people I have met, truly my books have allowed me to connect with so many different people from all over the world. My books have so far given me a lot of opportunity and personal growth by approaching talks and things that I would have never thought of doing a year ago. I love being able to write my different worlds now, in fact it is soothing for me and I miss it after a few days of not having the time to do so.
The thing I probably dislike about it most as times can be how much needs to be done for it. As a self-publisher and CEO of my own self-publishing services, and another two websites it can at times be tiring. Self-inflicted of course as I enjoy them, but the workload can at times be tiring.
2) As your latest book is titled “My Escort”, tell me which famous celebrity you’d like to have as your escort.
Ooh, that is a difficult one, funnily enough I was only talking about this a few days ago and I actually have no real man idol or celebrity that I really fan girl over. In fact I have been making a lame joke lately. My partner of four years name is Scott. So I call the title of my book “My Es’Scott” instead. It is so lame but makes me laugh a little. He just rolls his eyes.
3) What made you decide to write a series for “The Three Immortal Blades”, and was there any challenge in it?
Writing the Three Immortal Blades was my greatest challenge in all my books. This was my first series, and I started writing it very young. Possession Of My Soul was also the first time I went through the process of self-publishing and hurdled over many obstacles, and I mean a lot. Sometimes I look back at all I had learnt with appreciation, but don’t know if I would have the gusto to start the ball rolling all over again. But I am so glad I did.
4) One morning, you wake up, look into the mirror and find out you have blue skin and a third eye. Your reaction?
Well I am very airy fairy, so I would have more than one reaction. I think it would go in this order. 1. What the *f**k (mind my swearing, but its realistic haha) 2. How does that song go, I’m blue, but if I were green I would die. Thank you Scooter for looking out for me on that one. 3. This third eye wants to be able to foresee or give me some kind of super ability. 4. Maybe cry for a little, when I realize the eye doesn’t actually do anything.
5) Is there a question you have always hoped somebody would ask you? (Feel free to answer it, too.)
None that I can really think of, I answer a lot of questions and am really an open book. So there isn’t one specific answer I would want to share with people. My favorite previous question from a book blog however was: Which movie or book best resembled who I was or my life. I couldn’t help but laugh as I have been often told, I remind people of Bridget Jones. Just because I am very clumsy, airy fairy and always say the wrong thing at the wrong time.
6) To you, what would be the biggest advantage of being immortal (besides not dying, of course)?
Okay one, this is going to sound really pathetic, but I am sure every other author in the world would understand. When writing and you have more than one series in mind, my first drama is “Oh my goodness, I will never write these in time before I die.” (Or maybe that’s just me.) So being immortal would take that away. I think I would enjoy just living, seeing places around the world. Not feeling stressed and pressed for time. I think I would find it to be a fair more leisurely life, as humans we only have so many years to live, we fret of what we accomplish during that time.
7) As you write from Australia, can you summarize your country for us in 5 words?
Weather. Alcohol. BBQ. Animals. Family.
8) Do you have any writing rituals?
I do slightly. Since parting ways with my full time job, I now have a lot more time to better organize and schedule my weekly tasks and writing. When I wake up first thing in the morning, I grab a coffee and do about one to two hours of marketing, social networking etc. On very productive feeling days I try to write 10,000 words, or on not so productive words only one chapter. However I always have a candle lit when I write, and my animals (2 cats and a cavoodle) usually have nap time with me when I write in my office. Sometimes I write on my bed if I am feeling very lazy, only because it is comfy. And when I feel like I am being easily distracted I write on my couch on my outside patio.
9) If you could have a superpower, what would you choose?
All I can say is as a bit of a nerd and a fantasy writer, I have had many serious discussions about this with my best friend, what can I say I am a nerd, hehe. Probably the ability to control ice/ water. Only because I think you could use it in both defense and offence. Hey, I said I was a fantasy author, of course I would be a fighter if I had a superpower.
10) Please tell us more about your latest book(s) and plans for the future.
Currently I am working on my first vampire book, Token Huntress. In fact I only just sent my manuscript to the editor today, so you can expect to be seeing that March. This year I will be finishing my Three Immortal Blades series, Phantom Wolf series, and my first contemporary series, where book one has only recently been released, My Escort. I also plan on releasing my first erotica series. I have many more Young Adult/ fantasy/ erotica series in mind for the following years. Last I checked I had a minimal of thirty books in mind to write. So I will go as quickly as my little fingers can type. I plan on spending a lot of time this year on my companies Crystal Publishing, which is self-publishing services helping authors, and Crystal Book Promoters helping authors with the reviewing and promoting side of things. I also hope to reach more readers and of course grow simply as an author. I honestly couldn’t ask for a better career. I love writing and sharing my stories and adventures with my readers. Thank you everyone.
About the Book
Blurb
Clover is personal assistant to Debra Coorman, the merciless boss of Candice fashion magazine. The bright lights of New York are dim for Clover, who is tormented by a work schedule like no other. Debra is relentless in her determination to demean Clover.
For once, Clover dares to play Debra’s games, and intends to prove her wrong at the next glittering event. With mixed emotions, Clover contacts a male escort, Damon. If his velvet voice over the phone is anything to go by, Clover knows her money will be well spent.
But when Damon appears at her door, something unexpected happens. The taunts and the games begin. Who is truly going to win at this game?
Excerpt
This was, of course, business, pure and simple, yet my heart still raced in excitement. I threw my red lipstick and apartment keys into my black sparkly clutch. I saved my work on my laptop and then patted Pudding’s head before racing for the door. I opened it in a hurry, catching my clutch on the door. Immediately I picked it up before taking in the man in front of me.
I kept my lips tight, so my mouth would not open. I suppressed the urge to say anything at all in case I mumbled some incomprehensible nonsense. I stood there for a moment, dumfounded by his attractiveness. It wasn’t just his looks. He had an undeniable presence. Confidence emanated from him.
“Clover, I assume?”
The man was nicely dressed in a black dinner suit with a crisp white shirt underneath. One hand was in his pocket, which just pulled his jacket from his body enough for me to get a glimpse of the body behind the smart shirt. My eyes lingered on the belt at his waist.
He handed me a red rose and I looked up into dark brown eyes. He had a slight tan, but not conspicuously so. Trimmed facial hair framed a striking face. He looked only a few years older than me, but younger than what his deep voice would suggest. His brown hair was nicely slicked back, just touching his collar. Even his jaw was perfectly chiseled and strong. And, he smelled good.
Purchase Links
Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Goodreads
About the Author
Author Bio
Kia was born in a small town in Australia, moving around a lot at a young age until finding a stable town where she finished her schooling. Kia found herself enjoying and expressing herself through poetry, short stories and writing, photography, painting and drawing. All these mediums help Kia express the different world that she is so fond of.
In ‘Senior Art’ Kia focused on feminism and female empowerment; exposing through her work issues and concerns that many people would rather just “sweep under the rug”.
In one art installation, Kia made a bed out of Pokémon cards- the concept being that when she slept a new world would come to life and it was the only one she saw and constantly lived in.
Kia now focuses on her photography, writing and self-help blogs on her website: ‘Precious Living’.
Kia is now keenly working on “The Three Immortal Blades” series knowing that this book has to be shared with the world and that is what she aims to do now.
Kia writes in her Australian home, trying to focus at times on simply what is running through her head, as her cats either terrorize her legs as scratching posts or her puppy barks in her ear for play-time. And as she continues her series, they grow with her book.
Kia is strongly supported by her friends and family and thanks them dearly for being with her along the bumpy road and nothing would please her more than having your support as well.
Links
Facebook- www.facebook.com/thethreeimmortalblades
Website- www.thethreeimmortalblades.com
Twitter- www.twitter.com/kia_crystal
Goodreads- www.goodreads.com/kia_crystal
Amazon- http://www.amazon.com/Kia-Carrington-Russell/e/B00M6OBWA0/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1421034230&sr=8-1
Youtube- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ-_AUZp7Plq_IQpaM3297A
Tsu- https://www.tsu.co/kia_crystal
Linkedin- https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=316242933&trk=nav_responsive_tab_profile
Google+- https://plus.google.com/u/0/106719942626359414539/posts
Other Links
Crystal Book Promoters:
Website- www.crystalbooktours.com.au
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/crystalbookpromoters?ref=hl
Twitter- https://twitter.com/Crystal_Books
Crystal Publishing:
Website- www.crystalpublising.com.au
Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/pages/Crystal-Publishing/553173784817994?ref=hl
Twitter- https://twitter.com/Crystal_Publish
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Precious Living:
Website- www.preciousliving.com.au
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Twitter- https://twitter.com/Precious_Living
Kia Carrington-Russell Interview with Kia Carrington-RussellAuthor Interview – Kia Carrington-Russell
1) What do you like most about being an author? What least?
I love all the amazing people I have met, truly my books have allowed me to connect with so many different people from all over the world. My books have so far given me a lot of opportunity and personal growth by approaching talks and things that I would have never thought of doing a year ago. I love being able to write my different worlds now, in fact it is soothing for me and I miss it after a few days of not having the time to do so.
The thing I probably dislike about it most as times can be how much needs to be done for it. As a self-publisher and CEO of my own self-publishing services, and another two websites it can at times be tiring. Self-inflicted of course as I enjoy them, but the workload can at times be tiring.
2) As your latest book is titled “My Escort”, tell me which famous celebrity you’d like to have as your escort.
Ooh, that is a difficult one, funnily enough I was only talking about this a few days ago and I actually have no real man idol or celebrity that I really fan girl over. In fact I have been making a lame joke lately. My partner of four years name is Scott. So I call the title of my book “My Es’Scott” instead. It is so lame but makes me laugh a little. He just rolls his eyes.
3) What made you decide to write a series for “The Three Immortal Blades”, and was there any challenge in it?
Writing the Three Immortal Blades was my greatest challenge in all my books. This was my first series, and I started writing it very young. Possession Of My Soul was also the first time I went through the process of self-publishing and hurdled over many obstacles, and I mean a lot. Sometimes I look back at all I had learnt with appreciation, but don’t know if I would have the gusto to start the ball rolling all over again. But I am so glad I did.
4) One morning, you wake up, look into the mirror and find out you have blue skin and a third eye. Your reaction?
Well I am very airy fairy, so I would have more than one reaction. I think it would go in this order. 1. What the *f**k (mind my swearing, but its realistic haha) 2. How does that song go, I’m blue, but if I were green I would die. Thank you Scooter for looking out for me on that one. 3. This third eye wants to be able to foresee or give me some kind of super ability. 4. Maybe cry for a little, when I realize the eye doesn’t actually do anything.
5) Is there a question you have always hoped somebody would ask you? (Feel free to answer it, too.)
None that I can really think of, I answer a lot of questions and am really an open book. So there isn’t one specific answer I would want to share with people. My favorite previous question from a book blog however was: Which movie or book best resembled who I was or my life. I couldn’t help but laugh as I have been often told, I remind people of Bridget Jones. Just because I am very clumsy, airy fairy and always say the wrong thing at the wrong time.
6) To you, what would be the biggest advantage of being immortal (besides not dying, of course)?
Okay one, this is going to sound really pathetic, but I am sure every other author in the world would understand. When writing and you have more than one series in mind, my first drama is “Oh my goodness, I will never write these in time before I die.” (Or maybe that’s just me.) So being immortal would take that away. I think I would enjoy just living, seeing places around the world. Not feeling stressed and pressed for time. I think I would find it to be a fair more leisurely life, as humans we only have so many years to live, we fret of what we accomplish during that time.
7) As you write from Australia, can you summarize your country for us in 5 words?
Weather. Alcohol. BBQ. Animals. Family.
8) Do you have any writing rituals?
I do slightly. Since parting ways with my full time job, I now have a lot more time to better organize and schedule my weekly tasks and writing. When I wake up first thing in the morning, I grab a coffee and do about one to two hours of marketing, social networking etc. On very productive feeling days I try to write 10,000 words, or on not so productive words only one chapter. However I always have a candle lit when I write, and my animals (2 cats and a cavoodle) usually have nap time with me when I write in my office. Sometimes I write on my bed if I am feeling very lazy, only because it is comfy. And when I feel like I am being easily distracted I write on my couch on my outside patio.
9) If you could have a superpower, what would you choose?
All I can say is as a bit of a nerd and a fantasy writer, I have had many serious discussions about this with my best friend, what can I say I am a nerd, hehe. Probably the ability to control ice/ water. Only because I think you could use it in both defense and offence. Hey, I said I was a fantasy author, of course I would be a fighter if I had a superpower.
10) Please tell us more about your latest book(s) and plans for the future.
Currently I am working on my first vampire book, Token Huntress. In fact I only just sent my manuscript to the editor today, so you can expect to be seeing that March. This year I will be finishing my Three Immortal Blades series, Phantom Wolf series, and my first contemporary series, where book one has only recently been released, My Escort. I also plan on releasing my first erotica series. I have many more Young Adult/ fantasy/ erotica series in mind for the following years. Last I checked I had a minimal of thirty books in mind to write. So I will go as quickly as my little fingers can type. I plan on spending a lot of time this year on my companies Crystal Publishing, which is self-publishing services helping authors, and Crystal Book Promoters helping authors with the reviewing and promoting side of things. I also hope to reach more readers and of course grow simply as an author. I honestly couldn’t ask for a better career. I love writing and sharing my stories and adventures with my readers. Thank you everyone.
About the BookBlurb
Clover is personal assistant to Debra Coorman, the merciless boss of Candice fashion magazine. The bright lights of New York are dim for Clover, who is tormented by a work schedule like no other. Debra is relentless in her determination to demean Clover.
For once, Clover dares to play Debra’s games, and intends to prove her wrong at the next glittering event. With mixed emotions, Clover contacts a male escort, Damon. If his velvet voice over the phone is anything to go by, Clover knows her money will be well spent.
But when Damon appears at her door, something unexpected happens. The taunts and the games begin. Who is truly going to win at this game?
Excerpt
This was, of course, business, pure and simple, yet my heart still raced in excitement. I threw my red lipstick and apartment keys into my black sparkly clutch. I saved my work on my laptop and then patted Pudding’s head before racing for the door. I opened it in a hurry, catching my clutch on the door. Immediately I picked it up before taking in the man in front of me.
I kept my lips tight, so my mouth would not open. I suppressed the urge to say anything at all in case I mumbled some incomprehensible nonsense. I stood there for a moment, dumfounded by his attractiveness. It wasn’t just his looks. He had an undeniable presence. Confidence emanated from him.
“Clover, I assume?”
The man was nicely dressed in a black dinner suit with a crisp white shirt underneath. One hand was in his pocket, which just pulled his jacket from his body enough for me to get a glimpse of the body behind the smart shirt. My eyes lingered on the belt at his waist.
He handed me a red rose and I looked up into dark brown eyes. He had a slight tan, but not conspicuously so. Trimmed facial hair framed a striking face. He looked only a few years older than me, but younger than what his deep voice would suggest. His brown hair was nicely slicked back, just touching his collar. Even his jaw was perfectly chiseled and strong. And, he smelled good.
Purchase Links
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About the Author
Author Bio
Kia was born in a small town in Australia, moving around a lot at a young age until finding a stable town where she finished her schooling. Kia found herself enjoying and expressing herself through poetry, short stories and writing, photography, painting and drawing. All these mediums help Kia express the different world that she is so fond of.
In ‘Senior Art’ Kia focused on feminism and female empowerment; exposing through her work issues and concerns that many people would rather just “sweep under the rug”.
In one art installation, Kia made a bed out of Pokémon cards- the concept being that when she slept a new world would come to life and it was the only one she saw and constantly lived in.
Kia now focuses on her photography, writing and self-help blogs on her website: ‘Precious Living’.
Kia is now keenly working on “The Three Immortal Blades” series knowing that this book has to be shared with the world and that is what she aims to do now.
Kia writes in her Australian home, trying to focus at times on simply what is running through her head, as her cats either terrorize her legs as scratching posts or her puppy barks in her ear for play-time. And as she continues her series, they grow with her book.
Kia is strongly supported by her friends and family and thanks them dearly for being with her along the bumpy road and nothing would please her more than having your support as well.
Links
Facebook- www.facebook.com/thethreeimmortalblades
Website- www.thethreeimmortalblades.com
Twitter- www.twitter.com/kia_crystal
Goodreads- www.goodreads.com/kia_crystal
Amazon- http://www.amazon.com/Kia-Carrington-Russell/e/B00M6OBWA0/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_1?qid=1421034230&sr=8-1
Youtube- https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ-_AUZp7Plq_IQpaM3297A
Tsu- https://www.tsu.co/kia_crystal
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Other Links
Crystal Book Promoters:
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Precious Living:
Website- www.preciousliving.com.au
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Twitter- https://twitter.com/Precious_Living
January 23, 2015
Book Club Cover Reveal - Kaleidoscope by Rachna Gupta
Cover Reveal
Kaleidoscope “Every beating heart will confess that once,
at least 'once in their lifetime they were in love.”
by Rachna Gupta
Blurb
The collection of poems in this book talks about an emotion so strong that it has the potential to create and destroy! Love in all its capacity has that aura around it; it needs to be felt and when it resides in your soul you find it giving rise to feelings never experienced before. There is passion and tenderness when being together, estrangement and pain when two souls are apart and then there is joy and relief when bound together again. The 37 poems in this book talk about this amazing feeling called love!
About Rachna Gupta
Rachna is an educationist, content writer, book reviewer and blogger. Being a thinker, her mind is always brimming with ideas that are transformed into poems, prose, quotations and stories. She chooses to use writing to speak about things that matter to her. Her poems are made up of simple yet meaningful words. When she is not writing, working with an NGO or busy with her chores, she is lost in the imaginary world created by other authors! Her first book of poems and prose titled Myriad Hues, was published in March 2014. You can find out more about her from her website - www.rachnagupta.in You can also connect with her on Twitter - @GuptaRach
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Book Club Blog Tour - Angelic Beats by Sarita Singh (Spotlight)
Angelic Beats By Sarita Singh
The Blurb
Buy @
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Meet the Author
The author, Sarita Singh, is a post-graduate in chemistry with a post-graduate diploma in mass communications. Born and brought up in Panipat, Haryana, she has been married to a doctor and is blessed with a son. The author is a state civil services (allied) officer, who has also taught in various institutions earlier. Reading and writing have always been a part of Sarita Singh who used to write her diary from a very young age. Like many others, she too loves gossiping and enjoying with friends and family as she loves spending time with them. The author believes in a few optimistic thoughts: “I am alright, I am happy where I am now, but I wish to be somewhere else. And I will try for it.”
You can stalk her @
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January 21, 2015
Featured - Guest Post by Usha Narayanan
I love reading Indian author Usha Narayanan's quirky and insightful guest posts that are always a perfect mix of information and entertainment. So I'm really happy that my friend has stopped by my blog today. Read what she has to say about one of the greatest actors ever, Amitabh Bachchan.
Bollywood Actor Amitabh Bachchan Guest Post by Usha Narayanan
THE MAN. THE MAGIC. THE MESSAGE.
I have not seen his movies a hundred times. I cannot recite dialogues from ‘Sholay’ or ‘Deewar’. I do not watch his shows regularly. I do not follow him on social media. I do not send him fan mail.
I am just one of the billions of people in India and abroad who admires the man behind the public persona, beyond the fireworks and the arc lights.
Amitabh Bachchan. Over 200 movies. Countless awards. Honours abroad. The first Asian to feature in London’s Madame Tussauds. 12.6M Twitter followers. 37.7K tweets. 18.8M Likes on Facebook…
What is the magic he exudes that has made him highly relevant at the age of 72, when people half his age are fighting to make a mark? What is it we can learn from him in order to make our lives more meaningful?
Here are some factors that I think have contributed to making him who he is:
A yen for challenges
He gave 12 consecutive flops before he had his first big hit Zanjeer. His business left him with colossal losses from which he freed himself, debt by debt. The fighting spirit remains today as he tries out new media, new movies helmed by fresh minds, and masters new skills like singing a complete song in his latest…’Shamitabh’.
Humility
His first salary was Rs 500. He was rejected by All India Radio which found his voice unsuitable. He still remembers the bench on Marine Drive where he slept nights during his struggling days. Now he earns in crores. He sings for Maestro Ilayaraja. But he remains punctilious in keeping his commitments, never throwing his weight around. He is always polite and dignified. If this were a mask, it could not have been sustained over so many years. Hence, this could only be his true character.
Reinventing himself
Where do stars go when they cross 50? For female stars the countdown starts at an even earlier age. But Amitabh reinvented himself, experimenting with roles, hairstyles, perceptions, even storming the TV medium at a time when movie stars regarded it as being infra dig.
Passion for life
Amitabh Bachchan acts, dances, writes poetry, tweets, blogs, hosts TV shows, promotes India, and serves as brand ambassador for premium products. His exuberant spirit brought him back to life after his near-fatal injury on the sets of ‘Coolie’.
The man is a legend. A powerhouse of talent. An inspiration. He lives in today, as we should too.
Let tomorrow take care of itself.
Indian Author Usha Narayanan About the Author
Usha Narayanan’s suspense thriller, ‘The Madras Mangler’ (Leadstart) was acclaimed by media reviewers as ‘a celluloid potboiler in print’ that is ‘as addictive as caramel popcorn’. She has two books releasing in 2015: a rom-com with Harlequin and a fantasy with Penguin. Usha has worked as creative director, corporate communications manager, web editor and green volunteer. She is a gold-medalist with a Master’s degree in English Literature, and has a diploma in creative writing from the University of Hawaii.
Website: http://www.ushanarayanan.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/writerusha
Twitter: https://twitter.com/writerusha
Buy Links: Amazon / Flipkart / Infibeam
Bollywood Actor Amitabh Bachchan Guest Post by Usha NarayananTHE MAN. THE MAGIC. THE MESSAGE.
I have not seen his movies a hundred times. I cannot recite dialogues from ‘Sholay’ or ‘Deewar’. I do not watch his shows regularly. I do not follow him on social media. I do not send him fan mail.
I am just one of the billions of people in India and abroad who admires the man behind the public persona, beyond the fireworks and the arc lights.
Amitabh Bachchan. Over 200 movies. Countless awards. Honours abroad. The first Asian to feature in London’s Madame Tussauds. 12.6M Twitter followers. 37.7K tweets. 18.8M Likes on Facebook…
What is the magic he exudes that has made him highly relevant at the age of 72, when people half his age are fighting to make a mark? What is it we can learn from him in order to make our lives more meaningful?
Here are some factors that I think have contributed to making him who he is:
A yen for challenges
He gave 12 consecutive flops before he had his first big hit Zanjeer. His business left him with colossal losses from which he freed himself, debt by debt. The fighting spirit remains today as he tries out new media, new movies helmed by fresh minds, and masters new skills like singing a complete song in his latest…’Shamitabh’.
Humility
His first salary was Rs 500. He was rejected by All India Radio which found his voice unsuitable. He still remembers the bench on Marine Drive where he slept nights during his struggling days. Now he earns in crores. He sings for Maestro Ilayaraja. But he remains punctilious in keeping his commitments, never throwing his weight around. He is always polite and dignified. If this were a mask, it could not have been sustained over so many years. Hence, this could only be his true character.
Reinventing himself
Where do stars go when they cross 50? For female stars the countdown starts at an even earlier age. But Amitabh reinvented himself, experimenting with roles, hairstyles, perceptions, even storming the TV medium at a time when movie stars regarded it as being infra dig.
Passion for life
Amitabh Bachchan acts, dances, writes poetry, tweets, blogs, hosts TV shows, promotes India, and serves as brand ambassador for premium products. His exuberant spirit brought him back to life after his near-fatal injury on the sets of ‘Coolie’.
The man is a legend. A powerhouse of talent. An inspiration. He lives in today, as we should too.
Let tomorrow take care of itself.
Indian Author Usha Narayanan About the AuthorUsha Narayanan’s suspense thriller, ‘The Madras Mangler’ (Leadstart) was acclaimed by media reviewers as ‘a celluloid potboiler in print’ that is ‘as addictive as caramel popcorn’. She has two books releasing in 2015: a rom-com with Harlequin and a fantasy with Penguin. Usha has worked as creative director, corporate communications manager, web editor and green volunteer. She is a gold-medalist with a Master’s degree in English Literature, and has a diploma in creative writing from the University of Hawaii.
Website: http://www.ushanarayanan.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/writerusha
Twitter: https://twitter.com/writerusha
Buy Links: Amazon / Flipkart / Infibeam
Book Club Tour - Spotlight of Canvas of Dreams by Jaya Siva Murty
Writers are painters. Wait, what? Yes, we are! A good story can mesmerize someone as much as a great painting. Books speak to all senses, and they are a form of art sharing many similarities with paintings.
We can bring a setting alive with descriptive words so that the readers feel as if they’re looking at a painted landscape scene. We can characterize a protagonist so vividly that the readers feel as if they’re staring at a painted portrait in front of them. We can capture the moment and the atmosphere in a way that makes the readers feel they’re studying a candid snapshot.
Like a painter, a writer will start by choosing his or her preferred tools and paints (his genre, language style and technical way of writing). He or she will start with a plot outline that is like an artist’s rough pencil sketch. The bigger picture comes first, forming the skeleton of the painting or story that is then fleshed out step by step. Details and highlights are added in later. Last comes the frame, in our case tagline, burb and synopsis.
As a romance writer, what do I "paint"? A picture of love, of course!
Painting the emotion of LOVE with your words is such fun. You can show all the myriad facets of it, from blissful first love that is all shades of rosy red and pink and tinges everything with happiness, to the dark and desperate tones of unreciprocated or rejected love. You have to know just which words to use to give love a nuance of passion or power, of doubt or hope, of tragedy or infatuation or innocence. Like a painter, we romance writers shine a light on life and love, make every single piece unique and personal, with a specific audience in mind. The story is the canvas, and we decide whether to use bold brush strokes that are visible from afar and shout out our message, or whether to paint subtly with a hidden depth that is revealed only when someone steps closer and digs deeper. We can choose a classic style or create our own style.
Canvas Of Dreams by Jaya Siva Murty
The Blurb Riya seems to have lost everything—the man she loves to another woman, her husband to death and her soul to fear.An unexpected meeting with her first love, Ryan, stirs up long repressed feelings but also allows her to move out of the long shadow of the past. Unburdened, she feels free to pursue her dream of opening an art gallery and the handsome and intriguing artist Rehaan. But memories of her marriage refuse to fade away and then suddenly, Ryan shows up in her life again. Now, Riya must find the courage to reconcile her past and present.For Riya, life is a canvas of dreams. Can she distinguish between reality and fantasy? Buy @
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Watch It
Canvas of Dreams
Meet the Author
Jaya Siva Murty is a business writer and social media manager from Visakhapatnam, India. Fascinated with the written word since the age of ten, she would file away her poems and short stories in a secret diary, till some were finally published by ‘Times of India’ and ‘Savvy’. She has written for the Economic Times and now provides India-relevant stories for a Hong Kong based magazine. When she’s not designing content for websites, or writing technical blogs and articles for clients worldwide, she spins yarns with unusual twists and turns through her works of fiction.
Jaya holds a business management degree and has taken creativity lessons at Stanford University. ‘Canvas of Dreams’ is her debut foray into novella writing.
You can stalk her @
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We can bring a setting alive with descriptive words so that the readers feel as if they’re looking at a painted landscape scene. We can characterize a protagonist so vividly that the readers feel as if they’re staring at a painted portrait in front of them. We can capture the moment and the atmosphere in a way that makes the readers feel they’re studying a candid snapshot.
Like a painter, a writer will start by choosing his or her preferred tools and paints (his genre, language style and technical way of writing). He or she will start with a plot outline that is like an artist’s rough pencil sketch. The bigger picture comes first, forming the skeleton of the painting or story that is then fleshed out step by step. Details and highlights are added in later. Last comes the frame, in our case tagline, burb and synopsis.
As a romance writer, what do I "paint"? A picture of love, of course!
Painting the emotion of LOVE with your words is such fun. You can show all the myriad facets of it, from blissful first love that is all shades of rosy red and pink and tinges everything with happiness, to the dark and desperate tones of unreciprocated or rejected love. You have to know just which words to use to give love a nuance of passion or power, of doubt or hope, of tragedy or infatuation or innocence. Like a painter, we romance writers shine a light on life and love, make every single piece unique and personal, with a specific audience in mind. The story is the canvas, and we decide whether to use bold brush strokes that are visible from afar and shout out our message, or whether to paint subtly with a hidden depth that is revealed only when someone steps closer and digs deeper. We can choose a classic style or create our own style.
Canvas Of Dreams by Jaya Siva Murty
The Blurb Riya seems to have lost everything—the man she loves to another woman, her husband to death and her soul to fear.An unexpected meeting with her first love, Ryan, stirs up long repressed feelings but also allows her to move out of the long shadow of the past. Unburdened, she feels free to pursue her dream of opening an art gallery and the handsome and intriguing artist Rehaan. But memories of her marriage refuse to fade away and then suddenly, Ryan shows up in her life again. Now, Riya must find the courage to reconcile her past and present.For Riya, life is a canvas of dreams. Can she distinguish between reality and fantasy? Buy @
Amazon.com| Amazon.in | Indireads |
Watch It
Canvas of Dreams
Meet the Author
Jaya Siva Murty is a business writer and social media manager from Visakhapatnam, India. Fascinated with the written word since the age of ten, she would file away her poems and short stories in a secret diary, till some were finally published by ‘Times of India’ and ‘Savvy’. She has written for the Economic Times and now provides India-relevant stories for a Hong Kong based magazine. When she’s not designing content for websites, or writing technical blogs and articles for clients worldwide, she spins yarns with unusual twists and turns through her works of fiction.
Jaya holds a business management degree and has taken creativity lessons at Stanford University. ‘Canvas of Dreams’ is her debut foray into novella writing.
You can stalk her @
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This Tour is Hosted by
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Featured - Release Blast for Time Out, Valentine by Melinda Dozier
Time Out, Valentine by Melinda Dozier Genre: Contemporary Romance Release Date: January 21, 2015
Lexi’s life is one big dump. Or so she thinks. To keep her mind off her latest breakup, she stays busy with work. It’s no big deal, since writing for Time Out Portland Magazine is a blast…except for the one small snag – Grant Reeds.
Grant, a shy but sexy computer geek, is new to Time Out, working as the Networking Director for the online magazine. Even though Lexi thinks he doesn't notice her, he sure as hell does. The owners have a plan for their upcoming Valentine’s Special, pairing up the two to explore romantic date ideas around the city.
Soon, Lexi and Grant learn that the old adage, “Opposites Attract,” can ring true.
Grant sipped his beer and surveyed the room around them—anywhere but at the siren next to him, with her fancy drink, an umbrella hanging off the side. Overhead lights strobed the room, gleaming in all directions. The DJ announced a new song and a new crowd rushed to the dance floor, leaving them more alone in the back of the room. Thank God.
It was stifling hot. He tugged his collar from his neck and rolled the sleeves of his white button-up. His glasses slid down his nose, forcing him to take them off and put them in his shirt pocket.
Luckily in that part of the room, the music wasn't so loud that they had to scream to converse. He only raised his voice a fraction to ask her the question he’d been wondering since they set foot in the place. “So, you think this is romantic enough for a Valentine's date?"
She batted her long lashes in his direction and smirked. “There’s low lights.”
“Yeah and loud music, people all around.” To help prove his point, someone bumped him in the back, pushing him closer to Lexi. His hand circled her waist and rested on her hip.
She sipped the drink, moving the umbrella with her other hand, then licked her lips. “It’s the place to be. All trendy couples find their way here.” She cocked her head. “What would make it more romantic? Kissing?”
A slow smile formed and he faced her. Not a bad idea. “Actually, yeah.” He placed his bottle on the table behind them, cracked his knuckles and stretched his neck.
She laughed nervously, putting her weight on another sexy as hell foot. “What? You’re gonna kiss me? For real?”
“We need romance.” He grabbed her cup and put it next to his bottle. His gaze dropped to her mouth.
“You kissing me won’t—”
He placed his thumb on her lips. “Shhh. Stop talking so we can be romantic.”
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Melinda is a multi-published contemporary romance author with books from Crimson Romance, Swoon Romance and The Wild Rose Press and she’s represented by Dawn Dowdle of Blue Ridge Literary Agency. She lives in Guatemala, Central America with her husband/college sweetheart who brings "mucho amor" to her life. Melinda enjoys being the queen of her household and dreams of being pampered fully by her three boys once they are grown. Melinda's guilty pleasures include reality t.v., traveling, blogging and playing Zynga games.
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Featured - Rekindled Desires by Debbie Macarter
Rekindled Desires Description
Genre: Contemporary Romance On Sale: February 07, 2015 Description On her best friend’s wedding night, Becca Lawson becomes distressed when she runs into the man who once held her heart and shattered it completely. One night of intense emotions and daring confessions is all it takes to rekindle long-lost emotions. Fearing another heartbreak, Becca shuts herself off completely, denying herself a chance at true love. On the surface, it seems Austin Blackstone has it all. He’s rich, young and strikingly good-looking; but deep down, his heart aches for the unforgettable girl who slipped through his fingers. When a serendipitous encounter places them together on a tropical paradise, all of his deepest and darkest secrets secrets threaten to spill over. He’s willing to forsake everything he has built to finally get what he truly desires. Rekindled Desires is a touching love story of second chances and new beginnings. Can two vastly different people forget their rules and take a chance at love? Fans of Deborah Bladon are sure to love this sweet tale set on a beautiful, Caribbean island. Book Excerpt How long had he denied himself the simple pleasure of being with a woman? Months? A year? That was insane. He was making himself a promise to end this celibacy as soon as he got out of this old-fashioned formality. The easy catch would be, of course, the bridesmaid. They were always ready for a little adventure, weren’t they? But this was out of the question. He must be content, polite, and utterly boring today. But something inside of him just could not stop remembering the voice of that woman he was watching earlier, standing in the middle of this tropical garden with the flowers that produced amazing, exotic, almost seductive scents. Some feeling of déjà vu would not let go. His gut was telling him that his life was missing something, something very important. Family. This was a family gathering. The wedding represented the birth of a family and he was desperately alone. At twenty-eight, Austin was in his prime. Physically he was in perfect shape. Financially, he was very stable. He was ready to have someone significant in his life. He was ready to give himself. This was something he had never felt before. How could Roman do this when he was so young? It must be the old money, the sense of security, something Austin had had to build wealth on his own. He was proud of it. Preoccupied with his growing businesses and success, he tended to put his private life aside. Did he even have a life beyond work? He wanted to become a family man, to tie himself to a wife and a bunch of kids. He had never before felt compelled to care for anyone, except himself. He had little idea how to do that in the first place. He’d never experienced what a family really meant…until today. Was it realistic to be so much in love that Rom wanted to marry when he was barely twenty? Austin had been twenty not so long ago. He remembered what he’d been like back then vividly. His chest clenched with regret as he remembered the young girl, that innocent soul he cruelly pushed away. How could he possibly have resisted that goddess-like body she’d thrown at him? But he’d been so self-centered and not capable of any kind of relationship at that time, never mind love. For so long, the sweet form of that girl who’d foolishly confessed her love for him had kept appearing in his dreams… He had not wanted to be responsible for her broken heart. So he had just disappeared from her life and made sure she knew nothing about him anymore. It was better for her. She should have forgotten about him forever.
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