Patti Roberts's Blog, page 12

Christmas in Cupid Falls - By Author Holly Jacobs

Book Description from Amazon:
Kennedy Anderson loves Cupid Falls, Pennsylvania. Ever since moving there as an orphaned teenager, she’s worked hard to carve out a place for herself in the tight-knit community. Now she’s mayor and owner of the town’s flower shop. But she also has a big secret…and nine months to figure out how to break the news to the father.Lawyer Malcolm Carter has always been the golden boy of Cupid Falls—until he discovers the one night he spent with the girl-next-door turned out to have a lifetime of consequences. Now, the mother of his child wants nothing to do with him, and he’s gone from someone who is admired to persona non grata as the town rallies behind its mayor.Malcom has always known what he wants. But now as Christmas approaches, he’ll have to discover a way to show Kennedy that she could find the only thing she’s ever really wanted—a true home—with him. Convincing her will take the help of Cupid Falls’ quirky residents…and a bit of holiday magic.
What inspired you to start writing, and when?
When my youngest was getting close to school age, I realized that some day I might need to get a job.  I spent a long time thinking about what I’d like to do with the rest of my life.  I wished someone would pay me to read…I’d always been a voracious reader.  But since nobody seemed to want to pay me to do what I loved best, I thought maybe writing would be the next best thing. 

And I quickly discovered it was even better.
What is your preferred genre?
I write romance…from romantic comedy, to sweet romance with a touch of humor, to romance that’s heavy on the women’s fiction side of things, to romantic family dramas.  And I’ve even done a comedic mystery series…with more than a touch of romance in it. 

So yes…romance.  I write romance. 
How many books have you written?  If more than one, are any a series…or trilogy?

I’ve written more than fifty books.  Many are part of a series.  Some of them were planned as a series, but more than a few were standalone books to begin with.  But then I’d fall for a secondary character and tell their story. Then another.  Soon, I’d have a series. 
So many readers have asked for lists of series and their order, that I put a page together at http://www.hollyjacobs.com/bookseries...
Tell us a little about your recent book.
Christmas in Cupid Falls started out with a real small town, Waterford, PA.  It’s just outside of Erie, PA (where I live) and we drive by it on a regular basis when we’re on our way to camp.  There’s a statue of George Washington there.  And one day I asked myself, What if (any writers’ most useful question) someone in Washington’s party met a girl and fell in love…and the Legend of Cupid Falls was born.

<< To the south of Erie, Pennsylvania—south of the Great Lake that shares a name with the city—is Falls Creek. It is bigger than most creeks, but not quite large enough to be considered a river. It runs through field and forest to a ridge, carved millennia ago by a glacier. There, it plunges over the edge, falling to a hollowed-out swimming hole before becoming a creek again and meandering on its way.
Local legend has it that when George Washington visited the nearby town of Waterford in 1753, one of his retinue was touring the area. The locals took him to the falls, and there he met a farmer’s daughter. He married her later that same year and they settled near the creek. Years later, their daughter went to the falls with a group of friends and noticed that one of the boys in the group might be more than a friend. They married later that same year. And so it went, year after year, decade after decade, couple after couple, until the small waterfall, which in actuality was little more than a creek tumbling over a small cliff, became known as Cupid’s Falls.
When a town grew up a few miles away, the residents named it Cupid Falls as an homage to their waterfall.
And to this day, it is said that when two people meet at the falls and declare their love, they are destined for a long, happy romance . . .
Even if that’s not what they went to the falls looking for.>>
From there, a couple who met at the falls after a horrible day and months later found out they were going to be parents became the start of the first Cupid Falls book, Christmas in Cupid Falls.
Do you have plans for a new book?
I always have plans for new books.  LOL My next release will be in April, Carry Her Heart.  It’s a much more serious book…one of those that is a cross between women’s fiction and romance.  I have released already scheduled for July and November of 2015, too.  Plus, as soon as I’m able, I want to get back to working on the next books for the new Cupid Falls series.
Is there an Author that you would really like to meet?
I’ve been fortunate to meet a lot of my writing heroes and heroines.  The writing world is actually very small and sometimes I have to pinch myself when I find myself sitting next to an author I’ve always admired.

Do you plot or write by the seat of your pants?
I do a combo.  And every book is a different ratio of that combination.  My earliest books were all seat-of-the-pants.  But as my writing chops grew, I found the merit of having a handle on the plot from the beginning. 

Did you have an editor edit your books?
Yes.  I’ve been so fortunate to work with some of the best editors in the business.  An editor becomes a partner of sorts to a writer.  The best ones are able to help the author refine their vision and shape it into the story they so longed to tell.
Do you prefer ebooks, paperbacks or hardcover?
As a reader, I read all of the above…heck, I’ve read cereal boxes. 
As a writer I’ve been published in all the above, along with audiobooks.  I’m happy to have my stories available in so many formats.
Where do you prefer to buy your books?
In a store!  LOL  Okay, seriously, I buy my books in any number of places, from traditional bookstores, to online stores, to local independent stores, to grocery stores…  Like so many readers, I am a bit of a book hoarder!
Are you a self- published (Indie) Author?
I write for Montlake Romance and Harlequin SuperRomance, but I’ve indie published a few books including my bestselling Maid in LA series.
What books would you like to read again?
So many of my favorite books I’ve read countless times.  I read The Hobbit for the first time in third grade and I’ve read it a dozen times since…or more.  I love reading a new book and not knowing precisely where I’m going within it, but there’s something so very comforting in opening an old favorite and knowing exactly where I’m going to end.
Is there a particular movie that you preferred over the book version?
I can’t think of one offhand.  I did love both the Keira Knightly Pride and Prejudice, as well as the PBS miniseries of it as well (Colin Firth anyone???), but truly, I love the book the most.
What book are you currently reading and in what format (ebook/paperback/hardcover)?
I heard Hugh Howey at a conference this summer and I’m reading his series, Wool, right now on my Kindle.  Loving it.
Do you find yourself intrigued by the cover of a book enough to buy it? 
I am a fan of the old adage, Don’t Judge a Book By It’s Cover.  That being said, a cover will sometimes be intriguing enough to make me pick up a book and have a look at it.
Do you have any advice for other writers starting out?
Write. 
I know, that sounds simple.  But I always add…Write something, anything, every day.  That every day part is anything but simple.
Some people complain that they don’t have the time, but even if you can only find the time to write a page a day, by the end of a year, you’ll have a book.
Do you write under a pen name?
I write as Holly Jacobs.
Do you ever write in your PJ’s?
LOL Yes. 
What are your pet peeves? 
Mean people.

You are trapped on a tropical island - who would you like to be stranded with?
My husband.  He’s my best friend and he’s very handy.  The perfect companion on an island.

Pick one - Wine, Chocolate or shoes?
Wine.

Cats or dogs?
Dogs…but I like cats, too! My dogs, Ethel Merman and Ella Fitzgerald were the cover models for Everything But a Dog. (and the models for the dogs in that book).

Tell us about someone or something that just made your day –
This morning, a reader asked me if there were going to be stories for two of the characters in Christmas in Cupid Falls.  To have some love a book is a thrill in itself, but to have someone wanting more stories…well, that’s such a huge compliment!  It totally gave me glee!
What is your favorite food and beverage?
I adore food…pretty much everything but brussel sprouts and liver.
How many hours per day do you try to devote to research and writing?
It’s my fulltime job, so I write most weekdays during business hours.
What are 3 things you never leave home without (apart from keys, money and phone)?
Uh, really nothing. Most of the time the phone and the keys go with me, but a lot of the time, I don’t even bother with money when I leave the house, because most of the time, I’m going on long walks or out to the garden.
Sleep in or get up early?
I get up way early!!
Laptop or desktop for writing?
Laptop.
Your favorite gadget?
My Dyson.  (Two dogs, one who sheds a dog’s worth of hair daily…yep, I Dyson every day!)
Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?
Right now, I’m on the couch next to the fireplace with the dogs snuggled next to me!  That about sums it up.
Your thoughts on receiving book reviews - the good and the bad – 
Like any writer, I prefer the good ones!  LOL  And while I’m not overly fond of the bad ones, I do respect that my books aren’t for everyone.  I wish they were, but in the end, I can only tell stories that please me and honor my characters…and then hope that more readers like them than don’t!  So an honest negative review I can be zen about.  But the people who are mean just to be mean?  Yeah, not a fan of those.
Do you have a bucket list?
I’m planning on going to Ireland in two years, and then Alaska shortly after that.  It’s not really a bucket list, but things I’m looking forward to.
One of your favorite quotes –
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List 3 of your favorite movies?
The LOTR series (I know that’s three, but they all go together)Serenity (which ties into the Firefly series that I rewatch from time to time…love Joss Whedon) - - Patti says: ME TOO.And so many romcoms like When Harry Met Sally, Love Actually…
What is a movie or TV show that you watched just recently and really enjoyed?
Really love Newsroom and sorry this is the last season.
Where can your readers stalk you?
My website is HollyJacobs.com  There are links there to my Facebook, Google+, Twitter and Pinterest pages.
Is your book in Print, ebook or both?
Christmas in Cupid Falls is available as a paperback, for Kindle as an audio book.
Do you give free ebooks away in exchange for honest reviews?
No.  Sometimes Montlake does on GoodReads.  You can check out Kindle Love Stories there.
Book links:Christmas in Cupid Falls, by Holly Jacobs
Kindle eBook http://amzn.to/1gx3BLzPaperback http://amzn.to/1v4qInxAudio http://amzn.to/1zzOCza

I am Arkadia Castner. I am beautiful. I am popular. I am also the most messed-up witch you will ever meet.

Book Description from Amazon:
I am Arkadia Castner. I am beautiful. I am popular. I am also the most messed-up witch you will ever meet. I can’t make water boil, or make the wind blow; I can’t even light a match without the aid of a flint. My 18th birthday is in six months, and if I don’t pass the Paranormal Safety Exams (PSEs) by then, I will be banished to the Isle of Shadows for eternity, never to be seen again – it will be as though I never existed.

I found myself at the halfway house under the supervision and guidance of Den Mother and telepathic empath, Eloise Mayflower. The halfway house is the last chance for troubled paranormal teens like me to pass our PSEs and avoid banishment. Eloise knows everything I think and feel, and is supposed to be helping me, but I still can’t do basic spells a six-year-old can do. I hate it here, but I have no choice. This is my last chance.

I had all but given up hope, when in walks Bohdan Drak. Tall, dark, and so damn sexy it hurts to look at him – even his muscles had muscles. He is a dragon shifter and wears the mark of having passed his PSEs. When our souls meet, we realize we have found our soul mates and perfect matches. My dying hope has found life again, and I finally have a reason to look forward to a future.

I thought everything would be fine, but darkness and despair creep into my future. I have been framed for a murder, and everyone believes I am guilty. The paranormal council now watches my every move. Can I trust Bohdan and true love? I fear my destiny is to be banished forever …


What inspired you to start writing, and when?I had just turned 40 and decided to not just have dreams, but to make them reality. 
What is your preferred genre?Paranormal Romance is my Passion.
How many books have you written?  If more than one, are any a series…or trilogy?This is my debut novel, but hopefully will be the first in a series of 7.. I think.. :)
Do you have plans for a new book?Raven is book 2 in this series, and on her way.
Is there an Author that you would really like to meet?Wow... There is so many... If I could have a coffee date with three authors? They would be J.R.Ward, Gena Showalter and Nina Bangs.

Was there an Author that inspired your writing?All authors inspire me to write, but there was one that exposed me to this world and showed me it was possible to make my dreams a reality , and that was K E Osborn. 
Do you plot or write by the seat of your pants?I tried plotting, but soon through it away. The characters took over and told me what to write. Arkadia is very different to what she was supposed to be, and in my opinon, far better.

Did you have an editor edit your books?Yes, Kelly Hartigan from Xterraweb... And apparently I have an unhealthy comma addiction. :) 
Do you prefer ebooks, paperbacks or hardcover?Paperbacks... Always.. However the convenience of my kindle is very addictive.  
Where do you prefer to buy your books?Generally on amazon, or from the authors directly.
Are you a self- published (Indie) Author?Yes I am indie and proud to be.
Who designed the cover of your book?Patti Roberts from Paradox Covers. She is simply the best, no one comes close. 
Do you find yourself intrigued by the cover of a book enough to buy it? Covers are the first stop for any buyer, they are extremely important. A cover can either make me stay to read the blurb or pass onto the next book. 
Do you have any advice for other writers starting out?Believe... Just believe in yourself, and write from the heart. Don't write what sells, write what your passionate about. It will always be the right choice. 
Do you write under a pen name?No, I fully own and identify with all my work. 
Do you ever write in your PJ’s?Is there any other way? 
What are your pet peeves? Lack of manners, they are free and should be used more.

You are trapped on a tropical island - who would you like to be stranded with?Mmmmmmm... -evil giggle- .. My husband of course.

Pick one - Wine, Chocolate or shoes?Chocolate.

Cats or dogs?Dogs.

What is your favorite food and beverage?Coffee, my life source. 
How many hours per day do you try to devote to research and writing?I have 4 children's, so time for writing varies day to day, but everyday I will get some wordage down.
What are 3 things you never leave home without (apart from keys, money and phone)?Asthma medication, hand wipes, kindle.
Sleep in or get up early?Early, it gets hot early in the summer in Australia, so the most beautiful time of the day is around 5 am, before the kids wake up, I get a peaceful cup of coffee and some time to write and think about what is needed.
Laptop or desktop for writing?Laptop.
Where and when do you prefer to do your writing?In bed after the kids go to sleep.
Your thoughts on receiving book reviews - the good and the bad - As long as it's constructive it's all good. There is not one single book that everyone will like, and as an author, I have to be prepared to have people love and hate my book. It's part of the course.
Do you have a bucket list?Yes I do. 
Where can your readers stalk you?STALK ME... Errrrrr .... Contact links. 
FACEBOOKhttps://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-Dzintra-Sullivan/1510553862490487AMAZONhttps://www.amazon.com/author/dzintrasullivanGOODREADShttps://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8425947.Dzintra_Sullivan
Is your book in Print, ebook or both?Ebook right now... Hopefully paperback soon.
Do you give free ebooks away in exchange for honest reviews?Yes, But only direct to kindle.
Book links:Arkadia by Dzintra Sullivan 

Purchase links Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1p11oSU
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/1wEEMGF
Amazon AU: http://bit.ly/1tKBSma
Thank you so much for taking the time to do this interview and allowing us a glimpse into your writing world.  I hope you share this interview with your friends so we can all get to know you a little better. 

Thank you so much for allowing me to sit and chat. I hope people grab Arkadia, fall deeply in love with her, no come harrass me for book two Raven. 

Coming soon! Be sure to read Arkadia first.

The Real Meaning of 2012 - A New Paradigm Bringing Heaven to Earth by Marilyn Redmond

Publisher: Julia Widdop with Dreamtime Press -970-200-5683

The Real Meaning of 2012
A New Paradigm Bringing Heaven to Earth
Authored by: Marilyn Redmond
Publication Date: Oct 20 2014ISBN/EAN13: 0982399987 / 9780982399989Page Count: 64Binding Type: US Trade PaperTrim Size: 5.5" x 8.5"Language: English

Related Categories: Philosophy / MetaphysicsKeywords: Channeling, spirituality, healing, regression therapy, past lives.


Synopsis:

All the reviews are in at five stars at Amazon.com, for this concise explanation of the transition occurring in our lives that began in the year 2012. It is more significant now after the break through of 2012. The guidance and clarity offered is valuable.  This insightful book gives an accurate explanation and understanding of transitioning into a higher awareness of reality. Understanding the ego’s influences and the dynamics of energy called consciousness is the key.   Do not underestimate this book.  It haunts you over time, as the truth of the message becomes more and more revealed.
Author: Marilyn Redmond - Skype ID: angelicasgiftsGenre/subject: self-help
Requested promotion date: When available—You can self-book interviews at: marilynredmondbooks.clickbook.net, or email her publisher at: Julia@JuliaWiddop.com
Order website link: https://www.createspace.com/4947290
Author website url: angelicasgifts.com
Twitter account: twitter.com/RedmondBooksOther E-books and writing are on  amazon.com/author/marilynredmond

In 50 words or less, write why listeners should buy your book and what they will get out of it:
This book says it all about our past thinking and moving into a free and abundant spiritual life. It has the “ring of truth” and is a succinct book that is brilliant, profound, and priceless. A must read for those who are brave enough to want to evolve in Divine Love.
Bio:Marilyn Redmond BA, CHT, IBRT, is also a winning international writer syndicated columnist, consultant, counselor, regression and past life therapist, and speaker sharing the dynamics of life for healing your life. She is a member of the American Board of Hypnotherapy and the International Board for Regression Therapy. She was inducted into Who’s Who for Professionals and Executive s for her innovative and pioneering work restoring traumatic lives, healing emotional causes of illness and releasing negative energy through her innovative Therapeutic Hypnosis.
Marilyn’s first book, Roses Have Thorns is available at Amazon.com along with her other writings. Her next book is Paradigm Busters, Reveal the Real You. Her website offers articles, her radio show, interviews, lectures, and her art at angelicasgifts.com
Marilyn was ordained as a spiritual minister to do readings and spiritual counseling along with healing illness, regression therapy, past life therapy, and healing your soul. In addition, she channels Ascended Masters, Archangels, and brings in your family members who have passed over to the other side. Enjoy her channeling on YouTube along with her lectures and interviews. Marilyn is multi-talented and wishes to share her abilities with everyone.

New book from Rickard B DeMille, author of the International Amazon Best Seller HELLFIRE.

Not all criminals are brought to justice. Sometimes Justice must be brought to them.                                   

**** 4 Stars - If you're into mysteries, then this is a great one...I really liked this book! (Reading Is A Way of Life Reviews)
The first victim preyed on young girls. Justice visited and he fell prey to African Painted Dogs in a Texas Wildlife Park.The last victim killed her baby with heroin. Justice administered that same fate to her.


Trust me, you will NOT be disappointed with this book. (Ella Marie, reviewer and editor)
The other victims suffered equally fitting and brutal deaths. For rookie FBI Agent Dawn Johnson, her first case finds her in a "hate triangle" between a boss that wants her gone, a bigoted Texas Sheriff that doesn't want her at all, and a serial killer that taunts police, 140 characters at a time.


I enjoyed this story very much...the characters are well developed and believable, the plot moves smoothly. (Tina Marie, award winning reviewer)
Rickard B DeMille, author of the International Amazon Best Seller HELLFIRE, brings us a new hero named Dawn Johnson, and a new villain called Justice. They engage in a brutal ballet of vengeance and death until . . .


Dawn joined the FBI for the wrong reasons, and her boss wants her transferred out. Rural county Sheriff Bubba Scates doesn't want anyone messin' with his investigation, especially a female, African-American, over-educated, caustic, iindependentFBI Agent. Dawn wants to get back to her private agenda, but no one gets what they want. Except Justice, who continues to execute people he feels have escaped justice from the courts. Justice gets his retribution, and uses social media to publicize his vengeance and taunt police.


However, once Justice has claimed his final victim, things really get interesting. Nothing is as it seems, and no one is certain to survive, as the manhunt concludes and the truth is finally revealed.
**** 4 Stars - Suspenseful...Chilling...Captivating...Just a darn interesting story. (Liebster Award winning TMS Reviews)
A new novel by  International Amazon Best Seller  Rickard B DeMille

***** 5 Stars - I love mysteries that are well-written, thought-provoking, and offer sympathetic characters, (Mommasez Reviews)
Get TWEET REVENGE  today!

AU:http://www.amazon.com.au/Tweet-Revenge-Johnson-Mystery-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B00OVBJZ9Q/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1415034925&sr=1-1&keywords=demille+tweet


US: http://www.amazon.com/Tweet-Revenge-Johnson-Mystery-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B00OVBJZ9Q/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1415035754&sr=8-1&keywords=demille+tweet

Rickard B DeMille is a member of ITW, the International Thriller Writers Association. He is also a Co-Organizer of the Frisco Writers Group, and a member of the North Dallas Screenwriters.After serving in the Marines Corps as a commissioned officer, author Rick DeMille started a career in information systems and currently manages the technology department for a small energy company in the Dallas area.His interest in writing was revived when he wrote a Y2K, guide which was distributed over the Internet by an outdoor supply company. He next began writing short stories, several of which were published online by websites such as BeWrite.com. His short stories won various contests, including those sponsored by 'Darklines,' 'Eros and Rust,' and Magellan Books from Australia who also included one of his short stories in the ADUMBRA anthology.He self-published OF SINNERS AND LIBERALS, a humourous look at how liberalism would have changed history. He has also published his Masters' Thesis, BIBLE STUDY: DEFENDING DANIEL. A reexamination of historical, linguistinc, and antropological facts relating to the Book of Daniel from the Bible.

Author #Interview - Julia Shayk – Life Without Sex

Book Description from Amazon:

If you are sick and tired of getting screwed by your partner, want to explore a life of living free of sex dependency as the basis of self-esteem, and need to know whether it is worth it or not, then this book is for you.
In the last decades of the 20th century, we began talking about sex more than ever before. Now we expect sex to hold our relationships together, boost our self-esteem, and dissolve our sadness. According to our mass media, everyone should have regular, passionate sex or be in the process of seeking it out, and our society assumes that if you are not doing that, there is something wrong with you.
There is not. Perhaps we cannot even imagine living without sex, as we base our sense of self on it and gain a lot of stress if we do not fit into this common notion, but this widespread assumption is why today celibacy and asexuality are increasingly compelling prospects. They let you open new dimensions of yourself and see things in a different light. Daring to make such a decision leads to a change in lifestyle and shifts our hierarchy of priorities and values. It can make us free from many traditional constraints. 

If you are struggling to make the agonizing decision of whether to get out of a troubled relationship or whether it is worth trying to save, this book can be an interesting adventure inside such issues as:
Reasons to marry 
Excessive marriage expectations 
Miscommunication in a relationship 
Self-actualization in marriage 
Sex-starved couples 
Verbal abuse 
Why women leave men 
Causes of divorce 
Single parenting 
Living without sex 
Future of sex
What inspired you to start writing, and when?
Several months ago I separated from my husband. I crashed down and became mess. To change that, I started to dig into my personal problems and found that millions of people ask the same questions about marriage, reconciliation, verbal abuse, love, separation and single parenting – different facets of a breakup. The system of rehabilitation that I created was hybrid and eclectic, because solutions came to my mind from news, books or observations about unrelated topics. It helped me to go through the first months of that hot period, so I decided to share how to survive the first year of the separation.
What is your preferred genre?
I love both: non-fiction and fiction, therefore I tend to mix the real life stories with “how to fix…”  approach in writing. As Marquez said once, I’m “living to tell the tale”. For leisure, I prefer to read realistic fiction, novels and short stories now. When I was younger I loved thrillers, horrors, mystery and sci-fi. I used to write horror and mystery stories as well, but now focus on practical guides based on everyday problems in relationships and parenting.
Tell us a little about your book.
It is the second part of a book, the middle one. It is a recollection of the reasons and consequences that turned an ordinary family into a dysfunctional unit, a very common situation. Perhaps we might even equal “dysfunctional” to “normal” families today, as they tend to be the majority. Each chapter refers to memories, biographical stories followed by analysis of the errors revealed. For each chapter the name and structure are binary, mixing fiction style with psychological, social or philosophical analysis of past occasions. Covering a period of five years the book is an encyclopedia of marriage errors written with the hope that the reader will recognize them and take the steps necessary to prevent or neutralize possible mistakes in his or her own life.
Do you have plans for a new book?
I guess, at least I have to write the beginning and the end of this one. They are about love and breakups. Three different stories.
Is there an Author that you would really like to meet?
Dan Chaon. His haunting style dazzles me. I even stop reading all the time because I do not want a story to end. He talks about dark secrets people have and feel so deep inside that they even do not want to confess to themselves that they have them.
Then, I like Haruki Murakami. You just dissolve into his fantasy world and get carried away.
And, of course, I’d love to meet James Altucher, the most famous blogger in the USA. His style, attitude and kindness are very authentic. He’s the real man.
Was there an Author that inspired your writing?
There are many: Kurt Vonnegut, Seth Godin, Slava S., Christopher Durang, Jumpa Lahiri, Mariam Petrosyan and others. The authors I listed precisely express their thoughts in quite short sentences, revealing their observations about the world and people. They are also excellent in characterization. That’s what I want to achieve.

Did you have an editor edit your books?
Yes, I’m not a native speaker, though I am fluent in English. I cannot go without good editors. In a way, I’m writing like Ayn Rand, not that smoothly and skillfully as it happens when you write in your language.
What books would you like to read again?
Classics. Some of them I read in school and had no understanding of what they were talking about. I realize now that they wanted to warn us about the consequences of certain choices in life, but I forgot many of these warnings. I did not read many of them as well.
What book are you currently reading and in what format (ebook/paperback/hardcover)?
I’m reading Mindset by Carol S. Dweck in paper. It’s a great one. It’s about how to deal with failures, treating them as a step (learning curve) toward success.
Do you have any advice for other writers starting out?
Write every day, even if you have no idea what to write about, just sit down to table and type/write whatever is on your mind. The idea will eventually come. I’m learning how to write myself, and this is crucial – to write every day, to analyze your past writing mistakes, repeat successful techniques and set up higher goals for the next piece.
And, of course, if you write about something you are really interested in and passionate about, the book will be genuine. It is appealing.
Tell us about someone or something that just made your day –
I just failed yet another job interview. It made me to re-think the strategies and priorities in my work life. In a weird way, it just made my day.
What are 3 things you never leave home without (apart from keys, money and phone)?
Lipstick, parfume and a smile.
What is a movie or TV show that you watched just recently and really enjoyed?
True Detective. It is an unbelievably good show, absolutely stunning performance, awesome cinematography and intelligent directing.

BOOK REVIEW

"I loved this book! It is a very entertaining and quirky look at the institution of marriage, written with humor and wisdom. Lots of useful and funny information about relationship, marriage and sex, including the latest statistics. More importantly, the personal story shared gives insight into how to maintain a healthy relationship with your own spirit.

In a way, it helps you understand you why we do what we do and how to fix a difficult situation. The author is insightful and though some parts are not covered in detail, overall, it is an interesting reading." Di Zhu, verified purchaser.




Where can your readers stalk you?
I’m so bad in social media, but I’ll respond to you, if you contact me through my website juliashayk.com.
Book links: http://amzn.to/1s4B1ed (free to download on 12-16 October, 2014).
Thank you so much for taking the time to do this interview and allowing us a glimpse into your writing world.  I hope you share this interview with your friends so we can all get to know you a little better. Patti Roberts.

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Mercenary Road - Angola Dawn / New Work In Progress by Ken Hoss

Had an odd dream a few days ago, and while I normally forget my dreams within minutes after waking up, this one stuck with me. And so, I started on it and have a good bit so far. Told an author friend of mine, Patti Roberts, who also does book covers and the next day she sent me the cover below. No pressure, right?

The story is about a Vietnam vet who signs up to fight as a mercenary in the Angolan Civil War in 1975. Of course he thinks this will help him feel "right" again, help him to forget the way he was treated when he returned home, and it's a job that he knows and does well. He also hopes that it will help get rid of the demons still running around in his head.

Note: Patti is also the one who did the cover art for Eye of the Storm, the fourth Kelli Storm novel.

If you are an author and need a cover for your next project, I highly recommend Patti Roberts at Paradox Book Cover Designs.

Here is a short excerpt from Mercenary Road - Angola Dawn


WARNING: Explicit language 



SAO SALVADOR, ZAIRE PROVINCE, ANGOLA
JULY, 1975

Hector shouted at him over the roar of the C-130 engines. “Hey, Roberts. You think we’re going to get into the shit pretty soon?”
  “Well I sure didn’t sign up to sit on my ass, Sanchez,” he said and turned to the Colonel. “What do you think, sir?”
  “I think both of you need to shut the fuck up and get off this fucking plane.”
  Dave looked back at Hector and shrugged as he readjusted his duffle bag. The sun was just rising and the heat was stifling. It reminded him of the day he got off another C-130 at Tan Son Nhut Airbase. It felt the same, but the feel in the air was different, and he wasn’t a Sergeant in the U.S. Army, he was a mercenary fighting someone else's war. All he knew about his employers was that they called themselves the FNLA, the National Front for the Liberation of Angola. It didn’t really matter to him what they called themselves, as long as he got paid.

  It was six years and six thousand miles from the jungles of South Vietnam and yet there was a familiar feeling to it all. As they walked to the waiting trucks, he thought about what had brought him here, other than his buddy Hector talking him in to it. After three years in country, he had done his share of killing and had seen hundreds of bodies, a lot of them from his own platoon. And yet he was here, knowing that it would only be more of the same.

OTHER BOOKS BY THIS AUTHOR 


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Can their dream come true … this time? A book by Emiliana Erriquez

Amira—a bright, beautiful Italian brunette—leaves her homeland after high school to work in California, full of dreams of a new adventure in a new country. 

The adventure intensifies when she meets Steve—a handsome college freshman with penetrating green eyes. They begin their dance but Amira suddenly must leave the floor … a tragedy calls her home to Italy. 

The two would-be lovers reach out to each other across the ocean for years, even as their lives continue with new loves, new friends and new opportunities. Then one day, they find themselves face to face. 

Can their dream come true … this time? 







5.0 out of 5 stars  Beautiful  By PaigeTurnerVerified PurchaseThis is a lovely and heart wrenching romance story. It touched me in so many ways. I think we all have loved and lost, and the pain and wonder last a lifetime. This has romance, love, and unending hope. Can it survive? Is this the True Love we all search for? Read the book and you will know. The characters are perfect and well developed, and so real I felt I knew them. The details are so touching and there are so many twists and turns. It shares the struggles within the hearts of lovers. It is beautifully written and easy to read and follow. I love the passion of this writer and the depth of her soul. I will be looking for more of her work. I definitely recommend this book to everyone. It is a delight to read.



Buy your copy now from Amazon - HERE

Emiliana Erriquez - Facebook

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Elaine Calloway - NO GRITS NO GLORY (Southern Ghosts Series 1)

Link to my book online : http://www.elainecalloway.com/books/southern-ghosts-series/no-grits-no-glory/
Book description:
Brianna fled to Savannah to escape the voices of the dead. Just when she thought she’d left all paranormal things behind, she discovers her house is haunted. Not just haunted, but haunted by Southern ghosts. These persistent beings not only hide her white shoes after Labor Day, but they leave grits-caked dishes in the sink, and swear to wreak havoc on her life – - unless she helps them.Steven put Savannah in his rearview mirror years ago to follow his passion for music. When his band splits up and he can’t reach his little sister for weeks, he races home—only to learn his whole family died in a mysterious house fire. The house Brianna now lives in.Together, Brianna and Steven learn who murdered Steven’s family and become caught in a web of intrigue that will risk their careers, their homes–but especially their lives.
Book review on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23249837-no-grits-no-glory
Elaine Calloway Interview - NO GRITS NO GLORY (Southern Ghosts Book 1) Book Description from Amazon: Brianna fled to Savannah to escape the voices of the dead. Just when she thought she’d left all paranormal things behind, she discovers her house is haunted. Not just haunted, but haunted by Southern ghosts. These persistent beings not only hide her white shoes after Labor Day, but they leave grits-caked dishes in the sink, and swear to wreak havoc on her life – - unless she helps them.
Steven put Savannah in his rearview mirror years ago to follow his passion for music. When his band splits up and he can’t reach his little sister for weeks, he races home—only to learn his whole family died in a mysterious house fire. The house Brianna now lives in.
Together, Brianna and Steven learn who murdered Steven’s family and become caught in a web of intrigue that will risk their careers, their homes–but especially their lives.

What is your preferred genre? Paranormal and fantasy. I like the idea of the supernatural, of beings that might be amongst us without our knowing. There’s so many directions the imagination can take for books in those two categories.
How many books have you written?  If more than one, are any a series…or trilogy? I have a series about Elementals battling Fallen Angels for the innocent souls of mankind. It’s called The Elemental Clan Series and right now, Water, Fire, and Earth books have been released. Wind will be releasing by the end of 2014. To learn more about that series, go here: http://www.elainecalloway.com/books/elemental-series-paranormalfantasy/
Tell us a little about your book. NO GRITS NO GLORY is a humorous ghost story with some romantic elements tied in. The book is set in Savannah, which is a haunted and beautiful area anyway, so it was ideal to set the book there. A Yankee moves down South to discover her house is haunted by Southern ghosts. At first there’s some humor, followed by the fact that she must help them and keep a sworn promise to her dead brother to make a difference somehow. And she finds out what she must do.
Do you have plans for a new book? Yes, always! NO GRITS NO GLORY is Book One in a Southern Ghosts Series. I plan for Book Two (untitled at the moment!) to be released in 2015. A few characters in Grits will become more active in Book Two. I’m also working on the final touches of my Elemental fourth book in the series, Windstorm, and that should release in early December.
Did you have an editor edit your books? Absolutely! I use a developmental and copy editor, beta readers, then a few “first” readers of the finished product before putting the book out into the public’s hands. This ensures that no typos get into the final manuscript, but more importantly, it gives me a broad glance as to how different people react to the book. Was anything missing? Could anything be enhanced? Those are the things that make an editor invaluable.
Do you have any advice for other writers starting out? Keep writing, always back up your documents on a separate drive, and believe that everything is possible.
Pick one - Wine, Chocolate or shoes? Chocolate!
Cats or dogs? Dogs. I have a black lab mix who brings such joy to  my daily routine. The dog character in this book was based on my first Shetland Sheepdog, Pandora. I gave him the name Plato in the book.
One of your favorite quotes – “Don't tell me the moon is shining; show me the glint of light on broken glass.” -- Chekhov
What is a movie or TV show that you watched just recently and really enjoyed? I recently watched the first (and only) season of Invasion and loved it. The family dynamics were interesting and I loved the characters and actors. Wish it would’ve gone longer, but sadly many series that I enjoy only run for one season. Moonlight and Firefly are two other favorites, both of which only had one season.  
Where can your readers stalk you? On the top banner of my website, there are social media buttons for where I am. I’m on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google +, etc. The link is here: http://www.elainecalloway.com/
Book links:
Amazon  http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00NNZRSR2iBooks   https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/no-grits-no-glory/id921010598?mt=11&uo=4Kobo     http://store.kobobooks.com/en-US/ebook/no-grits-no-glory
Other retailers coming soon - my webpage has all the info:No Grits No Glory releases 10/1 and my website has all the pre-order and order buttons:
http://www.elainecalloway.com/books/southern-ghosts-series/no-grits-no-glory/
About the Author Amazon bestselling author Elaine Calloway writes tales of the living, the dead, and the eerie in-between. Her books are typically described as paranormal, ghost stories, and urban fantasy. Originally from New Orleans, she grew up with a love of Gothic steeples, cemeteries, and all things paranormal. She now resides in the Southeastern USA and believes more than ever in Southern Ghosts. She is currently writing 2 series: The Elemental Clan Series and the Southern Ghosts Series. For more information and to connect with Elaine online, visit www.elainecalloway.com.

Cover reveal and book excerpt, Chloe, by Michelle Horst

I’m the people pleaser.
I’m the party girl. I’m the friend that says, “Just another one.”But then comes Zac with his broken heart and I can’t make him just another one.


This book is not your usual romance. It doesn't have the ending every romantic dreams of. Sometimes fires burn so hot that it destroys what could've been.


Recommended for 18+ Told from both MC point of view. (Chloe is British and Zac American)
Release date 7th October. Chloe, by Michelle Horst Author

Chloe~“Oh, Sunshine, that baby is Big Ben.” I wiggle my eyebrows suggestively. Emma’s face pinches with confusion, and I know I should stop but she’s so easy to take the piss out of.  “But it’s so … ah …big,” she tries to chuckle, but gives up with a nervous gulp. She cups her hands over her belly and caresses it lovingly. She’s due to pop in three weeks and I mean pop. My best mate’s gone and gotten the size of a baby beached whale. I take in Emma’s glowing complexion, her blonde hair that’s up in a messy ponytail, and sparkling green eyes. She looks so happy. Unlike the last time I saw her and I had to get her away from that bitch who dared to call herself a mother. This visit is long overdue and with the baby on the way, it was a perfect excuse for me to come and visit.“Surely that doesn’t all fit, you know, up there?” Her eyes bulge huge.I bite the inside of my cheek to hold the laughter back. “That’s nothing, Sunshine. Want to see my favorite? I keep this big fella for special occasions.” Lifting an even bigger vibrator from my luggage, Emma’s hand flies to her mouth. “I present The Eiffel Tower!” Her cheeks stain a rosy pink. I should stop but she’s making it so easy.
“Bloody hell, Chloe! That thing should have its own set of kidneys and lungs.”



Michelle Horst is thirty seven years old and is from the land of milk and honey. She’s been in love with reading from an early age. She has a passion for other cultures, but she has an ultimate soft spot for nature and animals. She first tried her hand at writing in early 2009 and as the first words started to form into a book, she knew she was hooked. Dreams spilled onto pages, and that was the beginning of a wonderful journey. One filled with joy. One filled with passion and heart stopping moments. But most of all, it’s filled with such pride and peace as a story comes to life, and characters fill your life, living in the very walls of your mind, living in the minds of your readers. There is nothing as satisfying as that.Thank you for each and every story you share with me.Sunshine Smiles from around the world and back,Michelle :)Facebook | Twitter | Amazon


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Six books box set by six best selling authors – just 99c

Hi everyone – big favor – if you have read Paradox – The Angels Are Here (bk 1) would you please leave a review for it here.  Many thanks in advance xxx http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00N7I5SB8

Six paranormal novels from six bestselling authors who know how to weave a gripping fantasy tale – For just 99c – From brooding vampires, ghosts and witches, to fallen angels, shifters and fae. Be enchanted with dark romances and sweeping adventures to take you away from the everyday.

HIDDEN (Marchwood Vampire Series) by Shalini Boland

Now an international bestseller. Fans of Twilight and Interview with the Vampire will enjoy this paranormal adventure that spans the centuries. On her sixteenth birthday, Madison Greene inherits a huge mansion house… but the house hides a secret. Eighteen-year-old Alexandre lives in 19th century Paris. Spoilt and bored, he longs for adventure, but he should be careful what he wishes for. Madison and Alexandre’s lives are about to collide. Falling in love has never been so dangerous . . .

Mary Hades by Sarah Dalton

Not many seventeen year old girls have a best friend who’s a ghost, but then Mary Hades isn’t your average teenager. Scarred physically and mentally from a fire, a holiday in an idyllic village may help her recover. Little does she know, evil lurks in the campsite… Seth Lockwood—a local fairground worker with a dark secret—might be the key to uncovering the village’s murky history. But Mary is drawn to him in a way that has her questioning her judgement. A spine-tingling romantic tale, to shock and entertain in equal measure.

The Forever Girl by Rebecca Hamilton

Now optioned for film, this riveting novel will appeal to lovers of paranormal romance, urban fantasy and paranormal horror. At twenty-two, practicing Wiccan Sophia Parsons is scratching out a living waiting tables. She can imagine lots of ways to improve her life, but she’d settle for getting rid of the buzzing noise in her head. When the spell she casts goes wrong, the static turns into voices. Her personal demons get company, and the newcomers are dangerous . . .

The Forgotten Ones by Laura Howard

Allison O’Malley’s plan is to get a good job and take care of her schizophrenic mother. She has even closed herself off from a relationship with Ethan, who she’s been in love with forever. But then her father shows up, telling her about a long forgotten Irish people, the Tuatha de Danaan. Truths have a way of revealing themselves. Secrets will eventually surface. And Allison must learn to set aside her plan and work with her father if there is even a small chance it could restore her mother’s sanity.

Paradox – The Angels Are Here by Patti Roberts

Two mysterious strangers arrive just in time to help a little girl, Grace Connors, as she struggles to cope with the death of her father. But are the intentions of these strangers as innocent as they seem, or is there something else on their agenda? A story that will leave you asking… Who, When, Where? WHAT! My name is Juliette. Nine hundred years ago, I died. Today, I am alive… This is my story.

RAVEN by Suzy Turner

Lilly’s whole life has been based on a lie. She grew up in a loveless home with a father she barely saw and a mother who was… well, not very motherly. After her parents mysteriously disappear, Lilly is sent to Canada where she finds a whole new way of life. A life filled with love and people who care for her. But that’s not all she discovers, Lilly also finds out that she isn’t who, or what, she thinks she is. For Lilly has a very special ability and it’s just a matter of time before her true self starts to shine. And when it does, her life will never be the same again.