C.C. Solomon's Blog, page 5

January Newsletter: Free Reads and More!

Happy New Year! Although the ball drop at midnight didn’t magically change the world (Oh, how I wish it did), it doesn’t mean we can’t still be hopeful. What are some things you hope to accomplish this year? Besides my hope of traveling and getting in better shape, I’ve got a few books and an audiobook on the horizon this year.

What’s on Deck for This Year

First up, Mystic Souls, the conclusion to the soulmate saga, is now out for Pre-Order for a February 2, 2021 release! And if you have read the prior books and would like an Advance Reader Copy for an honest review, just message me. Here’s the synopsis!

Mystic Souls

The Soulmate Saga comes to its stunning conclusion.

We thought we’d prepared for the fight. We were wrong.

Everything I was told about the first soulmates could never prepare me for their actual arrival. More powerful than we could prepare for, the first soulmates control the minds of our closest allies, leaving The Six and my soulmate without any option but to surrender to their murderous ways.

When suicides and disappearances go on the rise in our community, I know the first soulmates are behind it and when I discover the reason, it’s more nightmarish than I could have imagined.

With dwindling support, we only have a few remaining allies to start a resistance and fight back. However, our infighting and inner turmoil threaten to derail us. Will we find the strength to defeat the first soulmates and their cohorts? And what sacrifices will we have to make to win?

Next, I plan to finally release the audiobook version for Mystic Souls. I’m aiming for a spring release if everything goes well! This is the audiobook cover.

After that, my Facebook group, Diverse Books with Magic, is releasing a YA fantasy/sci-fi short story anthology in June and it’s available for Pre-Order now! Here’s the cover and synopsis!

Across realms, worlds, and dimensions we bring you twenty fantasy and/or science fiction tales that explore the tribulations of growing up. Full of diverse characters and #ownvoices authors, the protagonists in these coming-of-age YA adventures will not only discover powerful magic, but discover themselves along the way.

Up next, is Dark Hauntings, which is book two in my new Paranormal Times series. This book will be the follow up to the Mystic Memories novella (which is now book one and now also called Dark Memories). I’m close to finishing it and hope to have a summer release. I don’t have a full synopsis ready for it but here is a little something in very rough draft:

Faerie, Francesca Ross, lost her memories and is on a hunt to find them while competing for the throne that her former Unseelie Queen left behind. To help achieve her goal, she makes a deal with the questionable angels to solve the mystery behind several disappearances and bloody murders in a small town. Joined by the half demon/half angel, Felix Gonzalez, the pair find a new ghostly horror, familiar faces who aren’t what they seem, demon stalkers, and an old vendetta. However, when things seem complicated enough, Francesca encounters a king of the underworld and a dark faerie prince who both hold the keys to her past.

I’ll be looking for beta readers soon, so stay tuned!

Book Spotlights!

Click the titles to learn more about these new urban fantasy and paranormal romance reads!

A Theft Most Fowl: A Kingdom of Aves Mystery

Following her success in Gould, Hawk Prentice Tasifa returns to her university to unravel a mystery. Someone has broken into the Museum of the Goddess and stolen its most sacred artifact, attacked two of the guards, and is trying to frame her mentor. Under pressure from The Order, Prentice is urged to find the culprits, but not all is as it seems.

Blood Lust (Blood and Secrets Book One)

Goddess of Fire

Shadow of the Fae

Feral is the Night

Darkbeam (Part One)

Wolf- Dangerous Mates

Hearts Unleashed

Running Haunted

Join my new reader group for beta read opportunities and even more inside information like character takeovers, Cat’s Corner: New Adult Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance Group. Thanks!

Till next time and as always, if you’ve read my books I am always appreciative of a review on Amazon and Goodreads. I read them and they help me grow as a writer and know my audience better. Also follow me on instagram and facebook for more information.

December Newsletters: New Release, Cover Reveal, and Christmas Discounts!

Happy Holidays! This month I talk my new release, give you a cover reveal and share some Christmas Deals.

New Release!

Let’s start with my new release, Deathly Touch. My new YA/NA Paranormal Romance (and the start of a new later series). Check it out if you didn’t get a chance to buy the Eternal Bites boxset. If you have read the story from that anthology I’d love a review on Amazon/Goodreads if you can.

And don’t forget the revised second edition Mystic Bonds is still just 99 cents on Amazon!

Now I have my four heroines out (more to come) and there is a lead for all reader types. I call them my four Golden Girls/Sex and the City (because I LOVED those shows).

If you want to read a Dorthey/Carrie lead go for my Amina Langston, Mystic Bonds/Paranormal World Series.

If you like a Sophia/Miranda type go for Francesca in Mystic Memories (and she’s getting her own series up next coming out next year!)

If you like the Blanche/Samantha type go for Lisa in Mystic Realms (who will also be getting a later series).

And if you are a Rose/Charlotte girl go for Jazmine in Deathly Touch!

Or just read them all!

OH! And for one week only, starting December 21st. I’ll be reducing the prices of Mystic Journeys and Mystic Awakenings and Deathly Touch to just 99 cents on Amazon! 

Soulmate Saga is coming to an End

So, it’s almost here but the conclusion to the soulmate saga, Mystic Souls, comes out February 2, 2021. I’m so excited to show you the cover and the blurb!

The Soulmate Saga comes to its stunning conclusion.

We thought we’d prepared for the fight. We were wrong.

Everything I was told about the first soulmates could never prepare me for their actual arrival. More powerful than we could prepare for, the first soulmates control the minds of our closest allies, leaving The Six and my soulmate without any option but to surrender to their murderous ways.

When suicides and disappearances go on the rise in our community, I know the first soulmates are behind it and when I discover the reason, it’s more nightmarish than I could have imagined.

With dwindling support, we only have a few remaining allies to start a resistance and fight back. However, our infighting and inner turmoil threaten to derail us. Will we find the strength to defeat the first soulmates and their cohorts? And what sacrifices will we have to make to win?

Finally I’ve been doing a few interviews this month. If you want to learn a little more about me and my books check out my Facebook Author Page. Up next, I’ll be doing an interview with Black Girls Read Books, Too on December 23rd at 9pm on Facebook Live!

Author Spotlights and Deals and Steals.

Click on the pictures to learn more!

Finally, I’m co-running a new group for diverse and inclusive fantasy, dystopian, and sci fi books called Diverse Books with Magic.  If you’re looking for books with BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and differently abled main characters in these genres and want to converse with readers who care about inclusivity in books, check out the group! And from December 14-25th we are doing an author takeover with tons of authors, fun games, and prizes! I’ll be taking over on December 21st during the day. Click the picture to join the group and find out more about the takeover.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/diversebookswithmagic

Join my new reader group for beta read opportunities and even more inside information like character takeovers, Cat’s Corner: New Adult Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance Group. Thanks!

Till next time and as always, if you’ve read my books I am always appreciative of a review on Amazon and Goodreads. I read them and they help me grow as a writer and know my audience better. Also follow me on instagram and facebook for more information.

November Newsletter: Bestseller and more!

‘You’ll do the best in this world if you assume no limits until you find them’ Phillip, Mystic Bonds

One of my favorite quotes from my first book and I find it to be true in real life. On that note, I am so excited to report that the limited edition vampire anthology, Eternal Bite, made it on the USA Today Best Seller list! It wasn’t easy for indie authors to reach this goal but we did and I want to thank all those who supported us along the way.

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Although the limited anthology is gone you can still get a chance to read my entry, Deathly Touch, as it comes out December 8th! And here’s the cover! (And yes, I will be starting a new series)

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If you’d like a chance for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review just contact me. Here’s the synopsis.

Deathly Touch

With just one touch she could kill.

Jazmine St. Clair has lived in isolation most of her life after accidently killing someone at age nine. Ten years later, she’s socially awkward, shunned by society and forbidden to feel any touch by another human. Then one day she finds herself in the midst of a series of supernatural kidnappings by a mysterious group and meets a sexy vampire that changes her world forever.

Evan Kitagawa was short-tempered and directionless as a lower level “undead” vampire. Then Jazmine’s accidental touch brought him back to life, allowing him to enjoy the perks of an elite, “living” vampire. When the head of his vampire town instructs him to infiltrate Jazmine’s community, he finds himself more than excited to be near this beautiful stranger even if it could mean betrayal.

While Jazmine is intrigued by Evan’s ability to survive her touch, she’s suspicious of his intentions.  However, she can’t ignore their unexplainable bond…or growing feelings.

With kidnappings on the rise and growing distrust between their towns, can the pair uncover the truth behind their unlikely bond before they become the next victims?

This month, I re-released a second edition of Mystic Bonds with revisions and all new scenes. As I’ve mentioned in the past, I wanted to revise my first book in the series to address some of the technical issues and feedback I’ve gotten from the readers. I also wanted it ready for when I make it an audio book, which is my 2021 goal. The ebook is now free until Friday!

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And to further celebrate the re-release, I’m offering a signed paperback copy of the second edition. Just click here to learn how to enter!

Finally, I’m co-running a new group for diverse and inclusive fantasy, dystopian, and sci fi books. If you’re looking for books with BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and differently abled main characters in these genres and want to converse with readers who care about inclusivity in books, check out the group! And from December 14-25th we are doing an author takeover with tons of authors, fun games, and prizes! Click the picture to join the group and find out more about the takeover.

[image error] https://www.facebook.com/groups/diversebookswithmagic



Deals and Steals

Click on the pictures for more information on these book fairs and sales!

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Join my new reader group for beta read opportunities and even more giveaways, Cat’s Corner: New Adult Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance Group. Thanks!

Till next time and as always, if you’ve read my books I am always appreciative of a review on Amazon and Goodreads. I read them and they help me grow as a writer and know my audience better. Also follow me on instagram and facebook for more information.

October Newsletter: Release Day, Teasers and Book Deals!

Hey readers, this month’s newsletter is jam packed with book deals and teasers because my limited edition vampire anthology, Eternal Bite, releases October 20th! To help kick off the release, the authors and I are having a Virtual Party. We’re playing games and giving out cool prizes. It’s open now until October 27th. Join so you don’t miss out! I’ll be doing an author takeover at 8:30pm on October 20th! I’ll also be doing a takeover from 7-8pm over at Beth Rosalee’s Carnal Readers that same day so don’t forget to visit then (yep, I’ll be busy, and it’s my birthday, did I forget to mention?).

While I’m awaiting my cover for Eternal Bite, I thought I’d still offer a snippet from the book. This is my first venture into paranormal romance and I think I like it!

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Deathly Touch Snippet

She looked at him, his face scrunched in pain and covered in sweat. She could help, and he hadn’t died by her touch. Maybe it was time for her to finally help someone instead of hiding away.

She pushed her wrist in front of his face. “Drink.”

His frown deepened as he looked at her hand. “No.”

She withdrew her hand and looked up at the night sky. Why was he being so difficult? “Aren’t you dying? Do you really need to be so picky? My blood isn’t poison.” At least she didn’t think it was. God, she hoped it wasn’t. She wouldn’t be able to survive killing another innocent person.

The man hung his head on his chest as if it were too heavy to lift up. “I don’t want to hurt you. An animal works just fine.”

Jazmine placed her hands on her hips. “Do I look like I hunt animals for a living? You’ll be dead by the time I find a rabbit. I can ask someone here to help, but I don’t know if they have blood on them. You’ll have to wait until the medical teams start showing up to heal the injured. I don’t have that kind of power.”

He looked up at her, head still lowered. “What type of power do you have?”

“Don’t worry about that. Let me help you.” She shoved her wrist back in front of his face. He was already looking paler. Why was he being so stubborn?

He looked it over as if inspecting it. He gingerly touched her arm before bringing it to his lips. The feel of his soft skin on hers sent a slight shock to her core she didn’t expect.

And then he opened his mouth, exposing two very long incisors.

She stiffened and wondered whether she should step away. What if he bit her arm off or didn’t stop sucking her blood, draining her dry? Nope, this was a dumb idea.

She was just about to move her arm back when she caught his eyes looking up at hers. He looked unsure of himself as if he really was afraid of hurting her. But there was something more in his face.

Sadness? Something in her heart softened. She knew about sadness. That kindred feeling pushed her to nod at him.

He lowered his eyes and bit into her arm.

And it hurt. Well, she knew it could. She’d heard tales of a vampire bite being pleasurable, but this was not it. It felt like she was being stuck by two large needles. Her knees weakened, and she cursed herself for not sitting down first. You’re a big girl, Jaz. Keep it together. And if he goes too far, stab him with the knife hanging out of his pocket.

She remained strong as the man drank from her, making quiet, sucking sounds as he gently grasped her arm. The act felt so intimate. She didn’t even know this guy’s name. Should she have gotten it first? Would that really have mattered?

She swayed slightly and suddenly realized that the pain from his biting had disappeared and was now replaced with a pleasant tingling quickly spreading throughout her body. It felt a little inappropriate to feel this way in public. An uncontrollable shiver swept over her, and her eyes fluttered closed for a brief moment as she felt the wave of pleasure pass through her. Every part of her hummed from the top of her head to the soles of her feet. She felt like she would explode right there and then. So embarrassing. And so good.

Mystic Bonds Second Edition

As you may recall, I’m re-releasing Mystic Bonds in November with revisions and new scenes! While it’s currently undergoing the final touches, I’m looking for some readers who will review the revised book in exchange for an honest review on Amazon. Contact me if you’re interested and look out for next month for a celebration for the second edition including the cover release of Mystic Souls, the conclusion to the series coming out this winter!

Here’s a teaser of the cover until then!

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Book Deals and Spotlights!

Click the pictures for more details on these Halloween themed book sales and releases!

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Book Spotlights!

Even more Books to wait your spooky appetite with a dash of romance of course!

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Till next time and as always, if you’ve read my books I am always appreciative of a review on Amazon and Goodreads. I read them and they help me grow as a writer and know my audience better. Also follow me on instagram and facebook for more information and join my new reader group for beta read opportunities and even more giveaways, Cat’s Corner: New Adult Urban Fantasy and Paranormal Romance Group. Thanks!

Note: If you don’t want to miss any future emails about my books and giveaways please save my email address [ccsolomon14@gmail.com] to your contacts list so that it doesn’t go into your spam! 

September Newsletter: A new profile, my latest interview and a surprise update.

Hi there! How has your summer been? Have you done things differently as we adjusted to this new normal? I did local travel, hiked, canoed, ate all types of food (and my scale is punishing me for it), exercised outdoors A LOT and, of course, did a ton of writing.

Next month I release, with other amazing authors, my first anthology! After that I’ll be releasing Mystic Souls, the conclusion to the Soulmate Saga! In the meantime, don’t forget I have my box set so you can get the first four books all together at a discount in prep for the final book!

[image error] https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B086PJNVVY

However, I’m also going to be releasing a second edition to Mystic Bonds, the first book in the saga. Why, you may ask? Namely, I’ve grown as a writer since releasing this book and that’s, in part, due to my reader feedback. I also have a new set of editors who have really pushed me. As such, I wanted to give the first book the revisions I think it deserves. I also plan to do an audio book in 2021, so having a version I really want would make it worth it. I’ll be looking for ARC readers as well and a giveaway, so stay tuned!

Finally 2021 will see me starting up a whole new series in the same universe as Paranormal World. If you recall, last time I asked who should get the first series: Lisa or Francesca? I asked for you to submit your responses and rationale. Well, I tallied the votes and my next series will feature….

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Francesca! I’ve already started writing! Congrats to Judi, who won the contest! And check out Mystic Memories to get ready for it! Click here for the book!

Also, last month I did my first Instagram interview (yikes!) and if you couldn’t check it out live, here’s a link to it. Learn all about my inspiration, the behind the scenes of my writing and more! Click here to check it out!

Character Profile: Faith

When I thought about the character of Faith, our feisty succubus, I wanted someone who would be tough, no nonsense and have a bit of an anger management problem. She’s a tatted woman from New York who got changed into a being she had to work to control. She works hard at strengthening herself and growing in her abilities. By Mystic Awakenings we see her power do some amazing things (and a nod to Dragon Ball Z, my old school anime fav). When I thought of her, the anime lover in me looked to Rukia from Bleach and Ryuko from Kill La Kill. Both kick butt characters full of confidence and sometimes a little too hard.

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Although she can be rough around the edges, Fran’s actually the mother of the group, stopping infighting and giving good advice. And her open and fluid lifestyle, helps make her tolerant of others. It’s why her romances in the books have been pretty broad. I’m glad I got to work in another form of diversity in my novels. When I thought of her look, I knew it had to be the actress Ruby Rose for inspiration.

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We will see more growth from Faith in Fran’s book as we watch Faith move from overprotective mother bear and wrestle with her continued distrust of Fran.

Book sales and contests!

Click the image for more information!

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Till next time and as always, if you’ve read my books I am always appreciative of a review on Amazon and Goodreads. I read them and they help me grow as a writer and know my audience better. Also follow me on instagram and facebook for more info. Thanks!

August Newsletter: Vampires, Contest, and New Character Profile!

How’s your summer winding down? One more month to go and even though I didn’t get to travel like I liked, I still got to have some fun. I road tripped to the beach, which was a much needed escape. Find your joy how you can!

This month I discuss my new vampire anthology, seek your help for my next series with a chance to win a prize and discuss all things Lisa, the heroine of Mystic Realms!

What’s Next

As the year winds down I have a lot of projects that will fill up the fall. The first project, which I am so excited about is a limited vampire anthology that will be released in October, available for pre-order now. I, along with several talented authors, will be bringing you tales of vampires, love, action and mystery available for just a short time.

I want to thank my betareaders and line editor for giving me great feedback on my entry, Deathly Touch. Here’s the summary.

With just one touch she could kill.

Jazmine St. Clair’s has lived in isolation most of her life after accidently killing someone at age nine. Socially awkward and shunned by society, she forgot the feeling of human contact. Then one day she finds herself in the center of a series of attacks and kidnappings and meets a vampire that changes her world forever.

Evan Kitagawa was short tempered and directionless as a lower level “undead” vampire. He tolerated his life, never being able to eat, go out in daylight or feel his heartbeat. Then Jazmine’s accidental touch started his heart.

Able to finally enjoy the perks as an elite, “living” vampire, his happiness is short lived when he finds he must be near Jazmine to remain alive. However, Jazmine isn’t jumping to stay close to this dangerous stranger.

Can the two overcome their differences, solve the mysterious attacks and uncover the truth behind their unlikely connection?

Fans of Warm Bodies and My Little Monster will like this YA/ New Adult paranormal novella with romance, mystery and action.

Here is the cover. Click on it for more information! Bite or be bitten.

[image error] https://www.amazon.com/Eternal-Bite-Limited-Collection-Vampire-ebook/dp/B087R7SZYS



Character Profile: Lisa

Lisa is a fun character for me. She is, admittedly, inspired by Buffy the Vampire Slayer just updated to today’s time. I mean, imagine what a superficial social media star slash stylist would be like in the supernatural apocalypse? Oh, and also she’s a faerie (or fairy as I spell it in this world). Let’s just say she won’t start out as some warrior princess like Fran of Mystic Memories.

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Lisa is light hearted, super confident and stylish. It’s actually perfect that she’s fae, she can use her magic to always look good! However, Lisa’s no pushover. As you may know from the Paranormal World series, when her back is against the wall, she’ll claw her way out. And it doesn’t hurt, that she has a fun little triangle to work out between a slightly geeky vampire/mage and a cursed elven king.

When I thought of her look I immediately was inspired by the actress Brenda Song. This was mostly because of characters she played in several Disney Channel shows that seemed to embody the “girlie-girl” prototype. If my books ever became a Netflix series, I’d actually like Brenda Song to play Lisa!

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Contest

So, I’m trying to decide who I will write about next as I conclude the Paranormal World series (for now) with Mystic Souls. I have a few spin-off series outlined but I need your help in deciding who will be next. Should I first continue Lisa’s story from Mystic Realms or Fran’s story from Mystic Memories (click here for her character profile)? Lisa still owe’s the elven king, Joo-won, help in breaking his curse or else he gets one of her organs! Then there’s her unresolved feelings for Charles, the vampire/mage. For Fran, she still has a missing memory and someone is behind keeping the truth from her. Not to mention her confusion over her feelings for Felix and her desire to battle to queen of her own dark fae court.

Contact me with your pick and rationale and one lucky winner will receive a Amazon gift card. I will announce the winner in the next newsletter.

More Reading!

Check out these books on sale or FREE on Kindle Unlimited! Click on the banner to find out more.

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Till next time and as always, if you’ve read my books I am always appreciative of a review on Amazon and Goodreads. I read them and they help me grow as a writer and know my audience better. Also follow me on instagram and facebook for more info. Thanks!

July Newsletter: Beta readers Wanted!

Despite all the challenges we are facing, I hope you’re able to carve out some fun this summer. I’ve been trying to keep busy with writing and reading…and binging a ton of TV shows. If you find yourself in need of a good fantasy and science fiction fix beyond books, might I suggest checking out these lesser known gems.

Along with the Gods (both movies are on Hulu)– great Korean fantasy movies dealing with after life guardians who must go on a journey, aiding a man through several trials in the afterlife to determine what his ultimate fate will be. This has subtitles but you like to read so it doesn’t matter!

Snowpiercer (on Netflix)– This is now a series but check out the movie first about a post apocalyptic world in which the survivors live on a train based on a class system. The director of this is also the guy behind the award winning movie, Parasite (on Hulu). I’ve seen most of his work and it never disappoints.

Fast Color (Hulu and Amazon)– A woman with special powers returns home to escape from an organization that wants to capture her. Viola Davis is turning this into a series and I am always excited to see POC grow in this genre.

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Marianne (Netflix)– A famous horror writer returns to her home town and what she wrote about in her books starts appearing. This is actually a series but bingeable and scary so you were warned. It’s French but there is a dubbed option.

Horns (Netflix)– Harry Potter (ok Daniel Radcliff) gets accused of murder and grows horns. I’m doing a terrible job of summarizing it but it really is good.

Kingdom (Netflix)– Zombies, action, drama and period costumes! This is another bingable series, this time Korean (with superb dubbing). There are already two season out and I can’t wait for the next one.

Book Stuff

I’m now opening up for beta readers for the last book in the soulmate saga, Mystic Souls. Here’s a rough summary and a teaser of the cover!

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The Soulmate Saga comes to its stunning conclusion.

Who will die and who will live?

We thought we’d prepared for the fight. We were wrong.

Everything I was told about the first soulmates would never prepare me for their actual arrival. More powerful than we could prepare for, the first soulmates control the minds of our closest allies, leaving The Six and my soulmate, Phillip, without any option but to surrender to their murderous ways.

When suicides and disappearances go on the rise in our community, I know the first soulmates are behind it and after I discover the reason, it’s more nightmarish than I could have imagined.

With dwindling support, I only have The Six and our few remaining allies to start a resistance and fight back, however, our infighting and inner turmoil threaten to derail us. Will we find the strength to defeat the first soulmates and their cohorts? And what sacrifices will we have to make to win?

Contact me if you’d like to beta read this novel!

Fran Profile



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This month I’m going to do a short profile on Fran, one of the main characters in Mystic Memories. Fracesca Ross is the inner tough gal I’d love to be. She’s a skilled and fearless fighter and no nonsense. Part of a dark, or unseelie fae, court, she is anything but evil. Instead, she works as a secret ally for the good guys, although she has her own motives for doing such.

One thing that makes Fran different from the prior leads, Amina and Lisa, is that she is very confident in her powers. Amina and Lisa weren’t fighters, but Fran was a warrior in her court so she is fully comfortable with the extent of her gifts. When I envisioned Fran’s personality and look I thought of Zoe Saldana and her character Gamora from the Guardians of the Galaxy.

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She’s strong, more serious but with a side of snark when needed and a heart for those she cares about. I also thought of the actress Rosario Dawson. She always plays such head strong characters with an understated beauty in her roles.

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Deals and Steals

Click on the pictures to find out more!

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Till next time and as always, if you’ve read my books I am always appreciative of a review on Amazon and Goodreads. I read them and they help me grow as a writer and know my audience better. Also follow me on instagram and facebook for more info. Thanks!

June Newsletter: Felix Spotlight, My favorite LGBTQ+ characters and Deals and Steals

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It’s June already! I decided to share one of my most favorite pictures of my nephew to date because it always makes me smile. With all that’s going on the world I know I need it. Usually traveling does the trick or going somewhere where I can drink a pina colada with my toes in the sand, but until that time, I have to make my own happy moments. What are you doing to stay happy in your day to day?

This month holds so many things, so this might be a long newsletter than normal. Happy Pride month, Happy Juneteenth Day, Happy official start of Summer and happy release of the next book in my series! In honor of my new release, Mystic Memories, which, finally, focuses on Felix as a main character, I’m doing a profile on Felix and giving away book 2, Mystic Journeys, FREE for one week only starting June 23rd on Amazon!

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It was actually by coincidence that my next book was coming out this month and it’s my most diverse book I’ve written. I have main characters who represent many races and the LGBTQ+ community. I hope to see more representation in the world of fantasy sooner rather than later. In honor of Pride month, who are your favorite LGBTQ+ characters in books/movies/TV?

Mine, hands down, is Lafayette from True Blood (R.I.P. to Nelsan Ellis). I loved the energy he gave off and he was such a complex character. Strong but allowed himself to be emotionally vulnerable. And he was funny.

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A close runner up is Klaus Hargreeves/Number 4 from Umbrella Academy. He gives similar vibes as Lafayette with a strong sense of self preservation and unintentional funny.

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Who is your favorite LGBTQ+ character in fantasy and why?

Character Profile- Felix

In Mystic Memories, we finally learn about my favorite lovable giant, Felix. When we were first are introduced to him as a teacher in one of the many government controlled towns in the post-apocalyptic America, Amina knew immediately that something wasn’t quite right with him. Felix was book smart and college educated but he had some memory and minor comprehension issues. And by memory, I mean, he has no idea who he was before the world changed ten years prior, other than his name. He also has some censorship issues that could also be connected to his memory and comprehension issues but he’s still lovable. He is loyal and protective to a fault, which puts him in a bad position at the end of book one. Most curious about Felix was his power. We know he has the ability to kill with a simple touch and he can speak to a mysterious voice, we think from heaven. So who is Felix?

When I first wrote Felix, I had no person in mind when I thought of him visually. But then I came across an article on WWE wrestler Roman Reigns after writing book one, I got so excited because he embodied the total look I had in my head. It was uncanny.

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Personality wise, I first though of actor Jorge Garcia, best known for his role as Hurley Reyes in Lost. There is this innocent quality about that character that I liked for Felix. He could be a little dense at times, but you never thought Hurley was a bad guy or was out for himself (beyond food which is also Felix’s vice).

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May Newsletter: Sales, Cover Reveal, Snippet, and Erik’s Profile

It’s May and as I write this the weather is unseasonably cold and I’ve been in in Stay At Home status for almost two months. Sometimes I’m tempted to feel down. I’ve got the every 17 years cicada invasion to look forward to, many canceled trips (le sigh, Portugal) and I won’t even acknowledge the murder hornets. However, I don’t stay down for long. Fortunately I’m not all alone. I’ve got the boyfriend, a cat and a dog to share a space. I am still working, I actually wrote and finished my third novella and my second nephew was born! This year hasn’t gone the way I expected but it has its purpose and I just must figure it out!

This month I reveal my latest book cover, offer a snippet of Mystic Awakenings, give you an insider view of Erik and discuss an amazing new book sale!

All About Erik

Erik has been a consistent character so far in this series. He’s a serious guy (a little too serious) who has a high sense of moral duty to protect those weaker. He was a former soldier, bodyguard and father. Losing his child in the wake of the return of magic into the world impacted him greatly. It made him darker but it also was a large catalyst in why he runs to danger and risks his own life to save others. Sometimes his focus on being a savior can lead him to become too single minded on an effort, which causes conflict with Amina who, at times, gets frustrated with his lack of focus on their overall mission.

I decided to make him a were-jackal because that was a form of were creature I’d rarely heard of in urban fantasy. Although jackals are not as physically imposing as wolves, in the paranormal world they’re just as scary. In fact, Erik, in his were form looks like the mystical Anubis which is frightening enough and then add that he is seven or eight feet tall and he’s pretty imposing.

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When I created this character, I didn’t have a specific look of Erik in mind. I was inspired by Keanu Reeves in his John Wick role as far as the personality of Erik. He also has a bit of Jon Snow, from Game of Thrones, in his noble quest to protect and do what is right.

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Looks-wise I was heavily inspired by the actors Manu Bennett (from his days in Spartacus, above) or Gerald Butler circa 300, only younger. If there was an actor I’d get to play him, I’d say maybe Henry Cavill, especially after seeing his portrayal in The Witcher, which gave me the energy I imagined for Erik.

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So are you team Phillip or team Erik?

Cover Reveal

Next month I’ll be releasing my second novella in the Paranormal World series, Mystic Memories. Here’s the cover! I’m so excited. I’m also looking for ARC readers. If you want an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review, just contact me!

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Their memories were stolen but what they forgot could get them killed.

Felix Gonzalez was fine navigating the new world created by the magical apocalypse not knowing his past or what he had become. With the power of The Six and his guardian angel, Azrael, he stopped questioning why his mind wasn’t quite right or how he could kill with just a simple touch.

Then he met her.

Francesca Ross always seemed comfortable with her new life as a fairy warrior until her impending nuptials to a king of the underworld draw near. Then an old friend brings news that changes her world and priorities.  

Seizing a way out, she goes on the run to search for answers to her past and meets a man that might change her future. But will the truths they uncover about themselves upset the balance between good and evil?

Book Sale

Finally, for one week only, I am greatly reducing the price of my current e-box set for Paranormal World. It includes the first three books and novella in the series. Click link for details.

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Mystic Awakenings Snippet

Snow began to fall. First in slow flurries, but it quickly turned into a flurry of thick flakes that stuck to the cold ground, blurring our vision. In this new world, blizzards came at the drop of a hat in the winter, so normally I would think nothing of a heavy snow coming as quickly as a flash flood.

However, there was a certain magical electricity in the air that felt unsettling.

Lisa was a seasonal fairy. While she couldn’t control the weather, that was left more for the weather mages, she had certain gifts over weather related attributes such as wind, lightning, or snow.

She looked up at the air, eyes raised in confusion.

Maybe she wasn’t behind this.

Erik sniffed the air and then spun around. His upper lip twitched. He shoved me to the ground and threw out a hand, stopping an invisible force. His hand curled slightly in a clawed motion, and he strained as he pushed against whatever he fought. Erik hunched forward as if succumbing to stomach pain.

We had an invisible attacker.

A hand tightened around my throat.

I thrust out my own hand and sent my attacker flying backward. A sheet of show fluttered low in the air as the invisible body landed on the covered sidewalk.

Erik slashed out with a clawed hand at what looked like the snow-covered frame of an invisible man.

Charles ran forward and tackled the figure to the ground. He opened his mouth wide to bite, and a blazing sword outlined in blue appeared in front of him, seemingly hovering in the air.

“Amina, watch out,” Lisa cried out running towards me.

I turned and was welcomed by an invisible fist to the chin. I stumbled back as a sharp pain rocked my body. However, I held my ground. I summoned a ball of fire in my hand and heaved it towards where I hoped the figure still stood.

Fate was on my side as the ball hit an invisible wall, hopefully, the torso of my attacker.

My attacker yelled, and soon, I saw the translucent appearance of a woman. She fell to her knees, patting away at the left side of her torso, extinguishing the fire.

I summoned another fireball, ready to toss it again, this time at her head.

Gary swooped in from the sky, looking like he was going to gobble the woman up.

Mystic Awakenings, out now!

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Till next time. Stay home and stay safe!

Till next time and as always, if you’ve read my books I am always appreciative of a review on Amazon. I read them and they help me grow as a writer and know my audience better. And follow me on instagram and facebook for more info. Thanks!

April Newsletter: Phillip profile, contest and new arrivals!

How is everyone using their time indoors? I’ve been writing and reading indie authors and baking! This month I do a character profile on Phillip, and share contests and upcoming book arrivals!

First I’d like to do a special request. If you’ve read my books in the Paranormal World series then I’d love if you could do a quick review on Goodreads and Amazon. As you can imagine reviews are helpful in two ways. One, it helps me grow as a writer. The feedback you give can help me modify and improve my storytelling. Two, it helps me gain more readers who will hopefully enjoy the books as much as you and keeps me in my passion of writing! Thanks for your continued support!

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Feature

This month’s character profile is all about Phillip Leal. Of all my characters Phillip has gone through the most transformation…for various reasons that I won’t spoil for you. Phillip is suave, sophisticated, and a bit uptight (sometimes reminding me of Niles, from Fraizer). He’s a leader but also selfish. Incredibly smart, he is using his status in this new magical world to take on power he never had in the Pre-World (the time before magic). When writing Phillip, I was inspired by the following characters and people.

In my mind Phillip’s look jumped back and forth between Jesse Williams (Grey’s Anatomy) and Samuel Anderson (Dr. Who and Another Life). Phillip is handsome and clean cut, with eyes that were deceptively kind. Phillip presents himself as if he comes from a place of privilege but actually he had a harder life.

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It was his dedication to get out of his life’s circumstances that drove him to become successful, leading him to obtain a college degree and begin getting his M.B.A. before the world went to hell. All on a scholarship. This is what makes him more like the character of Andre from Empire (as portrayed by Trai Byers).

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As an anime fan, I was also inspired by the character of Alucard from Hellsing (which you can watch on Hulu). Phillip, like Alucard, becomes an anti-hero through the series. Like Alucard, he has his devotions (Amina) but struggles with cruelty and sadism. His distraction for perfection makes him the perfect victim of evil. While, at heart, he is good, he struggles with inner darkness that threatens to overpower him and weaken the fight against the oncoming threat.

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Reader Question: Are you team Phillip or Team Erik (who we will discuss next month)? Email me, or respond on my author Facebook page your vote and reason. Your feedback will assist me in the next book!

Contests and Sales

Sign up to follow me and others on Book Bub and you will be entered to win a free E-reader or a subscription to Kindle Unlimited! Contest ends April 27th! Click here.

Also my novella, Mystic Realms, all about Lisa, will be on Amazon for free from April 21- 25th only! And Mystic Bonds is still reduced to 99 cents!

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Up next

I’m finally making the current 3 books in the series (and including the Mystic Realms novella) part of a an E-box set. It’s already out on pre-order set for release on April 27th! If you want a chance to get the collection for free just share this link to your Facebook and tag me or enter here!

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Next month I’ll do the cover reveal for Mystic Memories. I’m still open for beta readers. Here’s the synopsis.

[image error]Teaser cover of Mystic Memories

Their memories were stolen but what they forgot could get them killed.

Felix Gonzalez was fine navigating the new world created by the magical apocalypse not knowing his past or what he had become. With the power of The Six and his guardian angel, Azrael, he stopped questioning why his mind wasn’t quite right or how he could kill with just a simple touch.

Then he met her.

Francesca Ross always seemed comfortable with her new life as a fairy warrior until her impending nuptials to a king of the underworld draw near. Then an old friend brings news that changes her world and priorities.  

Seizing a way out, she goes on the run to search for answers to her past and meets a man that might change her future. But will the truths they uncover about themselves upset the balance between good and evil?

Till next time. Stay home and stay safe!