C.C. Solomon's Blog, page 6
March 16, 2020
March Newsletter: New Release, Character Profile and Author Spotlight
Book Three, Mystic Awakenings, is finally out (well, for Pre-Order) for the March 24th release! If you want a chance to grab an advanced copy for free in exchange for an honest review click here!
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Here’s a quick summary:
We have to save all paranormal kind before it’s too late.
Things were hard enough before, but now that the Original Soulmates are targeting my friends and I… well, things are downright dire.
There are some sights you can never unsee. Visions of my brother, my chosen mate, and my friends meeting their individual gruesome ends? That is something that will stay with me forever. The Originals made me experience the faux tragedies and their message is clear–do things our way or they all die.
The problem is that doing things their way could lead to the genocide of all non-gifted humans and suppression of all paranormals. That’s just not something my group and I can accept. Even if it puts our life at risk, we have to fight for the future–our own and the humans.
But when a sickness arises, driving magical creatures to madness and murder, our attention is divided. The Originals. Their Followers. The sickness. We definitely have our work cut out for us.
So many people to save… so little time to save them.
And if you haven’t read book one of my series, click here to grab a free copy! Next month I’ll be doing a call for betareaders for book 3.5, Mystic Memories.
Character Spotlight
I’m bringing back my character spotlight to give you a little “behind the scenes” information about some of the many characters in my Paranormal World Series. The last time I talked about Charles. This month, we talk Amina Langston, the main character in the first several books of this series.
Amina is a life mage. One who has control over all living beings and natural elements of life and earth. It gives her control over people, plant-life and more. It’s a power that, even ten years into the post-apocalyptic world, she still doesn’t fully understand (but there’s a reason for that).
Besides her power, she is also in a love triangle with her mate, alpha werejackal, Erik Bennet, and her fated soulmate, Phillip Leal. She loves Erik but it seems the fates decided to link her to Phillip, a man she can barely stand. However, their ability to get along might mean life or death for the human race.
Amina is sarcastic, over analytical (it’s the former law student in her), overly hopeful and a bit naive at times. She also suffers from panic attacks that she foolishly ignores, even pushing people away, so that she doesn’t seem weak. The pressure for her to be a hero for the world doesn’t help. The character of Maggie Pierce from Grey’s Anatomy is an influence behind Amina’s personality.
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She’s also a compassionate leader and runs towards danger due to her ingrained need to help. As an anime lover, I was inspired by the character of Kagome from my favorite anime series, Inuyasha (you can find part of the series and some of the movies on Netflix if you want to check it out!)
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When forming the look of Amina, I thought of the beautiful Yara Shahidi. Young and with amazing curly hair. As a person of color who did not have many (if any) options of seeing brown or black people on the cover of urban fantasy novels, I knew that when I began to write, I needed to have my character on the cover.
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I’m thankful to see more diverse books out there in this genre and that I could add to it.
Author Spotlight
Cursed in White (More in Heaven and Earth) by Katherine Gilbert
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A lost girl desperate for safety, a wary boy with uncertain loyalties, and comrades who seem more like enemies–can they work together to avoid a paranormal disaster?
For more on the second book in this Paranormal YA series, out March 20th, click here.
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!
February 16, 2020
February Newsletter: Cover reveal, character profile, Nashville and more!
Winter is still here. I was told there’d be snow but sadly my dreams of a winter wonderland this year seem far and away. However, I’m pushing through to get book 3 (4 if you count the novella) out. This month I reveal the cover to Mystic Awakenings, a new contest, recap my getaway to Nashville, and spotlight another great indie urban fantasy author!
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Just as I did last year, the boyfriend and I did another quick long weekend getaway in January. This time we did Nashville. Although much warmer than our Montreal excursion last year, it was still uncomfortably cold. Here’s my speed recap of what to do for a long weekend!
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We stayed at the Hilton in downtown Nashville. I got a deal on a suite so it was really comfortable. The location was perfect. We were in walking distance to Broadway with all the bars and Printer’s Alley if you are looking for something a little less…country. We could also walk to the Country Music Hall of Fame museum and the hipster neighborhood of the Gulch (in nicer weather).
The first day we went to the Gulch for some window shopping and lunch. Check out the Mockingbird to grab a bite. We also did the Big Machine Distillery tour on Broadway. Not only do they make their own various alcohols but they are also a music label that first signed Taylor Swift among others! That night we checked out the popular speakeasy (if it’s popular is it even a speak easy anymore?) Patterson House. We had a bit of a wait but it wasn’t too bad. I liked the dark vibe and music. The drinks were good but I had no idea what most of the ingredients were in the drinks!
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The next day we had breakfast at Milk and Honey (the best) after waiting in the rain for the popular Biscuit Love. We did the hop on hop off bus tour which I liked and checked out the farmers market (worth a stop). We then did the marathon motors work tours (also a stop on the bus) and went to All of the tastings (be prepared to do nothing after) and later had the popular Princes Hot Chicken (I’m a fan of the really hot option). That night we did Printer’s Alley for some live music.
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The next day we did the walk of fame, Johnny Cash Museum, checked out the Parthenon and Athena statute (the tallest statute in the Western World) checked out the popular Goo Goo Candy Shop and some window shopping. That night we checked out Skulls in Printer’s Alley (food, live music and great drinks) and went to the Gulch at Sambuca (with live jazz music) for dinner and Bar Otaku (an anime themed bar) for drinks.
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All in all the trip was nice and if you are live music lover then this is the place for you. Side note, Nashville is also known as the bachelorette party capital and we saw a TON of them…really not sure what the draw is for this particular party but they do cater to that crowd!
Cover reveal
Book 3 is finally coming, Mystic Awakenings. I’m aiming for a March 24th release but the book will be available for presale before then.
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I’m also looking for readers who will get an advanced copy of the novel for free in exchange for a review on Amazon/Goodreads. If you are interested let me know!
Here’s the summary of the novel:
Someone wants me dead and that’s just the start of my problems.
I finally know the sinister forces behind the many attacks on my life and the other members of The Six. Awakened by the return of magic to the world, the first soulmates want their reigning power back. The only problem? There can only be one strong soulmate pairing at a time and the new soulmates, Phillip and I, are in their way.
With this new knowledge, my friends and I are on the hunt to find the original soulmates and build allies to fight their growing legion. However, the rising threat of a possible disease that affects only Paranormals, making them primal and violent, distracts us from our mission. When my town’s cruel, new leader enforces a kill law on all those infected, my fight grows even larger. Can I train well enough to battle the first soulmates and stay under the radar of the new leader, all while avoiding becoming the next victim of the Paranormal disease? I don’t have a choice.
Fans of The Originals and The Kate Daniel’s Series will enjoy this paranormal novel filled with adventure, shifters and romance.
New Contest
Sign up for a chance to win tons of free paranormal romance and urban fantasy books, including Mystic Realms, and ereader! Contest ends February 19th so don’t wait!
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Author Spotlight
The Fae and the Fallen by Brittni Chenelle
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My first kiss nearly killed me—literally.
When 80% of the population is gifted with touch magic, it’s best to keep your hands—and your lips—to yourself. Especially if you’re an ungifted serf like I am.
The problem is, the most dangerous guy at Gifted Fae Academy is the one I want to touch more than anything, even as I draw the attention of the school’s most gorgeous Apprentice Fae.
When my entry exam leads to the revelation that I may not be as Ungifted as I previously believed… well… surviving until graduation might prove harder than I thought—particularly when a certain fatal touch may be worth the risk.
If you love reading about childhood friends, enemies-to-lovers, royal and celebrity classmates, and everything Fae, then one-click today and fall into this magical new series that’s Gossip Girl meets My Hero Academia!
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!
January 20, 2020
January Newsletter: Future Books, Sales, Author Spotlights and More!
It’s a new year but the same old me. In this month’s letter I talk future books, books on sale, author spotlights and more writing and publishing tips!
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This year I have a lot of writing goals. Most importantly, I plan to release books three and four in my Paranormal World Series and another spin off novella focusing on Felix and new female character whose name was mentioned in prior books. All of these books will be closing out the soul mate saga. However, I have more stories to tell in this world with more characters! Look for Mystic Awakenings cover reveal and arc request next month!
Speaking of books, this month I have two promotions in my series. Mystic Journeys, book two, is available, along with several other fantasy novels for a free read until the end of the month.
And the start of the series, Mystic Bonds, will be on sale for 99 cents until January 24th!
Author Spotlights
Check out these new fantasy reads this month!
Saving Eden by K.R.S. McEntire
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Sixteen-year-old Angela and her father are the last survivors on earth. She dreams of adventure and romance but only finds it in books. In the confines of her garden paradise, she’s untouched by contaminants that caused the rest of humanity to mutate into murderous beasts or die. But staying in the garden sure gets lonely.
When a seventeen-year-old boy stumbles upon Angela’s home with news about a thriving community, his presence upheavals everything she knew about the world. She dares to leave her garden for the first time to find a better home.
In the authoritarian society that she finds the line between man and mutant is murkier than she expected. Secrets from Angela’s past reemerge, and she learns life outside the garden isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Her father is in danger, and the men tasked with protecting the settlement are extremely fond of murder. With their lives on the line, can Angela create one last happy ending in a hopeless world?
Fans of dystopian societies, post-apocalyptic futures, diverse characters, fantasy, and coming-of-age adventures with heart will fall in love with this post-apocalyptic fairy tale.
Find out more here!
Snakes and Shadows by Amy Hopkins
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Not everyone can see the ancient beings from myth and legend as they slip through the veil.
Penny Hingston can’t just see them… she’s best friends with one.
Perhaps that’s how Penny and Boots landed a recruitment letter for the Academy of Myth and Legend.
Who’s Boots? She’s a serpent. Not just any serpent — she’s a Rainbow Serpent, an ancient Australian Dreamtime legend come to life. It’s actually not so unusual these days. Mythical creatures are tumbling through the Veil every two seconds. The Academy not only teaches its students how to fight the bad ones, but to protect the good ones as well.
That’s why Penny joined. She’s only there to make sure Boots stays safe. Once she figures out a plan, she’s out. At least, that’s what she’s trying to convince herself — and her new friends, including Cisco. It’s only a coincidence that Penny blushes when he talks to her, really!
It’s exciting to be recruited as one of the first wave of students at the Academy, but it’s no joke. There’s the classes, of course. And then there are poltergeists, bigfoot hunting expeditions, and psychotic gnomes. Just staying alive is a challenge.
But together, Penny and Boots can face anything. And they will. No matter what happens.
Find out more here!
Publishing 101: Budgeting
This is the side of indie publishing that gives me the most heart burn. Spending money. But as the saying goes, you have to spend money to make money. Here’s the quick and dirty of your larger expenses to know what to expect.
Put money in a good editor – This takes most of my budget but you want a clean product. This can make all the difference in the type of reviews you get and continued readership.
Get a good cover artist– Don’t skimp on this. A great cover can make all the difference in you getting people to even click on your book to read what it’s about.
Marketing– How much you spend is all inn your comfort zone and we’ll talk marketing options in future letters. For now, just know that you should save money for this part of the book process. This is an ongoing expense. Even when you make great sales, you can’t stop marketing so people won’t forget about you and to keep letting others know what you have out there. It’s easiest to just set a monthly budget of what you are willing to spend in marketing and adjust based on your sales and what forms of marketing have given you the biggest pay off.
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. Thanks!
December 10, 2019
December Newsletter: Free books, sales and more
Happy Holidays lovely people. Even though the cold keeps threatening to take my joy, I’m still going to hold on to some holiday cheer. This month I talk discounts and freebies and my top five fantasy/supernatural (because that’s my thing) Christmas movies. I also bring back my section on Publishing 101.
Favorite Fantasy Holiday Movies
There aren’t too many (outside of the obvious Santa Clause movies…sorry kids), however, here are my top five:
Scrooged– Any rendition of the Christmas Carol is my jam but the Bill Murray one, although super 80s, is still my favorite.
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Krampus– It’s only been in recent years that I learned of this scary German-based figure but the movie that came out a few years ago certainly will scare you into being good for goodness sake. This is the dude Santa sends to naughty kids!
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Holidays– It’s actually a horror anthology with segments on many of the major holidays and most of the tales are pretty creepy.
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Gremlins– This is a no brainer. I actually haven’t seen this movie since I was a little kid, it scared me so bad. I really should give it another go…nah.
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Nightmare Before Christmas– Tim Burton’s animation creation is like if Halloween and Christmas had a baby.
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A month of Sales
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Since it’s the month of giving, I encourage you to take a few dollars and give to your favorite charities or buy some toys for kids in need. And because you’ll be spending a lot on others, I’m largely reducing the cost of the ebook version of two of my novels and for some they will be FREE! Here are the days and sites you can catch my books on sale!
Mystic Journeys– Book Two will be significantly reduced on a countdown sale on Amazon from December 8 to the 15th!
Mystic Realms– My spin-off novella in the series will be FREE on Amazon from December 26 to the 30th.
Stay tuned for future sales and a chance to get an advanced copy of Mystic Awakenings, Book Three!
Publishing 101: Part Two
In my second installment on the process of publishing, I talk editing. I suggest starting with your own simple editing. Write the book, take a step away from it for a bit and then come back. Once that is done you should send to your editor for any developmental/copy editing. This focuses on the flow of your story and making sure there are no inconsistencies in the story line, that the characters are strong, there there is chemistry and so forth.
Next send to beta readers. These are people who read the story and provide feedback, sometimes the same as the developmental editor. In fact, after your first novel, its probably best to send the novel to your beta readers before sending to your editor. The betareaders are fans of the genre you write and maybe even your series. They give me the perspective of what a reader/buyer will take from the novel. Is a character likeable, is their chemistry, is the book boring in spots, was the ending satisfying? They are your audience testers.
Next you’ll send it back to your editor with all the changes you made from the first go round and the beta feedback. After you review and make any additional changes from your editor’s second round of feedback, then read your book out loud. I like to pretend I’m a narrator on Audible and do voices and all. Sometimes I do this earlier as well.
Finally, send the book off to a proofreader. This is key, a proofreader or line editor is looking at this novel to make sure there are no spelling or grammar mistakes. They are there to make sure the product is technically clean and are not as concerned with the substance.
In quick summary, your developmental editor makes sure your story has flow. Your beta makes sure your story has appeal. Your proofreader makes sure your story looks professional. Yes, there are a lot of steps but you want to make sure you have as perfect a product that you can possibly have for your potential readers and buyers!
Until next time! Have a wonderful holiday and if you’ve read my books I’d love it if you could supply a rating and review on Amazon and Goodreads. It’s very helpful to me!
November 11, 2019
November Newsletter: My travels to Curacao , Free Reads and Book Sales!
It’s November, time to give thanks (or keep giving thanks) to our friends, family, and military. This month I’m thankful for the freedom to travel and write. To highlight that I’ll give a quick guide to my birthday trip to Curacao and highlight some reading opportunities I hope you’ll grab (including my new beta request for Mystic Awakenings)!
Curacao Getaway
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Curacao is a tiny Caribbean island and if you like water activities and nature this place is for you.
Stay
We stayed at the lovely Avila Hotel. The property was upscale with a nice restaurant and pool along with a private beach. There’s also a popular jazz club on site. It wasn’t too far from the down town area, about a 15 minute walk, and other nightlife and restaurants were even closer.
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Eat/Drink
There are many places to eat in this town and if you are a lover of live music there is enough to keep you occupied.
Check out Saint Tropez Ocean Club on a Friday if you want to hear a DJ instead of live music. They played a good mix of everything and the vibe is sexy.
Blues Bar & Restaurant on a Thursday for great live jazz.
Kome Restaurant has really good food and drinks and after 10 p.m. on Saturday there’s a DJ. Not too far from this place are a ton of other options to check out for live music as well.
For authentic food check out Marshe Bieu, the old market building in Willemstad.
For many food options, a bit of shopping and the beach (you’ll have to pay a small fee to access) go to Mambo Beach.
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Do
While here it’s a fun idea to go do the Curacao Liquor tour at the Landhuis Chobolobo. I actually learned a few things.
Do a city tour, it’s quick and gets you the lay of the land.
Shop in Punda. It’s the downtown area with a ton of places to eat and buy things.
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If you don’t have access to a private beach at your hotel then it’s a great idea to do a beach excursion. There are tons of them and if you are adventurous go do a cave tour and snorkeling. Don’t forget to see the turtles and the flamingos!
If you are more low key there are many options for a spa visit. Or visit Kura Hulanda, a museum for African history on the island.
Tips
The country accepts American dollars so no need to exchange your money.
Also cabs can be pretty expensive so many people rent cars. My friend and I just split the cab rides because we were too lazy to drive.
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Reading Opportunities
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If you’re looking for a chance to read fantasy and paranormal books for free in exchange for an honest review on Amazon and Goodreads, check out this opportunity before the special ends on the 14th!
And I’m looking for beta readers for book 3 in my Paranormal World Series, Mystic Awakenings. Here’s the draft summary:
Amina finally knows the sinister forces behind the many attacks on her life and the other members of The Six. Awakened by the return of magic to the world, the first soulmates want their reigning power back. The only problem? There can only be one strong soulmate pairing at a time and the new soulmates, Amina and Phillip, are in their way.
Still new to her bond with former enemy, Phillip, Amina is far from ready to find and battle the ancient soulmates. Not to mention, she’s trying to grow her connection with The Six, which is easier said than done since past hurts have caused a fracture in the group. Then there’s the growing threat of a possible disease that affects only Paranormals, making them primal and violent. When the town’s new barbaric leader enforces a kill law on all those infected Amina’s fight grows even larger. Can Amina and her friends come together to prepare to battle the first soulmates, protect themselves against the regressive disease and stay under the radar of the new leader? They don’t have a choice.
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And if you still want more books to read check out these fantasy and paranormal romance books on sale on Amazon!
Authors’ Spotlight
Check out these authors on Amazon!
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Part Time Monster Hunter by Nicholas Woode-Smith
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As always, thank you for support and if you’ve read my books please leave a review on Amazon! Thanks!
October 28, 2019
October Newsletter: Horror Anime, Teaser, and Author Spotlight
This month’s newsletter is jam packed as this is my favorite month of the year! I talk my favorite horror anime , give a teaser from my novella Mystic Realms out next month, and spotlight some new urban fantasy/paranormal romance authors.
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I’ve mentioned in a couple of my newsletters that I am an anime lover and that it has inspired my writing. Although horror anime is not as popular, if you consider yourself a horror lover I would encourage you to check out some of my favorite horror anime series, many of which are available on main streaming services. Here are my top five that gave me the creeps:
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Corpse Party– Spoiler alert, the party was cut short. Based on a video game, this is about high schoolers trapped in an abandoned haunted school filled with murderous ghosts. Good if you like ghosts and gore. Find it on YouTube. Shiki– Based on a novel and manga, this is set in a small town where a doctor tries to find out what is killing people. Hint, look to the strange family that just moved in town. Great if you like mystery and the paranormal. Find it on HuluYamishibai– A unique series of very short japanese ghost stories. Great if you like ghost stories, jump scares and urban legends. Find it on Crunchyroll. Junji Ito Collection– Anthology series based on the manga works of horror creator Junji Ito. Great if you like weird and creepy. Find it on Funimation and Crunchyroll. Bonus: His work Uzumaki will be premiering on Toonami on Cartoon Network in 2020. Attack on Titan– Very few anime would have me holding my breath but this one scared me when I saw the first episode. Set in a world where hard-to-kill giants eat people, you’ll be rooting for the characters. This is no Jack and the Beanstalk. Great if you like character driven plots, great story lines, action and suspense. Find it on Hulu and just the first season on Netflix.
Mystic Realms
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As promised here’s a quick snippet from my latest novella in the Paranormal World Series:
She thought of the man she left behind. Chuck, no Charles. She kept repeating his name in her head several times a day so that she wouldn’t forget it. However, remembering his name was the least of her troubles. She was starting to forget his face. That smile. She remembered loving his boyish smile but she couldn’t place it in her mind’s eye anymore. She also couldn’t muster up the fluttery butterflies in her stomach she used to get every time she thought of him.
He used to make her heart beat faster whenever he said
flirtatious words to her or made romantic gestures. Like the time he’d brought
her a bag of vegetables he’d bought at the market. Just because. Those were
more precious than flowers now. Then there was the time that he… That he… Lisa
couldn’t remember what she was going to recall about him. She knew he’d done or
said something that touched her but she couldn’t bring up the memory.
She squeezed her eyes shut as if it would help her recollection
but it didn’t. How could she forget this soon? Charles was supposed to be
important to her. She’d have to leave soon if she was going to remember him at
all. What if she didn’t even remember that she needed to go home?
No,
calm down, Lisa, she told herself. Arwa will remind you because you have to go back and send your friend
and her worst enemy away together to a country that may or may not be stable.
The water bubbled in front of her and Lisa opened her
eyes, looking down at the dark water. She sat up straight, folding her legs up
under her. She’d been in this particular tiny spring all by herself. Had
someone gotten in and dipped underwater while her eyes were closed?
She tilted forward a bit and soon long, dark-red hair
fanned out on the surface of the water. A head followed, the face obscured by
the long hair. An upper body cloaked in a black gown next appeared, attached to
the head. Under the hair was an exposed neck and collarbone of pale shimmering
skin. Bright pink eyes snapped open behind the stands and Lisa splashed
backwards in the water.
Author Spotlight
Silken Scales by Alex Hayes
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Idris thinks he only has one problem in life—escaping his dad’s mega plans for his future as a motivational speaker. A doom he can’t see a way to escape. Until Idris morphs into a monster. Foster kid Cadi Rhoswen has finally found a loving home. Then a malicious high school jock turns her whole world upside down. And the next thing she knows, she’s wandering the streets in the middle of winter. Alone.
— Until she discovers a beastly boy hiding in an abandoned nightclub called the Thorny Rose. To change Idris back to his sexy human self, Cadi must reveal a secret she’s been holding close to her heart for as long as she can remember. A secret that will pit them against a deadly army and change their lives forever.
Silken Scales is a modern day Beauty and the Beast retelling and the first novel of the Chameleon Effect series. Young and new adult readers who love fantasy romance with a paranormal twist are sure to love Silken Scales. Available now on Amazon
Buried Magic by TJ Green
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White Haven has a history of witchcraft, but the locals don’t know that there are real witches living among them, and Avery is one of them. When she receives an ominous premonition, a rune covered box, and an intriguing letter, all hinting at the mysterious past of her hometown, perched on the Cornish coast, Avery realises that the witches are missing a vital part of their history.
Five missing grimoires. And when the annoying, but very handsome, Alex Bonneville, shares the same premonition, they know that trouble’s coming. Against her better judgement, Avery teams up with the other witches to uncover the truth. Unfortunately, someone will do anything to stop them. Now is the time to uncover the past. Now is the time to reclaim their heritage. And they’ll risk everything to do it. Available now on Amazon.
Claimed by Bella Night
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The death of his brother forces Greyson West to take his rightful spot in a pack of outlaw wolf shifters. He accepts his fate in order to protect his family, but when a dangerous encounter brings him face-to-face with his mate, he finds himself risking everything for love. The only problem. . . she’s human.
Etti Blackwell is a smart-mouthed tattoo artist with a fierce independent streak. So when a sexy wolf shifter turns her world upside down, she doesn’t take kindly to it. Greyson may have rescued her, but she doesn’t trust him. It’s his fault she’s on the run from werewolves!
As the pack’s savage Alpha closes in, Grey does the unthinkable to keep Etti safe, triggering a curse so powerful it may just cost them both their lives. Unless . . . Can Grey win Etti’s heart and prove he’s her mate before the next hunter’s moon? Crescent City Wolves will transport fans of Twilight, The Vampire Diaries, and The Originals to a world unlike any other… Available on Amazon
Dracones Awakening by Sheri-Lynn Marean and Laura LaTulipe
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As a private investigator, Tierney should be able to locate him, but as an immortal on the cusp of her dragon powers awakening, she knows his disappearance isn’t human related. Have the druid witches that kill without discretion finally found them?
While Tierney searches for her father, the man she loves abandons her. Secrets and lies are revealed, and from skin and scale arises a broken beast of sorrow …
What evil will be uncloaked by ancient magic? Available on Amazon
As always, thanks for your support and if you read my novels please leave a review on Amazon and Goodreads. It really helps! Next month I recap my trip to Curacao and open up the beta reader request for Mystic Awakenings, the third book in the Paranormal World Series.
September 23, 2019
September Newsletter: Cover Reveal, Publishing behind the scenes, Arc Read Request
It’s September and I’m in denial that summer is over. However, I am excited about next month’s release of my first Paranormal World novella, Mystic Realms! Also I’m starting a new section of the newsletter on my journey with independent publishing, as I’ve gotten a few questions about that before.
Cover Reveal and ARC request!
So excited for Mystic Realms, A Paranormal World Novella. This time the story focuses on Lisa Xu and what happened during the time of Mystic Journeys. Where did Lisa go for months and what happened back in town after Amina and Phillip were banished? This book answers those questions, tells us more about the “big bad” that’s coming to the Six, and introduces some interesting new characters.
This cover is still being finalized but here is an advanced look!
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Here’s a summary:
Lisa Xu was just on the cusp of becoming a major style influencer when the supernatural apocalypse came and changed her life forever. Becoming a fairy and learning she’s a part of a special Six meant to save the world is so not what she signed up for. After losing yet another loved one to the chaos of the new world, Lisa takes an offer from an old friend to finally visit the Fae Realm as an escape. However, there is more to this land than the marbled streets and sprinkled treats she was anticipating. Now Lisa must fight off a dark presence on her trail and make a decision that could devastate her life and those she left behind in the Human Realm. Top that off with a handsome Elven King out to woo her for sinister reasons and Lisa’s dream vacation has become more of a nightmare. This hairdresser from Jersey is so not cut out for this new world but she’s going to have to step up if she plans to survive.
If you’d like an advanced copy of the ebook in exchange for an honest review on Amazon and Goodreads by the late October release please contact me by October 4th.
Publishing 101
I wish I could say I have all the answers but I’m still learning. I’m better off now than when I published by very first book, however. There was so much I didn’t know and indie publishing wasn’t as popular then. Now, it’s become a field where many books have taken off and the quality has increased to challenge traditional publishing.
However, there are still so many things to think about. There’s editing, formatting, social media, marketing/advertising, book covers, budgeting, planning, distribution, imprints, giveaways… The list could go on! This month let’s talk planning.
Planning
Months before you even think about publishing your book set out the plan. Plan a writing schedule, plan how many times a week you can cater to your branding and social media scheduling. Out of the seven days a week, I only rest on Fridays when it comes to writing related activity (with some exceptions because…life). Even if all I can devote is an hour to the business/craft.
Some people might have certain days they devote to writing and certain days they devote to marketing/branding activities. Some break it up by time. For example, one hour to marketing, two hours to writing each day. I tend to have certain days when I do certain things. This keeps me from feeling overwhelmed.
Whether you are a traditionally published writer or an indie writer, you must market and build your brand. You are running a business, not just sitting in front of a computer creating. I wish it were that simple. Le, sigh.
Therefore, having a plan helps to keep you on track and accountable. Once you’ve made your schedule ensure that you are using that time wisely. The writing time is easy, the other stuff must be more structured. On those non-writing days I follow a checklist. Your checklist should include most of the following and have dates associated with them:
getting a cover artist time for beta readersediting proofreading (yes, editing is not the same as proofreading)formating (for ebook, paperback, audio)updating your websiteupdating your goodreads/amazon etc. author websitespreparing pre-orders or giveaways/swagwriting your blog/newsletteradvertising (including making your ads in creative ways and monitoring sales) on Facebook/Amazonreading up on marketing, publishing, brandingmaintaining and growing a social media presence (including networking and supporting other authors)entering contests, book fairs/festivals, signings, sending queries out to reviewers/publishers/agentsdeveloping your book ( having your own imprint, doing acknowledgements, bios, calls to actions, picking a distributor)time for ARC readers
Whew, that’s a lot, right? And I’m sure I’m missing something or over simplifying it as some bullets can have bullets within themselves. However having a list, with dates and in some cases, budgets is a necessity. Know how long things will take for each stage.
Regardless of how fast you can get your book out, the key is always planning ahead and diligently sticking to a schedule that fits your life.
Hope this helps. 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. Thanks!
September 17, 2019
September Newsletter: Cover Reveal, Publishing behind the scenes, Arc Read Request
It’s September and I’m in denial that summer is coming to a close. However, I am excited about next month’s release of my first Paranormal World novella, Mystic Realms! Also I’m starting a new section of the newsletter on my journey with independent publishing, as I’ve gotten a few questions about that before.
Cover Reveal and ARC request!
So excited for Mystic Realms, A Paranormal World Novella. This time the story focuses on Lisa Xu and what happened during the time of Mystic Journeys. Where did Lisa go for months and what happened back in town after Amina and Phillip were banished? This book answers those questions, tells us more about the “big bad” that’s coming to the Six, and introduces some interesting new characters.
Here’s a summary:
Lisa Xu was just on the cusp of becoming a major style influencer when the supernatural apocalypse came and changed her life forever. Becoming a fairy and learning she’s a part of a special Six meant to save the world is so not what she signed up for. After losing yet another loved one to the chaos of the new world, Lisa takes an offer from an old friend to finally visit the Fae Realm as an escape. However, there is more to this land than the marbled streets and sprinkled treats she was anticipating. Now Lisa must fight off a dark presence on her trail and make a decision that could devastate her life and those she left behind in the Human Realm. Top that off with a handsome Elven King out to woo her for sinister reasons and Lisa’s dream vacation has become more of a nightmare. This hairdresser from Jersey is so not cut out for this new world but she’s going to have to step up if she plans to survive.
If you’d like an advanced copy of the ebook in exchange for an honest review on Amazon and Goodreads by the October release please contact me.
Publishing 101
I wish I could say I have all the answers but I’m still learning. I’m better off now than when I published by very first book, however. There was so much I didn’t know and indie publishing wasn’t as popular then. Now, it’s become a field where many books have taken off and the quality has increased to challenge traditional publishing for many books.
However, there are still so many things to think about. There’s editing, formatting, social media, marketing/advertising, book covers, budgeting, planning, distribution, imprints, giveaways… The list could go on! This month let’s talk planning.
Planning
Months before you even think about publishing your book set out the plan. If you can, before you even start writing! Plan a writing schedule, plan how many times a week you can cater to your branding and social media scheduling. Out of the seven days a week, I only rest on Fridays when it comes to writing related activity (with some exceptions because…life). Even if all I can devote is an hour to the business/craft.
Some people might have certain days they devote to writing and certain days they devote to marketing/branding activities. Some break it up by time. For example, one hour to marketing, two hours to writing each day. I tend to have certain days when I do certain things but I am flexible. This keeps me from feeling overwhelmed.
Whether you are a traditionally published writer or an indie writer, you must market and build your brand. You are running a business, not just sitting in front of a computer creating. I wish it were that simple. Le, sigh.
Therefore, having a plan helps to keep you on track and accountable. Once you’ve made your schedule ensure that you are using that time wisely. The writing time is easy, the other stuff must be more structured. On those non-writing days I follow a checklist. Your checklist should include most of the following and have dates associated with them:
getting a cover artist time for beta readerseditingformating (for ebook, paperback, audio)updating your websiteupdating your goodreads/amazon etc. author websitespreparing pre-orders or giveaways/swagwriting your blog/newsletteradvertising (including making your ads in creative ways and monitoring sales) on Facebook/Amazonreading up on marketing, publishing, brandingmaintaining and growing a social media presence (including networking and supporting other authors)entering contests, book fairs/festivals, signings, sending queries out to reviewers/publishers/agentsdeveloping your book ( having your own imprint, doing acknowledgements, bios, calls to actions, picking a distributor)time for ARC readers
Whew, that’s a lot, right? And I’m sure I’m missing something or over simplifying it as some bullets can have bullets within themselves. However having a list, with dates and in some cases, budgets is a necessity. Know how long things will take for each stage.
So that I don’t go crazy, I allow a month for each stage where another party plays a role, other things I can do simultaneously. Therefore, for Mystic Realms, I’d already sent in a request for my cover artist before I even wrote the book and got a date because they are so popular. I sent the book to my beta readers in June, worked on edits from their feedback and sent to my editor in July, got the final product and did one more read through (out loud) and sent to my formatter in August. This month I got the formatting and cover done and I now send the book out for advanced reviews just in time for the October release! And in the meantime, I’m doing marketing for all my books, distribution, website updates, and giveaways.
Therefore, even assuming I’d just finished the book in May (which I finished before then), it’s still four months from that time before it can go out. Are there some who can get books out every month? Yes, I can’t tell you how. Further, traditional publishing is typically only one or two books a year.
However, regardless of how fast you can get your book out, the key is always planning ahead and diligently sticking to a schedule that fits your life.
Hope this helps. Till next time and as always, if you’ve read my books I am always appreciative of a review. I read them and they help me grow as a writer and know my audience better. Thanks!
August 26, 2019
Giveaway announcement!
Just dropping a note that from Monday, August 26th through September 9th I’ll be opening a giveaway for a chance to get a signed hard copy of book two in my Paranormal World Series. Subscribe to my newsletter or follow me on Instagram for a higher chance at winning! Click here for more information!
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And as always, I appreciate you taking the time to leave a review on Amazon and Goodreads. It greatly helps! Thanks for your support
August 9, 2019
August Newsletter: San Francisco Quick Trip Recap, ARC Request and Author Spotlight
It’s August and I’m already mourning summer. I don’t want it to go. 100 degree weather and all. I’ll crawl through heat exhaustion before I rejoice for temps below 50.
This month I do a quick feature on my short trip to San Francisco and discuss book 3 in my Paranormal World series!
Feature
If you are short on time while visiting San Francisco here are my tips for the nerdy urbanista. There is something for everyone in San Fran but they all aren’t close together. It’s best to plan ahead to make the best use of your time if you’re only going to be there a short while. In this case I chose activities near each other.
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Stay
We stayed at the Stanford Court which is a good location to shopping, cable cars and the famous Chinatown area. The hotel was very nice but be warned there is no taxi stand. There is the expectation that people just do uber/lyft. Not sure if that is a hotel thing or San Fran thing. It wasn’t a big deal but get the app if you don’t have it.
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Eat
San Francisco is a big foodie town. Go for seafood, Chinese food (and pastries) and Mexican for certain. Some highlights:
Fog Harbor- In the touristy Pier 39 area, come for some great seafood, drinks and nice sunset views.
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X & Y Szechuan Restaurant- Visit this yummy Chinese food restaurant which boast visits from President Obama. It’s nothing fancy but don’t let that dissuade you. There can be a wait to get in but it moves fairly quickly.
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If you have time for a drink go around the corner to Li Po Cocktail lounge, put higher on the map by the late Anthony Bourdain.
Do
Ice Cream Museum– not sure why such a delicious place exists but I’m glad it does.
Shopping – If you are a shopper like me check out Union Square, Westfield Shopping mall. Also, don’t forget Chinatown for more unique items. Chinatown in San Francisco is on another level than others in the country. Some parts of it even have the feel of walking in another country. Also worth a look is Japantown.
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Exploratorium – I didn’t get to check out this because I got tired after a long day but if you can, check out the adult nights for a low key but educational nightlife option.
And if you can make it also visit Alcatrez, see the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf.
All in all, a fun city that I’d like to return to with more time!
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Book Three is on the Way!
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And I’m looking for readers to look at the book in advance for an honest review on Amazon and Goodreads just in time for the October release! The actual cover isn’t ready yet but it’s on the way!
Mystic Realms, A Paranormal World Novella.
Lisa Xu was just on the cusp of becoming a major style influencer when the supernatural apocalypse came and changed her life forever. Becoming a fairy and learning she’s a part of a special Six meant to save the world is so not what she signed up for. After losing yet another loved one to the chaos of the new world, Lisa takes an offer from an old friend to finally visit the Fae Realm as an escape. However, there is more to this land than the marbled streets and sprinkled treats and Lisa must fight off a dark presence on her trail and make a decision that could devastate her life and those she left behind in the Human Realm. Top that off with a handsome Elven King out to woo her for possibly sinister motives and Lisa’s dream vacation has become more of a nightmare. This hairdresser from Jersey is so not cut out for this new world but she’s going to have to step up if she plans to survive.
If you can read and provide a review by the end of September please contact me!
Author Spotlight
The Harrowing (Call of the Sirens, Book 3)
To celebrate the launch, The Harvest (Book 1) will be free and The Hunt (Book 2) will be $0.99 from August 7-11th. The Harrowing will be $2.99 for the first week of launch.
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Iris never expected to live her life trapped on land. Nor was she prepared for what she would find there. A siren isn’t supposed to fall in love with her prey.
And war with the underwater world is coming. As the human and siren worlds collide, Iris must choose a side. Will she save the life of the human boy she loves and his world or lose her chance at humanity forever?
Till next time. As always if you enjoy my books please leave a review! And for more information on all things travel, nerd life and my life see my social media pages on facebook, instagram and twitter.
