Mere Joyce's Blog, page 5
June 26, 2015
Blank Canvas Launch Party Day 7 - Wrap-up, Thanks, and a Blog Tour!
It's day seven of the Blank Canvas Launch Party!
It's the last day of the launch week party, so today I want to thank everyone for stopping by, commenting, reading/reviewing my story, and/or just generally being around for the fun and frustrations we share on the blog from our writing lives!
I want to thank the Evernight Teen team for reading my work and liking it enough to publish it, and I also want to thank the folks at Bridging the Gap Promotions for putting together my upcoming official Blank Canvas blog tour!
Of course, on that note:
I have a blog tour coming up! Check out each stop on the tour for more insights about me, my writing, and Blank Canvas. Plus, enter for your chance to win a $20 Evernight Teen Gift Card! I will post the details of the tour here, and I'll be tweeting them as well. So follow along for more fun.
And, of course, one giveaway isn't enough, so if you haven't already, enter below for your chance to win a signed, print copy of Blank Canvas!
Thanks again for all of your support and encouragement. It's been a lot of fun spending this week in the world of one story, and now, it's time to get back to work on another one!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
It's the last day of the launch week party, so today I want to thank everyone for stopping by, commenting, reading/reviewing my story, and/or just generally being around for the fun and frustrations we share on the blog from our writing lives!
I want to thank the Evernight Teen team for reading my work and liking it enough to publish it, and I also want to thank the folks at Bridging the Gap Promotions for putting together my upcoming official Blank Canvas blog tour!
Of course, on that note:
I have a blog tour coming up! Check out each stop on the tour for more insights about me, my writing, and Blank Canvas. Plus, enter for your chance to win a $20 Evernight Teen Gift Card! I will post the details of the tour here, and I'll be tweeting them as well. So follow along for more fun.
And, of course, one giveaway isn't enough, so if you haven't already, enter below for your chance to win a signed, print copy of Blank Canvas!
Thanks again for all of your support and encouragement. It's been a lot of fun spending this week in the world of one story, and now, it's time to get back to work on another one!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
June 25, 2015
Blank Canvas Launch Party Day 6 - Bonus Excerpt
It's day six of the Blank Canvas Launch Party!
The party is almost over! I hope you've enjoyed the behind the scenes goodies I've shared this week, and I hope, too, you've entered the giveaway for a signed print copy of Blank Canvas (if not, you can enter at the end of this post!)
Today, I thought it would be fun to share an additional teaser excerpt from the book (if you're wondering where the first excerpt is, check it out here).
In this scene, Maddie is being driven from her psychiatrist's office to her art therapist's clinic. Hope you enjoy!
~*~*~*~
“Don’t you have anything better to do than drive me around?” I ask, hugging my bag to my chest and studying his reaction. When he smiles, my stomach still flutters like it did years ago. But I’m not a child anymore. I don’t have romantic visions of the future like I once did.
Wesley makes me feel safe, and for the moment, safe is a blessing. I’m not sure I could have survived this long without him.
“Someone has to make you go to therapy,” he replies, but even when he says the word therapy, it still sounds like it belongs in everyday conversation. Like it’s normal. I lean back against the headrest and let a smile lengthen my lips.
“I don’t mind seeing Klara,” I tell him, even though I hate sitting in Klara’s office, repeating the story of my abduction week after week. I’m not sure why I lie. I guess it’s petty to complain about the woman assigned to help me, when he’s volunteering his time to make sure I have the chance to receive her help in the first place.
“But you hate art therapy,” Wesley finishes for me. His voice is tight when he says it, and I’m surprised. My reluctance to attend this second form of therapy has resulted in many drawn out conversations with my parents. Some have ended in shouting matches, others in tears, and most have been dispirited, fruitless attempts to find a solution to please us all. It’s no secret I want to stop my art therapy, nor is it a hidden fact Mom and Dad think art therapy is the most crucial aspect of my rehabilitation. But I didn’t realize Wesley thinks the sessions are important, too.
The van makes a clunky right turn off Bayfield Street, and after driving past a neighborhood of old houses and new townhomes, an office park comes into view. I can spot the windows of the Healing Expressions clinic, three floors up in the far building. My throat is already dry, and we haven’t even parked yet. My legs regained their strength during the ride, but my feet are tingling again. I grip my bag tightly.
“See you in an hour?” Wesley asks as he pulls up in front of the building. His phone buzzes, rattling the cup holder it sits in. I wonder who’s calling, and wish I could stick around to find out. I would love to sit in this van, answering phone calls or spinning the radio dial, talking to Wesley or not talking and simply enjoying a drive down an endless sunny road.
Instead, I only nod at Wesley’s question, pushing open the door and climbing out of the seat before I lose my nerve and beg him to take me away from the clinic. Wesley gives me a wave before reaching down to grab his phone. I stare at him for a few long seconds, and then turn with a sigh and walk, still a little dazed, towards the building.
The glass windows catch the sun, and I have to shield my eyes from the blinding gleam. Around me, the world is bright and warm and alive. It’s beautiful outside––late spring in full bloom. I used to love this time of year, but today the vibrant landscape is shaded black and grey.
To me, the world has lost all color. Once, I would have delighted in painting it. Now, the idea terrifies me.
~*~*~*~
Stay tuned for day seven, the final day, of the Blank Canvas Launch Party tomorrow, and if you haven't already done so, enter to win a signed print copy of Blank Canvas below!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
The party is almost over! I hope you've enjoyed the behind the scenes goodies I've shared this week, and I hope, too, you've entered the giveaway for a signed print copy of Blank Canvas (if not, you can enter at the end of this post!)
Today, I thought it would be fun to share an additional teaser excerpt from the book (if you're wondering where the first excerpt is, check it out here).
In this scene, Maddie is being driven from her psychiatrist's office to her art therapist's clinic. Hope you enjoy!
~*~*~*~
“Don’t you have anything better to do than drive me around?” I ask, hugging my bag to my chest and studying his reaction. When he smiles, my stomach still flutters like it did years ago. But I’m not a child anymore. I don’t have romantic visions of the future like I once did.
Wesley makes me feel safe, and for the moment, safe is a blessing. I’m not sure I could have survived this long without him.
“Someone has to make you go to therapy,” he replies, but even when he says the word therapy, it still sounds like it belongs in everyday conversation. Like it’s normal. I lean back against the headrest and let a smile lengthen my lips.
“I don’t mind seeing Klara,” I tell him, even though I hate sitting in Klara’s office, repeating the story of my abduction week after week. I’m not sure why I lie. I guess it’s petty to complain about the woman assigned to help me, when he’s volunteering his time to make sure I have the chance to receive her help in the first place.
“But you hate art therapy,” Wesley finishes for me. His voice is tight when he says it, and I’m surprised. My reluctance to attend this second form of therapy has resulted in many drawn out conversations with my parents. Some have ended in shouting matches, others in tears, and most have been dispirited, fruitless attempts to find a solution to please us all. It’s no secret I want to stop my art therapy, nor is it a hidden fact Mom and Dad think art therapy is the most crucial aspect of my rehabilitation. But I didn’t realize Wesley thinks the sessions are important, too.
The van makes a clunky right turn off Bayfield Street, and after driving past a neighborhood of old houses and new townhomes, an office park comes into view. I can spot the windows of the Healing Expressions clinic, three floors up in the far building. My throat is already dry, and we haven’t even parked yet. My legs regained their strength during the ride, but my feet are tingling again. I grip my bag tightly.
“See you in an hour?” Wesley asks as he pulls up in front of the building. His phone buzzes, rattling the cup holder it sits in. I wonder who’s calling, and wish I could stick around to find out. I would love to sit in this van, answering phone calls or spinning the radio dial, talking to Wesley or not talking and simply enjoying a drive down an endless sunny road.
Instead, I only nod at Wesley’s question, pushing open the door and climbing out of the seat before I lose my nerve and beg him to take me away from the clinic. Wesley gives me a wave before reaching down to grab his phone. I stare at him for a few long seconds, and then turn with a sigh and walk, still a little dazed, towards the building.
The glass windows catch the sun, and I have to shield my eyes from the blinding gleam. Around me, the world is bright and warm and alive. It’s beautiful outside––late spring in full bloom. I used to love this time of year, but today the vibrant landscape is shaded black and grey.
To me, the world has lost all color. Once, I would have delighted in painting it. Now, the idea terrifies me.
~*~*~*~
Stay tuned for day seven, the final day, of the Blank Canvas Launch Party tomorrow, and if you haven't already done so, enter to win a signed print copy of Blank Canvas below!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
June 24, 2015
Blank Canvas Launch Party Day 5 - Inside the Mind of a Painter
It's day five of the Blank Canvas Launch Party!
The main character of Blank Canvas is a painter. Maddie once loved to paint, and now she's afraid of it. But painting is still her life, whether she wants it to be or not.
I, on the other hand, am not a painter. Like, at all. Like, I can barely even draw stick figures.
But, while I was working on this story, my husband bought me a blank canvas of my own, complete with some paints so I could try my hand at the craft!
This is embarrassing to show, but I'm going to do it anyways, because although I already knew I couldn't paint nearly so well as Maddie, actually using similar tools as she does helped me to really feel what it's like to bring brush to canvas, and attempt to make a work of art.
Let me tell you, it gave me renewed respect for that talented girl!
Here is what I attempted to paint. Maddie usually paints portraits, but I wasn't about to attempt something like that, so I went with a landscape instead.
Ta-da!
Beautiful, isn't it? (Not!) Okay, so clearly my distant sandy hills didn't work out. And neither did my wood shack of a house looking over the sea. I was actually happy with how my sky turned out, though. It was a lot of fun mixing the paints on the palette to try and get the perfect shade, and I like how different colours came through with each pull of the brush.
Okay, so clearly I didn't have any hidden painting talents waiting to be unleashed. All in all, I spent about fifteen minutes on this piece, and...that was enough! I really appreciate how talented painters can be, and I can see how this could be a calming way to spend a creative afternoon. But for me, I think I'll stick to writing instead.
Are you a painter? Ever tried it? Ever think you'd like to give it a go? Let me know!
Stay tuned for day six of the Blank Canvas Launch Party tomorrow, and if you haven't already, enter the giveaway for a signed print copy of Blank Canvas below!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
The main character of Blank Canvas is a painter. Maddie once loved to paint, and now she's afraid of it. But painting is still her life, whether she wants it to be or not.
I, on the other hand, am not a painter. Like, at all. Like, I can barely even draw stick figures.
But, while I was working on this story, my husband bought me a blank canvas of my own, complete with some paints so I could try my hand at the craft!
This is embarrassing to show, but I'm going to do it anyways, because although I already knew I couldn't paint nearly so well as Maddie, actually using similar tools as she does helped me to really feel what it's like to bring brush to canvas, and attempt to make a work of art.
Let me tell you, it gave me renewed respect for that talented girl!
Here is what I attempted to paint. Maddie usually paints portraits, but I wasn't about to attempt something like that, so I went with a landscape instead.
Ta-da!
Beautiful, isn't it? (Not!) Okay, so clearly my distant sandy hills didn't work out. And neither did my wood shack of a house looking over the sea. I was actually happy with how my sky turned out, though. It was a lot of fun mixing the paints on the palette to try and get the perfect shade, and I like how different colours came through with each pull of the brush.
Okay, so clearly I didn't have any hidden painting talents waiting to be unleashed. All in all, I spent about fifteen minutes on this piece, and...that was enough! I really appreciate how talented painters can be, and I can see how this could be a calming way to spend a creative afternoon. But for me, I think I'll stick to writing instead.
Are you a painter? Ever tried it? Ever think you'd like to give it a go? Let me know!
Stay tuned for day six of the Blank Canvas Launch Party tomorrow, and if you haven't already, enter the giveaway for a signed print copy of Blank Canvas below!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
June 23, 2015
Blank Canvas Launch Party Day 4 - An Interview With Maddie
It's day four of the Blank Canvas Launch Party!
Today, I thought it would be fun to do a character interview with Maddie, the main character of Blank Canvas!
Maddie used to be a painter. She is a girl who was once passionate, slightly conceited, and totally carefree. After being abducted and spending two and a half years in captivity, however, she's now reserved and uncomfortable with attention. She's embarrassed by the gentle stammer of her speech, and she's terrified by the idea of ever painting again.
Let's begin, =)
1. How old are you? Do you feel your age, or do you feel older/younger?
I'm sixteen, b-but I don't feel it. I m-missed out on a few years, and I feel like I've missed out on a few more. I think–I feel older, most of the time. Except when I'm around m-my sister, Autumn. She's thirteen, but she's usually the one taking care of me. She's my b-baby sister, but sometimes, it feels like I'm the younger one.
2. You like–or used to like–painting. But do you have any other hobbies?
I don't know if it's a hobby, b-but I study people. Watch them, imagine what their lives are like. People are interesting. Even the bad ones f-fascinate me.
3. What's your favourite book?
The Picture of Dorian Gray. It's morbid, I guess, like being attracted to m-my own nightmare. But I like how the b-beautiful portrait holds something so sinister underneath. And I-I know the painting changes on its own, but I...I imagine what it would be like to paint Dorian's withering face, to capture his altered personality over and over again as each new sin took its toll. The idea is intriguing, or w-was. W-Would be, if I still painted.
4.And your favourite artist?
It's difficult to pick one artist because there is s-such a wide range of style and...intent. B-But I've always loved the p-portrait artist John Singer Sargent. When I first saw his work in school, I thought it was b-boring. But then I discovered it was full of personality, individuality. I-I like that his pieces changed my mind. I like that what f-first appears so straightforward and simple is actually really complex. My favourite is his portrait of Lady Agnew of Lochnaw. She's beautiful, and I think she has a secret...like she's daring us all to try and f-figure her out, knowing we'll never be able to.
Lady Agnew of LochnawPhoto from: http://www.jssgallery.org/Paintings/L...
5. What's your earliest memory of painting?
For my fifth birthday, I got a book of blank pages for coloring...two days later, I told my mom I n-needed a new one. She thought I'd scribbled my way through the p-pages, but I'd drawn a complete picture on each sheet. That same afternoon she took me to a craft store, and let me choose my own medium. I chose a p-paint set.
6. Use ten words to describe yourself.
T-Ten words? Okay...
Observant.
Determined.
Smitten.
Confused.
Frustrated.
Weak.
Strong.
Sorry.
Angry.
Afraid.
7. What's your idea of a perfect day?
My perfect day would be at a cottage in the summer. With my sister and my f-friend Wesley. The m-morning would be sunny. We'd spend it swimming or hiking. And after, we'd make a huge lunch and eat till our stomachs were ready to burst.
Then, I'd spend the afternoon alone with Wesley. O-Out on the dock, by the lake. Listening to him play his cello while I p-p...while I painted him.
8. If you could have escaped your captivity for one single day during the length of your abduction, where would you have gone?
The obvious answer is to say I would have gone home. And I w-would have. But if this is a dream–and it's n-not too different from ones I've had many t-times before–then I would collect my family and we would go somewhere far away, with lots of sun, and n-no other people to distract us from just being together. An island, maybe? Or m-maybe even that cottage. Somewhere quiet, and peaceful. Somewhere without a clock, so I would n-never have to know the day was over.
9. Is there anything deceiving about you? Something people would be surprised to know?
I'm stronger than I look. I'm s-skinny after being away. Too skinny. I l-look frail, b-but I'm not. Physically, I mean. I...I'm strong, physically. Mentally, I'm not. I'm weaker than I want to be, mentally. But at least I have physical strength. At least I have s-something.
10. We'll finish with an easy one. What is your favourite colour?
Purple. B-Byzantium if we're getting specific. But most shades of purple will do. I like purple b-because it's moody. It can be s-sensual, calming, or vibrant. It's majestic. No other color is as comforting to me as purple.
~*~*~*~
That's all for today! I hope you enjoyed getting to know Maddie a little more, and stay tuned for day five of the Blank Canvas Launch Party tomorrow.
And, if you haven't already done so, enter below to win a signed print copy of Blank Canvas!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
Today, I thought it would be fun to do a character interview with Maddie, the main character of Blank Canvas!
Maddie used to be a painter. She is a girl who was once passionate, slightly conceited, and totally carefree. After being abducted and spending two and a half years in captivity, however, she's now reserved and uncomfortable with attention. She's embarrassed by the gentle stammer of her speech, and she's terrified by the idea of ever painting again.
Let's begin, =)
1. How old are you? Do you feel your age, or do you feel older/younger?
I'm sixteen, b-but I don't feel it. I m-missed out on a few years, and I feel like I've missed out on a few more. I think–I feel older, most of the time. Except when I'm around m-my sister, Autumn. She's thirteen, but she's usually the one taking care of me. She's my b-baby sister, but sometimes, it feels like I'm the younger one.
2. You like–or used to like–painting. But do you have any other hobbies?
I don't know if it's a hobby, b-but I study people. Watch them, imagine what their lives are like. People are interesting. Even the bad ones f-fascinate me.
3. What's your favourite book?
The Picture of Dorian Gray. It's morbid, I guess, like being attracted to m-my own nightmare. But I like how the b-beautiful portrait holds something so sinister underneath. And I-I know the painting changes on its own, but I...I imagine what it would be like to paint Dorian's withering face, to capture his altered personality over and over again as each new sin took its toll. The idea is intriguing, or w-was. W-Would be, if I still painted.
4.And your favourite artist?
It's difficult to pick one artist because there is s-such a wide range of style and...intent. B-But I've always loved the p-portrait artist John Singer Sargent. When I first saw his work in school, I thought it was b-boring. But then I discovered it was full of personality, individuality. I-I like that his pieces changed my mind. I like that what f-first appears so straightforward and simple is actually really complex. My favourite is his portrait of Lady Agnew of Lochnaw. She's beautiful, and I think she has a secret...like she's daring us all to try and f-figure her out, knowing we'll never be able to.
Lady Agnew of LochnawPhoto from: http://www.jssgallery.org/Paintings/L...
5. What's your earliest memory of painting?
For my fifth birthday, I got a book of blank pages for coloring...two days later, I told my mom I n-needed a new one. She thought I'd scribbled my way through the p-pages, but I'd drawn a complete picture on each sheet. That same afternoon she took me to a craft store, and let me choose my own medium. I chose a p-paint set.
6. Use ten words to describe yourself.
T-Ten words? Okay...
Observant.
Determined.
Smitten.
Confused.
Frustrated.
Weak.
Strong.
Sorry.
Angry.
Afraid.
7. What's your idea of a perfect day?
My perfect day would be at a cottage in the summer. With my sister and my f-friend Wesley. The m-morning would be sunny. We'd spend it swimming or hiking. And after, we'd make a huge lunch and eat till our stomachs were ready to burst.
Then, I'd spend the afternoon alone with Wesley. O-Out on the dock, by the lake. Listening to him play his cello while I p-p...while I painted him.
8. If you could have escaped your captivity for one single day during the length of your abduction, where would you have gone?
The obvious answer is to say I would have gone home. And I w-would have. But if this is a dream–and it's n-not too different from ones I've had many t-times before–then I would collect my family and we would go somewhere far away, with lots of sun, and n-no other people to distract us from just being together. An island, maybe? Or m-maybe even that cottage. Somewhere quiet, and peaceful. Somewhere without a clock, so I would n-never have to know the day was over.
9. Is there anything deceiving about you? Something people would be surprised to know?
I'm stronger than I look. I'm s-skinny after being away. Too skinny. I l-look frail, b-but I'm not. Physically, I mean. I...I'm strong, physically. Mentally, I'm not. I'm weaker than I want to be, mentally. But at least I have physical strength. At least I have s-something.
10. We'll finish with an easy one. What is your favourite colour?
Purple. B-Byzantium if we're getting specific. But most shades of purple will do. I like purple b-because it's moody. It can be s-sensual, calming, or vibrant. It's majestic. No other color is as comforting to me as purple.
~*~*~*~
That's all for today! I hope you enjoyed getting to know Maddie a little more, and stay tuned for day five of the Blank Canvas Launch Party tomorrow.
And, if you haven't already done so, enter below to win a signed print copy of Blank Canvas!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
June 22, 2015
Blank Canvas Launch Party Day 3 - Pinterest Inspiration
It's day three of the Blank Canvas Launch Party!
Today I've decided to share my Pinterest inspiration board. I collected these pins because they reminded me of the characters' moods, personalities, inner turmoils, and activities. I haven't labelled any of the pins...I think it's better to see the images and let them make their own impressions!
I hope you enjoy, =)
Blank Canvas Pinterest
Stay tuned for day four of the Blank Canvas Launch Party tomorrow, and if you haven't already done so, enter to win a signed print copy of Blank Canvas below!
a Rafflecopter giveaway There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
Today I've decided to share my Pinterest inspiration board. I collected these pins because they reminded me of the characters' moods, personalities, inner turmoils, and activities. I haven't labelled any of the pins...I think it's better to see the images and let them make their own impressions!
I hope you enjoy, =)
Blank Canvas Pinterest
Stay tuned for day four of the Blank Canvas Launch Party tomorrow, and if you haven't already done so, enter to win a signed print copy of Blank Canvas below!
a Rafflecopter giveaway There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
June 21, 2015
Blank Canvas Launch Party Day 2 - Book Trailer
It's day two of the Blank Canvas Launch Party!
Yesterday I announced a giveaway of signed print copies of Blank Canvas, so today I'm giving you a taste of the story with the premier of the Blank Canvas book trailer! I made this short trailer myself, and as usual with these kinds of projects, it was all kinds of frustrating, but also a lot of fun!
Enjoy, =)
Stay tuned for day three of the Blank Canvas Launch Party tomorrow, and if you haven't already done so, enter to win a signed print copy of Blank Canvas below!
a Rafflecopter giveaway There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
Yesterday I announced a giveaway of signed print copies of Blank Canvas, so today I'm giving you a taste of the story with the premier of the Blank Canvas book trailer! I made this short trailer myself, and as usual with these kinds of projects, it was all kinds of frustrating, but also a lot of fun!
Enjoy, =)
Stay tuned for day three of the Blank Canvas Launch Party tomorrow, and if you haven't already done so, enter to win a signed print copy of Blank Canvas below!
a Rafflecopter giveaway There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
June 20, 2015
Blank Canvas Launch Party Day 1 - A Giveaway
It's day one of the Blank Canvas Launch Party!
This week, I'll be posting every day to kick-off the release of my debut YA novel, Blank Canvas. Each day this week will feature a short, fun post giving you insights to my characters, inspiration, and more!
But what would a party be without free goodies? So today, I'm kicking off the party by announcing a giveaway!
Yep! In honour of Blank Canvas being released, I am giving away 2 signed print copies of the book!
Three years ago, sixteen-year-old Maddie Deacon was abducted on her way home from her school’s Art Showcase. Five months ago, she escaped the madman she calls The Painter. Before being taken, painting was Maddie’s life. Now, it’s her nightmare.
Maddie wants to forget her years in captivity. She’d rather spend her time getting reacquainted with her parents and her sister, not to mention her cello-playing, beautiful boy next door and childhood best friend Wesley. But paint is everywhere, and tormenting shadows linger in every portrait she encounters.
When the yearly Art Showcase once again approaches, Maddie has the chance to win a scholarship and start planning a future far away from the horrors of her past. She knows she has to make a choice–confront her memories of The Painter and overcome her fear of the canvas, or give up painting forever.
Giveaway rules:
There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
So what are you waiting for? Enter below, and let's get this party started!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Stay tuned for day two of the Blank Canvas Launch Party tomorrow!
This week, I'll be posting every day to kick-off the release of my debut YA novel, Blank Canvas. Each day this week will feature a short, fun post giving you insights to my characters, inspiration, and more!
But what would a party be without free goodies? So today, I'm kicking off the party by announcing a giveaway!
Yep! In honour of Blank Canvas being released, I am giving away 2 signed print copies of the book!
Three years ago, sixteen-year-old Maddie Deacon was abducted on her way home from her school’s Art Showcase. Five months ago, she escaped the madman she calls The Painter. Before being taken, painting was Maddie’s life. Now, it’s her nightmare.
Maddie wants to forget her years in captivity. She’d rather spend her time getting reacquainted with her parents and her sister, not to mention her cello-playing, beautiful boy next door and childhood best friend Wesley. But paint is everywhere, and tormenting shadows linger in every portrait she encounters.
When the yearly Art Showcase once again approaches, Maddie has the chance to win a scholarship and start planning a future far away from the horrors of her past. She knows she has to make a choice–confront her memories of The Painter and overcome her fear of the canvas, or give up painting forever.
Giveaway rules:
There will be 2 prizes of 1 signed copy of the upcoming print version of Blank Canvas. This contest is open to residents of the US and Canada (excluding Quebec) only, and will run from Sunday, June 21 12:00 AM through Saturday, June 27th 11:59 PM Eastern time. Entrants must be 18 years of age or older. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited.
Everyone is allowed one free entry into the giveaway draw. Additional entries can be earned by commenting on the blog during each day of the party (1 entry per day). Two winners will be randomly selected and notified within 7 days of the giveaway ending. Mere Joyce will ship the two winners a signed print copy of Blank Canvas once the print version has been released (Please note this may take several weeks.) Winners will be notified when the book has shipped.
So what are you waiting for? Enter below, and let's get this party started!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Stay tuned for day two of the Blank Canvas Launch Party tomorrow!
June 19, 2015
Blank Canvas is Now Available!
It's Friday! Which means BLANK CANVAS is officially available!
Excuse me while I do this...
Okay, now that's over with, I can let you know how to get your own copy of Blank Canvas.
You can currently purchase the ebook here:
Evernight TeenAmazon (US)Amazon (CA)
*A print version of the book WILL be available, but it has not appeared yet. I will let you know when it's up!
Until then, please share some of my happy feelings today as I celebrate my first novel being out in the (digital) world.
And, check out my guest spot (well, Maddie's guest spot) on Danielle E. Shipley's blog!
Excuse me while I do this...
Okay, now that's over with, I can let you know how to get your own copy of Blank Canvas.
You can currently purchase the ebook here:Evernight TeenAmazon (US)Amazon (CA)
*A print version of the book WILL be available, but it has not appeared yet. I will let you know when it's up!
Until then, please share some of my happy feelings today as I celebrate my first novel being out in the (digital) world.
And, check out my guest spot (well, Maddie's guest spot) on Danielle E. Shipley's blog!
June 17, 2015
One More Day!
So...my debut novel is coming out tomorrow, =)
Obviously, I'm super excited. I can't wait to share my story with everyone, and I can't wait to celebrate the release of BLANK CANVAS.
Fun festivities will begin next week here on the blog (including a giveaway!) But if you want to help celebrate the launch with me beforehand, there's still a couple of things you can do!
Today is the last day to sign up for the BLANK CANVAS Headtalker campaign (if you don’t know what HeadTalker it's a social media tool which allows people to sign up to post a single tweet/message at a set given moment). I still need a few supporters to make the campaign successful. You can add support to Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIN, and/or Tumblr. Any and all help is greatly appreciated!
Click here to join the HeadTalker campaign!
If you’re interested in getting a free e-copy of Blank Canvas for review purposes, let me know. I have copies I will happily gift to you, in exchange for honest reviews. Leave a comment below with your email address, or email me directly at merejoyce@hotmail.com
Also let me know if you’d like to help out by posting about Blank Canvas on your blog! I’ll email you a cover photo, blurb, author bio, and excerpt. You can post as much or as little as you want, and you can post it whenever (doesn’t have to be on release day, or even release week!) I’m happy to do an interview/character interview/top 10 list, etc. as well - if you’d like a more personal blog post, we can discuss the details through email.
And again, if you can’t/don’t want to participate in any of the above, that’s okay! Well-wishes are appreciated, =D
Stayed tuned for tomorrow's big event...the release!
Obviously, I'm super excited. I can't wait to share my story with everyone, and I can't wait to celebrate the release of BLANK CANVAS.
Fun festivities will begin next week here on the blog (including a giveaway!) But if you want to help celebrate the launch with me beforehand, there's still a couple of things you can do!
Today is the last day to sign up for the BLANK CANVAS Headtalker campaign (if you don’t know what HeadTalker it's a social media tool which allows people to sign up to post a single tweet/message at a set given moment). I still need a few supporters to make the campaign successful. You can add support to Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIN, and/or Tumblr. Any and all help is greatly appreciated!
Click here to join the HeadTalker campaign!
If you’re interested in getting a free e-copy of Blank Canvas for review purposes, let me know. I have copies I will happily gift to you, in exchange for honest reviews. Leave a comment below with your email address, or email me directly at merejoyce@hotmail.com
Also let me know if you’d like to help out by posting about Blank Canvas on your blog! I’ll email you a cover photo, blurb, author bio, and excerpt. You can post as much or as little as you want, and you can post it whenever (doesn’t have to be on release day, or even release week!) I’m happy to do an interview/character interview/top 10 list, etc. as well - if you’d like a more personal blog post, we can discuss the details through email.
And again, if you can’t/don’t want to participate in any of the above, that’s okay! Well-wishes are appreciated, =D
Stayed tuned for tomorrow's big event...the release!
June 12, 2015
Blank Canvas Release Info & How You Can Help!
So, yesterday I found out that Blank Canvas finally has a release date...and it’s next week!
Yep! Blank Canvas will be available for your reading pleasure on Friday, June 19th.
I’m super excited about the book being available (and I knew it would be coming out sometime this month), but one week has still made me - Eek!
So, I’m getting as organized as I can as quickly as possible.
Launch Week Festivities
Evernight Teen will be hosting a blog tour for Blank Canvas sometime after it has been released. I’ll be posting more information on the tour when I have it, and I’ll post/tweet the links to each stop of the tour when they occur. I definitely encourage you to follow along...there should be some interesting posts, and there will be an Evernight Teen Gift Certificate up for grabs!
I am also going to do my own thing the week after the launch day (starting June 21st) here on the blog, just for fun. I’ll have insights to my writing process, visual inspirations for the book, and more. Plus, this will also be the start of a second giveaway, this one for signed print copies of Blank Canvas! So stayed tuned for fun and festivities.
Reviews, Tweets, Posts, and Other Good Things
Yes, my blogging friends, I would love for you to join me in celebrating the release of my debut novel! There are various ways you can help with the Blank Canvas launch, depending on your time/comfort/desire.
Reviews - If you’re interested in getting a free e-copy of Blank Canvas for review purposes, let me know. I have copies I will happily gift to you, in exchange for honest reviews. If the book doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, or you just don’t have the time for reading/reviewing, I totally understand. But if you’d like a free copy for review, I’m happy to oblige, =) - Leave a comment below with your email address, or email me directly at merejoyce@hotmail.com!
Book Release Blog Post - If you’d like to help out by posting about Blank Canvas on your blog, I’ve created a linky below. Sign up, and I’ll email you a cover photo, blurb, author bio, and excerpt. You can post as much or as little as you want, and you can post it whenever (doesn’t have to be on release day!) I’m happy to do an interview/character interview/top 10 list, etc. as well - if you’d like a more personal blog post, we can discuss the details through email.
Book Tweet - I’ve started a HeadTalker campaign (if you don’t know what HeadTalker is, it’s just like ThunderClap - allows people to sign up to post a single tweet at a set given moment). Because I don’t have much time before release day, I’ve set what I hope is a manageable goal, which I'd love to surpass!
Click here to join the HeadTalker campaign!
Well-Wishes - If you can’t/don’t want to participate in any of the above, that’s okay! Any and all well-wishes are appreciated, =)
Okay, I think that’s it for now! It’s going to be a busy week, but I’m so excited to share my story with you all, and I look forward to the upcoming festivities!
Yep! Blank Canvas will be available for your reading pleasure on Friday, June 19th.
I’m super excited about the book being available (and I knew it would be coming out sometime this month), but one week has still made me - Eek!
So, I’m getting as organized as I can as quickly as possible.
Launch Week Festivities
Evernight Teen will be hosting a blog tour for Blank Canvas sometime after it has been released. I’ll be posting more information on the tour when I have it, and I’ll post/tweet the links to each stop of the tour when they occur. I definitely encourage you to follow along...there should be some interesting posts, and there will be an Evernight Teen Gift Certificate up for grabs!
I am also going to do my own thing the week after the launch day (starting June 21st) here on the blog, just for fun. I’ll have insights to my writing process, visual inspirations for the book, and more. Plus, this will also be the start of a second giveaway, this one for signed print copies of Blank Canvas! So stayed tuned for fun and festivities.
Reviews, Tweets, Posts, and Other Good Things
Yes, my blogging friends, I would love for you to join me in celebrating the release of my debut novel! There are various ways you can help with the Blank Canvas launch, depending on your time/comfort/desire.
Reviews - If you’re interested in getting a free e-copy of Blank Canvas for review purposes, let me know. I have copies I will happily gift to you, in exchange for honest reviews. If the book doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, or you just don’t have the time for reading/reviewing, I totally understand. But if you’d like a free copy for review, I’m happy to oblige, =) - Leave a comment below with your email address, or email me directly at merejoyce@hotmail.com!
Book Release Blog Post - If you’d like to help out by posting about Blank Canvas on your blog, I’ve created a linky below. Sign up, and I’ll email you a cover photo, blurb, author bio, and excerpt. You can post as much or as little as you want, and you can post it whenever (doesn’t have to be on release day!) I’m happy to do an interview/character interview/top 10 list, etc. as well - if you’d like a more personal blog post, we can discuss the details through email.
Book Tweet - I’ve started a HeadTalker campaign (if you don’t know what HeadTalker is, it’s just like ThunderClap - allows people to sign up to post a single tweet at a set given moment). Because I don’t have much time before release day, I’ve set what I hope is a manageable goal, which I'd love to surpass!
Click here to join the HeadTalker campaign!
Well-Wishes - If you can’t/don’t want to participate in any of the above, that’s okay! Any and all well-wishes are appreciated, =)
Okay, I think that’s it for now! It’s going to be a busy week, but I’m so excited to share my story with you all, and I look forward to the upcoming festivities!
