S.A. Larsen's Blog, page 32
November 23, 2016
Happy Release CATALYST by Kristin Smith!
When one of your besties releases her debut young adult novel what do you do?
Join in to help her spread the world. Well...after you freak out and all. Please join me in celebrating the release of CATALYST by Kristin Smith. She's one of my critique partners, amazing supporters of my work, and all around sweet person! I've also read the entire manuscript in its birthing stage and beyond. Trust me. You'll love it.
Catalyst (The Deception Game, #1)by Kristin Smith
Publisher: Clean Teen Publishing
Release date: November 21st 2016
Genres: Dystopian, Young Adult
It’s after breakfast and we’re in the training facility, a large, gym-type room with thick mats, punching bags, weights, and a long wall of mirrors. The smell of sweat and stinky feet assault my nose as I stand across from him on the pile of black mats used to create a “ring”. We have the gym to ourselves. Most likely because everyone else is too smart to work out right after a meal.
I nod and flex my right hand, the one that’s not bandaged.
“You should be fine, then. I’ll take it easy on you.” He grins. “Go ahead—hit me.”
I take a step back and shake my head. “I’m not gonna hit you.”
He moves forward to decrease the distance between us. “I said, hit me.”
I raise my arms as if I’m about to fight him, but all I can think is how much he’s done to help me. How can I punch the man who saved me from the government facility, removed my tracker, and is willing to help rescue my mother?
When he realizes I won’t fight, he lowers his hands. “Remember, Sienna, these men don’t care that you’re a girl. They don’t care how old you are. If given the opportunity, they will hurt you.” His eyes harden. “Now hit me.”
I punch him as hard as I can, and he’s not expecting it. The force of the blow to his face knocks him backward, and my hand throbs from the impact. He looks stunned, especially when a trickle of blood makes its way out of his nose. But then he grins.
Wiping his nose on his shirt, he motions with his hands for me to come closer. “Nicely done. Now, hit me again.”
Surely, he must be crazy. I’m about to walk away, but his words echo in my mind. If given the opportunity, they will hurt you. I can’t give them that opportunity.
GIVEAWAY!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
I also want to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
My daughter (kiddo #3) turns 18 on the 25th, so we'll be celebrating double-duty. <3
Join in to help her spread the world. Well...after you freak out and all. Please join me in celebrating the release of CATALYST by Kristin Smith. She's one of my critique partners, amazing supporters of my work, and all around sweet person! I've also read the entire manuscript in its birthing stage and beyond. Trust me. You'll love it.Catalyst (The Deception Game, #1)by Kristin Smith
Publisher: Clean Teen Publishing
Release date: November 21st 2016
Genres: Dystopian, Young Adult
Too pretty.
Too smart.
Too perfect.
In a crumbling, futuristic Las Vegas where the wealthy choose the characteristics of their children like ordering off a drive-thru menu, seventeen-year-old Sienna Preston doesn’t fit in. As a normal girl surrounded by genetically modified teenagers, all of her imperfections are on display. But after the death of her father, everything she’s ever known and loved changes in an instant.
With little skills to help provide for her family, Sienna clings to the two things that come easily—lying and stealing. But not all thief-for-hire assignments go as planned. When a covert exchange of a stolen computer chip is intercepted, she becomes entangled with a corrupt government official who uses her thieving past as leverage, her mother as collateral, and the genetically modified poster boy she’s falling for as bait.
In order to rescue her mother, there may only be one option—joining forces with the Fringe, an extremist group, and their young leader who’s too hot to be bad. Problem is, these revolutionaries aren’t what they seem, and the secrets they’re hiding could be more dangerous than Sienna is prepared for. In the end, she must be willing to risk everything to save the one thing that matters most.Goodreads / Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo—EXCERPT:“You need to learn a little hand-to-hand combat.” Trey puts his fists up by his face. “Always protect your soft spots—your face being numero uno.” He glances at my bandaged arm. “You right-handed?”
Catalyst is a thrilling adventure of danger, romance, intrigue, and deception.
It’s after breakfast and we’re in the training facility, a large, gym-type room with thick mats, punching bags, weights, and a long wall of mirrors. The smell of sweat and stinky feet assault my nose as I stand across from him on the pile of black mats used to create a “ring”. We have the gym to ourselves. Most likely because everyone else is too smart to work out right after a meal.
I nod and flex my right hand, the one that’s not bandaged.
“You should be fine, then. I’ll take it easy on you.” He grins. “Go ahead—hit me.”
I take a step back and shake my head. “I’m not gonna hit you.”
He moves forward to decrease the distance between us. “I said, hit me.”
I raise my arms as if I’m about to fight him, but all I can think is how much he’s done to help me. How can I punch the man who saved me from the government facility, removed my tracker, and is willing to help rescue my mother?
When he realizes I won’t fight, he lowers his hands. “Remember, Sienna, these men don’t care that you’re a girl. They don’t care how old you are. If given the opportunity, they will hurt you.” His eyes harden. “Now hit me.”
I punch him as hard as I can, and he’s not expecting it. The force of the blow to his face knocks him backward, and my hand throbs from the impact. He looks stunned, especially when a trickle of blood makes its way out of his nose. But then he grins.
Wiping his nose on his shirt, he motions with his hands for me to come closer. “Nicely done. Now, hit me again.”
Surely, he must be crazy. I’m about to walk away, but his words echo in my mind. If given the opportunity, they will hurt you. I can’t give them that opportunity.
Author Bio:
Kristin Smith writes young adult contemporary and science fiction novels. When she’s not writing, you can find her dreaming about the beach, beating her boys at Just Dance, or belting out karaoke (from the comfort of her own home). Kristin currently resides in the middle-of-nowhere North Carolina with her husband and five incredibly loud but extremely cute boys. To read more about her obsession with YA novels or her addiction to chocolate, you can visit her at kristinsmithbooks.com. Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter
GIVEAWAY!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
I also want to wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving!
My daughter (kiddo #3) turns 18 on the 25th, so we'll be celebrating double-duty. <3
November 21, 2016
Your Must Middle Grade Holiday Reading List!
This time of year is all about caring, sharing, and giving back. Although I've personally suffered a few cuts and bruises throughout 2016, I do have lots to be grateful for. One of my favorites is having been part of an amazingly supportive group of 2016 debut authors. So I want to give back.
Welcome to my first of four fabulous @TheSweet16s middle grade reads installments, my next contribution to Shannon Messenger's MMGM genius plan to give middle grade reads their just due! Click HERE for the other participants.
My first spotlight:
THE LAST CHERRY BLOSSOMby Kathleen Burkinshaw
Publisher: Sky Pony PressRelease Date: August 2, 2016Pages: 240
Description: Following the seventieth anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, this is a new, very personal story to join Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes.
Yuriko was happy growing up in Hiroshima when it was just her and Papa. But her aunt Kimiko and her cousin Genji are living with them now, and the family is only getting bigger with talk of a double marriage! And while things are changing at home, the world beyond their doors is even more unpredictable. World War II is coming to an end, and Japan's fate is not entirely clear, with any battle losses being hidden fom its people. Yuriko is used to the sirens and the air-raid drills, but things start to feel more real when the neighbors who have left to fight stop coming home.
When the bomb hits Hiroshima, it’s through Yuriko’s twelve-year-old eyes that we witness the devastation and horror.
This is a story that offers young readers insight into how children lived during the war, while also introducing them to Japanese culture. Based loosely on author Kathleen Burkinshaw’s mother’s firsthand experience surviving the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, The Last Cherry Blossom hopes to warn readers of the immense damage nuclear war can bring, while reminding them that the “enemy” in any war is often not so different from ourselves.My Splats: Sweet at times. Heart-breaking at other times.
The true-to-life historical foundation created at the onset of the story ignites the human curiosity we all possess. School kids of this age group will go bonkers over the realness of the history. Told from the view of one their age, one who was there. I mean, there were so many interesting historically-based details I never knew about, and I'm a huge history buff! This will be a fabulous tool for teachers in schools to share this era.
But this story is more than mere history. It explores the physical, emotional, and economic impact of one of mankind's most devastating and self-created tragedies - war - through the innocent yet courageous voice of a young girl. Such a great way to share this segment of our world's history. The reader feels the fear, confusion, and threat of war through Yuriko, and then experiences the horror of its aftermath. This story gets even more personal, though. Woven within its fibers is a tale of family traditions, culture, and secrets that change all involved.
My next spotlight:
I AM DRUMSby Mike Grosso
Publisher: Clarion BooksRelease Date: September 6, 2016Pages: 256
Description: Sam knows she wants to be a drummer. But she doesn’t know how to afford a drum kit, or why budget cuts end her school’s music program, or why her parents argue so much, or even how to explain her dream to other people.
But drums sound all the time in Sam’s head, and she’d do just about anything to play them out loud—even lie to her family if she has to. Will the cost of chasing her dream be too high?
My Splats: Totally rockin'!
Sam has a great voice - authentic and flows with ease. Basically, she breaths off the page. Like most kids her age (heck, myself included), she questions much about herself and her world, constantly exploring to find her place. Sam experiences loads of inner conflict, which just adds to the way others misunderstand her, her mannerisms, her loves, her hopes, and her dreams. She's a thinker, which I love! The author does a great job showing and exploring the stereotypes of this age by peers and even adults, and the effects.
The element that Sam wants something and is willing to work hard to get it is a great plus for this story. Granted, she might - I said might because I don't want to feed you any spoilers ;) - go about achieving her goal in a few less desirable ways than she should have. But those are all learning opportunities for both Sam and the reader. The longer she works the more she sees value in reaching a goal in her own power. Lastly, the adult role models' speeches, choices, and intimate conversations with Sam and others are lifelike. Some are supportive, while others leave Sam feeling deserted. Like I said - life. And, of course, there's tons of musical references! Very, very cool...
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Personal Splat: I know I've been MIA on the blogging scene for a few months. My plan is to eek my way back into a regularly schedule to start off 2017. Thanks for understanding. <3
Welcome to my first of four fabulous @TheSweet16s middle grade reads installments, my next contribution to Shannon Messenger's MMGM genius plan to give middle grade reads their just due! Click HERE for the other participants.
My first spotlight:
THE LAST CHERRY BLOSSOMby Kathleen Burkinshaw
Publisher: Sky Pony PressRelease Date: August 2, 2016Pages: 240
Description: Following the seventieth anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, this is a new, very personal story to join Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes.
Yuriko was happy growing up in Hiroshima when it was just her and Papa. But her aunt Kimiko and her cousin Genji are living with them now, and the family is only getting bigger with talk of a double marriage! And while things are changing at home, the world beyond their doors is even more unpredictable. World War II is coming to an end, and Japan's fate is not entirely clear, with any battle losses being hidden fom its people. Yuriko is used to the sirens and the air-raid drills, but things start to feel more real when the neighbors who have left to fight stop coming home.
When the bomb hits Hiroshima, it’s through Yuriko’s twelve-year-old eyes that we witness the devastation and horror.
This is a story that offers young readers insight into how children lived during the war, while also introducing them to Japanese culture. Based loosely on author Kathleen Burkinshaw’s mother’s firsthand experience surviving the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, The Last Cherry Blossom hopes to warn readers of the immense damage nuclear war can bring, while reminding them that the “enemy” in any war is often not so different from ourselves.My Splats: Sweet at times. Heart-breaking at other times.
The true-to-life historical foundation created at the onset of the story ignites the human curiosity we all possess. School kids of this age group will go bonkers over the realness of the history. Told from the view of one their age, one who was there. I mean, there were so many interesting historically-based details I never knew about, and I'm a huge history buff! This will be a fabulous tool for teachers in schools to share this era.
But this story is more than mere history. It explores the physical, emotional, and economic impact of one of mankind's most devastating and self-created tragedies - war - through the innocent yet courageous voice of a young girl. Such a great way to share this segment of our world's history. The reader feels the fear, confusion, and threat of war through Yuriko, and then experiences the horror of its aftermath. This story gets even more personal, though. Woven within its fibers is a tale of family traditions, culture, and secrets that change all involved.
My next spotlight:
I AM DRUMSby Mike Grosso
Publisher: Clarion BooksRelease Date: September 6, 2016Pages: 256
Description: Sam knows she wants to be a drummer. But she doesn’t know how to afford a drum kit, or why budget cuts end her school’s music program, or why her parents argue so much, or even how to explain her dream to other people.
But drums sound all the time in Sam’s head, and she’d do just about anything to play them out loud—even lie to her family if she has to. Will the cost of chasing her dream be too high?
My Splats: Totally rockin'!
Sam has a great voice - authentic and flows with ease. Basically, she breaths off the page. Like most kids her age (heck, myself included), she questions much about herself and her world, constantly exploring to find her place. Sam experiences loads of inner conflict, which just adds to the way others misunderstand her, her mannerisms, her loves, her hopes, and her dreams. She's a thinker, which I love! The author does a great job showing and exploring the stereotypes of this age by peers and even adults, and the effects.
The element that Sam wants something and is willing to work hard to get it is a great plus for this story. Granted, she might - I said might because I don't want to feed you any spoilers ;) - go about achieving her goal in a few less desirable ways than she should have. But those are all learning opportunities for both Sam and the reader. The longer she works the more she sees value in reaching a goal in her own power. Lastly, the adult role models' speeches, choices, and intimate conversations with Sam and others are lifelike. Some are supportive, while others leave Sam feeling deserted. Like I said - life. And, of course, there's tons of musical references! Very, very cool...
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Personal Splat: I know I've been MIA on the blogging scene for a few months. My plan is to eek my way back into a regularly schedule to start off 2017. Thanks for understanding. <3
October 28, 2016
TRICK or TREAT Blog Hunt!
As much as I adore my faith, one would think that Christmas is my favorite holiday.
Nope.
I am a MAJOR fangirl of everything spooky, creepy, and eerily odd.
via GIPHY
I LOVE HALLOWEEN!
Everything about it from pumpkins to cooler weather, and costumes to graveyards. I mean, really. You can't be surprised. Motley Education - my middle grade novel that released two weeks ago - is basically set in a graveyard. #clears throat Sorry, it's basically set in a boneyard - according to Ebony Charmed, main character of ME.
And what better way to celebrate Halloween set in a boneyard than to play trick or treat? Want to see what's up for treats?
The contest runs from Friday October 28th, 2016 through Midnight, October 31st, 2016 (EST)Winner will be announced November 1st.Contest is US only. Thank you for your understanding.
I'll be offering up a SIGNED paperback copy of Motley Education, bookmark, a set of trading cards & stickers! In honor of my main character's total obsession with anything cheese, I'll also throwing in a bag of Cheese Doodles! *Got to love the middle grade diet!*
To continue hunting for your next treat, make a pitstop at the fabulous Dorothy Dreyer's cyber home and abode! She writes young adult novels that usually have some element of magic or the supernatural in them. (How fun!)
Her latest story happens to be part of an anthology The First Mourning - Brothers Cain and Abel come to life once more in Dorothy Dreyer’s The First Mourning – a haunting tale of sibling rivalry bound by insecurities, the need for parental approval and affection, and the precarious line between love and hate. Some sins can’t be erased.
But before you head out, don't forget to write down the name of my treat, and enter to win via the rafflecopter below. Feel free to leave a comment telling me YOUR favorite Halloween treat for another entry. Remember, you can tweet daily about the contest for another chance to win. Happy hunting, and good luck!! Thanks for stopping by my blog! =)
Nope.
I am a MAJOR fangirl of everything spooky, creepy, and eerily odd.
via GIPHY
I LOVE HALLOWEEN!
Everything about it from pumpkins to cooler weather, and costumes to graveyards. I mean, really. You can't be surprised. Motley Education - my middle grade novel that released two weeks ago - is basically set in a graveyard. #clears throat Sorry, it's basically set in a boneyard - according to Ebony Charmed, main character of ME.
And what better way to celebrate Halloween set in a boneyard than to play trick or treat? Want to see what's up for treats?
A creepy-awesome black canvas tote bag with a cool skull on the cover, filled with each of the books noted below as well as bookmarks and other great book swag. You will also win all of the treats that the author's list on their pages PLUS a bunch of other candy treats all in a black plastic cauldron. You'll even get the cute little plastic skulls shown in the prize photo.
LIST OF PARTICIPATING AUTHORS and their AWESOME BOOKS!Here's how it works:
Amy McNulty - NOBODY'S GODDESS (advanced paperback)
Kiran Oliver - DAYBREAK RISING (ebook)
Dorothy Dreyer - SCARE ME TO SLEEP (Kindle ebook)
Jodie Andrefski - THE SOCIETY (signed paperback)
Julia Ember - UNICORN TRACKS (paperback)
Julie Reece - THE ARTISANS (signed paperback)
Nina Rossing - FJORD BLUE (signed paperback)
Pat Edsen - BEYOND YOUR TOUCH
Pintip Dunn - FORGET TOMORROW (signed paperback)
S.A.Larsen - MOTLEY EDUCATION (signed paperback)
Suzanne van Rooyen - OBSCURA BURNING (Releases 11/10 ebook)
Vanessa Barneveld - THIS IS YOUR AFTERLIFE (Kindle ebook)
Vicki Weavil - FACSIMILE (signed paperback)
Visit each of the THIRTEEN participating author websites. You will find the name of the candy/treat they are giving away, as well as what BOOK they are offering as part of the PRIZE PACK! Be sure to write down the name of the treat, you'll need it later. Each author will provide a link to another author website on the hunt.
When you have collected the names of all 13 author "TREATS", head on over to complete the Trick or Treat Hunt Page Google Forms doc and enter the correct treat next to the corresponding author name. You can enter for BONUS chances to win via the Rafflecopter found on each author's website, by doing things like following them on Twitter or following their Goodreads page, or tweeting about the Hunt!a Rafflecopter giveaway
The contest runs from Friday October 28th, 2016 through Midnight, October 31st, 2016 (EST)Winner will be announced November 1st.Contest is US only. Thank you for your understanding.
I'll be offering up a SIGNED paperback copy of Motley Education, bookmark, a set of trading cards & stickers! In honor of my main character's total obsession with anything cheese, I'll also throwing in a bag of Cheese Doodles! *Got to love the middle grade diet!*
To continue hunting for your next treat, make a pitstop at the fabulous Dorothy Dreyer's cyber home and abode! She writes young adult novels that usually have some element of magic or the supernatural in them. (How fun!)
Her latest story happens to be part of an anthology The First Mourning - Brothers Cain and Abel come to life once more in Dorothy Dreyer’s The First Mourning – a haunting tale of sibling rivalry bound by insecurities, the need for parental approval and affection, and the precarious line between love and hate. Some sins can’t be erased.But before you head out, don't forget to write down the name of my treat, and enter to win via the rafflecopter below. Feel free to leave a comment telling me YOUR favorite Halloween treat for another entry. Remember, you can tweet daily about the contest for another chance to win. Happy hunting, and good luck!! Thanks for stopping by my blog! =)
October 10, 2016
It's My Book Birthday!!! #WIN
AMAZON US | AMAZON UK | INDIGOBARNES & NOBLE | INDIEBOUND
ALIBRIS | BOOK DEPOSITORY
ADD TO GOODREADS So it's finally here! Motley Education, my middle grade fantasy-adventure has been born, thrust into the wild of the book world and all its wonder. I'd love it if you'd join in my celebration, sharing via a few pre-made tweets I've created! Just choose one and tweet away:
Get schooled in Norse Mythology & corpse-raising adventure! #MotleyEducation OUT TODAY! @SA_Larsen #mglit @Leapbks http://amzn.to/2cyZJ4g
A boneyard vacant of spirits? Uncover why in Norse Mythology #MotleyEducation OUT TODAY!!! http://amzn.to/2cyZJ4g #mglit @SA_LarsenThank you goes out to all those who've supported me along my publishing journey. You know who you are. I'd like to use this opportunity as a springboard to you - the newbie writer or the one still waiting, slugging it out in the verbal trenches: you are worth it. You're story is worth it. And I can't wait to share cheer in your success.
Happy Book Birthday #MotleyEducation! "A corpse-raising adventure steeped in Norse Mythology." @SA_Larsen @Leapbks http://amzn.to/2cyZJ4g
It. Will. Happen.
Remember when I named Motley's cover Daphne? Well, I did. So, to celebrate her full release, I'm unveiling a visual of her story. Here's Motley Education's Book Trailer:
What do you think of the trailer? Not perfect, but I did create it myself.
And if you love middle grade or know someone who does, please enter my giveaway for your chance to win your very own copy of MOTLEY EDUCATION & a set of MOTLEY MULISHA Playing Cards! I'd be forever grateful if you'd share the giveaway.
Starting today and ending on Sunday the 16th I also have a separate ARC giveaway going on through Twitter tagged with @TheSweet16s & @SA_Larsen. Feel free to enter that, too!
To JOIN INClick HERE!a Rafflecopter giveaway
October 5, 2016
Pre-Release Sneak Peek #2 At Motley Education & Enter to Win Your Own Copy!
First week of October already. Can you believe it? Nah, me neither. Even more so because my first book birthday is in exactly FIVE DAYS! I'm shaking and shivering and so excited! That's my IWSG stat for this month ~ book release jitters and excitement. I'd love to hear about your experience with both. Don't have a book out yet? That doesn't exclude you from the nerves of writing and subbing your work. Please share, too! But first...would you be so kind as to give me a second and read on?
Last week I gave you your first look at Ebony Charmed ~ Motley's main character in all her snark and glory. Oh, and even a bit of cheese.
Today, I'm sharing a glimpse into her main sidekick, her GTG aka go-to guy and best friend, and basically the brains of their operation.
Meet Will 'Fleish' Fleishman& Nigel - who you can't see - in his cage.
Isn't he the cutest! I just love Fleishman. He has that innocent, yet intelligent humor. He often cracks jokes and doesn't even know he's doing it. And here are his character stats:
Click HERE!So there you have it ~ Fleishman. Can you believe Motley releases in 5 days!!! Stay tuned on Monday, Motley Education's book birthday, when I unveil my book trailer.
I'd love for you to have a copy! Enter now!a Rafflecopter giveaway
Now tell me, IWSG peeps ~ what's ailing you this month?
Last week I gave you your first look at Ebony Charmed ~ Motley's main character in all her snark and glory. Oh, and even a bit of cheese.
Today, I'm sharing a glimpse into her main sidekick, her GTG aka go-to guy and best friend, and basically the brains of their operation.
Meet Will 'Fleish' Fleishman& Nigel - who you can't see - in his cage.
Isn't he the cutest! I just love Fleishman. He has that innocent, yet intelligent humor. He often cracks jokes and doesn't even know he's doing it. And here are his character stats:
Click HERE!So there you have it ~ Fleishman. Can you believe Motley releases in 5 days!!! Stay tuned on Monday, Motley Education's book birthday, when I unveil my book trailer.I'd love for you to have a copy! Enter now!a Rafflecopter giveaway
Now tell me, IWSG peeps ~ what's ailing you this month?
September 30, 2016
The Secret Lives of Rock Stars by Suzanne Lazear
sometimes you see a book cover and you're like "Ooh...I've got to check this out."Between the cool blues and violets of the color palette and the message threading the premise I knew I just had to pick this read up. Let's give a Happy Book Birthday Week to Suzanne Lazear and her beautiful book!
The Secret Lives of Rockstarsby Suzanne LazearGenre: NA Urban Fantasy/Elfpunk
Release Date: September 26th 2016
Publisher: Leap Books, Shine
Summary: Saving the world, one tour stop at a time.
Eighteen-year-old Bitsy Butler has never quite fit in, not with the dragons who raised her, the druid who took her in, or even with the non-human members of the cirque noir punk band she thinks of as family. Her chance to prove she can make it on her own comes with her band's first big solo tour. It’s all going according to plan when an angel walks into a bar and demands help with his demon problem.
If she doesn't step up, a magical war will break out, threatening Arizona and all those who call it home. With the help of a human, a sexy dragon, and the members of her band, Bitsy must stop an angry mob of chaos demons before the band leaves for their next tour stop.
It’s nice to be needed, but Bitsy has no idea how to defeat the demons and she just might get herself killed trying. But then, at least one problem would be solved...Fitting in doesn’t matter if you’re dead.
Buy Link: Amazon
About the AuthorSuzanne Lazear spins tales of the fantastic. She’s the author of the New Adult Elfpunk The Secret Lives of Rockstars (Leap Books) and the YA dark fairytale steampunk series The Aether Chronicles (Flux). Suzanne lives in Southern California with her daughter and husband where she’s trying to make tiny dragons out of wool. One day she’ll actually create a working cupcake cannon.
Author Links:
GIVEAWAY:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
What's your take on Elfpunk? Ever heard of it? Ever read any elfpunk stories? Please share because I'm new to the genre, but it sounds so intriguing!
September 26, 2016
Pre-Release Sneak Peek #1 At Motley Education
Can you believe Motley Education releases in fifteen days? No, I can't either. But to quell a bit of my own excitement - I hope it helps yours, too - I'm releasing a teaser here and there over the next two weeks.
As promised, here's your first sneak peek into the world of Motley Education. And who better to greet you than the driving force for the story?
Meet Ebony 'Jade' Charmed:
I'd tell you about her, but she's insisted on sharing the deets about herself her way. Nothing like a know-it-all tween, eh? So I'll let the back of her trading card speak her words:
There you have it! STAY TUNED next week, when I share sneak peek #2 with you.
Want to be part of MMGM ~ Shannon Messenger's genius plan to give middle grade reads their just due? Click HERE to join in and for the other participants.
What do you think of Ebony? (Be care what you say because she can find you ... even once you're a ghost.)
As promised, here's your first sneak peek into the world of Motley Education. And who better to greet you than the driving force for the story?
Meet Ebony 'Jade' Charmed:
I'd tell you about her, but she's insisted on sharing the deets about herself her way. Nothing like a know-it-all tween, eh? So I'll let the back of her trading card speak her words:
There you have it! STAY TUNED next week, when I share sneak peek #2 with you.
Want to be part of MMGM ~ Shannon Messenger's genius plan to give middle grade reads their just due? Click HERE to join in and for the other participants.
What do you think of Ebony? (Be care what you say because she can find you ... even once you're a ghost.)
September 25, 2016
Cover Reveal for Time & Circumstance by Theresa Milstein
Writers need other writers, for guidance and advice and support. Early on in our writerhood we come to know that. And through all the chats, sharing of work, joys, and frustrations, relationships bloom. The elation close writers have for their writer pals' success can't (ironically) be expressed in words. That's why social media feeds are flooded with Happy Book Birthdays or XYZ is out nows! We support like no other group. There's an unwritten rule that we all just get.
We've all been in the trenches. We've all failed. And eventually, we all reach levels of success and growth. So there is nothing more satisfying than cheering on a close writing friend when he or she reaches a milestone. I'm thrilled to support one of my CPs, readers, and dearly talented friends today. Her expression of life through the rhythm of poetry is moving and poignant. Take a peek at her gorgeous cover:
From Vine Leaves Press
Vine Leaves PressTime and Circumstance
by Theresa Milstein
Publication date: March, 2017
“The trunk of this family is lost to history / Photo fragments remain as shadows”
With subtle wit, and poignant imagery, the unrelenting passage of time connects the vignettes in Theresa Milstein’s Time and Circumstance. This reflective collection of real and imagined poetry and prose, speculates on an erratic childhood, the uncertainty of adolescence, and the reality of parenthood, through flashbacks of love lost and found.
“This everyday, why again, sometimes / ignored tune has measured time in notes, / seconds, minutes, days, years, and so it goes. / It’s a measure of the man he will become.”
Theresa's prose touches beauty, fluently and deeply. There's a rhythm to her style that makes you forget your reading. Instead, you find yourself examining what those words mean to your life. And to your soul. So if you'd like a break from your regular reads, take a gander over to read her work. You won't be sorry.
Note: EEK! Motley Education releases in fifteen days! I'm not freaking out or anything.... STAY TUNED later this week when I reveal a sneak peek into my main character. I can't wait for you to meet Ebony Charmed!
We've all been in the trenches. We've all failed. And eventually, we all reach levels of success and growth. So there is nothing more satisfying than cheering on a close writing friend when he or she reaches a milestone. I'm thrilled to support one of my CPs, readers, and dearly talented friends today. Her expression of life through the rhythm of poetry is moving and poignant. Take a peek at her gorgeous cover:
From Vine Leaves Press
Vine Leaves PressTime and Circumstanceby Theresa Milstein
Publication date: March, 2017
“The trunk of this family is lost to history / Photo fragments remain as shadows”
With subtle wit, and poignant imagery, the unrelenting passage of time connects the vignettes in Theresa Milstein’s Time and Circumstance. This reflective collection of real and imagined poetry and prose, speculates on an erratic childhood, the uncertainty of adolescence, and the reality of parenthood, through flashbacks of love lost and found.
“This everyday, why again, sometimes / ignored tune has measured time in notes, / seconds, minutes, days, years, and so it goes. / It’s a measure of the man he will become.”
Theresa's prose touches beauty, fluently and deeply. There's a rhythm to her style that makes you forget your reading. Instead, you find yourself examining what those words mean to your life. And to your soul. So if you'd like a break from your regular reads, take a gander over to read her work. You won't be sorry.
Note: EEK! Motley Education releases in fifteen days! I'm not freaking out or anything.... STAY TUNED later this week when I reveal a sneak peek into my main character. I can't wait for you to meet Ebony Charmed!
September 19, 2016
Q&A with an Author~Jennie Brown, Poppy Mayberry - The Monday
Mondays are all about celebrating middle grade books over here on Writer's Alley, and wait 'til you see what I have for you today.
Please welcome fellow @TheSweet16s author and all around total sweetheart Jennie K. Brown and her fabulous debut novel Poppy Mayberry, The Monday!
Google Play | BAM| Chapters| Indies | Amazon B&N| Kobo| TBD| iBooks | GoodreadsPOPPY MAYBERRY, THE MONDAYby Jennie K. Brown
Release Date: September 13, 2016Publisher: Tantrum Books
Description: What if your teacher could read your mind just because she was born on a Thursday? Or the kid next to you in class could turn back the clock just because he was a ‘Wednesday”? In the quirky town of Nova, all of this is normal, but one thing is not—Poppy Mayberry. As an almost-eleven-year-old Monday, she should be able to pass notes in class or brush her dog, Pickle, without lifting a finger. But her Monday telekinesis still has some kinks, and that plate of spaghetti she’s passing may just end up on someone’s head. And if that’s not hard enough, practically perfect Ellie Preston is out to get her, and Principal Wible wants to send her to remedial summer school to work on her powers! It’s enough to make a girl want to disappear…if only she were a Friday.
Before we meet Jennie, I want to share that I've read this book; not for this tour, but for the Sweet 16s. The premise is clever, the writing flows, and the characters are diverse. I fell in love with Poppy!
Hi Jennie! So glad you're visiting the Alleyway! Tell us, What inspired your idea to associate days of the week with special powers? Being a name buff, I'm always intrigued at how authors name their characters. How did you come up with Poppy and her friends' names? I just love this question. In my old house, there was a picture of a field of poppies in my exercise room/office. One day I was on my elliptical and glanced over at the picture and thought, “Poppy would be a really cool girl’s name.” A few days later, the inspiration for Poppy’s town of Nova came about, so I knew then I would use the name Poppy. Other names just popped into my head as I started to write. Some inspired by people I know (Willie is my own brother, for example), and others I just went with when they popped into my head.
And poppies are so sweet! Could you share a writing struggle from your personal journey, one you found a great lesson through? I felt really defeated after my first agent and I had a list of rejections for POPPY. But I didn’t give up and didn’t turn my back on Poppy or her story. I think that writers need to keep on going. Don’t stop writing, querying, editing, etc.
What's your favorite thing about being a children's author? Getting to talk to kids about books! What’s better than that?
Bucket List: Name something you'd like to try at least once in your lifetime and one place you'd love to visit? Why? I’d love to stand on the Globe Theatre stage and recite a line from Shakespeare, and I want to visit the Globe Theatre. Why? Well … because Shakespeare! ;)
Whoa, that's big. How exciting would that be to do?!
What do you think the biggest challenge for middle graders is today and how can authors help, inspire, encourage? Finding their place in the world. Whether that is what they want to do when they grow up, finding their forever friends, or finding people to sit with in the cafeteria. I think authors show kids that their potential is limitless.
TOUR SCHEDULE
It's been great having you here. I'm thrilled you've left your signature in the Alleyway! All the best to you now and always...
For more about Jennie and Poppy, check out the rest of her tour!
Jennie K. Brown is a high school English teacher by day, freelance magazine writer by night, and middlegrade/young adult author by late-night and weekend. When she isn’t teaching or writing, Jennie can be found reading a good book, traveling, or spending time with her awesome husband, amazing son and super-spoiled yorkie.In 2010, the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) named Jennie the Pennsylvania English teacher of excellence, and she currently serves as President of the Pennsylvania Council for Teachers of English and Language Arts (PCTELA). She is also an active member of SCBWI, NCTE and ALAN. Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Pinterest
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Please welcome fellow @TheSweet16s author and all around total sweetheart Jennie K. Brown and her fabulous debut novel Poppy Mayberry, The Monday!
Google Play | BAM| Chapters| Indies | Amazon B&N| Kobo| TBD| iBooks | GoodreadsPOPPY MAYBERRY, THE MONDAYby Jennie K. BrownRelease Date: September 13, 2016Publisher: Tantrum Books
Description: What if your teacher could read your mind just because she was born on a Thursday? Or the kid next to you in class could turn back the clock just because he was a ‘Wednesday”? In the quirky town of Nova, all of this is normal, but one thing is not—Poppy Mayberry. As an almost-eleven-year-old Monday, she should be able to pass notes in class or brush her dog, Pickle, without lifting a finger. But her Monday telekinesis still has some kinks, and that plate of spaghetti she’s passing may just end up on someone’s head. And if that’s not hard enough, practically perfect Ellie Preston is out to get her, and Principal Wible wants to send her to remedial summer school to work on her powers! It’s enough to make a girl want to disappear…if only she were a Friday.
Before we meet Jennie, I want to share that I've read this book; not for this tour, but for the Sweet 16s. The premise is clever, the writing flows, and the characters are diverse. I fell in love with Poppy!
Hi Jennie! So glad you're visiting the Alleyway! Tell us, What inspired your idea to associate days of the week with special powers? Being a name buff, I'm always intrigued at how authors name their characters. How did you come up with Poppy and her friends' names? I just love this question. In my old house, there was a picture of a field of poppies in my exercise room/office. One day I was on my elliptical and glanced over at the picture and thought, “Poppy would be a really cool girl’s name.” A few days later, the inspiration for Poppy’s town of Nova came about, so I knew then I would use the name Poppy. Other names just popped into my head as I started to write. Some inspired by people I know (Willie is my own brother, for example), and others I just went with when they popped into my head.
And poppies are so sweet! Could you share a writing struggle from your personal journey, one you found a great lesson through? I felt really defeated after my first agent and I had a list of rejections for POPPY. But I didn’t give up and didn’t turn my back on Poppy or her story. I think that writers need to keep on going. Don’t stop writing, querying, editing, etc.
What's your favorite thing about being a children's author? Getting to talk to kids about books! What’s better than that?
Bucket List: Name something you'd like to try at least once in your lifetime and one place you'd love to visit? Why? I’d love to stand on the Globe Theatre stage and recite a line from Shakespeare, and I want to visit the Globe Theatre. Why? Well … because Shakespeare! ;)
Whoa, that's big. How exciting would that be to do?!
What do you think the biggest challenge for middle graders is today and how can authors help, inspire, encourage? Finding their place in the world. Whether that is what they want to do when they grow up, finding their forever friends, or finding people to sit with in the cafeteria. I think authors show kids that their potential is limitless.
TOUR SCHEDULE
It's been great having you here. I'm thrilled you've left your signature in the Alleyway! All the best to you now and always...
For more about Jennie and Poppy, check out the rest of her tour!
Jennie K. Brown is a high school English teacher by day, freelance magazine writer by night, and middlegrade/young adult author by late-night and weekend. When she isn’t teaching or writing, Jennie can be found reading a good book, traveling, or spending time with her awesome husband, amazing son and super-spoiled yorkie.In 2010, the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) named Jennie the Pennsylvania English teacher of excellence, and she currently serves as President of the Pennsylvania Council for Teachers of English and Language Arts (PCTELA). She is also an active member of SCBWI, NCTE and ALAN. Website | Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Pinteresta Rafflecopter giveaway
September 18, 2016
TIMELESS by Crystal Collier #CoverReveal & Giveaway!
The blogosphere is amazing! The book LUV shown me for my debut middle grade novel, Motley Education, last Thursday was over-the-top. (Post found HERE) And that was just for the cover reveal. Plus, I know more incredible bloggers plan on spreading the word this week instead. I humbly thank you for your support. Merci! And remember to enter my giveaway for your chance to win signed bookmarks and maybe even a cool tattoo!
Now for the news of the day: Writing a book is quite an accomplishment. Writing a three book series means a writer has conquered a mountain. Please give some warm cheer to Crystal Collier - fellow writing group bud - as she reveals the third cover in her young adult series!
TIMELESS (#3 Maiden of Time) by Crystal Collier #CoverReveal
Oh, the purple! <3TIMELESS (Maiden of Time #3) by Crystal CollierGenre: YA Paranormal HistoricalRelease Date: November 1, 2016
Description: TIME IS THE ENEMY
In 1771, Alexia had everything: the man of her dreams, reconciliation with her father, even a child on the way. But she was never meant to stay. It broke her heart, but Alexia heeded destiny and traveled five hundred years back to stop the Soulless from becoming.
In the thirteenth century, the Holy Roman Church has ordered the Knights Templar to exterminate the Passionate, her bloodline. As Alexia fights this new threat—along with an unfathomable evil and her own heart—the Soulless genesis nears. But none of her hard-won battles may matter if she dies in childbirth before completing her mission.
Can Alexia escape her own clock?
Crystal Collier is an eclectic author who pens clean fantasy/sci-fi, historical, and romance stories with the occasional touch of humor, horror, or inspiration. She practices her brother-induced ninja skills while teaching children or madly typing about fantastic and impossible creatures. She has lived from coast to coast and now calls Florida home with her creative husband, four littles, and “friend†(a.k.a. the zombie locked in her closet). Secretly, she dreams of world domination and a bottomless supply of cheese. You can find her on her Blog, Facebook, Goodreads, or follow her on Twitter.
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